cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Embracing the Biosemiotic Perspective

Biosemiotics, as with any emerging research program, is undergoing a process of discussion as to its identifying underlying assumptions, phenomena to be addressed, and the types of problems, including the nature of successful solutions, which engage the community of scholars in the field. This process includes developing edited books in which the different strands within the field are represented as well as a journal to disseminate such discourse. Edited volumes, such as Introduction to Biosemiotics: The New Biological Synthesis, as well as this journal are examples (Barbieri 2008; see also Witzany 2007). Four main approaches to biosemiotics have been identified (Barbieri 2008). One is based upon the concept of Howard Pattee of an epistemic threshold as a boundary where local matter has intrinsic properties governed by universal laws but also is about something and stands for something else in an emergent process (Pattee 1969, 1972, 2001). A second derives from the work of Marcel Florkin, which drew upon the distinction of Ferdinand de Saussure of signifier and signified (Florkin 1974). The third is based upon the organic code concepts of Marcello Barbieri in which a semiotic threshold is exceeded by cellular systems that act as code makers rather than interpreters (Barbieri 2003). A fourth approach originated in the work of Thomas Sebeok in which ideas of Charles Saunders Peirce about triadic interactions including interpretation are applied to living systems (Sebeok 1972, 2001). Biosemiotics (2009) 2:367–375 DOI 10.1007/s12304-009-9065-1
Specific lighting spectrum matching by normalized correlation coefficient and generalized reduced gradient method

The optimization matching procedure for specific LED spectrum matching is proposed by the normalized correlation coefficient and generalized reduced gradient method in this study. The different spectrum means different color temperature, color rendering index, and lighting quality features. However, the specific spectrum for human centric lighting or light therapy may not be achieved by single light source but by multi-lighting sources for cost consideration. Therefore, the Gaussian distributions are used to define the specific spectrum and generate the row data rapidly for the matching calculation. The normalized correlation coefficient is used to evaluate the spectrum matching result and optimized by generalized reduced gradient method. Finally, the specific spectrum is matched with multi-lighting sources in the optimized mixing ratio from the lighting sources database.
Detection of abrupt changes in dynamic systems

In this paper we present some of the basic ideas associated with the detection of abrupt changes in dynamic systems. Our presentation focuses on two classes of methods — multiple filter-based techniques and residual-based methods — and in far more detail on the multiple model and generalized likelihood ratio methods. Issues such as the effect of unknown onset time on algorithm complexity and structure and robustness to model uncertainty are discussed.
A Velociraptor wishbone

The ‘wishbone’ of birds comprises two clavicles fused into a structure1 known as a furcula. In an influential 1926 book on bird origins by Heilmann2, the furcula's supposed absence in dinosaurs was considered powerful evidence barring them from bird ancestry. A furcula has now been found in several theropod dinosaurs3,4, but its absence in other theropods, and the uncertainty of whether this absence is real or an artefact of preservation, obscures the evolutionary history of this structure5. Here we report the discovery of a furcula in Dromaeosauridae, a group posited to be the closest relative of birds6,7.
Inhibition of the NADPH oxidase regulates heme oxygenase 1 expression in chronic myeloid leukemia

BACKGROUND: Patients with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) in blast crisis have a poor response to tyrosine kinase inhibitors designed to inhibit the breakpoint cluster region–v-Abelson murine leukemia viral oncogene homolog 1 (BCR-ABL1) oncogene. Recent work has demonstrated that heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) expression is increased in BCR-ABL1–expressing cells and that the inhibition of HO-1 in CML leads to reduced cellular growth, suggesting that HO-1 may be a plausible target for therapy. The objective of the current study was to clarify the mechanism of HO-1 overexpression and the role of the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase as a contributor to this mechanism in CML. METHODS: HO-1 expression was evaluated in bone marrow specimens from patients with CML in various stages of disease, in a transplantation-based model for CML, and in CML cell lines. Chemical and genetic inhibition of the NADPH oxidase was carried out in CML cells. RESULTS: Specimens from patients with CML in blast crisis displayed higher levels of HO-1 staining than specimens from patients with CML in chronic or accelerated phase. HO-1 up-regulation in BCR-ABL1–expressing cells was suppressed by diphenyleneiodonium (DPI), a chemical inhibitor of the NADPH oxidase. Targeting the NADPH oxidase through RNA interference (RNAi) to Ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1 (Rac1), a dominant-negative Rac1 construct or an inhibitor of Rac1 activity also blunted HO-1 protein expression. Moreover, inhibition of the NADPH oxidase by RNAi directed toward the 47-kd cytosolic subunit of Nox (p47phox) similarly abrogated HO-1 levels. CONCLUSIONS: BCR-ABL1 expression up-regulated HO-1, a survival factor for CML cells. This up-regulation was more pronounced in blast crisis CML relative to early stage disease and was mediated by the NADPH oxidase components Rac1 and p47phox. The expression of p47phox was increased in BCR-ABL1–expressing cells. Cancer 2011. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Quantitative structure–activity relationship analysis of the pharmacology of para-substituted methcathinone analogues

