cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ultra-compact polarization rotation in integrated silicon photonics using digital metamaterials

Polarization controlling devices such as polarization splitters and rotators are critical elements in integrated-photonic circuits that function via polarization-diversity schemes. Here, we present the design of an ultra-compact nanophotonic-polarization rotator (NPR) that rotates the polarization state from TE to TM with a simulated extinction ratio of 23dB over a coupling length of 5µm and an operating bandwidth of 40nm. This all-silicon device can be fabricated in a single lithography step and we have fabricated and characterized a preliminary device exhibiting 9dB extinction ratio. To emphasize the generality of our methodology, we also designed a NPR that can rotate the polarization state from TM to TE as well. A small device footprint is enabled by the evanescent coupling of guided modes enabled by computationally designed digital metamaterials.
Tenectin recruits integrin to stabilize bouton architecture and regulate vesicle release at the Drosophila neuromuscular junction

Nerve cells or neurons can communicate with each other by releasing chemical messengers into the gap between them, the synapse. Both neurons and synapses are surrounded by a network of proteins called the extracellular matrix, which anchors, protects and supports the synapse. The matrix also helps to regulate the dynamic communication across the synapses and consequently neurons. Little is known about the proteins of the extracellular matrix, in particular about the ones involved in structural support. This is especially important for the so-called neuromuscular junctions, where neurons stimulate muscle contraction and trigger vigorous movement. Receptor proteins on cell surfaces, such as integrins, can bind to the extracellular matrix proteins to anchor the cells and are important for all cell junctions, including synaptic junctions. But because of their many essential roles during development, it was unclear how integrins modulate the activity of the synapse. To investigate this further, Wang et al. studied the neuromuscular junctions of fruit flies. The experiments revealed that both muscle and neurons secrete a large protein called Tenectin, which accumulates into the small space between the neuron and the muscle, the synaptic cleft. This protein can bind to integrin and is necessary to support the neuromuscular junction structurally and functionally. Wang et al. discovered that Tenectin works by gathering integrins on the surface of the neuron and the muscle. In the neuron, Tenectin forms complexes with integrin to regulate the release of neurotransmitters. In the muscle, the complexes provide support to the synaptic structures. However, when Tenectin was experimentally removed, it only disrupted the integrins at the neuromuscular junction, without affecting integrins in other regions of the cells, such as the site where the muscle uses integrins to attach to the tendon. Moreover, without Tenectin an important intracellular scaffolding meshwork that lines up and reinforces cell membranes was no longer organized properly at the synapse. A next step will be to identify the missing components between Tenectin/integrin complexes on the surface of neurons and the neurotransmitter release machinery inside the cells. The extracellular matrix and its receptors play fundamental roles in the development and function of the nervous system. A better knowledge of the underlying mechanisms will help us to better understand the complex interplay between the synapse and the extracellular matrix.
Retained distal protection device during carotid artery stenting necessitating carotid endarterectomy: A complication and management considerations.

Background Neuroendovascular techniques have significantly altered the treatment paradigm of cerebrovascular diseases. Since the introduction of distal cerebral protection devices (DCPD), the incidence of embolic strokes during carotid artery stenting (CAS) has been significantly reduced. Treatment guidelines for retained foreign bodies in the cerebral vasculature do not exist. Case description Here, we present the case of an 88-year-old male who, during carotid artery angioplasty and stenting for symptomatic carotid artery stenosis, suffered from a retained distal protection device ultimately requiring open surgical carotid endarterectomy including removal of the retained device and stent. Conclusions Carotid artery angioplasty and stenting utilizing distal protection devices is a commonly employed technique that may rarely result in retained devices. Knowledge of how to retrieve foreign bodies and the salvage techniques are essential to prevent complications from CAS.
Interfacial Thermal Conductivity of 2D Layered Materials: An Atomistic Approach

This paper presents the first comprehensive modeling and analysis of thermal transport across both lateral and vertical interfaces to two-dimensional (2D) layered materials. Using an ab-initio Atomistic Green's Function (AGF) approach that accurately accounts for the interface geometry including the van der Waals gap, as well as interatomic force constants and interface phonon scatterings, we provide estimation of crucial interfacial thermal properties including thermal conductivity that are invaluable for assessing the performance, scaling, and reliability limits of all emerging 2D based nano-devices, interconnects, circuits and non-planar (monolithic 3D) integration schemes.
Nonequilibrium optical conductivity: General theory and application to transient phases

A nonequilibrium theory of optical conductivity of dirty-limit superconductors and commensurate charge density wave is presented. We discuss the current response to different experimentally relevant light-field probe pulses and show that a single frequency definition of the optical conductivity $\ensuremath{\sigma}(\ensuremath{\omega})\ensuremath{\equiv}j(\ensuremath{\omega})/E(\ensuremath{\omega})$ is difficult to interpret out of the adiabatic limit. We identify characteristic time-domain signatures distinguishing between superconducting, normal-metal, and charge density wave states. We also suggest a route to directly address the instantaneous superfluid stiffness of a superconductor by shaping the probe light field.
Loss and coupling tuning via heterogeneous integration of MoS2 layers in silicon photonics [Invited]

