cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Learning multi-finger synergies: an uncontrolled manifold analysis.

We used the uncontrolled manifold (UCM) approach to study the synergy formation during learning an unusual multi-finger task. The subjects produced accurate force ramps with challenging sets of four fingers (two per hand). We tested hypotheses on stabilization of the contributions of subsets of effectors to the task force (FTASK) and to the moment in the frontal plane (force-stabilization and moment-stabilization, respectively). Force signals were used to compute magnitudes of hypothetical independent signals, modes. The variance of the mode magnitudes across repetitions of the task was partitioned into two components, within the UCM (VUCM), which did not affect the average value of a selected performance variable (force or moment), and orthogonal to the UCM (VORT), which affected the variable. Prior to practice, subjects showed high error indices and failed to show stabilization of each hand’s contribution to FTASK (VORT≥VUCM), while the pronation-supination moment was stabilized by the fingers of each hand (VORT<VUCM). The total forces produced by each of the two hands showed negative covariation across trials, which supported the force-stabilization hypothesis but not moment-stabilization hypothesis. Both force-stabilization and moment-stabilization hypotheses were supported by analysis of mode magnitudes to all eight fingers. Over 2 days of practice, the performance of the subjects improved considerably. This was accompanied by the emergence of within-a-hand force-stabilization for each of the two hands without deterioration of moment-stabilization. Quantitatively better within-a-hand force-stabilization was seen in male subjects as compared to females throughout the course of the experiment. Force-stabilization by all eight fingers improved quantitatively with practice. Practice also resulted in higher finger forces in maximal force production (MVC) trials and higher forces produced by unintended fingers in single-finger MVC trials (higher enslaving). We conclude that the UCM approach allows quantifying changes in the coordination of effectors during practice, and offers insights into the microstructure of this coordination with respect to different performance variables and different subsets of effectors. The approach can be used to test whether new synergies emerge in the process of practice.
Use of microphone technology to improve user performance in noise.

Because of the improvement in SNR reported for dual microphones in the studies reviewed in this manuscript, it is felt that a greater number of manufacturers will be releasing producis containing dual-microphone technology in the near future. For example, at the time this manuscript was prepared, Siemens, ReSound and Danavox introduced dual-microphone BTE and ITE hearing aids with DSP. Micro-Tech also recently releascd an ITE with dual microphones. Oticon recently introduced an ITE with DSP and a D-Mic™. It is clear that more manufacturers will introduce hearing aids with dual microphones or the D-Mic™ in the years ahead.
Mexican American Family’s Perceptions of the Multirelational Influences on Their Adolescent’s Engagement in Substance Use Treatment:

Adolescent substance use is a significant challenge for adolescents, their families, and the larger society. Clinicians and researchers continue to explore ways to effectively engage both families ...
An iterative algorithm for the robot coordinate transformation

For some configurations of so-called articulated robot arms, the inverse coordinate transformation (that is, from cartesian coordinates to their arm joint values equivalents), cannot be solved (or is not practical to be solved) in closed form. An iterative procedure for the inverse transformation, developed for this arm, is presented.
Asthma Drugs and the Risk of Congenital Anomalies

Study Objective To estimate the prevalence of congenital anomalies between the offspring of women exposed and unexposed to asthma drugs during early pregnancy. Design Matched cohort study. Database The United Kingdom's General Practice Research Database. Patients Women exposed to asthma drugs during early pregnancy and a sample of matched unexposed pregnant women. Measurements and Main Results The prevalence of any anomaly among unexposed and exposed women was 27.8 (95% confidence interval [CI] 25.4–30.6)/1000 pregnancies and 31.3 (95% CI 27.7–35.5)/1000 pregnancies, respectively (relative risk [RR] 1.1 95% CI 1.0–1.3). Conclusion Our findings suggest that asthma drugs, overall, do not increase the risk of congenital anomalies in the offspring when taken during the first trimester of pregnancy.
Soluble protein and enzyme patterns in shoots of slash pine under different nutritional regimes

Abstract The potential for using gel electrophoresis techniques in nutrition studies is demonstrated. Total soluble proteins separated in acrylamide gels are influenced by substrate nutrient levels. Isozymes containing Cu and Fe (polyphenol oxidase, peroxidase, and ascorbic acid oxidase) were strongly influenced by excess P in the substrate. Total soluble proteins and isozymes (e.g. peroxidase), whose activities are influenced by cations (e.g. Mn), were also shown to be influenced by substrate nitrogen level. These assays may be more sensitive to mineral deficiencies or excesses than gross tissue analysis.
Pituitary macroadenoma manifesting as an isolated fourth nerve palsy

Abstract PURPOSE: To describe an unusual ophthalmic manifestion of a pituitary adenoma. METHODS: Case report. RESULTS: A 32-year-old man had left supraorbital and frontal headaches and new-onset vertical diplopia. Examination showed a left fourth nerve palsy and increased vertical fusional amplitudes. Magnetic resonance imaging disclosed a sellar mass consistent with a pituitary macroadenoma. CONCLUSION: A pituitary adenoma may rarely manifest with an isolated fourth nerve palsy.
Interpreting uncertainty terms.

