cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Limited Substrate Specificity of PS/γ-Secretase Is Supported by Novel Multiplexed FRET Analysis in Live Cells.

Presenilin (PS)/γ-secretase is an aspartyl protease that processes a wide range of transmembrane proteins such as the amyloid precursor protein (APP) and Notch1, playing essential roles in normal biological events and diseases. However, whether there is a substrate preference for PS/γ-secretase processing in cells is not fully understood. Structural studies of PS/γ-secretase enfolding a fragment of APP or Notch1 showed that the two substrates engage the protease in broadly similar ways, suggesting the limited substrate specificity of PS/γ-secretase. In the present study, we developed a new multiplexed imaging platform that, for the first time, allowed us to quantitatively monitor how PS/γ-secretase processes two different substrates (e.g., APP vs. Notch1) in the same cell. In this assay, we utilized the recently reported, spectrally compatible visible and near-infrared (NIR)-range Forster resonance energy transfer (FRET) biosensors that permit quantitative recording of PS/γ-secretase activity in live cells. Here, we show that, overall, PS/γ-secretase similarly cleaves Notch1 N100, wild-type APP C99, and familial Alzheimer's disease (FAD)-linked APP C99 mutants in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells, which further supports the limited PS/γ-secretase substrate specificity. On the other hand, a cell-by-cell basis analysis demonstrates a certain degree of variability in substrate recognition and processing by PS/γ-secretase among different cells. Our new multiplexed FRET assay could be a useful tool to better understand how PS/γ-secretase processes its multiple substrates in normal and disease conditions in live, intact cells.
PyMVPD: A toolbox for multivariate pattern dependence

Cognitive tasks engage multiple brain regions. Studying how these regions interact is key to understand the neural bases of cognition. Standard approaches to model the interactions between brain regions rely on univariate statistical dependence. However, newly developed methods can capture multivariate dependence. Multivariate Pattern Dependence (MVPD) is a powerful and flexible approach that trains and tests multivariate models of the interactions between brain regions using independent data. In this article, we introduce PyMVPD: an open source toolbox for Multivariate Pattern Dependence. The toolbox includes pre-implemented linear regression models and artificial neural network models of the interactions between regions. It is designed to be easily customizable. We demonstrate example applications of PyMVPD using well-studied seed regions such as the fusiform face area (FFA) and the parahippocampal place area (PPA). Next, we compare the performance of different model architectures. Overall, artificial neural networks outperform linear regression. Importantly, the best performing architecture is region-dependent: MVPD subdivides cortex in distinct, contiguous regions whose interaction with FFA and PPA is best captured by different models.
Defining phosphor luminescence property requirements for white AC LED flicker reduction

Abstract In this paper, we investigate the luminescence of slow-decay phosphors under flickering excitation from an alternating current light-emitting diode (AC LED). A mathematical model was developed to predict the behavior of slow-decay phosphors. The model predictions were validated by experiment. Results showed that it is possible to achieve good quality white light with low flicker index from an AC LED with a slow-decay phosphor. A human factors study confirmed the potential of slow-decay phosphors to improve acceptability of the light output from AC LEDs. Based on this study, we propose a set of recommendations for slow-decay phosphor luminescence properties to create a white AC LED with minimal flicker.
Papillary parathyroid adenoma : A rare occurrence and its importance in differentiation from papillary carcinoma of the thyroid

The case of a 67-year-old woman with primary hyperparathyroidism manifested by hypercalcemia with anorexia, nausea, and weakness; low serum phosphorus; high circulating parathyroid hormone; and mildly elevated calcitriol and parathyroid hormone-related protein is reported. A cystic lesion was removed from the inferior pole of the right lobe of the thyroid, and serum calcium levels rapidly returned to normal. The lesion was proven histologically to be a parathyroid adenoma with predominate papillary features. The differentiation of such a rare lesion from papillary carcinoma of the thyroid, both histologically and cytologically, is stressed.
The urophysial hydrosmotic factor of fishes. I. Characteristics and similarity to neurohypophysial hormones.

Abstract The urophysial hydrosmotic factor of the gobiid Gillichthys mirabilis is compared with neurohypophysial hormones in regard to their influence on the water permeability of the toad bladder. Dose-response and time-course studies, as well as treatment with inactivating agents such as thioglycolate, trypsin, and pregnancy serum, indicate similarity in both their mode of action and their chemical properties.
Changes in the European Union’s Regime of Recognizing and Enforcing Foreign Judgments and Transnational Litigation in the United States

