cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Temporal limits on the Rise in Postsynaptic Calcium Required for the Induction of Long-Term Potentiation

Abstract The induction of long-term potentiation (LTP) in hippocampal CA1 pyramidal cells requires a rise in postsynaptic intracellular Ca 2+ concentration ([Ca 2+ ] i ). To determine the time for which Ca 2+ must remain elevated to induce LTP, the photolabile Ca 2+ buffer diazo-4 was used to limit the duration of the rise in postsynaptic [Ca 2+ ] i following a tetanus. The affinity of diazo-4 for Ca 2+ increases approximately 1600-fold upon flash photolysis, permitting almost instantaneous buffering of [Ca 2+ ] i without disturbing resting [Ca 2+]i prior to the flash. Photolysis of diazo-4 1 s following the start of the tetanus blocked LTP, while delaying photolysis for more than 2 s had no discernible effect on LTP. Photolyzing diazo-4 at intermediate delays (1.5–2 s) or reducing photolysis of diazo-4 often resulted in short-term potentiation (STP). These results indicate that a tetanus-induced rise in postsynaptic [Ca 2+ ] i lasting at most 2–2.5 s is sufficient to generate LTP. Smaller increases or shorter duration rises in [Ca 2+ ] i may result in STP.
The use of modeling to understand malfunction and failure in mechanical seals

Abstract Beginning in the 1970s, realistic mathematical models of mechanical seals have been constructed in order to aid in design and troubleshooting. Three examples of such models are reviewed: an early hydrostatic seal model, a hydrodynamic model for a seal with deep hydro-pads, and a stability model for a seal operating near the vapor point. Each of these models has provided insight into the causes of seal malfunction, and has provided guidance into devising solutions.
The F-BAR Protein CIP4 Inhibits Neurite Formation by Producing Lamellipodial Protrusions

Neurite formation is a seminal event in the early development of neurons. However, little is known about the mechanisms by which neurons form neurites. F-BAR proteins function in sensing and inducing membrane curvature. Cdc42-interacting protein 4 (CIP4), a member of the F-BAR family, regulates endocytosis in a variety of cell types. However, there is little data on how CIP4 functions in neurons. Here we show that CIP4 plays a novel role in neuronal development by inhibiting neurite formation. Remarkably, CIP4 exerts this effect not through endocytosis, but by producing lamellipodial protrusions. In primary cortical neurons CIP4 is concentrated specifically at the tips of extending lamellipodia and filopodia, instead of endosomes as in other cell types. Overexpression of CIP4 results in lamellipodial protrusions around the cell body, subsequently delaying neurite formation and enlarging growth cones. These effects depend on the F-BAR and SH3 domains of CIP4 and on its ability to multimerize. Conversely, cortical neurons from CIP4-null mice initiate neurites twice as fast as controls. This is the first study to demonstrate that an F-BAR protein functions differently in neuronal versus nonneuronal cells and induces lamellipodial protrusions instead of invaginations or filopodia-like structures.
Research on Interface Symbols of Sand Groups and Characters of Interior Gyrations of Heidimiao Layer in Yingtai Area

This article is intended to identify interface symbols of sand groups by combining logging data with seismic data, and set correlation symbols of 8 sand groups in strata Nen 3 (H1) and Nen 4 (H2) of Nenjiang group. Characteristics of interior gyrations of those sand groups are analyzed according to core and logging data. Besides, sand group features of a single well are expected to be studied in this article. Upon the data and analysis, foundation information is provided for the research on sand distribution characteristics of Heidimiao oil layer and controlling factors of oil and water distribution.
Race and ethnic variation in the disablement process.

Objectives:This analysis examines ethnoracial group differences in the transition from health to disability. Methods:Using data from the AHEAD study, the authors examine the relative influence of each stage in the disablement process in the evolution of ethnoracial group differences in basic and instrumental disability. Results: Predisposing factors account for disability differences between Whites and other Latinos, whereas excess disability among African Americans stems from their higher level of cognitive limitation. The excess disability of Mexican Americans arises from their higher level of physical limitations. The data also reveal a larger impact of medical conditions and physical limitations on acquisition of disability among African Americans andMexican Americans. This article demonstrates the importance of cognitive status in the disablement process, especially in ethnoracial group differences. Discussion:The authors discuss the practical implications for health care delivery to non-White elders...
A ‘catch-all’ toxicological screen

Ein ganzheitlicher toxikologischer Test wird vorgeschlagen, bei dem einzelne Gruppen von Nagetieren benutzt werden, um beliebige Substanzen gleichzeitig auf alle schadlichen Wirkungen zu prufen, einschliesslich chronische Toxizitat, karzinogene, mutagene und teratogene Eigenschaften, sowie auf Anderungen der hepatischen mikrosomalen Aktivitat.
Reasoning about logical connectives: A developmental analysis☆