Uncertainty terms (e.g., some, possible, good, etc.) are words that do not have a fixed referent and hence are relatively ambiguous. A model is proposed that specifies how, from the hearer�s perspective, recognition of facework as a potential motive for the use of an uncertainty term results in a calibration of the intended meaning of that term. Four experiments are reported that examine the impact of face threat, and the variables that affect it (e.g., power), on the manner in which a variety of uncertainty terms (probability terms, quantifiers, frequency terms, etc.) are interpreted. Overall, the results demonstrate that increased face threat in a situation will result in a more negative interpretation of an utterance containing an uncertainty term. That the interpretation of so many different types of uncertainty terms is affected in the same way suggests the operation of a fundamental principle of language use, one with important implications for the communication of risk, subjective experience, and so on. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2014 APA, all rights reserved)
Fault dating in the Canadian Rocky Mountains: Evidence for late Cretaceous and early Eocene orogenic pulses

Fault rocks from the classic Rocky Mountain foreland fold-and-thrust belt in southwestern Canada were dated by Ar analysis of clay grain-size fractions. Using X-ray diffraction quantification of the detrital and authigenic component of each fraction, these determinations give ages for individual faults in the area (illite age analysis). The resulting ages cluster around 72 and 52 Ma (here called the Rundle and McConnell pulses, respectively), challenging the traditional view of gradual forward progression of faulting and thrust-belt history of the area. The recognition of spatially and temporally restricted deformation episodes offers field support for theoretical models of critically stressed wedges, which result in geologically reasonable strain rates for the area. In addition to regional considerations, this study highlights the potential of direct dating of shallow fault rocks for our understanding of upper-crustal kinematics and regional tectonic analysis of ancient orogens.
Thalamic Relay Nuclei of the Basal Ganglia Form Both Reciprocal and Nonreciprocal Cortical Connections, Linking Multiple Frontal Cortical Areas

Thalamic relay nuclei transmit basal ganglia output to the frontal cortex, forming the last link in corticobasal ganglia circuitry. The thalamus regulates cortical activity through differential laminar connections, providing not only feedback, but also initiating "feedforward" loops, via nonreciprocal projections, that influence higher cortical areas. This study examines the organization of thalamic connections with cortex from basal ganglia relay nuclei, including ventral anterior (VA), ventral lateral (VL), and mediodorsal (MD) nuclei, in the Macaque monkey. Anterograde and bidirectional tracer injections ([3H]-amino acids, dextran conjugates of Fluorescein, Lucifer Yellow or FluoroRuby, or wheat germ agglutinin) into discrete VA/VL, MD, and frontal cortical sites demonstrate specific thalamocortical connections. VL projections target caudal motor areas (primary, supplementary, and caudal premotor areas), whereas VA projections target more rostral premotor areas (including cingulate and presupplementary motor areas) and MD projects to dorsolateral and orbital prefrontal cortices. Thalamocortical projections innervate cortical layers I and III, and to a lesser extent, layer V. In motor areas layer I projections are more extensive than those to layer III (and V). The complex laminar organization of projections from specific thalamic sites suggests differential regulation of cortical function. Injections of bidirectional tracers into thalamic and frontal cortical sites also show that in comparison to thalamocortical projections, corticothalamic projections to VA-VL and MD are more widespread. These findings demonstrate both reciprocal and nonreciprocal components to the thalamo-cortico-thalamic relay. Together, these experiments indicate a dual role for VA-VL and MD nuclei: (1) to relay basal ganglia output within specific cortical circuits and (2) to mediate information flow between cortical circuits.
EXPLAINING COMMUNITY DECISION MAKING IN THE 1989 GREEKFEST INCIDENT IN VIRGINIA BEACH, VIRGINIA: AN APPLICATION OF SYSTEMIC POWER THEORY

In 1989, the City of Virginia Beach sought to discourage thousands of young African-American college students from holding their annual festival in the city. The policy failed and a major civil disorder occurred. This study explores the city's decision-making process on this issue. The alternative explanations provided by elite, pluralism, and systemic power theories are examined, It is determined that the systemic power theory provides the most appropriate explanation. According to this theory, government officials are favorably biased toward the interests of the upper strata of their community unless they are effectively checked by popular constraints. In this instance, an unelected official, the city manager, made the policy. Consequently, the policy reflected the interests of the city's largest tourist-related businesses. The significance of this study is that its findings strongly challenge the appropriateness of the council-manager form of government for cities with populations as large and as heterogeneous as that of Virginia Beach. Indeed, the strong-mayor form of government is recommended for these cities.
Application of Traffic Simulation Modeling for Improved Emergency Preparedness Planning

Emergency preparedness is vital toward ensuring the safety, security, and efficiency of the transportation system in the event of disasters. To understand the magnitude of the problem and develop effective emergency preparedness plans, emergency scenarios need to be carefully developed and evaluated. This paper presents results from a project that developed and tested emergency response scenarios for the Birmingham, Al. region. First, the CORSIM traffic simulation software was used to model the major area traffic corridors into a regional transportation network. Then, the regional model was utilized to test and evaluate emergency management strategies in response to natural or human-caused disasters. Appropriate preparedness and response measures of effectiveness (MOEs) were selected to support the assessment process at the region-wide and/or corridor level. Candidate response actions were compared and evaluated on the basis of these MOEs and recommendations were developed on best practices and needs. One of the contributions of this work is that it showcases the utility of microscopic traffic simulation for regional emergency preparedness and highlights opportunities and challenges related to the development of large scale microscopic simulation models. Moreover, the project findings can provide guidance to regional transportation officials and public safety agencies toward implementing effective traffic management strategies in the event of an actual regional emergency.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of 12,13-Cyclopropyl and 12,13-Cyclobutyl Epothilones

