cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mammalian farnesylated protein-converting enzyme 1

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the activity, specificity and structural chemistry of mammalian farnesylated protein-converting enzyme 1. Zmpste24 is the mammalian ortholog for Ste24p, an integral membrane metalloproteinase from Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Zmpste24 has also been referred to as farnesylated protein-converting enzyme 1, a-factor converting enzyme and prenyl protein-specific endoprotease 1. The identification and characterization of Zmpste24 has been linked to the characterization of yeast Ste24p. In yeast, Ste24p is required for the maturation of the mating pheromone a-factor. The production of mature a-factor from its precursor peptide requires a series of processing steps which include farnesylation of a C-terminal cysteine, endoproteolytic release of the C-terminal three amino acids, carboxyl methylation of the farnesylcysteine and removal of the N-terminal 21 amino acids of the protein. Human ZMPSTE24 is expressed in a wide variety of tissues, including skin, colon, intestine, ovary, testis, prostate, thymus, spleen, pancreas, kidney, muscle, liver, lung, placenta, brain and heart. The mouse transcript is also expressed in all tissues, with the highest expression levels in liver and kidney. Immunofluorescence studies in HEK-293 cells transiently transformed with a hemagglutinin-tagged human ZMPSTE24 construct revealed an endoplasmic reticulum-like staining pattern similar to that of calnexin.
Complete Genome Sequence of Acinetobacter radioresistens Strain LH6, a Multidrug-Resistant Bacteriophage-Propagating Strain.

ABSTRACT Antimicrobial resistance is a major problem worldwide. Understanding the interplay between drug-resistant pathogens, such as Acinetobacter baumannii and related species, potentially acting as environmental reservoirs is critical for preventing the spread of resistance determinants. Here we report the complete genome sequence of a multidrug-resistant bacteriophage-propagating strain of Acinetobacter radioresistens.
“Liking” as creating: On aesthetic category memes:

Social networks and media hosting sites have recently fostered a growing trend in meme culture: the circulation of images within strangely specific categories of pleasure such as the “oddly satisfy...
Inclusión de salud basada en evidencia en carreras de la salud en Chile y el modelo integrado Metodología de la Investigación Científica-Medicina Basada en Evidencia en la Universidad de Valparaíso

Resumen Introduccion La salud basada en evidencia (SBE) integra el uso de la mejor evidencia, la experiencia clinica y los valores y preferencias del paciente para la toma de decisiones. Su incorporacion en las carreras sanitarias de Chile es desconocida. Metodos Se realizo un estudio de corte transversal para evaluar la incorporacion de SBE en los programas de las carreras sanitarias en Chile hasta 2019. Se describe la integracion del modelo Metodologia de la Investigacion Cientifica (MIC)-Medicina Basada en la Evidencia (MBE) en la Escuela de Medicina de la Universidad de Valparaiso. Resultados Un total de 49 universidades imparten carreras sanitarias. Un 8,13% incorpora SBE como asignatura explicitamente. Todas incorporan asignaturas que potencialmente incluyen contenidos de SBE. Las carreras de Medicina y Enfermeria son las que mas incorporan SBE, pero solo una carrera de Medicina incluye SBE como asignatura por mas de un semestre. El modelo integrado MIC/MBE (4 semestres), orientado en competencias y centrado en el alumno, involucra el diseno y ejecucion de un protocolo de investigacion, asi como el analisis critico de la mejor evidencia, integrado con los valores de los pacientes. Conclusion La incorporacion de SBE como asignatura es muy infrecuente en carreras sanitarias chilenas. Se enfatiza su inclusion transdisciplinaria como asignatura individual desde un modelo que integre la ensenanza de MIC, sobre todo en universidades estatales.
Mechanical properties of defective cyanoethynyl (2D polyaniline – C3N): A comparative molecular dynamics study versus graphene and hexagonal boron nitride

Abstract Remarkable properties that free-standing 2D nanomaterials offer have allured academic and industrial interest in them beyond graphene. One of these materials is cyanoethynyl, which is a 2D monocrystalline carbon nitride material with a C3N stoichiometry. Investigations have confirmed its high thermal stability at elevated temperatures and ferromagnetism at low temperatures, yet very little is known about its mechanical properties. This paper reports a molecular dynamics (MD) insight into this gap. The simulations are validated against density functional theory calculations. The tensile properties of defect-free C3N sheets at/under different temperatures and strain rates are investigated. The influences of single vacancy (SV), Stone-Waals (SW), and clustered vacancy (CV) defects on these properties are also studied. The findings are compared against those reported for graphene and hexagonal boron nitride (hBN). The results show that the strength of C3N decreases with increasing temperature and/or decreasing the strain rate. They also indicate that CV defects deteriorate the mechanical properties of C3N to a greater degree than SV and SW defects. At the same defect concentration, C3N shows a lower sensitivity in its stress and strain at failure to the defects compared with graphene and hBN. For example, 3% SV can reduce the failure stress of graphene and hBN by 75% and 73%, respectively, while this reduction is 54% for C3N. For the failure strain, these reductions are 72%, 63%, and 48% for graphene, hBN, and C3N, respectively.
Chapter 253 – Thermoregulation