Background and Purpose Methcathinone (MCAT) is a potent monoamine releaser and parent compound to emerging drugs of abuse including mephedrone (4-CH3 MCAT), the para-methyl analogue of MCAT. This study examined quantitative structure–activity relationships (QSAR) for MCAT and six para-substituted MCAT analogues on (a) in vitro potency to promote monoamine release via dopamine and serotonin transporters (DAT and SERT, respectively), and (b) in vivo modulation of intracranial self-stimulation (ICSS), a behavioural procedure used to evaluate abuse potential. Neurochemical and behavioural effects were correlated with steric (Es), electronic (σp) and lipophilic (πp) parameters of the para substituents. Experimental Approach For neurochemical studies, drug effects on monoamine release through DAT and SERT were evaluated in rat brain synaptosomes. For behavioural studies, drug effects were tested in male Sprague-Dawley rats implanted with electrodes targeting the medial forebrain bundle and trained to lever-press for electrical brain stimulation. Key Results MCAT and all six para-substituted analogues increased monoamine release via DAT and SERT and dose- and time-dependently modulated ICSS. In vitro selectivity for DAT versus SERT correlated with in vivo efficacy to produce abuse-related ICSS facilitation. In addition, the Es values of the para substituents correlated with both selectivity for DAT versus SERT and magnitude of ICSS facilitation. Conclusions and Implications Selectivity for DAT versus SERT in vitro is a key determinant of abuse-related ICSS facilitation by these MCAT analogues, and steric aspects of the para substituent of the MCAT scaffold (indicated by Es) are key determinants of this selectivity.
Generational Accounting in Open Economies

Using data on U.S. and Japanese government debt, we calibrate a version of Weil's (1989) model and study the international and intergenerational consequences of recent scal policy. We predict: (1) government debt will raise the world real interest rate by less than 2 basis points; (2) the United States will run small but persistent external decits; and (3) current generations in the United States experience a slight increase in wealth, while future generations both at home and abroad suer analogous decreases. Most of the wealth eects are intergenerational rather than international.
Blockade of CXC chemokine receptor-4 improves hepatocyte proliferation after ischemia/reperfusion in a murine model (144.2)

Stromal-cell derived factor-1 (SDF-1) and its receptor, CXC chemokine receptor-4 (CXCR4), have been shown to contribute to stem cell mobilization and angiogenesis and therefore may be important mediators of regenerative processes. In the current study, we examined whether the SDF-1/CXCR4 system was involved in liver regeneration after ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. A murine model of partial I/R was used to induce liver injury and study the regenerative response. CXCR4 antagonist (AMD3100) or agonist (SDF-1) was administered to some mice. Serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and liver myeloperoxidase (MPO) content were used to assess liver injury and inflammation. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) staining was used to assess hepatocyte proliferation. Hepatic expression of CXCR4 was determined by western blot and serum SDF-1 was measured by ELISA. CXCR4 was expressed constitutively in the liver and SDF-1 levels in serum peaked at 8 hours of reperfusion and returned to baseline by 24 hours. CXCR4...
Activity-Dependent Expression of NT-3 in Muscle Cells in Culture: Implications in the Development of Neuromuscular Junctions

Although activity-dependent expression of neurotrophins has been studied extensively in the CNS, its physiological role during synapse development is not well established. At the developing neuromuscular junction in culture, exogenous application of the neurotrophin BDNF or NT-3 has been shown to acutely potentiate synaptic transmission and chronically promote synapse maturation. Using the same cell culture model, we have investigated activity-dependent neurotrophin expression in muscle cells and its role in developing neuromuscular synapses. Membrane depolarization, elicited by either depolarizing agents or repetitive electric stimulation, rapidly and specifically increased the levels of NT-3 mRNA in developing Xenopus laevis muscle cells in culture. NT-3 gene expression also was enhanced by acetylcholine (ACh), the neurotransmitter that causes muscle membrane depolarization. The effects of depolarization were mediated by increasing intracellular calcium concentration. Moreover, factor(s) induced by membrane depolarization appeared to enhance synaptic transmission at the developing neuromuscular junction. The frequency of spontaneous synaptic currents (SSCs) recorded from neuromuscular synapses was increased significantly after treatment with conditioned medium from depolarized muscle cultures. The amplitude, rise time, and decay time of SSCs were not affected, indicating a presynaptic action of the conditioned medium. The effects of the conditioned medium were blocked, partially, by the NT-3 scavenger TrkC-IgG, suggesting that the potentiation of synaptic efficacy was attributable, at least in part, to elevated NT-3 as a consequence of muscle depolarization. Thus, activity-dependent expression of muscle NT-3 may contribute to the development of the neuromuscular synapse.
Experiences with an Interactive Video Code Inspection Laboratory

Software engineers need practical training in addition to classroom lectures in order to obtain the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in industry. This training is provided by laboratories in other engineering disciplines. Such laboratories have been implemented as computer-based interactive video courses in the past, with numerous advantages. Based on this success, an interactive video course was created for use as a “code inspection laboratory”, in which the skills of preparing for and participating in code inspections are learned and practiced. This paper summarizes the anecdotal feedback and usage data from 120 students who used the course over the past two years. Lessons learned from these experiences are discussed, with implications for the development of future interactive video software engineering laboratories.
Influence of the lattice strain decay on the diameter of self assembled secondary phase nanorod array in epitaxial films

