cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Impacts of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles on a residential transformer using stochastic and empirical analysis

Abstract Plug-in electric vehicles (PEV) have been identified as an option that can reduce criteria pollutant and greenhouse gas emissions associated with the transportation sector. The electricity demand of one of these vehicles is comparable to that of a typical U.S. household and thus clustering of PEVs in a neighborhood might have adverse effects on the transformer and disruption of service. In this paper, the electricity demand of a neighborhood is modeled based on measured vehicle and household data. The electricity demand profile of the PEVs is modeled based on the vehicle type, arrival and departure times and the daily miles traveled, all taken from the National Household Travel Survey (NHTS). A thermal model is developed to calculate the hot spot temperature and loss of life of the transformer. Results show that Level 1 charging has a small impact on the transformer aging and that only in one case, with Level 2 charging, the transformer might fail due to excessive temperatures. Overall addition of a significant number of PEVs is manageable for the transformer. The negative effects on the life time can be mitigated by properly designing the transformers and using smart charging scenarios.
Efficacy of over-the-counter nutritional supplements.

More than 100 million people in the United States report using nutritional supplements. Most people are under the impression that nutritional supplements offer health benefits and are closely regulated to ensure safety and efficacy. Unfortunately, the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994 allows for the promotion of nutritional supplements without review by the United States Food and Drug Administration; therefore, it is important to evaluate the efficacy and safety of these supplements. There is strong scientific evidence supporting the use of plant sterols/stanols, omega-3 fatty acids, niacin, folate, vitamin B6/B12, and tree nuts. There is potential evidence for the health benefits of soy protein, tea extracts, policosanol, guggulipids, coenzyme Q10, and L-arginine. There has been a lack of evidence for the health benefits of garlic and antioxidants.
High production in a herbaceous perennial plant achieved by continuous growth and synchronized population dynamics

Abstract Continuous changes in the population dynamics, above- and belowground biomass, growth rates, and production of the emergent rush Juncus effusus were evaluated over an annual period in a subtemperate riparian wetland. Extant and emerging individual photosynthetic culms (shoots) were labeled individually and their growth dynamics quantified in replicated plots. Lengths of living (chlorophyllous) portions and basal diameters of several thousand individual culms were determined at weekly intervals and converted to biomass by regression of surface areas to mass. Shoots emerged continuously at all times of the year; the number of ramets increased four times from summer to winter (12,000 – >30,000 culms m -2 ). Individual culms in November–December, however, were generally smaller (41–52%) than in summer. Maximum growth of individual new culms ranged from a maximum of 6.4 mg per day in June (40–50 days to maximum biomass) to 1.1 mg per day in November (70–110 days to reach maximum biomass in winter). Due to continuous recruitment and gradual culm senescence, numerous multiple cohorts occurred on an annual basis. Root production was also evaluated from changes in seasonal biomass and from experimental studies of changes in aboveground biomass in relation to those of rooting tissues. Annual root production was approximately 42% of shoot production. Average annual production estimates of combined above- and belowground components was 9832 g AFDM m −2 per year. The extremely high production rates of this Juncus species result from the continuous growth while simultaneously shoot densities changed as the inverse of biomass seasonally. These processes maximized photosynthetic carbon fixation under mild climatic conditions of the winter and spring seasons. This dynamic growth strategy is likely to be common among herbaceous perennial emergent aquatic plants in mild climatic regions.
Brief Report: Interaction between social class and risky decision-making in children with psychopathic tendencies

Abstract Objective Adult psychopaths are thought to have risky decision-making and behavioral disinhibition, but little is known about the moderating effects of psychosocial factors and whether these associations can be observed in children with psychopathic tendencies. This study tests the biosocial hypothesis that social class will moderate psychopathy–neurocognition relationships, with these effects being stronger in children from high social classes. Method Preadolescent community twins ( N = 298) were assessed on decision-making (Iowa Gambling) and behavior inhibition (Porteus Maze) tasks, while psychopathic tendencies and socioeconomic status were assessed by the child's caregiver. Results A significant interaction was observed whereby risky decision-making was associated with psychopathic tendencies only in children from benign home environments. Conclusions Findings support a biosocial interaction perspective on child psychopathy, suggesting that risky decision-making may particularly predispose to psychopathic traits in children from benign home backgrounds.
The relationship between volume and oxidative activity in flight muscle mitochondria.

