cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Morphological Behavior of Polystyrene‐block‐Polylactide/Polystyrene‐block‐Poly(ethylene oxide) Blends

The morphological behavior of PS-containing diblock copolymer blends is reported. Three sets of PS/PLA and PS/PEO blends are prepared and evaluated by SAXS, WAXS, DSC, and DMA. No macrophase separation is observed, and the formation of PLA/PEO composite cylinders is identified by SAXS for all compositions. The PLA and PEO segments in these blends have been found to be miscible and the crystallization of the confined PEO is suppressed in the ordered nanostructures. The domain spacing, diameter of composite cylinders, and order/disorder transition temperature could be tuned by varying the blend composition in the binary blends.
The Laplace operator with potential on the 2-sphere

where for any cotangent vector v, g(v) is the average of q over the geodesic with initial tangent vector (associated by the Riemannian metric with) v. In particular the points (1) fill out a full interval if 4 is not identically zero. In all cases except the n-sphere this holds if q is itself not identically zero; but for the n-sphere 4 is identically zero precisely when q is an odd function. These cases were taken up in [2] where it was shown that the points (1) are O(K-2) and, except in dimension 2, are o(k-2) if and only if q = 0. We shall remove the qualification “except in dimension 2.” These results were a consequence of certain properties of the “return operator” W = (l>” exp(277i(d + q)l/“) 1.
Carbon footprint of pigmeat in Flanders

Although several international carbon footprint (CF) calculation initiatives have been developed, studies that focus specifically on estimating the CF of pigmeat are rather limited. This paper describes the application of a CF methodology, based on lifecycle assessment of greenhouse gas emissions, for Flemish pigmeat production using the Publicly Available Specification methodology (PAS2050, BSI 2011), which is at present the most developed method and relevant within the agricultural and horticultural sector. Both primary and secondary data have been used to model the meat system through a chain approach. The results are reported using the functional unit of 1 kg of deboned pigmeat; they range from 4.8 to 6.4 kg CO2 eq. per kg of deboned pig meat. A sensitivity analysis has been executed on changes in herd and feed characteristics. The results have been compared to other studies on the CF of pigmeat in the EU and with CF studies on milk and beef production in Flanders. Furthermore, two major hotspots in the CF have been defined: 1) the composition and production of feed and 2) manure production and usage. It is important to mention that the CF is a good indicator for greenhouse gas emissions, but it is not an indicator for environmental impact in general. This article helps to fill the void in the CF literature that existed around pigmeat products and to define a benchmark for the CF of pigmeat.
Solvability and speed improvement in iterative processing with deterministic pseudo-inversions

Tomographic spectral imagers owe much of their development to sophisticated numerical processing. In order to reduce system size and complexity, mechanical detail has often been replaced with ever-increasing algorithm sophistication. In developing the Field Multiplexed Dispersive Imaging Spectrometer (FMDIS), the processing has been broken down into two steps; one which deconvolves the solution spatially and a second which deconvolves the solution spectrally. The first step is characterized by large inversion matrices of a few iterations (typically less than 10), while the second requires small matrices and a large number of iterations (hundreds to millions). Iterative processing has been employed due to the physical nature of the data. Inversions must be robust to moderate amounts of noise and calibration uncertainty. In this paper we present a deterministic pseudo inversion technique to replace the second iterative processing step in FMDIS datacube generation. It is shown to be within required limits of accuracy and can speed up processing by an order of magnitude or more. While not intended to replace the iterative solution technique, it provides a fast means of processing data when speed is more important than accuracy. Implementation of the solution algorithm is discussed relative to the over-all solvability of the under determined system of equations. Several results are shown from a visible instrument with 33 colors which contrast the two techniques.
Squeezed-state generation in optical bistability

Experiments to generate squeezed states of light are described for a collection of two-level atoms within a high-finesse cavity. The investigation is conducted in a regime for which the weak-field coupling of atoms to the cavity mode produces a splitting in the normal mode structure of the atom-field system that is large compared with the atomic linewidth. Reductions in photocurrent noise of 30% (-1.55 dB) below the noise level set by the vacuum state of the field are observed in a balanced homodyne detector. A degree of squeezing of approximately 50% is inferred for the field state in the absence of propagation and detection losses. The observed spectrum of squeezing extends over a very broad range of frequencies (~±75 MHz), with the frequency of best squeezing corresponding to an offset from the optical carrier given by the normal mode splitting.
Measurements of cyclic AMP and cyclic GMP phosphodiesterase activity in isolated tubular segments

