cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Esophageal acid-clearance physiology is altered after Nissen-Collis gastroplasty

Nissen-Collis gastroplasty (NCG) is an effective treatment for short esophagus, but it sometimes is associated with abnormal postoperative esophageal acid exposure. This study was designed to test the hypothesis that NCG prevents gastric reflux and that pathologic distal esophagus acid exposure is due to prolonged acid clearance in the “neoesophagus.” The study enrolled 11 normal healthy subjects (ten patients status post—laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication and nine patients status post-NCG). All the participants were age and gender matched, and all were studied via manometry, acid-clearance test, and 24-h pH analysis. The clearance test was performed according to an established protocol. A 15-ml acid bolus (pH 1.2) was rapidly infused (×4) using a nasogastric tube 15 cm proximal to the lower esophageal sphincter, followed by dry swallows every 30 s until the esophageal pH rose above 4. All the subjects had normal esophageal peristalsis and distal amplitudes. The acid-clearance time was significantly higher with NCG (P < 0.001 vs Nissen and normal subjects). Pathologic esophageal acid exposure occurred in one of ten Nissen patients (10 %) and in two of nine NCG patients (22 %) (nonsignificant difference [NS]). The median distal esophageal acid exposure time during the 24-h pH study was similar in the two groups (NCG, 1.2 %; Nissen, 2.5 %; NS). The findings showed that NCG is an adequate antireflux procedure but that it is characterized by a delayed esophageal acid clearance.
Advances from neuroimaging studies in eating disorders.

Over the past decade, brain imaging has helped to better define eating disorder–related brain circuitry. Brain research on gray matter (GM) and white matter (WM) volumes had been inconsistent, possibly due to the effects of acute starvation, exercise, medication, and comorbidity, but newer studies have controlled for such effects. Those studies suggest larger left medial orbitofrontal gyrus rectus volume in ill adult and adolescent anorexia nervosa after recovery from anorexia nervosa, and in adult bulimia nervosa. The orbitofrontal cortex is important in terminating food intake, and altered function could contribute to self-starvation. The right insula, which processes taste but also interoception, was enlarged in ill adult and adolescent anorexia nervosa, as well as adults recovered from the illness. The fixed perception of being fat in anorexia nervosa could be related to altered insula function. A few studies investigated WM integrity, with the most consistent finding of reduced fornix integrity in anorexia and bulimia nervosa—a limbic pathway that is important in emotion but also food intake regulation. Functional brain imaging using basic sweet taste stimuli in eating disorders during the ill state or after recovery implicated repeatedly reward pathways, including insula and striatum. Brain imaging that targeted dopamine-related brain activity using taste-reward conditioning tasks suggested that this circuitry is hypersensitive in anorexia nervosa, but hyporesponsive in bulimia nervosa and obesity. Those results are in line with basic research and suggest adaptive reward system changes in the human brain in response to extremes of food intake—changes that could interfere with normalization of eating behavior.
Relationships among impairment, disability, handicap, and life satisfaction in persons with traumatic brain injury

Four regional brain injury centers surveyed 758 individuals with loss of consciousness from head trauma who were living in the community. Relationships among demographic characteristics, severity of impairment, severity of disability, extent of handicap, and life satisfaction were assessed with multiple regression. While the demographic and impairment variables were relatively weak predictors of disability, the combination of these variables was a much stronger predictor of handicap. In turn, 13% of the adjusted variance in life satisfaction was accounted for by these variables. These results support the World Health Organization model of impairment, disability, and handicap and suggest that efforts to remediate disability have a direct benefit in reducing handicap and enhancing life satisfaction.
Engineering of red cells of Arabidopsis thaliana and comparative genome-wide gene expression analysis of red cells versus wild-type cells

We report metabolic engineering of Arabidopsis red cells and genome-wide gene expression analysis associated with anthocyanin biosynthesis and other metabolic pathways between red cells and wild-type (WT) cells. Red cells of A. thaliana were engineered for the first time from the leaves of production of anthocyanin pigment 1-Dominant (pap1-D). These red cells produced seven anthocyanin molecules including a new one that was characterized by LC–MS analysis. Wild-type cells established as a control did not produce anthocyanins. A genome-wide microarray analysis revealed that nearly 66 and 65% of genes in the genome were expressed in the red cells and wild-type cells, respectively. In comparison with the WT cells, 3.2% of expressed genes in the red cells were differentially expressed. The expression levels of 14 genes involved in the biosynthetic pathway of anthocyanin were significantly higher in the red cells than in the WT cells. Microarray and RT-PCR analyses demonstrated that the TTG1–GL3/TT8–PAP1 complex regulated the biosynthesis of anthocyanins. Furthermore, most of the genes with significant differential expression levels in the red cells versus the WT cells were characterized with diverse biochemical functions, many of which were mapped to different metabolic pathways (e.g., ribosomal protein biosynthesis, photosynthesis, glycolysis, glyoxylate metabolism, and plant secondary metabolisms) or organelles (e.g., chloroplast). We suggest that the difference in gene expression profiles between the two cell lines likely results from cell types, the overexpression of PAP1, and the high metabolic flux toward anthocyanins.
Principles of intrapersonal conflict