Publisher Summary This chapter describes the thermoregulation in insects. It refers to the ability to regulate that body temperature which best serves survival and reproduction, and it encompasses numerous conflicting constraints and selective pressures. In insects, major considerations involve body mass and access to either external or internal heat. Thermoregulation operates through behavior, physiology, and morphology. For the most part, insects are too small to be able to appreciably elevate, or regulate their body temperature by internal heat production, although some are large enough and that, coupled with their high flight metabolism, could easily cause them to overheat. In numerous insects, elaborate mechanisms of thermoregulation have evolved both for heating and for cooling the body that possibly rival those of the typically endothermic vertebrates such as bees are able to raise their thoracic temperature by shivering, which can work their flight muscles harder than flight itself does, when coming back to their hives.
Analysis of Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) noise standard violations over 50 years: 1972 to 2019.

Introduction Noise exposure has long been an occupational health concern and has been an important area of focus of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) since its founding. Nevertheless, it remains unclear what effects OSHA's noise standards have had on employer efforts to reduce risks. Consequently, a review of OSHA noise standard violations was performed to clarify the violation trends between 1972 and 2019. Methods Using the OSHA Information System, researchers identified 119 305 violations involving four noise standards between 1972 and 2019: 29 CFR 1910.95, occupational noise exposure in general industry; 1926.52, occupational noise exposure in construction; 1926.101, hearing protection in construction, and 1904.10, recording criteria for cases involving occupational hearing loss. Violation frequencies of noise standard subparagraphs and relationships to factors such as industry differences were analyzed using descriptive statistics and t tests. Results The most commonly violated noise standard was 1910.95 in manufacturing. Such violations rose between 1972 and 1985 and then declined steadily. Whether in general industry or construction, four noise standards were most-frequently cited: lack of feasible administrative or engineering controls (1910.95[b] and 1926.52[d]) and inadequate hearing conservation program (1910.95[c] and 1926.52[b]). These violations were more highly penalized (mean = $1036.50) than other subparagraph violations (mean = $915.80). Programmed and unprogrammed inspections generated similar violation quantities except between 1980 and 1985, when programmed inspections exhibited a sharp spike in violations. Conclusion The study identified trends in OSHA noise standard violations and possible explanations for those trends. The study findings can support development of more practical noise-exposure protection policy.
Exposure to Particle Beta Radiation in Greater Massachusetts and Factors Influencing Its Spatial and Temporal Variability

Particle radioactivity is a property of airborne particles caused by the presence of naturally occurring or anthropogenic radionuclides. Recent studies have found associations between particle radioactivity and adverse health outcomes, including changes in blood pressure and lung function. However, the spatiotemporal distribution of particle radioactivity and factors influencing its variability have not been extensively studied. We address these knowledge gaps using measurements of gross beta activity, collected at seven Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) RadNet monitors located in and around Massachusetts. We apply back-trajectory analysis to identify prevailing air mass trajectories and find that these trajectories strongly influence seasonal trends in beta activity. We also evaluate the effects of different meteorological predictors on daily beta activity concentrations using a mixed-effect model. Important predictors of beta activity include air mass trajectories, temperature, and relative humidity. Finally, we create a series of random forest models to impute missing beta activity concentrations at each RadNet monitor for use in future health studies. This is the first study to analyze spatiotemporal trends in particle radioactivity using measurements from the EPA RadNet system.
Mandatory Review of Prescription Drug Monitoring Program Before Issuance of a Controlled Substance Results in Overall Reduction of Prescriptions Including Opioids and Benzodiazepines.

Background To date, there is limited research on whether the various types of mandatory usage of prescription drug monitoring programs (PDMP) have any effects on prescribing patterns, drug usage, patient care, and drug diversion (8-10). Within the United States (US), there is wide variation in individual states' requirements for the usage of PDMPs. Objective The objective of this study was to determine whether mandatory prescriber review of a PDMP prior to each issuance of a controlled substance resulted in a reduction in the total number of controlled substance prescriptions dispensed. Study design A retrospective review of the State of Wisconsin's PDMP controlled substance database from April 2015 to March 2019 was performed. The evaluation compared the number of prescriptions among individual drug classes (opioids, benzodiazepines, stimulants) dispensed throughout the state before and after April 1st, 2017, when implementation of a state law mandating the review of the PDMP during each patient encounter prior to issuing a prescription for a controlled substance took effect. Setting Research was conducted using Wisconsin's PDMP controlled substance database from April 2015 to March 2019. During this time, controlled substance policy has come to the forefront of the nation due to issues with an opioid epidemic. Methods Descriptive analysis was used to express data as n and % for categorical data and average ± standard deviation for numerical data. Before- and after-prescription totals were analyzed using a paired t test and Levene's test for equality of variances. The P value was considered significant at a level of less than or equal to .05. Limitations Limitations to this study included its retrospective design, focus on a single US state, and possible unforeseen contributors to cause and effect. Results Prior to the enforcement of the state's mandatory PDMP legislation, an average of 844,314 controlled substance prescriptions were written monthly. Following the implementation of the law, the average monthly total prescriptions written within the state decreased to 708,063. This was an average monthly reduction of 136,251 prescriptions written or 16.1%. Statistically significant reductions were also seen in opioid and benzodiazepine subgroups (23.0%, 16.3%). Conclusion Our study suggests that state-enforced mandatory usage of a PDMP, which records all controlled substance prescriptions filled by a pharmacy such as opioids, benzodiazepines, amphetamines, etc. at every encounter prior to prescribing any controlled substance, can provide for a significant reduction in controlled substance prescriptions, specifically opioids and benzodiazepines. Key words Prescription drug monitoring program, opioids, mandatory usage, benzodiazepines, Wisconsin.
Perfecting Issue Preservation

