cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Chemistry of fog waters in California's Central Valley—Part 3: concentrations and speciation of organic and inorganic nitrogen

Abstract Although organic nitrogen (ON) has been found to be a ubiquitous and significant component in wet and dry deposition, almost nothing is known about its concentration or composition in fog waters. To address this gap, we have investigated the concentration and composition of ON in fog waters collected in Davis, in California's Central Valley. Significant quantities of dissolved organic nitrogen (DON) were found in these samples, with a median concentration of 303 μM N (range=120–1630 μM N). DON typically represented approximately 16% of the total dissolved nitrogen (inorganic+organic) in Davis fog waters. The median concentration of nitrogen in free amino acids and alkyl amines was 16 μM N (range=3.8–120 μM N), which accounted for 3.4% of the DON in Davis fogs. Thus, although the absolute concentrations of free amino compounds were significant, they were only a minor component of the DON pool. Combined amino nitrogen (e.g., proteins and peptides) was present at higher concentrations and accounted for 6.1–29% (median=16%) of DON. Overall, free and combined amino compounds typically accounted for a median value of 22% of DON in the fog waters. The high concentrations of DON found, and the fact that amino and other N-containing organic compounds can serve as nitrogen sources for microorganisms and plants, indicate that atmospheric ON compounds likely play an important role in nitrogen cycling in the Central Valley. In addition, due to the basicity of some N functional groups, ON compounds likely contribute to the previously observed acid buffering capacity of Central Valley fog waters. Finally, a comparison of fog waters with fine particles (PM2.5) collected from the same site during the same period of time indicated that the median concentrations (mol N m−3-air) of total water-soluble ON, free amino nitrogen and total amino nitrogen were very similar in the fog water and PM2.5. Given the high water solubility of many organic N compounds, this result suggests that ON might contribute to the hygroscopic properties of atmospheric particles.
INFLUENCE OF ACETYLSALICYLIC ACID, AN INHIBITOR OF PROSTAGLANDIN SYNTHESIS, ON THE DURATION OF HUMAN GESTATION AND LABOUR

Abstract A retrospective survey of 103 patients taking high-dose acetylsalicylic acid for at least the last 6 months of pregnancy has been carried out and comparisons made with control populations. Aspirin administration was associated with a highly significant increase in the average length of gestation, in the frequency of postmaturity, and in the mean duration of spontaneous labour. These observations are compatible with the known capacity of aspirin to inhibit the synthesis of prostaglandins, and suggest that endogenous prostaglandins are important regulators of the duration of human gestation and labour. The possibility is raised that aberrations in prostaglandin metabolism could be responsible for certain instances of postmaturity or prolonged labour.
Abstract A64: Cell-extrinsic effects of metformin in the breast cancer microenvironment

Currently, few drugs have been formulated to disturb the autocrine/paracrine communication circuits which maintain the tumor-supportive microenvironment as a method of cancer chemoprevention. PGE2 (Prostaglandin E2) plays an important role in mediating the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines associated with tumor progression and metastasis. Recently, the anti-diabetic drug metformin has been associated with decreased incidence of several solid cancers among diabetic patients and has previously been shown to reduce expression of systemic inflammatory markers. However, few studies have detailed the intersection of metformin-mediated chemoprevention and chronic inflammation. As such, we investigated whether metformin impacts the inflammatory microenvironment in breast cancer to disrupt tumorigenesis and cancer progression. We hypothesize that metformin disrupts pro-neoplastic autocrine/paracrine inflammatory signaling by BCCs and its associated stroma. We have previously published that metformin inhibits proliferation of breast cancer cells, and that this impairment was associated with increased expression of growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) and repression of cyclooxygenase 1 mRNA expression. Here, we confirm that metformin decreases the intracellular and secreted GDF15 levels, and causes a reduction in the expression of proinflammatory annexin A2 protein, a component of the plasminogen receptor. Furthermore, exposure of breast cancer cells to metformin resulted in decreased PGE2 synthesis. Significantly, metformin mediated cell death was abrogated by addition of exogenous PGE2, suggesting that metformin at least in part elicits its antineoplastic function through PGE2 dependent mechanisms. Together these findings suggest a model in which metformin represses annexin A2 and cyclooxygenase expression, culminating in the loss of tumor-associated PGE2, induction of GDF15, and impaired breast cancer cell survival and invasiveness. As such, metformin may function to condition the pre-cancerous microenvironment/stroma to render it inhospitable toward further cancer progression. Citation Format: Christopher Charles Williams, Kabrina Miller. Cell-extrinsic effects of metformin in the breast cancer microenvironment. [abstract]. In: Abstracts: AACR Special Conference on Cellular Heterogeneity in the Tumor Microenvironment; 2014 Feb 26-Mar 1; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2015;75(1 Suppl):Abstract nr A64. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.CHTME14-A64
A scintillation method for determining liquid ‐ liquid interfacial areas

