cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Tumor Necrosis Factor-like Weak Inducer of Apoptosis Inhibits Skeletal Myogenesis through Sustained Activation of Nuclear Factor-κB and Degradation of MyoD Protein

In this study we have investigated the effect and the mechanisms by which tumor necrosis factor-like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK) modulates myogenic differentiation. Treatment of C2C12 myoblasts with TWEAK inhibited their differentiation evident by a decrease in the expression of creatine kinase, myosin heavy chain-fast twitch, myogenin, and the formation of multinucleated myotubes. TWEAK also inhibited the differentiation of mouse primary myoblasts. Conversely, the proliferation of C2C12 myoblasts and the expression of a cell-cycle regulator cyclin D1 were increased in response to TWEAK treatment. Inhibition of cellular proliferation using hydroxyurea only partially reversed the inhibitory effect of TWEAK on myogenic differentiation. Treatment of C2C12 myoblasts with TWEAK resulted in the activation of nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB), the (IkappaB) IkappaB kinase (IKK) complex, and the phosphorylation and degradation of IkappaBalpha protein. Inhibition of NF-kappaB activity by overexpression of a dominant negative mutant of IkappaBalpha (IkappaBalphaDeltaN) significantly increased the myogenic differentiation in TWEAK-treated C2C12 cultures. Furthermore, overexpression of a dominant negative mutant of IKKbeta (IKKbetaK44A) but not IKKalpha (IKKalphaK44M) reversed the inhibitory effect of TWEAK on myogenesis. TWEAK inhibited the expression of myogenic regulatory factors MyoD and myogenin and also induced the degradation of MyoD protein. Finally, inhibition of NF-kappaB activation through overexpression of IKKbetaK44A prevented the degradation of MyoD protein. Overall, our data suggest that TWEAK inhibits myogenesis through the activation of NF-kappaB signaling pathway and degradation of MyoD protein.
Convex central configurations for the n-body problem☆

Abstract We give a simple proof of a classical result of MacMillan and Bartky (Trans. Amer. Math. Soc. 34 (1932) 838) which states that, for any four positive masses and any assigned order, there is a convex planar central configuration. Moreover, we show that the central configurations we find correspond to local minima of the potential function with fixed moment of inertia. This allows us to show that there are at least six local minimum central configurations for the planar four-body problem. We also show that for any assigned order of five masses, there is at least one convex spatial central configuration of local minimum type. Our method also applies to some other cases.
Enzymes in aflatoxin biosynthesis.

The role of enzymes in aflatoxin biosynthesis was the subject of a 1988 review (Dutton 1988). More recent studies described below support the inclusion of additional steps in the pathway giving the sequence: acetyl CoA + malonyl CoA --* polyketide --* norsolorinic acid --* averantin --* averantinin --+ averufin --* hydroxyversicolorone --* versiconal acetate ~ versiconal --* versicolorin B (VB) --* versicolorin A (VA) --* demethylsterigmatocystin (demethylST) ---* sterigmatocystin (ST) ~ O-methylsterigmatocystin (OMST) -* aflatoxin B1 (AFB1). The structures of the intermediates between versiconal acetate and AFB1 are shown in Figure 1. A branch to the tetrahydrofuranofurans originates at VB: VB -* dihydrodemethylsterigmatocystin (DHdemethylST) ~ dihydrosterigmatocystin (DHST) ~ dihydro-O-methylsterigmatocystin (DHOMST) -4 AFB 2. Cell-free preparations that catalyse conversion in the portions of the pathway aceW1 plus malonyl CoA to norsolorinic acid, averufin to versiconal acetate, VA to ST, and the formation of AFG~ and AFG2 have not been reported, apparently because of the instability of these enzymes. The dehydrogenase that catalyses the conversion of norsolorinic acid to averantin has been purified to near homogeneity by affinity chromatography on a norsolorinic acid affinity column (Chuturgoon et aI. 1990). A cell-free system converted averantin to averufin (Yabe et al. 1991). Versiconal acetate was hydrolysed in cell-free systems to versiconal and VB (Hsieh et al. 1989; Anderson & Chung 1990). Purification of the esterase that catalyses the hydrolysis of versiconal acetate to versiconal and acetic acid is in progress (Hsieh, private communication). The enzyme that catalyses the conversion of versiconal to versieonal cyclase (VC) has been purified to homogeneity (Lin & Anderson, in press). VB has the same configuration of the dihydrofuranofuran moiety as the aflatoxins. VC, the form isolated from cultures, is a racemic mixture of VB and
Finite Element Analysis of the Frame of Straightening Machine with Twelve Rolls for Tubes

