cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Experimental Studies of the Acoustic Signature of Proton Beams Traversing Fluid Media

Abstract Recent experiments at Brookhaven National Laboratory and Harvard University demonstrate that a detectable sonic signal is produced by energetic proton beams while traversing a fluid medium. The observed acoustic wave agrees with the predictions of a thermal expansion model. Results are inconsistent with any significant contribution from either microbubble implosion or molecular dissociation, two other suggested means of sonic production. Frequency and amplitude distributions, radiation patterns, temperature, pressure, and medium dependencies are explored. This phenomenon may have immediate applications in beam monitoring and in detecting energetic heavy ions. Signal thresholds may be enough to permit detection of particle showers induced by single particles at the next generation of high energy accelerators or from high energy cosmic rays. The inexpensive transducers and long sonic transmission lengths obtainable in liquids suggest that high energy particle detectors may be feasible with masses many orders of magnitude greater than those currently in use.
Fully Plastic Crack Problems, Part 2: Application of Consistency Checks

Explication de phenomenes, jusqu'ici et maintenant inexpliques tels que: fissures courtes ou longues, superficielles ou profondes, et ce, en utilisant le modele elabore (cf. p. 48 et sq.)
Improving homework in adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: Self vs. parent monitoring of homework behavior and study skills.

The current study compared the effectiveness of self-and parent-monitoring of homework and study skills completion in middle school students with ADHD. Students were trained in the SQ4R (Survey, Question, Read, Write, Recite) study strategy and homework completion skills. In one group, students monitored their homework and study behavior and in the other group parents completed the monitoring. Homework and classroom problems were evaluated using the Homework Problem Checklist (HPC) and the Classroom Performance Survey (CPS). Results indicate that both interventions improved HPC and CPS scores, as well as percent of completed homework compared to a wait-list control group.
Effect of Physical Structure on the Phase Development of Aluminosilicate Gels

The surface area and density of aluminosilicate xerogels containing a one-to-one Al/Si molar ratio (47 wt% alumina) can be varied dramatically by changing the pore fluid prior to drying. The surface area of ethanol-washed 47 wt% alumina gels was more than 500 m2/g, while gels dried from the mother liquor (approximately 75 vol% ethanol, 25 vol% water) had less than 1 m2/g surface area. Changes in the physical structure of the dried gels had dramatic effects on subsequent phase evolution and densification behavior during heat treatment. NMR, X-ray diffraction, and DTA were used to follow the phase evolution of different gels. Differences in the amorphous gel structure were identified using 27Al and 29Si MAS NMR. Gels of identical composition prepared from the same precursor solutions crystallized to different phases, depending upon the surface area of the gel prior to heating. The high surface material (ethanol washed) formed mullite and amorphous silica, while the low surface area gel (unswashed) crystallized to mullite and cristobalite. These gels were prepared from alkoxide precursors. A low surface area gel with a different degree of chemical homogeneity was prepared by the nitrate method for comparison. Results indicate that the physical structure of aluminosilicate gels, i.e., pore structure and chemical homogeneity, has a dramatic influence on phase evolution.
The impact of MSAFP screening on genetic services, 1984-1986.

The impact of maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (MSAFP) screening on genetic centers was investigated by a questionnaire mailed to 220 genetic centers in the United States. Eighty-four (38%) of centers responded to the questionnaire; of these (34%) were adequate for analysis. About 33% of the programs performed their own MSAFP testing. Approximately 70% of centers used 2.5 times the median (MoM) as a cutoff for MSAFP elevations and approximately 75% of centers used a sliding cutoff for low MSAFP based on both maternal age and the multiple of the median. Between 1984 and 1986, the total number of women screened by the reporting centers increased by about 4.7 fold. The percentage of women seen in their centers for prenatal counseling due to high or low MSAFP levels increased from 1.3% in 1984 to 13.1% in 1986. The percentage of prenatal diagnoses utilizing amniocentesis for high or low MSAFP increased from 3% in 1984 to 10% in 1986. During this period, 76 cases of Down syndrome were detected based on low MSAFP; this represents 1.7% of amniocenteses for low MSAFP. These data demonstrate a significant increase in the number of women seen for prenatal counseling and amniocentesis at the reporting genetic centers and is likely to represent a similar trend at all genetic centers. The impact of high MSAFP screeing for neural tube defects and low MSAFP screening for Down syndrome is likely to increase over the coming years and genetic programs should prepare for the increasing utilization of services necessary to handle women with high and low MSAFP levels.
Myosin I Contributes to the Generation of Resting Cortical Tension

The amoeboid myosin I's are required for cellular cortical functions such as pseudopod formation and macropinocytosis, as demonstrated by the finding that Dictyostelium cells overexpressing or lacking one or more of these actin-based motors are defective in these processes. Defects in these processes are concomitant with changes in the actin-filled cortex of various Dictyostelium myosin I mutants. Given that the amoeboid myosin I's possess both actin- and membrane-binding domains, the mutant phenotypes could be due to alterations in the generation and/or regulation of cell cortical tension. This has been directly tested by analyzing mutant Dictyostelium that either lacks or overexpresses various myosin I's, using micropipette aspiration techniques. Dictyostelium cells lacking only one myosin I have normal levels of cortical tension. However, myosin I double mutants have significantly reduced (50%) cortical tension, and those that mildly overexpress an amoeboid myosin I exhibit increased cortical tension. Treatment of either type of mutant with the lectin concanavalin A (ConA) that cross-links surface receptors results in significant increases in cortical tension, suggesting that the contractile activity of these myosin I's is not controlled by this stimulus. These results demonstrate that myosin I's work cooperatively to contribute substantially to the generation of resting cortical tension that is required for efficient cell migration and macropinocytosis.
Attenuation of the type I interferon response in cells infected with human rhinovirus