The European Commission has proposed to amend (recast) the Brussels I Regulation, which governs jurisdiction to adjudicate, parallel proceedings, and judgments recognition within the European Union. The proposed amendments are part of a deeper set of structural and conceptual changes in the law of transnational litigation within the Union over the past couple of decades. Understanding these changes is essential to understanding what drives the proposed amendments and what is likely to follow.In this paper – presented at the symposium Our Courts and the World at Southwestern Law School on February 3, 2012 – I focus on the European Union’s regime of recognizing and enforcing judgments. I first set out the current regime under the Brussels I Regulation and then explore the larger structural and conceptual changes in the transnational litigation law of the European Union that have taken place over the last two decades. On this basis, I then discuss the proposed amendments to the Brussels I Regulation that bear on judgments recognition (including the envisioned extension of the Regulation’s jurisdictional regime to defendants from non-member countries). I conclude with an analysis of the importance of both the proposed amendments and the larger changes explored for litigants and law reformers in the United States.
Turrini, The End of Amateurism in American Track and Field

Most Americans today view athletes as superstars who get paid lots of money to entertain by performing well in their sports. Few question, however, how sports came to be the high-profile moneymakin...
Loading Rate Effects on Compressibility of Sand

Stress-strain curves from 61 uniaxial strain tests are presented which depict the response of three dry sands to intense transient pressures; the loadings ranged from 10 MPa to 80 MPa and were applied with rise times ranging from a few tenths of a millisecond to a few minutes. Equipment and techniques used to conduct the tests and to assess the effect of wave propagation on the measurements are described. The data show that the resistance of dry sands to compression increases dramatically when loading rise times are less than 1 msec, and that the character of the stress-strain relation shifts rapidly from a stiffening response (curvature concave to stress axis) to a softening response (curvature concave to strain axis). The stress-strain response of a relatively simple rate-dependent rheologic model is shown to be in good agreement, both qualitatively and quantitatively, with the measured results.
The slave-girls who enslaved the free-born: Slave-girls and their masters in Islamic literature

Abstract: Slave-girls, and in particular singing slave-girls, hold a prominent place in Islamic literary sources. These sources provide quite a number of stories in which the masters of slave-girls fall deeply in love with them, and then, when faced with the prospect of separation or are indeed separated from them, humble themselves and risk losing their honour, all of their wealth, and even their own lives in order to be reunited with the girl whom they love. In some stories, intelligent and learned slave-girls take the initiative to preserve their relationships with their masters who are often depicted as inept and clueless. In the end, the girl is typically given her freedom and marries her master. Although the men are the legal masters of the slave-girls, it seems that there is an inversion of the master/slave roles in the tales and that it is the slave-girl who controls the destiny of both. Resumen: Las esclavas, con mencion especial de las que cantan, tienen un lugar de preferencia en las fuentes literarias islamistas. Estas fuentes proveen un gran numero de cuentos en los que los amos de estas esclavas se enamoran de ellas y luego al afrontarse la posibilidad de separacion, y de hecho los dos se encuentran separados, se humillan y corren el riesgo de perder su honor, toda su riqueza y hasta sus propias vidas para reunirse con la chica que aman. En algunos cuentos, esclavas listas y doctas toman la iniciativa para preservar sus relaciones con los duenos, quienes parecen ser torpes y negados. A fin de cuentas, la chica suele recibir su libertad y se casa con el amo. A pesar de ser el amo legal de las esclavas, parece que hay una inversion de los papeles de amo/esclavo en estos cuentos y es la esclava la que controla el destino de los dos.
A study of fast transients in gas insulated substations

Experimental and theoretical techniques are being used to investigate the response of gas-insulated substations (GISs) to fast transients. Sensors were developed to record fast transient waveforms accurately over a wide frequency range. Their performance under fast transient conditions was verified using a D-dot probe with a known response. Good agreement was recorded by instrumentation with a 200-MHz bandwidth. A computer code was developed to enable electrical stresses in a GIS under fast transient conditions to be studied. The program solves Maxwell's equations in two dimensions using a finite-difference method. The electric field structure around insulating barriers was studied, and initial results are presented. >
Application of Stationary Hydroacoustic Systems for Studies of Fish Abundance and Behavior

In most applications of hydroacoustic techniques for fish detection and abundance estimation, the data collection procedure involves echo sounding in a down-looking mode from a moving vessel. Stationary systems are virtually unused because of the reduced sampling power; however, in some cases stationary systems may offer several advantages. This study reports on two applications of stationary hydroacoustic systems: one at a coastal power plant intake in Southern California, and the second under the ice near Prudhoe Bay, Alaska. Several advantages of stationary systems were apparent, including more detailed information on fish behavior, capability for detection closer to boundaries, and better signal to noise characteristics.
Initial state energy loss dependence of J/Ψ and Drell–Yan in relativistic heavy ion collisions

Abstract We present a Glauber-based study of J/Ψ and Drell–Yan yields in nucleus–nucleus collisions. Using this approach, we have investigated the impact of energy loss by the colliding nuclei on observed yields and transverse momentum spectra of J/Ψ and Drell–Yan. These studies permit an assessment of the importance of initial state energy loss in relation to “anomalous” J/Ψ suppression.
Classification of textures using Gaussian Markov random fields

