cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Hexaluminates as a cleavable fiber–matrix interphase: synthesis, texture development, and phase compatibility☆

Abstract The current state of research on hexaluminates as a potential cleavable oxide fiber–matrix interphase is reviewed. Calcium hexaluminate was used initially to produce highly textured fiber coatings and interphases in single-crystal alumina fiber-based ceramic–matrix composites. Cracks were shown to deflect and propagate within the interphase by cleavage. Critical strain-energy release rates of 2.2 J/m2 were measured for highly textured polycrystalline CaAl12O19 interphases. Subsequent work has focused on lowering the temperature for synthesis and texturing of both calcium- and lanthanum-based hexaluminates. Doping of hexaluminates, primarily with transition-metal oxides, allows for their formation at temperatures as low as 1000°C. Grain-growth rates are about an order of magnitude greater than for undoped powders. Textured coatings have been grown on single-crystal YAG plates at 1200°C. However, there does not seem to be an adequate driving force for grain growth and texturing of the coatings on polycrystalline alumina fibers (Nextel™ 610) at 1200°C, the maximum processing temperature for these fibers. The lack of a more refractory, commercially available fiber that is phase compatible with the hexaluminates currently limits further development of a hexaluminate fiber–matrix interphase.
Demographic stochasticity and uncertainty in population projections— a study by computer simulation

Abstract Measuring uncertainty in projections of future natural and human populations is a problem that has been under consideration at least two decades. Demographic stochasticity, the idea that reproduction and survivorship are governed in part by laws of chance, plays a role in this uncertainty. Computer simulation experiments partially reported here suggested that, in large populations with homogeneity in laws of reproduction and survivorship among members of a population, the impact of demographic stochasticity on this uncertainty could be low. But, if the laws of reproduction and survivorship are heterogeneous among members of a population, then demographic stochasticity could be a significant factor in measuring the uncertainty of a population projection, even for large populations.
On the passivity criterion for lti N‐ports

Existing proofs of the passivity criterion for linear, time-invariant, distributed N-ports are either incorrect or too involved, requiring the use of advanced mathematics such as distribution theory. This paper presents a simple but completely rigorous proof using only basic real and complex analysis. For the sake of completeness we have included simple proofs of the Paley-Wiener theorem and the Poisson formula for the half plane. We show that solvability, a non-intuitive technical assumption made in rigorous theories of LTI passive networks, is virtually always satisfied. Finally, we give a passivity criterion applicable to N-ports described by general co-ordinates, from which passivity criteria for any specific representation (e.g. impedance, admittance, hybrid, transmission, scattering, etc.) can be trivially derived.
Institutional Economics and Human Resource Development

The problem and the solution. Institutional economics has long been associated with economic and training behaviors in organizations since the 1950s. Human resource development (HRD) scholars have not been adequately exposed to the relevant theories for its foundational role and direct applicability to HRD research and practice. In an effort to properly understand economics as a foundation of HRD, this article presents institutional economic theories and models pertinent to HRD research and practices. By examining institutional school of contemporary economics, especially the internal labor market theory, it is shown that economic theories not only provide a foundation but also have important implications to research and analytical approaches to the field of HRD.
Capacity allocation to sales agents in a decentralized logistics network

Many logistics systems operate in a decentralized way, while most optimization models assume a centralized planner. One example of a decentralized system is in some sea cargo companies: sales agents, who share ship capacity on a network, independently accept cargo from their location and contribute to the revenue of the system. The central headquarters does not directly control the agents' decisions but can influence them through system design and incentives. In this paper, we model the firm's problem to determine the best capacity allocation to the agents such that system revenue is maximized. In the special case of a single-route, we formulate the problem as a mixed integer program incorporating the optimal agent behavior. For the NP-hard multiple-route case, we propose several heuristics for the problem. Computational experiments show that the decentralized system generally performs worse when network capacity is tight and that the heuristics perform reasonably well. We show that the decentralized system may perform arbitrarily worse than the centralized system when the number of locations goes to infinity, although the choice of sales incentive impacts the performance. We develop an upper bound for the decentralized system, where the bound gives insight on the performance of the heuristics in large systems. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics, 2007
Frequency and temperature dependent dynamic shear response of polyurethane foams

Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) experiments have been performed on rigid polyurethane (PU) foams using a torsional rheometer. Circular disk samples were tested at several frequencies between 1-2,000 cpm and at temperatures between 25°C-150°C. The dynamic torsion tests were carried out in two phases. In the first phase, logarithmic frequency sweeps were carried out at each temperature with 0.05° angle of strain. In the second phase, linear strain sweeps in the range of 0.05°-5° angle of strain were carried out at a frequency of 100 cpm. The frequency sweep results allowed to obtain a master curve based on the principle of frequency temperature superposition at a reference temperature of 115°C. The predictions obtained from the master curve have been validated at selected frequencies. The shift factors were found to follow an Arrhenius relationship and the activation energy was found to be 264.46 kJ/mol. Results from the dynamic strain sweep tests indicate that samples go through predominantly viscoelastic behaviour. The strain sweep samples showed significant fracture near the ridges on the top die whereas the frequency sweep samples showed significant striations near the reference temperature.
Randomized and Past-Dependent Policies for Markov Decision Processes with Multiple Constraints

