cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
THERMAL REACTIVATION OF ULTRAVIOLET‐IRRADIATED ESCHERICHIA COLI: RELATIONSHIP TO RESPIRATION*

ABS>The effects of postirradiation incubation at 42 deg C on respiration and viability were studied in cells of ultraviolet (uv)-irradiated Escherichia coli strains B/r and B. Prior to uv irradiation containing glycerol. When incubated in this liquid medium at 37 deg C, respiration of both strains was known to cease about an hour after uv irradiation, but was found to be continuous on incubation at 42 deg C. In both strains, continuance of respiration was accompanied by an early increase in viability liquid thermal reactivation), but the increase for B/r (30-fold) was 3 times that for strain B. The kinetic pattern of viability for B/r at 42 deg C was the same as that previously obtained for B/r and B when respiration was maintained by 5-fluorouracil (FU) treatment. A different pattern was seen for strain B at 42 deg C, but when FU and thermal treatments were given together, the FU type response dominated and the amount of reactivation obtained was about the same as with FU alone. It is suggested that in the absence of FU, liquid thermal treatment prevented division of a potentially reactivable group of filaments in the ion- strain. The amount of liquid thermal reactivation (wheremore » plates were incubated at 37 deg C) was about equal to the amount of plate thermal reactivation (where irradiated cells, plated immediately after uv irradiation were incubated at 42 deg C). It is inferred that liquid and plate thermal reactivation involves the same group of cells. (auth)« less
A global view of Hsp90 functions.

The Sixth International Conference on Hsp90 in 2012 revealed new functions of this key molecular chaperone. Attendees of the meeting at Les Diablerets, Switzerland, addressed new discoveries about Hsp90 and its cochaperones.
Effects of tubercidin and its ribonucleotides on various metabolic pathways in Schistosoma mansoni.

Abstract The onset of tubercidin's(7-deazaadenosine;Tu) effects upon S. mansoni in vitro is dose-related. At 10 −5 M, Tu caused abnormal activity patterns and separation of the sexes within 6–9 hr. During this time, Tu did not appreciably affect the rate of glucose consumption, lactate production, or glycogen content of the worms. Tu inhibited the utilization of radioactive adenosine for adenine nucleoide formation by greater than 50 per cent in vitro . This effect was more than just a simple competition between Tu and adenosine for entrance into the cell and the formation of their respective ribonucleotides. Yet, the rate of conversion of AMP to ADP or ADP to ATP was not influenced or only inhibited to a small extent. For the guanine nucleotides, Tu inhibited the utilization of radioactive adenosine for the formation of these nucleotides as well; however, this effect appears to be solely a simple competition between adenosine and Tu for entrance into the cell. The synthesis of tubercidin-5' mono-, di- and triphosphate, TuMP, TuDP and TuTP, respectively, was accomplished simultaneously by enzymes from the erythrocytes of the dog. TuDP was a much poorer substrate for schistosome adenylate kinase in comparison to ADP. The particulate fraction of schistosome homogenates contained ATPase activity which was primarily Mg 2+ -dependent, but also had a small component that was Na + , K + -dependent and ouabain-sensitive. Instability of the preparation precluded definitive investigation of the suitability of TuTP as a substrate, but TuTP was found to be a less efficient substrate than ATP for Na + , K + -dependent ATPase from rabbit kidney. Supernatant fractions of schistosome homogenates did not contain detectable amounts of creatine phosphokinase (CPK) activity utilizing creatine phosphate as the phosphagen. However, TuDP was nearly as effective a substrate for CPK from rabbit muscle as was ADP.
Variance Function Estimation

Abstract Heteroscedastic regression models are used in fields including economics, engineering, and the biological and physical sciences. Often, the heteroscedasticity is modeled as a function of the covariates or the regression and other structural parameters. Standard asymptotic theory implies that how one estimates the variance function, in particular the structural parameters, has no effect on the first-order properties of the regression parameter estimates; there is evidence, however, both in practice and higher-order theory to suggest that how one estimates the variance function does matter. Further, in some settings, estimation of the variance function is of independent interest or plays an important role in estimation of other quantities. In this article, we study variance function estimation in a unified way, focusing on common methods proposed in the statistical and other literature, to make both general observations and compare different estimation schemes. We show that there are significant di...
Treatment of cirrhotic rats with epidermal growth factor and insulin accelerates liver DNA synthesis after partial hepatectomy

