cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
SLC36A1-mTORC1 signaling drives acquired resistance to CDK4/6 inhibitors.

The cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 (CDK4/6) kinase is dysregulated in melanoma, highlighting it as a potential therapeutic target. CDK4/6 inhibitors are being evaluated in trials for melanoma and additional cancers. While beneficial, resistance to therapy is a concern, and the molecular mechanisms of such resistance remain undefined. We demonstrate that reactivation of mammalian target of rapamycin 1 (mTORC1) signaling through increased expression of the amino acid transporter, solute carrier family 36 member 1 (SLC36A1), drives resistance to CDK4/6 inhibitors. Increased expression of SLC36A1 reflects two distinct mechanisms: (i) Rb loss, which drives SLC36A1 via reduced suppression of E2f; (ii) fragile X mental retardation syndrome–associated protein 1 overexpression, which promotes SLC36A1 translation and subsequently mTORC1. Last, we demonstrate that a combination of a CDK4/6 inhibitor with an mTORC1 inhibitor has increased therapeutic efficacy in vivo, providing an important avenue for improved therapeutic intervention in aggressive melanoma.
Comparative analyses of long non-coding RNA profiles in vivo in cystic fibrosis lung airway and parenchyma tissues.

Recent advances in the functional analyses of endogenous non-coding RNA (ncRNA) molecules, including long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs), have provided a new perspective on the crucial roles of RNA in gene regulation. Consequently, LncRNA deregulation is a key factor in various diseases, including pulmonary disorders like Cystic Fibrosis (CF). CF is the most common life limiting recessive disease in the U.S., and is due to mutations in the CFTR gene. CF mutations, of which the most common is F508del-CFTR, prevents correct folding, trafficking and function of the mutant CFTR protein and is further manifested by the hyper-expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines into the airway lumen leading to bronchiectasis and culminating in lung destruction. Here we report a distinct LncRNA signature and corresponding mRNAs that distinguishes CF lung (airway and parenchyma) tissues from matched non-CF controls (n = 4 each group), generated by microarray specific for LncRNAs which includes corresponding mRNA expressions. In silico analyses of the cellular processes that are impacted by these LncRNAs was performed using Gene Ontology (GO). A selected subset of LncRNAs were validated by quantitative real-time PCR. We have identified 636 LncRNAs differentially expressed in CF airway epithelium and 1974 in CF lung parenchyma compared to matched non-CF controls (fold change ≥2, p 50%) are intergenic. Interestingly, 15 of these differentially expressed LncRNAs and 9 coding mRNAs are common to airway and parenchyma tissues. GO analyses indicates that signaling pathways and cell membrane functions are significantly affected by the alteration in LncRNA expressions in CF lung tissues. Seven of the differentially expressed LncRNAs, exhibit similar expression trends in CFBE41o- compared to control cells. Understanding the mechanisms by which these LncRNAs regulate CF disease phenotype will help develop novel therapeutic targets for CF and related pulmonary diseases, such as COPD and Asthma.
Estimation Entropy for Regular Linear Switched Systems

In this paper, we introduce the concept of regular switched systems and we present some consequences of this property on the estimation entropy’s calculation. For systems of such a class, one can derive a formula for the estimation entropy in terms of the system’s Lyapunov exponents. We also present some sufficient conditions on the system that guarantee regularity. Some of those conditions include the cases of periodic switching, simultaneously triangularizable systems, and a large class of randomly switched systems that contains Markov Jump Linear Systems (MJLS) as a special case. For that last part, we use tools from ergodic theory to draw conclusions that hold almost surely.
Space-charge effects in ionization beam profile monitors

Abstract Ionization profile monitors (IPMs) are widely used in accelerators for non-destructive and fast diagnostics of high energy particle beams. At high beam intensities, the space-charge forces make the measured IPM profiles significantly different from those of the beams. We analyze dynamics of the secondaries in IPMs and develop an effective algorithm to reconstruct the beam sizes from the measured IPM profiles. Efficiency of the developed theory is illustrated in application to the Fermilab 8 GeV proton Booster IPMs.
Does Proximity to a New Sports Facility Affect Existing Businesses’ Survival Time?:

Existing literature on the economic impact of sports facilities fails to consider whether new facilities positively affect existing businesses. To fill this gap, data on existing establishments in ...
Real-time Prediction of Soft Tissue Deformations Using Data-driven Nonlinear Presurgical Simulations

Imaging modalities provide clinicians with real-time visualization of anatomical regions of interest (ROI) for the purpose of minimally invasive surgery. During the procedure, low-resolution image data are acquired and registered with high-resolution preoperative 3D reconstruction to guide the execution of surgical preplan. Unfortunately, due to the potential large strain and nonlinearities in the deformation of soft biological tissues, significant mismatch may be observed between ROI shapes during pre- and intra-operative imaging stages, making the surgical preplan prone to failure. In an effort to bridge the gap between the two imaging stages, this paper presents a data-driven approach based on artificial neural network for predicting the ROI deformation in real-time with sparsely registered fiducial markers. For a head-and-neck tumor model with an average maximum displacement of 30 mm, the maximum surface offsets between benchmarks and predictions using the proposed approach for 98% of the test cases are under 1.0 mm, which is the typical resolution of high-quality interventional ultrasound. Each of the prediction processes takes less than 0.5 s. With the resulting prediction accuracy and computational efficiency, the proposed approach demonstrates its potential to be clinically relevant.
Co-expression clustering across flower development identifies modules and candidate genes for diverse floral forms in Achimenes (Gesneriaceae)

