cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
“Creature Comforts”: Crafting a Common Language Across the Species Divide

Nick Park’s claymation film, “Creature Comforts” (1989), is a “mockumentary”-style interview with zoo animals in which the animals discuss how they feel about their captivity. This short film raises important questions about the boundaries between the human and animal worlds and, intriguingly, about the possibility of a common language across morphological, perceptional, experiential, and other species-specific differences. Through an innovative fusion of human and animal perspectives on (and experiences of) freedom and constraint, the film rearticulates existential questions of human being-in-the-world as questions of creaturely life, thus pointing towards a shared horizon of being for all animals beyond human exceptionalism.
Knowledge Activation in Text Comprehension and Problem Solving, Psychology of

Successful comprehension of text and the ability to solve problems requires individuals to have easy and quick access to vast amounts of information contained in long-term memory. This section discusses current bottom-up models of just the knowledge activation component of text comprehension and problem solving processes. The primary assumption is that most relevant knowledge becomes readily available through fast-acting, passive processes. In this way, large amounts of information become available without the need for slow active search mechanisms. A brief review of the history leading to the development of these models is presented as well as current findings that support these models.
Image-Guided Robotics in Minimally Invasive Therapies

Imager-compatible robots in minimally invasive therapy enable precise placement of treatment tools on targets using intraoperative imaging for planning, navigation, and guiding. Percutaneous therapies such as biopsy and ablation therapies of breast, prostate, and abdominal organs are a typical area of clinical discipline benefitting from the imager-compatible robots. The imagers to be used for imager-compatible robots are ultrasound, X-ray, CT, and MRI. Of particular scientific interest, both from clinical and engineering perspective, is MRI-compatible robot. Developing MRI-compatible robots continues to be challenging, particularly when choosing actuators, materials, and sensors, given that these are conventionally made of materials and methods not suitable for the MRI environment. In the future, the utility of MRI-compatible robots will be further illuminated and appreciated when imaging is used as a part of sensory feedback for motion control. Other emerging areas of research in MRI-compatible robot development are micro- and nanorobotics, where miniature devices are manipulated and visualized in MRI.
Racial disparities in the choice of definitive treatment for squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity.

BACKGROUND Definitive surgery is recommended for oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). The purpose of this study was to present our assessment of the disparities in treatment selection for oral cavity SCC. METHODS Non-Hispanic white and non-Hispanic black patients with oral cavity SCC were identified in the National Cancer Database (NCDB). Regression models were used to estimate relative risk (RR) of receiving surgery and absolute difference between non-Hispanic white and non-Hispanic black patients. RESULTS There were 82.3% of non-Hispanic white patients who received surgery, compared to 64.2% of non-Hispanic black patients (P < .001). The non-Hispanic black patients were less likely to receive surgery than non-Hispanic white patients (RR 0.87) with an absolute difference of 10.9%. The non-Hispanic black patients were significantly more likely to not be offered surgery (RR 1.42) and to refuse recommended surgery (RR 1.38) but not have a contraindication to surgery (RR 1.17). CONCLUSION The non-Hispanic black patients are less likely to receive or be recommended surgery for oral cavity SCC and are more likely to refuse surgery. Further study is needed to identify strategies to close this disparity.
FRESHWATER BIOLOGICAL MONITORING: KEYNOTE ADDRESS

ABSTRACT The field of biological monitoring has advanced quite rapidly in the past 20 years. However, fuller use of existing methodology is hampered by doubts in both industrial and regulatory agencies regarding both the precision of the tests and the ways in which the information will be used. Issues related to these points are listed and discussed. None are insurmountable, but most will require sound scientific judgment.
The Problem of Missing Data in LSP Aggregation

Aggregation of continuous logic variables or degrees of fuzzy membership using soft computing aggregation models assumes the availability of all input data. Unfortunately, in many applications some inputs are missing. In this paper we propose an aggregation process that tolerates missing data. The aggregation process is implemented in the context of LSP evaluation criteria. Using the proposed method the aggregators automatically reconfigure themselves so that only the available data are aggregated. The corresponding evaluation decisions can be based on incomplete data.
Body Joint Tracking in Low Resolution Video Using Region-Based Filtering

We propose a region-based body joint tracking scheme to track and estimate continuous joint locations in low resolution imagery where the estimated trajectories can be analyzed for specific gait signatures. The true transition between the joint states are of a continuous nature and specifically follows a sinusoidal trajectory. Recent state of art techniques enables us to estimate pose at each frame from which joint locations can be deduced. But these pose estimates at low resolution are often noisy and discrete and hence not suitable for further gait analysis. Our proposed 2-level region-based tracking scheme gets a good approximation to the true trajectory and obtains finer estimates. Initial joint locations are deduced from a human pose estimation algorithm and subsequent finer locations are estimated and tracked by a Kalman filter. We test the algorithm on sequences containing individuals walking outdoors and evaluate their gait using the estimated joint trajectories.
Using Mid-Semester Evaluations for Increasing Success of STEM Students: A Case-Study