The problem of texture classification arises in several disciplines such as remote sensing, computer vision, and image analysis. In this paper we present two feature extraction methods for the classification of textures using two-dimensional (2-D) Markov random field (MRF) models. It is assumed that the given M × M texture is generated by a Gaussian MRF model. In the first method, the least square (LS) estimates of model parameters are used as features. In the second method, using the notion of sufficient statistics, it is shown that the sample correlations over a symmetric window including the origin are optimal features for classification. Simple minimum distance classifiers using these two feature sets yield good classification accuracies for a seven class problem.
Role of adrenals in morphine-induced hyperthermia in restrained rats

Abstract Role of adrenals in morphine-induced hyperthermia was studied in normal, neurotransmitter antagonist-pretreated, chemical-sympathectomized, adrenalectomized or adrenal-demedullated rats. In restrained female rats, 5 mg/kg morphine produced hyperthermia whereas 20 mg/kg and 40 mg/kg produced hypothermia. Pretreatment with either phenoxybenzamine, propranolol, pentolinium or scopolamine inhibited the hyperthermia. After adrenalectomy, neither 5 mg/kg nor chronic administration of 20 mg/kg morphine produced previously demonstrated hyperthermia. After adrenal-demedullation, a dose of 5 mg/kg morphine also did not produce hyperthermia. In contrast to female rats, restrained male rats showed no significant effect on body temperature after 5 mg/kg morphine, requiring 20 mg/kg and 40 mg/kg morphine to produce hyperthermia. In adrenalectomized male rats, 20 mg/kg morphine did not produce the usual hyperthermia. The results suggest that male rats are more resistant to the hyperthermic effects of morphine than female rats and that in the rat, the adrenals, likely the medulla, play an important role in morphine-induced hyperthermia.
Using a traffic simulation model (VISSIM) with an emissions model (MOVES) to predict emissions from vehicles on a limited-access highway

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) estimates that baseline global GHG emissions may increase 25–90% from 2000 to 2030, with carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions growing 40–110% over the same period. On-road vehicles are a major source of CO2 emissions in all the developed countries, and in many of the developing countries in the world. Similarly, several criteria air pollutants are associated with transportation, for example, carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter (PM). Therefore, the need to accurately quantify transportation-related emissions from vehicles is essential. The new U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) mobile source emissions model, MOVES2010a (MOVES), can estimate vehicle emissions on a second-by-second basis, creating the opportunity to combine a microscopic traffic simulation model (such as VISSIM) with MOVES to obtain accurate results. This paper presents an examination of four different approaches to capture the environmental impacts of veh...
Dry triboelectrostatic separation of mineral particles: a potential application in space exploration

Abstract It is generally believed that the success of a permanent lunar base would rely on its near self-sufficiency in crucial life-sustaining, habitat and operating materials. Although these materials can be extracted from soils and ores, it is imperative that such processing be as simple, efficient and reliable as possible. A candidate processing technology for producing concentrated ilmenite, from which oxygen can be extracted for human use on the moon, is the triboelectrostatic separation method. In this research, an experimental study was conducted to investigate the fundamentals of triboelectrification and the potential of applying these fundamentals to triboelectrostatic separation for mineral beneficiation. Five samples representing minerals typical of those found in lunar regolith from the plagioclase group — albite, the pyroxene group — augite, as well as ilmenite, forsterite and quartz were mixed at size ranges of +200 to −140 mesh (75–106 μm). The charge polarity and magnitude on the particle surface as a consequence of impacting a copper tube surface were measured. The relative work functions of these minerals were then qualitatively predicted. The mixtures were also subjected to purification/beneficiation tests by using our analytical triboelectrostatic separator. The parent mineral mixtures and their separated fractions were characterized by optical microscopy to determine to what extent the mixtures were beneficiated. These preliminary results show that dry triboelectrostatic separation has potential to be a simple and efficient method to separate ilmenite from a physical mixture of closely related minerals.
Reliability and Validity of the Transracial Adoption Parenting Scale

The present study provides information on the reliability and validity of the Transracial Adoption Parenting Scale (TAPS), a multidimensional 36-item Likert-type scale that measures cultural competence among transracial adoptive (TRA) parents. The TAPS was theoretically developed and refined through feedback from experts in TRA adoption. A cross-sectional survey design was used with a national nonprobability sample of 1,411 TRA parents. Each parent completed the 53-item TAPS and three other instruments with which to examine criterion and construct validity. After a preliminary factor analysis of the 53-item TAPS, the authors found that 36 items were retained in six factors. The 36-item TAPS had excellent reliability (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.91), concurrent and discriminant validity were supported. Conclusion: Findings suggest that the TAPS holds promise of being a psychometrically sound instrument with which to measure cultural competence among TRA parents. Further investigation is warranted.
Features of the Observed Annual Ocean-Atmosphere Flux Variability on the West Florida Shelf