The type I interferon (IFN) response requires the coordinated activation of the latent transcription factors NF-kappaB, IRF-3 and ATF-2 which in turn activate transcription from the IFN-beta promoter. Here we have examined the type I interferon response in rhinovirus type 14-infected A549 cells, with particular emphasis on the status of the transcription factor IRF-3. Our results indicate that although rhinovirus type 14 (RV14) infection induces the activation of NF-kappaB and ATF-2, only very low levels of IFN-beta mRNA are detected. Analysis of ISG54 mRNA levels revealed very little induction of this IRF-3 responsive transcript and suggested that IRF-3 activation might be impaired. Examination of IRF-3 in RV14-infected cells demonstrated only low levels of phosphorylation, a lack of homodimer formation and an absence of nuclear accumulation indicating that this transcription factor is not activated. Inhibition of viral protein synthesis following infection resulted in an increase in IFN-beta mRNA levels indicating that viral gene products prevent induction of this pathway. Collectively, these results indicate that RV14 infection inhibits the host type I interferon response by interfering with IRF-3 activation.
Measurements and Analysis of Photochemical Oxidants and Trace Gases in the Rural Troposphere of the Southeast United States

Ambient concentrations of photochemical oxidants (O3, PAN, HNO3, H2O2) and various trace species including reactive nitrogen compounds as well as total NOy were measured during June and early July 1992 at a rural site, SONIA, in the central Piedmont region of North Carolina, as a part of the Southern Oxidants Study. The measurements were made in an effort to provide a comprehensive understanding of tropospheric photochemistry in the rural Southeastern United States. NOy, NO2, and NO showed diurnal variations with maxima in the morning between 0600 and 0900 EST. The maximum NOy, NO, and NO2 concentrations reached were 14.5, 5.4, and 7.8 ppbv, respectively. The mean NOy concentration was found to be 2.63 ± 1.72 ppbv (n = 819) with an average daily maximum of 3.6 ppbv. The mean concentrations of NO and NO2 for the entire period of measurement were found to be 0.18 ± 0.37 ppbv (n = 794) and 1.31 ± 0.99 ppbv/(n = 769). H2O2, HNO3, and PAN showed diurnal variation with maxima in the afternoon and minima at night. Mean concentrations were found to be 0.52 ± 0.36 ppbv (n = 312), 0.67 ± 0.33 ppbv (n = 250), and 0.41 ± 0.24 ppbv (n = 578). The NOx/NOy ratio was used as an indicator of the chemical age of airmasses and the ratio showed strong positive correlations with the photochemical oxidants HNO3 (r = 0.76), PAN (r= 0.68), and O3 (r = 0.79) measured at the site. The relationship between the accumulation rate of O3 and the deviation from the photostationary state was examined based on the measured PSS constant obtained from the values of [O3], [NO], and [NO2] measured at the site.
The molecular genetics underlying basal cell carcinoma pathogenesis and links to targeted therapeutics

Mutations in the sonic hedgehog signaling pathway play a key role in the development of basal cell carcinomas. Specifically, mutations in the PTCH1 (also known as PTCH or PTC1) and SMO genes cause tumor formation through constitutive activation of the pathway. Misregulation of the pathway has also been implicated in the nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome and other tumors. Understanding the function of the sonic hedgehog pathway has led to novel strategies for treatment. In this review we highlight the role of the pathway in the pathogenesis of basal cell carcinoma and review potential targeted therapies.
High genetic diversity and population differentiation in Boechera fecunda, a rare relative of Arabidopsis

Conservation of endangered species becomes a critical issue with the increasing rates of extinction. In this study, we use 13 microsatellite loci and 27 single-copy nuclear loci to investigate the population genetics of Boechera fecunda, a rare relative of Arabidopsis thaliana, known from only 21 populations in Montana. We investigated levels of genetic diversity and population structure in comparison to its widespread congener, Boechera stricta, which shares similar life history and mating system. Despite its rarity, B. fecunda had levels of genetic diversity similar to B. stricta for both microsatellites and nucleotide polymorphism. Populations of B. fecunda are highly differentiated, with a majority of genetic diversity existing among populations (F(ST) = 0.57). Differences in molecular diversity and allele frequencies between western and eastern population groups suggest they experienced very different evolutionary histories.
Vibrational modes in epitaxial Ti 1-x Sc x N(001) layers: An ab initio calculation and Raman spectroscopy study