With some members in clinical trials, the epothilones command attention as potential anticancer agents of considerable promise. In addition to several naturally occurring substances, an impressive array of epothilone analogues has been constructed and biologically evaluated. 2] We have previously reported the apartialo construction of two 12,13-cyclopropyl epothilone A analogues. Their structures recently came under closer scrutiny by us and by a Bristol ± Myers Squibb (BMS) group, whose independent synthesis of one of these compounds led to a revision of its structure. Here we wish to report i) an unambiguous chemical synthesis of cis-(12S,13S)-cyclopropyl epothilone A (2) and its 15R epimer 3 ; ii) the correct structure of the previously synthesized cyclopropyl epothilones and a mechanistic rationale for their unexpected formation; iii) the chemical synthesis of cis-(12S,13S)-cyclobutyl epothilone A (4) and its 15R epimer 5 ; and iv) the molecular modeling and biological evaluation of the newly synthesized compounds. Remarkably, compounds 2 and 4 exhibit potencies comparable
Role of veins in regulation of pulmonary circulation

Pulmonary veins have been seen primarily as conduit vessels; however, over the past two decades, a large amount of evidence has accumulated to indicate that pulmonary veins can exhibit substantial vasoactivity. In this review, the role of veins in regulation of the pulmonary circulation, particularly during the perinatal period and under certain pathophysiological conditions, is discussed. In the fetus, pulmonary veins contribute a significant fraction to total pulmonary vascular resistance. At birth, the veins as well as the arteries relax in response to endothelium-derived nitric oxide and dilator prostaglandins, thereby assisting in the fall in pulmonary vascular resistance. These effects are oxygen dependent and modulated by cGMP-dependent protein kinase. Under chronic hypoxic conditions, pulmonary veins undergo remodeling and demonstrate substantial constriction and hypertrophy. In a number of species, including the human, pulmonary veins are also the primary sites of action of certain vasoconstrictors such as endothelin and thromboxane. In various pathological conditions, there is an increased synthesis of these vasoactive agents that may lead to pulmonary venous constriction, increased microvascular pressures for fluid filtration, and formation of pulmonary edema. In conclusion, the significant role of veins in regulation of the pulmonary circulation needs to be appreciated to better prevent, diagnose, and treat lung disease.
APOLLO: A Quality Assessment Service for Single and Multiple Protein Models

Summary: We built a web server named APOLLO, which can evaluate the absolute global and local qualities of a single protein model using machine learning methods or the global and local qualities of a pool of models using a pair-wise comparison approach. Based on our evaluations on 107 CASP9 (Critical Assessment of Techniques for Protein Structure Prediction) targets, the predicted quality scores generated from our machine learning and pair-wise methods have an average per-target correlation of 0.671 and 0.917, respectively, with the true model quality scores. Based on our test on 92 CASP9 targets, our predicted absolute local qualities have an average difference of 2.60 A with the actual distances to native structure. Availability: http://sysbio.rnet.missouri.edu/apollo/. Single and pair-wise global quality assessment software is also available at the site. Contact: ude.iruossim@ijgnehc
Effect of lipid peroxidation products on the activity of human retinol dehydrogenase 12 (RDH12) and retinoid metabolism.

Abstract Mutations in human Retinol Dehydrogenase 12 (RDH12) are known to cause photoreceptor cell death but the physiological function of RDH12 in photoreceptors remains poorly understood. In vitro, RDH12 recognizes both retinoids and medium-chain aldehydes as substrates. Our previous study suggested that RDH12 protects cells against toxic levels of retinaldehyde and retinoic acid [S.A. Lee, O.V. Belyaeva, I.K. Popov, N.Y. Kedishvili, Overproduction of bioactive retinoic acid in cells expressing disease-associated mutants of retinol dehydrogenase 12, J. Biol. Chem. 282 (2007) 35621–35628]. Here, we investigated whether RDH12 can also protect cells against highly reactive medium-chain aldehydes. Analysis of cell survival demonstrated that RDH12 was protective against nonanal but not against 4-hydroxynonenal. At high concentrations, nonanal inhibited the activity of RDH12 towards retinaldehyde, suggesting that nonanal was metabolized by RDH12. 4-Hydroxynonenal did not inhibit the RDH12 retinaldehyde reductase activity, but it strongly inhibited the activities of lecithin:retinol acyl transferase and aldehyde dehydrogenase, resulting in decreased levels of retinyl esters and retinoic acid and accumulation of unesterified retinol. Thus, the results of this study showed that RDH12 is more effective in protection against retinaldehyde than against medium-chain aldehydes, and that medium-chain aldehydes, especially 4-hydroxynonenal, severely disrupt cellular retinoid homeostasis. Together, these findings provide a new insight into the effects of lipid peroxidation products and the impact of oxidative stress on retinoid metabolism.
Direct extraction of catalytic proteins from natural microbial communities

