cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Examining the impact of steric and electronic variation in N2S scorpionate ligands on the properties of zinc(II) and cadmium(II) complexes

Abstract A series of LZn(II)Br (1–4) and LCd(II)Cl complexes (9–11) has been prepared by the reaction of metal halide precursors with the lithium salts of the N2S− ligands bis(3,5-diisopropylpyrazol-1-yl)dithioacetate (L1), bis(3,5-di-tert-butylpyrazol-1-yl)dithioacetate (L2), N-phenyl-2,2-bis(3,5-diisopropylpyrazol-1-yl)thioacetamide (L3) and N-phenyl-2,2-bis(3,5-di-tert-butylpyrazol-1-yl)thioacetamide (L4). Characterization by X-ray crystallography and DOSY NMR studies indicate that LZnBr complexes 1–4 are mononuclear both in the solid state and in solution. Steric differences between ligands L1–L4 result in distortion from an ideal tetrahedral geometry for each complex, with the degree of distortion depending on the bulk of the ligand substituents. In contrast, the related complex L3CdCl was shown by X-ray crystallography to dimerize in the solid state to form the chloride-bridged five-coordinate complex [L3CdCl]2 (10). Despite 10 having a dinuclear structure in the solid state, DOSY NMR studies indicate 9–11 exist as mononuclear LCdCl species in solution. In addition, Zn(II) cyanide complexes of the form LZnCN [L = L1 (5), L3 (7), L4 (8)] have been characterized and the X-ray structure of 8 determined. Moreover, density functional theory calculations have been conducted which yield important insight into the bonding in 1–4 and 5–8 and the electronic impact of ligands L1–L4 on the zinc(II) ion and its ability to function as a Lewis acid catalyst.
Total synthesis of 5(S),12(S)- and 5(S),12(R)-dihydroxyeicosa-6(Z),8(E),14(Z)-trienoic acids, metabolites of leukotriene B4

Abstract The recently identified dihydro-leukotriene B4 metabolite 1 and its C(12)-epi analogue 2 were prepared by Wittig coupling of segments derived from 2-deoxy- D -ribose and L -glutamic acid.
Large Eddy Simulation of Compressible Flows Using a Non-Body Conformal Grid Method

Large eddy simulations of turbulent flow around complex geometries are presented. A non-body conformal grid method is developed and combined into the compressible Navier-Stokes solver. Time derivative preconditioning is used to deal with the low Mach number situation. A second-order accurate finite volume formulation is chosen and the implicit LU-SGS scheme is implemented. A localized dynamic subgrid-scale (SGS) model is used to evaluate the subgrid-scale stresses and heat fluxes. A second-order bilinear (for 2D situation) or trilinear (for 3D situation) interpolation method is employed to satisfy the no-slip boundary condition on the immersed boundary. The method is validated for flow past a circular cylinder with different Reynolds numbers. Large eddy simulation of pipe flow with high Reynolds numbers using this non-body conformal grid method is conducted and the turbulent statistics are consistent with body-fitted grid method results. Furthermore, the LES simulation results with non-body conformal grids for channel flow containing a rod bundle are presented.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
Hypothalamic mu-opioid receptors in cardiovascular control: a review.

Abstract The endogenous opioid system includes three major families of peptides [22]: dynorphins (derived from pre-proenkephalin B); endorphins (derived from pre-proopiomelanocortin) and enkephalins (derived from pre-proenkephalin A). Multiple species of opioid peptides are derived from these major precursors and many of them possess potent cardiovascular properties. Multiple forms of opioid receptors have been defined in the central nervous system. Although the relationship of these receptors to the multiple actions of the opioid systems is not well understood, some predications can be made: in vitro the dynorphin-related peptides bind preferentially to kappa-opioid receptors; the enkephalins bind preferentially to delta and μ-opioid receptors and while beta-endorphin binds to mu- and delta-, but not to kappa-opioid receptors. While little is known on the role of the opioid system in normal cardiovascular regulation, it has become clear that cardiovascular stress situations substantially modify the activity of the endogenous opioid system. This review focuses on the mu-opioid system in the hypothalamus with special emphasis on its potential role in cardiovascular control of both normal and pathophysiologic states.
Electricity generation in continuous flow microbial fuel cells (MFCs) with manganese dioxide (MnO2) cathodes

Abstract A novel cost-effective cathode catalyst, manganese dioxide (MnO 2 ) featured with a cryptomelane-type octahedral molecular sieve (OMS-2) structure, was examined in continuous flow microbial fuel cells (MFCs). Power generation and organic substrate removal efficiency of two metal ions doped OMS-2 cathodes (cobalt (Co)-OMS-2 and copper (Cu)-OMS-2) were compared with platinum (Pt) cathodes under different hydraulic retention times (HRTs) and chemical oxygen demands (CODs). The 600-h continuous flow tests showed that Cu-OMS-2 MFCs and Co-OMS-2 MFCs achieved the stable power generation of 200 ± 8 mV and 190 ± 5 mV, and were 50–60 mV higher than that of Pt MFCs. The COD removal efficiencies of Cu-OMS-2 MFCs and Co-OMS-2 MFCs were 83–87%, which were 15–19% higher than that of Pt MFCs. The power generation and COD removal efficiency increased with longer HRTs. The Cu-OMS-2 exhibited the highest power density (201 mW/m 2 ) at the COD of 1000 mg/L. However, Co-OMS-2 cathodes had the better performance than Cu-OMs-2 at high COD concentrations of 2000–4000 mg/L, with the power density of 897 mW/m 2 and COD removal efficiency of 46%. The continuous flow MFC tests demonstrated that the fast reaction rate of OMS-2 cathodes enhanced power generation and COD removal efficiency, and had a great potential to be applied in real-world wastewater treatment processes.
Toxic effects of potato sprouts and of solanine fed to pregnant rats.

