cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Growth rate and cell size modulate the synthesis of, and requirement for, G1-phase cyclins at start.

In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, commitment to cell cycle progression occurs at Start. Progression past Start requires cell growth and protein synthesis, a minimum cell size, and G1-phase cyclins. We examined the relationships among these factors. Rapidly growing cells expressed, and required, dramatically more Cln protein than did slowly growing cells. To clarify the role of cell size, we expressed defined amounts of CLN mRNA in cells of different sizes. When Cln was expressed at nearly physiological levels, a critical threshold of Cln expression was required for cell cycle progression, and this critical threshold varied with both cell size and growth rate: as cells grew larger, they needed less CLN mRNA, but as cells grew faster, they needed more Cln protein. At least in part, large cells had a reduced requirement for CLN mRNA because large cells generated more Cln protein per unit of mRNA than did small cells. When Cln was overexpressed, it was capable of promoting Start rapidly, regardless of cell size or growth rate. In summary, the amount of Cln required for Start depends dramatically on both cell size and growth rate. Large cells generate more Cln1 or Cln2 protein for a given amount of CLN mRNA, suggesting the existence of a novel posttranscriptional size control mechanism.
Gain-switched pulsed operation of microchip lasers.

Microchip lasers have produced single-frequency, gain-switched pulses with a FWHM as short as 760 psec for Nd:YAG (NdxY3−xAl5O12) and 80 psec for LiNdP4O12 (LNP).
Evaluation of electrical parameters for diaphragm pacing: An experimental study

Abstract A study of electrical parameters for pacing of the diaphragm in dogs was undertaken to determine which level of current, stimulation waveform, electrode design, impulse frequency, and pulse train repetition rate caused least fatigue of the diaphragm muscle. Stimulation of the phrenic nerve at a current level causing maximal tidal volume resulted in greater fatigue than stimulation at a somewhat lesser current level. A bidirectional waveform was less fatiguing than a unidirectional waveform, but the difference was not striking. Whether the electrode was monopolar or bipolar was not a factor, although recovery from fatigue was slightly faster and more complete after cessation of stimulation with the former. A marked differences in the development of fatigue occurred with the use of different stimulation frequencies. A high-frequency, narrow pulse interval (33 Hz; 30 msec PI) caused rapid and marked fatigue, a higher-frequency, wider pulse interval (25 Hz; 40 msec PI) somewhat less fatigue, while a stimulation frequency similar to the discharge of motor neurons to slow-contracting muscle (11 Hz; 90 msec PI) no fatigue, indeed, with continued stimulation, an improvement in tidal volume. There also appeared to be less fatigue with a pulse train repetition rate (rate of inspiration) of 10 per minute rather than 20. The results of these experiments are of importance in planning an effective pacing program for clinical use. It may be particularly helpful in the designing of stimulators for patients who require artificial ventilatory support but who are unable to be maintained on the available electrical apparatus for clinical application.
Empowerment-Oriented Social Work Practice: Impact on Late Life Relationships of Women

SUMMARY Empowerment interventions promote egalitarian, strengths-based relationships through education, self-help, mutual support, consciousness raising, and social action activities. In this paper we describe the influence of empowerment-oriented group intervention on the relationships of older women. We conducted qualitative interviews with the women who participated in the group and the social workers who staffed the intervention activities. The findings suggest that, in addition to other empowerment outcomes, the older women participants developed sustaining relationships with each other and often seriously considered the nature of their other late life relationships. Thus, empowerment-oriented interventions can enhance the quality of life for older women, including the development and support of meaningful interpersonal relationships.
Pancreatic pseudocyst simulating perinephric abscess

Abstract A case of pseudocyst of the pancreas simulating perinephric abscess is described. This condition is rare compared with most reported cases of pseudocyst causing pyelographic abnormalities by extrinsic compression. Spontaneous rupture of the pseudocyst is proposed as the mechanism by which the normally protective Gerota's fascia is penetrated.
Dual-mode micromirrors for optical phased array applications

We present design, analysis and characterization of dual-mode vertical comb-drive actuated micromirrors. These micromirror actuators can provide both piston motion and tilt, which allow us to precisely control the phase of an optical beam reflected from an array of micromirrors. We demonstrate the optical phased array functionality by spatially scanning an optical beam using a four-mirror array. The dual-mode micromirrors utilize vertical comb drive actuators that allow us to produce large deflections at relatively low voltages with continuous stable control over the full range of motion.
For a new economics of resettlement: a sociological critique of the compensation principle

