cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of nutrient restriction on calpain and calpastatin content of skeletal muscle from cows and fetuses

Calpains are crucial for the degradation of myofibrillar proteins in muscle. Calpastatin is a specific inhibitor of calpains. The objective of this study was to elucidate the effect of nutrient restriction on the activity of calpains and calpastatin in the skeletal muscle of both cows and fetuses. Beginning 30 d after conception, 20 cows were fed either a control diet consisting of native grass hay fortified with vitamins and minerals at recommendations for a mature cow to gain 0.72 kg/d or half the vitamins and minerals and millet straw at 68.1% of NEm requirements. Cows were slaughtered on d 125 of gestation, and the LM was sampled at the 12th rib for calpain and calpastatin measurement. When comparing the muscle samples from nutrient-restricted and control cows, no difference in the activity of calpain I and II was observed; however, there was a significant difference (P < 0.05) in calpastatin activity. Muscle samples from control cows had greater calpastatin content than those of nutrient-restricted cows (P < 0.05); in contrast, the calpastatin content of fetal muscle was greater in fetuses gestated by nutrient-restricted cows than those of control cows (P < 0.05). Further, there were three calpastatin isoforms of 125, 110, and 70 kD detected in fetal muscle, whereas only the110-kD isoform was detected for cow muscle. These results indicate that the activity of the calpain system in skeletal muscle is mainly controlled through the expression of calpastatin. Alternating the calpastatin content in muscle and thereby modulating calpain activity may provide a mechanism for the maintenance of fetal muscle growth during nutrient restriction, whereas skeletal muscle loss in cows is upregulated.
The INSITE Project: Engaging Students in International Team Collaborations to Create a Web 2.0 Tool Repository

There is a growing need to engage our undergraduate students in international, cross-cultural experiences. In an effort to engage every education student in an international experience, we explored the idea of using a shared wiki to enable students in a required, core course to interact with international peers. In this paper, we describe the evolution of this project including the initial design decisions made, the participants and context, the constraints encountered, as well as the subsequent design decisions. This design case focuses on the experience from the perspective of the American students and project participants. We end with a reflection on insights we have gleaned from the process.
Research Robots for Applications in AI, Teleoperation and Entertainment

Sarcos Research Corporation, and the Center for Engineering Design at the University of Utah, have long been interested in both the fundamental and the applied aspects of robots and other computationally driven machines. We have produced substantial numbers of systems that function as products for commercial applications, and as advanced research tools specifically designed for experimental use.
Application and benefits of an open DeviceNet control system in the forest products industry

This paper describes how smart devices communicating on a DeviceNet protocol have allowed a composite panels plant to successfully integrate vast amounts of process information to improve productivity and uptime in the forest products industry. The benefits of integrating DeviceNet systems include better process information to operators and improved diagnostic capability for troubleshooting. Valuable process information, previously unavailable, can now be readily viewed by any mill personnel. Safer plant operation has also resulted from the additional process control information. Also discussed is the total installed cost of a DeviceNet system as compared to a traditional PLC installation.
Facilitation by exogenous attention for static and dynamic gestalt groups

Attentional mechanisms allow the brain to selectively allocate its resources to stimuli of interest within the huge amount of information reaching its sensory systems. The voluntary component of attention, endogenous attention, can be allocated in a flexible manner depending on the goals and strategies of the observer. On the other hand, the reflexive component, exogenous attention, is driven by the stimulus. Here, we investigated how exogenous attention is deployed to moving stimuli that form distinct perceptual groups. We showed that exogenous attention is deployed according to a reference frame that moves along with the stimulus. Moreover, in addition to the cued stimulus, exogenous attention is deployed to all elements forming a perceptual group. These properties provide a basis for the efficient deployment of exogenous attention under ecological viewing conditions.
The effects of septal lesions or scopolamine injections on retention of habituation to a novel environment

Previous studies have shown that scopolamine injections or medial septal lesions disrupt the habituation of an exploratory head-poke response. The present study was designed to extend these, results and to determine the effects of these manipulations upon the retention of the habituated response. Exploratory responding was assessed in two 50-min sessions separated by 10 days. The results suggested an impairment of habituation following either scopolamine injections or septal lesions during both Phases 1 and 2. Septal lesions produced similar effects regardless of prior experience in the apparatus; however, injections of scopolamine resulted in different effects upon performance as a function of prior experience. Thus in contrast to previous suggestions that the effects of these two manipulations on habituation were identical, the present study suggests that there are differences which can be observed under the appropriate testing conditions.
DO BLACK AND WHITE SUPERVISORY PROBLEM SOLVING STYLES DIFFER

