cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Combining photoelasticity and finite-element methods for stress analysis using least squares

Photoelastic data are combined with the finite-element method for stress solutions over regions partially bounded by free surfaces and axes of symmetry. Least-squares solutions are obtained without presumed values of applied forces at element nodes and without isoclinic data. Varied example problems are used to compare the results to independent photoelastic and finite-element solutions and to theoretical stress values.
Preparation of polymer–ceramic composite membranes with thin defect‐free separating layers

Polymer—ceramic composite membranes with essentially defect-free separating layers have been prepared by a solution deposition technique. Rigid polymers were used for the selective organic layer. These included high molecular weight samples of 5,5′-[2,2,2-trifluoro-1-(trifluoromethyl)ethylidene]bis-1,3-isobenzofuran-dione, isopropylidenedianiline (6FDA-IPDA), 5,5′-[2,2,2-trifluoro-1-(trifluoromethyl)ethylidene]bis-1,3-isobenzofuran-dione, methylenedianiline (6FDA-MDA), tetramethylhexafluorobisphenol-A polycarbonate (TMHFPC), and tetramethylhexafluoropolysulfone (TMHFPSF). Attempts to prepare composite membranes from lower molecular weight samples of bisphenol-A polycarbonate (PC) and tetrabromohexafluorobisphenol-A polycarbonate (TBHFPC) were unsuccessful. The PC and TBHFPC composites exhibited a decrease in the measured gas flux after polymer deposition; however, the selectivities of the composites were considerably less than that of a dense film of the same materials. A microporous ceramic membrane prepared by Anotec Separations was used as the support layer. This ceramic membrane provided minimal resistance to gas flow. The selective composite membranes were found to have high gas fluxes and gas separating abilities essentially equivalent to that of a dense isotropic film. The estimated, effective skin layer thicknesses for these membranes are on the order of 1500 A to 1.0 μm. The formation of these composites is believed to occur through a sieving process in which large swollen polymer chains are sieved out of solution by the ceramic support. Polymer solutions that had swollen coil diameters that were smaller than that of the ceramic membrane did not produce selective composite membranes, while those solutions with swollen coil diameter that were larger than that of the ceramic membrane produced defect-free polymer layers. © 1992 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Dietary lipids in early development: relevance to obesity, immune and inflammatory disorders.

Purpose of reviewRegardless of social, cultural and behavioural environments, obesity is usually caused by an energy intake above requirements, which is accommodated by the accumulation of triacylglycerols. The composition of dietary fat impacts tissue fatty acids, which are important modulators of
High-concentration contrast media in MDCT angiography: principles and rationale

MD-CTA is a powerful and continuously evolving technology for noninvasive (minimally invasive) cardiovascular imaging. CM administration is an integral part of this evolution, and needs to be continuously adopted and optimized to take full advantage of this technology. A basic understanding of physiologic and pharmacokinetic principles, as well as an understanding of the effects of injection parameters on arterial enhancement—in terms of injection rate and injection duration—allow the development of optimized CM delivery protocols for current and future vascular MDCT.
Consumption, asset returns and taxes in a nonexpected utility model

Abstract The effects of income and wealth taxation on portfolio choice and equilibrium rates of return on assets are examined. Nonexpected utility preferences which allow a separation of attitudes towards risk from those towards intertemporal substitution are used. The results obtained differ significantly from the conclusions of the expected utility model.
Purification of ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase with high specific activity by fast protein liquid chromatography

Abstract A rapid procedure for the purification of ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (rubisco) (EC 4.1.1.39) by fast protein liquid chromatography (FPLC) is described. Chloroplasts isolated mechanically from spinach leaves were used as the source of a stromal extract enriched in rubisco. By subsequent fractionation of this extract on ion-exchange FPLC, highly purified rubisco (sp act 2.10–2.76 μmol/mg protein · min) was obtained in less than 30 min. The high specific activity and excellent stability of the final preparation can be attributed to the use of chloroplasts as a starting material and the short time required for the chromatographic separation, both of which minimize proteolytic activity.
Mental health disorders among individuals with mental retardation: challenges to accurate prevalence estimates.

Objectives.The objectives of this literature review were to assess current challenges to estimating the prevalence of mental health disorders among individuals with mental retardation (MR) and to develop recommendations to improve such estimates for this population.Methods.The authors identified 200 peer-reviewed articles, book chapters, government documents, or reports from national and international organizations on the mental health status of people with MR. Based on the study's inclusion criteria, 52 articles were included in the review.Results.Available data reveal inconsistent estimates of the prevalence of mental health disorders among those with MR, but suggest that some mental health conditions are more common among these individuals than in the general population. Two main challenges to identifying accurate prevalence estimates were found: (1) health care providers have difficulty diagnosing mental health conditions among individuals with MR; and (2) methodological limitations of previous resear...
Ganglion cell responses to retinal light stimulation in the absence of photoreceptor outer segments from retinal degenerate rodents.

