cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
ApNet: Approximation-Aware Real-Time Neural Network

Modern embedded cyber-physical systems are becoming entangled with the realm of deep neural networks (DNNs) towards increased autonomy. While applying DNNs can significantly improve the accuracy in making autonomous control decisions, a significant challenge is that DNNs are designed and developed on advanced hardware (e.g., GPU clusters), and will not easily meet strict timing requirements if deployed in a resource-constrained embedded computing environment. One interesting characteristic of DNNs is approximation, which can be used to satisfy real-time requirements by reducing DNNs' execution costs with reasonably sacrificed accuracy. In this paper, we propose ApNet, a timing-predictable runtime system that is able to guarantee deadlines of DNN workloads via efficient approximation. Rather than straightforwardly approximating DNNs, ApNet develops a DNN layer-aware approximation approach that smartly explores the trade-off between the approximation degree and the resulting execution reduction on a per-layer basis. To further reduce approximation-induced accuracy loss at runtime, ApNet explores a rather interesting observation that resource sharing and approximation can mutually supplement one another, particularly in a multi-tasking environment. We have implemented and extensively evaluated ApNet on a mix of 8 different DNN configurations on an NVIDIA Jetson TX2. Experimental results show that ApNet can guarantee timing predictability (i.e., meeting all deadlines), while incurring a reasonable accuracy loss. Moreover, accuracy can be improved by up to 8% via a resource sharing increase of 3.5x on average for overlapping DNN layers.
Sex Modifies Acute Ozone-Mediated Airway Physiologic Responses.

Sex differences clearly exist in incidence, susceptibility, and severity of airway disease and in pulmonary responses to air pollutants such as ozone (O3). Prior rodent O3 exposure studies demonstrate sex-related differences in the expression of lung inflammatory mediators and signaling. However, whether or not sex modifies O3-induced airway physiologic responses remains less explored. To address this, we exposed 8- to 10-week-old male and female C57BL/6 mice to either 1 or 2 ppm O3 or filtered air (FA) for 3 h. At 12, 24, 48, and 72 h following exposure, we assessed airway hyperresponsiveness to methacholine (MCh), bronchoalveolar lavage fluid cellularity, cytokines and total protein/albumin, serum progesterone, and whole lung immune cells by flow cytometry. Male mice generated consistent airway hyperresponsiveness to MCh at all time points following exposure. Alternatively, females had less consistent airway physiologic responses to MCh, which were more variable between individual experiments and did not correlate with serum progesterone levels. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid total cells peaked at 12 h and were persistently elevated through 72 h. At 48 h, bronchoalveolar lavage cells were greater in females versus males. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid cytokines and total protein/albumin increased following O3 exposure without sex differences. Flow cytometry of whole lung tissue identified dynamic O3-induced immune cell changes also independent of sex. Our results indicate sex differences in acute O3-induced airway physiology responses and airspace influx without significant difference in other injury and inflammation measures. This study highlights the importance of considering sex as a biological variable in acute O3-induced airway physiology responses.
Studies on Synaptosomes: New Insights on Calcium Antagonists

The use of cerebral synaptosomes permits investigation of certain aspects and consequences of calcium metabolism by the brain not readily accomplished in other biological samples. Since alterations in brain calcium homeostasis appear to play a critical role in cell damage following anoxic/ischemic insult (1,2) use of synaptosomes may provide an important investigative tool for the in vitro study of this aspect of brain anoxia and ischemia. Neuronal cell culture permits study of some mechanisms of calcium toxicity as well as the neurotoxic potential of excitatory amino acids (EAA) in ischemia, but does not readily permit study of antecedent presynaptic events. Microdialysis techniques are able to monitor EAA release following ischemia (3), but the poor time resolution of the measurements precludes analysis of the time course or kinetics of EAA release, nor can the cell of origin of the compounds be readily discerned.
Pediatric cancer incidence and survival in the United States (1973-2003)

65 Over 12,000 children are newly diagnosed with malignancy each year in the United States. Cancer is the leading cause of disease-related mortality in children between the ages of 1-19 years. Unfortunately, the etiology of most childhood cancers is unknown. Recent reports from Europe suggest that both pediatric cancer incidence and survival has been increasing over the last several decades. We examined population-based incidence and survival data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program to provide updated information regarding United States incidence and survival trends. Data were obtained on incident cancers diagnosed in children under the age of 20 years from nine SEER registries during the period 1973-2003. Frequencies, age-adjusted incidence rates, annual percent change (APC) in incidence rates, and 5-year relative survival rates across three 6-year cohorts were evaluated. A total of 33,471 malignant neoplasms were identified, for an overall incidence rate of 152/1,000,000 person-years. For all cancers combined, there was a significant average annual increase (APC=0.6%; 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 0.4%-0.8%). Incidence rates increased significantly for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (0.9%), central nervous system tumors (1.1%), hepatoblastoma (2.9%), osteosarcoma (0.7%), germ cell tumors (0.9%), thyroid carcinoma (1.2%), and malignant melanoma (1.8%). Incidence rates decreased significantly for Hodgkin disease (-0.7%) and other leukemias (-3.6%). Five-year survival rates increased significantly for all histologic subtypes combined (50% in 1973-1978 to 78% in 1993-1998). The highest 5-year survival rates (1993-1998) were observed among children with retinoblastoma and thyroid carcinoma (98%) while the lowest rates were observed in children with acute myeloid leukemia (41%). Importantly, survival rates continue to improve for nearly all cancers examined. The greatest increases in survival occurred for ependymomas (+37%) and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (+35%). Our results confirm that incidence rates for pediatric cancers continue to increase over time, while survival rates are also increasing. Increasing trends in pediatric cancer incidence rates, along with the paucity of information regarding underlying causes, necessitate an ongoing need for surveillance and etiologic studies. Further, improvements in survival have produced an expanding population of childhood cancer survivors who are at risk for adverse physical and psychosocial effects and who require long-term follow-up care. Supported by NIH T32 CA099936 and the Children’s Cancer Research Fund.
Update on recent progress in vitamin D research. Vitamin D Metabolism and Its Regulation.