Do black supervisors manage differently than white supervisors? Do black supervisors solve problems in the same way as white supervisors? To investigate these issues a group of 21 blacks and 56 whites in a supervisory training program conducted by the College of Business, University of Georgia, were studied using a take-home paper and pencil exercise. Certain independent variables were first identified which included biographical data, employment experience and personality factors. The exercises attempted to measure the way they resolved role conflict situations and handled disciplinary problems–two important duties of supervisors. The most outstanding finding from the study was the paucity of differences in all measures except in attitudes toward received discipline. Blacks were less willing to accept harsh punishment for violation of organizational rules than whites, especially where there was a history of high performance. We conclude, however, that organizational acculturation may substantially offset any minority subcultural influences in organizational situations.
“I've Fallen for You like a Blind Roofer:” Some Effects of Listener Characteristics on Interpreting Opening Lines

Abstract Until recently, the revolutionary effects of the development of metacommunication theory have been felt in message/behavioral research but have been ignored in the listening arena. In 1992, Cline and Clark (1992a) coined the term relational listening to capture the phenomenon of partners in interpersonal relationships actively attempting to decide the relational information that is embedded in interpersonal messages at an abstract level. Reasoning that relational listening begins at the beginning of a relationship (at the inception of relational contact), Cline and Clark 1992a; 1992b) focused their previous investigations of relational listening on the interpretation of opening lines. Those studies pointed listener characteristics as factors that significantly influence the interpretation of opening tines as a process of relational listening. The present investigation pursues this line of research by focusing on the listener's gender, the listener's self-perceived attractiveness, and the listener...
Formation and Detection of Fullerene Metal Complexes Using Time-Of-Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry:

We have found that metal/fullerene adduct ions of the C60 and C70 fullerenes can be formed with silver, gold, rhodium, and palladium by argonion bombardment of fullerenes deposited on a metal substrate, with the use of a Time-of-Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometer (TOF-SIMS). The bis and tris metal/fullerene adducts formed include: Ag(C60)2+, AgC60C70+, Ag(C70)2+, Ag(C60)3+, Ag(C60)2C70+, AgC60(C70)2+, and Rh(C60)2+. In addition, the monomeric adducts AgC60+, AgC70+, AuC60+, AuC70+, RhC60+, RhC70+, and PdC60+ also have been detected. Samples prepared with a raw soot extract gave higher yields of metal/fullerene adducts in TOF-SIMS than those prepared with purified fullerenes. This result may indicate the presence of a matrix component in the raw soot which enhances the formation of fullerene/metal adducts. Spectra obtained from the raw soot show peaks at every 24 daltons corresponding to even-numbered carbon clusters. These peaks occur as low as 600 daltons (C50) and as high as 3000 (C250).
Dynamics of Spin-Lattice Relaxation in CoxFe3-xO4 Nanocrystals

Spin-lattice relaxation rates in colloidal CoxFe3-xO4nanocrystals were investigated as a function of size and Co content via pump-probe Faraday rotation measurements to investigate spin-lattice relaxation rate in nanoscale magnetic materials.
Integrating computerized anesthesia charting into a hospital information system

Background: Systems for computerization of anesthesia records have typically been ‘stand-alone’ computers many times connected to monitoring devices in the operating theater. A system was developed and tested at LDS Hospital in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA that was an integral part of the Health Evaluation through Logical Processing (HELP) hospiial information system.Methods: The system was evaluated using time and motion studies to assess impact of the system on the anesthesiologists use of time, an assessment for completeness of the anesthesia record was conducted, and a questionnaire was used to assess anesthesiologists attitudes. Timing studies were performed on 44 surgical cases before computerization and 41 surgical cases after computerization. For both before and after computerization, about 80% of procedures were D&C, vaginal hysterectomy, laparoscopy, tubal ligation, or A&P repair.Results: The study showed a major reduction in time required for charting from 20.4% to 13.4% which was statistically significant (p=0.0001). Other significant factors were a reduction in the time spent scanning the entire area which dropped from 10.5% to 5.6% (p=0.001), patient preparation time increased from 10.1% to 13.1% (p=0.02), the time spent arranging equipment increased from 6.4% to 8.1%, and the average time spent on non-anesthesia activities increased from 6.3% to 11.3%. The computerized anesthesia record was more legible, and complete than the manual record. The overall assessment of computer charting by anesthesiologists questionnaire was positive. The computerized anesthesia charting was preferred by the anesthesiologists, who, after one or two training sessions, used the system on their own.Conclusions: It appears that having a computerized anesthesia charting system that is an integral part of a hospital information system not only saves anesthesiologists charting time, but also improves the quality of the record and was well accepted by busy private practive anesthesiologists.
Linkage-shredding genetic algorithm for reliability assessment of structural systems