${\mathrm{Ti}}_{1\ensuremath{-}x}{\mathrm{Sc}}_{x}\mathrm{N}$ alloys were used to investigate the effects of carrier density and the density of states (DOS) at the Fermi level ${E}_{f}$ on vibrational modes, phonon anomalies, and superconducting transition temperatures ${T}_{c}.$ Single-crystal ${\mathrm{Ti}}_{1\ensuremath{-}x}{\mathrm{Sc}}_{x}\mathrm{N}$ layers, 2000 \AA{} thick, with compositions spanning the entire alloy range $(0l~xl~1),$ were grown on MgO(001) by ultrahigh vacuum reactive magnetron sputter deposition at 750 \ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C. The Raman spectrum of pure TiN is dominated by two-phonon features while ${\mathrm{Ti}}_{1\ensuremath{-}x}{\mathrm{Sc}}_{x}\mathrm{N}$ spectra with $0.12l~xl~0.81$ exhibit primarily one-phonon peaks. The acoustic peak softens from 310 ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$ with $x=0.12$ to $\ensuremath{\simeq}200{\mathrm{cm}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$ with $x=0.81,$ due to the corresponding increase in the lattice constant. All alloy layers exhibit an optical double-peak feature related to local vibrational modes at Ti and Sc sites. The two optical peaks shift from 560 and 640 ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$ for ${\mathrm{Ti}}_{0.88}{\mathrm{Sc}}_{0.12}\mathrm{N}$ to \ensuremath{\simeq} 480 and 570 ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$ for ${\mathrm{Ti}}_{0.19}{\mathrm{Sc}}_{0.81}\mathrm{N}$ with an intensity ratio which is proportional to $(1\ensuremath{-}x)/x.$ ${T}_{c}$ for TiN is 5.4 K and decreases steeply with increasing x to ${T}_{c}=4.5,$ 3.4, and 1.9 K with $x=0.06,$ 0.12, and 0.18, respectively. The decrease is due to a reduced DOS at ${E}_{f}$ in combination with a weaker effective coupling at higher x. The strong coupling for TiN is related to an anomaly in the longitudinal acoustic branch, which is absent for ScN, in the calculated phonon dispersion curves. Experimental evidence for the vanishing phonon anomaly is supplied by a broadening in the acoustic Raman peak with increasing x.
The risk level discriminatory power of mutual fund investment objectives: Additional evidence

Abstract We reexamine the information content of mutual fund investment objectives to learn whether investors can use them to infer risk. For investment objectives to properly convey risk, risk must be heterogeneous between investment objective groups and homogeneous within them. The present study differs from earlier work in two important ways: (1) it reaches a generally different conclusion about within-objective class fund risk, and (2) it is being done against a backdrop of industry-wide incentive compensation structures that rely on these classifications as proxies for fund volatility. Empirical testing suggests that risk is heterogeneous within groups.
Perspective traffic display format and airline pilot traffic avoidance

Part-task experiments have examined perspective projections of cockpit displays of traffic information as a means of presenting aircraft separation information to airline pilots. Ten airline pilots served as subjects in an experiment comparing the perspective projection with plan-view projections of the same air traffic situations. The pilots' task was to monitor the traffic display in order to decide if an avoidance maneuver was needed. Pilots took more time to select avoidance maneuvers with a conventional plan-view display than with an experimental perspective display. In contrast to previous results, if the pilots selected a maneuver with the perspective display, they were more likely to choose one with a vertical component. Tabulation of the outcomes of their initial avoidance decisions with both perspective and plan-view displays showed that they were more likely to achieve required separation with maneuvers chosen with the aid of perspective displays.
Smart Two-Dimensional Laser-Based Display

In this paper, is proposed a smart design for a two-dimensional (2-D) optical display using 2-D laser scanning and an electronically programmable three-dimensional (3-D) beamforming lens element. Specifically, an electronically controlled variable focal length lens (ECVFL) adjusts its focus power to produce the smallest focused beam spot on the display screen within the designed variable screen distance range. Since the screen distance is known, the angular scan range for the scan mirrors can be computed to generate the desired number of scanned spots in the 2-D display. Thus a smart display with the smallest pixel spot size is formed leading to the highest spatial resolution display for any given distance. Furthermore, if the scan angles are increased, a larger size display of higher pixel count can be formed without sacrificing display pixel size at this larger display size. A proof-of-concept smart display optics system is designed and demonstrated for a red 633-nm laser wavelength and an optimal display variable screen distance of 20-150 cm, giving optimized display pixel sizes of 51.92 and 538.1 μm, respectively.
Optimized Multitone Test Stimulus Driven Diagnosis of RF Transceivers Using Model Parameter Estimation

Test time and test complexity reduction has become a critical challenge in modern RF testing. Prior “alternative” test methods have achieved fast testing at the cost of using supervised learning algorithms that require “training”. In contrast, behavioral model parameter estimation based test methods require the use of accurate models but no “training” is necessary, reducing test deployment costs. In this work, a new test generation approach is proposed that allows behavioral model parameter estimation to be performed from a single optimized OFDM data frame. A genetic multi-tone test stimulus optimization algorithm is developed to maximize the accuracy with which a nonlinear solver can determine RF transceiver model parameters from raw downconverted test response data. The transceiver model proposed is the most comprehensive to date and includes AM-PM distortion and 5th order nonlinearity effects. Simulation results show that using the optimized multitone test stimulus, all the model parameters can be computed accurately using a single data acquisition (4X-5X faster than prior parameter estimation techniques and comparable to alternative test times). Data from an experiment performed on a hardware prototype validates the proposed concept.
Prevalence estimates for primary brain tumors in the United States by age, gender, behavior, and histology

