cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Visualization of OpenMP* Task Dependencies Using Intel® Advisor - Flow Graph Analyzer.

With the introduction of task dependences, the OpenMP API considerably extended the expressiveness of its task-based parallel programming model. With task dependences, programmers no longer have to rely on global synchronization mechanisms like task barriers. Instead they can locally synchronize a restricted subset of generated tasks by expressing an execution order through the depend clause. With the OpenMP tools interface of Technical Report 6 of the OpenMP API specification, it becomes possible to monitor task creation and execution along with the corresponding dependence information of these tasks. We use this information to construct a Task Dependence Graph (TDG) for the Flow Graph Analyzer (FGA) tool of Intel® Advisor. The TDG representation is used in FGA for deriving metrics and performance prediction and analysis of task-based OpenMP codes. We apply the FGA tool to two sample application kernels and expose issues in their usage of OpenMP tasks.
3D Human Esophageal Epithelium Steps Out from hPSCs.

Human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC)-derived organoids can reveal important principles underlying tissue development. In this issue of Cell Stem Cell, Zhang et al. (2018) and Trisno et al. (2018) establish protocols for generating esophageal epithelial cells and 3D stratified epithelium from hPSCs, revealing roles for key signaling pathways and how they are controlled by critical transcription factors.
Tree species composition of an acidic sandy flatwoods in Berrien County, Michigan, USA.

ABSTRACT: The trees in a young plant community on abandoned agricultural land in Berrien County, Michigan, were tallied by size classes and found to be dominated by red maple (Acer rubrum) and black gum (Nyssa sylvatica). Soils were acidic and sandy. The community fits the Natural Resources Conservation Service Ecological Site Description of an acidic sandy flatwoods. Based on size class distributions, this community may be transitional to a beech-maple forest.
Applied Ethics: Principles and Perspectives

Here in the last chapter of the book, I focus on two applied ethical frameworks and key professional and international guidelines prohibiting torture. We start with two of the major figures in Bioethics, Tom L. Beauchamp and James F. Childress. Their four principles are of central importance in Western Biomedical Ethics. They are: Autonomy, Beneficence, Non-Maleficence, and Justice. Each one is discussed and applied to doctors and torture. The second ethical framework considered is that of Ethicist Bernard Gert and the ten duties he considers universally applicable. All are then applied the question of doctors’ involvement in torture—showing that doing so would be morally remiss.
Long tailed trions in monolayer MoS 2 : Temperature dependent asymmetry and resulting red-shift of trion photoluminescence spectra

Monolayer molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) has emerged as a model system for studying many-body physics because the low dimensionality reduces screening leading to tightly bound states stable at room temperature. Further, the many-body states possess a pseudo-spin degree of freedom that corresponds with the two direct-gap valleys of the band structure, which can be optically manipulated. Here we focus on one bound state, the negatively charged trion. Unlike excitons, trions can radiatively decay with non-zero momentum by kicking out an electron, resulting in an asymmetric trion photoluminescence (PL) peak with a long low-energy tail and peak position that differs from the zero momentum trion energy. The asymmetry of the trion PL peak and resulting peak red-shift depends both on the trion size and a temperature-dependent contribution. Ignoring the trion asymmetry will result in over estimating the trion binding energy by nearly 20 meV at room temperature. We analyze the temperature-dependent PL to reveal the effective trion size, consistent with the literature, and the temperature dependence of the band gap and spin-orbit splitting of the valence band. This is the first time the temperature-dependence of the trion PL has been analyzed with such detail in any system.
Abstract WP323: Association between Demographic Characteristics and Hospital Admission in Patients Presenting to the Emergency Department for Transient Neurological Attack

Introduction: Significant demographic differences in the management of ischemic stroke and transient ischemic attack exist in the United States. Transient neurological attack (TNA) is a common neur...
SMARCA4 supports the oncogenic landscape of KRAS-driven lung tumors

Cancer resequencing studies identify recurrent mutations in the switch/sucrose non-fermentable (SWI/SNF) complex at an unexpectedly high frequency across many cancer types. Some SWI/SNF mutations appear to be loss-of-function events, implying that the intact SWI/SNF complex is tumor suppressive. We examined the distribution and function of SMARCA4 mutations, the most frequently mutated SWI/SNF complex gene in lung adenocarcinoma, using human cancers, cell lines and mouse model systems. We found that lung adenocarcinomas harboring activated oncogenes have fewer deleterious mutations in SMARCA4 and express higher levels of the mRNA than cancers without activated oncogenes, indicating distinct dependencies on SMARCA4 in these two settings. Surprisingly, intact Smarca4 promoted the growth and tumorgenicity of KrasG12D-driven mouse lung tumors and human cells. Mechanistically, we found that Smarca4 supports the oncogenic transcriptional/signaling landscape of KrasG12D-driven mouse lung cancer. This dependency on the chromatin maintenance machinery in established cancer cells support treatments directed towards pathogenic SWI/SNF complexes in lung adenocarcinoma and other malignancies.
Molecularly Engineered 6FDA‐Based Polyimide Membranes for Sour Natural Gas Separation