Abstract Background Genetic pathways involved with flower color and shape are thought to play an important role in the development of floral forms associated with different pollination syndromes, such as those associated with bee, butterfly, or hummingbird pollination. Because pollination syndromes are complex traits that are orchestrated by multiple genes and pathways, the gene regulatory networks have not been explored. Gene co-expression networks provide a systems level approach to identify important contributors to floral diversification. Methods RNA-sequencing was used to assay gene expression across two stages of flower development (an early bud and an intermediate stage) in 10 species of Achimenes (Gesneriaceae). Two stage-specific co-expression networks were created from 9503 orthologs and analyzed to identify module hubs and the network periphery. Module association with bee, butterfly, and hummingbird pollination syndromes was tested using phylogenetic mixed models. The relationship between network connectivity and evolutionary rates (dN/dS) was tested using linear models. Results Networks contained 65 and 62 modules that were largely preserved between developmental stages and contained few stage-specific modules. Over a third of the modules in both networks were associated with floral form and pollination syndrome. Within these modules, several hub nodes were identified that related to the production of anthocyanin and carotenoid pigments and the development of flower shape. Evolutionary rates were decreased in highly connected genes and elevated in peripheral genes. Discussion This study aids in the understanding of the genetic architecture and network properties underlying the development of floral form and provides valuable candidate modules and genes for future studies.
Abstract PO008: ARID1A prevents H3K27-hyperacetylation at active super-enhancers

Mutations in the multi-subunit SWI/SNF (BAF) chromatin remodeling complex are observed in nearly all types of cancer. The most highly mutated subunit across cancer is ARID1A, which occurs in roughly half of uterine endometrial cancer cases. ARID1A mutations and loss of expression are also common in endometriosis. We have previously demonstrated that ARID1A loss drives transcriptional alterations leading to invasive phenotypes through multiple model systems. Yet, how ARID1A regulates transcription through chromatin regulation is poorly understood. We have generated genome-wide profiles of seven chromatin features associated with transcriptional regulation in human endometrial epithelial cells, in both the presence and absence of ARID1A, in order to identify a mechanism by which ARID1A regulates chromatin. Unbiased genome segmentation using these features revealed that ARID1A interacts with chromatin at highly active and accessible enhancers genome-wide. Out of all tested chromatin features, ARID1A most strongly co-localizes with H3K27ac, a mark of transcriptional activation at proximal and distal enhancers. ARID1A depletion also displayed the greatest effect on genomic H3K27ac as opposed to other histone modifications, H3K18ac, H3K4me1, H3K4me3, and H3K27me3. While the majority of typical enhancers had reduced H3K27ac with ARID1A loss, super-enhancers marked by high basal H3K27ac levels displayed hyperacetylation following ARID1A loss. Moreover, increasing H3K27ac was also associated with heightened eRNA transcription, indicating enhancer hyperactivation. Finally, RNA-seq revealed that genes associated with active super-enhancers were preferentially dysregulated following ARID1A loss. These results suggest that ARID1A-SWI/SNF differentially regulate typical enhancers vs. super-enhancers in the endometrial epithelium, and ARID1A may normally restrict super-enhancer hyperactivation to maintain epithelial identity and prevent endometrial invasion. Citation Format: Jake J. Reske, Mike R. Wilson, Ronald L. Chandler. ARID1A prevents H3K27-hyperacetylation at active super-enhancers [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Special Conference: Endometrial Cancer: New Biology Driving Research and Treatment; 2020 Nov 9-10. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2021;27(3_Suppl):Abstract nr PO008.
Hitting all maximum independent sets

We describe an infinite family of graphs $G_n$, where $G_n$ has $n$ vertices, independence number at least $n/4$, and no set of less than $\sqrt{n}/2$ vertices intersects all its maximum independent sets. This is motivated by a question of Bollob\'as, Erd\H{o}s and Tuza, and disproves a recent conjecture of Friedgut, Kalai and Kindler. Motivated by a related question of the last authors, we show that for every graph $G$ on $n$ vertices with independence number $(1/4+\eps)n$, the average independence number of an induced subgraph of $G$ on a uniform random subset of the vertices is at most $(1/4+\eps-\Omega(\eps^2)) n$.
FabO: Integrating Fabrication with a Player’s Gameplay in Existing Digital Games