A theoretical model based on an analytical solution of the elastic energy of strained lattices is developed to study the diameter of self-assembled vertically-aligned secondary phase nanorods in epitaxial films. In this model, the nanorod diameter is calculated by minimizing the energy due to the formation of the nanorods, the elastic energy of the film and nanorod lattices, and the interfacial energy on the nanorod surface. The calculated nanorod diameter is consistent with experimental measurements of BaZrO3 and BaSnO3 nanorods in YBa2Cu3O7−δ films with different nanorod densities. The primary mechanism that determines the nanorod diameter is found, for the first time, to be the lattice strain decay inside the nanorods, which depends only on the ratios of elastic constants of nanorod material and is independent of film/nanorod lattice mismatch. The discovered correlation between the nanorod diameter and the elastic properties of the secondary phase oxides can be used as a guidance in the quest of the se...
Effects of Internal Hydrogen on the Vacancy Loop Formation Probability in Aluminum

The effect of internal hydrogen on the formation of vacancy dislocation loops from heavy-ion generated displacement cascades in Al has been investigated. Samples of high-purity aluminum and aluminum containing 900 and 1300 appM of hydrogen were irradiated at room temperature with 50 keV Kr+ ions. The ion dose rate was typically 2 {times} 10{sup 10}ions cm{sup {minus}2} sec{sup {minus}1} and the ion dose was between 10{sup 11} and 10{sup 13} ion cm{sup {minus}2}. Under these irradiation conditions, dislocation loops were observed in all compositions, although the formation probability was relatively low (less than 10 percent of the displacement cascades produced a vacancy loop). The loop formation probability was further reduced by the presence of hydrogen. No difference in the geometry or the size of the loops created in the hydrogen free and hydrogen charged samples was found. These results are difficult to interpret, and the explanation may lie in the distribution and form of the hydrogen. To account for the large hydrogen concentrations and from calculations of the energy associated with hydrogen entry into aluminum, it has been suggested that the hydrogen enters the aluminum lattice with an accompanying vacancy. This will create hydrogen-vacancy complexes in the material; two dimensionalmore » complexes have been detected in the hydrogen-charged, but unirradiated, samples by the small-angle x-ray scattering technique. The possibility of these complexes trapping the vacancies produced by the cascade process exists thus lowering the formation probability. However, such a mechanism must occur within the lifetime of the cascade. Alternatively, if a displacement cascade overlaps with the hydrogen-vacancy complexes, the lower atomic density of the region will result in an increase in the cascade volume (decrease in the local vacancy concentration) which will also reduce the loop formation probability.« less
Structure, Innovation, and Diremptive Temporality: The Use of Models to Study Continuity and Discontinuity in Kabbalistic Tradition

This study consists of two parts. The first is an examination of the hermeneutical presuppositions underlying the theory of models that Moshe Idel has applied to the study of Jewish mysticism. Idel has opted for a typological approach based on multiple explanatory models, a methodology that purportedly proffers a polychromatic as opposed to a monochromatic orientation associated with Scholem and the so-called school based on his teachings. The three major models delineated by Idel are the theosophical-theurgical, the ecstatic, and the magical or talismanic. Idel’s hermeneutic rests on the assumption that the phenomenon of Jewish mysticism (as the phenomenon of religion more generally) cannot be essentialized, and therefore no one methodological approach should be privileged as the exclusive means to ascertain it. In the second part of this study, I raise the possibility that affirming set patterns of thought and a unified system of symbols that link together kabbalists from different historical periods might not inevitably implicate the scholar in a methodological reductionism. Moving beyond a binary logic, which is still operative in the postmodern dichotomy of truth and dissimulation, I surmise that the polysemic nature of the text that may be elicited from kabbalistic sources is not dependent on the rejection of laying claim to an inherent and original intent that is recoverable through proper philological attunement. Multivocality and essentialism are not mutually exclusive. Kabbalah, I submit, is a cultural-literary phenomenon that illustrates an open system in which each moment is a mix of newness and repetition, each event a renewed singularity. The hermeneutical praxis appropriate to this system displays a temporality linked to the conception of time in its most rudimentary form as an instant of diremptive reiteration, the repetition of the same as different in the renewal of the different as same. The tendency to generalize, therefore, should not be misconstrued as viewing the variegated history of Jewish mystical doctrines and practices monolithically.
Mutations in the ATP-binding domain of Escherichia coli rho factor affect transcription termination in vivo.

