cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The N-terminus Domain of the a2 Isoform of Vacuolar ATPase Can Regulate Interleukin-1β Production from Mononuclear Cells in Co-culture with JEG-3 Choriocarcinoma Cells

Problem a2V-ATPase is the a2 isoform of vacuolar ATPase and is expressed in human trophoblast cells. a2V-ATPase resides as a 70-kDa molecule in intracellular vesicles. Upon cell stimulation, it migrates to the surface as a 50-kDa molecule, after a 20-kDa portion [N-terminus domain of the a2V-ATPase (a2NTD)] is cleaved and secreted to the extracellular environment. Previous studies showed that a2NTD-regulated cytokine production from stimulated T cells. The aim of this study was to determine if a2NTD can regulate cytokine production from immune cells that were in contact with JEG-3 cells. Method of study Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from females were co-cultured with JEG-3 cells in the presence or absence of a2NTD, and supernatants were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for interleukin (IL)-1β. Additionally, PBMC cultured with JEG-3 cells, in the presence or absence of a2NTD, were analyzed for cytokine gene expression by gene arrays. Results There was an increased secretion of IL-1β and a decrease in type I and II IL-1 receptors (IL1RA and IL-1R2) gene expression in PBMC that were co-cultured with JEG-3 cells in the presence of a2NTD. Conclusion These data suggest a role for a2NTD in the regulation of IL-1β pro-inflammatory cytokine production at the fetal–maternal interface.
Content‐Learning Tasks for Adult ESL Learners: Promoting Literacy for Work or School

Teachers of English as a second language (ESL) are often on the frontline of working with adult ESL learners who are facing a difficult developmental pathway to academic and/or economic success. These learners come to the task of learning English with widely varying schooling experiences, degrees of first language literacy, and English language proficiency. A workplace that increasingly demands considerable content knowledge, critical thinking abilities, and excellent communication skills has led to a greater emphasis on academic skill development from the earliest stages of literacy and language learning, and has highlighted a need for continuing this emphasis for those transitioning into vocational or academic studies. A known but not often implemented approach to adult ESL learning, content-based instruction, is a viable response to this situation. Content other than language is common in ESL materials, but making learners accountable for actually learning this content is often secondary to language skill development, if considered at all. However, learning the content naturally motivates deep processing of language and the use of higher order thinking skills, which are foundational for high levels of literacy. This article provides teachers of adult ESL learners, vocationally or academically oriented, with the rationale, guiding principles, and examples of that focus on content learning through text-engaging tasks.
The hydrogen fluoride solvent system—II Salts of the fluoro acids. Solvolysis

Abstract The stoichiometries of a number of solid salts of fluoro acids have been determined by evaporation of anhydrous HF solutions of the salts containing excess of the volatile acidic constituent. Salts of fluoro acids of P, As, Ge, Se, Te, and I have been examined. Many of these are highly solvolysed. The new bifluoride BaHF3 is reported.
Optimization of polymer flooding method based on pressure distribution forecasting model

In the light of the existing aeolotropies and asymmetry of well spacing during the field development process in reality, underground pressure distribution forecasting model that is for polymer flooding method when multiple injection or production wells are adopted which is erected, at the same time, in the light of the characteristics of the surface polymer injection system like large scale, variables and parameters, interdependency, diverse structures and so on, the large scale polymer injection system is divided to a series of sub systems, while the by-pass pressure drop equation, and correlation equation between pressure which are established as well. Thereby the general model for surface pressure control is derived, as well as, the optimization operation of large scale polymer injection system is realized.
Design of a mercury Propellant Storage and Distribution assembly

A study has been conducted of a Propellant Storage and Distribution (PSD) assembly for a solar electric propulsion (SEP) thrust subsystem. As a result of the trade-off study an elastomeric diaphragm propellant tank with nitrogen blowdown pressurization was the method selected for propellant expulsion. This study included the following propellant management devices: surface tension, metallic bellows, and metallic and elastomeric diaphragms. Pressurant supply concepts investigated were blowdown, externally pressure regulated, vaporizing Freon 113, and heated CO2/Zeolite. The configuration selected consists of a single propellant tank, a single main propellant latching-solenoid valve, and individual thruster latching-solenoid valves. Stainless steel was the selected tankage material and AF-E-332 was the selected diaphragm material. The PSD design characteristics and interfaces are summarized.
Additive Schwarz methods for thep-version finite element method

In this paper, we study some additive Schwarz methods (ASM) for thep-version finite element method. We consider linear, scalar, self adjoint, second order elliptic problems and quadrilateral elements in the finite element discretization. We prove a constant bound independent of the degreep and the number of subdomainsN, for the condition number of the ASM iteration operator. This optimal result is obtained first in dimension two. It is then generalized to dimensionn and to a variant of the method on the interface. Numerical experiments confirming these results are reported. As is the case for other additive Schwarz methods, our algorithms are highly parallel and scalable.
Islet transplantation outcomes in mice are better with fresh islets and exendin-4 treatment