Purpose. To determine whether a severely degenerated retina without photoreceptor outer segments and a non-recordable electroretinogram (ERG) can still show retinal ganglion cell (RGC) responses to retinal light stimulation. Methods. The authors measured ERGs and retinal surface RGC responses from six week old rd mice and three month old homozygous S334ter line3 rats. Animal eyes were also studied by light microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and immunohistochemistry (rats). Results. The corneal ERGs were non-recordable and no photoreceptor outer segments were found in either retinal degeneration model. A few cell bodies (without outer segments) that were immunoreactive for cone opsin and rhodopsin were found in the outer nuclear layer of the rats. Light-driven ON-RGC responses, however, were recordable from six week old rd mice. In addition, light-driven ON and OFF-RGC responses were recordable from three month old homozygous S334ter line 3 rats. Conclusions. This study suggests that despite the...
Strategies and intermediates for fredericamycin A synthesis: a 3-substituted 9-alkoxy cyclopenta(g)isoquinoline-1,8(2H)-dione

Abstract A polyketide condensation affords a key intermediate for fredericamycin synthesis. Subsequent reactions yield a model for the “lower ring system” of this antitumor antibiotic.
Automatic Parameter Identification Applied to a Railroad Car Dynamic Draft Gear Model

One of the most important components in simulating track-train dynamics is the mathematical model of the connection between two cars, the draft gear-coupler combination. In this paper an automatic parameter identification technique is presented which can be used to generate a nonlinear functional relationship of dynamic draft gear characteristics using experimental data.
Deposition of plasma-polymerized acetylene by an intense pulsed RF plasma source

An inductively coupled, intense, pulsed RF plasma source deposited plasma-polymerized acetylene at a rate of 127 AA per discharge. The potassium bromide substrate was located 18-cm downstream from the RF coil. A puff valve admitted parent acetylene gas just before the transient RF current was applied. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra showed that carbon-to-carbon double bonds were formed. Scanning-electron-microscope images showed that the film thickness after 79 discharges was 1 mu m. A photodiode showed substantial light emission for about 30 mu s during each discharge. >
Identification of a Cell-Specific Transcription Activation Domain within the Human Ah Receptor Nuclear Translocator

Abstract In the presence of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) and related chemicals, the Ah receptor nuclear translocator (Arnt) forms a heterodimeric complex with the ligand-bound Ah receptor, leading to recognition of dioxin-responsive elements within the enhancer of theCYP1A1gene and transcription activation by an unknown mechanism. To understand the role of Arnt in transcription activation by the Ah receptor–Arnt heterodimer, we performed a deletion analysis of Arnt to locate domains that are directly involved in transcription activation. We showed that the C-terminal 34 amino acids of Arnt encode a transcription activation domain (TAD) that functions independently of other sequences in the Ah receptor complex when attached to the heterologous Gal4 DNA binding domain. Deletion of the C-terminal acidic-rich 14 amino acids completely abolishes activity. Sequences important in Arnt TAD function were independent of the glutamine-rich region which is an important structural feature in the TAD of other transcription factors. The strength of the Arnt TAD when compared with the strong TAD from the herpes simplex virus VP16 protein was cell-type specific. Both the Arnt and VP16 TAD were equally strong in COS-1 cells, but the Arnt TAD had weak activity in an Arnt-deficient mouse hepatoma cell line and was not needed for restoration ofCYP1A1activation. These results imply that forCYP1A1activation the Ah receptor provides the dominant activation function for the heterodimer in hepatoma cells. The potential of the Arnt TAD to contribute to activation by the Ah receptor complex is likely determined by availability or activity of cell-specific factors with which the TAD interacts.
SLAVE EMANCIPATION, TRANS-LOCAL SOCIAL PROCESSES AND THE SPREAD OF ISLAM IN FRENCH COLONIAL BUGUNI (SOUTHERN MALI), 1893–1914

This article explores the relationship between slave emancipation and the spread of Islam in early colonial French Buguni (southern Mali). It examines the reconstitution of village communities in the wake of violence and enslavement during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, and documents the ways in which widespread mobility and trans-local social processes fostered the emergence of new forms of religious identification and practice. It demonstrates that many of the region's first Muslims were returning slaves whose conversion was a cultural consequence of slavery. Oral accounts of village histories of Islam are used in reconstructing a history that has left few traces in the archival record.
Macro Data with the FRED Excel Add-in

This working paper is intended to be a chapter in a forthcoming book, tentatively titled Macroeconomics with Excel. The printed book will be a manual for professors, while the Excel workbooks are freely available to students. See www.depauw.edu/learn/macroexcel for more information on this project.
Overview of recent research and development in temperate culture of the freshwater prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii De Man) in the South Central United States