Prevention of postoperative hepatic failure is important after hepatic resection. In patients with cirrhosis, impaired liver function and regenerative capacity after major hepatic resection are associated with increased morbidity and mortality. In this study, a combination of epidermal growth factor (EGF) and insulin were used as hepatotrophic factors in an attempt to stimulate DNA synthesis after 70% hepatectomy (HTX). Regenerative capacity was evaluated in normal and cirrhotic rat liver by measuring DNA synthesis in vivo. Micronodular liver cirrhosis was established by the simultaneous oral administration of CCl4 and phenobarbital. Epidermal growth factor plus insulin was injected subcutaneously immediately after and 12 h after HTX or sham operation was performed. Rats were killed 24 h after the operation and liver regeneration was estimated by [3H]-thymidine incorporation into DNA as well as an autoradiographic nuclear labelling index. Hepatectomy increased [3H]-thymidine incorporation significantly in both normal and cirrhotic rats. In cirrhotic rats, [3H]-thymidine incorporation after HTX was significantly lower than in normal rats and administration of a combination of EGF and insulin after HTX enhanced [3H]-thymidine incorporation. In conclusion, DNA synthesis 24 h after HTX is decreased in cirrhotic rats compared with normal rats and EGF supplementation with insulin accelerates DNA synthesis in hepatectomized cirrhotic rats. The data suggest that administration of combinations of exogenous hepatotrophic factors may play a useful role in the treatment of cirrhotic patients undergoing major hepatic resection.
Age-related decrease in cholinergic synaptic transmission in three hippocampal subfields

Abstract The present study was designed to examine the effect of age on cholinergic synaptic transmission in the three principal hippocampal subregions, and to assess whether these effects covary with age-related behavioral deficits. Young (3 week), adult (9 month), and old (24–27 month) rats were first tested on the Morris water task, and most of the old rats were severely impaired on the spatial version. The cholinergic slow epsp was induced by tetanic stimulation of stratum oriens or stratum granulosum, and recorded intracellularly in vitro from CA1 and CA3 pyramidal cells and granule cells in the fascia dentata (FD). The amplitude of the slow epsp was significantly reduced in old rats in all areas (CA1 59%; CA3 55%; and FD 56%). This age-related decrease was also present following the blockade of glutamatergic and GABAergic transmission, ruling out possible artifactual contributions from these systems to the change in the slow epsp. Our data suggest that functional cholinergic transmission is compromised in all areas of the hippocampus during normal aging. Few statistically significant correlations, however, were found between the age-related deficit in spatial learning and the decrease in cholinergic synaptic function.
Microwave, infrared, and Raman spectra, r0 structural parameters, conformational stability and ab initio calculations of cyclohexylisocyanate

Abstract The microwave spectrum of cyclohexylisocyanate, c –C 6 H 11 NCO, has been investigated from 10,000 to 21,000 MHz and 44 transitions for the more stable equatorial-trans conformer were assigned. The rotational constants of the ground vibrational state were determined: A = 3546.87(28), B = 936.12(1) and C = 839.06 (1) MHz. With these rotational constants and ab initio MP2(full)/6-311+G(d,p) predicted structural values, adjusted r 0 parameters for the equatorial-trans conformer were obtained. Variable temperature (–100 to –55 °C) studies of the infrared spectra (3500 to 400 cm −1 ) of cyclohexylisocyanate dissolved in liquid xenon and the infrared spectra of the gas and solid were recorded. Additionally, the Raman spectrum (3600 to 100 cm −1 ) of the liquid was investigated. Two conformers ( equatorial-trans and axial-trans) were identified in the fluid states. An enthalpy difference of 397 ± 40 cm −1 (4.75 ± 0.47 kJ/mol) was obtained from seven conformer pairs with the equatorial-trans form more stable. Ab initio (MP2) calculations have been carried out by using a variety of basis sets.
Dynamics of charge-density waves in electron-irradiated K0.3MoO3.

A systematic study is carried out on K{sub 0.3}MoO{sub 3} crystals irradiated with 2.5-MeV electrons. The high-temperature charge-density-wave (CDW) threshold field {ital E}{sub {ital T}} and the static dielectric constant {epsilon}({omega}{r arrow}0) are measured in the temperature range 40{lt}{ital T}{lt}70 K, and the low-temperature CDW depinning field {ital E}{sub {ital T}}{sup *} and the dielectric constant {epsilon}{sup *} at liquid-helium temperature (4.2 K) are also measured, all as functions of increasing irradiation dosage. Empirical relations among these quantities, which characterize the dynamics of charge-density waves in both the high-temperature and the low-temperature regimes, are established. Our experimental results are then compared with current theoretical models.
Zinc insufficiency mediates ethanol-induced alveolar macrophage dysfunction in the pregnant female mouse.