Vitamin D is taken up from food as D2 and D3. Vitamin D3 is also synthesized from 7-dehydrocholesterol in the skin by the exposure of ultraviolet B. The D2 and D3, which are called native vitamin D, are hydroxylated at C25 in the liver by CYP2R1 and then at C1 in the kidney by CYP27B1, to be converted to an active vitamin D metabolite, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D[1,25(OH)2D]. CYP24A1 converts 25-hydroxyvitamin D(25OHD)and 1,25(OH)2D to 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D[24,25(OH)2D]and 1,24,25-trihydroxyvitamin D[1,24,25(OH)3D], respectively, to decrease the level of 1,25(OH)2D. CYP27B1 and CYP24A1 are mainly expressed in the kidney but also detected in other tissues, and it is suggested that 1,25(OH)2D produced in the extra-renal tissues may exert its effects locally.
Accounting Certification in the Russian Language

Accounting certification in the former Soviet republics lacks credibility. Accountants are not familiar with International Financial Reporting Standards or International Standards on Auditing. Certifications can be bought. Audit opinions can be sold. Financial statements that are auditing by accountants holding a national certification from a former Soviet republic have no credibility in international capital markets. A few years ago an attempt to solve this problem was made by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), which started supporting a Russian language certification model that was based on the Canadian Certified General Accountant (CGA) exam. This certification model was tried first in five Central Asian republics and has now spread to Azerbaijan, Belarus, Moldova, Russia and Ukraine. This paper reports on the progress that has been made in spreading this program throughout the former Soviet republics.
Dual perspectives in autism spectrum disorders and employment: Toward a better fit in the workplace.

Background Compared with people with other disabilities, individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have the lowest rates of employment and switch jobs at a higher frequency. Thus, understanding how to support workplace success for people with ASD is important. Objective Grounded in an ecological conceptual model, this study explores the dual employment perspectives of adults with ASD and supervisors who worked with individuals with ASD. Methods Using participatory research methods, a purposive sample of ten adults with ASD (all verbal with high school diplomas) and ten supervisors participated in semi-structured interviews on employment experiences. Qualitative analyses were used to identify themes. Results Four major themes emerged from an ecological framework to create a strong person-environment fit in the workplace: 1) building on interest/experiences/strengths/skills, 2) reducing social demands, 3) clear communication and expectations, and 4) ASD awareness for work environment. Comparisons between the two groups of participants showed substantive differences in expectations and accommodations. Conclusions Supervisors, although eager to employ individuals with ASD, could benefit by employing an ecological model to successful employment. Results indicate that multiple lenses on the process of employment for those with ASD can lead to better outcomes in the workplace.
Community-Level Health Promotion during a Pandemic: Key Considerations for Health Communication.

The COVID-19 pandemic is among the most significant public health challenges of our time. The virus has left communities in a constant state of flux, creating tremendous uncertainty and concern amo...
Shöwn: Adaptive Conceptual Guidance Aids Example Use in Creative Tasks

Examples are powerful tools for creativity and can provide inspiration and structure. However, novices often don’t know when to seek examples or how to apply them. Showing real-time examples targeted to the current task (adaptive conceptual guidance) may help novices consider inspiration more often and better implement the ideas that examples illustrate. We explore this in a Wizard-of-Oz system, Shown, that presents examples based on the user’s current activity while drawing a comic strip. Shown’s design is informed by interviews with novice and expert comic artists (n=18). A between-subjects experiment (n=24) found that adaptive conceptual guidance improved the clarity and uniqueness of drawings and stories compared to non-adaptive examples. Users also found the examples more useful and inspirational than those without adaptive guidance. Our results present an initial exploration of the challenges and benefits of contextually showing examples in interactive creativity tools.
Abstract 982: LKB1 loss rewires stress signaling-induced apoptotic protein dynamics and sensitizes KRAS-mutant non-small cell lung cancers to combined MAPK + MCL-1 blockade

