cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
μ1-opioid antagonist naloxonazine alters ethanol discrimination and consumption

Abstract The endogenous opioid system is implicated in excessive ethanol-drinking behavior. However, the role of individual opioid receptor subtypes in the mechanism underlying excessive ethanol-drinking behavior is not yet well understood. Therefore, we investigated the ability of a selective μ1-opioid antagonist, naloxonazine, to modulate ethanol-drinking behavior and ethanol discrimination in a rat model with the use of ethanol self-administration and drug discrimination paradigms. The effects of naloxonazine (0.001–10 mg/kg) on ethanol intake were examined in Sprague–Dawley rats under conditions of limited access to 10% (wt./vol.) ethanol and ad libitum access to food and water. Pretreatment with high doses of naloxonazine (1–10 mg/kg) significantly reduced ethanol consumption. When the effects of naloxonazine on food intake in free-feeding male rats were examined, naloxonazine (1.8–10 mg/kg) significantly suppressed 24-h food intake. Another group of rats was trained to discriminate ethanol (1.25 g/kg, i.p.) from saline on a fixed-ratio schedule (FR 10), and ethanol dose-response tests were conducted once rats had acquired ethanol–saline discrimination. Injections were given 15 min before ethanol dose-response tests were conducted, and after characterization of the ethanol dose-response curve, the effects of naloxonazine on ethanol discrimination were assessed by administering naloxonazine (0.001–10 mg/kg, i.p.) 15 min before ethanol administration. Treatment with naloxonazine (0.001–1.8 mg/kg, i.p.) before the ED 100 dose of ethanol partially antagonized the discriminative stimulus of ethanol without having any effect on the response rate. The results support the suggestion of involvement of μ1-opioid receptors in the discriminative effects of ethanol and ethanol-drinking behavior.
A clamping design approach for automated fixture design

in this paper, an innovative clamping design approach is described in the context ofcomputer-aided fixture design activities. The clamping design approach involves identification of clamping surfaces and clamp points on a given workpiece. This approach can be applied in conjunction with a locator design approach to hold and support the workpiece during machining and to position the workpiece correctly with respect to the cutting tool. Detailed steps are given for automated clamp design. Geometric reasoning techniques are used to determine feasible clamp faces and positions. The required inputs include CAD model specifications, features identified on the finished workpiece, locator points and elements.
A Comparison of the Relative Efficiency of Three Pasture Utilization Systems

Summary Utilization of pasture forage by rotational grazing, strip grazing, and soiling, and the effect of these systems on milking dairy cows, was compared at Beltsville in 1954-56. Forage was produced on improved pasture typical of the area. Forage utilized per acre was measured as calculated TDN furnished to milking cows plus TDN removed as excess forage. Effect of the systems on the cows was measured by seasonal milk production and live weight changes. Average amounts of forage utilized per acre were essentially the same for the two grazing systems. These values were significantly greater for both grazing systems than for the soiling system. Neither milk production nor live weight changes per cow were significantly affected by the method of providing forage. The legume content of forage from all areas was rapidly reduced during an extended dry period and remained low during the remainder of the experiment. Conventional rotational grazing was distinctly the most desirable method of utilizing the forage produced under the conditions of this experiment, although it has been recognized that production of taller, more intensive crops and/or more wasteful management of rotational grazing, such as understocking or allowing forage to become more mature, will provide conditions offering a distinct advantage to strip grazing or soiling.
Thermal-hydraulic analysis of the pellet bed reactor for nuclear thermal propulsion

Abstract A two-dimensional steady-state thermal-hydraulics analysis of the pellet bed reactor for nuclear thermal propulsion is performed using the NUTHAM-S thermal-hydraulic code. The effects of axial heat and momentum transfers on the temperature and flow fields in the core are investigated. In addition, the porosity profile in the hot frit is optimized to avoid the development of a hot spot in the reactor core. Finally, a sensitivity analysis is performed using the optimized hot frit porosity profile to determine the effects of varying the propellant and core parameters on the peak fuel temperature and pressure drop across the core. These parameters include the inlet temperature and mass flow rate of the hydrogen propellant, average porosity of the core bed, the porosity of the hot frit, and local hot frit blockage. The peak temperature of the fuel is shown not to exceed its melting point as a result of changing any of these parameters from the base case, with the exception of hot frit blockage greater than 60% over a 0.12 m axial segment of the hot frit.
Perfect fluid models in noncomoving observational spherical coordinates

We use null spherical (observational) coordinates to describe a class of inhomogeneous cosmological models. The proposed cosmological construction is based on the observer past null cone. A known difficulty in using inhomogeneous models is that the null geodesic equation is not integrable in general. Our choice of null coordinates solves the radial ingoing null geodesic by construction. Furthermore, we use an approach where the velocity field is uniquely calculated from the metric rather than put in by hand. Conveniently, this allows us to explore models in a noncomoving frame of reference. In this frame, we find that the velocity field has shear, acceleration, and expansion rate in general. We show that a comoving frame is not compatible with expanding perfect fluid models in the coordinates proposed and dust models are simply not possible. We describe the models in a noncomoving frame. We use the dust models in a noncomoving frame to outline a fitting procedure.
Polysaccharide and glycoprotein distribution in the epidermis of cotton ovules during early fiber initiation and growth