The annual cycle of sea surface temperature and ocean‐atmosphere fluxes on the west Florida shelf is described using in situ measurements and climatology. Seasonal reversals in water temperature tendency occur when the net surface heat flux changes sign in boreal spring and fall. Synoptic-scale variability is also important. Momentum and heat flux variations result in successive water column stratification and destratification events, particularly at shallower depths during spring. Fall is characterized by destratification of the water column and a series of steplike decreases in the temperature. These are in response to both tropical storms and extratropical fronts. Tropical storms are responsible for the largest momentum fluxes, but not necessarily for the largest surface heat fluxes. A one-dimensional analysis of the temperature equation suggests that surface heat flux is primarily responsible for the spring and fall seasonal ocean temperature changes, but that synoptic-scale variability is also controlled by the ocean circulation dynamics. During summer, the situation is reversed and the major influence on water temperature is ocean dynamics, with the heat flux contributing to the synoptic-scale variability. There is also evidence of interannual variability: the wintertime temperatures get increasingly colder from 1998 to 2000, and the greatest stratification and coldest subsurface temperatures occur in 1998. NCEP‐NCAR reanalysis fields do not reproduce the high spatial flux variability observed in situ or with satellite measurements. Reconciling these differences and their impacts on the climate variability of this region provides challenges to coupled ocean‐ atmosphere models and their supporting observing systems.
Measurement and Interpretation of Low Levels of Dissolved Oxygen in Ground Water

A Rhodazine-D colorimetric technique was adapted to measure low-level dissolved oxygen concentrations in ground water. Prepared samples containing between 0 and 8.0 μmoles · 1-1 dissolved oxygen in equilibrium with known gas mixtures produced linear spectrophotometric absorbance with a lower detection limit of 0.2 μmoles · 1-1. Excellent reproducibility was found for solutions ranging in composition from deionized water to sea water with chemical interferences detected only for easily reduced metal species such as ferric ion, cupric ion, and hexavalent chromium. Such effects were correctable based on parallel reaction stoichiometries relative to oxygen. The technique, coupled with a downhole wire line tool, permitted low-level monitoring of dissolved oxygen in wells at the selenium-contaminated Kesterson Reservoir in California. Results indicated a close association between low but measurable dissolved oxygen concentrations and mobility of oxidized forms of selenium in the shallow aquifer which were in general electrochemical disequilibrium.
Contrast affects the transmission of visual information through the mammalian lateral geniculate nucleus.

1. We recorded with one electrode action potentials of single principal cells in the lateral geniculate nucleus (l.g.n.) of cats and monkeys, together with their retinal inputs, recorded as synaptic potentials (S potentials; Bishop, Burke & Davis, 1958; Cleland, Dubin & Levick, 1971; Kaplan & Shapley, 1984). 2. We studied the effect of stimulus contrast on the transmission of visual information from the retina to the l.g.n., compared the spontaneous discharge of l.g.n. cells with that of their retinal inputs, and studied the driven (modulated) and maintained (unmodulated) discharge of l.g.n. neurones and their retinal drives. 3. The spontaneous discharge of l.g.n. cells was considerably lower than that of their retinal drives. 4. The maintained (unmodulated) discharge of l.g.n. cells during stimulation was lower than that of their retinal drives, and was largely unaffected by the stimulus contrast. 5. The responses of both the retinal input and l.g.n. cells increased with contrast, but at different rates: a given increment of contrast caused a larger increment of response in the retinal input than in the l.g.n. target cells. 6. The transmission ratio (l.g.n. response/retinal response) for most cells depended upon the stimulus contrast. This dependence indicates the presence of a non-linear contrast gain control. 7. The amount by which the l.g.n. attenuated the retinal input depended upon the temporal frequency, and, to a lesser extent, upon the spatial frequency of the stimulus. 8. The effect of contrast on signal transmission between the retina and l.g.n. was essentially the same in the macaque monkey as in the cat. 9. The attenuation of the retinal input by the l.g.n. contrast gain control could serve to prevent saturation and extend the dynamic range of cortical units, which probably receive input from several l.g.n. units.
Proteome analysis using selective incorporation of isotopically labeled amino acids

A method is described for identifying intact proteins from genomic databases using a combination of accurate molecular mass measurements and partial amino acid content. An initial demonstration was conducted for proteins isolated from Escherichia coli (E. coli) using a multiple auxotrophic strain of K12. Proteins extracted from the organism grown in natural isotopic abundance minimal medium and also minimal medium containing isotopically labeled leucine (Leu-D10), were mixed and analyzed by capillary isoelectric focusing (CIEF) coupled with Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FTICR). The incorporation of the isotopically labeled Leu residue has no effect on the CIEF separation of the protein, therefore both versions of the protein are observed within the same FTICR spectrum. The difference in the molecular mass of the natural isotopic abundance and Leu-D10 isotopically labeled proteins is used to determine the number of Leu residues present in that particular protein. Knowledge of the molecular mass and number of Leu residues present can be used to unambiguously identify the intact protein. Preliminary results show the efficacy of this method for unambiguously identifying proteins isolated from E. coli.
Phosphocholine and sphingosine-1-phosphate synergistically stimulate DNA synthesis by a MAP kinase-dependent mechanism