In his article, “Does It Matter Who Objects? Rethinking the Burden to Prevent Errors in Criminal Process,” Darryl Brown challenges the venerable rule that a defendant must preserve objections to erroneous rulings at trial in order to perfect them for later appeal. Brown ably convinced me that conventional wisdom about who should bear the burden of bringing errors to a court’s attention is woefully under-theorized. In particular, Brown’s move to analyze adjudicative error from the perspective of accident prevention in other legal contexts is both clever and generative of insights. Moreover, Brown made a persuasive case that normative judgments about fairness, rather than a careful cost–benefit analysis, may better explain the status quo. What I am less certain of, though, is whether Brown has met his burden of persuading us that we should adopt his proposed rule: that the law should place the duty to avoid errors on the party that benefits from the error. In this short Response, I explain why I am not fully persuaded. In Part I, I discuss why Brown’s rule may not necessarily prevent errors as much as he hopes, and may instead significantly increase reversals and retrials. In Part II, I question whether that cost is worth bearing, by interrogating the concept of “error” and its multiple possible meanings. That inquiry leads me to a limited defense of our system’s current approach to forfeited legal errors. I conclude by suggesting more modest reforms that, in my view, follow from Brown’s significant insights.
The Slow and the Fast Violence of Displacement

Displacements are inherently spatial processes; however, temporalities also mark displacements. Some displacements, such as refugees fleeing armed conflict, may have relatively short lead times; others, such as an individual fleeing domestic violence, may have been gestating for years. Likewise, the time spent in displacement, whether in a temporary shelter or long-term refugee camps, varies greatly. In this chapter, Tyner provides an overview of the temporality of the causes of displacements and the duration of displacement. In so doing, he frames the temporality of displacement within the context of the temporality of violence.
Management of Pythium myriotylum in Tobacco Transplant Production Greenhouses

Pythium root rot is a common disease that can threaten tobacco seedling production in greenhouses. However, management tools are limited in tobacco transplant production greenhouses. To identify ad...
Unified Formulation of Phase Space Mapping Approaches for Nonadiabatic Quantum Dynamics.

ConspectusNonadiabatic dynamical processes are one of the most important quantum mechanical phenomena in chemical, materials, biological, and environmental molecular systems, where the coupling between different electronic states is either inherent in the molecular structure or induced by the (intense) external field. The curse of dimensionality indicates the intractable exponential scaling of calculation effort with system size and restricts the implementation of "numerically exact" approaches for realistic large systems. The phase space formulation of quantum mechanics offers an important theoretical framework for constructing practical approximate trajectory-based methods for quantum dynamics. This Account reviews our recent progress in phase space mapping theory: a unified framework for constructing the mapping Hamiltonian on phase space for coupled F-state systems where the renowned Meyer-Miller Hamiltonian model is a special case, a general phase space formulation of quantum mechanics for nonadiabatic systems where the electronic degrees of freedom are mapped onto constraint space and the nuclear degrees of freedom are mapped onto infinite space, and an isomorphism between the mapping phase space approach for nonadiabatic systems and that for nonequilibrium electron transport processes. While the zero-point-energy parameter is conventionally assumed to be positive, we show that the constraint implied in the conventional Meyer-Miller mapping Hamiltonian requires that such a parameter can be negative as well and lies in (-1/F, +∞) for each electronic degree of freedom. More importantly, the zero-point-energy parameter should be interpreted as a special case of a commutator matrix in the comprehensive phase space mapping Hamiltonian for nonadiabatic systems. From the rigorous formulation of mapping phase space, we propose approximate but practical trajectory-based nonadiabatic dynamics methods. The applications to both gas phase and condensed phase problems include the spin-boson model for condensed phase dissipative two-state systems, the three-state photodissociation models, the seven-site model of the Fenna-Matthews-Olson monomer in photosynthesis of green sulfur bacteria, the strongly coupled molecular/atomic matter-optical cavity systems designed for controlling and manipulating chemical dynamical processes, and the Landauer model for a quantum dot state coupled with two electrodes. In these applications the overall performance of our phase space mapping dynamics approach is superior to two prevailing trajectory-based methods, Ehrenfest dynamics and fewest switches surface hopping.
Modern Dance for the Average Student

