cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Seated Versus Standing Cycling in Competitive Road Cyclists: Uphill Climbing and Maximal Oxygen Uptake

Seven competitive road cyclists (M +/- SE = 23.7 +/- 1.5 yr, 70.5 +/- 1.7 kg) participated to determine the effects of cycling body position on physiological responses during uphill cycling and maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max). There was no significant difference in VO2max between seated and standing positions on a cycle ergometer (66.4 +/- 1.6 vs. 66.4 +/- 1.7 ml . kg-1 . min-1). When the subjects rode their own bicycle on a treadmill, oxygen uptake and heart rate were significantly (p < 0.05) higher during standing when subjects bicycled at 20.0 km . h-1 (4% grade), but no difference was observed when riding at 12.3 km . h-1 (10% grade). Leg RPE was significantly (p < 0.05) lower for standing position up a 10% grade. The results suggest that the standing position is less economical during moderate hill climbing, but during steep hill climbing, it results in a decreased sensation of effort in the legs.
Performance benefit of second harmonic control in helicopters

European Rotorcraft Forum (Berlin, Germany), 1991, pp. 599-616. Peters, D. A., and Izadpanah, A. P., "Helicopter Trim by Periodic Shooting with Newton-Raphson Iteration," Proceedings of the 37th Annual Forum of the American Helicopter Society (New Orleans, LA), 1981, pp. 217-226 (Paper 23). Kim, F. D., Celi, R., and Tischler, M. B., "Forward Flight Trim Calculations and Frequency Response Validation of a High Order Helicopter Simulation Model," Proceedings of the 47th Annual Forum of the American Helicopter Society (Phoenix, AZ), 1991, pp. 155168. Achar, N. S., and Gaonkar, G. H., "Helicopter Trim Analysis by Shooting and Finite Element Methods with Optimally Damped Newton Iterations," AIAA Journal, Vol. 31, No. 2, 1993, pp. 225234. Peters, D. A., and HaQuang, N., "Dynamic Inflow for Practical Applications," Journal of the American Helicopter Society, Vol. 33, No. 4, 1988, pp. 64-68 (Technical Note). "Churchill, G. B., and Dugan, D. C., "Simulation of the XV-15 Tilt-Rotor Research Aircraft," NASA TM-84222, March 1982.
Classical conditioning of the eyelid response in rabbits as a model system for the study of brain mechanisms of learning and memory in aging.

(1985). Classical conditioning of the eyelid response in rabbits as a model system for the study of brain mechanisms of learning and memory in aging. Experimental Aging Research: Vol. 11, No. 2, pp. 109-122.
Protection from CCl4 toxicity by prestimulation of hepatocellular regeneration in partially hepatectomized gerbils.

The present investigation was undertaken to test our hypothesis that the slow responses of hepatocellular regeneration and tissue repair after CCl4-induced liver injury are responsible for the high sensitivity of gerbils to the hepatotoxic and lethal effects of CCl4. These studies were conducted in normal and actively regenerating livers using male gerbils 5 or 15 days after partial (2/3) hepatectomy (PH5 and PH15, respectively), or those undergoing sham operation (SH). An ld50 dose of CCl4 (80 μL/ kg, i.p.) resulted in a mortality (21%) significantly (P < 0.05) less than 50% in PH5 gerbils 48 hr after CCl4 administration, whereas the mortality observed in PH15 or SH gerbils was not significantly different from 50%. The elevations of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels were significantly (P < 0.05) less in PH5 gerbils than in PH15 or SH groups after the administration of either the ld50 dose or a low dose (15 μL/kg) of CCl4. Histopathological and histomorphometric examinations also indicated that CCl4-induced liver injury was less severe in PH5 gerbils than in the PH15 and SH groups. The hepatic microsomal cytochrome P450 content measured before CCl4 administration in the PH5 gerbils was decreased (26%) significantly (P < 0.05) as compared with the SH group, but was not significantly different from that of PH15 gerbils. In vivo metabolism of 14CCl4 and lipid peroxidation in liver tissue were not significantly different among the various groups. Therefore, the protection against CCl4 toxicity observed in PH5 gerbils is unlikely to be due to decreased bioactivation of CCl4 or lipid peroxidation in that group. [3H]Thymidine incorporation into hepatocellular nuclear DNA was 4- to 5-fold higher in PH5 gerbils than in the PH15 and SH groups, indicating active hepatocellular proliferation in PH5 gerbils. [3H]Thymidine incorporation was further increased significantly (P < 0.05) 24 hr after challenge with a low dose of CCl4 in PH5 gerbils, whereas it remained low until 48 hr after the CCl4 injection in the PH15 or SH group. The protection against CCl4 toxicity afforded by partial hepatectomy was closely associated with active hepatocellular regeneration. The overall results confirm the concept that the high sensitivity of gerbils to CCl4 is due to very sluggish hepatocellular regeneration and tissue repair response to the CCl4-induced liver injury.
Orbital Radiation for the Ocular Changes of Graves' Disease