The structural and functional heterogeneity of the renal tubular system is well recognized. To date however, the biochemical steps in the mechanism of action of hormones whose effects are mediated by cyclic 3',5'-AMP (cAMP) have been studied primarily in the whole kidney or in major anatomic subdivisions (cortex, medulla, and papilla) of mammalian renal tissue [1, 2]. Recently, however, Imbert, Chabardes, and Morel introduced a micromethod for the assay of adenylate cyclase activity in specific nephron segments [3, 4] and demonstrated that adenylate cyclase stimulated by vasopressin (VP), parathyroid hormone, calcitonin, or isoproterenol is limited to well-defined segments of the renal tubular system [5]. Stimulation of adenylate cyclase, although important, is only the initial step in the sequence of intracellular biochemical events leading to the ultimate functional response of the tubule to a hormone. The rate of cAMP accumulation and the intracellular cAMP concentration are dependent not only on the rate of biosynthesis but also on the rate of hydrolysis by a specific enzyme, cyclic 3',5'-AMP phosphodiesterase (cAMP-PDIE), and on the rate of efflux of cAMP from the cell [6]. Our previous studies [7] indicated that the distribution of enzymes of cAMP and cyclic 3',5'-GMP (cGMP) metabolism were different in glomeruli compared to mixed cortical tubular fractions or to cortical slices, suggesting that the catabolism of cyclic nucleotides differs in specific substructures of the nephron.
EVALUATION OF ERYTHROCYTE RIBOFLAVIN IN LOW BIRTHWEIGHT INFANTS: RELATIONSHIP TO MODE OF NUTRITION

Riboflavin requirements for total parenteral nutrition (TPN) regimens have not been adequately determined. We investigated the riboflavin status of low-birthweight infants maintained by TPN formulation which provided 4 mg/day of riboflavin to each infant compared to that of infants fed orally on formula containing 1.0 to 5.0 mg riboflavin/liter. 15 newborn infants (birthweight 570-2350 grams) had baseline blood samples drawn prior to TPN or formula feeding. The patients had second blood samples drawn after they had been fed either orally (n=7) or by TPN (n=8) for at least 7 days. None of the 15 infants showed abnormal riboflavin status and the range established for these low-birthweight infants (AC 0.86-1.19) corresponds to that established for healthy full-term newborns(0.9-1.2). (Proc. Soc. Exp. Biol. Med 143:326, 1973). From this pilot study, it appears that 4 mg/day of riboflavin provided to low-birthweight infants in a TPN solution maintains riboflavin status during the time period studied (7 days).
Organic chelation of cadmium using DI-PDMS : a bioconvective test for protective effects

Abstract Cadmium is a major industrial effluent and the cause of itai‐itai disease. As a biological detector for cadmium toxicity, an assay using the motile response of the protozoa species, Tetrahymena pyriformis, has been described. The assay relies on macroscopic bioconvective patterns to score the toxic response, giving a sensitivity better than 1 μM and a toxicity threshold to 5 ( μM for Cd+2. Using pattern formation as the toxicity monitor, the organic chelating agent D/‐PDMS is investigated individually for toxic effects at low dosages (without cadmium) and for poison protection directly (with cadmium). Dosages of 0.1–0.5 μM Di‐PDMS show protective chelation of cadmium and enhance pattern formation capabilities for 1 μM Cd+2.
Isopentenyl diphosphate is the terminal product of the deoxyxylulose-5-phosphate pathway for terpenoid biosynthesis in plants

Abstract Secretory cells specialized for monoterpene biosynthesis via the deoxyxylulose-5-phosphate pathway for terpenoid biosynthesis were isolated from peppermint ( Mentha piperita ) leaves and used to identify the terminal metabolite of this novel pathway. Incorporation of both [ 13 C]- and [ 14 C]pyruvic acid into monoterpenes in the presence of 2-(dimethylamino)ethyl diphosphate, an inhibitor of isopentenyl diphosphate isomerase, results in accumulation of isopentenyl diphosphate, and not dimethylallyl diphosphate.
Spatial and Temporal Localization of FGF-2 and VEGF in Healing Tooth Extraction Sockets in a Rabbit Model

Purpose The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that spatial and temporal localization of growth factors FGF-2 and VEGF in a rabbit tooth extraction socket model correlate with the histologic events of healing. Materials and Methods Twenty-four male New Zealand white rabbits divided into 8 groups of 3 were used in the study. Incisor teeth were extracted from both jaws and the healing extraction socket with surrounding jaw bone was harvested at 48 hours, 4 days, 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, and 16 weeks. Tissues were fixed, decalcified, and processed for hematoxylin-eosin and immunohistochemical staining. The sections were stained to detect FGF-2 and VEGF. The stained sections were then imaged and an automated computer program was used to detect the brown diaminobenzidine stain that represented the growth factors of interest. Data was obtained in the form of percentage area and intensity of stain and analyzed using the analysis of variance (ANOVA - Tukey Kramer and Scheffe’s post-test). Results Spatial and temporal differences in localization of FGF-2 and VEGF were observed across all time frames in both jaws. Statistically significant differences in percentage area and intensity of brown diaminobenzidine stain were seen temporally between FGF-2 and VEGF (P Conclusion The results of this study showed positive correlation of histologic events to spatial and temporal localization of FGF-2 and VEGF in a rabbit tooth extraction model.
Electrorheology : mechanisms and models