(1940). Modern Dance for the Average Student. The Journal of Health and Physical Education: Vol. 11, No. 6, pp. 350-386.
AraC Family Regulators and Transcriptional Control of Bacterial Virulence Determinants

This chapter focuses on selected members of the AraC/XylS family of regulatory proteins as a potential model system to study the induction of genes related to bacterial virulence in human infections. The structural analysis of an AraC family member, Rob, demonstrated some similarities to MarA but also some significant differences, suggesting that alternative modes of DNA binding may influence transcriptional activation relative to different promoter contexts. The activation of the AraC family regulators by their cognate ligand becomes an interesting variable when considering the number of AraC family proteins likely to be involved in the induction of virulence-related genes. The modulation of DNA binding by small molecules specific for AraC family members is a key issue when considering whether disruption of the activation process could be a useful therapeutic strategy. Arabinose binding frees the arms from their interaction with the DNA-binding domain, allowing a preferential interaction with the dimerization domain. Infections with bacteria producing urease often result in cystitis and acute pyelonephritis and can progress to bacteremia. Structural analysis of the AraC proteins has been slowed because of the general aggregation properties of these proteins, but new information is accumulating through the recognition of different functional domains, the construction of chimeric proteins, and the use of genetic approaches. The AraC family includes many transcriptional activators that enhance the production of bacterial virulence determinants.
Macrophage receptors for lumican. A corneal keratan sulfate proteoglycan.

Purpose Keratan sulfate proteoglycans (KSPGs) of the cornea exhibit a characteristic change in glycosylation resulting from stromal inflammation and scarring. To examine potential roles for these molecules in the pathobiology of the cornea, the authors investigated interaction of inflammatory macrophages with KSPGs in vitro. Methods Attachment and spreading of mouse peritoneal macrophages were examined on surfaces coated with corneal proteoglycans, intact or with modified glycosylation. Solution-phase interactions were demonstrated using soluble proteoglycans labeled with 125I-Iodine or with fluorescein. The affinity and specificity of these interactions were determined by competitive inhibition with unlabeled proteoglycans. Results Macrophages did not adhere to intact corneal KSPGs but did attach and spread rapidly on the lumican core protein after the removal of keratan sulfate chains. Arterial lumican, a nonsulfated form of this proteoglycan, also stimulated macrophage attachment. Labeled arterial lumican specifically bound to macrophages with high affinity. Flow cytometry demonstrated a high proportion of macrophages binding lumican. Lumican binding was inhibited by divalent cation-chelators and by polyanions. Inhibition and kinetics of lumican binding were distinct from interaction of macrophages with maleated bovine serum albumin, collagen, laminin, and fibronectin. Conclusions The highly sulfated KSPGs of cornea do not promote macrophage adhesion; however, the low-sulfate lumican present in pathologic corneas may act to localize macrophages in regions of inflammation. The lumican receptor differs from macrophage scavenger receptors and from receptors for several other extracellular matrix molecules.
The Future of Course Redesign and the National Center for Academic Transformation: An Interview with Carol A. Twigg

Carol A. Twigg, founder, president, and chief executive officer of the National Center for Academic Transformation (NCAT), is an internationally recognized expert in using information technology to transform teaching and learning in higher education. NCAT's groundbreaking project, the Program in Course Redesign, demonstrated the possibility for institutions of higher education to use technology to improve learning while simultaneously reducing instructional costs.
The Innovation Cycle.

1. Ralph W. Tyler, Basic Principles of Curriculum and Instruction (Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 1950), p. 150. 2. Michael Scriven, "The Methodology of Evaluation" in Curriculum Evaluation, ed. R. Stake. AERA Monograph Series on Evaluation, no. 1. (Chicago: Rand McNally, 1967), p. 52. 3. W. James Popham, Educational Evaluation (Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey: Prentice-Hall, Inc., 1975), p. 250. 4. Ibid., p. 234.
Maximizing the stability region for a second order PLL system

In this work, a general second order scheme using a geometric approach for determining the stability bounds of a system described in the state variables is developed. This scheme is applied to Phase-locked Loop systems, PLLs, to optimize the eigenvalues by shifting the pole locations of the low pass filter of the PLLs for maximum range of stability. The system has been utilized in frequency synthesis applications and the maximum range of stability is demonstrated at various step frequencies. The maximum range of the stability is determined. The simulations of a general second order PLL system is demonstrated and the results of the phase plane plots show a general agreement with the analysis.
Frequent Behavioural Questions with an HPV-Positive Malignancy of the Head and Neck

An initial diagnosis of a head and neck malignancy is sometimes followed by a sense of relief when it becomes known that the malignancy is human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive. This is because HPV-positive malignancy is associated with improved prognosis. However, patients and their partners often wrestle with complex social and behavioural questions. Unfortunately, the answers to many of these questions have not been examined to date. At best, the most appropriate response is to say, ‘We do not know; however, initial evidence suggests that …’, with the caveat that our knowledge of oral HPV infection can only be extrapolated from related research on anogenital HPV infection. Because these cancers have implications for past, present and future relationships between patients and their partners, it is essential that any advice given to patients must be considered carefully.
Dispelling the Ghost: Iraq as the Vietnam War We Cannot Afford to Lose