The Markov decision problem of locating a policy to maximize the long-run average reward subject to K long-run average cost constraints is considered. It is assumed that the state and action spaces are finite and the law of motion is unichain, that is, every pure policy gives rise to a Markov chain with one recurrent class. It is first proved that there exists an optimal stationary policy with a degree of randomization no greater than K; consequently, it is never necessary to randomize in more than K states. A linear program produces the optimal policy with limited randomization. For the special case of a single constraint, we also address the problem of finding optimal nonrandomized, but nonstationary, policies. We show that a round-robin type policy is optimal, and conjecture the same for a steering policy that depends on the entire past history of the process, but whose implementation requires essentially no more storage than that of a pure policy.
A model of chronic hepatitis in mice expressing a truncated XRCC1 protein.

No abstract available. (Published: 17 March 2015) Citation: Pathobiology of Aging & Age-related Diseases 2015, 5 : 27703 - http://dx.doi.org/10.3402/pba.v5.27703
Thermochemistry of the gaseous vanadium chlorides VCl, VCl2, VCl3, and VCl4.

Gaseous equilibria in the V−Ag−Cl system were studied at elevated temperatures by effusion-beam mass spectrometry, where the pertinent species were generated by reaction of Cl2(g) with V + Ag granu...
Multijoint dynamics and postural stability of the human arm

The goal of this study was to examine how the mechanical properties of the human arm are modulated during isometric force regulation tasks. Specifically, we examined whether the dynamic stability of the limb remained nearly invariant across a range of voluntarily generated endpoint forces and limb postures. Previous single joint studies have demonstrated that dynamic joint stability, as quantified via estimates of the joint damping ratio, is nearly invariant during isometric torque regulation tasks. However, the relevance of these findings to the control of multijoint posture has not been investigated previously. A similar degree of invariance at the multijoint level could suggest a fundamental property of the motor system that could be incorporated into the planning and execution of multijoint tasks. In this work, limb mechanics were quantified using estimates of dynamic endpoint stiffness, which characterizes the relationship between imposed displacements of limb posture and the forces opposing those displacements. Endpoint stiffness was estimated using a two-link robot operating in the horizontal plane at the height of each subject’s glenohumeral joint. The robot was used to apply stochastic position perturbations to the arm and to measure the resulting forces. Endpoint stiffness dynamics were estimated nonparametrically and subsequently summarized using inertial, viscous and elastic parameters. We found that in the tasks studied, there was a differential modulation of endpoint elasticity and endpoint viscosity. Elasticity increased nearly linearly with increases in voluntary force generation while viscosity increased nonlinearly. This differential regulation resulted in limb dynamics that had a remarkably consistent damping ratio across all subjects and all tested conditions. These results emphasize the importance of considering the full dynamic response of a limb when investigating multijoint stability, and suggest that a minimal degree of limb stability is maintained over a wide range of force regulation tasks.
Increased numbers of extra-adrenal chromaffin cells in the abdominal paraganglia of senescent F344 rats: a possible role for the glucocorticoid receptor.

The increase in numbers of extra-adrenal chromaffin cells of abdominal paraganglia in senescent F344 rats was investigated by 5-bromo-2′-deoxyuridine immunocytochemistry. A monoclonal antibody raised against 5-bromo-2′-deoxyuridine was used to react with tissue-sections of paraganglia taken from 28-month-old animals given weekly injections of the thymidine analog over a 14-week period. No immunoreactivity was detected in the extra-adrenal chromaffin cells, whereas control sections of intestinal epithelium showed abundant immunoreactivity. Also, the profile for immunoreactivity of the glucocorticoid receptor in relation to age was compared between extra-adrenal and adrenal chromaffin cells, which share cytological characteristics, but not the increase associated with senescence. In the extra-adrenal chromaffin cells, the intensity of receptor immunostaining was unchanged, while in the adrenal chromaffin cells it decreased with age. These results indicate that hypertrophy of the paraganglia in aged F344 rats is not due to the proliferation of extra-adrenal chromaffin cells. Instead, they suggest that the chromaffin cell phenotype may be induced in pre-existing cells and that the expression of the glucocorticoid receptor has an intrinsic role in this change.
Fas/Fas Ligand Interaction Contributes to UV-Induced Apoptosis in Human Keratinocytes