Abstract Electrorheological (ER) suspensions, typically composed of nonconducting or weakly conducting particles dispersed in an insulating liquid, undergo dramatic, reversible changes when exposed to an external electric field. Apparent suspension viscosities can increase several orders of magnitude for electric field strengths of the order of 1 kV mm −1 , with simultaneous ordering of the microstructure into particulate columns. While this electronic control of momentum transport and structure has many applications, development is severely inhibited by a lack of suitable materials and an incomplete understanding of the underlying mechanisms. This review focuses on the current understanding of the microscopic phenomena believed to control ER and the models used to describe macroscopic behavior. Particular emphasis is placed upon comparing model predictions with experimental observations, relating macroscopic behavior to microscopic mechanisms, and demonstrating the utility of mechanistic models for furthering our understanding of electrorheology.
Decreased incidence of spontaneous mammary gland neoplasms in female F344 rats treated with amphetamine, methylphenidate, or codeine

Three drugs that affect the neuroendocrine system (amphetamine, methylphenidate, and codeine) caused decreases in body weights and in the incidence of spontaneously occurring mammary gland neoplasms in the female F344/N rat in 2-year carcinogenicity studies. Using a mathematical model that relates body weight changes to the incidence of mammary gland neoplasms, we find that the decrease in mammary gland tumors seen in female rats cannot be fully explained by body weight decreases relative to control animals. Further, the observed decreases in body weight in treated female rats were not a function of differences in feed consumption between treated and control groups. These pharmaceuticals are thought to affect the biologic system through interaction with membrane receptors. This interaction and/or subsequent cell signaling events may play a role in the observed decrease in spontaneously occurring mammary gland neoplasms in the female rat treated with amphetamine, methylphenidate, or codeine.
Stability characteristics of Coe virus.

SummaryCoe virus dissociates from infected cells, but 25% to 50% of virus is still intracellular at time of maximum cytopathic effect. The virus was relatively stable when exposed to repeated freezing and thawing, and to storage at −70°C, 4°C, and room temperature. At 37°C, 90% of the virus was inactivated within 3 days, and less than 1% of particles were infectious after 20 days. Coe virus is rapidly inactivated at 50°C, but a few particles survive 30 minutes at this temperature. Coe virus is ether resistant and resistant to inactivation at pH 6 to 9.The excellent technical assistance of Eleanor Sturgill is gratefully acknowledged.
Problems with the dissemination of up-to-date information on the results of endograft repair for abdominal aortic aneurysm.

The article entitled “Periprosthetic leak and rupture after endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm: The significance of device design for long-term results” by Krohg-Sorensen et al and the invited commentary by Zarins in this issue bring up a serious concern regarding endograft repair of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA)—namely, the problem of obtaining up-to-date and complete information on the performance of the devices that are undergoing clinical trial. Of particular concern is that a major part of this problem may be related to the control of trial data by industry. The delay between completion of a study, analy
Morphology and Composition of an Ordovician Vadose Cement

ALTHOUGH there has been a “virtual revolution”1 in our interest in carbonate cements and justifiably so, very little has actually been documented about cementation environments. Studies of peritodal Pleistocene cements have been hampered by geologically recent fluctuations in sea level and it has been difficult to relate these nearshore cements to either marine or subaerial conditions, not to mention the dividing of the latter into vadose and phreatic environments. It was earlier concluded from studies of Holocene cements that the product of marine cementation is aragonite and the product of subaerial cementation is calcite2. Many modern marine cements are, however, proving to be magnesium calcite3,4, so mineralogy is no longer believed to be such a specific environmental indicator. As a criterion for interpreting ancient cements, mineralogy is especially limited because both aragonite and magnesium calcite convert to calcite relatively early in the history of sedimentary rocks.
On the Uniqueness of a Spherically Symmetric Speed of Sound from Transmission Eigenvalues

Abstract Consider the inverse acoustic scattering problem for spherically symmetric inhomogeneity of compact support. Define the corresponding homogeneous and inhomogeneous interior transmission problems. We study the subset of transmission eigenvalues corresponding to spherically symmetric eigenfunctions of the homogeneous interior transmission problem. These transmission eigenvalues are shown to be zeros of the scattering amplitude and also the set of eigenvalues of a special Sturm-Liouville problem. A uniqueness theorem for the potential of the derived Sturm Liouville problem is proved when the data are the given spectra and partial knowledge of the potential. A corollary of this theorem is a uniqueness theorem for the original inverse acoustic scattering problem.
What puts the how in where? Tool use and the divided visual streams hypothesis.

Abstract An influential theory suggests that the dorsal (occipito-parietal) visual stream computes representations of objects for purposes of guiding actions (determining ‘how’) independently of ventral (occipito-temporal) stream processes supporting object recognition and semantic processing (determining ‘what’). Yet, the ability of the dorsal stream alone to account for one of the most common forms of human action, tool use, is limited. While experience-dependent modifications to existing dorsal stream representations may explain simple tool use behaviors (e.g., using sticks to extend reach) found among a variety of species, skillful use of manipulable artifacts (e.g., cups, hammers, pencils) requires in addition access to semantic representations of objects' functions and uses. Functional neuroimaging suggests that this latter information is represented in a left-lateralized network of temporal, frontal and parietal areas. I submit that the well-established dominance of the human left hemisphere in the representation of familiar skills stems from the ability for this acquired knowledge to influence the organization of actions within the dorsal pathway.
Borrowers from a different shore: Asian outcomes in the U.S. mortgage market