Fabricating objects from a player’s gameplay, for example, collectibles of valuable game items, or custom game controllers shaped from game objects, expands ways to engage with digital games. Researchers currently create such integrated fabrication games from scratch, which is time-consuming and misses the potential of integrating fabrication with the myriad existing games. Integrating fabrication with the real-time gameplay of existing games, however, is challenging without access to the source files. To address this challenge, we present a framework that uses on-screen visual content to integrate fabrication with existing digital games. To implement this framework, we built the FabO toolkit, in which (1) designers use the FabO designer interface to choose the gameplay moments for fabrication and tag the associated on-screen visual cues; (2) players then use the FabO player interface which monitors their gameplay, identifies these cues and auto-generates the fabrication files for the game objects. Results from our two user studies show that FabO supported in integrating fabrication with diverse games while augmenting players’ experience. We discuss insights from our studies on choosing suitable on-screen visual content and gameplay moments for seamless integration of fabrication.
Preparing Li-garnet electrodes with engineered structures by phase inversion and high shear compaction processes

Author(s): Shen, F; Jonson, RA; Parkinson, DY; Tucker, MC | Abstract: Solid-state lithium batteries are promising for safety and energy density compared with traditional lithium-ion batteries. However, the large interfacial resistance between the electrode and electrolyte is a bottleneck to achieving high-performance solid-state batteries. Engineered electrode structures with a porous scaffold of the solid electrolyte material are promising to lower the interfacial resistance and provide a mechanical support for a thin solid electrolyte layer. In this work, two ceramic processing techniques are used to fabricate porous/dense bilayer architectures based on a Li6.25Al0.25La3Zr2O12 (LLZO) Li-garnet material. Finger-like vertically aligned pores are created by the phase inversion (PI) process. A water bath presaturated with Li salt prevents Li loss during the PI solvent exchange step. Pore size and porosity can be optimized by adjusting the bath temperature. The high shear compaction process was used to prepare LLZO tapes with 40, 60, and 80nvol% poreformer. The porosity of the tapes after sintering is 39.5%, 58.4%, and 75.4%, respectively. Microtomography exhibits the porosity, pore shape, and pore distribution of the tapes. A typical cathode material LiNi0.33Mn0.33Co0.33O2n(NMC) is filled into the pores via vacuum infiltration, and a dense cathode layer is formed within the garnet scaffold.
Neural Video Compression using GANs for Detail Synthesis and Propagation

We present the first neural video compression method based on generative adversarial networks (GANs). Our approach significantly outperforms previous neural and non-neural video compression methods in a user study, setting a new state-of-the-art in visual quality for neural methods. We show that the GAN loss is crucial to obtain this high visual quality. Two components make the GAN loss effective: we i) synthesize detail by conditioning the generator on a latent extracted from the warped previous reconstruction to then ii) propagate this detail with high-quality flow. We find that user studies are required to compare methods, i.e., none of our quantitative metrics were able to predict all studies. We present the network design choices in detail, and ablate them with user studies.
A modified compact genetic algorithm for the intrinsic evolution of continuous time recurrent neural networks

In the past, we have extrinsically evolved continuous time recurrent neural networks (CTRNNs) to control physical processes. Currently, we are seeking to create intrinsic CTRNN devices that combine a hardware genetic algorithm engine on the same chip with reconfigurable analog VLSI neurons. A necessary step in this process is to identify a genetic algorithm that is both amenable to hardware implementation and is sufficiently powerful to effectively search CTRNN spaces. In this paper, we will propose and test several variations of the compact genetic algorithm (CGA) for searching these spaces. We will then benchmark the best variant using the De Jong functions, outline a hardware implementation, and discuss future plans to develop an integrated evolvable hardware device controller.
Development of a Mutant Strain of Bacillus polymyxa Showing Enhanced Production of 2,3-Butanediol.

2,3-Butanediol is a feedstock chemical of potential industrial importance. It can serve as a monomer for many polymers of consumer interest that are currently supplied by the fossil fuel industry. Bacillus polymyxa can grow on inexpensive waste products of the food-processing industry and produce this glycol. This paper describes a mutant strain of B. polymyxa which displays constitutive production of catabolic α-acetolactate synthase, an enzyme in the 2,3-butanediol pathway which is normally produced only in the late log or stationary phase of growth. The mutant was obtained by treating the wild type with nitrosoguanidine and subjecting it to a penicillin counterselection procedure. One of the selected mutant strains produced four times as much of the glycol as the wild type and utilized approximately 25% of the energy source, compared with essentially complete utilization of the energy source by the wild type. Studies are under way to optimize the production of the glycol by the mutant.
Actions on Objects

Summary When thinking of reasoning, problem solving, communication, and connecting related ideas, the tool of choice in nearly every discipline is the microcomputer. Furthermore, unlike the traditional calculator, the modern classroom computer has an unparalleled ability to implement both graphical and procedural components of mathematics understanding in a single unified object. By students' creation and utilization of mathematically relevant computer-based objects, this dual encapsulation provides them with a unique opportunity to see both the form of representation and their actions utilizing this representation simultaneously. This paper suggests that the object-oriented environments that modern technology enables are ideally suited to parallel and facilitate the ability of students to take a broader variety of action upon objectsof a nature and kind hitherto unknown. These student-controlled actionsupon these mathematically powerful and computer-enabled objectshave the potential for creating classroo...
Advanced dissection techniques: an elective for 4th-year students to revisit anatomy, prepare for residency, and aid 1st-year medical students beginning anatomy (721.1)

