cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Physical and chemical properties of fruit and seeds eaten byPithecia andChiropotes in Surinam and Venezuela

Pithecia pithecia andChiropotes satanas are seed predators that eat fruits with hard pericarps. We measured resistance to puncturing and crushing of fruit and seeds eaten by these two pitheciins at two localities: in evergreen rain forest at Raleighvallen-Voltzberg, Surinam, and in tropical dry/transitional moist forest on islands in Guri Lake, Venezuela. Average measurements of pericarp hardness were similar at both sites for fruit eaten byChiropotes, but a higher maximum value was obtained at the rainforest site.Chiropotes andPithecia both ate fruits that had harder pericarps than did fruits eaten byAteles paniscus, but crushing resistances of seeds eaten were lower than values forAteles. Thus, both pitheciins selected fruits with hard pericarps and soft seeds, although there were notable intergeneric differences in hardness of fruit ingested. When fruit became scarce,Pithecia ate more flowers, whileChiropotes continued to eat fruits with hard seed coverings. Chemical analysis of species of seeds eaten byPithecia suggests that they avoided seeds with extremely high tannin levels, though they tolerated moderate tannin levels in combination with high levels of lipids. We propose that sclerocarpic harvesting (the preparation and ingestion of fruit with a hard pericarp) allows pitheciin monkeys to obtain nutritious seeds, with reduced tannins, that are softer than those ingested by other frugivores.
Theory and applications of near ballistic transport in semiconductors

A review of electronic transport in semiconductors in the near ballistic regime is presented. Recent experiments and theories are discussed in detail. It is shown that the basic physics of ballistic transport is qualitatively well understood. Quantitatively much work remains to be done, especially with respect to device applications. Some problems related to applications are discussed in context with hot-electron- and high-electron-mobility-transistors. >
Heat conduction in a slab subjected to an n-cascade wall temperature on both its surfaces

Abstract Steady state heat conduction in a slab of infinite dimensions subjected to a multi-cascade wall conditions on both of its surfaces is analyzed. The slab material is considered as an homogenous, isotropic heat conducting material with no heat source or sink. By using the Fourier integral transform, the temperature field in the slab is obtained. In the case of a single cascade, the temperature variations in the thickness direction for various longitudinal sections (these sections are located parallel to the lines of discontinuity of the applied wall temperatures at different distances) are plotted along with the temperature variations in the longitudinal direction for various points in the thickness direction. Also, for the same wall temperature condition, the generating lines of isothermal surfaces which are cylindrical are plotted. The wall heat flux variation is presented along the longitudinal direction. To represent the total heat flow, a dimensionless heat flow coefficient at the cross section formed by the lines of discontinuity of applied wall temperatures is defined and its value is calculated. The procedure for obtaining the temperature field for a multi-cascade wall temperature case is also discussed.
Evidence for ascending fibers in the pyramidal tract of the cat

Abstract It was found possible to induce short-lasting electrocortical activation by pinching the toe pads of chronic preparations which retained only the fibers of the basis pedunculi, classical ascending fibers and ascending reticular fibers having been transected at the rostral pons. More durable electrocortical activation was produced by subjecting these preparations to a cold environment which presumably served as a more severe and continuous stimulus. It is believed that these results are explainable on the basis of activation over the ascending spinocortical, cuneatocortical, and gracilocortical fibers of Brodal and Walberg. It is speculated that these ascending pyramidal fibers send collaterals into some part of the cephalic activating system at levels rostral to the pons.
Arene hydrogenation using supported rhodium metal catalysts prepared from [Rh(COD)H]4, [Rh(COD)2]+BF4−, and [Rh(COD)Cl]2 adsorbed on SiO2 and Pd-SiO2

Abstract Four different rhodium precursors, [Rh(COD)H]4, [Rh(COD)2]+BF4−, [Rh(COD)Cl]2, and RhCl3·3H2O, adsorbed onto silica (SiO2) or onto palladium supported on silica (Pd-SiO2), were examined for their catalytic arene hydrogenation activities. Rates of toluene hydrogenation were compared when the catalysts were pretreated with hydrogen as follows: none, 40 °C for 24 h, and 200 °C for 4 h. With no hydrogen pretreatment, the rhodium precursors adsorbed on Pd-SiO2 showed higher activities than the corresponding precursors on only SiO2. As the hydrogen pretreatment temperature was increased, the activities of the catalysts on SiO2 increased; the highest activity occurred with catalysts pretreated at 200 °C. Conversely, milder pretreatments were more effective for the catalysts on Pd-SiO2; higher temperature pretreatments reduced activities. The catalysts were characterized by their activities, diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFT), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). All of the studies indicate that the active catalytic species is rhodium metal. On silica, H2 reduction of the rhodium complex to Rh metal under arene hydrogenation conditions was slow in all cases except [Rh(COD)H]4. However, on Pd-SiO2, the palladium accelerated the reduction of all of the Rh complex precursors to rhodium metal under the same conditions. The resulting Rh-Pd-SiO2 bimetallic catalysts exhibited higher activities than catalysts of the same composition prepared by classical methods.
Black bears in Arkansas: Characteristics of a successful translocation