Although islet transplantation in diabetes holds great promise, two or three donor pancreases are usually required to achieve normoglycaemia in human or rodent recipients. We investigated whether there were differences between fresh and cultured islets in terms of transplantation outcome. We also investigated the effects of normoglycaemia during engraftment and the effects of exendin-4, a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist, on islet transplantation. Seventy-five fresh islets were transplanted to the right kidney of diabetic mice and 425 fresh islets were transplanted to the left kidney. The mice were treated with exendin-4 or vehicle for 14 days, after which the large graft was removed by left nephrectomy. In a separate set of experiments, islets cultured in the presence or absence of exendin-4 for 72 h, or fresh islets, were transplanted to diabetic mice. In both sets of experiments, blood glucose levels were monitored. Compared with cultured islets, fresh islets were more effective at reversing hyperglycaemia in mice. The treatment of the recipient mice with exendin-4 did not have beneficial effects on glucose homeostasis. However, when islets are cultured, exendin-4 treatment increases the rate of reversal of hyperglycaemia, but not to the degree of fresh islets. Fresh islets are more effective than cultured islets at reversing hyperglycaemia. Exendin-4 has beneficial effects on islet transplantation.
An unusual cause of membranous glomerulonephritis in a patient with HIV

A 68-year old Caucasian male with a past medical history of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection presented with acute oliguric renal failure and maculopapular rash. Renal biopsy demonstrated extensive foot process effacement as well as confluent small subepithelial electron-dense deposits, which is diagnostic of membranous glomerulonephritis. Subsequent serological tests showed venereal disease research laboratory test was positive in both serum and cerebral spinal fluid. Following penicillin treatment, the patient’s creatinine returned to baseline 4 weeks later. Secondary membranous glomerulonephritis caused by syphilis in patients with HIV is discussed.
Experimental studies on quantum ferroelectrics

Abstract The balance between dipolar forces and temporal fluctuations of the dipoles determines the temperature at which polar order sets in. If this temperature falls into the region of dominant zero-point vibration, the term “quantum ferroelectric” (QFE) is applied to denote the nature of the balance. To obtain this condition of quantum ferroelectricity, it is necessary to shift the Curie point into the desired temperature range. Experiments are reported for KDP-base QFE by application of hydrostatic pressure, and for KTaO3 by admixing isoelectronic impurities (Nb) during crystal growth (KTN = KTa1-x Nbx 03). Dielectric, ultrasonic and pyroelectric measurements show the particularities of QFE's: Their phase diagrams are given by Tc = (x - xc)1/2; x being pressure (KDP) or impurity concentration (KTN). The dielectric susceptibility varies as e-1 ∼T2 for x = xc, the polarization P ∼(x - xc)1/2 at T = 0, and the elastic compliance is given by a step function. At temperatures outside the quantum range, T > ...
Fungal immunotherapy in patients with allergic fungal sinusitis.

Background Allergic fungal sinusitis is a disease for which optimal treatment is unclear. Previous studies using fungal immunotherapy reported less recurrence after surgery. There has been concern that traditional high-dose immunotherapy could induce systemic hypersensitivity in patients with this condition. Objective To determine the safety of high-dose subcutaneous fungal immunotherapy in patients with allergic fungal sinusitis. Methods Safety of high-dose subcutaneous fungal immunotherapy was assessed in 14 patients from our clinic who met diagnostic criteria for allergic fungal sinusitis. Results were compared to a control group of 14 patients with chronic rhinosinusitis without allergic fungal sinusitis who received subcutaneous fungal immunotherapy. We also performed a literature search to identify all previous reports of subcutaneous fungal immunotherapy. Results No differences between numbers of immediate local or large local reactions, delayed local reactions, or required dose adjustments were noted between patient and control groups. One patient from each group experienced a mild systemic urticarial reaction to immunotherapy. Similarly, there were no differences in complications in either group that also received immunotherapy with nonfungal allergens. No patient developed evidence of immune complex disease. Eight publications were identified for inclusion in our literature analysis, 7 of which used low-dose subcutaneous immunotherapy. None of these noted complications more serious than local reactions. Conclusion Our data demonstrate that subcutaneous fungal immunotherapy in patients with allergic fungal sinusitis is unlikely to cause adverse reactions other than those occurring with pollen immunotherapy. Clinical trials of high-dose, traditional immunotherapy with fungal allergens for efficacy may proceed in patients with allergic fungal sinusitis without undue concern.
Thin clients: the key to our success

Have you noticed that every major vendor has a thin client solution? What does this mean for technology support experts and are we ready for the consequences? The College of Engineering at Colorado State University (CSU) has implemented a very successful thin client solution. Thin clients have their down sides (they will be covered) and challenges (also covered), but we love the benefits (emphasized herein).
The electric strength of fibrous glass

The ideal, and probably future, use of fibrous glass for electrical insulation is without an organic filler. Therefore, it is important first to know its electric strength in unimpregnated condition. Test results show its high qualities at elevated gas pressures and temperatures.
Reactions of some calcium silicates with metal cations

