cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
AN ISOLATION EFFECT IN PATTERN PERCEPTION SIMILAR TO THAT IN SERIAL LEARNING.

The hypothesis was that the mechanisms involved in serial learning which produce the characteristic bowed curve of errors also operate in the perception of tachistoscopic patterns to determine the distribution of errors among element-positions. If the mechanisms are in fact the same, isolation of an element in a tachistoscopic pattern will alter the distribution of errors among elements in the same manner that isolation changes the bowed curve of serial learning. Since an isolation effect has not previously been found when O does not know of the isolation before the exposure, a postulate of the present experiment is that prior knowledge of the isolation is critical for the isolation effect. Therefore, in this study, in which O knew of the isolation before exposure of the pattern, it was predicted that there would be a relative decrease in errors for the isolated element. This was the result.
Analysis of integrated charged particle energy spectra from gridded electrostatic analyzers.

Analysis of integrated charged particle energy spectra from gridded electrostatic analyzers
Personal-computer-based system for electron beam X-ray microanalysis of biological samples.

SUMMARY A system based on a personal computer has been developed which provides a relatively inexpensive way to equip an electron microscopy laboratory for quantitative elemental analyses of cryosectioned biological samples. This system demonstrates the feasibility of making an X-ray analyser from a personal computer, together with commercially available hardware and software components. Hardware and software have been assembled to drive the beam in a scanning electron microscope, collect and analyse X-ray spectra, and save, retrieve, and analyse data. Our software provides a menu-controlled user interface to direct spectra acquisition and analysis. Spot analyses, video images, and quantitative elemental images may be obtained and results transferred in ASCII format to other computers. Wet weight, as well as dry weight, concentrations are calculated, if measurements were made of areas of the hydrated sample before it was freeze-dried. Grey-level copies of video and quantitative elemental images may be made on a laser printer.
Capsaicin evokes hypothermia independent of cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors.

Abstract The present study investigated a potential role for cannabinoid CB 1 and CB 2 receptors in capsaicin-evoked hypothermia. Capsaicin (1 mg/kg, s.c.) caused rapid and significant hypothermia in rats. Pretreatment with SR 141716A (1, 2.5 and 5 mg/kg, i.p.), a CB 1 antagonist, or SR 144528 (1, 2.5 and 5 mg/kg, i.p.), a CB 2 antagonist, did not affect capsaicin-induced hypothermia. In separate experiments, the hypothermia caused by WIN 55212-2 (5 mg/kg, i.m.), a cannabinoid agonist, was not significantly altered by capsazepine (10 and 30 mg/kg, i.p.) or SB 366791 (2 mg/kg, i.p.), a novel TRPV1 antagonist. These data suggest that capsaicin causes hypothermia by a CB 1 - and CB 2 -independent mechanism, and that WIN 55212-2 causes hypothermia by a TRPV1-independent mechanism.
Metabolic acidosis and the importance of balanced equations

Balancing biochemical equations for both mass and charge in metabolic networks is critical but unfortunately ignored too often. Failure to do so, for example, results in a common misconception about the origin of protons during lactic fermentation. Lactate, rather than lactic acid, is produced by glycolysis, and its production is a mechanism for alleviating intracellular acidosis due to glycolysis. This error is at the core of some recent papers, and is often ambiguous in biochemistry textbooks.
High-Performance Current Saturating Graphene Field-Effect Transistor With Hexagonal Boron Nitride Dielectric on Flexible Polymeric Substrates

Graphene transistors using hexagonal boron nitride as the gate dielectric are implemented on mechanically flexible polyimide films. Current saturation is observed for the first time in graphene transistors on a plastic substrate. An atomically smooth insulating surface is achieved with the proposed capture-release process and two-step annealing process, resulting in subnanometer surface roughness. The device shows strong electrical performance: Extracted mobility exceeds 2300 cm2/V·s for both electron and hole transport, and drive current is over 300 μS/μm. This transport symmetry affords frequency doublers with high spectral purity and a conversion gain of - 29.5 dB and output power of -22.2 dBm, representing the highest performance for graphene transistors on flexible substrates.
A device for automated control of pipette internal pressure for patch-clamp recording

Formation of a high-resistance seal between the tip of a glass recording pipette and the membrane of the recorded cell is the crucial step in patch clamping, or whole cell recording with patch pipettes. Formation of the seal, and subsequent rupture of the membrane for whole cell recording, requires a specific sequence of changes in pipette internal hydrostatic pressure. Generating this sequence of pressure changes adds to the complexity of setting up, gaining proficiency, and performing experiments. Automation of routine pipette pressure manipulations would simplify seal formation, and benefit productivity. Here we describe a device that automates control of patch pipette internal pressure. Solenoid valves sequentially operated by manual switching, or external electronic control, automatically provide the necessary sequence of connections to the pipette interior. This greatly simplifies the operations performed to obtain membrane seals and whole cell recordings and improves standardization and reproducibility in patch recording.
Recoverable and recyclable magnetic nanoparticle supported aluminium isopropoxide for ring-opening polymerization of ε-caprolactone

