cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Residence time in constant compartmental ecosystems

Abstract For a constant compartmental ecosystem, a general stochastic model is developed to describe the storage aspect of the behavior of conservative substances (energy or matter) in the system, i.e., the residence time in the system compartments. The mean and variance of the residence time are derived by means of characteristics functions.
The effect of pretreatment with chemotherapeutic drugs on the susceptibility to lymphokine activated CD8+ T lymphocyte-mediated cytotoxicity in CMK leukemia cells

Objectives : Certain tumor cells pretreated with chemotherapeutic drugs become more susceptible to death by apoptosis induced by killer cells of the immune system. We examined the CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL)-mediated cytotoxicity in myeloid leukemia cell lines pretreated with chemotherapeutic drugs. Methods : Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were expanded in vitro in the presence of phytohemagglutinin-P, interleukins-2 and -15. CD3+ CD8+ cells representing the CTLs were isolated using magnetic immunoselection and used in immune cytotoxicity experiments against K562 and CMK leukemia cells, pretreated with two different concentrations of cytarabine and etoposide. Results : In CMK cells pretreated with etoposide at 2 I¼M and 20 I¼M concentrations, the mean cell-mediated immune cytotoxicity rose to 21.4 Â± 12.9% (p=0.09) and 23.4 Â± 12.6% (p=0.046), respectively, when compared to the control value of 6.6 Â± 3.8%. In CMK cells pretreated with cytarabine at 1 I¼M and 10 I¼M concentrations, the mean immune cytotoxicity rose to 14.3 Â± 11.2% and 22.6 Â± 15.2%, respectively, compared to the control value of 8.7 Â± 6.3%, although these results did not reach statistical significance. However, a similar increase in CTL-mediated immune cytotoxicity was not observed against drug-treated K562 cells. Conclusion : This study suggests that pretreatment with chemotherapeutic drugs can render CMK leukemia cells more susceptible to immune attack by activated CTLs. Further studies are needed to explore this phenomenon, to establish an immune-enhancing effect of pretreatment with chemotherapy in the treatment of leukemia.
Scattering via invariants of quantum hydrodynamics

Abstract A new approach to the problem of scattering is presented via the exact invariants of quantum hydrodynamics, where the solution preserves information about the quantum potential which accounts for quantum-wave features such as interference and diffraction effects. Within this formalism, a formula for the transmission coefficient of a steady flux of fluid-particles scattered by an arbitrarily shaped potential well is derived and discussed for some exact and approximate solutions.
Long-Term Regional Estimates of Evapotranspiration for Mexico Based on Downscaled ISCCP Data

Abstract The development and evaluation of a long-term high-resolution dataset of potential and actual evapotranspiration for Mexico based on remote sensing data are described. Evapotranspiration is calculated using a modified version of the Penman–Monteith algorithm, with input radiation and meteorological data from the International Satellite Cloud Climatology Project (ISCCP) and vegetation distribution derived from Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR) products. The ISCCP data are downscaled to ⅛° resolution using statistical relationships with data from the North American Regional Reanalysis (NARR). The final product is available at ⅛°, daily, for 1984–2006 for all Mexico. Comparisons are made with the NARR offline land surface model and measurements from approximately 1800 pan stations. The remote sensing estimate follows well the seasonal cycle and spatial pattern of the comparison datasets, with a peak in late summer at the height of the North American monsoon and highest values in low-l...
Reducing Hazardous Material and Environmental Impact Through Recycling of Scandium Nanomaterial Waste

The emerging use of scandium and the environmental impact from scandium-containing waste is a rising environmental and health concern. With the development of new materials in the last decade, toxicological studies on those new materials have also been increasing. An example of a process which employs scandium is the generation of metallic nitride fullerene nanomaterials. This process typically generates 99+% scandium waste, as only small amounts of scandium are actually incorporated into the target fullerene molecules. We demonstrate a safe method to recover the scandium content in the waste, reuse the recovered material and successfully demonstrate a comparable product distribution without detectable health and environmental concerns.
An Experimental Lesson In Drug Education.

This article focuses upon a method of making drug education more relevant for today's high school and college student through the use of an experimental lesson on drug taking. The lesson examines the reasons and motivations for drug taking in a setting that is close to reality. It describes a methodology for stimulating student interest in an area where young people may feel they have exhausted much of the drug education information available to them. The lesson actively involves all members of the class.
Depression, dementia, and social supports

Recent literature on the relationships among dementia, depression, and social support was reviewed, with particular emphasis on the diagnostic differentiation of dementia and depression, and the role of these three entities in elderly individuals with cognitive impairment. Dementia-like symptoms arising in depression and the coexistence of dementia and depression are discussed. Research is necessary to determine more objective criteria for depression and dementia, to provide cognitive and psychiatric testing for elderly individuals, to clarify the diagnostic or prognostic value of the term pseudodementia, and to further elucidate relationships between depression, dementia, and social support.
Hospitals Respond To Medicare Payment Shortfalls By Both Shifting Costs And Cutting Them, Based On Market Concentration