Abstract Light-scattering and gravimetric studies revealed that insect flight muscle mitochondria exhibited spontaneous as well as induced changes in volume. Of particular significance was the observation that H+, in contrast to other swelling agents employed, caused a rapid and possibly ‘all-or-none’ type of swelling in which the whole population of mitochondria appeared to swell simultaneously. This type of induced swelling appeared to differ from other types of swelling in that it was immediately followed by a spontaneous and partial contraction. The spontaneous contraction, however, was completely abolished if sucrose was present in the medium. Complete contraction of H+ swollen mitochondria could be achieved: (a) if the combination of agents, ATP + Mg2+ + BSA were added to the suspension of swollen mitochondria; (b) if the H+-induced electrochemical gradient was destroyed by the addition of Tris buffer, pH 7·4. Studies correlating changes in mitochondrial volume with changes in mitochondrial oxidative activity revealed that no simple relationship exists between mitochondrial volume and in vitro mitochondrial function. For example, spontaneous swelling resulted in an almost complete loss of pyruvate oxidation but had little or no effect on α-glycero-P oxidation. This observation suggests that the basis for the often-cited discrepancies between rates of pyruvate and α-glycero-P oxidation exhibited by flight muscle mitochondria may be prolonged mitochondrial swelling, which appears to exert a selectively deleterious effect on pyruvate but to a much lesser extent on α-glycero-P oxidation. These studies also revealed that coincident with the initial stages of induced mitochondrial swelling a ‘jump’ in mitochondrial O2 consumption occurred. Frequently, the jump in O2 consumption was followed by a re-establishment of pre-swelling rates of O2 consumption. These transitions in metabolic state of the mitochondria, however, were variable and critically influenced by such factors as the composition of the assay medium, the substrate, and swelling agent employed. Some evidence has been obtained from these studies to suggest that reversible changes in mitochondrial volume, as a result of alterations in [H+], may play an important role in modulating the oxidative activity of insect flight muscle mitochondria during periods of rest and activity. A working hypothesis in which [H+] and changes in mitochondrial volume are critical determinants in regulating the metabolism of insect flight muscle mitochondria is presented.
Social Insurance and Income Redistribution in a Laboratory Experiment

Why do some voters support income redistribution while others do not? Public assistance programs have two entangled effects on society: they equalize wealth, but they also cushion people against ra...
Survey of Home Visiting Programs for Abused and Neglected Children and Their Families.

This study reports on home visitation programs that provide services for abused and neglected children and their families. Data were collected as part of a national survey of home visiting programs. Of the 1,904 programs participating in the survey, 224 had as their primary focus services for children who were abused or neglected. For this group, data are presented on program characteristics, characteristics of home visits, credentials of home visitors, and program documentation procedures. The survey data showed that over 70% of the 224 programs identified social service as their organization affiliation which, in contrast to other providers, offered a broad range of services for the abused or neglected children and their families. The most frequently identified purpose for providing services was the social and emotional development of the child. Parenting skills and parent coping were considered the most important services. Stress management was considered more important by respondents of programs for maltreating families than by those providing services to nonmaltreating families. Approximately half the respondents reported that they required a bachelor's or master's degree for employment. Results are discussed in relation to research and practice implications.
Four-dimensional simulations of the CEBAF infrared free electron laser

Abstract A four-dimensional (4D) simulation in ( x, y, z, t ) of a free electron laser (FEL) has been developed for the case where the electron beam radius is small compared to the optical mode radius. The simulation uses the electron pendulum equation and the parabolic wave equation including the effects of diffraction and short pulse propagation. In the CEBAF IR FEL, the short electron pulse reduces gain, and the narrow electron beam can cause distortion of the optical mode. These important effects are studied simultaneously using the 4D simulations.
Voyager observations of 1985U1

During its discovery of the 75-km average diameter Uranian satellite 1985U1, between the epsilon ring and Miranda, Voyager was able to resolve this irregularly shaped satellite in sufficiently great detail to allow the determination of its size, shape, and photometric properties. It is presently noted that 1985U1's albedo, at between 0.07 and 0.09, is both substantially lower than those obtained for the large Uranian satellites and slightly higher than that of the Saturn moon, Phoebe. A V-system opposition magnitude of about +20.5 is conjectured.
Topical tranexamic acid was noninferior to intravenous tranexamic acid in controlling blood loss during total knee arthroplasty.

Patel JN, Spanyer JM, Smith LS, Huang J, Yakkanti MR, Malkani AL. Comparison of Intravenous Versus Topical Tranexamic Acid in Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Prospective Randomized Study. J Arthroplasty. 2014 Aug;29(8):1528-31. ### Question: In patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty, how do the safety and efficacy of topical tranexamic acid (TXA) compare with intravenous (IV) TXA? ### Design: Randomized (allocation concealed), blinded (outcome assessor), controlled trial with a mean follow-up of 18.3 weeks. ### Setting: A hospital in Louisville, Kentucky. ### Patients: 89 patients ≥18 years of age (mean age, 64.8 years; 74% women) who were undergoing elective unilateral primary total knee arthroplasty for osteoarthritis by a single surgeon. Exclusion criteria included total knee arthroplasty for secondary osteoarthritis, simultaneous bilateral total knee arthroplasty, cardiovascular or cerebrovascular problems, clotting disorders, thromboembolic disorders, religious objection to blood transfusion, and preoperative hemoglobin >15.0 g/dL. 88 patients (99%) completed follow-up. ### Intervention: Patients were allocated to topical (n = 42) or IV (n = 47) TXA. Primary total knee arthroplasty followed a subvastus approach unless contraindicated because of morbid obesity or patient anatomy, in which case a …
A 2400-bit/s microprocessor-based modem