Glassy polyimide membranes are attractive for industrial applications in sour natural gas purification. Unfortunately, the lack of fundamental understanding of relationships between polyimide chemical structures and their gas transport properties in the presence of H2 S constrains the design and engineering of advanced membranes for such challenging applications. Herein, 6FDA-based polyimide membranes with engineered structures were synthesized to tune their CO2 /CH4 and H2 S/CH4 separation performances and plasticization properties. Under ternary mixed sour gas feeds, controlling polymer chain packing and plasticization tendency of such polyimide membranes via tuning the chemical structures were found to offer better combined H2 S and CO2 removal efficiency compared to conventional polymers. Fundamental insights into structure-property relationships of 6FDA-based polyimide membranes observed in this study offer guidance for next generation membranes for sour natural gas separation.
The Complexity of Folding Self-Folding Origami

Self-deploying materials based on principles of origami have many potential technological uses, but can be limited by hidden complexities in their folding behavior. A new analysis explores these limits and offers strategies for avoiding these undesired traps.
Anatomy of the Biceps Tendon: From Origin to Insertion

A detailed appreciation of biceps tendon anatomy is important to diagnosis and treatment of pathologic processes. The anatomy of the proximal biceps tendon is complex, and the biceps labral complex contains three distinct regions, which are important to clinical pathology. The distal biceps tendon is a common site of injury and open surgical repair, and recent research efforts have helped to better elucidate the structure and function of the distal biceps tendon. An in-depth understanding of the various areas of the biceps tendon, its known anatomic variants, and the specific areas of concern for pathology is crucial for the orthopedic surgeon. This chapter will outline the normal anatomy and anatomical variants of both the proximal biceps and distal biceps tendon.
Women Ordination in the Roman Catholic Church

Changes in culture and society continue to mold and shift the direction of the Roman Catholic Church theologically, pastorally, and doctrinally; the Roman Catholic priesthood has done the same but in a slow progression. This thesis will begin to focus on the Catholic priesthood and the current magisterial doctrine that supports it. Next I will argue this doctrine by counteracting it with evidence of significant roles of women in theology and New Testament. Then I will address another Christian denomination with the existing structure of women ordination from the Episcopalian church. Whether or not an all-male clergy is beneficial for the Roman Catholic Church, this paper will discuss its effects on their Church and how Catholicism could replicate it. Lastly, I will survey a variety of opinions toward the issue of women’s priesthood, statements made from past papacies, the current pope, and myself, a future theologian/religious scholar, in hopes that paralleling these notions will indicate what position is most desired.
Some Stationary Sequences

In this note, the author answers this question using as reference F. Lazebnik & Y. Pilipenko’s E 3036 problem from A. M. M., Vol. 91, No. 2/1984, p. 140.An interesting property of functions admitting fixed points is obtained.
REMARKETING OF AUTOS: THE ROLE OF AUCTIONS IN THE AUTO DISTRIBUTION REVOLUTION /

Marketing institutions emerge and evolve in response to changes in the marketing environment. Describes such changes in one of North America′s most vital areas of marketing – automobiles. One of the institutions that have evolved in response to these changes is auto auctions. Understanding the changing role of auto auctions is not only important in the analysis of how auto manufacturers and retailers may survive the turbulent changes that characterize contemporary auto markets, but it also helps clarify the rapidly emerging practice of remarketing – and defines this process.
On spectrum modeling of OFDM signals for digital broadcasting

The orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) modulation format has been adopted in USA, Europe, and Japan as the standards for digital audio and digital video broadcasting - terrestrial (DAB and DVB-T), wireless local area network (WLAN), and future fourth generation mobile communication (4G). In-band and out-band spectral control requirements in terms of the power spectral density (PSD) of OFDM signals are set in these standards. In this paper, we present the derivation of the PSD of OFDM signals using digital broadcasting (DAB and DVB-T) example. The accurate analytic expression of the PSD of OFDM signals is very helpful for further OFDM system design in terms of in-hand and out-band spectrum regrowth analysis.
Residual Shear Strength of Tertiary Mudstone and Influencing Factors

Extensive research done on the residual shear strength of the Tertiary mudstone showed that mudstones are rich in expansive clay minerals. Those clay minerals are responsible for making the mudstone highly weathering susceptible, which is the main cause for excessive landslides in the mudstone formations. Because of high brittleness, residual shear strength is more important in analyzing the landslides occurred in such formations. Research results showed that average liquid limit, plasticity index, activity, and clay sized fractions in the mudstone from the Niigata Prefecture of Japan are 72%, 36%, 1.4, and 26%, respectively. Dominating clay mineral in mudstone is smectite with an average proportion of 15%. Dominating clay mineral oxide of mudstone was aluminum oxide with an average value of 18%. Average residual friction angle was observed to be 13°. At the presence of saline pore water the strength can increase up to 40%, depending on the nature of soil and site condition. If it is hard to get the soil specimens in sufficient quantity from the mudstone area, residual friction angles can be approximately estimated with index properties. However, if the mineralogical composition is known, residual friction angle can be estimated with up to 90% accuracy, using the diagram proposed by Tiwari and Marui (2005). This paper deals with the chemical, mineralogical, and mechanical properties of the Tertiary mudstone from the Niigata Prefecture of Japan, as well as the methods to measure residual shear strength in conventional soil testing devices.
EFFECT OF GROWTH HORMONE RELEASE-INHIBITING HORMONE ON GASTRIC SECRETION, MUCOSAL BLOOD FLOW, AND SERUM GASTRIN

