cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Architecture-driven modeling of real-time concurrent systems with applications in FMS

Abstract Petri nets have become increasingly popular for flexible manufacturing systems (FMS) modeling and control because they accurately capture the concurrent, non-deterministic and time-dependent properties of the systems. While offering many advantages, conventional Petri net models suffer from some serious problems that limit their usability as design models for complex FMS. Central to these problems is the lack of an engineering support for incremental design, refinement, and analysis of large-scale systems. In this paper, we present an architecture-driven approach for the modeling and design of FMS that effectively addresses the problems while leveraging the strengths of Petri nets. The approach has two major aspects: The first is a Net-based and Object-based Architectural Model (NOAM) that introduces a well-founded architectural framework into the Petri nets notation and lays a foundation to support formal design. The second is a modeling method based on NOAM that uses architecture decomposition and refinement as the basis to reduce design complexity, to provide smooth transition from informal to formal design, and to support incremental refinement and analysis. A case study using NOAM for FMS modeling is provided to show the applicability of our approach.
An Agent-Based Architecture for Context-Aware Communication

We propose an agent-based architecture that allows context-aware communication between users. In seeking a model that is suitable for the design of the required functionalities of our framework, we identify significant overlap between the concepts needed in our domain and those used in the Belief-Desire-Intention (BDI) models of agency. We present a comprehensive attempt to use the BDI model for describing the architecture and protocols of our context-aware communication system, which includes a mechanism for handling conflicting user policies.
Application of Neutral Detergent Fiber in Modeling Feed Intake, Lactation Response, and Body Weight Changes in Dairy Cattle

Abstract A computer simulation model was developed using theoretical equations to predict DM intake in dairy cattle when the NDF and energy content of the diet and the energy requirements of the animal were known. An adjustment factor for NDF quality was determined to account for differences in intake with legume-based and grass-based diets when formulated at equal NDF content. Mathematical functions were developed from actual data to describe body reserve tissue mobilization and deposition and used to refine the determination of energy requirements and energy balance of the animal. Actual data on milk production and BW changes of Holstein cows under three feeding systems (individual concentrate, one- and two-group total mixed rations) were used to evaluate the model. There was good agreement between observed and predicted production responses, except for the one group total mixed ration, where daily milk yield was over-predicted during early lactation. Further calculations showed that the amount of available CP was too low to support the high milk production that the model predicted in early lactation with the one-group feeding system. This problem was corrected by incorporating a protein restriction on milk production using NRC guidelines.
Optimal operation of flexible post-combustion CO2 capture in response to volatile electricity prices

Abstract Flexibly operating post-combustion carbon dioxide (CO2) capture in response to electricity prices should improve overall CO2 capture economics. Optimization and rule-based models are used to simulate a 500 megawatt coal-fired facility that adjusts the operating point of its amine CO2 scrubbing system to maximize profits in response to volatile electricity prices. Between CO2 prices of 20 and 70 U.S. dollars per metric ton (USD/ tCO2), a flexible capture system that vents CO2 while increasing power output can maintain significant CO2 emissions reductions while improving annual operating profits by up to 10% over inflexible capture. The benefits of venting diminish at high CO2 prices, but a solvent storage system that permits high CO2 absorption during partial-load stripping and compression achieves a 9–29% profit advantage at 30–100 USD/ tCO2. Profit improvements with flexibility appear insensitive to CO2 capture ramping limitations. This case study also suggests that solvent storage should only be large enough to take advantage of high electricity prices for 15–30 minutes each day.
Chemical imaging of microvias in flip chip pin grid array packages using time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectroscopy

Distribution of chemical species in cross sectioned micro- via were observed using the Time-of-Flight-Secondary-Ion- Mass-Spectroscopy (TOF-SIMS). The TOF-SIMS combines high molecular and elemental detection sensitivities and good lateral resolution for detection of molecular and elemental content in the micro-via and surrounding structures of the flip-chip-pin-grid array packages fabricated from several sources. The data obtained indicate that it is feasible to compare and monitor organic package fabrication processes using TOF-SIMS chemical images.© (2000) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
II.6 Alterations in steroid hormone receptors in the tamoxifen-treated endometrium

Abstract Although the mechanism of tamoxifen-induced endometrial neoplasia is thought to be via an oestrogenic effect of tamoxifen, there are few data confirming this. Since sex steroid hormones regulate endometrial growth via interaction with their receptors, oestrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR), a clinicopathological evaluation was performed to determine if these seemingly oestrogenic-like actions of tamoxifen on the uterus are associated with alterations in the expression of endometrial steroid receptors. To evaluate whether tamoxifen has oestrogenic endometrial effects as defined by histology or alterations in steroid receptor expression, 19 postmenopausal (PMP) tamoxifen-treated breast cancer patients who also had endometrial sampling were identified. To examine the subgroup of 15 polyps, age-matched, non-hormonally treated patients with polyps (n = 8) or atrophic endometria (n = 5) served as comparison groups. Proliferative (n = 3) and secretory (n = 5) endometria were procedural controls. Immunohistochemistry (IH) for steroid receptor ER and PR was performed.
The predictive value of intraoperative electrocorticography in resections for limbic epilepsy associated with mesial temporal sclerosis.