Increasing persistence and graduation of post-secondary STEM students is a topic of significant focus and research, as are strategies for identifying barriers to success and intervening to bridge related gaps. In the case of underrepresented students, there are many challenges that may impact persistence in STEM majors, many of which, while manifesting as academic failure, are not directly related to academics. Thus, it is important not only to develop mechanisms for recognizing when students are in danger of failing courses, but to also establish a support structure for intervention that ascertains and addresses a variety of possible causes. This article describes a strategy for increasing student success and indicates some of the successes, some of the failures, and some of the challenges involved in conducting a mid-semester evaluation as part of a National Science Foundation Scholarships in STEM (S-STEM) project. Students for our S-STEM project were selected from juniors and seniors with significant unmet financial need primarily on the basis of academic ability with specific effort placed on supporting students from demographic groups under-represented in STEM majors.
The Value of Timing Flexibility in Restaurant Reservations

A recent paper presented and evaluated 10-integer programming models for restaurant reservations, finding that the models that pooled reservations by same-size tables were superior to models that m...
Exploratory text data analysis for quality hypothesis generation

Freestyle text data such as surveys, complaint transcripts, customer ratings, or maintenance squawks can provide critical information for quality engineering. Exploratory text data analysis (ETDA) ...
A CFD simulation of wave loads on a pile-type oscillating-water-column device

Oscillating-water-column (OWC) devices provide a practical and convenient way to convert wave energy to electricity. Wave loads on bottom-sitting WECs are important design parameters for their foundation safety. This study considers an OWC integrated into a bottom-sitting pile structure (an OWC pile). Results from three-dimensional numerical simulations are used to examine the wave loads on an OWC pile. It appears that viscous loads and lateral loads are relatively small. Both the inline and vertical wave forces and the resulting overturning moment are not sensitive to the variability in wave period, but increase with wave height. Scales suitable for the wave forces and overturning moment are proposed for estimating wave loads on the OWC pile.
Three-Stage Continuous-Time Feedback Controller Design

In this chapter, the results of two-stage continuous-time feedback controller design from Chap. 2 are extended to the three-stage feedback controller design. This facilitates control of three subsets of system state variables representing three artificial or natural subsystems of a system under consideration. The presentation follows the recent papers of Radisavljevic-Gajic and Milanovic (2016) and Radisavljevic-Gajic et al. (2017). The new technique introduces simplicity and requires only solutions of reduced-order subsystem level algebraic equations for the design of appropriate local controllers. The local feedback controllers are combined to form a global controller for the system under consideration. The technique presented facilitates designs of independent full-state feedback controllers at the subsystem levels. Different types of local controllers, for example, eigenvalue assignment, robust, optimal in some sense (L1, H2, H∞,…), observer-driven, Kalman filter-driven controllers, may be used to control different subsystems. This feature has not been available for any other known linear feedback controller design technique.
Hematopoietic transformation in the absence of MLL1/KMT2A: distinctions in target gene reactivation.

The deregulation of hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) transcriptional networks is a common theme in acute myelogenous leukemia (AML). Chromosomal translocations that alter the Mixed Lineage Leukemia 1 ...
Imaging of urinary bladder injury: the role of CT cystography

Although conventional radiographic cystography has been traditionally considered the reference standard in detecting bladder injuries, computed tomography (CT) cystography has become the initial imaging method of choice in the acute setting. CT cystography has been shown to provide comparable accuracy as conventional cystography, and can be easily performed in conjunction with trauma CT surveys in patients with suspected bladder injuries. Despite increasing enthusiasm toward CT cystography in dealing with patients with suspected bladder injuries, there is little information in this regard in the literature. This article aims to discuss the role of CT cystography in the evaluation of bladder injuries.
Brrr-illiant books

Christmas is the perfect time of year to teach children the importance of helping others and sharing. The books of Raymond Briggs are a fantastic resource for instilling children with these values ...
Gulf of Mexico Pipeline Activity Statistics and Trends

Petroleum development in the Gulf of Mexico started on the U.S. continental shelf in the mid-1930s and have gradually moved south, reaching the 1000 ft threshold in 1978, and in 2020 the deepest structure was moored in 9560 ft water depth. About 45 thousand miles of pipeline has been installed in the region, enough to circle the earth at the equator almost twice and representing more installed pipeline than any other offshore region worldwide. In this chapter, pipeline installation and decommissioning activity in the Gulf of Mexico is quantified along with active and out-of-service inventory trends for oil, gas, bulk oil, bulk gas, service, and umbilical pipelines. Two stories emerge from the aggregate statistics and time trends. Cumulative statistics are a useful indicator of activity, but instead of concentrating on the magnitudes presented, which are a snapshot at a point in time, it is better to focus on the relative differences between categories and the underlying reasons for these differences to gain insight into future trends.
Jet substructure and parton splitting: an experimental overview