In 1958, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission began translocating black bears ( Ursus americanus ) from Minnesota to the Interior Highlands (Ozark and Ouachita mountains) of Arkansas where bears had been extirpated early in this century. This project continued for 11 years with little public imput, during which time an estimated 254 bears were released. We estimate there are now >2,500 bears in the Interior Highlands of Arkansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma, making it one of the most successful translocations of a Carnivora. Factors that contributed to the success include use of wild-captured animals, elimination of major factors associated with extirpation, release into prime habitats within the former range, multiple release sites, release of 20–40 animals/year for eight years, and release of mostly males prior to release of mostly females. Studies on two allopatric populations demonstrate that they are now diverging in some demographic characteristics, including litter size, cub survivorship, and adult sex-ratio. Translocation of black bears to the Interior Highlands is successful in terms of numbers of animals, but it will not be truly successful until people accept black bears as part of the regional fauna. To that end, those associated with management and research of bears in Arkansas are now focussing on public education and control of nuisance bears.
Joint ventures in fisheries between distant-water and developed coastal nations: An economic view

Abstract With extension of national jurisdiction over coastal living resources, new dimensions and objectives should be added to international cooperation in fisheries concepts. For distant-water fishing nations, joint exploitation of these resources is today considered not only as a way of producing additional income opportunities, but first of all as at least a partial solution to neutralization of harvesting limitations imposed on them in traditionally exploited fishing grounds. Japan is leading in number of joint ventures run by this country abroad. They are supplying fish products to the Japanese consumption market. Many other distant-water fishing nations, including Eastern Europe, began to build their cooperational links with coastal states in recent years when it became clear that this can alleviate harvesting restrictions and increase employment opportunities for their fishing fleets. For the developed coastal states, joint ventures with foreign partners could be seen as a way to develop these coastal resources, which temporarily can not be utilized by local fishermen, mainly for economic reasons. Joint ventures developing such resources will be attractive for both sides if they could produce additional volumes of fish for the foreign markets and offer an economically more effective way of resource utilization than would be possible in non-cooperative activities. Cooperation in fisheries between foreign distant-water and developed nations can find a good future in the development of lower market values species in coastal nations which, in the case of the United States, Canada or Australia, represent a very large fishing potential. The benefits and constraints for each joint venture operation should be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Mechanical Properties of Metallic Glasses

Metallic glasses are known for their outstanding mechanical strength. However, the microscopic mechanism of failure in metallic glasses is not well-understood. In this article we discuss elastic, anelastic and plastic behaviors of metallic glasses from the atomistic point of view, based upon recent results by simulations and experiments. Strong structural disorder affects all properties of metallic glasses, but the effects are more profound and intricate for the mechanical properties. In particular we suggest that mechanical failure is an intrinsic behavior of metallic glasses, a consequence of stress-induced glass transition, unlike crystalline solids which fail through the motion of extrinsic lattice defects such as dislocations.
Variation in Reproductive Behaviour within a Sex:Neural Systems and Endocrine Activation

Intrasexual variation in reproductive behaviour, morphology and physiology is taxonomically widespread in vertebrates, and is as biologically and ecologically significant as the differences between the sexes. In this review, we examine the diverse patterns of intrasexual variation in reproductive behaviours within vertebrates. By illustrating the genetic, cellular, hormonal and/or neural mechanisms underlying behavioural variation in a number of species, another level of complexity is added to studies of brain organization and function. Such information increases our understanding of the unique and conserved mechanisms underlying sex and individual differences in behaviour in vertebrates as a whole. Here, we show that intrasexual variation in behaviour may be discrete or continuous in nature. Moreover, this variation may be due to polymorphism at a single genetic locus or many loci, or may even be the result of phenotypic plasticity. Phenotypic plasticity simply refers to cases where a single genotype (or individual) can produce (or display) different phenotypes. Defined in this way, plasticity subsumes many different types of behavioural variation. For example, some behavioural phenotypes are established by environmental factors during early ontogeny, others are the result of developmental transitions from one phenotype early in life to another later in life, and still other strategies are facultative with different behaviours displayed in different social contexts.
Antibacterial Peptide Microcin J25 Inhibits Transcription by Binding within and Obstructing the RNA Polymerase Secondary Channel

The antibacterial peptide microcin J25 (MccJ25) inhibits transcription by bacterial RNA polymerase (RNAP). Biochemical results indicate that inhibition of transcription occurs at the level of NTP uptake or NTP binding by RNAP. Genetic results indicate that inhibition of transcription requires an extensive determinant, comprising more than 50 amino acid residues, within the RNAP secondary channel (also known as the "NTP-uptake channel" or "pore"). Biophysical results indicate that inhibition of transcription involves binding of MccJ25 within the RNAP secondary channel. Molecular modeling indicates that binding of MccJ25 within the RNAP secondary channel obstructs the RNAP secondary channel. We conclude that MccJ25 inhibits transcription by binding within and obstructing the RNAP secondary channel--acting essentially as a "cork in a bottle." Obstruction of the RNAP secondary channel represents an attractive target for drug discovery.
Intestinal fibroblasts regulate intestinal epithelial cell proliferation via hepatocyte growth factor

