cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Religion and Health in Early Childhood: Evidence from South Asia

This article studies early childhood health in India Bangladesh and Nepal focusing on inequalities in anthropometric outcomes by religious adherence. India and Nepal have Hindu majorities while Bangladesh is predominantly Muslim. The results suggest that Muslim infants have an advantage over Hindu infants in height-for-age in India (for boys and girls) and in Bangladesh (for boys). However this advantage disappears beyond 12 months of age at which point Hindu children in all three countries are found to have significantly better anthropometric outcomes than Muslim children. We report tests that rule out mortality selection and undertake falsification and robustness exercises that confirm these findings. Further results suggest that exposure to Ramadan fasting in utero may lead to positive selection of Muslim male infants partially explaining the Muslim infant health advantage but this does not fully explain the shift from Muslim advantage in infancy to Hindu advantage in childhood in all three countries.
Tip Flowfield of a Low Aspect Ratio Circulation Control Wing With Spanwise Variation in Efflux

A stereoscopic particle image velocimetry (SPIV) system was used in a low-speed wind tunnel to measure the external flowfield of a circulation control (CC) wing having an aspect ratio of 1.1. This ongoing project, sponsored by the Office of Naval Research, sought to further the knowledge of the jet interactions and the wingtip vortex formation through 3-component, planar velocity surveys. The CC wing tested had a 20% elliptic airfoil section with a trailing edge Coanda surface that was intended to increase circulation control effectiveness through a segmented system that could create spanwise massflow efflux profiles.To date, 1.2 TB of raw SPIV data have been acquired in one of two wake station planes at z/c = 1.25 over the vertical region of 0.13 < y/b < 0.87 (i.e, the tip region). The three-component velocity data revealed the nature of the interaction of the jet with the external flowfield and the temporal variability at an overall momentum coefficient of 0.08 with spanwise variations in the trailing edge efflux. The results from these tests will be used to quantify, for the first time, the effects of spanwise massflow distributions on the 3D velocity field near the trailing edge, the stall modes, jet interactions, and the overall performance of a CC wing of this geometry.
Evaluating jointly constrained order quantity complexities for incremental discounts

Abstract In this paper we consider the purchasing decisions facing a buying firm which receives incrementally discounted price schedules for a group of items in the presence of constraints such as budgets and space limitations. The constraints take the form of upper bounds on positively weighted linear combinations of order size, dollar volume, unit price and order frequency. We adapt the solution procedures from an earlier paper [Naval Res. Logis. 40 (2) (1993) 255] to treat this case. The results show that simultaneous order quantities for multiple items, offered with separate incremental discounts and subject to joint resource constraints, can be calculated efficiently using a combination of Lagrangean relaxation and, as needed, partial enumeration. This problem proved to be no more and no less tractable than its counterpart with all units discounts.
De las grecas a las bóvedas de crucería del siglo XVI, técnicas de construcción y de cantería de los pueblos indígenas de México

This text aims to reveal how natives of Mexico learned the techniques to built masonry spanning structures such as arches and vaults. The guideline of this study starts by observing illustrations of the Florentine Codex, later it reflects on pre-Columbian masons skills by looking at the building solutions in the site of Mitla, and finally takes on the unique experience of reconstructing the ribbed vault of the open chapel of Teposcolula as case study. The weaving of these three components unveils those methods of teaching building techniques during the 16th century were done by example and practical knowledge.
Hemin stimulation of cAMP production in human lymphocytes.

Abstract Hemin stimulates cAMP production in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). The kinetics are similar to that of hormone-induced cAMP generation, namely a rapid effect followed by a desensitization phase. Several experimental findings suggest that prostaglandins do not mediate this effect. First, macrophage depleted T and B cells purified by erythrocyte-rosetting were as responsive as unfractionated PBMC to hemin. Second, indomethacin, an inhibitor of prostaglandin synthesis, and meclofenamate, a prostaglandin E 2 receptor antagonist, had no effect on hemin stimulated cAMP production. In addition, propranolol, a β-adrenergic receptor antagonist, had no effect on hemin-stimulated cAMP production. We also examined structural analogues of hemin. Among the metalloporphyrins (Fe, Ni, Co, Zn and Sn) and protoporphyrin IX tested only hemin (Fe-protoporphyrin) was active in stimulating CAMP production. No correlation was found between the ability of metalloporphyrins to stimulate cAMP production and their ability to generate H 2 O 2 . The data indicate that hemin stimulates cAMP production by directly affecting lymphocytes and that prostaglandins do not mediate this effect.
The Numbers of Naegleria spp: in Michigan Soils and Litters