Abstract Keratinocytes in human skin undergo apoptosis during various inflammatory processes and after ultraviolet (UV) irradiation. To determine if keratinocyte apoptosis may be mediated by the Fas/APO-1 receptor (CD95), a signal transduction pathway known to initiate programmed cell death of lymphocytes, we investigated Fas expression, modulation, and function in keratinocytes. Keratinocytes constitutively expressed the 2.5- and 1.9-kb Fas transcripts, as well as the 43-kDa Fas protein. Treatment of interferon-γ-stimulated keratinocytes with Fas agonistic antibody significantly promoted their cell death, indicating that Fas in keratinocytes is functional. UV irradiation induced Fas mRNA expression within 16 to 24 h and Fas protein within 24 h and through 48 h after irradiation. Furthermore, keratinocytes constitutively expressed Fas ligand (FasL) mRNA and protein. UV irradiation induced FasL mRNA as early as 4 h after irradiation and elevated FasL mRNA levels were maintained for at least 24 h postirradiation. Moreover, a FasL neutralizing antibody significantly reduced UV-induced apoptosis of IFN-γ-treated keratinocytes. Our data strongly suggest that the Fas system contributes to keratinocyte apoptosis in UV-irradiated human skin.
Squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus: Therapeutic dilemma

Seventy-five patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus were evaluated over a 5-year period. Most of the patients had advanced-stage cancer when first seen. Only 50% were surgically explored, and 33% underwent resection. Operative mortality was 8%. Despite the immediate and durable palliation provided by surgical resection, survival rates were poor. Early diagnosis and aggressive surgical resection are the main hopes for improved long-term results.
Synthesis, processing behavior, and characterization of bismuth superconductors using freeze dried nitrate precursors

The synthesis of Bi[sub 2[minus][ital x]]Pb[sub [ital x]]Sr[sub 2]Ca[sub 2]Cu[sub 3]O[sub 10] (Bi2223) powders from a freeze dried nitrate precursor is reported here. We examine the composition and morphology of the precursor material, describe the chemistry and kinetics of product formation, and evaluate the phase composition and superconducting properties of the products. A nitrate solution containing the appropriate ratio of cations was rapidly frozen and then freeze dried at low temperatures to form an atomic mixture of the component salts. The thermal processing of the freeze dried material consisted of three steps: (i) dehydration, (ii) denitration, and (iii) solid state reaction to form the Bi2223 superconducting product. Calcium substituted bismuthates and strontium-substituted calcium cuprate, not Bi2201, are the intermediates between the nitrates and the superconducting products. These highly disordered phases rapidly transform into Bi2212 or Bi2223 at higher temperatures ([gt]790 [degree]C). The kinetics of product formation was studied using XRD analysis and magnetic susceptibility. The kinetics were shown to follow the nucleation and growth mechanism. Bi2223 formed after only 30 min at a few degrees below the melting point, and after 37 h Bi2223 products exhibited excellent phase composition and magnetic susceptibility characteristics.
Acute regulation of steady-state GABA levels following GABA-transaminase inhibition in rat cerebral cortex.

Abstract Cellular GABA levels are determined by the dynamic balance between synthesis and catabolism and are regulated at the level of glutamate decarboxylase, precursor availability (e.g., glutamate and glutamine), and possibly GABA degradation. GABA levels rise and stabilize within hours in human cortex following orally administered vigabatrin, an irreversible inhibitor of GABA-T, suggesting potential product inhibition of GABA synthesis or enhanced GABA degradation through the non-inhibited GABA-T fraction. In this study time courses of the rise in cortical GABA were measured in anesthetized rats in vivo after vigabatrin treatment using localized 1H magnetic resonance spectroscopy and the times to reach steady-state for a given dose were determined. Rates of GABA synthesis were estimated for the period of constant GABA level from the accumulation of [2-13C]GABA following a short intravenous infusion (20 min) of either [1,6-13C2]glucose or [2-13C]acetate. No evidence of product inhibition of glutamate decarboxylase by the increased GABA concentration or reduced synthesis from [1,6-13C2]glucose (control, 0.031 ± 0.010; vigabatrin-treated, 0.037 ± 0.004 μmol/g/min, P = 0.30) or [2-13C]acetate (control, 0.078 ± 0.010; vigabatrin-treated, 0.084 ± 0.006 μmol/g/min, P = 0.42) was found. Fractional changes in steady-state GABA levels and GABA-T activities 5–6 h after vigabatrin treatment were approximately equal. The lack of change in GABA synthesis (and GABA catabolic flux for constant GABA levels) suggests that GABA-T has a near-zero flux control coefficient in vivo-capable of greatly altering the steady-state GABA concentration but exerting little or no control on GABA synthesis or GABA/glutamine cycling flux. The findings are consistent with a Michaelis–Menten kinetic model whereby cellular GABA levels increase until flux through the remaining (uninhibited) transaminase equals the rate of GABA synthesis. The findings suggest that astroglia may be the site of continuing GABA catabolism after acute vigabatrin treatment.
Sleep onset/maintenance difficulties and cognitive function in nondemented older adults: the role of cognitive reserve.

