cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Performance characterization of a DRAM-NVM hybrid memory architecture for HPC applications using intel optane DC persistent memory modules

Non-volatile, byte-addressable memory (NVM) has been introduced by Intel in the form of NVDIMMs named Intel® Optane™ DC PMM. This memory module has the ability to persist the data stored in it without the need for power. This expands the memory hierarchy into a hybrid memory system due the differences in access latency and memory bandwidth from DRAM, which has been the predominant byte-addressable main memory technology. The Optane DC memory modules have up to 8x the capacity of DDR4 DRAM modules which can expand the byte-address space up to 6 TB per node. Many applications can now scale up the their problem size given such a memory system. We evaluate the capabilities of this DRAM-NVM hybrid memory system and its impact on High Performance Computing (HPC) applications. We characterize the Optane DC in comparison to DDR4 DRAM with a STREAM-like custom benchmark and measure the performance for HPC mini-apps like VPIC, SNAP, LULESH and AMG under different configurations of Optane DC PMMs. We find that Optane-only executions are slower in terms of execution time than DRAM-only and Memory-mode executions by a minimum of 2 to 16% for VPIC and maximum of 6x for LULESH.
Increased overall and cause-specific mortality associated with disability among workers' compensation claimants with low back injuries.

BACKGROUND Mortality tends to be higher among people who do not work than among workers, but the impact of work-related disability on mortality has not been well studied. METHODS The vital status through 2015 was ascertained for 14 219 workers with an accepted workers' compensation claim in West Virginia for a low back injury in 1998 or 1999. Mortality among the cohort compared with the West Virginia general population was assessed using standard life table techniques. Associations of mortality and disability-related factors within the cohort were evaluated using Cox proportional hazards regression. RESULTS Compared to the general population, mortality from accidental poisoning was significantly elevated among the overall cohort and lost-time claimants. Most deaths from accidental poisoning in the cohort were due to drug overdoses involving opioids. Mortality from intentional self-harm was also significantly elevated among lost-time claimants. In internal analyses, overall mortality and mortality from cancer, heart disease, intentional self-harm, and drug overdoses involving opioids was significantly associated with lost time. Overall mortality and mortality from drug overdoses involving opioids were also significantly associated with amount of lost time, permanent partial disability, and percent permanent disability. Heart disease mortality was also significantly associated with the amount of lost time. CONCLUSIONS The results suggest that disability itself may impact mortality risks. If confirmed, these results reinforce the importance of return to work and other efforts to reduce disability.
Combinatorial investigation of structural and optical properties of cation-disordered ZnGeN2

Cation-disordered ZnGeN2 shows promise for application as a blue-green emitter in light-emitting devices, but more foundational work is necessary to understand structure–property relationships. In this work, we present a combinatorial exploration of the experimental phase space of wurtzite (cation-disordered) ZnGeN2 using high-throughput co-sputtering. Structure, morphology and optical properties are explored as a function of cation composition and synthesis temperature. ZnGeN2 is found to crystallize in the wurtzite structure ranging from Zn-rich to Ge-rich compositions. X-ray diffraction refinements reveal a continuous shift in cell volume with off-stoichiometry, indicating alloy-like structural behavior. The optical absorption of all films examined is lower in energy than the value predicted for cation-ordered ZnGeN2, suggesting that cation disorder is decreasing the bandgap. Additionally, the absorption threshold shifts continuously to higher energy for Ge-rich samples, consistent with bandgap shifts due to alloy-like structural behavior. Defect formation energy diagrams are calculated to help guide understanding of off-stoichiometry from a defect complex perspective. This work paves the way toward use of ZnGeN2 as a bandgap-tunable optoelectronic semiconductor.
Distribution characteristics of methylsiloxanes in atmospheric environment of Saitama, Japan: Diurnal and seasonal variations and emission source apportionment.

Abstract The large production volume of methylsiloxanes (MSs), combined with their high mobility/volatility and persistence, is a matter of concern from the atmospheric pollution perspective. Therefore, we evaluated of the concentrations and emission sources of MSs, including 7 cyclic methylsiloxanes (D3–D9; CMSs, the number refers to the number of Si–O bonds) and 13 linear methylsiloxanes (L3–L15; LMSs) in ambient air collected from Saitama, Japan. This is a first study regarding the evaluation of 20 methylsiloxanes in the Japanese atmosphere. We improved the air sampling methodology by determination the stability of D5 during a 7-d air sampling and arbitrary sample storage period using polystyrene-divinyl benzene copolymer sorbent (Sep-Pak plus PS-2). We analyzed air samples for MSs seasonally collected from nine locations in Saitama, including urban, suburban, rural, and mountainous areas. The mean CMS and LMS concentrations were 358 ng m−3 and 13.4 ng m−3, respectively. The D5 concentrations were distributed widely, with high concentrations in urban/suburban populous areas and dispersed at low concentrations in surrounding areas (north and mountainous areas). We analyzed 7-d air samples collected every week over a year and found apparent seasonal and periodic trends in the CMS concentrations. In the diurnal sampling campaign, we observed periodic fluctuations in ambient CMSs, with an inverse relationship with the atmospheric boundary layer development during the day. Backward trajectories and the prevailing wind direction during the sampling period indicated that the specific profiles of D4 observed in fall/winter weeks and north of Saitama could be ascribed to northwestward air-mass advection. We employed a novel approach in estimating CMSs emission sources and source apportionment by using non-negative matrix factorization (NMF). The concentration matrix was divided successfully into two factors (emission sources) namely, personal care and household products and industrial activities.
A Thermal-Field-Photoemission Model and Its Application