Layered two-dimensional (2D) materials provide a wide range of unique properties as compared to their bulk counterpart, making them ideal for heterogeneous integration for on-chip interconnects. Hence, a detailed understanding of the loss and index change on Si integrated platform is a prerequisite for advances in opto-electronic devices impacting optical communication technology, signal processing, and possibly photonic-based computing. Here, we present an experimental guide to characterize transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs), once monolithically integrated into the silicon photonic platform at 1.55 μm wavelength. We describe the passive tunable coupling effect of the resonator in terms of loss induced as a function of 2D material layer coverage length and thickness. Further, we demonstrate a TMDC-ring based hybrid platform where resonance shift has been mapped out as a function of flake thickness, which correlates well with our simulated data. These experimental findings on passive TMDC-Si hybrid platform open up a new dimension by controlling the effective change in loss and index, which may lead to the potential application of 2D material based active on chip photonics.
Cover crops are not affected by tobacco soil residual herbicides but also do not provide consistent weed management benefits

Winter cover crops (CCs) provide soil conservation benefits for strip-tillage tobacco producers, but soil-residual herbicides may interfere with their establishment and growth. Tobacco is planted later than many agronomic crops, but growers often terminate CCs early to minimize CC residue at planting, and this may reduce weed suppression potential. We examined residual herbicide effects on CCs across two seasons and the potential for CC-based weed suppression within strip-tilled tobacco. Mixtures of wheat plus crimson clover and cereal rye plus crimson clover were examined, with a no-CC control. Herbicides included two rates of PRE sulfentrazone (177 or 354 g ai ha–1) plus carfentrazone (20 or 40 g ai ha–1); the higher rate was also followed by POST clomazone (840 g ai ha–1) or mixed with PRE pendimethalin (1,400 g ai ha–1). Controls with no weed management and hand weeding were also included. CC density and biomass were not reduced by weed management (WM) treatments with residual herbicides. However, CCs did not reduce density of annual grasses, small-seeded broadleaves, or perennials in the tilled in-row or untilled between-row zones. Cereal rye plus crimson clover resulted in lower weed biomass at tobacco harvest in the untilled between-row zone in 2017. WM effects were variable between the years, weed groups, and zones. Adding clomazone or pendimethalin was more consistent for reducing weed density and biomass compared to the low rate of sulfentrazone plus carfentrazone. Tobacco yield was unaffected by CCs in 2017 but lower in some WM treatments in 2018. In this study, tobacco herbicides did not interfere with wheat, cereal rye, or crimson clover establishment, but additional research should determine if these results apply to other environments and soil types. However, when these CC species were terminated 5 to 6 wk before transplanting, they did not consistently contribute to weed control.
Putative Antidepressant Effect of Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.) Oral Extract in Subjects with Comorbid Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Depression.

Objectives: This exploratory analysis examined the putative antidepressant effect of Matricaria chamomilla L. (chamomile) extract in subjects with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) with or without...
Assessment of prescription stimulant misuse among college students using the MMPI-2-RF.

Abstract Prescription stimulant misuse (PSM) is a growing concern on college campuses and more research is needed to validate clinical measures commonly used for the assessment of risk for PSM among college students. The present study examined correlations between scores on the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory–Second Edition–Restructured Form (MMPI-2-RF) and self- and peer-reported misuse of prescription stimulants and other drugs in a sample of 96 pairs (included within a total N = 212) of undergraduate students. Nearly half of the participants (48%) reported that they had been offered prescription stimulants and one quarter (26%) reported trying someone else's prescription stimulant medications, often to perform better academically. Scores on the MMPI-2-RF scales designed to measure general substance misuse (Substance Abuse [SUB]) and related behavioral or externalizing constructs (e.g., Antisocial Behavior [RC4], Behavioral/Externalizing Dysfunction [BXD], and Disconstraint-Revised [DISC-r]), were correlated positively with both self- and peer-reported prescription stimulant misuse (rs = 0.45–0.66), as well as with problematic use of other drugs (rs = 0.44–0.63). MMPI-2-RF scales designed to measure constructs in the domains of Emotional/Internalizing, Somatic/Cognitive, and Thought Dysfunction, as well as Interpersonal Functioning, had weaker correlations with misuse of prescription stimulants (rs
Appearance discrimination and binge eating among sexual minority men.

