cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Wavelet Estimation: Minimax Theory and Application

For now wavelet estimation is an important part of the nonparametric curve estimation. The minimax theory is well developed and there are many interesting practical applications where wavelets perfectly fit purposes of the data analysis. This paper presents a new theoretical result and a new application. It is well known in the statistical wavelet theory that for a Besov space of order the minimax rate of the mean integrated squared error (MISE) convergence is . The developed in the paper local minimax approach shows that this rate is too slow and that any Besov’s function of order can be estimated with a faster rate. Furthermore, an adaptive estimator is proposed that is minimax under the classical and new minimax approaches. Then an interesting and challenging application of the adaptive wavelet estimator in the fMRI study of neuroplasticity is discussed. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/sljastats.v5i4.7782
Coarse-Grained Molecular Dynamics Simulations of an Inhomogeneous Ternary Lipid Bilayer

Lateral, phase-separated microdomains form in model membranes composed of multi-component lipid mixtures. Similar structures are hypothesized to be of significant functional relevance in biological membranes. Though intensely studied, the molecular-level structures of these domains as yet remain unclear. We present coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations (employing the MARTINI force-field) of a bilayer containing a ternary mixture of glycerophospholipids (saturated DPPC and unsaturated DOPC) and cholesterol. On the microsecond timescale we observe inhomogeneous mixing, with the saturated and unsaturated lipids showing preferential self-interaction. This simulation of the early stages of domain formation provides insight into the interactions that favor lateral domains, the dynamics of lateral separation, and the molecular-level structure and biophysical properties of the lateral domain.
A histopathologic, histobacteriologic, and radiographic study of periapical endodontic surgical specimens.

Abstract Data available on 230 periapical endodontic surgical specimens were studied. It was found that bacteria occurred in the periapical tissue very infrequently. In addition, there was no correlation between the presence of acute inflammatory cells and the presence or absence of pain. Granulomas with epithelium occurred in 61 out of 230 cases, while 14 of these were cysts. Of the 110 cases with radiographic follow-up data, 67 were classified as successful, 40 were uncertain, and 3 were unsuccessful according to a modification of Strindberg's51 criteria, whereas 107 would have been successes according to the criteria of Bender and Seltzer and their associates.78, 79 No valid biologic or clinical basis for endodontic therapy as suggested by Bhaskar68, 75 was found in this material.
Treating complex trauma in women within community mental health.

Community mental health clinicians are likely to find their case loads composed of women who have complicated trauma histories. In response to the absence of comprehensive treatment for trauma survivors within the community mental health system, an alternative model, OPAL, is offered. As an intensive treatment program, OPAL is structured in a triphase format to accommodate the individual needs of each woman and to promote symptom reduction and/or resolution.
The 'cost' of medication nonadherence: Consequences we cannot afford to accept

Abstract Objective To provide a brief overview of the extent of medication nonadherence in the United States, its impact on patient health and health care costs, its causes, and possible strategies that health care practitioners can use to improve medication adherence. Summary Medication use and health care costs have increased dramatically during the previous decade in the United States. Adherence to medication therapy often is a critical aspect of medical treatment, particularly the treatment of chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. Despite the importance of adherence, medication nonadherence is a serious problem, with the World Health Organization noting that the average nonadherence rate is 50% among those with chronic illnesses. Consequences of nonadherence include worsening condition, increased comorbid diseases, increased health care costs, and death. Nonadherence results from many causes; therefore, no easy solutions exist. The first step to addressing nonadherence is to recognize that collaboration must occur between health care practitioners and patients to increase adherence, with the goal of achieving optimal health outcomes. Conclusion The relationship between health care practitioners and patients and open, ongoing communication between the stakeholders are essential to combating medication nonadherence. Given their training and accessibility, pharmacists are well positioned to address nonadherence.
Pre-3750 Ma supracrustal rocks from the Nuvvuagittuq supracrustal belt, northern Québec

