cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Performance of a 4-cylinder diesel engine running on tire oil–biodiesel–diesel blend

Abstract The objective of this research was to investigate the performance of a 4-cylinder, light-duty compression ignition (CI) engine fueled with the binary and ternary blends of tire oil, biodiesel and certified #2 diesel fuels. The tire oil was produced from scrap tires via pyrolysis and pretreated before blending with biodiesel and diesel fuels. The fuel blends contained 5% and 10% tire oil. The power, torque and brake specific fuel consumption, and the exhaust emissions of oxides of nitrogen (NO x ), carbon dioxide (CO 2 ), and carbon monoxide (CO) were determined from the constant speed engine tests at full throttle. Blending 10% tire oil with 10% biodiesel and 80% diesel fuel produced the highest torque and power outputs, and reduced the brake specific fuel consumption significantly. The NO x and CO emissions from the tire oil (10%) containing a ternary fuel blend were significantly lower than the biodiesel (10%)–diesel (90%) binary fuel. Recycling the scrap tires to produce tire oil via pyrolysis is a promising method for reducing the impact of this waste material to the environment. Once pretreated by filtering and desulfurization, tire oil can be used as an alternative fuel for diesel engines.
Accelerated metabolism of probenecid during long-term treatment of rats with anticonvulsant drugs: effect on central serotonin turnover studies.

Abstract Studies were carried out in rats to determine the effects of long-term administration (once daily for 9 days) of phenytoin (50 mg kg−1), sodium phenobarbital (25 mg kg−1), primidone (50 mg kg−1), and l -5-hydroxytryptophan ( l -5-HTP; 50 mg kg−1) on probenecid metabolism and on serotonin turnover rates as estimated by probenecid-induced accumulation of 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) in brain. Without probenecid, mean brain 5-HIAA levels were similar in control and drugtreated rats, suggesting that the turnover rate of brain serotonin was not affected by the chronic anticonvulsant drug pretreatment. But, in the rats treated with phenobarbital, the rate of accumulation of 5-HIAA in brain during the first 90 min after probenecid (200 mg kg−1) was significantly lower than the rate of accumulation in the control rats. Also, at 6 hr after probenecid, brain 5-HIAA levels were similar to pre-probenecid values in the rats pretreated with phenobarbital or primidone, while 5-HIAA levels were still increased in the rats treated with phenytoin, l -5-HTP, or vehicle. Examination of serum revealed that the concentration of probenecid in serum decreased more rapidly in rats pretreated with either primidone or phenobarbital than in rats given vehicle, l -5-HTP, or phenytoin. It is likely, therefore, that the decreased 5-HIAA accumulation in the brains from these animals were due to decreased inhibition of 5-HIAA efflux and not to a decreased rate of serotonin turnover in brain. Since a sustained inhibition of acid transport by probenecid is required, drug interactions with probenecid may be important in clinical studies using probenecid-induced accumulations of 5-HIAA in cerebrospinal fluid to estimate central serotonin turnover rates.
Mesoscale simulations of atmospheric flow and tracer transport in Phoenix, Arizona

Large urban centres located within confining rugged or complex terrain can frequently experience episodes of high concentrations of lower atmospheric pollution. Metropolitan Phoenix, Arizona (United States), is a good example, as the general population is occasionally subjected to high levels of lower atmospheric ozone, carbon monoxide and suspended particulate matter. As a result of dramatic but continuous increase in population, the accompanying environmental stresses and the local atmospheric circulation that dominates the background flow, an accurate simulation of the mesoscale pollutant transport across Phoenix and similar urban areas is becoming increasingly important. This is particularly the case in an airshed, such as that of Phoenix, where the local atmospheric circulation is complicated by the complex terrain of the area. Within the study presented here, a three-dimensional time-dependent mesoscale meteorological model (HOTMAC) is employed for simulation of lower-atmospheric flow in Phoenix, for both winter and summer case-study periods in 1998. The specific purpose of the work is to test the model’s ability to replicate the atmospheric flow based on the actual observations of the lower-atmospheric wind profile and known physical principles. While a reasonable general agreement is found between the model-produced flow and the observed one, the simulation of near-surface wind direction produces a much less accurate representation of actual conditions, as does the simulation of wind speed over 1,000 metres above the surface. Using the wind and turbulence output from the mesoscale model, likely particle plume trajectories are simulated for the case-study periods using a puff dispersion model (RAPTAD). Overall, the results provide encouragement for the efforts towards accurately simulating the mesoscale transport of lower-atmospheric pollutants in environments of complex terrain.
Socrates and Callicles on Pleasure

Que dans le « Gorgias » de Platon Callicles croit du plaisir qu'il est non rationnel et Socrate croit de lui qu'il est rationnel
Store-operated Ca2+ Entry (SOCE) Induced by Protease-activated Receptor-1 Mediates STIM1 Protein Phosphorylation to Inhibit SOCE in Endothelial Cells through AMP-activated Protein Kinase and p38β Mitogen-activated Protein Kinase