Many development projects intended to alleviate poverty end up increasing poverty by displacing large numbers of people without reestablishing them viably, despite the use of compensation payments for assets lost. This paper appreciates the contribution of economic science to matters of compensation. However, it also subjects the theory of compensation to critical scrutiny and deconstructs the current practices of compensation to highlight their fallacies, distortions, and unsatisfactory outcomes. In particular, the paper critiques: (a) the economic theory that predicates the socio-economic recovery of those displaced only on the principle of compensation for asset losses; (b) the resettlement policies that tolerate an internal mismatch between policy objectives and policy means; and (c) the methodology that planners often employ in appraising projects with resettlement, which is inadequate to the task. The author argues that the magnitude of the combined material and non-material impoverishment risks and losses experienced by those displaced far exceeds the redeeming powers of narrow compensation-centered solutions offered by conventional economics. He identifies a structural incongruity in policies which define their goals as improving or restoring resettlers’ livelihoods, and rely only on compensation as the virtually sole means for achieving either of these goals. The paper outlines several basic limitations and flaws in compensation that reinforce the main poverty risks inherent in forced displacements, as demonstrated in the author’s analytical model of impoverishment risks and reconstruction (IRR) in resettlement. To complement compensation for damages and make the policy goals in resettlement achievable, targeted investment financing channeled to those displaced is necessary as part of the regular development projects’ investments. The author argues in favor of a shift from the “economics of compensation” towards an “economics of resettlement with development”, that will pursue the final goal of affected peoples’ sustainable reestablishment rather than be focused narrowly only on compensation delivery, regardless of final overall recovery. Additional investment resources for resettlement with welfare improvement can be secured in several ways, outlined in the paper, often through equitable sharing of the project-generated benefits with those displaced.
Divergence of the systemic immune response following oral infection with distinct strains of Porphyromonas gingivalis.

Periodontitis is a polymicrobial oral infection characterized by the destruction of tooth-supporting structures that can be linked to systemic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis. Porphyromonas gingivalis, a bacterium implicated in the etiology of periodontitis, has shown variation in inducing T-cell responses among different strains. Therefore, in this study we investigated the strain-specific immune response using a murine experimental model of periodontitis. Periodontitis was induced by P. gingivalis strains A7A1-28, W83 and W50, and later confirmed by the presence of P. gingivalis in the oral microflora and by alveolar bone resorption. Splenocytes were evaluated for gene expression, cellular proteins and cytokine expression. Dendritic cells were stimulated in vitro for T helper cell-cytokine profiling. Results showed that P. gingivalis had the ability to alter the systemic immune response after bacterial exposure. Strains W50 and W83 were shown to induce alveolar bone loss, whereas the A7A1-28 strain did not significantly promote bone resorption in mice. Splenocytes derived from mice infected with strains W50 and W83 induced expression of high levels of interleukin-4 (IL-4) but A7A1-28 stimulated increased IL-10. Stimulation of dendritic cells in vitro showed a similar pattern of cytokine expression of IL-12p40, IL-6 and transforming growth factor-β among strains. A distinct systemic response in vivo was observed among different strains of P. gingivalis, with IL-10 associated with the least amount of alveolar bone loss. Evaluation of pathogen-driven systemic immune responses associated with periodontal disease pathogenesis may assist in defining how periodontitis may impact other diseases.
Erratum: "Chandra Sample of Nearby Relaxed Galaxy Clusters: Mass, Gas Fraction, and Mass-Temperature Relation"

We present gas and total mass profiles for 13 low-redshift, relaxed clusters spanning a temperature range 0.7-9 keV, derived from all available Chandra data of sufficient quality. In all clusters, gas-temperature profiles are measured to large radii (Vikhlinin et al.) so that direct hydrostatic mass estimates are possible to nearly r500 or beyond. The gas density was accurately traced to larger radii; its profile is not described well by a beta model, showing continuous steepening with radius. The derived ρtot profiles and their scaling with mass generally follow the Navarro-Frenk-White model with concentration expected for dark matter halos in ΛCDM cosmology. However, in three cool clusters, we detect a central mass component in excess of the Navarro-Frenk-White profile, apparently associated with their cD galaxies. In the inner region (r < 0.1r500), the gas density and temperature profiles exhibit significant scatter and trends with mass, but they become nearly self-similar at larger radii. Correspondingly, we find that the slope of the mass-temperature relation for these relaxed clusters is in good agreement with the simple self-similar behavior, M500 Tα, where α = (1.5-1.6) ± 0.1, if the gas temperatures are measured excluding the central cool cores. The normalization of this M-T relation is significantly, by ≈30%, higher than most previous X-ray determinations. We derive accurate gas mass fraction profiles, which show an increase with both radius and cluster mass. The enclosed fgas profiles within r2500 0.4r500 have not yet reached any asymptotic value and are still far (by a factor of 1.5-2) from the universal baryon fraction according to the cosmic microwave background (CMB) observations. The fgas trends become weaker and its values closer to universal at larger radii, in particular, in spherical shells r2500 < r < r500.
Effect of time delay on the diagnostic use of contrast echocardiography in patients presenting to the emergency department with chest pain and no S-T segment elevation.