The coverage expansions planned under the Affordable Care Act are to be financed in part by slowing Medicare payment updates to hospitals, thereby reigniting the debate over whether low prices paid by public payers cause hospitals to increase prices to private insurers—a practice known as cost shifting. Recently, the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MedPAC) proposed an alternative explanation of hospital pricing and profitability that could be used to support policies that pressure hospitals to reduce overall costs rather than to only raise prices. This study evaluated the cost-shift and MedPAC perspectives using 2008 data on hospital margins for 30,514 Medicare and privately insured patients undergoing any of seven major procedures in markets where robust hospital competition exists and in markets where hospital care is concentrated in the hands of a few providers. The study presents empirical evidence that, faced with shortfalls between Medicare payments and projected costs, hospitals in concentrat...
On the equivalence of ‘experimental’ and ‘correlational’ statistics

Wright, Ayton, and Fowler have noted that the use of either experimental or correlational statistics on a data set would lead to the same conclusions. In fact, the similarity is even more fundamental than the authors suggest, since both experimental and correlational statistics are derived from the general linear model. It can be shown, for example, that the t‐test and the point‐biserial correlation coefficient are mathematically equivalent. Several simple equations are given which demonstrate the relationship between experimental and correlational statistics. Finally, it is emphasized that properly choosing a statistical technique is dependent on what question is being asked.
The effect of walnut intake on factors related to prostate and vascular health in older men

Tocopherols may protect against prostate cancer and cardiovascular disease (CVD). We assessed the effect of walnuts, which are rich in tocopherols, on markers of prostate and vascular health in men at risk for prostate cancer. We conducted an 8-week walnut supplement study to examine effects of walnuts on serum tocopherols and prostate specific antigen (PSA). Subjects (n = 21) consumed (in random order) their usual diet +/- a walnut supplement (75 g/d) that was isocalorically incorporated in their habitual diets. Prior to the supplement study, 5 fasted subjects participated in an acute timecourse experiment and had blood taken at baseline and 1, 2, 4, and 8 h after consuming walnuts (75 g). During the timecourse experiment, triglycerides peaked at 4 h, and gamma-tocopherol (γ-T) increased from 4 to 8 h. Triglyceride – normalized γ-T was two-fold higher (P = 0.01) after 8 versus 4 h. In the supplement study, change from baseline was +0.83 ± 0.52 μmol/L for γ-T, -2.65 ± 1.30 μmol/L for alpha-tocopherol (α-T) and -3.49 ± 1.99 for the tocopherol ratio (α-T: γ-T). A linear mixed model showed that, although PSA did not change, the ratio of free PSA:total PSA increased and approached significance (P = 0.07). The α-T: γ-T ratio decreased significantly (P = 0.01), partly reflecting an increase in serum γ-T, which approached significance (P = 0.08). The significant decrease in the α-T: γ-T ratio with an increase in serum γ-T and a trend towards an increase in the ratio of free PSA:total PSA following the 8-week supplement study suggest that walnuts may improve biomarkers of prostate and vascular status.
Monte Carlo simulation of grain growth of single-phase systems with anisotropic boundary energies

The grain growth in single-phase systems with various anisotropic boundary energies is simulated using a modified two-dimensional (2D) Monte Carlo algorithm. Structural self-similarity both in the grain shape distributions and the grain boundary configurations is found regardless of the degree and type of anisotropy. Parabolic evolution kinetics is observed in most cases. The growth rate represented by the time rate of average grain area change is found to be a function of the grain boundary properties. In some cases, the normalized grain size distributions are not time-invariant, and therefore, current grain growth theories cannot explain conclusively the occurrence of the parabolic kinetics in these cases. The effect of anisotropy on the grain growth kinetics is discussed.
Oviposition Responses of Soybean Looper (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) to Varieties and Growth Stages of Soybean

Four varieties of soybean belonging to different maturity groups (G) each were planted on 4 dates to measure relative oviposition preference of Pseudoplusia includens (Walker). The varieties were ‘Avery’ (G IV), ‘Hutcheson’ (G V), ‘Sharkey’ (G VI), and ‘Braxton’ (G VII). Plant growth stages evaluated in 1991 were 2 late vegetative stages (ranging from V8 to V12, depending on variety), and 2 reproductive stages including full bloom (R2) and early pod (R3). In 1992, growth stages included 1 late vegetative stage (ranging from V7 to V12, depending on variety), and R2, R3, and R4 (full pod) stages. In both years, the most mature growth stages for the soybean varieties tested were preferred for oviposition. Moths laid significantly more eggs in the middle to upper plant canopy than in the lower canopy, and the bottom (abaxial) surface of the leaf was preferred over the top (adaxial) leaf surface, sterns, blooms, or pods. Knowledge of potential infestation levels of P. includens on soybean varieties at different growth stages assists in selection of planting dates and varieties and enhances sampling efficiency and insecticide control technology.
Penalized Likelihood-type Estimators for Generalized Nonparametric Regression