Summary The numbers of low temperature (23°C) non-pathogenic Naegleria spp. isolated from Michigan soils (ottokee loamy sand, Fox loam, Miami loam, Rifle peat) and the characteristics of these soils were determined. Cysts and trophozoites per gram of soil and litter in different layers were found to vary. Counts obtained during the months of August and September revealed that more cells were found in soil layers than in litter layers and generally more trophozoites than cyts at this time. The highest number of cells recorded in the litter layers was 6,111 of which 1,524 were cysts, while the lowest number was 159 with 98 cysts. In the soil layers, the highest number of cells recorded was 16,288 of which 2,618 were cysts, while the lowest number was 225 cells with 205 cysts. These organisms appeared to have a brief trophic existence during the warm months and remain predominantly as cysts during most of the cool Michigan months, based on monthly observations of samples.
Comparison of Flavor Quality of Peanut Based Pastes and Peanut Butter by Sensory Methods

A bland flavored and light colored paste was developed to increase utilization of peanuts. This study compared flavor quality of two pastes prepared from whole and chopped peanuts, water extracted to remove flavor precursors, two commercial samples of peanut butter and a paste from raw peanuts (control). Cluster analysis was used to compare sensory scores of all samples. The premium brand peanut butter had the strongest roasted flavor while the pastes had significantly more of the beany flavor than the peanut butters but less than that in the raw control. Chopping of kernels results in the loss of roasted and sweet flavors and the introduction of cardboard, musty and metallic flavors.
Ionic permeability changes in active axon membranes.

The propagation of impulses is explained by ionic permeability mechanisms in the axon membrane. Two different types of ionic channels, sodium channels and potassium channels, open and close in the membrane in response to changes of the membrane potential. Open channels allow ions to pass in or out of the axon at high rates as though the channel is a pore. Many neuropoisons and neuropharmacological drugs act directly to block, open, or in other ways change the properties of the ionic channels. The nature of the ionic channels in the axon seems to be the same in invertebrates and vertebrates.
The development of an L-band radiometer dual-mode horn

A conical circularly polarized dual-mode horn, designed for the frequency range of 1400-1460 MHz, is described. This electrically shorter version of the Potter horn yields circularly symmetrical patterns over a broader frequency range (approaching 10 percent). A technique is described for matching the input over the design bandwidth with a VSWR < 1.05.
Structural Clues to Rab GTPase Functional Diversity

Rab GTPases are key regulators of membrane trafficking in eukaryotes. Recent structural analysis of a number of Rabs, either alone or in complex with partner proteins, has provided new insight into the importance of both conserved and non-conserved features of these proteins that specify their unique functions and localizations. This review will highlight what we have learned from crystallographic analysis of this important protein family.
Statistical distributions for the size of fatigue-initiating defects in Al-7%Si-0.3%Mg alloy castings : A comparative study

Statistical distributions used in the literature for size distributions of fatigue-initiating defects are reviewed. Seven distributions from the literature are fitted to two datasets for the fatigue-initiating defects in A356 aluminum alloy castings, reported previously by Yi et al. [J.Z. Yi, P.D. Lee, T.C. Lindley, T. Fukui, Mater. Sci. Eng. A, A432 (2006) 59]. The results of the goodness-of-fit tests indicate that only lognormal, Gumbel and General Extreme Value distributions provide acceptable fits to both datasets. Weibull, Frechet and Generalized Pareto distributions do not provide good fits to the two datasets. Based on mathematical statistics, however, it is recommended that only Gumbel or General Extreme Value distributions be used for the size of fatigue-initiating defects. The effect of using the correct statistical distribution for the size of defects on the accuracy of the fatigue life estimates is demonstrated.
Peridural Anesthesia, an Improved Anesthesia for Thoracic Surgery from the Viewpoint of the Patient, Chest Surgeon and Physician*

SUMMARY 1) Peridural anesthesia has been used as the sole anesthetic agent in 1,018 consecutive major thoracic surgical procedures. 2) In 125 of the cases the contra-lateral lung was carrying some type of collapse therapy at the time of the second surgical procedure. 3) The ages of the patients operated ranged from nine to 65. 4) There were six children in this series, ages ranging from nine to 15. The surgical procedures were all resections. 5) Two deaths occurred which were thought to be associated with the anesthetic. 6) One per cent of the anesthetics were complete failures. 7) Four and two-tenths per cent of the anesthetics needed supplementary anesthesia. 8) The total incidence of spread was 1.4 per cent.
Effects of Alcohol on Human Carboxylesterase Drug Metabolism

Human carboxylesterase-1 (CES1) and human carboxylesterase-2 (CES2) play an important role in metabolizing many medications. Alcohol is a known inhibitor of these enzymes but the relative effect on CES1 and CES2 is unknown. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of alcohol on the metabolism of specific probes for CES1 (oseltamivir) and CES2 (aspirin). The effect of alcohol on CES1- and CES2-mediated probe drug hydrolysis was determined in vitro using recombinant human carboxylesterase. To characterize the in vivo effects of alcohol, healthy volunteers received each probe drug alone and in combination with alcohol followed by blood sample collection and determination of oseltamivir, aspirin, and respective metabolite pharmacokinetics. Alcohol significantly inhibited oseltamivir hydrolysis by CES1 in vitro but did not affect aspirin metabolism by CES2. Alcohol increased the oseltamivir area under the plasma concentration–time curve (AUC) from 0 to 6 h (AUC0 → 6 h) by 27 % (range 11–46 %, p = 0.011) and decreased the metabolite/oseltamivir AUC0 → 6 h ratio by 34 % (range 25–41 %, p < 0.001). Aspirin pharmacokinetics were not affected by alcohol. Alcohol significantly inhibited the hydrolysis of oseltamivir by CES1 both in vitro and in humans, but did not affect the hydrolysis of aspirin to salicylic acid by CES2. These results suggest that alcohol’s inhibition of CES1 could potentially result in clinically significant drug interactions with other CES1-substrate drugs, but it is unlikely to significantly affect CES2-substrate drug hydrolysis.
A texture analysis method in classification of coal workers' pneumoconiosis.