A method was developed for rapid investigation of enzymes in natural microbial communities without isolation or cultivation of individual species. Conservative extraction of total proteins present in cells concentrated from up to 1 l of freshwater or wastewater sludge samples was performed by sonication and centrifugation. The protein extracts were immobilized on 0.2 μm pore size nitrocellulose membranes using a vacuum-driven compartmentalized filtration apparatus. Reaction-dependent colorimetric staining of the membranes allowed the detection of enzymatic activities attributable to acid phosphatase, catechol oxidase, cellulase, nitrate reductase, peroxidase, and xanthine dehydrogenase in protein extracts from the wastewater sludge samples. Only catechol oxidase, nitrate reductase, peroxidase, and xanthine dehydrogenase activities were detected in protein extracts from the freshwater samples. Control experiments with Pseudomonas putida indicated a detection limit of enzyme activity of 103 cells or 3.3 ng of total protein. The method described precludes the detection of allozyme or isozyme multiplicity, but it facilitates rapid screening of several different enzymes and could be adapted for quantitative assessment of spatial and temporal distribution of enzymes in many heterogenous aquatic microbial communities.
Symbolic simulation of large-scale circuits in both frequency and time domains

The frequency and time domain analysis are presented for SCAPP (symbolic circuit analysis program without partitioning), which enables the symbolic simulator to perform DC, AC, and transient analysis on large-scale circuits. Frequency response computation is achieved by evaluating the sequence of expressions generated by SCAPP for a range of frequency values (s=jw). Time-domain values are calculated through frequency-domain techniques. The input signal is transformed into the frequency domain and these values are multiplied by the frequency response values. This result is inverse-transformed to yield time values. The SCAPP software package provides a user interface shell that allows both frequency response and time response analyses to be controlled interactively and the data to be viewed graphically. >
Fully-diverse multi-antenna space-time codes based on Sp(2)

Fully-diverse constellations, i.e., a set of unitary matrices whose pairwise differences are nonsingular, are useful in multi-antenna communications, especially in multi-antenna differential modulation, since they have good pairwise error properties. Group theoretic ideas, especially fixed-point-free (FPF) groups, have been used to design fully-diverse constellations of unitary matrices. We construct four-transmit-antenna constellations appropriate for differential modulation based on the symplectic group Sp(2). These can be regarded as extensions of Alamouti's (1998) celebrated two-transmit-antenna orthogonal design which can be constructed from the group Sp(1). We further show that the structure of the code tends itself to efficient maximum likelihood (ML) decoding via the sphere decoding algorithm. Finally, the performance of the code is compared with existing methods including Alamouti's scheme, Cayley differential unitary space-time codes and group-based codes.
The repetition of large-earthquake ruptures

Abstract This survey of well-documented repeated fault rupture confirms that some faults have exhibited a "characteristic" behavior during repeated large earthquakes--that is, the magnitude, distribution, and style of slip on the fault has repeated during two or more consecutive events. In two cases faults exhibit slip functions that vary little from earthquake to earthquake. In one other well-documented case, however, fault lengths contrast markedly for two consecutive ruptures, but the amount of offset at individual sites was similar. Adjacent individual patches, 10 km or more in length, failed singly during one event and in tandem during the other. More complex cases of repetition may also represent the failure of several distinct patches. The faults of the 1992 Landers earthquake provide an instructive example of such complexity. Together, these examples suggest that large earthquakes commonly result from the failure of one or more patches, each characterized by a slip function that is roughly invariant through consecutive earthquake cycles. The persistence of these slip-patches through two or more large earthquakes indicates that some quasi-invariant physical property controls the pattern and magnitude of slip. These data seem incompatible with theoretical models that produce slip distributions that are highly variable in consecutive large events.
Bridging the valley of death: The rhetoric of technology transfer

This participant observer case study examines a new university institute that was established in 2007 to advance IT research and commercialization and to bridge the valley of death, a metaphor often used to describe the gap between university research and its commercialization. Using cluster analysis, this case study draws on Burke and Bourdieu to analyze the ways that rhetorical figures function to stabilize technology transfer by providing a framework for measuring its value and success. At the same time, that framework is always being constituted and is always contested. One key finding was a tension between a traditional Mode 1 conception of research and a more entrepreneurial Mode 2 conception, in which knowledge production is diffuse, crossing disciplinary and university boundaries. This case study highlights important trends in technology transfer, specifically in how university research is valued and success is defined by various stakeholders.
Utility of Isoproterenol to Provoke Outflow Tract Gradients in Patients With Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

It is important to identify patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HC) who have labile left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) obstruction for consideration of ventricular septal reduction therapy. Although Doppler echocardiography has become the diagnostic modality to assess LVOT obstruction, it may not identify all patients with labile obstruction. This study assessed the diagnostic value of cardiac catheterization using isoproterenol challenge in 25 patients with HC in whom an LVOT obstruction (gradient ≥50 mm Hg) was clinically suspected, but not diagnosed using Doppler echocardiography. These patients underwent cardiac catheterization using a transseptal approach with isoproterenol challenge. During isoproterenol infusion, the gradient increased to ≥50 mm Hg in 14 patients and remained 50 mm Hg during isoproterenol infusion, 8 patients who underwent septal myectomy and 5 of 6 patients who underwent alcohol septal ablation had sustained alleviation of symptoms at follow-up. In conclusion, cardiac catheterization with isoproterenol challenge may identify patients with HC who may benefit from septal reduction therapy for whom the initial noninvasive evaluation does not show severe obstruction.
SLAC Storage Ring Beam Transport Instrumentation and Operation