Geochemistry and U-Pb ion microprobe zircon geochronology guided by high-resolution mapping (1:50 scale) was used to define a minimum age of ca. 3750 Ma for supracrustal rocks from the Nuvvuagittuq supracrustal belt (NSB) in the northern Superior Province, Quebec (Canada). Mineralogy and geochemistry of critical field relationships preserved at the Porpoise Cove locality describe a supracrustal succession of (mafic) amphibolites and ultramafic rocks, finely banded quartz-magnetite units with intermixed coarse-grained ferruginous quartz-pyroxene rocks and quartz-biotite schists that superficially resemble polymict metaconglomerates with large (up to 10 cm) deformed polycrystalline quartz and mafic clasts. All units in the mapped outcrop have sharp lithological contacts. Narrow (dominantly trondhjemitic) orthogneiss sheets locally preserve intrusive contact relationships to the supracrustals. The total extent of the supracrustal enclave is ∼ 8k m 2 ; it is strongly deformed and the full deformation history appears to be shared by all units with later modifications from leucogranitoid intrusions. The quartz-biotite schists record complex zircon growth at ∼3500 and ∼2800 Ma, interpreted to reflect metamorphic events. Zircons separated from orthogneisses in the enclave – including one sheet that transects a banded quartz-pyroxene (±magnetite) unit – yield magmatic 207 Pb/ 206 Pb ages of ca. 3750 Ma. These ages are slightly younger than earlier provisional reports for an NSB orthogneiss from Porpoise Cove. The Nuvvuagittuq supracrustals are the oldest rocks thus far reported for the Minto Block, they overlap in age with the ca. 3.70–3.83 Ga Isua supracrustal belt and Akilia association rocks in West Greenland, and they represent an important new area for exploration of the early Earth.
GI Hormonal Changes in Diabetes Influence Pancreatic Cancer Growth

Abstract Streptozotocin diabetes prevents induction of pancreatic tumors in several animal models, suggesting a pivotal role for islet cell products in the pathogenesis of pancreatic cancer. To test the hypothesis that altered gastrointestinal peptide levels in streptozotocin diabetes influence tumor growth, human pancreatic cancer cells (MIA PaCa-2) were implanted subcutaneously into streptozotocin diabetic nude mice. After 3 weeks, tumors in the control group weighed 43 mg and tumors in the diabetic group weighed 12 mg (P
Professional Satisfaction and Client Outcomes: Reply to Hays and White

We appreciate Hays and White's reanalysis1 of our data on 77 family planning clinics and their presentation of evidence in support of our hypotheses.2 There are several points we would like to make in response to the reanalysis. First, the reanalysis provides additional confirmation of the major findings of our study, namely, that aggregate staff job satisfaction levels affect client satisfaction levels
Superdeformations and fermion dynamical symmetries

Abstract In this talk, I will present a link between nuclear collective motions and their underlying fermion dynamical symmetries. In particular, I will focus on the microscopic understanding of deformations. It is shown that the SU 3 of the one major shell fermion dynamical symmetry model (FDSM) is responsible for the physics of low and high spins in normal deformation. For the recently observed phenomena of superdeformation, the physics of the problem dictates a generalization to a supershell structure (SFDSM), which also has an SU 3 fermion dynamical symmetry. Many recently discovered features of superdeformation are found to be inherent in such an SU 3 symmetry. In both cases the dynamical Pauli effect plays a vital role. A particularly noteworthy discovery from this model is that the superdeformed ground band is not the usual unaligned band but the D-pair aligned (DPA) band, which sharply crosses the excited bands. The existence of such DPA band is a key point to understand many properties of superdeformation. Our studies also pose new experimental challenge. This is particularly interesting since there are now plans to build new and exciting γ-ray detecting systems, like the GAMMASPHERE, which could provide answers to some of these challenges.
Two idiosyncratic trees with recursive utility

I calibrate a consumption-based asset-pricing model under two Lucas trees, which represent aggregate stocks and bonds in the economy, respectively. The preference of the representative investor is characterized by recursive utility. I compare the quantitative results from my two-tree framework to the one-tree model with the recursive utility (Tallarini, 2000) and the two-tree model with the Constant Relative Risk Aversion (CRRA) utility. My parsimonious two-tree model outperforms the other benchmark models, and it matches stylized characteristics of asset returns in the market.
Some thoughts on neurocognitive slowing

An historical review of the use of Brinley analyses in reaction time studies of age-related cognitive slowing is presented. The debate between critics and supporters of this procedure is discussed. It is concluded that the debate has served to sharpen our understanding of when and how this analytic procedure should be used. It is also argued that our insights into mental slowing may be deepened by studying this phenomenon using cognitive psychophysiological methods.
Christian Martyrdom as a Pervasive Phenomenon

Historians have undertaken the study of Christian martyrdom primarily to understand its impact on the growth of the religion since its inception. This article takes a different perspective on the study of martyrdom, instead examining how many Christians around the world have died in situations of witness every year. Included is a comparative analysis of twentieth- and twenty-first-century trends regarding the phenomenon, highlighting both qualitative and quantitative differences between the two periods. Measuring Christian martyrdom is not without controversy, however. Here, the number of martyrs per year is determined by a specific set of criteria that takes into consideration historical, sociological, and theological arguments. This article will present a definition of martyrdom highlighting two important aspects: (1) the motivation of the killed rather than the killer, and (2) the inclusion of Christians who have died as a result of mass killings and genocides. Drawing on historical and contemporary descriptions of martyrdom situations, we argue that martyrdom is a broad-based phenomenon not limited to state persecution that is profoundly affecting thousands of Christians in the context of civil war, genocide, and other conflicts.
Complement activation and inflammatory processes in Drusen formation and age related macular degeneration.