We consider the asymptotic analysis of penalized likelihood type estimators for generalized nonparametric regression problems in which the target parameter is a vector-valued function defined in terms of the conditional distribution of a response given a set of covariates. A variety of examples including ones related to generalized linear models and robust smoothing are covered by the theory. Linear approximations to the estimator are constructed using Taylor expansions in Hilbert spaces. An application which is treated is upper bounds on rates of convergence for the penalized likelihood-type estimators.
Children's competitive behavior: a challenging alternative

The effect of challenge on the cooperative and competitive behavior of 120 urban American children was assessed using two experimental game apparatuses, one of which provided a challenging cooperative response. Significantly more cooperation was observed when the subjects were presented with a challenging cooperative response. In addition, a reliable age effect was found indicating that the older subject group (10–12 years old) was more cooperative than the younger two age groups (5–7 and 8–10 years old). Finally, a significant game condition x order interaction was discovered suggesting that under some conditions the order in which the games were played affected the degree of subject cooperation. Results are related to a theory of competence motivation. It is argued that cooperation among American children may be increased if the task involves the presence of challenge.
Rating format research revisited: format effectiveness and acceptability depend on rater characteristics

Rating format research has largely been ignored since Landy and Farr's(1980)call fora moratorium over a decade ago. Their conclusion that ratings were not affected by changes in scale format was based on research that treated all raters alike. However, individuals differ in the way in which they perceive and integrate information. This article investigates the proposition that differences in rating accuracy associated with different rating formats are contingent on rater characteristics. The study tested the rating accuracy and affective reactions toward performance appraisal of field-dependent (FD) and field-independent (FI) raters on four different performance measures. As hypothesized, FIs were more accurate raters than FDs only when scale formats were holistic, and only FDs' ratings were significantly affected by the level of structure in the scale format. FI raters were also more confident in their ratings and less frustrated and confused with the rating task than were FDs.
Palatability and Storage Characteristics of Precooked Pork Roasts

Pairs of boneless pork loins (n=10) were pumped to contain 0.5% tripolyphosphate or water and allotted to three treatments: PVC wrapped, convection oven cookery (CO); vacuum packaged, precooked and reheated in a water bath (PC); and vacuum packaged and cooked in a water bath (VP). Paired loins (n = 30) were injected with tripolyphosphate and allotted to the following treatments and storage (0, 14 or 28 days) conditions: Control (−20°C) [CO]; precooked (−20°C) [PCPR]; precooked (4°C) [PCRF]; vacuum packaged (−20°C) [VPFR]. VP and PC phosphate injected roasts were more tender and had lower cooking losses than CO roasts. After 28 days, all PC roasts had lower microbial counts than other treatments, and PC and VP roasts had improved palatability compared with CO roasts.
EXPORTS, URBAN GROWTH, AND ECONOMIC GROWTH IN SUB‐SAHARAN AFRICAN COUNTRIES

Several cross-countries regression analyses have revealed that exports positively contribute to economic growth in less developed countries, implying that apart from the increases in the stocks of labor and capital, growth can also be stimulated by reallocating resources from the less efficient non-export sector to the more productive export sector. This paper re-specifies the relation between exports and economic growth for non-urban goods exporting African countries. The impact of exports on the growth rate of national income is analyzed along with that of the growth of population in the urban region.
Papal Justice in France Around the Time of Pope Innocent III

Around the time of Innocent III (1198–1216), the appetite for justice was providing the popes with an opportunity to expand their authority. The popes responded to the need and to the opportunity primarily by encouraging appeals to the papal court, where the cases were commonly delegated to clergymen near the origin of the case, clergymen who acted as papal judges delegate. The use of this procedure expanded rapidly in the second half of the twelfth century and was especially encouraged by Innocent himself. The need and the opportunity were there, but how good was the response? The purpose of this article is to see how and how well papal justice worked in France around the time of Innocent III and, in the process, to compare it with alternative forms of judicial procedure available at the time.
Potential Roles of Conserved Amino Acids in the Catalytic Domain of the cGMP-binding cGMP-specific Phosphodiesterase (PDE5)

The known mammalian 3′:5′-cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterases (PDEs) contain a conserved region located toward the carboxyl terminus, which constitutes a catalytic domain. To identify amino acids that are important for catalysis, we introduced substitutions at 23 conserved residues within the catalytic domain of the cGMP-binding cGMP-specific phosphodiesterase (cGB-PDE; PDE5). Wild-type and mutant proteins were compared with respect to Km for cGMP, k cat, and IC50 for zaprinast. The most dramatic decrease in k cat was seen with H643A and D754A mutants with the decrease in free energy of binding (ΔΔGT) being about 4.5 kcal/mol for each, which is within the range predicted for loss of a hydrogen bond involving a charged residue. His643 and Asp754 are conserved in all known PDEs and are strong candidates to be directly involved in catalysis. Substitutions of His603, His607, His647, Glu672, and Asp714 also produced marked changes in k cat, and these residues are likely to be important for efficient catalysis. The Y602A and E775A mutants exhibited the most dramatic increases in Km for cGMP, with calculated ΔΔGT of 2.9 and 2.8 kcal/mol, respectively, that these two residues are important for cGMP binding in the catalytic site. Zaprinast is a potent competitive inhibitor of cGB-PDE, but the key residues for its binding differ significantly from those that bind cGMP.
Factors influencing the sustainability of integrated coastal management projects in the Philippines and Indonesia