Magnetic nanoparticle supported aluminium isopropoxide is demonstrated as a new catalyst for the ring-opening polymerization of e-caprolactone. The catalyst can be easily recovered under a magnetic field and reused, yielding poly(caprolactone) with negligible metal residue.
Familial adenomatous polyposis in an adolescent with coexisting schizophrenia: treatment strategies and implications

Schizophrenia is associated with high mortality and morbidity. The etiology of schizophrenia remains unclear, studies implicate a multifactorial origin with genetic and environmental factors. The adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) gene has been associated with FAP (familial adenomatous polyposis), and studies have linked it to schizophrenia. However, there are few studies which examine the association between FAP and schizophrenia. Limited data exist regarding recommendations for genetic counseling of adolescents with comorbid psychiatric illness. A case of an adolescent with FAP who developed psychotic symptoms is presented. This case hopes to add to the literature about mental illness in those with FAP. A review of literature about the role of APC in schizophrenia as well as implications of genetic counseling on those who suffer with mental illness will be discussed.
On electromagnetic coupling “removal” from induced polarization surveys

Abstract A formulation is presented for the mutual impedance of a four-electrode array on the surface of a homogeneous half-space model of the earth characterized by a complex resistivity. The frequency is sufficiently low that displacement currents in the air are negligible. Using such a representation, the mutual impedance or apparent complex resistivity is computed from convergent series expansions over the frequency range from 0.1 to 1000 Hz. We also show the corresponding pure electromagnetic coupling, calculated for the same geometry but under the assumption that the earth is non-polarizable (i.e., the resistivity is real and frequency-independent). Finally we demonstrate that the actual or measured complex resistivity can be corrected for the electromagnetic coupling by a simple subtractive process provided the frequency is sufficiently low. But in general the electrochemical effects, causing the resistivity to be complex and frequency-dependent, are inextricably intertwined with the electromagnetic effects. Thus we conclude that any sweeping claims to correct induced polarization in the field, by various electromagnetic coupling “removal” schemes, should be viewed with concern.
Barriers to marketing becoming what it might be: Individual vs. Community costs

Marketing is what Shelby Hunt suggests it is in his article "MARKETING IS . . ." To argue otherwise would be to argue that marketing is not a university discipline that aspires to be a professional discipline. Hunt suggests marketing, as a professional discipline, is responsible to students, to practice, to the academy, and to society (the ultimate client). Specifically, these responsibilities are:
The relative sensitivity of the soaked seeds of nine gymnosperm species to gamma radiation.

Abstract Seeds of nine gymnosperm species, soaked in water to full imbibition, were irradiated with 137 Cs gamma rays in two separate experiments. Species studied were Larix laricina, Picea abies, Picea glauca, Picea mariana, Pinus banksiana, Pinus contorta, Pinus resinosa, Pinus sylvestris and Thuja occidentalis . In the first experiment exposures of 150, 300, 600, 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600, 19,200 and 38,400 R were used and the seedlings were grown for 36 days after initial germination in perlite saturated with a complete nutrient solution. In the second experiment exposures of 150, 300, 450, 600, 900, 1200, 1800, 2400, 3600, 4800, 7200, 9600, 14,400 and 19,200 R were employed and the seedlings were grown in sand for 75 days after initial germination. Endpoints scored in the first experiment were germination, survival, cotyledon length, and plant dry weight. In the second experiment germination, survival, hypocotyl length, cotyledon length, shoot length, root length, shoot dry weight, and root dry weight were scored. Seed radiosensitivity varied by a factor of 3·80–7·33 in the first experiment and from 2·67 to 5·70 in the second experiment, depending on the endpoint used. Picea abies, Picea glauca and Pinus sylvestris were the most sensitive species in both experiments and Pinus banksiana the most resistant. The average D 50 (exposure resulting in 50 per cent inhibition) for all endpoints in Experiment I varied from 2·64 kR to 9·71 kR; that in Experiment II from 2·30 kR to 10·56 kR for the nine species studied. Comparison of the results with previous reports for individual species indicated that relative radiosensitivity of seed of plant species must be investigated with all species of interest being identical in radiation exposure conditions, seed moisture content and post-irradiation storage. Germination and growing conditions optimal for each species are suggested. The more than four-fold average differences in seed radiosensitivity were found to be unrelated to differences in nuclear volume, chromosome volume, and DNA content previously reported for the same populations of these species. The relative seed sensitivity pattern showed no relation to previously reported predictions of seedling and mature plant sensitivities for the same species.
Mouse Models for Studying the Formation and Propagation of Prions

Prions are self-propagating protein conformers that cause a variety of neurodegenerative disorders in humans and animals. Mouse models have played key roles in deciphering the biology of prions and in assessing candidate therapeutics. The development of transgenic mice that form prions spontaneously in the brain has advanced our understanding of sporadic and genetic prion diseases. Furthermore, the realization that many proteins can become prions has necessitated the development of mouse models for assessing the potential transmissibility of common neurodegenerative diseases. As the universe of prion diseases continues to expand, mouse models will remain crucial for interrogating these devastating illnesses.
Grb2 adaptor undergoes conformational change upon dimerization