This paper describes the main characteristics of a new microprocessor-implemented 2400-bit/s data modem, the IBM 3863. In addition to the execution of signal processing tasks, the microprocessor provides a variety of other significant functions such as diagnostics and aids in network problem determination. The lack of hardware multiplication capability imposes certain constraints in the design of the signal processing algorithms. The analytical approach and computational techniques, based on the processing of signals in polar coordinates, which are used to circumvent these constraints are described. It is shown in particular that timing phase control, carrier recovery, and adaptive equalization can be achieved at the receiver by processing only the phase of the sampled signal. Additionally, experimental results are presented which demonstrate the superiority of this design over conventional coherent demodulators.
Density Functional Theory Study of Transitional Metal Macrocyclic Complexes' Dioxygen-Binding Abilities and Their Catalytic Activities toward Oxygen Reduction Reaction

In this paper, density functional theory method is applied to study the dioxygen-binding abilities of transition metal macrocyclic complexes and their electrocatalytic activities toward oxygen reduction reaction. Both end-on and side-on binding modes are examined. Electronic properties, such as ionization potential and Mulliken charge, are evaluated. The effects of central metal, ligand, and substituents on catalyst's dioxygen-binding ability and catalytic activity are investigated. The binding nature of dioxygen adduct is analyzed based on structure property. The general activity trend observed for phthalocyanines and porphyrins is rationalized with the calculated properties. It is illustrated that the catalyst's oxygen reduction activity is related to its ionization potential and dioxygen-binding ability. Cobalt porphyrin derivatives have high ionization potentials, which make them better catalysts than the corresponding iron derivatives, whereas for phthalocyanine systems, iron derivatives have large i...
Attenuation of Apoptosis by Chromogranin A-Induced Akt and Survivin Pathways in Prostate Cancer Cells

Multiple studies indicate that neuroendocrine (NE) differentiation in prostate cancer (PC) contributes to androgen-independent progression. Levels of chromogranin A (CgA), which is produced by NE cells, are increased in advanced PC. However, the mechanism by which high levels of circulating CgA contribute to PC progression is unknown. To examine the effects of CgA on PC cells, we first performed proliferation assays in the presence of recombinant CgA (rCgA) in LNCaP and C4-2 PC cells, and found that rCgA increased cell proliferation in a dose and time-dependent manner. NE differentiated PC cells, also overexpress the antiapoptosis protein survivin. Therefore, we examined survivin expression in the presence of CgA in PC cells. Western blot analysis showed that survivin was significantly increased by rCgA and inhibited by an anti-CgA antibody in both LNCaP and C4-2 cells. Survivin expression is believed to be regulated by PI3K/Akt pathway. We next assessed the phosphorylation status of Akt and found that Akt phosphorylation was increased by treatment with rCgA. To determine whether Akt phosphorylation is necessary for rCgA-induced survivin expression, we examined the effects of Akt, MAPK kinase, and protein kinase C inhibitors on CgA-induced survivin expression, and found that survivin expression was reduced in the presence of Akt inhibitors, but not MAPK kinase or protein kinase C inhibitors. Furthermore, in the presence of an Akt inhibitor or small interfering RNA of survivin, CgA-enhanced proliferation of C4-2 and LNCaP cells significantly decreased. Together, our results demonstrate that CgA can increase PC cell survival through Akt-mediated survivin up-regulation.
Multispectral image sharpening with multiresolution analysis and the MTF

High resolution panchromatic imagery can be used to increase the spatial resolution of low resolution spectral imagery through spatial/spectral sharpening techniques. Recently, sharpening techniques have been presented that use a multiresolution analysis by manipulating the images at different resolution scales that use a Laplacian pyramid or wavelet transform. This paper presents a model for sharpening multispectral images (MRA/MTF) that uses multiresolution analysis (MRA) to extract the high frequency information from the panchromatic image and matches the spatial response between imagery using a modulation transfer function (MTF) correction. When carefully executed, the MRA/MTF model is shown to provide a sharpened image with minimum spectral distortion and visually pleasing results. Multispectral data was used to evaluate the algorithm for sharpening 30 meter Landsat data with 1 meter aerial photography with comparison to other sharpening algorithms available within ERDAS Imagine and with ERIM's sharpening algorithm called Sparkle. The algorithms were tested for spectral distortion by comparing the covariance between bands before and after sharpening.
Is New Madrid Dead

Stein argues that earthquake risks from the New Madrid fault have been overestimated and thus have led to a misallocation of research and preparation funds.
Progress in the management of type I thoracoabdominal and descending thoracic aortic aneurysms.