Abstract A texture analysis method is used to classify a chest X-ray film according to the UICC/Cincinnati standard into one of the four categories automatically. A feasibility study using 68 films was conducted. The results obtained compare favorably with those obtained by trained radiologists. The possibility of implementing this texture analysis method into an automatic device for mass screening of chest X-rays in determining the severity of the pneumoconiosis is also discussed.
Effects of excess thyroid hormone on cell death, cell proliferation, and new neuron incorporation in the adult zebra finch telencephalon.

Widespread telencephalic neuronal replacement occurs throughout life in birds. We explored the potential relationship between thyroxine (T4) and cell turnover in the adult male zebra finch. We found that many cells in the zebra finch brain, including long-projection neurons in the high vocal center (HVC), stained positively with an antibody to thyroid hormone receptors (TR). Labeling was generally weak in the ventricular zone (VZ) that gives rise to new neurons but some proliferative VZ cells and/or their progeny, identified by [3H]-thymidine labeling, co-labeled with anti-TR antibody. Acute T4 treatment dramatically increased the number of pyknotic and TUNEL-positive cells in HVC and other telencephalic regions. In contrast, degenerating cells were never observed in the archistriatum or sub-telencephalic regions, suggesting that excess T4 augments cell death selectively in regions that show naturally occurring neuronal turnover. VZ mitotic activity was not altered shortly after acute T4 treatment at a dosage that stimulated cell death, although [3H]-labeling intensity per cell was slightly reduced. Moreover, the incorporation rates for neurons formed shortly before or after acute hormone treatment were no different from control values. Chronic T4 treatment resulted in a reduction in the total number of HVC neurons. Thus, hyperthyroidism augmented neuronal death, which was not compensated for by neuronal replacement. Collectively, these results indicate that excess T4 affects adult neuronal turnover in birds, and raises the possibility that thyroxine plays an important role in the postnatal development of the avian brain and vocal behavior. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Neurobiol 51: 323–341, 2002
How I See Me Depends on How I See We: The Role of Attachment Style in Social Comparison

The self-concept is a social, flexible construct that shifts in response to the salience of a relationship partner. Three related experiments found that the tendency to pursue closeness in relationships (as measured by attachment style) served as a moderator of the shift. Specifically, individuals who avoid closeness in relationships became less similar to salient friends via contrast effects, whereas those who pursued closeness in relationships became more similar to salient friends via assimilation effects. Results are discussed in terms of their implications for the nature of the self-concept and the importance of friendships.
Interpersonal Relations in Four‐Year‐Old Dyads from Constructivist and Montessori Programs

40 4‐year‐old children from Constructivist and Montessori preschool programs were compared on social‐cognitive competence. The Experimenter (E) taught children in pairs to play a board game in Session I, and in Session II asked them to play the game by themselves. Analysis of video and transcripts of 2208 behavioral units using Selman's coding of interpersonal negotiation strategies showed that Montessori pairs used a significantly higher proportion of strategies at Level 1, and Constructivist pairs used a significantly higher proportion of strategies at Level 2. Less conflict was found in Constructivist pairs, and they resolved their conflicts significantly more frequently. Within conflict segments, Montessori children had a significantly higher proportion of Level 0 strategies, and Constructivist pairs had a significantly higher proportion of Level 2 strategies. Both groups followed some basic rules equally well, but Constructivist pairs followed other rules more consistently. Although no difference was...
Constrained Mixture Models of Arterial Homeostasis and Adaptation