Abstract It has been established that experimental jets in heavy ion collisions have less energy as compared to pp collisions on average, where the lost energy is manifested as soft particles at large angles with respect to the jet axis. It is known as jet quenching. Various experiments have reported new measurements of jet nuclear modification factor extending to large radius and low momentum, which provide unique information on how the energy is redistributed. Substructure measurements aim to study this phenomenon in a greater detail, and one can hope to unravel the underlying mechanisms from which the parton interacts with the hot QCD matter created in the collisions. In this talk, most recent results on jet substructures and jet nuclear modification factors from experiments in LHC and RHIC are summarized.
Low Density Carrier Mobility in Silicon and Gallium Arsenide by Two-Photon Time-Resolved Terahertz Spectroscopy

Below bandgap two-photon excitation of bulk silicon and gallium arsenide samples is used to evenly generate low density carriers (<1013 cm−3) throughout the entire sample thickness. Analysis of the frequency-dependent THz conductivity as a function of density allows determination of mobility at lower densities than previously examined using Hall contact measurements.
Assessment of Cyber-Security Policies in East and West Africa

The growth of the internet has propelled various innovations and socio-economic developments in Africa. However, this growth has also brought the cybercrime issue to light. Once considered a trivial matter in Africa, cybercrime has now been identified as a major barrier to development in Africa. With many African nations now aware of the issue, they have taken legislative and regulatory steps to counter the rising trend of cyber-attacks. This Research proposes the Cybersecurity Liability Index (CLI), based on additive utility function. This model is used to assess the incorporation of liability and enforcement of cyber-crime laws. A score of 0.7 was set as the threshold to be considered to have fulfilled the requirement and none of the countries considered met this requirement. Key findings suggest that all countries considered did not fully incorporate liability and enforcement within their policies and that is an issue with deterring cybercrime in Sub-Saharan Africa.
A mathematical modeling toolbox for ion channels and transporters across cell membranes

Abstract Mathematical modeling of membrane transporters and ion channels helps researchers obtain a thorough understanding of the complex regulation process between membrane transporters, estimate the changes and uncertainties of their mechanisms, and study how disorders in these procedures may cause disease. A unified mathematical framework that includes most available models for ion channels and transporters can help scientists choose the appropriate model more conveniently. In this regard, this work presents a comprehensive, up-to-date set of currently available mathematical equations for modeling ion channel and membrane transporter mechanisms. This paper aims to provide a mathematical framework for modeling molecule transport, such as nutrients, inorganic ions, drugs, and toxins, across the cell through membrane transporters and ion channels. Our purpose is to substantially save the time and resources needed to find the mathematical models available for different classes of membrane transporters and improve communication between scientists with different backgrounds interested in this field.
Reversal of direct oral anticoagulants: Highlights from the Anticoagulation Forum guideline

The 2019 guideline from the Anticoagulation Forum provides clear instructions on how to use 2 agents for reversing the effects of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs): idarucizumab for dabigatran-associated bleeding and andexanet alfa for bleeding associated with rivaroxaban and apixaban. The guideline also discusses off-label use of andexanet alfa for bleeding associated with edoxaban and betrixaban and the use of hemostatic agents such as activated prothrombin complex concentrate and 4-factor prothrombin complex concentrate. Lastly, it offers approaches for building and managing stewardship programs at the health system level.
A Generalized Kinetic Model for Compartmentalization of Organometallic Catalysis

Compartmentalization is an attractive approach to enhance catalytic activity by retaining reactive intermediates and mitigating deactivating pathways. Such a concept has been well explored in biochemical and more recently, organometallic catalysis to ensure high reaction turnovers with minimal side reactions. However, a scarcity of theoretical framework towards confined organometallic chemistry impedes a broader utility for the implementation of compartmentalization. Herein, we report a general kinetic model and offer design guidance for a compartmentalized organometallic catalytic cycle. In comparison to a non-compartmentalized catalysis, compartmentalization is quantitatively shown to prevent the unwanted intermediate deactivation, boost the corresponding reaction efficiency (𝛾), and subsequently increase catalytic turnover frequency (𝑇𝑂𝐹). The key parameter in the model is the volumetric diffusive conductance (𝐹 ) that describes catalysts’ diffusion propensity across a compartment’s boundary. Optimal values of 𝐹 for a specific organometallic chemistry are needed to achieve maximal values of 𝛾 and 𝑇𝑂𝐹. Our model suggests a tailored compartment design, including the use of nanomaterials, is needed to suit a specific organometallic catalysis. This work provides justification and design principles for further exploration into compartmentalizing organometallics to enhance catalytic performance.
Lincoln the Lawyer, Humanitarian Concerns, and the Dakota Pardons