< 0.003). The adjunct group had more preoperative renal insufficiency (p < 0.05), an established risk factor for neurologic deficit (odds ratio = 2.2 in published studies). All other risk factors for neurologic deficit occurred with comparable frequency in both groups. We conclude that the introduction of adjuncts has dramatically reduced the neurologic risk associated with type I thoracoabdominal or total descending thoracic aortic repair. Previously considered high risk for neurologic complications, these aneurysms can now be reclassified as low risk in surgery accompanied by adjuncts. Future investigations will focus on type II thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm as the major source of neurologic morbidity.
“In Forms That Are Familiar and Yet-to-Be Invented”: American Journalism and the Discourse of Technologically Specific Work

Changes in the technologies of news production do not simply modify journalistic practices; they also introduce what might be considered technologically specific forms of work. These work forms are rooted in the affordances of novel technical capacities while also making claims about the journalistic nature of such work. How do journalists discuss the emergence of these technologically specific forms? When are new work forms seen as contributing to the practices of journalism and when are they seen as threatening it? Drawing on archival research of industry discussions, this article argues that such work is discussed in three distinct ways: (1) as exemplars of continuity; (2) as threats to be subordinated; and (3) as possibilities for journalistic reinvention. Each mode, it is argued, points to different understandings of the relationship between journalistic work and technology and carries different implications about the changing nature of journalistic work in the digital age.
Discriminating Between Pre- Versus Post-theraplay Treatment Marschak Interaction Methods Using the Marschak Interaction Method Rating System

The Marschak Interaction Method (MIM) is a play-based observation used to evaluate parent–child relationship quality. This study examined the ability of the Marschak Interaction Method Rating System (MIMRS) to effectively discriminate between MIMs completed pre- versus post-Theraplay treatment. Eleven parent–child dyads received at least 8 Theraplay sessions. Achenbach Child Behavior Checklists (CBCLs) completed by parents before and after treatment demonstrated significant improvement in child behaviors. Interrater reliability for MIMRS = .75. Results of dependent-samples t test revealed strong effect sizes (Cohen's d) on the total MIMRS score (−1.07) and the nurture and challenge dimensions (−1.50, −0.76, respectively). Although these results are preliminary and modest in terms of sample size, the MIMRS was successful in capturing change in the parent–child relationship following Theraplay treatment.
Paper electrophoresis with surface-enhanced fluorimetric detection

Amorphous fumed silica was used as a fluorescence sensitizer coated on a filter-paper substrate for use in paper electrophoresis. The usefulness of the separation method was illustrated for a mixture of two polynuclear aromatic compounds of biological interest: benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) and benzo[a]pyrene-r-7,t-8,9,10-tetrahydrotetrol, a hydrolysis product of BaP—DNA adduct. These two compounds were well separated and an enhancement of the fluorescence intensity was also observed when the sensitizer was applied to filter-paper prior to electrophoretic separation.
Phylogenetic relationships in some Leptosphaeria and Phaeosphaeria species

Cladistic analyses of some Leptosphaeria and Phaeosphaeria species were carried out using morphological and molecular data (ITS2 and part of 28S rDNA sequence). The results indicate that the Phaeosphaeria species form a natural group, receiving support from both types of data. However, subdivision of Phaeosphaeria into subgenera based on ascospore morphology does not indicate evolutionary relatedness. Leptosphaeria sensu lato is paraphyletic, but Leptosphaeria sensu stricto appears to form a clade. Characters that are useful in delimiting the two genera include: shape of ascoma, ascomal position relative to the substrate, and the type of cells making up the peridium.
Properties of brain L-glutamate decarboxylase: inhibition studies.

—l-Glutamate decarboxylase purified from mouse brain was found to be highly sensitive to the sulfhydryl reagents, 5,5-dithiobis (2-nitrobenzoic acid) (DTNB) and p-chloromerburibenzoate (PCMB), which were competitive inhibitors (Ki for DTNB is 1·1 · 10−8m). Iodoacetamide and iodoacetic acid were less effective inhibitors than DTNB and PCMB. The mercapto acids, 3-mercaptopropionic, 2-mercaptopropionic, and 2-mercaptoacetic acids were potent competitive inhibitors with Ki values of 1·8, 53 and 300 μm, respectively. 2-Mercaptoethanol was less effective. Aminooxyacetic acid was the most potent carbonyl-trapping reagent tested inhibiting the enzyme activity completely at 1·6 μm, followed by hydroxylamine, hydrazine, semicarbazide, and d-penicillamine. Carboxylic acids with a net negative charge were strong competitive inhibitors e.g. d-glutamate (Ki 0·9 mm), α-ketoglutarate (Ki, l·2mm), fumarate (Ki,1·8 mm), dl-β-hydroxyglutamate (Ki, 2·8 mm), l-aspartate (ki, 3·1 mm) and glutarate (Ki, 3·5 mm). 2-Aminophosphonobutyric and 2-aminophosphonopropionic acids, phosphonic analogs of glutamate and aspartate, respectively, had no effect at l0mm. γ-Aminobutyric acid, l-glutamine, l-γ-methylene-glutamine, and α,γ-diaminoglutaric acid, amino acids with no net negative charge at neutral pH, had no effect at 5 mm. Glutaric and α-ketoglutaric acids were the most potent inhibitors among the various dicarboxylic and α-keto-dicarboxylic acids tested (Ki, 3·5 and 1·2 mm, respectively). Compounds with one carbon less, succinic and oxalacetic acids, or with one carbon more, adipic and α-ketoadipic acids, were less inhibitory. The monovalent cations, Li+, Na+, NH4+, and Cs+ had no effect on l-glutamate decarboxylase activity in concentrations up to 10mm. Divalent cations, on the other hand, were very potent inhibitors. Among eleven divalent cations tested, Zn2+ was the most potent inhibitor, inhibiting to the extent of 50 per cent at 10μm. The decreasing order of inhibitory potency was: Zn2+ > Cd2+, Hg2+, Cu2+ > Ni2+ > Mn2+ Co2+ > Ba2+ > Ca2+ > Mg2+ > Sr+2, The anions, I−, Br−, Cl− and F− were only weak inhibitors. The Ki value for Cl− was 17mm. The above findings suggest minimally the presence of aldehyde, sulfhydryl and positively charged groups at or near the active site of the holoenzyme. Intermediates of glycolysis had little effect on l-glutamate decarboxylase activity, but intermediates of the tricarboxylic acid cycle, e.g. α-ketoglutarate (Ki= 1·2 mm) and fumarate (Ki= 1·8 mm) were relatively potent inhibitors. The nucleotides, ATP, ADP, AMP, cyclic AMP, GTP, GDP, GMP, and cyclic GMP were weak inhibitors. l-Norepinephrine (Ki= 1·3 mm) and serotonin were potent inhibitors, while acetylcholine, dopamine and histamine were less effective. Ethanol and dioxane inhibited the enzyme activity to the extent of 20-50 per cent at 10 per cent (v/v), while slight activation was observed at low concentrations (0·1-1 per cent) of both solvents. The possible role of Zn2+ and some metabolites in the regulation of steady-state levels of γ-aminobutyric acid also was discussed.
Antiviral activity of selected antimicrobial peptides against vaccinia virus