As the war in Iraq lengthens, references to it as another Vietnam have increased. But Vietnam today is more of a ghost than a reality of what it was 30 years ago. As a ghost, Vietnam carries a haunting message of defeat for Western interventions in "third world wars." Despite some dangerous parallels, this message is wrong in that the American defeat in Vietnam was largely a self-inflicted wound. Further, the geopolitics of the War on Terror and its strategy of preemption (as opposed to the Cold War and its policy of containment), has fused the war in Iraq with the battle against al-Qaeda to the point where Iraq has become the struggle from which Americans cannot walk away — as they did in Vietnam.
Increased Energy Demand during Adrenergic Receptor Stimulation Contributes to Ca2+ Wave Generation

While β-adrenergic receptor (β-AR) stimulation ensures adequate cardiac output during stress, it can also trigger life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias. We have previously shown that proarrhythmic Ca2+ waves during β-AR stimulation temporally coincide with augmentation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that increased energy demand during β-AR stimulation plays an important role in mitochondrial ROS production and Ca2+-wave generation in rabbit ventricular myocytes. We found that β-AR stimulation with isoproterenol (0.1 μM) decreased the mitochondrial redox potential and the ratio of reduced to oxidated glutathione. As a result, β-AR stimulation increased mitochondrial ROS production. These metabolic changes induced by isoproterenol were associated with increased sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ leak and frequent diastolic Ca2+ waves. Inhibition of cell contraction with the myosin ATPase inhibitor blebbistatin attenuated oxidative stress as well as spontaneous SR Ca2+ release events during β-AR stimulation. Furthermore, we found that oxidative stress induced by β-AR stimulation caused the formation of disulfide bonds between two ryanodine receptor (RyR) subunits, referred to as intersubunit cross-linking. Preventing RyR cross-linking with N-ethylmaleimide decreased the propensity of Ca2+ waves induced by β-AR stimulation. These data suggest that increased energy demand during sustained β-AR stimulation weakens mitochondrial antioxidant defense, causing ROS release into the cytosol. By inducing RyR intersubunit cross-linking, ROS can increase SR Ca2+ leak to the critical level that can trigger proarrhythmic Ca2+ waves.
Solitary dural metastasis at presentation in a patient with untreated human papillomavirus–associated squamous cell carcinoma of the oropharynx

Background Human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is associated with high cure rates and distant metastases are rare. Methods and Results We report a case of a 61-year-old man presenting with acute left-sided weakness. An enhancing dural mass was noted and resected. Histology revealed p16-positive SCC. Further workup revealed a p16-positive right tonsillar primary with ipsilateral nodal disease and was classified as T2N2bM1. The patient underwent whole brain irradiation and definitive chemoradiation with curative intent. Complete clinical response was achieved and the patient continues to be disease-free 6 months posttreatment. Conclusion HPV-associated oligometastatic oropharyngeal SCC is a rare entity that may have a unique natural history and behavior. Given the excellent treatment response and prognosis of HPV-positive disease in general, these patients may be appropriate for definitive treatment approaches. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 36: E103–E105, 2014
Haptic visual discrimination and intelligence.

Investigated the relationship between tactual-visual discrimination and intelligence from a neuropsychological perspective. Parieto-occipital areas were conceptualized as mediating centers for the integration of tactile and visual information, as well as for the processing of higher cortical functions. A recently designed test of tactual-visual information processing, the Haptic Visual Discrimination Test (HVDT), was administered to a group of 39 first-grade school children. Standard tests of intelligence (Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children - Revised, WISC-R), academic potential (Metropolitan Readiness Test, MRT), and spatial integration (Bender Visual Motor Gestalt Test, BVMGT) also were given. The obtained correlation coefficients revealed consistently significant associations between the importance of parietooccipital areas of the cortex for organizing sensory data as well as for the processing of intellectual information.
Effect of Straw Mulch on Populations of Microtheca ochroloma (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) and Ground Predators in Turnip Brassica rapa in Florida

ABSTRACT Microtheca ochroloma Stal (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), the yellow-margined leaf beetle, is a serious pest of crucifer crops in the southeastern USA. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of straw mulch on the abundance of M. ochroloma and ground predators in turnips in Florida, and subsequent influence on crop damage and yield. Eight plots (5 m long × 9 m wide) were established, and each plot consisted of 5 beds with 10 turnip plants each (50 turnips per plot). An 8–10-cm layer of straw mulch was applied by hand 2 d after planting to half of the plots in a complete randomized block design. The abundance of M. ochroloma and other insect herbivores were recorded twice weekly from Mar 13 to Apr 24, 2009. In addition, 3 pitfall traps per plot were used for sampling predatory arthropods during each sampling period. Higher numbers of M. ochroloma were found in plots with mulch compared to plots with no mulch, whereas greater numbers of ground predators were obtained in the no mulch ...
Measurement of the tensile strength of uncompacted dust aggregates