We reviewed the records of 37 patients who received orbital radiation for ocular changes of Graves' disease. Signs of orbital congestion improved in many patients. Proptosis extraocular muscle involvement, and corneal involvement were not appreciably altered. The best response was found in patients with optic nerve involvement. Radiation therapy is recommended as an initial therapeutic attack for the optic neuropathy of Graves' disease.
A SPLICED LEADER IS PRESENT ON A SUBSET OF MRNAS FROM THE HUMAN PARASITE SCHISTOSOMA MANSONI

Abstract We present evidence that a subset of mRNAs in the human parasitic trematode Schistosoma mansoni contain an identical 36-nucleotide spliced leader (SL) sequence at their 5' termini. The SL is derived from a 90-nucleotide nonpolyadenylylated RNA (SL RNA), presumably by trans-splicing. Neither the SL nor the SL RNA share significant sequence identity with previously described trans-spliced leaders and SL RNAs in trypanosomatid protozoans or nematodes. However, several features, such as predicted secondary structure, trimethylguanosine cap, and potential Sm binding site, suggest similarities among SL RNAs in widely divergent organisms. Our evidence also indicates that the exon 3 acceptor site of the 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase gene can be spliced either to the SL by trans-splicing or to an upstream exon, 2, by cis-splicing. The presence of a SL sequence in S. mansoni, a member of the phylum Platyhelminthes, suggests that transplicing may be a common feature of other lower invertebrates.
ON CHARACTERIZATION AND MITIGATION O F COMBUSTION HAZARDS INVOLVED IN THE HANDLING OF PARTICULATE MATERIALS: A REVIEW OF THREE BOOKS

ABSTRACT The three publications reviewed herein deal with the complex of hazards which may derive from the agricultural and commercial handling of combustible particulate and gaseous materials. The principal thrusts of each book differ substantially from those of the other two. This review first attempts to consider the essential combustion processes which underlie the hazards of common concern in all three works. Each of the three books is then considered on an individual basis. The three publications are designated Books (1)– (3) respectively and are listed below: (1) “User Guide to Fire and Explosion Hazards in the Drying of Particulate Materials.“ 1977. Institution of Chemical Engineers. Warwick Printing Company Limited, England. (2) “Prevention of Grain Elevator and Mill Explosions.“ 1982. NAS-NRC Publication NUB 367–2. National Academy Press, Washington, D. C. (3) “Guidelines for the Investigation of Grain Dust Explosions.“ 1983. NAS-NRC Publication NMAB 367–4, National Academy Press, Washington, D. C.
Heisenberg Limit Superradiant Superresolving Metrology

We propose a superradiant metrology technique to achieve the Heisenberg limit superresolving displacement measurement by encoding multiple light momenta into a three-level atomic ensemble. We use 2N coherent pulses to prepare a single excitation superradiant state in a superposition of two timed Dicke states that are 4N light momenta apart in momentum space. The phase difference between these two states induced by a uniform displacement of the atomic ensemble has 1/4N sensitivity. Experiments are proposed in crystals and in ultracold atoms.
Investigation of Catalytic Pathways and Separations for Lignin Breakdown into Monomers and Fuels

Lignin is primarily burned for heat and power in industrial processes, but its aromaticity and high energy content make it a promising source for liquid fuels, fuel additives, and chemical feedstocks. Conversion of lignin to monomers and smaller molecules can be done thermochemically through gasification; however, this process does not produce the desired fraction of liquid products, mainly yielding gases and char. In addition, such processing of lignin on a larger scale may encounter barriers, namely difficulty achieving selectivity of the conversion reactions and extensive requirements for separations, both before and after treatment of the material. A low temperature conversion of lignin may achieve better thermodynamic efficiency, provided a target catalyst can be used to generate a significant conversion of product. This project includes discussion of• the experimental evaluation of a number of different low temperature (20–30°C) catalytic pathways for the decompo sition of lignin into small molecule...
Negatively charged 2- and 10-μm particles activate vanilloid receptors, increase cAMP, and induce cytokine release

Exposure to airborne pollutants, such as particulate matter (PM), is associated with increased mortality and morbidity. Indirect evidence suggested that PM-induced responses could be initiated by the activation of proton-gated receptors, including vanilloid receptors (VRs) and acid-sensitive ion channels (e.g. ASICS). We tested this hypothesis by characterizing the effects of 10- and 2-microm polystyrene carboxylate-modified particles (PC(10) and PC(2)) on HEK 293 cells expressing VR1 receptors, rat trigeminal ganglion (TG) neurons, and BEAS-2B airway epithelial cells. Zeta potential measurements revealed that these particles are negatively charged, meaning that when they adhere to a membrane they can lower the surface pH and activate proton-gated receptors. Both types of PCs induced currents and/or elevated intracellular Ca(2+) in cells that were capsaicin sensitive (CS). In about 70% of CS neurons, 10 microM capsazepine (CPZ), a VR antagonist, blocked PC-induced responses. In TG neurons in which VRs were blocked or desensitized, PCs induced an amiloride-inhibitable inward current having the characteristics of ASIC-mediated currents. Incubation of TG neurons with either capsaicin or PCs produced a CPZ-sensitive increase in cyclic AMP and cytokine (IL-6) release. In summary, we provide unequivocal evidence demonstrating that negatively charged PCs could activate VR1 and other proton-gated receptors. These data suggest that pharmacological manipulation of such receptors could prevent the physiological actions of PMs.
On the origin of domesticity: A test of Keeler's "black-gene" hypothesis