This study examined the relationship between cognitive function and sleep onset/maintenance difficulties (SO/MD) in nondemented older adults. We hypothesized that SO/MD negatively impacts cognition and that older adults with lower education would be especially vulnerable to its effects. The sample comprised 549 older adults from the Einstein Aging Study (EAS), a community-based cohort. Participants completed neuropsychological assessment and a sleep questionnaire. Univariate ANCOVAs were performed with cognitive performance as a dependent variable, SO/MD (present or absent) and education (lower: ⩽12 years; higher: >12 years) as between-subjects factors, and age, ethnicity, gender, depression, and cardiovascular comorbidies as covariates. Participants were an average age of 79.7 ± 5.0 years (range = 71–97 years). Fifty-seven percent (n = 314) of the sample met criteria for SO/MD. Among participants with SO/MD, those with lower education performed more poorly on a test of category fluency than participants with higher education (means: 35.2 vs. 41.0; p < .001); among older adults without SO/MD, educational attainment had no measurable effect on cognition (SO/MD × education interaction (F(1,536) = 14.5; p = .00)). Consistent with the cognitive reserve hypothesis, older adults with lower education appear selectively vulnerable to the negative effects of sleep onset/maintenance difficulties on tests of verbal fluency. (JINS, 2012, 18, 461–470)
Plasma expanders stabilize human microvessels in microfluidic scaffolds.

Plasma expanders such as dextran and hydroxyethyl starch (HES) are important components of solutions designed to maintain vascular volume in the clinical setting and to preserve organs ex vivo before transplantation. Here, we show that these polymers also exert stabilizing effects on engineered microvessels in microfluidic type I collagen and fibrin scaffolds. Standard growth media, which did not contain dextran or HES, led to severe leakage, vascular collapse, and catastrophic failure of perfusion. Remarkably, vessels that were provided with 3% dextran or 5% HES had few focal leaks, maintained adhesion to the scaffold, and were typically viable and patent for at least 2 weeks. We found that the junctional marker VE-cadherin localized to a wide band in the presence of plasma expanders, but only at concentrations that also stabilized vessels. In conjunction with a previous computational model (Wong et al., Biomaterials 2010;31:4706–4714), our results suggest that plasma expanders stabilize microvessels via physical mechanisms that enhance VE-cadherin localization at junctions and thereby limit vascular leakiness. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A, 2012.
Evaluation of “Depression in Primary Care” Innovations

Key stakeholders and executive decision makers in healthcare system require clear and convincing data of the value of chronic illness care models for the primary care treatment of depression. Well-conceived and conducted evaluations provide this necessary information. This case study describes the experience of a large, nonprofit healthcare system’s experience with implementing and evaluating a quality improvement program for integrating depression management into primary care. The commentary that follows discusses specific evaluation questions that are relevant to each of the stakeholder groups involved in deciding whether or not to continue supporting such programs.
The kinetics of the reverse Deacon reaction

Abstract The reverse Deacon reaction, Cl 2 + H 2 O → 2HCl + 1 2 O 2 , is considered one of the most important steps in thermochemical water-splitting processes for production of hydrogen from water. The purpose for undertaking this research was to investigate the kinetics of the chlorination of water vapor at high temperatures. An eleven-pass glass reactor 4 mm ID and 511 mm long was used. Stimulus-response experiments showed the reactor could be analysed by plug flow procedures. The rate expression for the reverse Deacon reaction was developed from the experimental data at 879 K. Varying the partial pressures of the reactants, the rate data were collected, and these results were synthesized to formulate the rate law. The rate expression was verified by the integral approach and the results were extended to two other temperatures, 777 K and 983 K. The parameters of the rate expression were obtained by means of a linear-least-square fit. The frequency factor and the energy of activation were determined for the reverse Deacon reaction. An attempt was made to verify these parameters with the theoretical values from collision theory and activated complex theory. A mechanism consistent with one of the limiting conditions was postulated. A statistical study was also made to reveal the effects of the flow rates of the reactants and temperature on conversion of chlorine.
What Was Socialism and What Comes Next

Catherine Verdery What Was Socialism and What Comes Next? Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press, 1996. 298pp.
On the analytic properties of solutions for a generalized, axially symmetric Schrödinger equation

where II, v > 0, and rV(r) is an entire function of T = +(x2 + y2)l12. We shall introduce an integral operator S2,,[f] which relates analytic functions of one complex variable, f(z), in a one-to-one manner to regular solutions of (1.1). We shall develop necessary and sufficient conditions for a solution I/J(X, y) to be singular at a point (x0, y”), in terms of its associated analytic function. Using this result we give criteria analogous to the Cauchy, Hadamard, and Mandelbrojt [8,29] results concerning the location of singularities of solutions represented as infinite series of the form
High level production and one-step purification of biologically active ectodysplasin A1 and A2 immunoadhesins using the baculovirus/insect cell expression system.