Research and development efforts concerning freshwater prawn farming have in the past been principally conducted in tropical regions. However, activities in temperate regions also date back several decades. Culture of Macrobrachium in temperate zones offers positive opportunities, despite the inability to culture year-round. Unique problems imposed by a restricted growing season must be addressed, and opportunities capitalized on, to attain commercially viable production in these regions. Much recent research in the South and Central USA has been directed towards intensifying production (kg ha(-1)) without decreasing average harvest sizes or deteriorating water quality. Particular areas of research include evaluating and maximizing the relative contributions of natural foods, effects of artificial substrates on growth and prawn population structure and grading of animals before pond stocking to reduce heterogeneous individual growth and aggressive interactions. Recent studies have concentrated on combining these factors into a best management practices' (BMPs) production model. With these factors combined, production has increased from an average of 1000 kg ha(-1) of 30 g animals to almost 3000 kg ha(-1) of 40 g animals produced in research ponds in 110 days of culture. In commercial ponds, 1500-2000 kg ha(-1) has been achieved in a similar period using BMPs.
Preload-adjusted right ventricular maximal power: concept and validation.

Right ventricular (RV) maximal power (PWRmx) is dependent on preload. The objective of this study was to test our hypothesis that the PWRmx versus end-diastolic volume (EDV) relationship, analogous...
Idiotype networks in hepatitis B virus infections.

The term idiotype (Id) or idiotypic determinant was originally proposed by Oudin and Michel (1963) to designate antigenic determinants unique to a small set of antibody molecules. An Id defines the variable (V) region of the antibody molecule and often serves as a V region phenotypic marker. Because the V region of the antibody molecule also contains the antigen-binding region, the area of the antibody that makes contact with the antigen has been referred to as the paratope. It becomes important to remember that even within a single antibody molecule, different areas within the V region are capable of combining with different antigens. Thus, antigen binding to antibody requires sufficient complementarity between the antigen and antibody molecule to generate the attractive forces necessary for this reaction to occur. This complementarity or fitting of structural conformations plays a dual role in both antigen binding to an antibody molecule and antigen mimicry by potential anti-antibodies that recognize the conformation induced by the V region of an antibody molecule.
Local anaesthetic repair of uncomplicated paraumbilical hernia without sedation: peri-operative pain and patient satisfaction.

Paraumbilical hernia (PUH) is a common condition that usually requires surgical repair. However, there is a dearth of literature on this surgery performed under local anaesthesia (LA) without the use of sedation. The aims of this study were to assess peri-operative pain and patient satisfaction in patients undergoing PUH repair using LA without sedation. All patients having PUH repair under a single consultant between January 2010 and December 2011 were eligible to participate. If eligible for both, patients chose either general anaesthetic (GA) or LA repair. If only eligible for either LA or GA, they were offered this anaesthetic modality. Visual analogue scales were used to report peri-operative pain (10 point score) and satisfaction (%). Results were compared by grade of surgeon (higher surgical trainee (HST) versus consultant). A total of 63 patients underwent PUH repair (31 GA; 32 LA). Of them, only 28/32 of LA repair patients agreed to participate. LA and GA patients had equivalent age and sex distribution. LA patients had a lower body mass index (BMI) than GA [27.1 (3.7) versus 30.3 (5.1), p = 0.007]. The median length of LA procedure was 24 (17.5–30) minutes. The median LA solution infiltrated was 25 (20–32) ml. Peri-operative pain scores were low [1.1 (0.3–2.9) %] and patient satisfaction was high [96 (91–99) %]. There were no differences in pain, patient satisfaction, duration of procedure and amount of LA infiltrated with increasing BMI. Comparing HST to consultant, the former took longer [30 (25–36) versus 20 (16–24) minutes, p = 0.0007], infiltrated more LA [34.5 (26–47) versus 20 (19–25.5) ml, p = 0.0039], and patients reported more pain [2.75 (1.0–4.95) versus 0.4 (0.2–1.7) %, p = 0.029], but overall satisfaction was equivalent [95.5 (89–99.25) versus 96.3 (92.25–99) %, p = 0.684]. Open mesh PUH repair using LA without sedation is associated with low peri-operative pain and very high satisfaction when either a higher surgical trainee or a consultant grade is operating.
The relationship of scaffolding on cognitive load in an online self-regulated learning environment

University of Minnesota Ph.D. dissertation. November 2010. Major: Education, Curriculum and Instruction. Advisors: Aaron Doering and Charles Miller. 1 computer file (PDF); vii, 111 pages, appendices A-B. Ill. (some col.)
Temporal gradient in shear-induced signaling pathway: involvement of MAP kinase, c-fos, and connexin43

The effect of a temporal gradient in shear and steady shear on the activity of extracellular signal-regulated protein kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/ERK2), c-fos, and connexin43 (Cx43) in human endothelial ...
Endoscopic transsphenoidal pituitary surgery