Abstract Even though Asians are now the largest minority group participating in United States mortgage markets, research on differences in underwriting and pricing outcomes in mortgages typically focuses on the outcomes of African American and Hispanic borrowers. One explanation for the lack of attention on Asian outcomes follows from the perceived relative economic prosperity of this minority group, which may lead to the belief that they are less in need of consumer protection or policy support. While simple group averages of economic characteristics support this belief, documented heterogeneity of Asian experiences suggests that the use of other measures may be needed to account for the varied outcomes of Asians in the U.S. housing markets. Using a unique proprietary source of lender data, we examine these Asian outcomes. We find that Asians face challenges in mortgage markets in ways that may be unique as compared to other minority groups. For example, while an examination of unadjusted average denial rates indicates favorable outcomes for Asians compared to other minority groups, we find that after accounting for loan and borrower characteristics, Asians have denial rates as high as other minority groups.
Effects of the incontinence dish pessary on urethral support and urodynamic parameters

Objective To evaluate the effects of the incontinence dish pessary (IDP) on urethral mobility and urodynamics. Study Design Prospective study of women with symptoms of stress incontinence. Q-tip test was performed recording the resting and straining angles with and without an IDP. Changes in resting and straining angles were calculated. Those with evidence of urodynamic stress incontinence had urodynamics with the IDP. Paired t-test was used to compare the difference in Q-tip angles with and without the pessary. Results Mean Q-tip straining angle without and with the pessary, respectively, was 57.8 (+19.5) and 34.4 (+29.7). Mean change was 23.5 (+18.5) P 2 0 P Conclusion The IDP eliminates >60% of USI. The mechanism of action may be a combination of improved UVJ support and increased MUCP.
Protein targets of oxidized phospholipids in endothelial cells

Oxidation products of 1-palmitoyl-2-arachidonoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphatidylcholine (Ox-PAPC) are found in atherosclerotic lesions, apoptotic cells, and oxidized LDL and stimulate human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs) to produce inflammatory cytokines, leukocyte chemoattractants, and coagulation factors. This regulation is thought to be a receptor-mediated process in which oxidized phospholipids activate specific receptors on HAECs to evoke an inflammatory response. To characterize the HAEC proteins with which oxidized phospholipids interact, a biotinylated PAPC analog, 1-palmitoyl-2-arachidonoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphatidyl-(N-biotinylethanolamine) (PAPE-N-biotin), was synthesized. Oxidation of PAPE-N-biotin in air generated a mixture of biotin-labeled oxidized lipids analogous to Ox-PAPC. Ox-PAPE-N-biotin, like Ox-PAPC, induced interleukin-8 (IL-8) protein synthesis and stimulated IL-8, low density lipoprotein receptor, heme oxygenase-1, and activating transcription factor-3 mRNA expression in HAECs. After treatment of HAECs with Ox-PAPE-N-biotin, the cellular proteins were isolated and separated by SDS-PAGE. Western analysis with streptavidin-HRP demonstrated at least 20 different biotinylated HAEC proteins to which the Ox-PAPE-N-biotin was associated, which were not detected with unoxidized PAPE-N-biotin treatment. This work suggests that oxidized phospholipids, such as those found in oxidized LDL, apoptotic cells, and atherosclerotic lesions, form tight interactions with specific endothelial cell proteins, which may be responsible for the inflammatory response. Identification of these putative oxidized phospholipid targets may reveal therapeutic targets to modulate inflammation and atherosclerosis.
Models arising from a flexible manufacturing machine, Part I: minimization of the number of tool switches

This paper considers a job scheduling problem for a flexible manufacturing machine. This problem arises in the metal working industry when numerical controlled N/C machines are used to manufacture parts jobs. Assume that each of N jobs must be processed on a machine that has positions for C tools, but no job requires more than C tools. If the requisite tools are not on the machine, then one or more tool switches must occur before the job can be processed. The problem consists of finding the sequence in which to process the jobs and the tools to place on the machine before each job is processed. This paper considers one performance criterion: minimize the total number of tool switches. This criterion is adequate for situations where the tool switching time is proportional to the number of tool switches. In our model, we assume that the time needed to switch tools is significant relative to the job processing time. A feasible solution is in "equilibrium" if better performance cannot be attained by changing either the job sequence or the tool placement specified by the solution unilaterally. Procedures that find an equilibrium are presented in this paper.
The dynamical image potential for tunneling electrons

Abstract The exchange-correlation (XC) potential (image potential) felt by an electron tunneling from a metal through a classically forbidden region into vacuum is calculated by a Green's function technique. The resulting XC-potential reduces to the classical image potential if x, where x 2 m ω s κ and κ = {2 m ( V −ω)} 1 2 , is large. For small x dynamical corrections to the classical result become important.
Composition options for tissue-engineered bone.