We have previously shown that in NIH 3T3 fibroblasts phosphocholine (PCho) potentiates sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P)-induced mitogenesis. Here we report that PCho and S1P also synergistically stimulate DNA synthesis in mouse Swiss 3T3 fibroblasts and in mouse JB6 epidermal cells. The combined actions of PCho and S1P on DNA synthesis were associated with synergistic activation of the p42/p44 mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinases. Ethanolamine (50–100 μM) further enhanced the synergistic effects of PCho and S1P on DNA synthesis but not on MAP kinase activity. The results indicate that the synergistic mitogenic effects of PCho and S1P (i) are not restricted to NIH 3T3 fibroblasts, (ii) are predominantly mediated by the MAP kinase-dependent signal transduction pathway, and (iii) are enhanced by ethanolamine via a MAP kinase-independent mechanism.
Flow Testing Methods to Detect and Characterize Partial Blockages in Looped Subsea Flowlines

Looping subsea flowlines is one method being utilized for flow assurance. Looping allows the possibility of circulating chemicals and/or tools to remediate partial flowline blockages due to wax, paraffins, asphaltenes, hydrates, sand, and scale. This study considers if flow testing can provide an a priori knowledge of the presence and/or size of the partial blockage before remedial action is taken. The techniques developed are for single-phase liquid flow and can be applied during circulation operations in looped flowlines or in single-phase oil transportation lines. Using these models, a blockage map is created to indicate what size of blockage can be detected and what size of blockage can be characterized as to length and diameter of the restriction. Field-scale verification was obtained by placing fixed length and diameter partial blockages in the 9460-ft LSU flowloop (3.64-in, i.d.). Tests were conducted with liquid rates to 11 bpm (15,840 bbl/day) and pressures to 4000 psia.
Flexible Corner Detection Based On A Single-Parameter Control

Corner detection is often an important part of feature extraction and pattern recognition. For a given contour image, different sets of corners can be extracted depending on the scale adopted to examine the object. Existing algorithms do not emphasize the adjustability of the detection and the effect of changing their parameters is hard to predict. In this paper, we propose an algorithm which is controlled by a single parameter for corner detection. The tangent direction along the contour is evaluated based on the Poisson function weighted average of the directions connecting the given point to its neighbours within a range specified by the parameter. And the change in the tangent direction is then smoothed and compared within the range to find the corners. Based on our scheme, the number of corners decreases monotonically as the parameter value increases. The scaling effect of this simple parameter is easily predictable and similar to human visual perception. Some experimental results are shown in this article.
Banach algebras with involution and Möbius transformations

Abstract This paper introduces the use of Potapov's Mobius transformations in the study of Banach algebras with involution.
3-(4-Oxocyclohexyl)propionic acid monohydrate: hydrogen bonding in the hydrate of a ζ-keto acid

In the title crystal structure, C9H14O3·H2O, the water mol­ecule accepts a hydrogen bond from the carboxyl group [O⋯O = 2.6004 (13) A and O—H⋯O = 163°], while donating hydrogen bonds to the ketone [O⋯O = 2.8193 (14) A and O—H⋯O = 178 (2)°] and the acid carbonyl groups [O⋯O = 2.8010 (14) A and O—H⋯O = 174 (2)°]. This creates a network of hydrogen bonds confined within a continuous flat ribbon two mol­ecules in width and extending in the [101] direction.
SUBSTRATE MEDIATED INTERACTION BETWEEN ADSORBED ATOMS.

An effective interaction between atoms adsorbed on a substrate is calculated. The interaction arises from the exchange of phonons in the substrate and makes a density-dependent contribution to the ground-state energy per particle of the adsorbed system. Our results are applied to the submonolayer helium film adsorbed on argon-plated copper studied by Stewart and Dash. It is shown that, for this system the interaction is attractive and contributes to the ground-state energy per particle an amount of the order of - 1 \ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K, which is a significant fraction of the observed binding energy. The role of the effective interaction in bringing about the enhancement of the binding energy and the formation of dense clusters observed by Stewart and Sash is discussed.
A stability result for a scalar neutral equation with multiple delays

For linear delay-differential equations a question of ongoing interest is to determine delay-independent stability conditions, which are conditions on the equation parameters that guarantee exponential stability of solutions for all delays. Most of the delay-independent stability conditions found in the literature are conservative in the sense that they are not sharp even when applied to the scalar case. We derive a sharp delayindependent stability condition for the case of a scalar, multiple-delay neutral equation with delays only in the derivative. Furthermore, our method involves construction of an appropriate equivalent norm, and we show how to use it to modify a recently developed semidiscrete approximation scheme for delay equations with multiple delays. This yields a convergent approximation scheme which also preserves exponential stability uniformly in the discretization parameter. An illustrative numerical example is given.
Vibrational Overtone Activated Photo-Cross-Linking of Ethylene Glycol Dimethacrylate Using Benzoyl Peroxide and 2,2‘-(Azobis)isobutyronitrile as Initiators