Surgical resection constitutes the first line treatment for pituitary adenomas except for prolactinomas which typically respond well to pharmacological therapy. Pituitary adenomas are generally resected via a tanssphenoidal approach. Using endoscopic technique a gross total resection is typically achieved in 90% of microadenomas (diameter cm) is facilitated by the use of angled endoscopes in combination with extended approaches. Thus, a gross total resection is achieved in more than two thirds of pituitary macroadenomas. However, once the tumor has invaded the cavernous sinus, gross total resection is only achieved in one third of patients. In functional pituitary adenomas such as prolactinomas, ACTH producing adenomas and growth hormone producing adenomas endocrinological remission is achieved in approximately 80% of patients. Similarly, remission rates decrease once the adenoma has invaded the cavernous sinus. In conclusion, endoscopic transsphenoidal technique allows for gross total resection in the vast majority of patients.
Exploring Text and Image Features to Classify Images in Bioscience Literature

A picture is worth a thousand words. Biomedical researchers tend to incorporate a significant number of images (i.e., figures or tables) in their publications to report experimental results, to present research models, and to display examples of biomedical objects. Unfortunately, this wealth of information remains virtually inaccessible without automatic systems to organize these images. We explored supervised machine-learning systems using Support Vector Machines to automatically classify images into six representative categories based on text, image, and the fusion of both. Our experiments show a significant improvement in the average F-score of the fusion classifier (73.66%) as compared with classifiers just based on image (50.74%) or text features (68.54%).
Review of pseudoinverse control for use with kinematically redundant manipulators

Kinematically redundant manipulators have a number of potential advantages over current manipulator designs. For this type of arm, velocity control through pseudoinverses is suggested. Questions associated with pseudoinverse control are examined in detail and show that in some cases this control leads to undesired arm configurations. A method for distributing joint angles of a redundant arm in a good approximation to a true minimax criterion is described. In addition several numerical considerations are discussed.
A Pedagogy of Social Justice Education: Social Identity Theory, Intersectionality, and Empowerment

This article explores a theoretical and practical understanding of social justice education through an examination of a US-based intergroup educational organization running conflict transformation programs since 2005. Based on in-depth interviews conducted with and surveys completed by administrators, educators, and student participants of the organization's programs, this article analyzes a case example of social justice education that integrates Freirean thought, social identity theory, intersectionality, and experiential education, including empowerment and responsibility education. Offering different programs aimed at distinct constituencies yet all based in the same pedagogy, the organization's primary goal is to empower participants to engage in social justice activism.
Temperature and Strain-Rate Dependent Plastic Deformation of Carbon Nanotube

In this work we use classical molecular dynamics to study strain rate and temperature dependent plasticity of carbon nanotube (CNT) under compressive strain. We focus on two types of defects: sp3 bond formation and bond rotation. Our simulation shows that thermal fluctuations help the strained CNT to overcome the local energy barrier to obtain plastic deformation. The yielding strain of a compressed CNT found to be strain-rate and temperature dependent, and low strain rate limit of the yielding strain is estimated to be less that 6%.
The chemical characteristics of soil in control and experimentally thinned plots in mesic oak forests along a historical deposition gradient

Abstract This study examined the variations in the chemical parameters of soils of seven forests located along a historical deposition gradient spanning 8.5° longitude from southern Illinois to central West Virginia. Four to six mature control plots were sampled on two of the sites, and two experimentally thinned and two control plots were sampled on the remaining five sites. Most soil properties varied significantly both among experimental forests and between control and thinned plots. Soil pH, Al, PO4 and inorganic N were correlated with longitude, whereas differences in Ca, Mg and Ca:Al ratio among experimental forests were more closely linked to differences in parent materials. Nine of the 12 soil properties measured differed between control and thinned plots, and the variance explained by the proportion of basal area removed in the experimental thinnings was always greater than that explained by longitude or current basal area. Overall, thinned plots had greater soil pH, inorganic N, Ca, Mg, K and Ca:Al ratio, whereas control plots had greater Al and PO4. These patterns of difference were also apparent when the chemical properties of soil of the experimental forests were analyzed individually. We suggest that thinning may have reduced uptake, increased relative nutrient availability, changed leaf and litter quality, and altered decomposition and mineralization rates in such a way as to produce persistent differences in soil properties.
Antiviral applications of Toll-like receptor agonists

In the past, antiviral research has focused mainly on viral targets. As the search for effective and differentiated antiviral therapies continues, cellular targets are becoming more common, bringing with them a variety of challenges and concerns. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) provide a unique mechanism to induce an antiviral state in the host. In this review we introduce TLRs as targets for the pharmaceutical industry, including how they signal and thereby induce an antiviral state through the production of type I interferons. We examine how TLRs are being therapeutically targeted and discuss several clinically precedented agents for which efficacy and safety data are available. We describe some of the chemistries that have been applied to both small molecule and large molecule leads to tune agonist potency, and offer a differentiated safety profile through targeting certain compartments such as the gut or the lung, thereby limiting systemic drug exposure and affecting systemic cytokine levels. The application of low-dose agonists of TLRs as vaccine adjuvants or immunoprotective agents is also presented. Some of the challenges presented by this approach are then discussed, including viral evasion strategies and mechanism-linked inflammatory cytokine induction.
Efficient inverse kinematics for general 6R manipulators