Prevalence is the best indicator of cancer survivorship in the population, but few studies have focused on brain tumor prevalence because of previous data limitations. Hence, the full impact of primary brain tumors on the healthcare system in the United States is not completely described. The present study provides an estimate of the prevalence of disease in the United States, updating an earlier prevalence study. Incidence data for 2004 and survival data for 1985-2005 were obtained by the Central Brain Tumor Registry of the United States from selected regions, modeled under 2 different survival assumptions, to estimate prevalence rates for the year 2004 and projected estimates for 2010. The overall incidence rate for primary brain tumors was 18.1 per 100 000 person-years with 2-, 5-, 10-, and 20-year observed survival rates of 62%, 54%, 45%, and 30%, respectively. On the basis of the sum of nonmalignant and averaged malignant estimates, the overall prevalence rate of individuals with a brain tumor was estimated to be 209.0 per 100 000 in 2004 and 221.8 per 100 000 in 2010. The female prevalence rate (264.8 per 100 000) was higher than that in males (158.7 per 100 000). The averaged prevalence rate for malignant tumors (42.5 per 100 000) was lower than the prevalence for nonmalignant tumors (166.5 per 100 000). This study provides estimates of the 2004 (n = 612 770) and 2010 (n = 688 096) expected number of individuals living with primary brain tumor diagnoses in the United States, providing more current and robust estimates for aiding healthcare planning and patient advocacy for an aging US population.
Biomechanical evaluation of a new technique for rotator cuff repair.

Background: In recent studies, investigators have used a cyclic loading model to investigate the efficacy of rotator cuff fixation modalities.Hypothesis: A bioabsorbable poly-D-lactic acid screw and toothed washer implant will provide more stable fixation of rotator cuff repairs than standard suture anchor techniques.Study Design: Controlled laboratory study.Methods: Forty bovine shoulders (ages 3 to 6 months) had 1 × 2 cm defects created in the infraspinatus tendon. There were five repair groups (eight specimens per group) consisting of either two screw and washer implants or two suture anchors. Four suture techniques were tested: single-loaded anchors with simple sutures, double-loaded anchors with simple sutures, single-loaded anchors with horizontal mattress sutures, or single-loaded anchors with modified Mason-Allen sutures. Repairs were loaded at 5-second cycles from 10 to 180 N with use of a hydraulic testing machine. The number of cycles to gap formation of 5 and 10 mm was recorded.Results: Gap fo...
An introduction to ASCEND: its language and interactive environment

Recently there has been a growing realization among researchers and practitioners that current technologies do not adequately support mathematical modeling 'in the large'. In this paper the authors discuss a technology called ASCEND, which addresses this issue. They describe two aspects of the technology: a modeling language and an interactive model-building environment. The ASCEND language is structured, declarative and strongly-typed and incorporates object-oriented extensions. The interactive environment is based on the notion of a concurrent set of tools which reflect the various phases of ASCEND modeling. These tools do not enforce a strict sequence of operations, but rather have been designed to support the flexible access implied by declaratively specified models. ASCEND offers solutions to several of the issues raised by A. Geoffrion (1989, 1990) and use categories introduced by him to frame this discussion. >
On the design of an adaptive meeting scheduler

We present design considerations for an automated meeting scheduling agent that processes meeting requests on behalf of its associated user. In our formulation of the meeting scheduling problem, distributed meeting scheduling agents, one per user, intelligently exchange information with each other to schedule meetings without compromising user-specified constraints. In this paper, we first enumerate various strategies we have investigated to focus distributed negotiation between scheduling agents. Next, we demonstrate the necessity for such a scheduler to be adaptive in its choice of options for the various strategy dimensions, so that it can perform effectively over time. In order to build an adaptive scheduler that can effectively choose from available strategy options, we develop quantitative performance estimates of these options using detailed probabilistic analysis. Results from these analyses are used to provide guidelines to choose the most appropriate strategy combination given current environmental conditions and local problem-solving states. >
Model-based control of robots including actuator dynamics

A model-based control method in which the model of the mechanical plant is augmented by the actuator dynamics is proposed. The reflex-action-position control method is expanded to fit the higher order dynamics. The control law has a third-order feed-forward term and feedback compensation for the errors in acceleration, rate, and position. Thus the governing equation in the error space is third order. The control is implemented through a recursive algorithm that can be customized for any given manipulator to reduce the computational load. As is the case with the second-order model, the number of computations in the recursive algorithm depends linearly on the number of degrees of freedom. >
Merging rank lists from multiple sources in video classification

Multimedia corpora increasingly consist of data from multiple sources, with different characteristics that can be exploited by specialized applications. This paper focuses on video classification over multiple-source collections, and addresses the question whether classifiers should train from individual sources or from a full data set across all sources. If training separately, how can rank lists from different sources be merged effectively? We formulate the problem of merging ranked lists as learning a function mapping from local scores to global scores, and propose a learning method based on logistic regression. In our experiments we find that source characteristics are very important for video classification. Moreover, our method of learning mapping functions performs significantly better than merging methods without explicitly learning the mapping junctions
Linking market uncertainty to VoIP service architectures