Although the presence of subepithelial intestinal fibroblasts has been well recognized, the effects of fibroblasts on intestinal epithelial cell (IEC) growth are incompletely understood. In vitro s...
Impacts of Analysis Zone Structures on Modeled Statewide Traffic

Because a statewide transportation planning model covers a much larger area than an urban transportation planning model, land-use inventories and a household survey, which are often used to collect socioeconomic and traffic data for a UTP model, are prohibitively expensive for a STP model. The literature suggests alternatives of using the geography of census such as census tracts or block groups as Traffic Analysis Zones (TAZs) and using decennial Census for the socioeconomic data needed for statewide traffic demand modeling. The use of these alternatives raises new research questions for transportation planners. Which level of the census geography is better for statewide planning? Where should the centroids of TAZs be located given that the TAZs are heterogeneous in land-use activities? How much difference will the change of TAZ size and centroid location make in the results? Would the difference justify the extra effort in using more detailed TAZs and network? The primary purpose of this study is to det...
First experience of compressible gas dynamics simulation on the Los Alamos roadrunner machine

We report initial experience with gas dynamics simulation on the Los Alamos Roadrunner machine. In this initial work, we have restricted our attention to flows in which the flow Mach number is less than 2. This permits us to use a simplified version of the PPM gas dynamics algorithm that has been described in detail by Woodward (2006). We follow a multifluid volume fraction using the PPB moment-conserving advection scheme, enforcing both pressure and temperature equilibrium between two monatomic ideal gases within each grid cell. The resulting gas dynamics code has been extensively restructured for efficient multicore processing and implemented for scalable parallel execution on the Roadrunner system. The code restructuring and parallel implementation are described and performance results are discussed. For a modest grid size, sustained performance of 3.89 Gflops-1 CPU-core-1 is delivered by this code on 36 Cell processors in 9 triblade nodes of a single rack of Roadrunner hardware. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A study of data source selection in distributed web server system

Many large web sites get more than millions hits everyday. They need a scalable web server system that can provide better performance to all the clients that may be in different geographical regions. Higher delays and losses are common on Wide Area Network (WAN) links. To provide a better service to all the clients, it is natural to have fully replicated web server clusters in different geographical regions. In such an environment, one of the most important issues is that of server selection (and load balancing). Much work has been done in order to provide system support aimed at selecting reliable and efficient data source in Distributed Web Server Environment (DWSE). This paper reports the significance of this topic, some of the previous/current work in this area and a brief discussion on possible data source selection methods where intelligent agents is used to select the most probable server in the DWSE.
A new liquid membrane technique for gas separation

A new liquid membrane separation technique for gas mixtures has been developed: feed and sweep gases flow through the lumen of two different sets of hydrophobic microporous hollow fibers while a liquid on the shell side acts as the membrane. This membrane is identified as the contained liquid membrane (CLM). Major shortcomings of immobilized liquid membrane techniques are eliminated. The novel separation device is identified as the hollow fiber contained liquid membrane (HFCLM) permeator. Experimental studies are made with different CO2-N2 feed mixtures and a pure helium sweep stream, with special emphasis on model landfill gas purification. Either pure water or an aqueous solution of K2CO3 is used as membrane. The effects of several variables on the performance of the HFCLM permeator have been studied. A three-component permeation model, incorporating axial pressure drop, is developed for binary mixture separation in a HFCLM permeator having a sweep gas stream. The experimental data show good agreement with the theoretical predictions.
Periplasmic expression of carbonic anhydrase in Escherichia coli: a new biocatalyst for CO(2) hydration.

Carbonic anhydrase is a valuable and efficient catalyst for CO2 hydration. Most often the free enzyme is employed which complicates catalyst recycling, and can increase cost due to the need for protein purification. Immobilization of the enzyme may address these shortcomings. Here we report the development of whole-cell biocatalysts for CO2 hydration via periplasmic expression of two forms of carbonic anhydrase in Escherichia coli using two different targeting sequences. The enzymatic turnover numbers (kcat) and catalytic efficiencies (kcat/KM) were decreased by an order of magnitude as compared to the free soluble enzyme, indicating the introduction of transport limitations. However, the thermal stabilities were improved for most configurations (>88% activity retention up to 95°C for three of four whole-cell biocatalysts), operational stabilities were more than satisfactory (100% retention after 24 h of use for all four whole-cell biocatalysts), and CO2 hydration was significantly enhanced relative to the uncatalyzed reaction (∼50–70% increase in CaCO3 precipitate formed). A significant advantage of the whole-cell approach is that protein purification is no longer necessary, and the cells can be easily separated and recycled in future applications including biofuel production, biosensors, and carbon capture and storage. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2013; 110: 1865–1873. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Perceived Adequacy of Retirement Income