Five mutant rho proteins, representing alterations at three different locations in the Escherichia coli rho gene that affect ATP hydrolytic activity but not RNA binding, were examined in vivo for function at the rho-dependent IS2 and bacteriophage lambda tR1 terminators. The altered amino acids in rho are located at highly conserved residues near the beta 1 and beta 4 strands of the hydrophobic ATP-binding pocket that is structurally similar to the F1-type ATPases and adenylate kinase. The RNA-dependent ATPase activities of the mutant rho proteins were previously shown to range from undetectable to a twofold increase over wild-type rho in vitro. Analysis of these proteins within the environment of the cell confirmed that transcription termination in vivo is indeed related to the ability of rho factor to properly hydrolyze nucleoside triphosphates, as would be predicted from results in vitro. The relative efficiency of termination at lambda tR1, as judged by lambda N= plating efficiency and by suppression of polarity of IS2 upstream of galK, was closely linked to the level of RNA-dependent ATPase activity observed in vitro for each protein. Moreover, the termination efficiency of four of the altered rho proteins at IS2 and lambda tR1 in vivo corresponded directly to the effect of these mutations on rho function at the E. coli trp t9 terminator in vitro. We conclude that determinations of rho function in vitro accurately reflect its behavior in intracellular termination events. Images
Liposomes as ‘smart’ pharmaceutical nanocarriers

Since the discovery of liposomes, these phospholipid ‘bubbles’ have received enormous attention to be recognized as ‘smart’ pharmaceutical nanocarriers. Recently, much effort has been directed to the development of so-called ‘smart’ stimuli-sensitive liposomes that will respond to certain internal or external stimuli, such as, pH, temperature, redox potential or magnetic field. These programmable delivery systems can also be made ‘multifunctional’ so as to expose certain functions in an orchestrated manner which can be readily modulated by the stimulus. In this article, the evolution of liposomes with emphasis on the recent advances in stimuli-sensitive liposomes has been reviewed.
The role of succinyl-CoA synthetase in the control of heme biosynthesis.

Abstract 1. 1. To study metabolic control of the pathway, accelerated porphyrin and heme biosynthesis in mouse liver was caused by the administration of either 2-allyl-2-isopropylacetamide or 3,5-dicarbethoxy-1, 4-dihydrocollidine to the intact animal. 2. 2. 4–6 h after a compound was administered, δ-aminolevulinate synthesis in liver mitochondria was increased eight-fold; the synthesis required addition of greater amounts of pyridoxal phosphate, magnesium, and phosphate to the medium, but 2-ketoglutarate was inhibitory. Results of experiments in vivo with 14C-labelled heme precursors suggested a larger succinate plus succinyl-CoA pool and an increased conversion of succinate to succinyl-CoA, with no change in tricarboxylic acid cycle turnover. The rate of succinyl-CoA hydrolysis by liver mitochondria remained unchanged in treated animals. 3. 3. Total succinyl-CoA synthetase (EC 6.2.1.4) activity in mitochondria increased about 70% within 2 h. Heat inactivation characteristics, pH responses, and electrophoretic separation of two enzyme activities showed the presence of a separate, inducible form of succinyl-CoA synthetase in liver mitochondria; puromycin prevented the enzyme induction. The inducible fraction of the enzyme was increased 300% in activity while the consititutive enzyme remained unchanged. 4. 4. The results are interpreted as indicating that succinyl-CoA synthetase is directly concerned with the metabolic control of the heme biosynthetic pathway in mouse liver cells.
A simple grating-prism dispersive arrangement which provides improved resolution over a wide spectral range

Abstract For many years designers of spectrometers have generally utilized variations of the Littrow-mounted prism monochromator as a means of providing adequate dispersion over the spectral range of interest. The recent availability of inexpensive replica diffraction gratings has brought forth instruments of increased resolving power which utilize coupled fore prism and grating monochromators. Where accurate broad spectral range scanning is desired, the fore prism-grating system requires precise and rather complex tracking linkages. Observations of several phenomena, which are in part predictable from the grating equation nλ = d(sin i ±sin r), as well as an examination of the requirements of infrared analysis of liquids and solids, has led to the construction of a simplified grating and prism dispersive arrangement which provides improved performance over a broad spectral range. The system incorporates a diffraction grating blazed in the first order at 3·75 μ. and mounted in the Littrow position with respect to a 60° rock salt prism. The grating is rotated over an angle such that its dispersion augments the prism dispersion, scanning the range, 4000-1400 cm−1. Since the grating is used only in the first order, higher order interference is easily eliminated by filters. Near 1400 cm−1, the grating is rotated to normal incidence and acts as a simple mirror as the range 1400-650 cm−1 is scanned. Over the total range, the predicted spectral slit widths vary from 1 to 5 cm−1 as compared to 2 to 18 cm−1 for the rock salt prism alone. The performance observed indicates the practicability of the arrangement. Present prism spectrometers might easily be converted to the new arrangement to realize the performance gain.
A Flexible Architecture for Systematic Implementation of SoC Security Policies

