cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Behavioral competence: how host behaviors can interact to influence parasite transmission risk

Hosts vary in their ability to transmit new parasite infections (i.e. competence). Although behavior is suggested as a source of individual-level variation, the contribution of host behavior to host–parasite dynamics at the population-level remains largely enigmatic. Here we advocate that behavioral competence be characterized as a syndrome of behaviors that interact to directly or indirectly influence transmission potential. These behaviors can be plastic in response to environmental conditions and/or infection state, and appear linked to immunological traits through shared physiological regulation. By integrating behavioral variation and covariation into a whole-organism view of host competence, disease ecologists might more realistically characterize an individual's role in host–parasite systems.
A Theoretical Study of the Thermodynamics and Kinetics of Focal Adhesion Dynamics

A theoretical treatment of growth and disassembly of focal adhesions is developed in the framework of rate processes driven by thermodynamics. For this purpose, the structural unit of focal adhesions is a complex consisting of a ligand such as fibronectin, an integrin molecule, and associated plaque proteins. The free energy that drives binding and dissociation of the complexes includes mechanical, chemical and statistical (mixing entropy) contributions. The binding and dissociation of complexes manifests as growth and disassembly, respectively, of focal adhesions. We have complemented fracture mechanics by bond formation to explain this reversible chemo-mechanical process. The reaction-limited case is considered. We have identified a competition between four mechanisms: (i) mechanical work done by actin-transmitted force, (ii) a chemical instability inherent to focal adhesions, (iii) an elastic instability, and (iv) a molecular conformational change, that control focal adhesion dynamics. Our central finding is that for a focal adhesion to slide requires symmetry breaking between its two ends. This happens only with the first of these four mechanisms. The molecular conformational change can contribute symmetric growth modes, while the remaining two mechanisms cause disassembly.
Mode-Set Adaptation in Multiple-Model Estimators for Hybrid Systems

In view of the numerous recent applications of multiple-model estimation algorithms, the choice of the set of models is a major issue. Often, for practical problems an algorithm using a fixed set of small number of models can not yield accurate results. Apart from the increase in computation, use of more models does not guarantee better performance - actually, it may yield even poorer results. To solve this problem, this paper introduces the concept of variable structure, i.e., adaptation of model set, and proposes several variable structure algorithms, as contrasted to the existing efforts of developing better implementable versions of the optimal estimator which uses a fixed set of models. The optimal variable structure estimator is derived and it is shown that the estimator usually considered to be the optimal is only the best within the fixed structure class. Three recursive algorithms are presented in a new framework based on graph theory. The superiority of the new approach is illustrated in numerical examples of a nonstationary noise identification problem.
Initial Interaction Scripts: When Knowing Is Behaving.

Research has shown that high self-monitors outperform their low self-monitoring counterparts in initial interactions. This analysis examined the initial interaction scripts of high and low self-monitors in order to assess the likelihood that cognitive differences accompany the behavioral differences across levels of self-monitoring. Because script theory argues that persons may define scripts from either a participant or an observer perspective, and because self-monitoring is properly viewed as an interaction (i.e., participant) skill, script perspective was also manipulated. Examination of subject protocols revealed meaningful interaction effect differences regarding participants' inclusion of conversation. These differences are discussed in relation to self-monitoring and the study of social cognition.
Abstract 2696: PPAR beta/delta is a novel therapeutic target in acute myeloid leukemia

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is characterized by the differentiation arrest and rapid proliferation of abnormal white blood cells. Current therapeutics involves the use of chemotherapeutic agents, which possess high toxicities and poor efficacies. Thus, there is an unparalleled need to identify low-toxicity therapies to improve the mortality of these patients. Facilitating the maturation of acute myeloid leukemia cells induces their growth arrest and death without the need for high doses of overt toxicity from chemotherapies. Therefore, we seek to identify differentiating agents capable of inducing monocytic differentiation without deleterious side-effects on normal hematopoietic tissues. One possible approach to promote AML cellular differentiation is manipulating the activity or expression of proteins, such as PPAR delta, that are known to modulate cellular growth processes. PPAR delta is part of a family of nuclear hormone receptors that function as transcription factors to induce the activation of genes related to cellular growth, development, and metabolism. PPAR alpha and PPAR gamma have been extensively characterized in the context of leukemia. However, little is known about PPAR delta. In the current study, we sought to delineate the role of PPAR delta in AML and analyze whether inhibiting the PPAR delta pathway would induce differentiation in AML cells. Inhibiting PPAR delta led to a significant increase in monocytic differentiation in AML cell lines in vitro, as measured by immunophenotyping by flow cytometry and NBT reduction assays. For instance, we observed 3% CD11b expression in untreated HL60, OCI, NB4, and U937 cell lines and 40% CD11b expression after PPAR inhibition. Importantly, PPAR delta does not lead to toxic effects on non-leukemic cells at similar doses. These results were further supported by morphological evidence of monocytic differentiation seen from Wright-Giemsa staining and a 40% decrease in AML cell proliferation following PPAR delta inhibition using the MTT cell proliferation assay. A 34% decrease in self-renewal capabilities of leukemic cells after PPAR delta inhibition suggests permanent effects on differentiation and growth arrest, as determined by colony assays. Consistent with growth inhibition, treatment with PPAR delta inhibitors induced the expression of cell cycle and proliferation-related genes such c-Myc, p21, and p27 in a dose-dependent manner. Overall, our findings suggest that PPAR delta inhibitors may possess promising clinical relevance as potential candidates for non-toxic alternatives to chemotherapy. Note: This abstract was not presented at the meeting. Citation Format: Sophia Hu, David Wald, Reshmi Parameswaran. PPAR beta/delta is a novel therapeutic target in acute myeloid leukemia. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr 2696. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-2696
Device for dielectrophoretic separation and collection of nanoparticles and DNA under high conductance conditions