In dogs with gastric fistulae and Heidenhain pouches (HP), growth hormone release-inhibiting hormone (GH-RIH) infused intravenously in a dose of 2.5 µg per kg per hr inhibited almost completely acid and pepsin responses to pentagastrin, Urecholine, and a peptone meal. Histamine-induced acid secretion was more resistant to the inhibition by GH-RIH, and only acid secretion evoked by the lower doses of histamine was suppressed by this peptide. The inhibition of pentagastrin-induced gastric secretion was associated with a marked reduction in mucosal blood flow. The ratio of aminopyrine concentration in the gastric juice and blood plasma was not significantly changed by GH-RIH, indicating that the reduction in mucosal blood flow was secondary to an inhibition of gastric secretion. Gastric acid and serum gastrin responses to a peptone meal adjusted to pH 5.0 and kept in the main stomach at this same pH by intragastric titration were significantly decreased by GH-RIH, indicating that the observed acid inhibition could be attributed at least in part to the suppression of gastrin release. GH-RIH inhibited acid secretion from HP stimulated by liver extract in HP. The finding that GH-RIH inhibits gastric secretion induced by exogenous stimulants as well as by the direct chemical stimulation of the HP mucosa without changing serum gastrin level suggests that the major action of GH-RIH is a direct suppression of the oxyntic glands.
Tracer gauge: An automated dye dilution gauging system for ice-affected streams

[1] In-stream flow protection programs require accurate, real-time streamflow data to aid in the protection of aquatic ecosystems during winter base flow periods. In cold regions, however, winter streamflow often can only be estimated because in-channel ice causes variable backwater conditions and alters the stage-discharge relation. In this study, an automated dye dilution gauging system, a tracer gauge, was developed for measuring discharge in ice-affected streams. Rhodamine WT is injected into the stream at a constant rate, and downstream concentrations are measured with a submersible fluorometer. Data loggers control system operations, monitor key variables, and perform discharge calculations. Comparison of discharge from the tracer gauge and from a Cipoletti weir during periods of extensive ice cover indicated that the root-mean-square error of the tracer gauge was 0.029 m3 s−1, or 6.3% of average discharge for the study period. The tracer gauge system can provide much more accurate data than is currently available for streams that are strongly ice affected and, thus, could substantially improve management of in-stream flow protection programs during winter in cold regions. Care must be taken, however, to test for the validity of key assumptions, including complete mixing and conservative behavior of dye, no changes in storage, and no gains or losses of water to or from the stream along the study reach. These assumptions may be tested by measuring flow-weighted dye concentrations across the stream, performing dye mass balance analyses, and evaluating breakthrough curve behavior.
Elbow MR imaging findings in patients with synovial fringe syndrome

Objective To describe imaging findings in patients with synovial fringe (SF) syndrome of the elbow and to compare with a control population.
Medical Conference Reform: Creating the Patient-Centered Conference

Postgraduate medical conferences are a prominent feature of continuing medical education across all health-related disciplines. These gatherings aim to disseminate new medical innovations, technologies, and approaches to treatment as well as review core topics and procedural skills. Sessions are often led by subspecialty experts, but rarely do these experts collaborate to address clinical problems in the same patient context. We restructured our postgraduate medical conference by following a single patient longitudinally through their complex hospitalization. As the case evolves, subspecialists provided recommendations addressing specific medical dilemmas while working within the confines of the patient scenario. We present expert speaker perspectives, discuss challenges to this method of medical conference organization, and survey the audience on our presentation.
Improving the foam performance for mobility control and improved sweep efficiency in gas flooding

Foams are used for mobility control in enhanced oil recovery operations. However, a typical oil-field application of foam suffers from such problems as early CO2 breakthrough, poor sweep efficiency, and inefficient oil recovery due to viscous fingering resulting from a low gas-phase viscosity and an unfavorable mobility ratio. The objective of this experimental investigation was to study the use of additives to enhance foam properties and to improve the in situ generation of foams for enhancing the gas-flood sweep efficiency. Foam generation was achieved by flowing nitrogen, surfactant, and various foam-enhancing additives through a sandpack. Some of the parameters affecting the foam performance were the polymer concentration, type of surfactants and their concentrations, aqueous-phase salinity and pH, and effect of flow rate (or shear rate). The performance of polymer-enhanced foams (PEFs) was much better than that of conventional foams. Poly(acrylamide) polymers were used as an additive. Higher foam res...
Wing-section effects on the flight performance of a remotely pilotedvehicle