Our advanced dissection techniques course is designed for 4th-year students to review and gain more advanced anatomy training especially for students embarking on “anatomy-intense” residency programs such as surgery, physiatry, obstetrics & gynecology, urology and radiology. The duration of the electives are typically two weeks and they are specifically tailored to the students interests. The dissections conducted by the 4th-year students are structured and targeted and not all inclusive as were the dissections performed during their first year of medical school. The elective dissections are designed to introduce new approaches, angles, and ways to see relationships between anatomical structures. These dissections, and expositions by the senior students, are also used to supplement the learning of anatomy for our first year students. The opportunity for first-year students to see specialized anatomy, as presented in the electives, provides a unique exposure otherwise unavailable during the first year....
INCORPORATION OF CAKE FILTRATION PRINCIPLES TO THE ANALYSIS OF SOLID/FLUID SUPARATION PROCESSES

Besides cake filtration and expression, cake formation, growth, and/or consolidation are also present in several other solid/fluid separation operations. The present chapter is devoted to the analyses and discussions of such problems. As an example, for gas emission control, fabric filtration is often applied. In fabric filtration, particle-laden gas is passed through filter bags such that filter cakes are formed outside bag surfaces. Because of the large quantities of gases to be treated and to insure bags' repetitive use, filter bags require periodic cleaning. A study of fabric filtration therefore must be based on the principles of cake filtration and that of filter cleaning. Another example would be cross-flow membrane filtration that is an application of the so-called membrane technology, which has become popular and important in recent years. Cross-flow filtration is commonly divided into two categories: (1) microfiltration for removing particles of size ranging from 10 −1 to 10 2 μm and (2) ultrafiltration for particles (or macromoleculars) with size up to 100 nm. Separation is achieved by the sieving effect and the membrane used functions as a sieve. The rejected (or removed) particles form cakes on the upstream side of the membrane. Unlike regular cake filtration discussed before in cross-flow filtration, the feed flow and the filtrate flow are not in the same direction. While the consequence of the cake formation is the same as that of regular cake filtration, namely, an increase of the total resistance to filtrate flow, the manner and the extent of cake formation in cross-flow filtration is quite different from the discussions given previously. This difference represents the main issues to be discussed in this chapter.
GalMass: A Smartphone Application for Estimating Galaxy Masses

This note documents the methods used by the smartphone application, "GalMass," which has been released on the Android Market. GalMass estimates the halo virial mass (Mvir), stellar mass (Mstar), gas mass (Mgas), and galaxy gas fraction of a central galaxy as a function of redshift (z<2), with any one of the above masses as an input parameter. In order to convert between Mvir and Mstar (in either direction), GalMass uses fitting functions that approximate the abundance matching models of either Conroy & Wechsler (2009), Moster et al. (2010), or Behroozi et al. (2010). GalMass uses a a semi-empirical fit to observed galaxy gas fractions to convert between Mstar and Mgas, as outlined in Stewart et al. (2009).
Natural occurrence of Fe2SiO4-spinel in the shocked Umbarger L6 chondrite

Here we report the first natural occurrence of Fe 2 SiO 4 -spinel in a shock-induced melt pocket of the Umbarger L6 chondrite. Optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, electron microprobe analysis, and analytical transmission electron microscopy were used to examine the sample. Fe 2 SiO 4 -spinel was identified by TEM using selected-area electron diffraction and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The symmetry of the diffraction patterns, the ratios of d -spacings, and interplanar angles are consistent with the spinel structure. However, the cell parameter of Fe 2 SiO 4 -spinel (8.52 A), calculated from d -spacing data, is 3.5% larger than that of synthetic Fe 2 SiO 4 -spinel (8.235 A). Chemical analyses of the spinel show olivine stoichiometry with Fe/(Fe + Mg) ratios ranging from 0.62 to 0.99. Fe 2 SiO 4 -spinel and stishovite occur within FeO-SiO 2 -rich zones in the melt pocket, surrounded by SiO 2 -rich glass and Fe-rich phyllosilicates. Fe 2 SiO 4 -spinel plus stishovite also occur with other high-pressure minerals in the melt pocket: ringwoodite, akimotoite, augite, and hollandite-structured plagioclase. We infer that the Fe 2 SiO 4 -spinel crystallized from a zone of FeO-SiO 2 -rich melt within the shock-induced melt pocket. Two models for FeO-SiO 2 -rich melt are discussed: it was either a residual melt after crystallization of MgO-rich silicates in a chondritic melt pocket, or it was produced by shock melting of FeO-SiO 2 -rich material.
A Reflective Symmetry Descriptor

Computing reflective symmetries of 2D and 3D shapes is a classical problem in computer vision and computational geometry. Most prior work has focused on finding the main axes of symmetry, or determining that none exists. In this paper, we introduce a new reflective symmetry descriptor that represents a measure of reflective symmetry for an arbitrary 3D voxel model for all planes through the model's center of mass (even if they are not planes of symmetry). The main benefits of this new shape descriptor are that it is defined over a canonical parameterization (the sphere) and describes global properties of a 3D shape. Using Fourier methods, our algorithm computes the symmetry descriptor in O(N4 logN) time for an N × N × N voxel grid, and computes a multiresolution approximation in O(N3 logN) time. In our initial experiments, we have found the symmetry descriptor to be useful for registration, matching, and classification of shapes.
Differential Games with Partial Differential Equations