SummaryPotato sprouts are shown to be toxic to pregnant rats when fed at a level of 10% of the diet. When the potato alkaloid solanine was incorporated into the diet at a level approximating the co...
Reactivity of lactate-modified nanoscale iron particles with 2,4-dinitrotoluene in soils

This paper investigates the reactivity of nanoscale iron particles (NIP) and lactate-modified NIP (LM-NIP) with 2,4-dinitrotoluene (2,4-DNT), a representative munitions contaminant, in kaolin and field sand as representative low and high permeability soils, respectively. Aluminum lactate, a green compound, was selected as the modifier based on earlier studies which showed it to be an effective dispersant for enhanced transport of NIP in soils. Kaolin and sand were spiked at concentration of 920 and 740 mg/kg of DNT. Batch experiments were conducted with NIP and LM-NIP dosages of 1, 4, 10, 20, 50, 75 and 100 g/L for 24 h. The effect of reaction time was then evaluated using NIP and LM-NIP dosages of 4 g/L for 1, 2, 4, 7, and 14 days. Higher NIP and LM-NIP dosages resulted in greater degradation of DNT in both soils. The DNT degradation ranged from 68% to 99% and 67% to 98% in kaolin and sand, respectively, with bare NIP, and it ranged from 65% to 99% and 59% to 98% in kaolin and sand, respectively with LM-NIP. The highest degradation was attained after 14 days in both soils. The reactivity of LM-NIP improved with time to levels as high as the reactivity of bare NIP.
A fully-integrated, digital, direct sequence, spread spectrum modem ASIC

Spread spectrum modulation has become very popular due to the FCC allocations in three ISM bands, e.g. 902-928 MHz. The paper describes a single ASIC which digitally implements the down conversion, matched filter, DPSK detection, and AFC functions of a demodulator as well as the differential encoding, PN spreading, and PSK modulation functions of a transmitter. This ASIC performs virtually all the functions required by a direct sequence spread spectrum modem. >
Bacteriophage T7 DNA polymerase – sequenase

An ideal DNA polymerase for chain-terminating DNA sequencing should possess the following features: (1) incorporate dideoxy- and other modified nucleotides at an efficiency similar to that of the cognate deoxynucleotides; (2) high processivity; (3) high fidelity in the absence of proofreading/exonuclease activity; and (4) production of clear and uniform signals for detection. The DNA polymerase encoded by bacteriophage T7 is naturally endowed with or can be engineered to have all these characteristics. The chemically or genetically modified enzyme (Sequenase) expedited significantly the development of DNA sequencing technology. This article reviews the history of studies on T7 DNA polymerase with emphasis on the serial key steps leading to its use in DNA sequencing. Lessons from the study and development of T7 DNA polymerase have and will continue to enlighten the characterization of novel DNA polymerases from newly discovered microbes and their modification for use in biotechnology.
A History of Fire Testing: Past, Present, and Future

This paper discusses the breakthroughs in science and engineering that have brought fire testing technology to its current state of maturity and provides insight into the possibilities for future fire test development by highlighting some areas where advancements are needed. The quest for understanding the properties of fire has been a part of the human experience since the first primitive human viewed the glow of a flame potentially 2.5 million years ago, during the Paleolithic Period. Since these early observations, humankind slowly developed the knowledge to use and understand fire. However, the initial revolution in fire testing did not begin until recently, in the 19th century, when the basic tools were developed that allowed for remote measurement of temperatures and heat flow. Discoveries such as the “thermoelectric effect” and the development of the First Law of Thermodynamics led to the creation of tools for calorimetry providing for the measurement of temperatures and heat flux. The second revolution in measuring and understanding fire occurred in the early 20th century with worldwide recognition that scientifically based fire standards were needed to protect life and property. At the same time, engineering innovation developed electromechanical equipment that could automatically record data measured from fire experiments. This advancement in data recording allowed for the detailed study of measured fire behavior. The third revolution in fire testing (measurement technology) occurred in the last half of the 20th century with the development of affordable digital data logging equipment and computers that enhanced data analysis and the development of scientifically based predictive models. Widespread use of technology and computational methods have opened the theoretical world which provides insight into the subtle features of fire dynamics and provides a means for developing a greater understanding of fire test method performance. Fire measurement technology now has the scientific and computational tools to make significant advancements in the development of fire safety standards. Use of these tools has directed attention to improvements needed in testing for structural fire endurance to enhance fire resistant structural designs. This would include, but not be limited to, advancements in testing of structural components, assemblies, and systems under realistic simulations of fire and load conditions. The objective for these new tests would be to enhance structural performance so that uncontrolled building fires result in burnout without partial or total collapse. Additionally, these fire measurement technologies would also lead to improvements in ignition resistant materials, surface flammability, fire growth, smoke, and toxic gas production that will save lives and reduce the high cost of unwanted fires.
SIMD defragmenter: efficient ILP realization on data-parallel architectures