Seven airfoil sections suitable for remotely piloted vehicles (RPV's) were tested at full-scale Reynolds numbers in the College of Aeronautics low-speed wind tunnel. The pressure distributions and force measurements were used to validate the mathematical model proposed by Williams. Three of the airfoils were further tested with roughness added. Of the airfoils tried, the Wortman FX63-137 had the best performance. It was therefore decided to retrofit a wing of this section to an RPV designated X-RAE1. The original wing for this RPV had an unspecified flat-bottomed section, with a maximum thickness/chord ratio of 14.1% at the 30% chord station. First, a full-scale solid model of the X-RAE1 was tested in the Royal Aerospace Establishment 7.3 m tunnel. It was then retested with a new wing of the FX63-137 section, which gave substantial gains in CLmax and L/D ratio. Finally, a fully instrumented version of the X-RAE1 was constructed. Flight trials with the standard (flat lower surface) wing and with a new wing of the Wortmann section confirmed the superiority of the FX63-137 airfoil. However, the flight tests also showed the large drag penalties due to the many practical features of a real flying vehicle.
Spontaneous Reporting of Adverse Drug Reactions: Assessment of Physician Knowledge and Attitudes Before and after the Intervention of a State Health Agency

AbstractPhysician knowledge and attitudes relating to the spontaneous reporting of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) were investigated using a survey of Rhode Island physicians. The survey confirmed physician underutilization of the FDA reporting system. Respondents (75% response rate) displayed a poor knowledge and understanding of the system. A lack of availability of report forms, lack of certainty the drug caused the reaction, and a previous knowledge of the reaction were identified as the major impediments to reporting. Two years later, after the Rhode Island Department of Health implemented various interventions, physicians were resurveyed. At this time, respondents (69% response rate) displayed an improved knowledge and understanding of the ADR reporting system. Compared with the baseline survey all the major impediments, except for lack of certainty the drug caused the reaction, were dramatically reduced. Concern about legal liability and the time involved in reporting were important to a greater perc...
Are evolutionary psychology assumptions about sex and mating behaviors valid? A historical and cross-cultural exploration

In this essay, I make a case for the thesis that much of the uniformity that we see in mate selection, marriage practices, and children rearing is an outcome of a European empire based on Judeo-Christian values that once held control of most of the territories of the world. This view contrasts with the one offered by evolutionary psychologists, according to whom such uniformity is explained by the existence of specific psychological mechanisms that have been inherited from the Pleistocene because they were advantageous in terms of reproductive fitness during ‘ancestral times.’ Historical records demonstrate that, prior to the arrival of European colonists to many regions of the world, there was a fantastic diversity of mating practices and childrearing styles. Historical records also demonstrate that the European conquerors were discomfited by these practices and used force and persuasion to transform the marital and sexual values of these communities. I also examine existing hunting and forager communities and find that most of them practice a communal form of childrearing that involves both related and unrelated adults. Among forager communities that have greater contact with the outside world, there is much more assimilation to larger state values. Finally, even in the most patriarchal societies, fathers exert a great deal of control over the rearing and education of young children. In many patriarchal communities, even when the mother leaves for the natal family, she is forced to leave her children behind with the father’s family so the children are reared with their father’s family ideals and values. Thus, successful parenting for the father may involve passing on his family traditions to his children.
The intonation and meaning of normal yes/no questions

The typical intonation of yes/no questions in American English is usually thought to be high- rising. Accounts of yes/no questions also assume that the intonation of these questions is different from that of standard British English, which is thought to use a low-rising intonation. This article challenges this belief and reports on a study that shows that American speakers of English do not distinguish between the high-rising and low-rising intonation, and argues that the supposed difference in intonation between the varieties is not accurate for yes/no questions. Finally, the results indicate that intonation of yes/no questions should be an unimportant issue in English language teaching because intonation on these questions appears to play a minimal role in the success of interactions between speakers from different varieties of English.
Melanocyte biology and skin pigmentation

Melanocytes are phenotypically prominent but histologically inconspicuous skin cells. They are responsible for the pigmentation of skin and hair, and thereby contribute to the appearance of skin and provide protection from damage by ultraviolet radiation. Pigmentation mutants in various species are highly informative about basic genetic and developmental pathways, and provide important clues to the processes of photoprotection, cancer predisposition and even human evolution. Skin is the most common site of cancer in humans. Continued understanding of melanocyte contributions to skin biology will hopefully provide new opportunities for the prevention and treatment of skin diseases.
Conservation of Critical Functional Domains in Murine Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1