The frame of a straightening machine is a body of the equipment, and bears all loads exerting on the machine. It is necessary for the frame to have strong strength and stiffness so that the machine can work under normal condition. What is more, because control technology for a hydraulic or servo system is applied to this equipment, it is also necessary to understand the variation laws of frame under loads, so that the effects of pressure protection and position control of rollers could be better and the laws could be provided for designing control system. In this paper, the deformation maps of the frame under loads are got by finite element analysis, distribution laws on stress and displacement of the frame are obtained when it is working, and suggestions are proposed for improving the functions of frame and quality of tubes.
The Effect of Serial Correlation on the Performance of CUSUM Tests II

We employ the theory of weak convergence of cumulative sums to the Wiener Process to obtain large sample theory for cusum tests. These results provide at theoretical basis for studying the effects of serial correlation on the performance of the one-sided cusum test proposed by Page (1955). Particular attention is placed on the first, order auto-regressive and first order moving average models. In order to treat the sequential version of the test, we employ the same Wiener process approximation. This enables us to study the effect of correlation not only on the average run length but, more importantly, on the run length distribution itself. These theoretical distributions are shown to compare quite favorably with the true distribution on the basis of a Monte Carlo study using normal observations. The results on the changes in the shape of the run length distributions show that more than average run length should be considered. Our primary conclusion is that the cusum test is not robust with respect, to dep...
Effective regional therapy of experimental cancer with paralesional administration of tumour necrosis factor-α + interferon-γ

Abstract Systemically administered tumour necrosis factor (TNF) has anti-tumour effects in animal tumour models but its clinical application is limited by severe toxicity. Interferon-γ(IFN-γ) has been shown to augment the anti-tumour effect of TNF. We evaluated the effect of paralesional (p.l.) injections of TNF plus IFN-γ in a murine tumour model and compared the toxicity and anti-tumour effect with that seen with systemic administration. C57BL6 mice with 10-day subcutaneous MCA sarcomas were treated with daily p.l. injections of recombinant huTNF ± IFN-γ for 5 days. Optimal mean survival and 30-day cure rate was seen with doses of 5 μg TNF-α + 5000 U IFN-γ ( P 5 μg TNF had initial complete necrosis of tumour with a variable degree of surrounding tissue necrosis, with rapid regrowth of tumour seen in some animals. Although treatment-related mortality was similar between i.v. and p.l. therapy, there was a higher percentage of animals cured with p.l. injections with overall cure rates in treated animals at 30 days of 17% vs. 72% (i.v. vs. p.l., P P
The engrailed locus of D. melanogaster provides an essential zygotic function in precellular embryos

Early embryonic development in Drosophila depends on genes expressed during oogenesis or after zygote formation. We show that the engrailed gene is needed for the processes that organize the embryo during the nuclear divisions that precede cellularization. During the precellular blastoderm stages engrailed mutant embryos show several notable anomalies: the pole cells form at a position slightly displaced from the posterior pole; yolk nuclei continue to divide after the tenth nuclear division cycle, when wild-type yolk nuclei have stopped dividing mitotically; and somatic nuclei are not positioned uniformly along the embryo periphery and do not undergo mitotic divisions in regular waves. This early requirement for engrailed does not appear to be a maternal function, and only genetically engrailed embryos displayed these precellular phenotypes. Synthesis of a 2.7 kb poly(A)+ transcript of the engrailed region was found in precellular embryos.
An overview of underground coal miner electronic tracking system technologies

Since the passage of the Mine Improvement and New Emergency Response Act (MINER Act) of 2006, several electronic tracking systems that inform personnel on the surface of a coal mine about the location of miners underground have become commercially available. These systems can be broadly categorized into technology groups that are described in this paper. In addition, several other technologies have been identified by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Office of Mine Safety and Health Research (OMSHR) that show promise to increase location accuracy, reduce installed infrastructure, or otherwise improve the performance of existing systems. This paper will describe tracking system technologies currently installed in US coal mines and discuss some emerging technologies.
Association of Sleep and Fatigue With Decision Regret Among Critical Care Nurses

Background The effects of inadequate sleep on clinical decisions may be important for patients in critical care units, who are often more vulnerable than patients in other units. Fatigued nurses are more likely than well-rested nurses to make faulty decisions that lead to decision regret, a negative cognitive emotion that occurs when the actual outcome differs from the desired or expected outcome. Objectives To examine the association between selected sleep variables, impairment due to fatigue, and clinical-decision self-efficacy and regret among critical care nurses. Decision regret was the primary outcome variable. Methods A nonexperimental, descriptive design and extant measures were used to obtain data from a random sample of full-time nurses. Binary logistic regression models were used to examine the association between sleep variables, fatigue, and clinical-decision self-efficacy and regret. The discrimination of the models was compared with the C statistic, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve. Results A total of 605 nurses returned the questionnaires (17% response rate). Among these, decision regret was reported by 157 of 546 (29%). Nurses with decision regret reported more fatigue, more daytime sleepiness, less intershift recovery, and worse sleep quality than did nurses without decision regret. Being male, working a 12-hour shift, and clinical-decision satisfaction were significantly associated with decision regret (C statistic, 0.719; SE, 0.024). Conclusion Nurses who experience impairments due to fatigue, loss of sleep, and inability to recover between shifts are more likely than unimpaired nurses to report decision regret.
Respiratory metabolism of L-929 cells at different water contents and volumes.