In this paper, we present an algorithm and implementation for efficient inverse kinematics for a general six-revolute (6R) manipulator. When stated mathematically, the problem reduces to solving a system of multivariate equations. We make use of the algebraic properties of the system and the symbolic formulation used for reducing the problem to solving a univariate polynomial. However, the polynomial is expressed as a matrix determinant and its roots are computed by reducing to an eigenvalue problem. The other roots of the multivariate system are obtained by computing eigenvectors and substitution. The algorithm involves symbolic preprocessing, matrix computations and a variety of other numerical techniques. The average running time of the algorithm, for most cases, is 11 milliseconds on an IBM RS/6000 workstation. This approach is applicable to inverse kinematics of all serial manipulators. >
Beam size measurement at high radiation levels

The small beam sizes below 100 mu m at the end of the Stanford Linear Accelerator require a good resolution of the measuring system. This is investigated. A high radiation level, which is produced by nearby collimators, forces the cameras to be moved to a remote location. An optical system has been built, which guides a 5-mm-wide picture with a resolution of about 30 mu m over a distance of 12 m to an accessible region. The overall resolution is limited by the screen thickness, optical diffraction and the line resolution of the camera. Vibration, chromatic effects or air fluctuations play a much less important role. The pictures are colored to get fast information about the beam current, size and tails. Beside the emittance, more information about the tail size and betatron phase is obtained by using four screens. First results are presented. >
Seroepidemiological study of herpes simplex virus type 2 infection in HIV positive patients, Delhi, India, 2007

Background: Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infection is the primary cause of genital herpes worldwide and also has potential role in facilitating human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) transmission. Materials and Methods: In our analytical cross-sectional study we interviewed and collected serum samples from 91 HIV positive subjects coming to antiretroviral therapy center at a government hospital in Delhi, to determine the seroprevalence and relative prevalence of HSV-2 among subjects with specific risk attributes. The patients were interviewed using a structured questionnaire and their serum samples were tested for HSV-2 specific immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies. We compared prevalence of HSV-2 antibodies between exposed and unexposed; to demographic, socioeconomic, and behavioral variables. Results: Fifty-two (57.1%) male and 39 (42.9%) female HIV positive subjects participated in the study. Seroprevalence of HSV-2 was 48.4% (males: 51.9% and females: 43.6%). Only 4.5% had given current history of genital ulcer. Overall increasing number of lifetime sexual partners showed significant association with HSV-2 seropositivity (Chi-square for trend: 19.17; P = 0.00001). Among men sexual contact with commercial sex workers (prevalence ratio (PR) = 6.6; 95% confidence interval (CI) =1.76-24.83; P = 0.0002) and age at first sexual intercourse P = 0.021) were significantly associated with HSV-2 seropositivity. Use of condom during sexual intercourse among men, showed significant protective effect (PR = 0.57; 95% CI = 0.356-0.902; P = 0.037). Among women history of past genital ulcer was significantly associated (PR = 2.25; 95% CI = 1.14-4.45; P = 0.026) with HSV-2 seroposititvity. Conclusions: The prevalence of HSV-2 is high in the study group with high proportions of undiagnosed HSV-2 infections. HSV type-specific serological testing in the HIV infected subpopulation should be used to diagnose HSV-2 infections and high risk groups should be targeted for interventions like behavioral intervention messages. Consistent condom use should be promoted.
Less reliability and maintainability . . . not more . . . is better (effectively applying R&M influence to the design process)

The authors offer a solution, implemented at Hughes Aircraft Company, to the problem of lack of communication between those responsible for reliability and maintainability and the design community. The solution, the supportability design evaluation system (SDES), recognizes that the result of effective communication can be achieved by reducing the need to communicate. This solution embeds reliability and maintainability analytical tools directly into the designer's CAD/CAE (computer-aided design/engineering) workstations. This provides the designer with online capability to evaluate his design in process and to capture reliability and maintainability improvements before metal is cut or mind-sets are established, and while time is available to do so. >
Subsequence Kernels for Relation Extraction

We present a new kernel method for extracting semantic relations between entities in natural language text, based on a generalization of subsequence kernels. This kernel uses three types of subsequence patterns that are typically employed in natural language to assert relationships between two entities. Experiments on extracting protein interactions from biomedical corpora and top-level relations from newspaper corpora demonstrate the advantages of this approach.
Induction of brain tumor stem cell apoptosis by FTY720: a potential therapeutic agent for glioblastoma