Examples of differential games are given, where the state equation is a partial differential equation. They can be solved explicitly and show clearly how the values of the control functions enter in the solution. This enables us to set up a method of solving these games, which should also be applied to more complicated differential games, complementing known results about existence of solutions from the general theory.
The Chandra Deep Field North Survey. XIV. X-Ray-detected Obscured AGNs and Starburst Galaxies in the Bright Submillimeter Source Population

We provide X-ray constraints and perform the first X-ray spectral analyses for bright SCUBA sources (f850 μm ≥ 5 mJy; signal-to-noise ratio ≥4) in an 84 × 84 area of the 2 Ms Chandra Deep Field North survey containing the Hubble Deep Field North. X-ray emission is detected from seven of the 10 bright submillimeter sources in this region down to 0.5–8.0 keV fluxes of ≈1 × 10-16 ergs cm-2 s-1, corresponding to an X-ray–detected submillimeter source density of 360 deg-2; our analyses suggest that this equates to an X-ray–detected fraction of the bright submillimeter source population of 36%, although systematic effects may be present. Two of the X-ray–detected sources have nearby (within 3'') X-ray companions, suggesting merging/interacting sources or gravitational lensing effects, and three of the X-ray–detected sources lie within the approximate extent of the protocluster candidate CXOHDFN J123620.0+621554. Five of the X-ray–detected sources have flat effective X-ray spectral slopes (Γ 4) and could be either AGNs or starburst galaxies.
The anticonvulsant effects of propofol and a propofol analog, 2,6-diisopropyl-4-(1-hydroxy-2,2,2-trifluoroethyl)phenol, in a 6 Hz partial seizure model.

Background Propofol is a general anesthetic having good anticonvulsant properties, but is limited in antiseizure use because of its potent anesthetic/sedative properties. It is proposed that substitution of the propofol molecule in the para position may yield compounds having less toxicity, yet possessing anticonvulsant properties because of retention of the 2,6-diisopropylphenol configuration. Reported herein is the synthesis of a para-substituted analog of propofol, 2,6-diisopropyl-4-(1-hydroxy-2,2,2-trifluoroethyl)phenol (MB003), and a similar analog of 2,6-di-sec-butylphenol (MB050), and their comparative anticonvulsant effects in National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke screening models. Methods MB003 and MB050 were synthesized by the reaction of propofol or 2,6-di-sec-butylphenol, respectively, with trifluoroacetaldehyde ethyl hemiacetal in the presence of catalytic amounts of K(2)CO(3). Compounds were purified to >98% purity. Propofol, MB003, 2,6-di-sec-butylphenol, and MB050 were screened for protective effects by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Anticonvulsant Screening Program in the mouse maximal electroshock, subcutaneous metrazol, and 6 Hz (32 mA) partial seizure models. All compounds were administered by i.p. injection. The toxicity of each compound was assessed by the ability of the animals to stay on a Rotorod after dosing. Results Propofol, MB003, and MB050 were found to be most protective in the 6 Hz model with lesser protective effects in the mouse maximal electroshock and subcutaneous metrazol models. In the 6 Hz model, propofol yielded a 50% effective dose of 32.8 mg/kg; MB003, 38.4 mg/kg; and MB050, 74.0 mg/kg. Propofol, and to a greater degree, 2,6-di-sec-butylphenol, exhibited high toxicity. The corresponding 2,6-dimethylphenol analog to MB003 and MB050, 2,6-dimethyl-4-(1-hydroxy-2,2,2-trifluoroethyl)phenol, was not protective in the 6 Hz model and exhibited no toxicity at any dose tested. Conclusion These results show that the anesthetics propofol and 2,6-di-sec-butylphenol may be substituted in the para position with a 1-hydroxy-2,2,2-trifluoroethyl moiety and the resulting molecules have anticonvulsant activity in the 6 Hz model while exhibiting less toxicity (ataxia) than the parent 2,6-dialkylphenols. The effectiveness of propofol, MB003, 2,6-di-sec-butylphenol, and MB050 and the ineffectiveness of 2,6-dimethyl-4-(1-hydroxy-2,2,2-trifluoroethyl)phenol, in the 6 Hz model shows that the 2,6-diisopropyl or 2,6-di-sec-butyl phenolic configuration is more important to anticonvulsant activity than having the phenolic para position free of substituents. These results suggest that 1-hydroxy-2,2,2-trifluoroethyl substituted 2,6-di-alkylphenols may have useful anticonvulsant activities.
Thermal cycling of EB-PVD/MCrAlY thermal barrier coatings: II. Evolution of photo-stimulated luminescence