The cotton fiber is a model system to study cell wall biosynthesis because the fiber cell elongates (∼3 cm in ∼20 days) without mitosis. In this study, developing cotton ovules, examined from 1 day before anthesis (DBA) to 2 days post-anthesis (DPA), that would be difficult to investigate via classical carbohydrate biochemistry were probed using a battery of antibodies that recognize a large number of different wall components. In addition, ovules from these same stages were investigated in three fiberless lines. Most antibodies reacted with at least some component of the ovule, and several of the antibodies reacted specifically with the epidermal layer of cells that may give clues as to the nature of the development of the fibers and the neighboring, nonfiber atrichoblasts. Arabinogalactan proteins (AGPs) labeled the epidermal layers more strongly than other ovular tissue, even at 1 DBA. One of the AGP antibodies, CCRC-M7, which recognizes a 1➔6 galactan epitope of AGPs, is lost from the fiber cells by 2 DPA, although labeling in the atrichoblasts remained strong. In contrast, LM5 that recognizes a 1➔4 galactan RGI side chain is unreactive with sections until the fibers are produced and only the fibers are reactive. Dramatic changes also occur in the homogalacturonans (HGs). JIM5, which recognizes highly de-esterified HGs, only weakly labels epidermal cells of 1 DBA and 0 DPA ovules, but labeling increases in fibers cells, where a pectinaceous sheath is produced around the fiber cell and stronger reaction in the internal and external walls of the atrichoblast. In contrast, JIM7-reactive, highly esterifed HGs are present at high levels in the epidermal cells throughout development. Fiberless lines displayed similar patterns of labeling to the fibered lines, except that all of the cells had the labeling pattern of atrichoblasts. That is, CCRC-M7 labeled all cells of the fiberless lines, and LM5 labeled no cells at 2 DPA. These data indicate that a number of polysaccharides are unique in quantity or presence in the epidermal cell layers, and some of these might be critical participants in the early stages of initiation and elongation of cotton fibers.
Rab27b Localizes to the Tubulovesicle Membranes of Gastric Parietal Cells and Regulates Acid Secretion

Background & Aims Rabs are monomeric guanosine triphosphatases that regulate membrane trafficking and acid secretion in gastric parietal cells. Using a proteomics approach, we identified a new Rab, Rab27b, in tubulovesicle membranes and determined its role in parietal cell activation. Methods We used mass spectrometry (MS) to identify Rab27b in purified tubulovesicular membrane fractions and used immunoblot and immunofluorescence analyses to study its expression. Wild-type, constitutively active (Rab27bQ78L), and dominant negative (Rab27bN133I) forms of Rab27b were tagged with yellow fluorescent protein (YFP) and expressed in parietal cells using adenoviral constructs to study localization and function. Localization was visualized by fluorescence microscopy in resting and stimulated cells. Acid secretion in primary cell cultures was measured by aminopyrine accumulation. Results A tandem MS peptide mass fingerprint was matched to 7 peptides of Rab27b. Rab27b localized to tubulovesicle membranes, based on immunoblot and immunocytochemical analyses. Endogenous Rab27b, YFP/wild-type Rab27b, Rab27bQ78L, and Rab27bN133I all distributed throughout the cytoplasm of resting parietal cells. After stimulation, wild-type Rab27b and YFP-Rab27bQ78L translocated to the apical membrane, but YFPR-ab27bN133I did not. Expression of wild-type YFP-Rab27b or YFP-Rab27bQ78L did not affect acid secretion, whereas expression of Rab27bN133I almost completely inhibited acid secretion. Conclusions Rab27b is associated with tubulovesicle membranes in the parietal cell and Rab27b may play a role in stimulation-associated membrane recruitment and gastric acid secretion.
Multiple scattering of elastic waves in a fiber-reinforced composite

Abstract Propagation of elastic waves in a composite containing randomly distributed parallel fibers is studied in this paper. Both anti-plane (SH waves) and in-plane (P and SV waves) cases are considered. A multiple scattering theory and a statistical averaging procedure are implemented by means of the so-called Generalized Self Consistent Model (GSCM). Multiple scattering in the inhomogeneous medium results in a frequency dependent velocity and attenuation of the waves. The effective phase velocity and attenuation of the coherent waves are calculated for a wide range of frequencies and concentrations. The degree of interaction between the fibers is determined and the average strain calculated in a given inclusion by direct analysis and approximate homogenization is compared. The proposed method recovers three well-known static effective moduli of fiber-reinforced composites in the Rayleigh limit and the results at higher frequencies are physically reasonable.
For China's Internal Stability: U.S. Arms Sales Policy, 1929-1936