OBJECTIVE: Prior studies on the predictive value of intraoperative electrocorticography (ECoG) have been performed on heterogeneous groups of patients with both temporal and extratemporal interictal spikes, lesional and nonlesional pathological findings, and variably extensive resections by different surgeons. METHODS: We performed both pre- and postresection intraoperative ECoG on 29 consecutive patients with medial temporal lobe epilepsy (17 left-sided) who underwent standard nontailored resections by one surgeon (RRG). All patients had only temporal interictal spikes (six bitemporal) and mesial temporal sclerosis diagnosed by preoperative magnetic resonance imaging and confirmed by pathological examination of resected tissue. RESULTS: After a mean follow-up of 24.8 months, there were 15 (52%) patients who were seizure-free, 6 (21%) who were seizure-free except for auras, and 8 (28%) who had any seizure after the 1st postoperative month. Fourteen patients (48%) had active interictal discharges outside the area of planned resection revealed by preresection ECoG. Neither the presence of these spikes nor their mean frequency correlated with seizure outcome. Eleven patients (38%) had residual spike discharges after resection, and 18 patients (62%) had new spikes revealed by the postresection ECoG. Neither of these findings nor the mean spike frequency of residual or new spikes related to seizure outcome. Persistent spikes increased in frequency after resection in all outcome groups. CONCLUSION: Electrocorticographic monitoring of interictal epileptiform activity intraoperatively is not useful in the surgical treatment of patients undergoing standard resection for medial temporal lobe epilepsy with magnetic resonance imaging evidence of mesial temporal sclerosis.
Notes on host relationships and host specificity of mites of the genus Pygmephorus (Acari: Pygmephoridae) on insectivores and rodents from Mount Carleton Provincial park, New Brunswick

Abstract A total of 7 species of Pygmephorus was taken on 269 small mammal hosts (insectivores and rodents) of 15 species from Mount Carleton Provincial Park, New Brunswick. (One of the species is new and will be described later.) Insectivores harbored far more individuals and species of Pygmephorus than did rodents, and microtine rodents harbored slightly more individuals than other rodents. Pygmephorus horridus Mahunka was the dominant species, followed by P. moreohorridus Mahunka and P. lutterloughae Smiley and Whitaker. Host specificity was not developed.
Differentiating LGBT Individuals in Substance Abuse Treatment: Analyses Based on Sexuality and Drug Preference

In a prior study (Cochran & Cauce, 2006), LGBT individuals seeking treatment demonstrated greater substance use severity, more psychosocial stressors, and increased use of psychiatric services when compared to their heterosexual counterparts. That study, and similar to others in the field of LGBT research, collapsed LGBT individuals into a single category and did not examine individual differences within this category. The present study utilizes the same sample of LGBT clients (N = 610); however, an exploratory cluster analysis was conducted, based on drug preference, to determine which subcategories exist within this unique sample. In a subsequent set of analyses, the sample was divided based on sexuality to determine if there were differences between these groups on psychosocial functioning variables. Results indicated three distinct clusters, which differed in both demographic characteristics and severity of substance use problems. Groups based on sexuality differed in terms of primary problem substance, as well as psychosocial variables. Implications for treatment of these subgroups are discussed.
Use of a dose‐dependent follow‐up protocol and mechanisms to reduce patients and staff radiation exposure in congenital and structural interventions

Background: Increasingly complex structural/congenital cardiac interventions require efforts at reducing patient/staff radiation exposure. Standard follow-up protocols are often inadequate in detecting all patients that may have sustained radiation burns. Methods: Single-center retrospective chart review divided into four intervals. Phase 1 (07/07–06/08, 413 procedures (proc)): follow-up based on fluoroscopy time only; frame rate for digital acquisition (DA) 30 fps, and fluoroscopy (FL) 30 fps. Dose-based follow-up was used for phase 2–4. Phase 2 (07/08–08/09, 458 proc): DA: 30 fps, FL: 15 fps. Phase 3 (09/09–06/10, 350 proc): DA: 15–30 fps, FL: 15 fps, use of added radiation protection drape. Phase 4 (07/10–10/10, 89 proc): DA: 15–30 fps, FL: 15 fps, superior noise reduction filter (SNRF) with high-quality fluoro-record capabilities. Results: There was a significant reduction in the median cumulative air kerma between the four study periods (710 mGy vs. 566 mGy vs. 498 mGy vs. 241 mGy, P < 0.001), even though the overall fluoroscopy times remained very similar (25 min vs. 26 min vs. 26 min vs. 23 min, P = 0.957). There was a trend towards lower physician radiation exposure over the four study periods (137 mrem vs. 126 mrem vs. 108 mrem vs. 59 mrem, P = 0.15). Fifteen patients with radiation burns were identified during the study period. When changing to a dose-based follow-up protocol (phase 1 vs. phase 2), there was a significant increase in the incidence of detected radiation burns (0.5% vs. 2%, P = 0.04). Conclusions: Dose-based follow-up protocols are superior in detecting radiation burns when compared to fluoroscopy time-based protocols. Frame rate reduction of fluoroscopy and cine acquisition and use of modified imaging equipment can achieve a significant reduction to patient/staff exposure. © 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
The role of childhood maltreatment in the altered trait and global expression of personality in cocaine addiction

Background and aims Drug addictions are debilitating disorders that are highly associated with personality abnormalities. Early life stress (ELS) is a common risk factor for addiction and personality disturbances, but the relationships between ELS, addiction, and personality are poorly understood.
Crossover from two- to three-dimensional behavior in superfluids.

