cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cross-talk of insulin-like peptides, juvenile hormone, and 20-hydroxyecdysone in regulation of metabolism in the mosquito Aedes aegypti.

Female mosquitoes feed sequentially on carbohydrates (nectar) and proteins (blood) during each gonadotrophic cycle to become reproductively competent and effective disease vectors. Accordingly, metabolism is synchronized to support this reproductive cyclicity. However, regulatory pathways linking metabolism to reproductive cycles are not fully understood. Two key hormones, juvenile hormone (JH) and ecdysteroids (20-hydroxyecdysone, 20E, is the most active form) govern female mosquito reproduction. Aedes aegypti genome codes for eight insulin-like peptides (ILPs) that are critical for controlling metabolism. We examined the effects of the JH and 20E pathways on mosquito ILP expression to decipher regulation of metabolism in a reproducing female mosquito. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays showed genomic interactions between ilp genes and the JH receptor, methoprene-tolerant, a transcription factor, Kruppel homolog 1 (Kr-h1), and two isoforms of the ecdysone response early gene, E74. The luciferase reporter assays showed that Kr-h1 activates ilps 2, 6, and 7, but represses ilps 4 and 5 The 20E pathway displayed the opposite effect in the regulation of ilps E74B repressed ilps 2 and 6, while E74A activated ilps 4 and 5 Combining RNA interference, CRISPR gene tagging and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, we have shown that the JH and 20E regulate protein levels of all eight Ae. aegypti ILPs. Thus, we have established a regulatory axis between ILPs, JH, and 20E in coordination of metabolism during gonadotrophic cycles of Ae. aegypti.
CD19 Chimeric Antigen Receptor-Exosome Targets CD19 Positive B-lineage Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia and Induces Cytotoxicity

CAR-T cell therapy is not without some clinical adverse effects, namely cytokine storms, due to a massive release of cytokines when CAR-T cells multiply in the body. Our goal was to develop exosomes expressing CD19 CAR to treat CD19-positive B-cell malignancies, instead of using whole CD19 CAR-T cells, thereby reducing the clinical risk of uncontrolled cytokine storms. Exosomes are extracellular nanovesicles (30-150 nm), composed of lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids, that carry the fingerprint of their parent cells. Exosomes are a preferred delivery system in nano-immunotherapy. Here, HEK293T parent cells were transduced with CD19 CAR plasmids and cellular CD19 CAR expression was confirmed. Exosomes (Exo-CD19 CAR) were isolated from the conditioned medium of non-transduced (WT) and CD19 CAR plasmid transduced HEK293T cells. Consequently, CD19 B-lineage leukemia cell lines were co-cultured with Exo-CD19 CAR and cell death was measured. Our data show that Exo-CD19 CAR treatment induced cytotoxicity and elevated pro-apoptotic genes in CD19-positive leukemia B-cells without inducing cell death in CD19-negative cells. Overall, the novel CD19 CAR exosomes target the CD19 surface antigens of leukemic B-cells and can induce contact-dependent cytotoxicity.
Vitamin D deficiency and Alzheimer disease: Common links

Vitamin D (VitD) deficiency is a worldwide epidemic with estimates of 1 billion affected. In addition to the classically known roles of VitD in calcium regulation and bone health, recent studies demonstrated VitD to be an essential/vital neurosteroid hormone playing a wide variety of essential protective and regulatory roles in the brain. This paper reviews much of the mounting evidence of the detrimental effects of VitD deficiency on the brain and the association of many of these common links with Alzheimer's disease (AD). We also discuss the beneficial effects seen from VitD supplementation. Based on this accumulation of studies, we propose that VitD screening should be performed at least in those individuals at risk for VitD deficiency and AD. With appropriate medical counsel, those found to be VitD deficient should be considered for appropriate supplementation.
Social rationality, risk, and the right to know: information leveraging with the Toxics Release Inventory

Citizens endangered by toxic wastes and airborne pollutants have long been disadvantaged by a lack of information about the nature and extent of pollution, and their own limited ability to interpret what technical risk data was available. As a grassroots movement demanding the `right to know' about toxic emissions in their neighbourhoods emerged in the USA, federal legislation and the Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) compelled certain facilities to document their yearly emissions of various chemicals, and made this information available to the general public through an online database. Publication of this relatively `raw' data successfully pressured industry to reduce emissions, but also raised predictable questions about the ability of `non-expert' public interest groups to interpret the data, even though in many cases industry itself was remarkably under-informed. This paper draws on Beck's notion of the `risk society' in exploring the tension that arises between narrow scientific rationality and more fle...
Differences in maternal and fetal plasma zinc levels in sheep and goats

Abstract From the data presented herein we have noted that there is a higher zinc level in the plasma of the fetus than we have found in the mother. This is indicative of a transport of zinc across the placenta and of an accumulation of zinc in the fetus. This is similar to the transport and accumulation of zinc in wound fluids at surgically inflicted wound sites and is further evidence supporting the role of zinc as a necessary factor in tissue growth.
The Influence of Processing on the Cryogenic Mechanical Properties of High Strength High Manganese Stainless Steel