The logical assembly of tissue-engineered bone is ultimately directed by the clinical status of the patient. The basic elements for tissue-engineered bone should include signaling molecules, cells,...
Electron Optics Design and Performance of a New Large-Format Two-Frame Framing Tube

We have developed a framing tube with 80-mm photocathode for capturing two frames in less than 100-ns onto a 50-mm phosphor screen. A proven electron optics trajectory code was used to design the tube for imaging fidelity over wide dynamic range. This code's full accounting of space charge effects is essential for its ability to simulate accurately the distributed photoelectronic trajectories from the entire large photocathode area. Our approach and guideline for designing the electron optics are described. Results of trajectory simulation and test measurement are reported. Substantial correlations between the code expectation and the measured results are observed on relative resolution and distortion of the frame images. This tube has been integrated into an active framing camera system for field application.
Amplitude-Integrated Electroencephalography in the NICU: Frequent Artifacts in Premature Infants May Limit Its Utility as a Monitoring Device

BACKGROUND. Amplitude-integrated electroencephalography has become an important tool for assessing cortical status noninvasively. Newer units have the additional feature of visualizing the raw electroencephalogram, which has resulted in the identification of frequent artifacts. OBJECTIVE. To highlight the problem of artifacts and to introduce caution when using the amplitude-integrated electroencephalography technique to assess cortical function in the premature population. METHODS. Ten premature infants were evaluated. Compressed amplitude-integrated electroencephalography recordings were made by using a pair of standard electroencephalogram electrodes attached to the scalp frontotemporal areas. Impedance was maintained at RESULTS. Forty-eight amplitude-integrated electroencephalography recordings were reviewed. Of 1683 total segments analyzed, 529 (31.4%) were categorized as normal brain waves, 1013 (60.2%) as artifacts, and 142 (8.4%) as indeterminate. Generally, when the amplitude-integrated electroencephalography tracing is of modest amplitude, normal brain waves predominated, whereas with upward spikes in amplitude the accompanying raw electroencephalogram was classified as artifact. CONCLUSIONS. Artifacts contribute substantially to the amplitude-integrated electroencephalography tracing, rendering it problematic as an assessment tool in premature infants. Artifacts may be influenced by muscle activity, electrode positioning, and application techniques. Caution is recommended when using amplitude-integrated electroencephalography as an assessment tool in this population.
Directed hydroxyl radical probing of 16S rRNA in the ribosome: spatial proximity of RNA elements of the 3' and 5' domains.

We have shown previously that directed hydroxyl radical probing of 16S rRNA from Fe(II) tethered to specific sites within the RNA gives valuable information about RNA‐RNA proximities in 70S ribosomes. Here, we extend that study and present probing data from nt 424 in 16S rRNA. To tether an Fe(II) to position 424 in the rRNA we created a specific discontinuity in the RNA by in vitro transcription of the RNA as two separate fragments corresponding to nt 1‐423 and 424‐1542. An Fe(II)-BABE was covalently attached to a 59-guanosine-a-phosphorothioate at position 424 and 30S subunits were reconstituted from the two pieces of rRNA and the small subunit proteins. Reconstituted 30S subunits capable of associating with 50S subunits were selected by isolation of 70S ribosomes. Hydroxyl radicals, generated in situ from the tethered Fe(II), cleaved positions in the RNA backbone that were close in three-dimensional space to the Fe(II), and the sites of cleavage were identified using primer extension. Fe(II) tethered to position 424 induces cleavage around nt 424, 513, and 531 in the 59-domain of 16S rRNA and around nt 1008, 1029, 1044, and 1208 in the 39-domain of 16S ribosomal RNA. These data constrain the positions of the 420, 1015, 1030 and 1000/1040 helices, for which there is little structural information. Since the 59- and 39-domains of 16S rRNA constitute the body and head, respectively, of 30S subunits, these findings provide direct evidence for proximity of RNA elements in the body and head of 30S.
Laser-Induced Breakdown In Optical Materials

With the rising importance of powerful lasers in the scientific and industrial communities, material failure by interaction with intense laser radiation is today also a common event. In this status report we review the understanding of the physical processes that lead to laser-induced breakdown in bulk materials and on their surfaces. The roles and interplay of various mechanisms, which depend on material properties and the laser light intensity and frequency, are discussed. The experimental basis for electron avalanche behavior at optical frequencies is discussed in detail. Multiphoton ionization is briefly described. Tabulations of measured breakdown thresholds for transparent solids (bulk and surfaces), metal surfaces, liquids, and gases, and of multiphoton absorption coefficients, are presented. Experiments needed for further progress are discussed.
Magnesium influx in dialyzed squid axons.