Recent studies implicate inflammation and complement mediated attack as early events in drusen biogenesis. The investigations described here sought to determine whether primary sites of complement activation could be identified within drusen substructure, and whether known inhibitors of the terminal pathway of complement are present in drusen and/or retinal pigmented epithelial (RPE) cells that lie in close proximity to drusen. Immunohistochemical examination shows two fluid phase regulators of the terminal pathway, vitronectin (Vn, S-protein) and clusterin (apolipoprotein J), to be present in drusen; Vn also accumulates in the cytoplasm of RPE cells that are closely associated with drusen. The membrane associated complement inhibitor, complement receptor 1, is also localized in drusen, but it is not detected in RPE cells immunohistochemically. In contrast, a second membrane associated complement inhibitor, membrane cofactor protein, is present in drusen associated RPE cells, as well as in small, spherical substructural elements within drusen. These previously unidentified elements also show strong immunoreactivity for proteolytic fragments of complement component C3 that are characteristically deposited at sites of complement activation. It is proposed that these structures represent residual debris from degenerating RPE cells that are the targets of complement attack. It is likely that RPE cell debris entrapped between the RPE monolayer and Bruch's membrane serves as a chronic inflammatory stimulus and a potential nucleation site for drusen formation. Thus, the process of drusen biogenesis may be envisaged as a secondary manifestation of primary RPE pathology that is exacerbated by consequences of local inflammatory processes.
Household appliances and the symbolic process.

Clinical material is cited which demonstrates the use of household appliances as representations in the manifest content of dreams. Because of their automation and multiplicity of purpose, appliances lend themselves to the overdetermination needed in the symbolic process of certain patients. In this regard, “linkage symbols” are prominent. Some possible effects on the infant of exposure to the machines around him are discussed.
Dysphonia Associated with Shoulder Steroid Injection

Glucocorticosteroid injections into the shoulder are commonly used in the treatment of rotator cuff tendinitis. These injections rarely result in any serious complications and are generally considered a safe therapeutic intervention. Despite the extensive application of this treatment, there have been no reports of dysphonia occurring after corticosteroid injection into the subacromial space. We report the case of a 66-yr-old man with dysphonia after undergoing subacromial glucocorticosteroid injection for treatment of rotator cuff tendinitis.
Plausible reductions in future population growth and implications for the environment

Bradshaw and Brook (1) conclude that a substantial slowing of global population growth is infeasible over this century short of drastic reductions in fertility, and therefore could not contribute much to lessening pressure on the environment. However, their methodology is too crude to produce credible results.
The formation of hydrophobic films on silica with alcohols

Abstract The formation of organic films on silica via reaction with primary alcohols was investigated. Hydrophobic films with an advancing water contact angle of 109° and a receding angle of 96° were prepared using 1-dodecanol by heating oxidized silicon wafers at 120° for 2.5 h. Atomic force microscope (AFM) imaging showed the silica surface was smooth after film formation. X-ray reflectivity and ellipsometry both showed that these films were thinner than the extended length of dodecanol, demonstrating that monolayer or submonolayer coverage was achieved. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy showed that the appropriate stochiometry was achieved, and that it was necessary to exclude oxygen during reaction, otherwise the films became oxidized and produced lower contact angles. Film formation with a variety of primary alcohols was examined. The thickness of the films could be increased by increasing the length of the alcohol from 1-octanol to 1-dodecanol to 1-eicosanol, and the water contact angle could be reduced by reaction with an alcohol containing ω-NH2. The stability of the films in water was similar to that of octadecyltrichlorosilane. Compared to silane films, films formed from alcohols are useful because of the wide variety of alcohols available, but the reaction does require more concentrated solutions, higher temperatures (120 °C), and longer reaction times than those required for silanes.
Effects of Gender on the Mechanical Properties of the Glenohumeral Capsule: Implications for Surgical Repair Techniques

The glenohumeral joint is the most dislocated major joint in the body and the axillary pouch of the glenohumeral capsule is the primary stabilizer at the extreme ranges of external rotation. [1] Procedures to repair the capsule following dislocation result in 12–25% of patients still experiencing pain and instability. [2] Studies performing clinical exams have found inconsistent data on differences between males and females. Increased laxity in the glenohumeral joint of females has been found as well as overall hypermobility when compared to males. [3,4] However, others have found no differences in overall joint stiffness between genders. [5] These findings suggest that a difference in the mechanical properties might exist between genders. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the effects of gender on the mechanical properties of the axillary pouch during tensile loading. A combined experimental and computational approach was used to evaluate the properties of the tissue. This data could potentially be utilized to improve surgical procedures and necessitate gender-specific repair techniques.© 2007 ASME
COMPONENT LIFETIME COMPARISON AND WASTE VOLUME IN CLiFF Sn/Flibe and Sn/LiPb BLANKETS