Abstract The identification of the probabilistically dominant failure modes of complex structures and the estimation of their reliability can be reduced to the solution of an optimization problem in the standardized normal space of the variables that control the random loads applied on the structure and the random strengths of its members. Hence, the ability of genetic algorithms to identify local and global optima makes them especially suitable for solving structural reliability problems. To reduce the known inefficiencies of traditional genetic algorithms, this paper proposes the use of a hybrid genetic search algorithm that is capable of efficiently identifying the dominant failure modes of a structural system and estimating their reliability index values. The proposed algorithm combines the benefits and the efficiency of the linkage learning process of the gene expression messy genetic algorithm (GEMGA) to the ability of the shredding genetic operator to explore new significant search domains. By reducing the dimensionality of the problem through linkage learning, the number of generations needed to reach convergence is greatly reduced. To further ameliorate the GA search’s efficiency, the Shredding operator is used to estimate the value of the reliability index in a given search direction by building and updating a fitness value matrix based on an evolutionary learning process. This will drastically reduce the number of structural analyses that are usually required during the reliability assessment of structural systems. Furthermore, an exploitation process is implemented during the search for the local optima to obtain accurate reliability indexes and quantify the contributions of various variables to the structural failure modes identified during the search process. Thus, the proposed algorithm provides detailed information about a structure’s failure modes that would be helpful for optimizing the design and improving the structure’s safety against local and global failures. Examples are provided to demonstrate the high efficiency and accuracy of the proposed hybrid genetic algorithm.
Study of adaptation to altered gravity through systems analysis of motor control.

Maintenance of posture and production of functional, coordinated movement demand integration of sensory feedback with spinal and supra-spinal circuitry to produce adaptive motor control in altered gravity (G). To investigate neuroplastic processes leading to optimal performance in altered G we have studied motor control in adult rats using a battery of motor function tests following chronic exposure to various treatments (hyper-G, hindlimb suspension, chemical distruction of hair cells, space flight). These treatments differentially affect muscle fibers, vestibular receptors, and behavioral compensations and, in consequence, differentially disrupt air righting, swimming, posture and gait. The time-course of recovery from these disruptions varies depending on the function tested and the duration and type of treatment. These studies, with others (e.g., D'Amelio et al. in this volume), indicate that adaptation to altered gravity involves alterations in multiple sensory-motor systems that change at different rates. We propose that the use of parallel studies under different altered G conditions will most efficiently lead to an understanding of the modifications in central (neural) and peripheral (sensory and neuromuscular) systems that underlie sensory-motor adaptation in active, intact individuals.
Teaching Design in Context

As a result of recent curriculum revisions, the mechanical engineering faculty at the United States Military Academy teaches the formal design process “just in time” for students to apply the process to their capstone design projects. The design process consists of several phases and incorporates many engineering tools. During the initial offering of the course, Mechanical Engineering Design, instructors assigned students to capstone design teams early in the course. As the instructor taught the design process, team members applied the concepts to their capstone project. Based on instructors’ and students’ feedback, faculty revised the course structure to teach the design process in the context of a simple, in-class design project (design a portable illumination device) during the first half-semester. All in-class exercises were collaborative, hands-on experiences based on the project. To reinforce topics introduced in class and ensure all students develop a firm foundation in the design process, a separate common customer need (a device to store a West Point class ring) was the focus of all individual homework. Each student developed a design, built a prototype, and wrote an individual design report. Subsequent to formal design process instruction, students formed capstone teams and began their one and one-half semester capstone design projects. Results indicate that students more thoroughly understood the design process and its associated engineering tools allowing capstone teams to progress more efficiently through conceptual design; order parts, build prototypes, and test prototypes much earlier than the previous year; and enjoy a successful capstone experience.
Encoding power in communication networks.

Abstract: In animal societies, conflicts can be resolved by combatants or through third‐party intervention. In gregarious species, conflicts among pairs can spread to involve multiple individuals. In the case of large conflicts, containment and termination of aggression by third parties is important. Successful intervention relies on consensus among combatants about the intervener’s capacity to use force. We refer to this consensus as power. We measure it and study how it arises, using as our model system a pigtailed macaque (Macaca nemestrina) society. In macaques, the degree to which one individual perceives another as capable of using force is communicated using a special dominance signal. Group consensus about an individual’s capacity to use force arises from the network of signaling interactions. We derive a formalism to quantify consensus in the network. We find that the power distribution is fat tailed and power is a strong predictor of social variables including request for support, intervention c...
Treating bulimia: A combined therapy approach

Bulimia is an increasingly common eating disorder which is separate and distinct from anorexia nervosa. The disorder is characterized by ingestion of large volumes of food, usually followed by self-induced vomiting or laxative abuse. Although sometimes seen as a symptom accompanying obesity or anorexia nervosa, bulimia is often associated with a normal weight and nutritional state. This paper includes a case study which describes 3 years of treatment and illustrates the personality characteristics common to bulimic patients, demonstrating a marked contrast with the classic anorexia nervosa patient. A combined treatment approach is illustrated which (1) emphasizes individual therapy as the means by which long-term changes in personality can be attained and sustained; (2) uses group therapy to provide peer support and behavioral intervention; and (3) utilizes imipramine to decrease panic and alleviate anxiety and depression.
The minimal number of circuits in a finite set inR 2k−1