Data from the 1989 Survey of Consumer Finance were used to examine the effect of socio-demographic, human capital, work related, and objective variables on perceived adequacy of retirement income of preretirees. A multivariate probit analysis showed that younger respondents, whites, those with incomes between $10,000 and & $19,999, females, and self-employed were less likely to perceive their future retirement income to be adequate than otherwise similar households. When subjective variables were added to the analysis, planning to save within 5 years was positively related to preretirees' perception of having adequate retirement income.
Wood Fuel: An Alternative Energy Source for Agribusiness and Industry

Wood fuel is becoming increasingly more important as an alternate energy source because of price and shortages of fossil fuels. Furthermore, energy prices are expected to continue to rise in future years (U.S. Dept. of Energy, pp. 56–72). As a result, agribusiness firms in the Southeast are investigating the feasibility, of utilizing wood residues or whole tree green chips for their fuel supply. Some industries may continue to rely partially on their present gas- or oil-fired systems and add a wood-fired boiler as a backup system. The availability of wood as an industrial fuel at a competitive price is one of the major concerns of these firms.
Human-Robot Interaction Using Affective Cues

This paper presents a closed loop human-robot interaction framework where a robot can infer the implicit affective cues of the human and respond to them appropriately. Affective cues are inferred by the robot in real-time using psychophysiological analysis where the physiological signals are measured through wearable biofeedback sensors. A robot-based basketball game is designed where a robotic "coach" monitors the participant's anxiety to alter the difficulty level of the game in a real-time closed loop manner according to each participant's performance and anxiety. The results are compared with situations when anxiety is not monitored and the game is adapted only according to the performance. Results show that monitoring and responding to affective cues led to higher performance improvement of the majority of the participants under lower anxiety.
A PDE-constrained optimization approach to the discontinuous Petrov-Galerkin method with a trust region inexact Newton-CG solver

Abstract We propose a partial-differential-equation-constrained (PDE-constrained) approach to the discontinuous Petrov–Galerkin (DPG) of Demkowicz and Gopalakrishnan (2010, 2011). This view opens the door to invite all the state-of-the-art PDE-constrained techniques to be part of the DPG framework, and hence enabling one to solve large-scale and difficult (nonlinear) problems efficiently. That is, our proposed method preserves all the attractive features of the DPG framework while enjoying all advances from the PDE-constrained optimization community. The proposed approach can be considered as a Rayleigh–Ritz method for the DPG minimum residual statement. It is equipped with a trust region inexact Newton conjugate gradient (TRINCG) method which prevents over-solving when optimization iterates are far away from the optimal solution but converges quadratically otherwise for sufficiently smooth residual. The PDE-constrained approach together with the TRINCG solver is therefore a robust iterative method for the DPG framework. It is robust in the sense that the approximate solution is improved after each optimization iterate until the algorithm converges to a local minimum of the residual. As numerically shown, it is also scalable in the sense that the number of Newton iterations remains constant as either the mesh or the solution order is refined. Moreover, the proposed approach solves neither the optimal test functions nor the original PDE directly, though the discretization of the latter is still necessary. The gradient and Hessian-vector product, which are required by the TRINCG solver, are explicitly derived for both abstract variational problems and viscous Burger equation. This reveals a fact that the complexity of each Newton iteration scales like O ( N × n C G ) , where N and n C G are the number of unknowns and the number of conjugate iterations, respectively. Optimal h - and p - convergences of the proposed approach are demonstrated for Laplace and Helmholtz equations. Numerical results for the viscous Burger equation and the Euler equation of gas dynamics are very promising.
Some Factors Influencing Attitudes Toward Militancy, Membership, Solidarity, and Sanctions in a Teachers' Union

This study shows that some of the factors that influence Queensland Teachers' Union members' attitudes toward union militancy do not necessarily operate in the same way as those that influence commitment to union membership, nor are these factors equally important in shaping attitudes toward union solidarity, or opinions on the use of sanctions against nonunionists. The particular factors whose influence is examined are those of age, gender, tertiary training, promotion, commitment to teaching, and the type of school in which a teacher works. Reasons for the observed differences are discussed.
Finite automata based compression of bi-level images

We introduce generalized finite automata as a tool for specification of bi-level images. We describe an inference algorithm for generalized finite automata and a lossy compression system for bi-level images based on this algorithm and vector quantization.
A reconfigurable FACTS system for university laboratories

To fully understand the dynamic performance of the multiple flexible ac transmission systems (FACTS) devices, a hardware setup is needed to complement software simulation for university research laboratories. This paper presents the schematic and basic controls of a reconfigurable FACTS system that can be used to realize the major voltage-sourced-converter FACTS topologies: the StatCom, the static synchronous series compensator (SSSC), and the unified power-flow controller (UPFC). Furthermore, the state models and control algorithms for the FACTS devices are proposed. The digital signal processor (DSP)-based control system enables new control methods to be rapidly implemented. The comparison of the experimental and simulation results is also provided to verify the proposed controls. The paper culminates in a list of suggested experiments appropriate for an elective/graduate course in electric power systems.
Comparison of totally robotic laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and traditional laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.