Oxygen consumption was measured in mouse L-929 cells whose volumes and water contents were reduced by adding sorbitol to the medium. The volume of water lost due to a given sorbitol supplement exceeded the loss in apparent cell volume. An explanation is given for this discrepancy. The rate of oxygen uptake in the absence of exogenous respiratory substrate was essentially the same in cells whose total volume was reduced by 45%, amounting to a loss of about 70% of the total cell water, compared to controls at ‘physiological’ volume and water content. Cells under these same conditions responded to added substrates (pyruvate, glucose, and glutamine) and inhibitors (iodoacetate and 2-deoxyglucose) in nearly the same way as control cells. These observations are in accord with and add to previous work showing that very large fluctuations in cell volume and water content have only modest effects on the rates and directions of a variety of metabolic processes. The results are interpreted in terms of current views on the composition and organization of the aqueous compartments of eucaryotic cells.
Lake Ice phenology of small lakes: Impacts of climate variability in the Great Lakes region

Abstract Formation of lake ice is common in lakes located in mid and high latitudes. Lake ice plays a vital role in heat storage, controlling lake water temperature, survival of aquatic ecosystems, and maintaining the bio diversity of lakes. Significant warming in air temperature during the cold season (October–May) may lead to reduced ice cover of lakes and eventually disturb the lake's seasonal dynamics. We examined the role of climate variability on lake ice phenology for small inland lakes in the Great Lakes region. The Variable Infiltration Capacity (VIC) model with a physically based lake algorithm was implemented to simulate long term (i.e. 1916–2007) changes in lake ice phenology, as described by the date of ice break-up, date of ice freeze-up, and number of ice-free days. Model performance was evaluated against observed lake ice phenology. A statistically significant increase (0.08–0.21 °C) in air temperature resulted in a significant change (0.2–2.0 days/decade) in lake ice freeze-up and break-up dates. While lake ice freeze-up was strongly associated (correlation > 0.60) with air temperature of the early (October–December) cold season, lake ice break-up was highly associated (correlation = − 0.80) with air temperature during the late (March–May) cold season. The number of ice-free days was affected by the temperature changes during the entire cold season. Lakes located in the southern part of the study domain experienced stronger trends in ice phenology than those located in the northern part. Inter-decadal to decadal scale variability in the number of ice-free days not associated with long-term trends in air temperature were largely driven by the Atlantic Multi-decadal Oscillation (AMO), El-Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO), and Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO).
COMPUTING LEADING EXPONENTS OF NOETHERIAN POWER SERIES

ABSTRACT For a field of characteristic zero, we study the field of Noetherian power series, , which consists of maps whose supports are Noetherian (i.e., reverse well-ordered) subsets of . There is a canonical valuation that sends a nonzero series to the maximum element of its support. Given a nonzero polynomial and a series that is transcendental over , we construct a formula for in terms of the roots of . Using this formula, we find sufficient conditions for to be a well-ordered subset of . In particular, this set is well-ordered in case the support of consists solely of positive numbers.
Mass problems and almost everywhere domination

We examine the concept of almost everywhere domination from the viewpoint of mass problems. Let AED and MLR be the sets of reals which are almost everywhere dominating and Martin-Lof random, respectively. Let b1, b2, and b3 be the degrees of unsolvability of the mass problems associated with AED, MLR × AED, and MLR ∩ AED, respectively. Let w be the lattice of degrees of unsolvability of mass problems associated with nonempty Π01 subsets of 2ω. Let 1 and 0 be the top and bottom elements of w. We show that inf(b1, 1), inf(b2, 1), and inf(b3, 1) belong to w and 0 < inf(b1, 1) < inf(b2, 1) < inf(b3, 1) < 1. Under the natural embedding of the recursively enumerable Turing degrees into w, we show that inf(b1, 1) and inf(b3, 1) but not inf(b2, 1) are comparable with some recursively enumerable Turing degrees other than 0 and 0′. In order to make this paper more self-contained, we exposit the proofs of some recent theorems due to Hirschfeldt, Miller, Nies, and Stephan. (© 2007 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
In vitro stimulation of human lymphocytes by Epstein-Barr virus.