Abstract The tensile, or cohesive, strength of dust aggregates affects the re-entrainment of dust in electrostatic precipitators and the removal of dust cakes from fabric filters. It is also an important parameter in the rheology of fine powders. This quantity is very difficult to measure directly, however. Conventional techniques for measuring tensile strength are not appropriate because the forces holding particles together are very small. The problem is also complicated by the heterogeneity of inter-particle forces that arises from the range of particle sizes in most applications of interest. The method described in this paper is based on the application of an electrostatic force to a layer of dust and observing the onset of effluence of dust from the surface. Laboratory experiments based on this technique have demonstrated the feasibility of this approach. The point at which tensile failure occurs can be identified repeatedly in spite of the uncertainties that arise from the variety of particle sizes. This method and the results of a series of measurements will be described in the following paragraphs.
Clinical research device for ovarian cancer detection by optical spectroscopy in the ultraviolet C-visible

Early detection of ovarian cancer could greatly increase the likelihood of successful treatment. However, present detection tech- niques are not very effective, and symptoms are more commonly seen in later stage disease. Amino acids, structural proteins, and enzymatic cofactors have endogenous optical properties influenced by precan- cerous changes and tumor growth. We present the technical details of an optical spectroscopy system used to quantify these properties. A fiber optic probe excites the surface epithelium origin of 90% of cases over 270 to 580 nm and collects fluorescence and reflectance at 300 to 800 nm with four or greater orders of magnitude instrument to background suppression. Up to four sites per ovary are investigated on patients giving consent to oophorectomy and the system's in vivo optical evaluation. Data acquisition is completed within 20 s per site. We illustrate design, selection, and development of the components used in the system. Concerns relating to clinical use, performance, calibration, and quality control are addressed. In the future, spectro- scopic data will be compared with histological biopsies from the cor- responding tissue sites. If proven effective, this technique can be use- ful in screening women at high risk of developing ovarian cancer to determine whether oophorectomy is necessary. © 2010 Society of Photo-
Calculation of rotational distortion constants for some axially symmetric ZX3Y molecules

Abstract The changes of the moment of inertia with respect to the symmetry coordinates of an axially symmetric ZX3Y molecule are evaluated. With these derivatives and formulas in the literature, explicit equations can be written for the rotational distortion constants DJ, DJK, and DK in terms of the masses, internuclear distances, interbond angles and (F−1)ij the elements of the matrix inverse to the potential energy matrix. Rotational distortion constants are then calculated for CCl35H3, CBr79H3, CHF3, CCl335H, CBr79F3, and CIF3. The agreement with previously reported experimental data is fair, except for CCl335H.
Hydrogel-based reconfigurable components for microfluidic devices.

In situ liquid-phase photopolymerization (LP3) has been applied to the field of microfluidics to create components within integrated systems. As an extension of LP3 technology, we present reconfigurable components that utilize the swelling of hydrogels. These components can be conveniently used to enhance microfluidic functions and applications. In order to utilize the swelling characteristic of hydrogels to the fullest, we demonstrate strategies to increase the swelling performance temporally and spatially. To this end, two successful applications using the reconfigurable components were tested: (1) active walls to block or divert flow at different steps in the fabrication or assay process, and (2) delivery pistons to move objects to specific locations within the microchannels after device fabrication.
Syhthesis and structure of large ring 2-phenylcycloalkanones and 2,n-diphenylcycloalkanones

Abstract The title compounds have been prepared in good yield by treating the corresponding 2,n-dibromocycloalkanone with LiCuPh 2 . Single-crystal X-ray structures are reported for cis- and trans-2, 12-diphenylcyclododecanone.
Presentation and management of lymphatic cyst of the colon: report of a case

PURPOSE: We report a case of lymphatic cyst of the colon in a 43-year-old white female previously treated with chemotherapy for a B cell lymphoma. METHODS: Radiographic, endoscopic, and pathologic evaluation of the cyst is presented. Surgical resection of this lesion was undertaken because of the size of the lesion, risk of obstruction, and history of an underlying malignancy. A recent review of the literature in relation to clinical symptoms, signs, diagnosis, and treatment of lymphatic cysts is presented. CONCLUSION: Lymphatic cysts of the colon are benign submucosal lesions that are being recognized with increasing frequency. Treatment options include endoscopic polypectomy for lesions smaller than 2 cm and surgical resection for larger lesions if there is a threat of obstruction or question of an underlying colorectal malignancy.
Investigation of the elastic properties of the particle network in gelled solutions of hydrocolloids. II. Cellulose microcrystals