1862 there was a short war in Minnesota initiated by some members of the Dakota (Sioux) Nation. The Dakota fought against settlers in central Minnesota, and ultimately against the Minnesota militia and U.S. Army elements. After the War was over the Army tried nearly 400 Dakota soldiers by military commissions, and sentence 303 to death. President Lincoln, acting under the militia act of 1862, refused to sign the warrants of execution for 87 percent of those sentenced to die. In the end Lincoln reprieved 265 of the condemned men. The remain 38 were eventually hanged. This even was both the largest mass hanging in American history and also the largest mass pardon of my people sentenced to death. This article – the lead article in a symposium on the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862 – explores the route Lincoln took to pardoning the vast majority of those convicted. It also explores the fairness –actually the utter unfairness – of these sham “trials” before the military commissions that often lasted no more than ten minutes.
Contributions to time varying spectrum estimation using the instantaneous power spectrum (IPS)

An examination is made of the spectral content of time-varying signals using a modified version of the instantaneous power spectrum (IPS). The pseudo-Wigner-Ville distribution (PWD) has been used extensively to display the time-varying spectral information. Potential problem associated with PWD are spectral cross terms and endpoint resolution. A modified IPS is shown to be less sensitive to these types of problems. In addition, IPS can operate with real signals sampled at the Nyquist rate. Representative test cases are provided. >
Large-scale packet classification on FPGA

Packet classification is a key network function enabling a variety of network applications, such as network security, Quality of Service (QoS) routing, and other value-added services. Routers perform packet classification based on a predefined rule set. Packet classification faces two challenges: (1) the data rate of the network traffic keeps increasing, and (2) the size of the rule sets are becoming very large. In this paper, we propose an FPGA-based packet classification engine for large rule sets. We present a decomposition-based approach, where each field of the packet header is searched separately. Then we merge the partial search results from all the fields using a merging network. Experimental results show that our design can achieve a throughput of 147 Million Packets Per Second (MPPS), while supporting upto 256K rules on a state-of-the-art FPGA. Compared to the prior works on FPGA or multi-core processors, our design demonstrates significant performance improvements.
RsaL, a Novel Repressor of Virulence Gene Expression in Pseudomonas aeruginosa

As components of a Pseudomonas aeruginosa quorum-sensing system, LasR and PAI-1 globally regulate expression of multiple virulence determinants, as well as the second P. aeruginosa quorum-sensing system. To date, no information exists on negative regulation of the quorum-sensing cascade in P. aeruginosa. Here we describe a novel gene, rsaL, which is located downstream from lasR and transcribed antisense relative to lasR. In P. aeruginosa, overexpression of rsaL results in reduced lasB expression and decreased elastase activity. With the use of a six-His protein fusion system, we demonstrate that rsaL encodes an 11-kDa protein. Direct quantitation of PAI-1 levels in cultures and studies utilizing Escherichia coli lambda lysogens carrying lacZ transcriptional fusions reveal that RsaL specifically represses transcription of the PAI-1 autoinducer synthase gene, lasI. RsaL's repressive effect on lasI and the associated decrease in elastase activity have important implications for the expression of all LasR-PAI-1-dependent virulence genes and the overall pathogenicity of P. aeruginosa.
Chemotherapy as language: Sound symbolism in cancer medication names

The concept of sound symbolism proposes that even the tiniest sounds comprising a word may suggest the qualities of the object which that word represents. Cancer-related medication names, which are likely to be charged with emotional meaning for patients, might be expected to contain such sound-symbolic associations. We analyzed the sounds in the names of 60 frequently-used cancer-related medications, focusing on the medications' trade names as well as the names (trade or generic) commonly used in the clinic. We assessed the frequency of common voiced consonants (/b/, /d/, /g/, /v/, /z/; thought to be associated with slowness and heaviness) and voiceless consonants (/p/, /t/, /k/, /f/, /s/; thought to be associated with fastness and lightness), and compared them to what would be expected in standard American English using a reference dataset. A Fisher's exact test for independence showed the chemotherapy consonantal frequencies to be significantly different from standard English (p=0.009 for trade; p<0.001 for "common usage"). For the trade names, the majority of the voiceless consonants were significantly increased compared to standard English; this effect was more pronounced with the "common usage" names (for the group, O/E=1.62; 95% CI [1.37, 1.89]). Hormonal and targeted therapy trade names showed the greatest frequency of voiceless consonants (for the group, O/E=1.76; 95% CI [1.20, 2.49]). Our results suggest that taken together, the names of chemotherapy medications contain an increased frequency of certain sounds associated with lightness, smallness and fastness. This finding raises important questions about the possible role of the names of medications in the experiences of cancer patients and providers.
Hyperoxalemia in Renal Failure and the Role of Hemoperfusion and Hemodialysis in Primary Oxalosis

Measurement of oxalate levels in 14 patients with chronic renal failure, treated by maintenance hemodialysis, revealed elevated plasma oxalate concentrations in all patients 1,075.7 ± (SEM) 253 μg/dl.
Effects of flameless catalytic infrared radiation on Sitophilus oryzae (L.) life stages