It is difficult to escape the conclusion that, from the very dawn of life, living organisms have been constantly subjected to the disrupting effects of conflicting tendencies to action. Whenever and wherever they have moved, the forces inciting them to action have been opposed by other agencies demanding either alternate responses or the cessation of action; for even the simplest movement cannot be executed unless the
A hypersonic vehicle approach to planetary exploration

An enhanced Mars network class mission using a lifting hypersonic entry vehicle is proposed. The basic vehicle, derived from a mature hypersonic flight system called SWERVE, offers several advantages over more conventional low L/D or ballistic entry systems. The proposed vehicle has greatly improved lateral and cross range capability (e.g., it is capable of reaching the polar regions during less than optimal mission opportunities), is not limited to surface target areas of low elevation, and is less susceptible to problems caused by Martian dust storms. Further, the integrated vehicle has attractive deployment features and allows for a much improved evolutionary path to larger vehicles with greater science capability. Analysis of the vehicle is aided by the development of a Mars Hypersonic Flight Simulator from which flight trajectories are obtained. Atmospheric entry performance of the baseline vehicle is improved by a deceleration skirt and transpiration cooling system which significantly reduce TPS (Thermal Protection System) and flight battery mass. The use of the vehicle is also attractive in that the maturity of the flight systems make it cost-competitive with the development of a conventional low L/D entry system. Finally, the potential application of similar vehicles to other planetary missions is discussed.
Phasic stimuli evoke precisely timed spikes in intermittently discharging mitral cells.

Mitral cells, the principal cells of the olfactory bulb, respond to sensory stimulation with precisely timed patterns of action potentials. By contrast, the same neurons generate intermittent spike...
Multiscale Templating of Siloxane Gels via Polymerization-Induced Phase Separation†

By combining the micellar templating in nanometer-scale with the polymerization-induced phase separation in micrometer-scale, we can synthesize monolithic silica or silsesquioxane gel materials with hierarchical well-defined macropores and shape-controlled mesopores. Depending on the mechanism of enhancing micellar-templating of siloxane oligomers, macroframeworks containing long-range-ordered cylindrical mesopores with different degrees of order have been produced. Alkylene-bridged silicon alkoxides can also be prepared into similarly hierarchical porous structures with broadened variations in framework morphology. These examples demonstrate the versatility of using phase-separation in micellar-templated gelling systems to obtain well-defined macroporous structures.
Further Consideration of Viscoelastic Two Glass Transition Behavior of Nanoparticle-Filled Polymers

Tsagaropoulos and Eisenberg [Macromolecules 1995, 28, 396; Macromolecules 1995, 28, 6067] reported a second loss tangent (tan δ) peak in temperature-dependent viscoelastic data for various un-cross...
Randomization Modeling to Ascertain Clustering Patterns of Human Papillomavirus Types Detected in Cervicovaginal Samples in the United States

Detection of multiple human papillomavirus (HPV) types in the genital tract is common. Associations among HPV types may impact HPV vaccination modeling and type replacement. The objectives were to determine the distribution of concurrent HPV type infections in cervicovaginal samples and examine type-specific associations. We analyzed HPV genotyping results from 32,245 cervicovaginal specimens collected from women aged 11 to 83 years in the United States from 2001 through 2011. Statistical power was enhanced by combining 6 separate studies. Expected concurrent infection frequencies from a series of permutation models, each with increasing fidelity to the real data, were compared with the observed data. Statistics were computed based on the distributional properties of the randomized data. Concurrent detection occurred more than expected with 0 or ≥3 HPV types and less than expected with 1 and 2 types. Some women bear a disproportionate burden of the HPV type prevalence. Type associations were observed that exceeded multiple hypothesis corrected significance. Multiple HPV types were detected more frequently than expected by chance and associations among particular HPV types were detected. However vaccine-targeted types were not specifically affected, supporting the expectation that current bivalent/quadrivalent HPV vaccination will not result in type replacement with other high-risk types.
Nonlinear Stability of Thermoelastic Sliding Contact

A model for sliding contact of a thermoelastic rod is considered and is subjected to a multiple scales analysis to uncover its nonlinear behavior near a neutrally stable state. The analysis reveals a combination of the contact resistance and frictional intensity that describes the generic unfolding of this critical state and its associated bifurcations. In particular, the system can describe how two equilibria coalesce in a saddle-node bifurcation and generalizes stability criteria that have been presented previously in the literature for this model. Moreover, this analysis describes the role of the initial deformation of the rod on its long-term dynamical behavior.
Gambling as self-presentation

One of the attractions of gambling is the opportunity to present to oneself and to others a desired identity. Thus, a consideration of gambling as a type of self-presentation can contribute to our understanding of how and why people gamble. In this paper a self-presentational view of gambling is outlined in terms of both general identities and specific situated identities. Relevant literature is reviewed and interpreted in terms of self-presentation and preliminary data are reported.
From synapse to gene product: Prolonged expression of c-fos induced by a single microinjection of carbachol in the pontomesencephalic tegmentum