Background: There are currently no approved targeted therapies for KRAS-mutant non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC), which represent 25-30% of lung adenocarcinomas. The development of mutant-specific covalent inhibitors of KRAS G12C has invigorated hope that clinically effective KRAS-targeted therapies are within reach. While these agents have shown activity in early phase clinical trials, identification of specific vulnerabilities conferred by common co-occurring mutations in KRAS-mutant NSCLC may enable development of combination therapies with enhanced activity in distinct subsets of patients. Results: We screened a panel of KRAS-mutant NSCLC cell lines and observed that loss of the tumor suppressor STK11/LKB1 is associated with increased MCL-1 dependence and sensitivity to combined MAPK (either MEK inhibitor or KRAS G12C inhibitor AMG 510) and MCL-1 inhibition (AMG 176). Restoration of LKB1 expression in LKB1-deficient cell lines and mouse xenograft tumors blunted the apoptotic response to MAPK + MCL-1 inhibition; conversely, deletion of LKB1 in LKB1 wild-type models restored the sensitivity. Mechanistically, LKB1 deficiency is associated with an altered phosphoproteome and increased MCL-1-dependent apoptotic priming. LKB1 loss increased cellular stress leading to hyperactivation of JNK1, phosphorylation and stabilization of MCL-1 protein, and increased BIM sequestration by MCL-1. Upon suppression of MAPK signaling, LKB1-deficient cells exhibited greater levels of BIM bound to MCL-1 that could be liberated by AMG 176 to induce apoptosis. Consistent with these results, ex vivo treatment of tumor tissue from a KRAS-LKB1 mutant NSCLC patient with MEK inhibitor or AMG 510 increased MCL-1 dependent priming. Conclusion: These results uncover a novel link between LKB1, cellular stress, and the regulation of MCL-1. LKB1 loss confers a dependency on MCL-1 that can be exploited therapeutically. Moreover, our study provides preclinical rationale for the exploration of combined KRAS G12C + MCL-1 inhibitors, particularly for KRAS-LKB1 mutant patients who respond poorly to standard-of-care checkpoint inhibitor therapy. Citation Format: Chendi Li, Yi Shen, Mohammed Usman Syed, Audris Oh, Cameron Fraser, Johannes Kreuzer, Kaitlyn Webster, Robert Morris, Sean Caenepeel, Anne Y. Saiki, Karen Rex, James Lipford, Wilhelm Hass, Kristopher Sarosiek, Paul E. Hughes, Aaron N. Hata. LKB1 loss rewires stress signaling-induced apoptotic protein dynamics and sensitizes KRAS-mutant non-small cell lung cancers to combined MAPK + MCL-1 blockade [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2021; 2021 Apr 10-15 and May 17-21. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2021;81(13_Suppl):Abstract nr 982.
Models for environmental literacy

Models for Environmental Literacy is a series of experimental digital animations combining drone photogrammetry with A.I. generated narratives. These videos creatively and critically explore the challenges of describing a landscape, an ecosystem, or the specter of environmental collapse through human language. The project further explores how language and vision are impacted by the mediating agency of new technologies. How do we see, feel, imagine, and talk about the environment in this post-digital era, when there are indeed non-human/machine agents similarly trained to perceive "natural" spaces? This project explores these questions, as well as emerging relationships with environmental surveillance, drone/computer vision, and A.I.
Know what? How digital technologies undermine learning and remembering

Abstract Are digital technologies affecting how we learn, what we know, and how we remember? We examine three aspects of these questions: the impact of the internet on cognitive skills, the way GPS is reshaping abilities to navigate physical space, and differences between digital and print reading. The goal of the analysis is to understand potential effects of digital technologies on educational practices and goals. We begin by reviewing research demonstrating the growing tendency to depend on digital devices and the internet to do our remembering for us. Regarding GPS, there is mounting evidence that reliance on GPS devices reduces our ability to navigate physical space on our own. Worryingly, studies indicate correlations between decreased navigational skills and dementia. Finally, the article documents how digital reading tends to lead to a more superficial approach to text than traditional print. Technologies have consequences, including in education. If digital technologies lead to diminished memory, lower our ability to find our way in physical space, and foster shallower reading, we need to consider the consequences for both formal and informal learning.
Fish Oil and Prevention of Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia. In the absence of optimal rhythm control therapy, due to lack of satisfaction of currently available membrane-acting antiarrhythmics and limited availability of ablative therapy, upstream therapies to prevent atrial fibrillation are emerging as a new pharmacologic strategy. Long chain n-3 (omega-3) polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) from fish have been suggested to account for these benefits. Multiple observational, clinical, and experimental studies have shown that regular fish consumption has a favorable effect on preventing AF. Experimental studies have shown a potential anti-arrhythmic, anti-fibrotic and anti-inflammatory effect of PUFAs on atrial tissues. This effect on the atrial substrate will lower atrial tissue vulnerability for development of atrial fibrillation. Recent prospective studies regarding the preventive benefit of PUFAs on post open-heart surgery AF showed mixed results. The purpose of this treatise is to review available studies of PUFA effects on AF and outline benefits of the PUFAs as an upstream therapy to prevent AF. Key Word: atrial fibrillation, fish oil, antiarrhythmic, n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids.
Comparative study of 222Rn, 40Ar, 39Ar and 37Ar leakage from rocks and minerals: Implications for the role of nanopores in gas transport through natural silicates