The flexibility of packet-switching technologies, coupled with the economic benefits of sending voice over IP networks, is accelerating the convergence of data and voice. It remains unclear, however, which voice-over-IP (VoIP) architecture will best meet user needs, which services will be most successful, and where in the network these services should reside. The question of where to place services in IP telephone networks depends on many variables, including the end systems' capabilities, the amount of interaction the service requires with the end user, and the network infrastructure's architecture. The limited ability of dumb end devices, such as the telephones in the public switched telephone network (PSTN), force service providers to implement services within the network. Smart end systems allow providers more choice in where to locate services. This article describes the main architectural options for VOW and discusses their associated economic effects. By focusing on the relationship between architecture and market uncertainty, the author demonstrates how high uncertainty enhances the value of architectures that allow distributed network services.
Exact Decoding of Syntactic Translation Models through Lagrangian Relaxation

We describe an exact decoding algorithm for syntax-based statistical translation. The approach uses Lagrangian relaxation to decompose the decoding problem into tractable sub-problems, thereby avoiding exhaustive dynamic programming. The method recovers exact solutions, with certificates of optimality, on over 97% of test examples; it has comparable speed to state-of-the-art decoders.
Structural characteristics of 2-halo-1,3,2-dithiarsenic compounds and tris-(pentafluorophenylthio)-arsen

Abstract The combination of various dithiols and AsX3 (X = F, Cl) produces the series of cyclized halo-arsenic dithiolate compounds: 2-chloro-1,3,2-dithiarsolane [AsCl(SCH2CH2S)] (1), 2-iodo-1,3,2-dithiarsolane [AsI(SCH2CH2S)] (2), 2-chloro-1,3,2-dithiarsenane [AsCl(SCH2CH2CH2S)] (3), 2-iodo-1,3,2-dithiarsenane [AsI(SCH2CH2CH2S)] (4), 3-chloro-4H,7H-5,6-benz-1,3,2-dithiarsepine [AsCl(SCH2)2(C6H4)] (5), 1,2-bis-dithiarsolan-2-ylmercapto-ethane [As2(SCH2CH2S)2(SCH2CH2S)] (6) and tris-(pentafluorophenylthio)-arsen [As(SC6F5)3] (7). The geometry around As for these compounds is best described as trigonal pyramidal with varying degrees of distortion. Compound 1 crystallizes in two polymorphic forms with similar structural parameters. The compounds have been characterized by IR, 1H, 19F, and 13C NMR, X-ray crystallography and GC–MS.
Solutions to a class of nonlinear differential equations of fractional order

In this paper we investigate the formulation of a class of boundary value problems of fractional order with the Riemann-Liouville fractional derivative and integral-type boundary conditions. The existence of solutions is established by applying a fixed point theorem of Krasnosel’skiuo and Zabreiko for asymptotically linear mappings.
The Achievement of Student Subgroups on Science Performance Assessments in Inquiry-Based Classrooms

This study examined student learning in science as measured by performance assessments embedded within inquiry-based units of instruction. These locally developed assessments were implemented in a consortium of districts involved in a multi-year science education reform initiative. The sample consisted of scores from 834 fifth grade students on three performance assessments given in a participating district’s 14 elementary schools during the 2004-2005 school year. District-provided data permitted disaggregation of student scores by ethnicity, gender, and socioeconomic status as well as identification as English Learner, Gifted and Talented, and Special Education. Using mean scores as the basis for comparison, results showed the majority of students achieving at the proficient level as defined by initiative-developed rubrics. Statistical analyses indicated significant underperformance on one or more of the assessments by Blacks, Hispanics, low socioeconomic status students, males, non-Gifted, and Special Education students. Depending on the performance assessment and the student subgroup, potential factors related to performance include science discipline and access to economics-related resources (e.g., computers). This study is noteworthy for its comprehensiveness and the nuanced understandings it brings to previously documented achievement gaps.
Changes in Body Weight During the First Pregnancy for Holstein Heifers Calving at Different Seasons

Summary Body weight gains during pregnancy were studied for 100 Holstein heifers calving at different seasons of the year. The year was divided into four seasons as follows: January, February, and March; April, May, and June; July August, and September; and October, November, and December. Body weight gain during gestation was least for that group of heifers calving during the period July, August, and September. Weight gain for the heifers calving during the other three seasons was significantly higher. The weight gain during the last 2 mo. of pregnancy appeared to be positively correlated with subsequent milk yield, regardless of season of calving.
Monte-Carlo simulations of surface and gas phase diffusion in complex porous structures