Single-instruction multiple-data (SIMD) accelerators provide an energy-efficient platform to scale the performance of mobile systems while still retaining post-programmability. The central challenge is translating the parallel resources of the SIMD hardware into real application performance. In scientific applications, automatic vectorization techniques have proven quite effective at extracting large levels of data-level parallelism (DLP). However, vectorization is often much less effective for media applications due to low trip count loops, complex control flow, and non-uniform execution behavior. As a result, SIMD lanes remain idle due to insufficient DLP. To attack this problem, this paper proposes a new vectorization pass called SIMD Defragmenter to uncover hidden DLP that lurks below the surface in the form of instruction-level parallelism (ILP). The difficulty is managing the data packing/unpacking overhead that can easily exceed the benefits gained through SIMD execution. The SIMD degragmenter overcomes this problem by identifying groups of compatible instructions (subgraphs) that can be executed in parallel across the SIMD lanes. By SIMDizing in bulk at the subgraph level, packing/unpacking overhead is minimized. On a 16-lane SIMD processor, experimental results show that SIMD defragmentation achieves a mean 1.6x speedup over traditional loop vectorization and a 31% gain over prior research approaches for converting ILP to DLP.
Telomere Length Regulation and Telomeric Chromatin Require the Nonsense-Mediated mRNA Decay Pathway

Rap1p localization factor 4 (RLF4 )i s aSaccharomyces cerevisiae gene that was identified in a screen for mutants that affect telomere function and alter the localization of the telomere binding protein Rap1p. In rlf4 mutants, telomeric silencing is reduced and telomere DNA tracts are shorter, indicating that RLF4 is required for both the establishment and/or maintenance of telomeric chromatin and for the control of telomere length. In this paper, we demonstrate that RLF4 is allelic to NMD2/UPF2, a gene required for the nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD) pathway (Y. Cui, K. W. Hagan, S. Zhang, and S. W. Peltz, Mol. Cell. Biol. 9:423‐436, 1995, and F. He and A. Jacobson, Genes Dev. 9:437‐454, 1995). The NMD pathway, which requires Nmd2p/Rlf4p together with two other proteins, (Upf1p and Upf3p), targets nonsense messages for degradation in the cytoplasm by the exoribonuclease Xrn1p. Deletion of UPF1 and UPF3 caused telomere-associated defects like those caused by rlf4 mutations, implying that the NMD pathway, rather than an NMD-independent function of Nmd2p/Rlf4p, is required for telomere functions. In addition, telomere length regulation required Xrn1p but not Rat1p, a nuclear exoribonuclease with functional similarity to Xrn1p (A. W. Johnson, Mol. Cell. Biol. 17:6122‐6130, 1997). In contrast, telomere-associated defects were not observed in pan2, pan3 ,o rpan2 pan3 strains, which are defective in the intrinsic deadenylation-dependent decay of normal (as opposed to nonsense) mRNAs. Thus, loss of the NMD pathway specifically causes defects at telomeres, demonstrating a physiological requirement for the NMD pathway in normal cell functions. We propose a model in which the NMD pathway regulates the levels of specific mRNAs that are important for telomere functions.
On Cultural and Reproductive Success: Kipsigis Evidence

Studies testing the evolutionary biological prediction that striving for cultural goals is a proximate means of attaining high reproductive success are reviewed, and some of their problems are examined. Recent data from the Kipsigis of Kenya provide robust demonstration that wealth enhances a man's reproductive success. The evolutionary significance of correlations between cultural and reproductive success, and the additional problem of interpreting studies conducted in the rapidly changing environments of modern man, are discussed.
Effects of pressure on the dielectric properties and phase transitions of the alkali metal tantalates and niobates

The hydrostatic pressure dependences of the static dielectric constants and phase transitions of the mixed perovskite crystals KTa0.68Nb0.32O3 (KTN) and K0.5Na0.5NbO3 and of LiTaO3 and LiNbO3 were investigated. For the mixed perovskites the pressure responses are qualitatively similar to those observed earlier for pure perovskites, and they can be understood in terms of the soft mode concept of displacive ferroelectric transitions. These mixed crystals exhibit with decreasing temperature the same sequence of phase transitions as in pure KNbO3 and the isomorphous BaTiO3, namely cubic to tetragonal, to orthorhombic to rhombohedral. Their pressure-temperature phase diagrams show that the temperature ranges of stability of the tetragonal and orthorhombic phases decrease with increasing pressure and that these phases should vanish at sufficiently high pressure. The cubic paraelectric to tetragonal ferroelectric transitions in these crystals are first order but they tend towards second order with increasing pre...
A three-dimensional musculoskeletal database for the lower extremities.