Abstract The present study focused on the developmental acquisition of the conditional implication interpretation of “if-then”. Three tasks, given to adults and third-, fifth-, and eighth-graders, assessed knowledge of three aspects of this interpretation: (a) the reference relation between “if-then” and an conditional state of affairs; (b) the truth conditions of implication; and (c) the relation between implication and other propositional concepts. Results showed that the older three groups were significantly more likely than the third-graders to comprehend aspects (a) to (c). Significant increases occurred between the third and fifth grades in the number of subjects demonstrating acquisition of the propositional concept of implication. Additional improvement occurred between the eighth grade and college levels in the ability to distinguish between “if-then” and “if and only if”. These results are interpreted within the formal operations model of adolescent reasoning.
No Universal Constants: Journeys of Women in Engineering and Computer Science*

This paper describes lessons from stories of thirty-six women in engineering and six women in computer science narrated in our book on journeys of women in science and engineering.1 These stories underscore the various factors that have been described in the literature as reasons women choose and stay in engineering. This paper discusses several of these factors. Students who reach college are a select group who have overcome the early barriers and are set on a potential track to becoming engineers. The experiences of these women as narrated in the book point to some of the positive and negative factors in the formative stages of their lives. Albert Bandura's model of perceived self-efficacy is a theoretical framework that may be useful in exploring ways of teaching and advising in engineering schools to better meet the needs of the increasingly diverse student population. This framework is discussed briefly, and its components illustrated by examples from the stories. As college advisors and teachers, we need to reaffirm the methods and thinking students have evolved, but which may be challenged by the system based on a “normative student” model.
Cross-correlated (C 2 ) imaging of fiber and waveguide modes

We demonstrate a method that enables reconstruction of waveguide or fiber modes without assuming any optical properties of the test waveguide. The optical low-coherence interferometric technique accounts for the impact of dispersion on the cross-correlation signal. This approach reveals modal content even at small intermodal delays, thus providing a universally applicable method for determining the modal weights, profiles, relative group-delays and dispersion of all guided or quasi-guided (leaky) modes. Our current implementation allows us to measure delays on a femtosecond time-scale, mode discrimination down to about – 30 dB, and dispersion values as high as 500 ps/nm/km. We expect this technique to be especially useful in testing fundamental mode operation of multi-mode structures, prevalent in high-power fiber lasers.
Clients of Commercial and Not-for-Profit Credit Counseling Agencies: Their Evaluations of Agency Services and Money Management Behavior

The number of family credit counseling agencies has expanded in recent years. The purpose of these agencies is to seek cooperation of lenders in setting up a plan whereby debtors can repay their debts. However, the agencies have sought not only to extricate clients from their current financial problems but also to educate them to avoid future financial problems. There is a debate in the credit counseling industry over whether the not-for-profit or the commercial agency can best serve debtor needs. This study is based on a survey of debtors who were clients of a not-for-profit agency or of a commercial agency. No significant differences were found in clients' evaluations of the services of the two agencies or in the credit and money management behavior of the two client groups.
Structure and Reaction in the Active Site of Mammalian Adenylyl Cyclase

The reaction path for the catalytic conversion of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) to cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) by the enzyme mammalian adenylyl cyclase has been calculated theoretically using the Hartree−Fock method. The crystal structure of a thiophosphate reactant analogue, ATPαS, provides the basic structure of the active site binding that is then leveraged into the native reaction path by energy gradient optimization of protein binding residues and the ATP. A two-metal cluster bound to two aspartate residues and the ATP is important both structurally and catalytically. Autocatalytic activation of the reacting ribose 3‘OH group is calculated in the reactant conformation but the catalytic MgA divalent cation binds to the developing 3‘O anion and stabilizes the formation of a five-coordinate intermediate with the cyclic phosphate already formed. Changes in the coordination of the metals in the complex and the H-bonding of arginines that bridge the phosphate groups stabilize the reaction path com...
Corrigendum to Solvent-dependent oxidative coupling of 1-aryl-1,3-dicarbonyls and styrene.

This report describes the scope and mechanism of the solvent-dependent, chemoselective oxidative coupling of 1-aryl-1,3-dicarbonyls with styrene using Ce(IV) reagents. Dihydrofuran derivatives are obtained when reactions are performed in methanol, whereas nitrate esters can be selectively synthesized in acetonitrile and methylene chloride. Mechanistic studies are consistent with the rate of solvent-assisted deprotonation of a radical cation intermediate playing an integral role in the selective formation of products.
Synthesis and Mutagenic Activity of Alkyl Derivatives of 2-Amino-9H-pyrido[2, 3-b]indole

Two mutagenic compounds were isolated from the pyrolysate of soybean globulin: 2-amino-3-methyl-9H-pyrido[2,3-b]indole (MeAC) and 2-amino-3-ethyl-9H-pyrido[2,3-b]indole (EtAC). These two and other 3-substituted derivatives were synthesized by the condensation of 2- aminoindole with enaminonitriles, and tested for their mutagenic activity. The bulkiness of the alkyl group at C-3 position adjacent to the amino group was related to the mutagenic strength. 2-Amino-3-butyl-9H-pyrido[2,3-b]indole and the bulkier alkyl derivatives were not mutagenic.
Behavioral and pharmacological treatments for tourette syndrome: A review