Abstract Degradation of thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) was investigated as a function of thermal cycles by examining the structural integrity of the thermally grown oxide (TGO) and TBC/TGO/bond coat interfaces using photo-stimulated luminescence spectroscopy (PSLS). The disk-shaped specimens of a production TBC employed in this study consist of: an electron beam physical vapor deposited (EB-PVD) ZrO 2 –7 wt.% Y 2 O 3 (YSZ); thermally grown oxide (TGO); MCrAlY bond coat; and IN-738 polycrystalline superalloy substrate. The furnace thermal cycling of the TBC consisted of a 10-min heat-up, a 40-min hold at 1121°C (2050°F) and a 10-min forced air quench to ambient temperature. Various characteristics of the photo-stimulated luminescence spectra from the TGO, including peak shifts (i.e. residual stress) and relative intensities of the R 1 –R 2 photo-luminescence, were examined as a function of thermal cycles and related to the spallation failure of the TBC, which occurred at approximately 400 cycles. A gradual increase in the compressive residual stress in the TGO was observed with thermal cycling up to 200 cycles. The magnitude of compressive stress in the TGO remained constant (∼4.5 GPa) from 200 to 350 cycles, then decreased sharply near 400 cycles, associated with spallation of the TBC. Photo-stimulated, bimodal luminescence spectra, consisting of stressed and stress-free luminescence peaks were frequently observed for TBCs. Q 1 and Q 2 luminescence from metastable θ-Al 2 O 3 and N-luminescence (in addition to R 1 –R 2 luminescence) arising from Cr 3+ concentration in the α-Al 2 O 3 scale were also observed. The physical basis for the evolution of these photo-stimulated luminescence spectra is discussed and related to the progressive damage and the final spallation of the TBCs.
Comparison of low Reynolds number k−ε turbulence models in predicting fully developed pipe flow

A comparative study is presented of ten different versions of the low Reynolds number k−e turbulence model. The individual models are briefly outlined and evaluated by application to fully developed pipe flow. Numerical simulations were performed at Reynolds numbers of 7000, 21,800, 50,000, and 500,000. Predictions of the mean axial velocity, turbulent kinetic energy, dissipation rate of turbulent kinetic energy, Reynolds shear stress, eddy viscosity, and skin friction coefficients are compared to both experimental and direct numerical simulation data. The relative performance of the models is assessed. It has been found that the predictions between the models can vary considerably, particularly for the turbulent kinetic energy, its dissipation rate, and the eddy viscosity. The results indicate that the model proposed by Myong and Kasagi (1990, JSME Int. J.33, 63–72) has the best overall performance in predicting fully developed, turbulent pipe flow.
Signals in atmospheric pressure variations from 2 to ca. 70 months: Part I, simulations by two coupled ocean—atmosphere GCMs

The Fourier transform of daily averaged solar flux at the top of the atmosphere shows that the spectrum is discrete at all latitudes with lines at 12, 6, 4, 3, 2·4, 2 months, etc., which follows from the orbital characteristics of the Earth. Application of the Fourier transform to over 6000 monthly air pressure series simulated by two different versions of the Oregon State University (OSU) general circulation model (OSU-GCM) shows the same structure, and world-wide the mean contributions of 12, 6, and 4·2 month signals to total variance are 40, 10, and 4 percent, respectively. The Fourier spectra also yield significant subharmonic peaks, with periods T1 ≃ 40 and T2 ≃ 26 months, the quasi-triennial (QTO) and quasi- biennial (QBO) oscillations, and with a period T3 ≃ 14 months, the atmospheric pole tide (APT). The spectra also yield evidence for a further 33 significant peaks, which can be explained as summation and difference tones caused by interaction of the annual and its five harmonics (first set of parents) with the subharmonics Ti, i = 1 to 3 (second parents), and the expression for the tones is cycles per month (cpm), where j = 0,…5. The only requirement physically for these interactions is that the atmosphere be weakly non-linear, a requirement now obviated by a simplified atmospheric model of O'Brien and Currie. World-wide, the contribution to total variance of the 33 tones and three subharmonics is 26·8 per cent, whereas the contribution of noise is 19·4 per cent. The root-mean-square (RMS) errors between observations of the 33 frequencies, and between those predicted by the above equation, in the two OSU-GCM simulations are 0·0015 and 0·0010 cpm, respectively. The two sets of parents and 33 tones vary in period from 2 to ca. 70 months and demonstrate that the spectrum of climate on these time-scales is ‘signal-like’ rather than ‘noise-like’ as traditionally believed.
Inelastic Events Induced by 32-MEV Protons on Helium.