Abstract A three-dimensional musculoskeletal database of the lower extremities has been developed for use in human musculoskeletal models. The locations of idealized muscle attachments on the pelvis, both femurs, both tibias and fibulas, and both feet were accurately digitized for 52 dried skeletal specimens. The mean specimen heights were 177.5 cm (male) and 166.2 cm (female) and the mean specimen age at the time of death was 48.8 yr. Statistical accumulation and scaling techniques were used to generate highly representative normative models, which were divided into groups and tested for differences based on gender and race. From the test results, the pelvis was divided into a male model (RMS=8.6 mm), a black female model (RMS=7.0 mm) and a white female model (RMS=7.3 mm). The foot was separated into black (RMS=3.7 mm) and white models (RMS=3.6 mm). Single models were used for the femur (RMS=6.5 mm) and the tibia/fibula (RMS=3.7). Containing over 12 000 anatomical landmarks digitized from 52 dried skeletons, this study represents an improvement over previous databases by an order of magnitude.
Evaluation of PCR Primers for Early Diagnosis of Cytomegalovirus Infection following Liver Transplantation

The availability of microbiologic methods that detect early replication of cytomegalovirus (CMV) posttransplantation will enhance the process of initiating preemptive antiviral therapy prior to the appearance of CMV disease. Using PCR techniques we sought to determine which region of the CMV genome present in peripheral blood leukocytes (PBLs) or serum provides the highest sensitivity for the detection of CMV posttransplantation. Blood samples were prospectively collected weekly for at least 8 weeks from a cohort of 21 consecutive liver transplant recipients not receiving anti-CMV prophylaxis. Results of PCR assays were correlated with recovery of CMV in cell cultures and histopathological findings from biopsy specimens of infected organs to assess clinical symptomatic infection. Of 148 specimens, primer pairs directed to the HindIII-X fragment region of CMV detected target DNA with a 94% sensitivity, compared to an 87% sensitivity with primer pairs directed to EcoRI fragment D, 32% sensitivity with primer pairs directed to the immediate-early antigen 1 gene (IEA1 gene), and 20% sensitivity with primer pairs directed to the major immediate-early (MIE) gene. The performance characteristics in terms of the sensitivity of primers for amplifying CMV DNA associated with symptomatic infection ranged from 100% (HindIII-X) to 20% (MIE gene); however, specificity was inversely related (HindIII-X, 45%; MIE gene, 91%) to primers directed to these gene targets. When HindIII-X and EcoRI-D primer sets were used, CMV DNA from PBLs was a more sensitive target than CMV DNA from serum for the early detection of symptomatic CMV infection (17 versus 12 days). Importantly, CMV DNA was not detected in five patients with no evidence of this viral infection. In conclusion, primers directed to the HindIII-X fragment region were the most optimal for the early detection of CMV DNA in PBLs and sera from symptomatic liver transplant recipients.
Efficiency of Human Power Production by Vertical Pumping

Mechanical efficiencies are calculated for a human doing work in a standing and stooping cycle while on a movable platform. An unsteady force is generated which does useful work in oscillating the platform on its suspension system. Such a vertical pumping motion has been proposed for a man-powered ornithopter. The theorem of virtual work provides the efficiency expression. Analog simulation reveals that square wave force exitation is more efficient than sinusoidal or triangular. Design curves show some unexpected requirements for matching man and machine, and very poor efficiency if care is not taken. Losses are due to gravity and human inability to store energy in unloading portions of the cycle. A spring-dashpot suspension allows efficiencies of up to 88% in cases involving sinusoidal exitation. If the spring force is set to zero, one obtains a maximum of 64% efficiency for harmonic exitation. Some improvement can be made by adding toe straps to the human and/or by forcing the cage in a square wave. The novel feature, making this work differ from ordinary vibration work, is the switching logic needed to distinguish loading and unloading portions of the cycle.
How Do Doctoral Candidates Learn to Be Researchers? Developing Research Training Programs in Kinesiology Departments

The preparation of doctoral candidates is a critical aspect of advancing research in kinesiology on many levels. Graduates of doctoral programs not only produce research, they also exert influence in recruiting undergraduates and master's students into doctoral programs, as well as mentor doctoral students of their own. There has been a perception that doctoral programs are focused too narrowly on research at the expense of preparing individuals for a variety of faculty roles and that this emphasis on research is problematic and can result in fragmentation and isolation. The argument in this article is that research can and should be part of a solution to provide the basis for a broader preparation for the future professorate as well as a means to further integration and collaboration that can sustain the field. The importance of experiential learning and fostering dispositions toward research as a lifelong learning process are identified as key elements in helping candidates develop research competencies.
Two models of population growth