Background The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of time delay on the diagnostic and prognostic use of contrast echocardiography (CE) in patients presenting to the emergency department (ED) with chest pain (CP) and no S-T segment elevation. Methods Patients (n = 957, 498 men) presenting to the ED within 12 hours of suggested cardiac CP underwent CE. Regional function (RF) and myocardial perfusion were interpreted separately by expert readers blinded to all other clinical data. Primary (acute myocardial infarction and total mortality) and secondary (unstable angina and revascularization) events within 24 hours of enrollment were determined. Results Patients were divided into 4 quartiles based on the time interval between their last episode of CP and CE. Patients in quartile I had CE during CP (time delay of 0 minutes). The time delay in quartiles II, III, and IV were 54 ± 45, 213±54, and 556 ± 184 minutes, respectively ( P Conclusions In patients presenting to the ED within 12 hours of CP, the timing of CE does not influence its ability to predict events that occur 24 hours later. These findings have important implications in the performance of CE in the ED.
Magnetic properties of Zr(Cr1−xCox)2 alloys and their hydrides

Abstract Magnetic properties of Zr(Cr 1− x Co x ) 2 alloys, with 0 ⩽ x ⩽ 0.75, and their hydrides were determined over the temperature range 4 to 275 K. All systems were paramagnetic. The susceptibility (ϰ) is significantly enhanced both by increase of the Co content and by hydrogenation in all cases except cubic ZrCr 2 , for which ϰ is virtually unchanged by hydrogenation. The rise in ϰ is ascribed to electron transfer from Co to Cr and to H. This transfer increases the local density of states for Co at the Fermi energy. The temperature dependence of the susceptibility can be represented by an equation of the form ϰ = ϰ 0 + C /( T − θ), indicating Pauli and Curie-Weiss contributions to ϰ. The contributions are attributed to the ZrCr 2 matrix and the solute Co atoms, respectively. The Co atoms on Zr sites are weakly coupled antiferromagnetically. Pressure-composition isotherms for the ZrCrCo-H 2 system are given at 80, 120 and 165°C. At 80°C this alloy hydrogenates to the composition ZrCoCrH 3.25 at a pressure of 50 atm.
The pleckstrin homology domain of phospholipase Cbeta transmits enzymatic activation through modulation of the membrane-domain orientation.

Phospholipase Cβ (PLCβ) enzymes are activated by Gαq and Gβγ subunits and catalyze the hydrolysis of the minor membrane lipid phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate [PI(4,5)P2]. Activation of PLCβ2 by Gβγ subunits has been shown to be conferred through its N-terminal pleckstrin homology (PH) domain, although the underlying mechanism is unclear. Also unclear are observations that the extent of Gβγ activation differs on different membrane surfaces. In this study, we have identified a unique region of the PH domain of the PLCβ2 domain (residues 71−88) which, when added to the enzyme as a peptide, causes enzyme activation similar to that with Gβγ subunits. This PH domain segment interacts strongly with membranes composed of lipid mixtures but not those containing lipids with electrically neutral zwitterionic headgroups. Also, addition of this segment perturbs interaction of the catalytic domain, but not the PH domain, with membrane surfaces. We monitored the orientation of the PH and catalytic domains of PLC b...
Evaluation of distributed admission control for the IEEE 802.11e EDCA

This article reviews and introduces an enhanced distributed control algorithm for enhanced distributed channel access in the emerging IEEE 802.11e wireless local area networks. The algorithm is evaluated for video streams in terms of throughput, delay, transmission limit convergence, and effects of the damping factor.
The Plus Site: An Iroquoian Remote Camp in Upland Tompkins County, NY

Between 1997 and 1998, the Public Archaeology Facility, at Binghamton University, was contracted by the New York State Education Department on behalf of the Department of Transportation to conduct investigations of the Plus site (SUBi-1736; NYSM #10494), located in the Town of Dryden, Tompkins County, New York. The site occupies an inland setting in the Virgil/Fall Creek watershed, lying on a glacial gravel hill adjacent to Willow Glen Cemetery along NY Route 13. Site examination and data recovery excavations in threatened areas of the site revealed a cluster of Late Woodland cultural features including hearths, a storage/refuse pit, and postmolds. The artifactual materials from these cultural features suggest the Plus site functioned as an Iroquois remote camp occupied during the late 14th century. The Plus site represents the first Iroquois remote campsite in central New York to receive intensive subsurface investigation.
Selenium volatilization and assimilation by hybrid poplar (Populus tremula x alba)

Removal of Se by plants is based on the ability of plants to take up Se into tissues and to volatilize it. The predominThe poplar hybrid Populus tremula◊alba was shown ant volatile Se species is dimethylselenide, which is 500‐700 to volatilize significant amounts of selenium. The volat- times less toxic than inorganic Se species (Ganther et al., ilization rates were 230-fold higher from seleno- 1966). All the plant species that have been tested so far for methionine compared to selenite, and 1.5-fold higher Se volatilization, and most plants that are presently being from selenite than from selenate. X-ray absorption used for Se phytoremediation, are herbaceous plants (Terry spectroscopy showed that selenate was metabolized et al., 1992). A limitation of herbaceous plants, however, is slowly, but selenite was quickly converted to organic their shallow root system. Phytoremediation of Se pollution selenium. at depths below the root zone of these herbaceous plants (0.5 m) will be minimal. Compared to herbaceous plants,
Splanchnic perfusion during delayed, hypotensive, or aggressive fluid resuscitation from uncontrolled hemorrhage.

ABSTRACTThe purpose of this study was to determine the effect of three different fluid resuscitation strategies on splanchnic perfusion in a clinically relevant model of uncontrolled hemorrhage after liver trauma. Anesthetized swine were instrumented with a gastric near-infrared spectroscopy probe (
Hopping Maps for Photosynthetic Reaction Centers().