Most dielectrophoretic (DEP) separations of cells, nanoparticles, and other entities are carried out on microelectrode arrays or in microfluidic device formats. Less work has been directed at designing pipette-type formats that would allow dipping into and recovering specific analytes from samples in microtiter plate formats. In order to address this important area, we have fabricated micropipette tip devices containing a 2% agarose gel plug, a buffer chamber, and platinum electrode as the DEP collection device, to be used in combination with separate sample wells that contain a circular gold electrode. We demonstrated that 200 nm fluorescent nanoparticles could be isolated into DEP high-field regions and separated from 10 μm fluorescent microbeads in high conductance buffer (1× PBS) by applying an alternating current at 10 kHz with a peak-to-peak voltage (Vpp) of 160 Vpp. The collected nanoparticles were then transferred to a new buffer solution. We also demonstrated the DEP isolation and separation of genomic DNA (>50 kbps) from the 10 μm microbeads in high conductance buffer (1× PBS) with transfer of collected DNA to another solution.
Regulation of IFN-γ by IL-13 dictates susceptibility to secondary postinfluenza MRSA pneumonia.

Superinfection in mice at day 7 postinfluenza infection exacerbates bacterial pneumonia at least in part via downstream effects of increased IFN-γ signaling. Here we show that up to 3 days postinfluenza infection, mice have reduced susceptibility to superinfection with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), but that superinfection during that time exacerbated influenza disease. This was due to IL-13 signaling that was advantageous for resolving MRSA infection via inhibition of IFN-γ, but was detrimental to the clearance of influenza virus. However, if superinfection did not occur until the near resolution of influenza infection (day 7), IL-13 signaling was inhibited, at least in part by upregulation of IL-13 decoy receptor (IL-13Rα2), which in turn caused increases in IFN-γ signaling and exacerbation of bacterial infection. Understanding these cytokine sequelae is critical to development of immunotherapies for influenza-MRSA coinfection since perturbations of these sequelae at the wrong time could increase susceptibility to MRSA and/or influenza.
Mission-oriented NETOPS: an operational framework for coordinated planning, analysis, activation, monitoring, and response for current and transformational networks

The nature of the Global War on Terror and the increasing role of Network Centric Warfare (NCW) in military concepts of operations signal a demand for major changes in mission-focused communications planning and management. Networks are becoming increasingly complex, and warfighters and commanders depend upon electronic information sources for successful mission execution. Requirements for transformational communications infrastructure programs, and updates to the Joint NETOPS CONORS articulate a clear need for a coordination of planning, activation, monitoring, and response across multiple functional areas. Additionally, there is a nearterm need to accelerate the delivery of such enhanced capabilities to the battlefield in support of current operations. An effective NETOPS solution demands the development of "mission context" around the information presented to and manipulated by commanders and their supporting staff. This paper describes an architectural design for a holistic NETOPS framework, as well as lessons learned during the development of a reference implementation known as "NetMAPS". Among the key challenges addressed are: alignment of maneuver and signal planning activities, visualization techniques and data models to integrate the presentation of data from disparate domains, policy-based automation approaches that retain positive warfighter control, tactically deployable embedded simulation/estimation tools, and coordination of network planning and operational monitoring in a consistent environment
Seljuks on the Baltic: Polish-Lithuanian Muslim Pilgrims in the Court of Ottoman Sultan Süleyman i

The unique authorship of the Risâle-i Tatar-i Leh, created in 1558 for Ottoman Grand Vezier Rustem Pasha and Sultan Suleymân i by Polish-Lithuanian Muslim pilgrims and members of the Ottoman ulema, brings to light critical issues faced by one of early modern Christendom’s largest integrated Muslim populations. This document encourages further exploration of several aspects of the Muslim population of early modern Poland-Lithuania: the stratification of Muslim society, the ways in which both Ottoman and Polish-Lithuanian myths of origin and legitimizing narratives were combined to justify conflict between fellow Muslims and the loyalty of Muslim settlers to non-Muslim rulers, Polish-Lithuanian Muslims as a branch of the greater Islamic ecumene, the legal status and social hierarchies of Muslims in an emerging early modern republic, and the role of the Ottoman Sultan as the facilitator of the hajj and millenarian world-conqueror vis-a-vis Muslims residing outside of the dâr al-Islâm.
Thallium(I) Bromide