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are gaining importance as effective therapeutic alternatives to conventional antibiotics. Recently we have shown that a set of nine synthetic antimicrobial peptides, four originating from thrombin-induced human platelet-derived antimicrobial proteins named PD1-PD4 and five synthetic repeats of arginine-tryptophan (RW) repeats (RW1-5) demonstrate antibacterial activity in plasma and platelets. Using WR strain of vaccinia virus (VV) as a model virus for enveloped virus in the present study, we tested the same nine synthetic peptides for their antiviral activity. A cell culture-based standard plaque reduction assay was utilized to estimate antiviral effectiveness of the peptides. Our analysis revealed that peptides PD3, PD4, and RW3 were virucidal against VV with PD3 demonstrating the highest antiviral activity of 100-fold reduction in viral titers, whereas, PD4 and RW3 peptide treatments resulted in 10-30-fold reduction. The EC(50) values of PD3, PD4 and RW3 were found to be 40 microg/ml, 50 microg/ml and 6.5 microM, respectively. In VV-spiked plasma samples, the virucidal activity of PD3, PD4 and RW3 was close to 100% (90-100-fold reduction). Overall, the present study constitutes a new proof-of-concept in developing peptide therapeutics for vaccinia virus infections in biothreat scenarios and as in vitro viral reduction agents.
Mass Spectrometric Identification of Some bis -2, 4-Dinitrophenylhydrazones

Nitrophenylhydrazones, notably 2,4-dinitrophenyl-hydrazones (2,4-DNPH), are among the most widely used derivatives for mass spectral characterization of carbonyl compounds. Mono-2,4-DNPH's of n-aldehydes of C5 or more and n-ketones of C6 or more exhibit prominent fragmentation peaks: the aldehydes giving strong peaks at masses 224 and 206, methyl ketones at masses 238 and 178, and ethyl ketones at masses 252 and 178. All show a distinct peak at M-35. Mass 182 is reported to be significant for mono-2, 4-DNPH using the time-of-flight mass spectrometer. Spectra of two steroid mono-2, 4-DNPH's run in this laboratory showed M-35 as the only characteristic peak shared with the straight chain series and not the characteristic bis-2, 4-DNPH peaks.
Metamorphic reactions in mesosiderites - Origin of abundant phosphate and silica

In light of a study of the Emery mesosiderite, it is determined that the high modal abundances of merrillite and tridymite in most mesosiderites are attributable to redox reactions between silicates and P-bearing Fe-Ni metal within a limited T-fO2 range at low pressure. The recalculated amounts of dissolved P and S in the metallic portion of Emery reduce the metal liquidus temperature to less than 1350 C, and the solidus to less than 800 C, so that the mixing of liquid metal with cold silicates would have resulted in silicate metamorphism rather than melting. This redox reaction and redistribution of components between metal and silicates illuminates the complexities of mesosiderite processing, with a view to the recalculation of their original components.
Online Technology to Manage the Real Estate Owned REO Process

The WinREO real estate management software provides a case for extracting business intelligence benefits for a small/medium-sized business systematically as part of other business functions. The software was developed by breaking down the complex REO sales business process into a series of data points, which can then be captured from users as part of a workflow engine. These many tables of data are used to construct tailored workflows and combined to produce meaningful reports for various users inside the organization. Tools for collaboration on the basis of shared data, performance measurement and knowledge management bring additional business intelligence benefits to a small-or medium-sized real estate office through continuous collection of data in various sections of a the software suite. This document details the software's functions, noting the various instance and implementations of data collection for these purposes.
Gαi2 Enhances Insulin Signaling via Suppression of Protein-tyrosine Phosphatase 1B