Abstract Sexual minority men (SMM) face substantial disparities in rates of binge eating compared to heterosexual individuals, underscoring the need to study risk factors for the development of binge eating amongst SMM. One potential explanation for this disparity in binge eating is minority stress theory, which posits that minority groups face stressors, such as discrimination, due to their stigmatized position in society. Additionally, specific domains of discrimination may confer different levels of risk for binge eating. Therefore, the current study examined the association of various forms of discrimination, including appearance-based discrimination, and binge eating in a sample of SMM. A sample of 200 SMM (analytic sample of N = 187) from the greater Boston area completed self-report questionnaires assessing frequency of different forms of perceived discrimination (appearance, sexual orientation, race, etc.) and binge eating. A hierarchical binary logistic regression model was used to examine the association of different forms of discrimination with binge eating. 9% of the sample reported binge eating. Appearance-based discrimination was the most common form of discrimination (47%), and was significantly associated with binge eating, over and above all other forms of discrimination and sociodemographic variables, OR = 1.71, 95% CI = [1.24, 2.35], Wald χ2 (1) = 10.65, p = .001. Findings suggest that appearance-based discrimination may be related to binge eating in SMM. Clinicians may consider assessing appearance-based discrimination among SMM patients.
Material properties and environmental potential of developing world-derived biochar made from common crop residues

Abstract Biochar is frequently made using high-tech, high-control methods which will no doubt better optimize the final material for its intended purpose and increase its value. In contrast, we used low-tech, low-control methods to produce a developing world biochar (DWB) from two common crop wastes, cottonseed (CS) and pecan shell (PS). We created DWB biochar using a top-lit updraft microgasifier (TLUD) made from paint cans, and compared it to a biochar created in a muffle furnace held at 450 °C (MF450). We first used modern material characterization methods (yield, BET, SEM/EDS, TGA, XRD, FTIR) to understand the difference in biochar production methods on the feedstock. We then used batch equilibrium adsorption with cationic and anionic dyes (methyl orange, MO and crystal violet, CV) to examine environmental performance. The TLUD method generally has a lower biochar production yield than MF450 because we believe much of the material in the TLUD achieves temperatures > 450 °C and is sometimes difficult to retain in the device. The higher temperatures in the TLUD device lead to a biochar which is more microporous, has greater surface area, has less surface functional groups, has greater ash content, is more carbonized, and has lower residual cellulose crystallinity. There were differences in adsorption performance whereby the MF450 biochar adsorbs CV more strongly than the TLUD. For MO, PS-TLUD is less effective at adsorbing the dye when compared to PS-MF450, while CS-TLUD has a much higher adsorption strength than CS-MF450. We are not certain why the two methods show opposite effects in different feedstock but speculate that it may have to do with the much higher mineral content in the PS-TLUD compared to its MF450 counterpart. Out of many isotherms examined Freundlich and Langmuir isotherms provide a best-fit to our data only about half the time. Sometimes an S-shaped isotherm was the best fit or still fit the data reasonably well. Comparing the dye adsorption to other studies, the DWB does not adsorb as well, yet it is still effective for removal at environmental dye concentrations of relevance. Overall, we conclude that DWB, made in this uncontrolled fashion, can make a reasonably high quality biochar based on material properties and environmental performance. We suggest that additional research be done on other low-tech biochar production methods to see how to scale-up and optimize them according a developing world community's intended use.
Primary total hip arthroplasty via the direct anterior approach in the lateral decubitus position : surgical technique, learning curve, complications, and early results.

Aims The direct anterior approach (DAA) for total hip arthroplasty (THA) has potential advantages over other approaches and is most commonly performed with the patient in the supine position. We de...
Characterization of American teduglutide consumers from 2015 to 2020: A large database study

Introduction Teduglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-2 analog, is a novel therapy for intestinal failure that reduces need for parenteral support, especially in patients without a functional terminal ileum or colon. It can also predispose patients to accelerated progression of gastrointestinal (GI) malignancy and fluid overload. We demographically and clinically characterized American patients prescribed teduglutide. Methods The Explorys database is an aggregate of deidentified patient data from dozens of US healthcare systems. We used SNOMED classification to identify patients prescribed teduglutide from 2015 to 2019. Through the browse cohort feature we determined the demographics, postsurgical anatomy, comorbidities, and indication for teduglutide use among these patients. Results Of approximately 72 million patients, 170 were prescribed teduglutide. A large majority were female (70.6%). Most common etiologies of short-bowel syndrome were intestinal obstruction (52.9%) and Crohn's disease (41.2%). Common postsurgical anatomy included total colectomy (41.2%) and ileostomy. Common incident symptoms included abdominal pain (41.2%) and nausea (23.5%). Thirty (17.6%) patients were prescribed teduglutide despite comorbid heart failure, and 5.9% despite prior GI malignancy. A total of 11.8% of patients had a history of benign GI neoplasms before starting teduglutide. A total of 5.9% of patients had posttreatment formation of colon polyps. Conclusion In a large American database, the teduglutide prescription is rare. Only a minority have postsurgical anatomy associated with the most robust response to teduglutide. Serious adverse events appear rare, but a substantial number of patients are at risk for adverse effects because of the presence of comorbid heart failure or GI neoplasm.
Adjustment of the Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity (NGRI) Outpatient: An Initial Report

