cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The involvement of ethylene in wound-induced suberization of potato tuber (Solanum tuberosum L.): a critical assessment

Abstract The determination of hormonal requirements for wound-induced suberization is important in developing new approaches and future postharvest technologies to control various wound-related disease and defect problems in potato tuber (Solanum tuberosum L.). Although, the hormone ethylene has been shown to be involved in various kinds of plant stress, including certain wound responses, its role in suberization had not been determined. The role of ethylene in wound-induced suberization of potato tuber was examined over a 9-day wound-healing period, using a variety of ethylene biosynthesis and action inhibitors. Ethylene evolution was stimulated by wounding and reached a maximum 2–3 days after tuber wounding, and then gradually declined. The competitive inhibitor of ethylene action, 2,5-norbornadiene, had no effect on the wound-induced accumulation of suberin polyphenolic(s) (SPP). Similarly, the ethylene antagonist 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) had no apparent effect on wound-induced accumulation of SPPs or on the accumulation of suberin polyaliphatic(s) (SPA). Treatment of tubers with ethylene, applied either before or after wounding, had no effect on the induction or accumulation of either suberin biopolymer. Treatment with the ethylene biosynthesis inhibitor, aminoethoxyvinylglycine (AVG), inhibited wound-induced ethylene production by ca. 90%, but did not affect wound-induced suberization. Collectively, these results indicate that, although increased ethylene evolution is part of the tuber wound response, ethylene is not required for wound-induced suberization of the closing layer (suberization of existing cells at the wound surface) during the first 2–4 days of wound-healing or subsequent suberization of phellem cells (between 4 and 9 days) created by the wound-induced formation of the phellogen. These results are important in determining the mechanisms regulating suberization and in assuring that wound-induced suberization is not inhibited with the application of new technologies that effectively control various ethylene mediated processes in vegetables and fruit.
Abrupt closure: The CAVEAT I experience

Objectives. This study sought to assess the incidence and consequences of abrupt closure in a series of patients undergoing directional coronary atherectomy versus percutaneous coronary angioplasty. Background. Abrupt closure with coronary angioplasty has been associated with adverse outcome. The results from the Coronary Angioplasty Versus Excisional Atherectomy Trial (CAVEAT) I, a randomized trial of coronary angioplasty versus directional coronary atherectomy, were analyzed. Method. This multicenter trial enrolled 1,012 patients from 1991 to 1992. All records from patients with abrupt closure, which was coded as a discrete complication, were reviewed. Results. Abrupt closure occurred in 60 patients (5.9%) and was associated with a significantly longer hospital stay (median 8 vs. 3 days). Severe proximal target vessel tortuosity was more common in patients with abrupt closure (20.3% vs. 11.6%, p = 0.046), as was preexistent coronary artery thrombus (30.5% vs. 18.3%, p = 0.02). Abrupt closure was associated with a marked increase in subsequent complications (myocardial infarction 46.7% vs. 2.1%, emergency bypass surgery 383% vs. 0.32%, death 33% vs. 0%) and occurred more frequently in the directional coronary atherectomy group (8.0% vs. 3.8%, p = 0.005). In the coronary angioplasty group, the occlusion usually occurred at the target lesion (91%), presumably related to the effects of barotrauma. In the directional coronary atherectomy group, the site of the occlusion was the target lesion in only 58% (p = 0.045). The remaining occlusions related to problems with the technique (guide catheter or nose cone trauma), reflecting the fact that directional coronary atherectomy is a more complex procedure. Conclusions. Abrupt closure remains the principal determinant of adverse outcome after percutaneous procedures for the treatment of coronary artery disease. Although abrupt closure is more common with directional atherectomy than angioplasty, the sequelae are similar.
Tests for the Spin in the Decay of Particles of Arbitrary Spin

The polarization and angular distribution of a spin-\textonehalf{} particle produced in the decay of a fermion of arbitrary spin into two particles of spins 0 and \textonehalf{}, and in the decay of a boson of arbitrary spin into two different spin-\textonehalf{} particles, one of which is a two-component neutrino, are calculated in terms of the general decay amplitudes. The results are applied to the discussion of tests for the spin of the decaying particle. Restrictions on the possible spins are found in terms of inequalities limiting the values of certain test functions applied to the experimental angular distributions and polarizations. The results for the boson decay are used in a discussion of the spin of the ${K}_{\ensuremath{\mu}2}$ and of the possibility of lepton conservation in the ${K}_{\ensuremath{\mu}2}$ and $\ensuremath{\pi}\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{\mu}$ decays. A limit of 10% nonconservation of leptons is found if the $K$ spin is 0. Application of the spin tests to the decay of the ${\ensuremath{\Lambda}}^{0}$ hyperon provides substantial evidence that the ${\ensuremath{\Lambda}}^{0}$ spin is \textonehalf{}.
Barrier-beach erosion and rising sea level

For an equilibrium cross-shore profile, a kinematic model has been constructed that predicts the rate of shoreline erosion in response to rising sea level. Model predictions are reasonably close to observed erosional rates for several state shorelines bordering the United States coast of the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico.
A cyclophilin function in Hsp90-dependent signal transduction.

