cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Hole burning in the optically detected zero-field spectrum using eedor

Abstract Using EEDOR, hole burning is demonstrated in the optically detected zero-field spectrum of tetrachlorobenzene in durene at 1.6°K, thus providing evidence that a large contributor to the width in these spectra is inhomogeneous broadening. Using phase sensitive detection in conjuction with EEDOR, a highly resolved optically detected microwave spectrum of a selected narrow distribution of molecules dissolved in a host is recorded. The potential use of this technique in eliminating inhomogeneous broadening from the phosphorescence-microwave double resonance spectrum is indicated.
Bayesian analysis. I. Parameter estimation using quadrature NMR models

Abstract In the analysis of magnetic resonance data, a great deal of prior information is available which is ordinarily not used. For example, considering high-resolution NMR spectroscopy, one knows in general terms what functional form the signal will take (e.g., sum of exponentially decaying sinusoids) and that, for quadrature measurements, it will be the same in both channels except for a 90° phase shift. When prior information is incorporated into the analysis of time-domain data, the frequencies, decay rate constants, and amplitudes may be estimated much more precisely than by direct use of discrete Fourier transforms. Here, Bayesian probability theory is used to estimate parameters using quadrature models of NMR data. The calculation results in an interpretation of the quadrature model fitting that allows one to understand on an intuitive level what frequencies and decay rates will be estimated and why.
Synthesis and Characterization of Poly[[1,1`-biphenyl]-4,4`-diyl[2,2,2-trifluoro-1-(trifluoromethyl)ethylidene]]

A new high-performance material, poly[[1,1‘-biphenyl]-4,4‘-diyl[2,2,2-trifluoro-1-(trifluoromethyl)ethylidene]] (PDTFE), was prepared by Ni(0)-catalyzed coupling of 2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)hexafluor...
Wind-induced torsional loads on low buildings

Wind-induced instantaneous pressures on low building envelopes continuously vary in temporal and spatial dimensions and this may lead to significant torsional moments on the building's lateral load resisting system. Studies on wind-induced torsional loads on low buildings are very limited. Wind-induced torsion provisions in the American Society of Civil Engineers Standard (ASCE/SEI 7-10, 2010), the National Building Code of Canada (NBCC, 2010), and the European Code (EN 1991-1-4, 2005) were reviewed and compared for three gabled-roof (18.4°) low buildings. Significant discrepancies were found among the provisions of these wind standards in evaluating torsional wind loads on low buildings. In addition, wind-induced torsional loads on low buildings have been measured in a boundary layer wind tunnel. Three low buildings, with the same plan dimensions but different gabled-roof angles (0°, 18.4°, 45°) and two different heights (i.e. full, and half eave building height) were tested in simulated open and urban terrain exposures for different wind directions (from 0° to 180° every 15°). The experimental results were compared with current wind-induced torsional load provisions. It was found that NBCC (2010) underestimates the torsional moments on low buildings significantly.
Decay of 97 Zr to nuclear states of 97 Nb

The gamma rays emitted in disintegration of97Zr have been investigated by Ge(Li) detectors, operated singly and in coincidence. In all, quanta emitted in thirty-five nuclear transitions have been observed. The gamma ray energies and relative intensities have been measured. Beta spectra have been studied with Ge(Li) detector and anthracene counter in coincidence. Nine beta spectra have been identified as to end point and intensity, either by direct measurement or by inference from the gamma ray data. The results of all measurements have been combined to provide a decay scheme for97Zr. Nuclear excited states in97Nb are indicated at energies of 743, 1,148, 1,251, 1,276, 1,434, 1,548, 1,652, 1,750, 1,765, 1,852, 1,958, 2,056, 2,106, and 2,247 keV. Possible spin-parity assignments have been suggested for some of these states.
Labeling lysine acetyltransferase substrates with engineered enzymes and functionalized cofactor surrogates.

Elucidating biological and pathological functions of protein lysine acetyltransferases (KATs) greatly depends on the knowledge of the dynamic and spatial localization of their enzymatic targets in the cellular proteome. We report the design and application of chemical probes for facile labeling and detection of substrates of the three major human KAT enzymes. In this approach, we create engineered KATs in junction with synthetic Ac-CoA surrogates to effectively label KAT substrates even in the presence of competitive nascent cofactor acetyl-CoA. The functionalized and transferable acyl moiety of the Ac-CoA analogs further allowed the labeled substrates to be probed with alkynyl or azido-tagged fluorescent reporters by the copper-catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition. The synthetic cofactors, in combination with either native or rationally engineered KAT enzymes, provide a versatile chemical biology strategy to label and profile cellular targets of KATs at the proteomic level.
Regulation of ribosome function following bacteriophage T4 infection