Adjustment to outpatient treatment of not guilty by reason of insanity (NGRI) patients following discharge from inpatient settings was explored by following 44 subjects in a 2-year, longitudinal study. Data obtained for each subject included demographic characteristics, Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia-Research Diagnostic Criteria (SADS-RDC) diagnosis, and Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI). Repeated measures included the Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia-Change Form (SADS-C), Symptom Checklist 90 (SCL-90), and Holmes ahe Inventory. No recidivism occurred for any crime against persons, 25% of subjects were rehospitalized, and those subjects remaining in outpatient treatment showed a general pattern of stable to modestly improving functioning. Implications for safe and effective community treatment of NGRI acquittees are discussed.
Neuroimaging and Pathological Correlates of Dementia Associated with Subcortical Ischemic Vascular Disease (SIVD)

Initial neuroimaging and neuropathological findings are reported from an ongoing, longitudinal study of dementia associated with subcortical ischemic vascular disease (SVID) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Quantitative MRI studies identify hippocampal and neocortical atrophy, rather than subcorticallacunes and WML, to be the major determinants of dementia associated with SIVD. Autopsy findings suggest that hippocampal atrophy in SIVD results from a mixture of degenerative and ischemic pathologies. The cause of neocortical atrophy in SIVD remains unknown, correlates with the volume of WML, and does not necessarily reflect the presence of AD. For the practicing clinician, the presence of hippocampal and neocortical atrophy cannot be regarded as specific evidence for AD.
Chapter 4 Mechanical Behavior of Compound Semiconductors

Publisher Summary This chapter focuses on the mechanical behavior of compound semiconductors. The semiconductor industry has long been aware of the need to avoid deformation during bulk single-crystal semiconductor growth or during subsequent device processing. Materials with covalent character have strong temperature dependence for flow at low temperatures, corresponding to a rate-controlling mechanism related to the intrinsic lattice resistance or Peierls barrier. An athermal plateau region appears at intermediate temperatures, corresponding to extrinsic effects such as solid solution hardening, while at high temperatures other creep-type mechanisms would be applicable. At low temperatures, the Peierls periodic potential barrier is so large that movement of a dislocation from one low-energy position to the next requires the application of a large stress. This barrier is overcome by the process of nucleation and lateral propagation of double kinks on the dislocation line. As in other materials, the difference in atomic size between solute and solvent atoms and the difference in valence lead to elastic misfit strains and electronic interactions between solute atom and dislocations, thereby causing an increase in resistance to dislocation motion. In the case of an isovalent solute in a lattice site, the size misfit would be the primary factor determining the ease of dislocation motion or lack thereof.
Seismic imaging of the Cocos plate subduction zone system in central Mexico

Broadband data from the Meso-America Subduction Experiment (MASE) line in central Mexico were used to image the subducted Cocos plate and the overriding continental lithosphere beneath central Mexico using a generalized radon transform based migration. Our images provide insight into the process of subducting relatively young oceanic lithosphere and its complex geometry beneath continental North America. The converted and reverberated phase image shows complete horizontal tectonic underplating of the Cocos oceanic lithosphere beneath the North American continental lithosphere, with a clear image of a very thin low-velocity oceanic crust (7–8 km) which dips at 15–20 degrees at Acapulco then flattens approximately 300 km from the Middle America Trench. Farther inland the slab then appears to abruptly change from nearly horizontal to a steeply dipping geometry of approximately 75 degrees underneath the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt (TMVB). Where the slab bends underneath the TMVB, the migrated image depicts the transition from subducted oceanic Moho to continental Moho at ∼230 km from the coast, neither of which were clearly resolved in previous seismic images. The deeper seismic structure beneath the TMVB shows a prominent negative discontinuity (fast-to-slow) at ∼65–75 km within the upper mantle. This feature, which spans horizontally beneath the arc (∼100 km), may delineate the top of a layer of ponded partial melt.
Public-Key Cryptography

In this chapter, we will explore some computational aspects of modular arithmetic, which we studied in Chapter 6. We will be concerned about how to compute certain numbers in a most efficient way. There is a whole field at work here, of which we barely scratch the surface, called computational complexity. For example, in Section 6.4 we introduced the concept of greatest common divisor (gcd). You might wonder how quickly one could compute the gcd of two, say, 1000-digit integers. As another example, we now discuss how to quickly compute a b modulo c for given positive integers a, b, and c.
Admission serum magnesium levels and the risk of acute respiratory failure.