Photosynthetic reaction centers (PRCs) employ multiple-step tunneling (hopping) to separate electrons and holes that ultimately drive the chemistry required for metabolism. We recently developed hopping maps that can be used to interpret the rates and energetics of electron/hole hopping in three-site (donor–intermediate–acceptor) tunneling reactions, including those in PRCs. Here we analyze several key ET reactions in PRCs, including forward ET in the L-branch, and hopping that could involve thermodynamically uphill intermediates in the M-branch, which is ET-inactive in vivo. We also explore charge recombination reactions, which could involve hopping. Our hopping maps support the view that electron flow in PRCs involves strong electronic coupling between cofactors and reorganization energies that are among the lowest in biology (≤0.4 eV).
Transfinite mappings and their application to grid generation

The two essential ingredients of any boundary value problem are the field equations which describe the physics of the problem and a set of relations which specify the geometry of the problem domain. Mesh generators or grid generators are preprocessors whicd decompose the problem domain into a large number of interconnected finite elements or curvilinear finite difference stencils. A number of such techiques have been developed over the past decade to alleviate the frustation and reduce the time involved in the tedious manual subdividing of a complex-shaped region or 3-D structure into finite elements. Our purpose here is to describe how the techniques of bivariate and trivariate ''blending function'' interpolation, which were originally developed for and applied to geometric problems of computer-aided design of sculptured surface and 3-D solids, can be adapted and applied to the geometric problems of grid generation. In contrast to other techniques which require the numerical solution of complex partial differential equations (and, hence, a great deal of computing), the transfinite methods proposed herein are computationally inexpensive.
Human stewardship and animal welfare

Abstract Animal welfare must be clearly defined and understood in all languages. Welfare means well-being, so that `bad-welfare' is contradictory. Welfare depends upon the provision of all necessary physiological and psychological requirements and the absence or control of adverse factors. Recognition of animals' sentience led to concerns for their welfare. Since animals can neither obtain nor sustain rights for themselves they depend upon humans for their welfare. Stewardship involves responsibility for something and also responsibility to someone. This can mean responsibility to God, or for those without religious beliefs, responsibility to future generations. Veterinarians act as stewards, responsible for treating animals and responsible to the owners. They also have responsibilities to society. Different societies have different expectations of their veterinarians but veterinarians are well placed to support human stewardship for animal welfare.
Multidisciplinary and multi-scale computational field simulations-Algorithms and applications

This paper describes the development and the validation of two computational fluid dynamics (CFD) frameworks for multidisciplinary and multi-scale simulations. The first framework is an overset grid topology with a six-degree of freedom rigid body dynamics library for both structured-grid and unstructured-grid approaches. This framework will enable the CFD flow solver to simulate the problems involving relative motions between multiple bodies such as the stage/store separation process, etc. The second framework is a hybrid scheme that integrates a direct simulation Monte-Carlo (DSMC) method for rarefied gas flows and a Navier-Stokes (NS) solver for continuum flows. The hybrid DSMC-NS numerical framework can greatly improve the computational efficiency for simulation of problems with disparate length scales or a wide range of Knudsen numbers. A density-based Navier-Stokes flow solver, HYB3D, and a pressure-based Navier-Stokes flow solver, FDNS, were employed in this study to demonstrate the capability, strength, and accuracy of these two frameworks. Numerical simulations of benchmark test cases were conducted as the preliminary evaluation for these two frameworks, and the numerical results are presented.
Incremental combining site filling of anti-polypeptide antibodies.

Abstract Antibodies involed in the ‘calcium dependent’ reaction of (Glu 60 Ala 30 Tyr 10 ) n anti-(Glu 60 Ala 30 Tyr 10 ) n have been fractioned by sequential precipitation with the glutamyl containing cross reacting polypeptides (Glu) n , (Glu 90 Ala 10 ) n , (Glu 60 Ala 40 ) n , in that respective order, and finally antigen. Isoelectric focusing and hydrogen exchange experiments have been performed on the parent preparation and the fractionated subpopulations. Although it had been reported earlier that the preparation contained four isoelectric species, as determined in gel experiments, the liquid column studies on the parent preparation and the subpopulations indicate that as many as 25 antibodies which are involved in calcium dependent interactions are elicited by (Glu 60 Ala 30 Tyr 10 ) n . The immunochemical basis for this heterogeneity of response is considered. From the hydrogen exchange studies done at high levels of antigen excess, where it has been shown previously that combining site sensitive hydrogen are blocked from exchange upon interaction with antigen, the extent of interaction of the cross reacting polypeptides with the parent preparation and the subpopulations have been determined. For the subpopulation isolated with poly Glu the hydrogen exchange studies show that 55 per cent of the combining site sensitive hydrogens are affected by interaction with poly Glu, 85% with (Glu 90 Ala 10 ) n , with (Glu 60 Ala 40 ) n and 100 per cent with the immunizing antigen. This incremental combining site filling of this subpopulation by the cross reacting polypeptides correlates with the light transparency of the respective specific precitates. Thus, that formed with poly Glu is transparent while those formed with the other polypeptides have increasing opacity, becoming typically white when formed with the immunizing antigen. The exchange studies done on the subpopulation isolated by precipitation with (Glu 90 Ala 10 ) n indicate that the combining sites of these antibodies are mostly directed against determinants containing Glu and Tyr. For the subpopulation which requires the immunizing antigen for precipitation, the exchange studies show that the combining sites of these antibodies are most likely directed against unique sequences of Glu, Ala and Tyr. By comparing quantitative cross precipitin reaction data on the parent preparation with data obtained by hydrogen exchange, it is found that no correlation exists between the amount of antibody a cross reacting polypeptide precipitates and the percentage of ligand sensitive combining site hydrogens with which it interacts.
The acute respiratory distress syndrome network controversy: lessons and legacy.