The Ca(2+) sensor STIM1 is crucial for activation of store-operated Ca(2+) entry (SOCE) through transient receptor potential canonical and Orai channels. STIM1 phosphorylation serves as an "off switch" for SOCE. However, the signaling pathway for STIM1 phosphorylation is unknown. Here, we show that SOCE activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK); its effector p38β mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38β MAPK) phosphorylates STIM1, thus inhibiting SOCE in human lung microvascular endothelial cells. Activation of AMPK using 5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide-1-β-d-ribofuranoside (AICAR) resulted in STIM1 phosphorylation on serine residues and prevented protease-activated receptor-1 (PAR-1)-induced Ca(2+) entry. Furthermore, AICAR pretreatment blocked PAR-1-induced increase in the permeability of mouse lung microvessels. Activation of SOCE with thrombin caused phosphorylation of isoform α1 but not α2 of the AMPK catalytic subunit. Moreover, knockdown of AMPKα1 augmented SOCE induced by thrombin. Interestingly, SB203580, a selective inhibitor of p38 MAPK, blocked STIM1 phosphorylation and led to sustained STIM1-puncta formation and Ca(2+) entry. Of the three p38 MAPK isoforms expressed in endothelial cells, p38β knockdown prevented PAR-1-mediated STIM1 phosphorylation and potentiated SOCE. In addition, inhibition of the SOCE downstream target CaM kinase kinase β (CaMKKβ) or knockdown of AMPKα1 suppressed PAR-1-mediated phosphorylation of p38β and hence STIM1. Thus, our findings demonstrate that SOCE activates CaMKKβ-AMPKα1-p38β MAPK signaling to phosphorylate STIM1, thereby suppressing endothelial SOCE and permeability responses.
Risk Taking by Individuals and Informal Groups with the Use of Industrial Product Purchasing Situations as Stimuli

Abstract Individual versus group risk taking was examined by using a novel set of industrial product purchasing situations as stimuli. The set incorporated situations that varied along a dimension called “normative risk.” Situations represented either low-normative risk, medium-normative risk, or high-normative risk. Normative risk was defined in a decision theoretical context. The set was administered to introductory business students at a large university in the United States. The results of the study showed that groups were not invariably riskier than individuals; rather the amount of risky shift following group discussion was negatively related to the level of normative risk. This overall conclusion held true also in relation to the degree of perceived riskiness of the situations, since a positive relationship between normative risk and perceived risk was established. The theoretical implications of the results are discussed.
Thermal stress in a two-dimensional (plane stress) half-space for a moving heat input☆

Abstract The surface stress component (parallel to the surface) for a moving uniformly distributed isolated heat input source is investigated by restricting the analysis to the two-dimensional plane stress case. The thermal compressive stress is found to be roughly ten times the normal load for the assumed contact conditions and hence it is this stress rather than simple load concentration which causes the trouble.
Repeat Cesarean Births:Social and Psychological Issues

Up to 30% of the current American cesarean birth rate has been attributed to routine repeat cesareans. Social and psychological issues associated both with repeat cesarean birth and with vaginal birth after a cesarean are reviewed. Current changes in the obstetrical community and among consumers are described; factors that influence the decision-making process in women planning future births are discussed; suggestions are offered to nurses who work with pregnant and laboring women who have had previous cesareans.
Kinetic analysis of the time-dependent evaporation rate in cadmium sulfide

Abstract The time-dependence of the evaporation from {0001} surfaces of n-type CdS was analyzed in terms of a ledge-localized surface charge model. The results show that the evaporation process is maximized at two different values of ledge spacing, λ0. The vapor pressure is a maximum at (λ0)min, equal to twice the surface atomic jump distance, or at (λ0)opt which is higher than the minimum value. The existence of either λ0 and the transition between them is a function of the energetics of the sequential steps in the evaporation. In the absence of surface charge, the analysis shows that only (λ0)min is possible. These results are discussed in terms of the relative significance of desorption to prior steps on the surface.
Will Satan Be Saved? Reconsidering Origen's Theory of Volition in Peri Archon

Though the list of Origen's mistakes varies among authors, perhaps one of the most notorious accusations is that he proposed salvation for the devil, despite his protestations to the contrary. Though in PArch his discussion of Satan is secondary to his larger aims, Origen does provide evidence that validates his claim that the devil could not be saved, especially in his exploration of volition. By considering the devil within Origen's stance on volition and the nature of the soul, it is clear that while the devil technically retained the possibility of salvation, he did not wish to attain it, due to the degree to which he pursued his own desires.
Introduction to violent Sun-Earth connection events of October–November 2003

[1] The solar-terrestrial events of late October and early November 2003, popularly referred to as the Halloween storms, represent the best observed cases of extreme space weather activity observed to date and have generated research covering multiple aspects of solar eruptions and their space weather effects. In the following article, which serves as an abstract for this collective research, we present highlights taken from 61 of the 74 papers from the Journal of Geophysical Research, Geophysical Research Letters, and Space Weather which are linked under this special issue. (An overview of the 13 associated papers published in Geophysics Research Letters is given in the work of Gopalswamy et al. (2005a)).
Effects of preform structure on progressive crush characteristics of flange-stiffened tubular elements

Abstract Processes such as ‘resin transfer molding’ (RTM) give the composites designer the ability to efficiently tailor materials and structural response for applications such as crash energy management. In this study, a total of 12 different preforms making up a tube-stiffened beam structural element were tested in progressive crush. Carbon, Kevlar, glass and needle fels fabric materials were used as reinforcements, both by themselves and as hybrids. Results are compared on the basis of a number of load- and energy-related metrics. A hybrid Kevlar-carbon structure is shown to present the best characteristics with an average SEA of 71.95kJ/kg, achieved through synergistic crush response of the tubes and flanges. Differences in crush response are elucidated and crush mechanisms based on architecture are discussed.
Simplified solution of diffraction from a Lyot system.