Abstract The rate of translation in bacteriophage T4-infected Escherichia coli has been studied. It was observed that at about ten minutes after infection at 37 °C the rate of protein synthesis declines to 40 to 50% of the rate observed during the first ten minutes, yet all cells remain intact for at least 60 minutes. This drop in the rate of general protein synthesis is correlated with a change in the ability of initiation factor-free ribosomes to translate both global T4 messenger RNAs and a specific T4 messenger, deoxynucleotide kinase (EC 2.7.4.4) mRNA. The alteration in ribosome function begins between five and ten minutes after infection and minimum ribosome activity is reached at approximately 20 minutes after infection. A late T4 gene is involved, as shown by the fact that the alteration in ribosome function is not observed in amB1292-infected cells (i.e. cells which synthesize early but not late T4 mRNAs).
Copy Number Alterations and Methylation in Ewing's Sarcoma

Ewing's sarcoma is the second most common bone malignancy affecting children and young adults. The prognosis is especially poor in metastatic or relapsed disease. The cell of origin remains elusive, but the EWS-FLI1 fusion oncoprotein is present in the majority of cases. The understanding of the molecular basis of Ewing's sarcoma continues to progress slowly. EWS-FLI1 affects gene expression, but other factors must also be at work such as mutations, gene copy number alterations, and promoter methylation. This paper explores in depth two molecular aspects of Ewing's sarcoma: copy number alterations (CNAs) and methylation. While CNAs consistently have been reported in Ewing's sarcoma, their clinical significance has been variable, most likely due to small sample size and tumor heterogeneity. Methylation is thought to be important in oncogenesis and balanced karyotype cancers such as Ewing's, yet it has received only minimal attention in prior studies. Future CNA and methylation studies will help to understand the molecular basis of this disease.
Regulation of TLR4-mediated signaling by IBP/Def6, a novel activator of Rho GTPases

TLRs play a fundamental role in innate immune responses. Although Rho GTPases have been implicated in TLR-mediated signaling pathways, the molecules that control their activation in response to TLR engagement are largely unknown. IFN regulatory factor-4-binding protein (IBP; which is encoded by the gene Def6) is a unique type of activator for Rac that plays a crucial role in TCR-mediated signaling and adaptive immune responses. Here, we demonstrate that IBP/Def6 also controls innate immune responses by modulating TLR-induced signaling events. Mice deficient in IBP/Def6 are protected from LPS-induced septic shock. This protection is associated with a decrease in the production of proinflammatory cytokines and is accompanied by diminished activation of MAPKs and NF-κB. Our results thus identify IBP/Def6 as a novel component of the TLR4-induced signaling cascade that controls the production of proinflammatory cytokines.
Impact of Assessment on Classroom Practice

Since its inception, assessment has been advanced as a tool for improving educational practice. Today’s researchers have differentiated between the effects of assessments of learning, the historical focus of assessment policy, practice, and research, and those of assessments for learning, the use of assessment during the course of instruction to directly inform and improve the learning process. The article describes the ways in which each type of assessment may influence classroom practice, considers available research on actual effects, and draws implications for future research.
The physical and electrochemical characterization of vapor phase iodated activated carbons

Abstract Activated and high-energy milled carbons were halide modified via a vapor phase deposition of iodine. The physical and electrochemical properties of carbons iodated under various conditions were investigated. The iodine incorporation induced marked structural and electrochemical modification of activated carbons. These compounds resulted in a unique combination of high volumetric/gravimetric capacity. Specifically, the incorporation of halide leads to a 200–500% increase in volumetric capacity of carbon materials. The resulting improvement is brought about through a modification of the non-Faradaic performance and development of a psuedocapacitive reaction at approximately 3.1 V. Both of these reactions have contributed to the higher volumetric capacity and are investigated relative to the synthesis conditions of the compound.
Research report: Rehabilitation versus regulation in US cities

Abstract A central concern of planners and policy makers in older US cities undergoing economic restructuring is the formulation and implementation of development strategies for central business districts. 1 However, including older and often underutilized commercial and industrial buildings in such strategies often requires changes in regulations, such as building codes, that govern the use of urban space. 2 Developers and architects claim that full compliance with building codes is often impossible or cost prohibitive, while planners identity such codes as a major obstacle to the full incorporation of rehabilitation in development planning for central business districts. 3
Genetic sensitivity to hot-plate nociception in DBA/2J and C57BL/6J inbred mouse strains: possible sex-specific mediation by δ2-opioid receptors

The inbred mouse strains, DBA/2J (D2) and C57BL/6J (B6), display differential sensitivity to acute, thermal nociception as measured on the hot-plate (HP) assay. In an ongoing quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping study designed to reveal genomic loci showing genetic linkage to HP sensitivity, a putative QTL on chromosome 4 (50–80 cM from the centromere) has been identified that appears to account for variability in this trait in male, but not female mice. An obvious candidate gene located in this same chromosomal region is Oprd1, which encodes the murine δ-opioid receptor. In an attempt to evaluate whether Oprd1 represents this sex-specific QTL for HP sensitivity, we tested D2 and B6 mice of both sexes for HP latencies (hindpaw-lift, -lick or -flutter) following systemic injections of saline, or the opioid receptor antagonists naloxone (NAL; 0.1 and 10 mg/kg), nor-binaltorphimine (nor-BNI; 5 mg/kg), naltrindole (NTI; 5 mg/kg), 7-benzylidenenaltrexone (BNTX; 0.7 mg/kg), or naltriben (NTB; 1 mg/kg). High-dose (10 mg/kg) NAL lowered HP latencies in D2, but not B6 mice, suggesting that the higher HP latencies exhibited by D2 mice reflect opioid mechanisms. HP latencies in both strains and both sexes were unaffected by pretreatment with low-dose (0.1 mg/kg) NAL or nor-BNI, suggesting that neither μ nor κ receptors affect basal nociceptive sensitivity. The δ-receptor antagonist, NTI, and the δ2-specific antagonist, NTB, (but not the δ1-specific antagonist, BNTX) effectively lowered HP latencies in a strain- and sex-dependent manner: D2 male>B6 male>D2 female>B6 female. These data support the possibility that Oprd1 is a QTL mediating HP sensitivity in mice, and more generally illustrate the important roles of genetic background and gender in the perception of pain.
Toward Better Antibiotics: Crystallographic Studies of a Novel Class of DD-Peptidase/beta-Lactamase Inhibitors.