In a classic set of papers on psychogenetics published in the 1940s, Clyde Keeler hypothesized that a single black recessive coat-color gene in Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus) was linked to docile, sluggish behavior as well as to reduced brain and adrenal gland size. Discovery of a possible “black-gene” rat in a large population of wild brown Norway rats prompted this test of Keeler’s proposed genetic origin of domesticity. Comparisons included computer-monitored open-field activity, activity wheel performance, water consumption, and physiological measures. Contrary to Keeler’s hypothesis, essentially no differences were found among wild black rats, their offspring, and brown rats on either the behavioral or the physiological measures. Our data would suggest that multigenic mechanisms of domestication, including selections and ontogenetic processes, seem to account best for the origin of domesticity.
Validation using sensitivity and target transform factor analyses of neural network models for classifying bacteria from mass spectra

Temperature constrained cascade correlation networks (TCCCNs) are computational neural networks that configure their own architecture, train rapidly, and give reproducible prediction results. TCCCN classification models were built using the Latin-partition method for five classes of pathogenic bacteria. Neural networks are problematic in that the relationships among the inputs (i.e., mass spectra) and the outputs (i.e., the bacterial identities) are not apparent. In this study, neural network models were constructed that successfully classified the targeted bacteria and the classification model was validated using sensitivity and target transformation factor analysis (TTFA). Without validation of the classification model, it is impossible to ascertain whether the bacteria are classified by peaks in the mass spectrum that have no causal relationships with the bacteria, but instead randomly correlate with the bacterial classes. Multiple single output network models did not offer any benefits when compared to single network models that had multiple outputs. A multiple output TCCCN model achieved classification accuracies of 96 ± 2% and exhibited improved performance over multiple single output TCCCN models. Chemical ionization mass spectra were obtained from in situ thermal hydrolysis methylation of freeze-dried bacteria. Mass spectral peaks that pertain to the neural network classification model of the pathogenic bacterial classes were obtained by sensitivity analysis. A significant number of mass spectral peaks that had high sensitivity corresponded to known biomarkers, which is the first time that the significant peaks used by a neural network model to classify mass spectra have been divulged. Furthermore, TTFA furnishes a useful visual target as to which peaks in the mass spectrum correlate with the bacterial identities.
The Effect of Surface Preparation on the Structure and Electrical Transport in an Organic Semiconductor

Self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) with a variety of structures and terminal groups were evaluated as underlayers for pentacene deposition. It was found that the most critical factor in the formation of highly oriented thin film pentacene with large grain size was the geometric structure of the monolayer. Monolayers with terminal bonds parallel to the surface produce large pentacene grains with an angular rather than the dendridic structure normally observed on octadecyltrichlorosilane (OTS) coated substrates. The grain size, X-ray scattering, carrier mobility, and current on/off ratios are all improved with monolayers of the appropriate geometry.
Impact of population changes on education cost.

This paper has two principal aims: (1) to analyze and measure how the demographic variables—mortality, fertility, and im migration — affect the cost of education; (2) to evaluate what possibilities developing countries, such as those of Latin America, have for a rapid educational improvement. The paper relates demographic and educational variables of three different populations: Sweden, 1840–1965; the United States, 1850–1960; and Latin America, 1930–2000. Three educational variables are also considered: (a) school attendance rates by sex and age; (b) distribution of students of same age by grade; and (c) cost of student by grade. Demographic changes in countries such as Sweden and the United States were favorable for the development of education. For the future, unless an increase of fertility occurs, mortality and fertility changes will not have a significant effect on the cost of education in these countries. In current less developed countries the demographic changes during the past were less favorable to educational development. A future reduction of fertility will significantly help them to achieve a higher educational level.
A Program for Computing an Index of Scale Unidimensionality

After briefly explaining an index of homogeneity for the items of a measurement scale, this paper describes a program that computes the index. Written in SAS, the program converts an output data set created by a factor analysis to two matrices: (a) the absolute values of the interitem correlations and (b) the item commonalities. These matrices are used to calculate the index.
Retrieval of Atmospheric Temperatures in the Martian Planetary Boundary Layer Using Upward-Looking Infrared Spectra

Abstract We present an algorithm for the retrieval of temperature in the planetary boundary layer (lowest few kilometers) of the martian atmosphere using upward-looking infrared spectra from a Mars lander. Temperature profiles retrieved from an orbiting or passing spacecraft do not have adequate vertical resolution to provide significant information within the planetary boundary layer. By using spectra taken from a surface lander looking upward toward zenith, and by transforming to a vertical coordinate that “stretches out” the atmosphere just above the surface where the contribution to the observed radiation peaks, we find that an efficient algorithm can be formulated with adequate vertical resolution to successfully retrieve temperature profiles that exhibit the major features of the diurnal cycle of planetary boundary layer temperatures. We expect that this technique can be extended to simultaneously retrieve the opacity, and possibly the scattering properties, of atmospheric aerosols as well. Although no upward-looking martian infrared spectra yet exist, demonstration of the abilities of a lander-based infrared spectrometer is important for the planning of future missions to Mars.
TIMP-2 Growth-Stimulatory Activity: A Concentration- and Cell Type-Specific Response in the Presence of Insulin