In order to obtain information about the particle network existing in gelled suspensions of cellulose microcrystals, the elasticity modulus was determined of series of dilutions of these gels. It was found that over a tenfold concentration range, the modulus varies as the 3.4 power of the concentration. A gel point could not be determined. A tentative model for this behavior is proposed, in which strong forces cause extensive linear aggregation, and weaker forces cause crosslinking of the linear aggregates. It is pointed out that this model is not unreasonable in the light of earlier experimental work on these gels. The results of similar experiments on gels of attrited level-off DP cellulose are also reported.
Role of a Stochastic Friction Coefficient in Open Channel Noise

The electric current noise through an open channel in a membrane is analyzed with the aid of a stochastic differential equation to describe the process of ionic permeation along the channel. Unlike the Langevin theory, the effective friction constant of the channel is given by a deterministic quantity plus a multiplicative noise. The Brownian or additive noise is taken as white. Two models for the multiplicative noise are considered, a dichotomous Markov process and white noise. In both models, the correlation function decays exponentially and, therefore, the spectral density of the noise is a Lorentzian with a corner frequency proportional to the effective friction coefficient. The relaxation time of the fluctuations is modulated by the strength of the multiplicative noise. We conclude that these models characterize only those dynamical processes that occur on the rapid time scale of diffusion and cannot be used to describe slow conformational changes of a protein channel.
Allelopathic Potential in Rice Germplasm Against Ducksalad, Redstem and Barnyard Grass

Summary Of 17,279 rice accessions or varieties from 110 countries in the USDA-ARS rice working collection, about 12,000 accessions in the rice collection have been evaluated for allelopathy to ducksalad (Heteranthera limosa[Sw.] Willd.) and about 5,000 have been evaluated for allelopathy to redstem (Ammannia coccinea Rottb.) and barnyard grass (Echinochloa crus-galli[L.] Beauv.). A total of 412 rice accessions were identified in field tests in 1988, 1989 and 1990 that had an area of allelopathic activity > 10 cm to ducksalad and 145 accessions that had the same area of activity to redstem. A total of 94 accessions demonstrated apparent allelopathic activity to barnyard grass. The rice accessions that showed allelopathic activity in the field had 2-3 times more root biomass than cultivars that did not show allelopathic activity. In barnyard grass infested plots the grain yield reduction of rice accessions that demonstrated allelopathy activity was about 37% as compared to a 60 to 68% reduction in grain yie...
Performance feedback, paraeducators, and literacy instruction for students with significant disabilities.

Literacy skills are fundamental for all learners. For students with significant disabilities, strong literacy skills provide a gateway to generative communication, genuine friendships, improved access to academic opportunities, access to information technology, and future employment opportunities. Unfortunately, many educators lack the knowledge to design or implement appropriate evidence-based literacy instruction for students with significant disabilities. Furthermore, students with significant disabilities often receive the majority of their instruction from paraeducators. This single-subject design study examined the effects of performance feedback on the delivery skills of paraeducators during systematic and explicit literacy instruction for students with significant disabilities. The specific skills targeted for feedback were planned opportunities for student responses and correct academic responses. Findings suggested that delivery of feedback on performance resulted in increased pacing, accuracy i...
Identification of anthropogenic and natural dust sources using Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) Deep Blue level 2 data

[1] Mineral dust interacts with radiation and impacts both the regional and global climate. The relative contribution of natural and anthropogenic dust sources, however, remains largely uncertain. Although human activities disturb soils and therefore enhance wind erosion, their contribution to global dust emission has never been directly evaluated because of a lack of data. The retrieval of aerosol properties over land, including deserts, using the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer Deep Blue algorithm makes the first direct characterization of the origin of individual sources possible. In order to separate freshly emitted dust from other aerosol types and aged dust particles, the spectral dependence of the single scattering albedo and the Angstrom wavelength exponent are used. Four years of data from the eastern part of West Africa, which includes one of the most active natural dust sources and the highest population density on the continent, are processed. Sources are identified on the basis of the persistence of significant aerosol optical depth from freshly emitted dust, and the origin is characterized as natural or anthropogenic on the basis of a land use data set. Our results indicate that although anthropogenic dust is observed less frequently and with lower optical depth than dust from natural sources in this particular region, it occupies a large area covering most of northern Nigeria and southern Chad, around Lake Chad. In addition, smaller anthropogenic sources are found as far south as 5° of latitude north, well outside the domain of most dust source inventories.
Influence of adult diet on the reproductive biology and survival of the western corn rootworm, Diabrotica virgifera virgifera.