Cpr6 and Cpr7, the Saccharomyces cerevisiae homologs of cyclophilin-40 (CyP-40), were shown to form complexes with Hsp90, a protein chaperone that functions in several signal transduction pathways. Deletion of CPR7 caused severe growth defects when combined with mutations that decrease the amount of Hsp90 or Sti1, another component of the Hsp90 chaperone machinery. The activities of two heterologous Hsp90-dependent signal transducers expressed in yeast, glucocorticoid receptor and pp60v−src kinase, were adversely affected by cpr7 null mutations. These results suggest that CyP-40 cyclophilins play a general role in Hsp90-dependent signal transduction pathways under normal growth conditions.
Sexually transmitted diseases among American youth: incidence and prevalence estimates, 2000.

CONTEXT In the United States, young people aged 15–24 represent 25% of the sexually experienced population. However, the incidence and prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) among this age-group are unknown. METHODS Data from a variety of sources were used to estimate the incidence and prevalence of STDs among 15–24-year-olds in the United States in 2000. The quality and reliability of the estimates were categorized as good, fair or poor, depending on the quality of the data source. RESULTS Approximately 18.9 million new cases of STD occurred in 2000, of which 9.1 million (48%) were among persons aged 15–24. Three STDs (human papillomavirus, trichomoniasis and chlamydia) accounted for 88% of all new cases of STD among 15–24-year-olds. CONCLUSIONS These estimates emphasize the toll that STDs have on American youth. More representative data are needed to help monitor efforts at lowering the burden of these infections.
Parametric study on friction-induced coupled oscillator

This paper investigates the dynamic instability of a sliding oscillator subjected to non-linear friction force. The dynamic instability is determined by the system eigenvalues of the linearized equation of motion. Mode-coupling type instability and negative slope type instability are considered to be the mechanism generating the friction-induced vibration. The mode coupling between two vibration modes strongly depends on the system parameters such as the spring inclination angle. The conditions for the divergence and dynamic instability are presented in the mathematical form. The damping coefficient of an inclined support arm is seen to determine the modal damping separation influencing on the dynamic instability.
Aging Research with Students in a University with a Strong Teaching Mission

A National Institute on Aging-funded pilot project to study advice-giving by older adult mothers to their middle-aged daughters was undertaken in a medium-sized teaching-intensive university. The student body and community are highly diverse, and many undergraduates are first-generation college students. In this context, undergraduate psychology majors and master's students were hired as research assistants. Their tasks were to enter and check data as well as to recruit and test older-adult and middle-aged women in their homes and by telephone. The students were successful in all tasks, with the exception of recruitment, an especially difficult task even for the primary investigator. The research program also served the university's mission of community involvement.
Conductivity across random barrier distribution as origin of large low-frequency dielectric peak in perovskite crystals and ceramics

Abstract Several perovskite crystals and ceramics show very large dielectric (ϵ′) peaks at high temperature T and low frequency ƒ . In some cases these peaks are in the cubic phase far above any ferroelectric transition. Even at the peaks, the lossy part ϵ″ is larger than the real part ϵ′. The ϵ′ vs T curves for different ƒ follow the same d.c. (low-ƒ) envelope down to some T(ƒ) below which the curve for that ƒ falls below the envelope. Similarly, the conductivity (or ϵ″) data show d.c. and a.c. (high-frequency) envelopes for which data at different ƒ overlap. As a first approximation to a crystal with random barriers impeding conductivity, a model with barriers B (in T units) every lattice constant a = 4 A and barriers B + Δ every distance d is assumed. The model is fit to permittivity and conductivity data for a strontium titanate single crystal, and a good qualitative fit is obtained.
Prothymosin α Functions as a Cellular Oncoprotein by Inducing Transformation of Rodent Fibroblasts in Vitro

Prothymosin α (ProTα), a cellular molecule known to be associated with cell proliferation, is transcriptionally up-regulated on expression of c-myc and interacts with histones in vitro and associates with histone H1 in cells. Previous studies have also shown that ProTα is involved in chromatin remodeling. Recent studies have shown that ProTα interacts with the acetyl transferase p300 and an essential Epstein-Barr virus protein, EBNA3C, involved in regulation of viral and cellular transcription. These studies suggest a potential involvement in regulation of histone acetylation through the association with these cellular and viral factors. In the current studies, we show that heterologous expression of ProTα in the Rat-1 rodent fibroblast cell line results in increased proliferation, loss of contact inhibition, anchorage-independent growth, and decreased serum dependence. These phenotypic changes seen in transfected Rat-1 cells are similar to those observed with a known oncoprotein, Ras, expressed under the control of a heterologous promoter and are characteristic oncogenic growth properties. These results demonstrate that the ProTα gene may function as an oncogene when stably expressed in Rat-1 cells and may be an important downstream cellular target for inducers of cellular transformation, which may include Epstein-Barr virus and c-myc.
Matrix Cracking and Delamination Prediction in Graphite/Epoxy Laminates