A laboratory benchtop flameless catalytic infrared emitter was evaluated against all life stages of the rice weevil, Sitophilus oryzae (L.), an insect species associated with stored wheat. The emitted infrared radiation was in the 3–7 μm range. A non-contact infrared thermometer measured grain temperatures continuously during exposures of infested wheat. Insect mortality was a function of the final grain temperature attained. In general, higher grain temperatures were attained when using 113.5 versus 227.0 g of wheat, and at 8.0 cm from the emitter versus 12.7 cm, and during a 60 s exposure versus a 45 s exposure. Complete mortality of all life stages of S. oryzae was achieved at 8.0 cm from the emitter using 113.5 g of wheat, with a 60 s exposure; the mean grain temperatures attained ranged from 108.4 to 111.8 °C. The log odds ratio tests showed that eggs (0 days old) were the least susceptible stage to infrared radiation, followed by adults within kernels (28 days old), pupae (24 days old), young larvae (7 days old), larvae that were 14–21 days old, and adults (42 days old). These data using small amounts of grain indicate infrared radiation from the flameless catalytic emitter to be a viable option for disinfesting wheat containing various life stages of S. oryzae.
The etiology of dental caries; a correlation of reports.

Abstract It is difficult to say with finality what is the most important factor in the mechanism of caries. 1. 1. The central event is due to enamel decalcification. 2. 2. Mechanical factors seem to account for lowering the carious resistance, such as enamel cracks, thickness, organic tracks, and position of the eruptive teeth. 3. 3. Protective mechanism of dentine may act through saliva or pulp. 4. 4. An environment conducive to acid-forming bacteria is offered to certain areas of the teeth. 5. 5. The carbohydrate diet plays a role in all probability altering the saliva and therefore the oral environment. 6. 6. Physiologic systemic influences may operate by way of the saliva or through pulp and dentine. 7. 7. Several people have pointed out the possibility of an unknown factor in saliva that has inhibitory effects toward Lactobacillus acidophilus in the mouth. 8. 8. Acid p H may fall low enough to cause an extremely favorable environment for the lactobacillus growth. Acid alone cannot cause caries, however. 9. 9. Fluorine content of enamel seems to be related to caries incidence. 10. 10. In general, anything tending to prevent free flow of saliva over all the oral surface or to cause uncleanliness in areas of the teeth also must increase the likelihood of caries. Ammonia nitrogen presence in saliva has a related effect toward dental caries incidence. The essential part of prevention is to raise the resistance, but it seems necessary to establish the mechanism clearly first in order to know what the enemy is, how he operates, what his life lines are, and then proceed to exterminate him by the most expedient method.
The readability of currently used surgical/procedure consent forms in the United States

Abstract Background: Informed consent forms are universally used by hospitals throughout the United States before surgery or invasive procedures. This survey was undertaken to determine the content of these forms and their ability to be understood by individuals with differing reading comprehension levels. Methods: Ten percent of all U.S. hospitals were requested to forward a copy of their current surgical/procedural informed consent form. The forms received were digitized and computer assessed for readability. In addition, each form was evaluated for a variety of items with respect to content. Results: Of the 2194 requests mailed, 681 responses were received including 616 with surgical/procedural consent forms. The mean grade level required to understand these consent forms was 12.6 (± 3.1). There was no variability in readability scores on the basis of hospital bed size. Of the 616 consent forms reviewed, 29, 146, 347, and 461 forms could be understood by individuals reading at a grade level of less than 8 and at least 8, 10, and 12 years of education, respectively. Although most required the name of the patient, physician, and procedure, the majority did not describe or provide a fill-in blank for the specific benefits, risks, and alternatives to the procedure. Conclusions: The majority of surgical/procedural informed consent forms currently used by U.S. hospitals are complex and are not easily understood by the average patient. In addition, the majority of reviewed consent forms do not list specific benefits or potential complications of the planned surgery/procedure. (Surgery 1998;123:496-503.)
Gamma-Globulin Affinity for Normal Human Tissue of the Central Nervous System

Immunofluorescent staining of the serum and cerebrospinal fluid of patients with and without neurological disease demonstrates an affinity of the gamma-globulin fraction for glial cells and myelin sheaths in normal human nervous tissue. This affinity appears to be specific for the 7S gamma-globulin fraction and is not seen with the other major protein fractions of serum and cerebrospinal fluid or with the fluorescein conjugated antisera alone.
Detection of Preclinical Parkinson Disease in At-Risk Family Members With Use of [123I]β-CIT and SPECT: An Exploratory Study

Objective To explore whether the radiloligand 2βcarboxymethoxy-3β-(4-P23I] iodophenyl) tropane ([ 1,23 1]β-CIT) and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) can detect decreased striatal uptake in at-risk relatives of patients with Parkinson disease (PD). Patients and Methods Ten PD patients, 10 at-risk first-degree relatives of PD patients, and 10 controls underwent [ 123 1]β CIT and SPECT brain imaging. Their striatal uptake ratios were compared. Results Age-adjusted specific to nonspecific striatal uptake ratios were lower in patients compared with controls and with relatives; however, ratios were similar in relatives and controls. Among relatives, ratios were consistently lower in subgroups postulated to be at higher risk for preclinical PD. Conclusion Our findings provide preliminary support that [ 123 1]β-CIT and SPECT may detect decreased striatal uptake in relatives of PD patients postulated to be at higher risk for PD.
Seafloor Mechanics North of Cape Mendocino, California