This paper presents a derivation of a simplified analytical solution of diffraction from a Lyot (1939) system designed for observation of the solar corona outside of eclipses. Applying the theorem of Papoulis (1986) to simplify the calculations, a simplified solution is derived which is found to be in reasonable agreement with the exact solution. The simplified solution suffices for the preliminary evaluation of the amount of diffraction reduction needed to meet certain system requirements and also serves as a guideline for further apodization.
Lateral canthal tendon resection with conjunctiva preservation for the treatment of lower eyelid laxity during lower eyelid blepharoplasty

Lower eyelid laxity is a problem commonly encountered in patients undergoing lower eyelid blepharoplasty. Two problems associated with the numerous surgical procedures used for the management of this condition are (1) postoperative alteration of the shape of the palpebral fissure and lateral canthal angle and (2) difficulty with appropriate suture positioning or placement when reattaching the resected lateral canthal tendon. To address these problems, the surgical technique of lateral canthal tendon resection was modified by preserving the lateral conjunctiva, thus maintaining normal anatomic landmarks and ensuring proper suture placement. To date, this technique has been performed effectively on 50 patients who demonstrated mild to moderate eyelid laxity during preoperative evaluation for lower eyelid blepharoplasty. The only complication encountered has been undercorrection in one patient. The benefits of this procedure have been prevention of alteration of the palpebral fissure or canthal angle shape, greater ease and more accurate suture placement when reattaching the lateral canthal tendon, and avoidance of the need for full-thickness eyelid resection.
Nonclassical MHC class Ib-restricted cytotoxic T cells monitor antigen processing in the endoplasmic reticulum

The aminopeptidase ERAAP trims peptides loaded onto MHC class I molecules and can be targeted during evasion of the immune response by pathogens. Shastri and colleagues show that inhibition of ERAAP identifies a protective nonclassical MHC presentation pathway involving Qa-1. The aminopeptidase ERAAP is essential for trimming peptides presented by major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules. Inhibition of ERAAP by cytomegalovirus results in evasion of the immune response by this virus, and polymorphisms in ERAAP are associated with autoimmune disorders. How normal ERAAP function is monitored is unknown. We found that inhibition of ERAAP rapidly induced presentation of the peptide FYAEATPML (FL9) by the MHC class Ib molecule Qa-1b. Antigen-experienced T cells specific for the Qa-1b–FL9 complex were frequent in naive mice. Wild-type mice immunized with ERAAP-deficient cells mounted a potent CD8+ T cell response specific for Qa-1b–FL9. MHC class Ib–restricted cytolytic effector cells specifically eliminated ERAAP-deficient cells in vitro and in vivo. Thus, nonclassical Qa-1b–peptide complexes direct cytotoxic T cells to targets with defective antigen processing in the endoplasmic reticulum.
Longitudinal Tracking of Behavioral Problems in Preterm Children: Association with Maternal Mental Health † 1346

Introduction: Behavior problems recently have emerged as a poorly understood morbidity in children born prematurely, affecting as many as one third of premature children. This study examined the effect of maternal depressive symptoms on behavior problem ratings in the multisite prospective cohort of the Infant Health and Development Program (IHDP), which evaluated a two-year center-based developmental intervention program in low-birthweight premature children.
An assessment of first-order stochastic dispersion theories in porous media

Abstract Random realizations of three-dimensional exponentially correlated hydraulic conductivity fields are used in a finite-difference numerical flow model to calculate the mean and covariance of the corresponding Lagrangian-velocity fields. The dispersivity of the porous medium is then determined from the Lagrangian-velocity statistics using the Taylor definition. This estimation procedure is exact, except for numerical errors, and the results are used to assess the accuracy of various first-order dispersion theories in both isotropic and anisotropic porous media. The results show that the Dagan theory is by far the most robust in both isotropic and anisotropic media, producing accurate values of the principal dispersivity components for σ y as high as 1.0, In the case of anisotropic media where the flow is at an angle to the principal axis of hydraulic conductivity, it is shown that the dispersivity tensor is rotated away from the flow direction in the non-Fickian phase, but eventually coincides with the flow direction in the Fickian phase.
MECHANISM OF FORMAMIDE HYDROXYLATION CATALYZED BY A MOLYBDENUM-DITHIOLENE COMPLEX : A MODEL FOR XANTHINE OXIDASE REACTIVITY

The intrinsic reactivity of the molybdenum center in xanthine oxidase has been studied by electronic structure calculations of a molybdenum−dithiolene model, based on the crystal structure of the c...
The use of blood vessel-derived stem cells for meniscal regeneration and repair.

