cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Distinguishing between luminal and localized proton buffering pools in thylakoid membranes

The dual gradient energy coupling hypothesis posits that chloroplast thylakoid membranes are energized for ATP formation by either a delocalized or a localized proton gradient geometry. Localized energy coupling is characterized by sequestered domains with a buffering capacity of approximately 150 nmol H + mg −1 chlorophyll (Chl). A total of 30 to 40 nmol mg −1 Chl of the total sequestered domain buffering capacity is contributed by lysines with anomolously low pK a s, which can be covalently derivatized with acetic anhydride. We report that in thylakoid membranes treated with acetic anhydride, luminal acidification by a photosystem I (duraquinol [DQH 2 ] to methyl viologen [MV]) proton pumping partial reaction was nearly completely inhibited, as measured by three separate assays, yet surprisingly, H + accumulation still occurred to the significant level of more than 100 nmol H + mg Chl −1 , presumably into the sequestered domains. The treatment did not increase the observed rate constant of dark H + efflux, nor was electron transport significantly inhibited. These data provide support for the existence of a sequestered proton translocating pathway linking the redox reaction H + ion sources with the CF 0 H + channel. The sequestered, low-pK a Lys groups appear to have a role in the H + diffusion process and chemically modifying them blocks the putative H + relay system.
A Table-Based Time-Domain Simulation Method for Oversampled Microelectromechanical Systems

This paper describes a table-based behavioral modeling method and an efficient transient simulation method for oversampled MEMS systems. A system is represented by a set of coupled ordinary differential equations (ODEs) numerically described by table-based macromodels. Cubic spline interpolation is used to evaluate the model functions. The instant settling approximation and the explicit ODE solver are employed to enable efficient transient simulation. These methods are used to simulate a delta-sigma MEMS accelerometer and demonstrate high simulation efficiency.
Challenges in engaging communities in bottom-up literacies for democratic citizenship

The purpose of this article is to examine the authors’ experiences while trying to enter and engage local communities in bottom-up literacies through participatory action research (PAR) toward the community’s own collective self-development. In trying to enter five different communities, I have found several challenges and roadblocks such as mistrust of ‘university people’: legacy of the conventional outside-in and top-down research procedures for working in communities; power struggles with community ‘gatekeepers’, including ‘building keepers’; and bureaucratized project-driven community work. I consider that under the current neoliberal educational policies that are plaguing the world, for example, No Child Left Behind in the USA, self-development projects promoted through PAR can be viable ways to defy these policies and their fatalist thinking. School children’s parents and their communities are nowadays in a better position than teachers to fight for reclaiming local control of curriculum, pedagogy a...
The Synergistic Action of the Capsule and the Shoulder Muscles

The existence of a reflex arc from the glenohumeral capsule to several muscles crossing the shoulder joint was determined in the feline model. Three branches of the axillary nerve terminating in the glenohumeral capsule were identified and electrically stimulated with supramaximal, 100-microseconds pulses using bipolar hook electrodes. Stimulation of the anterior and the inferior axillary articular nerves elicited electromyographic activity in the biceps, subscapularis, supraspinatus, and infraspinatus muscles. Stimulation of the posterior axillary articular nerve elicited electromyographic activity in the acromiodeltoid muscle. Transection of the three articular nerves just distal to their emergence from the main axillary nerve resulted in the absence of any electromyographic activity in the muscles on stimulation, confirming the afferent nature of the articular branches. The time from application of the stimulus to the appearance of a response in the muscles varied from 2.7 msec in the biceps to 3.1 msec in the supraspinatus. The existence of a reflex arc from mechanoreceptors within the glenohumeral capsule to muscles crossing the joint confirms and extends the concept of synergism between the passive (ligaments) and active (muscles) restraints of the glenohumeral joint. This provides new information in orthopaedic sciences that has direct application in modification of surgical repairs and therapeutic modalities of shoulder injuries.
Dipstick Pseudohematuria: Unnecessary Consultation and Evaluation

Purpose: While many primary care providers advocate routine screening urinalyses, a heme positive dipstick test often leads to a false-positive diagnosis of hematuria, or pseudohematuria. Thus, American Urological Association guidelines recommend urological evaluation for asymptomatic patients only for at least 3 red blood cells per high power field in 2 of 3 microscopic urinalyses. We determined the percentage of patients referred for asymptomatic hematuria undergoing unnecessary consultation and studies.Materials and Methods: Patients were retrospectively identified if seen for initial consultation associated with CPT 599.7X, hematuria. Among these patients those referred for evaluation of asymptomatic nonmacroscopic hematuria were identified, and referral patterns, ancillary tests, procedures and findings were examined.Results: Of 320 new patient visits with diagnosis code 599.7X, 91 were referred for asymptomatic, nonmacroscopic hematuria. Of these patients only 37 (41%) had microscopic urinalyses bef...
Microplate Alamar Blue Assay for Staphylococcus epidermidis Biofilm Susceptibility Testing