FTY720 is a sphingosine analogue that down regulates expression of sphingosine-1-phosphate receptors and causes apoptosis of multiple tumor cell types, including glioma cells. This study examined the effect of FTY720 on brain tumor stem cells (BTSCs) derived from human glioblastoma (GBM) tissue. FTY720 treatment of BTSCs led to rapid inactivation of ERK MAP kinase, leading to upregulation of the BH3-only protein Bim and apoptosis. In combination with temozolomide (TMZ), the current standard chemotherapeutic agent for GBM, FTY720 synergistically induced BTSC apoptosis. FTY720 also slowed growth of intracranial xenograft tumors in nude mice and augmented the therapeutic effect of TMZ, leading to enhanced survival. Furthermore, the combination of FTY720 and TMZ decreased the invasiveness of BTSCs in mouse brains. FTY720 is known to cross the blood-brain barrier and recently received Food and Drug Administration approval for treatment of relapsing multiple sclerosis. Thus, FTY720 is an excellent potential therapeutic agent for treatment of GBM.
The Association Between Customer-Oriented Selling Performance with Outcome-Based and Judgmental-Based Measures of Salesperson Effectiveness

This research examines customer-oriented selling performance with four measures of salesperson effectiveness. Results from a sample of 402 salespeople indicate that judgmental-based measures of effectiveness are associated with customer-oriented selling, while outcome-based measures are not.
A Survey of Recent Prefetching Techniques for Processor Caches

As the trends of process scaling make memory systems an even more crucial bottleneck, the importance of latency hiding techniques such as prefetching grows further. However, naively using prefetching can harm performance and energy efficiency and, hence, several factors and parameters need to be taken into account to fully realize its potential. In this article, we survey several recent techniques that aim to improve the implementation and effectiveness of prefetching. We characterize the techniques on several parameters to highlight their similarities and differences. The aim of this survey is to provide insights to researchers into working of prefetching techniques and spark interesting future work for improving the performance advantages of prefetching even further.
Inhibition of [3H]TdR and [3H]CdR incorporation in an established human lymphoma cell line by trypsin treatment.

Summary[3H]TdR and [3H]CdR incorporation into intact human lymphoma cells was reversibly inhibited by brief treatment with proteolytic agents (trypsin and Viokase). Neither enzyme affected the incorporation of the tritiated nucleosides by HeLa or human melanoma cells. These results are different from those described for rodent B-lymphoid cells and indicate that protease treatment does not invariably lead to increased DNA synthesis.
Manipulation of chloride flux affects histamine-induced contraction in rabbit basilar artery

Cl− efflux induces depolarization and contraction of smooth muscle cells. This study was undertaken to explore the role of Cl− flux in histamine-induced contraction in the rabbit basilar artery. Ma...
Hollow Silica Capsules with Well-Defined Asymmetric Windows in the Shell

A straightforward and effective approach to fabricate porous silica capsules with well-defined asymmetric windows in the shell using raspberry-like templates has been developed. This process begins with the formation of a hierarchical template by chemically coupling a large polystyrene sphere to an ensemble of small, polystyrene latex spheres. The hierarchical template in conjunction with a hard templating method and spin-coating leads to silica capsules with well-defined, asymmetric pores (windows) in the outer shell. Proof-of-principle of this approach has been demonstrated using a 1500/110 nm hierarchical template. The silica capsules thus produced were characterized with scanning electron microscopy and STEM. The diameter of the capsules was ∼1400 nm, and the outer opening of the windows was ∼100 nm in size, consistent with the diameters of the core and satellite spheres considering the shrinkage due to the calcination. The inner opening was ∼30 nm, which gives rise to an asymmetry factor, defined as ...
The development and validation of the eHealth competency scale: A measurement of self-efficacy, knowledge, usage, and motivation

ABSTRACTThe purpose of this study is to construct and validate a scale of electronic health (e-health) communication competence. Based on a comprehensive review of e-health literature, this scale was constructed using two studies to gather data and validate the scale; four dimensions emerged in the final measurement: e-health self-efficacy, knowledge, usage, and motivation. Results suggest the e-health competence scale is useful for researchers to develop online health interventions and other domains of computer-mediated communication.
THE LAST WALL TO FALL The Anthropology of Collective Action and Unions in the Global System

To show relationships among states, class structures, global process, and locales, I situate the ethnography of Southeast Asia in global events, sketch collective action theory, indicate how it pertains to labor unions in the U.S., and discuss how they were shaped by corporate violence, a corporate cultural revolution, and corporate legislative campaigns. I suggest that the fight to free the "Charleston 5" longshoremen is an example of labor solidarity in the global system and indicate that dockers have built the last wall against neoliberal global markets. I finish with an assessment of the potential for the U.S. labor movement to become a social movement in service of class struggle and end with some comments about both the disheartening role and the potential of the American Anthropological Association in the labor struggle. I add a note to suggest that collective action is an artifact of our evolution and that it is not collective action that needs to be explained so much as departures from it.
To investigate the blind detection method of benzene solvent desorption activated carbon tube