The efflux of Mg ++ from squid axons subject to internal solute control by dialysis is a function of ionized (Mg)l, (Nail, (ATP)I, and (Na)o. The efflux of Mg ++ from an axon with physiological concentrations of ATP, Na, and Mg inside into seawater is of the order of 2-4 pmol/cm2s but this efflux is strongly inhibited by increases in (Na~, by decreases in (ATP)t, or by decreases in (Na)o. The efflux of Mg ++ is largely independent of (Mg)i when ATP is at physiological levels, but in the absence of ATP reaches half the value of Mg efflux in the presence of ATP when (Mg)l is about 4 mM and (Na)t 40 raM. Half-maximum responses to ATP occur at about 350/~M ATP into seawater with Na either present or absent. The Mg efflux mechanism has many similarities to the Ca efflux system in squid axons especially with respect to the effects of ATP, Nao, and Nat on the flux. The concentrations of free Mg and Ca in axoplasm differ, however, by a factor of 105 while the observed fluxes differ by a factor of 102.
On the trade-off between speed and resiliency of flashworms and similar malcodes

Inspired by the Flash worm paper [1], we formulate and investigate the problem of finding a fast and resilient propagation topology and propagation schedule for Flash worms and similar malcodes. Resiliency means a very large proportion of infectable targets are still infected no matter which fraction of targets are not infectable.There is an intrinsic tradeoff between speed and resiliency, since resiliency requires transmission redundancy which slows down themalcode. To investigate this problem formally, we need an analytical model. We first show that, under a moderately general analytical model, the problem of optimizing propagation time isNP-hard. This fact justifies the need for a simpler model, which we present next. In this simplified model, we present an optimal propagation topology and schedule, which is then shown by simulationto be even faster than the Flash worm. Moreover, our worm is faster even when the source has much less bandwidth capability. We also show that for every preemptive schedule there exists a nonpreemptive schedule which is just as effective. This fact greatly simplifies the optimization probleIn terms of the aforementioned tradeoff, we give a propagation topology based on extractor graphs which can reduce the infection time linearly while keeping the expected number of infected nodes exponentially close to optimal.
Structural homology and developmental transformations associated with ovary diversification in Lithophragma (Saxifragaceae).

Lithophragma, comprising only ten species, encompasses a remarkable diversity of ovary positions, reported to range from inferior to superior. The structural homology of the gynoecium and developmental transformations associated with ovary diversification are investigated for Lithophragma. Scanning electron and light microscopy indicate that all species of Lithophragma have epigynous flowers. Lithophragma campanulatum, L. glabrum, and L. heterophyllum have ovaries that externally appear nearly superior, but are actually shallowly inferior or ‘‘pseudosuperior.’’ The inferior ovaries of Lithophragma species can be conceptually divided into superior and inferior regions that meet at the point of perianth and androecial insertion. Static and ontogenetic allometry reveal that across the species of Lithophragma the lengths of these two ovary regions are coordinated. Ovary regions in mature flowers display an approximately linear relationship that can be expressed through the allometric equation SL 0.5314 IL 2.0348 (where SL and IL are the lengths of the superior and inferior regions of the ovary, respectively; r2 0.7683, df 35, P 2.45 1012). Mapping ontogenetic allometries onto a recent phylogeny for Lithophragma shows that ovary position evolution is bidirectional and has shifted toward greater superiority in some species and greater inferiority in others.
Plasma Renin Activity and Aldosterone Excretion Rate in Normal Subjects. II. Effect of Oral Contraceptive Agents

ABSTRACT Five normal subjects (total 15 subjects) were each given either Enovid-10, Orthonovum-10 or Provest. Plasma renin activity (PRA) and aldosterone excretion rate (AER) measurements were made during the first and third week of oral contraceptive pills (O.C.P.) and at the end of the week after discontinuing the O.C.P. Venous samples for PRA were obtained under 3 conditions: Condition 1, supine overnight and on unrestricted Na intake, Condition 2, supine overnight after 72 hr Na restriction (<10 mEq Na/24 hr), Condition 3, after Na restriction and standing 4 hr. Fifty-one per cent of the PRA and 23% of the AER values in the first week on the pills were greater than 2 sd above the normal mean. Thirty-three per cent of the PRA and 27% of the AER values during the third week of the pills were greater than 2 sd above the normal mean. The 8 subjects who had been taking O.C.P. for over 10 months prior to this study had a more pronounced effect than the 7 who had not previously taken O.C.P.
Redox Regulation by Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2-Related Factor 2: Gatekeeping for the Basal and Diabetes-Induced Expression of Thioredoxin-Interacting Protein

Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a transcription factor activated by a range of oxidants and electrophiles. The transcriptional response to endogenous oxidative cues by Nrf2 plays an important role in mammalian redox physiology and oxidative pathology. Hyperglycemia induces oxidative stress in the heart where it leads to apoptosis and ultimately cardiomyopathy. Here we investigated the mechanism by which Nrf2 suppresses oxidative stress in diabetic mouse heart. Knockout (KO) of Nrf2 induced oxidative stress and apoptosis in KO heart; diabetes further increased oxidative damage. A pathway-focused gene array revealed that Nrf2 controls the expression of 24 genes in the heart, including the gene encoding thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP). Nrf2 suppressed the basal expression of Txnip in the heart and blocked induction of Txnip by high glucose by binding to an antioxidant response element (ARE) (−1286 to −1276) of the Txnip promoter. Binding of Nrf2 to ARE also suppressed the binding of MondoA to the carbohydrate response element with or without high glucose. TXNIP promoted reactive oxygen species production and apoptosis by inhibiting thioredoxin. On the other hand, Nrf2 boosted thioredoxin activity by inhibiting Txnip. The findings revealed, for the first time, that Nrf2 is a key gatekeeper of Txnip transcription, suppressing both its basal expression and MondoA-driven induction to control the thioredoxin redox signaling in diabetes.
ALCS - A High-Performance High-Availability DB/DC Monitor