Biofilms are at the root of many infections largely because they are much more antibiotic resistant than their planktonic counterparts. Antibiotics that target the biofilm phenotype are desperately needed, but there is still no standard method to assess biofilm drug susceptibility. Staphylococcus epidermidis ATCC 35984 biofilms treated with eight different approved antibiotics and five different experimental compounds were exposed to the oxidation reduction indicator Alamar blue for 60 min, and reduction relative to untreated controls was determined visually and spectrophotometrically. The minimum biofilm inhibitory concentration was defined as ≤50% reduction and a purplish well 60 min after the addition of Alamar blue. All of the approved antibiotics had biofilm MICs (MBICs) of >512 μg/ml (most >4,096 μg/ml), and four of the experimental compounds had MBICs of ≤128 μg/ml. The experimental aaptamine derivative hystatin 3 was used to correlate Alamar blue reduction with 2,3-bis(2-methoxy-4-nitro-5-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium-5-carboxanilide (XTT) reduction and viable counts (CFU/ml) for S. epidermidis ATCC 35984, ATCC 12228, and two clinical isolates. For all four strains, Alamar blue results correlated well with XTT (r = 0.83 to 0.97) and with CFU/ml results (r = 0.85 to 0.94). Alamar blue's stability and lack of toxicity allowed CFU/ml to be determined from the same wells as Alamar blue absorbances. If the described method of microplate Alamar blue biofilm susceptibility testing, which is simple, reproducible, cost-effective, nontoxic, and amenable to high throughput, is applicable to other important biofilm forming species, it should greatly facilitate the discovery of biofilm specific agents.
High-κ dielectrically transduced MEMS thickness shear mode resonators and tunable channel-select RF filters

Abstract Electrically coupled, high quality factor (Q), tunable channel-select ladder filters comprised of dielectrically transduced thickness shear mode resonators are presented using integrated circuit compatible bulk micromachining technology. The filters are fabricated on the 3.2 μm thick device layer of heavily doped SOI wafers with a 20 nm thick hafnium dioxide film sandwiched between the polysilicon electrodes and the silicon device layer. The ladder filter consists of shunt and series resonators operating in the half-wave thickness shear vibration mode. Dielectric transduction provides a k2 reduction in motional impedance relative to air-gap electrostatic transduction. Each constituent resonator of the filter can be excited at above 810 MHz resonant frequency with Q of 7800 in air and a motional impedance (RX) of 59 Ω. The ladder filter demonstrates a center frequency tuning range 8–817 MHz and an adjustable bandwidth from 600 kHz to 2.8 MHz, while maintaining an insertion loss 30 dB and pass-band ripple
A Pragmatic Approach to Chimpanzee Language Studies

Recent studies of language development in children have begun to take into account the contextual, cognitive and social parameters which affect the acquisition process. The increasingly sophisticated concern with these problems probably has been best exemplified by the work of Elizabeth Bates (1976). As she points out, “It is…no longer appropriate for psycholinguistics to apply linguistic concepts directly without first considering their fit to current knowledge about cognitive processing and social dynamics” (p. 6). This orientation toward the study of language acquisition has been termed a “pragmatic approach.” It concentrates on the relationship between content (what is spoken) and use (what is accomplished, in terms of information communicated and actions which result from spoken words). Pragmatics, as Bates (1976) explains, is “the study of linguistic indices, and indices can be interpreted only when they are used. One cannot describe the meanings of indices—one can only describe rules for relating them to a context, in which meaning can be found” (p. 3). Her work, however, does not cease with the study of language use. It delves deeply into the cognitive levels of awareness and the complex inferential process that permits the same set of words to be used to mean many different things.
Lessons learned during the manufacture of the NCSX modular coils

The National Compact Stellarator Experiment's (NCSX) modular coils presented a number of engineering and manufacturing challenges due to their complex shapes, requirements for high dimensional accuracy and high current density requirements due to space constraints. Being the first of their kind, these coils required the implementation of many new manufacturing and measuring techniques and procedures. This was the first time that these manufacturing techniques and methods were applied in the production of coils at the laboratory. This resulted in a steep learning curve for the first several coils. Through the effective use of procedures, tooling modifications, involvement and ownership by the manufacturing workforce, and an emphasis on safety, the assembly team was able to reduce the manufacturing times and improve upon the manufacturing methods. This paper will discuss the learning curve and steps that were taken to improve the manufacturing efficiency and reduce the manufacturing times for the modular coils without forfeiting quality.
Ordered and disordered phases coexist in plasma membrane vesicles of RBL-2H3 mast cells. An ESR study

Four chain spin labels and a spin-labeled cholestane were used to study the dynamic structure of plasma membrane vesicles (PMV) prepared from RBL-2H3 mast cells at temperatures ranging from 22°C to 45°C. Analysis shows that the spectra from most labels consist of two components. The abundant spectral components exhibit substantial ordering that is intermediate between that of a liquid-ordered (Lo) phase, and that of a liquid-crystalline (Lc) phase as represented by model membranes. Also, rotational diffusion rates of the spin labels are comparable to those in the Lo phase. In contrast, the ordering for the less abundant components is much lower. These results indicate that a Lo-like region or phase (the abundant component) and an Lc-like region or phase (the less abundant component) coexist in the PMV. In contrast, membranes reconstituted from extracted lipids exhibit the more ordered phase only. This suggests that membrane-associated proteins are important for the coexistence of Lo-like and Lc-like regions in the plasma membrane. In addition, binding of the myristoylated protein, ARF6 to PMV, leads to a new spectral component for a headgroup lipid spin label that indicates the formation of plasma membrane defects by this low molecular weight GTPase.
Amino acid sequences that determine the nuclear localization of yeast histone 2B.