Abstract Background Laparoscopic gastric bypass is a technically demanding operation, especially when hand-sewing is required. Robotics may help facilitate the performance of this difficult operation. This study was undertaken to compare a single surgeon's results using the daVinci Surgical System with those using traditional laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) when the techniques were learned simultaneously. Methods From July 2004 to April 2005, the new laparoscopic fellow's first 50 patients were randomized to undergo either LRYGB or totally robotic laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (TRRYGB). Data were collected on patient age, gender, body mass index (BMI), co-morbidities, operative time, complication rates, and length of stay. Student's t test with unequal variances was used for statistical analysis. Results No significant differences in age, gender, co-morbidities, complication rates, or length of stay were found between the two groups. The mean operating time was significantly shorter for TRRYGB than for LRYGB (130.8 versus 149.4 minutes; P = 0.02), with a significant difference in minutes per BMI (2.94 versus 3.47 min/BMI; P = 0.02). The largest difference was in patients with a BMI >43 kg/m 2 , for whom the difference in procedure time was 29.6 minutes (123.5 minutes for TRRYGB versus 153.2 minutes for LRYGB; P = 0.009) and a significant difference in minutes per BMI (2.49 versus 3.24 min/BMI; P = 0.009). Conclusion Our data indicate that the use of the daVinci Surgical System for TRRYGB is safe and feasible. The operating room time is shorter with the use of the robotic system during a surgeon's learning curve, and that decrease is maximized in patients with a larger BMI. TRRYGB may be a better approach to gastric bypass when hand-sewing is required, especially early in a surgeon's experience.
Adrenal Masses in the Cancer Patient: Surveillance or Excision

An increasing number of patients with a history of solid organ malignancy now undergo surveillance imaging as part of their follow-up or for evaluation of other conditions. This imaging has led to both greater identification of asymptomatic adrenal masses and subsequent confusion among clinicians regarding the evaluation and treatment. Although established algorithms exist for treating such "incidentalomas" in otherwise healthy patients, the most effective way to do so in patients with known prior or concurrent malignancies is unclear. In this review, we explore methods of biochemical testing in such patients and discuss the role of imaging techniques in their ability to differentiate benign versus malignant lesions. In this population, we examine the increasing use of biopsy and discuss current data on both surveillance and resection of lesions based on their identity. Finally, we propose an algorithm to aid the clinician in evaluating and treating these complex patients efficiently.
Anion-sensitive fluorophore identifies the Drosophila swell-activated chloride channel in a genome-wide RNA interference screen.

When cells swell in hypo-osmotic solutions, chloride-selective ion channels (Clswell) activate to reduce intracellular osmolality and prevent catastrophic cell rupture. Despite intensive efforts to assign a molecular identity to the mammalian Clswell channel, it remains unknown. In an unbiased genome-wide RNA interference (RNAi) screen of Drosophila cells stably expressing an anion-sensitive fluorescent indicator, we identify Bestrophin 1 (dBest1) as the Drosophila Clswell channel. Of the 23 screen hits with mammalian homologs and predicted transmembrane domains, only RNAi specifically targeting dBest1 eliminated the Clswell current (IClswell). We further demonstrate the essential contribution of dBest1 to Drosophila IClswell with the introduction of a human Bestrophin disease-associated mutation (W94C). Overexpression of the W94C construct in Drosophila cells significantly reduced the endogenous IClswell. We confirm that exogenous expression of dBest1 alone in human embryonic kidney (HEK293) cells creates a clearly identifiable Drosophila–like IClswell. In contrast, activation of mouse Bestrophin 2 (mBest2), the closest mammalian ortholog of dBest1, is swell-insensitive. The first 64 residues of dBest1 conferred swell activation to mBest2. The chimera, however, maintains mBest2-like pore properties, strongly indicating that the Bestrophin protein forms the Clswell channel itself rather than functioning as an essential auxiliary subunit. dBest1 is an anion channel clearly responsive to swell; this activation depends upon its N-terminus.
A laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry investigation of triarylboranes and tri-9-anthrylborane photolysis products

Abstract Laser desorption ionization (LDI) mass spectra have been obtained for the photolysis products of tri-9-anthrylborane (TAB) in the solvents toluene, cyclohexene, and tetrahydrofuran; and for the solid triarylboranes: TAB, trimesitylborane (TMB), and tri-(2,6-dimethylphenyl)borane (TXyB). The major single solution photolysis product of TAB is 9,9′-dianthryl. Other products are rationalized in terms of an anthrylborylene intermediate (AnthB:). LDI mass spectrometry of the triarylboranes yields molecular ions in good abundance, providing a simple and selective method of characterization. Fragmentation patterns in some cases are interpreted in terms of photochemical reactions prior to ionization.
Chryseobacterium indologenes peritonitis in peritoneal dialysis