Traditionally electron sources are characterized as thermal, field, and photoemission cathodes (a fourth, secondary, is not considered here), each governed by a canonical emission equation (Richardson—Laue—Dushman, Fowler—Nordheim, and Fowler—DuBridge, respectively) for current density. Modern electron sources operate such that more than one regime contributes because factors like heating and asperities exist. In this chapter, a single emission equation is developed that recovers the canonical equations in the appropriate asymptotic limits. Properties important to the formation of electron beams, such as emittance, Nottingham heating, and emission from protrusions, are examined.
Tech Pains: Characterizations of Lived Cybersecurity Experiences

The permeation of technology into every facet of life has profoundly shifted the nature and ramifications of cybersecurity incidents. As a consequence, a complete and refined characterization of these adverse events necessitates a sociotechnical approach that takes into account the subjective lived experiences of the victims. Although researchers have examined such experiences pertaining to specific types of incidents, a broad understanding of the harmful impact of cybersecurity incidents requires an investigation of how people characterize and cope with these adverse experiences in general. To that end, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 21 individuals who reported a variety of cybersecurity incidents, consequences, and coping mechanisms. We found that the experiences can be characterized along a bounded to fuzzy spectrum. As the majority of current cybersecurity efforts focus on relatively bounded incidents, we make the case that fuzzy incidents deserve similar attention because their harmful impacts are deeper and longer-lasting. Our insight can be applied to improve and personalize the delivery of cybersecurity interventions.
Decision Support Framework for Project-Level Pavement Maintenance and Rehabilitation through Integrating Life Cycle Cost Analysis and Life Cycle Assessment

AbstractOver the last decade, transportation asset management practices have been increasingly enhanced through incorporation of sustainability considerations. Organizational- and network-level gui...
Evaluating working memory outcome measures for children with Down syndrome.

Background There is a critical need for the psychometric evaluation of outcome measures to be used in clinical trials targeting cognition in Down syndrome (DS). This study examines a specific cognitive skill that is of particular importance in DS, working memory, and the psychometric properties of a set of standardised measurements to assess working memory in individuals with DS. Methods Ninety children and adolescents ages 6 to 18 years old with DS were assessed on a selection of verbal and visuospatial working memory subtests of standardised clinical assessments at two time points to examine feasibility, distributional qualities, test-retest reliability and convergent validity against a priori criteria. Caregivers also completed an adaptive behaviour questionnaire to address working memory subtests' associations with broader developmental functioning. Results The Stanford Binet-5 Verbal Working Memory, Differential Ability Scales-2 Recognition of Pictures, Stanford Binet-5 Nonverbal Working Memory and Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-5 Picture Span measures met the most psychometric criteria overall across the full age and IQ range of the study. Although Differential Ability Scales-2 Recall of Sequential Order and Differential Ability Scales-2 Recall of Digits Backward met the fewest a priori criteria, follow-up analyses suggested greater feasibility in specific age and IQ ranges. Conclusions Several working memory measures appear to be psychometrically sound and appropriate for use in clinical trials for children with DS, especially when focusing on raw scores. However, floor effects on standard scores and feasibility of some measures were problematic. Guidelines for use of the working memory subtests with this population are provided.
How do All Roads Lead to Rome? The Story of Transportation Network Inducing Agglomeration

The paper describes the formation of a rural-urban network in which urban areas decide to form links with other urban as well as rural regions. Furthermore, we illustrate how the presence of network can induce agglomeration . Urban areas are mainly production centers of manufacturing goods, and the rural regions that of agriculture. Both regions need to form a network to trade with one another. Network formation occurs in the presence of transportation and network formation costs. The equilibrium rural-urban network is formed when regions attempt to minimize transportation cost as well as the total cost of forming links in a network. The paper illustrates how network structure itself can create agglomeration apart from the processes described in the literature. Manufacturing firms locate to a single area to create a hub that has direct links to rural regions and rural-urban trade proceeds with minimum transportation costs and a minimum number of links.
The Requirement of Glycoprotein C for Interindividual Spread Is Functionally Conserved within the Alphaherpesvirus Genus (Mardivirus), but Not the Host (Gallid).