Abstract Peripheral blood lymphocytes from subjects previously infected with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) are activated to incorporate tritiated thymidine by ultraviolet-irradiated, noninfectious EBV whereas lymphocytes from EBV-seronegative donors are nonresponsive. This antigenic stimulation is immunologically specific. Antibody that is demonstrably effective in neutralizing EB virus infectivity does not block antigenic stimulation. This may be particularly relevant to understanding of persistent herpes virus infections in man. EBV antigen-lymphocyte stimulation may represent a useful in vitro model for evaluating the role of cell-mediated immunity in clinical manifestations associated with EBV infection.
Static dielectric constant of heavily doped semiconductors

One of the major effects of heavy doping in semiconductors is that the dielectric constant κ changes with impurity density and thus with position. The change is significant for impurity densities N greater than 1017 cm−3. The low temperature classical relation of Castellan and Seitz is modified by including the contribution to the local field at the atomic site by the polarization of the host atoms due to an electric field. This correction makes an appreciable difference in κ(N). A new model for the polarizability of the impurity atoms is also developed. It is found that there is good agreement between the values of the dielectric constant of Si doped with As, P and Sb predicted by this theory and those found experimentally by Bethin et al. The critical impurity concentration for the metal-nonmetal transition found from this theory is however higher than that given by Castner et al. Reasons for this discrepancy are given.
A Non-Linear Model for the Longitudinal Dynamics of a Hypersonic Air-breathing Vehicle

Abstract : A non-linear, physics-based model of the longitudinal dynamics for an air-breathing hypersonic vehicle is developed. The model is derived from first principles and captures the complex interactions between the propulsion system, aerodynamics, and structural dynamics. Unlike conventional aircraft, hypersonic vehicles require that the propulsion system be highly integrated into the airframe. Furthermore, hypersonic aircraft tend to have very lightweight, flexible structures that have low natural frequencies. Therefore, the first bending mode of the fuselage is important as its deflection affects the amount of airflow entering the engine, thus influencing the performance of the propulsion system. The equations of motion for the flexible aircraft are derived using Lagrange's Equations. The equations-of-motion capture inertial coupling effects between the pitch and normal accelerations of the aircraft and the structural dynamics. The linearized aircraft dynamics are shown to be unstable, and in most cases, exhibit non-minimum, phase behavior. The linearized model also indicates that there is an aeroelastic mode that has a natural frequency more than twice the frequency of the fuselage bending mode. Furthermore, the short-period mode is very strongly coupled with the bending mode of the fuselage.
Wishing upon a preon star: a cosmic conundrum

If there is a layer of reality beneath quarks and electrons, preon stars might help us uncover it
Numerical modeling of unsteady bouyant flows generated by fire in a corridor

A numerical model for the prediction of unsteady, two dimensional buoyant flows is presented. The model makes use of the full elliptic balance equations for heat, mass, and momentum and allows for full coupling between density and temperature. The model is highly flexible in that it can accomodate variable transport properties and complex boundary conditions. Of particular importance, it is capable of treating surfaces such as a doorway or window across which there can be a free inflow or outflow of fluid to the computational region. The model has been used to predict the time dependent velocity and temperature fields generated by fire in an enclosure or corridor. It has proven successful in predicting the gas velocities and temperatures generated by the fire in the enclosure corridor geometries, the ventilation of the fire through windows or doorways, and the heat transfer rates to the various surfaces involved. In these cases combustion is modeled by volumetric heat sources. The results for two particular cases are presented and comparisons are made with experiment.
Hydrogen peroxide variables in increasing epoxidation efficiency

Variations in quantity and concentration of hydrogen peroxide were studied in epoxidation of soybean oil by using the partially preformed peracetic acid epoxidation method.
Phenylethyl esters of fatty acids for the analytical resolution of petroselinate and oleate

2-Phenylethyl esters of fatty acids were prepared readily by esterification of free fatty acids or transesterification of other lipids. Compared with methyl esters, phenylethyl esters greatly improve the resolution of oleate and petroselinate by both gas and high-performance liquid chromatography, and the ultraviolet absorption of the phenylethyl esters facilitates detection of the derivatives by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) ultraviolet detectors. The fatty acid compositions of corn and soybean oil obtained by analysis of phenylethyl esters agreed with those obtained with methyl esters. The phenylethyl esters were resolved and eluted on C-18 HPLC columns with much smaller solvent volumes than those reported for other aromatic esters.
Design Considerations for Large Roof-integrated Photovoltaic Arrays

This paper describes calculations and modeling used in the design of the photovoltaic (PV) array built on the roof of the Georgia Tech Aquatic Center, the aquatic sports venue for the 1996 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The software package PVFORM (version 3.3) was extensively utilized; because of its importance to this work, it is thoroughly reviewed here. Procedures required to adapt PVFORM to this particular installation are described. The expected behavior and performance of the system, including maximum power output, annual energy output and maximum expected temperature, are then presented, and the use of this information in making informed design decisions is described. Finally, since the orientation of the PV array is not optimal, the effect of the unoptimized array orientation on the system's performance is quantified. © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Protocol to investigate child abuse in foster care