Grb2 is an adaptor protein that couples activated receptor tyrosine kinases to downstream effector molecules such as Ras and Akt. Despite being a central player in mitogenic signaling and a target for therapeutic intervention, the role of Grb2 oligomerization in cellular signaling is not well understood. Here, using the techniques of size-exclusion chromatography, mass spectrometry, analytical ultra-centrifugation and isothermal titration calorimetry, we demonstrate that Grb2 exists in monomer-dimer equilibrium in solution and that the dissociation of dimer into monomers is entropically-driven without an unfavorable enthalpic change at physiological temperatures. Our data indicate that enthalpy and entropy of dimer dissociation are highly temperature-dependent and largely compensate each other resulting in negligible effect of temperature on the overall free energy. From the plot of enthalpy change versus temperature, the magnitude of heat capacity change derived is much smaller than that expected from the rather large molecular surfaces becoming solvent-occluded upon Grb2 dimerization, implying that Grb2 monomers undergo conformational rearrangement upon dimerization. 3D structural models of Grb2 dimer and monomers suggest strongly that such conformational rearrangement upon dimerization may arise from domain swapping. Taken together, our study provides novel insights into the role of Grb2 as an adaptor in cellular signaling circuitry and how Grb2 dimerization may impart high fidelity in signal transduction as well as lead to rapid signal amplification upon receptor stimulation.
SOME OBSERVATIONS OF THE BEHAVIOR OF SPHERICAL HARMONIC WAVES

One month of daily spherical harmonic expansions of 500-mb. height in the Northern Hemisphere were studied. The movements of the waves are compared with the Rossby-Haurwitz wave speeds computed from the zonal geo- strophic wind profile. Systematic differences between the observed and theoretical wave speeds are found.
Prediction-error based reversible watermarking

Reversible watermarking has become a highly desirable subset of fragile watermarking for sensitive digital imagery in application domains such as military and medical because of the ability to embed data with zero loss of host information. This reversibility enables the recovery of the original host content upon verification of the authenticity of the received content. We propose a new reversible watermarking algorithm. The algorithm exploits the correlation inherent among the neighboring pixels in an image region using a predictor. The prediction-error at each location is calculated and, depending on the amount of information to be embedded, locations are selected for embedding. Data embedding is done by expanding the prediction-error values. A compressed location map of the embedded locations is also embedded along with the information bits. Our algorithm exploits the redundancy in the image to achieve very high data embedding rates while keeping the resulting distortion low.
Compression behavior of magnesium/carbon nanotube composites

Carbon nanotube (CNT)-reinforced magnesium (Mg) matrix composites were synthesized using a powder metallurgical method and tested compressively along the plane normal and in-plane orientations. Yield strengths of composites were significantly increased by 35–129% compared with that of pure Mg. With the increase of CNT weight percentage, yield strength first increased until reaching a critical CNT weight percentage and then decreased. Twinning operated in the in-plane samples when CNT weight percentage was less than or equal to 0.5%, whereas twinning operation was not observed in all plane normal samples and the in-plane samples with 1% or higher CNT weight percentage. Severe plastic deformation was exhibited in fracture surface images with low magnification, whereas intrinsic brittle fracture feature was observed under high magnification. A theoretical model incorporating the Orowan strengthening and the thermal expansion mismatch strengthening was utilized and made good yield strength predictions.
A tale of two cases: preventing errors in oncology and medicine.

Betsy Lehman, a knowledgeable health reporter for the Boston Globe, died due to an overdose of the chemotherapy that was supposed to treat her breast cancer (1). Willie King, a diabetic patient in Florida, already concerned about having to live with one leg, woke up to discover that the surgical team amputated the wrong limb (2). Ben Kolb, a 7-year-old boy from St. Lucie, Florida, died after the surgeon who was operating his ear injected epinephrine instead of the local anesthetic lidocaine (3). The common thread: medical errors.
Microcavity vacuum tube pressure sensor for robot tactile sensing

A novel microstructure pressure sensor for robot tactile sensing is currently under development. The design is based on a silicon vacuum diode configuration, which has a cold field emission cathode and a movable diaphragm anode. The cathode is a sharp tip. When a positive potential difference is applied between the cathode tip and anode, an electric field is generated at the tip that allows electrons to tunnel from inside the cathode to the vacuum outside, if it exceeds about 5*10/sup 7/ V/cm. The field at the tip and the quantity of electrons emitted or emission current are controlled by the anode potential. The anode deflects in response to differential pressure to produce current-change. >
United States Military Intervention and the Promotion of Democracy