We have studied the superfluid density ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\rho}}}_{\mathit{s}}$ on various size lattices in the geometry L\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}L\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}H by numerical simulation of the x-y model using the cluster Monte Carlo method. Applying the Kosterlitz-Thouless-Nelson renormalization-group equations for the superfluid density we have been able to extrapolate to the L\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\ensuremath{\infty} limit for a given value of H. In the superfluid phase we find that the superfluid density faithfully obeys the expected scaling law with H, using the experimental value for the critical exponent \ensuremath{\nu}=0.6705. For the sizes of film thickness studied here the critical temperature ${\mathit{T}}_{\mathit{c}}^{2\mathrm{D}}$(H) is in agreement with the expected H dependence deduced from general scaling ideas.
Raman spectra of glassy carbon

The Raman spectrum of glassy carbon has been measured. Two broad lines are observed at 1340 and 1590 cm−1. These results are consistent with the turbostratic structure, which has been suggested for glassy carbon, with a particle size La of approximately 30 A.
Swift – The First 100 Gamma-Ray Bursts

Gamma Ray Bursts are the largest explosions in the Universe, and the recently launched Swift mission is a multi-wavelength observatory that has greatly expanded our ability to study them. Swift's wide-field gamma-ray camera is detecting about 100 bursts per year that are quickly viewed with sensitive X-ray and UV/optical telescopes on the observatory. Positions are rapidly released to the world to enable ground-based observations. Results from the first year of observations will be presented. The mystery of short GRBs has been solved, very high redshift bursts discovered, and enormous X-ray flares found in afterglows.
CB3-01: Comparison of Ethnicity and Race Categorization in Electronic Medical Records and by Self-report

Background/Aims: In the US heart disease is the number one cause of death and stroke is the leading cause of adult disability. Early treatment, received within three-hours after a heart attack or a stroke, is critical to lowering the risk of disability and/or death. Understanding the symptoms and signs of heart attacks and strokes are important not only in saving lives, but also in preserving quality of life. Findings from recent research have yielded that the prevalence of cardiovascular disease risk factors are higher in rural populations, suggesting that adults living in rural locales may be at higher risk for heart attack and/or stroke. Knowledge of heart attack and stroke symptomology as well as calling 911 as the appropriate first response to suspected heart attack or stroke are essential first steps in seeking care. This study sought to examine the knowledge of heart attack and stroke symptoms among rural adults in comparison to non-rural adults living in the US. Methods: Using multivariate techniques, a cross-sectional analysis of an amalgamated multi-year Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey (BRFSS) database was performed. The dependent variable for this analysis was low heart attack and stroke knowledge score. The covariates for the analysis were: age, sex, race/ethnicity, annual household income, attained education, health insurance status, health care provider (HCP), timing of last routine medical check-up, medical care deferment, self-defined health status and geographic locale. Results: Logistic regression analysis revealed that those US adults who had low composite heart attack and stroke knowledge scores were more likely to be rural (OR=1.218 95%CI 1.216-1.219) rather than non-rural residents. Furthermore, those with low scores were more likely to be: male (OR=1.353 95%CI 1.352-1.354), >65 years of age (OR=1.369 95%CI 1.368-1.371), African American (OR=1.892 95%CI 1.889-1.894), not educated beyond high school (OR=1.400 955CI 1.3991.402), uninsured (OR=1.308 95%CI 1.3-6-1.310), without a HCP (OR=1.216 95%CI 1.215-1.218), and living in a household with <$50,000 annual income(OR= 1.429 95%CI 1.428-1.431). Discussion: Analysis identified clear disparities between the knowledge levels US adults have regarding heart attack and stroke symptoms. These disparities should inform education
Understanding the complexities of student motivations in mathematics learning

Abstract Student motivation has long been a concern of mathematics educators. However, commonly held distinctions between intrinsic and extrinsic motivations may be insufficient to inform our understandings of student motivations in learning mathematics or to appropriately shape pedagogical decisions. Here, motivation is defined, in general, as an individual's desire, power, and tendency to act in particular ways. We characterize details of motivation in mathematical learning through qualitative analysis of honors calculus students’ extended, collaborative problem solving efforts within a longitudinal research project in learning and teaching. Contextual Motivation Theory emerges as an interpretive means for understanding the complexities of student motivations. Students chose to act upon intellectual-mathematical motivations and social-personal motivations that manifested simultaneously. Students exhibited intellectual passion in persisting beyond obtaining correct answers to build understandings of mathematical ideas. Conceptually driven conditions that encourage mathematical necessity are shown to support the growth of intellectual passion in mathematics learning.
Studies on the use of non-Rayleigh statistics for ultrasonic tissue characterization