Hennepin County Community Services, a large urban agency in the midwestern United States, developed specific procedures for investigating complaints of abuse and neglect of children in foster care in 1980. During the period from May 1980 through November 1981, approximately 125 complaints of abuse and neglect in foster homes were investigated. This article discusses the Protocol, including the institutional abuse meeting, investigation by an independent third party, and statements of finding. Factors that appear to be significant in abusing foster parents are marital status, if the foster parents had children of their own, length of time licensed, and presence of previous complaints. Victims were slightly more likely to be male, aged 4-12. Many victims appeared to have adjusted well to the foster homes. Information is presented on how the abuse was reported. Recommendations include: investigations conducted by an objective third person, commitment of the administration, and enlistment of legal personnel and foster parents during implementation. Also included are prevention of abuse through comprehensive screening and then training of foster parents, social workers' close contact with foster parents and foster children, avoiding high risk placement, forbidding corporal punishment, and sensitizing social workers to abuse-neglect of children in foster care.
Culture-Independent Analysis of Indomethacin-Induced Alterations in the Rat Gastrointestinal Microbiota

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly prescribed for a variety of inflammatory conditions; however, the benefits of this class of drugs are accompanied by deleterious side effects, most commonly gastric irritation and ulceration. NSAID-induced ulceration is thought to be exacerbated by intestinal microbiota, but previous studies have not identified specific microbes that contribute to these adverse effects. In this study, we conducted a culture-independent analysis of approximately 1,400 bacterial small-subunit rRNA genes associated with the small intestines and mesenteric lymph nodes of rats treated with the NSAID indomethacin. This is the first molecular analysis of the microbiota of the rat small intestine. A comparison of clone libraries and species-specific quantitative PCR results from rats treated with indomethacin and untreated rats revealed that organisms closely related to Enterococcus faecalis were heavily enriched in the small intestine and mesenteric lymph nodes of the treated rats. These data suggest that treatment of NSAID-induced ulceration may be facilitated by addressing the microbiological imbalances.
Best Practices for Implementing High-Resistance Grounding in Mine Power Systems

Proper implementation of high-resistance grounding of mine power systems can reduce arc flash and shock hazards by limiting ground fault current while also permitting reliable detection and clearing of the fault. IEEE Standard 142 defines a high resistance grounded system as one with a purposely inserted resistance that limits ground-fault current to levels such that the fault current (usually thought of as less than 10 A) can flow for an extended time without exacerbating damage. However, the per-phase zero-sequence resistance of the system should not exceed the distributed per-phase capacitive reactance of the system; otherwise, the system will be prone to transient overvoltages and relay selectivity problems. Recent research has shown that in practice, the zero-sequence resistance may be considerably larger than the system capacitive reactance, thereby violating the definition of a high-resistance grounded system. This paper outlines procedures for proper sizing of the neutral grounding resistor considering the distributed system capacitance. The paper begins with a discussion of the problems caused by distributed capacitance in high-resistance-grounded mine power systems. Subsequently, procedures for determining system capacitance, sizing the neutral grounding resistor, and establishing relay pickup settings are given. These procedures are straightforward to apply and do not require computer modeling for implementation. Numerical examples of the procedure applied to a high-voltage longwall system and also an underground mine distribution system are provided.
The 2 × 2 Model of Goal Orientation and Burnout: The Role of Approach–Avoidance Dimensions in Predicting Burnout

Burnout is typically viewed as resulting from situational factors (e.g., workload). However, as burnout is partly a reaction to frustrated goal striving, dispositional goal orientation may also be important. We used Hobfoll's (1989) conservation of resources model to develop hypotheses for relationships between goal orientation and 3 dimensions of burnout. Self-report questionnaire measures of the 2 × 2 model of goal orientation (Elliot & McGregor, 2001) and burnout were administered to undergraduate students. Structural equation modeling revealed that all 4 dimensions of goal orientation were related to burnout. Avoidance-related dimensions were positively associated and approach-related dimensions were negatively associated with burnout. The findings suggest the importance of considering the role of motivational dispositions in development, prediction, and prevention of burnout.
Sophomore course development in power system analysis with interactive MATLAB modules

This paper presents a course in power systems analysis developed for offer at the sophomore level as part of the required undergraduate electrical engineering curriculum at Iowa State University. We describe the criteria used in developing the course, the topical coverage and a set of computer modules, developed to facilitate learning of particularly difficult concepts while heightening student interest, that run in the MATLAB environment.
Exploring Older Adult Care Transitions From Hospital to Home: A Participatory Action Research Project

ABSTRACTUsing a participatory action research approach, community-based older adult service providers and university researchers partnered to explore older adult care transitions through the health care system, specifically from a hospital stay to home with rehabilitative services. Qualitative findings of transitioning home from both older adult and service provider perspective included three major themes: social support, communication, and adjusting to home and planning for the community. In addition, resources developed through the project are discussed with implications to practice.
Object image retrieval by exploiting online knowledge resources