Suppression of the expression of the heterotrimeric G-protein Galpha(i2) in vivo has been shown to provoke insulin resistance, whereas enhanced insulin signaling is observed when Galpha(i2) is overexpressed in vivo. The basis for Galpha(i2) regulation of insulin signaling was explored in transgenic mice with targeted expression of the GTPase-deficient, constitutively active Q205L Galpha(i2) in fat and skeletal muscle. Phosphorylation of insulin receptor and IRS-1 in response to insulin challenge in vivo was markedly amplified in fat and skeletal muscle expressing Q205L Galpha(i2). The expression and activity of the protein-tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B), but not protein-tyrosine phosphatases SHP-1, SHP-2, and LAR, were constitutively decreased in tissues expressing the Q205L Galpha(i2), providing a direct linkage between insulin signaling and Galpha(i2). The loss of PTP1B expression may explain, in part, the loss of PTP1B activity in the iQ205L transgenic mice. Activation of Galpha(i2) in mouse adipocytes with lysophosphatidic acid was shown to decrease PTP1B activity, whereas pertussis toxin inactivates Galpha(i2), blocks lysophosphatidic acid-stimulated inhibition of PTP1B activity, and blocks tonic suppression of PTP1B activity by Galpha(i2). Elevation of intracellular cAMP in fat cells is shown to increase PTP1B activity, whereas either depression of cAMP levels or direct activation of Galpha(i2) suppresses PTP1B. These data provide the first molecular basis for the interplay between Galpha(i2) and insulin signaling, i.e. activation of Galpha(i2) can suppress both the expression and activity of PTP1B in insulin-sensitive tissues.
Modelling class hierarchies in the fuzzy object-oriented data model

Abstract In this paper we describe a fuzzy logic based approach to modelling uncertainty in class hierarchies. It is shown that the traditional view of class hierarchies is subsumed in this model as a special case. The problem of multiple inheritance in class hierarchies is discussed and analyzed. The membership value derivations in the inheritance hierarchy reflects the degree of fuzziness existing in the data values and the semantics of the situation being modelled. Thus a more realistic modelling of the universe of discourse is possible through this approach. This model is compatible with existing object-oriented data models.
Kinetics of oxygen exchange, photosynthesis, and respiration in rivers determined from time-delayed correlations between sunlight and dissolved oxygen

The application of both a simple rate equation and a novel cross-correlation computational technique to dissolved oxygen records has enabled a determination of the oxygen exchange constant, photosynthesis rate, and rate of respiration for several Swiss rivers. An extension of this method to determine total carbonate dynamics from continuous pH records is also described.
On divalent americium in molten salt + molten plutonium systems☆

Reference is made to a publication by Ryan STAJ. Chem. Thermodynamics 5:153 (1973)! and to previous publications by the present authors STALeary et al., Symposium on Thermodynamics with Emphasis on Nuclear Materials and Atomic Transport in Solids, Vol. 1, International Atomic Energy Agency: Vienna. 1966, page 459; and Mullins et al., J. Inorg. Nucl. Chem. 30: 147 (1968)! concerning the valency of Am in molten salt systems. It is stated that the earlier conclusions were based on the stoichiometry of the reaction, not on thermochemical reasoning. The matter has been reviewed and reasons are given for concluding that the original interpretation, that the americium in the salt phase is preponderantly divalent, was correct. (UK)
A formula for the Mahler measure of axy+bx+cy+d

Abstract We introduce a formula for the Mahler measure of axy+bx+cy+d with complex coefficients a, b, c , and d and give examples which demonstrate a connection with L-functions. We then prove a generalization of Maillot's formula when the coefficients are real. Next, we discuss operations on the coefficients which fix the Mahler measure. Finally, we prove an alternate formulation of the main result in order to calculate the Mahler measure of a two-parameter family of polynomials in three variables.
Metabolic flux analysis of hybridoma continuous culture steady state multiplicity

Physiological state multiplicity was observed in continuous cultures of the hybridoma cell line ATCC CRL-1606 cultivated in glutamine-limited steady state chemo-stats. At the same dilution rate (0.04 h -1 ), two physiologically different cultures were obtained which exhibited similar growth rates and viabilities but drastically different cell concentrations (7.36 x 10 5 and 1.36 x 10 6 cells/ mL). Metabolic flux analysis conducted using metabolite and gas exchange rate measurements revealed a more efficient culture for the steady state with the higher cell concentration, as measured by the fraction of pyruvate carbon flux shuttled into the TCA cycle for energy generation. The low-efficiency steady state was achieved after innoculation by growing the cells in a nutrient rich environment, first in batch mode followed by a stepwise increase of the dilution rate to its set point at 0.04 h -1 . The high-efficiency steady state was achieved by reducing the dilution rate to progressively lower values to 0.01 h -1 resulting in conditions of stricter nutrient limitation. The high energetic efficiency attained under such conditions was preserved upon increasing the chemostat dilution rate back to 0.04 h -1 with a higher nutrient consumption, resulting in approximate doubling of the steady state cell concentration. This metabolic adaptation is unlikely due to favorable genetic mutations and could be implemented for improving cell culture performance by inducing cellular metabolic shifts to more efficient flux distribution patterns.
An in‐vitro study of the effect of buffer on the degradation of poly(glycolic acid) sutures