Aims: (a) Establish the minimum number of weeks of chronic ethanol ingestion needed to perturb zinc homeostasis, (b) Examine intracellular zinc status in the alveolar macrophages (AMs) when ethanol ingestion is combined with pregnancy, (c) Investigate whether in vitro zinc treatment reverses the effects of ethanol ingestion on the AM. Methods: C57BL/6 female mice were fed a liquid diet (±25% ethanol-derived calories) during preconception and pregnancy. The control group was pair-fed to the ethanol group. In the isolated AMs, we measured intracellular AM zinc levels, zinc transporter expression, alternative activation and phagocytic index. Zinc acetate was added to some cells prior to analysis. Results: Intracellular zinc levels in the AM decreased within 3 weeks of ethanol ingestion. After ethanol ingestion prior to and during pregnancy, zinc transporter expression and intracellular zinc levels were decreased in the AMs when compared with controls. Bacterial clearance was decreased because the AMs were alternatively activated. In vitro additions of zinc reversed these effects of ethanol. Conclusion: Ethanol ingestion prior to and during pregnancy perturbed AM zinc balance resulting in impaired bacterial clearance, but these effects were ameliorated by in vitro zinc treatments.
Effects of trabecular type and orientation on microdamage susceptibility in trabecular bone

Trabecular architecture becomes more rod-like and anisotropic in osteoporotic and aging trabecular bone. In order to address the effects of trabecular type and orientation on trabecular bone damage mechanics, microstructural finite element modeling was used to identify the yielded tissue in ten bovine tibial trabecular bone samples compressed to 1.2% on-axis apparent strain. The yielded tissue was mapped onto individual trabeculae identified by an Individual Trabeculae Segmentation (ITS) technique, and the distribution of the predicted yielding among trabecular types and orientations was compared to the experimentally measured microdamage. Although most of the predicted yielded tissue was found in longitudinal plates (73+/-11%), the measured microcrack density was positively correlated with the proportion of the yielded tissue in longitudinal rods (R(2)=0.52, p=0.02), but not in rods of other directions or plates. The overall fraction of rods and the fractions of rods along the longitudinal and transverse axes were also correlated with the measured microcrack density. In contrast, diffuse damage area did not correlate with any of these quantities. These results agree with the findings that both in vitro and in vivo microcrack densities are correlated with Structure Model Index (SMI), and are also consistent with decreased energy to failure in more rod-like trabecular bone. Together the results suggest that bending or buckling deformations of rod-like trabeculae may make trabecular structures more susceptible to microdamage formation. Moreover, while simple strain-based tissue yield criteria may account for macroscopic yielding, they may not be suitable for identifying damage.
Influencing patient adherence to treatment guidelines.

BACKGROUND: As chronic disease continues to weigh more heavily on health care resources, lifestyle management and compliance to treatment become paramount to patient care and care coordination. Although a wealth of information is available to the public regarding the basic tenets on exercise, nutrition, weight management, power of medications, and so forth, patients do not always modify their behavior accordingly to improve their overall health. Motivation seems to be both the key element as well as the central puzzle in efforts to change behavior. OBJECTIVE: To identify several strategies, including motivational interviewing, that can be used to reduce resistance and improve the odds of achieving positive clinical outcomes among noncompliant/resistant patients. SUMMARY: Providers once thought the following about nonadherent patients: They don’t see (are in denial or lack insight), they don’t know, they don’t know how, and/or they don’t care. However, instead of focusing on the reasons why people do not change, researchers in behavior change science recognize that the best questions to ask are: “Why do people change?” and “What can we do to help?” A worst-case scenario under mining positive clinical outcomes is one in which the provider is arguing for change while the patient argues against it. It is, therefore, more effective to enlist strategies that address the complex interaction of motivations, cues to action, perception of benefits and consequences, expectancies, environmental and cultural influences, self-efficacy, state of readiness to change, ambivalence, and implementation intentions. Motivational interviewing is one such approach that is evidence based and increasingly well proven. Motivational interviewing is a client-centered, goal-oriented method for enhancing intrinsic motivation to change by exploring and resolving ambivalence, and it offers more than simply wellintentioned advice or scare tactics. CONCLUSION: A client-centered approach is the most important component of a health coaching skill set. Patients can ascertain whether you are truly attempting to understand their situation instead of merely trying to manipulate them into change. Respecting each patient’s autonomy, drawing out ambivalence about change, evoking change talk, and allowing the patient to develop and/or own the treatment plan greatly improve the odds of achieving positive clinical outcomes.
Petrogenesis of Cenozoic Basalts from Vietnam: Implication for Origins of a 'Diffuse Igneous Province'