In stirred beakers the interfacial area between xylene containing a scintillator and tritiated water was measured as a function of stirrer speed by a scintillation counting technique. Because of the 6 μ average range of the tritium betas the rate at which flashes are detected by a phototube is a function of the interfacial area. A calibration curve of count rate against known interfacial area for unstirred phases in containers of various diameters gave a numerical estimate of the interfacial area for ten configurations.
Impacts of climate change on lakes and reservoirs dynamics and restoration policies

Meteorological-driven processes exert large and diverse impacts on lakes and their water quality; these impacts can be hydrologic, thermal, hydraulic, chemical, biochemical, or ecological. The impact of climate change on Lake Tahoe (California–Nevada) was investigated here as a case study of climate change effects on the physical processes occurring within lakes. The already published trends of meteorological variables were used to assess the effects of global warming on Lake Tahoe dynamics. Records from the period 1969–2002 show that Lake Tahoe has became warmer and more stable. A series of simulation years into the future (i.e., 2000–2040) was established using flows, loads, and meteorology data sets for the period 1994–2004. Results of 40-year simulations show that the lake continues to become warmer and more stable, and mixing is reduced. Possible changes in water quality because of global warming are discussed through inference, although these are not specifically simulated. Many existing problems may be exacerbated due to climate change, yet extreme uncertainty depends on the rate and magnitude of climate change. Therefore, shifts in water quality and quantity due to climate change should be integrated into contemporary planning and management in an adaptive manner, and the research and development of impact assessment methodology should focus on approaches that can handle extreme uncertainty. The general alternatives for lake management due to climate change are discussed. Depending on the specific case, further intensive research is suggested to restore lake water quality.
Differential Expression of mGluR2 in the Developing Cerebral Cortex of the Mouse

Glutamatergic synaptic transmission is an essential component of neural circuits in the central nervous system. Glutamate exerts its effects by binding to various types of glutamate receptors, which are found distributed on neurons throughout the central nervous system. These receptors are broadly classified into two main groups, ionotropic glutamate receptors (iGluRs) and metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs). Unlike iGluRs, the mGluRs are G-protein coupled receptors that exert their effects on postsynaptic membrane conductance indirectly through the downstream modification of ion channels. A subtype of mGluRs, the Group II mGluRs, are particularly interesting since their activation by glutamate results in a hyperpolarizing response. Thus, glutamate can act potentially as an inhibitory neurotransmitter, by binding to postsynaptic Group II mGluRs. Given the potential importance of these receptors in synaptic processing, the development of the central nervous system, and neurological disorders, we sought to characterize the expression of mGluR2 in the developing neocortex of the mouse. Therefore, we examined the distribution of mGluR2 in the developing cerebral cortex. We found a general caudal to rostral gradient in the expression of these receptors, with ventral cortical regions labeled caudally and dorsal regions labeled rostrally. Limbic regions highly expressed mGluR2 throughout the brain, as did sensory and motor cortical areas. Finally, other non-cortical structures, such as the thalamic reticular nucleus, amygdala, and mammillary bodies were found to have significant expression of the receptor. These results suggest that mGluR2 may play important roles in mediating glutamatergic inhibition in these structures and also could have a role in shaping the development of mature neural networks in the forebrain.
Estradiol and the control of food intake

Gonadal steroids are among the many factors that influence food intake and body weight in mammals. Hormonal effects on these processes are particularly striking in female rats, which show large increases in food intake and body weight after ovariectomy. A key role of estradiol in the control of food intake and energy balance in humans is evidenced by the fact that the incidence of obesity increases greatly after menopause [American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Body mass index and insulin resistance. Obstet Gynecol 2004;104:5s-10]. The actions of estradiol on neural systems that regulate eating may also account in part for sex differences in food intake and eating disorders, which occur much more frequently in young women [Sodersten P, Bergh C. Anorexia nervosa: towards a neurobiologically based therapy. Eur J Pharmacol 2003;480:67-74]. This paper presents a minireview of research examining the changes in feeding that occur during the ovarian cycle, the effects of estradiol withdrawal and replacement on food intake and body weight, and the neurobiological mechanisms by which estradiol influences feeding behavior. A model of hormone action on food intake that emerges from this research views estradiol as an indirect control of eating and meal size, producing changes in feeding behavior by modulating the central processing of both satiating and orexigenic peptides that represent direct controls of eating. Some of the shortcomings of the model and directions for future research are discussed.
Simulation of top-contact pentacene thin film transistor

In this paper we present both finite element based and analytic model simulations of pentacene based organic thin film transistor. The finite element type simulation is done using Silvaco’s Atlas simulator and the analytic model simulation is performed using a Matlab code based on the standard transistor equations. Both the Atlas and Matlab simulations agree approximately with the published experimental result. The results of the simulations show a current ratio of 2.11×106 for Atlas and 1.8×107 for Matlab simulations. The threshold voltage extracted from the finite element type simulation is 1.1 V which is in good agreement with 1.2 V used for Matlab simulation. However, the contact resistance shows a quite significant variation between the two simulation mechanisms. The finite element type simulation gives a contact resistance of 10 kΩ whereas the Matlab simulation predicts a contact resistance 1.9 kΩ.
The empirical development of the normative message processing scale