Abstract The thin Convective Liquid Flow First Wall (CLiFF) concept is one of the liquid FW concepts investigated in the Advanced Power Extraction (APEX) study for high power density application. Liquid tin has been suggested as the 2 cm thick front flowing liquid layer because of its low vapor pressure. Two choices were selected for the conventional blanket that follows the thin liquid wall (LW), namely: (1) LiPb/SiC blanket, and (2) Flibe/SiC blanket. Lithium is enriched to 90% Li-6 in the first blanket option and to 25% Li-6 in the second option (with 10 cm-thick beryllium front zone). Due to the superior attenuation characteristics of Flibe over LiPb, this impacted the lifetime of the SiC structure used in both options. In this paper, we assessed the lifetime of the SiC structure in the FW/Blanket and the shield in both blanket options. The end-of-life limit of 200 dpa is assumed (corresponding to ∼3% burn-up). The frequency of replacement of each component is estimated based on 30-years plant lifetime. Comparison is made for the waste volume of replaced components in each option. It is shown that the shield can last the plant lifetime in the Flibe blanket while part of the shield in the LiPb blanket will require replacement. The frequency of replacing the FW/Blanket with the LiPb blanket option is twice as much as in the Flibe blanket option. This is translated to a total volume of disposed structure at plant end-of-life from the entire FW/B/shield system that is larger by ∼60%.
Comprehensive and configurable metrics for supplier selection

Abstract As firms are increasingly becoming outsourcing oriented, supplier selection has become a major strategic decision for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). Hundreds of publications can be found in the literature that deal with supplier selection. Researchers from business school often emphasize philosophical issues and focus on developing qualitative principles to guide management decision making. On the other hand, engineering researchers mostly treat supplier selection as an optimization problem. While strategic thinking cannot provide quantitative solutions, a mathematically optimal solution has no meaning if it does not match a firm's business strategy. Therefore, there is a need to integrate strategic thinking with quantitative optimization in order to make sound and effective decisions on supplier selection. This paper presents an integration mechanism in terms of a set of comprehensive and configurable metrics arranged hierarchically that takes into account product type, supplier type, and OEM/supplier integration level. Based on a firm's business strategy, the management configures an appropriate set of metrics used to measure supplier performance. An optimal supplier selection decision is then made based on this chosen set of metrics, achieving a strategic fit between the firm's business model and its supply chain strategy.
Abstract 4865: Lack of efficacy of aerosolized resveratrol on B[A]P induced pulmonary adenoma formation in A/J mice.

Natural products constitute an emerging class of compounds for carcinogenesis prevention in a variety of solid tumor malignancies. Resveratrol is a compound that has outstanding efficacy on cancer prevention in in vitro carcinogenesis models but rapid solubility and metabolism limits its efficacy in animal models when delivered in the diet. However, if regional or topical delivery could be achieved effects of first pass metabolism might be avoided. In the present study, we sought to use aerosol resveratrol to examine whether it could inhibit Benzpyrene inducd pulmonary adenoma formation in A/J mice. Eight groups of 24 mice were given Benzpyrene and aerosol resveratrol was started either one week or 8 weeks after the conclusion of the Benzpyrene. Aerosolized resveratrol (1.0, 0.3, and 0.1 mg/kg) was delivered 5x per week Monday through Friday for weeks 2- 15. At the conclusion of the experiment animals were sacrificed and adenomas counted. We found that the animals tolerated the aerosol resveratrol without toxicity and without weight differences between all groups. Animals formed between 9 and 12 adenomas, on average throughout all groups. There were no effects of aerosol resveratrol on either early stage or late stage carcinogenesis, nor were there any trends between the groups. We conclude that the high water solubility of resveratrol likely allowed for its rapid transit and metabolism through the bronchioles and lung parenchyma and that possibly chemical modifications of resveratrol that allow for its deposition in the lung fields in a way to increase its residence time would allow for better efficacy. Citation Format: Donna Seabloom, Art Gailbraith, Jenny Antonides, Beverly Wuertz, Lee Wattenberg, Frank G. Ondrey. Lack of efficacy of aerosolized resveratrol on B[A]P induced pulmonary adenoma formation in A/J mice. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 4865. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-4865
Sullivan Confirmed as NOAA Administrator

The U.S. Senate confirmed Kathryn Sullivan as under secretary of commerce for oceans and atmosphere on 6 March. She also becomes administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Fast neighborhood search for the single machine total weighted tardiness problem