Marek’s disease (MD) in chickens is caused by Gallid alphaherpesvirus 2, better known as MD herpesvirus (MDV). Current vaccines do not block interindividual spread from chicken-to-chicken, therefore, understanding MDV interindividual spread provides important information for the development of potential therapies to protect against MD, while also providing a natural host to study herpesvirus dissemination. It has long been thought that glycoprotein C (gC) of alphaherpesviruses evolved with their host based on their ability to bind and inhibit complement in a species-selective manner. Here, we tested the functional importance of gC during interindividual spread and host specificity using the natural model system of MDV in chickens through classical compensation experiments. By exchanging MDV gC with another chicken alphaherpesvirus (Gallid alphaherpesvirus 1 or infectious laryngotracheitis virus; ILTV) gC, we determined that ILTV gC could not compensate for MDV gC during interindividual spread. In contrast, exchanging turkey herpesvirus (Meleagrid alphaherpesvirus 1 or HVT) gC could compensate for chicken MDV gC. Both ILTV and MDV are Gallid alphaherpesviruses; however, ILTV is a member of the Iltovirus genus, while MDV is classified as a Mardivirus along with HVT. These results suggest that gC is functionally conserved based on the virus genera (Mardivirus vs. Iltovirus) and not the host (Gallid vs. Meleagrid).
Cardiovascular Health Disparities in Racial and Other Underrepresented Groups: Initial Results From the All of Us Research Program

Background All of Us is a novel research program that aims to accelerate research in populations traditionally underrepresented in biomedical research. Our objective was to evaluate the burden of c...
Acute Exercise-Induced Mitophagy is Mediated in Part by PGC-1α

Chronic exercise results in systemic metabolic benefits in the major metabolic centers of the body. Skeletal muscle is a pillar of whole body metabolism and this tissue undergoes metabolic remodelling with repeated bouts of contractile activity. This is accomplished by increased mitochondrial turnover with a concurrent increase in both organelle biogenesis and removal. While biogenesis is largely orchestrated by the transcriptional co-activator PGC-1α, the regulation of mitochondrial degradation (i.e mitophagy) is less well established. Coincidentally, both mitochondrial biogenesis and autophagy are activated by an acute bout of exercise. However, the induction of mitophagy following exercise, and the interplay between autophagy and PGC-1α following acute exercise, have not been thoroughly examined. To address this, we subjected wild type (WT) and PGC-1α knockout animals (KO) to an acute bout of exhaustive exercise. Lack of PGC-1α resulted in a 40% drop in mitochondrial content and a 25% decline in runnin...
Charting the “Splice” Routes to MDS

Mutations in components of the 3′ mRNA splicing machinery are found in almost 50% of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) cases. In this issue of Cancer Cell , Kim and colleagues, Colla and colleagues, and Shirai and colleagues report on the impact of mutated or dysregulated splicing factors to hematopoiesis, mRNA splicing, and MDS pathogenesis.
The International Relations of the Persian Gulf: The Iraq War: American decision-making

The story of the American decision to go to war against Iraq in March 2003 is straightforward. The attacks on the United States of September 11, 2001, changed the strategic outlook of President George W. Bush. He accepted the calls from some in his administration, for which he had previously shown no particular enthusiasm, that a military campaign to unseat Iraqi president Saddam Hussein was a vital American security interest in the context of the new “war on terrorism.” Once that decision was made, arguments were marshaled (with less than rigorous regard for their factual accuracy and unseemly willingness to disregard the complexity and ambiguity of the Iraqi reality) to mobilize international, domestic public and congressional opinion in support of the decision. The international element of that campaign largely failed, while the domestic element was very successful. With the strong support of Congress and substantial American public opinion support, but with little preparation for what would come after, President Bush took the country to war. So why rehearse the story in any more detail? Because there is a strong suspicion that September 11 was simply a pretext for the Bush administration to implement a preexisting war policy toward Iraq. This is certainly the import of accounts offered by former Treasury secretary Paul O'Neill, former counterterrorism director Richard Clarke, and retired general Wesley Clark.
Law of Variable Proportions

The law of variable proportions is defined and its application to economics is discussed. Keywords: diminishing returns; increasing returns; marginal product
Strictly small representations and a reduction theorem for the unitary dual

First published in Representation Theory in Vol 5, 2001. Published by the American Mathematical Society.
Synthesis and Utilization of Indium (I) Iodide for in Situ Formation of Enantioenriched Allenylindium Reagents and their Addition to Aldehydes: (2R,3S,4S)-1-(tert-Butyldiphenylsilyloxy)-2,4-Dimethyl-5-Hexyn-3-ol

(2R,3S,4S)-1-(tert-butyldiphenylsilyloxy)-2,4-dimethyl-5-hexyn-3-ol R (R)-3-(tert-Butyldiphenylsilyloxy)-2-methylpropanal (R)-3-Butyn-2-yl methanesulfonate P (2R,3S,4S)-1-(tert-butyldiphenylsilyloxy)-2,4-dimethyl-5 hexym-3-ol Keywords: inorganic compounds; halogen compounds, iodine compounds; halogenation, iodination; esters, silyl; aldehydes; silylation; reduction, CO2R CHO; sulfur compounds; sulfonation, o-sulfonation; alcohols and diols, substituted; stereoselective reactions, diastereoselective; metal-catalyzed reactions, palladium; metal-catalyzed reactions, indium; addition, to CO
Lidocaine selectively diminishes medullary serotonin metabolism in the rat.