Accelerator beam transport system instrumentation, and operation in general, is a matter of routine engineering. Given sufficient funds and space, an optimum design with maximum effective human interface usually prevails. However, given a very low budget and the criteria that the alternately injected e-, e+ beam be run simultaneously with a minimum of six other primary beams, a deviation from standard design practice and operation philosophy was required. This paper will describe the requirements necessary to bring the alternate e- or e+ beam through the 400 meter long beam transport system with an initial common bend of 48° then a separate bend of 12° each for each of the electron and positron beam paths. The approach to effectively fulfill the operation requirements was a coherent mixture of adding controls to existing similar function panels and a multitask operation chassis. This multitask chassis contains different but interrelated functions in a single panel. The operation of this multitask panel is also operable from the distant and separate SPEAR control room. The deviation of general engineering practices resulted in an optimum performance per cost balance.
MODELING OF ELASTIC ANISOTROPY DUE TO ONE-DIMENSIONAL PLASTIC CONSOLIDATION OF CLAYS

Experiments indicate that in one-dimensionally consolidated natural clays the elastic anisotropy is much stronger than the plastic strain anisotropy. Moreover, the elastic anisotropy appears to bc dependent on the prc-consolidation strain. Coupled clasto-plastic constitutive law is shown to be able to simulate these anisotropy effects of natural clay deposits. In this law the elastic potential is not only a function of stress, but additionly of the plastic strain. The plastic strain comprises the geological process of pre-consolidation idealized as an one-dimensional plastic straining as well as a mechanically induced strain due to engineering activity. Calibration of the model and simulation of some stress paths are presented and related to the classical experimental results by Mitchell (1972).
Regeneration of Nitric Oxide Synthase-Containing Nerves After Cavernous Nerve Neurotomy in the Rat

AbstractIn patients who recover erectile function after radical prostatectomy (with preservation of at least 1 neurovascular bundle), a recovery time of 6 to 18 months is not uncommon. As this is also the usual time required for regeneration of spinal nerves, we believe that regeneration of cavernous nerves, partially damaged inadvertently, may be responsible. In a rat model, we examined the long-term effect of unilateral and bilateral cavernous nerve transection on the nonadrenergic/noncholinergic (NANC) nervous system and erectile function.In 31 rats, nitric oxide synthase (NOS), the enzyme that catalyzes nitric oxide production, was identified in penile nerve fibers from a mid-shaft segment with nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) diaphorase staining and antibody to neuronal NOS. Animals were divided into three groups: 5 rats underwent pelvic exploration without transection of cavernous nerves (sham group); 13 rats underwent unilateral neurotomy of a 5-mm. segment of the cavernous nerve...
Distributed Monitoring and Management of Exascale Systems in the Argo Project

New computing technologies are expected to change the highperformance computing landscape dramatically. Future exascale systems will comprise hundreds of thousands of compute nodes linked by complex networks-resources that need to be actively monitored and controlled, at a scale difficult to manage from a central point as in previous systems. In this context, we describe here on-going work in the Argo exascale software stack project to develop a distributed collection of services working together to track scientific applications across nodes, control the power budget of the system, and respond to eventual failures. Our solution leverages the idea of enclaves: a hierarchy of logical partitions of the system, representing groups of nodes sharing a common configuration, created to encapsulate user jobs as well as by the user inside its own job. These enclaves provide a second and greater level of control over portions of the system, can be tuned to manage specific scenarios, and have dedicated resources to do so.
Pressure-Wind Relationships in the Equatorial Surface Westerlies

Abstract Seasonally persistent westerly winds at the surface in the vicinity of the equator from 40E to 170E longitude are shown to be the generally predictable result of a geostrophically appropriate pressure gradient at latitudes higher than about 5° north or south, and a negative value of the second derivative of the pressure with latitude within about five degrees latitude of the equator. Existing empirical equatorial wind-pressure relationships are shown to be specific cases of these general relationships. The initiating mechanism for equatorial westerlies seems to be a movement of the equatorial trough more than five degrees of latitude from the equator.
Open perforator hypothesis: bridging epicardial and microvascular circulation.