Most successful heuristics for solving 1||@?w"jT"j are based on swap moves. We present an algorithm which improves the complexity of searching the swap neighborhood from O(n^3) to O(n^2). We show that this result also improves the complexity of the recently developed dynasearch heuristics.
A novel Heterosigma akashiwo (Raphidophyceae) bloom extending from a South Carolina bay to offshore waters

Abstract In April 2003, a novel Heterosigma akashiwo bloom was observed that extended from Bulls Bay, South Carolina USA, to approximately 8 km offshore. The bloom was associated with a fish kill of approximately 104 fish. The bloom coincided with salinities anomalously low for the region and optimal for H. akashiwo growth. The low salinities were related to the rediversion of freshwater a month earlier from the Cooper River into the Santee River, which partially feeds into Bulls Bay. H. akashiwo identification was confirmed using a species-specific real-time PCR assay modified for the direct amplification of target DNA from the bloom sample. Because this H. akashiwo bloom was associated with a fish kill, and exposure to bloom waters caused sublethal toxic effects on oysters, the resolution of the cause and potential recurrence of the bloom are of importance to fishery management.
Involvement and Decision-Making Performance with a Decision Aid: The Influence of Social Multimedia, Gender, and Playfulness

This research explores how multimedia vividness and the use of computer-based social cues can influence involvement with technology and decision-making outcomes. An experiment is conducted that examines the effect that increased levels of vividness (text, voice, and animation) and decision aid personality have on decision-making involvement. In addition, the influence of two individual differences, gender and computer playfulness, on decision aid involvement are investigated. The cost-benefit framework of decision making and related research on consumer information processing provide the theoretical foundation for the study and suggest how increased involvement may influence decision making. Several decision-making outcomes are measured, including decision effort, decision quality, satisfaction with the decision aid, and understanding of the decision aid. Findings indicate that personality similarity (between the user and the decision aid) and computer playfulness result in increased involvement with the decision aid. In addition, women report higher levels of involvement with the decision aid. Increased levels of multimedia vividness are found to have a contradictory effect, with animation actually reducing involvement with the decision aid. The findings are discussed in terms of theoretical contributions and practical interface design implications.
Childhood leukaemia in the vicinity of German nuclear power plants - some missing links

Summary A recent epidemiological study in Germany, the so-called KiKK study, came to the conclusion that there was a relationship between a child's risk of contracting leukaemia in the first 5 years of life and the distance of its residence from the nearest nuclear power plant. The risk of children inside a 5 km radius was found to be 2.19 times that of children outside, with a lower 95% confidence limit of 1.51. The study seems to be epidemiologically sound and solid, and its results agree with earlier evidence about childhood leukaemia in the vicinity of nuclear installations. It does not show, however, nor does it at all claim to show, that the phenomenon was due to radiation exposure. The measured doses in the area around German nuclear power plants are at least a factor 1000 smaller than what would be needed to explain the number of leukaemia cases observed. Additional evidence suggests that the main effect was a shift of the age distribution towards younger ages, with the overall incidence for all age groups not affected, which would be rather unexpected as a radiation effect. Still other studies have shown that elevated risks can even be observed around so-called “planning sites”, where no nuclear facility has ever been built. It thus seems justified to speak of “missing links” between the elevated risk of childhood leukaemia around nuclear power plants on the one hand, and the radiation exposure caused by their normal operation on the other.
Determining the Spatial Representativeness of Air-Temperature Records Using Variogram-Nugget Time Series

In climatology, spatial representativeness can be measured as the degree to which an instrumental temperature record resolves the climatic variability across an area. Some station records may disproportionately resolve characteristics of their immediate surroundings and, therefore, have less utility in representing climate (or weather) over larger spatial scales. To evaluate spatial representativeness of historical air-temperature records, a modified geostatistical procedure was developed. The procedure measures the spatial representativeness of a station based on variogram parameter estimates—in this case the nugget. This application is novel for two reasons: (1) variogram models are fit to station-specific or "point-centered" semivariance and (2) variogram models are fit to semivariance computed at intervals in a time series. Fitting variograms to point-centered semivariance may be used to create time series of nuggets for each station in a network. Nugget time series may show subsets of a time series t...
The adaptation and application of relational and independent analyses for intonation production in young children

Abstract Previous research has indicated that relational and independent analyses of the phonological skills of young children result in very different interpretation of the data. This paper presents an adaptation of each of these analysis types, making them appropriate for the analysis of intonational characteristics of utterances produced by very young children. Meaningful and nonmeaningful utterances from a total of 30 children (ages 12–23 months) were studied. Measures of accent range served as the relational measure for this study and a contour inventory was introduced as the independent measure. The results from the two analyses revealed that the contour inventory was the most sensitive to different aspects of intonation development during the second year of life. The contour inventory was best at identifying the differences between rising and falling contours. This study supports the use of the contour inventory for measuring intonational development as a supplement to more traditionally utilized measures (e.g., accent range).
Ultrastructural changes in human skin after exposure to a pulsed laser