A study of inelastic events induced by the bombardment of helium nuclei with 32-Mev protons has been made.No low energy group of protons has been found which would indicate the existence of an excited, heavy-particle stable state of the helium nucleus. The absence of a bump on the continuum of protons from the reactions $p+{\mathrm{He}}^{4}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{\mathrm{He}}^{3}+n+{p}^{\ensuremath{'}},$ $p+{\mathrm{He}}^{4}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{\mathrm{H}}^{3}+{p}^{\ensuremath{'}\ensuremath{'}}+{p}^{\ensuremath{'}},$ indicates a maximum cross section of 0.1 mb/sterad at 45\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} c.m. for the production of a single excited helium level as high as 23.3 Mev above the ground state. Further, the observed rather flat shape of the continuum requires the existence of at least two levels of about 1-Mev half-width, separated by about 1 Mev.The angular variation of the differential cross section for the production of deuterons from the reaction $p+{\mathrm{He}}^{4}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{\mathrm{He}}^{3}+d$ has been measured. When the principle of detailed balancing is invoked, good agreement with the prediction of the theory of Butler is obtained for ${r}_{0}(\mathrm{range}\mathrm{of}\mathrm{nuclear}\mathrm{forces}\mathrm{plus}\mathrm{radius}\mathrm{of}{\mathrm{He}}^{3} \mathrm{nucleus})=4.2\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}13}$ cm.
Evaluation of Airblast Loads on Structures in Complex Configurations

A common terrorist threat worldwide is the use of large vehicle bombs to attack high value targets. Detonation of large yield devices can cause significant damage to nearby buildings, facilities and infrastructure with potentially high loss of life and large economic losses. Blast pressures can have major consequences on critical facilities such as nuclear power plants, causing economic loss, environmental damage and system failure. Closely spaced structures in a dense configuration provide a complicated setting for evaluating airblast pressures caused by explosive devices. The presence of multiple buildings can channel the airblast, resulting in significant effects on load magnitudes at range from the detonation. Buildings reflect propagating blast waves causing increased loading at some locations and reduced loads elsewhere due to shielding from direct blast waves. The complex interaction between structures, streets, alleys and geographical terrain can have a major impact on structural loads. Currently, the most common way to estimate airblast pressures resulting from above ground explosive detonations is to use fast running, approximate blast tools such as CONWEP. These simplified tools may not provide accurate guidance on airblast pressures in complex environments. The following paper illustrates the use of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) calculations of complex building configurations to quantify the resulting blast environment. Comparisons with simplified methods are presented. An approach to using a database of CFD simulations, customized for a specific site, to provide a fast running blast assessment tool is described. This approach provides a convenient, fast running tool for designers and security planners to visualize and accurately quantify the hazard from any threat size and location within the area of interest.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Dileptons and four leptons at Z′ resonance in the early stage of the LHC

Abstract The LHC era just began. The first discovery at the LHC experiment would be arguably a new resonance pole at TeV scale, if it exists. While the discovery of the Z ′ would be exciting by itself, it may also suggest what other new physics signals should be looked for while the LHC experiment is still at its early stage. We argue that the four lepton resonance at the Z ′ pole is a well-motivated and promising signal especially in supersymmetry framework, which can serve as a supersymmetry search scheme even in the early stage of the LHC experiment.
Non-invasive assessment of blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability using a gamma camera to detect 99technetium-gluceptate extravasation in rat brain.

Abstract The blood–brain barrier (BBB) is a complex structure of endothelial cells, astroglia, pericytes, and perivascular macrophages enclosed by basal lamina. The BBB regulates the entry of blood-borne molecules and cells into the brain, but it is disrupted in various inflammatory conditions of the central nervous system (CNS). We previously showed that 30 min of immobilization stress increased 99technetium-gluceptate (99Tc) extravasation, measured by a gamma counter, in brain regions containing mast cells, an effect blocked by the mast cell stabilizer disodium cromoglycate [Brain Res. 888 (2001) 117]. Here we report the use of a gamma camera to assess BBB permeability by assessing 99Tc extravasation in the rat brain, during and following acute stress, without having to sacrifice the experimental animals. This method also allows for repeated experimentation on the same animal, since the half-life of 99Tc is only 6 h, and permits testing of potential inhibitors of BBB permeability.
Malnutrition and Fertility

Bongaarts view that the length of lactational amenorrhea depends mainly on the suckling stimulus is not supported by studies of lactating Gambian women on both supplemented and unsupplemented diets. Plasma prolactin levels dropped more rapidly among mothers on supplemental diets although the frequency of breastfeeding remained the same. Significant differences in maternal nutrition and physical labor but not the frequency of infant feeding were associated with seasonal variations in plasma prolactin and milk yield. Another study showed that the period of postpartum infertility may be shortened by lower hormonal levels associated with improved maternal nutrition in spite of prolonged breastfeeding. A prospective study in Bangladesh by Chen et al. related long periods of lactational amenorrhea (median 17 months) both to childfeeding practices and to the poor nutritional status of mother and child. In his discussion of the interaction of nutritional status and frequency of suckling Bongaart omitted the important fact that after 6 months of age or earlier breast milk alone is insufficient for the proper growth and health of the infant but continued nursing is important as breast milk is often the only source of high quality protein. Bongaarts claim of the delaying effect of undernutrition on age of menarche is based on the assumption that menarche is an independent event in the reproductive span. Data show that age of menarche is integrated with rates of physical growth and reproductive potential. Among the marginally malnourished Bush people of the Kalahari average age of menarche is 15.5-16.0 years but because of the long period of adolescent subfecundity the average maternal age at birth of the 1st child among the Bush people is 20-21 years. In the U.S. mean age of menarche is 12.8 years and the girls usually complete their growth and period of subfecundity by age 16; this makes the 16-year old American bride at high risk of pregnancy during the 1st years of marriage. Data also show that menopause now occurs on the average at 51 years of age in a well-nourished society but because of contraceptive use reproduction actually ends long before the natural age of menopause is reached.
Permeation rates of low molecular weight gases through a plasma synthesized allyl alcohol membrane