Abstract The reactions of Pb 2+ , Cd 2+ , Mn 2+ , Zn 2+ , Cu 2+ , Mg 2+ , Co 2+ , or Ni 2+ with calcium silicates such as tobermorite, xonotlite and wollastonite were investigated. Among these cations, Pb 2+ , Cd 2+ , Mn 2+ , Zn 2+ and Cu 2+ appear to replace surface Ca 2+ but it is difficult to delineate the extent of this reaction from that of precipitation as hydroxides, hydroxy carbonates or carbonates and double decomposition reaction with calcite which is present as an impurity. Two unsubstituted tobermorites exhibited an Mg 2+ exchange of only 0.4 meq/g which is due to exchange with surface Ca 2+ . Almost all of the Ca 2+ in tobermorites and xonotlite was irreversibly replaced by Co 2+ or Ni 2+ which led to their amorphization. The mechanism of Co 2+ and Ni 2+ replacement of Ca 2+ is by the breakdown of structural CaO bonds and appears to take place from edge to core in these minerals. The replacement of Ca 2+ by Co 2+ and Ni 2+ in these unsubstituted calcium silicate minerals is irreversible and lead to their amorphization and hence their reactions are not strictly analogous to cation exchange in clays and zeolites.
Chronic d-amphetamine administered from childhood to adulthood dose-dependently increases the survival of new neurons in the hippocampus of male C57BL/6J mice

Adderall is widely prescribed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) though long term neurologi- cal effects of the main ingredient d-amphetamine are not well understood. The purpose of this study was to examine effects of clinically prescribed doses of d-amphetamine and one abuse dose administered from childhood to adulthood on adult hippocampal neurogenesis and activation of the granule layer of the dentate gyrus. Beginning in early adolescence (age 28 days) to adulthood (age 71), male C57BL/6J mice were administered twice daily i.p. injections of vehicle, 0.25, 0.5 or 2 mg/kg d-amphetamine. Locomotor activity was measured in home cages by video tracking. At age 53-56, mice received bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) injections to label dividing cells. Immunohistochemical detection of BrdU, neuronal nuclear protein (NeuN), double- cortin (DCX) and Ki67 was used to measure neurogenesis and cell proliferation at age 71. DFosB was measured as an indicator of repeated neuronal activation. An additional cohort of mice was treated similarly except euthanized at age 58 to measure activation of granule neurons from d-amphetamine (by detection of c-Fos) and cell proliferation (Ki67) at a time when the fate of BrdU cells would have been determined in the first cohort. d-Amphetamine dose-depen- dently increased survival and differentiation of BrdU cells into neurons and increased number of DCX cells without affecting the number of Ki67 cells. Low doses of d-amphet- amine decreased c-Fos and DFosB in the granule layer. Only the high dose induced substantial locomotor stimulation and sensitization. Results suggest both therapeutic and abuse doses of d-amphetamine increase the number of new neurons in the hippocampus when administered from adolescence to adulthood by increasing survival and differ- entiation of cells into neurons not by increasing progenitor cell proliferation. Mechanisms for amphetamine-induced neurogenesis are unknown but appear activity independent. Results suggest part of the beneficial effects of therapeutic doses of d-amphetamine for ADHD could be via increased hippocampal neurogenesis. 2012 IBRO. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Elemental Composition Validation from Stored Waveform Inverse Fourier Transform (SWIFT) Isolation FT-ICR MS Isotopic Fine Structure

Elemental composition assignment confidence in mass spectrometry is typically assessed by monoisotopic mass accuracy. For a given mass accuracy, resolution and detection of other isotopologues can further narrow the number of possible elemental compositions. However, such measurements require ultrahigh resolving power and high dynamic range, particularly for compounds containing low numbers of nitrogen and oxygen (both 15N and 18O occur at less than 0.4 % natural abundance). Here, we demonstrate validation of molecular formula assignment from isotopic fine structure, based on ultrahigh resolution broadband Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT-ICR MS). Dynamic range is enhanced by external quadrupole and internal stored waveform inverse Fourier transform (SWIFT) isolation to facilitate detection of low abundance heavy atom isotopologues.
The spatiotemporal properties of the r-g X-cell channel

Analysis of the simple-opponent r-g receptive field of the X-channel shows that it is tuned to both high and low temporal frequencies, high and low spatial frequencies, and that its spectral sensitivity is both chromatic and achromatic.
Changes in the Chemical Composition During Ultrafiltration of Skim Milk

Abstract Five batches of pasteurized skim milk were concentrated to approximately 2-, 4-, and 5-fold by UF. Chemical analyses of the skim milk and retentates were done to determine the change in chemical composition that occurred during UF. Milk proteins were concentrated during UF from an average 3.42% in skim milk to 6.85, 13.51, and 17.1% in 2-, 4-, and 5-fold retentates, respectively. Milk fat similarly was concentrated from .11% in skim milk to .24, .45, and .60% in 2-, 4-, and 5-fold retentates, respectively. Lactose content progressively decreased during UF from an initial 5.06% in skim milk to 4.76, 4.29, and 4.06% in 2-, 4-, and 5-fold retentates, respectively. Total solids content increased to a lesser extent, compared with protein and fat, from 9.19% in skim milk to 12.72, 17.80, and 23.91% in 2-, 4-, and 5-fold retentates, respectively, reflecting the loss of lactose and other soluble small molecular weight components. Analysis of the following minerals indicated partial concentration: Ca ++ by 1.6-, 3.0-, and 4.3-fold; Mg ++ by 1.4-, 2.3-, and 3.0-fold; Zn ++ by 1.8-, 3.4-, and 4.9-fold; Fe ++ by 1.9-, 3.5-, and 4.9-fold; Cu ++ by 1.7-, 3.4-, and 4.7-fold; and Mn ++ by 1.5, 2.0-, and 3.0-fold in the 2-, 4-, and 5-fold retentates, respectively. Microbiological assays indicated decreases in the following B vitamins: thiamin by 57, 77, and 85%; riboflavin by 41.62, and 71%; niacin by 63, 81, and 87%; pantothenic acid by 53, 75, and 82%; biotin by 55, 77, and 84% in 2-, 4-, and 5-fold retentates, respectively. Free amino acid analysis of skim milk and retentates indicated that by a 5-fold concentration of milk, amino acids decreased by a minimum of 50% for methionine to a maximum of 98% for serine.
Well permeability estimation and CO2 leakage rates