Phenomenological models of the mechanical behavior of the arterial wall continue to play important roles in vascular mechanics. Indeed, such models revealed the importance of residual stresses in homogenizing the transmural distribution of stress in normalcy [1], which in turn led to one of the most important hypotheses in vascular mechanobiology — the existence of a mechanical homeostasis [2]. Nevertheless, classical models are not able to exploit the growing information on the different mechanical properties and rates and extents of turnover of different structurally significant constituents within the arterial wall. To address this need, we have proposed a structurally-motivated, materially nonuniform model of the arterial wall based on a theory of constrained mixtures [cf. 3]. Key features of this model include the ability to prescribe individual stored energy functions for different structurally significant constituents that are constrained to move together within the overall wall while being allowed to possess individual evolving natural (stress-free) configurations, and the ability to prescribe separate stress-mediated constitutive relations for constituent production and removal.We have shown that this constrained mixture approach can capture many salient features of arterial adaptations (e.g., evolving changes in geometry, overall material behavior, and collagen to elastin ratios) to both altered mechanical loading (e.g., altered blood flow and pressure as well as axial stretch) and disease progression (e.g., enlargement of intracranial aneurysms and the development and resolution of cerebral vasospasm). We submit that, in contrast to models built on the assumption of kinematic growth, this constrained mixture approach can incorporate increasingly detailed biological information on cell and matrix turnover and can thereby begin to generate and test novel hypotheses on mechanisms of arterial homeostasis and adaptation. We will show, for example, that the constrained mixture model suggests a possible mechanism for the origin of residual stresses and axial prestretches, the importance of cellular deposition of new extracellular matrix proteins within stressed states, the complementary roles of vasoactivity and matrix remodeling, and stress mediation of matrix turnover [4,5]. We note, in particular, the importance of residual stress and axial prestress in establishing arterial homeostasis and thus targets for subsequent adaptations [5,6].Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Optimal syntheses for infinite-dimensional linear delayed state-output systems: A semicausality approach

Quadratic optimal control synthesis for infinite-dimensional delayed dynamical systems with output time delay involved in the cost functional is described. By introducing a truncation operator and associated semicausal trajectory, a new dynamical optimality principle was established. The closed-loop optimal control is given in three parts as a linear feedback: real-time state feedback, retarded state integral feedback, and initial data feedback which effects only a small time interval. The main feedback operator can be determined by solving a linear Fredholm integral equation.
A human ecological approach to quality of life: Conceptual framework and results of a preliminary study

A human ecological framework for study of quality of life is proposed and used in the study of the QOL of a rural sample in northern Michigan. The framework is based on an ecosystem, i.e., the interaction of humans, the environed units, with their interrelated environments. These are conceptualized as: natural, human constructed and human behavioral. Quality of life indicators can measure aspects of the environed units, environments, and their interaction. Scales to measure perceived overall quality of life (POQL), community satisfaction (COMSAT), and the importance of and satisfaction with selected life concerns (SALI and SALS) were used. The life concerns represented human needs, attributes of the self, conditions and resources of the three environments, or implied interaction with or action upon the environment. Objectives were to study how these life concerns contributed to POQL; the relationship between SALI and SALS ratings and how this influenced POQL; the relationship between COMSAT and POQL; and whether or not satisfaction with these two variables varied by demographic characteristics. A relatively high POQL was found; those with higher incomes and children living at home had higher scores. COMSAT was also generally high, but did not vary by demographic characteristics. POQL and COMSAT were significantly related. Family life, health, safety, house, and financial security ranked highest in importance; clothing, spare time activities, and fun ranked lowest. Family life, religious faith, food work, and safety ranked highest in satisfaction; national government, financial security, developing oneself, health, and an interesting life ranked the lowest. The various life concerns appear) to behave differently in regard to how the discrepancy between importance of a concern and satisfaction with it influences overall quality of life. Satisfaction with accomplishments, family life, work and financial security accounted for over half the variance in POQL. These represent essential human needs which are satisfied with resources of the near environment, suggesting the salience of one's most proximate environment to evaluation of quality of life. Findings, while preliminary, illustrate the viability of a human ecological model as a unifying framework for conceptualization and measurement of quality of life. Further specification and elaboration of the model are indicated.
Heterogeneous deformation and spall of an extruded tungsten alloy : plate impact experiments and crystal plasticity modeling

The role of microstructure in the dynamic deformation and fracture of a dual phase, polycrystalline tungsten alloy under high-rate impact loading is investigated via experiments and modeling. The material studied consists of pure tungsten crystals embedded in a ductile binder alloy comprised of tungsten, nickel, and iron. The tungsten crystals are elongated in a preferred direction of extrusion during processing. Plate impact tests were conducted on samples oriented either perpendicular or parallel to the extrusion direction. Spatially resolved interferometric data from these tests were used to extract wave propagation behavior and spall strength dependent upon position in the sample microstructure. Finite element simulations of impact and spall in digitally reproduced microstructural geometries were conducted in parallel with the experiments. Finite deformation crystal plasticity theory describes the behavior of the pure tungsten and binder phases, and a stress- and temperature-based cohesive zone model captures fracture at grain and phase boundaries in the microstructure. In results from both experiments and modeling, the grain orientations affect the free-surface velocity profile and spall behavior. Some aspects of distributions of free-surface velocity and spall strength among different microstructure configurations are qualitatively similar between experimental and numerical results, while others are not as a result of differing scales of resolution and modeling assumptions. Following a comparison of experimental and numerical results for different microstructures, intergranular fracture is identified as an important mechanism underlying the spall event.
Ion scattering spectral features in oxides caused by inelastic energy losses

Shifts of ion-scattering peaks from oxides indicate that the primary beam loses more energy than predicted by the scattering equation. The origin of these shifts is not clear but may be explained by inelastic-collision exchange processes between the noble-gas ion and oxygen on or near the surface. The phenomenon appears to be sensitive to matching energy levels and orbital symmetry of the ions with surface atoms. Other spectral features indicate that the ions penetrate the surface and lose energy in inelastic events beneath the surface. Large changes in relative scattering of the anion and cation in oxides may be caused by either geometric structural effects or selective sputtering phenomena.
Traumatic indirect carotid-cavernous fistula: report of two cases.