All through history, when United States presidents have sought to explain or defend US military interventions in foreign lands, no goal, with the exception of the national security of the United States, has been advanced with such regularity and frequency as the promotion of democracy. Interestingly, however, this readiness to use force in the name of democracy does not appear to square with some of the emerging findings on the pacific relations among democratic nations. If states do not war on each other because they are democratic, does it make sense that they wage war or use force to compel others to become democratic? In this article the author attempts to answer two central questions related to the use of force by the United States in the ostensible quest to promote democracy. First, why would the United States intervene in the affairs of other nations to promote democracy? And second, is the use of force an effective tool in the promotion of democracy? The article finds that in the majority of cases, regardless of the manner in which democratic change is measured, US military interventions do not appear to lead to increased levels of democracy. Most nations retain their current level of democracy. However, when a comparison is made between nations which have experienced intervention, with those that have not, it is shown that the former group is more likely to experience democratic growth. Probit analyses of the effects of military intervention on democratization generally support the notion that the use of US ground forces does lead to increased democratization. A probit model is also developed to predict which military interventions are most likely to promote democracy. The predictive success of the models is quite high. The author finds that when the president declares democracy is a goal of the intervention, and if the US government is opposed to the targeted regime, democracy is more likely to be promoted.
Symbolic Manipulation of Boolean Functions Using a Graphical Representation

In this paper we describe a data structure for representing Boolean functions and an associated set of manipulation algorithms. Functions are represented by directed, acyclic graphs in a manner similar to the representations of Lee and Akers, but with further restrictions on the ordering of decision variables in the graph. Although a function requires, in the worst case, a graph of size exponential in the number of arguments, many of the functions encountered in typical applications have a more reasonable representation. Our algorithms are quite efficient as long as the graphs being operated on do not grow too large. We present performance measurements obtained while applying these algorithms to problems in logic design verification.
An object-oriented programming discipline for standard Pascal

A successful application, using standard Pascal in a large medical application program, demonstrates that benefits similar to those of specialized languages are possible in object-oriented programming.
Rock's cognitive theory of illusory figures: a commentary.

Contrary to a previously published opinion, the ‘cognitive’ theory of illusory contours is rich in detail and empirical support.
White matter structural differences in young children with type 1 diabetes: a diffusion tensor imaging study.

OBJECTIVES To detect clinical correlates of cognitive abilities and white matter (WM) microstructural changes using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) in young children with type 1 diabetes. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Children, ages 3 to n = 22) and age- and sex-matched healthy control subjects ( n = 14) completed neurocognitive testing and DTI scans. RESULTS Compared with healthy controls, children with type 1 diabetes had lower axial diffusivity (AD) values ( P = 0.046) in the temporal and parietal lobe regions. There were no significant differences between groups in fractional anisotropy and radial diffusivity (RD). Within the diabetes group, there was a significant, positive correlation between time-weighted HbA 1c and RD ( P = 0.028). A higher, time-weighted HbA 1c value was significantly correlated with lower overall intellectual functioning measured by the full-scale intelligence quotient ( P = 0.03). CONCLUSIONS Children with type 1 diabetes had significantly different WM structure (as measured by AD) when compared with controls. In addition, WM structural differences (as measured by RD) were significantly correlated with their HbA 1c values. Additional studies are needed to determine if WM microstructural differences in young children with type 1 diabetes predict future neurocognitive outcome.
Hormesis effect of trace metals on cultured normal and immortal human mammary cells

An in vitro study was conducted to determine the effects of variable concentrations of trace metals on human cultured mammary cells. Monolayers of human mortal (MCF-12A) and immortal (MDAMB231) mammary epithelial cells were incubated in the absence or presence of increasing concentrations of arsenic (As), mercury (Hg) and copper (Cu) for 24-h, 72-h, 4-d, and 7-d. The MTT assay was used to assess viability for all time periods and cell proliferation was monitored for 4-d and 7-d studies. Monolayers were also labeled with rhodamine-110 (R-6501), Sytox green®, and Celltiter blueTM fluorescent dyes as indicators for intracellular esterase activity, nucleic acid staining, and cell reduction/viability, respectively. Total incubation time with chemical plus dyes was 24 h. For 24-h and 72-h studies, cells were seeded in 96-well plates, after which confluent monolayers were exposed to increasing concentrations of chemicals. For 4-d and 7-d studies, cells were seeded in 12-well plates at 1/3 confluent density (day ...
Being Leaders for Socially Just Education Engaging New Politics of Possibility

Radically democratic citizen-action-in-the-world requires teachers who are committed to the emergence of such citizens in their classrooms. In addition, commitment alone is insufficient. Teachers m...
LAI Inversion From Optical Reflectance Using A Neural Network Trained With A Multiple Scattering Model

The inversion of the leaf area index (LAI) canopy parameter from optical spectral reflectance measurements is obtained using a backpropagation artificial neural network trained using input-output pairs generated by a multiple scattering reflectance model. The problem of LAI estimation over sparse canopies (LAI 1000 percent for low LAI. Minimization methods applied to merit functions constructed from differences between measured reflectances and predicted reflectances using multiple-scattering models are unacceptably sensitive to a good initial guess for the desired parameter. In contrast, the neural network reported generally yields absolute percentage errors of <30 percent when weighting coefficients trained on one soil type were applied to predicted canopy reflectance at a different soil background.
Automatic Quality Assessment of Peptide Tandem Mass Spectra