Summary Background The association between admission serum magnesium (Mg) levels and risk of acute respiratory failure (ARF) in hospitalised patients is limited. The aim of this study was to assess the risk of developing ARF in all hospitalised patients with various admission Mg levels. Methods This is a single-center retrospective study conducted at a tertiary referral hospital. All hospitalised adult patients who had admission Mg available from January to December 2013 were analysed in this study. Admission Mg was categorised based on its distribution into six groups (less than 1.5, 1.5–1.7, 1.7–1.9, 1.9–2.1, 2.1–2.3 and greater than 2.3 mg/dl). The primary outcome was in-hospital ARF occurring after hospital admission. Logistic regression analysis was performed to obtain the odds ratio of ARF of various admission Mg levels using Mg of 1.7–1.9 mg/dl as the reference group. Results Of 9780 patients enrolled, ARF occurred in 619 patients (6.3%). The lowest incidence of ARF was when serum Mg within 1.7–1.9 mg/dl. A U-shaped curve emerged demonstrating higher incidences of ARF associated with both hypomagnesemia ( 1.9). After adjusting for potential confounders, both hypomagnesemia ( 2.3 mg/dl) were associated with an increased risk of developing ARF with odds ratios of 1.69 (95% CI: 1.19–2.36) and 1.40 (95% CI: 1.02–1.91) respectively. Conclusion Both admission hypomagnesemia and hypermagnesemia were associated with an increased risk for in-hospital ARF.
A study on the metal-flanged open-ended coaxial line terminating in a conductor-backed dielectric layer

A spectral domain approach is used to analyze aperture fields and aperture admittance of an open-ended coaxial line terminated by a conductor-backed dielectric layer. The aperture admittance and capacitance at various frequencies and thicknesses are calculated for various dielectrics. It is shown that, for d>or=2b, the results are very close to those for the infinitely thick dielectric medium. The results are expected to be useful in developing suitable procedures for measuring the electrical properties of samples with small thicknesses. >
Tomato Intake in Relation to Mortality and Morbidity among Sudanese Children

The intake of foods that contain high levels of antioxidants may counteract the adverse effects of oxidative stress and lead to improved immune function and reduced risk of infectious disease. We prospectively examined the relationship between the consumption of tomatoes, a rich source of antioxidants, and mortality and diarrheal and respiratory morbidity rates among 28,753 children who were 6-60 mo old and enrolled in a longitudinal study in the Sudan. Children in each household were visited every 6 mo for a maximum of four visits. At each round, mothers recalled whether a child had consumed tomatoes in the previous 24 h. Events (death or morbidity) reported at each round were prospectively allocated according to the number of days of tomato intake. Intake of tomatoes for 2 or 3 d compared with none was associated, respectively, with 48% (relative risk, 0. 53; 95% confidence interval, 0.30-0.91) and 83% (0.17; 0.04-0.72) reductions in morality rates (P: for trend = 0.002). The association between tomato use and death remained statistically significant (P: for trend = 0.004), even after further adjustment for total vitamin A intake. Tomato intake was also associated with a reduced risk of death associated with diarrhea in the week preceding death (P: for trend = 0.009) or fever (P: for trend = 0.04). Intake of tomatoes was also inversely and significantly associated with the risks of diarrheal and respiratory infections. Our data suggest that tomatoes may be beneficial for child health but also emphasize the general importance of food-based approaches to the prevention of micronutrient malnutrition and protection of the health of children in developing countries.
Toward the development of a screening scale for assertive training.

A self-report scale was designed to select constricted (non-assertive) candidates for Assertive Training. Test items sampled stimulus persons, situations, and overt and covert responses. The scale ...
Discerning landslide susceptibility using rough sets

Rough set theory has been primarily known as a mathematical approach for analysis of a vague description of objects. This paper explores the use of rough set theory to manage the complexity of geographic characteristics of landslide susceptibility and extract rules describing the relationships between landslide conditioning factors and landslide events. The proposed modeling approach is illustrated using a case study of the Clearwater National Forest in central Idaho, which experienced significant and widespread landslide events in recent years. In this approach the landslide susceptibility is derived from decision rules of variable strengths computed in rough set analysis and presented on maps for roaded and roadless areas. The rough set approach to modeling landslide susceptibility offers advantages over other modeling methods in accounting for data vagueness and uncertainty and in potentially reducing data collection needs. From an application perspective the rough set-based approach is promising as a decision support tool in forest planning involving the maintenance, obliteration or development of new forest roads in steep mountainous terrain.
Anamnestic response to an opioid.

In Mausen entsteht eine Toleranz gegen den kataraktogenen Effekt einer Einzeldosis von Opioid. Werden fraktionierte Dosen gegeben, so entwickelt sich jedoch eine weitaus grossere Toleranz, wofur eine Sensibilisierung als Ursache angenommen wird.
Dissociation of doubly charged transition metal/polyether/pyridyl ligand complexes in a quadrupole ion trap mass spectrometer

The dissociation of a series of doubly charged pyridyl ligand/polyether/transition metal complexes is studied using electrospray ionization and collision activation methods. Both doubly charged mixed-ligand dimer and trimers are observed by electrospray ionization. The mixed-ligand trimer complexes always dissociate by cleavage of one entire ligand, whereas the mixed-ligand dimers show a more diverse array of fragmentation pathways, including charge reduction processes. The fragmentation pathways of these mixed-ligand dimers are influenced by the second ionization energy and electron configuration of the metal and relative coordination strength of the ligands.
Stimulation of hepatic microsomal aniline p-hydroxylase activity by dimethyl sulfoxide administration to rats☆