after the early Tertiary India‐Asia collision. This activity does not conform to the ‘Large Igneous Province’ model in view of lower eruption and melt production rates, wide dispersal of centres and the apparent absence of deep mantle upwelling. Age data for Vietnamese plateau basalts reflect spatial‐temporal KEY WORDS: Vietnam; basalt; Cenozoic; geochemistry patterns consistent with a rotating stress field rather than suprahotspot lithosphere migration. For most of the volcanic centres there are two eruptive episodes: an early series formed by highSiO2, low-FeO* quartz and olivine tholeiites—large melt fractions of refractory (lithosphere-like) mantle—and a later series made INTRODUCTION up of low-SiO2, high-FeO* olivine tholeiites, alkali basalts and Neogene‐Quaternary intraplate volcanism is widespread basanites—smaller melt fractions of more fertile (asthenosphere- in east and southeast Asia (Fig. 1a) forming basalt plateaux like) mantle. Comparison of Mg-15 normalized basalt com- associated with pull-apart, extensional rifts (Barr & positions with parameterized anhydrous and hydrous experimental McDonald, 1981; Whitford-Stark, 1987). Although melt compositions allowed calculation of melt segregation pressures widely dispersed the activity shares common source isoand temperatures. Computed for anhydrous conditions these range topic and lithosphere structural character with intraplate from <4 GPa and ~1470∞C (for alkali basalts) to <0·5 GPa and back-arc volcanism in the western Pacific and has and ~1400∞C (quartz tholeiites), and for H2O-undersaturated been referred to as a ‘diVuse’ igneous province (Hoang conditions, from <3·5 GPa and ~1450∞C to ~1·5 GPa and et al., 1996). The activity post-dates the early Tertiary 1350‐1400∞C, respectively. Hydrous conditions are more realistic India‐Asia collision and may be related to asthenospheric in view of high measured basalt H2O + contents, pressure and lithospheric tectonic extrusion processes (Tapponnier estimates consistent with melting below a thinned mechanical et al., 1982, 1986). The province is bounded to the east boundary layer (MBL) and interpolated mantle adiabats of and southeast by active subduction at the Izu‐Bonin, 2‐3∞C/km (compared with <1∞C/km for anhydrous conditions), Mariana and Indonesian archipelagos, and to the northconsistent with fluid dynamic constraints and a 1440∞C potential west by the collision-thickened Tibet plateau (Flower et temperature. After collision-induced ‘extrusion’ of east and al., 1998a). The Indochina and China plates appear to southeast Asia, the lithosphere was probably thinned during have been tectonically extruded along regional strike-slip faults, with concomitant opening of the South China
Reliability aware power management for dual-processor real-time embedded systems

Primary-Backup (PB) model has been a widely used model for reliability in dual-processor real-time systems. In recent literature, there have been a few works focussing on minimizing energy consumption of periodic task sets executing on such systems. One of the major drawbacks of these works is that they ignore the effects of frequency-scaling on fault arrival rates. In this paper, we present a modified Primary-Backup model for dual-processor systems that aims to maintain the reliability when employing power management techniques to minimize the overall energy consumption. Furthermore, the proposed approach exploits the uncertainties in the execution time of real-time tasks to better predict the available slack for energy management. The proposed modified PB-based Reliability-Aware Power Management (RAPM) approach was tested with synthetic task sets on both homogeneous and heterogeneous dual-processor systems. Simulation results show that it can achieve up to 67 % savings in expected energy consumption for low utilization task sets and up to 32 % savings for high utilization task sets without any loss in reliability in heterogeneous dual-processor systems.
Simplified algorithms for calculating double-couple rotation

We derive new, simplified formulae for evaluating the 3-D angle of earthquake double-couple (DC) rotation. The complexity of the derived equations depends on both accuracy requirements for angle evaluation and the completeness of desired solutions. The solutions are simpler than my previously proposed algorithm based on the quaternion representation designed in 1991. We discuss advantages and disadvantages of both approaches. These new expressions can be written in a few lines of computer code and used to compare both DC solutions obtained by different methods and variations of earthquake focal mechanisms in space and time.
Spatially Resolved Energy Electron Loss Spectroscopy Studies of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles

The oxidation state of iron oxide nanoparticles co-generated with soot during a combustion process was studied using electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS). Spatially resolved EELS spectra in the scanning transmission electron microscopy mode were collected to detect changes in the oxidation state between the cores and surfaces of the particles. Quantification of the intensity ratio of the white lines of the iron L-ionization edge was used to measure the iron oxidation state. Quantitative results obtained from Pearson's method, which can be directly compared with the literature data, indicated that the L3 /L2-intensity ratio for these particles changes from 5.5 +/- 0.3 in the particles' cores to 4.4 +/- 0.3 at their surfaces. This change can be directly related to the reduction of the iron oxidation state at the surface of the particles. Experimental results indicate that the cores of the particles are composed of gamma-Fe2O3, which seems to be reduced to FeO at their surfaces. These results were also supported by the fine structure of the oxygen K-edge and by the significant chemical shift of the iron L-edge.
Intention to quit smoking: role of personal and family member cancer diagnosis

Individuals who have ever experienced a cancer diagnosis and their family members may be priority audiences for health improving interventions. Guided by the heuristic model of the ‘teachable moment’ and using data from the 2003 National Cancer Institute’s Health Information National Trends Survey, we explored whether having a lifetime history of cancer or having a family member with a lifetime history of cancer was associated with intention to quit smoking. Results showed that having a personal lifetime history of cancer was not associated with intention to quit, while having a family member with a lifetime history of cancer was (v 2 5 7.08, P < 0.01). Path analysis showed that individual perceived risk of cancer mediated the relationship between having a family member with a history of cancer and quitting intention: smokers who had a family member with a history of cancer in addition to an elevated level of perceived cancer risk were 36% more likely to report intending to quit. These preliminary data suggest that family members of cancer patients may be a viable target population for smoking cessation interventions, especially when they have heightened levels of perceived cancer risk. An adequately powered, controlled trial is needed to fully evaluate this hypothesis.
Approximate methods for analyzing slotted random-access spread-spectrum networks