Motivation: A powerful proteomics methodology couples high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with tandem mass spectrometry and database-search software, such as SEQUEST. Such a set-up, however, produces a large number of spectra, many of which are of too poor quality to be useful. Hence a filter that eliminates poor spectra before the database search can significantly improve throughput and robustness. Moreover, spectra judged to be of high quality, but that cannot be identified by database search, are prime candidates for still more computationally intensive methods, such as de novo sequencing or wider database searches including post-translational modifications. Results: We report on two different approaches to assessing spectral quality prior to identification: binary classification, which predicts whether or not SEQUEST will be able to make an identification, and statistical regression, which predicts a more universal quality metric involving the number of b- and y-ion peaks. The best of our binary classifiers can eliminate over 75% of the unidentifiable spectra while losing only 10% of the identifiable spectra. Statistical regression can pick out spectra of modified peptides that can be identified by a de novo program but not by SEQUEST. In a section of independent interest, we discuss intensity normalization of mass spectra.
Periodic Leg Movements in Sleep and Restless Legs Syndrome: Considerations in Geriatrics

PLMS and RLS are exceedingly common in ambulatory, non-institutionalized, non-cognitively impaired elderly populations and may occur in demented patients as well, where they may be manifested by signs of late afternoon and evening wandering. Risk factors operating for these conditions in geriatrics include many of the same factors acknowledged to be of importance in middle-aged patients (e.g., diabetes, neuropathy/radiculopathy, renal insufficiency, cardiovascular disease) but occurring with relatively high prevalence in the elderly and thus particularly salient in this age group. Altered iron metabolism may also be a risk if the RLS is longstanding. It must never be assumed that PLMS, in the absence of frank RLS symptomatology represents a cause of poor sleep or daytime sleepiness in old age. Ample evidence demonstrates that many geriatric patients present with PLMS that have no symptomatic correlate. In such cases, intervention would be premature and unnecessary. There are no natural history data that suggest that the presence of asymptomatic PLMS is a harbinger for any later pathology, and overlap between RLS and Parkinsonism remains in doubt. Nonetheless, symptomatic RLS is a major problem for many geriatric patients and deserves full recognition as a highly treatable condition. Particularly in the dementia population with nocturnal wandering (as a potential sign of RLS) implementation of new treatment should be carefully entertained, and cessation of potentially aggravating medications always should be considered initially.
Reciprocal Expression of P-Glycoprotein and TAP1 Accompanied by Higher Expression of MHC Class I Antigens in T Cells of Old Mice

We have shown previously that (a) aging leads to an increase in the proportion ofmurine splenic T cells that express high activity of P-glycoprotein (PGP), the ATP-dependent plasma membrane pump that mediates multiple drug resistance, and (b) PGP 1 " CD4 memory cells from mice of any age do not proliferate or secrete IL-4 after activation with anti-CD3 and IL-2. We now report that the age-associated increase in expression of MHC Class I molecules is limited to the subset of T cells that overexpress PGP and thus extrude the fluorochrome R123 (the "R123 1 "" subset). Although H-2 levels increase on T cells of old mice, the levels of TAP1, a component of the polypeptide pump responsible for assembly and internal transport of Class I MHC molecules, decline, unexpectedly, by about fourfold in T cells from old donors. Thus, aging leads to reciprocal changes in the level ofT-cell expression of PGP and TAP1, two closely related members of the ABC superfamily ofpeptide transport proteins.
Picosecond pulse propagation on coplanar striplines fabricated on lossy semiconductor substrates: modeling and experiments

A simple model for the propagation of high-frequency signals on coplanar striplines with lossy semiconductor substrates is proposed and demonstrated. This model incorporates the effect of a conductive substrate through the loss tangent in a distributed-circuit analysis extended to high frequencies. Very strong attenuation and dispersion due to the substrate are observed even when the GaAs conductance is only 1 mho/cm, corresponding to a doping density of around 10/sup 15/ cm/sup -3/. The accuracy of this model is tested with a direct comparison to experimental data of picosecond pulse propagation on a doped GaAs coplanar stripline (CPS) measured in the time domain using the electro-optic (EO) sampling technique. Good agreement is found in terms of the attenuation and phase velocity of the distorted pulses at four propagation distances up to 300 mu m. The pulse propagation on a multiple modulation-doped layer is also studied experimentally as a prototype of high-frequency signal propagation on the gate of a modulation-doped field-effect transistor (MODFET). The attenuation shows linear frequency dependence up to 1.0 THz, contrary to the cubic or quadratic dependence of coplanar transmission lines on low-loss substrates. >
LOXAHATCHEE WATERSHED CONCEPTUAL ECOLOGICAL MODEL