A brief history and description of the IBM product Airline Control System / Multiple Virtual Storage / Extended Architecture (ALCS/MVS/XA) and related IBM products. ALCS/MVS/XA is a high-performance high-availability data base/data communications (DB/DC) subsystem that runs under the IBM MVS/XA operating system.
Frequency domain Cramer-Rao bound for Gaussian processes

An expression is derived for the asymptotic frequency-domain Cramer-Rao bound (CRB) on the parameters of Gaussian processes with information in their means. The general result extends Whittle's (1953) formula which is applicable to Gaussian processes with information in their covariance matrices or spectra. It is useful in many fields such as system identification, radar, and sonar. Examples of its application to system deconvolution and time-delay estimation in colored noise are given. >
Principles of Within Electrode Current Steering

tDCS is a neuromodulation technique that involves noninvasive delivery of weak direct current (1–2 mA) to the brain. Conventionally, tDCS employs rectangular saline-soaked sponge pads (25–35 cm) placed on the scalp, with an internal electrode connected to the current source. Impedance measurement across the current source output may fail to recognize nonuniform conditions at the skin interface such an uneven content or saturation. tDCS is well tolerated with minor adverse effects limited to transient skin irritation [1]. Nonetheless, technology that enhances the sophistication of electrode design would further enhance tolerability and promote broad (e.g., home) use. In order to enhance the reliability and tolerability of tDCS, we describe a novel method called WECS. This concept is distinct from (across electrode) current steering, as developed for implanted devices such as deep brain stimulation (DBS), where current is steered between electrodes that are each in contact with tissue, with the goal of changing desired brain regions that are activated [2]. WECS adjusts current between electrodes not in contact with tissue but rather embedded in an electrolyte on the body surface. The goal here is not to alter brain current flow, but rather compensate for nonideal conditions at the surface. This technology leverages our technique for independently isolating electrode impedance and overpotential during multichannel stimulation [3]. With a novel approach, the objective of this first paper was to demonstrate the principles of WECS using an exemplary electrode design typical for tDCS (four rivet-electrode sponge) and extremes of current steering (from uniform in all rivets to a single rivet). Through FEM simulation of this illustrative case, we validate the underlying assumptions of WECS: steering current within electrodes but without altering current distribution in brain target. Having presented this novel idea through an exemplary case, this report supports future studies in optimization of electrode design, automation of algorithms to control current (including using impedance measurement), and ultimately validation under experimental conditions. 2 Methods
ESTIMATION OF THE METHANE EMISSION FACTOR FOR BUFFALO CATTLE AND BULLS

In order to determine the incidence of buffaloes on enteric CH4 emissions, information about animal production and farm management was analyzed and the CH4 emission factor estimated using the IPCC Tier 2 model. CH4 emission factor for the category of buffalo cattle and buffalo bulls was estimated for the period 2000-2007, in Italy, Europe and worldwide. During 2007, the CH4 emission factor for buffalo cattle and bulls worldwide was 61.35 and 47.48 kg CH4/head/yr respectively. The CH4 emission factor from 2000 to 2007 worldwide showed an increase of 1.94 and 4.68 kg CH4/head/yr for buffalo cattle and bulls respectively, also considering that the buffalo population is increasing and that the CH4 emission factor depends on body weight and milk yield.
smedinx-11 is a planarian stem cell gap junction gene required for regeneration and homeostasis.

The largely unknown mechanisms that regulate adult stem cells probably involve signals from neighboring differentiated cells. Gap junction channels providing direct cell-cell communication via small molecules are a crucial component of morphogenesis and normal physiology. However, no specific gap junction protein has yet been functionally linked to adult/somatic stem cell behavior in vivo or to organ regeneration. We report the identification and characterization of smedinx-11 - an innexin gap junction channel gene expressed in the adult stem cells (neoblasts) of the planarian Schmidtea mediterranea. smedinx-11 RNAi treatment inhibits regeneration and abrogates neoblast maintenance. Moreover, smedinx-11 expression is enriched in an irradiation-sensitive subpopulation (`X29) and is required for proper expression of other stem cell-specific markers. Analyses of the smedinx-11 downregulation phenotype revealed a striking anterior-posterior neoblast gradient. Our data demonstrate a novel role for gap junction proteins and suggest gap junction-mediated signaling as a new and tractable control point for adult, somatic stem cell regulation.
Systolic routing hardware: performance evaluation and optimization