In 1929, the United States government adopted a new policy to regu late arms exports to China, replacing the old embargo policy.1 Its pri mary objective was to promote stability while preventing civil strife in China. To implement this policy, Secretary of State Henry L. Stimson announced on 1 May 1929 that the U.S. government would continue to enforce President Warren G. Harding's proclamation of 4 March 1922, but permit exports when the State Department had received a notification of request for sales from Chinese diplomatic representa tives in Washington, at which time a license would be granted to ex port the arms.2 With the lifting of the arms embargo in 1929, American officials, both in Washington and in the field, shared many of the ambivalent feelings and contradictory impulses toward the issue of arms sales to China, where civil unrest was ongoing. For American diplomats, Chiang Kai-shek would not provide the kind of leadership China needed in order to become a stable, orderly nation. They often voiced serious criticism of him and his officials as "willing to do nothing but prey on the peasants."3 Nevertheless, the advent of the Nationalist government in Nanjing, from Washington's perspective, seemed to portend the beginning of a united and stable China which might be friendly and favorable to the United States. Guided by pragmatic con siderations, the United States sought to strengthen the position of the Nationalist government, while trying to discourage its rivals by per mitting arms shipments only destined for, or approved by, the Nanjing authorities. This policy represented a calculated attempt to contribute to China's stability that was proportionate to America's own interest.
Pseudocoarctation of the aortic arch in a patient with turner's syndrome

Pseudocoarctation of the aortic arch is a rare congenital anomaly which resembles true coarctation by the presence of a narrowing in the descending thoracic aorta immediately distal to the origin of the left subclavian artery. However, it is differentiated from that entity by the absence of a significant hemodynamic obstruction and by the presence of aneurysmal dilatation proximal and distal to the area of narrowing. As a result, the commonly observed clinical findings of coarctation such as a prominent collateral circulation and decreased blood pressure in the lower extremities are not observed. "Kinking" or "buckling" are common adjectives used to describe the roentgenographic appearance of the aortic arch in this condition. The association of various congenital cardiac abnormalities with pseudocoarctation has been reported, and are similar to those commonly seen with true coarctation. We now present the first reported case of pseudocoarctation associated with a probable bicuspid aortic valve in a patient with Turner's syndrome.
Toward the Design of a Sequential Two Photon Photoacid Generator for Double Exposure Photolithography

A 2-methoxynaphthalene dimer system is demonstrated as a sequential two photon photoacid generator for double exposure (DE) lithography. DE is based on the use of staggered exposures and is proposed as a replacement for conventional optical lithography. The linear behavior of conventional resist materials disqualifies their use in DE photolithography. The design of reversible nonlinear responsive materials is therefore required.
Bird species diversity and nesting success in mature, clearcut and shelterwood forest in northern New Hampshire, USA

Bird species distribution and predation rates on natural and artificial nests were compared among unmanaged mature, shelterwood, and clearcut northern hardwoods forest to evaluate the effect of these practices on bird populations. Twenty-three of the 48 bird species detected during the study differed significantly in abundance among unmanaged mature forest, shelterwoods, and clearcuts. Results of multiple regressions of bird abundance and habitat variables suggest that differences in bird species distribution among treatments were the result of differences in habitat structure among treatments. Bird species diversity and species richness were significantly higher in shelterwoods than either mature forest or clearcuts, although there were bird species that occurred exclusively, or nearly so, in each of the three treatments. Predation rates on artificial nests were lowest in mature forest, and predation rates on natural nests was highest in mature forest, although neither of these differences was statistically significant. We conclude that use of partial cutting exclusively would result in the decline of several species of mature forest and clearcut specialists, and, consequently, a decrease in species diversity at the landscape scale. The use of a variety of silvicultural techniques is recommended to maintain bird species diversity in forested landscapes.
An InP-InGaAs Light Amplifying Optical Switch

Optical devices which perform logic functions and that can be cascaded, require optical gain. This mandates that the device contain an active element. We have designed such a device which we call a light amplifying optical swtich (LAOS). The gain is obtained from an NPN heterojunction bipolar phototransistor which is in series with a light emitting diode or laser. The first LAOS structure has been fabricated from lattice matched InGaAs on InP using gas source molecular beam epitaxy. A strained layer optical electrical absorber is sandwiched between the light emitter and the detector in order to reduce positive feedback and prevent latching. Analysis indicates that electrical gains of 3000 and optical gains as high as 100 can be obtained.
Nanometer-Scale Imaging of Collagen Fibers Using Gold Beads

926-Pos Nanometer-Scale Imaging of Collagen Fibers Using Gold Beads B. Chen, Enrico Gratton. Laboratory for Fluorescence Dynamics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA. The 3D spatial position of a particle can be determined by scanning the exci- tation volume of a 2-photon microscope in a three-dimensional orbit around the particle and by subsequently analyzing the ﬂuorescence intensity proﬁle along the orbit. We track the movement of gold beads moving along collagen ﬁbers by 3D particle tracking method. As the particle moves on the ﬁber, the particle trajectory maps the substrate with high-resolution (2-20 nm). When the particle moves in close proximity to the collagen, it locally couples and excites to the weak ﬂuorophores on the collagen. This method provides the possibility to characterize the interactions between particle and substrate even further. We can obtain the dynamic structure information of collagen ﬁbers with nanometer resolution in real time. More interestingly, the gold beads move not at random but in speciﬁc directions under two photon laser excitation. We were able to move the gold particle very fast along the collagen ﬁbers parallel to the scanning line direction. Based on these results, we can control the velocity and direction of gold beads at our own will.
The 15.1 MeV gamma-ray excitation functions of the reactions B10(He3,pγ15.1)C12, B11(d,nγ15.1)Cr12 and C13(He3,αγ15.1)C12