We have measured the leakage of radiogenic 222Rn and 40Ar and reactor-produced 39Ar and 37Ar in samples of granites, plagioclase, orthoclase, cleavelandite and hornblende to assess the role of nanopores in gas transport through them. The 39Ar and 37Ar were produced by fast neutron irradiation of the samples in vacuum sealed ampoules. The leakage of all three Ar isotopes was barely measurable. In contrast, the leakage of 222Rn ranged between 1.45–18.1% orders of magnitude higher than that of the Ar isotopes. The extremely low Ar isotope leakage suggests that the samples studied are not permeated by extensive nanopore networks which intersect grain surfaces. The relatively high 222Rn loss from these samples, therefore, has to be attributed to preferential enrichment of 226Ra (238U) on grain surfaces or to the existence of U-Th accessory minerals in or around grain boundaries from which substantial quantities of 222Rn escape.
Structure of a dermatan sulfate hexasaccharide that binds to heparin cofactor II with high affinity.

Dermatan sulfate increases the rate of inhibition of thrombin by heparin cofactor II (HCII) approximately 1000-fold by providing a catalytic template to which both the inhibitor and the protease bind. Dermatan sulfate is a linear polymer of D-glucuronic acid (GlcA) or L-iduronic acid (IdoA) alternating with N-acetyl-D-galactosamine (GalNAc) residues. Heterogeneity in dermatan sulfate results from varying degrees of O-sulfation and from the presence of the two types of uronic acid residues. To characterize the HCII-binding site in dermatan sulfate, we isolated the smallest fragment of dermatan sulfate that bound to HCII with high affinity. Dermatan sulfate was partially N-deacetylated by hydrazinolysis, cleaved with nitrous acid at pH 4, and reduced with [3H]NaBH4. The resulting fragments, containing an even number of monosaccharide units with the reducing terminal GalNAc converted to [3H]2,5-anhydro-D-talitol (ATalR), were size-fractionated and then chromatographed on an HCII-Sepharose column. The smallest HCII-binding fragments were hexasaccharides, of which approximately 6% bound. Based on ion-exchange chromatography, the bound material appeared to comprise a heterogeneous mixture of molecules possessing four, five, or six sulfate groups per hexasaccharide. Subsequently, hexasaccharides with the highest affinity for HCII were isolated by overloading the HCII-Sepharose column. The high-affinity hexasaccharides were fractionated by strong anion-exchange chromatography, and one major peak representing approximately 2% of the starting hexasaccharides was isolated. The high-affinity hexasaccharide was cleaved to disaccharides that were analyzed by anion-exchange chromatography, paper electrophoresis, and paper chromatography. A single disulfated disaccharide, IdoA(2-SO4)—-ATalR(4-SO4) was observed, indicating that the hexasaccharide has the following structure: IdoA(2-SO4)—-GalNAc(4-SO4)—-IdoA(2-SO4)—- GalNAc(4-SO4)—-IdoA(2-SO4)—-ATalR(4-SO4). Since IdoA(2-SO4)—-GalNAc(4-SO4) comprises only approximately 5% of the disaccharides present in intact dermatan sulfate, clustering of these disaccharides must occur during biosynthesis to form the high-affinity binding site for HCII.
A Mutation in a Rous Sarcoma Virus Gene That Controls Adenosine 3′,5′-Monophosphate Levels and Transformation

Abstract Chick embryo fibroblasts infected with a temperature-sensitive mutant of Rous sarcoma virus (chicken embryo fibroblasts (RSV-Ta)) have normal morphology at 40.5° but after a transfer to 36° show the morphological characteristics of transformed cells. This transformation is prevented by N6,2'-O-dibutyryl adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate plus theophylline. Chicken embryo fibroblasts (RSV-Ta) have the same high endogenous levels of adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate (cyclic AMP) at 40.5° as uninfected fibroblasts; however, when shifted to 36° the cyclic AMP levels fall to a value similar to that of the fibroblasts infected with wild type RSV. This suggests that an early event in transformation leads to a decreased level of cyclic AMP, and the decreased level of cyclic AMP results in some of the unique properties of transformed cells.
Naturally Occurring Monoclonal Antibodies and Their Therapeutic Potential for Neurologic Diseases.