The research groups at Drexel University and Thomas Jefferson University had proposed the use of non-Rayleigh statistics for tissue characterization. Previous work based on the hypothesis that the envelope of the backscattered echosignal from abnormal regions of the tissue is more likely to be K-distributed than Rayleigh distributed, used the parameter of the K-distribution, M, to distinguish between regions containing benign or malignant masses and normal ones. In this work the B-scan breast images of 19 patients were studied using this approach. Previous studies have also been extended to exploit the existence of non-uniform phase characteristics of the echosignal from scatterers with some regular spacings, such as those in a periodic or quasi-periodic alignment. Computer simulations were carried out to show that the phase statistics deviate significantly from uniform in the range of {0, 2π} if the imaging region contained a number of periodically aligned (regular lattice) scatterers along with a collection of randomly distributed scatterers resulting in a quasi-periodic arrangement. This methodology was then applied to B-scan images of the breasts to distinguish between benign and malignant masses. If benign lesions show some sort of quasi-periodic or regular structures in the tissue, they will present non-uniform phase characteristics while more randomly structured malignant masses will have uniform phase characteristics. It is seen that the K-distribution may be used to identify the abnormal regions in the breast images and information on the phase may be used to further separate the abnormal regions into benign and malignant ones.
Self-adaptive optical holography in quantum wells

Dynamic holography in photorefractive quantum well heterostructures has opened a wide new range of optical applications that utilize the ability of the hologram to adapt to environmental disturbances or to changes in the signal of interest. Examples of applications include 3D imaging through turbid media, femtosecond pulse processing and compensation, and adaptive laser-based ultrasound detection.© (1999) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Price and income distortions under separate spending and taxing decisions

Abstract This paper analyzes the extent to which intergovernmental grants create a discrepancy between the local voter's actual and perceived budget constraints. The model is innovative in that it introduces grant illusion due to income misperceptions, theoretically distinguishes illusion caused by income distortions from illusion caused by price distortions, and separately tests for the magnitude of each. Empirical analysis identifies both price and income misperceptions as significant determinants of voter behavior. These unbiased estimates reveal that previous research has misspecified the budget constraint, resulting in overestimation of the stimulative effects of intergovernmental grants on local expenditure.
Differential immunotoxic effects of inorganic and organic mercury species in vitro

Abstract Despite the fact that humans are exposed to multiple forms of mercury (elemental, inorganic, and organic), most research on mercury toxicity has focused on methylmercury (MeHg) and on neurotoxic outcomes and mechanisms. Recent work has indicated that the immunotoxic effects of mercury compounds may be significant contributors to human disease as well as mechanistically relevant to other target organ toxicities. In this study, we compared the effects of inorganic Hg (iHg) to organic Hg species (MeHg and ethylmercury, EtHg) in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in vitro at sub-cytotoxic concentrations, using methods developed to characterize response of human PBMCs to iHg in vitro . PBMCs were isolated from six volunteer blood donors (three males and three females) and cultured in the presence and absence of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and low levels (up to 200 nM of each Hg species, separately) for 24 h in culture. Cell culture supernatants were analyzed for cytokine concentrations with a bead-based multiplex assay. We report that iHg and MeHg both increase pro-inflammatory cytokine release in LPS-stimulated PBMCs, while EtHg decreases IFN-γ release as well pro-inflammatory cytokine release. IL-17 release is significantly increased only in response to iHg treatment. Levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1Ra and IL-10) were not significantly altered by any Hg treatment. These results indicate that both organic and inorganic species of Hg can affect the human immune system, but that they may exert different effects on immune function.
Bioavailability of uranium and nickel to vegetation in a contaminated riparian ecosystem.

The lower portion of Tims Branch (TB), a second-order stream system on the Savannah River site (SC, USA), receives influx of mixed waste-contaminated sediments from Steed Pond, a former settling basin for target processing wastes for over three decades. The magnitude and distribution of U, Ni, and other metals and the potential for trophic movement were studied to facilitate risk assessment and determine potential remedial action. Total and sequential extraction of TB soils demonstrated contaminant heterogeneity both spatially and between operationally defined fractions. Metal concentrations were elevated within riparian zone soils in contrast to stream sediments, suggesting off-site transport. Leaf tissue from TB contained an order of magnitude more Ni than tissue from reference sites. Leaves from streamside trees contained no U but elevated Ni up to 75.4 (±25) mg/kg dry weight (dry wt). Understory flora (Discanthelium sp. and Andropogon sp.) contained high concentrations of U associated with leaves up to 518 (±7.5) mg/kg dry weight U. The contrast in contaminant content and ratio of streamside and understory vegetation may result from resuspension of particulate U and Ni onto leaf surfaces and represents a potential pathway for trophic movement. The findings of this study have important ramifications for remediation of the ecosystem, suggesting that a strategy based on contaminant immobilization may be the most appropriate.
Arrestin/Clathrin Interaction LOCALIZATION OF THE CLATHRIN BINDING DOMAIN OF NONVISUAL ARRESTINS TO THE CARBOXYL TERMINUS