The paper examines factors influencing the sustainability of integrated coastal management (ICM) projects in the Philippines and Indonesia. Measures of project sustainability are developed and primary data collected at the village level are analyzed to determine the effects of project activities and individual characteristics on ICM sustainability. The findings indicate that perceptions of benefits as well as initial benefits influence early involvement and participation in the ICM projects evaluated in the Philippines and Indonesia. In turn, this involvement enhances the chances that ultimate benefits will be those desired by the target population. Finally, achievement of these benefits stimulates continuing involvement in the activities, sustaining the ICM process.
Bridging school and home: students' engagement with technology-rich activities

This poster describes ongoing work that examines students use of a computer-based learning environment designed to bridge school and out-of-school learning contexts by incorporating affordances of both formal and informal learning settings. Data presented illustrate sixth grade students' use of online chat in class and at home and present an initial examination of chat interactions (in both mixed-gender and single-gender peer groups) while their agents are involved in a competitive game.
New approaches to the investigation of focal hepatic lesions

In the past few years, tremendous advances have been made in the fields of magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography and ultrasonography. These include the development of novel contrast agents and new approaches to image acquisition and processing. This review provides an overview of the state-of-the-art of imaging investigation of focal hepatic lesions and highlights some of the most exciting emerging technologies.
Treatment of central venous catheter occlusions with hydrochloric acid

D'apres une experience acquise en 13 mois sur 17 sujets sous nutrition parenterale totale, le traitement des occlusions du catheter par une, voire 2 ou 3 installations d'HCl a permis d'eviter le sacrifice du catheter avec les inconvenients qui en decoulent. Le mieux est de reduire les risques de precipitation en connaissant les courbes de solubilite des solutions
Right-Sided Diaphragmatic Hernia Associated with Superior Vena Cava Syndrome

The term "hydrops fetalis" denotes generalized fetal edema, a condition that differs from localized edema confined to head, extremities, or body cavities. This report illustrates a case of right-sided diaphragmatic hernia associated with severe edema of the head, polyhydramnios, small hydrothorax, and ascites with an antenatal diagnosis of hydrops fetalis. At autopsy, edema was confined to the head and neck and the peritoneal sac. The mechanisms responsible for these forms of localized edema were obstruction of the superior vena cava and hepatic veins, respectively. Localized fetal edema may be confused with hydrops fetalis. Fetal edema of the head and neck may result from obstruction of the superior vena cava by abnormal mediastinal structures.
Preparation of microspheres by the solvent evaporation technique

The microencapsulation process in which the removal of the hydrophobic polymer solvent is achieved by evaporation has been widely reported in recent years for the preparation of microspheres and microcapsules based on biodegradable polymers and copolymers of hydroxy acids. The properties of biodegradable microspheres of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) have been extensively investigated. The encapsulation of highly water soluble compounds including proteins and peptides presents formidable challenges to the researcher. The successful encapsulation of such entities requires high drug loading in the microspheres, prevention of protein degradation by the encapsulation method, and predictable release of the drug compound from the microspheres. To achieve these goals, multiple emulsion techniques and other innovative modifications have been made to the conventional solvent evaporation process.
Protective effects of a novel thromboxane analog in lethal traumatic shock.

Pinane thromboxane A2 (PTA2) an analog of thromboxane A2 that inhibits the formation of thromboxanes as well as antagonizes their biological actions, at an infusion rate of 1.0 mumole . kg-1 . h-1, prolonged survival in traumatic shock in rats. PTA2 also prevented the accumulation of thromboxane B2, the lysosomal protease, cathepsin D, and the cardiotoxic peptide MDF in the circulating blood.
Effects of Bt on non-target organisms.

Abstract The development of Bt crops is one of the most significant advances in crop protection technology of the past fifty years. Current Bt crops are based on highly specific insecticidal Cry proteins of Bacillus thuringiensis. Foliar Bt insecticides based on the same proteins have been used for more than forty years and have a remarkable safety record, with no known detrimental effects reported on vertebrate or non-target invertebrate populations. Bt cotton and Bt corn have been widely adopted by farmers in the United States, with acreage averaging 40-50% of the area planted with cotton or corn in 2002. Concern has been raised about the safety of Bt crops. However, most evidence shows that these crops, like foliar Bt insecticides, are safe for non-target organisms, especially in comparison to chemical insecticides. Evidence for safety comes from knowledge of Cry protein mode of action as well as from studies of the effects of Cry proteins on non-target organisms tested in the laboratory and under oper...
A Scalable Signal Distribution Network for Quantum-Dot Cellular Automata