New high strength structural steels have been required for the large superconducting magnets that will be used for the next step test facility for fusion reactor research. The new materials must have high yield strength accompanied with better toughness and better fatigue resistance compared with the conventional nitrogen-strengthened stainless steels such as AISI 304LN and 316LN that were used for the cases of the toroidal field coils for the Large Coil Project.
{113} defect-engineered silicon light-emitting diodes

We correlated electroluminescence of p-n junction silicon light-emitting diodes (Si LEDs) with boron implant-induced defects and found that {113} defects other than dislocation loops result in strong silicon light emissions. The electroluminescence of {113} defect engineered Si LEDs is twenty-five times higher than dislocation loop engineered Si LEDs. This finding, for the first time, is highly significant for monolithic Si nanophotonics.
Total reaction cross section for 12C on 12C, 40Ca, 90Zr, and 208Pb between 10 and 35 MeV/nucleon

Elastic scattering angular distributions for $^{12}\mathrm{C}$ on $^{12}\mathrm{C}$, $^{40}\mathrm{Ca}$, $^{90}\mathrm{Zr}$, and $^{208}\mathrm{Pb}$ were measured for projectile energies between 10 and 35 MeV/nucleon. Total reaction cross sections were extracted by an optical model analysis and compared to the prediction of the Glauber model. This comparison suggests that the nucleus-nucleus total reaction cross section at intermediate and high energies is governed by the nucleon-nucleon cross section.
Forging Creative Partnerships

While much public attention focuses on the impact of immigration policy at the national level or in major metropolitan areas, the realities of political policy regarding refugees and immigrant populations are also felt in smaller, more rural communities as well. Local decisionmakers increasingly face new community needs at a time when mandated programs are being shifted as federal responsibility changes. This article recounts the work of a unique, ongoing collaborative effort that began in 1996 establishing a partnership between health care and public safety services in support of low-income and immigrant populations in the city of Portland, Maine. The project seeks to address two of the most pressing problems associated with immigrant populations: preventive medical care and the reduction of neighborhood violence. The project is predicated on the belief that community building works best when all residents are stakeholders in a vision that includes strong schools, safe neighborhoods, and healthy families. The elements of the Portland experience in service provision are recounted for other state and local policymakers in forging new and collaborative working relationships among service providers and government agencies
Implementation of HW$im – A Real-Time Configurable Cache Simulator

In this paper, we describe a computer cache memory simulation environment based on a custom board with multiple FPGAs and DRAM DIMMs. This simulation environment is used for future memory hierarchy evaluation of either single or multiple processors systems. With this environment, we are able to perform real-time memory hierarchy studies running real applications. The board contains five Xilinx’ VirtexTM, II-1000 FPGAs and eight SDRAM DIMMs. One of the FPGA is used to interface with a microprocessor system bus. The other four FPGAs work in parallel to simulate different cache configurations. Each of these four FPGAs interfaces with two SDRAM DIMMs that are used to store the simulated cache. This simulation environment is operational and achieves a system frequency of 133MHz.
Plutonium Recycling in Light Water Reactors at Framatome ANP: Status and Trends

The civil and military utilization of nuclear power results in continuously increasing stockpiles of spent fuel and separated plutonium. Since fast breeder reactors are at present not available, the majority of spent fuel discharged from commercial nuclear reactors is intended for direct final disposal or designated for interim storage. An effective form of intermediate plutonium storage is recycling in thermal reactors. Recycling of the recovered plutonium in commercial light water reactors (LWRs) is currently practiced in Belgium, France, Germany, and Switzerland. The number of mixed-oxide (MOX) assemblies reloaded each year in a large variety of reactors demonstrates that plutonium recycling in LWRs has reached industrial maturity. The status of experience gained today at Framatome ANP confirms the reliability of the design codes and the suitability of fuel assembly and core designs. The validation database for increasing exposures of MOX fuel is being continuously expanded. This provides the basis for further extending the discharge exposures of MOX assemblies and for licensing the use of higher plutonium concentrations. Options to support the weapons plutonium reduction programs and for the development of advanced MOX assembly designs are investigated.
The Cash Flow and Behavioral Effects of Switching to a Single Sales Factor on State Taxation

ABSTRACT: This study examines the impact that switching to a single sales factor (SSF) formula for state corporate income tax apportionment has on local employment. Resolving previous conflicting work, I find that SSF increased employment only for locally based firms, resulting in economically insignificant aggregate employment gains. Beyond contributing to the policy debate, the study also introduces a new database that provides location-specific, establishment-level information for both public and privately owned firms.
Pleiotropic Effects of Suppressor Mutations in Bacillus subtilis