The performance of maze-routing algorithms mapped onto linear systolic array hardware is examined. Cell expansions in the wavefront-expansion phase of maze routing are performed in parallel in each processing stage of the hardware as the routing grid streams through the processor array. The authors concentrate on optimizing the performance of single-net routing problems with respect to a given systolic hardware configuration. A heuristic called constant-increment framing is introduced as a simple method for scheduling all the required wavefront expansion steps on a pipeline of processors. One-layer and two-layer routers using this heuristic have been implemented on a prototype systolic processor. Experimental and theoretical comparisons suggest that the constant-increment heuristic exhibits performance within a factor of two of optimal over a range of hardware configurations, and is substantially easier to compute than the optimal solution. >
On the weak*-Radon Nikodym property

In [10] Musial introduced the notion of the weak Radon-Nikodym property. In this paper we are going to show that in a Banach lattice the notions of the weak Radon-Nikodym property and the Radon-Nikodym property coincide and that if Y* is the dual of a Banach space Y not containing P1 and Y* is complemented in a Banach lattice E then Y* has the Radon-Nikodym property. This solves affirmatively a conjecture of H. P. Lotz [9]. DEFINITION 1. Let E be a Banach space and let (T, L, X) be a probability space. A functionf: T -* E is Pettis-integrable if (i) for every x* E E* the map t -+ x*f(t) is X-measurable and X-integrable and (ii) for every A E l there is XA in E such that x*(xA) = JA x*f(t) dX for every x* in E*. In this case we write XA = Pettis-JA f dA. DEFINITION 2. Let E be a Banach space and let (T, l, A) be a probability space. A function f: T -* E is Bochner-integrable if there exists a sequence (fn) of simple functions such that (i) limnIIf(t) f 1(t) = 0 for A-almost all t E T and (ii) limnffTllf -fll dA = 0. It is easy to see that one can define
On the chances of being struck by cloud-to-ground lightning

An assumption of complete spatial randomness has been used to obtain analytic expressions that describe the probability that the closest lightning strike is within any distance of an arbitrary point or a simulated power line, if the area density of strikes in the region is known. Preliminary tests of these functions show that they describe experimental data rather well, but such tests are limited by the accuracy of the measurements.
Resourceful systems for fault tolerance, reliability, and safety

Above all, it is vital to recognize that completely guaranteed behavior is impossible and that there are inherent risks in relying on computer systems in critical environments. The unforeseen consequences are often the most disastrous [Neumann 1986].Section 1 of this survey reviews the current state of the art of system reliability, safety, and fault tolerance. The emphasis is on the contribution of software to these areas. Section 2 reviews current approaches to software fault tolerance. It discusses why some of the assumptions underlying hardware fault tolerance do not hold for software. It argues that the current software fault tolerance techniques are more accurately thought of as delayed debugging than as fault tolerance. It goes on to show that in providing both backtracking and executable specifications, logic programming offers most of the tools currently used in software fault tolerance. Section 3 presents a generalization of the recovery block approach to software fault tolerance, called resourceful systems. Systems are resourceful if they are able to determine whether they have achieved their goals or, if not, to develop and carry out alternate plans. Section 3 develops an approach to designing resourceful systems based upon a functionally rich architecture and an explicit goal orientation.
A General Reciprocity Theorem for Transmission Lines at Ultra-High Frequencies

The application of the general reciprocity theorem for low-frequency networks to circuits which do not satisfy the conditions of the near zone and which include distributed electromotive forces is examined for the case of the parallel line. It is shown that the reciprocity theorem is valid in general only if induced electromotive forces exhibit a cosine-symmetrical distribution along the wires (in which case they may be represented by a single pair of equivalent point generators) or if the line is terminated in its characteristic impedance.
Additional correction to the impulse invariance method for the design of IIR digital filters

Almost four decades after the impulse invariance (i.i.) method has been in vogue, a correct way of its application has been emphasized independently, but at the same time, by Jackson and Mecklenbrauker. When there is a discontinuity at t=0 in the analog impulse response, the correct way requires that one should take half of its value. In spite of this correction, due to under-sampling there persists aliasing error in the frequency domain. In this paper the effect of aliasing is viewed as a 3 dB frequency warping and a pre-warping step prior to its application is proposed to reduce it, thereby making the technique appropriate from the viewpoint of frequency domain also. Simulation examples comparing this approach with the traditional method reveal significant improvement in the frequency response. Further, according to Jackson and Mecklenbrauker and also as written in many a standard textbook available today, i.i. technique cannot be used when the degrees of the numerator and denominator polynomials of the parent analog transfer function are equal. An example under this category is the Pre-emphasis circuit or a simple high pass filter. We shall show how the technique can still be used even for a Pre-emphasis circuit. Antoniou proposed (an intelligently) modified impulse invariance technique for certain types of filters by which, aliasing error is nearly eliminated. These cases are neither admitted by the traditional i.i. method nor by that of Jackson and Mecklenbrauker at all. Antoniou's modified method results in a digital filter of order almost twice as great with an additional task of stabilization. The method in this paper retains the stability and order but gives satisfactory response. In the standard textbooks, the i.i. technique is explained with the help of a first-order low-pass filter and for higher orders, partial fraction expansion is used. For the situation of repeated poles, application of i.i. method calls for extreme care and special handling. This paper alternatively employs the use of state variables to make i.i. technique more elegant.