The authors develop approximate methods for performance evaluation of a general class of slotted Aloha-type random-access spread-spectrum networks. Approximation is used in three levels: the diffusion approximation of the process Q(t) (a variant of the number of backlogged users), the approximation of the random-access channel and the existing receivers by a single server with equivalent queue-size-dependent service rate, and the approximation of the state-dependent composite traffic distribution by a Gaussian random variable with equivalent mean and variance. Applications and comparisons with the precise solutions are given. >
19 Chemical Engineering in the Processing of Electronic and Optical Materials: A Discussion

Publisher Summary Increasing number of chemical engineers is employed in electronic materials companies and chemical engineering research is making recognized contributions to the field. The traditional chemical engineering strengths in handling problems involving transport phenomena and chemical reactions provide an excellent background for addressing processing issues. A wealth of research problems exist in electronic materials processing. These revolve around the relationship between processing and materials properties. Sophisticated experimental procedures using recent developments in gas-phase and surface spectroscopies are necessary to address the problems. Detailed models taking advantage of modern computer resources can also provide insight into the underlying fundamental processes as well as serve as design tools for new applications. The emergence of electronic materials processing, along with other specialized topics within the chemical engineering discipline, raises questions about research, teaching, and the profession in general, questions similar to those asked in other areas, such as biotechnology. This chapter addresses these questions. It illustrates three examples: organometallic vapor-phase epitaxy of compound semiconductors, plasma processing, and process control in view of research opportunities, which suggest that chemical engineers need to collaborate with researchers from other disciplines to address significant materials issues and find a place in this highly interdisciplinary field.
Measures of technology transfer effectiveness: key dimensions and differences in their use by sponsors, developers and adopters

Federally funded R&D has been viewed as a key source of advanced technologies that, if successfully transferred to the private sector, could help rebuild America's global competitiveness. The growing perception that the nation is not getting an adequate return from its federal R&D budget is accompanied by a growing demand for more measurable technology transfer results. Yet measures of technology transfer effectiveness are neither well defined nor universally accepted. This exploratory study focused on defining and describing the measures or metrics used in the process of transferring government-funded technologies to private sector firms. The paper presents an initial conceptual framework and an exploratory, empirically based taxonomy of metrics used in technology transfer. This taxonomy and specific measures were used to help determine which technology transfer metrics were used by various players across the federal technology transfer process. Individuals who played roles as either sponsors, developers or adopters of federally funded technologies were surveyed on their roles and the measures of transfer effectiveness used in their work units. The data showed statistically significant differences in frequency of use of the transfer measures by the three roles. Secondly, a broad set of measures were used in varying degrees by all roles. Most importantly, all three roles used most measures rather infrequently. Recommendations to guide future research are included. Recommendations are also made for technology transfer practitioners. >
Monomer Characterization and Studies of Self-Association of the Major β-Casein of Human Milk

Abstract The casein form that has four organic phosphoryl groups, β -casein (CN)-4P, is the major constituent (∼35%) of the β -CN fraction of human milk and should play an important role in micelle structure and formation. In 3.3 M urea, the monomer is present with a molecular mass of 24,500Da and a sedimentation coefficient of 1.3 S (Svedberg units, 10 –13 s). In 0.02 M NaCl and 0.01 M imidazole (low salt buffer) at pH 7, the sedimentation coefficient was 1.5 S, which increased to 14 S at 37°C. Laser light scattering in low salt buffer and 9 mg/ml of protein indicated monomers with a radius of about 4nm at 4°C. The size of the radius increased as temperature increased, and, at 37°C, the radius was about 12nm. The molecular mass suggested the presence of about 47 monomers per polymer. In 0.25 M NaCl and with 10m M Ca 2+ prior to precipitation, the polymer attained a maximum radius of about 15nm, which perhaps is the size of the smallest human milk micelles. The low value for reduced viscosity of 8.2 ml/g for the calcium-induced polymer was independent of protein concentration, suggesting a spherical shape and fixed size. Calcium apparently binds strongly to the phosphates; the dissociation constant was 8.1 × 10 –4 M . Other constituents of milk, such as inorganic orthophosphate, may contribute to differences in the manner by which β -CN, with various phosphorylation levels, participate in micelle formation.
Microsatellite loci for fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas)

We describe the cloning and characterization of seven microsatellite loci (six dinucleotide and one tetranucleotide) from fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas). In a sample of 48 fish from a captive population, polymorphism at these loci ranged from 4 to 11 alleles with expected heterozygosities ranging from 0.59 to 0.82. These loci will be extremely useful to researchers currently studying the ecotoxicology, behaviour and population genetics of this species.
Divergence and Vorticity from Aircraft Air Motion Measurements