Abstract Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) administered ip to rats either as a single dose of 7.5 ml/kg or 2 ml/kg twice a day for 3 days caused significant increases in the hepatic microsomal in vitro metabolism of aniline, but no change in benzphetamine and p-nitrobenzoic acid metabolisms or cytochrome P450 levels. The single dose regimen promoted significant stimulation of aniline metabolism in 3 hours, which reached a peak effect in 6–12 hours and reverted to control levels 48 hours after injection. The multiple dose regimen produced higher levels of activity than the single dose treatment; however a dose-response relationship was apparent for both modes of administration. Adrenalectomized rats were treated with both dose schedules, and the aniline hydroxylase activity in these animals responded in the same way as in sham-operated animals. Addition of DMSO directly to the incubation mixture did not stimulate, but inhibited aniline metabolism in concentrations greater than 0.02%. N,N-dimethyl formamide and N,N-dimethyl acetamide, when injected ip in rats were also shown to significantly stimulate aniline metabolism.
Political Economy, Democracy and Eastern Europe

Recent proposals for swift privatization of all social property in Eastern Europe overlook the unique history and culture of that region. The neoclassical model of development treats private property and free markets as virtual guarantees of prosperity, stability, and political democracy. However, the more comprehensive method of political economy highlights the social, political, and cultural underpinnings of economic activity. Centuries of authoritarian rule, culminating in four decades under communism, have left Eastern Europe ill‐equipped for the rigours of international competition. Until Eastern Europe develops stable democratic institutions, mass privatization is likely to result in chaos and the reimposition of political authority.
Osteoporosis risk and low bone mineral density in women with physical disabilities.

Abstract Smeltzer SC, Zimmerman V, Capriotti T. Osteoporosis risk and low bone mineral density in women with physical disabilities. Objectives To describe the results of bone mineral density (BMD) screening in women with different physical disabilities and to identify their risk factors for osteoporosis and use of strategies to prevent osteoporosis. Design A cross-sectional descriptive study. Setting Community. Participants Convenience sample of 429 community-residing women with different disabilities. Interventions Not applicable. Main outcome measures Peripheral BMD screening of the os calcis, using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. A self-administered survey addressed osteoporosis risk factors, use of osteoporosis prevention strategies, and previous recommendations for BMD screening or testing. Results Based on World Health Organization criteria, 30.5% and 22.6% of the total sample had BMD values indicative of osteopenia and osteoporosis, respectively. The number of self-reported osteoporosis risk factors ranged from 0 to 10 (mean, 4.5±1.7). Subjects reported using few strategies to reduce their osteoporosis risks. One quarter of the women reported previous BMD screening or testing; about one third reported receiving recommendations for testing or screening by a health care provider. Conclusions More than half of the sample had low BMD, and it was present in premenopausal as well as menopausal women. Despite low BMD and the presence of osteoporosis risk factors, less than a third of the women previously had BMD testing or screening or recommendations for such testing. Because low BMD is common in women with disabilities, greater attention must be directed toward their risk for osteoporosis and osteoporotic fractures. Prevention strategies to reduce osteoporosis risk should be considered, although their efficacy is not yet known in populations with disabilities.
Timed Kill Kinetic Studies of Levofloxacin, Ofloxacin, and Ciprofloxacin Against Moraxella catarrhalis

Levofloxacin bactericidal activity was compared to ciprofloxacin and ofloxacin against 10 strains of Moraxella catarrhalis. The cidal action (by kill-curve analysis) was slightly more rapid for levofloxacin, but all tested fluoroquinolones were considered bactericidal for all strains tested, including those producing BRO-1 and 2 β-lactamases.
Adaptive Resource Management for Service Workflows in Cloud Environments

Cloud computing enables the on-demand provisioning of virtualized resources to its hosted applications and services to satisfy their fluctuating resource needs. As business processes and scientific jobs become more intricate, traditional reactive resource management method is not able to meet the new requirements. In this paper, we investigate the problem of dynamically managing virtualized resources for service workflows in a cloud environment. An adaptive algorithm is proposed that makes resource management decisions based on predictive results and high level user specified thresholds. The algorithm is also able to coordinate resources among the component services of a workflow so that unnecessary resource allocations and terminations can be avoided. We use simulations on synthetic workload data to evaluate and demonstrate the effectiveness of the algorithm.
Transport properties of powder-in-tube BSCCO(2212)/Ag tape joints