Peritoneal dialysis-related peritonitis remains a major complication of peritoneal dialysis in patients with end-stage renal disease. Chryseobacterium indologenes is a rare organism that has been reported to cause infections mostly in hospitalised patients with severe underlying diseases. We report the first case of C indologenes peritonitis in a patient on peritoneal dialysis outside of Asia. Our patient with end-stage renal disease on peritoneal dialysis grew C indologenes from peritoneal fluid when he presented with abdominal pain and cloudy effluent. The patient responded well to intraperitoneal antibiotic therapy. Tenckhoff catheter did not require removal. This case demonstrates the importance of considering rare causes of peritonitis, such as C indologenes, in patients on peritoneal dialysis. Given the resistance of such organisms to commonly used broad-spectrum antibiotics, antimicrobial susceptibility testing must be assessed as early as possible to assure appropriate antibiotic coverage to avoid untreated peritonitis leading to peritoneal dialysis failure.
An overview of next-generation mobile WiMAX technology

The growing demand for mobile Internet and wireless multimedia applications has motivated the development of broadband wireless access technologies in recent years. Mobile WiMAX has enabled convergence of mobile and fixed broadband networks through a common wide-area radio-access technology and flexible network architecture. Since January 2007, the IEEE 802.16 working group has been developing a new amendment of the IEEE 802.16 standard (i.e., IEEE 802.16m) as an advanced air interface to meet the requirements of ITU-R/IMT-advanced for 4G systems, as well as for the next-generation mobile network operators. Depending on the available bandwidth and multi-antenna mode, the next-generation mobile WiMAX will be capable of over-the-air data-transfer rates in excess of 1 Gb/s and of supporting a wide range of high-quality and high-capacity IP-based services and applications while maintaining full backward compatibility with the existing mobile WiMAX systems to preserve investments and continuing to support first-generation products. This tutorial describes the prominent technical features of IEEE 802.16m and the potential for successful deployment of the next generation of mobile WiMAX in 2011+.
Explicating dynamic capabilities: the nature and microfoundations of (sustainable) enterprise performance

This paper draws on the social and behavioral sciences in an endeavor to specify the nature and microfoundations of the capabilities necessary to sustain superior enterprise performance in an open economy with rapid innovation and globally dispersed sources of invention, innovation, and manufacturing capability. Dynamic capabilities enable business enterprises to create, deploy, and protect the intangible assets that support superior long- run business performance. The microfoundations of dynamic capabilities—the distinct skills, processes, procedures, organizational structures, decision rules, and disciplines—which undergird enterprise-level sensing, seizing, and reconfiguring capacities are difficult to develop and deploy. Enterprises with strong dynamic capabilities are intensely entrepreneurial. They not only adapt to business ecosystems, but also shape them through innovation and through collaboration with other enterprises, entities, and institutions. The framework advanced can help scholars understand the foundations of long-run enterprise success while helping managers delineate relevant strategic considerations and the priorities they must adopt to enhance enterprise performance and escape the zero profit tendency associated with operating in markets open to global competition. Copyright  2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Vibrato Rate and Extent in College Music Majors: A Multicenter Study

Summary Objectives To examine differences in vibrato rate and extent according to vowel, production type, gender, voice type, and vocal training. Study design Cross-sectional. Methods Four collegiate voice teachers used a common protocol to gather data on habitual, best classical, and nonvibrato singing production of five vowels in 78 male and female vocal majors. Subject age, gender, voice type, academic degree program, number of years of training, and most frequent singing style were compared with mean vibrato rate and mean peak-to-peak vibrato extent for each vowel and for each production condition. Results The high versus low and female versus male comparisons in this study support results found in the literature. Both vibrato rate and vibrato extent were reduced when the singers sang nonvibrato as compared with their habitual and best classical production. Conclusions The mechanisms for reducing vibrato rate and extent need further exploration.
Predictors and Outcomes of Post-Hospitalization Dialysis Dependent Acute Kidney Injury

Background: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a frequent complication of hospitalized patients and is associated with poor outcomes. Hospitalized patients with AKI may
Epigenetic inheritance of telomere length obscures identification of causative PARN locus

Mean leucocyte telomere length (LTL) has been associated with cancer and several age-associated diseases. Common variants within or near genes known to be involved in telomere biology ( TERT, TERC, RTEL1 ) have been associated with mean LTLs in genome-wide association studies (GWAS).1 ,2 Rare variants in these genes have also been found to cosegregate with short telomere lengths and lung disease in familial pulmonary fibrosis kindreds.3–5 Rare variants in an additional telomere-related gene, PARN (polyadenylation-specific ribonuclease deadenylation nuclease), were recently found by exome sequencing older adults with familial pulmonary fibrosis3 as well as patients with dyskeratosis congenita, a disorder of telomere biology generally affecting children.6 ,7 PARN has not been identified by GWAS studies as a contributor of human telomere length regulation. Here we determine if the PARN locus could have been identified using genome-wide linkage analysis of LTLs in one large familial pulmonary fibrosis kindred that has a cosegregating PARN nonsense mutation. This study was approved by the institutional review board at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. Written informed consent was obtained from all available family participants, who were recruited from 2006 to 2010 as previously described.3 A heterozygous loss of function PARN mutation (c.529C>T, Gln177*) cosegregates with pulmonary fibrosis in the kindred shown in figure 1A. The proband (III:10) died at the age of 43 of complications of progressive pulmonary fibrosis; his mean LTL (as measured by a QPCR assay3) was <1st percentile as compared with age-matched controls. …
Antibody Responses of BALB/c Mice to Salivary Antigens of Hematophagous Black Flies (Diptera: Simuliidae)