Two simple models of the ecology of population growth are described: “exponential” growth with “r-selection,” and “logistic” growth, with “K-selection.” Various methods for estimating the parameters of these models are presented in detail, along with statistical methods of evaluation and comparison. Also briefly discussed are more complex models of population growth sometimes used by demographers and ecologists. The two simpler models of population growth are then applied, by way of illustration, to two episodes of population growth in protohistoric southwest Iran, dating from 4000–2350 B. C. Interpretation of the results and the implications for future research are then discussed. [population growth, statistical models, exponential growth, logistic growth, early Iran]
Cluster-based intelligent searching in unstructured peer-to-peer networks

Existing cluster-based searching schemes in unstructured peer-to-peer (P2P) networks employ flooding/random forwarding on connected dominating sets (CDS) of networks. There exists no upper bound on the size of CDS of a network. Both flooding and CDS hinder query efficiency. Random forwarding worsens the recall ratio. In this paper, we propose a cluster-based searching scheme that intelligently forward queries on the maximum independent sets (MIS) of networks. Our approach partitions the entire network into disjoint clusters with one clusterhead (CH) per cluster. CHs form a MIS and are connected through gateway nodes. Each node fakes one role, a CH, a gateway, or an ordinary node. A CH looks up the data for the entire cluster using data summaries of cluster members, which are represented by bloom filters. Between clusters, CHs intelligently forward queries via gateways to the best neighbor CHs that are most likely to return query results. The experimental results demonstrate that our scheme greatly improves the query efficiency without degrading the quality of the query results, compared to existing approaches.
EFFECT OF RIVER FLOW MANIPULATION ON WOLF SPIDER ASSEMBLAGES AT THREE DESERT RIPARIAN SITES

The distribution, abundance, and diversity of wolf spider (Lycosidae) assemblages were investigated via pitfall trapping at three sites near Granite Reef Dam outside Phoenix, Arizona. These three sites featured different moisture and temperature regimes due to the dam, which diverts the Salt River into an urban canal system. Site 1 was a natural riparian area above the dam along the Salt River, Site 2 was adjacent to a man-made diversion canal, and Site 3 was adjacent to the dry riverbed below the dam. Four lycosid species were found at Site 1, with Pardosa vadosa Barnes 1959 dominating. Two species each, though very few total individuals, were found at Sites 2 and 3. Simpson's index of diversity (of lycosids and of all other terrestrial arthropods) was higher for Site 1 than for Sites 2-3. Prey availability was comparable among sites, but Site 1 had significantly higher relative soil moisture levels and less extreme substrate and air temperature conditions than did Sites 2 and 3. Spider abundance at each site was independent of prey availability, but instead depended chiefly upon moisture and temperature regimes among sites. The results suggest that wolf spiders experienced a significant effect from disturbance of their habitat by the dam, and that abiotic habitat attributes such as moisture and temperature may be more important for wolf spider abundance than prey availability alone in desert riparian systems.
A bi-stable micro-machined switch employing three magnets

A new electromagnetic micro-machined switch structure is presented with two (on, off) stable states. These states can be maintained without any current in the actuating coil, thus reducing joule losses. The switch can be implemented either in silicon or using a modified high-density interconnect (HDI) process, thus providing higher voltage isolation in the off-state while providing higher current handling in the on-state. The switch structure is particularly well suited for circuit breaker and relay applications.
An Electromyographic Analysis of Quadriceps Femoris Muscle Setting and Straight Leg Raising

Physical therapists routinely advise patients to perform quadriceps femoris muscle setting or straight leg raising or both following knee surgery or trauma from knee injury. Little information exists, however, about the intensity of effort required from knee and hip musculature during the exercises. This study was designed to compare the level of electromyographic activity during maximally resisted straight leg raises with the level during quadriceps femoris muscle setting exercises for the vastus medialis, rectus femoris, gluteus medius, and biceps femoris muscles. Forty healthy young adult men and women performed randomly ordered trials of each exercise in the supine position. Electromyographic activity was recorded from surface electrodes and normalized to values derived from maximal isometric trials. Statistical analysis demonstrated significantly greater (p less than .0001) vastus medialis, biceps femoris, and gluteus medius muscle activity during quadriceps femoris muscle setting. The rectus femoris muscle was significantly more active (p less than .0001) during the straight leg raise. The study demonstrated remarkably different muscle activation levels between the exercises studied and clearly indicates that selection of the exercises needs to be based on the therapeutic objectives.
Current roles and controversies in the imaging evaluation of acute renal infection

The current roles and controversies in imaging of the kidneys for the evaluation of patients with acute renal infection are reviewed. The nomenclature used in describing the extent of the renal imaging findings in acute pyelonephritis suggested by the Society of Uroradiology to help avoid confusion in terminology in the past literature is briefly described. Computed tomography (CT) is superior to urography and renal sonography for the evaluation and management of adults with acute renal infection. [99mTc]-dimercapto succinic acid (DMSA) cortical scintigraphy is the imaging study for the evaluation of children with acute pyelonephritis investigated by some, although power Doppler ultrasound, and even CT, can be considered as a possible alternative.
Effect of Digitalis on Carotid Sinus Baroreceptor Activity