Abstract Several configurations of Ag-sheathed Bi-2212 tape joints were investigated. These included simple lap joints and bridge joints (bridging two tapes with a third tape). The green conductors in these configurations were annealed using a partial-melt-growth process. The transport properties of these joints were measured by the four point d.c. method. Results indicate that the critical temperature decreased 7 K, while the critical current decreased by 30% for an overlap of ~ 2 cm on a ~ 0.9 cm wide × 60 μm thick tape. This degradation in the transport properties was compensated for by increasing the overlap region, so as to reduce the degradation in the transport properties, particularly Ic, based on 1 MU;m/cm criterion. Results of this investigation will be discussed.
Proteomics Analysis of Cells in Whole Saliva from Oral Cancer Patients via Value-added Three-dimensional Peptide Fractionation and Tandem Mass Spectrometry

Whole human saliva possesses tremendous potential in clinical diagnostics, particularly for conditions within the oral cavity such as oral cancer. Although many have studied the soluble fraction of whole saliva, few have taken advantage of the diagnostic potential of the cells present in saliva, and none have taken advantage of proteomics capabilities for their study. We report on a novel proteomics method with which we characterized for the first time cells contained in whole saliva from patients diagnosed with oral squamous cell carcinoma. Our method uses three dimensions of peptide fractionation, combining the following steps: preparative IEF using free flow electrophoresis, strong cation exchange step gradient chromatography, and microcapillary reverse-phase liquid chromatography. We determined that the whole saliva samples contained enough cells, mostly exfoliated epithelial cells, providing adequate amounts of total protein for proteomics analysis. From a mixture of four oral cancer patient samples, the analysis resulted in a catalogue of over 1000 human proteins, each identified from at least two peptides, including numerous proteins with a role in oral squamous cell carcinoma signaling and tumorigenesis pathways. Additionally proteins from over 30 different bacteria were identified, some of which putatively contribute to cancer development. The combination of preparative IEF followed by strong cation exchange chromatography effectively fractionated the complex peptide mixtures despite the closely related physiochemical peptide properties of these separations (pI and solution phase charge, respectively). Furthermore compared with our two-step method combining preparative IEF and reverse-phase liquid chromatography, our three-step method identified significantly more cellular proteins while retaining higher confidence protein identification enabled by peptide pI information gained through IEF. Thus, for detecting salivary markers of oral cancer and possibly other conditions of the oral cavity, the results confirm both the potential of analyzing the cells in whole saliva and doing so with our proteomics method.
ONTOGENY OF ARGININE VASOPRESSIN-LIKE IMMUNOREACTIVITY IN THE BRAZILIAN OPOSSUM BRAIN

Abstract The neuropeptide arginine vasopressin is involved in many centrally mediated functions and brain development. In this study, we have examined the ontogeny of arginine vasopressin-like immunoreactivity (AVP-IR) in the Brazilian opossum ( Monodelphis domestica ) brain to further understand the involvement of AVP in the forming central nervous system. Monodelphis is a small pouchless marsupial and its pups are bom in an extremely immature state before neurogenesis is completed. In the adult brain, cell bodies containing AVP-IR were found in several nuclear groups and areas, and immunoreactive fibers were found to be widely distributed throughout the brain. The distribution of AVP-IR in the adult opossum brain generally resembled that reported for other species including the rat, however, some differences in localization of immunoreactive cells were observed. In the developing opossum brain, AVP-IR was first seen in the mesencephalon and diencephalon between embryonic days 12 and 13. Subsequently, a distinct group of AVP immunoreactive cells was present in the forming supraoptic nucleus on day 1 of postnatal life (1 PN) and at 3 PN in the paraventricular nucleus. Between 1 and 3 PN, a few cells transiently expressed AVP-IR in the forming thalamus and tegmental area. At these ages a few immunoreactive fibers were also detected in the forming cerebellum. These fibers were not seen at later ages in these areas. By 5 PN, an increased expression of AVP-IR was seen in the forming supraoptic and paraventricular hypothalamic nuclei, median eminence, and posterior pituitary. At 7 PN, immunoreactive cells and fibers were seen in several forebrain areas. The distribution pattern of AVP-IR became adult-like by 60 PN. A sex difference in the amount of AVP-IR in the lateral septum was also observed in the opossum brain at 60 PN. This difference persisted in the adult brain. Due to the early presence of AVP-IR in the Monodelphis brain before neurogenesis and morphogenesis is completed, we suggest that AVP may be involved in morphogenesis of the central nervous system. In addition, AVP may have a significant physiological function in regard to homeostasis before the forebrain contributes to these control mechanisms. Further studies, including physiological and developmental manipulations, will define the significance of the early presence of AVP during the differentiation and maturation of the central nervous system in Monodelphis .
Redox Signaling and Cardiac Sarcomeres

Oxidative stress is common in many clinically important cardiac disorders, including ischemia/reperfusion, diabetes, and hypertensive heart disease. Oxidative stress leads to derangements in pump function due to changes in the expression or function of proteins that regulate intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis. There is growing evidence that the cardiodepressant actions of reactive oxygen species (ROS) also are attributable to ROS-dependent signaling events in the sarcomere. This minireview focuses on myofilament protein post-translational modifications induced by ROS or ROS-activated signaling enzymes that regulate cardiac contractility.
Comment on frequency shift and transverse relaxation of optical transitions in organic solids