Histone-beta-galactosidase protein fusions were used to identify the domain of yeast histone 2B, which targets this protein to the nucleus. Amino acids 28 to 33 in H2B were required for nuclear localization of such fusion proteins and thus constitute a nuclear localization sequence. The amino acid sequence in this region (Gly-29 Lys Lys Arg Ser Lys Ala) is similar to the nuclear location signal in simian virus 40 large T antigen (Pro-126 Lys Lys Lys Arg Lys Val) (D. Kalderon, B.L. Roberts, W.D. Richardson, and A.E. Smith, Cell 39:499-509, 1984). A point mutation changing lysine 31 to methionine abolished nuclear localization of an H2B-beta-galactosidase fusion protein containing amino acids 1 to 33 of H2B. However, an H2B-beta-galactosidase fusion protein containing both this point mutation and the H2A interaction domain of H2B was nuclear localized. These results suggest that H2A and H2B may be cotransported to the nucleus as a heterodimer.
Galvanic Corrosion during Processing of Polysilicon Microelectromechanical Systems The Effect of Au Metallization

Immersion in aqueous hydrofluoric acid (HF), a standard processing step in fabricating microelectromechanical systems devices, causes rougher and weaker polycrystalline silicon (polysilicon) films in the presence of Au metallization and leads to relatively thick surface oxides. The origin of these effects is the galvanic corrosion that takes place due to the difference in electrochemical potential between the noble Au metallization and the polysilicon in HF solution, resulting in the accelerated formation of a porous surface layer due to corrosion of the silicon. The electrochemical behavior and the evolving microstructural morphology are correlated. In HF solution, Si is dissolved and porous silicon (PS) is formed. The PS first develops along the polysilicon grain boundaries and then extends into the grain interiors. After rinsing in water and exposure to air, the pore walls form the usual oxide, leading to a Si/SiO 2 composite with a gradient in composition-from a high fraction of SiO 2 near the surface to 100% Si deeper into the polysilicon. Inasmuch as the galvanic corrosion requires positively charged holes, these effects can be minimized by using n-type dopants in the polysilicon and performing the HF immersion in the absence of illumination.
Euplotes raikovi Agamaliev, 1966 (Ciliophora, Hypotrichida) From New Hampshire: Description and Morphogenesis

SYNOPSIS Euplotes raikovi, an interstitial hypotrich ciliate described once from the Caspian Sea, was isolated from intertidal sand at Rye Harbor, New Hampshire. Specimens were observed in life, and also stained by Corliss’ modification of the Chatton-Lwoff wet-silver technic and by 2 nigrosin methods. Living individuals and those fixed with Parducz's fluid are 43 × 30 (37-50 × 25–35) μm. The AZM has an average length of 27 μm and contains 24–32 membranelles. The anterior part of AZM lies on the ventral face of an apical channel, much as in E. bisulcatus. There are 7 fronto-ventral, 4 transverse, 1 left marginal, and 2 right caudal cirri. An additional small, rounded argentophilic area resembling a cirrus base is evident in silver-stained preparations, but it is barren in virtually 100% of the population. There are 7–8 (usually 7) dorsal ciliary rows with E. patella-type argyrome. The modal number of cilia in rows I-VII are 3-7-9-9-9-10-10. The unique fronto-ventral cirrus pattern is stable and predictable at the time of streak phase. Morphogenetic development indicates that the barren cirrus base is 2/V (Wallengren system), and that it apparently buds from 1/V. The left marginal cirrus and right caudal cirri have different origins.
A strategic approach to industrial product pricing: The pricing plan

Abstract Price planning is one of the most overlooked areas in industrial marketing. Traditionally, emphasis is placed on product development, advertising strategy, and distribution channel formation before any consideration is given to pricing. The result is that industrial pricing decisions are made quickly without the necessary market and cost factors included in the final decision. The pricing decision is at the core of every business plan and impacts directly on the critical components of a company's marketing strategy. In this article, the importance of price planning in industrial marketing is discussed including the major components needed to make an industrial pricing strategy successful.
Dose–Response of Codling Moth (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) to Ethyl (E, Z)-2,4-Decadienoate in Apple Orchards Treated with Sex Pheromone Dispensers