The authors describe a signal distribution network (SDN) for quantum-dot cellular automata (QCA) devices. This network allows the distribution of a set of inputs to an arbitrary number of combinational functions, overcoming the challenges associated with wire crossings that have faced QCA systems for many years. As an additional benefit, the proposed SDN requires only four distinct clock signals, regardless of the number of inputs or outputs, and those clock signals each repeat a very simple pattern. Furthermore, this network is highly scalable, completing the distribution of inputs to an arbitrary number of distributed signals and an arbitrary number of outputs in 4 - 2 clock cycles. To illustrate its operation, the authors apply the SDN to a two-input/one-output exclusive OR operation, a three-input/two-output full adder, and a four-input/four-output multiplier.
Generalized inertia in constrained body models

Application a des corps soumis a des contraintes holonomes. On montre que pour un systeme conservatif, les equations de mouvement se reduisent aux equations de Lagrange
Local smoothing for operators failing the cinematic curvature condition

In this paper, we examine a class of averaging operators which exhibit local smoothing. That is, viewed as a function of space and time variables, the operators yield more smoothing than the fixed-time estimates. Sogge showed in a more general setting that if these operators satisfy a cinematic curvature condition, they will exhibit some local smoothing [C.D. Sogge, Propagation of singularities and maximal functions in the plane, Invent. Math. 104 (1991) 231–251]. Here we translate this condition into the setting of averaging operators in the plane. We prove that cinematic curvature is not necessary for local smoothing to occur, exhibiting a class of operators which fail the cinematic curvature condition but still satisfy a local smoothing estimate. Furthermore, the amount of local smoothing exhibited by these operators is strictly less than that conjectured for operators satisfying the cinematic curvature condition.
Genetic mapping of biomass production in tetraploid alfalfa

Biomass production represents a fundamental biological process of both ecological and agricultural significance. The genetic basis of biomass production is unknown but asssumed to be complex. We developed a full sib, F 1 mapping population of autotetraploid Medicago sativa (alfalfa) derived from an intersubspecific cross that was known to produce heterosis for biomass production. We evaluated the population for biomass production over several years at three locations (Ames, IA, Nashua, IA, and Ithaca, NY) and concurrently developed a genetic linkage map using restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) and simple sequence repeat (SSR) molecular markers. Transgressive segregants, many of which exhibited high levels of heterosis, were identified in each environment. Despite the complexities of mapping within autotetraploid populations, single-marker analysis of variance identified 41 marker alleles, many on linkage groups 5 and 7, associated with biomass production in at least one of the sampling periods. Seven alleles were associated with biomass production in more than one of the sampling periods. Favorable alleles were contributed by both parents, one of which is from the M. sativa subsp. falcata germplasm. Thus, increased biomass production alleles can be gleaned from unadapted germplasm. Further, the positive quantitative trait locus (QTL) alleles from the parents are partially complementary, suggesting these loci may play a role in biomass production heterosis.
The Teaching of Strategy From General Manager to Analyst and Back Again

Courses in strategy are an outgrowth of the business policy course first taught at Harvard Business School in 1912. This article examines how the teaching of a course concerned with the development...
Non-classical nucleation theory of ordered intermetallic precipitates-application to the AlLi alloy

Abstract The continuum non-classical nucleation theory of Cahn and Hilliard for isostructural decomposition has been extended to the case in which the precipitate and matrix not only have different compositions, but also have different structures. The particular example of precipitation of ordered intermetallics from a disordered matrix is considered. It is found that a critical nucleus consists of fluctuations of both composition and long-range order parameter profiles. It is shown that only when the composition of the initial disordered matrix is near the phase boundary of the disordered phase, are the composition and order parameter values inside the critical nucleus close to those of the equilibrium ordered phase, and that the critical profiles become increasingly diffuse as the composition of the disordered matrix approaches the ordering instability line. Based on the non-classical nucleation theory, the size of critical fluctuations, the critical free energy change and the nucleation rate are estimated for the specific case of the precipitation of metastable δ′ ordered phase from a disordered matrix in the AlLi alloy.
NRAS mutation causes a human autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome

The p21 RAS subfamily of small GTPases, including KRAS, HRAS, and NRAS, regulates cell proliferation, cytoskeletal organization, and other signaling networks, and is the most frequent target of activating mutations in cancer. Activating germline mutations of KRAS and HRAS cause severe developmental abnormalities leading to Noonan, cardio-facial-cutaneous, and Costello syndrome, but activating germline mutations of NRAS have not been reported. Autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome (ALPS) is the most common genetic disease of lymphocyte apoptosis and causes autoimmunity as well as excessive lymphocyte accumulation, particularly of CD4−, CD8− αβ T cells. Mutations in ALPS typically affect CD95 (Fas/APO-1)-mediated apoptosis, one of the extrinsic death pathways involving TNF receptor superfamily proteins, but certain ALPS individuals have no such mutations. We show here that the salient features of ALPS as well as a predisposition to hematological malignancies can be caused by a heterozygous germline Gly13Asp activating mutation of the NRAS oncogene that does not impair CD95-mediated apoptosis. The increase in active, GTP-bound NRAS augments RAF/MEK/ERK signaling, which markedly decreases the proapoptotic protein BIM and attenuates intrinsic, nonreceptor-mediated mitochondrial apoptosis. Thus, germline activating mutations in NRAS differ from other p21 Ras oncoproteins by causing selective immune abnormalities without general developmental defects. Our observations on the effects of NRAS activation indicate that RAS-inactivating drugs, such as farnesyltransferase inhibitors should be examined in human autoimmune and lymphocyte homeostasis disorders.
Quasi-hydrostatic compression of ruby to 500 Kbar