FURTHER seismological evidence on the ocean floor tectonics off northern California and Oregon has been obtained during a special study of the regional seismicity and tectonics of California and the adjacent Pacific Ocean1. This evidence makes somewhat clearer the mechanics of deformation at the complex intersection of the oceanic Mendocino–Gorda escarpments and the continental San Andreas fault and sheds light on the general question of deformation at places where spreading oceanic ridges reach continents.
Reversed Cyclic Flexural Behavior of Spiral DSAW and Single Seam ERW Steel Pipe Piles

This paper presents the findings of an investigation on the flexural performance of hollow steel pipe piles subjected to reversed cyclic loading. The testing evaluated both spirally double submerged arc welded (DSAW) and traditional longitudinal single seam electric resistance welded (ERW) pipe piles to determine the effects of the spiral welding manufacturing process on the structural performance of the pile. Some of the tests were conducted on previously driven piles to study the effects of driving stresses. The experimental results and observations indicated that the undesirable failure mode of spiral weld cracking did not control the ultimate limit state in any of the spirally welded specimens considered. Although weld fracture did occur in each spirally welded specimen, it did not develop until the specimen was subjected to large inelastic deformations and was ultimately the result of locally increased strains caused by local buckling. Each traditional single seam specimen failed in a similar manner with pile wall local buckling developing at inelastic deformation levels comparable to those of the spirally welded specimens.
Identification of Membrane Insertion Sequences of the Rabbit Gastric Cholecystokinin-A Receptor by in VitroTranslation

To determine which amino acid sequences account for transmembrane folding of G7 receptors, the membrane domain of the rabbit cholecystokinin-A (CCK-A) G-protein-coupled receptor has been investigated by in vitro transcription/translation of two types of fusion vectors containing sequences that include putative transmembrane segments. First, the seven putative transmembrane domains of the CCK-A receptor were inserted individually into pGEM vectors beginning with the cDNA encoding the first 101 (HK-M0) or 139 (HK-M1) amino acids of the α subunit of the gastric H,K-ATPase. These were separated by the cDNA for the inserted transmembrane domains from the cDNA encoding the last 177 amino acids of the β subunit of the H,K-ATPase containing five N-linked glycosylation consensus sequences (Bamberg, K., and Sachs, G. (1994) J. Biol. Chem. 269, 16909–16919). Transcription/translation of these fusion vectors in rabbit reticulocyte lysate ± dog pancreatic microsomes followed by SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis defined the presence of signal anchor sequences in HK-M0 by glycosylation and stop transfer sequences in HK-M1 by inhibition of glycosylation. Six out of the seven putative transmembrane domains had membrane insertion signals, but no membrane insertion activity was found for the H3 segment in these vectors. To test the effect of specific upstream and downstream sequences on membrane insertion, vectors were also made starting with the cDNA encoding the N terminus of the CCK-A receptor separated from the last 177 amino acids of the H,K-ATPase β subunit by cDNA encoding CCK-A receptor sequences of different lengths. In addition to transcription/translation, endoglycosidase H treatment was used to verify glycosylation when multiple bands were found in the presence of microsomes. The four positive charges in the loop between H1 and H2 were required for the correct orientation of the first transmembrane domain. The H3 segment acted as a stop transfer sequence only when the whole N terminus and H3 were followed by the positive charges in the cytoplasmic loop between H3 and H4. The activity of H6 as a signal anchor sequence depended on preceding positive charges. These translation data using two types of fusion vectors establish a seven-transmembrane folding model using only in vitrotranslation for the CCK-A receptor beginning with two signal anchor sequences and then alternating stop transfer and signal anchor insertions. Positive charges between H1 and H2, H3 and H4, and H5 and H6 function as cytoplasmic anchors in the membrane folding of this receptor.
Social disruption induced priming of CNS inflammatory response to Theiler's virus is dependent upon stress induced IL-6 release

Chronic social disruption stress (SDR) exacerbates acute and chronic phase Theiler's murine encephalomyelitis virus (TMEV) infection, a mouse model of multiple sclerosis. However, the precise mechanism by which this occurs remains unknown. The present study suggests that SDR exacerbates TMEV disease course by priming virus-induced neuroinflammation. It was demonstrated that IL-1β mRNA expression increases following acute SDR; however, IL-6 mRNA expression, but not IL-1β, is upregulated in response to chronic SDR. Furthermore, this study demonstrated SDR prior to infection increases infection related central IL-6 and IL-1β mRNA expression, and administration of IL-6 neutralizing antibody during SDR reverses this increase in neuroinflammation.
Structural transitions in crystals of native aspartate carbamoyltransferase