[7789-40-4] BrTl (MW 284.28) InChI = 1S/BrH.Tl/h1H;/q;+1/p-1 InChIKey = PGAPATLGJSQQBU-UHFFFAOYSA-M (Lewis acid; reagent for coupling and bromination) Physical Data: mp 480 °C. Solubility: sol 2360 parts water. Form Supplied in: pale yellow crystalline powder; commercially available. Handling, Storage, and Precautions: all thallium compounds are extremely toxic to inhalation, skin contact, and ingestion. Toxicity is cumulative. Extreme caution should be used when handling these materials. Use in a fume hood.
Subcortical Ischemic Vascular Dementia: Assessment with Quantitative MR Imaging and 1H MR Spectroscopy

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Subcortical ischemic vascular dementia is associated with cortical hypometabolism and hypoperfusion, and this reduced cortical metabolism or blood flow can be detected with functional imaging such as positron emission tomography. The aim of this study was to characterize, by means of MR imaging and 1H MR spectroscopy, the structural and metabolic brain changes that occur among patients with subcortical ischemic vascular dementia compared with those of elderly control volunteers and patients with Alzheimer9s disease. METHODS: Patients with dementia and lacunes (n = 11), cognitive impairment and lacunes (n = 14), and dementia without lacunes (n = 18) and healthy age-matched control volunteers (n = 20) underwent MR imaging and 1H MR spectroscopy. 1H MR spectroscopy data were coanalyzed with coregistered segmented MR images to account for atrophy and tissue composition. RESULTS: Compared with healthy control volunteers, patients with dementia and lacunes had 11.74% lower N-acetylaspartate/creatine ratios (NAA/Cr) (P = .007) and 10.25% lower N-acetylaspartate measurements (NAA) in the cerebral cortex (P = .03). In white matter, patients with dementia and lacunes showed a 10.56% NAA/Cr reduction (P = .01) and a 12.64% NAA reduction (P = .04) compared with control subjects. NAA in the frontal cortex was negatively correlated with the volume of white matter signal hyperintensity among patients with cognitive impairment and lacunes (P = .002). Patients with dementia, but not patients with dementia and lacunes, showed a 10.33% NAA/Cr decrease (P = .02) in the hippocampus compared with healthy control volunteers. CONCLUSION: Patients with dementia and lacunes have reduced NAA and NAA/Cr in both cortical and white matter regions. Cortical changes may result from cortical ischemia/infarction, retrograde or trans-synaptic injury (or both) secondary to subcortical neuronal loss, or concurrent Alzheimer9s pathologic abnormalities. Cortical derangement may contribute to dementia among patients with subcortical infarction.
tert‐Butyl Chloride–Aluminum Chloride

(tert-BuCl) [507-20-0] C4H9Cl (MW 92.57) InChI = 1S/C4H9Cl/c1-4(2,3)5/h1-3H3 InChIKey = NBRKLOOSMBRFMH-UHFFFAOYSA-N (AlCl3) [7446-70-0] AlCl3 (MW 133.34) InChI = 1S/Al.3ClH/h;3*1H/q+3;;;/p-3 InChIKey = VSCWAEJMTAWNJL-UHFFFAOYSA-K (tert-butylating agent;1 hydrocarbon isomerization promoter;1 sludge AlCl3 catalyst3) Physical Data: tert-BuCl: bp 51–52 °C; AlCl3: sublimes at 178 °C. Solubility: both tert-BuCl and AlCl3 sol organic solvents such as CH2Cl2 and CHCl3 as well as CS2. Form Supplied in: tert-BuCl: liquid; AlCl3: solid. Both are commercially available. Preparative Method: prepared by mixing equimolar amounts of tert-BuCl and AlCl3 at −78 °C.2 This compound is a white or pale yellow needle-like crystal, which is stable and can be stored indefinitely at −78 °C. However, it decomposes at about −30 °C to yield a reddish liquid and HCl. In most reactions involving the use of tert-BuCl·AlCl3, both tert-BuCl and AlCl3 are generally added to the reaction solution independently without premixing. The ratio between tert-BuCl and AlCl3 may also vary, depending on the requirement of the specific reaction. Handling, Storage, and Precautions: tert-butyl chloride–aluminum chloride is corrosive and moisture sensitive. Thus it should be handled in an anhydrous atmosphere.
High sensitivity steroid analysis using liquid chromatography/solvent‐assisted inlet ionization mass spectrometry