Modern SoC designs incorporate several security policies to protect sensitive assets from unauthorized access. The policies affect multiple design blocks, and may involve subtle interactions between hardware, firmware, and software. This makes it difficult for SoC designers to implement these policies, and system validators to ensure adherence. Associated problems include complexity in upgrading these policies, IP reuse for systems targeted for markets with differing security requirement, and consequent increase in design time and time-to-market. In this paper, we address this important problem by developing a generic, flexible architectural framework for implementing arbitrary security policies in SoC designs. Our architecture has several distinctive features: (1) it relies on a dedicated, centralized, firmware-upgradable plug-and-play IP block that can implement diverse security policies; (2) it interfaces with individual IP blocks through their "security wrapper", which exploits and extends test/debug wrappers; (3) it implements a security policy as firmware code following existing security policy languages; (4) it can implement any security policy as long as relevant observable and controllable signals from the constituent IPs are accessible through the security wrappers; and (5) it realizes a low-overhead communication link between security wrappers of IP blocks and the centralized, dedicated controller. The approach builds on and extends the recent work on developing a centralized infrastructure IP for SoC security, referred to as IIPS, that interface with IP blocks using their boundary scan based wrappers. While this architecture is generic and independent of security policy types, we provide case studies with several common policies to show the flexibility and extendibility of the architecture. We also evaluate its viability in terms of overhead in area and power.
Modulation-Effect Corrections for Moments of Magnetic Resonance Line Shapes

Corrections are derived for the calculation of the second and fourth moments of magnetic resonance lines from experimental data, obtained by using the low-frequency modulation method. The results for 0\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} phase shift between field modulation and the lock-in reference are ${〈\ensuremath{\Delta}{{\ensuremath{\omega}}_{\mathrm{exp}}}^{2}〉}_{\mathrm{Av}}={〈\ensuremath{\Delta}{\ensuremath{\omega}}^{2}〉}_{\mathrm{Av}}+\frac{1}{3}{{\ensuremath{\omega}}_{M}}^{2}+\frac{1}{4}{(\ensuremath{\gamma}{H}_{M})}^{2},$ ${〈\ensuremath{\Delta}{{\ensuremath{\omega}}_{\mathrm{exp}}}^{4}〉}_{\mathrm{Av}}={〈\ensuremath{\Delta}{\ensuremath{\omega}}^{4}〉}_{\mathrm{Av}}+{〈\ensuremath{\Delta}{\ensuremath{\omega}}^{2}〉}_{\mathrm{Av}}[2{{\ensuremath{\omega}}_{M}}^{2}+\frac{3}{2}{(\ensuremath{\gamma}{H}_{M})}^{2}]+\frac{1}{5}{{\ensuremath{\omega}}_{M}}^{4}+\frac{3}{4}{{\ensuremath{\omega}}_{M}}^{2}{(\ensuremath{\gamma}{H}_{M})}^{2}+\frac{1}{8}{(\ensuremath{\gamma}{H}_{M})}^{4}.$
Early effects of corticosteroids on basophils, leukocyte histamine, and tissue histamine

The comparative effect in 11 atopic subjects of a single intravenous injection of methylprednisolone on sequential studies of blood eosinophils, basophils, leukocyte sensitivity to antigen for histamine release, leukocyte histamine content, and skin histamine was examined. No significant changes occurred in any parameter after placebo treatment. In contrast, 4 hr after intravenous treatment with steroid there were significant decreases in mean eosinophil counts (-95%), basophil counts (-72%), and histamine content of 1 X 10(7) leukocyte samples (-62%). Temporal changes in the latter paralleled alterations in circulating basophil levels. No significant changes occured in the antigen histamine release sensitivity, or the total skin histamine. Studies over a longer period after steroids in 4 subjects showed eosinophil and basophil levels at a nadir at 8 hr, remaining suppressed for 24 hr, and returned to pretreatment levels by 72 hr. Results suggest that corticosteroids induce a prominent decrease in leukocyte histamine due to a depletion of basophils without a decrease in histamine content per basophil, and that skin tissue histamine stores remain unchanged by such treatment.
Formerly emerging crustal blocks in the equatorial Atlantic

Abstract Anomalous crustal topographic highs, exceeding the level predicted by the thermal contraction model by up to 2–3 km, are observed along the Romanche Transform Zone in the equatorial Atlantic. Previous studies of shallow-water reef limestones recovered from one of the shallowest sites on these crustal highs indicated that this site was at or above sea level 5 million years ago and subsided since at an average rate one order of magnitude faster than the subsidence estimated by thermal contraction of the crust. Seismic reflection profiles obtained across the Romanche Transform Zone suggest that the anomalous highs are capped by reef limestones not only where limestones were actually sampled, but also at other locations. These findings support the idea that long segments of crust reached close to sea level in the past along the Romanche Transform Zone. The vertical crustal motions are probably caused by tectonism typical of long-offset transforms. Inasmuch as the Romanche has been a ridge—ridge transform since the earliest stages of the opening of the equatorial Atlantic, it is likely that intense vertical tectonic motions occurred along it throughout the evolution of the Atlantic. Support for this hypothesis is provided by the recovery during DSDP Leg 4 of shallow water reef limestone of the Eocene Age from the summit of the North Brazilian Ridge along the western extension of the Romanche Fracture Zone. The presence of shallow or emergent crust across the equatorial zone during the early stages of opening had probably important consequences upon the water circulation between the North and the South Atlantic, and may even have provided “land bridges” for faunal migrations between Africa and South America in early Cenozoic times after the two continents had already separated.
Depression of Saccharomyces cerevisiae invasive growth on non-glucose carbon sources requires the Snf1 kinase