Selective vascular injury following irradiation using a pulsed laser source at 577 nm was examined using ultrastructural methods in the skin of 3 fair-skinned healthy human volunteers. This vascular-specific damage was confined to the papillary dermis. Red blood cells were altered in several ways. As well as an increase in the electron density, configurational distortion modified the normal biconcave forms to ameboid structures. The most interesting finding was the appearance within these altered cells of well-defined circular/oval electron-lucent areas of 800 A diameter, possibly representing a heat-fixed record of steam formation within the red blood cell. In addition, considerable degenerative changes were evident in endothelial cells and pericytes, while mast cells, neutrophils, histocytes, and fibroblasts as well as collagen bundles immediately surrounding most laser-damaged blood vessels appeared normal.
A single mutation of restriction endonuclease EcoRII led to a new crystal form that diffracts to 2.1 A resolution.

R88A, a mutant of the type IIE restriction endonuclease EcoRII, has been crystallized in space group P21, with unit-cell parameters a = 58.7, b = 92.4, c = 88.3 A, β = 108.1°. There are two monomers in the asymmetric unit and the solvent content is estimated to be 50% by volume. The crystals diffract to 2.1 A resolution, which is much higher than that of the wild type, which diffracted to 2.8 A resolution. The mutant crystals have been used in the identification of an excellent heavy-atom derivative.
Staphylococcus aureus in the House Fly: Temporospatial Fate of Bacteria and Expression of the Antimicrobial Peptide defensin

House flies disseminate numerous species of bacteria acquired during feeding and breeding activities in microbe-rich habitats. Previous house fly surveys have detected the pathogen Staphylococcus aureus Rosenbach 1884, which causes cutaneous and septic infections in mammals, and enterotoxic food poisoning. We assessed the fate of GFP-expressing S. aureus (GFP-S. aureus) in the house fly alimentary canal with microscopy and by culture of whole flies and excreta. Furthermore, the concurrent expression of the antimicrobial peptide gene defensin was measured in the crop, proventriculus, midgut, and fat body. As soon as 4 h postingestion (PI), GFP-S. aureus were visualized as cocci or diplococci in the hindgut and rectum of flies fed ≈105 colony forming units. Bacteria persisted up to 6 h PI but significantly decreased. Excretion of viable GFP-S. aureus peaked at 2 h PI and, although significantly less, continued up to 4 h PI. defensin was highly upregulated locally in the alimentary canal and systemically in fat body at 2, 4, and 6 h PI making this study the first to report, to our knowledge, an epithelial and systemic response to a bacterium with lysine-type peptidoglycan in flies exposed via feeding. While flies harbored S. aureus for up to 6 h PI, the highest probability of vectoring biologically relevant amounts of bacteria occurred 0–2 h PI. The combined effects of excretion, digestion and antimicrobial effectors likely contribute to loss of ingested bacteria. Nonetheless, house flies are relevant vectors for S. aureus up to 2 h PI and environmental reservoirs up to 6 h PI.
A deconvolution technique for depth profiling with nuclear microanalysis

Abstract A useful technique for extracting an accurate depth-concentration profile directly from an energy dispersive nuclear reaction or backscattering spectrum is presented. This method combines a Taylor's expansion of the spectrum yield with calculations of convolution integrals. The effects of energy straggling and multiple scattering are included and shown to be important. The method is tested by calculating concentrations from spectra in which targets of known composition were used. Finally, the method is applied to the deuterium analysis of deuterium-electrocharged nickel.
Climate change and biodiversity seminar highlights knowns and unknowns

Greenhouse gas emissions can be expected to warm the globe by about 2°C over the next 50–100 years. This could have such consequences as raising sea level by 44 cm, thereby affecting 70 million people and destroying the habitats of hundreds of species, increasing the occurrences of such diseases as malaria, and changing the economies of most of the world. All of the physical, chemical, biological, and economic forces at play here are highly nonlinear, leading to feedbacks that could alter all of the findings. These were some of the conclusions of a seminar on “Climate Change and Biodiversity,” which attracted over 130 scientists, engineers, and policy makers, mostly from the United Kingdom.
Double arch impressions for simplified restorative dentistry

Use of a double arch, closed-mouth technique as described in this article enables dentists to obtain cast and die placement in centric occlusion in a single step. Complete closure of the teeth is mandatory for registering the interocclusal relationship correctly. The accuracy of the interocclusal relationship is more likely because of the decreased number of steps in the technique. Several different trays are available for the double arch impression technique. The more rigid trays buttress the impression material and reduce the possibilities of distortion in the final impression. Several variations in the double arch impression technique are possible, and tray selection is dependent on the demands of each patient.
Are Goldstone neutrinos responsible for the solar neutrino puzzle