Purpose of reviewSeveral of the Acute Respiratory Disease Syndrome Network clinical trials embrace a clinical trial design that evaluates contrasting strategies, one or both of which represents only a segment of standard practices. Such a trial design has engendered ethical controversy regarding the
MRI of complex cyanotic congenital heart disease: pre- and post surgical considerations

Evaluation of patients with complex congenital cyanotic heart disease requires a solid knowledge base of the underlying defects and a full understanding of surgical palliative and corrective procedures. As these patients survive into adulthood, understanding common conditions, their associated surgical procedures, and potential surgical complications is paramount for the radiologist. Use of magnetic resonance imaging in evaluation of these patients is a critical tool at the disposal of the radiologist.
Further studies on the relationship between vitamin C and thymic humoral factor.

SummaryCell-free thymic extracts (thymic humoral factor or THF) were prepared from guinea pigs maintained 6 weeks on daily intakes of 0.25, 0.50, 1.00, or S.00 mg of vitamin C. The concentration of dehydroascorbate in their thymuses increased, and that of ascorbate (and total vitamin C) decreased in direct proportion to the level of vitamin C in the diet. The activity of each preparation was then compared by measuring regeneration of lymphoid organ weight and hexose monophosphate shunt enzyme activity in irradiated, THF-injected rats, and was found to be directly correlated with the level of ascorbate, and inversely correlated with the level of dehydroascorbate in the THF preparations. Thus the data indicate that throughout the ontogeny of the thymus, the level, and particularly the oxidation state of thymic vitamin C is involved in some manner for the production of THF. No evidence was found that vitamin C was required for the actual expression of THF activity, since prior to bioassay, the partial remova...
Reference Values for Valve Circumferences and Ventricular Wall Thicknesses of Fetal and Neonatal Hearts

To evaluate valvular stenosis, cardiac dilation, and/or cardiac hypertrophy, measurements of valve circumference and ventricular wall thickness are of importance. To establish reference values in fetuses and neonates, we reviewed pathology reports at Women and Infants Hospital from 1978 through 2002 and found measurements in 776 cases that were suitable for analysis. Gestational ages (GA) ranged from 15 to 42 wk. The tabulated data include the mean, standard deviation, and 10th and 90th percentile values for foot length, body weight, body length, heart weight, valve measurements, and ventricular wall thicknesses for each week of GA. In cases in which clinical dating is not reliable, we estimated the GA by the mean value nearest that of the observed foot length. All linear measurements increased in a linear fashion throughout the second and third trimesters of development. The circumferences of cardiac valves at all ages, in descending order of magnitude, are: tricuspid, mitral, pulmonary, and aortic. Mean left ventricular (LV) wall thickness is greater than mean right ventricular (RV) wall thickness throughout gestation. The tables offer a means of determining valvular stenosis, or cardiac dilation and/or hypertrophy, based on various gestational ages.
Assembly of a 1-Mb Restriction-Mapped Cosmid Contig Spanning the Candidate Region for Finnish Congenital Nephrosis (NPHS1) in 19q13.1 ☆

We describe the assembly of a 1-Mb cosmid contig and restriction map spanning the candidate region for Finnish congenital nephrosis (NPHS1) in 19q13.1. The map was constructed from 16 smaller contigs assembled by fingerprinting, a BAC and a PAC clone, and 42 previously unmapped cosmids. In most cases, single-step cosmid walks were sufficient to join two previously assembled contigs, and all but one gap was filled from this cosmid contig library. The remaining gap of about 19 kb was spanned with a single BAC and a single PAC clone. EcoRI mapping of a dense set of overlapping clones validated the assembly of the map and indicated a length of 1040 kb for the contig. This high-resolution clone map provides an ideal resource for gene identification through cDNA selection, exon trapping, and DNA sequencing.
Review of Hanushek "Making Schools Work"

Making Schools Work is about the economics of educational policy. The Brookings Institution, publisher of the volume, is among the most respected institutions of economic policy research in the United States. The analysis and recommendations offered by Eric Hanushek, Professor of Economics at the University of Rochester, are based on original research financed by the Pew Charitable Trusts, and carried out by a distinguished group of economists.
A multi-temporal remote sensing approach for monitoring changes in spatial extent of freshwater lake of Deepor Beel Ramsar Site, a major wetland of Assam