Beta-lactam antibiotics are vital weapons in the treatment of bacterial infections, but their future is under increasing threat from beta-lactamases. These bacterial enzymes hydrolyze and inactivate beta-lactam antibiotics, rendering the host cell resistant to the bactericidal effects of the drugs. Nevertheless, the bacterial D-alanyl-D-alanine transpeptidases (DD-peptidases), the killing targets of beta-lactams, remain attractive targets for antibiotic compounds. Cyclic acyl phosph(on)ates have been developed and investigated as potential inhibitors of both transpeptidases and beta-lactamases. The X-ray crystal structures of the complexes of the Streptomyces strain R61 DD-peptidase inhibited by a bicyclic [1-hydroxy-4,5-benzo-2,6-dioxaphosphorinanone(3)-1-oxide] and a monocyclic [1-hydroxy-4-phenyl-2,6-dioxaphosphorinanone(3)-1-oxide] acyl phosphate were determined to investigate the mode of action of these novel inhibitors. The structures show, first, that these inhibitors form covalent bonds with the active site serine residue of the enzyme and that the refractory complexes thus formed are phosphoryl-enzyme species rather than acyl enzymes. The complexes are long-lived largely because, after ring opening, the ligands adopt conformations that cannot directly recyclize, the latter a phenomenon previously observed with cyclic acyl phosph(on)ates. While the two inhibitors bind in nearly identical conformations, the phosphoryl-enzyme complex formed from the monocyclic compound is significantly less mobile than that formed from the bicyclic compound. Despite this difference, the complex with the bicyclic compound breaks down to regenerate free enzyme somewhat more slowly than that of the monocyclic. This may be because of steric problems associated with the reorientation of the larger bicyclic ligand required for reactivation. The structures are strikingly different in the orientation of the phosphoryl moiety from those generated using more specific phosph(on)ates. Models of the noncovalent complexes of the monocyclic compound with the R61 DD-peptidase and a structurally very similar class C beta-lactamase suggest reasons why the former enzyme is phosphorylated by this compound, while the latter is acylated. Finally, this paper provides information that will help in the design of additional DD-peptidase inhibitors with the potential to serve as leads in the development of novel antibiotics.
Calculation and computer simulation of the Paraboloidal Mirror Analyzer (PMA)

Abstract The electric field and electron motion are calculated inside the field gap of the paraboloidal electron mirror for a newly designed electron analyzer dedicated to photoemission studies with synchrotron radiation as the light source. Calculation and computer simulation show that such an electron mirror can give very good angle resolution even for electrons having a wide energy spectrum.
Assembly and Full Functionality of Recombinantly Expressed Dihydrolipoyl Acetyltransferase Component of the Human Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Complex

The dihydrolipoyl acetyltransferase (E2) component of mammalian pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDC) consists of 60 COOH-terminal domains as an inner assemblage and sequentially via linker regions an exterior pyruvate dehydrogenase (E1) binding domain and two lipoyl domains. Mature human E2, expressed in a protease-deficient Escherichia coli strain at 27°, was prepared in a highly purified form. Purified E2 had a high acetyltransferase activity, was well lipoylated based on its acetylation, and bound a large complement of bovine E1. Electron micrographs demonstrated that the inner core was assembled in the expected pentagonal dodecahedron shape with E1 binding around the inner core periphery. With saturating E1 and excess dihydrolipoyl dehydrogenase (E3) but no E3-binding protein (E3BP), the recombinant E2 supported the overall PDC reaction at 4% of the rate of bovine E2·E3BP subcomplex. The lipoates of assembled human E2 or its free bilipoyl domain region were reduced by E3 at rates proportional to the lipoyl domain concentration, but those of the E2·E3BP were rapidly used in a concentration-independent manner consistent with bound E3 rapidly using a set of lipoyl domains localized nearby. Given this restriction and the need for E3BP for high PDC activity, directed channeling of reducing equivalents to bound E3 must be very efficient in the complex. The recombinant E2 oligomer increased E1 kinase activity by up to 4-fold and, in a Ca2+-dependent process, increased phospho-E1 phosphatase activity more than 15-fold. Thus the E2 assemblage fully provides the molecular intervention whereby a single E2-bound kinase or phosphatase molecule rapidly phosphorylate or dephosphorylate, respectively, many E2-bound E1. Thus, we prepared properly assembled, fully functional human E2 that mediated enhanced regulatory enzyme activities but, lacking E3BP, supported low PDC activity.
Lupus Biomarker Discovery, Validation, Approval, and Impact on Clinical Trials