Abstract Plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 is the main physiological regulator of tissue-type plasminogen activator in normal plasma. In addition to its critical function in fibrinolysis, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 has been implicated in roles in other physiological and pathophysiological processes. To investigate structure-function aspects of mouse plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, the recombinant protein was expressed in Escherichia coli and purified. Five variant recombinant murine proteins (R76E, Q123K, R346A, R101A, and Q123K/R101A) were also generated using site-directed mutagenesis. The variant (R346A) was found to be defective in its inhibitory activity against tissue plasminogen activator relative to its wild-type counterpart. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and surface plasmon resonance experiments demonstrated reduced vitronectin-binding affinity of the (Q123K) variant (KD = 1800 nm) relative to the wild-type protein (KD = 5.4 nm). Kinetic analyses indicated that the (Q123K) variant had a slower association (kon = 2.92 × 104 m-1 s-1) to, and a faster dissociation from, vitronectin (koff = 5.3 × 10-2 s-1), (wild-type kon = 1.03 × 106 m-1 s-1 and koff = 5.27 × 10-3 s-1). The Q123K/R101A variant demonstrated an even lower vitronectin-binding ability. Low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein binding was decreased for the (R76E) variant. It was also demonstrated that the plasminogen activator inhibitor-1/vitronectin complex decreased the interaction of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 with low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein. These results indicate that the complex interactions traditionally associated with different plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 functions apply to the murine system, thus showing a commonality of subtle functions among different species and evolutionary conservation of this protein. Further, this study provides additional evidence that the human hemostasis system can be studied effectively in the mouse, which is a great asset for investigations with gene-altered mice.
The role of behavioral versus cognitive variables in skill acquisition

Three training procedures (behavioral, elaborative-behavioral, elaborative) were assessed for relative effectiveness in the acquisition of fire emergency skills, and attainment of knowledge. Each of the training groups was compared to attention and notreatment control groups. We hypothesized that the elaborative-behavioral condition would produce the greatest level of skill and knowledge acquisition. Further, it was predicted that the elaboration alone condition would result in greater levels of knowledge than would the behavioral alone condition and that the behavioral alone condition would lead to greater behavioral performance than the elaborative alone condition. Sixty-four second- and third-grade children were randomly assigned to conditions. Their performance on dependent measures was assessed prior to and immediately following training. Results demonstrated a significantly higher level of fire emergency skill acquisition for the elaborative-behavioral and behavioral alone groups relative to the elaboration alone, attention control, and no-training groups. A higher level of knowledge was evidenced by the elaborative-behavioral group and the elaborative alone groups, relative to the remaining groups. The value of elaborative-behavioral training in producing changes on behavioral and cognitive variables was demonstrated.
Genetic/genomic analysis of signal transduction pathways using cDNA microarray technology

cDNA microarray technology provides a novel approach to identify individual target genes and survey global genetic programs under the control of specific signalling pathways in mammalian systems. Smad2 and Smad3 are highly homologous members of the receptor-regulated subfamily of Smad proteins with a central role in TGF- signalling and target gene regulation.
Thermally-induced and electron-induced chemistry of CF3I on Ni(100)

We have investigated the thermally-induced and electron-impact-induced chemistry of CF[sub 3]I on Ni(100) following adsorption at 100 K. The data support a model for the thermally-induced chemistry, in which CF[sub 3]I dissociates to CF[sub 3] and I, either upon adsorption or at slightly-elevated temperatures. Most CF[sub 3] decomposes to adsorbed C and F. Above 75% saturation of the first layer, the availability of surface sites for decomposition decreases to a level where some adsorbed CF[sub 3] remains intact and desorbs as such. Bombardment of multilayer CF[sub 3]I by low-energy electrons introduces new chemistry. Electron-induced decomposition (EID) of the parent molecule occurs through both C-I and C-F bond scission, with a measured cross section of 1.5 x 10[sup -16] cm[sup 2] (upper limit). Thermally-induced desorption from the electron-bombarded surface indicates a number of EID fragment reactions, most notably carbon-carbon bond formation, as evidenced by C[sub 2]F[sub 3]I[sup 1], C[sub 2]F[sub 4][sup +], C[sub 2]F[sub 5][sup +], C[sub 3]F[sub 3][sup +], and C[sub 4]F[sub 7][sup +]. To our knowledge, this is the first report of C-C bond formation in small fluorocarbons adsorbed on metal surfaces. 36 refs., 13 figs.
Additive Manufacturing of Nitinol Shape Memory Alloys to Overcome Challenges in Conventional Nitinol Fabrication

The pseudoelastic and shape memory effects of NiTi can be used in passive or active actuation systems. Often used in the aerospace industry, the use of NiTi for actuation is also growing in the biomedical fields and elsewhere. However, it’s potential in industry is currently limited by the inability to produce complex NiTi parts. Conventional manufacturing processes are complicated by the extreme difficulty associated with machining NiTi. Furthermore, the transformation temperatures which drive the unique behavior of NiTi as a shape memory alloy are extremely sensitive to the relative concentrations of nickel and titanium. Therefore, exceptionally tight compositional control during production is necessary to guarantee ideal material behavior. Additive manufacturing (AM) is a near-net-shaping technology which allows for the direct fabrication of complex metallic components. By utilizing the AM processing principle, the poor machinability of NiTi is no longer an issue. Using AM also enables production of 3D geometries that are not possible using traditional techniques. Furthermore, direct CAD fabrication reduces the timescale of the concept-to-prototype transition. In the present work, an SLM machine (Phenix Systems PXM) is used to develop NiTi components directly from powder. The thermal characteristics and shape memory functionality of SLM NiTi components is demonstrated.Copyright © 2014 by ASME
Transplantation of antibody producing cells or their precursors by parabiosis