Abstract The risk of leakage along existing wellbores associated with CO 2 sequestration depends strongly upon the leakage path permeabilities. Assuming the gas migration path through leaky wellbores in hydrocarbon reservoirs is analogous to the leakage path for CO 2 plumes, the distribution of inferred permeabilities enables quantitative estimation of CO 2 leakage rates. We estimate the effective permeabilities of about 300 wellbores in six different fields that exhibit sustained casing pressure (SCP) or surface casing vent flow (SCVF). Uncertain parameters that affect the estimated permeability, such as the location of the leak source, are accounted for by a Monte-Carlo simulation approach, yielding an expected value of leakage path permeability for each measurement of SCP or SCVF. The expected permeabilities along most of the leaky wellbores are between 10 μd and 10 md. We further use a data mining approach to seek correlations between the permeabilities and wellbore characteristics. Using the wellbore permeabilities to estimate the aperture of the leakage pathways, we estimate the capillary pressure and hence the minimum CO 2 plume heights required for CO 2 to enter the leakage paths. We compute worst-case steady CO 2 leakage fluxes, finding that over 90% of the fluxes are less than 0.1 ton/m 2 /yr, which are smaller than large persistent fluxes observed in nature. The majority of the leakage rates along the wellbores are less than 1 kg/yr, and the highest rates are less than 0.1 ton/yr.
In-situ Study of an Underpotential-Deposited Cu Layer on Pt

We have performed in-situ fluorescence-detection x-ray absorption spectroscopy studies of the Cu environment in a layer of Cu deposited electrochemically on a large polycrystalline Pt electrode. We report spectra acquired with x-ray electric field vector parallel and perpendicular to the surface. This is the first time that these two measurements have been done on the same layer.
Responses of the biennial forest herb Alliaria petiolata to variation in population density, nutrient addition and light availability

Summary 1Alliaria petiolata, a European biennial herb, is an important pest in temperate North American deciduous forests. Habitat resource structure has probably been important for invasion and proliferation of this species. 2Alliaria was grown in an experimental garden at two densities (equivalent to 17 and 170 plants m−2), three nutrient levels (no, low, or high nutrient addition) and three light levels (ambient sunlight and two shading treatments) to determine the effects of environmental heterogeneity on growth, reproduction and resource allocation in both mature and rosette plants. 3 Overall, rosette growth and allocation patterns were significantly affected by all three variables tested. Low plant density, nutrient addition and high light availability resulted in plants with more leaves and greater dry weight biomass. Biomass allocation to shoots was greatest for plants in high-density and low-light treatments. Leaf chlorophyll content was significantly greater for plants in the two shaded treatments. 4 Mature plants also responded to environmental manipulation with significantly greater total dry weight biomass at low plant density, high light availability and with nutrient addition. Low density and high light availability resulted in significantly higher seed production. Plants in the lowest light treatment allocated significantly more biomass to shoot production and less to root production. Leaf chlorophyll content was lowest for plants in the highest light treatment and increased with nutrient addition at the two highest light treatments. 5 Plants growing at high density responded to nutrient addition and light attenuation in the same direction but with greatly reduced magnitude compared with plants growing at low density. The effect of irradiance was the most important determinant of all facets of growth and allocation patterns in both rosettes and mature plants. 6 Our results indicate that although density and site fertility may play important roles in Alliaria invasion and establishment, light availability may be the most important factor affecting subsequent growth and proliferation.
Effects of single and repeated experimental acid pulses on invertebrates in a high altitude Sierra Nevada stream

SUMMARY 1. We examined responses of aquatic macroinvertebrates to pulsed acidification experiments in twelve streamside channels located in the Sierra Nevada, California. Experiment 1 consisted of a single 8 h acid addition, and Experiment 2 consisted of two 8 h acid additions administered 2 weeks apart. Replicated treatments (four reps/ treatment) consisted of a control (pH 6.5–6.7) and pH levels of 5.1–5.2 and 4.4–4.6. Invertebrate drift was monitored continuously and benthic densities were determined before and after acid addition. 2. Drift responses to pH reduction were: (i) increased drift during acidification in pH 5.2 and pH 4.6 treatment channels, often with depressed post-acidification drift in treatment channels relative to controls (exhibited by Baetis only). Depressed post-acidification drift in treatment channels appeared to be due to low benthic densities because a positive relationship between benthic and drift densities was noted for most common taxa; (ii) increased drift rates during acidification only at pH 4.6 (Epeorus, Drunella, Paraleptophlebia, Zapada, and Simulium); (iii) decreased drift at pH 5.2 and/or pH 4.6 relative to control channels (Rhyacaphila and chironomid larvae); (iv) no significant response to acidification (Ameletus, Amiocentrus, Dixa and Hydroporus). 3. A high proportion (45–100%) of acid-induced drift in Baetis, Epeorus, and chironomid larvae could be attributed to dead, drifting individuals. 4. Except for chironomids, most common invertebrates (i.e. Baetis and Paraleptophlebia) showed reduced benthic densities in treatment relative to control channels after acidification. 5. For sensitive taxa, drift was enhanced and benthic densities reduced by single (Experiment 1) and initial [Experiment 2(a)] acid pulses. Drift responses to a second acid pulse [Experiment 2(b)] were not as pronounced as those to the single or initial acid pulses [Experiments 1 and 2(a)], and the second acid pulse had no additional effect on benthic density.
Avian senescence: underlying mechanisms