Abstract It is shown that recent data on frequency shifts and dephasing times of optical transitions in mixed molecular crystals obtained by photochemical hole burning or photon echo measurements can be understood with minor modification of the long standing theory of McCumber and Sturge.
Hall effect in 75at% Bi-25at% Sn alloy quenched films below 47°K

Abstract Hall effect measurements in quenched 75at% Bi-25at% Sn-alloy films in the temperature range from 5.5°K to 47°K are presented and compared with earlier measurements in pure Bi-films and results obtained from electron diffraction patterns of quenched 75at% Bi-25at% Sn-films.
A tentative mechanism for the anaerobic transport of glucose, fructose and mannose in yeast☆

Abstract Under anaerobic conditions, glucose, fructose, and mannose were added separately or in pairs to yeast suspensions. Sugar concentrations in the medium were determined from time to time. Iodoacetate-poisoned cells previously loaded with fructose were placed in sugar-free, buffered iodoacetate, and the appearance of sugar in the medium was determined. A carrier-mediated diffusion process similar to that for sugars in human erythrocyytes was postulated and tested. Kinetic data are in agreement with the carrier-mediated transport mechanism.
Karst Related Vertical Collapse Structure And Related Lineament Detection By Seismic Attributes On Fort Worth Basin Seismic Data Volume

Here in this study we present a case study of karst related vertical collapse structure detection using a P wave 3D land seismic data collected in the Fort Worth Basin, Wise county, North central Texas. A major aspect of this study is to illustrate the improvement rendered to the interpretation process by using various new generation attributes and how they considerably improve fracture like lineament and related structure detection.
Using Mixed Methods to Develop a Frame-Based Private Landowner Typology

An important goal of community-based management is to engage a wider network of stakeholders in conservation and management decisions. Using mixed methods, we constructed a frame-based private landowner typology to identify landowner response patterns to vernal pool conservation and management in Maine. Drawing on data from interviews and focus groups, we identified two opposing frames that described landowner views on vernal pools (personal gain and personal loss). A mail survey identified three groups of private landowners (Supportive, Uncertain, and Opposing) with similar sociodemographic and property variables but different aesthetic preferences, economic concerns, and views on property rights and conservation. Our results suggest that frame-based typologies are useful for enhancing communications with different landowner groups and in identifying trusted information sources and communication preferences. Our approach represents a critical first step toward understanding and integrating a range of lan...
Site-resolved measurement of water-protein interactions by solution NMR

The interactions of biological macromolecules with water are fundamental to their structure, dynamics and function. Historically, characterization of the location and residence times of hydration waters of proteins in solution has been quite difficult. Confining proteins within the nanoscale interior of a reverse micelle slows water dynamics, allowing global protein-water interactions to be detected using nuclear magnetic resonance techniques. Complications that normally arise from hydrogen exchange and long-range dipolar coupling are overcome by the nature of the reverse micelle medium. Characterization of the hydration of ubiquitin demonstrates that encapsulation within a reverse micelle allows detection of dozens of hydration waters. Comparison of nuclear Overhauser effects obtained in the laboratory and rotating frames indicate a considerable range of hydration water dynamics is present on the protein surface. In addition, an unprecedented clustering of different hydration-dynamics classes of sites is evident.
Stem cells need their T

In this issue of Blood , Li and colleagues demonstrate the requirement for T cells in mediating the action of parathyroid hormone (PTH) treatment to expand primitive hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs), highlighting a complex interaction among cells of the immune system, bone and the HSPCs.[
Disordered enterocyte signaling and intestinal barrier dysfunction in the pathogenesis of necrotizing enterocolitis

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is the leading cause of death from gastrointestinal disease in neonates, and is characterized by the development of diffuse intestinal necrosis in the stressed, pre-term infant. Systemic stress causes a breakdown in the intestinal mucosal barrier, which leads to translocation of bacteria and endotoxin and the initiation of a signaling response within the enterocyte. This review summarizes recent evidence defining a clear role that defective enterocyte signaling plays in the pathogenesis of NEC through the following mechanisms: 1) The localized production of nitric oxide by villus enterocytes results in an increase in enterocyte apoptosis and impaired proliferation; 2) The translocation of endotoxin results in a PI3K-dependent activation of RhoA-GTPase within the enterocyte leading to decreased enterocyte migration and impaired restitution; 3) Dysregulated sodium-proton exchange within the enterocyte by endotoxin renders the enterocyte monolayer more susceptible to damage in the face of the acidic microenvironment characteristic of systemic sepsis; and 4) Endotoxin causes a p38-dependent release of the pro-inflammatory molecule COX-2 by the enterocyte, which potentiates the systemic inflammatory response. An understanding of the mechanisms by which disordered enterocyte signaling contributes to the pathogenesis of barrier failure and NEC--through these and other mechanisms--may lead to the identification of novel therapeutic approaches for this devastating disease.