Haploid Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells growing on media lacking glucose but containing high concentrations of carbon sources such as fructose, galactose, raffinose, and ethanol exhibit enhanced agar invasion. These carbon sources also promote diploid filamentous growth in response to nitrogen starvation. The enhanced invasive and filamentous growth phenotypes are suppressed by the addition of glucose to the media and require the Snf1 kinase. Mutations in the PGI1 and GND1 genes encoding carbon source utilization enzymes confer enhanced invasive growth that is unaffected by glucose but requires active Snf1. Carbon source does not modulate FLO11 flocculin expression, but enhanced polarized bud site selection is necessary for invasion on certain carbon sources. Interestingly, deletion of SNF1 blocks invasion without affecting bud site selection. Snf1 is also required for formation of spokes and hubs in multicellular mats. To examine glucose repression of invasive growth more broadly, we performed genome-wide microarray expression analysis in wild-type cells growing on glucose and galactose, and snf1 Delta cells on galactose. SNF1 probably mediates glucose repression of multiple genes potentially involved in invasive and filamentous growth. FLO11-independent cell-cell attachment, cell wall integrity, and/or polarized growth are affected by carbon source metabolism. In addition, derepression of cell cycle genes and signalling via the cAMP-PKA pathway appears to depend upon SNF1 activity during growth on galactose.
Cardiovascular pharmacology of nonselective nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and coxibs: clinical considerations.

Cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 inhibitors have been developed with the goal of providing similar efficacy and greater safety compared with traditional nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Development was based on the hypothesis that COX-1 is the housekeeping enzyme necessary for production of prostaglandins (PGs) with homeostatic functions, whereas COX-2 is a mediator of pathophysiologic processes. However, later research has demonstrated a role of COX-2 in production of PGs that have functions under normal physiologic conditions. In the vasculature, COX-2 seems to be the main enzyme responsible for the production of prostacyclin. Increased synthesis of this vasodilatory and antithrombotic PG represents a homeostatic response during periods of accelerated platelet-vessel wall interactions and counteracts increased synthesis of COX-1-derived prothrombotic prostanoid thromboxane A2 (TXA2). The clinical sequelae of inhibiting prostacyclin activity in the absence of concomitant inhibition of TXA2 are not currently clear. Animal studies show that inhibition of prostacyclin activity does not lead to spontaneous thrombosis but may increase response to thrombotic stimuli. Therefore, prostacyclin synthesis may be important for limiting thrombotic events in patients who are at an increased cardiovascular risk. Overviews of clinical studies in arthritis and Alzheimer’s disease have not demonstrated increased cardiovascular risk associated with specific COX-2 inhibition in most patients. However, data from 1 clinical trial revealed a 5-fold divergence in rates of myocardial infarction between a coxib and a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug comparitor. Credible explanations for the results of this trial have been proposed and further studies are necessary to clarify the relative risk-to-benefit ratio of COX-2 inhibition in patients at increased risk for cardiovascular events, and the effects of concomitant aspirin therapy.
How Minorities Continue to Be Excluded from Equal Employment Opportunities: Research on Labor Market and Institutional Barriers

Barriers to equal occupational opportunities for minorities are examined at three stages of the employment process: the job candidate stage, the job entry stage, and the job promotion stage. Using the authors' recent survey of 4078 employers covering a nationally representative sample of jobs, four types of exclusionary barriers are investigated: “segregated networks” at the candidate stage, “information bias” and “statistical discrimination” at the entry stage, and “closed internal markets” at the promotion stage. Practical implications are drawn for equal employment opportunity policies directed toward occupational processes and employment outcomes.
HISTOCHEMICAL STUDIES ON DEVELOPING MAST CELLS.

By means of a new staining procedure (using a mixture of Astra blue and safranin O), studies on the polysaccharides of the mast cell granules were made in adult and embryonic connective tissues of the rat. According to their staining reactivity toward these dyes, it was found that, in the adult tissues, mast cells can be classified into three groups: (1) Astra blue positive mast cells, or “blue” cells; (2) safranin positive mast cells, or “red” cells, which are the most numerous cells; (3) intermediate forms, which exhibit affinity for both dyes, or “mixed” cells. In the embryo, mast cells appear first on the fifteenth-sixteenth day of development as small round cells, the cytoplasm of which contains flakes of Astra blue positive material; rapidly, this material becomes granular, and on the twenty-first day (just before birth), a large mast cell population exists in the subcutaneous connective tissue of the embryo, containing only cells of the “blue” type. Eight to 15 days after birth, “red” and “mixed” cells are visible. Progressively, the mast cell population becomes of the adult type. It is thought that these variations in the staining reactivity correspond to the evolution of the cell: the “blue” forms are the younger cells and the “red” forms are the adult mast cells. This is probably related to a progressive increase of the number of strong acidic groups which are present in the polysaccharidic molecule.
Climate stabilization wedges revisited: can agricultural production and greenhouse-gas reduction goals be accomplished?