Current estimates suggest that bringing a new therapeutic from the laboratory to the patient requires 16–17 years and US$4–5 billion. One of the challenges in lupus clinical trials is the dearth of available biomarkers to identify those most likely to respond, to demonstrate response, and to predict adverse events. The lupus biomarker discovery pipeline, much like the lupus pharmaceutical discovery pipeline, has seen many potential advances but enjoyed all too few ultimate successes. New lupus biomarkers are essential and certain to accelerate lupus drug discovery and to move “lupology” from being less of an art to being more of a science. There is no precise path to lupus biomarker validation, FDA approval is generally not required, a multidisciplinary team is essential to optimize success, and a commercial partner is almost required to move advances in academia through the translational process. Despite the relatively few successes to date, the trajectory for lupus biomarker discovery and validation is steep and more promising than ever. Tandem and synergic advances in lupus biomarker validation and approval of new lupus therapeutics are hopefully on the horizon.
Existence of quadratic type liapunov functions for a class of nonlinear systems

Abstract The paper deals with the construction of Liapunov functions for nonlinear systems related to the Lur'e problem. The method presented consists in developing a quadratic type Liapunov function— called a Spanning Liapunov Function (SLF)—for an associated linear system and modifying it suitably for the nonlinear case. Using this approach, conditions are derived for the existence of an SLF ensuring stability for the generalized Lur'e problem with m nonlinearities. For the casem = 1, these conditions are identical to those obtained by Popov [3] and Kalman [l]. Conditions for the existence of an SLF for the case of a single nonlinear gain l ( σ ) with0 l ( σ ) l are derived. The results are used to construct Liapunov functions for certain specific systems.
Phylogeny and historical biogeography of the loliginid squids (Mollusca: cephalopoda) based on mitochondrial DNA sequence data

The cephalopod taxon Loliginidae (Cephalopoda: Myopsida) is a species-rich group of tropical and temperate shallow-water squids, many of which are commercial fisheries objects and neurophysiological research organisms. The worldwide distribution of these squids could make Loliginidae a useful case study in shallow-water marine biogeography, but the phylogeny of the group is unknown. To clarify loliginid phylogeny, regions of two mitochondrial genes (the 16S rRNA and the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I genes) were sequenced for members of 19 loliginid species and several outgroups. Maximum-parsimony and maximum-likelihood analyses were performed on a combined data set, as well as on each data set individually. Analyses of the combined data support loliginid monophyly and reveal four clades-one consisting primarily of species in American waters from two genera, one composed of 3 east Atlantic species, one consisting of the bioluminescent loliginids (Uroteuthis sensu Vecchione et al., 1998) plus Loliolus japonica, and one represented by a Loligo (Alloteuthis) subulata-Lolliguncula mercatoris pair. The likelihood of the unconstrained maximum-likelihood tree is not significantly better than the likelihoods of the best trees constrained to Sepioteuthis monophyly or Uroteuthis monophyly, but there is significant support for Lolliguncula polyphyly. Tests of alternative hypotheses of loliginid cladogenesis suggest that cladogenesis within Loliginidae is correlated with the widening of the Atlantic and the closure of the Tethys Sea, although dispersal from the Indo-West Pacific is a reasonable explanation for the origin of the clade of American loliginines.
Recurrence analysis and synchronization of oscillators with coexisting attractors

Abstract The method of recurrence plots (RPs) has been traditionally used for experimental time series analysis with no comparison with the mathematical model. This is in part because of lack of nonlinear analysis of mathematical model based on the recurrence quantification analysis (RQA) parameters. The paper provides substantial information about the mathematical and numerical analysis and synchronization of a multi-limit cycle oscillator from the RQA perspective. The recurrence quantification analysis parameters are used to discuss the birhythmic behavior of the system, as well as various bifurcations (quasi-periodicity, periodicity and chaos) in the system response. Finally, the results of the method of RPs are compared to those of phase diagrams and the problem of synchronization of limit cycle and chaotic response is discussed by the mean of cross recurrence.
Stress-induced cross-sensitization to cocaine: effect of adrenalectomy and corticosterone after short- and long-term withdrawal