Isogenic strains of Bacillus subtilis carrying sup-1 (26), sup-3 (10), or their wild-type alleles were constructed in three genetic backgrounds. The patterns of suppression at 37 and 43.5 C, identity of mapping site, effects of the suppressor genes on growth rate, sporulation, and production of altered enzymes were examined. The similarity of the suppression pattern by sup-1 and sup-3 suggests that the suppressors are of the same type. They do not, however, represent mutations in the same gene, since, based on differences in temperature sensitivity of phage mutants in suppressor-containing hosts, sup-1 and sup-3 insert different amino acids and can coexist within the same cell. The ability to produce slow-migrating forms of enzymes of the type described in the accompanying paper was co-transferred with either of the suppressor genes during transformation, was lost on reversion of the suppressor mutations, and was independent of the genetic background. Similarly, transformation and reversion studies indicate that the additional pleiotropic properties such as slow growth rate and inability to attain competence or to yield plaques with phi105C4, which are characteristic of the Okubo sup-1 strain (HA101B) but not its early sporulation defect, result from the presence of the suppressor mutation. The possible mechanisms by which altered enzyme forms and the additional pleiotropic effects are produced in suppressor strains are discussed. In addition, a newly recognized suppressor phenotype is described and partially characterized.
Cutting Edge: AhR Is a Molecular Target of Calcitriol in Human T Cells

The immunoregulatory functions of vitamin D have been well documented in various immunological disorders, including multiple sclerosis, arthritis, and asthma. IL-10 is considered a chief effector molecule that promotes the vitamin D-induced immunosuppressive states of T cells and accessory cells. In this article, we demonstrate that the active form of vitamin D, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (calcitriol), has a profound inhibitory effect on the development of human Th9, a CD4 T cell subset that is highly associated with asthma, in an IL-10-independent manner. Our data show that calcitriol represses the expression of BATF, a transcription factor essential for Th9, via suppressing the expression of aryl hydrocarbon receptor, without an increase in IL-10. The data show a novel link between vitamin D and two key transcription factors involved in T cell differentiation.
OH rotational quantum state distributions and relaxation efficiencies for the reaction system O(1D) + H2O → 2OH

Abstract The OH rotational distribution from O( 1 D) + H 2 O → 2OH is presented. The v' = 0 distribution corresponds to two Boltzmann distributions. ≈500 K ( k = 1–6) and ≈2500 K ( k ⩾ 6). Rotational relaxation efficiencies for N 2 , He, O 2 were ⩽0.1, ⩽0.1, ⩽0.4. More limited data are presented for the v' = 1 and 2 levels.
Physiological Traits Associated with Grazing‐Tolerant Alfalfa

Many alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) cultivars do not persist under long-term, continuous grazing. This study was conducted to examine the variation of physiological traits that may contribute to grazing tolerance. Plants of the grazing-tolerant cultivars Alfagraze and Travois and the grazing-intolerant cultivar Florida 77 were grown from seed (Study 1) and from cuttings (Study 2) in the greenhouse. Populations from each cultivar that survived 2 yr of continuous grazing in the field were also tested in Study 2. Plants were clipped either frequently (weekly) or infrequently (every 4 wk) for 20 wk (...)
Integrating Practice-Based Learning and Improvement into Medical Student Learning: Evaluating Complex Curricular Innovations

Background: Because practice-based learning and improvement (PBLI) is a core competency for residents, the fundamentals of PBLI should be developed in medical school. Purpose: Evaluate the effects of a PBLI module for 1st-year students at Dartmouth Medical School in 2004–05. Methods: Design. Randomized two-group trial (early and late intervention). Intervention. One half of students received the standard curriculum—reviewing student–patient–preceptor reports with their small-group facilitator and student colleagues. The other half received the PBLI-DMEDS module—reviewing student–patient-preceptor reports and applying PBLI methods to history and physical exam skills. Analysis. The module was assessed on (a) core learning of PBLI (pre- and postmodule); (b) student self-assessed proficiency in PBLI (pre- and postmodule); (c) student, faculty, and course leaders' satisfaction; and (d) time costs. Results: Pretest PBLI knowledge scores were similar in both groups; intervention students scored significantly hig...
The use of intravenous immunoglobulin in the treatment of autoimmune neuromuscular diseases: evidence-based indications and safety profile