We describe a method to retrieve images found on Web pages with specified object class labels, using an analysis of text around the image and of image appearance. Our method determines whether an object is both described in text and appears in a image using a discriminative image model and a generative text model. Our models are learnt by exploiting established online knowledge resources (Wikipedia pages for text; Flickr and Caltech data sets for image). These resources provide rich text and object appearance information. We describe results on two data sets. The first is Bergpsilas collection of ten animal categories; on this data set, we outperform previous approaches (Berg et al., 2006; Schroff et al., 2007). We have also collected five more categories. Experimental results show the effectiveness of our approach on this new data set.
Form Difference Computations in Restorative Dentistry Utilizing the Macroelement Method

The comparison between the size and shape (form) of two structures or the analysis of one object under differing conditions is important in restorative dentistry. Despite rapid advances in digitizing technologies, form comparison is still mainly limited to scalar measurements. The objective of this study was to test the potential use of a newly developed tensorial morphometric difference technique, the macroelement method, in a model restrative system where the processing and materials properties are known duplication of a denture anchor in stone via polysulfide, addition silicone, and polyether impression materials. Nine machined landmarks were utilized to construct a nine-sided element for macroelement analysis. Macroelement results compared well with the known impression materials properties of polymerization shrinkage and incomplete recovery in terms of: (1) larger die diameter, (2) smaller die (vertically), (3) horizontal direction of maximum expansion, and (4) vertical direction of maximum contraction. Also, macroelement results along boundary lines were equal to the traditional form difference measure of change in length/length of those lines. The macroelement method provided results which are superior to those of traditional methods in that both (1) the magnitude and direction of difference at any point on the structure could be determined, and (2) the graphical representation of the results provides an intuitive appreciation of how and where the forms differ Therefore, since macroelement results: (1) compare well with known materials properties and traditional measures, and (2) have the above-stated advantages, tensorial techniques such as the macroelement method, used in conjunction with new digitizing technologies, can be used better to describe the kinematics of form difference. With the description of the kinematics provided by the technique, the dynamic cause of the form difference can be ascertained with the investigators knowledge of materials. The investigators can then suggest changes to be made in materials and/or techniques that would enable the desired size and shape to be obtained.
Virus propagation with randomness

Abstract Viruses are organisms that need to infect a host cell in order to reproduce. The new viruses leave the infected cell and look for other susceptible cells to infect. The mathematical models for virus propagation are very similar to population and epidemic models, and involve a relatively large number of parameters. These parameters are very difficult to establish with accuracy, while variability in the cell and virus populations and measurement errors are also to be expected. To deal with this issue, we consider the parameters to be random variables with given distributions. We use a non-intrusive variant of the polynomial chaos method to obtain statistics from the differential equations of two different virus models. The equations to be solved remain the same as in the deterministic case; thus no new computer codes need to be developed. Some examples are presented.
Experimental selection reveals a trade-off between fecundity and lifespan in the coliphage Qß

Understanding virus evolution is key for improving ways to counteract virus-borne diseases. Results from comparative analyses have previously suggested a trade-off between fecundity and lifespan for viruses that infect the bacterium Escherichia coli (i.e. for coliphages), which, if confirmed, would define a particular constraint on the evolution of virus fecundity. Here, the occurrence of such a trade-off is investigated through a selection experiment using the coliphage Qs. Selection was applied for increased fecundity in three independent wild-type Qs populations, and the ability of the virions to remain viable outside the host was determined. The Qs life-history traits involved in the evolution of fecundity and the genetic changes associated with this evolution were also investigated. The results reveal that short-term evolution of increased fecundity in Qs was associated with decreased viability of phage virions. This trade-off apparently arose because fecundity increased at the expense of reducing the amount of resources (mainly time) invested per produced virion. Thus, the results also indicate that Qs fecundity may be enhanced through increases in the rates of adsorption to the host and progeny production. Finally, genomic sequencing of the evolved populations pinpointed sequences likely to be involved in the evolution of Qs fecundity.
Fulminant multiple sclerosis.

The authors describe the MR imaging characteristics and clinical course of a 22-year-old man with acute disseminated demyelinating disease, either Marburg multiple sclerosis or recurrent (relapsing) acute disseminated perivenous encephalomyelitis
Factors Influencing the Repair and Adaptation of Muscles in Aged Individuals: Satellite Cells and Innervation

From the standpoint of structure, the loss of muscle mass could be attributed to the loss of muscle fibers, the reduction of volume of persisting muscle fibers, or both. This review will concentrate upon factors that could contribute to the presence of thin muscle fibers in old muscles. One mechanism that could account for the presence of a population of thin muscle fibers is the loss of innervation due to the death or the remodeling of motor units in aging muscles. If the denervated muscle fibers fail to become reinnervated, or if they are unable to respond to reinnervation by new nerve terminals, they would undergo a progressive atrophy. If muscle fibers are damaged through exercise, direct trauma or other causes, they would degenerate and regenerate. Early regenerating muscle fibers are thinner than normal. If the regenerating muscle fibers are non-innervated, regeneration will not be complete; instead the regenerating muscle fibers will atrophy. All of the above mechanisms could contribute to an overall reduction in muscle mass. This review ends with an enumeration of outstanding questions concerning muscle atrophy and its reversal in old individuals.
Presidential Address: Parasites on a Shrinking Planet