Importance Modulating the immune system does not reverse long-term disability in neurologic disorders. Better neuroregenerative and neuroprotective treatment strategies are needed for neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases. Objective To review the role of monoclonal, naturally occurring antibodies (NAbs) as novel therapeutic molecules for treatment of neurologic disorders. Evidence Review Peer-reviewed articles, including case reports, case series, retrospective reviews, prospective randomized clinical trials, and basic science reports, were identified in a PubMed search for articles about NAbs and neurologic disorders that were published from January 1, 1964, through June 30, 2015. We concentrated our review on multiple sclerosis, Parkinson disease, Alzheimer disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Findings Many insults, including trauma, ischemia, infection, inflammation, and neurodegeneration, result in irreversible damage to the central nervous system. Central nervous system injury often results in a pervasive inhibitory microenvironment that hinders regeneration. A common targeted drug development strategy is to identify molecules with high potency in animal models. Many approaches often fail in the clinical setting owing to a lack of efficacy in human diseases (eg, less than the response demonstrated in animal models) or a high incidence of toxic effects. An alternative approach is to identify NAbs in humans because these therapeutic molecules have potential physiologic function without toxic effects. NAbs of the IgG, IgA, or IgM isotype contain germline or close to germline sequences and are reactive to self-components, altered self-components, or foreign antigens. Our investigative group developed recombinant, autoreactive, natural human IgM antibodies directed against oligodendrocytes or neurons with therapeutic potential for central nervous system repair. One such molecule, recombinant HIgM22, directed against myelin and oligodendrocytes completed a successful phase 1 clinical trial without toxic effects with the goal of promoting remyelination in multiple sclerosis. Conclusions and Relevance Animal studies demonstrate that certain monoclonal NAbs are beneficial as therapeutic agents for neurologic diseases. This class of antibodies represents a unique source from which to develop a new class of disease-modifying therapies.
Immobilization of cyclase enzymes for the production of monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes

Abstract The first steps in the biosynthesis of most monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes are catalysed by a novel class of enzymes termed cyclases. Several techniques were tested for the immobilization of a partially purified monoterpene cyclase from Foeniculum vulgare [geranyl pyrophosphate:(-)-endo-fenchol cyclase] and a partially purified sesquiterpene cylase from Pogostemon cablin [farnesyl pyrophosphate:(-)-patchoulol cyclase]. Although both enzymes could be immobilized by entrapment and adsorption methods, the most efficient immobilization, in terms of activity recovery, was achieved by covalent attachment involving coupling of the protein amino groups to N-hydroxysuccinimide-activated 6-aminohexanoic acid Sepharose 4B. The immobilized forms of these cyclases were markedly more stable in storage than the free forms.
High-gain, free-electron laser amplifiers: Design considerations and simulation

The design and performance of variable-wiggler, free-electron laser (FEL) amplifiers was studied by using a one-dimensional computer model which incorporated separate sections for design and simulation. Resonant-particle equations were used in the design phase. The variation of the wiggler parameters was not predetermined (linear, exponential, etc.) but was carefully tailored to match the electron energy throughout the FEL amplifier. The simulation section of the model self-consistently tracked the phase-space trajectories of 500 particles for the length of the amplifier. In this way the designs were tested not only for overall gain and efficiency but also for resistance to irregularities in laser input power, electron-beam power, electron-beam-energy spread, and wiggler construction. High-current-density electron beams (electron-beam power g laser-beam power) were found to be essential for stable and efficient amplifiers. Some designs demonstrated better performance under conditions of nonresonant input particles.
Corrosion behavior of Ni-base alloys for advanced high temperature water-cooled nuclear plants

Due to the projected requirement for highly enhanced efficiency in power generation, the environment in advanced high temperature water-cooled nuclear systems becomes more rigorous compared to conventional fossil and nuclear power plants. The corrosion behavior of candidate alloys Inconel 617, 625, and 718 exposed to supercritical water was studied by a variety of analytical techniques. Grain boundary engineering (GBE) was performed on the alloy 617 to compare its corrosion behavior with the as-received samples. The results indicate that the GBE-treated alloy 617 samples showed the best response and the alloy 718 samples showed the worst corrosion resistance. Pitting observed on the alloy 718 samples was more serious than that on the alloy 625 samples. The effect of the alloying elements and the GBE treatment on the corrosion behavior is discussed.
Johns Hopkins adaptive optics coronagraph

The Johns Hopkins University is developing a stellar coronagraph which will use adaptive optics to achieve nearly diffraction-limited imaging at optical wavelengths with 1-2 meter class telescopes. The first phase of development, the incorporation of an image motion compensation system into the coronagraph, is complete. Performance tests have resulted in a factor of 2 gain in image resolution, corresponding to the maximum gain predicted by theory. The next phase of development involves the construction of an electrostatically deformable membrane mirror and a wavefront curvature sensor for the removal of higher order aberrations. A membrane mirror with 91 actuators has been built for laboratory testing. Integration of the adaptive mirrors, high speed wavefront sensor, and control processor is forthcoming.
Ab initio QM/MM studies of the phosphoryl transfer reaction catalyzed by PEP mutase suggest a dissociative metaphosphate transition state.

The interconversion between phosphoenolpyruvate (PEP) and phosphonopyruvate (P-pyr) catalyzed by PEP mutase is investigated using an ab initio QM/MM method with the QM region treated at the B3LYP/6...
Ammonium and nitrate concentrations as factors in tomato growth and nutrient uptake

Abstract Tomato plants were grown in sand culture with NH4 or NO3 at 14, 56, or 112 ppm N in solution. Plants supplied with NH4 at 112 ppm N developed ammonium toxicity symptoms and produced one‐third the dry weight of NO3 fed plants. In contrast, plants receiving NH4 at 14 ppm N appeared normal and had dry weight slightly higher than with NO3 at the same concentration. As NH4 concentration increased from 14 to 112 ppm N, plant growth, K, Ca, and Mg contents decreased while soluble NH4, in the tissue was greatly increased.
Effects of shifts in the rate of repetitive stimulation on sustained attention