The effect of intracarotid injections of ouabain (25.0 µg) or acetylstrophanthidin (1.56 µg) on feline carotid sinus baroreceptors was evaluated using an isolated perfused carotid sinus preparation. The effects of the drugs on baroreceptor activity were determined by monitoring carotid sinus nerve activity and systemic arterial blood pressure. Administration of either drug to the isolated carotid sinus region altered the relationship between the change in carotid sinus pressure and the fall in systemic arterial blood pressure. Raising the carotid sinus pressure produced a greater depressor response when digitalis was present (-29.6 ± 3.8 mm Hg) than it did when digitalis was absent (-15.3 ± 2.6 mm Hg). Digitalis administration also resulted in a greater increase in carotid sinus nerve discharge when carotid sinus pressure was increased. At a constant carotid sinus pressure, digitalis increased the spontaneous firing of the carotid sinus nerve; the drug-induced augmentation in nerve firing was identical to that produced by raising carotid sinus pressure. These changes in baroreceptor activity in the presence of digitalis occurred without drug-induced changes in the pressure in the isolated carotid sinus region. The results demonstrate that the digitalis preparations studied can directly alter the sensitivity of baroreceptors and produce significant changes in carotid sinus nerve activity and cardiovascular function.
Prejunctional Receptors and Second Messengers for Angiotensin II in the Rabbit Iris-Ciliary Body

Angiotensin II has been shown to act prejunctionally to facilitate sympathetic nentrotransmission in various tissues including the iris-ciliary body. In the present study, we characterized the prejunctional angiotensin II receptor subtype and its signal transduction pathway in the rabbit iris-ciliary body. Angiotensin II caused concentration-dependent facilitation of electrically evoked [3H]-norepinephrine overflow from the isolated, superfused rabbit iris-ciliary body without affecting basal tritium efflux. Responses to angiotensin II were antagonized by saralasin and DuP753 but not by PD123177 indicating that prejunctional angiotensin II receptors of the AT1-subtype mediate the facilitation of evoked [3H]-norepineprhine release. The non-selective cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase inhibitor, isobutylmethyl xanthine enhanced the angiotensin II response whereas the cAMP-specific phosphodiesterase inhibitor. R0-20-1724 had no effect. In the presence of 8-bromo-cGMP, responses elicited by angiotensin II were significantly (P < 0·01) greater than that caused in the absence of 8-bromo-cGMP. In contrast, 8-bromo-cAMP had no effect on the angiotensin II-induced response. Guanylate cyclase inhibitors, methylene blue and LY83583 abolished angiotensin II-induced enhancement of [3H]-norepinephrine overflow without affecting basal tritium efflux. Taken together, these results suggest that cGMP could be involved in the angiotensin II response. Neither phospholipase C inhibitors (neomycin, 2-nitro-4-carboxyphenyl-N,N-diphenyl carbamate and phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride) nor an inhibitor of protein kinase C (staurosporine) had any significant effect on the angiotensin II response, indicating that metabolites of inositol phospholipid metabolism or activation of protein kinase C are not involved in the response to this peptide. On the basis of the pharmacological evidence presented in this study, we conclude that prejunctional AT1-receptors which are coupled to the cGMP pathway mediate angiotensin II-induced facilitation of norepinephrine release from the rabbit iris-ciliary body.
Propagation of uncertainty in rigid body attitude flows

Motivated by attitude control and attitude estimation problems for a rigid body, computational methods are proposed to propagate uncertainties in the angular velocity and the attitude. Uncertainties in the angular velocity and attitude are described in terms of ellipsoidal sets that are propagated through this nonlinear attitude flow. Computational methods are proposed, one method based on a local linearization of the attitude flow and two methods based on propagation of a small (unscented) sample selected from the initial uncertainty ellipsoid. Each of these computational methods is constructed using a Lie group variational integrator, viewed as a discretization of the attitude dynamics. Computational results are obtained that indicate: (1) the strongly nonlinear attitude flow characteristics; and (2) the limitations of each of these methods, and indeed any method, in providing effective global bounds on the nonlinear attitude flow.
Management of lip hemangiomas: Minimizing peri-oral scars

Summary Purpose Hemangiomas are the most common benign tumor of infancy, affecting females more than males. Lip hemangiomas are of particular concern because of their relatively increased risk to ulcerate during the proliferative period. Ulcerated hemangiomas of the lip can lead to increased scarring, loss of lip contour, and disfigurement. Most will require surgical correction to restore normal labial anatomy. Methods A retrospective chart review between 2004 and 2010 for surgically treated lip hemangiomas was performed. Demographic data, location of the hemangioma, age at operation, and number of operations were recorded. Two independent observers evaluated lip appearance post-operatively using 5-point scales to examine scar, symmetry, contour, and color, with 5 being excellent and 1 being poor. Results Between 2004 and 2010, eleven patients underwent surgical correction. Ten of the eleven were female. 18% (2/11) were ulcerated. One third (4/11) was in the upper lip and two-thirds (7/11) were in the lower lip. The mean age of the patients at the time of operation was 3.6 years (range, 14 months to 17 years). The average number of operations per patient was 1.6 (range, 1–3). The average scores for lip appearance after surgical correction ranged between 3.95 (good) for lip contour to 4.5 (good to excellent) for color. Conclusions Lip hemangiomas often require surgical correction. Treatment goals include restoration of normal lip contour and strategic placement of the incision. By taking advantage of the natural involution that occurs and careful planning, procedures can be staged to minimize distortion of the lip. Even lip hemangiomas that cross the vermilio-cutaneous (VC) junction can be excised and lip contour achieved without the need to extend scars beyond the VC junction.
Measurement of small capacitance variations