Sustainability of wetland ecosystem is necessary for various important functions such as food storage, water quality continuation and providing habitat for different species of flora and fauna. Hence, an inventory of wetlands of any region is a pre-requisite for their conservation and management. This study has been carried out to delineate the change in freshwater lake of ‘Deepor Beel’ wetland of Assam, India, using LANDSAT TM data. Field observation shows that the ecosystem is facing both natural as well as anthropogenic threats. Rapid urbanization, Illegal settlements, industries, invasive species ( Eichhornia crassipes ) are the major cause of this wetland decline. It has been found that massive decline occurred between the period 1991 to 2001 i.e., 1.891 sq.km which was at the rate of -0.171 per year where as the decline between the period 2001 to 2010 was found to be 1.013 sq. km which was at a rate of -0.101. The total area of open water bodies has decreased by 2.904 sq. km from 1991 to 2010 i.e. 59.19%. Thus the overall rate of change in the water bodies from 1991 to 2010 to other land use categories was found to be -0.145. Hence the study reveals the potentiality of Landsat TM data mapping the change in the wetland ecosystem. It is further hoped that the study will have high utility in preparing management plan for conservation of this ecosystem. Keywords: Wetland; Landsat TM; Thresholding; density slice DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jowe.v5i0.4696 J Wet Eco 2011 (5): 40-47
The Effects of Extrusion Conditions on the Physical Properties of Wheat Flour Extrudates

The effects of extrusion conditions (feed moisture content and rate, process temperature, screw speed and geometry, and die diameter) on expansion ratio, bulk density, and breaking strength of wheat flour extrudates were investigated. Extrudate samples were prepared by using a Brabender single-screw extruder. Higher feed moisture content and process temperature were required for proper expansion. At 3.18mm die opening, the relationship between expansion and bulk density was positive. Feed rate was the most effective factor for increasing bulk density. Breaking strength was significantly decreased with increasing process temperature. Under extrusion conditions of 22% feed moisture, 110g/min feed rate, 160°C process temperature, and 130rpm screw speed with 5:1 CR, wheat flour was puffed with low bulk density and breaking strength.
Team Training to Improve the Effectiveness of Teams in the Aircraft Maintenance Environment

Previous task analysis of aircraft inspection/maintenance operations and FAA reports have reported the importance teamwork plays in completing aircraft inspection/maintenance tasks. Hence, it is necessary that we identify team training strategies that will improve team skills, thereby improving team performance within the aircraft inspection/maintenance environment. This paper reviews that state-of-the-art literature on team training. Drawing from the task analysis of aircraft inspection and maintenance operations, site visits to repair facilities and a detailed review of the various team models, a framework developed as a first step in understanding teamwork in aircraft inspection and maintenance operations is reported. The paper also reports the results of a study conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of team training in the aircraft maintenance environment.
Diophantine inference on a statistical database

La transaction diophantienne represente une menace nouvelle pour la securite des bases de donnees statistiques. Discussion sur quelques methodes utilisant une nouvelle technique, qui apparemment n'a pas ete explore jusqu'ici, la solution des equations diophantienne simultanees
An Empirical Comparison of Alternative Methods for the Estimation of the Degree of Operating Leverage

Much diversity exists in the approaches used to estimate the degree of operating leverage in empirical financial research. This study analyzes and compares two techniques for the estimation of the degree of operating leverage coefficients for a sample of 245 firms in seven different industries over two alternative estimation periods. The results indicate that the O'Brien and Vanderheiden estimation technique differs significantly from the Mandelker and Rhee estimation technique. Furthermore, the O'Brien and Vanderheiden estimates appear to be more consistent with the classical ex ante model of degree of operating leverage coefficients. These results may facilitate future research on the estimation of the degree of operating leverage and on the relationship between operating leverage and systematic risk.
Lysosomes and myocardial cellular injury

Abstract The stability of myocardial lysosomes in left posterior papillary muscle sites of predictable injury was investigated after 1, 2 and 4 hours of acute partial ligation of the left circumflex coronary artery of the dog heart. Lysosome stability in the papillary muscle locus of injury was significantly reduced within 1 hour and continued to decrease as the duration of the experimental period increased. The intracellular mechanism responsible for the alteration in lysosome stability may be related to a reduction in pH of the tissue. pH of sham-operated papillary muscle was approximately 6.9, that of the 1 hour and 4 hour groups was 6.4 and 6.3, respectively. Alteration in lysosome stability is considered one of the earliest subcellular structural changes occurring during the ischemic cellular injury process in heart muscle. The extent of the lysosome involvement and the relatively small degree of necrosis present in the papillary muscle sites by 60 minutes, when coupled with the well known hydrolytic capacity of lysosome acid hydrolysis, suggests that the intracellular release of lysosomal enzymes precedes cellular death and may initiate the cellular injury process.
Improved Spin Trapping Properties by β-Cyclodextrin−Cyclic Nitrone Conjugate

Spin trapping using a nitrone and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy is commonly employed in the identification of transient radicals in chemical and biological systems. There has also been a growing interest in the pharmacological activity of nitrones, and there is, therefore, a pressing need to develop nitrones with improved spin trapping properties and controlled delivery in cellular systems. The β-cyclodextrin (β-CD)−cyclic nitrone conjugate, 5-N-β-cyclodextrin-carboxamide-5-methyl-1-pyrroline N-oxide (CDNMPO) was synthesized and characterized. 1-D and 2-D NMR show two stereoisomeric forms (i.e., 5S- and 5R-) for CDNMPO. Spin trapping using CDNMPO shows distinctive EPR spectra for superoxide radical anion (O2•−) compared to other biologically relevant free radicals. Kinetic analysis of O2•− adduct formation and decay using singular value decomposition and pseudoinverse deconvolution methods gave an average bimolecular rate constant of k = 58 ± 1 M−1 s−1 and a maximum half-life of t1/2 ...
A time series analysis of newspaper profitability by circulation size