Abstract Evidence is presented for the transplantation of an immunologically conditioned cell by parabiosis. The transplantation of such a cell appears not to be related to irradiation of the non-immunized member of the pair.
Derivation of analytical expressions for the network dislocation density, change in lattice parameter, and for the recrystallized grain size in nuclear fuels

Abstract At relatively high burn-up, both UO2 and U–10Mo nuclear fuels undergo irradiation-induced recrystallization wherein grains of micron size transform to grains of submicron size. Previously, expressions have been derived for the initiation, and for the progression of recrystallization as a function of fission density, fission rate, fuel temperature, and as-fabricated grain size. Here, analytical expressions are derived for the network dislocation density, change in lattice parameter, and the size of the recrystallized grains. The basic premise of the theory presented in this work is that irradiation-induced recrystallization is driven by the behavior of interstitial loops. It is demonstrated that these phenomena can be simulated in both UO2 and in U–xMo with the same theory, albeit with various property differences. Results of the calculations are compared with available data.
Impaired production of interferon in lymphocytes from immunosuppressed patients.

Interferon production induced by Newcastle disease virus was found to be impaired in peripheral lymphocytes from recipients of renal allografts receiving immunosuppressant drugs, corticosteroids, and azathioprine. Factors such as azotemia, active infection with cytomegalovirus, leukopenia, or lymphocyte viability did not play a paramount role in the observed suppression of interferon production. Interferon impairment was not reversed by incubation of patients' lymphocytes in normal human serum, and serum from immunosuppressed patients did not inhibit production of interferon in normal lymphocytes. Thus, the defect appears to be primarily a cellular one. These findings may offer a partial explanation for the enhanced susceptibility to viral infections in patients receiving immunosuppressants after organ transplantation. Patients receiving immunosuppressant drugs are more susceptible to infections, including those caused by DNA viruses [1, 2]. Moreover, infections in such patients are associated with greater than usual morbidity and higher mortality. The exact mechanisms responsible for this enhanced susceptibility to infections have not been fully elucidated. A recent study has shown that cellular immunity to Candida albicans was depressed in immunosuppressed patients, whereas except for those receiving cyclophosphamide, no depression of circulating antibodies was found [3]. It is likely that a similar immunologic impairment exists against viruses. Interferon is an antiviral substance produced in response to viral infection, but whose induction may also accompany certain events associated with cellular immunity. This factor, however, has not been studied to date in recipients of transplanted organs whose cellular immunity had been iatrogenically suppressed to
Prostaglandin E2 binding site distribution and subtype classification in the rabbit iris-ciliary body

Abstract The distribution and characteristics of specific binding sites for tritium labeled prostaglandin E2 (3H-PGE2) were examined in membrane preparations from rabbit iris-sphincter, iris and ciliary body. The majority of 3H-PGE2 specific binding sites were found in the ciliary body (46%) followed by the iris (37%) and the iris-sphincter muscle (5%). Scatchard analysis of saturable 3H-PGE2 binding sites in the ciliary body indicated a single binding site with a Kd of 2.81 nM and Bmax value of 84 fmoles bound/mg protein. Competition by agonists selective for the EP1, EP2 and EP3 receptor subtypes of the EP (PGE2) prostanoid receptor indicated that the majority of rabbit ciliary body 3H-PGE2 binding sites are of the EP2 subtype. Incomplete displacement of labeled 3H-PGE2 from its binding sites by the EP2 selective agonist 11-deoxy PGE1 suggests the presence of additional EP or non-EP binding sites. There was essentially no binding to EP1 receptor sites as defined by the displacement of 3H-PGE2 by 17-phenyl-trinor PGE2. A weak displacement of 3H-PGE2 by the EP3/EP1 specific agonist, sulprostone, may account for the presence of a small number of EP3 specific binding sites in this tissue. The predominant distribution of PGE2 binding sites in the ciliary body and their identification as EP2 selective, supports recent functional studies where topical application of prostanoids with EP2 but not EP1 or EP3 agonist activity resulted in breakdown of the blood-aqueous barrier.
Expression of ceruloplasmin gene in human and rat lymphocytes

The acute phase plasma protein ceruloplasmin (Cp) appears to play some role in host defense. The possibility that production of Cp in extrahepatic sites may also be essential for the activation, effector functions and cytoprotection of immune cells in localized environments has received minimal attention. Here, we have surveyed various types of human and rat immune cells for the presence of Cp mRNA using RT-PCR with primers that span exons 17-19 as an initial step in addressing this possibility. Validated Cp RT-PCR bands were obtained from RNA samples isolated from resting and activated human lymphocytes, CD4 and CD8 T-cells and B-cells. Semiquantitative RT-PCR indicated that Cp mRNA in immune cells is present at about 0.2% the level of Cp mRNA in HepG-2 human liver cell line. Various human cell lines derived from the immune system, rat splenic MNC and purified rat T-lymphocytes also constitutively express Cp gene.
Growth of Vitis vinifera L. and Vitis aestivalis Michx. as Affected by Temperature