Abstract Serotonergic (5-HT) neurons of the nucleus raphe respond to modulation of segmental pathways. To explore lidocaine's ability to alter this response rats were injected with lidocaine 30 minutes before sacrifice. In some experiments, probenecid (200 mg/kg) was given before lidocaine to accumulate neuro transmit ter metabolites in the CNS. Probenecid significantly increased homovanillic acid (HVA) and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) levels in the striatum (+54% & + 33% respectively) and 5-HIAA in the medulla (+81%). Lidocaine had no effect on these probenecid-induced increases in striatal metabolites, yet significantly reduced production of medullary 5-HIAA (−58%, P = .008), but not MHPG (3-methoxy-4-hydroxγ-phenethyleneglycol). The reduced metabolism of descending 5-HT neurons suggests a CNS response to diminished segmental input. The anti-arrhythmic action of lidocaine may include an ability to quiet hyperactive sympathetic afferents from the heart.
Flavin-sensitized photodynamic modification of multisubunit proteins

— Riboflavin 5'-phosphate (FMN)-sensitized photodynamic modifications of multisubunit alcohol dchydrogenase, bacterial luciferase. L-glutamate dehydrogenase, and catalase all lead to significant formation of crosslinked species. On the contrary, irradiation of monomeric lysozyme, trypsin inhibitor, trypsin, and bovine serum albumin in the presence of FMN yields either no or only trace amounts of polymerized molecules. Photodynamic modifications thus appear to be much more efficient in crosslinking proteins with quaternary structures in their native forms. While no photodegradations of other proteins were found, FMN-sensitized modifications of the nonidentical dimeric (αs) bacterial luciferase resulted in the formation of two degraded fragments as well as two polymerized species. Singlet oxygen is shown to be involved in the photopolymerization of luciferase but it is unclear whether singlet oxygen is the sole species active in initiating the crosslinking reaction(s). FMN also sensitizes effective inactivations of luciferase which can be attributed to actions of singlet oxygen, triplet FMN, H2O2. and superoxide anion. Photodynamic inactivation of luciferase proceeds faster than photopolymerization; these processes are thus not coupled.
DAQ: Deadline-Aware Queue scheme for scheduling service flows in data centers

We propose a scheme to schedule the transmission of data center traffic to guarantee a transmission rate for long flows without affecting the rapid transmission required by short flows. We call the proposed scheme Deadline-Aware Queue (DAQ). The traffic of a data center can be broadly classified into long and short flows, where the terms long and short refer to the amount of data to be transmitted. In a data center, the long flows require modest transmission rates to keep maintenance, data updates, and functional operation. Short flows require either fast service or be serviced within a tight deadline. Satisfaction of both classes of bandwidth demands is needed. DAQ uses per-class queues at supporting switches, keeps minimum flow state information, and uses a simple but effective flow control. The credit-based flow control, employed between switch and data sources, ensures lossless transmissions. We study the performance of DAQ and compare it to those of other existing schemes. The results show that the proposed scheme improves the achievable throughput for long flows up to 37% and the application throughput for short flows up to 33% when compared to other schemes. DAQ guarantees a minimum throughput for long flows despite the presence of heavy loads of short flows.
Social Sources of the Spirit: Connecting Rational Choice and Interactive Ritual Theories in the Study of Religion

In recent years rational choice approaches have increasingly been employed in the sociological study of religion; however, theory and research from this perspective typically overlook the role of emotionally efficacious collective rituals. This study synthesizes interactive ritual theory with the rational choice concept of strictness, which highlights the level of behavioral prohibitions religious groups place on adherents. Analyses of data from the first wave of the National Congregations Study indicate a positive relationship between a group's level of behavioral strictness and the production of an enthusiastic, outwardly emotive worship style. In general, the effort is made to highlight the utility of combining a focus on the production of collective, social "goods" in religious groups with considerations of interactive rituals and emotion.
Infant salt taste: Developmental, methodological, and contextual factors

Two studies investigated the human infant's response to salt during development. In the first study, measures of intake and sucking were obtained from two groups of infants, newborns and 4- to 8-month-olds, in response to brief presentations of two concentrations of salt (0.2 or 0.4 M) and water. For several measures of sucking and for intake, there were significant age and concentration effects. Generally, newborn infants tended to reject saline relative to water more than did 4- to 8-month-old infants. This result, consistent with previously published research, suggests a developmental change in salt acceptability and, probably, sensitivity in the human infant. In the second longitudinal study, the response to salted (0.15 M) versus unsalted formulas was evaluated monthly in infants 2 to 7 months of age. Again, a developmental change was observed: Based on some sucking measures, younger infants appeared to be indifferent to the salted formula relative to the unsalted formula whereas older infants tended to reject the salted formula, presumably because either it was less sweet than the unsalted formulas or because it was novel. These data are consistent with the hypothesis developed from animal model studies that during early human postnatal development, transductive elements sensitive to saltiness mature.
Brewster window and windowless resonant spectrophones for intracavity operation

We report a new design for an acoustically resonant spectrophone well suited for intracavity operation with widely tunable lasers. Operation with Brewster angle windows or in a windowless mode is possible, and high quality factors (560 and 509, respectively) are achieved. Windowless operation permits continuous monitoring of ambient air. We discuss factors limiting the sensitivity, ∼10−7 cm−1, and present a double chopping scheme capable of significantly reducing the acoustical background encountered in windowless operation. The sensitivity of the spectrophone's performance to misalignment is also examined.
Acute and chronic toxicity of the rice herbicides thiobencarb and molinate to opossum shrimp (Neomysis mercedis)