It is not known how the brain modifies its regulatory systems in response to the application of a drug, especially over the long term of weeks and months. We have developed a model system approach to this question by manipulating cholinergic cell groups of the laterodorsal and pedunculopontine tegmental (LDT/PPT) nuclei in the pontomesencephalic tegmentum (PMT), which are known to be actively involved in the timing and quantity of rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. In a freely moving feline model, a single microinjection of the cholinergic agonist carbachol conjugated to a latex nanosphere delivery system into the caudolateral PMT elicits a long-term enhancement of one distinguishing phasic event of REM sleep, ponto-geniculo-occipital (PGO) waves, lasting 5 days but without any significant change in REM sleep or other behavioral state. Here, we test the hypothesis that cholinergic activation within the caudolateral PMT alters the postsynaptic excitability of the PGO network, stimulating the prolonged expression of c-fos that underlies this long-term PGO enhancement (LTPE) effect. Using quantitative Fos immunohistochemistry, we found that the number of Fos-immunoreactive (Fos-IR) neurons surrounding the caudolateral PMT injection site decreased sharply by postcarbachol day 03, while the number of Fos-IR neurons in the more rostral LDT/PPT increased >30-fold and remained at a high level following the course of LTPE. These results demonstrate a sustained c-fos expression in response to pharmacological stimulation of the brain and suggest that carbachol's acute effects induce LTPE via cholinergic receptors, with subsequent transsynaptic activation of the LDT/PPT maintaining the LTPE effect.
New Method for Determining the Quality Factor and Resonance Frequency of Superconducting Micro-Resonators from Sonnet Simulations

Lithographed superconducting microwave resonators (micro-resonators) are useful in a number of important applications, including microwave kinetic inductance detectors (Day et al., Nature 425:817, 2003), as memory elements in quantum information circuits, and as readouts of qubits and nanomechanical resonators. One of the major tasks in designing these devices is to find the resonance frequency (f $$_{r}$$ ) and quality factor (Q) for these microwave circuits using EM simulation software such as Sonnet. The traditional method iteratively runs simulations over successively smaller frequency ranges. In this way the simulated transmission S $$_{21}$$ data is zoomed in on to yield a well-sampled resonance curve of a circuit. Designing microwave resonators in this manner is often time consuming since it requires many simulation runs. In this work, we show a new—and much faster—method for determining f $$_r$$ and Q by adding an internal (virtual) port in the Sonnet model and examining the input impedance through the added port. Accurate f $$_r$$ and Q values can be retrieved from a single simulation with a wide frequency sweep. This method works on many types of resonance circuits and dramatically reduces the simulation time.
Liquid-crystalline poly(azomethine)s: 1. Thermodynamic properties

Abstract A new series of liquid-crystalline poly(azomethine)s (PAMEs), containing different numbers n of ethylene glycol flexible spacers, has been studied. It has been observed that, after crystal melting, all specimens show nematic liquid-crystalline phases before they reach their isotropic melts. The polymers can form single liquid-crystalline glassy phases after quenching ( n = 1) or on cooling ( n = 2, 3 and 4). The heat capacities of the polymers in solids, nematic liquid crystals and isotropic melts have been measured in the temperature range 230–620 K. Calculations of the solid heat capacities of the polymers have been carried out based on their vibrational spectra. The liquid-crystalline glass transitions of the polymers have been investigated. Pre-glass transitions of the PAMEs have been distinguished in lower-temperature regions, and they are attributed to the contributions of flexible spacers. Broadness of the semicrystalline PAMEs in the glass transition regions is reported. Hysteresis effects of PAMEs show a dependence on the number of flexible spacers. Both transitions from rigid crystals to nematic liquid crystals and from nematic liquid crystals to isotropic melts were studied. The enthalpy and entropy changes are discussed systematically.
Preparation and Characterization of Hydroxyapatite Impregnated Semi‐interpenetrating Polymer Networks (IPNs) of Polyvinyl Alcohol and Poly(Acrylamide‐co‐acrylic Acid)

Abstract A semi‐interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) of poly(vinyl alcohol) and poly(acrylamide‐co‐acrylic acid) was prepared, and the formation of calcium hydroxyapatite (HAP) on/in the polymeric network was studied by a novel alternate soaking process. The prepared HAP–IPN matrix was characterized by IR, x‐ray diffraction (XRD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and scanning electron micrograph (SEM) analyses, and structural parameters of the IPN such as average molecular weight between crosslinks (M c), crosslink density (q), and number of elastically effective chains (V e) were calculated from water uptake measurements. The swelling of the IPN in phosphate and calcium solutions and the amount of HAP formed were investigated as a function of the chemical architecture of the polymeric matrix. The influence of number of reaction cycles and temperature of the swelling medium on the amount of HAP formed within the IPN were also studied.
Re-evaluation of muscle wisdom in the human adductor pollicis using physiological rates of stimulation.