Abstract This article reviews the published treatment outcome research on pharmacological and behavioral treatments for Gilles de la Tourette syndrome (TS). Controlled group outcome studies of pharmacological treatments show about a 50–60% reduction in tics with haloperidol and pimozide and about a 20% reduction with clonidine. A controlled group outcome study and several within-subject design studies of behavioral treatments show about a 90% reduction in tics with habit reversal training. A large number of case studies generally confirm these results and also show benefits from other behavioral treatments such as relaxation training, self-monitoring, and contingency management. Clinical limitations of TS drugs are that they produce side effects in 50–85% of the patients and require continuous use, and long-term compliance with the medications is limited. The primary limitation of behavioral treatments is that they require a large initial time commitment. The methodological strengths of the controlled drug studies are the use of double-blind and group designs. For the behavioral studies, the strengths are rigorous recording and controlled within-subject designs.
Scattering and Absorption by Aligned Grains in Circumstellar Environments

We present radiative transfer calculations showing the polarization effects of scattering and absorption by aligned grains. The grain model consists of a size distribution of oblate or spinning prolate particles with varying degrees of alignment. To develop an understanding of the radiative transfer effects, we begin with the simple case of a spherical envelope illuminated by a central source with constant grain alignment axis throughout the envelope. Nonaligned grains produce no net polarization in such envelopes, while aligned grains produce substantial linear and circular polarization. The linear polarization results from the competing effects of differential extinction and scattering. The polarization varies strongly with optical depth, with scattering dominating at low optical depth and differential extinction dominating at high optical depth. The net, or integrated, circular polarization from the envelopes is zero; however, the circular polarization across the resolved nebula is large, reaching ±50% in the "diagonal" regions of the nebula. Next we calculate axisymmetric models of protostellar envelopes, again with the simplifying case of constant grain alignment axis throughout the envelope. The polarization maps show differences from the case of nonaligned grains, especially in the disk midplane, where differential extinction of even the scattered light causes the polarization vectors to align perpendicular to the disk plane, in contrast to many observations. This suggests either that grains are not aligned in protostellar envelopes or that the magnetic field (the presumed alignment mechanism) is not aligned along the disk rotational axis throughout the envelope and disk. A definitive test of grain alignment could come from resolved circular polarization maps of protostars. Aligned grains produce large values of circular polarization across the cloud, up to ±25%-40% in the models presented here, whereas nonaligned grains produce maximum polarizations of less than 1%. In objects with aligned grains, analysis of linear and circular polarization maps can probe magnetic geometries.
Dynamic server assignment policies for assembly-type queues with flexible servers

We seek dynamic server assignment policies in finite-capacity queueing systems with flexible and collaborative servers, which involve an assembly and/or a disassembly operation. The objective is to maximize the steady-state throughput. We completely characterize the optimal policy for a Markovian system with two servers, two feeder stations, and instantaneous assembly and disassembly operations. This optimal policy allocates one server per station unless one of the stations is blocked, in which case both servers work at the unblocked station. For Markovian systems with three stations and instantaneous assembly and/or disassembly operations, we consider similar policies that move a server away from his/her “primary” station only when that station is blocked or starving. We determine the optimal assignment of each server whose primary station is blocked or starving in systems with three stations and zero buffers, by formulating the problem as a Markov decision process. Using this optimal assignment, we develop heuristic policies for systems with three or more stations and positive buffers, and show by means of a numerical study that these policies provide near-optimal throughput. Furthermore, our numerical study shows that these policies developed for assembly-type systems also work well in tandem systems. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics, 2008
Entropy flux-splittings for hyperbolic conservation laws part I: General framework

A general framework is proposed for the derivation and analysis of flux-splittings and the corresponding flux-splitting schemes for systems of conservation laws endowed with a strictly convex entropy. The approach leads to several new properties of the existing flux-splittings and to a method for the construction of entropy flux-splittings for general situations. A large family of genuine entropy flux-splittings is derived for several significant examples: the scalar conservation laws, the p-system, and the Euler system of isentropic gas dynamics. In particular, for the isentropic Euler system, we obtain a family of splittings that satisfy the entropy inequality associated with the mechanical energy. For this system, it is proved that there exists a unique genuine entropy flux-splitting that satisfies all of the entropy inequalities, which is also the unique diagonalizable splitting. This splitting can be also derived by the so-called kinetic formulation. Simple and useful difference schemes are derived from the flux-splittings for hyperbolic systems. Such entropy flux-splitting schemes are shown to satisfy a discrete cell entropy inequality. For the diagonalizable splitting schemes, an a priori L∞ estimate is provided by applying the principle of bounded invariant regions. The convergence of entropy flux-splitting schemes is proved for the 2 × 2 systems of conservation laws and the isentropic Euler system. ©1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
SuperMOS: A new class of low resolution multiobject spectrographs

Microwave Kinetic Inductance Detector (MKID) arrays, recently demonstrated at the Palomar 200 inch telescope, are a new superconducting detector technology that has great potential for astrophysics. We propose a new type of instrument, a Superconducting Multi-Object Spectrograph (SuperMOS), that uses MKIDs in conjunction with a focal plane mask. We present the design and science goals of a SuperMOS designed for LSST follow-up named Giga-z. Housing a 100,000 pixel MKID array with energy resolution R=50{100 and a 0.35-1.35 μm bandwidth, it will be capable of measuring 2 billion spectra and determining redshifts over 20,000 square degrees in 3 years down to mi ≈ 24.5 on a dedicated 4-meter telescope. Compared to LSST alone, Giga-z should improve the redshift precision by a factor of three with a much lower catastrophic failure rate.
Exposures associated with serum organochlorine levels among postmenopausal women from western New York State.