AB Purpose: Surgical repairs of tears in the vascular region of the meniscus usually heal better than repairs performed in the avascular region; thus, we hypothesized that this region might possess a richer supply of vascular-derived stem cells than the avascular region. Methods: In this study, we analyzed 6 menisci extracted from aborted human fetuses and 12 human lateral menisci extracted from adult human subjects undergoing total knee arthroplasty. Menisci were immunostained for CD34 (a stem cell marker) and CD146 (a pericyte marker) in situ, whereas other menisci were dissected into two regions (peripheral and inner) and used to isolate meniscus-derived cells by flow cytometry. Cell populations expressing CD34 and CD146 were tested for their multilineage differentiation potentials, including chondrogenic, osteogenic, and adipogenic lineages. Fetal peripheral meniscus cells were transplanted by intracapsular injection into the knee joints of an athymic rat meniscal tear model. Rat menisci were extracted and histologically evaluated after 4 wk posttransplantation. Results: Immunohistochemistry and flow cytometric analyses demonstrated that a higher number of CD34- and CD146-positive cells were found in the peripheral region compared with the inner region. The CD34- and CD146-positive cells isolated from the vascular region of both fetal and adult menisci demonstrated multilineage differentiation capacities and were more potent than cells isolated from the inner (avascular) region. Fetal CD34- and CD146-positive cells transplanted into the athymic rat knee joint were recruited into the meniscal tear sites and contributed to meniscus repair. Conclusions: The vascularized region of the meniscus contains more stem cells than the avascular region. These meniscal-derived stem cells were multipotent and contributed to meniscal regeneration.
Improvement of a-Si:H P-I-N Devices using Zinc Oxide based Back-Reflectors

The conversion efficiency of a-Si:H P-I-N photovoltaic devices was improved using aluminum doped zinc oxide thin films between the n-layer and the metal electrode. The improvement is due to the increase in the quantum efficiency, mainly in the wavelengths between 550 – 750 nm, and is attributed to the increased reflectivity of the zinc oxide/metal layer over the conventional metal electrode. The dependence of the enhancement, on the thickness of the zinc oxide layer and the back metal electrode was studied and the optimal configuration was identified as 800 angstroms of zinc oxide backed by a silver electrode. Photostability studies of devices containing these back-reflectors showed that their stability to light-soaking was comparable to conventional devices establishing the use of zinc oxide back-reflectors as a viable way of increasing the efficiency of a-Si:H devices without compromising their stability.
The structure and properties of splat-quenched aluminum alloy 2024 containing lithium additions

Abstract High strength aluminum alloys containing lithium additions possess commercially attractive combinations of a high specific strength and a high specific modulus. However, these alloys are difficult to cast and fabricate and they also possess low values of ductility and toughness when processed by conventional ingot-casting methods. In order to realize fully the potential beneficial effects of the lithium additions, the splat-quenching technique was used in this investigation to process aluminum alloy 2024 containing two different levels of lithium. Splat quenching of the alloys resulted in a high degree of microstructural refinement that was preserved through the hot consolidation and heat treatment steps. The addition of each weight per cent of lithium resulted in a 3% reduction in the density and a 6% increase in Young's modulus. Relative to the ingot-processed 2024 alloy, the lithium-containing alloys possessed superior strength properties at comparable levels of ductility and superior stress-amplitude fatigue life properties. However, the fatigue crack growth behavior and the stress-rupture behavior, especially of the alloy containing the higher level of lithium, were inferior. It is concluded that with proper alloy design the splat-quenching technique can be used successfully to develop AlLi-based alloys with overall improved properties.
Thermal residual stress analysis for in situ and post-consolidated composite rings

Abstract The thermoelastic response of a thick, multilayered composite ring subjected to the sequential addition of layers which undergo instantaneous temperature change and corresponding thermal deformation is modelled. The analysis considers ply-by-ply variations of material properties and fibre orientations. The resulting residual stress field is examined as a function of important physical parameters such as ring geometry, layer material properties, fibre orientation and layer sequence.
Driving CAR-Based T-Cell Therapy to Success

T cells that have been genetically modified, activated, and propagated ex vivo can be infused to control tumor progression in patients who are refractory to conventional treatments. Early-phase clinical trials demonstrate that the tumor-associated antigen (TAA) CD19 can be therapeutically engaged through the enforced expression of a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) on clinical-grade T cells. Advances in vector design, the architecture of the CAR molecule especially as associated with T-cell co-stimulatory pathways, and understanding of the tumor microenvironment, play significant roles in the successful treatment of medically fragile patients. However, some recipients of CAR+ T cells demonstrate incomplete responses. Understanding the potential for treatment failure provides a pathway to improve the potency of adoptive transfer of CAR+ T cells. High throughput single-cell analyses to understand the complexity of the inoculum coupled with animal models may provide insight into the therapeutic potential of genetically modified T cells. This review focusses on recent advances regarding the human application of CD19-specific CAR+ T cells and explores how their success for hematologic cancers can provide a framework for investigational treatment of solid tumor malignancies.
Brain insulin receptors link stress and metabolism.