Motor unit discharge rates decline by about 50 % over 60 s of a sustained maximum voluntary contraction (MVC). It has been suggested that this decline in discharge rate serves to maintain force by protecting against conduction failure and by optimizing the input to motor units as their contractile properties change. This hypothesis, known as muscle wisdom, is based in part on studies in which muscle force was shown to decline more rapidly when stimulation was maintained at a high rate than when stimulus rate was reduced over time. The stimulus rates used in those studies, however, were higher than those normally encountered during MVCs. The purpose of this study was to compare force loss under constant and declining stimulus rate conditions using rates similar to those that occur during voluntary effort. Isometric force and surface EMG signals were recorded from human adductor pollicis muscles in response to supramaximal stimuli delivered to the ulnar nerve at the elbow. Three fatigue protocols, each 60 s in duration, were carried out on separate days on each of 10 subjects: (1) continuous stimulation at 30 Hz, (2) stimulation at progressively decreasing rates from 30 to 15 Hz and (3) sustained MVC. The relative force–time integral (endurance index) was significantly smaller for the sustained MVC (0.75 ± 0.08) and decreasing stimulus rate conditions (0.76 ± 0.16) compared to the condition in which stimulus rate was maintained at 30 Hz (0.90 ± 0.13). These findings suggest that decreases in discharge rate may contribute to force decline during a sustained MVC.
Neural tuning characteristics of auditory primary afferents in the chicken embryo

Primary afferent activity was recorded from the cochlear ganglion in chicken embryos (Gallus domesticus) at 19 days of incubation (E19). The ganglion was accessed via the recessus scala tympani and impaled with glass micropipettes. Frequency tuning curves were obtained using a computerized threshold tracking procedure. Tuning curves were evaluated to determine characteristics frequencies (CFs), CF thresholds, slopes of low and high frequency flanks, and tip sharpness (Q10dB). The majority of tuning curves exhibited the typical 'V' shape described for older birds and, on average, appeared relatively mature based on mean values for CF thresholds (59.6 +/- 20.3 dBSPL) and tip sharpness (Q10dB = 5.2 +/- 3). The mean slopes of low (61.9 +/- 37 dB/octave) and high (64.6 +/- 33 dB/octave) frequency flanks although comparable were somewhat less than those reported for 21-day-old chickens. Approximately 14% of the tuning curves displayed an unusual 'saw-tooth' pattern. CFs ranged from 188 to 1623 Hz. The highest CF was well below those reported for post-hatch birds. In addition, a broader range of Q10dB values (1.2 to 16.9) may related to a greater variability in embryonic tuning curves. Overall, these data suggest that an impressive functional maturity exists in the embryo at E19. The most significant sign of immaturity was the limited expression of high frequencies. It is argued that the limited high CF in part may be due to the developing middle ear transfer function and/or to a functionally immature cochlear base.
Postictal symptoms help distinguish patients with epileptic seizures from those with non-epileptic seizures.

The aim of the study was to assess whether post-ictal symptoms can help distinguish patients who have epileptic seizures from those with non-epileptic seizures (NES). We reviewed the spontaneous responses to the question 'What symptoms do you have after a seizure?' in 16 patients with epileptic seizures (predominantly focal with secondary generalization or generalized tonic-clonic) and 23 NES patients. Six of the 16 patients (38%) vs. only one of 23 NES patients (4.3%) noted post-ictal headache (P = 0.008). Nine epilepsy patients (56%) vs. three NES patients (13%) reported post-ictal fatigue (P = 0.004). Confusion or other symptoms did not distinguish epilepsy patients from those with NES. All epilepsy patients had at least one post-ictal symptom while 12 NES patients (52%) had none (P = 0.001). Therefore, patients evaluated for epileptic vs. non-epileptic seizures who have post-ictal fatigue or headache, are more likely to have epileptic seizures. Patients with a diagnosis of NES who note post-ictal fatigue or headache should be investigated further.
JAK inhibitors suppress t(8;21) fusion protein-induced leukemia

Oncogenic mutations in components of the JAK/STAT pathway, including those in cytokine receptors and JAKs, lead to increased activity of downstream signaling and are frequently found in leukemia and other hematological disorders. Thus, small-molecule inhibitors of this pathway have been the focus of targeted therapy in these hematological diseases. We previously showed that t(8;21) fusion protein acute myeloid leukemia (AML)1–ETO and its alternatively spliced variant AML1–ETO9a (AE9a) enhance the JAK/STAT pathway via downregulation of CD45, a negative regulator of this pathway. To investigate the therapeutic potential of targeting JAK/STAT in t(8;21) leukemia, we examined the effects of a JAK2-selective inhibitor TG101209 and a JAK1/2-selective inhibitor INCB18424 on t(8;21) leukemia cells. TG101209 and INCB18424 inhibited proliferation and promoted apoptosis of these cells. Furthermore, TG101209 treatment in AE9a leukemia mice reduced tumor burden and significantly prolonged survival. TG101209 also significantly impaired the leukemia-initiating potential of AE9a leukemia cells in secondary recipient mice. These results demonstrate the potential therapeutic efficacy of JAK inhibitors in treating t(8;21) AML.
Responses of white-tailed deer and northern bobwhite food plants to a gradient of stand-establishment intensities in pocosin pine plantations