Abstract This paper considers the accuracy of divergence estimates obtained from aircraft measurements of the horizontal velocity field and points out an error that appears in these estimates that has heretofore not been addressed. A procedure for eliminating this error is presented. The divergence and vorticity are estimated from the coefficients of a least squares fit to a wind field obtained from the Second Dynamics and Chemistry of Marine Stratocumulus (DYCOMS-II) circular flight legs. These estimates are compared with estimates from numerical models and satellites and with airplane estimates based on tracer budgets and the temporal changes in cloud-top height. The estimates are consistent with expectations and estimates using other methods, albeit somewhat high. Furthermore, significant differences occur among the cases, likely due to the large differences in the techniques. The results indicate that the wind field technique is a viable approach for estimating mesoscale divergence if the wind measure...
Hypertensive Vascular Disease Induced by Heterologous Renin

Chronic treatment with crude hog, or rat, renin administered subcutaneously to uninephrectomized rats elicits hypertension, renal and vascular lesions, hypertrophy of the zona glomerulosa of the adrenals, and renin depletion in the remaining kidney. Semipurified hog renin given in equipressor doses also causes renin depletion and stimulation of the zona glomerulosa, but no hypertension nor vascular disease. However, semipurified hog renin becomes as effective as the crude preparation after addition of retarding substances such as gelatin, oil, or cholesterol. Thus, a prolonged and sustained resorption of renin seems to be a prerequisite for the development of hypertension. Since hypertension takes place only after a latent period during which arterial pressure remains within the normal range, it does not appear that hypertension can be attributed to the acute pressor effect of renin. It is proposed as a working hypothesis that renin, through angiotensin, initiates nervous mechanisms which are responsible for the development of benign hypertension and that the acute pressor effect of angiotensin is more specifically associated with the malignant phase of hypertension.
Do We Know What Homeostasis Model Assessment Measures?: If not, does it matter?

The point-counterpoint articles in the September issue of Diabetes Care (1,2) raise several interesting issues on our understanding of insulin resistance, homeostasis model assessment (HOMA), and the future of measurement shortcuts for insulin resistance and secretion. McAuley et al. (1) provide an overview of methods to assess insulin sensitivity and secretion. The conditional nature of the title of their article implies that there is room for improvement and that something better will come along to assess insulin resistance and secretion with the convenience of HOMA but with better accuracy. For the time being, however, they support its use. Hockaday et al. (2) bring up many points that undermine confidence in HOMA as a measure of insulin resistance. Input into HOMA consists of fasting insulin and glucose concentration and thus will reflect conditions present in the basal state, with the liver as the main target for insulin action as manifested by the suppression of gluconeogenesis. A shortcoming of HOMA is the lack of complete capture of brain glucose uptake, of which 50% is non–insulin mediated. Although HOMA has been compared against the euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp, the current gold standard for assessment of insulin sensitivity, the latter method assesses insulin resistance in the stimulated state, which is a function to a large extent of muscle glucose disposal. Thus, an implicit assumption of HOMA is that steady-state and stimulated insulin resistance are highly correlated. Other concerns include test variability over time and the assumption that insulin resistance, if present, is common to major sites of insulin action (liver, muscle, and adipose tissue). Similarly, a number of concerns are raised about the use of HOMA to assess insulin secretion. Of particular concern is whether β-cell glycemic sensitivity can be assumed constant. In addition, other factors bear on insulin secretion that are not …
Application of Strain Energy in the Characterization of Non-Linear Polymeric Materials

The concept of strain energy at break due to tensile testing was studied to characterize nonlinear polymeric materials, such as modified bituminous roofing membranes. The test values of load, elongation, and area under the load-elongation curve were used to compute strength (T), strain (S), strength-strain product (Q), and strain energy (U). A relationship between the strain energy and the strength-strain product was established in terms of their ratio (R). The limits of the range of R values were used to develop a graphical method that simplifies the application of the strain energy criterion to evaluate membranes without measuring energy directly. In this method, each point plotted on the strength-strain graph represents three dimensions - T, S and Q - where the product Q is a measure of energy. It is shown that a single requirement of strain energy can replace individual requirements of load and elongation, and that it accommodates very low to very high modulus materials.
Noise in Semiconductor Devices

Publisher Summary This chapter focuses on noise in semiconductors devices. There are at least two important facets to the subject of noise in semiconductor devices. First is that noise results from basic physical processes which make a device possible; a study of device noise can lead to increased understanding of device physics. Second, noise sets the ultimate limitation of the usefulness of a device as a linear amplifier; it is important to the engineers using a device that they are able to optimize the design for maximum signal-to-noise performance commensurate with other requirements. This chapter presents a summary of the theory of noise in semiconductor devices with emphasis on junction diodes, bipolar transistors, and field effect transistors. Theory of noise in semiconductor devices is discussed. Experimental verification of the theory is done. Concepts related to practical low-noise amplifiers are explained. The chapter shows that the noise performance of most semiconductor devices is described by a relatively simple, well-behaved set of “internal” noise generators.
SINGING COMPLEXITY OF THE BANDED WREN (THRYOTHORUS PLEUROSTICTUS): DO SWITCHING RATE AND SONG-TYPE DIVERSITY SEND DIFFERENT MESSAGES?