Abstract Studies were conducted in apple, Malus domestica Borkhausen, orchards to evaluate the attractiveness of the kairomone, ethyl (E, Z)-2,4-decadienoate (pear ester), loaded at various rates into gray halobutyl septa, to adult codling moth, Cydia pomonella L. All studies were conducted in orchards treated with sex pheromone mating disruption. Lure loadings from 0.01 μg to 50.0 mg were evaluated in 12 orchard plots in 1999. Lures loaded with 1.0–50.0 and 0.1–50.0 mg caught significantly more male and female moths than the blank control, respectively. Field dose–response studies were repeated with five lure rates (0.1–40.0 mg) of pear ester during four periods during the 2000 season. Significant seasonal date and rate effects were found for the capture of males and female moths. The 0.1-mg lure caught significantly fewer males than the 1.0-, 3.0-, and 40.0-mg lures. The 40.0-mg lure caught significantly fewer female moths than the 1.0- and 3.0-mg lures. The 3.0-mg lure caught a higher proportion of vir...
Effect of tracer infusion site on measurement of bicarbonate-carbon dioxide metabolism in dogs

Ten dogs were given a primed infusion of H13CO3- for 220 min while under general anesthesia. Isotopic steady state was reached within 60 min in exhaled CO2, femoral arterial blood HCO3-, and femoral venous blood HCO3-. Halfway through each infusion study, the site of tracer infusion was changed either from the central aorta to a peripheral vein, or vice versa. The mean HCO3(-)-CO2 flux measured from blood HCO3- enrichments was 15.7 +/- 2.1 (SD) mmol X kg-1 X h-1. The mean fraction of tracer recovered in exhaled CO2 was 79 +/- 7% (SD) of the infused dose. No significant difference in either HCO3- flux or recovery of tracer was found between the venous and arterial infusions of tracer. These results indicate that when venous administration of HCO3- tracer is compared with central arterial infusion, the initial loss of tracer into expired CO2 is an unimportant consideration in experiments measuring HCO3- kinetics.
A Review of the Role of Acoustic Sensors in the Modern Battlefield

Acoustic sensors have been used for battlefield applications since World War I. Acoustic sensors provide several advantages and are increasingly employed in the modern high-tech battlefield. The twenty-first century battlefield calls for cutting-edge technology for military superiority and deployment of state-of-the-art acoustic sensor systems that employ advanced acoustic signal processing. Thus acoustic sensing technology is becoming increasingly important to accomplish this superiority. The utilization of several acoustic sensor systems dating from the early 1900s to the present is reviewed. The role of acoustic sensor technology in military exercises for ground-based, aerial, and naval combat is discussed. A detailed review of acoustic signal processing and the different stages involved—sound rejection, detection, localization, classification and cancellation—is presented. The advantages and disadvantages of using acoustic technology for potential battlefield applications are presented, and the potential role to be played by acoustics in future warfare is also discussed.
First Flight Risk Mitigation Related to Pilot Unfamiliarity with a New UAV Platform

This paper describes a relatively simple method for matching the response behavior of two very different UAV aircraft to provide a test pilot with additional confidence when handling the first flight of a new vehicle. Linear models of the two aircraft are used to compare the angular rate responses to various control surface deflections, and these in turn are used to determine an appropriate scaling for the pilot’s control inputs. Possible implications to safety and pilot awareness are discussed. Finally, the results are validated by verifying the accuracy of the models with flight test data.
P146 Adapting and Implementing Guidelines For Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Background Adaptation of high-quality external guidelines can be an efficient and effective means to develop guidance more rapidly, allowing for shifting of resources to knowledge transfer and health system implementation efforts. Context To describe successful guideline adaptation and implementation strategies used by a large US health care organisation to improve the quality of care for adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Description of Best Practice A multidisciplinary guideline team evaluated and adapted a guideline on Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) developed by the American College of Physicians, American College of Chest Physicians, American Thoracic Society, and European Respiratory Society (ACP/ACCP/ATS/ERS). Recommendations were evaluated and modified for implementability based on several dimensions of the GLIA tool. Implementation strategies targeted to physicians included electronic distribution of guidelines, interactive online continuing medical education, and point-of-care encounter support. Implementation efforts targeted to patients included point-of-care education booklets, online resources for COPD self-management, and proactive outreach for spirometry testing. Systems- level interventions included development of patient outreach lists and computerised decision support. Monthly reporting and review on three measures was conducted to monitor performance. Ongoing implementation efforts resulted in increased rates of spirometry testing and management of COPD exacerbations with systemic corticosteroid and bronchodilator medications over a four-year period. Lessons Challenges arise when externally developed guidelines lack the specificity necessary for recommendations to be successfully implemented. Systematic evaluation and modification of recommendations is necessary to enhance implementability at the patient, provider and systems levels, as well as to improve performance.
Finite element analysis of launch induced stresses in TOW missile Digital Electronic Unit microprocessor crystals

Dynamic responses of the Army's TOW missile Digital Electronic Unit microprocessor crystals to vibration loads at launch were predicted using modal superposition. This paper discusses the development of finite element models for two types of crystals, the calculated mode shapes.and natural frequencies, and experimental verification of one of the frequencies. Vibration loads from slug missile and shock machine tests were used to predict the transient dynamic response of each crystal, and the resulting peak stresses are compared.
Anisotropic superconductors in tilted magnetic fields