The empirical development of a Normative Message Processing Scale (NMPS) is presented. An argument is made for the need to develop an instrument that distinguishes between the tendency to engage in message processing that is selective, effortful, and highly deliberate and message processing that is unselective, low effort, and nondeliberate. Because self reported differences in exerted cognitive effort may indicate both quantitative and qualitative differences in message processing, effort‐based instruments do not allow specific predictions regarding the processing habits of low effort individuals. Understanding and measuring the processing characteristics of high and low effort individuals may explain observed differences in performances between individuals with a high or low need for cognition and between individuals induced to perform in a mindful or mindless manner. Five studies are presented, reporting on the development, conceptual validation, and behavioral validation of the NMPS. In addition, the ...
Failure of interferon alpha-2b in a patient with West Nile virus meningoencephalitis and acute flaccid paralysis.

WNV infection can cause meningoencephalitis (MNE) and acute flaccid paralysis (AFP). Both syndromes are associated with high morbidity and mortality. Interferon alpha-2b (IFN-α-2b) inhibits WNV replication in vitro. To date, 5 patients with WNV-CNS disease have recovered neurologic function with IFN-α-2b. We report the first failure of IFN-α-2b in the treatment of WNV-MNE-AFP.
An extensible architecture for data flow processing

In this research, we propose a general model for computer architectures. This model allows us to integrate some of the existing system architecture approaches for increasing computer capacity and indicates new possibilities for improving the cost/performance ratio of future computer systems. The model leads to the development of general purpose data flow machines and to different degrees of sophistication within these machines. Our fundamental approach is to separate the CPU into elementary components. This allows us to make a distinction between components for control and components for performing various processing functions, thus yielding a high degree of resource sharing.
Fetal MRI on a multi-element digital coil platform

Fetal MRI has an increasing list of indications and is most commonly employed when anomalies detected by prenatal ultrasonography require further characterization. This may occur when sonography is technically challenging or where specific MRI findings will determine pre- and postnatal management, including critical in utero and/or peripartum interventions. In these circumstances, there are high expectations for MRI to sort out complex diagnostic dilemmas through exquisite anatomical imaging that fetal surgeons and obstetricians can comprehend and relay to their patients. These expectations, in light of evolving clinical innovations, continue to drive advances in fetal imaging. Increasing signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) is fundamental to improving MR image quality, and proper coil selection is a key component of this pursuit. Since the introduction of parallel imaging techniques, the numbers of elements in phased-array coils have been continuously increased to achieve high SNR and shorter scan times. With the invention of a digital coil platform, it is now possible to connect combinations of multiple coil elements to enhance SNR beyond the capabilities of the adult eight-channel torso-coil routinely used in fetal imaging. This paper describes the application of multi-element radiofrequency coils on a digital broadband imaging platform with unique coil combinations to perform dedicated fetal MRI.
Organization of projection neurons of the hippocampus.

Abstract The origin of the fornix system was investigated by the horseradish peroxidase (HRP) technique. Small injections of HRP into the septal region resulted in labeling of neurons in both the pyramidal and nonpyramidal layers. Labeled neurons in the stratum pyramidale were seen in CA3 (bilaterally), CA2, CA1, and the adjacent subicular complex. Different patterns of uptake were observed in those hippocampal subfields. Numerous neurons in stratum oriens also displayed HRP positivity. These neurons were both polymorphic and spindle shape. The neurons were mainly restricted to the ventral portions of the hippocampus but labeled neurons were also seen in more dorsal levels. Furthermore, scattered neurons in stratum radiatum also displayed HRP positivity. These data demonstrate that some neurons generally considered to be interneurons are indeed projection neurons of the hippocampus.
The specific heat of HgBa2CuO4+σ

Abstract The specific heat of a polycrystalline sample of HgBa 2 CuO 4+σ has been measured between 0.6 and 24K in zero field and in magnetic fields to 9T between 0.6 and 120K. The anomaly near T c is small and appears to arise largely from fluctuation effects.
Diagnosis of Random‐Effect Model Misspecification in Generalized Linear Mixed Models for Binary Response

Summary Generalized linear mixed models (GLMMs) are widely used in the analysis of clustered data. However, the validity of likelihood-based inference in such analyses can be greatly affected by the assumed model for the random effects. We propose a diagnostic method for random-effect model misspecification in GLMMs for clustered binary response. We provide a theoretical justification of the proposed method and investigate its finite sample performance via simulation. The proposed method is applied to data from a longitudinal respiratory infection study.
Obstructive hydronephrosis: Long-term follow-up