Candidate mechanisms for physiological aging include free radical production and resulting oxidative damage, progressive erosion of telomeres and cellular senescence, age-dependent trade-offs in hormone signaling pathways, and immunosenescence, leading to an increased risk of infection, autoimmune disease, and cancer. These mechanisms are inter-related, not mutually exclusive, and probably all contribute to the aging phenotype. To date, most studies on mechanisms of aging are based on cell culture or lab animals, but interest in comparative studies is growing rapidly. Compared to mammals, birds have long life spans for their body sizes. Birds also appear to have lower rates of free radical production and oxidative damage than mammals, despite higher levels of oxidative metabolism. High levels of the antioxidant, uric acid, in birds may help protect against oxidative damage. Cultured bird cells are more resistant to oxidative damage than mammal cells, and membrane phospholipids of birds are less susceptible to peroxidation than those of mammals of the same size, but show a similar susceptibility as those of mammals with the same life span. In birds, telomeres shorten with age, and the rate of shortening is proportional to life span. Telomerase has a higher activity in long-lived than in short-lived species. Within a species, short telomeres correlate with reduced survival. Birds have higher plasma glucose than mammals, but lower levels of protein glycation, which contributes to aging damage. Immunosenescence is linked to both oxidative damage and telomere shortening. Patterns of cellular and humoral immunosenescence differ among species in birds. The rate of decline in cell-mediated immune function is inversely correlated with life span. Comparative studies on mechanisms underlying senescence in birds will continue to provide us with valuable information on how aging mechanisms have evolved.
Erythropoietin in the Cerebrospinal Fluid of Neonates Who Sustained CNS Injury

We previously reported that erythropoietin (Epo) is present in human cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). It is not known whether CSF Epo concentrations change under conditions of CNS injury or, if so, whether this change reflects loss of blood-brain barrier integrity or increased CNS Epo synthesis. We hypothesized that CSF Epo increases in conditions of neural injury including hypoxia, meningitis, and intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) and that CSF Epo concentrations are independent of plasma Epo concentrations. To test these hypotheses, Epo concentrations were measured in 122 paired CSF and blood samples obtained from neonates and children categorized as follows: 16, asphyxia; 31, meningitis; 11, IVH; 41, controls. Twelve infants treated with recombinant Epo (rEpo) and 11 additional samples from children with miscellaneous neurologic problems were also evaluated. CSF and plasma Epo concentrations were significantly higher in asphyxiated infants than in controls (225.0+/-155.0 versus 4.5+/-0.5 mU/mL; mean +/- SEM, p < 0.05, respectively, in CSF; 1806.7+/-1254 versus 5.2+/-0.5, p < 0.05 in plasma). Neonates with IVH had higher CSF Epo concentrations than controls (p < 0.01) but did not have higher plasma Epo concentrations than controls. Patients with meningitis did not have elevated CSF or plasma Epo concentrations. There was no correlation between CSF and plasma Epo concentrations in infants treated with rEpo. We conclude that Epo is selectively increased in the CSF by hypoxia, less so by IVH, and not at all by meningitis. rEpo treatment does not elevate CSF Epo. These findings suggest that rEpo does not cross the blood-brain barrier and that hypoxia induces increased CNS synthesis of Epo.
Die Chemie neuer hitzebeständiger Filme und Fasern

Diese Ubersicht befast sich vorwiegend mit den seit 1959 veroffentlichten Arbeiten uber Filme polymerer Kohlenwasserstoffe, aliphatische Polyterephthalamid-Fasern, Poly-(hydroxybenzoesaure)-Filme, Polyoxadiazol-Fasern, Polybenzimidazol-Filme, Poly-(phenyltriazol)-Filme, Polypyromellitimid-Filme und schwarze Fasern aus cyclisiertem Polyacrylnitril. Alle diese Stoffe haben extrem hohe Schmelzpunkte und befriedigende Gebrauchseigenschaften bei hohen Temperaturen.
On throughput and load balancing of multipath routing in wireless networks

In this paper we investigate the relative performance of two multipath routing schemes in relatively static and highly error-prone wireless networks (e-g., sensor networks), namely, selective preferential forwarding (SPF) (or primary/secondary routing) and recently proposed selective random forwarding (SRF), in terms of their packet throughput and traffic load distribution. For meshed multipath, aiming at achieving a good performance trade-off, we introduce a novel hybrid packet forwarding scheme that takes advantage of more uniform load distribution of SRF and a higher end-to-end throughput of SPF. Our approach is guided by analytic intuition and verified by simulations.
Outcomes of vesicoureteral reflux in children with non-neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction treated with dextranomer/hyaluronic acid copolymer (Deflux)