We present images of magnetic flux structures in a single crystal of ${\mathrm{YBa}}_{2}{\mathrm{Cu}}_{3}{\mathrm{O}}_{7\text{\ensuremath{-}}\mathrm{d}}$ during remagnetization by fields tilted from the basal plane of the crystal. Depending on the magnitude and angle of the applied field, we observe anisotropic flux penetration along and across the in-plane field component and emergence of vortex instabilities resulting in modulated flux distributions. We associate the observed patterns with flux cutting effects and with tilted vortex structures intrinsic for layered superconductors. Time dependent Ginzburg-Landau simulations show preferential vortex motion across the $c$ axis and reveal the flux structure evolution in anisotropic superconductors under tilted magnetic fields.
SOMATOSTATIN INHIBITS CCK RELEASE BY INHIBITING SECRETION AND ACTION OF CCK-RELEASING PEPTIDE

We hypothesized that somatostatin exerts its inhibitory action on cholecystokinin (CCK) release and pancreatic secretion by inhibiting the secretion and/or action of a CCK-releasing peptide (CCK-RP) secreted from the small intestine. Our studies demonstrated that intravenous infusion of somatostatin (25 micrograms.kg-1.h-1) completely inhibited the increase in amylase output evoked by diversion of bile-pancreatic juice and 80 +/- 10% of the increase in plasma CCK. Intraduodenal administration of concentrated intestinal perfusate containing the CCK-RP collected from a donor rat with bile-pancreatic juice diversion raised amylase output by 2.3-fold and elevated plasma CCK levels to 7 +/- 0.8 pM in a recipient rat. The stimulatory effect of the concentrated intestinal washings was abolished when the "donor" rat was pretreated with somatostatin. In addition, in somatostatin-treated "recipient" rats, intraduodenal administration of intestinal washings containing CCK-RP also failed to elicit an increase in plasma CCK and amylase secretion. Furthermore, using duodenal mucosal explants, we demonstrated that the inhibitory action of somatostatin on CCK release evoked by CCK-RP was antagonized by pretreatment with pertussis toxin. These observations strongly suggest that somatostatin inhibits feedback regulation of pancreatic enzyme secretion by inhibiting both the secretion and action of CCK-RP.
Patent risk factor analysis of Chinese pharmaceutical enterprises

The pharmaceutical industry is a high-tech industry;its core technical element is patent,which is not only a technical protection measure but also a strong competitive mean.Thus the resultant patent risk is increasing.The risk management theory is very popular in the world;however,Chinese pharmaceutical enterprises have not yet pay more attention to this theory.This article analyzed all the main patent risk factors of Chinese pharmaceutical industries on the basis of the risk management theory.The conclusion will provide a basis of risk measurement and evaluation in the future,and a basis for the enterprises to arrange the targeted prevention and controlling of the patent risk accordingly.
Temporal response of circulating metabolites and hormones during somatotropin treatment of growing pigs.

Temporal responses in the circulating concentrations of a number of intermediary metabolites and metabolic hormones were studied in chronically catheterized barrows (n = 4 per treatment) after either daily i.m. injection of porcine somatotropin (pST, 120 micrograms/kg of BW) or excipient. Blood sampling (every 1 or 2 h) began 24 h before the first injection (d 0) and continued until the end of d 2. Sampling was repeated on d 7 of treatment. Feed intake declined by d 3 in the pST-treated pigs and was 31% lower by d 7 of treatment (P less than .05). Blood glucose and plasma insulin concentrations began to increase about 3 h after the first pST injection, almost returning to preinjection levels before the next injection. By the end of d 2, circulating levels of glucose and insulin were higher in pST-treated pigs than in the controls. A temporal pattern of hyperglycemia and hyperinsulinemia was observed postinjection on each day of treatment. Although pST treatment did not chronically increase basal plasma concentrations of nonesterified fatty acids and glycerol, both metabolites exhibited transient postinjection elevations, the magnitudes of which were augmented by duration of treatment. Plasma urea nitrogen concentrations began to decrease within a few hours after the first pST injection and by d 7 were 70% (P less than .01) lower in the pST-treated pigs. A model is presented implicating pST-induced decreases in peripheral tissue insulin sensitivity and(or) responsiveness in the observed temporal responses in lipid and carbohydrate metabolism.
Theory of the Si (111) ✓3x✓3- Al Surface

Two inequivalent threefold symmetric adatom models for the Si(111) ✓3x✓3- Al reconstruction are examined with self-consistent pseudopotential density functional total energy and force calculations. These calculations indicate that the Al is positioned in the site above the second layer, rather than in the hollow site. The calculated dispersion of the occupied surface states is in agreement with angle resolved photoemission experiments.
Moral Underpinnings of Sustainability