Intravenous immunoglobulin (i.v.Ig) has multiple actions on the immunoregulatory network that operate in concert with each other. For each autoimmune neuromuscular disease, however, there is a predominant mechanism of action that relates to the underlying immunopathogenetic cause of the respective disorder. The best understood actions of i.v.Ig include the following: (a) modulation of pathogenic autoantibodies, an effect relevant in myasthenia gravis (MG), Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS), Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS), chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP), and stiff-person syndrome (SPS); (b) inhibition of complement activation and interception of membranolytic attack complex (MAC) formation, an action relevant to the complement-mediated mechanisms involved in GBS, CIDP, MG, and dermatomyositis (DM); (c) modulation of the inhibitory or activation Fc receptors on macrophages invading targeted tissues in nerve and muscle, as seen in CIDP, GBS, and inflammatory myopathies; (d) down-regulation of pathogenic cytokines and adhesion molecules; (e) suppression of T-cell functions; and (f) interference with antigen recognition. Controlled clinical trials have shown that i.v.Ig is effective as first-line therapy in patients with GBS, CIDP, and multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN), and as second-line therapy in DM, MG, LEMS, and SPS. In paraproteinemic IgM anti-MAG (myelin-associated glycoprotein) demyelinating polyneuropathies and inclusion body myositis (IBM), the benefit is variable, marginal, and not statistically significant. i.v.Ig has a remarkably good safety record for long-term administration, however, the following side effects have been observed: mild, infusion-rate-related reactions, such as headaches, myalgia, or fever; moderate but inconsequential events, such as aseptic meningitis and skin rash; and severe, but rare, complications, such as thromboembolic events and renal tubular necrosis. Future studies are needed to (a) find the appropriate dose and frequency of infusions that maintain a response; (b) address pharmacoeconomics, comparing the high cost of i.v.Ig to the cost of the other therapies, which, although less expensive, cause significantly more long-term side effects; (c) determine why some patients respond better than others; and (d) examine the merits of combining i.v.Ig with other immunosuppressive drugs.
Women's ways of knowing/women's ways of composing

When Mary Belenky, Blythe Clinchy, Nancy Goldberger, and Jill Tarule published their book, Women's Ways of Knowing, they essentially waved a red flag before loyal disciples of William Perry's developmental scheme. These researchers question the Perry model because, while its methodology allowed for the incorporation of interviews with female subjects, its conclusions were based only on data from interviews with males. Belenky et al. argue that Perry's research might indicate that women conform to the male pattern, but the research strategy itself was deficient in its ability to uncover developmental patterns which more accurately describe the female experience. What Perry may have been measuring, Belenky et al. argue, is the process by which "a relatively homogeneous group of people are socialized into and make sense of a system of values, standards and objectives," specifically, how Harvard University promotes and encourages relativistic thought and how male students respond (15).1 To say the least, the resulting confusion, concern, and debate engendered by Belenky et al.'s assertions have influenced a wide range of academic disciplines. Composition teachers are certainly not immune. Female students now constitute a significant percentage of the college population. To the extent that we have been influenced by and made use of the Perry development model, we may be applying teaching methods developed for and around male students. Belenky et al. alert us to the possibility that William Perry's scheme may not tell us everything we need to know about our female students. Exactly what does the Perry scheme tell us? In 1970 William Perry described the developmental stages of college students in the following way: 1) Entering freshmen are dualists. They view knowledge as a collection of information falling into two categories: right and wrong. This habit of structuring the world into opposites-we and they, good and bad, correct and incorrectprompts dualists to assume that truth is inarguable and can be dispensed through the proper authorities. Learning is therefore a passive process. 2) Students become multiplists as they are exposed to the spectacle of authorities disagreeing among themselves. Recognizing that often there are no clearcut answers and that truth is not absolute, multiplists become functional
Review: venlafaxine is more effective than selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors for depression.

Source Citation Smith D, Dempster C, Glanville J, Freemantle N, Anderson I. Efficacy and tolerability of venlafaxine compared with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and other antidepressants:...
Effect of Altitude and Management System on the Iron Content of Beef

Iron content of bovine longissimus (LD) and semimembranosus muscle (SM) from steers raised at two altitudes was compared. Total iron content of fresh muscle was not different in concentrate-fed steers reared at 2145 m (HIFD) when compared to that of steers reared at 549 m (LOFD). Iron content of muscle from steers reared at 2145 m and pasture-grazed (HIGR) was lower than that from older HIFD and LOFD steers. Steaks from the HIFD and HIGR groups contained more heme iron (P<0.05) than those from LOFD steers. The nutritional significance of the differences in heme iron must be further investigated.
Leading Tasks in a Leaderless Movement The Case of Strategic Voting

Leadership has proven a difficult concept to define, with the proliferation of definitions of leadership being more notable than any individual definition. This article takes a different approach to understanding leadership dynamics by identifying and studying “leading tasks.” Specifically, tasks associated with leadership in existing research are enumerated. Using data on two “strategic voting” mobilizations in 2000 and 2004, the empirical salience of various leading tasks to key organizers is traced and explained. The data suggest that although leadership was not evident in strategic voting, organizers did identify, prioritize, and take action on specific leading tasks.
Behavioral Health Competence: An Exploration of Army Reserve Occupational Therapists

In this study the behavioral health competence of Army Reserve occupational therapists (OTs) was examined by the authors through electronic survey to determine current levels of competence and highlight pre-deployment training needs. Results indicated that while Army Reserve OTs report high levels of behavioral health competence, many questions regarding diagnosis, assessment, evaluation, treatment planning, intervention, and progress arose throughout deployment. OTs often relied on skills from Level II fieldwork education and entry-level didactic education for competency. Perceived competencies may be compromised by curriculum changes in entry-level education, available fieldwork settings, and a lack of adequate training currently available prior to deployment.
Robust design of a closed-loop supply chain network for uncertain carbon regulations and random product flows