In this issue of Molecular Metabolism, Chong et al. [1] observed altered functioning of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis in mice lacking insulin receptors (IR) in selected regions of the brain. The rationale was to push beyond the original report of altered HPA activity in mice lacking IR in all brain neurons (NIRKO mice) [2] by assessing animals lacking IR in more targeted neuronal types. Specifically, male mice lacking IR broadly in forebrain areas, including most of the hypothalamus (IRNkx2.1 KO mice), had enhanced anxiety-like behavior on several tasks as well as elevated basal plasma arginine vasopressin (AVP) and increased secretion of corticosterone (CORT) in response to physical restraint. To determine the impact of IR knockout in specific populations of hypothalamic neurons, HPA axis function was also assessed in IRSim1 KO and IRAgrp KO male mice. In IRSim1 KO, the IR should be absent in the paraventricular and supraoptic nuclei (as well as a few extrahypothalamic areas) [3]. These mice manifested no changes of HPA activity or related behavior, implying that neurons located within the PVN (and/or SON) that express IR are unlikely to be the source of the stress phenotypes observed in IRNkx2.1 KO mice. There was a phenotype involving the HPA axis in male IRAgrp KO mice that appeared superficially to be somewhat opposite to that observed in IRNkx2.1 KO mice, including reduced basal AVP and reduced CORT in response to restraint. From these data, Chong et al. concluded that signaling through IR on AgRP-expressing neurons increases responsivity of the HPA and AVP systems.
Psychographic segments based on attitudes about smoking and lifestyle among Vietnamese-American adolescents.

Abstract Purpose Tobacco marketing campaigns target distinct psychographic segments of the population. We describe psychographic segments among Vietnamese-American youth and their relationship to smoking behavior. Methods This was a cross-sectional survey of 411 Vietnamese-American young people (aged 14–24 years). Cluster analysis was performed to describe different population segments. Results We identified four segments, categorized as follows: risk seekers, stressed pessimists, optimistic achievers, and sedentary well-behaved individuals. The risk seekers and stressed pessimists reported that they had tried smoking at some time (60% and 53%, respectively) in greater proportions than the other two segments (25% and 24%); and 20% of risk seekers and 22% of stressed pessimists were current smokers compared with 2% of the other clusters. In comparison to the other groups, the risk seekers more frequently went to bars and clubs, and their friends engaged in risky behavior. They agreed that secondhand smoke was dangerous, but accepted ventilation as an alternative to smoke-free policies more frequently than the other groups. The stressed pessimists had negative views of the future, did not value physical fitness, and doubted the dangers of secondhand smoke. Optimistic achievers were active in sports and student activities, were optimistic about future achievements, prioritized good nutrition, and supported smoke-free policies. The sedentary well-behaved group had well-behaved friends, did not value physical fitness, strongly opposed smoking, and supported smoke-free policies. Conclusion Different segments of the Vietnamese-American population have different attitudes and smoking risk, which may facilitate targeted tobacco control message development. Future research should address whether similar psychographic segments exist in other ethnic populations.
OPTICAL PROPERTIES AND STRUCTURE OF CERIUM DIOXIDE FILMS

The refractive index n and the absorption coefficient k of evaporated CeO2 films were measured in the wavelength region from 0.22 μ to 1.0 μ. Films produced by direct evaporation of CeO2 were found to be extremely durable and nonabsorbing in the visible and can be used as beam splitters and as high-index films in multilayer film combinations. The refractive index of CeO2 films depends strongly on the temperature of the substrate. An increase of the substrate temperature from 25°C to 300°C increases the refractive index of the condensed film material at λ=550 mμ, from about 2.2 to 2.4. The absorption of CeO2 films increases strongly below 400 mμ and reaches a maximum at 300 mμ. Evaporated CeO2 films show the same cubic structure as compact material and crystallize without preferred orientation on amorphous substrates. The crystal size in the condensed films increases with increasing temperature.
Molecular Dynamics Studies of Interfacial Water at the Alumina Surface

Interfacial water properties at the alumina surface were investigated via all-atom equilibrium molecular dynamics simulations at ambient temperature. Al-terminated and OH-terminated alumina surfaces were considered to assess the structural and dynamic behavior of the first few hydration layers in contact with the substrates. Density profiles suggest water layering up to ∼10 A from the solid substrate. Planar density distribution data indicate that water molecules in the first interfacial layer are organized in well-defined patterns dictated by the atomic terminations of the alumina surface. Interfacial water exhibits preferential orientation and delayed dynamics compared to bulk water. Water exhibits bulk-like behavior at distances greater than ∼10 A from the substrate. The formation of an extended hydrogen bond network within the first few hydration layers illustrates the significance of water−water interactions on the structural properties at the interface.
Erythropoietin-induced Neuroprotection Requires Cystine Glutamate Exchanger Activity