Objective To investigate the method of solvent desorption activated carbon tube detection of benzene;Determination of benzene desorption efficiency of solvent desorption activated carbon tube.Methods Chromatography using benzene solvent desorption gas;Active carbon tube adsorption benzene standard solution,and then by carbon disulfide desorption,1 min shaking,desorption of 30 min,analysis in chromatography under the given conditions.Results The blind sample testing results of 39.93μg,qualified.Conclusions The determination of calculating desorption rate of activated carbon tube,for solvent desorption gas chromatography are benzene sample testing,the results of high accuracy,reliable detection method,and is applicable to the grass-roots units.
CD4-induced antibodies promote association of the HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein with CD4-binding site antibodies

ABSTRACT The HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein (Env) is a trimer of gp120/gp41 heterodimers that mediates viral entry. Env binds cellular CD4, an association which stabilizes a conformation favorable to its subsequent association with a coreceptor, typically CCR5 or CXCR4. The CD4- and coreceptor-binding sites serve as epitopes for two classes of HIV-1-neutralizing antibodies: CD4-binding site (CD4bs) and CD4-induced (CD4i) antibodies, respectively. Here we observed that, at a fixed total concentration, mixtures of the CD4i antibodies (E51 or 412d) and the CD4bs antibody VRC01 neutralized the HIV-1 isolates 89.6, ADA, SG3, and SA32 more efficiently than either antibody alone. We found that E51, and to a lesser extent 412d and 17b, promoted association of four CD4bs antibodies to the Env trimer but not to monomeric gp120. We further demonstrated that the binding of the sulfotyrosine-binding pocket by CCR5mim2-Ig was sufficient for promoting CD4bs antibody binding to Env. Interestingly, the relationship is not reciprocal: CD4bs antibodies were not as efficient as CD4-Ig at promoting E51 or 412d binding to Env trimer. Consistent with these observations, CD4-Ig, but none of the CD4bs antibodies tested, substantially increased HIV-1 infection of a CD4-negative, CCR5-positive cell line. We conclude that the ability of CD4i antibodies to promote VRC01 association with Env trimers accounts for the increase potency of VRC01 and CD4i antibody mixtures. Our data further suggest that potent CD4bs antibodies avoid inducing Env conformations that bind CD4i antibodies or CCR5. IMPORTANCE Potent HIV-1-neutralizing antibodies can prevent viral transmission and suppress an ongoing infection. Here we show that CD4-induced (CD4i) antibodies, which recognize the conserved coreceptor-binding site of the HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein (Env), can increase the association of Env with potent broadly neutralizing antibodies that recognize the CD4-binding site (CD4bs antibodies). We further show that, unlike soluble forms of CD4, CD4bs antibodies poorly induce envelope glycoprotein conformations that efficiently bind CCR5. This study provides insight into the properties of potent CD4bs antibodies and suggests that, under some conditions, CD4i antibodies can improve their potency. These observations may be helpful to the development of vaccines designed to elicit specific antibody classes.
Palaeoclimate: CO 2 and late Palaeozoic glaciation

Large glacial–interglacial fluctuations occurred during the late Palaeozoic. Geochemical and fossil data show these cycles were marked by coincident shifts in the carbon cycle and terrestrial biosphere.
Structural and Optical Properties of Al0.30Ga0.70N/AlN Multiple Quantum Wells Grown on Vicinal 4H p-SiC Substrates by Molecular Beam Epitaxy

AlGaN based multiple quantum wells (MQWs) were grown on 8° vicinal 4H p-SiC substrates by plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy. The MQWs were designed to emit near 300 nm using the wurtzite k.p model. The MQW periodicity and strain state were measured with X-ray diffraction. The optical properties were characterized with temperature dependent photoluminescence (PL). The internal quantum efficiency was estimated from the ratio of room temperature to 18K integrated PL intensity. Internal quantum efficiency up to 48% was achieved. These data are encouraging for future vertical and inverted ultraviolet light emitting diodes grown on p-SiC substrates.
Development of a tailored interactive colorectal cancer screening intervention for Latinos

B33 Hispanics in general report low rates of Colorectal Cancer screening (CRCS) and CRCS utilization among Hispanics living along the Texas-Mexico border is particularly low. The aim of this study was to develop a tailored interactive multimedia intervention (TIMI) to increase CRCS among Hispanics living along the Texas-Mexico Border. We conducted formative research using qualitative and quantitative methods to understand CRCS behavior in our priority population. Our findings indicated that most participants had never been screened, were unaware of CRCS and had misconceptions about colorectal cancer and CRCS, as well as several barriers to screening. We found that most participants spoke only Spanish and many were illiterate. The findings also revealed that individuals varied in their stage of change for adopting screening and included persons in two levels of a precontemplation stage (unaware CRCS, and aware of CRCS) and in a contemplation stage. We used the Transtheoretical Model as the overarching theoretical framework and Intervention Mapping to guide the development of the program. The program includes soap opera style vignettes and tailored interactive educational segments with graphics and audio elements. All components were designed to encourage screening and facilitate decision-making about screening options using culturally appropriate and appealing messages. The program will be delivered by lay health educators.
When and Why the South African Government Disobeys Court Orders