Laser vibrational overtone initiated polymerization of ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA) has been demonstrated using two initiators, benzoyl peroxide (BP) and 2,2‘-(azobis)isobutyronitrile (AIBN). Excitation of the initiator occurs through absorption of a single photon by the fifth CH stretching vibrational overtone transition at 604 nm (16 556 cm-1) for BP and 628 nm (15 924 cm-1) for AIBN. This vibrational excitation creates radicals that initiate radical chain polymerization. Monomer conversion was followed quantitatively by monitoring the intensity change of the vinyl combination band at 6169 cm-1 in the first overtone spectrum of EGDMA. Considering the concentration, the molar extinction coefficient, and laser power, AIBN was a factor of 3.2 more efficient than BP for vibrational overtone polymerization. In both cases, the rate of polymerization depends on the excitation wavelength. The influence of the initiator concentration and the photolysis duration is also presented.
A unified model for fatigue crack initiation and growth, with emphasis on short-crack behavior, crack closure effects, variable-temperature fatigue and creep-fatigue interaction☆

Abstract A new unified phenomenological model for elevated temperature fatigue has been developed. In this model the incremental nature of failure is represented explicitly in terms of the initiation and growth of cracks occurring by a succession of local fracture events. This local fracture can take place by any one of several physical processes, whose rates are driven by the local mechanical conditions (i.e. the histories of stress and plastic strain) at a critical distance ahead of the crack tip. The individual local fracture processes which are represented within the computer model include (1) stage I transgranular fatigue (driven by the local plastic strain range), (2) stage II transgranular fatigue (driven by a combination of the local plastic strain range and the local peak tensile stress), (3) “r-type” intergranular cavitation (driven by the histories of local tensile stress and temperature), (4) “wedge-type” intergranular cavitation (driven by the local rate of grain boundary sliding and the extent of “r-type” cavitation), (5) ductile rupture (driven by the local tensile strain) and (6) cleavage (driven by the local tensile stress). The local mechanical conditions driving the above local fracture processes are predicted by a new “ligament” model which calculates the full triaxial stress and strain distribution histories around cracks of any length (including short cracks) for deformation behavior which encompasses creep, plasticity, cycling, variable temperature, crack tip blunting, crack closure, plastic flow concentration in near-surface grains, and blockage of slip by grain boundaries. Some of the important predictive capabilities of the new unified fatigue model include (1) the usual da/dN vs. ΔK behavior for initially cracked specimens, including a threshold ΔK, (2) the usual S vs. Nf behavior for initially smooth specimens, including a fatigue limit, (3) the anomalously high growth rates of short fatigue cracks, (4) plasticity-induced crack closure and its effects on crack growth, (5) mean stress and load sequence effects, (6) variable-temperature (thermomechanical) fatigue, (7) stress redistribution by creep and relaxation around crack tips, (8) creep crack growth by cavitation, (9) creep-fatigue interaction due to cavitation and (10) ductile-to-brittle transitions.
Synthesis and evaluation of antimigratory and antiproliferative activities of lipid-linked [13]-macro-dilactones.

The biological activities of a family of novel, lipid-linked 13-membered-ring macro-dilactones are reported. These [13]-macro-dilactones were synthesized by diacylation of functionalized diols, followed by ring-closing metathesis under conditions we had previously reported. Antimigratory, cytostatic and cytotoxic activities of the compounds against cancer cells were evaluated. Compound 13 was the most potent in the series, while compound 10 had the broadest concentration range of subtoxic antiproliferative activity. These compounds share common structural components, namely the [13]-macro-dilactone templated by an octyl α-glucoside 4,6-diol.
Kinetics and Mechanisms of Degradation of the Antileukemic Agent 5‐Azacytidine in Aqueous Solutions

The hydrolytic degradation of 5-azacytidine was studied spectrophotometrically as a function of pH, temperature, and buffer concentration. Loss of drug followed apparent first-order kinetics in the pH region below 3. At pH less than 1,5-azacytosine and 5-azauracil were detected; at higher pH values, drug was lost to products which were essentially nonchromophoric if examined in acidic solutions. The apparent first-order rate constants associated with formation of 5-azacytosine and 5-azauracil from 5-azacytidine are reported. Above pH 2.6, first-order plots for drug degradation are biphasic. Apparent first-order rate constants and coefficients for the biexponential equation are given as a function of pH and buffer concentration. A reaction mechanism consistent with the data is discussed together with problems associated with defining the stability of the drug in aqueous solutions. At 50 degrees, the drug exhibited maximum stability at pH 6.5 in dilute phosphate buffer. Similar solutions were stored at 30 degrees to estimate their useful shelflife. Within 80 min, 6 times 10(-4) M solutions of 5-azacytidine decreased to 90% of original potency based on assumptions related to the proposed mechanisms.
Prevention of icing by freezing point depressant systems