The tensile strengths of poly(glycolic acid) (PGA) sutures immersed in buffered and unbuffered aqueous media were compared. The media used were an unbuffered physiological saline solution (pH = 5.0) and a phosphate-buffered physiological saline solution (pH = 7.4). PGA samples were immersed for various periods in each medium, and kept at 37 +/- 1 degree C in a constant temperature oven. The tensile strengths of the specimens were tested immediately after removal from the medium. Stress-strain curves of the specimens were expressed in terms of the stress unit "tenacity," commonly used in the study of fibrous polymers; it is an appropriate unit for materials of fibrous nature. These stress-strain curves were investigated as functions of buffering and duration of immersion. Degradation reduced the tensile strength of PGA more in the buffered saline solution than in the unbuffered. This higher rate of degradation in the buffered solution might be due to the presence of Na2HPO4, which removed the degradation products, shifted the reaction toward increased hydrolosis, and accelerated the loss of tensile strength in the PGA. A continuous decrease in the pH of the unbuffered solution supports this explanation. Tied-chain segments of macromolecules, a theory widely used in the study of mechanical strength of fibrous polymer may be the key to a comprehensive description of the degradation phenomenon of PGA.
Dispersion Staining, Dispersion, and Refractive Indices in Early Enamel Caries

Dispersion staining and the Becke Line Method were used to obtain refractive index values from undecalcified sections of 20 human tooth specimens that exhibited early carious lesions. Characteristic dispersion staining curves and dispersion curves for noncarious enamel, the zone of deepest penetration in carious enamel, and carious enamel external to the deepest zone, are presented.
Taste receptor signaling in the mammalian gut

Molecular sensing by gastrointestinal (GI) cells plays a crucial role in the control of multiple fundamental functions including digestion, regulation of caloric intake, pancreatic insulin secretion, and metabolism, as well as protection from ingested harmful drugs and toxins. These processes are likely to be mediated by the initiation of humoral and/or neural pathways through the activation of endocrine cells. However, the initial recognition events and mechanism(s) involved are still largely unknown. This article reviews the current evidence that the chemosensory machinery discovered in specialized neuroepithelial taste receptor cells of the lingual epithelium is operational in enteroendocrine open GI cells that sense the chemical composition of the luminal contents of the gut.
Adaptive Control of a Projectile Fin Using Piezoelectric Elastic Beam

This paper treats the question of model reference adaptive control of a projectile fin using a piezoelectric actuator. The hollow projectile fin is rigid, within which a flexible cantilever beam with a piezoelectric active layer is mounted. The model of the fin-beam system includes the aerodynamic moment which is a function of angle of attack of the projectile. The rotation angle of the fin is controlled by deforming the flexible beam which is hinged at the tip of the rigid fin. Based on the command generator tracker concept, a model reference adaptive fin angle controller is designed. For the design of the control law, a linear combination of the fin angle and fin’s angular rate is chosen as the controlled output variable. In the closed-loop system, the controlled output variable tracks the reference trajectory and the fin angle asymptotically converges to the desired value and the elastic modes converges to their equilibrium values. Simulation results are presented which show that in the closed-loop system, the fin angle is precisely controlled in spite of uncertainties in the fin-beam parameters and the aerodynamic moment coefficients
Managing terror when self-worth and worldviews collide: Evidence that mortality salience increases reluctance to self-enhance beyond authorities

Abstract Terror management theory posits that one’s self-esteem and worldview operate jointly to manage mortality concerns. Accordingly, past research shows that mortality salience (MS) increases self-enhancement and worldview defense. The current research is the first to examine MS effects when self-enhancement threatens to undermine aspects of the worldview, in this case the credibility and status of worldview-representative authorities. MS led to reluctance to self-enhance following positive personality test feedback when the test was judged negatively by institutional authorities (Study 1a), as well as unwillingness to contradict self-esteem threatening feedback sanctioned by authorities (Study 1b). Mortality salient participants also rated themselves higher on valued dimensions unless it meant viewing themselves more positively than their parents (Study 2) and admired political icons (Study 3). Taken together, these results show that MS increases self-enhancement unless doing so challenges important representatives of the worldview. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Modified polymers for contamination sensing and prevention of optical and space systems

The ability of a space-grade material to both sense and absorb molecular contamination is of great use. A series of polymer materials that both sense and absorb moisture, a contaminant detrimental to optical and space systems, has been created. The materials were prepared by introducing additives into polymers while still retaining the original properties of both the polymers and the additives. The additive acts as the contaminant absorber and sensor. Measurements to determine the amount of moisture absorption compared to other materials have been executed. The final materials were easy to fabricate and could be produced on a large scale. The materials also could easily be regenerated again for multiple uses. Development for practical applications such as a desiccant material has been carried out.
Transverse response of3He-A for the parallel plate geometry: Coupled fluid and orbital motion