Abstract Neomysis mercedis were exposed to the rice herbicides molinate and thiobencarb, which have been detected in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. Continuous-flow acute and chronic toxicity studies were performed. For thiobencarb, the 4-, 7- and 14-day LCsos were 304, 214 and 91 μg/liter, respectively. For molinate, these values were 9910, 2530, and 820 μg/liter, respectively. Mortality stabilized after 18 and 28 days exposure, respectively, for thiobencarb and molinate. The incipient lethal concentrations were 53 and 230 μg/liter, respectively. Joint toxicity studies indicated additive toxicity for the two chemicals. Chronic no observable effects concentrations (NOECs) were estimated at 3·2 and 25·6 μg/liter for thiobencarb and molinate, with measurable effects occurring at 6·2 and 45·2 μg/liter, respectively. Environmental monitoring data suggests that concentrations of these chemicals in the Delta prior to 1985 may have exceeded the threshold for chronic toxicity, under conditions of joint exposure. However, due to continued improvements in pesticide management practices, environmental concentrations decreased to approximately 30 percent of the chronic threshold for joint toxicity by 1988. Baseline data on growth and reproduction relevant to toxicity tests are also presented for this species.
Patterns of data: Sequence, synchrony, and constraint in cognitive development

The study of cognitive development should move beyond grand metaphoric theories to the specification of patterns of data for each central developmental construct.
Determination of modified embedded atom method parameters for nickel

The modified embedded atom method (MEAM) is an empirical extension of the embedded atom method that includes angular forces. A detailed study is presented to show the effect of various MEAM parameters on the calculated properties of a model material, nickel. Over 50 physical properties of nickel are calculated for four MEAM potentials. It is found that, in general, the predicted material properties are extremely insensitive to the parameter variations examined. In a few cases: interstitial migration; the (110) surface reconstruction; and the coefficient of thermal expansion, significant effects of potential were found. Minor differences were also found for the vacancy migration energy, the interstitial formation energy, and the stability of the b.c.c. structure. These results point out the appropriate experimental measurements or first principles calculations that need to be performed to obtain a reliable MEAM parameter set. This work results in a MEAM potential that reproduces all of the experimental data examined.
An isolated left common carotid artery from the main pulmonary artery : Possible malseptation of the truncoaortic sac

An isolated left common carotid artery (LCA) is an extremely rare condition with only four reported cases. In each case, the isolated carotid artery connects to the right or left pulmonary artery via the ductus arteriosus and the embryologic basis for the abnormalities is believed to reflect an error in the development of the branchial arches. We present a case of an isolated LCA connecting to the main pulmonary artery in association with a right aortic arch and an anomalous origin of the left subclavian artery from the descending aorta. The left ligamentus arteriosus was identified separately. This may represent a disturbance in the septation of the truncoaortic sac secondary to abnormal migration of neural crest cells rather than a pure developmental anomaly of the branchial arches.
Cell-cell contact mechanisms

Exciting new findings link characteristic properties of the inflammatory process previously not linked functionally. For example, it is now clear that oxygen radicals and leukocyte adhesion are intimately related in a carefully transduced and orchestrated series of events that culminates in release of granule contents, but not before the leukocyte has safely transversed the vessel wall. In addition to defining separate heterocellular contacts and homocellular aggregation we must now consider equilibrium events that allow associations among cell-cell partnerships involving different cell types.
Perfusate sodium during ischemia modifies post-ischemic functional and metabolic recovery in the rabbit heart.

Metabolic and functional recovery following 60 minutes of low flow (0.1 ml/min) ischemia were compared in rabbit hearts perfused with normal sodium and potassium, low sodium (120 m m NaCl replaced by 120 m m LiCl), or zero potassium perfusate during ischemia. During the control, pre-ischemic, and reperfusion periods, all hearts were perfused identically with normal sodium and potassium. 31P NMR was used to monitor intracellular pH (pHi), ATP, and phosphocreatine (PCr). Developed pressure, end diastolic pressure, pHi, and the integrated areas of ATP and PCr were equivalent in the three groups in the pre-ischemic period. The fall in pHi, PCr, ATP, and developed pressure and the rise in end diastolic pressure during 60 min ischemia also did not differ among the three groups. In contrast to the lack of an effect of perfusate sodium and potassium on the decline in parameters of metabolism and function during ischemia, there was a marked difference in the recovery of these indices during reperfusion. Hearts perfused with low sodium during ischemia exhibited the best recovery (expressed as percent of control) of developed pressure (95±4%), PCr (106±6%), and ATP (51±2%) and the smallest rise in end diastolic pressure (229±50%); hearts perfused with normal sodium and potassium during ischemia had intermediate recovery values for developed pressure (53±10%), PCr (78±9%), ATP (45±4%) and end diastolic pressure (487±73%) and the hearts perfused with zero potassium solution during ischemia exhibited the poorest recovery of developed pressure (23±6%), PCr (49±6%), ATP (39±5%) and end diastolic pressure (968±185%). These results indicate that interventions which do not alter PCr, ATP or pHi during ischemia but which can diminish or enhance intracellular sodium accumulation can respectively improve or impair metabolic and functional recovery during reperfusion. The most likely mechanism to explain these findings is a sodium-dependent calcium influx occurring during reperfusion. This suggests that interventions which lower intracellular sodium or inhibit or reverse the direction of sodium-calcium exchange at the onset of reperfusion may lessen injury following reperfusion of ischemic myocardium.
Mechanisms of pressure filtration of liquid aluminum alloys