Loblolly pine (Pinus taeda) plantations are established using various treatments to manage competing vegetation and increase pine production. Although young pine plantations historically supported early successional vegetation communities that contained abundant wildlife forage, increasing intensity of stand-establishment treatments, particularly herbicides, has caused concern regarding potential effects on composition, availability, and quality of wildlife forage within young pine plantations. Few long-term studies have described relationships between intensity of site preparation and effects on important forage plants for 2 economically and ecologically important game species: white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) and northern bobwhite (Colinus virginianus). Therefore, we examined effects of 6 treatments of increasing stand-establishment intensity via combinations of mechanical and chemical site preparation with herbaceous weed-control on deer and bobwhite food plants from 1 year to 8 years after site preparation in loblolly pine plantations (n = 6) within pocosins in the Lower Coastal Plain of North Carolina, USA, during summers of 2002–2005, 2007–2009. Although woody and vine forage plants for deer and quail were common on all treatments, chemical site preparation resulted in long-term decreases (approx. 50% for 8 yr) in coverage of these plants. Type of mechanical site preparation–spacing and herbaceous weed-control had few effects on woody and herbaceous deer and quail food plants. Dissimilar from research in other regions, reduction in woody cover did not provide a concurrent increase in herbaceous food plants. Because of relatively poor forage quality in pocosin habitats, vegetation management practices may reduce deer and quail food quantity without increasing quality. However, because abundance of low-quality forage is high in pocosin habitats, localized forage reductions due to site-preparation techniques may not affect overall carrying capacity in these areas. © 2012 The Wildlife Society.
New Estimates of the United States–China BilateralTrade Balances☆

Abstract The United States and China have vastly different official estimates of the bilateral trade imbalance. The U.S. figures show that the United States had a merchandise trade deficit of US$68.7 billion vis-a-vis China in 1999 whereas the Chinese figures show that China had a merchandise trade surplus of only US$22.4 billion vis-a-vis the United States. There is a difference of US$46.3 billion. Which set of figures is right? It turns out that neither side is completely right. Various factors, such as f.o.b.–c.i.f. adjustments and treatments of re-exports and re-export markups, complicate the measurement of the bilateral trade balance between the United States and China. One important conclusion that emerges is that while U.S. trade statistics may be more reliable than Chinese trade statistics, even they are not completely accurate. By explicitly taking into account the aforementioned factors, the discrepancy between the adjusted U.S. and Chinese data on the bilateral trade balance in 1999 is narrowed from US$46.3 billion to US$4.8 billion, or approximately 10% of the initial figure. Our best estimate for the true U.S.–China bilateral merchandise trade balance for 1999 is US$47.8 billion, in China's favor. If we take into account the trade in services, in which the United States has traditionally enjoyed a surplus, the U.S.–China bilateral trade balance may be estimated at approximately US$45 billion in 1999. Compared with the U.S. trade deficit with Japan (over US$70 billion in 1999), the U.S.–China trade deficit, appropriately adjusted, is still significantly smaller. J. Japan. Int. Econ. , March 2001, 15 (1), pp. 102–130. Department of Economics, University of California, Santa Cruz, California 95064; and Department of Economics, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305-6072. Copyright 2001 Academic Press. Journal of Economic Literature Classification Numbers: F10, F13.
Traffic signal control using reinforcement learning and the max-plus algorithm as a coordinating strategy

This paper explores the performance of decentralized reinforcement learning agents with communication capabilities for the operation of traffic signals in an oversaturated network. An explicit coordinating mechanism is implemented as part of the reward structure of the agent using the max-plus algorithm, aiming at improving the network-wide performance. Results from a simulated network with realistic features showed that Q-learning agents could process a greater number of vehicles than optimized signal timings from state-of-practice simulation software TRANSYT7F, even under varying oversaturation conditions. The effect of adding the max-plus algorithm was limited, but towards improved performance in terms of both total throughput and reduced number of stops per vehicle. Ongoing research evaluates potential conditions where the coordination should be emphasized to further enhance results, as well as alternative implementations of the max-plus algorithm.
Understanding the specificity of web search queries

Understanding the specificity of Web search queries can help search systems better address the underlying needs of searchers and provide them relevant content. The goal of this work is to automatically determine the specificity of web search queries. Although many factors may impact the specificity of Web search queries, we investigate two factors of specificity in this research, (1) part of speech and (2) query length. We use content analysis and prior research to develop a list of nine attributes to identify query specificity. The attributes are whether a query contains a URL, a location or place name along with additional terms, compares multiple things, contains multiple distinct ideas or topics, a question that has a clear answer, request for directions, instructions or tips, a specific date and additional terms or a name and additional terms. We then apply these attributes to classify 5,115 unique queries as narrow or general. We then analyze the differences between narrow and general queries based on part of speech and query length. Our results indicate that query length and parts-of-speech usage, by themselves, can distinguish narrow and general queries. We discuss the implications of this work for search engines, marketers and users.
Optimal production of secreted protein in fed‐batch reactors