Two cases of complete distal ureteral obstruction were studied radiologically 20 and 30 years after inadvertent ureteral ligation. These cases are presented as unique illustrations of expected radiologic/ultrasonic findings after this duration of obstruction.
Emotion and autobiographical memory: considerations from posttraumatic stress disorder

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a clinical syndrome discussed in Emotion and Autobiographical Memory that I will use to show both progress and of areas in need of development. To have a diagnosis of PTSD, one must have a trauma and an emotional reaction to that trauma that involved “intense fear, helplessness, or horror”, as well as symptoms that last for at least a month [1, pp. 467–468]. Three issues follow from the quote. Emotion and Autobiographical Memory clearly reviews the errors that can occur in retrospectively constructing the emotions that were part of a memory. Because the diagnosis of PTSD must wait for a month after the event, and because it depends on emotions at the time of the event, it is subject to such errors (see [4] for a review). Emotion and Autobiographical Memory emphasizes two dimensions underlying emotional space: arousal and valence, but the quote talks about intensity not arousal. One can feel intense helplessness without it being arousing. Arousal is a physiological mechanism whereas intensity is the degree of subjective evaluation of feelings. Arousal, even when measured as a self report of physiology, predicts some behaviors better than intensity [6], but intensity is better in other situations (for reviews see [3]; Rubin and Talarico [5]. Emotion and Autobiographical Memory discusses dimensions, whereas the diagnosis requires specific emotions (see [4] for a review). There is a serious problem with studying individual emotions; there is no standard universal or culturally-bound division of emotional experience into categories. Even those who argue for basic emotions do not agree on what they are. However, one could select two sets of autobiographical memories that have identical ratings of intensity, arousal, and valence, one for anger and one for fear. Explanatory power would be lost by not keeping the two sets separate. More work is needed on individual emotions [2].
Observation of Non-Classical Rotational Inertia in Solid 4He Confined in Porous Gold

Recent torsional oscillator measurements on solid 4He confined in Vycor glass at 62 bars show supersolid response, an abrupt drop in rotational moment of inertia, at 175 mK1. We have investigated the pore-size dependence of the supersolid behavior by confining solid 4He in a different porous host, porous gold, of a considerably larger pore diameter. When solid 4He in porous gold is cooled below 0.2 K a sharp drop in the resonant period is found. The supersolid response exhibits a strong dependence on the amplitude of oscillation.
Hepatocyte NAD(P)H oxidases as an endogenous source of reactive oxygen species during hepatitis C virus infection

Oxidative stress has been identified as a key mechanism of hepatitis C virus (HCV)-induced pathogenesis. Studies suggest that HCV increases the generation of hydroxyl radical and peroxynitrite close to the cell nucleus, inflicting DNA damage, but the source of reactive oxygen species (ROS) remains incompletely characterized. We hypothesized that HCV increased the generation of superoxide and H2O2 close to the hepatocyte nucleus and that this source of ROS was Nox4. Huh7 human hepatoma cells and telomerase-reconstituted primary human hepatocytes, transfected or infected with virus-producing HCV strains of genotype 2a and 1b, were examined for mRNA, protein, and subcellular localization of Nox proteins, along with human liver. We found that genotype 2a HCV induced persistent elevation of Nox1 and Nox4 mRNA and proteins in Huh7 cells. Genotype 1b HCV likewise elevated the levels of Nox1 and Nox4 in telomerase-reconstituted primary human hepatocytes. Furthermore, Nox1 and Nox4 proteins were increased in HCV-infected human liver compared to uninfected liver. Unlike Nox1, Nox4 was prominent in the nuclear compartment of these cells as well as human liver, particularly in the presence of HCV. HCV-induced ROS and nuclear nitrotyrosine could be decreased with siRNAs to Nox1 and Nox4. Finally, HCV increased the level of transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGFβ1). TGFβ1 could elevate Nox4 expression in the presence of infectious HCV, and HCV increased Nox4 at least in part through TGFβ1. Conclusion HCV induced a persistent elevation of Nox1 and Nox4 and increased nuclear localization of Nox4 in hepatocytes in vitro and in human liver. Hepatocyte Nox proteins are likely to act as a persistent, endogenous source of ROS during HCV-induced pathogenesis.
Density-functional theory modeling of bulk magnetism with spin-dependent pseudopotentials

The recently developed spin-dependent pseudopotentials markedly improve the description of the energetics of isolated transition metal atoms [S. C. Watson and E. A. Carter, Phys. Rev. B 58, R13 309 (1998)]. Spin-dependent pseudopotentials are obtained from a combination of spin-neutral and fully polarized atomic pseudopotentials, employing the self-consistent local spin polarization to adapt to different environments. Their use is extended to bulk materials in the current work, where we have implemented the spin-dependent pseudopotential formalism within a real-space density functional theory code. Calculations on bulk Fe, Co, and Ni yield lattice constants and bulk moduli within the accuracy expected of a method employing the local density approximation of density functional theory, except for an overestimated Fe bulk modulus. However, the magnetic moment is in dramatically better agreement with experiment and published all-electron calculations when the spin-dependent pseudopotentials are employed.
Vibration coupling in continuous belt and band systems