RATIONALE Steroids can be injected to behave as therapeutic agents to promote muscle growth and strength. Areas of concern include synthetic steroids in consumer meat and milk products and the presence of anabolic steroids in athletes. Here we demonstrate a new ionization method for high sensitivity steroid analysis using liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS). METHODS Solvent-assisted inlet ionization (SAII) mass spectrometry was coupled directly to an infusion pump or to a liquid chromatograph to determine the limits of detection and quantitation for selected steroids. LC/MS/MS data was acquired on a quadrupole time-of-flight (QTOF) mass spectrometer and high resolution-accurate mass LC/MS data was obtained on an Orbitrap mass spectrometer. RESULTS The SAII limit of detection for infusion into the Orbitrap using high mass resolution and accurate mass was shown, for the steroids studied, to be low ppqt and the limit of quantitation using LC/MS was low ppt. Low ppb levels were detected with high signal-to-noise from spiked urine using a simple Ziptip procedure without sample concentration. CONCLUSIONS LC/SAII-MS is more sensitive than electrospray ionization (ESI) at similar mobile phase flow rates for the analysis of steroids. Previous studies have shown LC/SAII-MS to have high sensitivity for analysis of peptides. The combined results suggests this easy to implement ionization method may advantageously replace ESI for a wide range of analyses. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Emergent faithfulness to morphological and semantic heads in lexical blends

In many languages, sounds in certain "privileged" positions preserve marked structure which is eliminated elsewhere (Positional Faithfulness, Beckman 1998). This paper presents new corpus and experimental evidence that faithfulness to main-stress location and segmental content of morpho-semantic heads emerges in English blends. The study compared right-headed (subordinating) blends, like motor + hotel -> motel (a kind of hotel) with coordinating blends like spoon + fork -> spork (equally spoon and fork). Stress: Analysis of 1095 blends from Thurner (1993) found that right-headed blends were more faithful to stress location of the second source word than were coordinating blends. Given source words with conflicting stress (e.g., FLOUNder + sarDINE), participants preferentially matched the blend that preserved second-word stress (flounDINE) to a right-headed definition. Segmental content: When source-word length was controlled, segments from right-headed blends were more likely to survive than those from coordinating blends. Given source words that could be spliced at two points (e.g., flaMiNGo + MoNGoose), participants preferentially matched the one that preserved more of the second word (flamongoose) to a right-headed definition. These results support the hypotheses that Positional Faithfulness constraints are universally available, that heads are a privileged position, and that blend phonology is sensitive to headedness.
Separation-individuation conflicts in children of Holocaust Survivors

This article examines the developmental conflicts of children of Holocaust Survivors with specific emphasis on psychic trauma and second-generation Survivor effects. Issues related to depression, guilt, and aggression are discussed in relation to Mahler's separation-individuation process. Developmental failures at early phases may predispose these children toward low self-esteem, narcissistic vulnerability, identity problems, and impairments in interpersonal relations. The need for further research and clinical investigation is emphasized to help develop preventive measures and attenuate the effects of the Holocaust on future generations.
FURTHER OBSERVATIONS ON THE INFLUENCE OF SALTS WHEN INJECTED INTO THE ANIMAL BODY

A satisfactory correlation of our observations dealing with the influence of salts and those dealing with the influence of x-rays is not possible at present. Any far reaching conclusion is not permitted because the information we have at this time regarding the physical chemical conditions concerned in the process of injury, as well as that pertaining to the nature of radio-chemical reactions, is too meager. As far as the experiments with salts are concerned, it may be said that we are dealing with ion effects, and their importance in physiological processes is made clear by the investigations of Loeb (3) and those of Osterhout (4). The results that we have obtained in our experiments present an interesting analogy between the effect of x-rays and certain salts on the lymphoid elements of the animal body. We regard this analogy as significant in that it presents suggestions regarding the chemical nature of x-ray effects in the animal body.
Technology development for recirculating heavy-ion accelerators

The «recirculator», a recirculating heavy-ion accelerator, has been identified as a promising approach for an inertial-fusion driver. System studies have been conducted to evaluate the recirculator on the basis of feasibility and cost. The recirculator has been shown to have significant cost advantages over other potential driver schemes, but some of the performance requirements exceed the capabilities of present technology. The system studies identified the high-leverage areas where advances in technology will significantly impact the cost and performance of a recirculator. One of the high-leverage areas is the modulator system which generates the acceleration potentials in the induction cells. The modulator system must be capable of generating the acceleration potentials at peak repetition rates in excess of 100kHz with variable pulse widths. LLNL is developing a modulator technology capable of driving induction cells using the latest in solid-state MOSFET technology. A small-scale modulator has been built and tested to prove the concept and the next version is presently being designed. Our objective is to demonstrate a modulator operating at 5 kV, 1 kA, with 0.2–1 pulse widths while driving an induction cell at >100 khz within the next year. This paper describes the recirculator, the technology requirements necessary to implement it and the modulator system development that is being pursued to meet these requirements.
The us obesity “epidemic”: Metaphor, method, or madness?