Abstract The 15.1 MeV γ-ray excitation functions of the reactions B 10 (He 3 ,pγ 15.1 )C 12 ( T = 1, 15.1 MeV state from 1.8 to 5.5 MeV, B 11 (d,nγ 15.1 )C 12 from 1.5 to 5.5 MeV and C 13 (He 3 , αγ 15.1 )C 12 from 2 to 5 MeV were measured. Resonances were observed in B 10 (He 3 ,pγ 15.1 )C 12 at 2.85±0.05 MeV ( Γ lab = 0.45±0.05 MeV) and 5.2±0.1 MeV ( Γ lab = 0.24±0.08 MeV); in B 11 (d,nγ 15.1 )C 12 at 2.18±0.02 MeV ( Γ lab = 140±20 keV), 30.08±0.02 MeV ( Γ lab = 185 ±20 keV), 3.71±0.02 MeV ( Γ lab = 170±25 keV) and 4.4. MeV (broad); and in C 13 (He 3 , αγ 15.1 )C 12 at 2.6, 3.6 and 3.9 MeV.
Some adducts of RhCl[P(C6H11)3]2, a rhodium compound spontaneously coordinating dinitrogen

Abstract Solutions of RhCl(PCy 3 ) 2 react with O 2 , N 2 , C 2 H 4 , CO and H 2 to give trans -RhClA(PCy 3 ) 2 (A = O 2 , N 2 , C 2 H 4 and CO, Cy = cyclohexyl) and RhClH 2 (PCy 3 ) 2 ; the spontaneous formation of the rather air-stable RhCl(PCy 3 ) 2 N 2 is ascribed to a combination of the steric requirements and electronic properties of the phosphine ligand.
Abstract 2449: The bromodomain inhibitor JQ1 blocks growth of pancreatic cancer cells in 3D collagen.

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is associated with a pronounced collagen-rich stromal reaction that has been shown to contribute to chemo-resistance. We have found that the collagen microenvironment promotes expression of histone acetyltransferases (HATs) and thereby promotes chemo-resistance; however, HATs have proven to be difficult ‘druggable’ targets. Bromodomain proteins are chromatin readers that can bind to acetylated histones and thereby regulate gene expression. JQ1, an inhibitor of BET class of human bromodomains, was shown to have efficacy against leukemia and lymphoma cell lines. Thus, we examined the effect of JQ1 on a panel of PDAC cells grown in 3D collagen. AsPC1, CD18 and Panc02.03 cells were particularly sensitive to the effects of JQ1, while Panc1 cells were relatively resistant to JQ1 treatment. JQ1 decreased myc mRNA and increased p21 mRNA in CD18 cells, but not in Panc1 cells. JQ1 also decreased growth of chemo-resistant CD18 cells grown in 3D collagen, and blocked EGF and TGF-β1-induced growth and scattering of Panc1 and CD18 cells in 3D collagen. The MEK1/2 inhibitor U0126 and JQ1 synergistically attenuated growth of CD18 and Panc1 cells in 3D collagen. In addition, EGFR inhibitors (AG1478 and PD153035) and JQ1 also synergistically attenuated the growth of CD18 and Panc1 cells in 3D collagen. In contrast, the p38 MAPK inhibitor SB202190 did not attenuate the effect of JQ1 on growth of CD18 and Panc1 cells in 3D collagen. Finally, JQ1 potentiated the effect of gemcitabine on the growth of CD18 and Panc1 cells in 3D collagen. Overall, these results suggest that JQ1 and other bromodomain inhibitors are potential therapeutic agents for the treatment of pancreatic cancer. Citation Format: Vaibhav Sahai, Krishan Kumar, Kazumi Ebine, Halla Nimeiri, Hidayatullah G. Munshi. The bromodomain inhibitor JQ1 blocks growth of pancreatic cancer cells in 3D collagen. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 2449. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-2449
Expansion approach to photodissociation dynamics. Effect of anharmonicity

Abstract The effect of anharmonicity in the residual molecule A-B in the photodissociation process A-B-C + hv → A-B + C is examined. It is shown that even if the transition probability for the V-T energy transfer process A-B ( u = n ) + C → A-B ( v ⋍ n ') + C is not appreciably affected by the anharmonicity, the partial linewidth can be dramatically modified.
Treatment of male infertility secondary to morbid obesity

Obesity can be a cause of secondary hypogonadism. This article describes a male patient with infertility in the setting of obesity, who was successfully treated with the aromatase inhibitor anastrozole. The authors illustrate the connections between adiposity, aromatase expression, testosterone and estradiol levels, and the suppression of gonadotropin release and spermatogenesis. Background A 29-year-old man presented to a clinic with infertility and hypogonadism in the setting of morbid obesity. On presentation, he had notable gynecomastia and a low testicular volume. The patient's weight was 154 kg and his height was 168 cm (BMI 54.5 kg/m2). Before referral to the clinic, the patient had been treated with testosterone therapy for 4 months for hypogonadism. This treatment had caused his initially low sperm concentration to fall to undetectable levels. Investigations Measurement of reproductive hormone levels, pituitary MRI, and semen analysis. Diagnosis Infertility secondary to hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and an elevated estrogen:testosterone ratio. Management Treatment with an aromatase inhibitor, anastrozole, led to normalization of the patient's testosterone, luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone levels, suppression of serum estradiol levels, and to normalization of spermatogenesis and fertility.
Phosphorylation of the δ-Opioid Receptor Regulates Its β-Arrestins Selectivity and Subsequent Receptor Internalization and Adenylyl Cyclase Desensitization