Abstract Ectodysplasin A (EDA) is a ligand of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) family that has been shown to play a crucial role in ectodermal differentiation. Mutations of the syntenic ectodysplasin A gene ( Eda ) are responsible for Tabby ( Ta ) phenotype in mice and human X-linked hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia (XLHED). EDA-A1 and EDA-A2 are the two main splice variants of Eda , which differ from each other in only two amino acid residues and engage the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) family receptors EDAR and XEDAR, respectively. We have used the baculovirus/insect cell system to express the recombinant EDA proteins fused to the Fc portion of a truncated human IgG1 immunoglobulin heavy chain. Immunoadhesins (4.5–4.7 mg/L) from crude supernatant could be purified to near homogeneity by using rProtein A affinity chromatography. The purified EDA immunoadhesins were endowed with ligand-binding activity as they could bind EDAR or XEDAR on the surface of 293T cells that had been transiently transfected with the corresponding plasmids. Functional activities of EDA immunoadhesins were demonstrated by their ability to activate the NF-κB pathway in cells expressing their cognate receptors. These results open up the possibility of obtaining large amounts of purified EDA proteins to investigate EDAR/XEDAR related signaling pathways and for the treatment of patients with X-linked hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia.
Extrapolation of the time-step bias in diffusion quantum Monte Carlo by a differential sampling technique

A new method of eliminating the finite-time-step error inherent in diffusion quantum Monte Carlo is presented, utilizing an improved version of the existing differential techniques. An implementation is described and results of several small but representative calculations are discussed. The pertinent computation requirements on these systems were reduced by up to a factor of five by the new algorithm. It is speculated that this method may be easily applied to other quantum Monte Carlo and discretized path integral Monte Carlo techniques having related finite step-size errors with a possibility of obtaining similar good results.
Measurement of DNA damage associated with apoptosis by laser scanning cytometry.

Background Phosphatidylserine (PS) binding by annexin V (AV) is an early membrane marker of apoptosis. Using laser scanning cytometry (LSC) and the comet assay, we showed that the DNA of AV+ cells is so highly fragmented that it cannot be quantified by the comet assay (Bacso et al.: Cancer Res 60:4623–8, 2000). Methods The “halo” assay was used instead of the comet assay to quantify DNA damage associated with apoptosis. The LSC was used to measure both AV fluorescence and DNA damage on the same Jurkat cells following treatment with anti-Fas. The data from both sets of measurements were merged, allowing direct correlation of membrane and nuclear markers of cell death. Results AV+ cells had significant DNA damage determined by the ratio between nuclear DNA and peripheral (migrated) DNA. Cells in the early and late stages of apoptosis could be discriminated on the basis of DNA content. In addition, it was possible to distinguish between apoptotic and necrotic cells in the AV+ propidium iodide-positive population based on DNA content and DNA damage. The addition of specific inhibitors for caspases-8, 9, and 3 blocked both PS externalization and DNA fragmentation, indicating these events are downstream from caspase activation. Conclusions This technique allows accurate distinction between apoptotic and necrotic cells and cytometric grading of apoptosis. Cytometry 45:180–186, 2001. © 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Thriving at liberal arts colleges: The more Compleat Academic

(1997). Thriving at liberal arts colleges: The more Compleat Academic. Teaching of Psychology: Vol. 24, No. 1, pp. 8-14.
Consumer Decision Making In The Individual Health Insurance Market

This paper summarizes the results from a study of consumer decision making in California’s individual health insurance market. We conclude that price subsidies will have only modest effects on participation and that efforts to reduce nonprice barriers might be just as effective. We also find that there is substantial pooling in the individual market and that it increases over time because people who become sick can continue coverage without new underwriting. Finally, we show that people prefer more-generous benefits and that it is difficult to induce people in poor health to enroll in high-deductible health plans.
Organizing knowledge for tutoring fire loss prevention

The San Bernardino National Forest in southern California has recently developed a systematic approach to wildfire prevention planning. However, a comprehensive document or other mechanism for teaching this process to other prevention personnel does not exist. Anintelligent tutorial expert system is being constructed to provide a means for learning the process and to assist in the creation of specific prevention plans. An intelligent tutoring system (ITS) contains two types of knowledge—domain and tutoring. The domain knowledge for wildfire prevention is structured around several foci: (1) individual concepts used in prevention planning; (2) explicitly specified interrelationships between concepts; (3) deductive methods that contain subjective judgment normally unavailable to less-experienced users; (4) analytical models of fire behavior used for identification of hazard areas; (5) how-to guidance needed for performance of planning tasks; and (6) expository information that provides a rationale for planning steps and ideas. Combining analytical, procedure, inferential, conceptual, and expositional knowledge into a tutoring environment provides the student and/or user with a multiple perspective of the subject matter. Aconcept network provides a unifying framework for structuring and utilizing these diverse forms of prevention planning knowledge. This network structure borrows from and combines semantic networks and frame-based knowledge representations. The flexibility of this organization facilitates an effective synthesis and organization of multiple knowledge forms.
Acute and chronic caffeine administration increases physical activity in sedentary adults