Measurements of the cell parameters of ruby to 500 Kbar under quasi-hydrostatic conditions in a diamond-anvil cell show a practically isotropic compression, the ratio c/a of the hexagonal cell parameters remaining constant. These results are consistent with previous single-crystal measurements below 100 Kbar as well as with ultrasonic elastic-constant measurements. There is no evidence for significant differences between the bulk moduli of ruby and corundum, and a review of compression and ultrasonic data yield Ko = 2.53±0.01 Mbar and K′o = 5.0 ± 0.4. Good agreement with the experimental values is found for compressions calculated from empirically or theoretically determined elastic properties.
Addressing physical inactivity among developmentally disabled students through visual schedules and social stories

Abstract Introduction This project tested visual schedules and social stories in a physical education setting in order to increase the physical activity of developmentally disabled students. Method This cohort study design involved 17 physical education teachers in a training course with an initial survey and 7-month post-survey. The initial survey assessed participant experience with developmentally disabled students, visual schedules and social stories. The post-survey assessed usage of, effectiveness of, and satisfaction with visual schedules and social stories in a physical education setting. Results On the initial survey, 100% of the participants reported that they work with developmentally disabled students and 24% reported little to no training in working with this population. On the post-survey, 75% of the participants reported using visual schedules in their teaching and 64% found them to be “effective” or “very effective”. Six percent used social stories in their teaching, reporting them as 100% “very effective”. Conclusion There is an indication that visual schedules and social stories are effective learning tools in the physical education setting, increasing opportunities for developmentally disabled students to be physically active. However, additional resources and training are needed in order for physical education teachers to implement these tools widely in their classes.
I. Want. Pixels. (Entering the Age of 4k)

Video has accounted for a large portion of the Internet network traffic in the past and is widely believed to continue to dominate in the foreseeable future. The Cisco Visual Networking Index by Cisco, Inc., for example, predicts that by 2017 more than two thirds of all consumer Internet traffic (including mobile) will be video. This astonishing amount of traffic is driven by the demand for more and more high-resolution media, on one hand, and the continuous improvements of network delivery capabilities allowing for streaming (e.g., a high-resolution video to a smartphone over cellular connections or an ultra-high-resolution video to increasingly affordable connected "smart" televisions). In addition to the capacity increases on the network side, several video coder/ decoders (codecs) have been developed that allow for the efficient compression of video for network delivery or storage on high-capacity optical media. In recent years, we have witnessed a continuous increase in the resolutions that are supported by video codecs and requested by users. Figure 1 illustrates the size differences that are common today, from high-definition (HD) to the cinematic 4k resolutions of video.
Diffusion to particles in the near free molecule region

Abstract A linearized model of the Boltzmann equations for a binary gas mixture diffusing to a sphere is solved using the integral iteration method to obtain the first-order correction in the inverse Knudsen number to the free molecule flux to the sphere. Previous theory and experiment are discussed.
Studies of helical magnetohydrodynamic seawater flow in fields up to twelve teslas

This article discusses analytical and experimental studies of a helical magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) seawater thruster (or pump) device using a 12-T superconducting solenoid magnet. This magnet is situated and the experiments are conducted at Francis Bitter National Magnet Laboratory of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Analytical models are developed to predict the performance of the helical MHD thruster in a closedloop environment. The analytical results are compared with experimental data and good agreement is obtained. A significant increase in MHD energy conversion efficiency compared to the same thruster at lower magnetic field strengths (6-8 T) is realized. A significant increase in the maximum fluid velocity, from 2.5 m/s at the 8T electromagnet, to 3.7 m/s, is also realized. For the first time in our experimental MHD thruster studies, a gross mechanical efficiency greater than 10% is observed.
Inhibition of tubulin assembly by ethylacetylacrylate, a sulfhydryl reagent and potential analog of cytochalasin A

Ethyl acetylacrylate reacts rapidly with 2-mercaptoethanol and the sulfhydryl groups of tubulin. The structure of ethyl acetylacrylate resembles that of the reactive portion of cytochalasin A and potentially can serve as an analog of this antibiotic.
NMR and DFT investigation of heme ruffling: functional implications for cytochrome c.