Erythropoietin (Epo) has been used for many years in neonates for the treatment of anemia of prematurity. Epo has also been proposed for treatment of neonatal brain injury, as mounting evidence suggests neuroprotective properties for Epo. However, Epo's neuroprotective mechanism of action is poorly understood. In this study we hypothesized that Epo may confer neuroprotection by enhancing cellular redox defense brought about by cellular glutathione (GSH). This was examined in cultures of differentiated cortical neural stem cells and using the B104 cell line as model systems. Our data shows that Epo causes a time- and dose-dependent increase in expression and activity of system Xc(-), the transporter responsible for uptake of cystine for the production of glutathione. Cystine uptake increases 3-5 fold in differentiated neural stem cells and B104 cells treated with Epo. Exposure of cells to 100 microM kainate suppressed cellular GSH and caused excitotoxicity, but GSH levels and cell viability were completely restored by Epo in the continued presence of kainate. This rescue effect of Epo vanished if system Xc(-) was inhibited pharmacologically using S4-CPG in the presence of Epo leading to marked cell death of B104 cells and cultured mouse cortical neural stem cells. This could also be achieved using xCT siRNA to decrease xCT expression. This data suggests that system Xc(-) activity and protein expression are positively regulated by Epo directly explaining its neuroprotective effect.
Sliding Mode Control of a Dual-Fuel System Internal Combustion Engine

Air-to-fuel (A/F) ratio is the mass ratio of air-to-fuel mixture trapped inside a cylinder before combustion begins, and it affects engine emissions, fuel economy, and other performances. Using an A/F ratio and dual-fuel ratio control oriented engine model, a multi-input-multi-output (MIMO) sliding mode control scheme is used to simultaneously control the mass flow rate of both port fuel injection (PFI) and direct injection (DI) systems. The control target is to regulate the A/F ratio at a desired level (e.g., at stoichiometric) and fuel ratio (ratio of PFI fueling vs. total fueling) to a given desired level between zero and one. A MIMO sliding mode controller was designed with guaranteed stability to drive the system A/F and fuel ratios to the desired target under various air flow disturbances. The performance of the sliding mode controller was compared with a baseline multi-loop PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) controller through simulations and showed improvements over the baseline controller.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Purification and characterization of lectin II from Ulex europaeus seeds and an immunochemical study of its combining site.

Abstract The lectin II from Ulex europaeus seeds was purified by adsorption on insoluble polyleucyl hog A + H blood group substance and elution with 35% ethylene glycol, and by chromatography on ϵ-aminocaproyl-fucosyl-amine-agarose. In immunodiffusion against rabbit antiserum to the crude extract, the isolated lectin formed one line which fused with one of the five formed by crude extract. The purified lectin showed two bands on acrylamide electrophoresis under alkaline or acid conditions but only one band of molecular weight 23,000 if the electrophoresis was in the presence of 0.1% sodium dodecyl sulfate at pH 8.8. The agglutinating and precipitating abilities are abolished by EDTA and can be restored by bivalent cations. The purified lectin precipitated to different extents with blood group A1, A2, B, HLeb, Lea, and I precursor substances and with acid- or Smith-degraded substances. Inhibition of precipitation indicated that the lectin site was unusual in that it interacted most strongly with the h -specific oligosaccharide and with 2′-fucosyllactose, followed by β1 → 4 linked oligomers of d GlcNAc. Molecular models showed that all these inhibitors have a similarity in three-dimensional structures that could account for their activities.
The Origin of the Ionic-Radius Ratio Rules

In response to a reader query, this article traces the origins of the ionic-radius ratio rules and their incorrect attribution to Linus Pauling.
Diffusion coefficients for predicting rice drying behaviour

Abstract Recent efforts to characterize moisture diffusion in rice are summarized. New equations for temperature dependent liquid diffusion coefficients for rough and brown rice are presented. Result sindicate that the resistance to moisture movement is greater in rough rice than in brown rice.
Developmental studies of the uptake of choline, gaba and dopamine by crude synaptosomal preparations after in vivo or in vitro lead treatment

Abstract The kinetics of sodium dependent, high affinity uptake of choline and dopammine by striatal synaptosomal preparations and of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) by cortical synaptosomal preparations have been examined during the development of Long-Evans control and lead-treated rats. Choline uptake was very low until 12 days postnatally, then the Vmax increased and approached adult values of 29 pmol/mg prot./min within a week. GABA uptake was somewhat elevated at birth and only after three weeks did it decrease to the adult value of 0.7 nmol/mg prot./min. Dopamine uptake was low at birth, developed linearly with age and by 30 days postnatally approached the adult value of 68 pmoles/mg prot./min. The high affinity uptake constants (choline, 0.66 μM; GABA, 4.4 μM; and dopamine, 0.31 μM) did not change markedly during development. Similar studies were conducted with rats treated at the highest lead dosage which did not result in weight loss (100 μg lead as lead acetate/g body weight/day via intubation). Blood and brain lead determinations confirmed a substantial lead exposure. Such chronic exposure did not markedly affect the amount or developmental pattern of uptake of the putative neurotransmitters. The effect of 2.5 × 10−5 M lead acetate in vitro on the kinetics of high affinity uptake of these compounds into preparations from 20–26-day-old rats was investigated. When uptake was assayed in the absence of calcium, lead caused a 20% increase in the Vmax for dopamine. This stimulation was reduced if samples were assayed in the presence of 1 mM CaCl2. The Km for high affinity uptake of these neurotransmitter-related compounds was not affected by lead. In other studies, crude synaptosomal preparations were preloaded with neurotransmitter by preincubation with radioactive choline, GABA, or dopamine. Release of radioactive neurotransmitter, either spontaneous or in response to potassium depolarization, was quantitated and correlated with the presence or absence of 2.5 × 10−5 M lead and/or 10−3 M calcium ions. Lead slightly inhibited calcium dependent spontaneous release of dopamine. Lead also appeared to partially substitute for calcium in the potassium depolarized release of dopamine and GABA, although subtraction of the spontaneous (potassium independent) component reduced the magnitude of the lead effect.
Effect of Acid-Base Status in Vivo on Bicarbonate Transport by Rabbit Renal Tubules in Vitro