This paper addresses a multi-period capacitated closed-loop supply chain (CLSC) network design problem subject to uncertainties in the demands and returns as well as the potential carbon emission regulations. Two promising regulatory policy settings are considered: namely, (a) a carbon cap and trade system, or (b) a tax on the amount of carbon emissions. A traditional CLSC network design model using stochastic programming is extended to integrate robust optimization to account for regulations of the carbon emissions caused by transportation. We propose a hybrid model to account for both regulatory policies and derive tractable robust counterparts under box and ellipsoidal uncertainty sets. Implications for network configuration, product allocation and transportation configuration are obtained via a detailed case study. We also present computational results that illustrate how the problem formulation under an ellipsoidal uncertainty set allows the decision maker to balance the trade-off between robustness and performance. The proposed method yields solutions that provide protection against the worst-case scenario without being too conservative.
Thermal decomposition of energetic materials 14. Selective product distributions evidenced in rapid, real-time thermolysis of nitrate esters at various pressures

Abstract Rapid-scan infrared spectroscopy (10 scans s−1) was used to characterize the gas products in real time that were generated by fast pyrolysis (50–250K s−1) of nine molecular and homopolymeric nitrate esters. On the basis of concentration versus pressure plots of the initial gas products, these compounds cluster into three categories: (1) those for which the side-chain nitroxy products dominant, (2) those for which nitroxy and framework or backbone decomposition products compete, and (3) those for which backbone decomposition products are most prevalant. These classes qualitatively correlate with the carbon, nitrogen, and oxygen balance in the nitrate ester and may be related to the extent of decomposition reactions in the condensed phase. The products liberated by two copolymers of nitroxymethyl- and azidomethyloxetanes closely resemble the sum of the products from the constituent homopolymers.
Axial ratio changes in ternary h.c.p. ζ-phase alloys of the system Ag-Au-Sn

Abstract Measurement of the lattice parameters, vol./atom, and the axial ratio are reported in ternary h.c.p. alloys of the system Ag-Au-Sn, along three lines of constant electron concentration e a = 1.366, 1.411 and 1.456 respectively. All trends show departures from a possible linear behavior between the respective binary values, the deviation being most pronounced along the line of highest e a . Comparison with the binary values shows that the trends of the lattice spacings reflect general behavior characteristic of Ag-based alloys in most of the ternary ζ phase, except near the Au-Sn binary wall, where behavior typical of Au-based alloys is observed. Two alternative qualitative interpretations appear to be possible, one related to the distortion of the Fermi surface resulting from changes in the Brillouin zone band gaps at constant e a , and the other related to the change in the mean pseudopotential between the ions. Both possibilities require further experimental data and theoretical work.
Skeletal fatty acids in fish from different depths off Jamaica

Abstract 1. 1. The cardinal snapper, Pristopomoides macropthalmus, collected from 500 m depth off Jamaica, had 4.0–4.4% lipid in its neurocranium and vertebral centra, comprised of 85–86% triacylglycerol. 2. 2. The rare arrowtail, Melanonous zugmayeri, from 1000 m depth, had 1.3–1.8% lipid in these same tissues, comprised of 47.6–76.7% triacylglycerol. 3. 3. Fatty acids of these deep fish when compared with two shallow reef herbivores, Acanthurus bahianus and A. chirurgus, were enriched in polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly 22:6ω3, 20:5ω3, and 16:4ω3/ω1. 4. 4. Monounsaturated fatty acids in Melanonous zugmayeri were 31.7–46.3% of the total fatty acids and were dominated by 18:1ω9 + 11 and 20:1. 5. 5. Monounsaturated fatty acids in the Acanthurus species were 27.0–36.4% and 23.3–30.7% in the bigeye, Priacanthus arenatus, a nocturnal carnivore from 25 m depth. 6. 6. The principal monounsaturated fatty acid in Acanthurus spp. was 16:1ω7 (8.7–24.6%) whereas P. arenatus was similar to the two deep fish with respect to monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids. 7. 7. Fatty acid composition of P. arenatus is probably controlled by its diet consisting of larval forms from deeper colder water.
Expression of type-specific virion structural antigen(s) in L cells transformed by herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2.

Abstract Antisera prepared against thymidine kinaseless (tk−) L cells (Ltk−) transformed to the tk+ phenotype by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) or type 2 (HSV-2) preferentially agglutinated purified homologous virions. Transformed cell antisera were much less effective in agglutinating nucleocapsids than they were in agglutinating envelope material from the homologous virus. Antiserum prepared against untransformed Ltk− cells agglutinated about twice as much virus as did preimmune serum but only 13 to 19% as much as was agglutinated by transformed cell antisera. These results indicate that both HSV-1- and HSV-2-transformed L cells express an HSV type-specific structural antigen(s) and that this antigen is present in the envelope of the virion. Since the transformed cell antisera also agglutinated the heterologous virus but to a lesser extent than the homologous virus, these antisera were capable of detecting type-common antigenic determinants as well.
Hamilton equation based symplectic finite element modelling of flexible multi-bodies undergoing large overall motions