The humoral antibody responses to salivary antigens of Simulium vittatum Zetterstedt were investigated in a BALB/c mouse laboratory model. Production of antisera was stimulated by intraperitoneal immunization with salivary gland extract or by feeding flies directly on depilated mice. Antibody responses in these two groups of mice were compared by western blotting, thus characterizing “true” salivary immunogens present in salivary gland extract. Immunized mice developed IgG, IgM, and IgE antibodies which recognized several salivary gland components, ranging in molecular weight between 26 and 67 kDa. Sera from bitten mice recognized fewer antigens, indicating that some components of the salivary gland extract were poorly immunogenic or absent from the saliva secreted during blood feeding. Antisera raised against S. vittatum also were used to identify cross-reactive immunogens and allergens in salivary gland extracts from other New World simuliids ( Simulium argus Williston, S. metallicum Bellardi, and S. ochraceum Walker). SDS—PAGE protein profiles indicated a high degree of similarity between salivary gland extract of S. vittatum and S. argus, and several cross-reacting antigens were identified by western blotting. In contrast, protein profiles of S. ochraceum and S. metallicum differed from the former species, both qualitatively and quantitatively. Antisera demonstrated a low degree of cross-reactivity against salivary gland extract of S. ochraceum, whereas no cross-reactivity was detected against S. metallicum. These observations were confirmed using a monoclonal antibody raised against S. vittatum salivary gland extract (designated SVSG.1.F10), which showed cross-reactivity against S. argus but failed to recognize salivary gland components of either S. ochraceum or S. metallicum.
The Regulatory Challenge of Food Allergens

Food allergy is an important public health issue worldwide. Allergic consumers must avoid eating foods that could provoke potentially life-threatening reactions, and successful avoidance depends on having complete and accurate information on food labels. Regulatory agencies support allergic consumers by working with industry to ensure that all food allergens that are intended to be present in a food are declared on the label and that effective controls are used to prevent the presence of unintended allergens. These regulatory activities take place in a complex legal and policy environment both domestically and internationally. Protecting allergic consumers in this complex environment requires effective use of public health data and risk assessments.
Use of simulated pages to prepare medical students for internship and improve patient safety.

AbstractPurposeDuring the transition from medical school to internship, trainees experience high levels of stress related to pages on the inpatient wards. The steep learning curve during this period may also affect patient safety. The authors piloted the use of simulated pages to improve medical stu
Determination of 31 pesticide residues in fruits and vegetables using a on-line GPC-GC-MS system combined with modified QuEChERS

Objective:To establish a method for determination of 31 pesticide residues in fruits and vegetables.Methods: Modified QuEChERS pretreatment method and a on-line GPC-GC-MS system were used for the rapid determination of 31 pesticide residues including organophosphorus,organochlorine,carbamate and pyrethroid etc.Results: The 31 pesticides were well separated and the detection limits of the method were 0.01 μg/kg～0.83 μg/kg,the recoveries were 72%～110% and the relative standard deviations were 1.6%～10%.Conclusion: The good sensitivity,precision,accuracy,simple operation and short analytical period of this method could satisfy the requirement of simultaneous determination of various pesticide residues.
Coarrays, MUSIC, and the Cramér–Rao Bound

Sparse linear arrays, such as coprime arrays and nested arrays, have the attractive capability of providing enhanced degrees of freedom. By exploiting the coarray structure, an augmented sample covariance matrix can be constructed and MUtiple SIgnal Classification (MUSIC) can be applied to identify more sources than the number of sensors. While such a MUSIC algorithm works quite well, its performance has not been theoretically analyzed. In this paper, we derive a simplified asymptotic mean square error (MSE) expression for the MUSIC algorithm applied to the coarray model, which is applicable even if the source number exceeds the sensor number. We show that the directly augmented sample covariance matrix and the spatial smoothed sample covariance matrix yield the same asymptotic MSE for MUSIC. We also show that when there are more sources than the number of sensors, the MSE converges to a positive value instead of zero when the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) goes to infinity. This finding explains the “saturation” behavior of the coarray-based MUSIC algorithms in the high-SNR region observed in previous studies. Finally, we derive the Cramer–Rao bound for sparse linear arrays, and conduct a numerical study of the statistical efficiency of the coarray-based estimator. Experimental results verify theoretical derivations and reveal the complex efficiency pattern of coarray-based MUSIC algorithms.
Abstract 433: Overexpression of Catalase Negates the Beneficial Effects of Dietary Lipids on Plasma Triglycerides and APOA1/C3/A5 Levels