Abstract In the current study, we investigated the role of receptor phosphorylation and β-arrestins in δ-opioid receptor (DOR) signaling and trafficking by using a DOR mutant in which all Ser/Thr residues in the C terminus were mutated to Ala (DTS). We demonstrated that the DOR agonist d-[Pen2,Pen5]enkephalin could induce receptor internalization and adenylyl cyclase (AC) desensitization of DTS, but with comparatively slower kinetics than those observed with wild type DOR. Blockade of the internalization of DTS by the dominant-negative mutant dynamin, dynamin K44E, did not affect AC desensitization. However, depletion of β-arrestins almost totally blocked both internalization and AC desensitization of DTS. A BRET assay suggested that DOR phosphorylation promotes receptor selectivity for β-arrestin 2 over β-arrestin 1. Furthermore, in mouse embryonic fibroblast (MEF) cells lacking either β-arrestin 1 (βarr1–/–) or β-arrestin 2 (βarr2–/–), agonist-induced DTS desensitization and internalization were similar to that observed in wild type MEFs. In contrast, although DOR internalization decreased in both βarr1–/– MEFs and βarr2–/– MEFs, DPDPE-induced DOR desensitization was significantly reduced in βarr2–/– MEFs, but not in βarr1–/– MEFs. Additionally, the BRET assay suggested that depletion of phosphorylation did not influence the stability of the receptor-β-arrestin complex. Consistent with this observation, DTS did not recycle after internalization, which is like wild type DOR. Taken together, these results indicate that receptor phosphorylation confers DOR selectivity for β-arrestin 2 without affecting the stability of the receptor-β-arrestin complex and the fate of the internalized receptor.
The interface response function and melting point of the prism interface of ice Ih using a fluctuating charge model (TIP4P-FQ)

Abstract Molecular Dynamics simulations have been used to follow the rate of growth and recession of the prismatic surface of a hexagonal ice–water interface. The fluctuating charge, four-site transferable intermolecular potential model, TIP4P-FQ, was used at temperatures between 265 and 310 K in a series of isobaric isothermal (NPT) Molecular Dynamics simulations. Using appropriate order parameters, an interface response function (IRF) that captures the speed of the moving interface as a function of temperature was constructed that covers the melting and growth of hexagonal ice. From the IRF ( T v =0), the melting temperature was found to be 303±8 K and the maximum crystallization velocity was estimated to be 1 m/s at 260 K (a 14% undercooling, similar to that of other systems such as Si). Changing the Lennard–Jones σ parameter from 3.159 to 3.173 A, in line with a previous parameterization by Rick, reduces the melting temperature to 276 K. These values correspond well with experimental estimates given the relative simplicity of the model.
MCOR – Monte Carlo depletion code for reference LWR calculations

Abstract The MCOR (MCnp-kORigen) code system is a Monte Carlo based depletion system for reference fuel assembly and core calculations. The MCOR code is designed as an interfacing code that provides depletion capability to the LANL Monte Carlo code by coupling two codes: MCNP5 with the AREVA NP depletion code, KORIGEN. The physical quality of both codes is unchanged. The MCOR code system has been maintained and continuously enhanced since it was initially developed and validated. The verification of the coupling was made by evaluating the MCOR code against similar sophisticated code systems like MONTEBURNS, OCTOPUS and TRIPOLI-PEPIN. After its validation, the MCOR code has been further improved with important features. The MCOR code presents several valuable capabilities such as: (a) a predictor–corrector depletion algorithm, (b) utilization of KORIGEN as the depletion module, (c) individual depletion calculation of each burnup zone (no burnup zone grouping is required, which is particularly important for the modeling of gadolinium rings), and (d) on-line burnup cross-section generation by the Monte Carlo calculation for 88 isotopes and usage of the KORIGEN libraries for PWR and BWR typical spectra for the remaining isotopes. Besides the just mentioned capabilities, the MCOR code newest enhancements focus on the possibility of executing the MCNP5 calculation in sequential or parallel mode, a user-friendly automatic re-start capability, a modification of the burnup step size evaluation, and a post-processor and test-matrix, just to name the most important. The article describes the capabilities of the MCOR code system; from its design and development to its latest improvements and further ameliorations. Additionally, several interesting studies performed with MCOR are explained; its validation against MONTEBURNS, OCTOPUS and TRIPOLI-PEPIN; sensitivity studies with different voids and cross-section libraries; detailed comparison against measurement. Finally, the MCOR is used as a reference tool for benchmarking deterministic codes on the example of qualification of the spectral codes (APOLLO2-A and CASMO-4).
Low complexity all-optical network coder architecture