AbstractIn this paper, Hamilton equation based finite elements for the dynamic analysis of flexible beams undergoing large overall motions are formulated. A symplectic algorithm is then employed to integrate the resulting equations. Explicit expressions for the various mass matrices and the symplectic iteration equations are provided. Three examples are solved to demonstrate the procedure. Also, no blow-up of solutions is observed despite the use of fairly large time steps in the long-term dynamic simulation runs. Thus, it appears that the proposed symplectic finite element approach is capable of producing an accurate and robust algorithm for the modelling of a non-linear flexible multi-body system.
Singing and the establishment and maintenance of dominance hierarchies in captive brown-headed cowbirds

The importance of singing in the establishment and maintenance of dominance rank was investigated in captive flocks of brown-headed cowbirds (Molothrus ater). Each flock consisted of 3 males and 1 female. In one experiment the two largest males in each of 4 flocks were temporarily devocalized by puncturing the interclavicular air sac just before group formation. The third male in each group was sham-operated. There was a significant tendency for the non-devocalized birds to become the dominant member of their group. Only sham-operated males sang immediately after the operation. In a second experiment, dominant males from flocks with established hierarchies were temporarily devocalized. None of these males lost their dominant positions, despite their inability to sing. These results suggest that song is important in the establishment of dominance rank; however, once established, social hierarchies may be maintained by non-vocal means, such as social inertia or individual recognition.
Damage to structures by pyroclastic flows and surges, inferred from nuclear weapons effects

Abstract In order to define the risk from explosive eruptions, one must constrain both the probability of explosive events and the effects, or consequences, of those events. This paper focuses on the effects of pyroclastic flows and surges (here termed `pyroclastic density currents', or PDCs) on buildings, infrastructure elements, and to some extent on vehicles. PDCs impart a lateral force to such structures in the form of dynamic pressure, which depends on the bulk density of the PDC (which in turn depends mainly on particle concentration) and its velocity. For reasonable ranges of particle concentration (10 −3 to 0.5) and velocities (10 to 300 m/s), dynamic pressure on the upstream face of a structure ranges from ∼0.1 kPa to 10 4 kPa. Lateral loads ranging up to about 100 kPa were produced during nuclear weapons tests in the 1940s and 1950s that were designed to study the effects of such loading on a variety of structures for civil defense and emergency response purposes in the event of nuclear war. Although considerable simplifications are involved, the data from these weapon tests provide useful analog information for understanding the effects of PDCs. I reviewed data from the nuclear tests, describing the expected damage from different loadings. Tables are provided that define the response of different structural elements (e.g., windows, framing, walls) and whole structures to loading in probabilistic terms, which in principle account for variations in construction quality, orientation, and other factors. Finally, damage documented from historical eruptions at Mt. Lamington (1951), Herculaneum (AD 79 Vesuvius eruption), and St. Pierre (1902 Mt. Pelee eruption) is reviewed. Damage patterns, combined with estimates of velocity, provide an independent estimate of particle concentration in the PDCs. Details of structural damage should be recorded and mapped around future eruptions in order to help refine this aspect of consequence analysis. Another fruitful approach would be to combine numerical simulations of eruption scenarios, which can produce simulated maps of dynamic pressure, with GIS-based data on structures for a given region; the result would be predictions of consequences that could be used for planning and emergency response training.
Carbon Nanotube Array for Addressable Nano-Bioelectronic Transducers

Using densely packed and arrayed carbon nanotubes and by incorporating DNA as addressable linkers, we have succeeded in simultaneous, parallel binding of multiple different redox proteins to designated nanotube electrodes on an integrated chip. As a result, we have formed a nanoelectronic-protein transducer array which is capable of real-time, multiplexed detection of several analytes in parallel in one device. The sequence-specificity of DNA hybridization provides the means of encoding spatial address instruction to the self-assembling process and enables the desired programmability, scalability, and renewability. Our results demonstrate the feasibility of a new paradigm of biosensing: detection of not only the presence of the targeted substances but also the real-time activities of multiple biomolecules. In this system, the conjugated biomolecules and nanoelectronic components provide active monitoring and mediating functions in real time, and can be integrated en masse into large arrays in a silicon-based circuit.
Interference by Tris buffer in the estimation of protein by the Lowry procedure.