Historically, the Loxahatchee River watershed included an area of more than 560 km2. The drainage basin was comprised primarily of pine flatwoods interspersed with cypress sloughs, hardwood swamps, marshes, and wet prairies. Rain falling on the basin was directed through natural topography into wetlands, treated by natural biological and chemical action, and slowly released to the receiving water bodies, the Loxahatchee River and Estuary and the Indian River Lagoon. Today, approximately 434 km2 of the original watershed drain to the Atlantic Ocean through Jupiter Inlet. The watershed still includes substantial amounts of upland, freshwater wetland, riverine, and estuarine habitats, but large areas have been developed for urban and agricultural land uses. Development in the watershed, stabilization of the inlet, and dredging of the estuary and river have resulted in saltwater intrusion in the river, destruction of riverine cypress forest along the river, and upstream migration of seagrasses and mangroves. A conceptual ecological model, in the risk assessment framework, was developed for the Loxahatchee system to characterize the wetland, riverine, and estuarine components of this complex and diverse system. This model was developed as a means to build understanding and consensus among scientists and managers regarding the linkages between ecological stressors and attributes in the Loxahatchee river system. These relationships lead to development of a set of working hypotheses that explain how observed shifts in the distribution of riverine floodplain plant communities, oysters, seagrasses and other key species are related to increases in salinity in the river and estuary that have occurred during the past century in response to changing land use, climate change and water management practices. Basic and applied research is needed to address questions related to ecosystem structure and mechanisms that control the abundance and distribution of plants and animals in this system.
Protection Against Necrotic Enteritis in Broiler Chickens by Regulated Delayed Lysis Salmonella Vaccines

SUMMARY Necrotic enteritis (NE), caused by Gram-positive Clostridium perfringens type A strains, has gained more attention in the broiler industry due to governmental restrictions affecting the use of growth-promoting antibiotics in feed. To date, there is only one commercial NE vaccine available, based on the C. perfringens alpha toxin. However, recent work has suggested that the NetB toxin, not alpha toxin, is the most critical virulence factor for causing NE. These findings notwithstanding, it is clear from prior research that immune responses against both toxins can provide some protection against NE. In this study, we delivered a carboxyl-terminal fragment of alpha toxin and a GST-NetB fusion protein using a novel attenuated Salmonella vaccine strain designed to lyse after 6–10 rounds of replication in the chicken host. We immunized birds with vaccine strains producing each protein individually, a mixture of the two strains, or with a single vaccine strain that produced both proteins. Immunization wi...
Exchange-Coupled Nanocomposite Permanent Magnets

Exchange-coupled nanocomposite magnets are a new type of permanent magnetic materials. Large amounts of theoretical and experimental research have been carried out in the past two decades in understanding the inter-phase exchange interactions and in processing bulk nanocomposite magnets with enhanced energy products. This chapter reviews recent advancements in both the fundamental research and the materials processing technologies. Details in the new findings about the effects of soft phase properties and interface conditions on the hard/soft phase exchange interactions are presented. Various methods for characterizing the inter-phase exchange coupling are reviewed. In materials processing aspects, the development of the bottom-up approaches is discussed. Novel methodology for nanoparticle synthesis including the salt-matrix annealing and surfactant-assisted ball milling is described. Unconventional compaction techniques including warm compaction and dynamic compaction are recommended because they can be used to retain the desired nanoscale morphology for effective exchange coupling in the nanocomposites. At the end of this chapter, perspectives on fabrication of anisotropic nanocomposite magnets are given.
Piezoelectric Energy Harvesting From Torsional Vibration

Torsional vibration is present in various applications, such as in oil drilling pipes, engine crankshafts, and wind turbine gearboxes. In the case of oil drilling, ever deeper wells are being drilled and sensors used to gather data from the bottom of the well. Providing an energy source for these sensors is a big challenge. Harvesting energy from torsional vibrations presents a promising solution for powering the sensors on rotational systems. We investigated the concept of torsional vibration energy harvesting using a piezoelectric transducer attached to a shaft at an arbitrary angle with respect to the axis of the shaft. A comprehensive theoretical model considering all the working modes, including d15, d31, and d33 mode, has been developed to express the voltage outputs as functions of the mounting angle. The frequency responses of the voltage outputs over the input torque have also been studied and compared. A finite element model was also implemented to verify the theoretical results and illustrate the voltage distribution within the piezoelectric material under an external torque input.Copyright © 2015 by ASME
Improving collaborative work and project management in a nuclear power plant design team: A Human-Centered Design approach