Adult corn rootworm beetles, Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte, were maintained on three dietary regimes which mimicked the progression of corn tissues that would be available in the field for beetles eclosing when corn was in the following growth stages: (A) after tassels had emerged but prior to silking and pollen shed; (B) while plants were silking and shedding pollen; and (C) after pollination was complete and silks had turned brown. A fourth regime (D) was established in which green corn silks, pollen, and leaves were provided throughout the study. The mean number of eggs laid per female over the 12-week duration of the study was 125, 235, 179, and 441 for regimes A, B, C, and D, respectively. Median length of life was 7.2, 7.2, 6.7, and 8.8 weeks for regimes A, B, C, and D respectively. Beetles in regime A laid a greater proportion of their eggs at an older age than did beetles from regimes B and C. To further investigate the influences on survival of changes in food quality of corn as plants and beetles aged, newly-eclosed beetles and beetles that had been maintained in caged plots of corn growing in a greenhouse for various lengths of time were caged on corn at different stages of growth, and the proportion of beetles surviving for 48 h was determined. Survival decreased as plants aged for both groups of beetles, but decreased at a faster rate for old than for young beetles. Resume Influence de l'alimenation sur la reproduction et la survie de Diabrotica virgifera virgifera D. virgifera virgifera LeConte a ete place sur des regimes nutritifs mimant l'evolution des tissus du mais disponsibles dans le champ lorsque les insectes eclosent est aux stades suivants du mais: 1) apres emergence de l'epi mâle, mais avant l'apparition des barbes et l'emission du pollen; 2) lors de la presence de barbes et de l'emission de pollen; 3) apres la pollinisation et quand les barbes ont bruni. Un quatrieme regime a ete fourni pendant toute l'experience comprenant des barbes vertes, du pollen et des feuilles. Les pontes moyennes des femelles pendant les 12 semaines de l'etude on ete 125, 235, 179 et 441 pour les regimes 1, 2, 3 et 4. Les dates de mort de la moitie des adultes a ete 7,2, 7,2, 6,7 et 8,8 semaines pour respectivement les memes regimes. Les femelles du regime 1 pondent a un âge plus avance que les femelles des regimes 2 et 3. L'influence des changements de la qualite alimentaire du mais au fur et a mesure du vieillissement des plantes et de Diabrotica, a ete determinee par la survie au bout de 48 heures d'insectes eclos depuis peu et d'autres maintenus en cage sur des lots de mais a differents stadcs poussant en serre depuis des temps plus ou moins longs. Plus les plantes sont âgees, plus la survie des 2 groupes de Diabrotica diminue, mais plus vite chez les lots d'insectes âges.
A criterion for cracking during solidification

Abstract Cracking during solidification is a serious defect in castings and welds. When solidification shrinkage and thermal contraction of the semisolid and its surrounding solid are obstructed, tensile deformation can be induced in the semisolid to cause cracking along grain boundaries that are not fed with sufficient liquid. A criterion for cracking was derived, focusing on events occurring at the grain boundary including separation of grains from each other, lateral growth of grains toward each other, and liquid feeding between grains. An index for the susceptibility of an alloy to cracking during solidification was also proposed, that is, |dT/d(fS1/2)| near (fS)1/2 = 1, where T is temperature and fS the fraction solid in the semisolid. The index affects: (a) the lateral growth rate of two neighboring grains toward each other to bond together to resist cracking, and (b) the length of the grain-boundary liquid channel through which feeding has to occur to resist cracking. The index was verified with experimental data in casting and welding of Al alloys.
On the new field theory II─Quantum theory of field and charges

The Purpose of this paper is to extend the quantum electrodynamics of the New Field theory to include the dynamics of charged particles. The work of Born and Infeld (Born 1934; Born and Infeld 1934 a , b , 1935) in which the theory has been developed, and of weiss (1936), has dealt with the quantum theory of the electromagnetic field alone, without allowing for the occurrence of point charges; this is inherent in their equation div D = 0. In a Previous paper (1936 a ), the present author has given a classical (i. e. non-quantum) treatment of the dynamics of point charges in the frame of the New Field theory. The analytical methods of that paper were chosen in such a way that they could be used in the generalization to a quantum-mechanical theory, and we shall here use them as the scaffolding for the present work. We shall therefore use the same notation as before. The more important symbols have the following meanings:
Biology and phenotypic plasticity of the Antarctic nototheniid fish Trematomus newnesi in McMurdo Sound

Trematomus newnesi inhabited inshore (<20 m) subzero waters in McMurdo Sound where it fed in the water column on Euphausia crystallorophias and fishes. This sample included the largest reported specimens of this species. The length–weight relationship was Weight = 3.17 × 10−6 (Standard Length)3.34, n = 67, r2 = 0.95. The population was phenotypically plastic, with two distinct morphs easily separated by visual inspection – the typical morph and a large mouth/broad headed morph comprising 28% of the sample. The large mouth morph had a wider and blunter head, longer upper jaw, wider gape, more heavily ossified jaws and darker colouration. To document this morphology, four views of the head are illustrated. Inference from morphology and measurements suggested that the large mouth morph was more benthic than the typical semipelagic morph. Museum specimens from Cape Adare confirmed the presence of the large mouth morph 700 km north of McMurdo Sound. This is the first clear example of phenotypic plasticity in any species of marine fish and its discovery extends the bounds of the nototheniid adaptive radiation to the population level. This finding suggests ecological and evolutionary parallels between the inshore waters of the high Antarctic shelf and the low diversity ichthyofaunas of Arctic, boreal and some temperate lakes. Although there is no data on genetic diversification, an alternate interpretation of the phenotypic plasticity is that the large mouth morph is a cryptic or sibling species.