The minimal number of circuits (i.e., minimal affinely dependent subsets) in a set ofs points inR 2k−1 isr( 3 4 )+(k−r)( 3 4⋅1 ) as conjectured by J.-P. Doignon, wheres=qk+r, 0≦r<q.
Information content of Caenorhabditis elegans splice site sequences varies with intron length

A database of sequences of 139 introns from the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans was analyzed using the information measure of Schneider et al. (1986) J. Mol. Biol. 128: 415-431. Statistically significant information is encoded by at least the first 30 nt and last 20 nt of C. elegans introns. Both the quantity and the distribution of information in the 5' splice site sequences differs between the typical short (length less than 75 nt) and rarer long (length greater than 75 nt) introns, with the 5 sites of long introns containing approximately one bit more information. 3' splice site sequences of long and short C. elegans introns differ significantly in the region between -20 and -10 nt.
High-Spin Molecules: Hexanuclear MnIII Clusters with [Mn6O4X4]6+ (X = Cl-, Br-) Face-Capped Octahedral Cores and S = 12 Ground States

Reaction of R2dbmH (R = H, Me, Et; dbmH is dibenzoylmethane) with MnCl3 (generated in situ from MnCl2 and MnO4-) in MeCN yields the five-coordinate, square-pyramidal complexes [MnCl(R2dbm)2] (R = H, 1; Me, 4; Et, 7). The same reaction with MnBr2 yields [MnBr(R2dbm)2] (R = H, 2; Me, 5; Et, 8). Slow hydrolysis of 4 or 7 in CH2Cl2/MeCN over two weeks gives [Mn6O4Cl4(R2dbm)6] (R = Me, 9; Et, 11); the crystal structure of 9 reveals a novel [Mn6(μ3-O)4(μ3-Cl)4]6+ core comprising an octahedron whose faces are capped by O2- or Cl- ions. Similar slow hydrolysis of 5 or 8 gives [Mn6O4Br4(R2dbm)6] (R = Me, 10; Et, 12); the crystal structure of 10 is identical with that of 9 except for the Br--for-Cl- substitution. The 1H NMR spectra of 1−12 in CDCl3 show paramagnetically shifted and broadened R2dbm resonances. The spectra are as expected for retention of the solid-state structures, the Mn6 complexes exhibiting effective Td solution symmetry with no evidence of fragmentation to [MnX(R2dbm)], [Mn(R2dbm)3], or any othe...
Mastering IT change management step two: moving from ignorant anarchy to informed anarchy

Where does one begin to address the multitude of issues surrounding implementing a Change Management process from scratch? We take a look at one IT support organization's beginning steps. Yesterday: Each different IT support group received, processed, and implemented change requests differently. End users never knew when a change was coming. Other support teams were surprised when systems suddenly acted differently. Many incidents were a direct result of the IT organization breaking their own systems. Today: Create and implement a standard process flow, identify interdependencies among systems, recognize relationships within the organization, and set up lines of communication. Tomorrow: Interested parties are aware of when changes are scheduled to be implemented. Improvements to Change Management procedures are made reactively. Incidents resulting from changes are identified quickly. Ready for Step Three: Moving from Informed Anarchy to using a defined process for managing changes.
Electronic frontiers in foreign exchange trading

Perhaps no other industry has been affected by the e-commerce revolution more than financial services. The Internet, together with deregulation and globalization, has engendered a wave of hypercompetition that includes the emergence of new exchanges, markets, and distribution channels providing opportunities for cost reduction and strategic advantage [2]. While equities markets have been the focus of much research [2, 8, 12], scant attention has been paid to the structural transformation occurring within foreign exchange markets enabled by Web trading platforms. In terms of volume, foreign exchange (forex or fx) may represent the largest e-commerce opportunity yet. According to the Bank for International Settlements (BIS), forex is the leading segment of world financial markets; its roughly $1.2 trillion in daily turnover is approximately equivalent to a month of combined NYSE and Nasdaq trades. While still comprising a small portion of the overall fx market, Greenwich Associates In pursuit of the $1.2-trillion-a-day opportunity.
Commentary—Project Towards No Drug Abuse: An Evidence-Based Drug Abuse Prevention Program

Project Towards No Drug Abuse (Project TND) is a research-based program that has been examined over seven group-randomized controlled trials. In all trials, an effect has been found on hard drug use. An effect has been found on alcohol use in four trials, and on cigarettes and marijuana in two trials. (Arguably, an effect is found on marijuana in three trials.) Program effects on violence-related behavior were established in earlier trials, though such effects were not assessed in later trials. Certainly, as in most scientific studies, there are limitations in the interpretation of the effects obtained, particularly regarding cigarette and marijuana use and violence-related behavior, and more empirical work is needed. For Project TND, however, numerous trial replications have been completed, and the effects within each trial could not have been obtained by chance alone more than 10 % of the time (two-tailed). These results suggest that Project TND is indeed evidence-based. To be evidence-based means that evidence has accumulated to suggest that the program is likely to work, at least under conditions that are comparable to those in which it has been tested.
Angle resolved photoemission from chemisorbed layers: Further theoretical considerations