Background Organochlorines, such as 2,2-bis (4-chlorophenyl)-1,1-dichloroethylene (DDE), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and hexachlorobenzene (HCB) are lipophilic compounds that are ubiquitous in the environment and may cause adverse health effects in humans. Methods We examined the correlation between epidemiological exposure variables and serum DDE, PCB, and HCB levels in a sample of 192 healthy, female postmenopausal western New York residents; a subset of the control group from a case–control study on breast cancer risk. Usual diet, reproductive and medical histories, and other lifestyle information were obtained by an extensive in person interview. Serum levels (ng/g) of DDE, HCB, and 69 PCB congeners were determined by gas chromatography with electron capture detection. Statistical analyses included computations of crude and age and lipid adjusted correlation coefficients, as well as multiple linear regression analysis. Results Results indicated that the strongest predictors for serum DDE levels were age, serum lipids, parity, and fruit and dairy consumption. Statistically significant predictors of PCB levels included age, serum lipids, parity, and fish consumption. Serum HCB levels were related to age, serum lipids, and fruit and red meat consumption. Conclusions Our findings are consistent with previous investigations that reported strong associations between organochlorine levels and age and serum lipids. The absence of other data showing an association between fruit intake and organochlorine levels make the importance of this finding unclear. Am. J. Ind. Med. 41:102–110, 2002. © 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Thermoelastic state of a magnetically hard layer in a harmonic magnetic field with biasing

We propose a procedure for the numerical evaluation of the thermal stressed state of magnetically hard bodies subjected to the action of constant and harmonic components of the intensity of an external magnetic field. The influence of the coercive force on the magnetic-field intensity, temperature, mechanical stresses, and displacements in a layer of K25Kh30M3 alloy is investigated.
Absorbing random walks and the NAE2SAT problem

In this paper, we propose a simple randomized algorithm for the NAE2SAT problem. The analysis of the algorithm uses the theory of symmetric, absorbing random walks. Inasmuch as the NAE2SAT problem is in the complexity class L (Deterministic Logarithmic Space) and L ⊆ P ⊆ RP, the existence of such an algorithm is not surprising. However, the simplicity of our approach and the insights revealed by its analysis make the current study worthwhile. Not-all-equal SAT (NAESAT) is the variant of the satisfiability problem (SAT), in which we are interested in an assignment that satisfies all the clauses, but falsifies at least one literal in each clause. NAESAT is an interesting SAT variant in its own right and has been studied by SAT theoreticians, on account of its connections to the graph colouring problem. It is well-known that the variant of NAESAT with exactly three literals per clause (NAE3SAT) is NP-complete [M.R. Garey and D.S. Johnson, Computers and Intractability: A Guide to the Theory of NP-Completeness, W. H. Freeman Company, San Francisco, 1979]. Likewise, there seem to be a number of polynomial time algorithms for NAE2SAT as part of algorithm design folklore [D.S. Johnson, Personal Communication]. Here we show that the NAE2SAT problem admits an extremely simple, literal-flipping algorithm, in precisely the same way that 2SAT does. On a satisfiable instance involving n variables, the probability that our algorithm does not find a satisfying assignment is at most 1/24. The randomized algorithm takes O(1) extra space, in the presence of a verifier and provides an interesting insight into checking whether a graph is bipartite. It must be noted that space-parsimonious randomized algorithms for a problem, such as the one proposed in this paper, invariably lead to error-bounded, online algorithms for the same. As part of our analysis, we argue that a restricted variant of NAE2SAT is L-complete. We note that the bounds derived in this paper are sharper than the ones in Papadimitriou [C.H. Papadimitriou, On selecting a satisfying truth assignment, in Proceedings of the 32nd Annual Symposium on Foundations of Computer Science, San Juan, Puerto Rico, 1-4 October 1991, IEEE, ed., IEEE, Washington, DC, 1991, pp. 163-169].
Fixed-film Anaerobic Digestion of Flushed Dairy Manure after Primary Treatment: Wastewater Production and Characterisation