We propose that the solar neutrino puzzle may be partially due to emission of Goldstone neutrinos resulting from a spontaneous breakdown of supersymmetry. An oscillation of the Goldstone neutrinos and a photon-neutrino coupling also result.
An Empirical Investigation into Convention Hotel Demand and ADR Trending

Through this empirically based convention hotel–convention bureau study the authors analyze revenue demand, room rate, and convention bookings among convention hotels in a mid-west urban market. Multivariate linear regression models are used to understand the relationships between revenue, room rate, and market segmentation performance of transient and group rooms. Findings suggest convention hotel revenue management processes in particular must evaluate the value and contribution factors associated with convention bureau production and its impact on group and transient segmentation strategies. Of particular importance is the relationship between group/transient inventory allocation and pricing relationships.
Classroom mood and the dance of stance: The role of affective and epistemic stancetaking in the development of a classroom mood

Abstract Our paper offers a new theoretical and methodological approach to the study of moods in academic settings. We begin by introducing the concept of classroom mood as a phenomena distributed across time and across people. Then we propose a method for studying classroom mood using the linguistic anthropological notion of stance. We demonstrate this method through an analysis of a year-long video ethnography of literacy teaching and learning in a first-grade classroom. In this analysis, we document how a collaborative-problem-solving mood, one form of emotional experience, emerges through stancetaking over time as a communicative, collaborative, and relational process. Our analysis describes how a teacher and her students coordinated affective and epistemic stances dialogically and opportunistically to build a collaborative problem-solving mood over time. This mood called forth (solicited) particular actions from students to participate competently in the learning activity, which included joint attention, effortful listening, and correct tool use (strategies/sound cards). Our analysis demonstrates how contextual moods influence engagement in learning.
Responding to the bed bug crisis in social media

Abstract The increasing trend in social media changes the landscape of crisis communication and thus, calls for innovation in hotel crisis management practices. This research examined how New York City hotels responded to recent issues surrounding the bed bug crisis on the social media site TripAdviosr. This study adopted a mixed methods research design. The quantitative findings revealed that hotels’ response behaviors were associated with organizational factors (e.g. hotel's popularity, average rating, and star rating) and the rating of online reviews. The qualitative findings indicated that hotels employed various types of strategies in the response, which were dominated by strategies of bolstering and enhancing. In conclusion, this study addressed the need for a proactive approach in hotel crisis management and provided practical implications.
Platelet-activating factor acetylhydrolases in Caco-2 cells and epithelium of normal and ulcerative colitis patients

Abstract Background & Aims: Platelet-activating factor (PAF) is a potent inflammatory mediator implicated in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease and necrotizing enterocolitis. Metabolism by platelet-activating factor acetylhydrolase (PAF-AH) is the major pathway for platelet-activating factor degradation. The aim of this study was to investigate the possible role of intestinal epithelium as a source of PAF-AH. Methods: Intracellular and secreted PAF-AHs were characterized in human colonic epithelial cells isolated from histologically normal mucosa and inflamed mucosa from patients with ulcerative colitis and in the human intestinal epithelial cell line Caco-2 by measuring the metabolism of [ 3 H]-PAF to [ 3 H]lysoPAF. Results: Human colonic epithelial cells and Caco-2 cells synthesize and secrete PAF-AH as shown by in vitro hydrolysis of [ 3 H]PAF to [ 3 H]-lysoPAF in cell lysates and conditioned media. Both intracellular and secreted PAF-AHs are calcium-independent and substrate-specific for phospholipids similar to PAF. Epithelial cells from involved areas of resections for ulcerative colitis had increased levels of secreted PAF-AH and decreased levels of intracellular PAF-AH compared with epithelial cells from histologically normal areas. Conclusions: Human colonic epithelial cells and Caco-2 cells produce intracellular and secreted PAF-AHs, which are distinct proteins. This is the first demonstration of PAF-AH production by epithelial cells.
An infrared spectroscopic study of water thin films on NaCl (100)

Abstract Using infrared spectroscopy, we were able to determine that water adsorbs onto the surface of NaCl (100) in a liquid-like thin film over the temperature range of −27°C to 40°C. Photometric methods allow coverages to be monitored from near 0.1 monolayer to over three monolayers. The shifting band center of the OH stretching vibration absorption indicates changing hydrogen-bonding environments with coverage. Below a monolayer the band center is blue-shifted relative to liquid water absorption, suggesting some sort of unique hydrogen bonding arrangement. In the region between one and two monolayers, the coverage and change of band center with relative humidity appears discontinuous. Coverages near two monolayers produce spectra essentially indistinguishable from that of a saturated salt solution, suggesting a liquid-like hydrogen-bonded network, even at temperatures as low as −27°C. A model for thin film water growth on NaCl (100) is proposed.
REACTIONS OF POLYCYCLIC ALKYLAROMATICS-VI. DETAILED CHEMICAL KINETIC MODELING