Abstract In addition to proteinase-inhibitory activities, growth-stimulatory activities have been described for all three known members of the tissue inhibitors of the metalloproteinase (TIMP) family, TIMP-1, TIMP-2, and ChIMP-3, believed to be the chicken homologue of TIMP-3. However, the mechanism by which the TIMPs stimulate cell growth is unclear. In this report we have demonstrated that rTIMP-2 was growth-stimulatory for human foreskin fibroblasts (HSF4, HSF43, HS68), lung adenocarcinoma cells (A549), human melanoma cells (WM115), and the Burkitt's lymphoma cell line RAMOS, and this stimulatory response was concentration-dependent, with the greatest stimulation occurring at 10–30 pMrTIMP-2 in [3H]thymidine incorporation assays and at 20–100 pMin cell growth assays. Normal human colon (18Co) and lung (37Lu) fibroblasts showed no response to rTIMP-2. [3H]Thymidine incorporation was inhibited by rTIMP-2 treatment in the nonadherent cell line HL60. These studies also demonstrated that for the cell types tested, TIMP-2 alone was insufficient for a growth stimulatory response requiring, at a minimum, the presence of insulin. In the absence of any “co-factor(s),” such as insulin, TIMP-2 treatment was inhibitory.
DNA damage-induced inhibition of rRNA synthesis by DNA-PK and PARP-1

RNA synthesis and DNA replication cease after DNA damage. We studied RNA synthesis using an in situ run-on assay and found ribosomal RNA (rRNA) synthesis was inhibited 24 h after UV light, gamma radiation or DNA cross-linking by cisplatin in human cells. Cisplatin led to accumulation of cells in S phase. Inhibition of the DNA repair proteins DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK) or poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP-1) prevented the DNA damage-induced block of rRNA synthesis. However, DNA-PK and PARP-1 inhibition did not prevent the cisplatin-induced arrest of cell cycle in S phase, nor did it induce de novo BrdU incorporation. Loss of DNA-PK function prevented activation of PARP-1 and its recruitment to chromatin in damaged cells, suggesting regulation of PARP-1 by DNA-PK within a pathway of DNA repair. From these results, we propose a sequential activation of DNA-PK and PARP-1 in cells arrested in S phase by DNA damage causes the interruption of rRNA synthesis after DNA damage.
From Coercion to Partnership in Federal Partial Preemption: SMCRA, RCRA, and OSH Act

This article examines the experiences ofthree importantpartial-preemptionprograms-the Surface Mining Control andReclamation Act of 1977 (SMCRA), the Occupational Safety andHealth Act ofl 970 (OSHAct), and the Resource Conservation andRecoveryAct ofl 976 (RCRA)--over the last two decades to improve our understanding of howfederal-state interactions have shaped the regulatorypartnership. The evidence we gather suggests that the control ofregulatoryprograms has shifted over time back and forth between the federal government and the states. In the initial years of these programs, what the Congress intended to be a regulatory partnership was, in effect, almost totalfederalpreemption ofstate authority. Under the RonaldReagan administration, the opposite occurred;federal regulation in many cases became de facto state regulation as federal officials essentially abdicated their oversight responsibility. By the end of the 1980s, the federal government began again to assert greater control over intergovernmental regulatoryprograms. The regulatory relationship that emerged is one in which thefederal government and the states share responsibility and authorityfor the implementation ofthese programs.
Deformation mechanisms in Ni-Ta-Fe-Al dispersion alloys containing ordered γ′ and γ″ precipitates

Abstract Transmission electron microscoy techniques were employed to study deformation mechanisms in Ni-base alloys in which γ″ particles existed alone or in combination with γ′ precipitates. It was determined that deformation in such alloys is controlled by the dislocation bypassing and stacking fault shearing of γ″ particles. The presence of numerous γ″ particles results in combinations of dislocation loops and stacking faults that prevent {111}( a 2 )〈110〉 dislocations from moving in pairs, thereby causing γ′ particles to be sheared by single dislocations. The resulting high-energy faults in γ′ are expected to result in significant yield strength increases; furthermore, the turbulent dislocation movements accompanying the simultaneous bypassing and shearing of particles in such bimodal dispersions provide a promising basis for the design of high-strength alloys with improved ductility and toughness.
Cognitive Fatigue During Testing: An Examination of Trait, Time-on-Task, and Strategy Influences

What are the consequences of testing over an extended period? We report a study of 4 hr of nearly continuous testing on two verbal tests (Cloze and Completion). Prior to the testing session, participants completed a series of nonability trait measures, including selected personality and motivation scales. During the study, participants (N = 99) were also administered a series of subjective fatigue and affect measures. We examined the effect of increasing time-on-task on performance and subjective fatigue, along with the relative influences of trait measures in predicting individual differences in subjective fatigue as time-on-task increased. In addition, we examined whether performance strategy differences were associated with either performance or subjective fatigue measures. Results indicated a dissociation between subjective fatigue (increasing over time-on-task) and performance measures (which were stable or showed slight improvements as time-on-task increased). Trait complexes accounted for significa...
Anharmonic lattice dynamics of Ag_2O studied by inelastic neutron scattering and first principles molecular dynamics simulations