In 2000, US Secretary of Health and Human Services Secretary Tommy Thompson mobilized the US public health infrastructure to deal with escalating trends of excess body weight. A cornerstone of this effort was a report entitled The Surgeon General’s Call to Action to Prevent and Decrease Overweight and Obesity. The report stimulated a great deal of public discussion by utilizing the distinctive public health terminology of an epidemic to describe the growing prevalence of obesity in the US population. We suggest that the ensuing controversy was fueled in part by the report’s ambiguous usage of the evocative term “epidemic.” In some passages, the report seems to use “epidemic” in a literal sense, suggesting that rising prevalence of excess body weight should be defined technically as a disease outbreak. Other passages of the report present the same key term metaphorically, leaving readers with the impression that the epidemic language is invoked primarily for rhetorical effect. Here, we explore dynamics and...
The relationship between self-esteem and depression in obese children.

It has been suggested that obese children have increased problems with self-esteem and depression when compared to the normal pediatric population. Fifty-one consecutive patients enrolled in a hospital based weight management program received the CDI and the PHSCS as part of their initial evaluation. There were 24 males and 27 females with ages ranging from 5-17 years and BMI (kg/m2) of 22-63 (mean 33.3). Results of the CDI were classified into three groups. Children with CDI scores greater than 13 were classified as depressed (n = 16). Scores between 9 and 12 were considered borderline depression (n = 11). Scores less than 9 were considered normal (n = 24). The children in the depressed and borderline groups were significantly different from the children in the normal group in their level of self-esteem. As depression increased, self-esteem decreased, indicating an inverse relationship between self-esteem and depression. Depressed and borderline depressed children were also more anxious (i.e., nervous, worried) and had more perceived behavior problems (increased frequency of punishment, difficulty obeying orders) than the normal group. They also had fewer interests in school and felt their physical appearance was not acceptable. The depressed group's scores were significantly lower on the happiness and popularity scales of the PHSCS than the normal group. Scores on the CDI did not correlate with age, race, sex, Tanner stage, socioeconomic status, or body mass index. In this study obese pediatric patients showed significant depression and lowered self-esteem.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
On the threshold behavior of collinear bimolecular exchange reactions

Abstract Simple analytical formulae are presented for the threshold behavior of the classical microcanonical rate constant and probability for collinear atom-diatom exchange reactions that have potential surfaces which can be represented by variations of the Wall-Porter surface.
Fiscal risk to West Virginia's special reclamation fund

This paper analyses fiscal risk to West Virginia's Special Reclamation Fund for abandoned mine lands and AMD water treatment from 1990 through 2003. I find that, despite tightening regulatory restrictions which have led to reductions in bond defaults there are continued risk to both revenue collections and expenditures. These include coal price variability, technological or regulatory change and increased costs of environmental remediation. Risks at the mine level include capital costs, mine age, size and changes to corporate structure. Importantly, it is past compliance history that provides the greatest explanation of coal mine bond defaults.
QALYs: maximisation, distribution and consent. A response to Alan Williams.

the QALY approach were used in an evenhanded way to criticise current practice, or any feasible alternative to it, how would these other methods make out? So let me end with my favourite Maurice Chevalier story. When he was getting quite old he was asked by a reporter how he viewed the ageing process. 'Well' he said "there is quite a lot I don't like about it, but it's not so bad when you consider the alternative!" Perhaps the same is true of the QALY approach to collective priority-setting in health care. If so, we should beware of rejecting potential improvements simply because they fall short of perfection!
miR-198 Inhibits HIV-1 Gene Expression and Replication in Monocytes and Its Mechanism of Action Appears To Involve Repression of Cyclin T1

Cyclin T1 is a regulatory subunit of a general RNA polymerase II elongation factor known as P-TEFb. Cyclin T1 is also required for Tat transactivation of HIV-1 LTR-directed gene expression. Translation of Cyclin T1 mRNA has been shown to be repressed in human monocytes, and this repression is relieved when cells differentiate to macrophages. We identified miR-198 as a microRNA (miRNA) that is strongly down-regulated when monocytes are induced to differentiate. Ectopic expression of miR-198 in tissue culture cells reduced Cyclin T1 protein expression, and plasmid reporter assays verified miR-198 target sequences in the 3′ untranslated region (3′UTR) of Cyclin T1 mRNA. Cyclin T1 protein levels increased when an inhibitor of miR-198 was transfected into primary monocytes, and overexpression of miR-198 in primary monocytes repressed the normal up-regulation of Cyclin T1 during differentiation. Expression of an HIV-1 proviral plasmid and HIV-1 replication were repressed in a monocytic cell line upon overexpression of miR-198. Our data indicate that miR-198 functions to restrict HIV-1 replication in monocytes, and its mechanism of action appears to involve repression of Cyclin T1 expression.
Use of calibration gases in the U.S. acid rain program