Failure process in cross-plied laminates of AS4/3501-6 composite under uniaxial tension was investigated. Transverse matrix cracks in 90°-plies were found to oc cur first. These matrix cracks might or might not induce delamination before failure of the 0°-plies. A model assuming a state of uniform matrix cracking in the 90° laminas was used to predict multiplication of matrix cracks. The probabilistic effect of crack densities resulting in the subsequent change of transverse strength for multiple matrix cracking was addressed. A fracture mechanics-based progressive failure model was developed to predict initiation and propagation of matrix crack-induced delamination.
Multiple pharmacy use and types of pharmacies used to obtain prescriptions

Abstract Objectives To evaluate trends and patterns in the prevalence of multiple pharmacy use (MPU) and to describe the number and types of pharmacies used by multiple pharmacy users from 2003 to 2009. Design Retrospective, cross-sectional, descriptive study. Setting United States from 2003 to 2009. Participants 89,941 responses to the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey over 7 years. Intervention Analysis of respondent pharmacy use behaviors. Main outcome measures Annual use of more than one pharmacy and number and types of pharmacies used. Results MPU among patients using medications increased significantly during the study period (from 36.4% [95% CI 35.2–37.6] in 2003 to 43.2% [41.9–44.4] in 2009)—a relative increase of 18.7% ( P = 0.01). Multiple pharmacy users used between 2 and 17 different pharmacies per year to obtain prescription medications. Although approximately 70% of multiple pharmacy users used only two pharmacies, the proportion using three or more pharmacies increased from 24.1% (22.5–25.7) in 2003 to 29.1% (27.4–30.8) in 2009. Mail service pharmacy use had the largest relative increase among multiple pharmacy users during the study period (27.2%), and MPU was nearly twice as high (75%) among mail service users compared with non–mail service users. Conclusion MPU is common on a national level and has increased greatly in recent years. Patient use of pharmacies that have the potential to share medication information electronically is low among multiple pharmacy users, suggesting increased workload for pharmacists and potential medication safety concerns. This has important implications for pharmacists, as it potentially impedes their ability to maintain accurate medication profiles for patients.
Suppurative thyroiditis in children: a management algorithm.

Objective:To elucidate the etiology of suppurative thyroiditis in children and recommend a management algorithm.Methods:Case series of 5 pediatric patients with a diagnosis of suppurative thyroiditis seen between January 1999 and April 2007.Results:All 5 patients primarily presented with left-sided
Complete genome sequence of Pyrobaculum oguniense

Pyrobaculum oguniense TE7 is an aerobic hyperthermophilic crenarchaeon isolated from a hot spring in Japan. Here we describe its main chromosome of 2,436,033 bp, with three large-scale inversions and an extra-chromosomal element of 16,887 bp. We have annotated 2,800 protein-coding genes and 145 RNA genes in this genome, including nine H/ACA-like small RNA, 83 predicted C/D box small RNA, and 47 transfer RNA genes. Comparative analyses with the closest known relative, the anaerobe Pyrobaculum arsenaticum from Italy, reveals unexpectedly high synteny and nucleotide identity between these two geographically distant species. Deep sequencing of a mixture of genomic DNA from multiple cells has illuminated some of the genome dynamics potentially shared with other species in this genus.
Rb-Sr whole-rock age of the contact aureole of the Stillwater Igneous Complex, Montana

Fourteen whole-rock samples from three traverses through the contact aureole of the Stillwater Complex were analyzed for Rb, Sr and87Sr/86Sr. Twelve of these samples yielded an age of 2750 ± 45m.y.; (87Sr/86Sr)0 = 0.705 ± 0.003 (2σ). In addition one whole rock and a biotite separate derived from it gave an age of 2544 m.y.; (87Sr/86Sr)0 = 0.714. These data support a minimum age of 2750 m.y. for the intrusion of the complex.
A Processor Utilization Model for a Multiprocessor Computer System

Using a G/M/s/N queuing system model, we develop a processor utilization model for a simplified multiprocessor computer system. Jobs are assumed to arrive according to a general input process, and each job is assigned randomly to an available processor. A finite capacity input buffer is used if no processor is available. The mathematical model is based on the busy period analysis, and two utilization measures are derived: processor utilization the fraction of processor occupation time during a busy cycle and system utilization the fraction of actual utilization time for all processors. A computational model for these utilization measures is developed through an imbedded Markov chain approach. Experimentation with the computational model reveals the sensitivity of the model to variability in the arrival process. Comparison of 2-processor and 4-processor systems from the operator perspective indicates a qualified preference for the behavior of the 2-processor system. This preference must be carefully interpreted since processor costs, the increase in overhead with an increase in processors, and behavioral variables reflecting the user perspective are excluded.
The regional campus library and service to the public

This article draws attention to regional campus libraries and the role they play on campus and in their larger community. Many of these libraries provide services to the public but have not recognized the public in a statement defining the library. Such a connection needs to be made.
Fetal heart rate monitoring patterns (FHR-MP) to predict early-onset neonatal sepsis in utero in pregnancies complicated by intra-amniotic infection/inflammation