Abstract A freezing point depression system (dimethyl sulfoxide-Tullanox-water-polyvinyl alcohol) has been developed which prevents icing at a cold surface at moderate temperatures below 0°C in ambient air of 12.8°C and 70% relative humidity for several days. No drainage of liquids occurs during this time; the increase in weight is moderate (20–30%). The system is non-toxic and not inflammable. The system is easily applied to surfaces and is economical.
Improving antisaccade performance in adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

The goal of the study was to examine the effects of task manipulations on antisaccade accuracy and response times (RTs) of adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), age-matched controls, 10-year-olds and young adults. Order effects were tested by administering the task at the beginning and end of the session. Other manipulations involved a visual landmark to reduce demands on working memory and internal generation of saccades; spatially specific and non-specific cues at three intervals; and central engagement of attention through perceptual and cognitive means at three intervals. As expected, adolescents with ADHD were impaired relative to age-matched controls in terms of accuracy and saccadic RT on the first administration of the task. Although their accuracy improved with most of the manipulations, it did not improve disproportionately compared to age-matched controls. Nevertheless, with most of the manipulations, they could achieve the same level of accuracy as unaided controls on the first administration of the task. In contrast, the saccadic RTs of the ADHD group came close to normal under several conditions, indicating that elevated antisaccade RTs in this disorder may be related to attentional factors. The ADHD group made more premature saccades and fewer corrective saccades than both the age-matched and younger groups, suggesting difficulties with impulsivity and goal neglect. The findings suggest that cognitive scaffolds can ameliorate at least some of the inhibition deficits in adolescents with ADHD.
Upper-Extremity Self-Amputation and Replantation: 2 Case Reports and a Review of the Literature

Background: Patients who deliberately amputate I or more of their own extremities present a unique set of challenges for the entire treatment team. Decisions regarding replantation of the amputated extremity must be made quickly, and the psychiatrist is involved early in the care of these difficult patients. Surgical staff may feel that replantation surgery is inappropriate for such patients, although there is limited literature addressing this issue. Therefore, the psychiatrist must also address the strong feelings that such patients generate in nonpsychiatric caregivers. Method: Two cases of deliberate upper-extremity self-amputation are discussed, and the world literature on self-amputation and replantation from 1966 to the present, identified via a MEDLINE search, using the key words self-amputation, self-inflicted, upper extremity, and amputation, is reviewed. Results: There have been 11 reported cases (plus 2 in the current report) of deliberate upper-extremity amputation in the last 30 years. All patients have been psychotic, and many of the case reports note that patients with this presentation are rarely suicidal. Instead, the amputation usually stems from psychotically driven feelings of guilt and concrete religious preoccupations. Patients who undergo replantation often are pleased with the reattachment, and both psychiatric and surgical outcomes appear to benefit from prompt and aggressive psychiatric treatment. Conclusion: Patients who deliberately amputate one or more of their extremities can be unsettling as well as challenging. The psychiatrist must coordinate diagnosis and treatment among multiple services to ensure the best possible outcome. As replantation surgery becomes more common, the psychiatric implications of surgical reattachment are of increasing importance. More cases need to be described to better understand the best treatment options for this particular patient population.
Leverage user experience through social networking to improve health adherence

Patient adherence is an important factor in improving health outcomes. However, as one of the causes of increasing population with chronic diseases, low adherence has become a major health care issue globally. Often, due to deferred benefits of treatment or lifestyle recommendations, many fail to adhere to their treatment regimen or health plans given by care providers until their conditions deteriorate. As poor adherence remains a significant yet inadequately addressed problem of severe health issues, it is critical to create effective interventions as part of the solutions. Previous studies have suggested that peer supports be effective to improve adherence, and social cognitive theories have indicated that personal realization and confidence enhanced through entertaining gaming elements could encourage behavior change. To understand how different motivation factors affect user experience through social networking, a health care adherence website with built-in behavior analyses was constructed to conduct experiments. Users' health adherence levels can be reported to the website and shared among consenting social members for discussion or competition. Key design and development components are illustrated through the case study, including a social gaming and learning portal, an engineering approach to supporting different application scenarios, and information interventions based on predefined rules to achieve effective adherence. The preliminary analysis showed that people using social media for health care adherence may be motivated differently and act strategically during their social interactions. \
GLUT2 Expression and Function in β-cells of GK rats with NIDDM: Dissociation Between Reductions in Glucose Transport and Glucose-Stimulated Insulin Secretion