Out-of-plane (OOP) deformations of the heme cofactor are found in numerous heme-containing proteins and the type of deformation tends to be conserved within functionally related classes of heme proteins. We demonstrate correlations between the heme ruffling OOP deformation and the 13C and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) hyperfine shifts of heme aided by density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The degree of ruffling in the heme cofactor of Hydrogenobacter thermophilus cytochrome c552 has been modified by a single amino acid mutation in the second coordination sphere of the cofactor. The 13C and 1H resonances of the cofactor have been assigned using one- and two-dimensional NMR spectroscopy aided by selective 13C-enrichment of the heme. DFT has been used to predict the NMR hyperfine shifts and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) g-tensor at several points along the ruffling deformation coordinate. The DFT-predicted NMR and EPR parameters agree with the experimental observations, confirming that ...
Charge-transfer spectra of model Cu(II) chromophores

Abstract Electronic ‘tuning’ of copper proteins for specific O2-transport, redox, and oxygenase functions is determined by the number, nature and geometrical arrangements of the protein side-chain donor ligands which bind the copper ion(s) at the active site(s). The resulting energies and orientation of the upper occupied Cu(II) orbitals and D-vacancy in the oxidized proteins generally can be inferred from the ESR and ligand field (LF) spectra. At higher energies than those absorption, Cu(II) chromophores exhibit ligand to metal charge-transfer (LMCT) absorption. These absorptions reflect a potentially important yet little studied aspect of electronic structure: the relative overlaps of the σ and π-symmetry ligand donor orbitals with the Cu(II) d-vacancy. We review recent studies of LMCT spectra exhibited by structurally unambiguous mode Cu(II) chromophores containing ligation such as thiolate, thioether, imidazole and imidazolate [1]. These results facilitate the understanding of corresponding LMCT absorptions exhibited by various copper proteins. Replacement of the Cu(II) in the model complexes and proteins by the less oxidizing Ni(II) and Co(II) ions results in characteristics blue-shifts of these LMCT absorptions, and support an LMCT rather than assignment. Owing to the LF-dependency of the metal ion d-vacancy energy, the LMCT absorptions of the planar Cu(II) and Ni(II) chromophores are blue-shifted relative to their approximately tetrahedral analogs. Cu(II)imidazole complexes exhibit LMCT absorption from two ring π orbitals, one having primarily carbon 2p character (π1,HOMO) and the other having primarily nitrogen 2p character (π2). The calculated (INDO/S method) orbital energy increases induced by successive ring methylations are correlated with red shifts of imidazole → Cu(II) LMCT exhibited by this series of complexes [2]. Spectroscopic effects associated with the orientation of the imidazole rings relative to the Cu(II) d-vacancy are also discussed. Imidazolate ligation results in a characteristics additional LMCT absorption at relatively low energy. The intense (ϵ > 1000) near UV LMCT absorption associated with equatorial Cu(II)thioether bonding disappears when, as for plastocyanin, the Cu(II)-thioether bond becomes elongated (apical) and is oriented normal to the d-vacancy. The syntheses and LMCT spectra of model M(II)-thiolate complexes (M = Cu, Co, Ni) are described briefly.
Angiotensin II induction of AP-1 in neurons requires stimulation of PI3-K and JNK

Angiotensin II (Ang II) acts via its type 1 (AT(1)) receptor in neurons to regulate the activity of multiple intracellular signaling molecules, including intracellular Ca(2+), protein kinase C, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3-K), and c-Jun NH(2)-terminal kinase (JNK). The present studies investigated the upstream signaling molecules involved in the Ang II stimulation of activator protein-1 (AP-1) DNA binding in neurons. Treatment of neurons cultured from neonatal rat hypothalamus and brainstem with Ang II (100 nM) showed a time-dependent increase in AP-1 DNA binding and this effect was inhibited by the AT(1) receptor antagonist, losartan (1 microM), the PI3-K inhibitor, LY294002 (10 microM), and the JNK inhibitor, JNK inhibitor II (100 nM). Furthermore, Ang II (100 nM) causes a time-dependent increase in JNK activity which was attenuated by PI3-K inhibition. These data establish, for the first time, a signaling cascade involved in the Ang II activation of AP-1 DNA binding in neurons.
On the Rossby Wave Source and the Steady Linear Response to Tropical Forcing

Abstract A two-level spectral model with a zonally homogeneous climate is used to study the steady response of a spherical atmosphere to tropical heating. Solutions are obtained by both averaging the time integration of the model and solving for the linear steady response. It is found that the Rossby wave source (RWS) from a simple tropical heat source exhibits a relatively complicated horizontal structure that extends from the tropics into extratropical regions. The strong extratropical component of the RWS is important for the steady response in middle and high latitudes. A decomposition of the solution using separately the components of the RWS in tropical and extratropical regions shows that the responses to the tropical and extratropical RWSs tend to cancel in middle and high latitudes. The extratropical component of the RWS may be understood by quasigeostrophic dynamics.
Consequences of CXCL10 and IL-6 Induction by the Murine IFN-α1 Transgene in Ocular Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 Infection

Herpes simplex virus type 1 infection of the mouse eye results in an impressive inflammatory response culminating in the death of the animal or the establishment of a “latent” infection depending on a number of ill-defined variables that include components of the innate and adaptive immune system. The application of type I interferon transgenes has been found to antagonize viral replication and spread from the eye to the nervous system. Associated with the in situ transfection of the cornea is the upregulation of two inflammatory molecules, interleukin-6 and CXCL10. In this article, we will further examine the contribution these molecules may have in the host response to ocular infection with herpes simplex virus type 1.
The Role of the Physician and the Present and Emerging Health Care Channel