NEONATAL SEPSIS IN UTERO IN PREGNANCIES COMPLICATED BY INTRAAMNIOTIC INFECTION/INFLAMMATION CATALIN BUHIMSCHI, SONYA S. ABDELRAZEQ, CHRISTIAN M. PETTKER, MICHAEL CACKOVIC, MERT O. BAHTIYAR, ERROL R. NORWITZ, VINEET BHANDARI, IRINA A. BUHIMSCHI, Yale University, Ob./Gyn.R 2) Abnormal MR scores (3-4 biomarkers present) predicted EONS (p=0.025) in the context of a non-reassuring (p=0.005) and non-reactive (p=0.035) FHR-MP; 3) A positive AF culture was not predictive of a specific FHR-MP or EONS; 4) The combination of an abnormal MR score and a non-reassuring FHR-MP at amniocentesis was highly predictive of EONS (OR: 27.5 [95%CI: 3.1241.3], p=0.003), independent of GA of delivery.
Managing complications of percutaneous and nasoenteric feeding tubes

The placement of nasoenteric and percutaneous feeding tubes requires a surprising number of skills for the practicing endoscopist. Careful attention to detail and slight modifications of technique may reduce the number of complications that occur as a result of initial placement. The likelihood for development of subsequent complications often may be predicted by the presence or absence of specific risk factors. The benefit of maintaining gut integrity and the improvement in patient outcome from use of enteral feeding far outweighs the risk of any of these complications. Prompt attention and appropriate clinical expertise often provide a “quick fix” with simple endoscopic solutions, thereby minimizing subsequent sequelae to the patient.
EFFECT OF NITROGEN NUTRITION ON PHOTOSYNTHESIS AND GROWTH IN C4 PANICUM SPECIES

Abstract. The growth and photosynthetic responses to high and low N nutrition were measured in 2 NADP-malic enzyme and 4 NAD-malic enzyme C4 subtype Panicum species to evaluate whether differences in C4 photosynthetic biochemistry result in differences in the N requirement for growth. All species had lower biomass production, photosynthesis rates, and shoot N concentrations at low N, and no consistent differences between the C4 subtypes were apparent. The assimilation rates (biomass accumulated over the period of growth) for the NADP-malic enzyme species were higher than the NAD-malic enzyme species at high N but not at low N. When assimilation rates were evaluated on a shoot N basis a higher N-use-efficiency was found for the NADP-malic enzyme species at high N. Thus the NADP-malic enzyme Panicum species had a greater amount of growth for a given shoot N concentration, but only above a certain level of shoot N concentrations.
Causality between exports, imports, and economic growth: Evidence from transition economies

The economic growth effects of CEEC market liberalization and increasing trade access to the larger EU market is an important empirical question worthy of investigation. This paper examines the impact of export and import expansion on growth in three transition economies. The empirical results suggest that trade stimulates economic growth.
A Lead You Can't Miss: A Case of Right Ventricular Perforation

Case Report A 65-year-old male with a biventricular implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) placed 1 month prior presented from an outside hospital with chest pain and shortness of breath. Echocardiography showed a perforation of his right ventricular (RV) free wall by the ICD lead complicated by a moderate pericardial effusion (Figure 1; Video 1). The RV lead was noted to be in the pericardial space, suggesting lead migration/ perforation (Figure 2). A pericardial window was placed, and pericardiocentesis was performed via a subxiphoid approach with removal of approximately 1,500 cc of bloody fluid. The RV lead was unscrewed under fluoroscopy and repositioned, lead parameters were confirmed, and the device was returned to the pocket. The patient tolerated the procedure well. Follow-up transthoracic echocardiogram (Figure 3) revealed resolution of the pericardial effusion and the pericardial drain was removed. The patient was discharged home after recovery. Delayed lead perforation is defined as migration and perforation at least one month after implantation. A rare complication, the incidence has been reported at 0.1–0.8% in permanent pacemaker and 0.6–5.2% in ICD implantations, respectively.1,2 The pathophysiology is unclear, however two mechanisms have been proposed. The first involves direct mechanical lead perforation of the myocardium during implantation, while the second proposes an excessive immune response of the visceral pericardium leading to post-implantation pericarditis. Both mechanisms would suggest potential association with the level of tissue injury incurred at the time of device implantation, supporting efficacy to cautious monitoring. Importantly, the clinical presentation of these patients ranges from no symptoms to cardiac tamponade.3 Early recognition and appropriate treatment of complicating pericardial effusions are essential, with pericardiocentesis and/ or pericardial window if necessary. The most commonly employed therapeutic approach is surgical removal, although successful percutaneous lead extraction with stand-by cardiothoracic surgery has been widely reported. Additionally, lead repositioning without extraction, as with our patient, has been reported.
Zinc N-heterocyclic carbene complexes and their polymerization of d,l-lactide

Abstract A series of zinc complexes of monodentate N-heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs) and a new sterically bulky bidentate pyridyl-NHC ligand have been synthesized and characterized by spectroscopic and X-ray crystallographic methods. Dinuclear alkoxide complexes of monodentate NHC complexes with 2,4,6-trimethylphenyl substituents appear to form monomeric species in solution and show good control and activity for lactide polymerization, including mild stereoelectivity as indicated by formation of heterotactic-enriched polylactide in d , l -lactide polymerizations. Kinetics studies revealed an overall second order rate law, first order in [LA] and [catalyst]. Efforts to obtain Zn–alkoxide complexes of a more sterically hindered NHC with 2,6-diisopropylphenyl groups were unsuccessful due to Zn–NHC bond scission. Ligand dissociation was also observed in attempts to prepare Zn–alkoxide complexes of the bidentate pyridyl-NHC system, despite its chelating nature.
A theory for grain boundaries with strain-gradient plasticity