We have recently demonstrated that the nonvisual arrestins, β-arrestin and arrestin3, interact with high affinity and stoichiometrically with clathrin, and we postulated that this interaction mediates internalization of G protein-coupled receptors (Goodman, O. B., Jr., Krupnick, J. G., Santini, F., Gurevich, V. V., Penn, R. B., Gagnon, A. W., Keen, J. H., and Benovic, J. L. (1996)Nature 383, 447–450). In this study, we localized the clathrin binding domain of arrestin3 using a variety of approaches. Truncation mutagenesis demonstrated that the COOH-terminal half of arrestin3 is required for clathrin interaction. Assessment of the clathrin binding properties of various glutathione S-transferase-arrestin3 fusion proteins indicated that the predominant clathrin binding domain is contained within residues 367–385. Alanine scanning mutagenesis further localized this domain to residues 371–379, and site-directed mutagenesis demonstrated the critical importance of both hydrophobic (Leu-373, Ile-374, and Phe-376) and acidic (Glu-375 and Glu-377) residues in the arrestin3/clathrin interaction. These results are complementary to the observation that hydrophobic and basic residues in clathrin are critical for its interaction with nonvisual arrestins (Goodman, O. B., Jr., Krupnick, J. G., Gurevich, V. V., Benovic, J. L., and Keen, J. H. (1997)J. Biol. Chem. 272, 15017–15022). Lastly, an arrestin3 mutant in which Leu-373, Ile-374, and Phe-376 were mutated to Ala was significantly defective in its ability to promote β2-adrenergic receptor internalization in COS-1 cells when compared with wild-type arrestin3. Taken together, these results implicate a discrete region of arrestin3 in high affinity binding to clathrin, an interaction critical for agonist-promoted internalization of the β2-adrenergic receptor.
Introversion-extraversion and loud commercials

The introversion-extraversion dimension of Hans Eysenck's personality theory, combined with the theory proposed by Daniel E. Berlyne that hedonic value changes with changes in arousal level, are used to examine the effect that high intensity advertising appeals have on the audience. It was hypothesized that advertising appeals presented at a higher stimulus intensity than the program in which they are imbedded (e.g., commercials presented at a higher volume) would have a differential effect on individuals due, in part, to whether they were introverts or extraverts. In a preliminary test of this hypothesis, participants were exposed to either a radio commercial played at the same volume as the program or to one that was played at a higher volume. Their attitudes toward the commercial and the product were assessed. The results indicate that there is a difference between introverts and extraverts in the resulting attitude toward the product based on the type of appeal to which they were exposed.
Implementation of dynamical nucleation theory effective fragment potentials method for modeling aerosol chemistry.

In this work, the dynamical nucleation theory (DNT) model using the ab initio based effective fragment potential (EFP) is implemented for evaluating the evaporation rate constant and molecular properties of molecular clusters. Predicting the nucleation rates of aerosol particles in different chemical environments is a key step toward understanding the dynamics of complex aerosol chemistry. Therefore, molecular scale models of nanoclusters are required to understand the macroscopic nucleation process. On the basis of variational transition state theory, DNT provides an efficient approach to predict nucleation kinetics. While most DNT Monte Carlo simulations use analytic potentials to model critical sized clusters, or use ab initio potentials to model very small clusters, the DNTEFP Monte Carlo method presented here can treat up to critical sized clusters using the effective fragment potential (EFP), a rigorous nonempirical intermolecular model potential based on ab initio electronic structure theory calcul...
Late Quaternary Geology of the Middle Gila River, Gila River Indian Reservation, Arizona

Stratigraphy and dating provide an 18,000 yr record of erosion and deposition by the middle Gila River. Prior to 18,000 cal yr B.P., the Gila River cut into its floodplain and created a deep, wide channel. Sand and gravel accumulated within this channel until 4250–4400 cal yr B.P. By this time, the channel of the Gila River was narrow and deep. Around 5000 cal yr B.P., fine-grained sediments began to accumulate on the floodplain. At 800–950 cal yr B.P., there was a major period of channel widening. After this erosional episode, the channel again narrowed as it filled with sand and gravel until around 200 cal yr B.P. On the floodplain, deposition continued from about 5000 cal yr B.P. to 500 cal yr B.P. A period of stability and soil formation occurred on the floodplain between 500 and 200 cal yr B.P., after which overbank deposition resumed and buried the soil. Channel widening again occurred in the late 19th century. The changes observed in the sedimentologic history of the Gila River show that during the late Pleistocene, the Gila River was a competent stream capable of carrying and depositing coarse sediment loads. Later deposition of sand and gravel during the first half of the Holocene implies an increase in sediment yield from upstream watersheds. Changes during the last 4000 years reflect the response of the river to climatic perturbations, the timing of large floods, internal landscape thresholds, and human impacts.
Applying Semantic Web Technologies to Ontology Alignment