The effects of shifts in the rate of presentation of repetitive neutral events (background event rate) were studied in a visual vigilance task. Four groups of subjects experienced either a high (21 events/min) or a low (6 events/min) event rate for 20 min and then experienced either the same or the alternate event rate for an additional 40 min. The temporal occurrence of critical target signals was identical for all groups, irrespective of event rate. The density of critical signals was 12 signals/20 min. By the end of the session, shifts in event rate were associated with changes in performance which resembled contrast effects found in other experimental situations in which shift paradigms were used. Relative to constant event rate control conditions, a shift from a low to a high event rate depressed the probability of signal detections, while a shift in the opposite direction enhanced the probability of signal detections.
Establishing and accessing referents in discourse.

Four experiments explored the processes by which people understand references. Subjects read naturalistic stories one sentence at a time, and their reading-comprehension times were recorded. The first two experiments investigated differences between definite and indefinite reference. Their results suggest that establishing a new discourse referent (as indicated by an indefinite article or pronoun) produces longer comprehension times than referring to an already existing referent. The last two experiments investigated reference to one versus two discourse referents. They showed that accessing more referents led to longer reading times even when the referring sentences were identical. The results are explained in terms of a discourse model approach to comprehension. According to this view, readers construct a mental model of the discourse domain, and the ease of comprehension is related (in part) to the number of elements in the model that are accessed and the operations performed on them.
A model of the bacteriochlorophyll-protein from green photosynthetic bacteria☆

Abstract Crystals of a chlorophyll-protein from Chloropseudomonas ethylicum were studied by X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy. Dimensions of the unit cell (hexagonal space group P6 3 ) are a = b = 195 ± 1 A and c = 98.4 ± 0.5 A . The unit cell contains six macromolecules (120 chlorophylls). Crystals fixed with glutaraldehyde were sectioned either perpendicular or parallel to the crystal ( c ) axis and examined in an electron microscope. Sections cut parallel to the crystal axis showed alternate lightdark striations parallel to the axis with a repeat distance of 106 ± 16 A. Some sections cut perpendicular to the axis showed an hexagonal array of electron-transparent “holes” 120 ± 20 A apart. The holes and light striations are thought to indicate channels parallel to the c axis at each corner and through the center of each hexagonal unit cell A macromolecular shape approximating a prolate ellipsoid, 88 A long and 65 A in diameter, is consistent with the volume of the macromolecule and crystalline packing considerations. Electron micrographs of negatively stained individual macromolecules indicate an average diameter of 67 ± 13 A.
Study of the dynamics of sertoli cell secretions in a new superfusion, two-compartment culture system

A new superfusion, two-compaatment culture system recently developed in our laboratory was used to investigate the dynamic changes in bidirectional secretion of transferrin, (Trf) and androgen binding protein (ABP) by rat Sertoli cells (Sc) cultured for up to 12 d under various experimental conditions. The system is unique in that the cells are grown on porous substrate and can be superfused independently at the apical (A) and basal (B) surfaces. The Sc formed confluent monolayers with tight junctions and were highly polarized, morphologically resembling their normal appearance in vivo. The bidirectional secretion patterns (total amount and A:B ratio) of both Trf and ABP were affected by the addition of hormones (testosterone, 10−6M; follicle stimulating hormone, 0.1 μg/ml; and fetal bovine serum 2%), but not by changes in the medium flow rate (0.8 to 3.2 ml/h). The superfusion, two-compartment culture system provides a very useful model for culture of polarized cell monolayers and for the study of bidirectional secretions under more “physiologic” conditions than those provided by static cultures.
A Light-Intensity Sensitive Chlorophyll Mutant in Sorghum

A light-intensity sensitive chlorophyll mutant, gs3, was discovered in a local sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] population at Hays, Kansas, and analyzed genetically after crosses with normal green inbreds. The mutation causes the loss of chlorophyll of varying degrees and formation of lengthwise white stripes on leaves, leaf sheaths, glumes, and white kernels at soft dough stage. In field tests, the mutant behaved like a simply inherited recessive trait, producing a ratio of 3 normal green:1 chlorophyll deficiency in the F2 generation and a ratio of 1 normal green:1 chlorophyll deficiency in the backcross populations. The selfed progeny from the mutant were virtually all mutant type, and the F2 green plants segregated into 2 segregating:1 true breeding F3 families, confirming the F2 data and showing that the mutant is under the control of a single recessive allele. However, the chlorophyll mutant often failed to show under low light intensity (585 μmol/m2/s) when grown in a growth chamber or in a greenhouse during the winter months, and no definitive segregation ratio could be determined even if both green and striped trait did appear, suggesting that the mutant allele is light intensity regulated. Instability or occurrence of variegated phenotypes, specific chlorophyll deficient patterns, could not breed true, and the rare reversion to normal green plants suggested that the expression of chlorophyll deficient trait may be regulated by a transposable genetic system.
Introducing Cornell Quarterly Cases