In this work, the effect of the material microstructural interface between two materials (i.e., grain boundary in polycrystalls) is adopted into a thermodynamic-based higher order strain gradient plasticity framework. The developed grain boundary flow rule accounts for the energy storage at the grain boundary due to the dislocation pile up as well as energy dissipation caused by the dislocation transfer through the grain boundary. The theory is developed based on the decomposition of the thermodynamic conjugate forces into energetic and dissipative counterparts which provides the constitutive equations to have both energetic and dissipative gradient length scales for the grain and grain boundary. The numerical solution for the proposed framework is also presented here within the finite element context. The material parameters of the gradient framework are also calibrated using an extensive set of micro-scale experimental measurements of thin metal films over a wide range of size and temperature of the samples.
Specification of the direction of adhesive signaling by the integrin β cytoplasmic domain

Integrin adhesion receptors can signal in two directions: first, they can regulate cellular behaviors by modulating cellular signaling enzymes ("outside-in signaling"); second, cells can regulate the affinity of integrins ("inside-out signaling") by such pathways. Integrin beta cytoplasmic domains (tails) mediate both types of signaling, and Src family kinases (SFKs) and talin, which bind to beta tails, are important for integrin signaling. Here, we utilized "homology scanning" mutagenesis to identify beta tail mutants selectively defective in c-Src binding and found that amino acid exchanges affecting a combination of an Arg and Thr residue in the integrin beta3 tail control the binding specificity for SFKs but have no effect on talin binding. Using beta tail mutants at these residues, we found that SFK binding to integrin beta tails is dispensable for inside-out signaling but is obligatory for cell spreading, a marker of outside-in signaling. Conversely, we found that point mutations that disrupt talin binding abolish integrin activation, but they do not inhibit SFK binding to the beta3 tail or the initiation of outside-in signaling once the integrins are in a high affinity form. Thus, we show that inside-out and outside-in integrin signaling are mediated by distinct and separable interactions of the integrin beta tails. Furthermore, based on our results, it is possible to discern the relative contributions of the direction of integrin signaling on biological functions in cell culture and, ultimately, in vivo.
Electronic stabilization of scanning interferometers

A quantitative relation for the drift error of a digital scanning spectrometer in a self-stabilizing mode is developed. Using a spectral prominence as a tracking reference, it is found that the error channel gain that provides minimum error is determined by the intensity and spectral width of the prominence. It is then shown that the self-noise of photon-counting detectors limits the ability of the system to retain stabilization in the face of drift rate errors, and a scanning strategy must be employed. The characteristics and scan strategies of a typical spectrometer system are then illustrated.
THE REALIZATION OF RELIABLE AND VALID CRITERION MEASURES FOR SPECIAL UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMS AND COURSES AIMED AT THE DEVELOPMENT AND EXPRESSION OF CREATIVE BEHAVIOR

The contents of this paper have been developed around the question posed by the Chairman of the Symposium: "How possible is it to obtain or develop valid, reliable criterion measures for undergraduate programs and specific courses which have the development and expression of creative behavior as a major objective?" Although a definitive answer to this question is impossible in terms of a numerical probability statement, the specification of conditions important to the realization of valid and reliable measures of creative behaviors in undergraduate programs and specific courses is both possible and necessary. Consideration will be given to the importance of the following facets in the assessment of creativity: (a) a need for a workable and heuristic theory concerning the nature of the teaching-learning process to which curricular objectives and the tests for their evaluation may be advantageously anchored; (b) a recognition of qualitative differences in the nature of creative endeavor that may be expected in the curricula of the natural sciences and mathematics, the social sciences, humanities, and the arts, as well as in undergraduate professional programs in accounting, business, education, engineering, journalism, and other areas; (c) an allowance for the existence of vastly different campus climates within which the expectations and perceptions of faculty members, administrators, and students may or may not be congruent regarding educational objectives especially as these objectives relate to the creative process; (d) the necessity for involving students, faculty members, and administrators in cooperative and coordinated efforts of planning curricular experiences in a permissive atmosphere that will encourage the expression of creative behaviors; and (e) the provision of professional guidance to college faculty in the design of instruments or procedures for evaluation of creative endeavor of their students.
Lower limits to specific contact resistivity

We calculate minimum feasible contact resistivities to n-type and p-type InAs and In 0.53 Ga 0.47 As. Resistivities were calculated for a range of Schottky barrier heights as well as for the case where the transmission probability is unity (Landauer limit). Calculations are compared with recent experimental data. Experimental contact resistivities for n-In 0.53 Ga 0.47 As and n-InAs lie within 2.5∶1 of calculated resistivities given generally accepted values of Schottky barrier potential. Computed resistivities in the presence of a barrier are only 3.5∶1 to 4∶1 above Landauer limits.
Phentolamine Reduces Myocardial Injury and Mortality in a Rat Model of Phenylpropanolamine Poisoning