The characteristics of flushed dairy manure after primary treatment at a Florida dairy were monitored daily over a 1-year period along with cow numbers and water use, with the aim of developing fixed-film anaerobic digestion of flushed dairy manure wastewater (FDMW). Primary treatment included screening through a mechanical separator followed by sedimentation. The FDMW exhibited average total solids (TS), volatile solids (VS) and total chemical oxygen demand (COD) levels of 3580, 2210 and 3530 mg l � 1 , respectively, for a milking herd average of 359 cows and a wastewater production of 502 m 3 d � 1 . Analyses of FDMW parameters and manure excretion estimates indicated that 53% of the TS, 40% of the VS and 58% of the total COD remained in the wastewater after screening and sedimentation. The separation of fibrous solids increased the COD to VS ratio of the FDMW. Wastewater temperature was found to significantly affect both the separation of TS, VS, and total COD, and the partitioning of wastewater parameters between the particulate and soluble phases. Higher FDMW temperatures tended to reduce TS, VS, and total COD removal efficiencies. The ratio of soluble COD to dissolved VS increased with temperature, while the ratio of particulate COD to volatile suspended solids decreased, indicating that significant levels of biological activity occurred in the sedimentation basin at higher temperatures. The VS measurement does not accurately determine the methane potential of components in FDMW compared to COD measurements. In spite of the fact that 60% of the VS is removed by screening and sedimentation, the major portion of the methane potential remains in the wastewater since the solids that are removed are relatively non-degradable fibres and do not contribute to methane production. Model equations were developed to predict total COD levels in flushed dairy manure wastewater as a function of fresh flushwater usage per animal unit for similar dairy operations, providing an important design parameter for implementation of fixed-film anaerobic digestion systems.
Enhancement of Actin-depolymerizing Factor/Cofilin-dependent Actin Disassembly by Actin-interacting Protein 1 Is Required for Organized Actin Filament Assembly in the Caenorhabditis elegans Body Wall Muscle

Regulated disassembly of actin filaments is involved in several cellular processes that require dynamic rearrangement of the actin cytoskeleton. Actin-interacting protein (AIP) 1 specifically enhances disassembly of actin-depolymerizing factor (ADF)/cofilin-bound actin filaments. In vitro, AIP1 actively disassembles filaments, caps barbed ends, and binds to the side of filaments. However, how AIP1 functions in the cellular actin cytoskeletal dynamics is not understood. We compared biochemical and in vivo activities of mutant UNC-78 proteins and found that impaired activity of mutant UNC-78 proteins to enhance disassembly of ADF/cofilin-bound actin filaments is associated with inability to regulate striated organization of actin filaments in muscle cells. Six functionally important residues are present in the N-terminal β-propeller, whereas one residue is located in the C-terminal β-propeller, suggesting the presence of two separate sites for interaction with ADF/cofilin and actin. In vitro, these mutant UNC-78 proteins exhibited variable alterations in actin disassembly and/or barbed end-capping activities, suggesting that both activities are important for its in vivo function. These results indicate that the actin-regulating activity of AIP1 in cooperation with ADF/cofilin is essential for its in vivo function to regulate actin filament organization in muscle cells.
Post diagnosis diet quality and colorectal cancer survival in women

Background Dietary factors are known to influence colorectal cancer (CRC) risk, however, their association with CRC survival is unclear. Therefore, we prospectively examined the association between diet quality scores, dietary patterns and colorectal cancer (CRC) survival.
Partitioning of Fish and Diet Selection as Methods for the Reduction of Cannibalism in Paralichthys dentatus Larviculture

Partitioning of larvae and diet selection were examined as strategies to reduce cannibalism in summer flounder Paralichthys dentatus. Methods of partitioning included physical grading by size, baffle interference, and a control. The baffle consisted of a barrier with cells 14-mm square and walls 9-mm high. The barrier was positioned horizontally at a depth where it would divide the tank into two equal volumes of water. Factors which may characterize cannibalism were quantified, including: total length, developmental stage, pigmentation, wet weight, and biomass. Engineered to reduce cannibalism, the baffle instead contributed to a decrease in survival for at least one experiment (P 0.05). Mean developmental stage of P. dentatus in the graded treatment was significantly less than fish in either the control or baffle treatments (P 0.05). Finally, both inert feeds and live Artemia sp. nauplii were examined for their contribution to the Occurrence of cannibalism. Predicted differences between live and artificial diets were not significant (P > 0.05). During experiments, cannibalism was principally observed in late larval and early juvenile stages and was not restricted to post-metamorphic juveniles feeding on premeta-morphic larvae. Methods normally employed to reduce cannibalism (partitioning of larvae and diet selection) do not appear to be effective for P. dentatus.
A Personal Memoir of the State Hospitals of the 1950s

The author recalls his experiences as an attendant at a state mental hospital in the early 1950s, before the introduction of psychotropic drugs. State hospitals of that era served not only as treatment centers for mentally ill patients but also as de facto nursing homes, retirement homes, orphanages, and shelters for chronic physically ill persons, medically ill poor people and wards of the state, adults and juveniles convicted of crimes, behaviorally disturbed retarded people, and alcoholics. The author argues that the deinstitutionalization movement removed an important, if unrecognized, source of palliative care for dispossessed individuals and recommends redesigning the state hospital to provide compassionate housing and treatment by trained persons for homeless and chronic physically and mentally ill individuals. Four patients typical of the heterogenous population of state hospitals in the 1950s are described.
Reliability of modified designs: a Bayes analysis of an accelerated test of electronic assemblies