Abstract A new procedure for estimating surface diffusivities and tortuosities within realistic models of complex porous structures is reported. Our approach uses Monte-Carlo tracer methods to monitor mean-square displacements for molecules restricted to wander on pore walls within model random mesoporous solids typical of those used as adsorbents, heterogeneous catalysts, and porous membranes. We consider model porous solids formed from initial packings of spheres with unimodal, Gaussian, or bimodal distributions of size; changes in pellet porosity are achieved by increasing microsphere radii and by randomly removing spheres from highly densified packings in order to simulate densification and coarsening, respectively. Geometric tortuosities for the surface phase reached large values at void fractions near 0.04 and 0.42 for densified solids; the surface tortuosity gave a minimum value of 1.9 at a void fraction of ∼0.26. These high tortuosities correspond to percolation thresholds for the void and solid phases, which in turn reflect packing densities at which each phase becomes discontinuous. Surface tortuosities for coarsened solids at low void fractions were similar to those in densified solids; however, at void fractions above ∼0.3, surface tortuosities of coarsened solids increased only gradually with void fraction, because coarsening retains significant overlap among spheres at void fractions above those giving disconnected solids in densified structures. Simulations of bulk diffusion within voids were used to compare the transport properties and connectivity of the void space with those of surfaces that define this void space. Surface and void tortuosities were similar, except for void fractions near the solid percolation threshold, because unconnected solid particles interrupt surface connectivity but not gas phase diffusion paths. Surface and void tortuosities were also similar for channels within linear chains of overlapping hollow spheres as both tortuosities increased with decreasing extent of sphere overlap. These simulations provide a basis for estimates of surface and void tortuosities, which are essential in the interpretation and extrapolation of diffusion rates in complex porous media. Surface and void diffusivity estimates differed significantly from those obtained from lattice and capillary models of complex porous structures.
SMI of Bcl-2 TW-37 is active across a spectrum of B-cell tumors irrespective of their proliferative and differentiation status

The Bcl-2 family of proteins is critical to the life and death of malignant B-lymphocytes. Interfering with their activity using small-molecule inhibitors (SMI) is being explored as a new therapeutic strategy for treating B-cell tumors. We evaluated the efficacy of TW-37, a non-peptidic SMI of Bcl-2 against a range spectrum of human B-cell lines, fresh patient samples and animal xenograft models. Multiple cytochemical and molecular approaches such as acridine orange/ethidium bromide assay for apoptosis, co-immunoprecipitation of complexes and western blot analysis, caspase luminescent activity assay and apoptotic DNA fragmentation assay were used to demonstrate the effect of TW-37 on different B-cell lines, patient derived samples, as well as in animal xenograft models. Nanomolar concentrations of TW-37 were able to induce apoptosis in both fresh samples and established cell lines with IC50 in most cases of 165–320 nM. Apoptosis was independent of proliferative status or pathological classification of B-cell tumor. TW-37 was able to block Bim-Bcl-XL and Bim-Mcl-1 heterodimerization and induced apoptosis via activation of caspases -9, -3, PARP and DNA fragmentation. TW-37 administered to tumor-bearing SCID mice led to significant tumor growth inhibition (T/C), tumor growth delay (T-C) and Log10kill, when used at its maximum tolerated dose (40 mg/kg × 3 days) via tail vein. TW-37 failed to induce changes in the Bcl-2 proteins levels suggesting that assessment of baseline Bcl-2 family proteins can be used to predict response to the drug. These findings indicate activity of TW-37 across the spectrum of human B-cell tumors and support the concept of targeting the Bcl-2 system as a therapeutic strategy regardless of the stage of B-cell differentiation.
Making campus bridging work for researchers: Can campus bridging experts accelerate discovery?

The computational demands of an ever increasing number of scholars at universities and research institutions throughout the country are outgrowing the capacity of desktop workstations. Researchers are turning to high performance computing facilities, both on their campuses and at regional and national centers, to run simulations and analyze data. The Extreme Science and Engineering Discovery Environment XSEDE is one of the first places researchers turn to when they outgrow their campus resources. XSEDE machines are far larger by at least an order of magnitude than what most universities offer. Transitioning from a campus resource to an XSEDE resource is seldom a trivial task. XSEDE has taken many steps to make this transition easier, including the campus bridging initiative, the Campus Champions program, and the Extended Collaborative Support Service program. In this paper, we present a new facet to the campus bridging initiative in the form of the campus bridging expert, an information technology professional dedicated to aid researchers in transitioning from desktop, to campus, to regional, and to national resources. We outline the current state of affairs and explore how campus bridging experts could provide maximal impact for minimal investment on the part of the organizing body. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Distinct and Overlapping Functions of MRP1/2 and RBP16 in Mitochondrial RNA Metabolism