The optimal control policy for the maximization of the secreted heterologous protein in a fed-batch bioreactor was obtained using SEY2102 as a model host yeast and SUC2-s2 as a model secretory protein. A dynamic model for host cell growth, gene expression, and the secretion of expressed polypeptides was formulated. The optimal system trajectory contains multiple singular arcs that are distinct from one another. Optimal control requires transitions between these singular arcs. Optimal transitions between multiple singular arcs with bounded controls are uniquely located in observance with the Minimum Principle of Pontryagin. An iterative numerical search strategy for determining the optimal control showed successful convergence properties.
Ambiguities in helical reconstruction

Helical polymers are found throughout biology and account for a substantial fraction of the protein in a cell. These filaments are very attractive for three-dimensional reconstruction from electron micrographs due to the fact that projections of these filaments show many different views of identical subunits in identical environments. However, ambiguities exist in defining the symmetry of a helical filament when one has limited resolution, and mistakes can be made. Until one reaches a near-atomic level of resolution, there are not necessarily reality-checks that can distinguish between correct and incorrect solutions. A recent paper in eLife (Xu et al., 2014) almost certainly imposed an incorrect helical symmetry and this can be seen using filament images posted by Xu et al. A comparison between the atomic model proposed and the published three-dimensional reconstruction should have suggested that an incorrect solution was found.
Purification and Characterization of Two Highly Thermophilic Alkaline Lipases from Thermosyntropha lipolytica

Two thermostable lipases were isolated and characterized from Thermosyntropha lipolytica DSM 11003, an anaerobic, thermophilic, alkali-tolerant bacterium which grows syntrophically with methanogens on lipids such as olive oil, utilizing only the liberated fatty acid moieties but not the glycerol. Lipases LipA and LipB were purified from culture supernatants to gel electrophoretic homogeneity by ammonium sulfate precipitation and hydrophobic interaction column chromatography. The apparent molecular masses of LipA and LipB determined by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis were 50 and 57 kDa, respectively. The temperature for maximal activity of LipA and LipB was around 96°C, which is, so far as is known, the highest temperature for maximal activity among lipases, and the pH optima for growth determined at 25°C (pH25°C optima) were 9.4 and 9.6, respectively. LipA and LipB at 100°C and pH25°C 8.0 retained 50% activity after 6 and 2 h of incubation, respectively. Both enzymes exhibited high activity with long-chain fatty acid glycerides, yielding maximum activity with trioleate (C18:1) and, among the p-nitrophenyl esters, with p-nitrophenyl laurate. Hydrolysis of glycerol ester bonds occurred at positions 1 and 3. The activities of both lipases were totally inhibited by 10 mM phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride and 10 mM EDTA. Metal analysis indicated that both LipA and LipB contain 1 Ca2+ and one Mn2+ ion per monomeric enzyme unit. The addition of 1 mM MnCl2 to dialyzed enzyme preparations enhanced the activities at 96°C of both LipA and LipB by threefold and increased the durations of their thermal stability at 60°C and 75°C, respectively, by 4 h.
Keeping kidneys safe: the pharmacist's role in NSAID avoidance in high-risk patients.

Abstract Objective To provide information on the role of pharmacists in nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) avoidance in high-risk patients. Summary Nonprescription analgesics such as ibuprofen and naproxen are widely used by Americans. These nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are available in large quantities in pharmacies and also in wholesale stores, gas stations, and convenience stores. In addition, more than 111 million people use prescription NSAIDs each year, including many older Americans. NSAIDs may seem innocuous, but they carry a significant risk of disrupting blood flow to the kidneys and thus precipitating acute kidney injury (AKI). Episodes of AKI can lead to costly hospitalizations and long-term consequences such as new-onset chronic kidney disease (CKD) or more rapid progression of existing CKD. Most cases of NSAID-induced AKI can be avoided by recognizing high-risk patients and counseling them on appropriate use of these medications. Community pharmacy–based NSAID counseling and education at the point of prescription dispensing or nonprescription purchase could complement and augment NSAID-induced AKI education provided by other members of the health care team to high-risk patients. Conclusion NSAID use is widespread and severely compromises effective renal perfusion in high-risk patients. The community pharmacist can play a pivotal role in NSAID avoidance education to prevent potential episodes of AKI that have long-term consequences for patients.
Bidirectional Devices for Automotive-Grade Electrostatic Discharge Applications

High bidirectional holding-voltage clamps are introduced for applications operating in harsh environments. The clamps' terminals are formed with complementary doped 3-D "T" pattern and island active regions. Transmission-line-pulsed current in the ranges of ±0.15 and ±0.39 mA/μm2 is demonstrated for ±40- and ±25-V holding-voltage clamps, respectively. The high bidirectional holding voltage is optimized without increasing spacing between the terminals of the devices, achieving a compact clamp architecture successfully codesigned with advanced transceiver circuits.
Vibrational Energy Decay of Surface Adsorbates