Planet Earth is shrinking at an ever-accelerating pace. It is not shrinking geologically, of course, or even atmospherically, unless you refer to the growing ozone hole. It is not even shrinking biologically in terms of net biomass, though some might argue that biodiversity is shrinking. But for Homo sapiens as a species, the planet is definitely shrinking. Why is this? Because, at least for now and the foreseeable future, planet Earth is our sole living space. The effective size of the available living space for any species is determined by the ability of that species to disperse throughout potential habitats, to successfully colonize those habitats, and to effectively utilize the resources available to them in those habitats. In terms of terrestrial habitats, since we are essentially a terrestrial species, we have pretty much dispersed to and colonized the entire planet. But we are an ingenious species, highly adaptable, and thus likely to find even other Earthly habitats to colonize under the ocean, beneath the earth's surface, in areas such as Antarctica and desert landscapes where we can trade minerals, wind and geothermal energy, and other non-biological resources for food. Homo sapiens seem to be the ultimate invasive species. But, are we really? At first glance, no other species, throughout any of Earth's history, seems to come close to rivaling the capacity of Homo sapiens for dispersal and colonization of new habitats. The exceptions, of course, are the other species that we intentionally, or unintentionally, take with us as we disperse. These include the plants, animals, and microbes that we take with us as sources of food and fiber the livestock, the fish, the poultry, and so on. Also included are the parasites those that live on and in us, those that live on and in the species that we move around with us, and especially those that use both we and our food animals and companion animals as hosts. Since there are apparently more parasitic organisms than free living, these parasites must be actually the ultimate invasive species, using their lowly human and synanthropic animal hosts as vehicles for their own dispersal. Except for the pets or companion animals, we don't really want to take the other species with us. But we have no choice we have to eat. And we certainly don't want to take the parasites with us. But we seem to have no choice here either the parasites are just too adaptable, too ingenious, too good at staying with us despite our greatest efforts to leave them behind.
Spatial, temporal, and life history assumptions influence consistency of landscape effects on species distributions

Models describing relationships between landscape features and species distribution patterns often display inter-study inconsistencies. Identifying factors contributing to these inconsistencies is a vital step in clarifying the ecological importance of landscape features and synthesizing an effective knowledge base for use in conservation contexts. We examined the influence of several spatial, temporal, and life history assumptions on the outcomes of distribution versus landscape models (DLMs) relating wetland bird communities at 29 Massachusetts (USA) sites to independent urbanization, wetland, forest, and agricultural landscape gradients. We considered a bird specialization index as well as obligate and facultative species richness as response variables. Landscape gradients were quantified at 10 landscape extents (0–1000 m in 100 m increments) and three time periods (1971, 1985, 2005). Univariate models indicated that our specialization index showed: (1) the strongest response to landscape gradients at small extents (200 m); (2) a negative, threshold response to urbanization was superior to a linear fit; and (3) no evidence of time-lagged effects of landscape change. Interestingly, the form of our model (i.e. linear versus threshold) influenced the extent at which strongest effects were detected. Multivariate models relating the specialization index as well as obligate and facultative species richness to landscape gradients showed evidence of annual variability (i.e. composition, parameter estimates, and variability explained) that did not depend upon an organism’s degree of specialization. Our results provide evidence that violations of common assumptions (e.g. selection of appropriate extent, lack of time-lagged effects, etc.) can impact the outcome of DLMs, which could lead to inter-study inconsistencies.
A Thermodynamic Model for Organic and Aqueous Tablet Film Coating

A tablet film-coating model for aqueous- and/or organic-based systems is shown to predict exhaust stream conditions thereby facilitating process optimization and scale-up. This coating model uses the First Law of Thermodynamics and conservation of mass principles to complete a material-energy balance on the coating unit operation for a closed, non-isolated system. Heat loss from the coating pan is incorporated into the model through a parameter called a heat loss factor (HLF) that is directly related to the heat transfer coefficient and pan surface area. For a mixed organic-aqueous coating formulation, the outlet air temperature and humidity are most notably affected by the coating composition and the inlet drying air temperature, which controls the evaporative cooling rate. The coating solution temperature and inlet air relative humidity do not significantly influence the exhaust air temperature, Tair,out. The HLF was determined to be 24 to 62 cal/min°C for the LDCS-20 to HCT-30, 360 cal/min°C for the HC...
EXPERIMENTS ON THE ORIGIN OF TIP-VORTICES