Ontologies are the backbone of intelligent computing on the World Wide Web but also crucial in many decision support situations. Many sophisticated tools have been developed to support working with ontologies, including prominently exploiting the vast array of existing ontologies. A system called ALIGN is developed that demonstrates how to use freely available tools to facilitate ontology alignment. First two ontologies are built with the ontology editor Protege and represented in OWL. ALIGN then accesses these ontologies via Java's JENA framework and SPARQL queries. The efficacy of the ALIGN prototype is demonstrated on a drug-drug interaction problem. The prototype could readily be applied to other domains or be incorporated into decision support tools.
Genetic manipulation of immunoglobulin binding proteins of Haemophilus somnus

Abstract The relationship of the 76 kDa immunoglobulin binding, surface antigen (p76) of Haemophilus somnus to the high molecular weight immunoglobulin binding proteins (HMW IgBPs) was investigated. The kanamycin resistance gene from pLS88 was used via homologous recombination with allelic exchange to replace a portion of the gene encoding IgBPs of H. somnus strain 8025. Recombinants were shown by Western immunoblotting to express and secrete truncated antigens of approximately 200 kDa and not to produce p76. The truncated HMW IgBP variants retained the ability to bind bovine IgG2 by the Fc portion as demonstrated by Western immunoblotting against IgG2 anti-DNP. This data indicated that the deleted 1.8 kb BglII fragment was not required for secretion or immunoglobulin Fc binding by the HMW IgBPs but was required for expression of the downstream p76 gene. Functional studies showed that, in addition to Fc binding of IgG2 to truncated HMW IgBPs, the mutant strain 8025 Kan1 was equally resistant to killing by mouse complement but less virulent than the wild type parent (8025) in a mouse septicemia model of H. somnus infection. However, mutant strain 8025 Kan1 did adhere less well than the wild type to bovine pulmonary artery endothelial cells. It is probable that p76 and the missing peptides of the HMW IgBPs play a role in this aspect of virulence and perhaps other aspects.
Processing and Performance Evaluation of Nanoclay Infused EPON828

The field of polymer-clay nanocomposites has attracted considerable attention as a method of enhancing polymer properties and extending their utility. In this research, different nanocomposites have been manufactured by modifying the EPON828 resin system through the infusion of 0.5%, 1%, 1.5% and 2% by weight of clay (Nanocor® 1.30E) nanoparticles. Mechanical properties such as flexural, compressive, tensile and high strain rate strengths and moduli of polymer matrix were improved in nano structured materials owing to their unique phase morphology and improved interfacial interactions. A dynamic Mechanical analysis was performed to monitor changes in the thermal properties of the nanocomposite. Nanoclay reinforced epoxy showed consistent improvement in all the mechanical as well as Thermomechanical properties. High strain rate compressive modulus showed a progressive improvement over the neat values for all the strain rates used. SEM micrographs of the fracture surfaces for both tensile and flexural samples showed regular and continuous patterns of cracks for the neat samples. The nanophased samples on the other hand showed multiple irregular cracks which increased in densities with nanoclay loading.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Queen dimorphism and reproductive strategies in the fire ant Solenopsis geminata (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)

Alate trapping studies of a monogyne population of the fire ant Solenopsis geminata indicate that two sizes of gynes are produced. Macrogynes, which participate in late spring and summer mating flights, are larger, fattier, and more than twice as heavy as microgynes, which participate in fall mating flights. Three patterns of gyne production were observed in 51 colonies studied: 35 produced macrogynes only, 9 produced microgynes only, and 7 produced both morphs, contributing to both summer and fall mating flights. Behavioral evidence and rearing studies suggest that macrogynes found new colonies independently, whereas microgynes achieve colony queen status by infiltrating or being adopted by established colonies. Of the total number of female alates collected from the trapped colonies, 56% were microgynes. However, because of their smaller size and lower fat content, microgynes made up only one-third of the caloric investment in female alates. By measuring the thorax lengths of queens from mature colonies, we determined that at least 56% were macrogynes and 35% or more were microgynes. These results indicate that as a reproductive strategy, colony investment in microgyne production may have at least as high a payoff as investment in macrogyne production.
Medical student responses to clinical procedure teaching in the anatomy lab.

Summary Background: The teaching of gross anatomy to first-year medical students has progressed from a ‘stand-alone’ discipline to one with much clinical emphasis. The curriculum at Loma Linda University School of Medicine has had increasing clinical correlates in recent years. We decided to supplement this with procedure demonstrations early in the course, and measure the student response. Methods: Clinical procedures were performed on cadavers in the anatomy lab. For example, pleural and pericardial effusions were simulated by placing bags of intravenous fluid in the pleural and pericardial cavities; pneumothorax and tension pneumothorax were simulated using an inflatable rubber bladder. Videos were made and then presented in sequence with gross anatomy lectures. The student response was evaluated with a survey sheet. Results: The Student response was overwhelmingly positive, with all students stating that the presentations made anatomy more relevant, and most indicating that anatomy also became easier to learn. Feedback confirmed that first-year medical students have a strong clinical orientation, which can facilitate both the teaching and learning of gross anatomy. Discussion: Advantages of having clinicians present simulated procedures in the anatomy lab include: heightened student interest; mentoring and modelling for students; introduction to clinical concepts now encountered in basic science examinations; supplementation of the thinning ranks of qualified gross anatomy teachers. The use of intravenous fluid bags and distensible bladders to simulate abnormal collections of fluid and air in body cavities is simple, inexpensive, and can be replicated in any anatomy lab.
An association between negatively biased response to neutral stimuli and antidepressant nonadherence.