Abstract In recent theoretical work by Gadzuk and by Liebsch, the importance of angle resolved photoemission studies of surfaces and chemisorbed atoms has been demonstrated. In the theory due to Gadzuk, the role of the initial state in the photoemission process has been emphasized, whereas in the theory due to Liebsch, the role of the final state is stressed in determining a photoemission angular distribution (PAD) from chemisorbed atoms. Here it is shown what conditions favor initial versus final state dominance. In both theories, the PAD is calculated for an isolated chemisorbed atom or surface molecule complex. It is shown how two-dimensional band effects due to adatomadatom interactions modify (or do not modify) the PAD.
Development of Spatial Frequency Domain Instrument for the Quantification of Layer Specific Optical Properties of Pigmented Lesions

A clinical, spatially modulated quantitative spectroscopy (SMoQS) instrument has been designed and deployed to evaluate its ability to quantitatively isolate layer-specific optical properties of pigmented lesions in skin in vivo.
Graphical interface for medical image processing

We have developed a graphical interface which allows users of varying levels of computer experience and proficiency to manipulate medical image-processing data with “point-and-click” ease. The power which had formerly been associated with protocols and shell scripts has been combined with the flexibility and “user-friendliness” of buttons and dialog boxes.
Prompt Fission Gamma-ray Studies at DANCE

Abstract Measurements of correlated data on prompt-fission γ-rays (PFG) have been carried out for various actinide isotopes in recent years using the Detector for Advanced Neutron Capture Experiments (DANCE) at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL). We have developed a model that conveniently parametrizes the correlated data of γ-ray multiplicity and energy. New results on two- dimensional prompt-fission γ-ray multiplicity versus energy distributions from spontaneous fission on 252 Cf and neutron-induced fission on 242 m Am are presented together with previously obtained results on 233,235 U and 239 Pu. Correlated PFG data from 252 Cf are also compared to results of the detailed theoretical model developed at LANL, for different thresholds of PFG energies. Future plans to measure correlated data on fission fragments, prompt fission neutrons and γ-rays at DANCE are presented.
Sex in the New Europe: The Criminalization of Clients and Swedish Fear of Penetration

This article is a critical discussion of the 1998 Swedish law that made it a crime to purchase or attempt to purchase `a temporary sexual relationship'. It discusses the cultural context in which the law was proposed and passed, and it reviews newspaper articles and government commissioned reports that assess the effects of the law. The point of the article is to argue that the law is about much more than its overt referent `prostitution'. Instead, the argument is made that the law is a response to Sweden's entry into the EU. For a variety of reasons, anxiety about Sweden's position in the EU is articulated through anxiety about prostitution. The Swedish case is one where we can see that sexuality is one site where boundaries and roles in the new Europe are being imagined and negotiated.
The Human Cytomegalovirus Chemokine Receptor US28 Mediates Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Migration

Abstract Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection of smooth muscle cells (SMCs) in vivo has been linked to a viral etiology of vascular disease. In this report, we demonstrate that HCMV infection of primary arterial SMCs results in significant cellular migration. Ablation of the chemokine receptor, US28, abrogates SMC migration, which is rescued only by expression of the viral homolog and not a cellular G protein–coupled receptor (GPCR). Expression of US28 in the presence of CC chemokines including RANTES or MCP-1 was sufficient to promote SMC migration by both chemokinesis and chemotaxis, which was inhibited by protein tyrosine kinase inhibitors. US28-mediated SMC migration provides a molecular basis for the correlative evidence that links HCMV to the acceleration of vascular disease.
High-pressure processing and boiling water treatments for reducing Listeria monocytogenes, Escherichia coli O157:H7, Salmonella spp., and Staphylococcus aureus during beef jerky processing

Abstract Beef jerky is a convenient, ready-to-eat meat product, but requires processing lethality steps to ensure the safety of the product. Previous outbreaks involving various jerky products have highlighted the risks associated with jerky and the importance of utilizing pathogen interventions during processing. In this study, two alternative interventions were evaluated for reducing pathogen populations during jerky processing. Results demonstrated that high pressure processing (HPP; two treatments of 550 MPa, 60 s) could produce significant (p 5.0 log10 CFU/strip in resulting beef jerky. Thus, 20 or 30 s boiling water (100 ± 2 °C) treatments could be effective interventions for commercial jerky processors or home food preservers. Future validation of these processes in-plant could provide processors and regulators with alternative strategies for safe and shelf-stable jerky products.
On the theory of the KVV auger spectrum of Li