In previous studies, when rabbit cortical collecting ducts were studied under standard conditions in vitro, bicarbonate transport was conditioned by the acid-base status in vivo of the animals from which the tubules were obtained.The collecting ducts absorbed bicarbonate if the animals were acidotic (from ammonium chloride administration), but they secreted bicarbonate if the animals were alkalotic (from sodium bicarbonate administration).The purpose of the present studies was to test whether similar conditioning occurs in other nephron segments.In proximal straight tubules neither the sodium-dependent nor the sodium-independent component of bicarbonate absorption was significantly affected by the acid-base status of the animals from which the tubules were obtained.In cortical thick ascending limbs, chloride was absorbed, but there was no net transport of bicarbonate by tubules whether they came from acidotic or alkalotic animals.Since cortical thick ascending limbs were not found to transport bicarbonate, they cannot be implicated in the control of bicarbonate excretion. We conclude that the previously observed conditioning of bicarbonate transport occurs in collecting ducts but not in proximal straight tubules or in cortical thick ascending limbs in the same experimental situation.
Evolution of the Electronic Properties of Metallic Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes with the Degree of CCl2 Covalent Functionalization

The changes in energetic, structural, and electronic properties of the metallic (5,5) single-walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) with the degree of sidewall covalent functionalization of CCl 2 are investigated extensively by using density functional theory calculations. The saturation concentration of CCl 2 covalent functionalization is predicted to be 33.3%. The cycloadducts always adopt an open structure. A band gap opens as the functionalization concentration reaches 11% and then basically increases with increasing functionalization concentration. These results are in agreement with available experiments and can be applied to accurately predict the band gap of metallic SWNTs produced by the HiPco method at a given CCl 2 functionalization concentration.
Joint Agency: Intersubjectivity, Sense of Control, and the Feeling of Trust

Abstract In this paper, I am going to be concerned with the capacity of human beings to act jointly. In particular, I will focus on the phenomenal aspect of collective action. I shall suggest that the experience of being jointly engaged with another is complex: it comprises both a practical grasp of oneself and of the other person as single agents participating in the joint pursuit, and an experience of collective immersion in the activity, which includes a sense of joint control. This suggestion gives rise to a number of puzzles: firstly, what is the relation between jointly engaged agents' awareness of self and other and their sense of a joint engagement? Secondly, how are we to substantiate the idea of a sense of joint control if it is also obviously true that I don't, however close our psychological and bodily attunements, have control over your doings? I shall argue that a satisfactory solution to these puzzles is possible only if we take seriously the notion of a perceptually constituted “intersubje...
Comparison of Mycoplasma gallisepticum strains and identification of immunogenic integral membrane proteins with Triton X-114 by immunoblotting.

Abstract Pooled chicken antisera from 33 and 77 days post Mycoplasma gallisepticum strain R contact-exposure reacted with cell proteins of 19 M. gallisepticum strains. These pooled antisera reacted with more proteins and with greater intensity to reference strains (R. PG31. S6. and A5969) and nine field strains than they did with six other field strains including three (703, 503, and 730) that have been described as serological variants. Following extraction with Triton X-114 the majority of immunogenic M. gallisepticum proteins partitioned exclusively or primarily into the detergent phase indicating that they are integral membrane proteins. This included three immunogenic species-specific proteins (p64, p56 and p26). M. gallisepticum p56 was detected by immunoblotting, in 18 of 19 strains suggesting that it could serve as an antigen for serological tests. P26 was evident in 13 of 19 strains. Hyperimmune antiserum to p64 reacted with a 64 kDa protein in 19 M. gallisepticum strains, but did not react with seven other avian Mycoplasma spp. There was no evidence found supporting the view that p64 is the hemagglutinin of M. gallisepticum .
Changes in cardiac refractory period during signalled shock avoidance in dogs.