UNLABELLED OBJECTIVE AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: We present two cases of post-traumatic indirect carotid-cavernous fistulas. Trauma produces the direct type of carotid-cavernous fistula in almost all cases, and recognition that trauma may induce the indirect type has been rarely reported. CLINICAL PRESENTATION Both patients presented with signs and symptoms of direct carotid-cavernous fistulas, including bruit, proptosis, and chemosis, after trauma to the head. INTERVENTION The two patients were treated by transarterial embolization, resulting in immediate and permanent occlusion of the fistula. CONCLUSION Trauma may rarely induce an indirect type of carotid-cavernous fistula. This posttraumatic, indirect carotid-cavernous fistula was, in these two cases, successfully and permanently cured by transarterial embolization because of the large fistulous connection between the branches of the external carotid artery and the cavernous sinus.
Maximum stability data gathering trees for mobile sensor networks

We describe a benchmarking algorithm Max.Stability-DG algorithm to determine the sequence of data gathering trees for maximum stability in mobile sensor networks such that the number of tree discoveries is the theoretical global minimum. The Max.Stability-DG algorithm assumes the availability of the complete knowledge of future topology changes and works based on a simple greedy principle: whenever a new data gathering tree is required at time instant t, we determine a spanning tree that exists for the longest time since t, transform the spanning tree to a rooted data gathering tree and use it until it exists. The whole procedure is repeated until the end of the session to obtain a sequence of longest-living stable data gathering trees. We prove the correctness of the Max.Stability-DG algorithm and also evaluate the performance of the Max.Stability-DG trees compared to minimum-distance spanning tree-based data gathering trees through extensive simulations under diverse operating conditions.
Lessons Learned from Implementing a Pilot RCT of Transitional Care Model for Individuals with Serious Mental Illness

We adapted an evidence-based transitional care model for older adults being released from acute care hospitals for patients with serious mental illness and medical co-morbidities being discharged from two psychiatric units of an acute care hospital (TCare) and evaluated implementation issues. An advisory group (AG) of community stakeholders assessed barriers and facilitators of a 90-day T-Care intervention delivered by a psychiatric nurse practitioner (NP) in the context of conducting a pilot randomized controlled trial. Minutes of AG and case narratives by NP of 20 intervention participants were content analyzed. Patients with immediate and pressing physical health problems were most receptive and actively utilized the service. Provider barriers consisted of communication and privacy issues making it difficult to contact patients in mental health facilities. In contrast, the NP was accepted and valued in the physical health arena. Psychosocial needs and relationship issues were demanding, and we recommend a team approach for TCare with the addition of a social worker, peer provider, and consulting psychiatrist for severely mentally ill patients being released from an acute physical health hospitalization.
The dynamics of the nucleus of M31

Self-consistent dynamic models of the M31 nucleus were constructed which satisfy Stratoscope II and ground-based photometry, as well as ground-based velocity dispersion measurements. Two models designed to yield the highest and lowest mass-to-light ratios (M/L) consistent with observations are concentrated on. It is found that self-consistent static models of the M31 nucleus can be constructed with a nuclear mass-to-blue magnitude ratio between 0 and 50, and that it is very difficult to construct high M/L models with plausible evolutionary histories. The low values of M/L that were found suggest that the nucleus must be composed of stars on nearly radial orbits whose apocenters lie well outside the observable part of the nucleus. Such nuclei may be formed either during core collapse of a preexisting dense nucleus or by orbital decay of globular clusters in a triaxial bulge.
The effectiveness of constraint-induced therapy as a stroke intervention: a meta-analysis

Stroke is one of the most disabling conditions affecting adults today. Much research has been performed on rehabilitation interventions targeting hemiparesis after stroke. Constraint-induced therapy is a treatment technique that focuses on restraining the unaffected upper extremity while forcing use of the affected extremity to promote purposeful movement. This study presents a meta-analysis of applicable current literature on this treatment approach. It is concluded that constraint-induced therapy may be an effective treatment option for hemiparesis experienced after stroke.
Receptor Activator of NF-κB (RANK) Cytoplasmic Motif, 369PFQEP373, Plays a Predominant Role in Osteoclast Survival in Part by Activating Akt/PKB and Its Downstream Effector AFX/FOXO4

Receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL) plays a crucial role in osteoclast differentiation, function, and survival. RANKL exerts its effect by activating its receptor RANK (receptor activator of NF-κB), which recruits various intracellular signaling molecules via specific motifs in its cytoplasmic tail. Previously, we identified three RANK cytoplasmic motifs (Motif 1, 369PFQEP373; Motif 2, 559PVQEET564; and Motif 3, 604PVQEQG609) mediating osteoclast formation and function. Here, we investigated RANK cytoplasmic motifs involved in osteoclast survival. Motif 1, in contrast to its minimal role in osteoclast formation and function, plays a predominant role in promoting osteoclast survival. Moreover, whereas Motif 2 and Motif 3 are highly potent in osteoclast formation and function, they exert a moderate effect on osteoclast survival. We also investigated the role of these motifs in activating Akt/protein kinase B (PKB), which has been implicated in RANKL-induced osteoclast survival. Motif 1, but not Motif 2 or Motif 3, is able to stimulate Akt/PKB activation. Because Akt/PKB has been shown to utilize distinct downstream effectors (glycogen synthase kinase-3β, FKHR/FOXO1a, BAD, and AFX/FOXO4) to regulate cell survival, we next determined which downstream effector(s) is activated by Akt/PKB to promote osteoclast survival. Our data revealed that RANKL only stimulates AFX/FOXO4 phosphorylation, indicating that AFX/FOXO4 is a key downstream target activated by Akt/PKB to modulate osteoclast survival. Taken together, we conclude that Motif 1 plays a predominant role in mediating osteoclast survival in part by activating Akt/PKB and its downstream effector AFX/FOXO4.
Estimating Reachable Sets

Two methods are presented for investigating reachable sets for nonlinear control systems. One method, based on a reachability maximum principle, lacks appropriate boundary conditions if the reachable set is not closed. The main result of the paper is an approximate method employing a Lyapunov-type function and an associated optimization problem, both involving a parameter vector. For each value of the parameter vector the resulting estimate for the reachable set (and the intersection of all such estimates) is guaranteed to contain the actual reachable set. The method is applicable to systems of any dimension and does not require integration of the equations of motion.
Markers of peripheral androgen action in vivo and in vitro.

Abstract The term androgenic alopecia implies that androgens and androgenic action are a major aspect of the genetic balding disorder in men and, perhaps, women. This paper deals with current knowledge of androgens and androgenic action on target tissues. This discussion will also review the knowledge gained from the study of hirsute women because female hirsutism is both a common disorder and has taught us much about androgens and the hair follicle. The author has written and edited several reviews of the topic elsewhere. –3
A Pilot Study of the Effects of Phytoestrogen Supplementation on Postmenopausal Endometrium

This study was designed to assess endometrial histology in postmenopausal women not taking hormone replacement therapy, to evaluate side effects and efficacy of phytoestrogens in treating menopause-associated symptoms, and to determine whether 6 months of phytoestrogen supplementation altered endometrial histology. We performed a prospective, double-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled trial comparing the effects of 6 months of dietary phytoestrogen supplemtation versus placebo in postmenopausal women. Baseline endometrial biopsies were performed and, if adequate, nonhyperplastic, noncancerous, and non-ovulatory, subjects were randomly assigned to receive daily placebo or soy cereal supplementation for 6 months. Study subjects completed baseline and weekly dietary, symptom, and side effect logs. Repeat endometrial biopsies were obtained at 6 months. Subjects were recruited from January 1998 through June 2000. Twenty-seven subjects were randomized, and 19 completed the study. One (3.7%) baseline endometrial sample was weakly proliferative. All other baseline and final biopsies were consistent with atrophic, inactive endometrium. The maximum risk of endometrial stimulation with phytoestrogens is 35%. Hot flushes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness were significantly less severe at the final week of the study compared with baseline in the placebo group. Insomnia was more common in the treated group. There were no other statistically significant differences in symptoms or side effects. Phytoestrogens did not cause stimulation of the endometrium. Insomnia was more frequent over the 6-month study in the soy group, whereas hot flushes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness improved from baseline in the placebo group but not in the soy group.
Improved conductivity of ZnO through codoping with In and Al

Abstract We have studied the effect of codoping ZnO with Al and In using composition spreads prepared by off-axis rf sputtering. We find a large improvement in the electrical conductivity of doped ZnO and attribute this to size compensation, as inferred by measuring the volume of the unit cell as a function of composition. Adding a small amount of In to Al-doped ZnO results in an increase in the fraction of Al dopant atoms that are activated, and the mobility remains high as well. Codoping allows for a higher conductivity than single-doping in films deposited at a modest temperature with no post annealing.
Hydrogen-induced lattice migration in Pd-Pt alloys

It was recently found that hydrogen-induced segregation takes place in initially homogeneous, fcc Pd-Rh and Pd-Pt alloys. From the results for the Pd-Rh alloys it was established that dissolved hydrogen induces metal atom diffusion because phase separation is very slow in its absence at the same temperatures. For the Pd-Rh alloys the driving force for the segregation is the miscibility gap which exists in the binary Pd-Rh system. In the case of the Pd-Pt alloy system it is not clear whether the driving force for the segregation is a miscibility gap which has been postulated, but not experimentally verified, or else a result of a ternary (Pd + Pt + H) equilibrium. This research attempts to resolve this question.
The number of distinct subset sums of a finite set of vectors