Many-body effects on the core-valence-valence Auger lineshape of Li are evaluated in a change-of-mean-field, free-electron model.
Recombinant Mouse PAP Has pH-Dependent Ectonucleotidase Activity and Acts through A1-Adenosine Receptors to Mediate Antinociception

Prostatic acid phosphatase (PAP) is expressed in nociceptive neurons and functions as an ectonucleotidase. When injected intraspinally, the secretory isoforms of human and bovine PAP protein have potent and long-lasting antinociceptive effects that are dependent on A(1)-adenosine receptor (A(1)R) activation. In this study, we purified the secretory isoform of mouse (m)PAP using the baculovirus expression system to determine if recombinant mPAP also had antinociceptive properties. We found that mPAP dephosphorylated AMP, and to a much lesser extent, ADP at neutral pH (pH 7.0). In contrast, mPAP dephosphorylated all purine nucleotides (AMP, ADP, ATP) at an acidic pH (pH 5.6). The transmembrane isoform of mPAP had similar pH-dependent ectonucleotidase activity. A single intraspinal injection of mPAP protein had long-lasting (three day) antinociceptive properties, including antihyperalgesic and antiallodynic effects in the Complete Freund's Adjuvant (CFA) inflammatory pain model. These antinociceptive effects were transiently blocked by the A(1)R antagonist 8-cyclopentyl-1, 3-dipropylxanthine (CPX), suggesting mPAP dephosphorylates nucleotides to adenosine to mediate antinociception just like human and bovine PAP. Our studies indicate that PAP has species-conserved antinociceptive effects and has pH-dependent ectonucleotidase activity. The ability to metabolize nucleotides in a pH-dependent manner could be relevant to conditions like inflammation where tissue acidosis and nucleotide release occur. Lastly, our studies demonstrate that recombinant PAP protein can be used to treat chronic pain in animal models.
Desorption of H2O from a hydroxylated single-crystal α-Al2O3(0001) surface

Abstract The desorption of H2O from a hydroxylated single-crystal α-Al2O3(0001) surface was studied using laser-induced thermal desorption (LITD) and temperature-programmed desorption (TPD) techniques. α-Al2O3(0001) models the surface of exhaust particles from solid rocket motors. H2O desorption from α-Al2O3(0001) will determine hydroxyl coverages that will influence Al2O3 surface chemistry. H2O desorption from the hydroxylated α-Al2O3(0001) surface occurred over a temperature range from 300 to 500 K. This broad distribution suggests a variety of hydroxyl surface sites with different binding energies. H2O desorption results versus hydroxyl coverage prepared by progressively annealing a fully hydroxylated α-Al2O3(0001) surface confirmed a wide range of hydroxyl binding energies. Additional H2O desorption results versus hydroxyl coverage prepared by varying the H2O exposure revealed that H2O dissociative adsorption randomly fills the adsorption sites independent of their adsorption energy. These results argued that hydroxyl surface diffusion between the various adsorption sites must be negligible. Modeling of the desorption results was consistent with hydroxyl desorption energies that range from Ed=23 to Ed=41 kcal mol−1. The H2O desorption results predict that hydroxyl groups will be stable on α-Al2O3 rocket-exhaust particles under stratospheric conditions.
Chemical synapses between turtle photoreceptors

Rod photoreceptors of the snapping turtle retina wer Golgi impregnated and studied in the electron microscope. Telodendria arising from the synaptic bases ended at rods and cones as lateral or central elements of the ribbon synaptic complex, thus providing clear evidence of chemical synapses between turtle photoreceptors.
Einfluß hydrodynamischer Krafteinwirkungen auf die Biegeschwingungen von Rührwellen

Immer wieder auftretende, schwingungsbedingte Schaden und Mangel an schnell-laufenden Ruhrwerken mit einseitig gelagerter Welle gaben Anlas zu theoretischen und experimentellen Untersuchungen. Es wird gezeigt, das diese Wellen ein unge-wohnliches Biegeschwingungsverhalten aufweisen, das seine Erklarung in der Existenz von mindestens vier hydrodynamischen Krafteinwirkungen des Ruhrguts auf den Ruhrer findet. Dabei werden der Entstehungsmechanismus dieser fur die Biegeschwingung der Welle mitverantwortlichen hydrodynamischen Krafte auf Grund theoretischer Uberlegungen herausgearbeitet und die physikalischen Gesetzmasig-keiten mathematisch formuliert. Weiter werden Mes- und Analysemethoden zur experimentellen Bestimmung dieser hydrodynamischen Krafte angegeben sowie die gefundenen stromungsmechanischen Gesetzmasigkeiten in eine Berechnung der Biegeschwingungen einseitig gelagerter Ruhrwellen einbezogen.
Optimum solar collector operation for maximizing cycle work output