Caffeine is a commonly used stimulant thought to have ergogenic properties. Most studies on the ergogenic effects of caffeine have been conducted in athletes. The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that caffeine reduces ratings of perceived exertion and increases liking of physical activity in sedentary adults. Participants completed treadmill walking at 60% to 70% of their maximal heart rate at baseline and for 6 subsequent visits, during which half of the participants were given caffeine (3 mg/kg) and half given placebo in a sports drink vehicle. To investigate the potential synergistic effects of acute and chronic caffeine on self-determined exercise duration, participants were rerandomized to either the same or different condition for the last visit, creating 4 chronic/acute treatment groups (placebo/placebo, placebo/caffeine, caffeine/placebo, caffeine/caffeine). Participants rated how much they liked the activity and perceived exertion at each visit. There was a main effect of time on liking of physical activity, with liking increasing over time and an interaction of sex and caffeine treatment on liking, with liking of activity increasing in female participants treated with caffeine, but not with placebo. There was no effect of caffeine on ratings of perceived exertion. Individuals who received caffeine on the final test day exercised for significantly longer than those who received placebo. These data suggest that repeated exposure to physical activity significantly increases liking of exercise and reduces ratings of perceived exertion and that caffeine does little to further modify these effects.
Rugate filter design: the modified Fourier transform technique

The Fourier transform technique developed for the design of variable refractive index coatings such as rugate filters is improved to achieve an accurate correspondence between optical properties and the refractive index profile. An application to the design of narrowband reflectors is presented.
Assessing the African Union's Right of Humanitarian Intervention

In an attempt to overcome the legacy of its predecessor body, the Organization of African Unity (OAU), which so often ignored atrocities in member states due to a doctrine of non-interference, the ...
Trauma Survivors' Emotional Distress and Barriers to Early Psychological Intervention in an Inner-City Acute Surgical Trauma Service

Fifty-five predominantly low-income ethnic minority patients were interviewed and screened for early signs of psychological distress following traumatic injury. A free, brief intervention and transportation were offered to patients who evidenced psychiatric symptoms. Over half of participants reported psychiatric symptoms, but none accepted the free intervention. This study examined reasons participants remained reluctant to engage in services despite elimination of common barriers. Results highlight the importance of perceptual barriers over structural barriers in engaging patients in psychological interventions following a traumatic event.
Accelerating the hydration of calcium sulfate hemihydrate via high energy mixing

High energy mixing of calcium sulfate hemihydrate/water slurries provides a means to accelerate the hydration leading to gypsum formation. Additional benefits associated with high energy mixing include enhanced strength of the resulting gypsum casts. In order to exploit the advantages of high energy mixing, an understanding of the relationship between mixing energy and set acceleration is needed.
A meta-analysis of six-month studies of antiplaque and antigingivitis agents

ABSTRACT Background and Methods The author conducted a systematic review of the literature to evaluate the efficacy of antigingivitis and antiplaque products in six-month trials. He searched electronic databases for six-month randomized clinical studies that evaluated both antiplaque and antigingivitis properties of dentifrices or mouthrinses. In addition, the author solicited unpublished studies from manufacturers. Results Seventeen studies support the antiplaque, antigingivitis effects of dentifrices containing 0.30 percent triclosan, 2.0 percent Gantrez copolymer. There was no evidence of efficacy for triclosan products containing either soluble pyrophosphate or zinc citrate. Dentifrices with stannous fluoride had statistically significant, but marginally clinically significant, evidence of an antiplaque effect; however, there was both a statistically and clinically significant antigingivitis effect. The largest body of studies (21 studies) supported the efficacy of mouthrinses with essential oils. A smaller body of studies (seven) supported a strong antiplaque, antigingivitis effect of mouthrinses with 0.12 percent chlorhexidine. Results for mouthrinses with cetylpyridinium chloride varied and depended on the product's formula. Conclusions The studies in this systematic review provide strong evidence of the antiplaque, antigingivitis effects of multiple agents. These results support the use of these agents as part of a typical oral hygiene regimen.
Identification of a New Interferon-α/β-Inducible DNA-Binding Protein That Interacts with the Regulatory Element a of 2′,5′-01igoadenylate Synthetase ME-12 Gene

ABSTRACT A new interferon (IFN)-stimulated response factor (ISRF) has been identified in nuclear extracts of IFN-α/β-treated murine BALB/c-3T3 fibroblasts by the mobility-shift electrophoresis assay. The factor, ISRF-2, displays murine 2′,5′-oligoadenylate (2-5A) synthetase ME-12 gene 5′ regulatory element A specificity and differs from the previously described IFN response element B-specific factor ISRF-1 in several aspects. ISRF-2 is restricted to the nucleus, whereas ISRF-1 exists in the cytoplasm and translocates into the nucleus upon treatment of cells with IFN-α/β. The ionic strength requirement of ISRF-2 for maximal DNA-binding activity is lower than that of ISRF-1. The DNA-binding activity of ISRF-2, but not that of ISRF-1, is markedly suppressed by Mg2+. In common with ISRF-1, the phosphorylated form of ISRF-2 appears to be required for DNA-binding activity. A model is proposed for the mechanism whereby murine IFN-α/β regulates 2-5A synthetase ME-12 gene expression.
Facilitating Access to Biodiversity Information: A Survey of Users’ Needs and Practices