The United States Acid Rain Program continuous emission monitors (CEMs) have been successful in producing quality-assured data 95% of the time, and in meeting a relative accuracy standard of less than or equal to 10.0% at over 99% of the CEMs in the program. One key reason for this high accuracy is the required use of high quality calibration gases in certification and quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) tests. An annual QA audit helps ensure high quality calibration gases. A third party purchases gases from gas vendors. An Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) laboratory analyzes the gases and compares the results with the tag value on the cylinder. The results are posted on an EPA website. This allows purchasers of calibration gases to buy gases from vendors producing the most accurate gases. Over time, we believe it also results in better accuracy from all gas vendors. Because of a change in SO2 quantification methodology, SO2 emissions were underreported by approximately 2% between 1989 and 1996. EPA, the National Institute for Standards and Technology and calibration gas vendors collaborated to produce a correction policy and a standard correction form to be used by affected electric utility plants. Calibration gas cylinder tag values were required to be corrected by 1 January, 1997. In the future, it is possible that cleaner, more varied sources will be regulated for greenhouse effect, ozone and toxic emissions control. This will probably require more accurate CEMs, lower calibration gas concentrations, and a broader menu of gas mixtures.
Targeting Trypanosoma cruzi Sterol 14α-Demethylase (CYP51)

There are at least two obvious features that must be considered upon targeting specific metabolic pathways/enzymes for drug development: the pathway must be essential and the enzyme must allow the design of pharmacologically useful inhibitors. Here, we describe Trypanosoma cruzi sterol 14α-demethylase as a promising target for anti-Chagasic chemotherapy. The use of anti-fungal azoles, which block sterol biosynthesis and therefore membrane formation in fungi, against the protozoan parasite has turned out to be highly successful: a broad spectrum anti-fungal drug, the triazole compound posaconazole, is now entering phase II clinical trials for treatment of Chagas disease. This review summarizes comparative information on anti-fungal azoles and novel inhibitory scaffolds selective for Trypanosomatidae sterol 14α-demethylase through the lens of recent structure/functional characterization of the target enzyme. We believe our studies open wide opportunities for rational design of novel, pathogen-specific and therefore more potent and efficient anti-trypanosomal drugs.
Survivable millimeter-wave mesh networks

Millimeter-wave mesh networks have the potential to provide cost-effective high-bandwidth solutions to many current bandwidth-constrained networks including cellular backhaul. However, the availability of such networks is severely limited due to their susceptibility to weather, such as precipitation and humidity. In this paper, we present a rigorous approach to survivable millimeter-wave mesh networks based on experimentation, modeling, and simulation. Individual link performance is characterised using frame error-rate measurements from millimeter-wave transmissions on test links over a period of one year. A geometric model based on radar-reflectivity data is used to characterise rain storms and determine their impact on spatially correlated links of a mesh network. To mitigate the impact of link impairments on network services, we present two cross-layered routing protocols to route around the failures: P-WARP (predictive weather-assisted routing protocol) and XL-OSPF (cross-layered open shortest-path first). We conduct a performance analysis of the proposed mesh network under the presence of actual weather events as recorded by the US National Weather Service. Results show that the proposed approach yields the highest dependability when compared against existing routing methods.
Non-linear mixing in coupled photonic crystal nanobeam cavities due to cross-coupling opto-mechanical mechanisms

We investigate the coupling between mechanical and optical modes supported by coupled, freestanding, photonic crystal nanobeam cavities. We show that localized cavity modes for a given gap between the nanobeams provide weak optomechanical coupling with out-of-plane mechanical modes. However, we show that the coupling can be significantly increased, more than an order of magnitude for the symmetric mechanical mode, due to optical resonances that arise from the interaction of the localized cavity modes with standing waves formed by the reflection from thesubstrate. Finally, amplification of motion for the symmetric mode has been observed and attributed to the strong optomechanical interaction of our hybrid system. The amplitude of these self-sustained oscillations is large enough to put the system into a non-linear oscillation regime where a mixing between the mechanical modes is experimentally observed and theoretically explained.
Transferrin-Dependent Growth Inhibition of Yeast-Phase Histoplasma capsulatum by Human Serum and Lymph

Nonspecific host defense mechanisms that may limit growth of yeast-phase Histoplasma capsulatum in vivo were examined using an in vitro system of cell-free liquid culture. Native human transferrin in serum and lymph, or purified transferrin added to serum-free medium, inhibited yeast replication 10- to 50-fold. Supplementation of serum with iron to complete or almost complete saturation of total iron-binding capacity neutralized inhibition. Substitution of Zn++, Mn++, or Cu++ for Fe++ did not affect inhibition. Neither complement nor antibody was a relevant factor. Results of culture in medium with unsaturated transferrin followed by replenishment with iron indicated that iron deprivation was either fungistatic or fungicidal, depending on the yeast strain and, in serum-free medium, on the iron content of transferrin. Transferrin-dependent fungistasis was associated with morphologic alteration of yeasts as determined by electron microscopy. Thus, susceptibility of yeast-phase H. capsulatum to iron starvation by unsaturated transferrin may contribute to their low virulence in vivo.
EXPLICITNESS, INTAKE, AND THE ISSUE OF AWARENESS: ANOTHER PIECE TO THE PUZZLE