Abstract Objective There has been hesitancy to use dextranomer/hyaluronic acid copolymer (DHXA, Deflux for vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) in the setting of lower urinary tract (LUT) dysfunction because of the limited number of published studies, the possibility of less success, and the manufacturer's recommendations contraindicating its use in patients with active LUT dysfunction. We report on our experience using DXHA in this subset of patients whose VUR persisted despite targeted therapy for their LUT condition. Materials and methods We reviewed patients diagnosed with both a LUT condition and VUR who underwent subureteric DXHA while still undergoing treatment for their LUT dysfunction. Persistence of VUR was confirmed by videourodynamic studies (VUDS)/VCUG (voiding cystourethrogram) and all patients were on targeted treatment (TT) and antibiotic prophylaxis prior to and during DXHA injection. VUR was reassessed post-injection. Results Fifteen patients (22 ureters; 21F,1M) met inclusion criteria (mean age 6.1 years, range 4–12). Following one to three DXHA injections, VUR resolved in 17 ureters (77%) including eight of nine ureters in dysfunctional voiding (DV) patients, five of nine in idiopathic detrusor overactivity disorder (IDOD), and four of four in detrusor underutilization disorder (DUD) patients. Conclusions DXHA is safe and effective in resolving VUR in children with associated LUT dysfunction, even before their LUT condition has fully resolved. Highest resolution rates were noted in patients with either DV or DUD or who were least symptomatic prior to injection.
Multigrid on the interface for mortar mixed finite element methods for elliptic problems

We consider mixed finite element approximations of second order elliptic equations on domains that can be described as a union of subdomains or blocks. We assume that the subdomain grids are locally defined and need not match across the block boundaries. Specially chosen mortar finite element spaces are introduced on the interfaces for approximating the scalar variable (pressure). The mortars also serve as Lagrange multipliers for imposing flux-matching conditions. The method is implemented by reducing the algebraic system to a positive definite interface problem in the mortar spaces. This problem is then solved using a multigrid on the interface with conjugate gradient smoothing. The algorithm is very efficient in a distributed parallel computing environment as only subdomain solves are required on each conjugate gradient iteration. The standard variational assumptions for the multigrid are not satisfied, since the interface bilinear forms vary from level to level. We present theoretical results for the convergence of the V-cycle and the W-cycle. Computational results in two- and three-dimensions are given to illustrate and confirm the theory.
Appraising the Performance of Cyclic Production Scheme through Reservoir Simulation, a Case Study

Oil wells in mature fields with strong aquifer influx and the first row of producers near peripheral water injectors experience very high water cuts (above 80%), which cause lower oil production and increasing disposal costs. To mitigate this situation, various production strategies have been implemented in this simulation study to reduce water production, optimize oil production and revive dead wells. One strategy is to implement a cyclic production scheme (CPS). The CPS requires alternate shutting and flowing of wells with high water cuts over predetermined time cycles. The main objectives of the cyclic strategy is to reduce water production by optimizing oil production, minimizing coning effect and having a better control of the uniform waterflood front to the up-dip producers. This strategy enhances the sweep efficiency, improving pressure maintenance and minimizing water production. This simulation study assesses the effectiveness and the performance of CPS implemented in a reservoir simulation model of a mature oil field. Simulation runs with several scenarios were conducted to understand and optimize the impact of CPS. The simulation results provided the best cyclic production/shut-in period and showed significant advantages of applying CPS over the regular noncyclic production in all scenarios. In this study, more than 93 wells have been evaluated and most of these wells showed good overall oil recovery after applying the CPS strategy.
Current state of modeling the photochemistry of Titan's mutually dependent atmosphere and ionosphere

[1] In the context of recent observations, microphysical models, and laboratory data, a photochemical model of Titan’s atmosphere, including updated chemistry focusing on rate coefficients and cross sections measured under appropriate conditions, has been developed to increase understanding of these processes and improve upon previous Titan photochemical models. The model employs a two-stream discrete ordinates method to characterize the transfer of solar radiation, and the effects of electron-impact, cosmic-ray deposition, and aerosol opacities from fractal and Mie particles are analyzed. Sensitivity studies demonstrate that an eddy diffusion profile with a homopause level of 850 km and a methane stratospheric mole fraction of 2.2% provides the best fit of stratospheric and upper atmosphere observations and an improved fit over previous Titan photochemical models. Lack of fits for C3H8 ,H C3N, and possibly C2H3CN can be resolved with adjustments in aerosol opacity. The model presents a benzene profile consistent with its detection in Titan’s stratosphere [Coustenis et al., 2003], which may play an important role in the formation of Titan hazes. An electron peak concentration of 4200 cm � 3 is
MK-801 prevents hypobaric−ischemic neuronal degeneration in infant rat brain