Climate stabilization wedges are defined as strategies that contribute to greenhouse-gas (GHG) mitigation that – in aggregate – achieve a particular goal. Wedges have been proposed as a GHG mitigation framework because no single technology or economic sector can sufficiently reduce emissions to acceptable levels. To avoid the most dangerous risks of climate change, we argue that mitigation of ~9000 teragrams of carbon equivalents (Tg Ceq) will be required by the year 2030. We estimate that agriculture could provide wedges of 1350 to 3900 Tg Ceq under attainment of technological and human behavior mitigation potentials. Improved agricultural management can decrease nitrous oxide and methane emissions and increase carbon sequestration. Consumption of fewer livestock products along with agricultural intensification through available technologies can result in reduced emissions in both developed and developing countries. Decreasing excess protein and calorie consumption in developed countries improves personal health, while reforestation and avoided deforestation in developing countries help to maintain biodiversity. The mitigation wedges have varying economic costs but also have multiple benefits.
Nucleation of Ice on Mica

Abstract Ice was grown in a cold chamber mounted on a Vickers Projection Microscope and so constructed that the temperature and humidity could be independently controlled. Observations were made (magnification 280×to 560×) of the growth of ice crystals on a freshly-cleaved mica substrate. No growth occurred until saturation with respect to water was reached; it was concluded that nucleation of ice on mica is a two-stage process above −40C. Upon subsequent regrowth of ice, certain places were observed which acted as sublimation nuclei. These results are qualitatively discussed in terms of present nucleation theory.
Global extrapolation for variable-step integration of ordinary differential equations

A new procedure for implementing global extrapolation in the integration of systems of ordinary differential equations with variable-step integration is developed. Three independent solution trajectories, which are generated by using three different user-specified error tolerances, are used to produce improved numerical approximations to the solution along with global error estimates. The procedure is shown to produce approximations of higher accuracy at a lower overall computational effort than when using a single solution trajectory with a tighter error tolerance.
Flying the KITE (knowledge innovation for technology in education) through a case‐based reasoning knowledge repository

Case‐based reasoning (CBR), which has long been considered a branch of artificial intelligence, has recently gained great attention in the knowledge management circle because of its capability for storing and retrieving experience‐based knowledge by emulating human memory, and its ability to function similar to organizational memory to preserve organizational knowledge. While many successful CBR systems have been developed as knowledge repositories for preserving intellectual capital and for problem solving in business communities, both the concept and methodology of CBR are still novelties in education communities. While there are a plethora of projects and practical pursuits for CBR applications in business, literature relating to designing, developing and evaluating practical CBR educational applications is conspicuously scant. Based on the issues encountered and lessons learned in a CBR system development project, this paper attempts to provide some pragmatic guidelines for those who are interested in applying the CBR knowledge repository approach to supporting knowledge creation and diffusion in the education domain.
OH Zeeman Measurement of the Magnetic Field in the L1544 Core

We report observations with the Arecibo telescope of the Zeeman effect in the 1665 and 1667 MHz lines of OH toward eight dark cloud cores. For L1544, the inferred line-of-sight magnetic field is BLOS = +11 ± 2 μG. The L1544 starless core has been observed to have infall motions; it may be very close to forming a star. BLOS ≈ 11 μG is consistent with the prediction of an ambipolar diffusion model computed specifically for this core before the Zeeman measurements were made; however, in order to obtain agreement with the data this model has inclined by only 16° to the plane of the sky. Virial arguments show that unless the magnetic field is mainly in the plane of the sky, it is not important for support of the L1544 core. For L1457S our result is BLOS = -24 ± 7 μG, a possible but not definite detection. The other six cores were observed only with short integration times, and the Zeeman effect was not detected in these cores.
Age Specific Mortality of Liriomyza sativae due to Chrysonotomyia formosa and Parasitization by Opius dimidiatus and Chrysonotomyia formosa

The influence of larval host age on the levels of mortality and parasitization of the vegetable leafminer, Liriomyza sativae Blanchard, by Chrysonotomyia formosa (Westwood) and Opius dimidiatus (Ashmead) was determined by exposing separately host larvae of 3 ages (24, 72, and 120 h) in bean plant ( Phaseolus sp.) foliage to C. formosa and O. dimidiatus females for 24 h in the greenhouse. Host mortality and parasitization by C. formosa were significantly greater in 120-h-old larvae than in 24, and 72-h-old hosts. Host age and mortality were linearly correlated. Host age did not significantly affect parasitization by O. dimidiatus although higher levels were recorded for the 72-h-old host larvae.
The haemodynamic response to chronic renal failure as studied in the azotaemic state.