The author examines the position of physicians in the health care channel on the basis of Transaction Cost Analysis. Propositions are offered that explain recent vertical integration. Moreover, a conceptual model of the future health care channel is offered for capitated pricing.
Commissioning the fast luminosity dither for PEP-II

To maximize luminosity, a feedback system adjusts the relative transverse (x, y) position and vertical angle (y) of the electron and positron beams at the interaction point (IP) of PEP-II. The original system sequentially moved ("dithered") the electrons in four steps per coordinate. Communication with DC corrector magnets and field penetration through copper vacuum chambers led to a 9-s cycle time. Machine tuning can shift the beams at the IP, and so must be slowed to wait for the feedback. The new system simultaneously applies a small sinusoidal dither to all three coordinates at three frequencies. Air-core coils around stainless-steel chambers give rapid field penetration. A lock-in amplifier at each frequency detects the magnitude and phase of the luminosity's response. Corrections for all coordinates are applied by the same DC correctors used previously, but with only one adjustment per cycle for an expected nine-fold increase in speed. The commissioning of this system uncovered a sinusoidal vibration of the support for the IP that caused relative motion of the two beams and masked the y dither. Correcting this gave an immediate luminosity gain, and allowed for successful feedback commissioning.
On alphabet size selection for video signal coding

Communications systems with various alphabet sizes for transmission of video signals are compared on the basis of equal information rate, bandwidth, and average power. Two cases are considered: when the bandwidth constraint is tight and when it is somewhat loose. It is observed that the ternary alphabet yields the best performance among the systems employing various alphabet sizes, when the bandwidth is fixed. Nonbinary systems outperform the binary system only above a threshold. For the case when the bandwidth can be expanded, there is a threshold above which a nonbinary system is superior to the binary system. The threshold values in this case are larger than for the fixed bandwidth case and depend on the bandwidth expansion factor and the size of the alphabet. >
The Public Regulation of Land Use Decisions: Criteria for Evaluating Alternative Procedures

In this article we argue for an empirical governance approach—the use of public evaluations—as one basis for deciding whether and how to regulate decisions with public consequences. We propose a conceptual framework for evaluating public acceptability, notably that public judgments should be evaluated against five criteria: overall acceptability ex ante; robustness; consensus; procedurality; and their ranking on nonfairness issues such as cost and convenience. In the article we also move beyond theory to implementation by modeling our framework to evaluate public judgments concerning acceptability in the contentious area of land-use decisions in Florida.
Estimating systolic contractile forces using tissue Doppler myocardial imaging and mechanical modeling

Quantitative assessment of myocardial function remains an important goal in clinical cardiology. Measuring contractile force is a good way of assessing this. However, currently there is no direct method to do this. Force development within the myocardial wall maybe described by a stress sensor that is the sum of passive/elastic and active/contractile stresses. In this study a simplified cardiac mathematical model was combined with ultrasound velocity imaging and haemodynamic data to determine whether the contractile force development could be estimated during systole. This methodology was validated in ten pigs. The mean peak value of active stress was 46/spl plusmn/9kPa which was in good agreement with experimental data measuring active stress in isolated muscle strips. Five pigs were given an incremental dobutamine infusion and an increase in peak active stress paralleled the increase in dobutamine. The estimation of contractile force development as described above could easily be transferred to a clinical setting.
MARF and Opa1 Control Mitochondrial and Cardiac Function in Drosophila

Rationale: Mitochondria interact via actions of outer and inner membrane fusion proteins. The role of mitochondrial fusion in functioning of the heart, where mitochondria comprise ≈30% of cardiomyocyte volume and their intermyofilament spatial arrangement with other mitochondria is highly ordered, is unknown. Objective: Model and analyze mitochondrial fusion defects in Drosophila melanogaster heart tubes with tincΔ4Gal4-directed expression of RNA interference (RNAi) for mitochondrial assembly regulatory factor (MARF) and optic atrophy (Opa)1. Methods and Results: Live imaging analysis revealed that heart tube–specific knockdown of MARF or Opa1 increases mitochondrial morphometric heterogeneity and induces heart tube dilation with profound contractile impairment. Sarcoplasmic reticular structure was unaffected. Cardiomyocyte expression of human mitofusin (mfn)1 or -2 rescued MARF RNAi cardiomyopathy, demonstrating functional homology between Drosophila MARF and human mitofusins. Suppressing mitochondrial fusion increased compensatory expression of nuclear-encoded mitochondrial genes, indicating mitochondrial biogenesis. The MARF RNAi cardiomyopathy was prevented by transgenic expression of superoxide dismutase 1. Conclusions: Mitochondrial fusion is essential to cardiomyocyte mitochondrial function and regeneration. Reactive oxygen species are key mediators of cardiomyopathy in mitochondrial fusion-defective cardiomyocytes. Postulated mitochondrial–endoplasmic reticulum interactions mediated uniquely by mfn2 appear dispensable to functioning of the fly heart.