Network coding, a networking paradigm in which different pieces of data are coded together at various points along a transmission, has been proposed for providing a number of benefits to networks including increased throughput, robustness, and security. For optical networks, the potential for using network coding to provide survivability is especially noteworthy as it may be possible to allow for the ultra-fast recovery time of dedicated protection schemes with the bandwidth efficiency of shared protection schemes. However, the need to perform computations at intermediate nodes along the optical route leads to the undesirable necessity of either electronically buffering and processing the data at intermediate nodes or outfitting the network with complex photonic circuits capable of performing the computations entirely within the optical domain. In this paper, we take the latter approach but attempt to mitigate the impact of the device complexity by proposing a low-complexity, all-optical network coder architecture. Our design provides easily scalable, powerful digital network coding capabilities at the optical layer, and we show that existing network coding algorithms can be adjusted to accommodate it.
Structures of the Class D Carbapenemase OXA-24 from Acinetobacter baumannii in Complex with Doripenem

The emergence of class D β-lactamases with carbapenemase activity presents an enormous challenge to health practitioners, particularly with regard to the treatment of infections caused by Gram-negative pathogens such as Acinetobacter baumannii. Unfortunately, class D β-lactamases with carbapenemase activity are resistant to β-lactamase inhibitors. To better understand the details of the how these enzymes bind and hydrolyze carbapenems, we have determined the structures of two deacylation-deficient variants (K84D and V130D) of the class D carbapenemase OXA-24 with doripenem bound as a covalent acyl-enzyme intermediate. Doripenem adopts essentially the same configuration in both OXA-24 variant structures, but varies significantly when compared to the non-carbapenemase class D member OXA-1/doripenem complex. The alcohol of the 6α hydroxyethyl moiety is directed away from the general base carboxy-K84, with implications for activation of the deacylating water. The tunnel formed by the Y112/M223 bridge in the apo form of OXA-24 is largely unchanged by the binding of doripenem. The presence of this bridge, however, causes the distal pyrrolidine/sulfonamide group to bind in a drastically different conformation compared to doripenem bound to OXA-1. The resulting difference in the position of the side-chain bridge sulfur of doripenem is consistent with the hypothesis that the tautomeric state of the pyrroline ring contributes to the different carbapenem hydrolysis rates of OXA-1 and OXA-24. These findings represent a snapshot of a key step in the catalytic mechanism of an important class D enzyme, and might be useful for the design of novel inhibitors.
Measuring the resilience of mobile ad hoc networks with human walk patterns

MANET (mobile ad hoc network) technology has become increasingly attractive for real-world applications in the past decade. Dynamic and intermittent connectivity caused by node mobility poses a huge challenge to the operation of MANETs that require end-to-end paths for communication. The attacks against critical nodes could result in a more degraded network service. In this paper, we evaluate the network resilience of real-world humans' walking traces under different malicious attacks. We propose a new flexible attack strategy by selecting different centrality metrics to measure node significance according to network topological properties. We employ a resilience quantification approach to evaluate the node pair communication ability spanning a range of network operational states. Resilience of topological robustness is evaluated for different combinations of network parameters, and resilience of application layer service using different routing protocols are compared given a range of states of topological flow robustness. Our results show that flexible attacks impact overall network resilience more than attacks based on any single centrality metric with varying network connectivities.
A Major Environmental Cause of Death

Exposure to indoor air pollution from household burning and solid fuels affects nearly half of the world’s population.
Cryogenic MOSFET kink effect abatement

The increasing interest in nanoelectronic devices that require cryogenic temperatures to function has lead ?to an increased need for analog CMOS circuits that can perform at these low temperatures. Conventional CMOS transistors, when operated at temperatures at which the majority of carriers experience freeze-out, exhibit an effect known as the kink effect. This occurs when holes generated by avalanche multiplication at the channel-drain interface become trapped in the channel region, causing a lowering of the threshold voltage of the device. We examine two methods of kink effect elimination in n-MOS transistors, one requiring epitaxial growth, and one utilizing retrograde well doping of a bulk substrate. The use of lightly p-doped epitaxial layers of silicon over a substrate of degenerately p-doped silicon to eliminate the kink effect in n-MOS devices was proposed by Broadbent. By providing a negatively biased, degenerately doped substrate that does not succumb to freeze-out we create a path for positively-charged holes to be drawn away from the channel region. We are simulating and fabricating n-MOS transistors to further examine this technique. 1 D-Poisson and 2D SSUPREM simulations have been run for n-MOS transistors fabricated on lightly doped p-epitaxial layers grown on degenerately p-doped silicon substrates. Variations in epitaxial layer thickness and substrate bias are considered. N-MOS transistors with gate lengths of 1.5 ?m to 4 ?m are currently being fabricated on p+ substrates with epitaxial layers ranging from 500 nm to 3 ?m in thickness. These devices utilize a backside contact to provide a variety of negative biases to the body of the n-MOS transistors. A range of bias values will be tested to examine the effect of increased substrate bias on device threshold and kink effect abatement. Fig. 1 shows the band diagram of the nMOS transistors under the gate stack for epitaxial layer thicknesses ranging from 1 ?m to 2.5 ?m. The transistors are shown following the patterning and etching of the polysilicon gate layer.
Metabolism and disposition of inorganic arsenic in laboratory animals and humans.