Abstract Most species of songbird possess repertoires of song types or variations that allow singers to vary how they present their songs. “Complexity,” or the amount of variation in a singing performance, has several distinct components that include the number of song types used, variation within song types, and rate of switching between song types. Because singers can control each factor somewhat independently, different components may encode different kinds of information. In a series of interactive playbacks, I presented Banded Wrens (Thryothorus pleurostictus) with stimuli that altered song-type diversity and switching rates independently. My results show that switching rates affect males' aggressive approach responses, with lower switching rates eliciting stronger responses. By contrast, song-type diversity does not appear to affect males' approach responses when switching rates are held at a high and constant level. Although focal male switching rates and song-type diversity are not strongly influe...
Diagnostic Accuracy of Stress Perfusion CMR in Comparison With Quantitative Coronary Angiography: Fully Quantitative, Semiquantitative, and Qualitative Assessment

Objectives This study’s primary objective was to determine the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of fully quantitative stress perfusion cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) versus a reference standard of quantitative coronary angiography. We hypothesized that fully quantitative analysis of stress perfusion CMR would have high diagnostic accuracy for identifying significant coronary artery stenosis and exceed the accuracy of semiquantitative measures of perfusion and qualitative interpretation. Background Relatively few studies apply fully quantitative CMR perfusion measures to patients with coronary disease and comparisons to semiquantitative and qualitative methods are limited. Methods Dual bolus dipyridamole stress perfusion CMR exams were performed in 67 patients with clinical indications for assessment of myocardial ischemia. Stress perfusion images alone were analyzed with a fully quantitative perfusion (QP) method and 3 semiquantitative methods including contrast enhancement ratio, upslope index, and upslope integral. Comprehensive exams (cine imaging, stress/rest perfusion, late gadolinium enhancement) were analyzed qualitatively with 2 methods including the Duke algorithm and standard clinical interpretation. A 70% or greater stenosis by quantitative coronary angiography was considered abnormal. Results The optimum diagnostic threshold for QP determined by receiver-operating characteristic curve occurred when endocardial flow decreased to Conclusions Fully quantitative stress perfusion CMR has high diagnostic accuracy for detecting obstructive coronary artery disease. QP outperforms semiquantitative measures of perfusion and qualitative methods that incorporate a combination of cine, perfusion, and late gadolinium enhancement imaging. These findings suggest a potential clinical role for quantitative stress perfusion CMR.
The Global Energy Balance

In this chapter, the key role of the energy balance in determining the climate of Earth is introduced. The emission temperature of a planet and its dependence on planetary albedo and total solar irradiance are described. Simple models of the greenhouse effect are applied. Formulas for the distribution of daily-averaged insolation as a function of latitude and season are derived. Geographic and seasonal variations of the Earth’s top-of-atmosphere radiation balance are shown and discussed. The poleward transport of energy by the ocean and atmosphere are derived from the top-of-atmosphere energy constraint.
Patterned porous silicon photonic crystals with modular surface chemistry for spatial control of neural stem cell differentiation

We present a strategy to spatially define regions of gold and nanostructured silicon photonics, each with materials-specific surface chemistry, for azide-alkyne cycloaddition of different bioactive peptides. Neural stem cells are spatially directed to undergo neurogenesis and astrogenesis as a function of both surface properties and peptide identity.
Major behavioral risk factors for chronic diseases among community residents in Yushan community,Maanshan city

Objective To realize the prevalence of major behavioral risk factors for non-communicable chronic diseases(NCDs) among community residents in Yushan Community.Methods Based on the data from the survey of China NCDs and its related behavioral risk factors(2008) of Ma'anshan City,analysis was made to describe the distribution of NCDs'related behavioral risk factors(smoking,alcohol taking,physical exercises,diet habits and body weight) among inhabitants.Results The total smoking rate among investigated people was 24.12%,and the rate of 40.07% in male was higher than that in female(2.15%)(χ2=1 020.97,P0.001).The rate of alcohol taking was 7.52% in total,and the rate of 14.36% in male was higher than that in female(0.67%)(χ2=1 020.97,P0.001).The rate of active exercise was 11.16% in total,yet the rate of inadequate physical activity was no significantly different between female and male.The obesity rate of residents was 50.32% in total,and the rate of 49.54% in female was lower than that in male(55.15%)(χ2=16.97,P0.001).The intakes of stable food and vegetables were enough,but intakes of fruit,fowl,fish and seafood,eggs,beans,milk and related products were inadequate while intakes of smoked foods were excessive.Conclusion Behavioral risk factors are widely existent in residents of Yushan community.
An 11.5 nW broadband wake-up RF receiver with −60 dBm sensitivity at 50 MHz