Abstract Analysis is presented to determine the optimum outlet temperature for a given solar collector that will maximize the work output for various idealized heat engine cycles. The effect of radiative and convective heat losses from the collector is demonstrated, and the relative importance of each in different operating ranges is shown.
Cervical spondylotic myelopathy: functional and radiographic long-term outcome after laminectomy and posterior fusion.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the long-term efficacy of cervical laminectomy with posterior lateral mass fusion/fixation in the treatment of patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM). METHOD: Twenty-five patients treated for CSM by laminectomy and lateral mass fusion at the Division of Neurosurgery at The Ohio State University between 1989 and 1994 were studied retrospectively. Only patients with longer than 2-year postoperative follow-up durations were included. At follow-up examination, each patient completed an SF36 questionnaire, underwent a physical examination, underwent plain radiography showing the spinal curvature with plate and screw position, and underwent magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical spine, which evaluated dural sac decompression and spinal cord abnormalities. Patient-generated data were used for outcome measurements. RESULTS: The mean follow-up duration was 47.5 months. Good outcome was defined by the presence of three criteria: ability to walk unassisted (Grade IIIA or better), ability to write unassisted, and ability to manage buttons and/or zippers unassisted. The inability to meet these criteria was defined as a poor outcome. Two patients (8%) experienced complications that resulted from the surgery. There was no instability or progression to significant kyphosis. Lesions that were hyperintense on magnetic resonance images did not correlate with outcome. Eighty percent of the patients achieved good outcomes, and 76% had improved myelopathy scores. None of the patients had late neurological deterioration. Patients with better neurological statuses at the time of surgery (Grade IIIA or better) were more likely to improve (P < 0.0001); the likelihood of a change in status for those starting with poorer grades (IIIB or worse) was not statistically significant (P < 0.08). CONCLUSION: Cervical laminectomy with posterior fusion/fixation proved useful in the treatment of patients with CSM with straight or lordotic spines and multilevel compression. This therapy addresses the dynamic and compressive forces that are important in the pathogenesis of CSM, resulting in minimal complications and possible improvement in long-term outcomes.
An analysis of the hybrid nature of solanum xedinense Berth, using molecular, cytological and crossability studies

Solanum xedinense Berth., a pentaploid (2n=5x=60) interspecific hybrid between the cultivated potato and the wild speciesSolanum demissum Lindl., represents evidence of genetic exchange between wild and cultivated species. It has been found in Central Mexico at altitudes between 2000 and 3500 meters, growing in and along the edges of cultivated fields, roadside thickets, forest margins and along irrigation ditches. This study examined the hybrid nature of S.xedinense using molecular, cytological and crossability data. RAPD and AFLP markers were used to supportS. xedinense as a hybrid between the cultivated potato andS. demissum. Meiotic analysis and crossability studies were used to examine the potential ofS. xedinense to form offspring. Several accessions ofS. tuberosum L. subsp.tuberosum and subsp.andigena Hawkes,S. demissum and an accession ofS. xedinense were used in the study. Artificial hybrids betweenS. tuberosum subsp.tuberosum andS. demissum were included for comparison. Molecular analysis positioned the natural and artificial hybrids as an intermediate group between the parental populations, supporting their relationship with the parental populations. Meiosis was abnormal in both natural and artificial hybrids, and reduced crossability was noted forS. xedinense. Although gene flow appears to happen between wild and cultivated potato, the potential for the natural hybrids to become established may depend mostly on their ability to clonally propagate themselves.
End-to-end distribution for a wormlike chain in arbitrary dimensions.

We construct an efficient methodology for calculating wormlike chain statistics in arbitrary D dimensions over all chain rigidities, from fully rigid to completely flexible. The structure of our exact analytical solution for the end-to-end distribution function for a wormlike chain in arbitrary D dimensions in Fourier-Laplace space (i.e., Fourier-transformed end position and Laplace-transformed chain length) adopts the form of an infinite continued fraction, which is advantageous for its compact structure and stability for numerical implementation. We then proceed to present a step-by-step methodology for performing the Fourier-Laplace inversion in order to make full use of our results in general applications. Asymptotic methods for evaluating the Laplace inversion (power-law expansion and Rayleigh-Schrodinger perturbation theory) are employed in order to improve the accuracy of the numerical inversions of the end-to-end distribution function in real space. We adapt our results to the evaluation of the single-chain structure factor, rendering simple, closed-form expressions that facilitate comparison with scattering experiments. Using our techniques, the accuracy of the end-to-end distribution function is enhanced up to the limit of the machine precision. We demonstrate the utility of our methodology with realizations of the chain statistics, giving a general methodology that can be applied to a wide range of biophysical problems.
Electric field gradient models based on the geometry of the coordination sphere

Abstract A complication in NQR studies of many organometallic complexes of contemporary interest is the low molecular symmetry. Guidance is needed on the principal axis orientation and geometric effects of the electric field gradient. In this paper a “coordination sphere” model based on electrostatic charges is described for the fac-a 3 b 2 c, fac-a 3 b 2 ligand geometries. Experimental tests are made using e 2 Qq/h and η for a number of organometallic Co and Mn complexes having these geometries. The model is surprisingly successful if b and c are single-atom donor ligands. π-Olefin and some other strong π-acceptor ligands yield poorer results. The coordination sphere model is a useful augment to the Townes-Dailey model.
Metal affinity enrichment increases the range and depth of proteome identification for extracellular microbial proteins.