We developed a detailed chemical kinetics model for the pyrolysis of long-chain polycyclic n-alkylarenes based on a general free-radical mechanism. The model accounts for the two major primary pathways in the pyrolysis network of polycyclic alkylaromatics. Using 1-dodecylpyrene (DDP) as an example, we show that the model qualitatively predicted the effects of time, temperature, and concentration on the product molar yields and the reaction kinetics. The model also predicted the autocatalytic kinetics associated with the cleavage of the aryl-alkyl bond. The model results showed that radical hydrogen transfer was the dominant hydrogenolysis mechanism during all but the very initial stages of the reaction when reverse radical disproportionation dominated. A sensitivity analysis revealed that reactions involving a-DDP radicals were the most important in determining the reaction kinetics and the product sclectivities. INTRODUaION
Energy deposition processes in biological tissue: nonthermal biohazards seem unlikely in the ultra-high frequency range.

The prospects of ultra high frequency (UHF, 300–3000 MHz) irradiation producing a nonthermal bioeffect are considered theoretically and found to be small. First, a general formula is derived within the framework of macroscopic electrodynamics for the specific absorption rate of microwaves in a biological tissue; this involves the complex Poynting vector, the mass density of the medium, the angular frequency of the electromagnetic field, and the three complex electromagnetic constitutive parameters of the medium. In the frequency ranges used for cellular telephony and personal communication systems, this model predicts that the chief physical loss mechanism will be ionic conduction, with increasingly important contributions from dielectric relaxation as the frequency rises. However, even in a magnetite unit cell within a magnetosome the deposition rate should not exceed 1/10 kBT per second. This supports previous arguments for the improbability of biological effects at UHF frequencies unless a mechanism can be found for accumulating energy over time and space and focussing it. Second, three possible nonthermal accumulation mechanisms are then considered and shown to be unlikely: (i) multiphoton absorption processes; (ii) direct electric field effects on ions; (iii) cooperative effects and/or coherent excitations. Finally, it is concluded that the rate of energy deposition from a typical field and within a typical tissue is so small as to make unlikely any significant nonthermal biological effect. Bioelectromagnetics 22:97–105, 2001. © 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
A steady-state model for the design and optimization of a centralized cooling system

A simplified steady-state model has been developed to describe thermodynamically the operation of a centralized cooling system. This model resolves the mass and energy equations simultaneously and uses inputs that are readily available to the design engineer. The model utilizes an empirical relationship for the compressor power as a function of cooling load and key temperatures. The outputs include the chiller coefficient of performance (COP) and the compressor actual power. The model simulation results are validated with a manufacturer performance data and compared with the experimental data collected at Hewlett-Packard Laboratories site for two chillers: a variable speed and a constant speed chiller. The results of the model are found to closely match the current experimental data with less than 5% average deviation for chiller load over 10% and with a maximum deviation of 18% at 95% chiller load. For the constant speed chiller, the chiller efficiency increases with increasing load and peaks at full load. For the variable speed chiller, the chiller efficiency peaks at part loading between 40 and 80% of the chiller full load depending on the condenser water temperature. This indicates that for variable speed chillers, the chiller design has been optimized for loading less than 100% depending on the ambient conditions, customer specifications and size of the chiller. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Digoxin-Inactivating Bacteria: Identification in Human Gut Flora

Digoxin, the most widely used cardiac glycoside, undergoes significant metabolic conversion in many patients to cardioinactive metabolites in which the lactone ring is reduced. This appears to occur within the gastrointestinal tract. An attempt was made to isolate and identify the organisms capable of reducing digoxin from stool cultures obtained from human volunteers. Of hundreds of isolates studied, only Eubacterium lentum, a common anaerobe of the human colonic flora, converted digoxin to reduced derivatives. Such organisms were also isolated in high concentrations from the stools of individuals who did not excrete these metabolites when given digoxin in vivo. When the growth of E. lentum was stimulated by arginine, inactivation of digoxin was inhibited. Neither the presence of these organisms alone nor their concentration within the gut flora appeared to determine whether digoxin would be inactivated by this pathway in vivo.
Consequences of nonclassical measurement for the algorithmic description of continuous dynamical systems

Continuous dynamical systems intuitively seem capable of more complex behavior than discrete systems. If analyzed in the framework of the traditional theory of computation, a continuous dynamical system with countablely many quasistable states has at least the computational power of a universal Turing machine. Such an analyses assumes, however, the classical notion of measurement. If measurement is viewed nonclassically, a continuous dynamical system cannot, even in principle, exhibit behavior that cannot be simulated by a universal Turing machine.