We present an ultra-low-power broadband wakeup RF receiver (WUR) for autonomous wireless sensor nodes (WSNs). Decreasing static power consumption of the WUR is critical for increasing the operational lifetime of the node. Several techniques are introduced to minimize power consumption while maintainin sensitivity, including step-up impedance transformation, an ultra-low-power RF amplifier, and digital offset adjustment. RF energy harvesting using a rectifier is also proposed to increase node lifetime. The receiver is designed and simulated using UMC 65 nm CMOS and has a power consumption of 11.5 nW. It successfully demodulates 1 kbps on-off-keyed data from a −60 dBm carrier at 50 MHz with an impedance of 1.8 kΩ across the input terminals of the RF receiver. This work surpasses state-of-the-art WURs in terms of sensitivity-power trade-off.
Outgassing study of spacecraft materials and contaminant transport simulations

Contamination control plays an important role in sustaining spacecraft performance. One spacecraft degradation mechanism involves long-term on-orbit molecular outgassing from spacecraft materials. The outgassed molecules may accumulate on thermal control surfaces and/or optics, causing degradation. In this study, we performed outgassing measurements of multiple spacecraft materials, including adhesives, Nylon Velcro, and other assembly materials through a modified ASTM E595 test method. The modified ASTM E595 test had the source and receiver temperature remained at 125°C and 25°C, respectively, but with prolonged outgassing periods of two weeks. The condensable contaminants were analyzed by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) to determine their spectral transmission and chemical composition. The FTIR spectra showed several spacecraft materials, primarily adhesives and potting materials, exhibiting slight absorption from contaminants consisting of hydroxyl groups and carboxylic acids. To gain insight into molecular contaminant transport, simulations were conducted to characterize contaminant accumulation inside a hypothetical space system cavity. The simulation indicated that contaminant molecules bouncing inside the hypothetical payload cavity can lead to deposition on colder surfaces, even though large openings are available to provide venting pathways for escaping to space. The newly established molecular contaminant transport simulation capability holds the promise of providing quantitative guidance for future spacecraft and its venting design.
Cloning of Economically Significant Sorghum Mutant Genes

Mutations, occurring either naturally or induced, are permanent alterations of the nucleotide sequence in organisms. These alterations occurring throughout the evolution of a species are responsible for creating immense genetic diversity. Such natural variation generated by mutations has been selected and extensively utilized in crop improvement in several agronomically important crops. In sorghum, mutations producing key agronomic traits such as nonshattering, dwarfing, photoperiod insensitivity, improved protein digestibility, and brown midrib phenotype resulted in establishment of sorghum as the fifth major cereal crop of the world. In addition to successful utilization of these mutations in breeding, understanding the mechanistic basis underlying these traits is equally important to assist in trait advancement. Hence, mutations underlying important agronomic traits were identified using approaches such as positional or map-based cloning, candidate-gene approach, and whole genome sequencing. This chapter provides an overview of key sorghum mutations that resulted in evolution of sorghum as a major source of food, forage, and bioenergy. Additionally, cloning strategies used to identify the underlying mutations and mechanistic basis of the phenotype of interest are discussed. Identification of mutations underlying agriculturally important traits can assist in developing molecular markers to enable precise introgression of selected traits into elite inbreds used in sorghum improvement programs.
An Atomic Model for a Complete Myosin Molecule within a Native Thick Filament

We have obtained a 4.3A resolution 3-D image of the relaxed thick filament from Lethocerus indicus using IHRSR. The image resolution is variable being highest for the region where the myosin rods are packed and lowest for the blocked head within the interacting heads motif (IHM). Although the resolution is low for de novo atomic model building, by using coiled-coil constraints within the model building software Rosetta, we obtained a complete atomic model for the Lethocerus flight muscle myosin rod, its least understood domain. For the rod, we started with a homology model of the Skip 1 crystal structure (PDB 4XA1) and built outward to the N- and C-termini. The myosin rods assemble into “curved molecular crystalline layers” (ribbons) and not as helical subfilaments. The number of plausible salt bridges between coiled-coils within ribbons is 30% greater than the number between ribbons. For the IHM, we used flexible fitting starting with an homology model of the Lethocerus myosin sequence and the scallop transition state structure, PDB 1DFL. Notable features of the IHM atomic model include the following: (1) Hydrophobic content in the free head RLC interaction with the myosin rods. This is the best-ordered region of the IHM. (2) At the free head S1/S2 junction, 11 residues of the heavy chain α-helix are unwound. Density connecting the displaced parts of the heavy chain α-helix is clearly resolved. (3) The heavy chain α-helices bound by the free head ELC and RLC could not be connected without unwinding 10 residues of the heavy chain α-helix. The blocked head density is the lowest resolution region of the reconstruction and could be fit without the heavy chain helical alterations seen in the free head. Supported by NIH and AHA.