Abstract This article presents a collaborative system, called SCORE, useful for a multi-disciplinary team designing a new nuclear power plant (NPP). It was developed during the first phase of the I2S-LWR project (Integral Inherently Safe Light Water Reactor). SCORE enables the generation of design cards (DCs). A DC includes four main spaces (Boy, 2005): (1) a rationalization space where the various components of the system being designed (SBD) are described in terms of design rationale, integration and requirements; this space includes declarative and procedural descriptions and statements; (2) an activity space where the current version of the SBD is displayed; it includes static and dynamic features; this space enables SBD manipulation; (3) a structure space where the various components and their inter-relations are formally and declaratively described as systems of systems; (4) a function space where the various functions of the SBD are described in terms of procedural knowledge and dynamic processes involved; this space includes qualitative and quantitative physical and cognitive models. The rationalization space is informed using an adapted version of the QOC method (Questions, Options, Criteria), which was tested within the I2S-LWR design team. The activity space contains 3D models developed using AutoDesk Inventor, and transferred into the Unity game engine web player in order to facilitate integration within the DC spaces and enable intuitive manipulation of objects in the activity space. Two additional spaces were added: an instant messaging capability that allows design team members (DTMs) to exchange with one another on a DC; and a structured evaluation space. DCs are cooperatively created and refined by DTMs, and synthesized during periodic design meetings, the frequency of which may vary. Incrementally combining abstract explanations of designed elements and integration with their explicit visual representation improves mutual understanding among DTMs, and consolidates design decisions. This human-centered design (HCD) approach also improves individual and collective familiarization with the complexity of mixing several expert contributions in NPP design. In this case, HCD is not focused on end-users, but rather on the designers themselves.
Thoughts and observations on volcanic activity and human ecology

Abstract Impressive progress has been made in understanding the complex interrelationships between human societies and volcanic activity since the publication of the book Volcanic Activity and Human Ecology in 1979. That progress was achieved by advances in methods, techniques, instrumentation, theory, and in greater integration of scholars in the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities in research programs. Precision in dating has improved, but it often remains challenging to go beyond discovering close correlations of volcanic and cultural phenomena into documenting causal relationships. Using historical data can compellingly resolve this problem, as exemplified by two articles in this issue. Technological sophistication not even dreamed of 38 years ago, when the book was written, can chemically characterize cryptotephra of infinitesimal size in ice cores, with sulfur, and date them precisely. The big eruptions of the past few millennia caused cold and drought, often resulting in starvation, disease, and failure of confidence in religious and political systems. Cultural and social theory provide rich grounding for exploring people's sense of place, homeland, and desire to return after having to seek refuge at a distance. Volcanic stresses can have creative aspects, as societies embed knowledge of the hazards into oral history and cosmology from their experiences, and thus are more prepared when the hazard turns into a disaster.
A hybrid model to calculate air gap flux density for a V-shape Interior Permanent Magnet Machine

Of the various classes of machines, Interior Permanent Magnet Machines (IPM) are widely used. V-shape IPMs have been reported to have higher power densities compared to other IPM topologies. Designing an IPM is challenging due to highly saturated areas in the rotor. One approach to machine design is based on multi-objective optimization. However, the high computation cost associated with modeling approaches that are commonly used for IPMs, such as Finite Element Analysis (FEA), often makes them difficult to implement in such contexts particularly if the design space is large and the number of operating points considered is significant. An alternative approach is therefore proposed wherein a Magnetic Equivalent Circuit (MEC) is combined with an analytical field analysis to calculate the air gap flux density for a V-shape IPM. The predictions of the proposed model are shown to agree with those obtained using FEA.
Sanitary condition of secondary water supply in Liuzhou City from 2008-2010

[Objective]To learn the sanitary condition of secondary water supply in Liuzhou City,so as to further do well the health management of secondary water supply. [Methods]The detection data of the secondary water supply in Liuzhou City from 2008-2010 were collected,analyzed and evaluated. [Results]In the recent 3 years,the total qualified rate of secondary water supply was 68.1% in Liuzhou City.The qualified rate of secondary water supply in hotels was 64.6%,and that in resident buildings was 70.4%.The qualified rates of residual chlorine and total bacterial count were the lowest,which was respectively 74.8% and 86.5%. [Conclusion]The qualified rate of secondary water supply in Liuzhou City is low,so the supervision and management should be strengthened.
Provider Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment Implementation and Training in Nursing Facilities in Hawai‘i

A Provider Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) document transforms medical wishes for end-of-life care into actionable medical orders. This study was conducted to assess the extent of POLST implementation amongst nursing facilities in Hawai'i. We performed a telephone survey . The survey instrument included questions about advance care planning processes, POLST training procedures, and implementation of the POLST paradigm. Data were collected in July 2014, the month POLST signatory capacity expanded to include Advance Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs). Of the 39 nursing facilities contacted, 23 (59%) responded. All but one facility had a POLST program in place. Social workers and nursing staff usually held the POLST discussions. Of the 23 responding facilities, 13 (57%) had at least one APRN provider, and 8 had APRNs involved in POLST discussions. In all but one instance, APRNs were also already signing the document. The percentage of residents with completed POLST forms per facility was reported to be over 50% for 20 out of 23 (87%) of responding nursing facilities with 10 (43%) reporting achieving 100% implementation rates. Training seminars and online educational materials were the main methods for training staff, with social workers and nurses being the focus for training. The results of this study demonstrate significant penetration of the Hawai'i POLST program into the nursing home community. Most nursing facilities required staff to undergo POLST training. Some facilities reported APRNs were already involved in signing the POLST form, only weeks after their signatory capacity was enacted.
Mechanistic Study of the Conversion of Superoxide to Oxygen and Hydrogen Peroxide in Carbon Nanoparticles