Accelerated tests on two similar assemblies suggest that their lifetimes are in excess of 30000 h. A Bayes approach to reliability estimation using life test data from the two assemblies and those from an earlier evaluation of a third assembly, similar to the two under study, is described. The Bayes approach permitted a reduction in the number of test samples, compared to the earlier evaluation. The reliability of the two new assemblies was comparable to or better than that of the older one. >
Determinants of agonistic interactions in California sea lions

Summary California sea lions aggregate in high density colonies during the breeding season. Competition for space and mates results in agonistic interactions that may have long-term population consequences. We explored how demographic, behavioral, and environmental variables influence the rate of agonistic interactions in male and female California sea lions at three breeding colonies with varying population trends and distributed across a wide latitudinal gradient within the Gulf of California, Mexico. Our results indicate that male agonistic interactions are related to environmental and spatial parameters, whereas female interactions are related to male interactions, operational sex ratio (OSR) and environmental parameters. Most demographic and environmental parameters were inversely related to rates of agonistic interactions, with the exception of positive relationships between agonistic interactions and territory size for males and OSR for females. In addition, the highest overall rates of aggression were associated with a declining population. Our findings suggest agonistic interactions may be useful in assessing population dynamics, but additional research is needed to identify mechanistic relationships.
Outer Membrane Vesicle Production by Escherichia coli Is Independent of Membrane Instability

It has been long noted that gram-negative bacteria produce outer membrane vesicles, and recent data demonstrate that vesicles released by pathogenic strains can transmit virulence factors to host cells. However, the mechanism of vesicle release has remained undetermined. This genetic study addresses whether these structures are merely a result of membrane instability or are formed by a more directed process. To elucidate the regulatory mechanisms and physiological basis of vesiculation, we conducted a screen in Escherichia coli to identify gene disruptions that caused vesicle over- or underproduction. Only a few low-vesiculation mutants and no null mutants were recovered, suggesting that vesiculation may be a fundamental characteristic of gram-negative bacterial growth. Gene disruptions were identified that caused differences in vesicle production ranging from a 5-fold decrease to a 200-fold increase relative to wild-type levels. These disruptions included loci governing outer membrane components and peptidoglycan synthesis as well as the σE cell envelope stress response. Mutations causing vesicle overproduction did not result in upregulation of the ompC gene encoding a major outer membrane protein. Detergent sensitivity, leakiness, and growth characteristics of the novel vesiculation mutant strains did not correlate with vesiculation levels, demonstrating that vesicle production is not predictive of envelope instability.
Mother–Child Conversations about Emotions: Linkages to Child Aggression and Prosocial Behavior

We examined associations of maternal and child emotional discourse and child emotion knowledge with children's behavioral competence. Eighty-five upper middle-income, mostly White preschoolers and mothers completed a home-based bookreading task to assess discourse about emotions. Children's anger perception bias and emotion situation knowledge were assessed in a separate interview. Children's prosocial behavior, relational aggression, and physical aggression were observed during a preschool-based triadic play task. Mothers' emotion explanations were correlated with children's emotion situation knowledge and relational aggression. Both mothers' and children's emotion explanations predicted prosocial behavior whereas mothers' use of positive emotional themes was negatively associated with children's anger perception bias. Physical aggression was predicted by mothers' emotion comments, children's anger perception bias, and lack of emotion situation knowledge. Maternal emotion socialization variables were less strongly related to children's behavioral competence after accounting for demographics and child emotional competence. Implications of these findings for future research on emotion socialization are discussed.
Hybrid topology for multicast support in constrained WDM networks

Supporting multicast at WDM layer is an important requirement for high bandwidth multicast applications emerging in IP overWDM optical networks. Light-splitting technique has been proposed to provide light-trees, i.e., multicast trees in an optical layer. Many recent studies have been focused to efficiently build and configure light-trees without existing light-paths for unicast traffic into consideration. In this paper we identify and explore the optimal design problem of multicast configuration for realistic and constrained WDM networks. In such a network, both unicast and multicast are supported, and WDM switches have limited light splitting capability. Using wavelength sharing among traffic demands of unicast and multicast, we build a hybrid virtual topology which exploits both light-trees and light-paths. By optimizing WDM resources in addition to resource sharing with unicast, we truly maximize the WDM layer capability and efficiently support multicast traffic demands. We validate the efficiency of our approach with extensive simulations.
A communication library for the parallelization of air quality models on structured grids

Abstract PAQMSG is an MPI-based, Fortran 90 communication library for the parallelization of air quality models (AQMs) on structured grids. It consists of distribution, gathering and repartitioning routines for different domain decompositions implementing a master–worker strategy. The library is architecture and application independent and includes optimization strategies for different architectures. This paper presents the library from a user perspective. Results are shown from the parallelization of STEM-III on Beowulf clusters. The PAQMSG library is available on the web. The communication routines are easy to use, and should allow for an immediate parallelization of existing AQMs. PAQMSG can also be used for constructing new models.
Antibodies to I2 predict clinical response to fecal diversion in Crohn's disease.