Biodiversity information is essential for understanding and managing the environment. However, identifying and providing the forms and types of biodiversity information most needed for research and decision-making is a significant challenge. While research needs and data gaps within particular topics or regions have received substantial attention, other information aspects such as data formats, sources, metadata, and information tools have received little. Focusing on the US southeast, a region of global biodiversity importance, this paper assesses the biodiversity information needs of environmental researchers, managers, and decision makers. Survey results of biodiversity information users’ information needs, information-seeking behaviors and preferred information source attributes support previous conclusions that useful biodiversity information must be easily and quickly accessible, available in forms that allow integration and visualization and appropriately matched to users’ needs. Survey results concerning additional information aspects suggest successful participation in both the creation and provision of biodiversity information include an increased focus on information search and other tools for data management, discovery, and description.
Disability: A Fresh Approach to an Old Dilemma

History has witnessed numerous discourses concerning disability in general and autism in particular, most notably in the fields of religion, medicine, and social welfare. Although these discourses diverge considerably in their emphasis and intent, most share a common conception of disability as a “problem to be solved.” In contrast, the authors of this article argue that recent Christian theological discourses concerning autism, as well as their own experience as family members of people with disabilities, suggest a different approach. Specifically, they suggest disability is a difference to be embraced rather than a problem to be fixed. Implications of such an approach when counseling people who have a disability and their families are discussed.
A precision measurement of reaction thresholds

Abstract The total yield of the 40Ar(p, n)40K reaction has been measured in the energy region from Ep = 2.336 to 2.464 MeV. A very thin target produced in a special windowless gas target chamber allowed a proton energy spread less than 140 eV. With this very good resolution, at least 69 clearly resolved resonances are found. A technique for measuring precise neutron energies by neutron transmissions through suitable samples is discussed. Using this system we find the ground state Q-value to be −2.287±0.001 MeV. In the same way, the 37Cl(p, n)37Ar reaction is found to have a Q-value of −1.597±0.001 MeV which is in excellent agreement with prior investigations. The technique should be accurate to less than 1 5 keV if a suitable absolute energy standard can be established.
Diallel Analysis of Fusarium Head Blight Resistance in Wheat

Fusarium head blight (FHB) negatively impacts grain yield and quality of wheat (Triticum aestivum L. em. Thell) worldwide, especially when warm, humid weather prevails during flowering and grain filling. Our objective was to determine the mechanism of genetic control of FHB resistance in selected winter and spring wheat germplasm. Six genotypes, ‘Nekota’ (A), ‘2137’ (B), ‘Harding’ (C), ‘Ning7840’ (D), ‘ND2710’ (E) and ‘BacUp’ (F), were included in a modified diallel. The F1 and F2 populations were evaluated in a greenhouse, whereas only F2 populations were evaluated in a mist-irrigated field nursery. Plants were artificially inoculated with Fusarium graminearum Schwabe isolates in both environments. Additive gene effects were more important than non-additive gene effects. General combining ability (GCA) effects were significant in both F1 and F2 populations in both environments. Specific combining ability (SCA) effects were significant only in the greenhouse environment for F2. Combining ability ratio (0....
Editorial: Potentials: A new beginning

Potentials is in its fourth year of operation, and has reached, in an important sense, the end of its beginnings. A new slate of people are now in place to maintain the tradition of excellence that has been established.
A Modified Sample Holder for Determining Viscosity of a Diphasic Fluid

SUMMARY— A sample holder was constructed to prevent separation in a diphasic fluid during the determination of viscosity with a disc-spindle viscometer. The holder consists of inner and outer cups separated with spacers. A magnetic stirrer causes fluid being tested to move through holes in the bottom, up around the outside, and over the top of the inner cup, creating a slow downward movement past the spindle. The movement is adjusted to a rate just sufficient to maintain a homogenous mixture and give a maximum stabilized shearing stress. Shearing stress was unaffected by direction of rotation of the stirrer. The agitation required for tomato juice apparently had but little effect upon shearing stress as indicated by tests with Newtonian fluids. The modified sample holder was used to determine viscosity of juices of several varieties varying in fruit characteristics. large differences were shown, but no relationship between fruit firmness and viscosity was apparent.
Abstract 2030: Mechanisms of E2F-mediated centrosome amplification in HER2 positive breast cancer