We have recently shown that adrenalectomy (ADX) in rats blocks the appearance of cocaine-induced sensitization when this behavioral response is tested at early withdrawal times (1–2 days), but not after later withdrawal from cocaine (12 days). To determine if a similar phenomenon occurred with stress-induced sensitization, male Sprague-Dawley rats were given a sham ADX, ADX surgery, or ADX plus SC implanted corticosterone (CORT) pellets (CORT 12.5% pellets or CORT 50% pellets). A fifth group was given ADX surgery, but CORT 50% pellets were implanted after repeated stress treatment. One week after surgery, each group was divided into two additional groups, naive and stress. Naive animals remained unhandled, while stress rats were given a variety of daily stressors administered twice per day for 6 consecutive days. One day after the last stress, rats were given a saline injection followed by a cocaine injection (15 mg/kg, IP) the next day, and locomotor activity was monitored (early withdrawal). Two weeks after the last stress, the locomotor responses to an additional saline and cocaine injection were monitored (late withdrawal). At early withdrawal, no significant sensitization occurred for horizontal activity, but cross-sensitization was demonstrated for vertical activity. At late withdrawal, sham controls showed a stress-induced elevation in horizontal activity, with only a trend toward increased vertical activity. Animals given ADX surgery or ADX and CORT 12.5% pellets did not demonstrate sensitization to repeated stress, while CORT 50% pellets in ADX rats restored the sensitized horizontal response to cocaine challenge at late withdrawal. In contrast, stress-pretreated rats which were given CORT 50% pellets during the 2-week withdrawal period after the stress showed a marked decrease in horizontal activity in response to cocaine challenge at late withdrawal. The results provide evidence for a necessary role for adrenal hormones in long term, but not short-term, stress-induced cross-sensitization. Together with our previous study on the role of CORT in cocaine-induced sensitization, the results indicate that CORT is not the common factor mediating the long-term sensitization to cocaine and stress.
Communication bandwidth and the design of executive information systems

This paper explores the advantages and constraints placed on executive information systems (EIS) by the communication bandwidth associated with the managerial activities of scanning, communicating, and delegating. Prior research has shown that these activities are significant components of managerial behavior. Because the given investments in software and hardware in EIS are associated with providing communication bandwidth, this is perhaps the most significant constraint on these classes of systems. It is further argued that the growth in application and popularity of EIS are just one facet of the world-wide importance of systems integration-the drawing together of diverse data in organizations and the environment in a common and flexible reporting scheme. This growth is accompanied by a commensurate growth in communications, and a growing need for greater 'channel bandwidth'. The current analysis formally describes these growing bandwidth requirements, surveys the evolution of existing EIS to determine how effectively the growth in communication is being met, and suggests design theories with which to guide future design and implementation of EIS. The conclusions suggest that design theories should focus on small networks-often with only two executives involved. >
Correlates of antiretroviral and antidepressant adherence among depressed HIV-infected patients.

Abstract Although crucial for efficacy of pharmacotherapy, adherence to prescribed medication regimens for both antiretrovirals and antidepressants is often suboptimal. As many depressed HIV-infected individuals are prescribed both antiretrovirals and antidepressants, it is important to know whether correlates of nonadherence are similar or different across type of regimen. The HIV Translating Initiatives for Depression into Effective Solutions (HI-TIDES) study was a single-blinded, longitudinal, randomized controlled effectiveness trial comparing collaborative care to usual depression care at three Veterans Affairs HIV clinics. The current investigation utilized self-report baseline interview and chart-abstracted data. Participants were 225 depressed HIV-infected patients who were prescribed an antidepressant (n=146), an antiretroviral (n=192), or both (n=113). Treatment adherence over the last 4 days was dichotomized as “less than 90% adherence” or “90% or greater adherence.” After identifying potential...
Evidence vs experience in neonatal practices in necrotizing enterocolitis

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) has been recognized for over 40 years as a cause of inflammation and necrosis of the small and large intestine of infants born at less than 36 weeks of gestation. NEC remains a significant health problem for infants born prematurely and may become the leading cause of morbidity and mortality among these infants worldwide. The sequence of events leading to NEC is complex and multifactorial, although damage to the intestinal epithelium and invasion by bacteria are known to play central roles in disease pathogenesis. Bacteria initiate a cascade of inflammation that may progress to intestinal necrosis and perforation with sepsis and death. Treatment of infants at risk for NEC with probiotic bacteria may be an area of great potential, as probiotic bacteria may promote maturation of the epithelial barrier and function to exclude bacterial pathogens from critical niches in the intestine, thereby disrupting a primary pathway in disease pathogenesis. Understanding how probiotic bacteria, or other novel therapies, prevent or limit disease propagation in NEC will be paramount in limiting the impact of disease in a growing population of premature newborns.
Using surface-bound rubidium ions for protein phasing

Rubidium is a monovalent metal that can be used as a counterion in protein solutions. X-ray anomalous scattering from rubidium ions bound to the protein surface was used for phasing of the crystal structure of the hsp60 apical domain from Thermus thermophilus. Multiple-wavelength anomalous dispersion (MAD) data were collected from a crystal obtained from a solution containing 0.2 M rubidium salt. One molecule of protein (147 amino acids) binds one well ordered and one poorly ordered Rb atom. Phases calculated with the program SHARP were sufficient for automatic tracing and side-chain assignment using the program ARP/wARP. The data show that bound rubidium ions can be used to determine protein structures and to study the interaction of monovalent metal ions with proteins and other macromolecules.
Loop skewing: the wavefront method revisited