A technique for measuring low-frequency and low-level capacitance variations is proposed. It is based on a lock-in detection circuit with a feedback loop, containing an integrator and a modulator for zeroing the capacitance mean value. This approach provides a good signal-to-noise ratio and high sensitivity. Capacitance variations can be on the order of 100 p.p.m. of the mean value, and the frequency of the variations can be as low as 0.1 Hz. Stray capacitances and the drift due to the environmental conditions are automatically compensated. The measurement technique, experimental apparatus, and initial results are described. Small variations, about 10 fF, have been measured in the presence of 10-pF mean value. >
Unfolding Rectangle-Faced Orthostacks

We prove that rectangle-faced orthostacks, a restricted class of orthostacks, can be grid-edge unfolded without additional renement. We prove several lemmas applicable to larger classes of orthostacks, and construct an example to illustrate that our algorithm does not directly extend to more general classes of orthostacks.
Carbon black treadwear ratings from laboratory tests

Abstract It has been seen from the above survey that a few of the treadwear predictor correlations have the required accuracy to provide a satisfactory alternative to road testing of tires for the wear performance of carbon blacks, depending on requirements and circumstances. Correlations based on laboratory rubber testing of rubber mixes and tread compounds are to be preferred over those based solely on carbon black colloidal and morphological measurements. In the author's opinion, Cotten and Dannenberg's correlation of treadwear index with Angle Abrasion measurements of 30 phr compounds and heated bound rubber, and Westlinning and Wolff's correlation with rebound resilience, and the Monsanto Rheometer determination of αF are satisfactory in most instances for the prediction of the treadwear index behavior of carbon blacks.
CircInteractome: A web tool for exploring circular RNAs and their interacting proteins and microRNAs

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are widely expressed in animal cells, but their biogenesis and functions are poorly understood. CircRNAs have been shown to act as sponges for miRNAs and may also potentially sponge RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) and are thus predicted to function as robust posttranscriptional regulators of gene expression. The joint analysis of large-scale transcriptome data coupled with computational analyses represents a powerful approach to elucidate possible biological roles of ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complexes. Here, we present a new web tool, CircInteractome (circRNA interactome), for mapping RBP- and miRNA-binding sites on human circRNAs. CircInteractome searches public circRNA, miRNA, and RBP databases to provide bioinformatic analyses of binding sites on circRNAs and additionally analyzes miRNA and RBP sites on junction and junction-flanking sequences. CircInteractome also allows the user the ability to (1) identify potential circRNAs which can act as RBP sponges, (2) design junction-spanning primers for specific detection of circRNAs of interest, (3) design siRNAs for circRNA silencing, and (4) identify potential internal ribosomal entry sites (IRES). In sum, the web tool CircInteractome, freely accessible at http://circinteractome.nia.nih.gov, facilitates the analysis of circRNAs and circRNP biology.
Analysis of Airport Performance using Surface Surveillance Data: A Case Study of BOS

Detailed surface surveillance datasets from sources such as the Airport Surface Detection Equipment, Model-X (ASDE-X) have the potential to be used for analysis of airport operations, in addition to their primary purpose of enhancing safety. In this paper, we describe how airport performance characteristics such as departure queue dynamics and throughput can be analyzed using surface surveillance data. We also propose and evaluate several metrics to measure the daily operational performance of an airport, and present them for the specific case of Boston Logan International Airport.
Effects of snowmobile activity on wintering pheasants and wetland vegetation in northern Iowa marshes

Local movements of nine, female ring-necked pheasants (Phasianus colchicus) in response to snowmobile activity were monitored by radiotelemetry in a cattail (Typha spp.) marsh in northwest Iowa during February 1978. Snowmobiling was confined to six trails, each about 1120 m long and 160 m apart through a section of a large marsh used by pheasants as winter cover. No radio-equipped birds left the area traversed by snowmobile trails during snowmobile treatment, and no changes in roost-site location or daily behavior patterns were observed. Movement by a pheasant during snowmobiling \Alas detected with certainty only once in 24 instances, and in this case the bird moved toward rather than away from the trail area. In cattail marshes similar to the one studied, snowmobiling probably would have little or no effect on pheasant populations if traffic could be confined to a few, widely-spaced trails. Effects of snowmobiling on wetland vegetation also were examined from December 1976 to June 1978. No differences (f > 0.10) in densities of cattail, Carex, or bur reed (Sparganium eurycarpum) resulted from trail grooming without subsequent snowmobiling, but a 12 cm decrease (f 0.75). No difference was detected between trails with 440 snowmobile trips and
Prospects for free-electron laser operation in the extreme ultraviolet