The study reveals that profit margins for the majority of American newspapers declined throughouth the 1980s and that there is a growing disparity between profit margins for small and larger newspapers.
Friction Pressure Prediction for Annular Flow of Power Law Fluids

This article examines the concentric and eccentric annular flow of non-Newtonian fluids. A new effective diameter definition that accounts for flow geometry and fluid rheology is presented for pressure loss prediction. Satisfactory agreements were obtained between this new effective diameter definition in combination with laminar Fanning friction factor correlations and extensive flow data in the literature. In addition, an explicit friction factor correlation as a function of the generalized Reynolds number, diameter ratio, and relative roughness is presented for a fully eccentric annular drag-reducing turbulent flow. A good agreement was obtained between this correlation and the gathered flow data. The correlations reported provide an effective means of determining friction pressures of non-Newtonian fluids in eccentric annuli.
Effects of Anions on the NMR Relaxation of Pyridinium and Di-tert-Butylpyridinium Ions in Acid Solution. Implications for Chemisorption on Solid Acids

The line shape of the NMR signals of protons bonded to nitrogen shows that the longitudinal relaxation of 14N (T1N) is much faster for di-tert-butylpyridinium ions (DTBPH+) than for pyridinium (PyH+) in solution. The relaxation times for ring carbons (T1C) indicate that the difference comes from a different rate of tumbling in solution, rather than from a difference in the electric field gradient. Computer modeling gives ratios of relaxation times (T1N = 1/R1N) of 10−20. Ion pairing has an opposite effect upon the two ions: it accelerates the relaxation of PyH+ but slows down the relaxation of DTBPH+. In the absence of electrostatic interactions with the solvent, ion pairing should increase the correlation time τc (decrease T1) for the anion positioned in the plane of the ring and should have only a small effect on τc for the anion perpendicular to the ring (along the z axis). The anion in the ion pair of PyH+ is positioned on the x axis (the C2 axis of the ring) for maximum hydrogen bonding with the N−H...
A Retrospective Analysis of Peripheral T-Cell Lymphoma Treated With the Intention to Transplant in the First Remission

Abstract Background Peripheral T-cell lymphomas are aggressive lymphomas that have no standard treatment. Studies suggest that HD-ASCT in the first CR improves outcome. Few data exist regarding allo-HSCT in the first CR. Patients and Methods We retrospectively identified patients (2001-2011) with PTCL-not otherwise specified, angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma, and anaplastic lymphoma kinase-negative anaplastic large cell lymphoma, initially treated with CHOP, CHOP-ICE (ifosfamide, carboplatin, etoposide), or other therapy with the intention to transplant in the first CR. Disease characteristics, therapy, progression-free survival (PFS), and OS were evaluated. Results Sixty-five patients were identified. PFS and OS were 38% and 52%, respectively, at 4 years. CHOP and CHOP-ICE regimens had similar outcomes. Treatment with allo-HSCT and HD-ASCT had OS at 4 years of 66% and 67%, respectively. Patients who did not proceed to transplant had OS of 27%. IPI score ≤ 2 and Prognostic Index for T-cell Lymphomas scores ≤ 1 predicted improved outcome. Combined analysis of interim response to CHOP and IPI score also predicted PFS and OS. Conclusion Our results support consolidation of first CR with transplantation. The addition of etoposide did not improve outcomes. Baseline IPI and interim response to CHOP can predict outcomes and guide decisions about transplantation in first CR in PTCL. Randomized trials are necessary to confirm the efficacy of this approach.
Allosteric Modulation of αβδ GABAA Receptors

GABAA receptors mediate the majority of the fast inhibition in the mature brain and play an important role in the pathogenesis of many neurological and psychiatric disorders. The αβδ GABAA receptor localizes extra- or perisynaptically and mediates GABAergic tonic inhibition. Compared with synaptically localized αβγ receptors, αβδ receptors are more sensitive to GABA, display relatively slower desensitization and exhibit lower efficacy to GABA agonism. Interestingly, αβδ receptors can be positively modulated by a variety of structurally different compounds, even at saturating GABA concentrations. This review focuses on allosteric modulation of recombinant αβδ receptor currents and αβδ receptor-mediated tonic currents by anesthetics and ethanol. The possible mechanisms for the positive modulation of αβδ receptors by these compounds will also be discussed.
A Testbed for Teaching Problem Solving Skills in an Interactive Learning Environment

An interactive learning environment was developed with the goal of empirically testing the effectiveness of various teaching strategies in improving problem solving performance. The domain chosen was transfusion medicine since it involves solving complex, multiple solution problems which are typically found to be difficult (Elstein, Shulman, and Sprafka, 1978) and because normal performance of this task calls for marking data sheets with intermediate conclusions, thereby improving the chances of the computer correctly inferring the student's reasoning. The testbed, called TMT (for Transfusion Medicine Tutor), monitors for errors, builds a model of what a student knows and can select teaching strategies based on human tutoring models that were developed from earlier studies. The testbed will be used to collect data of a student's performance in conditions where the degree of teaching and type of feedback are manipulated. A number of broadly applicable issues can be explored in this framework such as the di...
Spectropolarimetry of Hot, Luminous Stars