Abstract Tris buffers were found to distort the measurement of protein by the Lowry method both by decreasing chromophore development with protein and by contributing blank color. Tris at an assay concentration of 0.37 m m markedly affects measured results. Similar Tris effects were observed at all wavelengths between 450 and 800 nm and with diverse protein samples. The distortion due to Tris is not correctable by simple blank correction, but it can be overcome by incorporating the same amount of Tris in the standards used. The distortion at Tris concentrations m appears to be within tolerable limits. No interference or distortion was observed with sodium phosphate buffer to an assay concentration of 40 m m . An automated Lowry procedure is also presented which gives excellent correlation with the manual method and an average coefficient of variation of
Detection of human papillomavirus DNA in esophageal squamous cell carcinomas by the polymerase chain reaction using general consensus primers

Abstract We studied 40 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded esophageal squamous cell carcinomas from a high risk region for this tumor for the presence of human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). We used two general consensus primers from a highly conserved E1 region of HPV types 6, 11, 16, and 18. Human papillomavirus DNA was detected in 60% (24 of 40) of the cases without relation to the tumor grade. Two lymph node metastases had the same HPV types as the primary tumor. Human papillomavirus types were determined in the 24 HPV-positive cases by Southern blot analysis of amplified DNA. Human papillomavirus type 6 was detected in 50% (12 of 24) of the cases, HPV type 16 in 8% (two of 24), and HPV types 6 and 16 in 17% (four of 24); in 25% (six of 24) of the cases the type was unknown. Human papillomavirus types 11 and 18 were not detected. Esophageal mucosa adjacent to the tumor was studied for morphological changes of HPV effect in 27 cases. Adjacent esophageal mucosa in 16 HPV-positive tumors showed statistically significant ( P
Perfectionism, Reasonableness, and Respect

In recent work, Martha Nussbaum has exposed an important ambiguity in the standard conception of political liberalism. The ambiguity centers on the notion of “reasonableness” as it applies to comprehensive doctrines and to persons. As Nussbaum observes, the notion of reasonableness in political liberalism can be construed in a purely ethical sense or in a sense that combines ethical and epistemic elements. The ambiguity bears crucially on the respect for persons norm—a key norm that helps to distinguish political from perfectionist versions of liberalism. Nussbaum contends that when political liberals affirm a construal of reasonableness that includes epistemic elements they run into trouble in formulating an account of their view that sharply distinguishes it from perfectionist liberalism. She contends further that perfectionist versions of liberalism should be rejected since they fail to offer an account of respect for persons. This paper responds to Nussbaum’s challenge. It argues that an adequate acco...
Use of laser scanning confocal microscopy for characterizing changes in film thickness and local surface morphology of UV-exposed polymer coatings

Laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM) has been used to characterize the changes in film thickness and local surface morphology of polymer coatings during the UV degradation process. With the noninvasive feature of LSCM, one can obtain thickness information directly and nondestructively at various exposure times without destroying the specimens or deriving the thickness values from IR measurement by assuming uniform film ablation. Two acrylic polymer coatings were chosen for the study, and the physical and chemical changes of the two systems at various exposure times were measured and analyzed. Those measurable physical changes caused by UV exposure include film ablation, formation of pits and other surface defects, and increases in surface roughness. It was found in both coatings that changes in measured film thickness by LSCM were not correlated linearly to the predicted thickness loss using the changes in the CH band obtained by the Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy measurements in the later degradation stages. This result suggested it was not a uniform film ablation process during the UV degradation. At later stages, where surface deformation became severe, surface roughness and profile information using LSCM were also proven to be useful for analyzing the surface degradation process
Studies in Carcinogenesis: I. The Production of Tumors in Mice with Hydrocarbons

Since 1915, when Yamagiwa and Ichikawa succeeded in producing tar cancer experimentally, considerable progress has been made towards the elucidation of the chemical nature of substances capable of inciting malignant changes in cells. Outstanding contributions since then have been those of Bloch and Dreifuss (1921) and of Kennaway and his colleagues. From the work of Bloch and Dreifuss it appeared that the carcinogenic material in tar was present in the neutral, nitrogen-free, high-boiling fraction. Kennaway (1924, 1925, 1930) produced carcinogenic substances from acetylene and from other compounds under conditions which indicated that the active substances were hydrocarbons. Following the application of the fluorescence spectrum to this problem by Mayneord in 1927, Hieger (1930) noted that many cancer-producing materials showed similar fluorescence spectra. Thereupon a number of compounds which were found by the English investigators to have spectra similar to those of the cancer-producing tars were tested on animals. This led to the observation that 1:2:5:6–dibenzanthracene was capable of producing cancer in experimental animals. A large number of compounds 1 of this type were then synthesized by Cook and his collaborators; animal assays showed that certain of these compounds were highly active. In the earlier experiments of this group of English workers carcinomas were produced by applying solutions of the compounds to the skin of the experimental animals. Burrows, Hieger and Kennaway (1932) then made the significant finding that 1:2:5:6–dibenzanthracene could also produce tumors of connective tissue. Thereupon, experimental work with dibenzanthracene was undertaken in this laboratory.
Observations on the intestinal pathology caused by three caryophyllid tapeworms of the white sucker Catostomus commersoni Laécpéde