Hydrophilic carbon clusters (HCCs) are oxidized carbon nanoparticles with a high affinity for electrons. The electron accepting strength of HCCs, employing the efficient conversion of superoxide (O2•–) to molecular oxygen (O2) via single-electron oxidation, was monitored using cyclic voltammetry and electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy. We found that HCCs possess O2 reduction reaction (ORR) capabilities through a two-electron process with the formation of H2O2. By comparing results from aprotic solvents to those obtained from ORR activity in aqueous media, we propose a mechanism for the origin of the antioxidant and superoxide dismutase mimetic properties of poly(ethylene glycolated) hydrophilic carbon clusters (PEG-HCCs).
What's the best way to diagnose insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia?

Whether you're trying to pinpoint one of the underlying mechanisms behind PCOS, detect diabetes in its preclinical stage, or work up a patient with metabolic syndrome, a more in-depth understanding of the various laboratory approaches to assess insulin function can only improve your diagnostic skills.
Endothelial Antioxidant-1: a Key Mediator of Copper-dependent Wound Healing in vivo

Copper (Cu), an essential nutrient, promotes wound healing, however, target of Cu action and underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Cu chaperone Antioxidant-1 (Atox1) in the cytosol supplies Cu to the secretory enzymes such as lysyl oxidase (LOX), while Atox1 in the nucleus functions as a Cu-dependent transcription factor. Using mouse cutaneous wound healing model, here we show that Cu content (by X-ray Fluorescence Microscopy) and nuclear Atox1 are increased after wounding, and that wound healing with and without Cu treatment is impaired in Atox1−/− mice. Endothelial cell (EC)-specific Atox1−/− mice and gene transfer of nuclear-target Atox1 in Atox1−/− mice reveal that Atox1 in ECs as well as transcription factor function of Atox1 are required for wound healing. Mechanistically, Atox1−/− mice show reduced Atox1 target proteins such as p47phox NADPH oxidase and cyclin D1 as well as extracellular matrix Cu enzyme LOX activity in wound tissues. This in turn results in reducing O2− production in ECs, NFkB activity, cell proliferation and collagen formation, thereby inhibiting angiogenesis, macrophage recruitment and extracellular matrix maturation. Our findings suggest that Cu-dependent transcription factor/Cu chaperone Atox1 in ECs plays an important role to sense Cu to accelerate wound angiogenesis and healing.
Through a Looking-Glass: Invention and Imagination in the Visual Rhetoric of William Caxton's Mirrour and Description of the World and Stephen Hawes's Pastime of Pleasure

This paper explores the intersections of visual rhetoric, cognition, and phenomenology in two early illustrated print texts, William Caxton9s Mirrour and Description of the World and Stephen Hawes9s Pastime of Pleasure . Through this analysis, I argue that the visual, material features of these works (illustrations, inscriptions), in addition to their spatial figures and metaphors (mirrors, colors, and measurements), mediate and connect reader to image, perceiver and perceived object, and rhetorical form and matter. Caxton9s Mirrour and Hawes9s Pastime portray rhetoric as ultimately dependent on the visual imagination, or fantasy, of the reader.
Frequencies of major C3, C4, and CAM perennials on different slopes in the northwestern Sonoran Desert

Summary Of the thirty-three perennial species recorded along line transects at a site in the northwestern Sonoran Desert, nine species were succulents from different families (Cactaceae, Crassulaceae, and Agavaceae) and a further eight were from the Asteraceae. The CAM succulent Agave deserti, the C3 drought-deciduous Encelia farinosa, and the C4 bunchgrass Pleuraphis rigida were codominant, with 33%, 13%, and 15%, respectively, of the total cover. Agave deserti, which is clonal and had a clumped distribution, was the most abundant species on all slopes except south-facing ones, where the randomly distributed E. farinosa was dominant. Encelia farinosa was infrequent on west- and north-facing slopes, were the randomly distributed P. rigida reached its maximum cover. Although intra- and interspecific competition was evident for all three species, their frequency was dependent predominantly on microclimate.
Examining the Efficacy of Peer Network Interventions on the Social Interactions of High School Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Developing positive peer relationships is important. Unfortunately, due to challenges in social communication and increased complexity of peer groups during adolescence, many secondary students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) engage in limited positive social interactions with peers. This study examined the effects of a peer network intervention implemented with three high school students with ASD. A multiple-baseline across participants design was used to evaluate the intervention on initiations and responses to and from students with ASD. The impact on frequency of victimization of students with ASD was also explored. Results indicate peer networks are effective at increasing social interactions of secondary students with ASD and provide preliminary support for the use of peer networks to reduce rates of bullying victimization.