Recent evidence implicates the endogenous excitatory amino acids, glutamate (Glu) and aspartate, in hypoxic/ischemic neuronal degeneration. In a preceding article (Ikonomidou et al., 1989) we described a new model for studying hypoxic/ischemic neuronal degeneration in the infant rat brain that entails unilateral common carotid artery ligation followed by exposure to a partial vacuum for 75 min. Promising features of this model include a low mortality rate and high incidence of acute brain damage disseminated over numerous brain regions. In addition, there is a striking similarity between the type of cytopathology characterizing this model of hypoxic/ischemic neuronal degeneration and that which has been described in infant animals treated with Glu. MK-801 is a powerful antagonist of the N-methyl-D- aspartate (NMDA) receptor ionophore complex (a subtype of Glu receptor). In the present study, after unilateral carotid artery ligation was performed on 10-d-old rat pups, they were treated either with MK-801 (1 mg/kg i.p.) or saline 15 min before exposure to the hypobaric condition. MK-801 exerted a strong neuroprotective effect without serious side effects; the majority of saline control animals sustained severe brain damage, whereas the majority of MK-801-treated pups had no brain damage. These and other recent findings suggest that the NMDA receptor may play an important role in hypoxic/ischemic neuronal degeneration in the immature brain and provide hope that NMDA antagonists such as MK-801 may be effective in preventing such degeneration.
Cooperative Object Tracking and Composite Event Detection With Wireless Embedded Smart Cameras

Embedded smart cameras have limited processing power, memory, energy, and bandwidth. Thus, many system- and algorithm-wise challenges remain to be addressed to have operational, battery-powered wireless smart-camera networks. We present a wireless embedded smart-camera system for cooperative object tracking and detection of composite events spanning multiple camera views. Each camera is a CITRIC mote consisting of a camera board and wireless mote. Lightweight and robust foreground detection and tracking algorithms are implemented on the camera boards. Cameras exchange small-sized data wirelessly in a peer-to-peer manner. Instead of transferring or saving every frame or trajectory, events of interest are detected. Simpler events are combined in a time sequence to define semantically higher-level events. Event complexity can be increased by increasing the number of primitives and/or number of camera views they span. Examples of consistently tracking objects across different cameras, updating location of occluded/lost objects from other cameras, and detecting composite events spanning two or three camera views, are presented. All the processing is performed on camera boards. Operating current plots of smart cameras, obtained when performing different tasks, are also presented. Power consumption is analyzed based upon these measurements.
Bone Morphogenetic Protein 2 Signaling in Osteoclasts is Negatively Regulated by the BMP Antagonist, Twisted Gastrulation

Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) have been shown to regulate both osteoblasts and osteoclasts. We previously reported that BMP2 could directly enhance RANKL-mediated osteoclast differentiation by increasing the size and number of osteoclasts. Similarly, genetic deletion of the BMP antagonist Twisted gastrulation (TWSG1) in mice, resulted in an enhancement of osteoclast formation and activity and osteopenia. This was accompanied by increased levels of phosphorylated Smad (pSmad) 1/5/8 in Twsg1 −/− osteoclasts in vitro. The purpose of this study was to develop an adenoviral vector overexpressing Twsg1 as a means of inhibiting osteoclast activity. We demonstrate that overexpressing TWSG1 in primary osteoclasts decreased the size and number of multinuclear TRAP-positive osteoclasts, expression of osteoclast genes and resorption ability. Overexpression of TWSG1 did not affect osteoclast proliferation or apoptosis. However, overexpression of TWSG1 decreased the levels of pSmad 1/5/8 in osteoclasts. Addition of exogenous BMP2 to osteoclasts overexpressing TWSG1 rescued the size and levels of pSmad 1/5/8 compared to cultures infected with a control virus. Finally, TWSG1 overexpression in osteoclasts isolated from the Twsg1 −/− mice rescued size of the osteoclasts while further addition of exogenous BMP2 reversed the effect of TWSG1 overexpression and increased the size of the osteoclasts similar to control virus infected cells. Taken together, we demonstrate that overexpressing TWSG1 in osteoclasts via an adenoviral vector results in inhibition of osteoclastogenesis and may provide a potential therapy for inhibiting osteoclast activity in a localized manner.
Polycrystalline Sil-x-yGex.Cy for Suppression of Boron Penetration in PMOS Structures

We have fabricated polycrystalline Sil-x-yGexCy by Rapid Thermal Chemical Vapor Deposition and used it as part of a polycrystalline gate structure for PMOS devices. The results showed that the use of carbon in polycrystalline Sil-x-yGexCy suppressed boron penetration across the gate oxide. No effects of gate depletion with the use of poly-Sil-x-yGexCy were observed. Our work suggests that the addition of carbon reduced the chemical potential of boron in Sil-x-yGexCy, which deterred boron from diffusing across the underlying gate oxide.
Breaking Out of the Coup Trap: Political Competition and Military Coups in Latin America

This article systematically assesses whether open political competition ends the coup trap. We use an original data set of coup reports, electoral competition, and socioeconomic data spanning the 20th century in 18 Latin American countries. Our models, which are robust to multiple-comparison tests, generate support for a central claim: While recent experience with military coups increases the risk of incumbents being overthrown, the establishment of open political competition ends cycles of political instability. The risk of being overthrown consequently declines with time for presidents in noncompetitive systems, but remains stable—and, on average, substantially lower—in competitive polities. Coups do not vary with levels of development or of inequality, economic growth rates, or the legislative powers of the presidency.
Distribution and community-level effects of the Chinese mystery snail (Bellamya chinensis) in northern Wisconsin lakes