Loop skewing is a new procedure to derive the wavefront method of execution of nested loops. The wavefront method is used to execute nested loops on parallel and vector computers when none of the loops can be done in vector mode. Loop skewing is a simple transformation of loop bounds and is combined with loop interchanging to generate the wavefront. This derivation is particularly suitable for implementation in compilers that already perform automatic detection of parallelism and generation of vector and parallel code, such as are available today. Loop normalization, a loop transformation used by several vectorizing translators, is related to loop skewing, and we show how loop normalization, applied blindly, can adversely affect the parallelism detected by these translators.
Octalkoxy-Substituted Phosphorus(V) Triazatetrabenzcorroles via Ring Contraction of Phthalocyanine Precursors

As part of efforts toward developing the synthesis of novel corrole analogues, the new triazatetrabenzcorrole (TBC) phosphorus(V) compounds (BuO)8(TBC)P(OCH3)2 (3), [(BuO)8(TBC)P(OH)]+OH- (4) ((BuO...
Volume Holographic Imaging

We overview the properties of volume holographic imaging properties and design framework for depth-selective and hyperspectral imaging. The Bragg selectivity and degeneracy properties of volume holograms are used for optical slicing and space-selective dispersion.
Partial proton transfer in a molecular complex: assessments from both the donor and acceptor points of view.

Microwave spectra have been observed for the gas phase complexes (CH3)314N−H14NO3 and (CH3)315N−H14NO3 and rotational and nuclear quadrupole coupling constants are reported. The structure and binding energy have also been calculated at the MP2 level of theory using the 6-311++G(d,p) and 6-311++G(2df,2pd) basis sets both with and without corrections for basis set superposition error. The HNO3 forms a near-linear hydrogen bond to the amine nitrogen with a rather short hydrogen bond distance of about 1.5−1.6 A (depending on the basis set and method of computation). The C3 axis of the trimethylamine lies in the plane of the nitric acid. For both the H14NO3 and the (CH3)314N moieties of the parent species, the component of the nuclear quadrupole coupling tensor perpendicular to the molecular symmetry plane, χcc, is sensitive to the electronic structure at the corresponding nitrogen but independent of relative orientation within the plane. Its value, therefore, provides a convenient experimental measure of the ...
A Fish Out of Water: New Articulations of U.S.–Latino Identity on Ugly Betty

This essay examines representations of U.S.–Latino identity on the ABC television program Ugly Betty. The analysis argues that the show articulates a tension between ethnic “otherness” and cultural assimilation that symbolizes current negotiations of individual and collective identities among young, English-speaking Latinos in the United States. Furthermore, the essay argues that Ugly Betty symbolically endorses a new conceptualization of Latino identity in the United States. The conceptual framework of the analysis is the relationship between media representation and identity.
Isomorphic Embeddings and Strongly Additive Measures

Strongly additive and non-strongly additive vector measures are studied in the context of spaces of operators. Also, order properties and embedding properties of Banach lattices are linked to the notion of strong additivity.
Nogo-A Modulates Calcium Handling and Contractility in Cardiomyocytes

Key features in the progression from left ventricular hypertrophy to heart failure include the dysregulation of cardiomyocyte Ca2+ handling and the impairment of contractile function. Knockdown of Nogo-A has previously been shown to inhibit hypoxia/reoxygenation-induced apoptosis in cardiomyocytes in part by preventing impairment of intracellular Ca2+ regulation. In this study, we determined whether altering Nogo-A expression can affect cardiomyocyte Ca2+ handling and contractility in non-stressed cardiomyocytes. Compared to control, knockdown of Nogo-A in neonatal rat ventricular myocytes (NRVMs) significantly increased the amplitude of [Ca2+]i transients, increased SR load, and decreased the time constant of [Ca2+]i decay (tau) evoked by electrical stimulation. Diastolic [Ca2+]i, time to peak, and [Ca2+]i decay of caffeine-induced Ca2+ release from the SR were not affected by Nogo-A knockdown. Conversely, over-expression of Nogo-A in adult rabbit cardiomyocytes significantly decreased the amplitude of [Ca2+]i transients, decreased SR load, and increased the time constant of [Ca2+]i decay. Diastolic [Ca2+]i, time to peak, and [Ca2+]i decay of caffeine-induced Ca2+ release from the SR were not affected by Nogo-A overexpression. In addition to the impairment of Ca2+ handling, Nogo-A over-expression significantly decreased sarcomere length (SL) shortening, increased the time to 90% relaxation (TR90), and decreased relaxation velocity. Contraction velocity was not affected by Nogo-A over-expression. Overall, alteration of Nogo-A levels affects cardiomyocyte Ca2+ handling and contractility, primarily by modulating Ca2+ reuptake into the SR. Together, these data indicate that Nogo-A may serve as a potential therapeutic target in the treatment or prevention of heart failure.
Slow crack growth, its modeling and crack-layer approach: A review