Small transverse oscillation of an endless band supported by wheels couples the response of the free spans of the band to oscillation of the wheels. The coupling arises from the finite curvature of the free spans of the band when its bending stiffness is finite. Significant modeling error can occur if a single span of the band is modeled as a simply supported, axially moving beam. The coupling provides an opportunity to dissipate vibration energy. Experiments and finite element analyses support the coupling discussion presented.
20/30 Hindsight: Unscrambling an Egg

Several years ago I was asked by a consortium of railroads to help them in a rate case. The problem was inspection of freight cars loaded with grain. The carload of grain is put on a siding or, sometimes, a grain train is held at a station, a representative from the Department of Agriculture comes down and takes a sample from the car they have their own methods of ensuring a simple random sample, and this sample is then tested and graded by them. The ultimate price of the grain depends upon the grade which the Agriculture Department assigns. In the opinion of the railroads, the shippers were abusing this procedure. They would typically ship a carload of grain from an elevator somewhere out west to Chicago, without having sold it, hoping to get an order on the way. If such an order were not received, they would order an inspection, which would hold up the carload for a few days. The railroads were asking for a charge for each in-transit inspection, and the grain exchanges and commission merchants were objecting. For reasons which can't be gone into here, the charge was going to be either about $15, or exactly nothing. My task was to help justify the former number. There were to be hearings before the Interstate Commerce Commission ICC, and we had a year.
Multiple-scattering approach to band theory

Some new developments in multiple-scattering theory are described in connection with the problem of band theory. Functions that are the logical extension of incoming and outgoing waves are defined for points within the sphere that bounds the range of an atomic scattering potential. Taking these functions into account, a multiple-scattering equation for band theory with general non-muffin-tin potentials is derived. This equation contains terms that were not included in earlier formulations of this problem. A new set of formulas for calculating the scattering from an atomic potential is introduced. It is shown that, among other things, these formulas can be used to derive simplified and linearized band-theory equations entirely within the multiple-scattering framework. Both algebraically and numerically, it is shown that these linearized equations work well. In particular, for the special case of a muffin-tin potential, they will give exactly the same results as a fully converged Korringa-Kohn-Rostoker calculation at any chosen energy. Linearized band-theory equations derived earlier by combining the variational and multiple-scattering approaches are obtained by manipulating the equations from this study.
A simple random path method for the analysis of flow networks

Abstract The path of a particle through an ecosystem is modelled as a Markov chain. For a given flow network, powers of the transition matrix are used to calculate the distribution of the particles over the network after each transition. The method may be applied for the definition and calculation of trophic levels in food webs. The algorithm yields the trophic level distribution of species, the species composition of trophic levels, and the path length distribution of output flows. In addition, the network can be described as a linear chain, with the throughflows at each step identified. Data from several ecosystems are analyzed by the method, showing that surprising insights may result.
EFFECT OF CAPTOPRIL AND ENALAPRIL ON ENDOTHELIAL FUNCTION IN HYPERTENSIVE PATIENTS

Endothelium-dependent vasodilation is impaired in patients with essential hypertension. The objective of this study was to determine whether long-term treatment with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors improves endothelium-dependent vasodilation in forearm resistance vessels of patients with hypertension. Furthermore, since tissue thiols may be relevant to nitric oxide-mediated vasodilation, we queried whether an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor with a sulfhydryl group preferentially augments endothelium-dependent vasodilation in these individuals. The study included 24 patients with essential hypertension (mean age, 45 +/- 2 years) and 20 normotensive subjects (mean age, 47 +/- 1 years). Methacholine chloride (0.3 to 10 micrograms/min) was infused via the brachial artery to assess endothelium-dependent vasodilation in forearm resistance vessels. Nitroglycerin (1 to 30 micrograms/min) was administered to evaluate endothelium-independent vasodilation. Forearm blood flow was determined by venous occlusion strain-gauge plethysmography. Forearm vascular function studies were performed in hypertensive patients before and 7 to 8 weeks after randomization to either captopril or enalapril, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors with and without a sulfhydryl moiety, respectively. Normotensive subjects were studied on only one occasion. Before treatment, the forearm vasodilative response to methacholine was attenuated in hypertensive compared with normotensive subjects (P < .01). The effects of nitroglycerin on forearm blood flow did not differ significantly between the two groups. Both captopril and enalapril reduced mean blood pressure in the hypertensive subjects (12 +/- 2 versus 15 +/- 3 mm Hg, respectively; P = NS).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
AUTOANTIBODIES IN PEMPHIGUS VULGARIS: RESPONSE TO AN INTERCELLULAR SUBSTANCE OF EPIDERMIS.