Successful reperfusion after acute myocardial infarction (MI) has traditionally meant restoration of the patency of the epicardial coronary artery. However, increasing evidence suggests that microvascular dysfunction and inadequate tissue perfusion are frequently present despite an open infarct-
The Effects of Debt Equity Policy on Shareholder Return Requirements and Beta

This note outlines the link between shareholder-return requirements and a firm's use of debt. It explores the theoretical arguments concerning how the cost of equity changes with the use of debt and discusses the limitations of each view. It also provides conceptual and practical guidance on the use of "levered" and "unlevered" betas.
Abstract 20574: Selective Activation of the PI3K/Akt Pathway With the Insulin Mimetic Demethylasterriquinone B1 Reverses Neuroinflammatory-Mediated Blood-Brain Barrier Dysfunction in Mice

Blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction is a hallmark of neuroinflammation brought on by pathologies such as stroke and amyloid angiopathy. Inflammatory cytokines that act directly on cerebral endothelium can impair tight junction (TJ) stability. We previously identified a mechanism for IL-1β-mediated dysfunction involving inactivation of the PI3K/Akt pathway, activation of the transcription factor FoxO1, and FoxO1-dependent transcriptional repression of the TJ gene claudin-5 (Cldn5). Here we used an insulin mimetic, Demethylasterriquinone B1 (DMAQ-B1), to test the hypotheses that targeted activation of the PI3K/Akt pathway: 1) enhances cerebral endothelial barrier function, 2) reverses IL-1β-mediated dysfunction and 3) attenuates neuroinflammation-induced BBB dysfunction. In Vitro: Primary cerebral microvascular endothelial cells (CMVECs) were grown in collagen-coated dishes, transwell inserts (0.4 μm pores), or ECIS Arrays (Applied Biophysics). Culture media was conditioned with vehicle control, IL-1β (100 ng/mL), and/or DMAQ-B1 (2.5-10 μM). DMAQ-B1 dose-dependently activated Akt (increased pT308), inactivated FoxO1 (decreased nuclear localization), increased Cldn5 expression (WB, ICC), increased transendothelial electrical resistance (TER), and decreased CMVEC monolayer permeability (Ps). Akt silencing (siRNA), PI3K inhibition (LY294002), or IL-1β treatment downregulated Cldn5 and induced CMVEC barrier dysfunction. DMAQ-B1 (5 μM) reversed IL-1β-mediated Akt inactivation, FoxO1 activation, Cldn5 downregulation and CMVEC barrier dysfunction. In Vivo: We used a murine model of neuroinflammation, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). Cerebral microvascular enriched fractions from EAE-induced mice had less pT308 Akt, increased FoxO1 nuclear accumulation, and decreased Cldn5 expression compared to control. Decreased Cldn5 expression and increased BBB hyperpermeability (sodium fluorescein extravasation) observed in EAE-induced mice was attenuated by 24 hour DMAQ-B1 (5 mg/kg; oral gavage) treatment. These results indicate that promoting PI3K/Akt pathway activation with DMAQ-B1 during neuroinflammatory pathologies may provide a novel therapeutic approach to attenuate BBB dysfunction.
Amebic cellulocutaneous invasion by Naegleria aerobia with generalized visceral lesions after subcutaneous inoculation: an experimental study in guinea pigs.

Injection of bacteria-free Naegleria aerobia into subcutaneous and skeletal muscle tissue of guinea pigs was followed by a gradual loss of weight and a general loss of strength, and, in some cases, by death. Examination showed marked invasion from the local injection site into lymphoid tissue and viscera, but the nervous system was not invaded. Similar injections using Hartmannella culbertsoni produced only local abscess formation. The histologic appearance of the lesions is described, and the possible occurrence of such lesions in nature is discussed. The growth and invasion of the host are reminiscent of the invasion and destruction of a host by a malignant neoplasm.
Dielectronic recombination of Er-like tungsten

Theoretical studies of dielectronic recombination, a very important process for both atomic and plasma physics, are carried out for low-ionized Er-like W. The dielectronic recombination (DR) of the Er-like ion W${}^{6+}$ proceeds via electron capture into the intermediate autoionizing states of the Tm-like ion W${}^{5+}$ followed by the radiative decay to singly-excited bound states. In particular, energy levels, radiative transition probabilities, and autoionization rates for [Cd]$4{f}^{14}5{p}^{5}5{l}^{\ensuremath{'}}nl$, [Cd]$4{f}^{14}5{p}^{5}6{l}^{\ensuremath{'}\ensuremath{'}}nl$, [Cd]$4{f}^{13}5{p}^{6}5{l}^{\ensuremath{'}}nl$, and [Cd]$4{f}^{13}5{p}^{6}6{l}^{\ensuremath{'}\ensuremath{'}}nl$ (${l}^{\ensuremath{'}}=d,f,g$, ${l}^{\ensuremath{'}\ensuremath{'}}=s,p,d,f,g$, $n=5--7$) states in Tm-like tungsten (W${}^{5+}$) are calculated using the relativistic many-body perturbation theory and relativistic all-order single-double method as well as the Hartree-Fock-relativistic method (cowan code). Branching ratios relative to the first threshold and intensity factors are calculated for satellite lines. DR rate coefficients are determined for the singly-excited [Cd]$4{f}^{14}5{p}^{6}nl$ ($n=5--7$) and nonautoionizing doubly-excited [Cd]$4{f}^{14}5{p}^{5}5{d}^{2}$, [Cd]$4{f}^{13}5{p}^{6}5{d}^{2}$, [Cd]$4{f}^{13}5{p}^{6}6{s}^{2}$, [Cd]$4{f}^{13}5{p}^{6}5d6s$, and [Cd]$4{f}^{13}5{p}^{6}5d6p$ states. Also, contributions from the autoionizing doubly-excited [Cd]$4{f}^{14}5{p}^{5}5{l}^{\ensuremath{'}}nl$, [Cd]$4{f}^{14}5{p}^{5}6{l}^{\ensuremath{'}\ensuremath{'}}nl$, [Cd]$4{f}^{13}5{p}^{6}5{l}^{\ensuremath{'}}nl$, and [Cd]$4{f}^{13}5{p}^{6}6{l}^{\ensuremath{'}\ensuremath{'}}nl$ states (with $n$ up to 100), which are very important for calculating total DR rates, are estimated. Synthetic dielectronic satellite spectra from Tm-like W are simulated in a broad spectral range from 140 to 1200 \AA{}. These relativistic calculations provide recommended values critically evaluated for their accuracy for a number of W${}^{5+}$ ion properties useful for a variety of applications, including for fusion applications.
Investigation of a Twinjet Configuration with and without Flow Control