Background: Phenylpropanolamine produces dose-related, life-threatening cardiovascular, and central nervous toxicity from alpha-adrenergic overstimulation. Although some recommend the alpha-adrenergic antagonist, phentolamine, as treatment for such toxicity, its therapeutic efficacy has not been previously studied. We sought to determine if pretreatment with phentolamine could reduce acute myocardial injury and mortality in rats administered an overdose of phenylpropanolamine. Methods: In the mortality arm of the study, 28 unanesthetized, male Wistar rats (14 animals per group) were randomized to receive an intraperitoneal injection of phentolamine (3 mg/kg) or an equal volume of normal saline diluent (control group). Twenty-five minutes later, all rats received an intraperitoneal injection of phenylpropanolamine (150 mg/kg). Mortality was compared at 24 hours. In the myocardial injury arm of the study, 20 unanesthetized rats (10 per group) were randomized to receive an intraperitoneal injection of phento...
Invited Review: Superlattice and multiquantum well avalanche photodetectors: physics, concepts and performance

In this paper we review the underlying physical principles behind the workings of superlattice/multiquantum well avalanche photodiodes (APDs), examine various device concepts that have been proposed and developed, and discuss their performance. The basic operation, noise and frequency performance of APDs is discussed both in general and as applied to superlattice/multiquantum well devices. The theory of the impact ionization enhancement across a potential step is reviewed. Both experimental and theoretical studies of the ionization enhancement in the simple and doped multiquantum well APDs are discussed, and the progress to date in their realization is reviewed. We conclude with a summary of the performance features of these devices, including a discussion of device reliability and edge breakdown avoidance.
Effects of a Web-Based Health Program on Fifth Grade Children's Physical Activity Knowledge, Attitudes and Behavior

Abstract American children continue to be less physically active than they were a decade ago. Web-based programs (e-Learning), requiring minimal teacher training and expertise, could contribute to improvements in children's health-related knowledge, attitudes and behaviors. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of the e-Learning module Healthy Hearts 4 Kids (HH) on the physical activity knowledge, attitudes and behaviors of 233 fifth grade children. A 2×3 repeated measures design was employed and significant changes in knowledge and attitude were found upon completion of the module and also six weeks after the post-test was completed. Results of this study suggest HH could be an effective component of a coordinated school health program (CSHP).
Development of a Real-Time RT-PCR SYBR Green Assay for Tomato ring spot virus in Grape.

Stewart, E. L., Qu, X. S., Overton, B. E., Gildow, F. E., Wenner, N. G., and Grove, D. S. 2007. Development of a real-time RT-PCR SYBR Green assay for Tomato ring spot virus in grape. Plant Dis. 91:1083-1088. Grapevines infected with Tomato ring spot virus (ToRSV) pose an economic risk for growers in the northeastern United States. This study describes a one-step real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) SYBR Green assay for detecting ToRSV in grapevines. Two newly designed primer pairs based on the ToRSV coat protein gene sequence were evaluated for specificity and optimized for a SYBR Green assay. The primer pair ToRSV1f/1r yielded a 130-bp product with strong primer-dimer products, whereas the primer pair ToRSV2f/2r yielded a 330-bp product with weak primer dimer products. Real-time RT-PCR detected ToRSV in more naturally infected grapevines maintained in the greenhouse than did enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The nucleotide sequences of the fragments amplified from grapevine growing in Pennsylvania using real-time PCR were divergent from previously published sequences. Additional keywords: Grape yellow vein virus, Vitis vinifera
Commentary: Integrated retrospective radiation dose assessment

Radiation dose reconstruction is used to estimate exposure to radiation that has occurred externally, e.g., from an atomic bomb, or internally, e.g., from radionuclide ingestion. This commentary reviews techniques for biological dosimetry that have been developed to estimate radiation doses from internal exposures, but which can also be used to estimate external exposures. The author argues for increased development and use of these biological tools.
Experiential Mediation: Making Meaningful Differences with the “Other Parent”

Television has matured from being a piece of furniture to a family member in contemporary American homes. Numerous outreach programs have been established to teach parents and childcare givers how to cope with the newest member of the family, yet little research has been conducted to evaluate the impact of this outreach. This study evaluates one such outreach program that served 229 parents and educators of 2,297 children in a Midwestern community and offered a new perspective on television mediation. Results suggest that the training had an impact on the types of books read to children, the types of interactions parents and educators engage in with children during and after viewing television, and beliefs about educational television.
Craving, context and the cortex.