Inelastic neutron scattering measurements on silver oxide (Ag_2O) with the cuprite structure were Performed at temperatures from40 to 400 K, and Fourier transform far-infrared spectra were measured From 100 to 300K. The measured phonon densities of states and the infrared spectra showed unusually large energy shifts with temperature, and large linewidth broadenings. First principles molecular dynamics (MD) calculations were performed at various temperatures, successfully accounting for the negative thermal expansion (NTE) and local dynamics. Using the Fourier-transformed velocity autocorrelation method, the MD calculations reproduced the large anharmonic effects of Ag_2O, and were in excellent agreement with the neutron scattering data. The quasiharmonic approximation (QHA) was less successful in accounting for much of the phonon behavior. The QHA could account for some of the NTE below 250 K, although not at higher temperatures. Strong anharmonic effects were found for both phonons and for the NTE. The lifetime broadenings of Ag_2O were explained by anharmonic perturbation theory, which showed rich interactions between the Ag-dominated modes and the O-dominated modes in both up- and down-conversion processes.
Retrotransposon insertion polymorphisms in six rice genes and their evolutionary history

Retrotransposons are abundant in higher plant genomes. Although retrotransposons associated with plant genes have been identified, little is known about their evolutionary conservation at the level of species and subspecies. In the present study, we investigated the phylogenetic distribution of long terminal repeat (LTR) retrotransposon, long interspersed nuclear element (LINE) and short interspersed nuclear element (SINE) insertions in six genes in 95 cultivated and wild rice genotypes. These six genes are likely to be functional based on nonsynonymous (Ka) to synonymous (Ks) substitution ratios which were found to be significantly <1. Different conservation patterns of these retrotransposons in genes were observed in cultivated and wild rice species. Four out of seven retrotransposon insertions appear to predate the ancestral Oryza AA genome. Two of these insertions in genes 4 and 5 occurred early in the evolutionary history of Oryza. Two retrotransposon insertions in gene 1 arose after the divergence of Asian cultivated rice from its wild ancestor. Furthermore, the retrotransposon insertion in gene 3 appears to have occurred in the ancestral lineage leading to temperate japonicas. Conservation of retrotransposon insertions in genes in specific groups, species, and lineages might be related to their specific function.
Halo bias in mixed dark matter cosmologies

The large-scale distribution of cold dark matter halos is generally assumed to trace the large-scale distribution of matter. In a universe with multiple types of matter fluctuations, as is the case with massive neutrinos, the relation between the halo field and the matter fluctuations may be more complicated. We develop a method for calculating the linear bias factor relating fluctuations in the halo number density to fluctuations in the mass density in the presence of multiple fluctuating components of the energy density. In the presence of massive neutrinos we find a small but pronounced feature in the halo bias near the neutrino free-streaming scale. The neutrino feature is a small step with amplitude that increases with halo mass and neutrino mass density. The scale-dependent halo bias lessens the suppression of the small-scale halo power spectrum and should therefore weaken constraints on neutrino mass from the galaxy autopower spectrum and correlation function. On the other hand, the feature in the bias is itself a novel signature of massive neutrinos that can be studied independently.
Antarctic nematode communities: observed and predicted responses to climate change

The rapidly changing climate in Antarctica is impacting the ecosystems. Since records began, climate changes have varied considerably throughout Antarctica with both positive and negative trends in temperatures and precipitation observed locally. However, over the course of this century a more directional increase in both temperature and precipitation is expected to occur throughout Antarctica. The soil communities of Antarctica are considered simple with most organisms existing at the edge of their physiological capabilities. Therefore, Antarctic soil communities are expected to be particularly sensitive to climate changes. However, a review of the current literature reveals that studies investigating the impact of climate change on soil communities, and in particular nematode communities, in Antarctica are very limited. Of the few studies focusing on Antarctic nematode communities, long-term monitoring has shown that nematode communities respond to changes in local climate trends as well as extreme (or pulse) events. These results are supported by in situ experiments, which show that nematode communities respond to both temperature and soil moisture manipulations. We conclude that the predicted climate changes are likely to exert a strong influence on nematode communities throughout Antarctica and will generally lead to increasing abundance, species richness, and food web complexity, although the opposite may occur locally. The degree to which local communities respond will depend on current conditions, i.e., average temperatures, soil moisture availability, vegetation or more importantly the lack thereof, and the local species pool in combination with the potential for new species to colonize.
Low-Cost, High-Performance Barrier Synchronization on Networks of Workstations