Linoleic acid (LA) and oxidized linoleic acid (OxLA) are major components of Western diet. Both these lipids exert their actions through induction of oxidative stress. Our earlier studies have shown that feeding these dietary lipids to C57Bl/6 mice for two weeks decreased plasma triglyceride levels and up-regulated ApoA5 levels. We hypothesized that decreasing oxidative stress by overexpressing antioxidant Catalase in mice will block these beneficial effects. Methods: 24 male C57Bl/6 mice and 17 male Catalase (CAT) transgenic mice (8-12 weeks old) were divided into three groups each. Each group were fed orally either vehicle alone (ethanol), LA or OxLA (18mg/day) for 2 weeks. At the end of two weeks, the mice were sacrificed and plasma lipid profile along with liver mRNA and protein levels of Catalase and APOA1/C3/A5 was analyzed. Results: LA and OxLA feeding significantly decreased plasma triglycerides in C57Bl/6 mice but not other lipid cholesterols. However, no such changes were observed upon LA or OxLA feeding in CAT mice. The CAT mice expressed significantly higher mRNA levels of liver catalase but decreased APOA1/C3/A5 expression compared to C57Bl/6 mice, which was unaltered by LA or OxLA feeding. These effects were mediated by the modulation of the transcription factor, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs). Conclusion: In conclusion, overexpression of an antioxidant enzyme, catalase negated the beneficial effect of dietary lipids on triglyceride levels by altering the APOA1/C3/A5 pathway through modulation of PPARs. Our results suggest that a minimal level of oxidative stress is beneficial.
FREQUENCY SPECTRUM OF AN ELASTIC SIERPINSKI GASKET

The frequency spectrum of an elastic fractal system has been studied by solving a mass and spring problem on a Sierpinski gasket. A mass M is attached at every node and a spring constant K is assumed for every link. The vibrational modes are given by the zeros of a 6×6 dynamical matrix. It is shown that the density of low energy modes obeys a power law, N ( ω ) ∝ ω d ˜ − 1 , where the spectral density d ˜ = 2 d ¯ / ( 1 + d ¯ ) and b − is the fractal dimension. It is also argued that this relation between d ˜ and v = is universal to all elastic fractal solids.
Core Design Studies of a Fast Reactor and Accelerator-Driven System for Two-Stage Fast Spectrum Fuel Cycle Option

This paper presents the core design studies of a sodium-cooled fast reactor (SFR) and a sodium-cooled accelerator-driven system (ADS) for a two-stage fast-spectrum fuel cycle to enhance uranium resource utilization and reduce nuclear waste generation. The first-stage SFR starts with low-enriched uranium (LEU) fuel and operates with the recovered uranium and plutonium from the discharged fuels and natural uranium at equilibrium. The recovered minor actinides (MAs) are sent to the second-stage ADS, where they are burned in an inert matrix fuel form. Reference core designs were developed for a 1000-MW(thermal) LEU-fueled breakeven fast reactor (LEUBFR) and an 840-MW(thermal) MA-fueled ADS blanket. The SFR starts with uranium fuel with a 235U enrichment of 13.6% and reaches a fuel-breakeven core after 14 cycles with an 18-month cycle length. At the equilibrium state, one ADS supports 37 fast reactors. Using the performance parameters of SFR and ADS, the proposed two-stage fuel cycle was evaluated. The results...
Modeling and Analysis of Heart Left Ventricle in Diastole Using Finite Element

Finite element is used to analyze the effects of infarct on left ventricular end-diastolic function. The results for the symmetric infarct cases 1–6 demonstrated in this paper correspond to infarct percent by volume of 4, 8, 9, 16, 25 and 51% respectively. Using the developed three-dimensional model, these infarct percent by volume showed a reduction in end-diastolic volume (EDV) of 3, 5, 5, 8, 11, 17 mL respectively. Three natural infarct cases denoted A, B and C was evaluated consisting of 7%, 15% and 50% infarct region by volume respectively. The decrease in EDV for cases A, B and C were 6, 9 and 17 mL. The simulated decrease in EDV for the infarct cases was consistent with patients experiencing decreased tissue compliance. The higher left ventricle (LV) pressure resulted in an increase in wall stress opposite to the infarct for the symmetric and natural infarct cases.Copyright © 2016 by ASME
Handheld Phototherapy Unit for Treatment of Localized Psoriasis or Scalp Psoriasis

Whole-body phototherapy is limited in that there can be needless exposure of uninvolved skin and no benefit to unexposed skin (such as the hair-covered scalp). In the last decade, various portable and lightweight handheld phototherapy units have become available for the treatment of localized psoriasis in the office and at home. These handheld devices, as compared with full-body irradiance in a booth or by a panel, have the added benefit of limiting skin exposure to UV light. The handheld devices are useful for the treatment of scalp psoriasis, as well as recalcitrant localized psoriasis plaques.