Jet noise has been an active area of research owing to public health concerns and aviation regulations. This problem is further amplified with the use of multiple engines placed in closed proximity to each other. In addition to significantly altered farfield noise as compared to a single-jet, previous experimental results show high levels of dynamic pressure fluctuations in the inter-nozzle region which can cause structural damage. In this work, Large Eddy Simulations are performed to study the dynamics of a supersonic twinjet configuration, with and without flow control. Results indicate that relative to single-jet configuration, twinjets show decrease in column lengths due to significant modifications in shear-layer properties. The simulations also corroborate previous experimental observations of very high levels of dynamic pressure fluctuations in the inter-nozzle region relative to a single-jet configuration for identical flow parameters. The phenomenon of noise shielding along the plane containing the two jets has been reported for all the twinjet cases explored in this work and trends of sound pressure levels obtained at various polar angles indicate an increased efficiency of shielding at lower polar angles. The sensitivity of the dynamic pressure fluctuations on the nozzle-exit boundary layer thickness is also characterized. Simulations are also performed to mimic the effects of Localized Arc Filament Plasma Actuators at different excitation frequencies (St=0.3 and 0.9) actuated in an axisymmetric fashion (m=0). Close to the nozzle exit, toroidal structures formed as a result of control result in significant increase in jet spreading leading to the formation of a recirculation region along the symmetry plane, relative to the uncontrolled case. This excitation scheme increased the levels of dynamic pressure fluctuations closer to the nozzle exit in the inter-nozzle region. In contrast, the near field shows significant reduction in pressure fluctuations, especially for the higher Strouhal number case.
A β-Peptide Agonist of the GLP-1 Receptor, a Class B GPCR

Previous work has shown that certain β3-peptides can effectively mimic the side chain display of an α-helix and inhibit interactions between proteins, both in vitro and in cultured cells. Here we describe a β3-peptide analog of GLP-1, CC-3Act, that interacts with the GLP-1R extracellular domain (nGLP-1R) in vitro in a manner that competes with exendin-4 and induces GLP-1R-dependent cAMP signaling in cultured CHO-K1 cells expressing GLP-1R.
Detection results of rural drinking water in Kaiping City from 2008-2011

[Objective]To understand the current situation of drinking water quality in rural area in Kaiping City,improve the sanitary condition,and enhance the health level of rural drinking water.[Methods]The drinking water quality of rural area in Kaiping City from 2008-2011 was analyzed according to the requirements of the Notification on strengthening the evaluation of rural drinking water safety project and monitoring of the water quality(published by the Ministry of Health,the Ministry of Water Resources and the National Development and Reform Commission).[Results]403 samples were detected,and the total qualified rate was 60.30%.The qualified rate of water samples with complete treatment(77.73%) was higher than that of water samples with noncomplete treatment or without treatment(29.93%),and the difference was significant statistically(χ2 = 89.13,P 0.01).[Conclusion]The drinking water quality in rural area in Kaiping City is relatively low.In order to improve the sanitary condition of rural drinking water and ensure the drinking water safety of residents,it is necessary to perfect the water treatment technology and facilities,and strengthen the rural drinking water safety project.
On the Internal Obstacles to Government Innovation and Obstacle Surmounting

To further studies on the key internal factors for government innovation helps to promote effective interaction between government innovation theories and practices.The internal subjects of government innovation,namely the public administration personnel and the ecological environment of government internal organizations,serve as the key internal factor for government innovation,which directly decide the success or failure of government innovation projects.In the process of government innovation,there exist such subject obstacles as identity,capability,motivation and interest conflict,and such ecological environment barriers as organizational structure,organizational climate and physical condition.In order to get out of the internal dilemma of government innovation,both the high push from the government and the active participation of administration personnel at the grassroots are needed.Moreover,it is necessary that the partnership of multiple administrative subjects should be established and an innovation-friendly environment should be created.
Multiplex Detection of IgG and IgM to Rift Valley Fever Virus Nucleoprotein, Nonstructural Proteins, and Glycoprotein in Ovine and Bovine.