Mitochondrial RNA metabolism in Trypanosoma brucei is a complex process involving both extensive RNA editing and control of RNA stability. MRP1/2 and RBP16 are two factors that have been implicated in regulating the editing and stability of specific mRNAs. These two factors exhibit similar nonspecific RNA binding and RNA-annealing activities, suggesting that some of their actions may have been previously masked by functional redundancy. Here, we examine the functional interaction of MRP1/2 and RBP16 by separate and simultaneous RNA interference and by overexpressing RBP16 in an MRP1/2-depleted background. Simultaneous depletion of these factors resulted in synthetic lethality in procyclic trypanosomes. Analysis of mitochondrial RNAs in procyclic cells revealed distinct functions for MRP1/2 and RBP16 toward edited apocytochrome b mRNA, redundant functions in stabilization of edited ATPase subunit 6 and cytochrome oxidase subunit 3 mRNAs, and concentration-dependent positive and negative functions for RBP16 toward edited RPS12 mRNAs. While simultaneous MRP1/2-RBP16 depletion had no effect on the growth of bloodstream form cells, massive adverse effects on the levels of almost all mitochondrial RNAs were observed. These studies greatly expand our knowledge regarding the functions of MRP1/2 and RBP16 and suggest that both RNAspecific and life cycle stage-specific factors impact MRP1/2 and RBP16 functions. Mitochondrial gene regulation in kinetoplastid protozoa is a complex process entailing multiple posttranscriptional steps (24, 45, 47). For example, in Trypanosoma brucei ,1 2 of 18 mitochondrially encoded RNAs require editing for the creation of a translatable mRNA. Kinetoplastid editing is a unique process in which uridines (U) are posttranscriptionally added to and deleted from transcripts in a highly specific manner. During editing, the pre-mRNA associates with small transacting RNAs known as guide RNAs (gRNAs), which are also mitochondrially encoded and contain the information for the addition and/or deletion of a specifically set number of U residues. Editing is catalyzed by several related multiprotein complexes, termed editosomes or L complexes, which contain all of the required enzymatic activities and additional proteins important for structure and macromolecular interactions (7, 30, 31, 44). While it is associated with the editosomes, premRNA is cleaved by one of several gRNA-directed endonucleases, and U residues are inserted or deleted through the actions of a terminal uridylyl transferase or U-specific exoribonuclease, respectively, using the gRNA-encoded information. Following this step, the mRNA is religated by one of two
Diverse expression of dsrc29A, a gene related to src, during the life cycle of Drosophila melanogaster

We used in situ hybridization to study the RNA expression of the dsrc29A gene during Drosophila development. This gene encodes two proteins differing at their amino termini. Both gene products contain a protein-tyrosine kinase domain and resemble the protein encoded by vertebrate src. We examined most stages of development in the Drosophila life cycle: embryos, third instar larvae, pupae and adults. Our results revealed that dsrc29A expression is specialized throughout development, being prominent at various times in neural tissue, phagocytic cells, dorsal vessel, ovaries, gut, developing salivary glands, imaginal discs and disc derivatives. These findings confirm and extend previous results for the distribution of dsrc29A protein, indicating that the regulation of this gene is primarily at the level of transcription. In some tissues expression is transient, whereas in others, it is continuous, and expression occurs in proliferative, differentiating and differentiated tissue. These patterns of expression demonstrate how a single protein-tyrosine kinase might play diverse roles at different times during development. Comparison of the expression of dsrc29A and other members of the protein-tyrosine kinase gene superfamily reveals that the genes are expressed in distinctive but sometimes overlapping patterns.
ON COUNTERBALANCING OF SYMPTOM-REPORTING IN TRAUMA SURVEYS

Some traumatic stress research surveys are potentially subject to context effects, such as priming, because they include questions about traumatic experiences and trauma-related symptoms within the same survey. In this study, asking about traumatic experiences before or after asking about PTSD influenced symptom reporting was investigated in a sample of 424 National Guard soldiers. Results indicate ordering of symptom measures immediately before or after reports of combat experiences did not influence reports of PTSD symptoms. Implications of results are discussed.
Mechanism of the Palladium-Catalyzed Arene C–H Acetoxylation: A Comparison of Catalysts and Ligand Effects

This article describes detailed mechanistic studies focused on elucidating the impact of pyridine ligands on the Pd-catalyzed C-H acetoxylation of benzene. Three different catalysts, Pd(OAc)2, Pd(OAc)2/pyridine (1:1), and Pd(OAc)2/pyridine (1:2), are compared using a combination of mechanistic tools, including rate and order studies, Hammett analysis, detailed characterization of catalyst resting states, and isotope effects. The data from these experiments implicate C-H activation as the rate-limiting step in all cases. The major difference between the three catalysts is proposed to be the resting state of Pd. Under the reaction conditions, Pd(OAc)2 rests as an acetate bridged dimer, while the Pd(OAc)2/pyridine (1:2) catalyst rests as the monomer (pyridine)2Pd(OAc)2. In contrast, a variety of experiments suggest that the highly active catalyst generated from the 1:1 combination of Pd(OAc)2 and pyridine rests as the dimeric structure [(pyridine)Pd(OAc)2]2.
Expression of a Diverse Array of Ca2+-Activated K+ Channels (SK1/3, IK1, BK) that Functionally Couple to the Mechanosensitive TRPV4 Channel in the Collecting Duct System of Kidney