Antibodies to an intercellular substance of stratified squamous epithelium were detected by indirect immunofluorescent (IF) staining in the sera of eight out of 16 patients with pemphigus vulgaris. The autoantibody nature of these antibodies could be demonstrated by testing the patient's skin with the patient's own serum. The sera of three of six patients with chronic bullous dermatosis contained antibodies to a substance in the basement zone of the epidermis. By direct IF staining of biopsies, γglobulin was demonstrated in the intercellular areas of the epidermis of three patients with pemphigus vulgaris and in the basement zone of a patient with chronic bullous dermatosis. Intradermal injection of monkeys with human sera containing antibodies of the intercellular substance resulted in binding of γ-globulin to the intercellular substance of the epidermis.
Robotic comfort zones

The paper investigates how the psychological notion of comfort can be useful in the design of robotic systems. A review of the existing study of human comfort, especially regarding its presence in infants, is conducted with the goal being to determine the relevant characteristics for mapping it onto the robotics domain. Focus is place on the identification of the salient features in the environment that affect the comfort level. Factors involved include current state familiarity, working conditions, the amount and location of available resources, etc. As part of our newly developed comfort function theory, the notion of an object as a psychological attachment for a robot is also introduced, as espoused in Bowlby's theory of attachment. The output space of the comfort function and its dependency on the comfort level are analyzed. The results of the derivation of this comfort function are then presented in terms of the impact they have on robotic behavior. Justification for the use of the comfort function are then presented in terms of the impact they have on robotic behavior. Justification for the use of the comfort function in the domain of robotics is presented with relevance for real-world operations. Also, a transformation of the theoretical discussion into a mathematical framework suitable for implementation within a behavior-based control system is presented. The paper concludes with results of simulation studies and real robot experiments using the derived comfort function.© (2000) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Effects of the toxin 3-chloroaniline at low concentrations on microbial community dynamics and membrane bioreactor performance

Abstract The effects of toxins at ambient concentrations on microbial activity and community dynamics are poorly understood. We operated 4 membrane bioreactors (MBRs) in parallel; two reactors were continuously exposed to the toxin 3-chloroaniline (3-CA) at environmentally relevant levels, representing 25% of the total chemical oxygen demand (COD; Total COD = 400 mg l−1 d−1), and two reactors received no 3-CA. During the 70 d exposure to 3-CA the microbial communities never adapted as evidenced by a 48% and 14% reduction in COD and ammonia removal, respectively, compared to over 92% reduction for both measurements in the controls. The bacterial 16S rRNA gene was monitored using terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism (T-RFLP) analysis (n = 15 temporal grab samples per reactor) over the 70 d period. T-RFLP spectra analysis compared the rapid species turnover rate (STR) approach with the more computationally intensive non-metric multi-dimensional scaling (NMS) complemented with multi-response permutation procedure (MRPP). The methods revealed comparable findings and the presence of 3-CA selected for a more convergent community with less bacterial turnover. In contrast, the control MBRs were more divergent as evidenced by greater bacterial turnover variability. The importance of studying replicate reactors is highlighted by the fact that one of the two controls was significantly different from the treatment MBRs (p-value = 0.01, α = 0.05) whereas the other one was not (p-value = 0.24, α = 0.05). The study suggests that analysis of community dynamics with the rapid STR approach and with NMS/MRPP can lead to comparable results when targeting the 16S rRNA gene. The use of replicate bioreactors is essential for meaningful interpretation of microbial community patterns.
Higher dimensional crystal models: A theory of thermal accommodation coefficients

Abstract New mathematical techniques for solving higher dimensional periodic systems are developed. The system is reduced to an equivalent set of one dimensional systems, which are solved by finite difference transform calculus. The resulting solutions are synthesized in the general integral of an associated partial differential equation to form the desired solution. These techniques maintain a higher degree of analytic integrity than the normal mode series expansion method, and allow the handling of sophisticated boundary conditions in an operational manner. The techniques are used to solve physically interesting models of molecules colliding with crystals. The model presented here is a three dimensional, semi-infinite, cubic lattice. The particles obey classical mechanics and interact harmonically with their nearest neighbors. The particle displacement is normal to the surface, and the ratio of the strengths of the longitudinal and transverse harmonic interactions is arbitrary. Lame's constants λ, μ, of the crystal determine this ratio. A normally incident particle of arbitrary mass interacts with the lattice through a truncated harmonic potential of arbitrary strength. The relative motion between this particle and the lattice is determined analytically from the resulting integro-differential equation in the form of a Neumann series. Accommodation coefficients are calculated for the rare gases on tungsten in a range of 100–300 °K. Experimental agreement is quantitative, especially for the heavier gases, A, Kr, Xe.
Involvement of the Na,K-ATPase in the induction of ion channels by palytoxin