Circulating active barrier (CAB) is a new low-cost, high-performance hardware mechanism for synchronizing multiple processing elements (PEs) in networks of workstations at fine-grained programmed barriers. CAB is significantly less complex than other hardware barrier synchronization mechanisms with equivalent performance, using only a single conductor, such as a wire or copper run on a printed-circuit board, to circulate barrier packets between PEs. When a PE checks in at a barrier, the CAB hardware will decrement the count associated with that barrier in a bit-serial fashion as a barrier packet passes through, and then will monitor the packets until all PEs have checked in at the barrier. The ring has no clocked sequential logic in the serial loop. A cluster controller (CC) generates packets for active barriers, removes packets when no longer needed, and resets counters when all PEs have seen the zero-count. A hierarchy of PEs can be achieved by connecting the CCs in intercluster rings. When using conservative timing assumptions, the expected synchronization times with optimal clustering are shown to be under 1 ?s for as many as 4096 PEs in multiprocessor workstations or 1024 single-processor workstations. The ideal number of clusters for a two-dimensional hierarchy ofNPEs is shown to be N(D+G)/(I+G)]1/2, whereGis the gate propagation delay,Dis the inter-PE delay, andIis the intercluster transmission time. CAB allows rapid, contention-free check-in and proceed-from- barrier and is applicable to a wide variety of system architectures and topologies.
Effect of boundary conditions on the operator content of two-dimensional conformally invariant theories

The operator content of unitary conformally invariant theories with c<1 is further analysed by deriving the spectrum of the transfer matrix for finite width strips and a variety of boundary conditions: antiperiodic, cyclic, twisted, free, fixed and a mixture of the last two. Complete results are obtained for the Ising model and for the three-state Potts model, as illustrations of the method. They demonstrate how the internal symmetries of these theories are tied in with their conformal properties.
Minimally invasive protein delivery with rapidly dissolving polymer microneedles

sult, most biotherapeutics are administered by hypodermic injection, which causes pain, can lead to infection, requires trained personnel, and often needs frequent, repeated injections for the patient. Consequently, there exists the need for a minimally invasive, self-administered delivery system for biomolecules. An attractive non-invasive option is the transdermal patch, which has been well-received for the delivery of nicotine, estrogens, and other drugs. [4] However, delivery across intact skin permits transport of small, lipophilic molecules only and excludes transport of biotherapeutics, due to their large size. This study presents a novel, hybrid delivery approach to achieve the delivery efficacy of injections and the safety and patient compliance of the patch. We designed and synthesized rapidly dissolving polymer needles of micrometer dimensions for the painless, self-administered delivery of biomolecules. In this design, the drug is encapsulated within polymer microneedles and, after insertion into the skin, the biocompatible polymer dissolves within minutes to release the encapsulated cargo, not requiring removal and leaving behind no biohazardous sharps. Previous work has shown that microscopically piercing the skin with micrometer-scale needles offers an effective and convenient alternative for the delivery of biomolecules because of the efficient delivery [5,6] , lack of pain [7–9] , ease of use, and the expected low cost of fabrication. Microneedles have been shown to be able to deliver proteins, DNA, and vaccines in vivo, using devices small enough to be integrated into a low-profile, self-administered patch. [9–11] To date, most microneedles have been made of silicon or metal [12,13] with little
Impact of Parking Prices and Transit Fares on Mode Choice at the University of California, Berkeley

The University of California, Berkeley, and the City of Berkeley sought to reduce single-occupancy-vehicle commute trips to the campus as a means to reduce negative transportation externalities and to fulfill their environmental emissions reduction goals. This paper reports on the evaluation of policy scenarios to assess the potential impact of parking pricing and transit fare subsidies on the overall mode share of the University of California, Berkeley, community. A mode and parking choice model was developed on the basis of a biennial campuswide transportation and housing survey; policy alternatives were tested with a sample enumeration. The discrete choice model selected for policy analysis was a nested logit model calibrated on a randomly selected subsample of n 5 3,371 individuals and validated against the remaining 814 campus commuters. Factors found to influence mode choice significantly in this model included travel times and costs, gender, student status, age older than 70, and home location topo...
Cell-specific and developmental expression of phospholipase C-γ and diacylglycerol in fetal lung

Epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor (EGFR) regulates development of cell-cell communication in fetal lung, but the signal transduction mechanisms involved are unknown. We hypothesized that, in l...
RECOVERING FROM HURRICANE MITCH: HOUSEHOLD AND PLACE IN PREDICTING HONDURAN CHILD NUTRITIONAL STATUS

Identifying nutrition problems after the emergency phase of a disaster has passed is a critical priority in humanitarian response. Population displacements following hurricane flooding can promote household food shortages that persist after direct effects of the natural hazard have waned. This article examines preexisting social vulnerability and reconstruction effects as critical factors for under-five child nutritional status, alongside proximal household and child predictors. The study focuses on post-hurricane reconstruction almost two years after Hurricane Mitch in Honduras, and compares shelters in the capital with the settlement of Ciudad Nueva, Choluteca. Results have implications for humanitarian assistance practices and policy.
Emotional availability: an attachment perspective.