Whether we choose to live by the Golden Rule, utilize a universalistic moral viewpoint, adhere to a utilitarian conviction, or observe any alternative moral stance, sustainable behavior remains a fundamental aspect. This chapter briefly discusses the social responsibility-based quality performance standard, ISO 26000, which provides guidelines for Social Responsibility, SR, toward global sustainable development. Subsequently, the chapter reviews three of the most commonly used moral approaches and places them within the context of sustainable behavior, thereby establishing a direct link between individual and societal morality and sustainability. Given the ongoing global reality of corporate entities as the most powerful and influential ones, an example is presented of IKEA, a corporation that has manifested itself as a sustainable champion. This chapter also addresses the often-presented concern regarding whether it is possible for businesses to perform profitably and still be completely morally and sustainably responsible.
The Rain-Powered Cart

A frictionless cart in the shape of a right triangle (with the vertical side forward) is elastically impacted by vertically falling raindrops. The speed of the cart as a function of time can be analytically deduced as an exercise in the use of trigonometric and hyperbolic functions. A characteristic time defines the approach to a terminal speed which is a sizeable fraction of the speed of the rain. The treatment is accessible to a student in a calculus-based mechanics course.
Mobile sensing framework for task partitioning between cloud and edge device for improved performance

Recently smartphones are used every area in day-to-day life. Smartphones comes with several built-in sensors like gyroscope, accelerometer etc., along with powerful processing units. There exist various frameworks which use mobile as sensing device and mobile sensors as data extractor and process extracted data to calculate various parameter. This processing unit can be resided either in mobile side or cloud side, which provides flexibility to the researcher/developer to reduce computation time by migrating processing unit and transferring data to the cloud side. This may create problem of packet dropping or network issue while transferring data to the cloud. To overcome network issue, we propose a common framework which maintains trade-off between network overhead and processing time. The key feature of proposed framework is dividing processing unit into mobile and cloud side, sends raw data to cloud after preprocessing at mobile side. This will take very low processing time and reduce raw data size, which reduces number of packets to send to the cloud. We investigate feasibility of our proposed framework by implementing and testing with several collaborative sensing applications and comparing with the existing framework. Our result shows promising result by trading off between on-board processing and network overhead across all the solutions we had tested.
Randomized, proof-of-concept trial of low dose naltrexone for patients with breakthrough symptoms of major depressive disorder on antidepressants.

Abstract Background Given the proposed dopaminergic mechanism of low-dose naltrexone (LDN), we examined its efficacy as augmentation for depressive breakthrough on pro-dopaminergic antidepressant regimens. Methods 12 adults (67% female, mean age = 45±12) with recurrent DSM-IV major depressive disorder (MDD) on dopaminergic antidepressant regimens (stimulants, dopamine agonists, bupropion [≥300 mg/day], aripiprazole [≤2.5 mg/day], or sertraline [≥150 mg/day]) were randomized to naltrexone 1 mg b.i.d. (n=6) or placebo (n=6) augmentation for 3 weeks. Results All subjects completed the trial. Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D-17) scores (primary outcome measure) decreased from 21.2±2.0 to 11.7±7.7 for LDN, from 23.7±2.3 to 17.8±5.9 for placebo (Cohen's d=0.62; p=0.3 between treatment groups). HAM-D-28 scores decreased from 26.2±4.0 to 12.0±9.8 for LDN, from 26.3±2.6 to 19.8±6.6 for placebo (d=1.15; p=0.097). Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS-10 item) scores decreased from 30.4±4.9 to 12.2±8.4 for LDN, from 30.7±4.3 to 22.8±8.5) for placebo (d=1.45; p=0.035). MADRS-15 item scores decreased from 36.6±6.2 to 13.2±8.8 for LDN, from 36.7±4.2 to 26.0±10.0 for placebo (d=1.49; p=0.035). Clinical Global Improvement Scale-Severity (CGI-S) scores decreased from 4.3±0.5 to 3.0±1.1 for LDN, from 4.3±0.5 to 4.0±0.6 for placebo (d=1.22; p=0.064). Limitations Small study; restrictions on allowed antidepressants. Conclusion LDN augmentation showed some benefit for MDD relapse on dopaminergic agents. Confirmation in larger studies is needed.
Performance enhancement of AlGaN/GaN metal-oxide-semiconductor heterojunction field-effect transistor (MOSHFET) with atomic layer deposition (ALD) of high-k HfAlO gate dielectric layer

AlGaN/GaN heterojunction field effect transistors (HFET) are promising candidates for both power and RF applications due to their superior material properties [1]. High-speed switching and reduction in power losses can be achieved by the use of the two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) that forms between AlGaN barrier and GaN layer. However, a conventional HFET device with a Schottky gate suffers from high gate leakage current which in turn limits device performance [2]. The incorporation of a gate dielectric layer between the Schottky gate and AlGaN barrier can suppress the gate leakage current but the electrical characteristics are subjected to dielectric quality caused by various deposition method. ALD deposition can provide several advantages such as low temperature processing, conformal deposition, and precise thickness control. By using ALD it is possible to deposit damage free dielectrics on AlGaN/GaN layer with low defect density resulting in the performance enhancement of the device [3]. In this work, we investigate the electrical properties of a MOSHFET with ALD HfAlO gate dielectric and compare to the conventional HFET device.
Genetic Algorithm Optimization of SoS Meta-Architecture Attributes for Fuzzy Rule Based Assessments