Abstract For a finite subset A of Rρ, σ(A) denotes the set of vectors that can be obtained as a {0, 1} linear combination of the vectors of A. Let sρ(n) be the minimum cardinality of σ(A) over all sets A of n nonnegative nonzero vectors that span Rρ. The main result is that for n−ρ sufficiently large, sρ(n)=2ρ−2((n−p)2+3(n−ρ)+4). This result is applied to answer a question of Erdős and Spencer concerning distinct sums of integers.
Mutational Analysis of HIV-1 gp160-Mediated Receptor Interference: Intracellular Complex Formation

Abstract Formation of CD4–gp160 intracellular complexes represents an important mechanism leading to the induction of receptor interference. Previous studies have demonstrated that cells coexpressing gp160 and CD4 formed complexes of CD4 and gp160 which became blocked within the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), preventing CD4 from reaching the cell surface. In this report we have investigated the domains and residues of CD4 and gp160 involved in intracellular interaction. Accordingly, we have introduced mutations in both CD4 and gp160 at sites previously shown to disrupt CD4–gp120 interactions at the cell surface. Using a T7-vaccinia virus transient expression system, we expressed these gp160 and CD4 mutants in HeLa cells and analyzed their effects on intracellular complex formation and CD4 surface modulation. We observed that a number of gp160 mutants which failed to interact with CD4 at the cell surface also failed to bind and trap CD4 within the ER as expected. However, mutations at a critical residue, W427, did not abrogate intracellular CD4 binding. These gp160 mutants continued to interact with intracellular CD4 and inhibit CD4 transport to the cell surface, although gp120 produced from these mutants did not bind CD4 at the cell surface as expected. A number CD4 mutants also continued to form intracellular complexes with gp160, resulting in the loss of CD4 surface expression. Again, these CD4 mutants did not bind to gp120 at the cell surface, consistent with earlier reports. These results demonstrate that intracellular interactions between gp160 and CD4 in the ER may utilize different contact sites compared to those used during CD4 and gp120 binding at the cell surface. The data provide further evidence that the environment in which CD4 and the HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein interact can have a significant effect on their interaction.
Improved modulation classification using a factor-graph-based iterative receiver

We bring together two research topics which have been the focus of significant research individually: modulation classification and iterative receiver design. In this work, these topics are joined within the framework of factor graphs which provide a unified approach to representing a variety of algorithms, especially iterative algorithms. Specifically, in this paper we present a factor graph which incorporates modulation classification into the iterative receiver structure. The proposed iterative receiver applies message passing on the factor graph to approximate the optimal solution to joint modulation classification, demodulation, and decoding. This results in a classifier which treats feedback from the decoder as a priori probabilities for the coded bits. We show that the proposed receiver is able to achieve significant performance gains over a receiver which performs maximum likelihood classification separately from demodulation and decoding.
High transconductance normally-off GaN MODFETs

Normally-off GaN based modulation doped field-effect transistors have been fabricated. The extrinsic transconductance of MODFETs with gate and channel lengths of 3 and 5 /spl mu/m, respectively, is as high as 120 mS/mm. The devices exhibit 300 mA/mm current at a positive gate bias of 3 V. This transconductance value compares very favourably with the 45 mS/mm and 24 mS/mm reported earlier for 1 and 0.23 /spl mu/m gate devices, respectively.
Interrelationship of micromechanics and morphology of fibroblasts adhered on different polymeric surfaces.

The membrane stiffness (e) of rat lung fibroblasts (RLFs) adhered on different polymeric surfaces was probed by atomic force microscopy. The corresponding cell morphology was also analyzed to probe its interrelationship with e. Two tyrosine-derived polymer families, poly(DTR glutarate)s and poly(DTE-co-PEG1000 carbonate)s with systematic variations in the chemical composition and physical properties, notably surface hydrophilicity, were used. The cell membrane of adhered RLFs was indented by a probe tip. e was obtained by best-fitting the relationship of applied tip forces and the indentation depth with the Hertz model. Excluding tissue culture polystyrene, non-PEG-containing polymers are generally hydrophobic and the changes in chemical composition do not elicit significant changes in e. In contrast, polymers containing as little as 2 mol.% PEG display a major increase in surface hydrophilicity and invoke a substantial decrease in e. Additionally, RLFs show a high degree of spreading and fibroblastic appearance on non-PEG-containing polymers, but much less spreading and axial morphology when PEG is present. A mechanism is proposed to explain how a cell maintains its structural integrity on different polymeric surfaces: the degree of cell spreading is higher on non-PEG-containing surfaces than on PEG-containing ones, resulting in more extended cytoskeletal filaments and hence a stiffer cell membrane. Our studies shed light on the use of cellular micromechanics, and in particular membrane stiffness, to characterize cell response as a function of the chemical composition of the underlying substrata.
The interaction of vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhizae and soil phosphorus fertility on growth of sweet potato (Impomoea batatas)