I review polarimetric observations of presumably single, hot, luminous stars. The stellar types discussed are OB stars, B[e] supergiants, Luminous Blue Variables (LBV), Wolf-Rayet (W-R) stars, and type II supernovae (SN). It is shown that variable, intrinsic polarization is a common phenomenon in that part of the Hertzsprung-Russell (HR) diagram which these stars occupy. However, much observational work remains to be done before we can answer the most basic, statistical questions about the polarimetric properties of different groups of hot, luminous stars. Insight into the diagnostic power of polarization observations has been gained, but cannot be exploited without detailed models. Thus, while polarimetric observations do tell us that the mass-loss processes of all types of massive stars are time-dependent and anisotropic, the significance that this might have for the accuracy of their stellar parameters and evolutionary paths remains elusive.
Rotational deformation of the canine left ventricle measured by magnetic resonance tagging: effects of catecholamines, ischaemia, and pacing

Objective: The aim was to investigate the generation of rotation of the left ventricular apex with respect to the base by magnetic resonance tagging, a non-invasive method of labelling the myocardium, in a canine model. Methods: 18 dogs were imaged at baseline and during: (1) inotropic stimulation with dobutamine; (2) chronotropic stimulation with atrial pacing; (3) anterior wall ischaemia; (4) posterior wall ischaemia; and (5) varying left ventricular activation site; six dogs underwent each intervention. Apical rotation of the apex (torsion) was quantified. The epicardium and the endocardium were considered separately, as were the anterior and posterior walls. Results: Mean torsion of the epicardium [anterior 3.1(SEM 1.2)°, posterior 9.9(1.0)°] was less than that of the endocardium [anterior 8.1(2.6)°, posterior 14.9(2.0)°, p<0.05 for both]. Anterior torsion was less than posterior torsion for both the epicardium, p<0.05, and the endocardium, p<0.05. Dobutamine increased torsion of both the epicardium [anterior 13.3(2.2)°, posterior 12.6(1.7)°, p<0.05 for both] and the endocardium [anterior 24.6(2.3)°, posterior 16.5(2.1)°, p<0.05 for both]. Atrial pacing at 160% baseline rate increased torsion of both the anterior wall [epicardium 6.6(1.0)°, endocardium 11.3(1.2)°, p<0.05] and the posterior wall [epicardium 13.0(1.3)°, endocardium 19.4(1.9)°, p < 0.05]. Anterior wall ischaemia reduced torsion of the anterior wall only [epicardium −2.0(1.0)°, endocardium 6.7(2.3)°, both p<0.05]. Posterior wall ischaemia reduced torsion of the posterior wall of the epicardium only [7.1(1.2)°, p<0.05] but also reduced torsion of the anterior wall [epicardium 0.7(1.0)°, endocardium 2.4(1.6)°, p<0.05 for both]. Altering the pattern of left ventricular activation by atrioventricular pacing reduced torsion of the posterior wall of the epicardium [6.6(1.2)°, p<0.05] and of the anterior [3.6(1.9)°, p<0.05] and posterior [7.1(1.6)°, p<0.05] walls of the endocardium. Conclusions: Rotational deformation of the left ventricle is dependent on the pattern of left ventricular activation and the contractile state. That a decrease in the contractile state in one area (by ischaemia) can cause a decrease in rotation in another suggests that this rotation depends on the complex fiber arrangement of the whole ventricle. Cardiovascular Research 1994; 28 :629-635
Tolerance to Type III Pneumococcal Polysaccharide in Monkeys

Rhesus and owl monkeys were injected intramuscularly with 10 to 10,000 γ of Type III pneumococcal polysaccharide. The monkeys were bled weekly, and then reinoculated with the polysaccharide at suitable intervals. The antibody content of their sera was measured by radioimmunoassay and the antigen content of selected sera estimated by the inhibitory effect of the serum upon the capacity of rabbit antisera to precipitate the polysaccharide. Ten γ of the polyeaccharide immunized the monkeys. Ten thousand γ did not immunize them but instead reduced their serum antibody to very low levels. One thousand γ also reduced their serum antibody to very low levels, but not uniformly as far as 10,000 γ. These findings indicate that 1,000 to 10,000 γ of this polysaccharide appear to cause immunologic tolerance in primates.
The Office of Lieutenant-Governor in the States

The first instances of the office of lieutenant-governor in the history of American political institutions are found in the governments of the colonial period, when in its most usual form the colonial government, like that of the trading company, consisted of a governor, a deputy-governor, a council, and a general assembly. The office was permanent, however, in only two colonies, i.e., Connecticut and Massachusetts. In other colonies, it existed only when there was a particular need for it. For instance, Lieutenant-Governor Pownall was sent to New Jersey in order to have a competent person “upon the spot” to act whenever the infirmities of the governor made it “painful and hazardous if not impossible” for him to attend to the affairs of his office.