Abstract Screened precession x-ray photographs of crystals of native aspartate carbamoyltransferase (EC 2.1.3.2, from Escherichia coli) ligated with L-aspartate and phosphate reveal the presence of a crystal unit-cell dimension that is intermediate between the T (tense) and R (relaxed) states. Characterizing the intermediate (I) crystal is a c-axis unit-cell dimension of 149 A, halfway between the c-axis length of the T (c = 142 A) and R (c = 156 A) states, in the space group P321. Preservation of the P321 space group indicates that the intermediate crystal form retains a threefold axis of symmetry, and therefore the enzyme has at minimum a threefold axis; however, we do not know whether the molecular twofold axis is conserved. The I crystals are formed by soaking T-state crystals with L-aspartate and phosphate. By raising the concentration of L-aspartate we can further transform the I crystals, without fragmentation, to a form that has the same unit-cell dimensions as R-state crystals grown in the presence of N-(phosphonoacetyl)-L-aspartate.
Isolation of Indole-3 Carboxaldehyde from Cotton Plant Parts

Indole-3 carboxaldehyde was isolated from aqueous extracts of cotton plant parts by HPLC. It was identified by its mass spectrum which was identical to that of an authentic sample of indole-3 carboxaldehyde. A mechanism to account for the mass spectral fragmentation pattern is proposed.
From mysteries to medicines: Drug development for fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva

Introduction: Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP) is the most disabling disorder of skeletal metamorphosis in humans and leads to the formation of a second skeleton of heterotopic bone. Presently, there is no effective treatment. Areas covered: In this review, the authors discuss heterozygous activating mutations in Activin receptor A, type I/activin-like kinase 2 (ACVR1/ALK2), a bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) type I receptor that are the genetic cause of FOP and reveal a promising pharmacologic target in the BMP signaling pathway. Despite these germline mutations, episodic disease activation is induced by soft tissue injury and resultant inflammatory triggers that are dependent on responding progenitor cells and a tissue microenvironment that supports heterotopic ossification. Expert opinion: Here, we review opportunities and challenges for the development of effective therapeutics for FOP. There are many potential approaches that may eventually be used to harness FOP. The long-term treatment o...
Effects of Niacin Restriction on Sirtuin and PARP Responses to Photodamage in Human Skin

Sirtuins (SIRTs) and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerases (PARPs), NAD(+)-dependent enzymes, link cellular energy status with responses to environmental stresses. Skin is frequently exposed to the DNA damaging effects of UV irradiation, a known etiology in skin cancer. Thus, understanding the defense mechanisms in response to UV, including the role of SIRTs and PARPs, may be important in developing skin cancer prevention strategies. Here, we report expression of the seven SIRT family members in human skin. SIRTs gene expressions are progressively upregulated in A431 epidermoid carcinoma cells (SIRTs1 and 3), actinic keratoses (SIRTs 2, 3, 5, 6, and 7) and squamous cell carcinoma (SIRTs 1-7). Photodamage induces dynamic changes in SIRT expression with upregulation of both SIRT1 and SIRT4 mRNAs. Specific losses of SIRT proteins occur early after photodamage followed by accumulation later, especially for SIRT4. Niacin restriction, which decreases NAD(+), the sirtuin substrate, results in an increase in acetylated proteins, upregulation of SIRTs 2 and 4, increased inherent DNA damage, alterations in SIRT responses to photodamage, abrogation of PARP activation following photodamage, and increased sensitivity to photodamage that is completely reversed by repleting niacin. These data support the hypothesis that SIRTs and PARPs play important roles in resistance to photodamage and identify specific SIRTs that respond to photodamage and may be targets for skin cancer prevention.
Critical Comparison of Droplet Models in Homogeneous Nucleation Theory

We review the droplet models commonly used in calculations of the rate of homogeneous nucleation from the vapor. A statistical mechanical framework is used to form a common basis for comparison of the models. The asymptotic models (Capillarity, Tolman, and higher order models) and the semiphenomenological models introduced by A. Dillmann and G. E. A. Meier (1991) (J. Chem. Phys.94, 3872) are shown to be consistent with the statistical mechanical approach. The Lothe/Pound (J. Lothe and G. M. Pound (1962), J. Chem. Phys.36, 2080) formalism overcounts the degrees of freedom for a cluster and is therefore inconsistent. The self-consistency correction is shown to be an arbitrary method for handling a truncation error.
Explicit tests of palaeodrainage connections of southeastern North America and the historical biogeography of Orangethroat Darters (Percidae: Etheostoma: Ceasia)