The carcinogenicity of inorganic arsenic in humans, particularly in the lung and skin, has been reasonably well established through epidemiological investigations. However, there is no substantial experimental evidence for carcinogenicity in animals to support the human studies. Studies of metabolism and disposition of inorganic arsenic in various animal species are particularly relevant to determining the factors that might account for the lack of an animal model. Numerous studies of this type have been reported, but there do not appear to be clear qualitative or quantitative differences in the overall fate and disposition of inorganic arsenic in most animalsversus humans, although little is known at the cellular and subcellular level.
Clonidine reverses the slowly developing hypertension produced by low doses of angiotensin II.

We used the centrally acting sympatholytic drug clonidine to evaluate neurogenic pressor activity in rats made hypertensive by chronic intravenous infusion of a low dose (4.0 ng.min-1) of angiotensin II (Ang II). Male Sprague-Dawley rats were instrumented with arterial and venous catheters and then housed in metabolic cages for the duration of the experiment. After 3 days of recovery from surgery, daily measurements were begun of mean arterial pressure, heart rate, water balance, and urinary electrolyte excretion. After 3 days of control measurements rats received either Ang II (4.0 ng.min-1 IV, n = 5) or saline vehicle (n = 4) continuously over a 15-day period. After the Ang II and vehicle infusions were ended, measurements were made during 3 days of recovery. On days 2, 7, and 12 of the experimental infusion period, clonidine hydrochloride was administered as a bolus (10.0 micrograms.kg-1 IA). The resulting changes in mean arterial pressure and heart rate were assessed over a 6-hour period. Fluid measurements were evaluated on a daily basis. In rats receiving only vehicle, clonidine produced no significant changes in any variable at any time. In rats given Ang II, mean arterial pressure increased from a control value (mean +/- SEM) of 106 +/- 1 mm Hg to 135 +/- 6, 139 +/- 6, and 148 +/- 4 mm Hg on days 2, 7, and 12, respectively. The antihypertensive response to clonidine after 6 hours on days 2, 7, and 12 of the Ang II infusion in these rats was -18 +/- 8, -16 +/- 5, and -23 +/- 9 mm Hg, respectively.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Implementation of a nonlinear filter with a Lagrangian formulation for the treatment of very high pressure reflected shocks

Abstract The Engquist filter is implemented within the one-dimensional Lagrangian gas dynamics code HAROLD. The conservation version and the total variation diminishing version of the filter are combined as proposed in the original paper, with filtering performed in characteristics space. The present results show that the filter performs well in the Lagrangian system for very strong shocks. A new treatment of the wall boundary reflection for strong shocks that takes advantage of the filter is presented. Reflected shocks calculated using this technique show essentially no overshoots typical of classical finite-difference codes. These results show promise in applying the filter and the characteristics scheme to more complicated gas dynamics problems not only because of the high quality of the solutions, but also because the additional run time incurred due to the filter is minimal. Furthermore, it follows that older codes formulated using second-order finite difference methods utilizing artificial viscosity can be converted into accurate, modern tools with a high potential for parallelizability.
Absolute structure of R-(-)-2-methylpiperazine and S-(+)-2-methylpiperazine.

The absolute structures of R-(−)-2-methylpiperazine (rmpip), S-(+)-2-methylpiperazine (smpip), R-(−)-2-methylpiperazinediium dibromide (rmpipBr) and S-(+)-2-methylpiperazinediium dibromide (smpipBr) have been determined by anomalous dispersion employing the Parsons' Q and Hooft methods. The studies were undertaken to determine the limitations of the absolute structure determination of light element structures (C, H, N) employing routine single-crystal X-ray diffraction laboratory conditions. The structures of the neutral methylpiperazines were known from a priori non-crystallographic methods and were confirmed by the absolute structure determination of their dibromide salts. By employing the full data collection of Bijvoet pairs and minimizing systematic errors, the absolute structure parameters 0.09 (8) (Hooft) for R-(−)-2-methylpiperazine and 0.05 (8) (Hooft) for S-(+)-2-methylpiperazine were determined.
Effects of Men's Attitudes about Male Roles on Lifestyle Decisions

Szrmmary.-Attitudes about the traditional male role were compared with Mestyles for 267 men. The men were well educated and held positions in administration or management. Their lifestyle choices about traditional/modern attitudes, personal adornment, projection of seM, and activdinactive recreations were significantly related to their attitudes about the traditional male role.
CONSTANCY OF RELATIVE VOLUMES OF ZONES IN SHOOT APICAL MERISTEMS IN CACTACEAE: IMPLICATIONS CONCERNING MERISTEM SIZE, SHAPE, AND METABOLISM

The volumes and dimensions of shoot apical meristem zones were determined for 21 species in 10 genera of the Cactaceae. If the volumes of the central-mother-cell zone (CMCZ), the peripheral zone (PZ), and the pith-rib meristem (PRM) are expressed as percentages of the total volume of the corpus, then they are remarkably constant (CMCZ = 11.1% of the volume of the corpus, PZ = 61.2% and PRM = 27.1%) regardless of the relative size of the apical meristems. The relative volume of the tunica decreases, however, as the whole apex increases. The zones have variable shapes, and whereas the PZ and PRM are always trapezoidal in longitudinal section, in apices with large volumes, these zones have a flatter, more flaring shape than they have in smaller apices. Thus large apices are flatter and less hemispherical than are small apices. The CMCZ, however, maintains a constant shape and is always relatively hemispherical regardless of its volume. A hypothesis that relates all of these shape and volume relationships as an integrated growth sequence is proposed.
Iron Oxide Nanoparticles Are Less Toxic to Endothelial Cells When Coated With Dextran and Polyethylene Glycol