Abstract A review of empirical equations for slow crack growth under fatigue and creep conditions is presented. The crack propagation rate is commonly expressed as a function of stress intensity factor or energy release rate. A concept of crack driving force and crack stability analysis is employed to predict crack behavior under different loading conditions; the concept of crack growth resistance, such as an effective surface energy, is used. It is shown that for a stable crack propagation (the energy release rate is a decreasing function of crack length) crack growth equation results from the crack equilibrium condition, if the crack resistance is assumed to be constant. Experimental studies demonstrate that crack growth resistance is not constant, but changes with crack propagation. Formation of the so-called process zone appears to be responsible for the changes. Process zone (PZ) is a material reaction to stress concentration at crack tip and it is commonly observed under fatigue and creep conditions in most engineering materials. For an unstable crack growth (the energy release rate is an increasing function of crack length) the effect of PZ even more dramatic; for example, in a perfectly homogeneous elastic solid slow crack growth would be impossible without the stabilizing effect of PZ. A system of a crack and PZ is referred to as crack-layer (CL). CL driving forces that are thermodynamic forces associated with crack and PZ growth are introduced. CL growth equations are employed to explain the observed variations of crack growth resistance commonly known as R-curve behavior. The evolution of the process zone in a complex stress field is illustrated by an experiment demonstrating how process zone accelerates and decelerates crack growth. Modeling of the crack–process zone interaction is a challenging problem; recent advances in computational techniques make it solvable. The CL approach is illustrated on an example of engineering thermoplastics. Applications to lifetime prediction of structural components, as well as toughness and durability of materials are discussed.
Condition-Sensitive Computation of Approximate Fixed Points

Abstract Let || || be a metric on [0, 1]n. Given is a continuous function ƒ: [0, 1]n → [0, 1]n presented as a black box that on input x outputs ƒ(x). Given also is natural number p. We are required to compute an approximate fixed point of ƒ, i.e., a point x in [0, 1]n such that ||ƒ(x), x|| ≤ 2−p. For n ≥ 3, Hirsch, Papadimitriou, and Vavasis (1989, J. Complexity5, 379-416) show a deterministic lower bound of Ω((2pM)n − 2) for the problem, where M is the Lipschitz constant of the auxiliary function ƒ(x) − x. The exponential nature of this lower bound prompts us to seek conditions under which efficient algorithms exist, or more generally, seek efficient algorithms that are condition-sensitive. In this paper, we address this issue by defining a notion of condition number for the problem and presenting a simple condition-sensitive algorithm.
The effects of incorporating a virtual agent in a computer-aided test designed for stress management education: The mediating role of enjoyment

Drawing upon the Entertainment-Education paradigm, this study evaluated the effectiveness of a computer-aided interactive test designed for stress management education targeting college students. The presence (vs. absence) of a virtual agent incorporated into the interactive test was proposed as the key factor that induces enjoyment and educational outcomes. The interactive test consisted of scenarios describing stressful situations that could occur in college students' everyday lives. Furthermore, college students could relate the concerns raised by these hypothetical situations to the ways they manage their stress and mental health. After the student's choice behavior in each scenario, a virtual agent conveyed health-related educational messages via a text-modal dialogue box. Participants who took the interactive test in which there was a virtual agent perceived the test as more educational and entertaining than those who took the test without a virtual agent. Results of a path analysis also revealed a significant mediating role of enjoyment on educational outcomes (i.e., students' enjoyment of the interactive test mediated the effects of the presence of a virtual agent on their perceived educational value of health information), thus confirming the Entertainment-Education link. In addition, engaging in the interactive test resulted in stress management self-efficacy improvement. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Solution chemistry of the electrochemical machining of titanium, niobium and tantalum

In the electrochemical machining process the electrolyte, in addition to conducting the required current, has the added function of removing the electrode reaction products—hydrogen from the cathode and metal oxide from the workpiece. This function is facilitated if close control is maintained over the pH of the electrolyte. Titanjum halides form clear solutions if the pH is less than 2 but precipitate if the pH exceeds 3·7. Niobium and tantalum halides were also studied.
One dimensional conservative surface dynamics with broken parity: Arrested collapse versus coarsening

Abstract The conserved Kuramoto–Sivashinsky (cKS) equation describes the coarsening of an unstable solid surface that conserves mass and that is parity symmetric. When parity is a broken symmetry, a nonlinear third-order spatial derivative term must in general be included in the equation of motion. We show that the effects of this term can be dramatic. Numerical integrations reveal that if its coefficient is sufficiently large, a nearly constant speed “train of kinks” develops and coarsening appears to cease. An individual kink exhibits scaling behavior as it grows deeper and narrower until the fourth-order cKS nonlinearity averts a finite-time singularity.
Has reducing fine particulate matter and ozone caused reduced mortality rates in the United States