Abstract Objective Our primary objective was to test whether negatively biased response to neutral physical or visual stimuli was associated with antidepressant nonadherence. Methods We surveyed 22 primary care adults receiving pharmacological treatment for depression. Somatoform complaints, in addition to interpretation of and response to neutral facial expressions (NFEs), were assessed with surveys. Seven response anchors to NFE were classified as “negative” or “neutral/positive.” Antidepressant adherence was ascertained after 3 months by self-report and pharmacy refill records. Results Elevated somatoform complaints were associated with early antidepressant discontinuation ( P =.01). Exclusively negative emotional response to NFE, reported by 55% (12/22) of subjects, was associated with clinically significant missed antidepressant doses ( R =−.69, P =.0004). Two multivariate models adjusted for depressive symptoms demonstrated that exclusively positive or neutral emotional response to NFE was associated with improved adherence relative to an exclusively negative response (beta=34.0, t =3.7, P =.002); the somatoform complaints subscale “health concerns” adversely influenced depressive symptom improvement (beta=−.3, t =−3.0, P =.008). Conclusion Negatively biased responses to neutral stimuli in the physical and visual axes were associated with early antidepressant discontinuation and missed doses, respectively. If substantiated, these initial findings might contribute to improved understanding and treatment of antidepressant nonadherence.
Interactions of melanocytes and melanoma cells with the microenvironment

Normal or malignant melanocytes interact with the microenvironment through the release of soluble factors from cells and through direct cell-cell contact. Melanoma cells produce a large number of different growth factors and cytokines that affect angiogenesis, stroma formation, motility, and the inflammatory and immune response. Most of the angiogenic growth factors produced by melanoma cells are also mitogenic for fibroblasts. The mechanisms and the receptors involved in direct cell-cell contacts of melanocytes and melanoma cells are largely unknown, but the regulatory role of keratinocytes for melanocytic cells appears at several levels. Keratinocytes induce a dendritic morphology in melanocytes, and control proliferation to maintain a constant keratinocyte/melanocyte ratio during exponential growth. Expression of cell surface adhesion receptors is controlled by keratinocytes on melanocytes and nevus cells but not on advanced melanoma cells. These studies underline the complex interactions between skin cells. The escape of melanocytes from the control by keratinocytes may be a hallmark of nevus cells, and the constitutive production of various growth factors and cytokines appears to represent a major characteristic of melanoma cells.
On the asymptotic solutions of a differential equation with multiple singular points

Abstract A singularly perturbed model problem with multiple distinct regular singular points is studied. The uniform approximation of Wazwaz and Hanson (1986) is effectively extended to many singular points, thus establishing a generalized version of that theorem where the classic inner and outer expansions are not employed. A leading order general asymptotic solution is correctly represented by a set of matched exponential asymptotic expansions, where each approximation contains dominant and recessive terms. The resonance criteria due to the influence of multiple singular points are discussed. For an even number of singular points, the eigenvalues were found to be positive with a minimal eigenvalue. However, negative eigenvalues with a maximal eigenvalue arise for an odd number of singular points. The maximal and the minimal eigenvalue may not be unique and each is 0(1).
WAVE FUNCTION OF A BROWNIAN PARTICLE

Using the Hamiltonian of Caldirola [Nuovo Cimento 18, 393 (1941)] and Kanai [Prog. Theor. Phys. 3, 440 (1948)], we study the time evolution of the wave function of a particle whose classical motion is governed by the Langevin equation $m\mathrm{x\ifmmode\ddot\else\textasciidieresis\fi{}}+\ensuremath{\eta}\mathrm{x\ifmmode \dot{}\else \.{}\fi{}}=F(t).$ We show in particular that if the initial wave function is Gaussian, then (i) it remains Gaussian for all times, (ii) its width grows, approaching a finite value when $\stackrel{\ensuremath{\rightarrow}}{t}\ensuremath{\infty},$ and (iii) its center describes a Brownian motion and so the uncertainty in the position of the particle grows without limit.
Influence of sea-salt activated chlorine and surface-mediated renoxification on the weekend effect in the South Coast Air Basin of California