Iron oxide nanoparticles are of particular interest for drug delivery applications, since they can be targeted to a specific location using a magnetic field. We are interested in delivering drugs to atherosclerotic plaques via these nanoparticles. However, prior to using nanoparticles in vivo, they must be shown as relatively non-toxic to cells. We and others have shown that bare iron oxide nanoparticles are readily taken up by cells, where they catalyze production of highly toxic reactive oxygen species [1]. This oxidative stress disrupts the cell cytoskeleton, alters cell mechanics, and may change other critical cell functions. Iron oxide nanoparticles for in vivo biomedical applications are often coated with a polysaccharide (eg. dextran) or a polymer (eg. polyethylene glycol, PEG). Both the size and the surface coating of the nanoparticle play an important role in cell toxicity.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
The effects of bovine colostrum supplementation on body composition and exercise performance in active men and women

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of 8 wk of bovine colostrum supplementation on body composition and exercise performance in active men and women. Subjects were randomly assigned to a placebo (whey protein) and colostrum group (20 g/d in powder form). Each subject participated in aerobic and heavy-resistance training at least three times per wk. Body composition was assessed via dual x-ray absorptiometry analysis. Treadmill time to exhaustion, one repetition maximum strength (bench press), and the total number of repetitions performed during one set to exhaustion at a submaximal load for the bench press (50% and 100% of body weight for women and men, respectively) were ascertained. The whey protein group experienced a significant increase (P < 0.05) in body weight (mean increase of 2.11 kg), whereas the colostrum group experienced a significant (P < 0.05) increase in bone-free lean body mass (mean increase of 1.49 kg). There were no changes in any of the other parameters measured. Thus, supplementation with bovine colostrum (20 g/d) in combination with exercise training for 8 wk may increase bone-free lean body mass in active men and women.
An enzymic method for the large-scale preparation of nigerose and nigeran oligosaccharides.

Abstract A convenient enzymic method for the large-scale preparation of nigerose (O-α- d -glucopyranosyl-(1 → 3)- d -glucose) and a series of nigeran oligosaccharides (alternating α-(1 → 3) and α-(1 → 4) linkages) is described. The oligosaccharides contain an even number of glucose units, differ in degree of polymerization by 2 units, and have α-(1 → 3) linkages at their reducing and nonreducings ends. By varying the conditions of the enzymic incubation (using DMSO), it is possible to influence the nature of the product distribution obtained so that either nigerose or the series of higher dextrins is the major product.
Slow light using semiconductor quantum dots

A variable semiconductor optical buffer based on the electromagnetically induced transparency in a quantum dot waveguide is theoretically investigated with feasible parameters for applications to a 40 Gbps optical network. We show the refractive index and absorption spectra of the quantum dot waveguide at various pump levels, which exhibit an optimal pump power for maximum slow-down factor, in agreement with the previous experimental observation using a Pr-doped solid. The group velocity slow-down factor is theoretically analysed as a function of the pump intensity at different broadened linewidths. Inhomogeneous broadening in self-assembled quantum dots degrades the slow-down factor. In order to reduce the inhomogeneous broadening effects, we propose to use a resonant microcavity structure with quantum dots embedded in the active layer to enhance the slow-down factor.
The U.S.-Russian radiation health effects research program in the Southern Urals.

The Joint Coordinating Committee for Radiation Effects Research (JCCRER) was established through a bilateral U.S.-Russian agreement to support research and exchange information on radiation health effects. The U.S. member agencies include the Department of Energy (DOE), Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Department of Defense (DoD), National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The Russians are represented by the Ministries of Emergencies (EMERCOM), Atomic Energy (MINATOM) and Health (MINZDRAV), and the Russian Academy of Sciences (IBRAE). The focus of this research is on the workers from the Mayak Production Association (MAYAK) in the Southern Urals and on the neighboring populations along the Techa River exposed to contamination from the plant. The goal of the program is to better define the relationship between the health effects and the chronic low dose and dose-rate exposure, these data being essential to validate current radiation protection standards and practices. The current primary areas of JCCRER research include dose reconstruction, epidemiologic health studies, molecular epidemiology/biodosimetry, and the creation of tissue hanks. The organization of the ongoing research conducted under the aegis of the JCCRER and the rationale for this work are described.
Characterization of porous sinter materials as Joule–Thomson restrictors for the Planck sorption cooler

Abstract The Planck sorption cooler cold end utilizes Joule–Thomson expansion of hydrogen to achieve temperatures below 18 K. Porous stainless steel sintered elements function as the J–T restriction. We report the flow characteristics of these porous flow restrictors, as a function of temperature over the range 19–300 K at constant pressure, and as a function of pressure at 1.4–5.5 MPa (200–800 psi) at constant temperatures of 19 and 300 K. The J–T restrictors were fabricated in three separate batches, using the same process and materials. Some comments are made regarding the uniformity of results from various fabrication batches.