Abstract Four European (Vitis vinifera L.) winegrape cvs., ‘Semillon’, ‘Pinot Noir,’ ‘Chardonnay’, and ‘Cabernet Sauvignon’, and one American (Vitis aestivalis Michx.) winegrape cv. ‘Cynthiana’, were subjected to three temperature regimes in growth chambers set at 20/15°C, 30/ 25°C, or 40/35°C, for 16/8 hr day/night to determine the influence of temperatures on vine growth and development. In general, the best temperature for shoot and root growth 28 days after temperature treatments was 20/15°C for ‘Semillon’, ‘Cabernet Sauvignon’, and ‘Cynthiana’, and 30/25°C for ‘Pinot Noir’ and ‘Chardonnay’. Although 40/35°C reduced number of leaves, shoots, tendrils, and internodes, total leaf area (LA), and total shoot biomass of all the cultivars, the reduction was more pronounced in ‘Cynthiana’ than in the European cultivars. The average reduction in number of leaves at 40/35°C for the European cultivars was 47%, compared with 92% for ‘Cynthiana’. The two types of grapes adapted differently to high temperature. Sh...
The Pressor Response to Submaximal Cycle Ergometry While Using Aerodynamic Handlebars

This study hypothesized that changes in static shoulder loading while using aerobars during submaximal cycle ergometry would elicit a combined static and dynamic pressor response. Seven trained cyclists (mean +/- SD: 22 +/- 3 years, 77 +/- 12 kg, 1.8 +/- 1.1 m) rode a modified Monark cycle ergometer at three inclines (+5 degrees, 0 degree, -5 degrees) for five minutes each using aerobars at a power output (144 +/- 21 W) eliciting 60-65% of each subject's age-predicted HR maximum (120 +/- 4.9 bts.min-1). The positive to negative incline changes were designed to increase the static load experienced by the shoulder musculature. Mean HR, VE, VO2, and rectified EMG for the triceps brachii (TB), anterior (AD) and posterior deltoid muscles were computed over each minute of each condition. All variables exhibited steady-state responses at +5 degrees and 0 degree inclines and nonsteady-state responses at -5 degrees.HR, VO2, and VE correlated highly with EMG from AD (mean r = 0.75-0.79) and TB (mean r = 0.68-0.75) at -5', but only moderately correlated for HR at +5 degrees and 0 degree (mean r = 0.21-0.86). Y-intercepts for HR-VO2 and VE-VO2 relationships shifted positively with increased static load. Thus, static loading of AD and TB may disassociate the HR-VO2 relationship during submaximal cycle ergometry and may be responsible for torso positioning preferences by time-trial cyclists.
Modeling and parameter uncertainties for aircraft flight control system design

As aircraft designs trend toward further applications of control-configured vehicle concepts, aircraft control systems increasingly rely on stability augmentation to obtain normal flying qualities and reasonable structural margins. Although the control system designer would choose to have a perfect dynamic description of the vehicle, he knows that a level of uncertainty of plant dynamics will exist. This paper gives typical values of plant uncertainties for some recent aircraft design and development programs. Histories of pertinent aerodynamic, inertial, and structural parameters from program initiation to aircraft certification are given. These data can be used as typical of future vehicles so that control system design concepts can be evaluated with due consideration to their sensitivity to uncertainties in plant dynamics.
Degradation of propanil by bacterial isolates and mixed populations from a pristine lake

The microbial transformation rates of propanil, a commonly used herbicide, were investigated using water from a pristine lake in northeast Georgia. Microbial degradation rates were measured using natural water microflora, the natural water microflora amended with five bacterial species (Aerobacter aerogenes, Aeromonas hydrophila, Acinetobacter calcoaceticus, Proteus mirabilis, and Aeromonas salmonicida) isolated from the same lake, and the five isolates individually. Transformation rate constants for propanil were compared for the mixed microbial assemblages and isolates at similar initial bacterial concentrations (approximately 5.0 x 10(-3) bacteria/mL). Degradation started within 60 hours and was completed by 160 hours in all experiments. The mean first-order rate constant for natural microflora was -(4.80 +/- 0.620) x 10(-3) h-1. Natural waters amended with the bacterial isolates yielded rate constants ranging from -(0.39 +/- 0.186) x 10(-3) h-1 to -(2.13 +/- 0.029) x 10(-3) h-1 with an overall mean of -(1.63 +/- 0.242) x 10(-3) h-1. After 660 hours following the first amendment of propanil, (i.e., 500 hours after propanil degradation was complete), each sample was again amended with propanil. Subsequent degradation rates ranged from -(21.3 +/- 0.186) x 10(-3) h-1 to -(64.2 +/- 0.786) x 10(-3) h-1 and the mean rate constant was -(37.5 +/- 0.922) x 10(-3) h-1. No significant differences were observed between first-order rate constants among isolates following the first or the second addition of propanil. After the second spike, however, the average of rate constants was approximately 20 times greater than that following the first spike. Rates for the individual isolates varied greatly from one isolate to another, ranging from virtually no degradation with A. calcoaceticus to -(21.6 +/- 0.332) x 10(-3) h-1 for the composite treatment of all isolates.
Photodegradation of Emissive Conjugated Copolymers and Oligomers Containing Thienopyrazine