SUMMARY Fifty-nine haemodynamic studies were performed in 21 patients with chronic renal failure, usually on a day following at least 6 hours of haemodialysis. A miniature polyethylene tubing was “floated” into the right ventricle under manometric guidance without X-ray control. Indocyanine green was injected into the right ventricle for cardiac output estimations. Cardiac index, stroke volume, total peripheral resistance and mean arterial pressure were all found to be high. The total blood volume measured with 123 I isotope was not significantly expanded. Three patients with acute pulmonary oedema had normal central venous and right atrial pressures, showing that pulmonary capillary permeability is probably the principal factor in the padiogenesis of the “uraemic lung”, and that in these circumstances monitoring of central venous pressure is not reliable in warning the physician of impending pulmonary oedema. For this purpose it was useful to measure blood volume and right ventricular pressure.
Development and thermal fatigue testing of ceramic thermal barrier coatings

Ceramic thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) will play an increasingly important role in future gas turbine engines because of their ability to effectively protect the engine components and further raise engine temperatures. Durability of the coating systems remains a critical issue with the ever-increasing temperature requirements. Thermal conductivity increase and coating degradation due to sintering and phase changes are known to be detrimental to coating performance. There is a need to characterize the coating thermal fatigue behavior and temperature limit, in order to potentially take full advantage of the current coating capability. In this study, a laser thermal fatigue test technique has been used to study the delamination crack propagation of thermal barrier coatings under simulated engine heat flux heating and thermal cyclic loading. Thermal conductivity and cyclic fatigue behaviors of plasma-sprayed ZrO2–8 wt.% Y2O3 thermal barrier coatings were evaluated under high temperature, large thermal gradient and thermal cycling conditions. The coating degradation and failure processes were assessed by real-time monitoring of the coating thermal conductivity during the testing. The test results showed that the initial average crack propagation rates of ZrO2–8 wt.% Y2O3 coatings were in the range of 3–8 μm/cycle. The crack propagation rates increased to 30–40 μm/cycle at later stages of testing, and the critical spalling crack size ranged from 3 to 5 mm for the coatings. The accelerated crack growth is attributed to the increased driving force for crack propagation under the laser heat flux cyclic test conditions.
Simulation of collapse and fragmentation phenomena in a sharp interface Eulerian setting

Abstract Sharp interface Eulerian methods are used to develop a technique for handling high speed material dynamics leading to collapse and fragmentation. Two problems are of primary interest, viz. void collapse in energetic materials and fragmentation of solids under impact; in the first case the sharp interface reconnects to itself, while in the second the sharp interface is torn apart. The challenge is to simulate using a sharp interface Eulerian approach through these topological changes and to apply boundary conditions on the immersed interfaces. Level set interface representations are combined with a modified Ghost Fluid Method to solve sharp interface dynamics in the presence of elasto-plastically deforming solid materials. A unified method of populating ghost field is developed using an adaptive least squares approach and demonstrated to be robust for severe interface deformations, including changes in topology. A parallel algorithm is used to enable solutions of large scale problems. The embedded material interfaces undergoing severe deformation while moving at a very high speed are handled efficiently and accurately in a multi-processor setting. Validation exercises, examples and benchmark calculations are presented to demonstrate the accuracy of the approach.
Inkjet-Printed Flexible Graphene-Based Supercapacitor

Abstract A flexible supercapacitor is being developed for integrating with and powering flexible electronics for military and commercial applications. Graphene oxide dispersed in water was used as an ink for inkjet printing the electrode active material onto metal film on Kapton current collectors. After printing, the graphene oxide was thermally reduced at 200 °C to produce conductive graphene electrodes. These electrodes were heat sealed together with added electrolyte and separator, and the assembled supercapacitor performance was evaluated. The specific capacitance of the graphene is good, and the overall performance of the packaged device serves as a proof of concept. But in the future, thicker graphene electrodes and further package optimization will be required to obtain good device-level performance. A number of issues associated with using Kapton for packaging these devices are identified and discussed.
Is the doubly charged monopole stable

An SU(3)..-->..SO(3)..-->..U(1) model is used to examine the mass spectra of both the Z/sub 2/ monopole formed at the first stage of symmetry breaking and the doubly charged monopole formed at the second. We find that the Z/sub 2/ nature of the monopole does not affect its mass spectrum. We also find that the doubly charged monopole can have a mass M/sub monopole/
Characterization of a Liquid-Vapor Phase-Change Actuator

Factors affecting the efficiency of liquid-vapor phase-change actuators during dynamic operation are explored. To do this, a model actuator was specifically designed so that actuator geometry, material properties and operation could be easily varied in order to parametrically study their effects on actuator efficiency. A numerical model was developed so that the detailed energy budget within the device could be elucidated. It was found that device efficiency was maximized when the energy input into the actuator was equal to the energy required to dry out the evaporator. Membrane thermal mass and compliance, as well as the thickness of the evaporating liquid layer were also found to have a large impact on efficiency. In contrast, membrane thermal conductivity was found to have a minimal effect on efficiency for dynamic operation. Based on the parameter study, a liquid-vapor phase-change membrane actuator fabricated with a 10.3μm thick wicking structure and a 200nm thick 3mm-square silicon nitride actuation membrane was shown to demonstrate improved performance characteristics. The actuator generated peak pressures and deflections of 123kPa and 167μm when actuated with a 14.3mJ heating pulse for a thermal efficiency of 0.15%.Copyright © 2005 by ASME