Abstract The analysis of an acknowledged systems of systems (SoS) meta-architecture requires a preliminary method for potential trade space exploration to ensure compliance to evolving capability requirements. It is important to assess the SoS meta-architecture concept to ensure that it satisfies all stakeholder needs and requirements in the early stages of development. There are numerous linguistic terms called key performance attributes (KPAs) that could be used to assess the different aspects of the architectures capabilities, however, too many KPAs could complicate the assessment. The initial population of suitable KPAs is reduced through non-derivative based optimization employed by a genetic algorithm (GA) that generates the ideal KPA candidates though optimal rank selection. A Mamdani-type rule based fuzzy inference system (MRBFIS) is then used to make a fuzzy assessment of the SoS meta-architecture concept using GA optimized and assessed KPAs as MRBFIS inputs. The MRBFIS is a beneficial addition to an architecture assessment because it enables a nonlinear output that allows a more dynamic and adjustable assessment. The integrated assessment method detailed in this paper utilizes the GA optimized KPAs and the MRBFIS to provide a valuable fuzzy assessment of SoS meta-architecture concepts to determine if the architecture is feasible and acceptable.
Work Integration Social Enterprises in the United States: Operating at the Nexus of Public Policy, Markets, and Community

Work integration social enterprises (WISEs) in the United States represent a market based approach for workforce development and labor market integration that offer employment and training opportunities as well as bridges to the mainstream labor market. Historically developed to create separate spaces of work for populations considered less able to compete in mainstream labor markets, such as people with physical and developmental disabilities, as this article will show, WISEs have evolved to target other disadvantaged and marginalized communities such as individuals suffering from homelessness, youth disconnected from both school and labor markets, formerly incarcerated individuals seeking reentry into employment, and welfare recipients required to work for benefits or as benefits are timed out. This article traces the historic evolution of the WISE sector. The review highlights the ways in which the organizational model has been adapted in response to shifting social constructions about appropriate level of integration and employment norms for disadvantaged groups as well as the changing nature of jobs in the entry level labor market. Further, this paper illustrates that newer (non-disability related) WISE organizational models have different resource generation strategies compared to the older WISE models, may be more exposed to market forces in their social business niches, and must contend with the increased vulnerabilities faced by workers in an era of welfare safety net erosion.
PRODUCTION AND ACTIVITY OF PLACENTAL RELEASING HORMONES

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the production and activity of placental releasing hormones. The human placenta produces a number of steroid and protein hormones. Some of these have been chemically defined—for example, progesterone, human chorionic somatomammotropin (hCS), and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). There is also evidence for the presence of other pituitary hormone–like activities in the placenta, such as chorionic thyrotropin, adrenocorticotropic, and melanocyte-stimulating hormone. The factors involved in the control of these placental hormones are not known. However, a few agents have been shown to be effective in stimulating or inhibiting the release of these hormones. The human placenta contains a number of releasing and inhibiting hormones, such as gonadotropin-releasing hormone, thyrotropin-releasing hormone, somatotropin-releasing inhibiting factor. In addition to these hormones, human chorionic gonadotropin–releasing hormone (hCGnRH) has been detected in human placenta. The chapter also describes findings related to the chemical nature and activity of hCGnRH and its possible action during pregnancy. The hCGnRh is present primarily in the cytotrophoblast and its total content and concentration vary with gestational age.
Valve mediated hemodynamics and their association with distal ascending aortic diameter in bicuspid aortic valve subjects

Purpose Valve mediated hemodynamics have been postulated to contribute to pathology of the ascending aorta (AAo). The objective of this study is to assess the association of aortic valve morphology and hemodynamics with downstream AAo size in subjects with bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) disease. Materials and methods Four-dimensional flow MRI at 1.5 or 3 Tesla was used to evaluate the hemodynamics in the proximal AAo of 52 subjects: size-matched controls with tricuspid aortic valves (n = 24, mid ascending aorta [MAA] diameter = 38.0 ± 4.9 mm) and BAV patients with aortic dilatation (n = 14 right and left coronary leaflet fusion [RL]-BAV, MAA diameter = 38.1 ± 5.3 mm; n = 14 right and noncoronary leaflet fusion [RN]-BAV, MAA diameter = 36.5 ± 6.6 mm). A validated semi-automated technique was used to evaluate hemodynamic metrics (flow angle, flow displacement, and jet quadrant) and valve morphology (orifice circularity) for all subjects. Regression analysis of these metrics to AAo diameter was performed. Results RN-BAV subjects displayed a stronger correlation between hemodynamic metrics in the proximal AAo with diameter in the distal AAo compared with size-matched tricuspid aortic valve (TAV) controls and RL-BAV subjects. The distal AAo diameter was found to be strongly correlated to the upstream flow displacement (R2adjusted = 0.75) and flow angle (R2adjusted = 0.66) measured at the sino-tubular junction (STJ). Orifice circularity was also strongly correlated (R2adjusted = 0.53) to the distal AAo diameter in RN-BAV subjects. For TAV controls and RL-BAV subjects, correlations were weaker (R2adjusted Conclusion Hemodynamics in the STJ were strongly correlated to the distal AAo diameter for the RN-BAV subjects. Hemodynamic metrics were more strongly correlated to the downstream aortic size when compared with valve morphology metrics. Level of evidence 3 Technical Efficacy: Stage 2 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2018;47:246-254.
The effects of trauma on perinatal depression: Examining trajectories of depression from pregnancy through 24 months postpartum in an at-risk population