Abstract Purpose Between 2000 and 2010, air pollutant levels in counties throughout the United States changed significantly, with fine particulate matter (PM2.5) declining over 30% in some counties and ozone (O3) exhibiting large variations from year to year. This history provides an opportunity to compare county-level changes in average annual ambient pollutant levels to corresponding changes in all-cause (AC) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality rates over the course of a decade. Past studies have demonstrated associations and subsequently either interpreted associations causally or relied on subjective judgments to infer causation. This article applies more quantitative methods to assess causality. Methods This article examines data from these “natural experiments” of changing pollutant levels for 483 counties in the 15 most populated US states using quantitative methods for causal hypothesis testing, such as conditional independence and Granger causality tests. We assessed whether changes in historical pollution levels helped to predict and explain changes in CVD and AC mortality rates. Results A causal relation between pollutant concentrations and AC or CVD mortality rates cannot be inferred from these historical data, although a statistical association between them is well supported. There were no significant positive associations between changes in PM2.5 or O3 levels and corresponding changes in disease mortality rates between 2000 and 2010, nor for shorter time intervals of 1 to 3 years. Conclusions These findings suggest that predicted substantial human longevity benefits resulting from reducing PM2.5 and O3 may not occur or may be smaller than previously estimated. Our results highlight the potential for heterogeneity in air pollution health effects across regions, and the high potential value of accountability research comparing model-based predictions of health benefits from reducing air pollutants to historical records of what actually occurred.
Sea-surface salinity: the missing measurement

Even the youngest child knows that the sea is salty. Yet, routine, global information about the degree of saltiness and the distribution of the salinity is not available. Indeed, the sea surface salinity measurement is a key missing measurement in global change research. Salinity influences circulation and links the ocean to global change and the water-cycle. Space-based remote sensing of important global change ocean parameters such as sea-surface temperature and water-cycle parameters such as precipitation have been available to the research community but a space-based global sensing of salinity has been missing. In July 2002, the National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) announced that the Aquarius mission, focused on the global measurement of sea surface salinity, is one of the missions approved under its ESSP-3 program. Aquarius will begin a risk-reduction phase during 2003. Aquarius will carry a multi-beam 1.4 GHz (L-band) radiometer used for retrieving salinity. It also will carry a 1.2 GHz (L-band) scatterometer used for measuring surface roughness. Aquarius is tentatively scheduled for a 2006 launch into an 8-day Sun-synchronous orbit. Aquarius key science data product will be a monthly, global surface salinity map at 100 km resolution with an accuracy of 0.2 practical salinity units. Aquarius will have a 3 year operational period. Among other things, global salinity data will permit estimates of sea surface density, or buoyancy, that drives the ocean's three-dimensional circulation.
Outcomes of Ultrasound-guided Glen Humeral Corticosteroid Injections in Adhesive Capsulitis.

Aims To assess short and longer-term outcomes of ultrasound-guided glenohumeral corticosteroid injections for adhesive capsulitis. Study design A mixed prospective and retrospective study design. Place and duration of study Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, between June 2011 and July 2012. Methodology Using medical records, we first retrospectively identified patients who had received ultrasound-guided injections of lidocaine and triamcinolone for adhesive capsulitis We then assessed short-term follow-up outcomes (within 3 months of procedure) using medical record review and phone interviews. Longer-term follow-up (at least 3 months from the procedure) outcomes were determined by mailings and phone calls. Average and worst shoulder pain scores were measured on a visual analog scale. Shoulder ROM was measured in forward flexion, isolated abduction, and external rotation. Results Patients presented an average of 5.1 (SD=4.1) months after onset of symptoms. Within three months of the injection, 55.9% (95% CI: 39.2%, 72.6%) of patients reported greater than 75% pain relief and 44.1% (95% CI: 27.4%, 60.8%) of patients reported greater than 75% ROM improvement. The percentage of patients who improved increased with increased duration of follow-up. At short-term follow-up (mean=2.1 months, SD=2.7), average pain decreased from 5.6 (SD=2.2) to 3.0 (SD=1.8) (p ≤ .001) and worst pain decreased from 7.8 (SD=1.2) to 4.3 (SD=3.2) (p ≤ .001). At longer-term follow-up (mean =10.4 months, SD=3.7), average pain decreased to 1.9 (SD=1.9) (p ≤ .001) and worst pain decreased to 2.9 (SD=2.3) (p ≤ .001). Conclusion A majority of patients had significant pain reduction and functional improvement after an ultrasound guided glenohumeral corticosteroid injection for adhesive capsulitis. Our patients experience the majority of their pain and functional relief within the first three months after an ultrasound-guided corticosteroid injection with continued increase in relief in the longer-term.
Modeling the Diurnal Evolution of a Dust Feature in Comet Hale-Bopp (1995 O1)

A Monte Carlo computer code for simulating dust features in comets is applied to comet Hale-Bopp in order to model the diurnal evolution of a bright jet observed, in late 1997 February, to point in the southwesterly direction from the nucleus. The jet's morphology is closely matched by a model, which is based on the assumption that the ejecta were released nearly continuously from an isolated source on the nucleus surface. The fitted characteristics include the initial direction of the ejecta's motion, the feature's overall dimensions and shape, and its temporal variations during the rotation cycle. In particular, it is found that the relatively faint appendage some 10''-15'' directly to the south from the nucleus can be identified with the residual ejecta from the previous rotation cycle. No attempt has been made to fit the observed brightness changes, which apparently are affected by variable seeing, especially in daylight. It is suggested that if the system of concentric halos to the south from the nucleus consists of two independent branches, its southwesterly branch can be identified with the ejecta from the same jet that are several rotations old. Modeling of a jet's diurnal evolution presents a powerful tool in our quest for understanding the emission of dust from discrete active regions on cometary nuclei.