The conditions (implicit or explicit) under which exposure to L2 input takes place and the level of awareness raised while processing input may be strongly related to the learning process. This study investigates how intake was affected both by awareness and by the conditions under which a problem-solving task was performed. Spanish conditional sentences were presented to learners through five different degrees of explicitness, which were the result of combining the factors [±formal instruction] and [±directions to search for rules]. Intake was measured through a multiple-choice recognition test administered immediately after the experimental task. Level of awareness was assessed by means of think-aloud protocols collected during input processing. Results indicate that (a) the degrees of explicitness had a differential effect on intake, (b) the higher the level of awareness demonstrated, the stronger the effect on intake, and (c) the conditions under which the task was administered influenced the way information was processed.
International cooperation in water resources

Advancements in hydrology proceeded slowly until the late 1800's when new ventures created a surge of interest and accomplishment. Progress waned again until the middle 20th century when an International Hydrological Decade was conceived, eventually receiving wide multinational support from governmental agencies and nongovernmental institutions. Organized by UNESCO, the Decade program was launched January 1, 1965. Participation included 107 nations, six United Nations agencies, and more than a dozen international scientific organizations. The initial program emphasized scientific research, and international cooperation; the second half of the Decade, emphasized technical assistance and technology transfer, largerly through education, training and demonstration. The success of the Decade led to the establishment of the International Hydrological Program, again under the aegis of UNESCO, to continue the work of the Decade indefinitely. The five major program activities, now involving about 90 countries and several international organizations, include: the scientific program, the promotion of education and training, the enhancement of information exchange, support of technical assistance, and the enlargement of regional cooperation. A significant amount of activity related to hydrological data networks and forecasting is carried on in an Operational Hydrology Programme by the WMO, chiefly through its Commission for Hydrology. Other international governmental organizations with a strong interest in water include the UN, the UN Development Programme, the FAO, the WHO, the International Atomic Energy Agency, the UN Environment Programme, the International Standardization Organization, and developmental institutions such as the World Bank. The specialized interests of researchers outside of the governmental structure, are met through association in various scientific and technical organizations which are world wide in scope and membership. Notwithstanding a sometimes bewildering variety of organizations, there certainly exists, for any nation, group, or individual, a demonstrated mechanism for almost any conceivable form of international cooperation in hydrology and water resources.
Nm23/PuF Does Not Directly Stimulate Transcription through the CT Element in Vivo

Decreased levels of the nm23 gene product have been correlated with increased tumor metastatic potential in a variety of malignancies. At least a subset of the regulatory properties of Nm23 has been proposed to be due to transactivation of the human c-myc oncogene through binding to a homopyrimidine tract 140 base pairs upstream of the transcription start site (termed the CT element or the PuF site). Conventional transcription factors possess DNA binding and transactivation domains; Nm23 fusion proteins were used to address two questions. First, if provided with a well characterized DNA binding domain, does Nm23 possess a transactivation domain capable of stimulating transcription of an appropriate reporter? Second, if provided with a potent transactivation domain, is the DNA binding of Nm23 of sufficient specificity and affinity to direct the fusion protein to a CT-dependent reporter? Since reporter gene expression was not stimulated in either case, we conclude that Nm23 does not directly stimulate transcription through binding to the CT element and that its antimetastatic and other reported functions are likely due to other biochemical activities.
Directing Neural Plasticity to Understand and Treat Tinnitus.

The functional organization of cortical and subcortical networks can be altered by sensory experience. Sensory deprivation destabilizes neural networks resulting in increased excitability, greater neural synchronization and increased spontaneous firing in cortical and subcortical neurons. This pathological activity is thought to generate the phantom percept of chronic tinnitus. While sound masking, pharmacotherapy and cortical stimulation can temporarily suppress tinnitus for some patients, these interventions do not eliminate the pathological activity that is responsible for tinnitus. A treatment that could reverse the underlying pathology would be expected to be effective in alleviating the symptoms, if not curative. Targeted neural plasticity can provide the specificity required to restore normal neural activity in dysfunctional neural circuits that are assumed to underlie many forms of tinnitus. The forebrain cholinergic system and the noradrenergic system play a significant role in modulating cortical plasticity. Stimulation of the vagus nerve is known to activate these neuromodulatory pathways. Our earlier studies have demonstrated that pairing sounds with either nucleus basalis of Meynert (NB) stimulation or vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) generates highly specific and long-lasting plasticity in auditory cortex neurons. Repeatedly pairing tones with brief pulses of VNS reversed the physiological and behavioral correlates of tinnitus in noise exposed rats. We also recently demonstrated that VNS modulates synchrony and excitability in the auditory cortex at least in part by activation of muscarinic acetylcholine receptors, suggesting that acetylcholine is involved in the mechanism of action of VNS. These results suggest that pairing sounds with VNS provides a new avenue of treatment for some forms of tinnitus. This paper discusses neuromodulation as treatment for tinnitus with a focus on the potential value of pairing VNS with sound stimulation as a treatment of chronic tinnitus.
Comparison of Bull-Dam Herds, Progeny Testing Herds, and Other Dairy Herd Improvement Herds