A new study challenges the idea that the ventromedial prefrontal cortex inhibits drug relapse, by selectively inactivating a subpopulation of neurons in this brain area and showing attenuation of context-induced reinstatement of heroin seeking.
The relationship between microstructure and the J-R curve

A model is presented that establishes a quantitative relationship between the J IC and the J-R curve and the microstructural parameters, such as inclusion size and spacing, and the plastic deformation properties of ductile materials, such as yield strength and strain hardening exponents. The model assumes that ductile crack growth occurs by void nucleation, growth, and coalescence. Each of these processes is modeled in the crack tip environment to complete the model. The proposed model is evaluated using tests performed on 303 stainless steel (SS) at room temperature and on 1Cr-Mo-0.25V steel at 565 °C. Satisfactory agreements are obtained between the experimentally obtained J-R curves and those predicted from the model. Limitations of the model are also discussed.
An investigation on driver trajectory planning behaviors based on double lane change vehicle test data

Driver trajectory planning has been a key component in analyzing and simulating driver's maneuvers. This paper investigates driver's trajectory planning behavior based on vehicle test data of double lane change (DLC) maneuvers. Several hypotheses on driver's trajectory planning for the DLC maneuver are proposed and evaluated. Closed-loop simulations with look-ahead steering controllers consistently demonstrate that by simply fitting a trajectory to the actual trajectory and optimizing the control parameters of the look-ahead controller fail to capture drivers' steering behaviors. Based on the vehicle test data, the paper further hypothesizes that drivers use specific target points as references for control. Both open-loop analysis and closed-loop simulations indicate that, instead of planning and following a desired trajectory, drivers use moving targets along the lane to be changed to as control references during the DLC maneuver.
Theory of laser-assisted autoionization by attosecond light pulses

We present a quantum theory of the decay of an autoionizing state created in the attosecond xuv (extreme ultraviolet) pump and laser probe measurements within the strong field approximation employing resonance parameters from Fano's theory. From the electron spectra versus the pump-probe time delay, we show how the lifetimes of the resonances can be extracted directly from the time domain measurements.
Neutrophil Migration Through Teat End Tissues of Bovine Mammary Quarters Experimentally Challenged with Staphylococcus aureus

Diapedesis and infiltration of neutrophils into internal epithelial tissues of the distal teat end and migration into milk were studied in bovine mammary quarters infected with Staphylococcus aureus. Neutrophil extravasation, penetration of the epithelium, and mode of passage into milk were evaluated by light and transmission electron microscopy. Collection of observations from 10 infected quarters of six cows provided morphologic evidence for the following sequence of events as neutrophils passed from blood into milk. In capillaries of the subepithelial stroma, neutrophils adhered to luminal walls, penetrated endothelia and basal lamina, then migrated across the periendothelial cell layer into extravascular connective tissues adjacent to epithelial linings. The leukocytes then penetrated epithelial basal laminae and migrated between basal epithelial cells to gain access to the luminal cell layer. Possible modes of migration across luminal cells into milk included 1) projection through individual, degenerate luminal cells, 2) penetration between intact epithelia, and 3) passage into milk as luminal cells desquamated in areas of epithelial metaplasia. The first method appeared to be the predominant mechanism of migration. These data suggest that elevated numbers of neutrophils in distal teat end epithelium and in cisternal milk may be instrumental in the initial events that prevent establishment of infection in the bovine mammary gland.
An Investigation of the Minimum Film Boiling Temperature on Horizontal Surfaces

The frequency and magnitude of liquid-solid contacts in the film boiling of saturated ethanol and water on horizontal flat stainless steel and copper surfaces are examined with electrical conductance probes. It is observed that, at atmospheric pressure, contacts occur over a wide temperature range and are generally induced by hydrodynamic instabilities. In the ethanol system, these contacts can account for the entire heat transfer rate at the minimum film boiling temperature. The area and duration of contacts are strongly influenced by the dominant nucleation process, and thus depend on the interface temperature and wettability of the solid. At elevated pressures, direct liquid-solid contacts in film boiling are essentially nonexistent for stainless steel and the first major contact corresponds to quenching of the surface. Under these conditions, spontaneous nucleation upon contact seems to be the controlling mechanism for the minimum film boiling temperature. The minimum point appears to be determined either by a Taylor instability vapor removal limitation or by spontaneous nucleation. The governing mechanism is the one which is stable at the lowest wall temperature.
Efficient lookahead routing and header compression for multicasting in networks-on-chip

As technology advanced, Chip Multi-processor (CMP) architectures have emerged as a viable solution for designing processors. Networks-on-Chip (NOCs) provide a scalable communication method for CMP architectures as the number of cores is increasing. Although there has been significant research on NOC designs for unicast traffic, the research on the multicast router design is still in infancy stage. Considering that one-to-many (multicast) and one-to-all (broadcast) traffic are more common in CMP applications, it is important to design a router providing efficient multicasting. In this paper, we propose an efficient lookahead routing with limited area overhead for a recently proposed multicast routing algorithm, Recursive Partitioning Multicast (RPM) [17]. Also, we present a novel compression scheme for a multicast packet header that becomes a big overhead in large networks. Comprehensive simulation results show that with our route computation logic design, providing lookahead routing in the multicast router only costs less than 20% area overhead and this percentage keeps decreasing with larger network sizes. Compared with the basic lookahead routing design, our design can save area by over 50%. With header compression and lookahead multicast routing, the network performance is improved by 22% in a (16 x 16) network on average.
Regulation of Photoreceptor Phosphodiesterase (PDE6) by Phosphorylation of Its Inhibitory γ Subunit Re-evaluated