Abstract Gas separation membranes were produced from the pulsed plasma deposition of poly(allyl alcohol). It was discovered that only low duty cycle, pulsed plasma deposition (1 ms on/30 ms off, 300 W peak power) produced membranes of sufficient uniformity to permit permeation studies. The membranes, deposited on porous ceramic filters, were found to permeate common gases through a combination of porous flow and the flow of adsorbed gases on the inner surface of the pores. The degree of surface transport was correlated with the critical temperature of the gas under test. The amount of surface transport for all gases tested increased strongly with applied pressure. The poly(allyl alcohol) films were compared with published data for porous cellulose acetate membranes; it was found that the poly(allyl alcohol) membranes had greatly enhanced surface transport compared to the cellulose acetate membranes.
Real or blarney? A cross‐cultural investigation of the perceived authenticity of Irish pubs

In recent years, themed Irish pubs have grown in popularity. Marketers often strive to create the perception of authenticity when creating these themed environments. This study seeks to understand the importance of authenticity, tangible and intangible elements that constitute authenticity, and consumers' ability to delineate the ‘real’ from simulacra. We employed an online cross-cultural methodology that compared perceptions of Irish pubs among respondents in Australia, Ireland, and the United States. The results of this study support our contention that perceived authenticity is a construct that is dependent on both marketers and consumers. Findings revealed, among other things, that the role of patrons and employees was deemed an equal, if not more important, atmospheric component than tangible interior design elements in the creation of a ‘true’ Irish pub experience. Marketing and research implications of this study are provided. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Compartmental origins of the striatopallidal projection in the primate.

The organization of striatopallidal projection neurons in the primate was studied by injecting horseradish peroxidase conjugated with wheat germ agglutinin and fluorescent markers (latex microspheres, Fluorogold, Diamidino Yellow or Nuclear Yellow) into the globus pallidus of 20 adult squirrel monkeys (Saimiri sciureus). Single injections of horseradish peroxidase conjugated with wheat germ agglutinin were placed so as to involve predominantly either one or both pallidal segments. In the double-tracer experiments, fluorescent tracer injections were centered in the external pallidum and deposits of horseradish peroxidase conjugated with wheat germ agglutinin were made in the internal pallidum. In control cases, injections were made in nearby parts of the internal capsule or striatum. Distributions of retrogradely labeled neurons in the striatum were analysed in relation to its striosomal architecture as demonstrated by histochemistry and immunohistochemistry. Three principal findings emerged. (1) Both the external and the internal segments of the primate pallidum receive input from both the caudate nucleus and the putamen, but different sets of striatal cells within these nuclei project to the two segments. (2) The striatopallidal projection in the primate orginates mainly in the extrastriosomal matrix, although striosomes in the fields of labeling almost always contain some labeled neurons. (3) Heterogeneous groupings of striatopallidal projection neurons exist in the matrix and appear to be parts of three-dimensional projection-neuron arrays. We conclude that in the primate, separate lines of conduction lead from the striatum to the external and the internal pallidal segments and raise the possibility that the cells of origin of these pathways form a mosaic in the extrastriosomal matrix.
Analysis of factors influencing special educational placement decisions

Abstract To determine the factors that influence placement recommendations, 356 working school psychologists evaluated nine psychological reports on special educational referral cases. The reports presented various combinations of IQ-level, emotional-social problems, and IQ-achievement discrepancies which were hypothesized to yield EMR, LD, and ED placement recommendations. It was found that when one of these characteristics was present at a greater level of severity than the others, predictable placement recommendations were made. In more complex combinations, however, no general decision-rules could be found to explain the recommendations.
The Two-Pathway Model of the Biological Catch-Bond as a Limit of the Allosteric Model

Catch-binding is a counterintuitive phenomenon in which the lifetime of a receptor/ligand bond increases when a force is applied to break the bond. Several mechanisms have been proposed to rationalize catch-binding. In the two-pathway model, the force drives the system away from its native dissociation pathway into an alternative pathway involving a higher energy barrier. Here, we analyze an allosteric model suggesting that a force applied to the complex alters the distribution of receptor conformations, and as a result, induces changes in the ligand-binding site. The model assumes explicitly that the allosteric transitions govern the properties of the ligand site. We demonstrate that the dynamics of the ligand is described by two relaxation times, one of which arises from the allosteric site. Therefore, we argue that one can characterize the allosteric transitions by studying the receptor/ligand binding. We show that the allosteric description reduces to the two-pathway model in the limit when the allosteric transitions are faster than the bond dissociation. The formal results are illustrated with two systems, P-selectin/PSGL-1 and FimH/mannose, subjected to both constant and time-dependent forces. The report advances our understanding of catch-binding by combining alternative physical models into a unified description and makes the problem more tractable for the bond mechanics community.