GLUT2 underexpression has been reported in the +-cells of Zucker diabetic fatty rats and db/db mice, models of spontaneously occurring NIDDM with antecedent obesity. To determine whether the +-cells of a nonobese rodent model of NIDDM exhibit the same abnormalities in GLUT2, we studied Goto-Kakizaki rats. In these mildly diabetic animals glucose-stimulated insulin secretion was reduced at all ages examined from 8 to 48 wk. In normal control Wistar rats, immunostainable GLUT2 was present on all insulin-positive cells in the pancreatic islets. Only 85% of +-cells were GLUT2-positive in GK rats at 12 wk of age, and only 34% were positive at 48 wk of age. GLUT2 mRNA was 50% of normal in 12-wk-old GK rats. In the latter age-group, glucose-stimulated insulin secretion was only 28% of normal at a time when 85% of +-cells were GLUT2-positive and initial 3- O -methyl-D-glucose transport rate was 77% of the control value. We conclude that although GLUT2 is underexpressed, neither the magnitude of the underexpression of GLUT2 nor of the reduction in GLUT2 transport function in islets of GK rats is sufficient by itself to explain the profound reduction in glucose-stimulated insulin secretion.
Association between health literacy and child and adolescent obesity

Abstract Objective We tested the association between child and parental health literacy (HL) and odds of child and adolescent obesity. Methods We conducted an anonymous cross-sectional survey of a convenience sample of English-speaking child-parent dyads. Newest Vital Sign (NVS) measured HL. We used multivariable logistic regression to test adjusted association between child and parental NVS and obesity. Analyses were stratified for school-aged children (aged 7–11) vs. adolescents (aged 12–19). Results We surveyed 239 child-parent dyads. Median child age was 11 [inter-quartile range 9–13]; 123 (51%) were male; 84% Medicaid recipients; 27% obese. For children, the odds of obesity [adjusted odds ratio (95% confidence interval)] decreased with higher parent NVS [0.75 (0.56,1.00)] and increased with parent obesity [2.53 (1.08,5.94)]. For adolescents, odds of obesity were higher for adolescents with the lowest category of NVS [5.00 (1.26, 19.8)] and older parental age [1.07 (1.01,1.14)] and lower for Medicaid recipients [0.21 (0.06,0.78)] and higher parental education [0.38 (0.22,0.63)]. Conclusion Obesity in school-aged children is associated with parental factors (obesity, parental HL); obesity in adolescents is strongly associated with the adolescent's HL. Practice implications Strategies to prevent and treat obesity should consider limited HL of parents for child obesity and of adolescents for adolescent obesity.
Teacher-student interaction: A game theoretic extension of the economic theory of education

Abstract This paper employs the ‘economic theory of education’ to consider the joint interactive choices of student and teacher. Game theoretic analysis is applied extending the work begun by Correa (1974) . It is shown that the relative degree of substitutability in the utility and achievement functions determines whether a student responds positively or negatively to the teacher's greater effort or harder grading. Conditions for the existence and stability of a non-cooperative equilibrium are investigated. Due to the public good nature of student achievement, the non-cooperative equilibrium will result in insufficient academic effort being allocated to academic achievement for Pareto optimality; and therefore, there is a need for binding cooperative agreements.
Prolonged eggshell thinning caused by DDE in the duck.

ALTHOUGH eggshell thinning induced by 2,2-bis-(p-chloro-phenyl)-1,1-dichloroethylene (DDE)—has been studied in many species (see review by Cooke1), the long term effects of this pesticide have not been investigated. Its duration of action is of great environmental significance since it will determine the effect of any pesticide ingested before the breeding season. In this respect, the finding of continuing high levels of DDE and thin eggshells in the Alaskan peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) in areas free from direct spraying2 argues for a prolonged effect, but direct controlled studies have been lacking. In fact, 18 d is the longest period to date during which thinning has been monitored (in mallards given single oral doses of 500–2,000 mg DDE kg−1) and little recovery of shell thickness was observed3.
The dehydration of t-butyl alcohol catalyzed by sulfonic acid resin

Abstract Rates of t -butyl alcohol dehydration catalyzed by beads of sulfonic acid resin suspended in liquid reactant were measured at temperatures between 35 and 77 °C. Catalytically active -SO 3 H groups were diluted by partial replacement with -SO 3 Na, -SO 3 K, and -SO 3 Rb groups. The order of reaction in -SO 3 H group concentration increased from 1 to about 4 as concentration increased 20-fold. The kinetics at low -SO 3 H group concentrations indicate a carbonium ion mechanism and at high concentrations a concerted mechanism with t -butyl alcohol hydrogen-bridged in a network of -SO 3 H groups. Rates of reaction catalyzed by variously crosslinked resins and by p -toluenesulfonic acid in solution are consistent with this interpretation.
Evaluation of chemotherapy in a murine model for bladder cancer.

A transplantable transitional cell murine bladder tumor induced by N-[4-(5-nitro-2-furyl)-thiazolyl] formamide (FANFT) was characterized by tumor growth, survival time and response to chemotherapy dru