Phosphorylation of the inhibitory gamma subunit (Pgamma) of rod cGMP phosphodiesterase (PDE6) has been reported to turn off visual excitation without the requirement for inactivation of the photoreceptor G-protein transducin. We evaluated the significance of Pgamma phosphorylation for PDE6 regulation by preparing Pgamma stoichiometrically phosphorylated at Thr(22) or at Thr(35). Phosphorylation of Pgamma at either residue caused a minor decrease--not the previously reported increase--in the ability of Pgamma to inhibit catalysis at the active site of purified PDE6 catalytic dimers. Likewise, Pgamma phosphorylation had little effect on its potency to inhibit transducin-activated PDE6 depleted of its endogenous Pgamma subunits. The strength of Pgamma interaction with the regulatory GAF domain of PDE6 was reduced severalfold upon Pgamma phosphorylation at Thr(22) (but not Thr(35)), as judged by allosteric changes in cGMP binding to these noncatalytic sites on the enzyme (Mou, H., and Cote, R. H. (2001) J. Biol. Chem. 276, 27527-27534). In contrast, the effects of Pgamma phosphorylation on its interactions with activated transducin were much more pronounced. Phosphorylation of Pgamma at either Thr(22) or Thr(35) greatly diminished its ability to bind activated transducin, consistent with earlier work. In situ phosphorylation of Pgamma by endogenous rod outer segment kinases was enhanced severalfold upon light activation, but only approximately 10% of the endogenous Pgamma was phosphorylated. This is attributed to Pgamma being a poor substrate for protein kinases when associated with the PDE6 holoenzyme. We conclude that, contrary to previous reports, Pgamma phosphorylation at either Thr(22) or Thr(35) modestly weakens its direct interactions with PDE6. However, Pgamma phosphorylation subsequent to its dissociation from PDE6 is likely to abolish its binding to activated transducin and may serve to make phosphorylated Pgamma available to regulate other signal transduction pathways (e.g. mitogen-activated protein kinase; Wan, K. F., Sambi, B. S., Frame, M., Tate, R., and Pyne, N. J. (2001) J. Biol. Chem. 276, 37802-37808) in photoreceptor cells.
Excitation energies, hyperfine constants, E1 transition rates and lifetimes of 4s2nl states in neutral gallium

Energies of the 4s 2 hp j (n = 4-8), 4s 2 ns 1/2 (n = 5-8), 4s 2 nd j (n = 4-7), 4s 2 nf j (n = 4-5) and 4s 2 5g j states in neutral gallium are obtained using a relativistic many-body perturbation theory (RMBPT) method. First-, second-, third- and all-order Coulomb energies and first-order Breit and second-order Coulomb-Breit corrections are calculated. Reduced matrix elements, oscillator strengths, transition rates and lifetimes are determined for the 130 possible 4s 2 nl j -4s 2 n'l j' electric-dipole transitions. Hyperfine constants A are determined for 28 4s 2 nl j states in 69 Ga I and 71 Ga I isotopes. All above-mentioned properties are obtained in the relativistic single-double (SD) approximation, where single and double excitations of Dirac-Fock wavefunctions are included to all orders of perturbation theory. Using SD wavefunctions, accurate values are obtained for energies of the lowest states and for the possible electric-dipole matrix elements between these states. With the aid of the SD wavefunctions, we also determine transition rates, oscillator strengths and lifetimes. These calculations provide a theoretical benchmark for comparison with experiment and theory.
Entropy production in radiation-affected boundary layers

A one-dimensional divergence of the monochromatic heat flux for wall-affected attenuating thingas, is developed from general considerations. Here Ebl. K~ cy and r, respectively denote the monochromatic values of the emissive power, absorption coefficient of gas, wall emissivity and optical thickness; , E, is the second exponential integ-ral, y the -4' coordinate normal to boundary. infinite geometry. The model applies to semiFor the spectral average of the heat flux divergence (needed for radiation-affected thermal transport), new definitions are i n t d u c e d (including the wall and attenuation effects) for the absorption coefficient of gas and the wall emissivity. This heat flux is applied to thermal baundary layer over a horizontal Rat plate. An explicit expression for the local Nusselt number involving both conduction and radiation is shown to be Nu: k i n g the Nusselt number for pure conduction, the wall gradient of temperature for pure conduction, 4 the wall emissivity, P the ratio of emission to conduction, and the local optical thickness. The effect of radiation an the thermal part of entropy production is demonstrated in terms of the forced convection over a flat plate.
Concepts of Real and Imaginary Friendships in Early Childhood

This investigation focused on the friendship concepts of pre-school-aged children. Eighty-four 3- to 5-year-old children responded to questions about social provisions, or benefits of relationships, available from reciprocal friends (both children in a pair nominate each other as friends), unilateral friends (one child nominates the other), non-friends (neither child of a pair nominates the other), and imaginary friends (for those who had them). Results indicated that reciprocal and imaginary friends were the best sources of social provisions, followed by unilateral friends and non-friends. Major implications are that children draw distinctions between reciprocal and unilateral friends based on the levels of social provisions available in these relationships, and that relationship schemas underlying relationships with imaginary companions may be akin to those for reciprocal friends. Children's friendship schemata may also differ by gender, as girls discriminated more than boys between reciprocal and unilateral friends for the social provision of companionship.