Continued progress by several research groups is increasing the near-term prospects for free-electron laser (FEL) operation into the extreme UV and soft x-ray regions. For wavelengths longer than 1 nm, these devices hold the promise of greatly exceeding the spectral brightness of the present generation of broadly tunable synchrotron light sources.
Charter Schools, Enrollment Size, and Educational Accountability: A Preliminary Arizona Analysis

ABSTRACTMany policy analysts favor holding deficient public schools accountable: Either they should improve or else close. Hypotheses are developed which explore how school type (district, charter) and enrollment size influence these two accountability outcomes for deficient Arizona elementary campuses operating under two educational oversight regimes: No Child Left Behind (NCLB) and Arizona Leading Education through the Accountability and Results Notification System (AZLearns), a state system. Arizona data for 2003–2009 are then used to preliminarily test these hypotheses. Differing student demographics hamper a clear comparison when determining which school type best promotes school improvement, but charters appear to have a clear advantage with respect to closing.
The $300 Billion Question: How Should We Budget for Federal Lending Programs?

Student loans, mortgage guarantees, and other lending programs create special challenges for federal budgeting. Under official budget rules, these programs are projected to bring in $200 billion over the next decade. Under an alternative, favored by many analysts, they appear to lose $100 billion. That $300 billion disparity confuses policy deliberations. This report proposes a new budgeting approach, known as expected returns, that would eliminate this confusion. The report critically reviews today's budgeting approaches, identifies their flaws, and demonstrates how expected returns would improve budgeting for federal lending.
Absolute Determination of the Thermal Conductivity of Argon at Room Temperature and Pressures Up to 68 MPa.

The thermal conductivity of argon at room temperature and for pressures up to 68 MPa has been measured with a transient hot-wire technique in order to assess the accuracy of an instrument of this type. The data are presented for a nominal temperature of 300.65 K and comparison with other authors shows that our data is accurate to within ± 1 percent, and it is the most accurate set of data for pressures above 35 MPa. Experimental evidence of a thermal conductivity enhancement near the critical density for a temperature about twice the critical temperature is herein reported. The experimental data were compared with the values predicted by the hard sphere model and it has been found that the theory gives values that are about 4 percent lower than the experimental ones in the density range 0-400 kg/m3 and about 1 to 2 percent lower in the high density region 400-825 kg/m3.
Der neue Fünfzylinder-Dieselmotor von Volkswagen

Volkswagen hat einen vollig neuen, sehr kompakten Funfzylinder-Pumpeduse-TDI-Motor mit 2,5 l Hubraum entwickelt, der einen Langs- und Quereinbau auch in engen Motorraumen ermoglicht. Erstmalig in dieser Motorklasse werden sowohl Nockenwelle als auch die Nebenaggregate uber schragverzahnte Stirnrader angetrieben. Der Schwingungstilger wurde motorintern angeordnet. Aus Gewichtsgrunden wurde ein Aluminium-Zylinderkurbelgehause mit plasmagespritzter Laufschicht entwickelt, das viele Bauteilfunktionen integriert. Der Motor wird zunachst in zwei Varianten mit 96 sowie 128 kW angeboten und kommt im neuen Multivan/Transporter und Touareg zum Einsatz.
On the Guiding Principle of China's National Security Strategy

The People's Republic of China has developed its own guiding principle for national security strategy according to her specific conditions and the complicated international security environment. The principle which is characterized by active defense has served effectively the security and development of China. Although there have been significant improvements both in the security environment and Chinese ability in dealing with various national security risks in the new century, the defensive nature of Chinese position in international system still remains. This determines that China must continue to adhere to the defensiveness in substance in her security strategy. However, the connotations and extensions of active defense must evolve and adapt to the new realities and changes so as to better serve national security interest.
Representation or Construction? An Interpretation of Quantum Field Theory

In this essay,I argue that the basic entities in the causality organized hierarchy of entities that quantum field theory describes are not particles but fields.Then I move on to discuss,from the perspective of a structural realist,in what sense and to what degree this theoretical construction of fields can be taken as an objective representation of physical reality.
DBTaint: cross-application information flow tracking via databases

Information flow tracking has been an effective approach for identifying malicious input and detecting software vulnerabilities. However, most current schemes can only track data within a single application. This single-application approach means that the program must consider data from other programs as either all tainted or all untainted, inevitably causing false positives or false negatives. These schemes are insufficient for most Web services because these services include multiple applications, such as a Web application and a database application. Although system-wide information flow tracking is available, these approaches are expensive and overkill for tracking data between Web applications and databases because they fail to take advantage of database semantics. We have designed DBTaint, which provides information flow tracking in databases to enable cross-application information flow tracking. In DBTaint, we extend database datatypes to maintain and propagate taint bits on each value. We integrate Web application and database taint tracking engines by modifying the database interface, providing cross-application information flow tracking transparently to the Web application. We present two prototype implementations for Perl and Java Web services, and evaluate their effectiveness on two real-worldWeb applications, an enterprise-grade application written in Perl and a robust forum application written in Java. By taking advantage of the semantics of database operations, DBTaint has low overhead: our un-optimized prototype incurs less than 10-15% overhead in our benchmarks.