The voltage- and Ca2+-activated, large conductance K+ channel (BK, maxi-K) is expressed in the collecting duct system of kidney where it underlies flow- and Ca2+-dependent K+ excretion. To determine if other Ca2+-activated K+ channels (KCa) may participate in this process, mouse kidney and the K+-secreting mouse cortical collecting duct (CCD) cell line, mCCDcl1, were assessed for TRPV4 and KCa channel expression and cross-talk. qPCR mRNA analysis and immunocytochemical staining demonstrated TRPV4 and KCa expression in mCCDcl1 cells and kidney connecting tubule (CNT) and CCD. Three subfamilies of KCa channels were revealed: the high Ca2+-binding affinity small-conductance SK channels, SK1and SK3, the intermediate conductance channel, IK1, and the low Ca2+-binding affinity, BK channel (BKα subunit). Apparent expression levels varied in CNT/CCD where analysis of CCD principal cells (PC) and intercalated cells (IC) demonstrated differential staining: SK1:PC IC, IK1:PC>IC, BKα:PC = IC, and TRPV4:PC>IC. Patch clamp analysis and fluorescence Ca2+ imaging of mCCDcl1 cells demonstrated potent TRPV4-mediated Ca2+ entry and strong functional cross-talk between TRPV4 and KCa channels. TRPV4-mediated Ca2+ influx activated each KCa channel, as evidenced by selective inhibition of KCa channels, with each active KCa channel enhancing Ca2+ entry (due to membrane hyperpolarization). Transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) analysis of confluent mCCDcl1 cells grown on permeable supports further demonstrated this cross-talk where TRPV4 activation induce a decrease in TEER which was partially restored upon selective inhibition of each KCa channel. It is concluded that SK1/SK3 and IK1 are highly expressed along with BKα in CNT and CCD and are closely coupled to TRPV4 activation as observed in mCCDcl1 cells. The data support a model in CNT/CCD segments where strong cross talk between TRPV4-mediated Ca2+ influx and each KCa channel leads to enhance Ca2+ entry which will support activation of the low Ca2+-binding affinity BK channel to promote BK-mediated K+ secretion.
ConfChem Conference on Interactive Visualizations for Chemistry Teaching and Learning: Insights into Molecular Visualization Design

An electronic learning tool (ELT) on precipitation reactions was designed featuring a cartoon chemistry tutor named “Dr. NRG” who directs students through a learning cycle approach to explore the nature of precipitation reactions. Studies done with instructors and students informed the design of atomic level animations that were a main feature of the ELT. Findings from a naturalistic study featuring data from a metacognitive activity embedded in the tool demonstrate the ELT’s effectiveness. This communication summarizes a paper that was discussed May 8, 2015 to May 14 2015 during the spring 2015. Discussions following the paper centered on students’ misconceptions, instructors’ involvement in the development, and pedagogical practices involving animations.
Surveillance on food-borne pathogens in food in Nanjing city from 2007 to 2010

Objective:To investigate the situations and levels of main food-borne pathogens bacteria in food in Nanjing city and to provide scientific basis for prevention and control of food-borne diseases.Methods: From 2007 to 2010,459 retail food samples were collected and analyzed for the occurrence of Salmonella,Listeria monocytogenes,Escherichia coli O157∶H7,Staphylococcus aureus,Campylobacter and Vibrio parahaemolyticus.Results: Among all samples,61 pathogenic strains were isolated and the overall positive rate were 13.3%.The positive rate of food-borne pathogens bacteria from 2007 to 2010 were 25.3%,21.3%,7.9%and 6.9% respectively.The positive rate in raw meat,quick-frozen flour and rice products,aquatic products,cooked meat and Chinese cold dishes were 45.8%,24%,14.1%,13.3% and 5.9% respectively.Conclusion: The results showed that Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes widely existed in foods in Nanjing city.Raw meat,quick-frozen flour and rice products and cooked meats were the higher risk foods to cause food-borne diseases.
Dynamic Structure and Inhibition of a Malaria Drug Target: Geranylgeranyl Diphosphate Synthase.

We report a molecular dynamics investigation of the structure, function, and inhibition of geranylgeranyl diphosphate synthase (GGPPS), a potential drug target, from the malaria parasite Plasmodium vivax. We discovered several GGPPS inhibitors, benzoic acids, and determined their structures crystallographically. We then used molecular dynamics simulations to investigate the dynamics of three such inhibitors and two bisphosphonate inhibitors, zoledronate and a lipophilic analogue of zoledronate, as well as the enzyme’s product, GGPP. We were able to identify the main motions that govern substrate binding and product release as well as the molecular features required for GGPPS inhibition by both classes of inhibitor. The results are of broad general interest because they represent the first detailed investigation of the mechanism of action, and inhibition, of an important antimalarial drug target, geranylgeranyl diphosphate synthase, and may help guide the development of other, novel inhibitors as new drug ...
“Creativity Really Comes by what’s Inside of You”

A secondary student in a Canadian performing arts school articulates one of the interesting dichotomies when it comes to promoting creative achievement in young people: For the individual student, it is likely that creativity is perceived as a form of self-expression, something that happens within themselves or in their group. While, for the teacher, promoting creative achievement depends on the structuring of the class and assignments and observing student growth as s/he masters an art form. This comment from an elementary teacher in Jamaica illustrates, “In teaching creativity, teachers need to provide opportunities where students are allowed to give their own idea and present what they are feeling which also will help to develop critical thinking skills” (, McCammon, O’Farrell, & Heap, 2008, p. 51).
Enhanced EBIC response but degraded solar cell performance for CdTe grain boundaries

We conduct two dimensional TCAD simulation for EBIC imaging and solar cell performance for CdTe solar cells with positively charged grain boundaries. Large signal enhancement is found near grain boundaries for EBIC simulation, but, in contrast to previous claims, cell performance drops when positively charged grain boundaries are introduced.