Objectives: Fecal diversion is occasionally indicated in patients with advanced perianal or colorectal Crohn's disease (CD). Because CD may result from an aberrant immunologic response to bacteria within the gut lumen, fecal diversion should be effective in managing these complications. However, not all patients achieve a clinical response after fecal diversion. CD patients can be characterized by their antibody responses against Pseudomonas fluorescens (12), E.coli outer membrane porin C (OmpC), oligomannan (anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae antibodies [ASCA]), and antinuclear antigens (perinuclear antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies [pANCA]). This study examines the association between clinical features and seroreactivity to these microbial and auto-antigens in predicting a clinical response to fecal diversion. Methods: Twenty-seven consecutive CD patients undergoing fecal diversion were included. Sera were drawn and tested for anti-12, anti-OmpC, ASCA, and pANCA in a blinded fashion. Response was assessed using clinical parameters. Results: Seventeen (63%) patients underwent fecal diversion for medically resistant proctocolitis and 10 (37%) for severe perianal disease. Median follow-up was 41 months. Seventeen (63%) patients achieved a clinical response. No preoperative clinical or surgical factor predicted response to diversion. Clinical response after fecal diversion was seen in 15 of 16 (94%) patients who were 12 positive compared with only 2 of 11 (18%) patients who were 12 negative (P = 0.0001). Seroreactivity to OmpC, ASCA, or pANCA was not associated with a clinical response to diversion. Conclusion: Expression of 12 antibodies against a bacterial antigen of Pseudomonas fluorescens was highly associated with clinical response to fecal diversion in CD patients.
Effect of Distance between Homologous Sequences and 3′ Homology on the Frequency of Retroviral Reverse Transcriptase Template Switching

Deletion of direct repeats in retroviral genomes provides an in vivo system for analysis of reverse transcriptase (RT) template switching. The effect of distance between direct repeats on the rate of deletion was determined for 16 murine leukemia virus (MLV)-based vectors containing a 701-bp direct repeat of overlapping fragments of the herpes simplex virus thymidine kinase gene (HTK). The direct repeats were separated by spacer fragments of various lengths (0.1 to 3.5 kb). Southern analysis of infected cells after one replication cycle indicated that all vectors in which the distance between homologous sequences was >1,500 bp deleted at very high rates (>90%). In contrast, vectors containing <1,500 bp between homologous sequences exhibited lower frequencies of deletion (37 to 82%). To analyze the pattern of locations at which RT switched templates, restriction site markers were introduced to divide the downstream direct repeat into five regions. RT switched templates within all five regions of the 701-bp direct repeat and the frequency of template switching was greater within the 5′ regions in comparison to the 3′ regions. The probability of RT switching templates within the 5′ regions doubled when the MLV packaging sequence (Ψ) was placed between the 701-bp direct repeats. However, Ψ did not increase the rate of template switching for shorter direct repeats. These results indicate that linear distance between homologous sequences increases the rate of template switching and suggest that duplex formation between nascent DNA and homologous template sequences 3′ of RT promote template switching.
Regulation of tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase by HOXA10 enhances embryo viability through serotonin signaling

Tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase (TDO) is expressed in endometrium and catabolizes tryptophan, a precursor in the biosynthesis of serotonin. Tryptophan metabolism is an important mechanism for regulation of serotonin levels. Preimplantation mouse embryos are known to express serotonin receptors, specifically the 5-HT1D and 5-HT7 serotonin receptor subtypes. Here we demonstrate that Hoxa10 regulates endometrial TDO expression and improves embryo viability through increased serotonin production. Transfection of pcDNA-Hoxa10 to the murine uterus increased total TDO expression. In vitro, epithelial cell TDO expression was decreased after transfection with Hoxa10. Decreased glandular TDO in response to HOXA10 may augment serotonin production by increasing tryptophan availability. Conversely, stromal TDO expression increased with constitutive Hoxa10 expression. In mice, epithelial serotonin was increased in response to constitutive expression of Hoxa10. Embryo quality was impaired after treatment with Hoxa10 antisense. Blockade of serotonin receptors 1D and 7 also resulted in impaired embryo development, indicating an essential role for Hoxa10 induction of TDO and subsequent serotonin production in embryo development. Transfection of pcDNA-TDO also decreased the number of T cells in the endometrial stroma. We have shown a novel mechanism by which HOXA10 regulates endometrial TDO expression. In the endometrial stroma, HOXA10 increases TDO mRNA, which may increase tryptophan catabolism, allowing for immune tolerance at the time of embryo implantation. In endometrial glands, HOXA10 decreases TDO mRNA leading to increased serotonin that in turn acts to promote normal embryo development.
Abstracted biological principles applied with reduced actuation improve mobility of legged vehicles