A more complete understanding of the involvement of vibrational energy during chemical reactions of ground electronic state molecular systems may be obtained from direct measurements of vibrational population lifetimes (T1). In particular, knowledge of the magnitude of energy relaxation rates of adsorbate vibrational modes at surfaces and at reaction temperatures should yield insight into the mechanisms and macroscopic kinetics of surface chemistry and catalysis.
A broadband van atta retrodirective array for ka-band applications

This paper reported a broadband 8x16 retrodirective array for millimeter-wave applications. The array element is a proximity-coupled dual-ring antenna with a bandwidth of 33.7% (31-42.8 GHz). The antenna is used to build a 4x4 retrodirective array as a sub-array Then the sub-arrays are assembled to form an 8x16 array. The design method of the array and the measured performances from 32 GHz to 40 GHz are presented.
Effects of induction immunosuppression regimen on acute rejection, bronchiolitis obliterans, and survival after lung transplantation

Objective Effects of daclizumab and antithymocyte globulin induction on acute rejection, bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome, and survival after lung transplantation are unknown. We hypothesized that daclizumab results in less acute rejection and bronchiolitis obliterans and better survival than antithymocyte globulin. Methods Consecutive adult lung transplants (n = 163) at the University of Virginia from January 1998 to May 2006 were reviewed. Antithymocyte globulin induction was routinely performed before January 2002 (65 patients), after which all patients received daclizumab (98 patients). Estimates of cumulative event rate of acute rejection, bronchiolitis obliterans, and death were calculated by Kaplan–Meier method and between-group differences compared by log-rank test. Cox proportional hazards models were fitted to assess treatment effects adjusted for covariates. Results Groups were similar in demographics and preoperative and intraoperative risk factors. Maintenance immunosuppression changed during the study, and mycophenolate mofetil was more commonly given to patients receiving daclizumab. By Kaplan–Meier method, daclizumab was associated with significantly less acute rejection ( P = .002), less bronchiolitis obliterans ( P = .02), and improved overall survival ( P = .04). Induction agent was highly associated with acute rejection ( P = .002), bronchiolitis obliterans ( P = .02), and mortality ( P = .05); antimetabolite agent was associated only with acute rejection ( P = .01). Adjusting for covariates, induction agent remained significantly predictive for acute rejection ( P = .02) and bronchiolitis obliterans ( P = .05), approaching significance for survival ( P = .07). Conclusion Lung transplant recipients receiving daclizumab for induction had significantly less acute rejection and bronchiolitis obliterans than those receiving antithymocyte globulin, with possibly improved survival. Improvements in acute rejection may have been confounded by the use of mycophenolate mofetil.
Effect of Postcall Fatigue on Surgical Skills Measured by a Robotic Simulator

Abstract Purpose: To examine the effect of a 24-hour call on residents' performance of a suturing task using the objective results calculated by the da Vinci Skills Simulator (Intuitive Surgical, Sunnyvale, CA). Subjects and Methods: Residents from urology and general surgery completed a single suturing skill immediately before and after a 24-hour call. Residents completed the task at least twice and were scored on three measures: time to complete the exercise, time to load the needle, and time to tie the knot. These scores were correlated with previous simulator experience, trainee level, and level of postcall fatigue. Results: Thirteen residents (four senior and nine junior) participated; six had no simulator experience. All time measures were significantly longer when residents were postcall (p<0.05). In the precall measures, previous robotic simulator experience was associated with improved time for completion of the exercise, needle loading, and knot tying (p<0.05). In the postcall measures, however,...
Compensatory mutations restore fitness during the evolution of dihydrofolate reductase

Whether a trade-off exists between robustness and evolvability is an important issue for protein evolution. Although traditional viewpoints have assumed that existing functions must be compromised by the evolution of novel activities, recent research has suggested that existing phenotypes can be robust to the evolution of novel protein functions. Enzymes that are targets of antibiotics that are competitive inhibitors must evolve decreased drug affinity while maintaining their function and sustaining growth. Utilizing a transgenic Saccharomyces cerevisiae model expressing the dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) enzyme from the malarial parasite Plasmodium falciparum, we examine the robustness of growth rate to drug-resistance mutations. We assay the growth rate and resistance of all 48 combinations of 6 DHFR point mutations associated with increased drug resistance in field isolates of the parasite. We observe no consistent relationship between growth rate and resistance phenotypes among the DHFR alleles. The three evolutionary pathways that dominate DHFR evolution show that mutations with increased resistance can compensate for initial declines in growth rate from previously acquired mutations. In other words, resistance mutations that occur later in evolutionary trajectories can compensate for the fitness consequences of earlier mutations. Our results suggest that high levels of resistance may be selected for without necessarily jeopardizing overall fitness.
Optimal Product Launch Times in a Duopoly: Balancing Life-Cycle Revenues with Product Cost