The effects of ouabain, ATP, and vanadate on palytoxin induction of ion channels were examined with the aim of elucidating the role of Na,K-ATPase in palytoxin action. Palytoxin-induced membrane depolarization of crayfish giant axons and single channel currents of frog erythrocytes and mouse neuroblastoma N1E-115 cells were examined using the intracellular microelectrode and patch-clamp techniques. External application of palytoxin in nanomolar concentrations induced depolarization in the crayfish giant axons, and the depolarization was inhibited by pretreatment of the axon with ouabain (10 μM). Internally perfused axons were less sensitive to palytoxin unless ATP (6 mM) was added internally. In patch-clamp experiments, picomolar palytoxin in the patch electrode induced single channels in both cell-attached and inside-out patches of erythrocytes and neuroblastoma cells. The induced channels had a conductance of about 10 pS, reversed near 0 mV in physiological saline solution, and was permeable to Na+, K+, Cs+, and NHinf4sup+, but not to choline. Single channel activities induced by palytoxin were inhibited by ouabain (10 μM) and vanadate (1 mM), but promoted by ATP (1 mM). The modulating effects of ouabain, vanadate, and ATP on palytoxin action suggest that the Na,K-ATPase is involved in the induction of single channels by palytoxin. Palytoxin-induced and ouabain-inhibitable single channels were observed in planar lipid bilayer incorporated with purified Na,K-ATPase. The results indicate that an interaction between palytoxin and Na, K-ATPase leads to opening of a 10-pS ion channel. They further raise the possibility that a channel structure may exist in the sodium pump which is uncovered by the action of palytoxin.
Two-dimensional curved beam element with higher-order hierarchical transverse approximation for laminated composites

Abstract A new two-dimensional curved beam element formulation with higher-order transverse shear deformation for linear static analysis of laminated composites is presented. The displacement approximation in the transverse direction can be of arbitrary desired polynomial order p, thereby permitting strains of at least order (p − 1). This is accomplished by introducing additional nodal degrees of freedom in the element displacement approximation that correspond to Lagrange interpolating polynomials in the transverse direction. The element has an important hierarchical property; the element stiffness matrix, generalized nodal displacement vector and the equivalent nodal load vector corresponding to a polynomial order p are a subset of those corresponding to the approximation order p + 1. The element formulation provides displacement continuity across the interelement boundaries, i.e. C0 continuity is ensured automatically at the mating element boundaries. The element properties are derived using the principle of virtual work and the hierarchical element approximation. The formulation is presented for generally orthotropic material behavior, where the material directions may not be parallel to the global axes, as well as for the laminated composites. The laminated composite material behavior is incorporated in the element formulation through numerical integration for each lamina. For each lamina, the material behavior may be generally orthotropic, and the material direction and lamina thicknesses may vary from point to point within the lamina. Numerical examples are presented to demonstrate the accuracy, simplicity of modeling, effectiveness, faster rate of convergence and overall superiority of the present formulation for laminated composite material behavior. Results obtained from the present formulation are also compared with the available analytical solutions.
Selecting a Systems Development Methodology: A Contingency Framework

Uncertainty and complexity are inherent characteristics of a new information system. They occur at the beginning of the project and with different intensities during development depending on the system's type. Based on a review of the literature, it is argued that uncertainty and complexity can be used to derive the most suitable development strategy for a given project. A framework integrating system types and their corresponding development strategies is offered and justifications supplied. General guidelines concerning the application of the framework are provided for the practicing managers.
Crystal Structure of a FYVE-Type Zinc Finger Domain from the Caspase Regulator CARP2

The caspase-associated ring proteins (CARP1 and CARP2) are distinguished from other caspase regulators by the presence of a FYVE-type zinc finger domain. FYVE-type domains are divided into two known classes: FYVE domains that specifically bind to phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate in lipid bilayers and FYVE-related domains of undetermined function. Here, we report the crystal structure of the N-terminal region of CARP2 (44-139) including the FYVE-type domain and its associated helical bundle at 1.7 A resolution. The structure reveals a cramped phosphoinositide binding pocket and a blunted membrane insertion loop. These structural features indicate that the domain is not optimized to bind to phosphoinositides or insert into lipid bilayers. The CARP2 FYVE-like domain thus defines a third subfamily of FYVE-type domains that are functionally and structurally distinct. Structural analyses provide insights into the possible function of this unique subfamily of FYVE-type domains.
Compartmentalization of class II antigen presentation: contribution of cytoplasmic and endosomal processing