Abstract A multiplex fluorescence microsphere immunoassay (FMIA) was used to detect bovine and ovine IgM and IgG antibodies to several Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) proteins, including the major surface glycoprotein, Gn; the nonstructural proteins, NSs and NSm; and the nucleoprotein, N. Target antigens were assembled into a multiplex and tested in serum samples from infected wild-type RVFV or MP12, a modified live virus vaccine. As expected, the N protein was immunodominant and the best target for early detection of infection. Antibody activity against the other targets was also detected. The experimental results demonstrate the capabilities of FMIA for the detection of antibodies to RVFV structural and nonstructural proteins, which can be applied to future development and validation of diagnostic tests that can be used to differentiate vaccinated from infected animals.
Effectiveness of a nonlinear energy sink in the control of an aeroelastic system

The effectiveness of the nonlinear energy sink in controlling the limit cycle oscillations of a nonlinear aeroelastic system is assessed. The system consists of a rigid airfoil elastically mounted on linear and nonlinear springs. The coupled equations of the airfoil and sink are derived using Lagrange’s equations. The nonlinear quasi-steady aerodynamics are used to model the aerodynamic loads. Parameters including the mass and placement of the passive controller are varied in order to test its efficiency in suppressing undesirable aeroelastic behavior under varying conditions. The nonlinear normal form governing the responses of the airfoil and the energy sink is derived. The contribution of the aerodynamic, structural and sink nonlinearities to the type of instability is quantified. The results show that the nonlinear energy sink has a limited impact on the system’s response in terms of effectively delaying the onset of flutter, changing the type of instability or reducing the amplitude of the limit cycle oscillations.
Power system dynamic performance during the late-time (E3) high-altitude electromagnetic pulse

A high altitude electromagnetic pulse (HEMP) has the potential to cripple power systems. A HEMP is a nuclear detonation, occurring at least 30 km above the surface of the earth. HEMPs emit harmful radiation in the form of electromagnetic waves. A HEMP can be broken down into three energetic waves, realized as geoelectric fields, E1, E2 and E3. This paper focuses on the impacts of HEMP E3 to power systems. Provided by the International Electrotechnical Commission for unclassified use is a single HEMP E3 reference field. The E3 field could be prone to slight variations due to various atmospheric conditions and weapon characteristics. As a result, studying the impacts of one specific field may be incomplete. In this paper, slight variations to the referenced field are made in order to better understand the potential power system impacts and sensitivities to various geoelectric field characteristics. The results show that the system's response is the most sensitive to changes to the geoelectric field's magnitude.
On the effects of changing reference command as humans learn to control dynamic systems

We present results from an experiment in which 44 human subjects each interact with a dynamic system 40 times over a one-week period. For each interaction, a subject is asked to perform a command-following task. For each subject and each interaction, the dynamic system is the same; however, the task (i.e., reference command to be followed) is not necessarily the same. We use the experimental results to examine the effect of changing task on the learning process. Experimental results show that the subjects are able to generalize a control strategy learned on one task to a different task. Results also suggest that subjects are able to learn without relying on prediction, but their ability without prediction is more limited.
Replacement of styrene with acrylated epoxidized soybean oil in an unsaturated polyester resin from propylene glycol and maleic anhydride

A nonvolatile, vegetable-oil based chemical, acrylated epoxidized soybean oil (AESO) was investigated as a replacement of volatile and toxic styrene in one of commercial UPE resins styrene-(PG-MA) that is a mixture of styrene and a UPE plastic from propylene glycol and maleic anhydride (PG-MA). Neither AESO nor PG-MA was capable of forming a strong matrix, respectively, for glass fiber-reinforced composites. However, a mixture of AESO and PG-MA resulted in glass fiber-reinforced AESO-(PG-MA) composites that were comparable or even superior to those from styrene-(PG-MA) in terms of the flexural and tensile properties. Effects of AESO contents on the mechanical and viscoelastic properties of the glass fiber-reinforced AESO-(PG-MA) composites were investigated. Resin viscosity and resin pot life as a function of temperature were studied. The curing mechanism of the AESO-(PG-MA) resins is also discussed. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45056.
Abstract 3329: Correlation of Infarct Structure and Electrophysiologic Properties by Comparison of Delayed Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Electroanatomic Mapping in Patients with Postinfarction Ventricular Tachycardia

Delayed enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DEMRI) has been used to define the extent and volume of infarcted myocardium in patients with prior myocardial infarction. Electroanatomic mapping (EM) has also been used to identify the endocardial extent of post-infarction scarring. The purpose of our study was to gain insight into the infarct architecture and size as defined by DEMRI and its relation to characteristics of endomyocardial bipolar electrograms. Methods: Six consecutive patients (5 men, mean age 69±10 years; EF:0.36±0.1) underwent DEMRI (1.5 Tesla, GE) prior to ablation and mapping of ventricular tachycardia. Using a 3-D EM system (CARTO, Biosense Webster; 4mm tip electrode) an EM was performed during sinus rhythm. A total of 2026 endocardial sites were analyzed. The electrograms (EGM) at these sites were categorized as normal (amplitude >3mV, width 133ms), isolated potentials (IP; potentials separated by an isoelectric segment >20ms from the ventricular EGM) or abnormal (remainder of EGMs). The DEMRI pictures were integrated into the electroanatomic map by customized segmentation of the left ventricle using anatomic reference points. Correlation of EM sites with respect to DEMRI was performed post hoc. Infarct size as defined by the extent of subendocardial delayed enhancement (DE) in the MRI correlated best with a voltage Conclusion: DEMRI and EM are complementary techniques that can be combined. DEMRI helps to better define the infarct architecture and may help to facilitate mapping and ablation of postinfarction VT.