Excerpt] In a continuous effort to improve the value of the Cornell Hotel and Restaurant Administration Quarterly for its readership, I am pleased to announce the introduction of a new feature: Cornell Quarterly Cases (CQCs). The purpose of this feature will be to provide readers with examples that illustrate current industry problems, highlight emerging issues, or provide background on crucial topics. It is my vision that these cases will have value to experienced professionals who deal with the topics addressed by the cases, practitioners who want to stay abreast of key topics, those interested in continuous education and improvement, trainers, teachers, and students of the hospitality industry.
Integration of disease-specific single nucleotide polymorphisms, expression quantitative trait loci and coexpression networks reveal novel candidate genes for type 2 diabetes

Aims/hypothesis While genome-wide association studies (GWASs) have been successful in identifying novel variants associated with various diseases, it has been much more difficult to determine the biological mechanisms underlying these associations. Expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) provide another dimension to these data by associating single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with gene expression. We hypothesised that integrating SNPs known to be associated with type 2 diabetes with eQTLs and coexpression networks would enable the discovery of novel candidate genes for type 2 diabetes.
Effect of Regression of Rous Sarcoma Tumors Upon Egg Production in an Inbred Line of White Leghorns

Abstract Research was conducted to determine whether development and subsequent regression of a Rous sarcoma virus (RSV) induced wing-web tumor influenced egg production. Fifty-seven six-week old pullet chicks of inbred line 6 of the United States Department of Agriculture, Regional Poultry Research Laboratory, East Lansing, Michigan, were inoculated subcutaneously in the left wing-web with 0.1 ml. of a 10−3 dilution of a pseudotype of Bryan high titer RSV designated BH-RSV (RAV-1). Thirty chicks were left uninoculated. Each chick was examined for tumor growth at regular intervals to 10 weeks post-inoculation. A tumor was considered regressed if it disappeared completely. Nineteen regressor and 22 uninoculated females were placed in laying cages at 4.5 months of age and egg production data obtained over seven 28-day periods. The difference in hen-day egg production between regressors and uninoculated controls favored regressors by 2.7 eggs/bird and was statistically significant. Physiological stimulus from cellular immunity, linkage and pleiotropy are discussed as possible causes of the higher egg production in regressors.
Effects of Propylthiouracil and Thyroid Feeding on the Response of Mice to Injected Convulsant Barbiturate

IN 1961, Carrier and Buday1 enumerated the substances the toxicity of which is increased in hyperthyroid animals. Among these was hexobarbital2. Prange et al.7 showed that mice fed desiccated thyroid slept longer than controls after injection of pentobarbital, while mice fed propyl-thiouracil (PTU) slept less.
Phase errors in FSE signals due to low frequency electromagnetic interference

Abstract Objective To quantitatively evaluate induced phase errors in fast spin echo (FSE) signals due to low frequency electromagnetic inference (EMI). Methods Specific form of Bloch equation is numerically solved in time domain for two different FSE pulse sequences (ETL = 8) with two different bandwidths. A single spin is modeled at x = 10 cm , EMI frequencies are simulated from 1 to 1000 Hz and phase errors at different echo times are calculated. Results Phase errors in the received echo signals induced by EMI are significantly higher at low frequencies ( Conclusion Pulse sequence bandwidth can be used to control the phase errors in the FSE signals due to low frequency EMI.
Resonance Raman Scattering from Single Levitated Microparticles

Measurements of resonance Raman scattering from single crystalline (or amorphous) particles suspended in an electrodynamic balance have been made for inorganic and organic microparticles, potassium permanganate (KMnO4) and p-nitrosodimethylaniline (p-NDMA), respectively. The microparticle dimensions were in the range 10-50 μm. The particles were obtained by evaporating aqueous solution droplets of KMnO4 and p-NDMA (0.01 M concentration) and potassium nitrate or sodium nitrate (1.0 M concentration) added as a nonresonance Raman standard or reference. Resonance Raman spectra were obtained using laser illumination at wavelengths of 514.5 and 488.0 nm. For MnO4- particles at a laser wavelength of 514.5 nm, the fundamental symmetric stretch mode (ν1) and up to four overtones were observed. In addition, the antisymmetric stretch mode (ν3) and the combination mode (ν1 + ν3) could be seen. In p-NDMA particles, the phenyl-nitroso deformation mode (ν1) and the symmetric benzene ring-stretching mode (ν3) were observed using 488.0 nm laser radiation, but no overtones were distinguishable. As a measure of the morphological variability between particles, the ratio of the intensity of ν1 to the intensity of the largest nitrate ion (Raman) peak (normalized by the concentrations) was determined for each spectrum. This enhancement ratio or reference ratio was of order 100 and varied by 27% for 12 KMnO4 particles with 514.5 nm illumination, by 39% for 10 KMnO4 particles at 488.0 nm, and by 16% for 14 p-NDMA particles at 488.0 nm. Resonance Raman spectra obtained for KMnO4 particles before and after deliquescence indicated that photolysis occurred in the presence of water.
The Relationship Between Strategic Supply Chain Integration and Performance: A Meta‐Analytic Evaluation and Implications for Supply Chain Management Research