Proceedings: AACR 103rd Annual Meeting 2012‐‐ Mar 31‐Apr 4, 2012; Chicago, IL Centrosome amplification associates with most human cancers and has been suggested to trigger tumor initiation and progression. Centrosomes are the major microtubule organizing centers in animal cells. They are duplicated once in each cell cycle and duplicated centrosomes establish mitotic spindle bipolarity. Centrosome duplication is tightly regulated because deregulated centrosome duplication leads to centrosome amplification, multipolar and pseudobipolar mitotic spindles that potentiate chromosome instability and may trigger tumorigenesis. One of the tumor types in which the relationship between centrosome amplification and tumorigenesis is well known are breast cancers, as most breast tumors exhibit centrosome amplification. Centrosome amplification arises through various mechanisms, such as deregulation of cell cycle regulators, oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes. Our laboratory discovered that HER2 positive breast cancer cells and K-RasG12D pre-malignant mouse mammary lesions displayed overexpressed E2F1-3 transcriptional activators. Although E2Fs are involved in various cellular processes, including the regulation of the cell and centrosome duplication cycles and differentiation, the role of E2Fs in centrosome amplification in breast tumors is unknown. To study the role of the E2F activators in centrosome amplification, we first assayed centrosome amplification in the E2F-overexpressing HER2 positive breast cancer cells, HCC1954, JIMT1 and SKBR3. There was increased centrosome amplification in the HER2 positive cell lines HCC1954, JIMT1 or SKBR3 relative to MCF10A control mammary epithelial cells. To find if centrosome amplification shown in HER2 positive cells overexpressing E2F1-3 was E2F-specific, the siRNA-mediated silencing technique was applied to transiently knock-down the E2F activators (E2F1-3a) and cells were assayed for centrosome amplification. In addition, to permanently knockdown E2Fs in HER2 positive cells, shRNA-mediated silencing technique will be applied. Western blots confirmed that E2Fs knockdown was efficient, followed by decreased centrosome amplification in HER2 positive cells downregulated for E2F1 and E2F3a; results for E2F2 are still awaiting. These data suggested that centrosome amplification detected in HER2 positive cells is specific to the E2F activators. Future experiments will involve the identification of E2F-dependent transcriptional targets mediating centrosome amplification in HER2 positive cells. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 2030. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-2030
Circulation Controlled Airfoil Analysis Through 360 Degrees Angle of Attack

Wind turbines are a source of renewable energy with an endless supply. The most efficient types of wind turbines operate by utilizing the lift force of its blades to create a rotational force. The power capabilities of a wind turbine are tied to the blades’ ability to convert the aerodynamic forces into rotational energy. Vertical axis wind turbines (VAWT), unlike the more common horizontal axis (HAWT) type, do not need to be directed into the wind and can place the transmission and electrical power generation components at the bottom of the turbine shaft, near the ground. Currently VAWTs cannot feather or pitch the blades, in the same fashion as a HAWT, for a lift change to control power generation and/or rotational speed at different or changing wind speeds. A method of increasing the lift of a blade without physically moving the blade is to use circulation control (CC), via a blowing slot over a rounded trailing edge. The CC air flow entrains the air around the blade to create more lift. Adding an actuated valve for the blowing slot allows a CC-VAWT to control the amount of lift generated, as well as the location of the augmentation relative to the wind direction, resulting in augmented power generation. In order to study the performance capabilities of a CC-VAWT, a NACA0018 blade was modified to incorporate circulation control. This modified shape was analyzed using computational fluid dynamics at two Reynolds numbers and a wide range of angles of attack. The lift to drag ratio of the CC-VAWT blade shows benefits at low Reynolds numbers over a NACA0018 blade for post stall angles of attack, but there is a decrease in the lift to drag before stall due to a significant increase in drag of the circulation control models. Further CFD refinement and experimental investigations are recommended to validate the predicted effects circulation control will have on the performance of a VAWT.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Clinical and electrocardiographic characteristics of idiopathic ventricular arrhythmias with right bundle branch block and superior axis: Comparison of apical crux area and posterior septal left ventricle

Background Right bundle branch block (RBBB) with superior axis electrocardiographic (ECG) morphology is common in patients with idiopathic ventricular arrhythmia (VA) originating from the left posterior fascicle (LPF), from the left ventricular (LV) posterior papillary muscles (PPM), and rarely from the cardiac apical crux. Objective The purpose of this study was to describe the ECG and clinical characteristics of idiopathic VA presenting with RBBB and superior axis. Methods We studied 40 patients who underwent successful catheter ablation of idiopathic VAs originating from the LPF (n = 18), LV PPM (n = 15), and apical crux (n = 7). We investigated clinical and ECG characteristics, including maximum deflection index and QRS morphology in leads aVR and V6. Results Syncope was more frequently seen in apical crux VA compared with other VAs (57% vs 6%, P Conclusion We could distinguish LPF VA, PPM VA, and apical crux VA using a combination of clinical and ECG characteristics. These findings might be useful for counseling patients and planning an ablation strategy.
New Generation of Inactivated Poliovirus Vaccines for Universal Immunization after Eradication of Poliomyelitis

Twenty years of global polio eradication efforts may soon eliminate the transmission of wild-type poliovirus. However, new information that has been learned about poliovirus, as well as the political realities of a modern world, demand that universal immunity against poliomyelitis be maintained, even after wild-type poliovirus is eradicated. Although 2 excellent vaccines have proven to be highly effective in the past, neither the live-attenuated vaccine nor the currently used inactivated vaccine are optimal for use in the posteradication era. Therefore, concerted efforts are urgently needed to develop a new generation of vaccine that is risk-free and affordable and can be produced on a global scale. Here, we discuss the desired properties of a vaccine and methods to create a new polio vaccine.