The thieno[3,4-b]pyrazine moiety in conjugated copolymers and model compounds degrades upon UV irradiation in air, in both solution and the solid state. The photodegradation is evidenced by the substantial changes in the photophysical, electroluminescent, and structural properties of thieno[3,4-b]pyrazine-containing emissive conjugated copolymers and oligomers upon their exposure to UV radiation. Depending on the irradiation time, partial or complete quenching of the intramolecular charge transfer absorption and emission bands of the copolymers and oligomers is observed in dilute toluene solutions and in thin films, clearly pointing to a selective photodegradation of the thieno[3,4-b]pyrazine moiety in the emissive materials. 1H NMR and FTIR spectroscopies on a thieno[3,4-b]pyrazine-containing oligomer revealed changes in the molecular structure of the thieno[3,4-b]pyrazine ring upon photoirradiation. It appears that the CN bonds in the thieno[3,4-b]pyrazine ring are broken down to form a secondary amine,...
Characterization of Chitosan Coated Magnetoelastic Materials for Use in Percutaneous Implants

There are upwards of 250,000 cases of infections due to the use of percutaneous devices in the US every year, with an estimated cost of $25,000 per incident. Improving the longevity of these devices is thus of significant clinical and economic importance. Current antimicrobial and junctional healing approaches do not allow for in situ modulation of therapeutic effects. In this work we are developing bioactive vibrational magnetoelastic (ME) materials for use as a remotely activated tunable coating promoting cell differentiation and inhibition of bacterial adhesion at the tissue-implant interface. ME sensors are currently used as an in situ method of measuring biological processes. The objective of this study was to develop an ME antimicrobial coating conducive to cell growth and characterize the antimicrobial and cell inductive response towards frequency-amplitude modulated vibrations. A thin film of Chitosan, a natural polymer with antimicrobial properties, was applied to the material using spin coating and quantified with profilometry and scanning electron microscopy. Custom built activation coils were constructed measuring resonant frequencies and amplitudes of coated and uncoated ME material. Based upon collected data a representative curve was created modeling the changes in resonant frequency and amplitude. Tunable vibrations induced a 30% decrease in bacterial adhesion when compared to non-vibrated controls. Currently we are testing the effectiveness of these coatings at promoting epithelial cell differentiation in addition to inhibition of bacteria adhesion.
Rejuvenating Sport Socialization Research

Using existing critiques as a constructive foundation, the purpose of this paper is to extend analyses of the malaise in sport socialization by suggesting two alternative approaches that may revive interest in this important research topic. One, more representative of a functionalist integration, attempts to shift to more macro considerations by conceptualizing sport socialization as a mechanism of social and cultural reproduction; the nature and role of social structure is examined with respect to learning, interaction, and communication. Viewing such a synthesis as inadequate to rejuvenate the topic, however, we endorse a cultural studies approach which attempts to contextualize socialization within the broader framework of power, hegemony and ideology. Inherent in both alternatives, however, is a challenge to rethink underlying assumptions and fundamental elements upon which previous sport socialization research has been based. Although fundamentally different in approach, both require a new or differe...
Protocol for Testing Fouled Railway Ballast in Large-Scale Cyclic Triaxial Equipment

A testing protocol was developed to measure accumulation of vertical plastic deformation in fouled railway ballast under cyclic traffic loading. Large-scale cyclic triaxial (LSCT) test equipment was constructed to test fouled ballast under various stress conditions. A method of introducing fouling material and moisture to ballast specimens was critical to the resulting deformational behavior. Specimens for LSCT testing should be prepared by mixing ballast with relatively dry fouling material (moisture
Transcriptional Profiling of Mycobacterium Tuberculosis During Infection: Lessons Learned

Infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the causative agent of tuberculosis, is considered one of the biggest infectious disease killers worldwide. A significant amount of attention has been directed towards revealing genes involved in the virulence and pathogenesis of this air-born pathogen. With the advances in technologies for transcriptional profiling, several groups, including ours, took advantage of DNA microarrays to identify transcriptional units differentially regulated by M. tuberculosis within a host. The main idea behind this approach is that pathogens tend to regulate their gene expression levels depending on the host microenvironment, and preferentially express those needed for survival. Identifying this class of genes will improve our understanding of pathogenesis. In our case, we identified an in vivo expressed genomic island (iVEGI) that was preferentially activate in murine lungs during early infection, as well as groups of genes activate during chronic tuberculosis. Other studies have identified additional gene groups that are active during macrophage infection and even in human lungs. Despite all of these findings, one of the lingering questions remaining was whether in vivo expressed transcripts are relevant to the virulence, pathogenesis, and persistence of the organism. The work of our group and others addressed this question by examining the contribution of in vivo expressed genes using a strategy based on gene deletions followed by animal infections. Overall, the analysis of most of the in vivo expressed genes supported a role of these genes in M. tuberculosis pathogenesis. Further, these data suggest that in vivo transcriptional profiling is a valid approach to identify genes required for bacterial pathogenesis.