The alteration in palaeodrainage river connections has shaped patterns of speciation, genetic diversity and the geographical distribution of the species-rich freshwater fauna of North America. The integration of ancestral range reconstruction methods and divergence time estimates provides an opportunity to infer palaeodrainage connectivity and test alternative palaeodrainage hypotheses. Members of the Orangethroat Darter clade, Ceasia, are endemic to southeastern North America and occur north and south of the Pleistocene glacial front, a distributional pattern that makes this clade of closely related species an ideal system to investigate the number and location of glacial refugia and compare alternative hypotheses regarding the proposed evolution of the Teays-Mahomet palaeodrainage. This study utilized time-calibrated mitochondrial and nuclear gene phylogenies and present-day geographical distributions to investigate hypothesized Teays-Mahomet River connections through time using a dispersal–extinction–cladogenesis (DEC) framework. Results of DEC ancestral area reconstructions indicate that the Teays-Mahomet River was a key dispersal route between disjunct highland regions connecting the Mississippi River tributaries to the Old-Ohio Drainage minimally at two separate occasions during the Pleistocene. There was a dynamic interplay between palaeodrainage connections through time and postglacial range expansion from three glacial refugia that shaped the current genetic structure and geographical distributions of the species that comprise Ceasia.
The influence of dietary fat and protein on the aging hamster: Hemoglobin, glucose, triglycerides, and serum proteins

Hamsters were fed one of three levels of casein (9, 18, and 36 g/385 Kcal) combined with one of three levels of corn oil (4.5, 9.0, and 18.0 g/385 Kcal) from 8 weeks of age. Blood samples were collected 2, 5, 11, and 17 months after animals began to receive the various diets. Whole blood hemoglobin was highest in animals fed the high-protein diets at the 5-and 11-month measurements, but also high in animals fed the medium-protein diet at the 17-month measurement. The medium-and high-fat diets resulted in the highest hemoglobin values. Serum triglycerides and plasma glucose were elevated in hamsters fed high-fat or high-protein diets at nearly every collection period. Each serum protein fraction was influenced differently by the diets. Increasing dietary fat and/or protein increased serum albumin. Serum alpha one globulin was elevated in hamsters of both sexes fed high-fat diets. In contrast, low-protein diets reduced the concentration of this fraction in males only. Beta globulins were influenced by dietary fat. At 5 and 17 months, high-fat diets elevated this fraction, but at 11 months depressed it. Gamma globulins were elevated by feeding high-fat diets to female hamsters. The age and sex of hamsters are influential in determining their responses to different diets.
Endoplasmic reticulum stress drives a regulatory phenotype in human T-cell clones

T cells alter their functional phenotype during the evolution of an immune response (intra-lineage differentiation), but the driving forces to this plastic intra-lineage differentiation are poorly understood. The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress response is a possible critical event for the initial T cell differentiation upon antigen recognition. Here we studied the relationship between ER and Il-10 transcription in human Treg clones. The induction of ER stress with a canonical stressor, thapsigargin, enhances Il-10 transcription. Salubrinal, a small molecule inhibitor of the eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2α (eIF2α) dephosphporylation, dramatically inhibits it. Il-10 transcription is also enhanced by exogenous TNFα. These results disclose a role for ER stress in driving T cell plasticity.
Pterolepis haplostemona (Melastomataceae): a new serpentine endemic from Goiás, Brazil

Pterolepis haplostemona from ultramafic outcrops in Goias, Brazil is described, illustrated, and compared with presumed relatives, all of which are also endemic to Brazil. It is distinguished by its annual habit, simple hypanthial trichomes and intercalycine emergences, haplostemonous flowers, rostrate antesepalous stamens, short pedoconnective, linear-lanceolate cauline leaf blades, calyx lobes tipped with a rigid unbranched trichome, and 3-4-locular ovary. This species and Microlicia macedoi appear to be the only known Melastomataceae that are endemic to serpentine substrates in Brazil. A conservation assessment based on IUCN criteria is also provided.
Victim's Justice in the Aftermath of Political Violence: Why Do Countries Award Reparations?†

Governments often award reparations to victims of mass human rights violations (HRVs) committed during political violence. Although international law requires that governments compensate victims of such violations, some states award reparations while others do not. This paper provides the first global analysis of the determinants of state reparations awards to victims of HRVs. Analyses consider the effects of multiple factors on reparations awards, whether a country has used other types of transitional justice mechanisms, economic development, and regime type. Spatial and rare events logit analyses on a new database for all countries between 1969 and 2006 suggest that wealthy, democratic countries as well as governments that already employ other transitional justice mechanisms are more likely to actually pay reparations to victims than are other governments.
Cure characterization of unsaturated polyester resin by fluorescence spectroscopy

A strong fluorescence emission was observed during cure of an unsaturated polyester resin containing about 30% styrene by weight. As the cure proceeded, the emission intensity at 306 nm increased. Model compound studies confirmed that the unsaturated polyester component exhibited negligible fluorescence when excited at 250 nm where styrene has strong absorption. Based on the studies of styrene/polystyrene mixtures, the fluorescence emission at 306 nm was attributed to a reduced inner-filter effect of styrene monomer. Fluorescence intensity changes following cure at 75°C were correlated to the extent of styrene conversion determined by FT-IR spectroscopy, demonstrating that the fluorescence measurement is more sensitive to styrene conversion in the later stages of cure than conventional IR measurements. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 94: 2446–2450, 2004