Abstract Background Research suggests that trauma exposure is associated with perinatal depression; however, little is known about the nature of the relation between trauma history and trajectory of depression, as well as the predictive power of trauma history beyond other risk factors. Additionally, more research is needed in at-risk samples that are likely to experience severe traumatic exposure. Methods Secondary data analysis was conducted using demographic and depression data from the Healthy Start and Empowerment Family Support programs in Des Moines, Iowa. Hierarchical linear modeling was used to examine trajectories of perinatal depressive symptoms, from pregnancy to 24 months postpartum, and clarify whether trauma exposure, relationship status, and substance use uniquely contribute to trajectories of symptoms over time. Results On average, depressive symptoms decreased from pregnancy to 24 months postpartum; however, trajectories varied across women. Single relationship status, substance use, and trauma history were each predictors of higher depression levels at several points in time across the observed perinatal period. Single relationship status was also associated with decline in depressive symptoms followed by a rebound of symptoms at 22 months postpartum. Limitations These data were not collected for research purposes and thus did not undergo the rigorous data collection strategies typically implemented in an established research study. Conclusions History of trauma, substance use and single relationship status represent unique risk factors for perinatal depression. For single women, depressive symptoms rebound late in the postpartum period. Single women are at greater risk for substance use and traumatic exposure and represent a sample with cumulative risk. Eliciting social support may be an important intervention for women presenting with these risk factors.
CLONE SPECIFIC DIFFERENCES IN A PHRAGMITES AUSTRALIS STAND. II. SEASONAL DEVELOPMENT OF MORPHOLOGICAL AND PHYSIOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS AT THE NATURAL SITE AND AFTER TRANSPLANTATION

Abstract Two Phragmites clones, growing adjacent to each other but differing conspicuously in stand structure, were investigated in 1996 regarding seasonal change in morphological and physiological parameters. Both clones showed significant differences in shoot morphology (length, diameter, dry weight, leaf area), maximum above-ground (420 versus 152 g DW m −2 ) and below-ground biomass (2.4 versus 1.5 kg DW m −2 ). Furthermore, physiological parameters (N concentration, N and P content per shoot and m 2 , content of dissolved amino acids, N translocation rate) varied between clones in their time course. Clone-specific variations in these characteristics were significant even after transplantation to another field site. Overall, these results suggest that the distinct growth forms and levels of productivity of the two Phragmites clones are the result of genotypic variation. It is hypothesized that both clones follow distinct ecophysiological strategies causing their morphotypic differentiation. Implications of genotypic determination of growth forms are discussed in relation to nutrient supply, N limitation, population plasticity, eutrophication and reed regression.
8.10 Light Capture and Energy Transduction in Bacterial Rhodopsins and Related Proteins

In the past few decades, much has been learned about how transmembrane ion pumps function, and the outlines of the general principles of energy-driven proton translocation are beginning to emerge. The first pump described in all its molecular details – from a wealth of mutational, spectroscopic, and diffraction studies – is bacteriorhodopsin. The prototype of heptahelical membrane proteins, bacteriorhodopsin contains an all- trans retinal as chromophore whose photoisomerization to 13- cis initiates a cyclic reaction sequence that culminates in the electrogenic transfer of a proton from the cell interior to the outside. This ‘photocycle’ has a turnover rate of approximately 0.01 s −1 , and the proton motive force created by the illumination, together with aerobic respiration, drives the energy-consuming membrane reactions of the host organisms – the extremely halophilic archaebacteria. These reactions include ATP synthesis, nutrient and ion transport, and motility.
Presenting Stage in Colon Cancer Is Associated with Insurance Status.

Abstract Colorectal cancer continues to be the third most common cause of cancer death in the United States. Access to health care is also a nationwide problem. The purpose of the current study is to see if insurance status is associated with stage of colon cancer at presentation. The tumor registry was queried for all patients with colon cancer from 2009 to 2014. Demographics, including insurance status was statistically analyzed to determine if an association existed between insurance status and stage of colon cancer at the time of presentation. There were 434 patients identified that underwent colonic resection during the study period; 224 were female and 210 were male. Of the 434 patients, 388 were insured and 46 were uninsured. When insurance status was compared with stage at diagnosis there was a statistically significant difference between the two groups. For patients that were uninsured, 13.01 per cent presented with stage I disease, 15.22 per cent with stage II disease, 34.78 per cent with stage III disease, and 36.96 with stage IV disease. For insured patients, 24.03 per cent present with stage I disease, 26.10 with stage II disease, 23.26 per cent with stage III disease, and 29.61 per cent with stage IV disease (P = 0.047). Access to health care continues to be a large problem and results in patients without insurance presenting with a high stage of disease.