High ozone mixing ratios are a serious concern of public health. While ozone concentrations are high on weekdays due to anthropogenic emissions, they are often higher on weekends. This phenomenon has been named the weekend effect. This study uses the University of California, Irvine-California Institute of Technology (UCI-CIT) air quality model to assess the weekend effect in the South Coast Air Basin (SoCAB) of California. The weekend effect is reproduced by the model using an emissions inventory that includes representative weekday and weekend emissions. Additionally, this study modifies the Caltech Atmospheric Chemistry Mechanism (CACM), used in the UCI-CIT model, by introducing new heterogeneous reactions involving nitrogen oxides and chlorine. Eight modeling scenarios that include the nitrogen oxide renoxification and heterogeneous/multiphase chlorine reactions are presented to quantify how these reactions impact the weekend effect. The renoxification reaction and chlorine chemistry are found to increase ozone levels during weekdays and weekend days. However, increases in weekdays are generally larger than these increases that occur in the weekend. As a result, renoxification and chlorine chemistry lead to a net decrease in the average weekend effect intensity. The influence of renoxification on the weekend effect depends on the reaction probability (P), and the impact on the weekend effect is significant for P larger than 0.1. The influence of chlorine chemistry on the weekend effect depends strongly on the sea-salt source function that activates the chlorine chemistry. An amplification factor of 10 for the sea-salt source function, which produces the best agreement with observed chlorine levels in the SoCAB, leads to a basin-wide overall decrease of 29% in the weekend effect intensity with respect to the base case.
Comparative toxicities of the polychlorinated dibenzofuran (PCDF) and biphenyl (PCB) mixtures which persist in Yusho victims

Abstract The toxic Yusho oil contained a mixture of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) which were contaminated by other halogenated aromatics including the highly toxic polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs). It has been reported that the PCBs and PCDFs which persist in the liver of victims still suffering from Yusho poisoning include the following compounds; 2,3′,4,4′,5-penta-,2,2′,4,4′,5,5′-,2,2′,3′,4,4′,5- and 2,3,3′,4,4′,5-hexa, 2,2′,3,4,4′,5,5′- and 2,2′,3,3′,4,4′,5-heptachlorobiphenyls and the 2,3,7,8-tetra-, 1,2,4,7,8-, 1,2,3,7,8- and 2,3,4,7,8-penta- and 1,2,3,4,7,8-hexachlorodibenzofurans. All of these PCBs and PCDFs have been synthesized and reconstituted to approximate their composition in human liver. A comparison of the dose-response effects of the reconstituted PCB and PCDF mixtures in causing weight loss, thymic atrophy and the induction of cytochrome P-448-dependent monooxygenases indicated that the PCDF mixture was at least 700 times more active than the PCBs. Since the ratio of PCBs/PCDFs persisting in Yusho patients' blood and liver was less than 600:1 and 5:1 respectively, the results suggest that the PCDFs are the major etiologic agent in Yusho poisoning.
Signal Transduction at Point-Blank Range: Analysis of a Spatial Coupling Mechanism for Pathway Crosstalk

The plasma membrane provides a physical platform for the orchestration of molecular interactions and biochemical conversions involved in the early stages of receptor-mediated signal transduction in living cells. In that context, we introduce here the concept of spatial coupling, wherein simultaneous recruitment of different enzymes to the same receptor scaffold facilitates crosstalk between different signaling pathways through the local release and capture of activated signaling molecules. To study the spatiotemporal dynamics of this mechanism, we have developed a Brownian dynamics modeling approach and applied it to the receptor-mediated activation of Ras and the cooperative recruitment of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) by activated receptors and Ras. Various analyses of the model simulations show that cooperative assembly of multimolecular complexes nucleated by activated receptors is facilitated by the local release and capture of membrane-anchored signaling molecules (such as active Ras) from/by receptor-bound signaling proteins. In the case of Ras/PI3K crosstalk, the model predicts that PI3K is more likely to be recruited by activated receptors bound or recently visited by the enzyme that activates Ras. By this mechanism, receptor-bound PI3K is stabilized through short-range, diffusion-controlled capture of active Ras and Ras/PI3K complexes released from the receptor complex. We contend that this mechanism is a means by which signaling pathways are propagated and spatially coordinated for efficient crosstalk between them.
Altered expression of transforming growth factor‐α: An early event in renal cell carcinoma development

Transforming growth factor-alpha (TGF-alpha) is a multifunctional cell regulatory protein with a wide range of effects on cell growth and differentiation and has been implicated in the neoplastic transformation of a variety of cell types. Altered expression of TGF-alpha and its cognate receptor (epidermal growth factor receptor) is enhanced in human and rat renal cell carcinomas. The objective of the study reported here was to determine whether altered TGF-alpha expression is an early or late event in renal tubular oncogenesis. The immunohistochemical expression of TGF-alpha was studied in preneoplastic renal tubular lesions in a rat model of hereditary renal cell carcinoma. Strong TGF-alpha immunoreactivity was present at all stages of renal cell tumor development, including the earliest detectable dysplasias. In contrast, the non-neoplastic regenerating tubular epithelium of rat degenerative nephropathy did not stain for TGF-alpha, although this tissue exhibited a proliferative capacity similar to that observed in the dysplastic and neoplastic lesions. This study indicated that altered TGF-alpha expression was detectable early in the development of renal cell tumors and may be an important feature of the transformed phenotype.