A common objection to the justiciability of social and economic rights is that judicial decisions protecting such rights are unlikely to be enforced — or less likely to be enforced than similar orders remedying violations of civil and political rights. This objection does not hold up in the central case of South Africa, one of the first countries to make social and economic rights justiciable. The South African constitution contains broad provisions protecting social and economic rights, and the South African government has a good reputation — partially justified — for compliance with decisions of its Constitutional Court. This note relies on newspaper accounts and the parliamentary record to investigate the aftermath of ten well-known Court judgments and explain why the South African government sometimes complies and sometimes does not. The conclusion: administrative incapacity and the political interests of the African National Congress are the most common causes of noncompliance. In reaching that conclusion, this note rejects the view that the South African government is especially unlikely to comply with decisions remedying violations of socio-economic rights.
Effective reaction rate on a heterogeneous surface

We examine the problem of prescribing the macroscale boundary condition to the solute convective–diffusive mass transport equation at a heterogeneous surface consisting of reactive circular disks distributed uniformly on a non-reactive surface. The reaction rate at the disks is characterized by a first-order kinetics. This problem was examined by Shah & Shaqfeh (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 782, 2015, pp. 260–299) who obtained the boundary condition in terms of an effective first-order rate constant, which they determined as a function of the Peclet number , the fraction of the surface area occupied by the reactive disks and the non-dimensional reaction rate constant . Here, is the radius of the disks, is the solute diffusivity, is the wall shear rate and is the first-order surface-reaction rate constant. Their analysis assumed that and are while the ratio of the microscale to the macroscale is small. The macroscale transport process is convection–diffusion dominated under these conditions. We examine here the case when the non-dimensional numbers based on the macroscale are . In this limit the microscale transport problem is reaction rate dominated. We find that the boundary condition can be expressed in terms of an effective rate constant only up to , where . Higher-order expressions for the mass flux involve both the macroscopic concentration and its surface gradient. The microscale problem is relatively easy to solve as the convective effects are unimportant and it is possible to obtain analytical expressions for the effective rate constant as a function of for both periodic and random arrangement of the disks without having to solve the boundary integral equation as was done by Shah and Shaqfeh. The results thus obtained are shown to be in good agreement with those obtained numerically by Shah and Shaqfeh for . In a separate study, Shah et al. (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 811, 2017, pp. 372–399) examined the inverse-geometry problem in which the disks are inert and the rest of the surface surrounding them is reactive. We show that the two problems are related when and . Finally, a related problem of determining the current density at a surface consisting of an array of microelectrodes is also examined and the analytical results obtained for the current density are found to agree well with the computed values obtained by solving the integral equation numerically by Lucas et al. (SIAM J. Appl. Maths, vol. 57(6), 1997, pp. 1615–1638) over a wide range of parameters characterizing this problem.
Comparison of Endoscopic Ultrasound–Fine-needle Aspiration and Endoscopic Ultrasound–Fine-needle Biopsy for Solid Lesions in a Multicenter, Randomized Trial

Background & Aims Endoscopic ultrasound with fine-needle aspiration (FNA) is the standard of care for tissue sampling of solid lesions adjacent to the gastrointestinal tract. Fine-needle biopsy (FNB) may provide higher diagnostic yield with fewer needle passes. The aim of this study was to assess the difference in diagnostic yield between FNA and FNB. Methods This is a multicenter, prospective randomized clinical trial from 6 large tertiary care centers. Patients referred for tissue sampling of solid lesions were randomized to either FNA or FNB of the target lesion. Demographics, size, location, number of needle passes, and final diagnosis were recorded. Results After enrollment, 135 patients were randomized to FNA (49.3%), and 139 patients were randomized to FNB (50.7%).The following lesions were sampled: mass (n = 210, 76.6%), lymph nodes (n = 46, 16.8%), and submucosal tumors (n = 18, 6.6%). Final diagnosis was malignancy (n = 192, 70.1%), reactive lymphadenopathy (n = 30, 11.0%), and spindle cell tumors (n = 24, 8.8%). FNA had a diagnostic yield of 91.1% compared with 88.5% for FNB (P = .48). There was no difference between FNA and FNB when stratified by the presence of on-site cytopathology or by type of lesion sampled. A median of 1 needle pass was needed to obtain a diagnostic sample for both needles. Conclusions FNA and FNB obtained a similar diagnostic yield with a comparable number of needle passes. On the basis of these results, there is no significant difference in the performance of FNA compared with FNB in the cytologic diagnosis of solid lesions adjacent to the gastrointestinal tract. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01698190.