. The structure of the parasite-host interface at the site of attachment was studied for Glaridacris catostomi, G. laruei and Hunterella nodulosa, caryophyllid tapeworms of the white sucker Catostomus commersoni. Light microscope observation of fish infected with H. nodulosa showed a loss of intestinal epithelium and lamina propria, and a chronic inflammatory response characterized by infiltration of lymphocytes and extensive hyperplasia of the submucosal tissue; intestinal pathology associated with G. catostomi and G. laruei was minimal. Electron microscope examination of the parasite-host interface revealed that in no case does parasite tissue come into direct contact with host tissue. H. nodulosa is separated from host tissue by an amorphous layer of electron lucent material (the ‘eosinophilic matrix’ seen with the light microscope) which appears to act as an adhesive; this material is a secretory product of the scolex glands. In G. catostomi and G. laruei a layer of material separating parasite from host tissue was also found, but it is not clear whether this layer is adhesive or protective.
The Haspin gene: location in an intron of the Integrin αE gene, associated transcription of an Integrin αE-derived RNA and expression in diploid as well as haploid cells

Haspin is a serine/threonine kinase, recently identified in mice, that is thought to regulate cell cycle and differentiation of haploid germ cells. Here, the haspin gene is identified within an intron of the integrin alphaE gene. Transcription occurs from a bi-directional CpG island-associated promoter that also generates an alternatively spliced integrin alphaE derived RNA. Remarkably, the human and murine haspin genes lack introns, and have features of retroposons. The human haspin cDNA reveals that the human and murine proteins are 83% identical in the C-terminal kinase domain, but only 53% identical in the N-terminal region. The haspin kinase domain has structural features that distinguish it from previously characterized proteins and suggest that haspin is a member of a new family of protein kinases. Although formerly thought to be expressed selectively in the testes, haspin is also transcribed at lower levels in thymus, bone marrow, fetal liver and other fetal tissues, and in all proliferating cell lines tested. Thus haspin is likely to be important in regulation of diploid as well as haploid cell differentiation in a variety of tissues.
Univariate Distribution Analysis to Evaluate Variable Rate Fertilization

Technological advances in precision fertilization such as yield monitors and remote sensing are increasing the density of samples collected and decreasing the scale inputs can be managed in the field. A compounding problem is that fertilizer applications can often be made at a much smaller scale than yield data can be collected. Analytical tools such as ANOVA and geostatistics can be used on high-density data sets; however, these analytical tools do not provide all the information required to test research ideas. An alternative to solve this problem is the use of statistics not traditionally applied to precision agricultural experiments. The objective of this study was to determine if univariate distribution (population statistics) analysis is useful in the study of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) yield response to variable-rate N fertilization strategies using active optical sensors in red and near-infrared bands (NDVI [normalized difference vegetative index] sensors). Measurements of NDVI and fertilizer applications were on a 0.56-m 2 basis, while wheat yield data were collected at a 2-m 2 scale. Classical ANOVA was conducted to compare treatment effects. Analysis of univariate distributions for NDVI and wheat yield monitor data sets was used to further evaluate the effect of the treatments. In addition to a significant effect on the mean NDVI and yield, fetilizer staregies affected the normality, median, mode, skewness, and kurtosis of the resulting NDVI and yield distributions. Unlike ANOVA, the analyses of univariate distributions provided an insight on those portions of the NDVI and yield populations responsible for changes in the mean.
Electrokinetic properties and flotation behaviour of apatite and calcite in the presence of sodium oleate and sodium metasilicate

Abstract Calcite is generally associated with apatite minerals in phosphate deposits. To explore the possibility of separating these minerals by a soap flotation technique, their electrokinetic properties and flotation behaviour were studied in the presence of sodium oleate. Microelectrophoresis data indicate oleate adsorption on these minerals, and from Hallimond-tube flotation tests it has been noted that in a controlled pH environment and for a certain sodium oleate concentration range, separation of these minerals is possible. The study of apatite/calcite-sodium metasilicate-sodium oleate systems indicates the preferential adsorption of silicate at the calcite surface. This suggests the potential use of sodium metasilicate as the modifying agent for the separation of apatite from calcite by depressing calcite when using sodium oleate as collector.
Relatedness, recognition errors, and colony fusion in the termite Nasutitermes corniger

Loss of aggression between social groups can have far-reaching effects on the structure of societies and populations. We tested whether variation in the genetic structure of colonies of the termite Nasutitermes corniger affects the probability of aggression toward non-nestmates and the ability of unrelated colonies to fuse. We determined the genotypes of workers and soldiers from 120 colonies at seven polymorphic microsatellite loci. Twenty-seven colonies contained offspring of multiple founding queens or kings, yielding an average within-colony relatedness of 0.33. Genotypes in the remaining 93 colonies were consistent with reproduction by a single queen and king or their progeny, with an average within-colony relatedness of 0.51. In standardized assays, the probability of aggression between workers and soldiers from different colonies was an increasing function of within-colony relatedness. The probability of aggression was not affected significantly by the degree of relatedness between colonies, which was near zero in all cases, or by whether the colonies were neighbors. To test whether these assays of aggression predict the potential for colony fusion in the field, we transplanted selected nests to new locations. Workers and soldiers from colonies that were mutually tolerant in laboratory assays joined their nests without fighting, but workers and soldiers that were mutually aggressive in the assays initiated massive battles. These results suggest that the presence of multiple unrelated queens or kings promotes recognition errors, which can lead to the formation of more complex colony structures.