We have studied the transverse response of3He-A for the parallel plate geometry, employing the hydrodynamics of Graham. When particle-hole symmetry is employed to set certain reactive and dissipative coefficients to zero, the four modes have frequencies ω 1,2 ± =−(s 1,2 ± )ik2, wheres 1,2 ± =a1,2±ib1,2are constants andk is the wavevector magnitude. Away fromT c the fluid and orbital motions are strongly coupled. Experimental generation of these modes is considered.
Organized Activity Participation and Internalizing and Externalizing Symptoms: Reciprocal Relations during Adolescence

The aim of this prospective study was to examine the relations between organized activity involvement and internalizing and externalizing symptoms across four years of high school. Participants were 240 adolescents who varied in their risk for psychopathology. Information about adolescents’ activity involvement and internalizing and externalizing symptoms were provided by both self- and mother-reports. Structural equation modeling revealed that the prospective models fit the data well. In addition to showing that activity involvement and psychopathology were quite stable over the high school years, we found reciprocal effects for activity involvement and internalizing symptoms at some, although not all, time points. Specifically, controlling for prior symptoms and risk (i.e., maternal depression history), more activity involvement in tenth grade predicted fewer internalizing symptoms in eleventh grade, which then predicted more activity involvement in twelfth grade. No reciprocal relations were found for externalizing problems. These findings highlight the importance of examining internalizing symptoms as both a predictor and outcome of activity involvement during adolescence.
Enhanced mechanical properties of carbon fiber/epoxy composites by incorporating XD-grade carbon nanotube

Carbon fiber-reinforced epoxy composites (CFEC) were fabricated infusing 0–0.40 wt% XD-grade carbon nanotube (XD-CNT) using the compression molding process under 16 kips. XD-CNTs were infused into Epon 862 resin using a mechanical stirrer followed by a high intensity ultrasonic liquid processor. The mixture was then placed in a three-roll milling processor for three successive cycles at 140 rpm. Epikure W curing agent was added to the modified resin and mixed using a high-speed mechanical stirrer. Flexural and tensile properties obtained from the flexural and tensile tests were higher in all nanophased composites compared to those of the conventional one. However, samples with 0.3 wt% CNT loading demonstrated the maximum improvement by 27% and 14% in flexural strength and modulus and 19% and 10% in tensile strength and modulus, respectively. Fracture morphology studied by both scanning electron microscopy and optical microscopy revealed better interfacial bonding in the CNT-loaded CFEC.
A stable fullerene complex: crystal and molecular structure of (BDMT-TTeF)(C60)·Cs2☆

Abstract A stable black crystalline complex of the organic donor bis(dimethylthieno)tetrallurafulvalene (BDMT-TTeF) with C 60 has been obtained: the crystal is monoclinic (space group C 2/ c ); its room-temperature structure shows boat-shaped donors and well-resolved atom positions for C 60 ; a molecule of the solvent carbon disulfide is also included. The central C-C bond distance in the donor suggests that there is no significant electron transfer between BDMT-TTeF and C 60 . The crystals are electrical insulators.
Utilization of common ditch vegetation in the reduction of fipronil and its sulfone metabolite.

BACKGROUND: Fipronil, a phenylpyrazole insecticide, and its oxidative sulfone metabolite are two potential pollutants from treated rice and cotton production. A consequence of these pollutants occurring in surface runoff is degradation of downstream aquatic ecosystems. Utilization of primary intercept drainage ditches as management practices to reduce fipronil concentrations and loads has not been examined. This study used ditch mesocosms planted with monospecific stands of common emergent wetland vegetation to determine if certain plant species were more proficient in fipronil mitigation. RESULTS: Three replicates of four plant species were compared against a non-vegetated control to determine differences in water column outflow concentrations (µg L−1) and loads (µg). There were no significant differences between vegetated and control treatments in outflow concentrations (F = 0.35, P = 0.836) and loads (F = 0.35, P = 0.836). The range of fipronil reduction was 28–45% for both concentration and load. Unlike fipronil, fipronil sulfone concentrations and load increased by 96–328%. CONCLUSION: The increase in fipronil sulfone was hypothesized as a direct consequence of oxidation of fipronil within each mesocosm. The type of ditch vegetation had no effect on fipronil reduction. Future research needs to examine initial concentrations and hydraulic retention times to examine potential changes in reduction capacities. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
A Critique of Methodological Reason

American social science has always been preoccupied with methodology. In the last twenty-five years, however, it has become a near obsession. While questions around method have always been a concern of the human sciences, twentieth-century U.S. social science is, for the most part, unique in its desire to use methodology as natural science does, to ground its claims to truth. Although social inquiry always employs various techniques—statistical, historical, ethnographic, for example—the effort to emulate what many consider the rigorous methodologies of the natural sciences continues within sociology, psychology, and other disciplines in the human sciences. Arguably the tendency toward privileging methodology is a symptom of the insecurity shared by most branches of the human sciences about the scientific status of their findings. In the tradition of Karl Popper (1934), many in the social sciences have concluded that the task of the social sciences is to construct an exact science of humans and their societies incrementally, strictly eschewing meta-theory. The motto is that science cannot ask a question for which an algorithm or technique is not available for its answer.