(2000). Emotional availability: an attachment perspective. Attachment & Human Development: Vol. 2, No. 2, pp. 233-241.
Globally asymptotically stable ‘PD+’ controller for robot manipulators

We describe a globally stable tracking controller for robot manipulators. The controller is an extension of Takegaki and Arimoto's position controller to the tracking case where a theorem of Matrosov is used to prove its stability. An attractive feature of this controller is its resemblance to the computed torque controller with the inertia matrix outside the position and velocity feedback loops. Thus, our controller is decomposed into an inner PD loop and an outer dynamic compensation loop. This structure allows the simple PD computations to be run at a higher speed than the dynamic compensation loop in digital implementations.
New insights into the regulation of T cells by |[gamma]|c family cytokines

Common cytokine receptor gamma-chain (gamma(c)) family cytokines have crucial roles in the development, proliferation, survival and differentiation of multiple cell lineages of both the innate and adaptive immune systems. In this Review, we focus on our current understanding of the distinct and overlapping effects of interleukin-2 (IL-2), IL-7, IL-9, IL-15 and IL-21, as well as the IL-7-related cytokine thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), on the survival and proliferation of conventional alphabeta T cells, gammadelta T cells and regulatory T cells. This knowledge potentially allows for the therapeutic manipulation of immune responses for the treatment of cancer, autoimmunity, allergic diseases and immunodeficiency, as well as for vaccine development.
Coping strategies and laboratory pain in children with sickle cell disease.

Studies have found that coping strategies are significant predictors of pain report, health care use, and psychosocial adjustment in children with sickle cell disease (SCD); however, the mechanisms of the relationship are not clear. In this study, 41 children with SCD completed a laboratory pain task to analyze their pain perception under standardized conditions. Sensory decision theory analyses were used to analyze the pain perception data. Children and their parents also completed measures of coping strategies and adjustment. Hierarchical regression analyses controlling for the child’s age indicated that children who reported using active cognitive and behavioral coping strategies had a lower tendency to report pain during the laboratory pain task. Results are discussed in terms of the utility of using laboratory pain models with children and the need for future intervention studies to target coping strategies in children with SCD pain.
Multiple Genes of Apparent Algal Origin Suggest Ciliates May Once Have Been Photosynthetic

Plantae (as defined by Cavalier-Smith, 1981) plastids evolved via primary endosymbiosis whereby a heterotrophic protist enslaved a photosynthetic cyanobacterium. This "primary" plastid spread into other eukaryotes via secondary endosymbiosis. An important but contentious theory in algal evolution is the chromalveolate hypothesis that posits chromists (cryptophytes, haptophytes, and stramenopiles) and alveolates (ciliates, apicomplexans, and dinoflagellates) share a common ancestor that contained a red-algal-derived "secondary" plastid. Under this view, the existence of several later-diverging plastid-lacking chromalveolates such as ciliates and oomycetes would be explained by plastid loss in these lineages. To test the idea of a photosynthetic ancestry for ciliates, we used the 27,446 predicted proteins from the macronuclear genome of Tetrahymena thermophila to query prokaryotic and eukaryotic genomes. We identified 16 proteins of possible algal origin in the ciliates Tetrahymena and Paramecium tetraurelia. Fourteen of these are present in other chromalveolates. Here we compare and contrast the likely scenarios for algal-gene origin in ciliates either via multiple rounds of horizontal gene transfer (HGT) from algal prey or symbionts, or through endosymbiotic gene transfer (EGT) during a putative photosynthetic phase in their evolution.
On the structures and quantification of recurrence plots

Abstract Recurrence plots (RPs) often have fascinating structures, especially when the embedding dimension is 1. We identify four basic patterns of a RP, namely, patterns along the main (45°) diagonal, patterns along the 135° diagonal, block-like structures, and square-like textures. We also study how the structures of and quantification statistics for RPs vary with the embedding parameters. By considering the distribution of the main diagonal line segments for chaotic systems, we relate some of the known statistics for the quantification of a RP to the Lyapunov exponent. This consideration enables us to introduce new ways of quantifying the diagonal line segments. Furthermore, we categorize recurrence points into two classes. A number of new quantities are identified which may be useful for the detection of nonstationarity in a time series, especially for the detection of a bifurcation sequence. A noisy transient Lorenz system is studied, to demonstrate how to identify a true bifurcation sequence, to interpret false bifurcation points, and to choose the embedding dimension.
p53-Independent Effects of Mdm2

Mdm2 is best known as the primary negative regulator of p53, but a growing body of evidence suggests that Mdm2 also has a number of functions independent of its role in regulating p53. Although these functions are not yet well-characterized, they have been implicated in regulating of a number of cellular processes, including cell-cycle control, apoptosis, differentiation, genome stability, and transcription, among others. It appears that Mdm2 exerts these functions through a surprisingly wide variety of mechanisms. For example, it has been shown that Mdm2 can ubiquitinate alternative targets, can stimulate the activity of transcription factors, and can directly bind to mRNA to regulate its stability. Dysregulation of p53-independent functions could be responsible for the oncogenic properties of Mdm2 seen even in the absence of p53, and may explain why approximately 10 % of human tumors overexpress Mdm2 instead of inactivating p53 through other mechanisms. As the p53-independent functions of Mdm2 present novel targets for potential therapeutic interventions, fully characterizing these cellular and pathogenic roles of Mdm2 will be important in the study of tumor biology and the treatment of cancer.
Exponential growth of “snow molds” at sub-zero temperatures: an explanation for high beneath-snow respiration rates and Q 10 values