Managing invasive species requires information about their distributions and potential effects, but community-level impacts of invasive animals remain poorly understood. The Chinese mystery snail (Bellamya chinensis) is a large invasive gastropod that achieves high densities in waters across North America, yet little is known about its ecological significance in invaded systems. We surveyed 44 lakes to describe the patterns and determinants of B. chinensis distributions in northern Wisconsin, USA, and to assess the likelihood of effects on native snail communities in the invaded systems. B. chinensis was widespread among surveyed lakes (21 of 42 lakes with snails) and its occurrence was correlated with indicators of lake productivity and anthropogenic dispersal vectors (boat landings, distance to population centers, shoreline housing density). Some native snail species tended not to occur at sites where B. chinensis was abundant; among these was Lymnaea stagnalis, which suffered reduced survival in the presence of B. chinensis in a recently published mesocosm study. However, there was no difference in overall snail assemblage structure at either the site or lake level as a function of B. chinensis presence or abundance. Lake occurrences of many snail species have apparently been lost over time, but a comparison to a 1930s survey showed that there was no increased likelihood of species loss in lakes invaded by B. chinensis (or by the invasive crayfish Orconectes rusticus). Although B. chinensis is widespread and sometimes abundant in northern Wisconsin lakes, it does not appear to have strong systematic impacts on native snail assemblages.
Abnormal Vascular Function and Hypertension in Mice Deficient in Estrogen Receptor β

Blood vessels express estrogen receptors, but their role in cardiovascular physiology is not well understood. We show that vascular smooth muscle cells and blood vessels from estrogen receptor beta (ERbeta)-deficient mice exhibit multiple functional abnormalities. In wild-type mouse blood vessels, estrogen attenuates vasoconstriction by an ERbeta-mediated increase in inducible nitric oxide synthase expression. In contrast, estrogen augments vasoconstriction in blood vessels from ERbeta-deficient mice. Vascular smooth muscle cells isolated from ERbeta-deficient mice show multiple abnormalities of ion channel function. Furthermore, ERbeta-deficient mice develop sustained systolic and diastolic hypertension as they age. These data support an essential role for ERbeta in the regulation of vascular function and blood pressure.
Glioma Expansion in Collagen I Matrices: Analyzing Collagen Concentration-Dependent Growth and Motility Patterns

We study the growth and invasion of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) in three-dimensional collagen I matrices of varying collagen concentration. Phase-contrast microscopy studies of the entire GBM system show that invasiveness at early times is limited by available collagen fibers. At early times, high collagen concentration correlates with more effective invasion. Conversely, high collagen concentration correlates with inhibition in the growth of the central portion of GBM, the multicellular tumor spheroid. Analysis of confocal reflectance images of the collagen matrices quantifies how the collagen matrices differ as a function of concentration. Studying invasion on the length scale of individual invading cells with a combination of confocal and coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering microscopy reveals that the invasive GBM cells rely heavily on cell-matrix interactions during invasion and remodeling.
Systems-wide chicken DNA microarrays, gene expression profiling, and discovery of functional genes

Abstract The goal of our current consortium project is to launch a new era-functional genomics of poultry-by providing genomic resources [expressed sequence tags (EST) and DNA microarrays] and by examining global gene expression in target tissues of chickens. DNA microarray analysis has been a fruitful strategy for the identification of functional genes in several model organisms (i.e., human, rodents, fruit fly, etc.). We have constructed and normalized five tissue-specific or multiple-tissue chicken cDNA libraries [liver, fat, breast, and leg muscle/epiphyseal growth plate, pituitary/hypothalamus/pineal, and reproductive tract (oviduct/ovary/testes)] for high-throughput DNA sequencing of EST. DNA sequence clustering was used to build contigs of overlapping sequence and to identify unique, non-redundant EST clones (unigenes), which permitted printing of systems-wide chicken DNA microarrays. One of the most promising genetic resources for gene exploration and functional gene mapping is provided by two sets of experimental lines of broiler-type chickens developed at INRA, France, by divergent selection for extremes in growth traits (fast-growing versus slow-growing; fatness versus leanness at a similar growth rate). We are using DNA microarrays for global gene expression profiling to identify candidate genes and to map growth, metabolic, and regulatory pathways that control important production traits. Candidate genes will be used for functional gene mapping and QTL analysis of F2 progeny from intercrosses made between divergent genetic lines (fat × lean lines; fast-growing × slow-growing lines). Using our first chicken liver microarray, we have already identified several interesting differentially expressed genes in commercial broilers and in divergently selected broiler lines. Many of these candidate genes are involved in the lipogenic pathway and are controlled in part by the thyrotropic axis. Thus, genome-wide transcriptional profiling is a powerful tool used to visualize the cascade of genetic circuits that govern complex biological responses. Global gene expression profiling and QTL scans should enable us to functionally map the genetic pathways that control growth, development, and metabolism of chickens. This emerging technology will have broad applications for poultry breeding programs (i.e., use of molecular markers) and for future production systems (i.e., the health and welfare of birds and the quality of poultry products).