The Prefil Footprinter, a portable pressure filtration instrument, is usually used to detect the quality of liquid aluminum alloys. However, no investigations have ever been done to calculate the cake resistance to date. Based on the identification and classification of flow behavior using the first derivative method for filtrate mass vs filtration time curves, conventional filtration equations are successfully employed to understand the filtration behaviors. From the analyses of the variations of cake resistance with filtration time, the filtration mechanisms are discussed in detail over the different filtration stages. During the steady stage, either incompressible or compressible cake mode is the main mechanism. At the initial and terminal transient stages, however, deep-bed filtration, complete straining, and solidification clogging may appear. Solid inclusions in liquid metal have significant influence on the cake structures and properties. Some important issues related to the heterogeneity of filter media and test methodology are highlighted in this work.
Marginal copper and high fat diet produce alterations in electrocardiograms and cardiac ultrastructure in male rats

This study investigated whether a high fat diet in tandem with a marginal copper (Cu) diet exerts deleterious effects on copper status, cardiac morphology, and electrophysiology compared to a low-fat marginal copper diet. Male weanling Long-Evans rats were fed diets containing either marginal copper (42.5 μmol/kg) or adequate copper (97.6 μmol/kg), and low fat (50.0 g/kg) or high fat (150.0 g/kg) diet for 12 wk in a 2 × 2 factorial design. To simulate the western diet, fat was composed of a 1:2 polyunsaturated:saturated fatty acids using a coconut and corn oil mixture. High dietary fat increased liver Cu concentration. Marginal copper diets decreased liver Cu,Zn-superoxide dismutase activity. Dietary copper and fat level had no effect on volume densities of mitochondria and myofibril. However, lower mitochondrial pathologic scores were observed in the rats consuming the high fat diets. Marginal copper high fat diet prolonged atrial electric depolarization (PR) and ventricular electric depolarization and repolarization (QT) intervals. This study provided direct evidence that a high fat diet can exert detrimental effects on cardiac ultrastructure and lead to alterations in electrocardiograms. The combination of marginal copper-high fat diet appears to alter cardiac electric conductivity. Longer term studies should provide information more relevant to clinical situations and morphologic changes.
Sulfide as electron source for H2-photoproduction in the cyanobacterium Synechococcus sp., strain Miami BG 043511, under stress conditions

Abstract Synechococcus sp., strain Miami BG 043511, was used as biological material to examine whether cyanobacteria, like photosynthetic bacteria, can utilize sulfide as electron source for H2 photoproduction. We found that sulfide can have either an inhibiting or a stimulating effect on the H2 production of the cyanobacterium, depending on growth conditions, age and sulfide concentration in the nutrient solution. When sodium sulfide (more than 5 mM) was added, H2 production was inhibited in three-day-old cells. The inhibition was negligible with seven-day-old cells, whereas a stimulating effect was measured with 15-day-old cells in the stationary growth phase. At the latter stage the limited light intensity and the deficiency in nutrients represent extreme stress conditions for the organism. The stimulating effect of sulfide under these stress conditions could be enhanced by increasing sulfide concentrations. The stimulating effect of sulfide on H2 production was further confirmed by administering gradually increasing sulfide concentrations to immobilized cells. Our results suggest that Synechococcus sp. strain Miami BG 043511 is able to use sulfide as electron donor for H2 photoproduction, especially under stress conditions.
Negative Regulation of Inflammation by Fas Ligand Expression on the Vascular Endothelium

Abstract It is generally believed that the vascular endothelium serves as a barrier to inflammation by providing a nonadherent surface to leukocytes. Recently, we reported that vascular endothelial cells (ECs) express Fas ligand, which functions to actively inhibit inflammation by inducing apoptosis in Fas-bearing leukocytes. The inflammatory cytokine TNFα downregulates Fas ligand expression with an accompanying decrease in EC cytotoxicity toward Fas-bearing cells in co-culture. Endothelial Fas ligand expression in arteries is also downregulated by the local administration of TNFα, and this correlates with robust mononuclear cell infiltration of the subendothelial space. This TNFα-induced mononuclear cell infiltration is inhibited by pre-infecting the endothelium with a replication-defective adenovirus that constitutively expresses Fas ligand. Under these conditions, adherent leukocytes undergo apoptosis rather than extravasation. These findings suggest that Fas ligand expression on the vascular endothelium functions to inhibit inflammatory responses that are often associated with vascular disorders.
Unfolded BPTI variants with a single disulfide bond have diminished non-native structure distant from the crosslink.