The effect of training during an aversive conditioning schedule on the ventricular effective refractory period (ERP) and the occurrence of repetitive extrasystoles (RE) was investigated in 11 dogs. The ERP was decreased significantly at avoidance onset during the first 5 days of the experiment. but remained unaltered during the second 5 days of testing. The changes in ERP were most pronounced on the first day. REs were observed most during avoidance in the animal with the greatest decrease in ERP but inconsistently in other animals. The potential use of aversive Training procedures to study the role of neural factors in cardiac arrhythmias is discussed.
Studies of the Solution Polymerization of Vinyl Acetate in the Aqueous Solution of Partially Acetylated Polyvinyl Alcohol. V. The Radiation‐Induced Graft Copolymerization

Graft copolymerization was induced to a considerable extent when vinyl acetate was polymerized in an aqueous solution of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) or partially acetylated PVA under gamma irradiation. The radioinduced graft copolymerization was affected by hydroquinone. The graft efficiency, f/sub ac/, increased as PVA concentration increased. However, it reached a critical value at 4% and decreased again in more concentrated solutions. It was found that f/ sub ac/ decreases with increasing field intensity of irradiation at a finite total exposure dose. A mechanism consistent with the observations is given. The higher rate of grafting in radiation polymerization is attributed to the high free radical concentration on PVA main chain. A larger value of graft efficiency in PVA acetate solution than that in PVA solution may be explained by the affinity of vinyl acetate for PVA or PVA acetate. It was concluded that the affinity of vinyl acetate for PVA greatly promotes the grafting reaction. However, chain cross-linking of PVA must also be taken into consideration in the case of the radiation-initiated polymerization. (TCO)
The Family Debriefing Model: An Adapted Critical Incident Stress Debriefing for Parents and Older Sibling Suicide Survivors

The Family Debriefing Model is described. The Family Debriefing Model combines solution-focused interventions with an adapted Critical Incident Stress Debriefing model and was specifically designed to facilitate treatment with parents and adult- and adolescent-siblings who survive a family member’s suicide.
Self-generated oscillations on catalyst particles

Abstract The composition and temperature in the neighborhood of a catalyst particle sometimes exhibit a periodic behavior. An approximate analytical solution of these oscillations has been developed, and it agrees well with a numerical solution of the system of equations for certain ranges of the system parameters. The results indicate that the time average conversion for the periodic system is higher than the steady state value, but the approximate solution is not very accurate when there are large shifts in the operating level, the case of greatest commercial interest.
Unified Approach to Pore Size Characterization of Microporous Carbonaceous Materials from N2, Ar, and CO2 Adsorption Isotherms†

We present a unified approach to pore size characterization of microporous carbonaceous materials such as activated carbon and carbon fibers by nitrogen, argon, and carbon dioxide adsorption at standard temperatures, 77 K for N2 and Ar and 273 K for CO2. Reference isotherms of N2, Ar, and CO2 in a series of model slit-shaped carbon pores in the range from 0.3 to 36 nm have been calculated from the nonlocal density functional theory (NLDFT) using validated parameters of intermolecular interactions. Carbon dioxide isotherms have also been generated by the grand canonical Monte Carlo (GCMC) method based on the 3-center model of Harris and Yung. The validation of model parameters includes three steps: (1) prediction of vapor−liquid equilibrium data in the bulk system, (2) prediction of adsorption isotherm on graphite surface, (3) comparison of the NLDFT adsorption isotherms in pores to those of GCMC simulations, performed with the parameters of fluid-fluid interactions, which accurately reproduce vapor−liqui...
MINERALOGICAL ANALYSIS OF SOIL CLAYS INVOLVING VERMICULITE-CHLORITE-KAOLINITE DIFFERENTIATION

The content of kaolinite plus halloysite is differentiated quantitatively from chlorite by differential dissolution, even in those samples wherein each mineral has 500°C heat instability of the 7 A peak. This differentiation is possible because the structures of kaolinite and halloysite are destroyed on loss of the 7 A peak, producing amorphous material which is rapidly soluble in 0.5 N NaOH, whereas the chlorite structure remains largely intact with only partial dehydration of the octahedral layer. The amorphous residue of kaolinite-halloysite is dissolved from the other mineral components of the heated sample with sodium hydroxide and the dissolved silica and alumina are allocated to kaolinite. The percentages of kaolinite thus obtained for Elliott, B3–C horizon, 2–0.2 μ fraction, are 3.8 and 3.7 based on silica and alumina, respectively. Similarly, the percentages of kaolinite obtained for Buchanan, B1 horizon, 2-0.2 μ fraction, are 14.9 and 13.8 based on silica and alumina, respectively. Collapse of the vermiculite basal spacing to 10 A on K saturation and heating to 300°C, together with the clear differentiation of kaolinite by differential dissolution analysis (D.D.A.) above, removed the possibility of misinterpretation of the chlorite-like diffractometer tracing by kaolinite and vermiculite occurring together. Other clays, from Davidson and Susquehanna soils, had 44 and 42 to 43 percent kaolinite, based on silica and alumina, respectively. The vermiculite and montmoril-lonite contents of soil clay samples are quantitatively determined by specific surface. The mica percentages are based on the K2O after exclusion of potassium in feldspars. Water loss in the 400°C-to-ignition range gives an important quantitative basis for chlorite.
Technology in engineering education-essential for sustainable approaches to global technical challenges

The complexity of challenges faced by global societies will require sophisticated technical solutions. A dramatic expansion of knowledge is expected that could lead to new technologies to address global problems. However, knowledge generation is challenging traditional education that focuses on transmission from teacher to students. Information technology can improve engineering education in three important ways: • multimedia instruction • virtual team projects • class management tools. Perhaps the most important factor in educating engineers to meet challenges to sustainability is the development of the professional engineering educator, an instructor who is able to adopt the latest computer-based instructional technology.