Numerous studies have demonstrated exceptionally high temperature sensitivity of the beneath-snow respiratory flux in cold-winter ecosystems. The most common, but still untested, explanation for this high sensitivity is a physical one based on the observation that water availability in soils increases exponentially as soils warm from −3 to 0°C. Here, we present evidence for a biological hypothesis to explain exponential kinetics and high Q 10 values as beneath-snow soils warm from −3 to 0°C during the early spring in a high-elevation subalpine forest. First, we show that some of the dominant organisms of the beneath-snow microbial community, “snow molds”, exhibit robust exponential growth at temperatures from −3 to −0.3°C. Second, Q 10 values based on growth rates across the temperature range of −2 to −0.3°C for these snow molds vary from 22 to 330. Third, we derive an analytical equation that combines the relative contributions of microbial growth and microbial metabolism to the temperature sensitivity of respiration. Finally, we use this equation to show that with only moderate snow mold growth (several generations), the combined sensitivities of growth and metabolism to small changes in beneath-snow soil temperature, create a double exponential in the Q 10 function that may explain the extremely high (~1 × 106) Q 10 values observed in past studies. Our biological explanation for high Q 10 levels is supported by several independent studies that have demonstrated build up of microbial biomass under the snow as temperatures warm from −2 to 0°C.
Potassium-selective block of barium permeation through single KcsA channels

Ba2+, a doubly charged analogue of K+, specifically blocks K+ channels by virtue of electrostatic stabilization in the permeation pathway. Ba2+ block is used here as a tool to determine the equilibrium binding affinity for various monovalent cations at specific sites in the selectivity filter of a noninactivating mutant of KcsA. At high concentrations of external K+, the block-time distribution is double exponential, marking at least two Ba2+ sites in the selectivity filter, in accord with a Ba2+-containing crystal structure of KcsA. By analyzing block as a function of extracellular K+, we determined the equilibrium dissociation constant of K+ and of other monovalent cations at an extracellular site, presumably S1, to arrive at a selectivity sequence for binding at this site: Rb+ (3 µM) > Cs+ (23 µM) > K+ (29 µM) > NH4+ (440 µM) >> Na+ and Li+ (>1 M). This represents an unusually high selectivity for K+ over Na+, with |ΔΔG0| of at least 7 kcal mol−1. These results fit well with other kinetic measurements of selectivity as well as with the many crystal structures of KcsA in various ionic conditions.
Synergistic bactericidal activity between hyperosmotic stress and membrane-disrupting nanoemulsions.

There is a clear clinical need for alternative types of non-antibiotic biocides due to the rising global health concern of microbial drug resistance. In this work, a novel antibacterial concept was delineated that utilized hyperosmotic stress (H) in concert with membrane-disrupting nanoemulsions (NEs). The antibacterial effects of either H or a NE, as well as in combination (H+NE), were assessed in vitro using an Escherichia coli model. It was found that exposure to H or NE alone produced dose-dependent bacteriostatic and bactericidal effects, respectively. However, the bactericidal action of NE was significantly amplified in the presence of H. Outcomes following H+NE exposure included rapid efflux of K+ and nucleic acids, increased membrane permeability and a reduction in both intracellular ATP and cell viability. Further inspection of morphology by electron microscopy highlighted cell shrinkage, membrane dissolution and bacteriolysis. Pathogen inactivation occurred immediately upon contact with H+NE. The effects of H, NE and H+NE against Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus and meticillin-resistant S. aureus isolates were also examined. Similar to the Escherichia coli model, H+NE showed antibacterial synergism in these organisms when classified by the Chou–Talalay combination index for two-agent interactions. This synergistic interaction suggests that the H+NE platform may potentially serve as a new paradigm in disinfectants, antiseptics and antibacterial wound dressings. The H+NE mechanism of action was termed osmopermeation, as a descriptor for the underlying inactivation process.
Progress in Development of High-Temperature Solar-Selective Coating

Improving the properties of the selective coating on the receiver represents one of the best opportunities for improving the efficiency of parabolic trough collectors and reducing the cost of solar electricity. Additionally, increasing the operating temperature above the current operating limits of 400oC can improve power cycle efficiency and reduce the cost of thermal energy storage resulting in reductions in the cost of solar electricity. Current coatings do not have the stability and performance necessary to move to higher operating temperatures. The objective of this effort was to develop new, more-efficient selective coatings with both high solar absorptance (α ≥ 0.96) and low thermal emittance (e ≤ 0.07 at 400oC) that are thermally stable above 500oC, ideally in air, with improved durability and manufacturability and reduced cost. Using computer-aided design software, we successfully modeled a solar-selective coating composed of materials stable at high temperature that exceeded our property goals. In preparation for characterization of samples of these new coatings, a round-robin experiment was conducted to verify the accuracy of the selective coating reflectance measurements.
The evolving duty to disclose the presence of genetic disease to relatives.

Under the aegis of the Human Genome Project, research laboratories are identifying the genetic bases of human diseases almost daily. This explosion in molecular biology has raised many medical-legal issues about genetic information, such as privacy, discrimination, and insurability. Less appreciated