Backgound: NMR studies of denatured states, both fully unfolded and partially folded, give insight into the conformations and interactions favored in initial stages of folding, and in early intermediates formed during folding. We have characterized non-random structures favored in unfolded, reduced BPTI [1], and in partially folded BPTI [2]. Here, we report NMR-detected structure of two analogs of unfolded BPTI with one native 14–38 disulfide bond. Results: Analogs Y21A[14–38] Abu and Y23A[14–38] Abu , obtained by chemical synthesis of [14–38] Abu with Y21 or Y23 replaced by alanine, are models for unfolded BPTI with 14–38 the only disulfide. Compared to unfolded BPTI with all three disulfides broken, the unfolded 14–38 BPTI analogs have numerous differences, including loss of non-native, turn-like conformations for β 2 residues, diminished non-native aromatic–aliphatic NOEs, and increased intermediate chemical exchange of residues that have native-like conformations in partially folded BPTI. Although the Y21A and Y23A analogs have similar CD and NMR properties, specific differences in NOE patterns and in exchange broadening are observed. Conclusions: Changes in unfolded BPTI associated with formation of the 14–38 disulfide bond are consistent with less non-native structure, and more native-like structure, in residues composing the stable core of antiparallel β -sheet in partially folded BPTI. Specific differences between Y21A[14–38] Abu and Y23A[14–38] Abu indicate that replacement of Y23 results in less ordered structure than replacement of Y21.
Noise spectrum measurements of a midwave, interband cascade infrared photodetector with 33 nm wide electron barrier

Interband cascade infrared photodetectors (ICIPs) potentially offer mid-wave infrared detection at very high operating temperatures due to their nearly ideal photovoltaic operation. An ICIP typically makes use of several cascade stages grown in series, each of which consists of an active absorption region with a mid-wave cutoff wavelength, an intra-band relaxation region for electron transport and an inter-band tunneling region to enable electron transport to the next stage. The latter two also effectively act as a hole-barrier (hB) and an electron-barrier (eB), respectively, forming a preferential path for each carrier. Here, an ICIP with a relatively large eB was investigated. One of the key parameters to measure for detector performance is the noise spectrum, particularly to observe the behavior at low frequencies where the noise is often much larger than estimates based on the ideal shot noise expression would predict. This paper presents the results of noise spectrum measurements of differently sized ICIP devices, taken using an external trans-impedance amplifier with a cooled, internal impedance converter and a cooled feedback resistor. Measurements were taken at different operating temperatures and voltage biases in order to determine the noise-dependence on each.
Partial amino acid sequences of the heavy and light chains of botulinum neurotoxin type E

The dichain (nicked) type A botulinum neurotoxin is a protein (mol. wt. 145,000) composed of a heavy and a light chain (mol. wt. 97,000 and 53,000, respectively) that are held together by disulfide bond(s). We report here the sequence of the first 17 amino acid residues of the light chain, and the first 10 residues of the heavy chain. The heavy chain was isolated from the neurotoxin by two different methods, while the light chain was isolated by the only available method. The identical amino acid sequence was found in both preparations of heavy chain. Two samples of the light chain isolated from two separately prepared batches of the neurotoxin also had identical sequences.
Lateral stability of gliding parachutes

The lateral stability of a gliding parachute or other lifting surface with a suspended payload is analyzed to determine the relationship of aerodynamic and inertial parameters to stability characteristics. The system is represented by a rigid wing with a suspended payload in a steady glide. As with conventional fixed-wing aircraft, the lateral response is characterized by an oscillatory response mode and a spiral divergence. The stability boundary for spiral divergence can be prescribed analytically. Calculations show that there is a minimum effective anhedral angle required for absolute stability. Increasing suspension line length is stabilizing for spiral divergence, whereas increasing the glide slope is stabilizing for both spiral divergence and oscillatory response.
Initial observation of magnetization hysteresis and quantum tunneling in mixed manganese-lanthanide single-molecule magnets.

The preparation of a new family of mixed transition metal/lanthanide clusters is reported. The reaction of [Mn3O(O2CPh)6(py)2(H2O)] with Ln(NO3)3 (Ln = Nd, Gd, Dy, Ho, and Eu) in a 1:2 molar ratio in MeOH/MeCN (1:20 v/v) leads to dark crystals in 55−60% isolated yield of complexes all containing the [Mn11Ln4]45+ core. The Dy compound has been found to give out-of-phase AC susceptibility signals, suggesting it might be a single-molecule magnet (SMM). This was confirmed by the observation of magnetization hysteresis loops. An Arrhenius plot constructed from magnetization decay data gave a barrier to relaxation of 9.3 K and showed the temperature-independent relaxation at very low temperatures indicative of quantum tunneling of magnetization. This is the initial demonstration of hysteresis and quantum behavior in a mixed 3d/4f SMM.
The management of Sjögren's syndrome in dental practice.