Abstract Michigan and Northeast dairy herds that produced young bulls for AI sampling from 1974 to 1981 and 1978 to 1981, respectively, and those involved in progeny testing were compared with their contemporary DHI herds. The 1985 lactation records of Michigan herds and 1980 to 1987 data of Northeast herds were acquired from respective DHIA data processing centers, and genetic evaluation results of sires and cows in those herds were obtained from USDA. Herd average milk production, intraherd SD for milk production, average sire PD of cows and average cow index in the herd, and intraherd SD of sire PD and of cow indexes were computed for each herd-year. These characteristics were used to compare the herd groups. Herds in which young bulls were sampled had greater average milk production, greater variance for milk production, and greater genetic variance than other herd groups. However, these herds were not genetically superior to other herd groups, except that the bull-dam herds in the Northeast have become a superior group since 1985, and the margin of superiority has increased over time. Herds participating in progeny testing of young bulls were by far the most superior group genetically in Michigan, especially those participating in the testing program for more than 10 yr. However, progeny testing herds in the Northeast were similar to herds not involved in sire sampling or testing programs in their average genetic merit.
Successful treatment of Paecilomyces lilacinus keratitis with oral posaconazole.

The ubiquitous saprophytic filamentous fungus Paecilomyces lilacinus is a rare cause of fungal keratitis and endophthalmitis and occurs more commonly in patients with predisposing factors such as contact lens wear.1 Paecilomyces keratitis can be devastating due to its poor response to conventional antifungal therapy, often requiring therapeutic penetrating keratoplasty (PKP).1-4 Herein, we describe successful treatment of refractory keratitis caused by Paecilomyces lilacinus with the use of oral posaconazole, a relatively new, generally well-tolerated, and highly potent triazole.
A mathematical model for predicting the viability of airborne viruses.

A mathematical model was developed to predict the viability of airborne viruses. The model uses water activity as the primary independent variable and an exponential decay function for the viability of the virus. This model was tested using published experimental data obtained by different investigators for influenza, Langat and polio viruses. The aerosolized media were modelled as a binary solution of water and sodium chloride. The water activity is related directly to the solute concentration in the binary solution. The minimum viability usually occurred just above the efflorescence point, which is the relative humidity at which the solution crystallizes. The relationship between water activity and relative humidity is based on the Kohler theory, whereby the Kelvin term was taken into account. Physical explanations are provided on the variation of viral viability at different relative humidity levels. The predictions obtained by the proposed mathematical model compare well with most of the published experimental data.
Runoff Phosphorus Losses as Related to Soil Test Phosphorus and Degree of Phosphorus Saturation on Piedmont Soils Under Conventional and No-Tillage

Abstract Elevated soil phosphorus (P) concentrations on agricultural land from the application of P in fertilizers and animal manures have increased the potential for excessive P losses in runoff to nutrient-sensitive waters. This study was conducted to determine P losses in runoff from agricultural land in the Piedmont region of the southeastern U.S. with varying soil P levels resulting from past applications of broiler litter and inorganic P fertilizers. The correlations between soil P content and P in runoff can be used to validate and develop P loss-assessment tools for Piedmont soils of the southeastern US. Rainfall simulation at rates of 6.35 cm hr−1 were utilized to collect runoff samples from cropland under conventional tillage (CT) and no tillage (NT) with a range of initial P concentrations. Runoff samples were collected at 5-min intervals for 30 min and analyzed for reactive P (RP), algal-available P (AAP), and total P (TP). Concentration of RP in runoff from CT and NT plots was positively corr...
TREE OPEN EAR DECOMPOSITION IN PARALLEL GRAPH ALGORITHMS

Tree open ear decomposition has been proposed as a potentially useful technique in parallel graph algorithms. We present an efficient parallel algorithm implementing depth-first search in a graph, ...
The crystal structure of ammonium tris[4,4,4-trifluoro-1-)2-furyl)-1,3-butanedione]cadmium(II)

Abstract The crystal structure of ammonium tris[4,4,4-trifluoro-1-(2-furyl)1,3-butanedione]cadmium(II), NH 4 [Cd(C 8 H 4 O 3 F 3 ) 3 ], has been determined using 655 visually estimated reflection intensities. Full matrix least squares refinement led to R = 0.086 and Rw = 0.070. The space group is R 3 and there are six molecules in the triply primitive hexagonal cell which has a = 18.46(3) and c = 14.68(2) A . The structure consists of discrete NH + 4 cations, and anions containing hexacoordinated cadmium with the three bidentate ligands related by a crystallographic three-fold axis. The geometry of the coordination sphere is distorted 30–40% from the expected octahedron towards a trigonal prism. This distortion appears to be due to the proximity of the small cation to the coordinating ligand oxygen atoms. X-ray powder patterns of the corresponding chelates of the divalent metals Mn, Fe, Co, Ni and Zn inidcate that these compounds are isostructural with the Cd chelate.