Many key proteins, such as those involved in cellular signaling or transcription, are difficult to measure in microbial proteomic experiments due to the interfering presence of more abundant, dominant proteins. In an effort to enhance the identification of previously undetected proteins, as well as provide a methodology for selective enrichment, we evaluated and optimized immobilized metal affinity chromatography (IMAC) coupled with mass spectrometric characterization of extracellular proteins from an extremophilic microbial community. Seven different metals were tested for IMAC enrichment. The combined results added ∼20% greater proteomic depth to the extracellular proteome. Although this IMAC enrichment could not be conducted at the physiological pH of the environmental system, this approach did yield a reproducible and specific enrichment of groups of proteins with functions potentially vital to the community, thereby providing a more extensive biochemical characterization. Notably, 40 unknown proteins...
Controlled release and intracellular delivery of small molecules using thermally responsive pluronic F127-chitosan nanocapsules

Nanoscale particulate systems have been studied as the delivery vehicle of various drugs and therapeutic agents for decades with promising outcomes. Recently, nano-particulate systems that are responsive to one or more environmental stimuli (such as temperature, pH, and electromagnetic field) are attracting increasing attention because they allow drug delivery and release to be done in a more controllable fashion [1]. The thermally (temperature) responsive nanoparticles are of particular interest to many researchers because the temperature controlled release of the encapsulated drug can be conveniently done with either thermo (using supraphysiologic temperatures) or cryo (using sub-zero temperature) therapies, minimally invasive energy-based surgical techniques that have been widely studied as potential alternatives to radical surgical intervention for the treatment of cancer and other diseases. Moreover, a significantly improved outcome of cancer treatment has been reported by combining thermotherapy (using supraphysiologic temperatures) and anticancer drug encapsulated in thermally responsive nanoparticles [2]. Here, we report thermally responsive nanocapsules that can be combined with cryotherapy for cancer treatment.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Structure of a Transient Intermediate for GTP Hydrolysis by Ras

The flexibility of the conserved 57DTAGQ61 motif is essential for Ras proper cycling in response to growth factors. Here, we increase the flexibility of the 57DTAGQ61 motif by mutating Gln61 to Gly. The crystal structure of the RasQ61G mutant reveals a new conformation of switch 2 that bears remarkable structural homology to an intermediate for GTP hydrolysis revealed by targeted molecular dynamics simulations. The mutation increased retention of GTP and inhibited Ras binding to the catalytic site, but not to the distal site of Sos. Most importantly, the thermodynamics of RafRBD binding to Ras are altered even though the structure of switch 1 is not affected by the mutation. Our results suggest that interplay and transmission of structural information between the switch regions are important factors for Ras function. They propose that initiation of GTP hydrolysis sets off the separation of the Ras/effector complex even before the GDP conformation is reached.
Augmenting Creative Realities: The Second Life Performance Project

Abstract This article discusses the development of a new interface that allows for the creation of mixed-reality performances. It details the features of the new technology, charts the ways in whic...
Natural-fiber-reinforced polymer composites in automotive applications

In the past decade, natural-fiber composites with thermoplastic and thermoset matrices have been embraced by European car manufacturers and suppliers for door panels, seat backs, headliners, package trays, dashboards, and interior parts. Natural fibers such as kenaf, hemp, flax, jute, and sisal offer such benefits as reductions in weight, cost, and CO2, less reliance on foreign oil sources, and recyclability. However, several major technical considerations must be addressed before the engineering, scientific, and commercial communities gain the confidence to enable wide-scale acceptance, particularly in exterior parts where a Class A surface finish is required. Challenges include the homogenization of the fiber's properties and a full understanding of the degree of polymerization and crystallization, adhesion between the fiber and matrix, moisture repellence, and flame-retardant properties, to name but a few.
Sum Rules and Interlayer Conductivity of High-Tc Cuprates

Analysis of the interlayer infrared conductivity of cuprate high–transition temperature superconductors reveals an anomalously large energy scale extending up to midinfrared frequencies that can be attributed to formation of the superconducting condensate. This unusual effect is observed in a va- riety of materials, including Tl2Ba2CuO6+ x , La2− x Sr x CuO4, and YBa2Cu3O6.6, which show an incoherent interlayer response in the normal state. Midinfrared range condensation was examined in the context of sum rules that can be formulated for the complex conductivity. One possible interpretation of these experiments is in terms of a kinetic energy change associated with the superconducting transition.