During antigen processing, peptides are generated and displayed in the context of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II molecules on the surface of antigen-presenting cells (APCs) to modulate immune responses to foreign antigens and guide self-tolerance. Exogenous and cytoplasmic antigens are processed by distinct routes within APCs to yield class II ligands. Exogenous antigens are internalized, processed, and bound to class II molecules within endosomal and lysosomal compartments of APCs. Studies reviewed here demonstrate the importance of reduction in regulating exogenous antigen presentation. The differential expression of a gamma-interferon-inducible lysosomal thiol reductase in professional APCs and melanomas is discussed in the context of tumor immune evasion. Cytoplasmic autoantigens, by contrast, are degraded by the proteasome and other enzymes in the cytosol, with the resulting peptides translocating to endosomal and lysosomal compartments for intersection with class II molecules. Processing and editing of these antigenic peptides within endosomes and lysosomes may be critical in regulating their display via class II proteins. Multiple pathways may regulate the transit of cytosolic peptides to class II molecules. The role of lysosome-associated membrane protein-2a and heat-shock cognate protein 70 in promoting cytoplasmic peptide presentation by MHC class II molecules is discussed.
Interactive shape design using volumetric implicit PDEs

Solid modeling based on Partial Differential Equations (PDEs) can potentially unify both geometric constraints and functional requirements within a single design framework to model real-world objects via its explicit, direct integration with parametric geometry. In contrast, implicit functions indirectly define geometric objects as the level-set of underlying scalar fields. To maximize the modeling potential of PDE-based methodology, in this paper we tightly couple PDEs with volumetric implicit functions in order to achieve interactive, intuitive shape representation, manipulation, and deformation. In particular, the unified approach can reconstruct the PDE geometry of arbitrary topology from scattered data points or a set of sketch curves. We make use of a fourth-order elliptic PDE to define the volumetric implicit function. The proposed implicit PDE model has the capability to reconstruct a complete solid model from partial information and facilitates the direct manipulation of underlying volumetric datasets via sketch curves, iso-surface sculpting, deformation of arbitrary interior regions, as well as a set of CSG operations inside the working space.The prototype system that we have developed allows designers to interactively sketch the curve outlines of the object, define intensity values and gradient directions, and specify interpolatory points in the 3D working space. The governing implicit PDE treats these constraints as generalized boundary conditions to determine the unknown scalar intensity values over the entire working space. The implicit shape is reconstructed with specified intensity value accordingly and can be deformed using a set of sculpting toolkits. We use the finite-difference discretization and variational interpolating approach with the localized iterative solver for the numerical integration of our PDEs in order to accommodate the diversity of generalized boundary constraints.
Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia in Children

The purpose of this report is to review the current knowledge base related to the epidemiology, microbiology, diagnosis, and morbidity and mortality of ventilator-associated pneumonia and to review strategies to reduce the risk of acquiring this condition. Published guidelines are based largely on data from adult populations, and implications for the pediatric population must be extrapolated to a great extent. Some interventions, including elevation of the head of the bed for most patients and deep vein thrombosis prophylaxis in older pediatric patients, seem reasonable based on available literature. The use of daily sedation holidays must be weighed against the risk of inadvertent extubation. The routine use of stress ulcer prophylaxis in the pediatric population cannot be supported by the current literature.
Introduction to Philology in the Language Classroom

Author's Summary.— If the beginning language student's natural desire to make up words in the new language be capitalized, not only may it become of great advantage to the language teacher in overcoming vocabulary burden, but it may also be of inestimable value to the average student, who finds the simplest principles of etymology in high-school English very difficult.)
Sensitivity of Pr +3 : LaCl 3 infrared quantum counter

The NEP λ and response time of the Pr3+:LaCl 3 Infra-red Quantum Counter have been measured for the wavelengths 1.48 μ, 1.58 μ, 2.03 μ and 2.33 μ at the nominal temperatures of 300°K, 77°K, and 4.2°K. The experimental arrangement is described and suggestions for improvement are made. The best results obtained are an NEP_{2.03_\mu} = 2 \times 10^{-5} watts (c/s)^{-1/2} and a temperature independent response time of 20-30 ms.
Listeria monocytogenes Inhibition by Whey Protein Films and Coatings Incorporating the Lactoperoxidase System

Antimicrobial effects of whey pr obial effects of whey pr obial effects of whey pr obial effects of whey pr obial effects of whey protein isolate ( otein isolate ( otein isolate ( otein isolate ( otein isolate (WPI) films and coatings incorpor ability (OP), and color (H ability (OP), and color (H ability (OP), and color (H ability (OP), and color (Hunter L, a, b) of WPI films, with and without LPOS, w , with and without LPOS, w , with and without LPOS, w , with and without LPOS, w , with and without LPOS, were also compar e also compar e also compar e also compar
Democratic capitalism and respect for the value of freedom

Most theorists believe that when it comes to freedom, no economic system does better than laissez-faire capitalism – the system may have other problems, but as far as freedom is concerned, laissez-faire is as good as it gets. The goal of this paper is to show that this view is mistaken. I begin by criticising two important contemporary conceptions of freedom, the libertarian and the liberal egalitarian conceptions, both of which support the dominant view. I then develop a better alternative, one that I call the social democratic conception of freedom. Using this conception, I go on to show that an economic system that requires firms to have an internal structure that makes decision-making more transparent and responsive to the concerns of workers actually shows greater respect for freedom than laissez-faire capitalism does.