ABSTRACT Background Sjoogren's syndrome, or SS, is a multisystem inflammatory disorder of the exocrine glands with a wide range of extraglandular involvement. Symptoms of dry eyes and xerostomia, although not invariably present, are characteristic features of SS. An increased risk of oral and dental diseases is a prominent consequence of SS. Types of Studies Reviewed The author reviewed recent medical and dental studies that have advanced our understanding of the causes and treatment of SS. She particularly focused on studies addressing the diagnosis and treatment of the oral component of the disease. Results Sjoogren's syndrome is a widely underdiagnosed disease. A delay in the diagnosis of SS may have a significant physical, psychological and economic impact on the affected person. The pathogenesis of SS appears to involve a number of factors: immunological, genetic, hormonal and possibly infectious. Successful management of SS requires a multidisciplinary approach, and the dentist plays an essential role in the diagnosis and treatment of the disease. Oral Implications Impairment of salivary function in SS increases the risk of developing oral diseases. Effective management of oral health comprises enhancement of salivary output (cholinergic agonist drugs such as pilocarpine or cevimeline) and prevention and treatment of dental caries, oral candidiasis and allergic mucositis. Finally, periodic evaluation of various clinical and laboratory parameters is needed to monitor disease status.
A note on Hamiltonian structures for compressible, stratified and incompressible fluids

Relationships between Hamiltonian structures for compressible, stratified and incompressible fluids are examined and shown to be closely related, using an approach and perspective different to that adopted by Verosky.
Squamous cell cancer of the cervix: prognostic factors related to survival

Seven hundred and fifty-three patients with invasive squamous cell cancer of the cervix treated at the University of Michigan from 1970–1985 are reported. These included stage IA 43, stage IB 345, stage IIA 27, stage IIB 163, stage IIIA 4, stage IIIB 113, stage IVA 32, stage IVB 26. The age ranged from 18 to 92 years with a mean of 49.9 years. Clinical characteristics included: nulliparity 11%, married 93%, obese 41%, hypertensive 37%, diabetes 10%, smoking 50%, bleeding 76%. The cumulative five-year survival for all patients was 67% and this was influenced by the stage of disease: stage IA 98%, stage IB 89%, stage IIA 72%, stage IIB 62%, stage III 37%, stage IVA 14%, stage IVB 4%. Patients with a well-differentiated tumor had an 85% survival rate while those with a poorly differentiated tumor had a 57% survival rate. The probability of metastatic disease to lymph nodes corresponded to the stage of disease; stage I 17%, stage II 55%, stage III 70%, stage IV 81%. When lymph nodes were negative, the survival rate for all patients was 86% while those with positive nodes had a 33% survival rate. Factors which influenced survival in the univariate analysis included stage, node status, tumor grade, age, interval from previous pelvic examination, diabetes. Only stage, node status and tumor grade maintained significance in the multiple proportion hazard analysis.
Effective potentials and the onset of quantization in ultrasmall MOSFETs

Abstract The connection between the minimum size of an electron wavepacket, and the introduction of an effective potential is discussed. The effective potential approach has a long history of use in trying to transition the gap between classical mechanics and quantum mechanics. An effective potential is one in which the quasi-classical regime is approximated through a density which arises from the effective potential W(x) through exp[ − βW(x)]. The generation of the effective potentialW (x) gives the effects of the onset of quantization in the system. In this paper, we study the use of the effective potential in a triangular well formed between the oxide and the depletion field of the semiconductor. We determine the quantization energy of the carriers in the potential well and their mean set-back from the interface. Finally, we show the connection between the effective potential and the Bohm-derived quantum potentials that have become of interest in simulations.
A macromolecular inhibitor of in vitro calcification of tendon matrix.

Bovine and human tendon tissue do not induce calcification in vitro. However, extraction of those tissues with 3% Na2HPO4 converts them to calcifiable matrices. The supernatant fraction derived from the extraction contains a nondialyzable, perchloric acid soluble component that inhibits calcification of the extracted matrix. This inhibitory substance is characterized by a molecular weight in the range of 85,000–100,000. Exposure to pronase or hyaluronidase did not alter the inhibitory potency but did render the inhibitor dialyzable. Commercial sources of hyaluronic acid, chondroitin-6-sulfate, chrondroitin-4-sulfate, dermatan sulfate, heparin and lysozyme did not inhibit calcification of the extracted matrix. Phosvitin, a phosphoglycoprotein is a potent inhibitor. Although phosvitin and the tendon extract also inhibit calcification of previously calcified matrix, they have no detectable effect on the rate of decalcification. We conclude that the mechanism of inhibition is characterized by a degree of specificity and that phosvitin and a macromolecular component of tendon tissue blocks conversion of an intermediate matrix-bound CaP complex to crystalline apatite. It seems reasonable that the tendon inhibitor could function in situ and possibly in vivo to control calcification of tendon tissue.
Hydraulic Resistance of a Novel Hollow-Core Microneedle Design

In recent years, developments in microscale fabrication have enabled the creation of needles on the scale of micrometers. These “microneedles” can be created out of a variety of materials and facilitate highly accurate small volume fluid delivery with minimal tissue disruption. Studies have shown that diameter and insertion force are primary determinants of patient pain caused by transdermal injection [1]. The small diameter of microneedles reduces the invasiveness and patient sensation associated with their clinical use. Microneedles have been used for enhancing skin permeability to drug delivery patches, transdermal infusion, and intrascleral inoculation [2–5].Copyright © 2011 by ASME