We present a model describing the demand dynamics of two new products competing for a limited target market. The demand trajectories of the two products are driven by a market saturation effect and an imitation effect reflecting the product experience of previous adopters. In this general setting, we provide analytical results for the sales trajectories and life-cycle sales of the competing products. We use these results to study the impact of launch time on overall life-cycle sales. We consider the perspective of one of the competing products and model the trade-off between the lost revenues resulting from a delayed launch and the lower unit-production costs. We find that the profit-maximizing launch time exhibits a counterintuitive behavior. In particular, we show that a firm facing a launch time delay from a competing product might benefit from accelerating its own product launch, as opposed to using the softened competitive situation to further improve its cost position. We identify conditions under w...
Robust Preconditioner for H(curl) Interface Problems

In this paper, we construct an auxiliary space preconditioner for Maxwell’s equations with interface, and generalize the HX preconditioner developed in [9] to the problem with strongly discontinuous coefficients. For the H(curl) interface problem, we show that the condition number of the HX preconditioned system is uniformly bounded with respect to the coefficients and meshsize.
One-Step Deposition of Catalyst Layers for High Temperature Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFC)

Catalyst-coated membranes (CCMs) for use in high temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) were successfully fabricated by a one-step jet-flame direct deposition process using reactive spray deposition technology (RSDT). The as-deposited catalyst layer (CL) was characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) and electrochemical measurements. Pt nanoparticles averaging 2.6 nm in diameter formed a good dispersion with a Pt content of 47.5 wt% on the carbon. The Pt/C catalyst had a specific activity and a mass activity of 277 μA/cmPt and 0.155 A/mgPt, respectively. Polybenzimidazole (PBI) was employed as the membrane, and the membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) were tested in temperatures ranging from 140◦C to 160◦C. Power densities of 375 mW/cm2 in oxygen and 135 mW/cm2 in air were achieved with a total Pt loading of 0.8 mg/cm2. © 2014 The Electrochemical Society. [DOI: 10.1149/2.045405jes] All rights reserved.
Western Ishtar Terra and Lakshmi Planum, Venus: Models of formation and evolotion

Regional geologic mapping and gravity data reveal a variety of characteristics that must be accounted for in models for the formation and evolution of Western Ishtar Terra and Lakshmi Planum, including: 1) high elevation, 2) plateau-shaped profile, 3) abnormally steep bounding slopes, 4) foredeeps, 5) polygonal outline, 6) adjacent orogenic belts, 7) volcanic plains, 8) plains emplaced synchronously with orogenic belts, 9) paterae, 10) variable topography of Lakshmi, 11) tessera-like material underlying Lakshmi, and 12) a large apparent depth of compensation. A tessera/peripheral deformation model, in which a preexisting block of tessera is the locus of convergence of adjacent thinner crust and lithosphere, underthrusting, mountain building, subsurface melting, and plateau uplift, is interpreted to account for most of the characteristics. The apparent depth of compensation is not simply explained by this model and appears to require a second, deeper mantle anomaly component, such as broad mantle upwelling or a hot spot.
General Relativistic Theory of Rotating Neutron Stars - A Review

Except in cosmology, astrophysicists are used to thinking of general relativistic effects as small (e.g., light bending, perihelion advance, red shift) and have generally left such problems to general relativists. However, the discovery of pulsars (Hewish et al., 1968) may have changed this. Not only is general relativity necessary to treat rotating neutron stars, but relativity was also partly responsible for the elimination of pulsating white dwarfs as pulsar models.
Bringing Together Local Culture and Rural Development: Findings from Ireland, Pennsylvania and Alaska

The developmental trajectories of communities are routinely explained by reference to economic history, human capital deficits, or the structure of local labour markets. The role of local culture in understanding community development or in interpreting empirical research has received less attention. We believe culture plays an important independent role in shaping community debate and action. Framing community as an interactional field emphasises the opportunities created when people who share interests come together to address local problems. Interaction and local culture are essential parts of community and community development. Appreciating community uniqueness and local culture helps in the interpretation of study data and clarifies development trajectories. Research from Ireland, Pennsylvania and Alaska illustrates the linkages between local culture and community development.
AC and DC breakdown versus thickness characteristics for rubber gloves

Experimental data for AC and DC breakdown characteristics of rubber gloves used for live-line maintenance are presented. Samples of class II, III, and IV gloves were tested (in an oil-bath vessel) to determine the AC and DC breakdown voltages V/sub B/. Sample thicknesses were measured with a micrometer. With these two sets of results, the equivalent uniform electric field strength E/sub B/ required to cause electrical breakdown (puncture) of the glove material is established. This information facilitates detailed comparative study of the electrical aspects of various classes of gloves. The breakdown field strength E/sub B/ also gives a measure of the dielectric strength of the glove material. Collected results indicate that, in general, tested gloves meet the minimum requirements imposed by existing standards. At the same time, it is observed that V/sub B/ does not vary linearly with glove material thickness (that is, E/sub B/ is not a constant parameter), indicating the conclusion that the electrical performance of rubber gloves depends not only on the material thickness, but also on other factors. The procedures can be extended to cases for which experimental data are not available and to other products and materials. >