Although research evaluating the impact of supply chain integration on performance has advanced substantially in the last decade, inconsistency and considerable variability of empirical findings leave unanswered questions for both research and practice. Using a meta-analysis, we examine empirical studies to clarify the actual relationship, suggest new directions, and ultimately contribute toward the development of supply chain management theory. We focus on “strategic” supply chain integration rather than on functional or operational/tactical studies, which would weaken the practical value of the analysis and findings. To ascertain focus and homogeneity of the sample, we adopt a rigorous search protocol and sample construction. We find that integration–performance relationships are complex and nuanced such that integration should not be universally viewed as improving performance. We identify relationships that are more generalizable and also those that need additional scrutiny. Finally, we discuss the implications of our findings and provide directions for future research.
Ion-Exchanged Glass Laminates that Exhibit a Threshold Strength

Glass laminates, fabricated to include periodic thin layers containing biaxial compressive stresses, exhibit a threshold strength, i.e., a stress below which failure will not occur. Ion-exchange treatments in KNO3 at 350°–450°C for periods of 3–72 h were used to create residual compressive stresses at the surface of soda lime silicate glass sheets. Wafer direct bonding of the ion-exchanged glass sheets resulted in glass laminates with thin layers of compressive stress adjacent to the glass interface and perpendicular to the laminate top surface. Critical strain energy release measurements of the bonded interface were used to optimize the bonding temperature/time to avoid significant relaxation of the stress produced by ion exchange. Stress profiles, determined via the wafer curvature measurement method, showed a residual compressive stress maximum of 328 MPa for an ion exchange temperature of 450°C. The threshold flexural strength of the ion exchanged glass laminates was determined to be 112 MPa after the introduction of indentation cracks with indent loads ranging from 1 to 5 kg. In contrast to similar ceramic laminates, where cracks either propagate across the compressive layer or bifurcate within the compressive layer, the cracks in the glass laminates were deflected along the interface between the bonded sheets.
Dating and Hooking Up in College: Meeting Contexts, Sex, and Variation by Gender, Partner's Gender, and Class Standing

This study examined 13,976 dates and 12,068 hookup encounters at 22 colleges in the United States reported by students surveyed between 2005 and 2011 in the Online College Social Life Survey (OCSLS) to determine differences between dates and hookups in partner meeting context and sex during the encounter. Students most often met date and hookup partners through institutional settings or bars and parties, with approximately two-thirds of partners met in these venues. Those who had fewer potential partners on campus (women) were less likely to find partners in campus locations and less likely to find male sexual or dating partners but more likely to date women. Men and women engaging in same-sex encounters had higher rates of meeting partners through Internet sources. Hookups were associated with partners met in bars, parties, nightclubs, and college dormitories, and were twice as likely as dates to include sex. Students were more likely to go on dates with partners met on the Internet, which we theorize is a result of low levels of trust associated with that context. Patterns found are related to the association of meeting contexts with hookup scripts, risk and trust, and local partnering markets.
Simulation of dissolved oxygen profiles in a transparent, dimictic lake

Thrush Lake is a small, highly transparent lake in northeastern Minnesota. From 1986 to 199 1, vertical profiles of water temperature, dissolved oxygen, chlorophyll a concentration, underwater light irradiance, and Secchi depths were measured at monthly intervals during the ice-free period. Average Secchi depth was 7.5 m. Metalimnetic oxygen maxima were observed every summer. The oxygen peaks were related to Chl a distribution and water transparency. A deterministic one-dimensional model was developed to simulate vertical dissolved oxygen (D-0.) profiles on a daily time scale throughout the open-water season. The model includes oxygen production by photosynthesis and surface reaeration as well as oxygen consumption by plant respiration and biochemical and sedimentary oxygen demand. The measurements suggest that the model must use different Chl a and sedimentary oxygen demand values in the surface mixed layer and below the surface mixed layer in conjunction with high transparency to obtain a metalimnetic oxygen maximum. Measured Chl a values are specified as input to the D.O. model. The model reproduces measured D.O. distributions with a standard error of 1.4 mg liter-’ and shows the observed metalimnetic oxygen maxima. Model output changes only slightly with starting date of simulation and initial D.O. values. Simulated water temperature and D.O. distributions in the lake, especially the surface mixed-layer depth and the metalimnetic oxygen maxima, are sensitive to changes in water transparency.
Generalized ellipsometry based on azimuth measurements alone

We investigate the azimuth response function, θo = f(θi), of a linear nondepolarizing optical system S, where θi and θo are the azimuths (orientations) of the generally elliptic vibrations of totally polarized light at the input and output of S. We find that the azimuth response function depends on five of the six parameters that specify the normalized circular Jones matrix of the optical system. Thus the entire polarization response of an optical system can be nearly completely reconstructed from its azimuth response alone. Five input-output azimuth measurements (θik, θok), k = 1, 2, …, 5 are sufficient to fix the ARF. The procedure for such determination is considerably facilitated if the average of θo, when θi sweeps a full rang of π, is measured. The general design and automation of an instrument for performing azimuth measurements are discussed and the use of such measurements to determine the optical parameters of elliptic retarders is given as an application.