Measurements of the structure and evolution of the tip vortex from a rotor in low-speed forward flight are presented. On the advancing blade spanwise flow on the pressure side of the blade is comparable in magnitude to the inflow. Core circumferential velocity profiles show multiple features during formation. Trajectories and peak core velocities of the tip-vortex during its formation on top of the blade are presented. The peak core circumferential velocity is constant during vortex formation. Peak core axial velocity tends towards tip-speed near the blade tip. In the near wake, the variation in core axial velocity exhibits a periodic behavior. Circulation measurements from different rotary-wing tests are correlated with an empirical model that was developed to relate the tip-vortex circulation to the blade parameters. The trailed circulation is seen to be only about 40% of the bound circulation computed using the standard assumptions for calculation of blade loads.
Dos narrativas de Mariel: muestrario de perdedores y suicidas

Aquest treball aborda la funcio de la derrota a dues obres d'autors de l'emigracio cubana de la decada del vuitanta, coneguda com la generacio del Mariel. Analitzo el primer text escrit per Reinaldo Arenas una vegada que arriba a l'exili, "Final d'un conte" (1982), i publicat al numero inaugural de la revista Mariel (1983-1985). Comparo l'heroi perdedor en el conte de Arenas amb el protagonista de la novel·la de Guillermo Rosales La casa dels naufrags (Boarding Home), de 1987. Considero que el significar la derrota com a acte de resistencia enfront de grups politics i culturals hegemonics inscriu a els autors del Mariel dins d'un corpus de literatura llatinoamericana immigrant del qual tradicionalment se'ls ha exclos.
Quantum statistics of the Raman generator linewidth

Studies of quantum noise initiated stimulated Raman scattering in H2 show that single shot Stokes spectra can be narrower than the quantum mechanical gain narrowed linewidth. The ensemble average of these single shot spectra, however, agrees quite well with the quantum mechanical prediction.1 Additionally, the mean frequencies of near Fourier transform-limited shots have a narrower distribution than the distribution of means of the entire ensemble. We present evidence in support of these statements as well as presenting arguments that yield a qualitative understanding of these results.
Representing the “European refugee crisis” in Germany and beyond: Deservingness and difference, life and death

The European refugee crisis has gained worldwide attention with daily media coverage both in and outside Germany. Representations of refugees in media and political discourse in relation to Germany participate in a Gramscian “war of position” over symbols, policies, and, ultimately, social and material resources, with potentially fatal consequences. These representations shift blame from historical, political-economic structures to the displaced people themselves. They demarcate the “deserving” refugee from the “undeserving” migrant and play into fear of cultural, religious, and ethnic difference in the midst of increasing anxiety and precarity for many in Europe. Comparative perspectives suggest that anthropology can play an important role in analyzing these phenomena, highlighting sites of contestation, imagining alternatives, and working toward them. [refugee, media, immigration, crisis, Germany, Europe]
Probabilistic Time-Series Models for Ground Delay Program Decision Support

In this article we propose a novel probabilistic time-series approach to generating automated ground delay program strategies using weather and traffic demand forecasts and their projected impacts on local airport operations. Owing to the probabilistic nature of the model, multiple ground delay program strategies can be recommended for a single day and prioritized by a measure of confidence; and owing to the time-series nature of the model, temporal patterns in historical ground delay programs are learned to help ensure the operational suitability of future recommendations. We show how a nearest-neighbors classifier can be embedded in the time-series model so that historical days having the greatest influence on a new day’s prediction can be queried to provide a historical context to aid the decision-maker. Weather Impacted Traffic Data and historical ground delay program records are used to train, test, and evaluate our models with respect to prediction accuracy at eight major airports in the United States.
The STI and HIV testing practices of primary care providers.

OBJECTIVES: To examine the sexually transmitted infection (STI) and HIV testing practices of primary care providers (PCPs) practicing in predominantly Hispanic communities. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study. PCPs were identified by matching ZIP codes of physician directories with ZIP codes of Los Angeles County areas that have a population that is > 50% Hispanic (N = 191). PCPs were mailed a survey that assessed their frequencies for asking patients about sexual history, offering STI and safe sex advice, total number of HIV tests ordered in the past six months and their perceived barriers to STI counseling. The survey response rate was 45% (N = 85). RESULTS: Although 73% of PCPs took sexual histories from patients regularly (daily-to-weekly), only 41% offered STI or safe sex advice regularly. PCPs who were white were less likely than those who were Hispanic/Asian/African American/other to take sexual histories from their patients regularly (OR 0.3, 95% CI 0.1-0.9). The total number of HIV tests ordered for patients by PCPs at their practice locations in the past six months were: none (6%), 1-10 tests (27%), 11-20 tests (24%) and > 20 tests (36%). Thirty-six percent of PCPs reported > or = 1 positive HIV test in the past six months. PCPs' perceived barriers to STI counseling included patient's young age (< 16 years), language and presence of patient's relative/partner in consultation room at time of visit. CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest a need for interventions with PCPs practicing in predominantly Hispanic communities to improve their STI and HIV practice patterns.