Applying abstracted biological locomotion principles with reduced actuation can result in an energetic vehicle with greater mobility because a vehicle with the fewest number of motors can have the highest power to mass ratio. One such hexapod is Whegs II, which benefits from abstracted cockroach locomotion principles and has just one motor for propulsion. Similar to Whegs I, it nominally runs in a tripod gait and passive mechanisms enable it to adapt its gait to the terrain. One of the drawbacks of Whegs I is that it cannot change its body posture. Cockroaches pitch their bodies up in anticipation of climbing a step to enable their front legs to reach higher. They also flex their bodies down while climbing to permit their front legs to maintain contact with the substrate. A bidirectional servo-driven body flexion joint has been implemented in Whegs II to accomplish both of these behaviors. It is shown to be highly mobile and energetic.
The Effect of Energy Crisis on Technology: The Role of Control Engineering

This paper reviews the increasing interaction between the energy crisis and technological developments. Specifically the focus is on the need of control engineering to provide optimum results on industrial production and its quality, under the constraints of environment and energy resources. Some examples of the effects of limited energy resources on industry are given along with the contributions of control engineering in terms of energy savings, increased quality and productivity.
Phase coherent manipulation of light: from precision spectroscopy to extreme nonlinear optics

Phase control of wide-bandwidth optical frequency combs enables amazing capabilities in optical frequency measurement and synthesis, optical atomic clocks, united time-frequency spectroscopy, coherent pulse synthesis and manipulation, and deterministic studies in sub-cycle physics.
Effects of flurbiprofen on the progression of periodontitis in Macaca mulatta

The effect of the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug flurbiprofen has been studied in the ligature-induced and spontaneous periodontitis model in the rhesus monkey, Macaca mulatta. Twenty-four adult monkeys with incipient periodontitis were divided into three disease-matched groups. Two groups received flurbiprofen at dosages of either 0.27 mg/kg/d or 7.1 mg/kg/d delivered systemically via osmotic minipump. A split-mouth approach was used, placing ligatures on one side and monitoring the progression of periodontitis at regular intervals for 6 months. Clinical measurements included standardized radiographs, Ramfjord attachment level determinations and assessments of redness, edema and bleeding on probing. There was a statistically significant inhibition of attachment loss (p < 0.05), gingival redness (p < 0.05) and bleeding on probing (p < 0.05) in ligatureinduced and spontaneous periodontitis in the flurbiprofen-treated animals at 6 months. Eight of 8 ligated control monkeys lost significant attachment (mean loss of 1.06 mm/site). Only 3 of 15 flurbiprofen-treated ligated monkeys lost any significant attachment, with an overall mean loss of 0.34 mm/site, which was significantly less than the control loss of 1.06 mm/site at p = 4.46 times 10-3. The odds of a control ligated monkey undergoing significant attachment loss in 6 months are elevated 29.3-fold, as compared to the flurbiprofen-treated, cohort monkey group. Flurbiprofen treatment also significantly inhibited spontaneous attachment loss for 6 months as compared to control monkeys, at p < 0.05. These data provide further evidence for the central role of cyclooxygenase products in the progression of periodontal disease. The ability of flurbiprofen to inhibit periodontal attachment loss, even in the presence of gross plaque accumulation, has significant implications for the potential use of flurbiprofen as an adjunctive periodontal therapeutic modality.
Endoscopic Ultrasound Estimates for Tumor Depth at the Gastroesophageal Junction Are Inaccurate: Implications for the Liberal Use of Endoscopic Resection

Background Endoscopic resection is increasingly utilized for treating early stage esophageal cancer, and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) frequently guides treatment selection. Studies report greater than 80% sensitivity and 90% specificity, but our experience suggests less accuracy at the gastroesophageal (GE) junction. The objective of this study is to determine the accuracy of EUS for depth of GE junction cancer and the potential treatment implications. Methods A retrospective review of a prospective database was performed for patients from 1995 to 2014 with GE junction esophageal cancer that underwent EUS staging and resection (surgical or endoscopic) without neo-adjuvant therapy. Patient, tumor, EUS, and pathologic characteristics were examined. Results For the 181 patients that met criteria, the median age was 66 years, 17% were female, 91% white, and 98% had adenocarcinoma. Concordance between EUS (u) T and pathologic (p) T was 48%, with 23% under-staged and 29% over-staged. The EUS was accurate in the following: uT0 6% (1 of 18); uT1a 56% (23 of 41); uT1b 58% (41 of 71); uT2 10% (2 of 21); and uT3 70% (21 of 30). Inaccurate EUS depth had potential to lead to over-treatment in 38% (27 of 71) of uT1b and 76% (16 of 21) of uT2. In 50% of pT1a tumors, EUS depth was T1b or greater. Logistic regression revealed tumor length (continuous variable) to be associated with inaccurate uT ( p = 0.016). Accurately staged tumors were significantly longer than inaccurately staged tumors (2.7 vs 1.7 cm, p = 0.011). Conclusions Early to intermediate GE junction tumors are frequently over-staged. This highlights the importance of diagnostic endoscopic resection for determining accurate tumor depth and selecting correct therapy.