Abstract Three sweet potato cultivars were inoculated with vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhizal (VAM) fungi and grown in different phosphorus fertility regimes to determine their effects on plant growth. Plants responded well to phosphorus fertilization and to a certain degree to VAM. In some tests VAM fungi were as effective in stimulating growth as an additional 800 μg P/g soil. In al studies the mycorrhizal growth response was greatest at low fertility, but in general all cultivars showed a low degree of mycorrhizal dependency. This is the first report of the influence of vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhizae on growth of sweet potato. The role of VAM fungi in enhancing growth and possible explanations for the observed results are discussed.
Community Service Learning Increases Communication Skills Across the Business Curriculum

Community service learning offers a unique and rewarding way for business students to reinforce communication capabilities while developing lifelong career and social skills. This article defines c...
Systems Integration and the Department of Energy's Hydrogen Program

The Department of Energy (DOE) established the hydrogen program in response to a presidential directive. The role of the hydrogen program is not to build the nation 's hydrogen infrastructure, but instead to develop and validate technologies that will enable industry to make commercialization decisions that lead to establishing and evolving a national hydrogen infrastructure. To provide a solid foundation for a mission-driven Program consistent with the President's directive, the DOE asked the National Renewable Energy Laboratory to establish a Systems Integration Office (SIO) and develop an integrated baseline that could be used to effectively and efficiently manage the hydrogen program. The SIO has employed a structured process, based on hierarchical decomposition, to identify, define, and analyze the requirements and tasks needed to satisfy the hydrogen program 's mission. The result is an on-line integrated baseline (i.e., both technical and programmatic considerations) that ensures that these mission requirements and all aspects of the President's directive are addressed.
Comparison of GC stationary phases for the separation of fatty acid methyl esters in biodiesel fuels

The fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) content of biodiesel fuels has traditionally been determined using gas chromatography with a polar stationary phase. In this study, a direct comparison of the separation of FAMEs present in various biodiesel samples on three polar stationary phases and one moderately polar stationary phase (with comparable column dimensions) was performed. Retention on each column was based on solubility in and polarity of the phase. Quantitative metrics describing the resolution of important FAME pairs indicate high resolution on all polar columns, yet the best resolution, particularly of geometric isomers, is achieved on the cyanopropyl column. In addition, the separation of four C18 monounsaturated isomers was optimized and the elution order determined on each column. FAME composition of various biodiesel fuel types was determined on each column to illustrate (1) chemical differences in biodiesels produced from different feedstocks and (2) chemical similarities in biodiesels of the same feedstock type produced in different locations and harvest seasons.
Regulation of the phonotactic threshold of the female cricket, Acheta domesticus : juvenile hormone III, allatectomy, L1 auditory neuron thresholds and environmental factors

Juvenile hormone III (JHIII), when applied to the abdomen of 1-day-old female Acheta domesticus (in quantities that would create JHIII titers in the hemolymph that were within the range measured in females of this species) caused a significant decrease in phonotactic thresholds (Fig. 1). Removal of the corpora allata from 5-day-old females with low phonotactic thresholds caused significantly increased phonotactic thresholds 2–5 days later. After a temporary increase (24 h) of, on average, about 25 dB, the phonotactic thresholds drop to about 10 dB above preallatectomy levels (Fig. 2), but remain significantly higher than controls. Application of JHIII to allatectomized females, with a mean increase in thresholds of 20 dB, results in significantly decreased thresholds (mean of about 20 dB) over the next 6 h (Fig. 3). Exposure to males 1 week before the imaginal molt causes the phonotactic thresholds of postimaginal females to drop 1–2 days significantly earlier than controls (Fig. 4). One- and 3-day-old females, phonotactically tested only once, exhibit lower thresholds in the early morning than they do in the late afternoon (Fig. 5). Five-day-old females do not exhibit such a diurnal rhythm. Phonotactically testing females more than once a day significantly influences their phonotactic thresholds (Figs. 6, 7). In 1-day-old females, with high (above 70 dB) phonotactic thresholds, the threshold of their L1 auditory interneurons can be 30 dB or more below their phonotactic threshold (Fig. 8). In females with phonotactic thresholds of 70 dB or lower, the L1 threshold is within 10 dB of their phonotactic threshold. Both JHIII and allatectomy influence phonotactic and L1 thresholds in a similar manner.
The development of the perception of cues to the [m]–[n] distinction in CV syllables

The contribution of the nasal murmur and vocalic formant transition to the perception of the [m]–[n] distinction by adult listeners was investigated for speakers of different ages. Children, aged 3, 5, and 7, and an adult female and male produced consonant‐vowel (CV) syllables consisting of either [m] or [n] and followed by [i ae u ɑ ]. Three productions of each syllable were computer edited into the following segments: (1) full murmur; (2) 50‐ms murmur preceding release; (3) 25‐ms murmur preceding release; (4) 25‐ms murmur preceding release+25‐ms transition following release; (5) 25‐ms transition following release; (6) 50‐ms transition following release; and (7) full transition + vowel. The results indicate that both the murmur and transition provide cues to place of articulation, but that the latter property is more prominent in perception than the former across speaker age. The salience of the murmur and vocalic transition cues was greater for adults than children indicating a developmental progression ...