cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Dendritic cell-specific Mgat2 knockout mice show antigen presentation defects but reveal an unexpected CD11c expression pattern.

Zwitterionic polysaccharide antigens such as polysaccharide A (PSA) from Bacteroides fragilis have been shown to activate CD4+ T cells upon presentation by class II major histocompatibility complex (MHCII) on professional antigen presenting cells. For T cell recognition and activation, high affinity binding between MHCII and PSA is required, and complex N-glycans on conserved MHCII asparagine residues play a central role in controlling this interaction. By truncating these glycans in a myeloid-specific knockout of Mgat2, created using the LyzM-CRE mouse (M-cKO), we previously reported defects in PSA responses in vivo. Unfortunately, the M-cKO also showed a propensity to develop common variable immunodeficiency with autoimmune hemolytic anemia features. Here, we describe a novel murine model in which Mgat2 was targeted for ablation using the dendritic cell (DC)-specific CD11c-CRE-GFP strain in order to develop a more specific and robust in vivo model of PSA presentation defects (DC-cKO). This study shows that Mgat2 deficient DCs from DC-cKO mice show ablation of PSA presentation and downstream T cell activation in vitro. However, the CD11c promoter was unexpectedly active and triggered Mgat2 deletion within multiple hematopoietic lineages, showed remarkably poor penetrance within native DC populations, and produced almost undetectable levels of green fluorescent protein signal. These findings show that the CD11c promoter is not DC-specific, and extreme care should be taken in the interpretation of data using any mouse created using the CD11c-CRE model.
Do Primary Care Physicians or Specialists Provide More Efficient Care

Sinusitis is a common health complaint and expenditures for its treatment are high; thus, it is necessary to promote efficient practice behaviours in managing patient care. This study compares reso...
Experiments on the effects of charring on Setaria italica (foxtail millet)

This study aims to better understand taphonomical effects relevant to Setaria italica (foxtail millet), particularly the deformation caused by charring in fully-formed grains, and the potential preservation of underdeveloped seeds. Foxtail millet is a staple grain commonly found in Neolithic and later sites across Eurasia after initial domestication in northern China. Precise control of atmospheric conditions enabled determination of ideal parameters for charring without seed destruction. These experiments were able to produce charred seeds that strongly resemble archaeological specimens, making three key findings: (1) lateral expansion found in many ancient foxtail millet seeds indicates that charring occurred with the seeds in the husks. (2) Oxidizing conditions produced far better results in terms of seed preservation and retention of identifiable characteristics. (3) Smaller and less developed or ‘filled’ seeds survived in the same conditions as larger, plump seeds. These results allow for better interpretation of depositional context of millet seeds, and point to heat treatment during the de-husking process as a common way for seeds to enter the archaeological record.
Phase I study of the ribosome inactivating protein prodrug TST10088 (TST88) in patients with advanced solid tumors

B149 Background: Ricin is a ribosome inactivating protein that inhibits protein synthesis through depurination of a single adenosine in ribosomal RNA. TST88 is a novel recombinant ricin-based prodrug activated by matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs).TST88 is activated through an MMP-specific recognition sequence, selectively targeting tumor cells where high levels of MMPs are expressed. This study aimed to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and the recommended phase II dose (RPTD) of TST88 when given intravenously on days 1, 8 and 15 every 4 weeks. Secondary endpoints include pharmacokinetics (PK), immunogenicity, safety and antitumor activity. Methods: Patients with advanced solid tumors received increasing doses of TST88. Dose escalation was conducted in two stages. In the initial phase, single patients received increasing (2x) doses of TST88 from 0.01 mg/m2 to 0.64 mg/m2. Thereafter, a modified Fibonacci scheme was used with sequential cohorts of 3-6 patients to escalate doses from 1.1 mg/m2 to 5 mg/m2. Dose limiting toxicity (DLT) was defined as any grade ≥4 hematological or any grade ≥3 non-hematological toxicity. PK and anti-TST88 antibodies in plasma were determined by ELISAs. Results: Twenty-four patients have been enrolled to date; complete data are available for 21: median age=59 (range: 21-78); F:M=11:10; ECOG 0:1:2=4:16:1. Primary tumor sites were colorectal (5), cholangiocarcinoma (3), ovary (2), breast (2), lung (1), pancreas (1) and others (7). Forty-five cycles of TST88 have been administered (median 2; range: 1-8). Adverse events (AEs) at least possibly related to TST88 in over 15% of the patients included fatigue, hypophosphatemia, anorexia, fever, nausea, vomiting and flu-like symptoms. AEs were generally CTCAE grades 1-2 and reversible. Two patients at 2.1 mg/m2, experienced grade 2 fever, rigor and chills during day 1 cycle 2 infusion that responded well to conventional treatment. No DLT has been observed to date. Cmax and AUC levels correlated well with TST88 dosage. PK curves were biphasic with a terminal drug half-life of approximately 4 hours. Anti-TST88 antibody titers were detected in most patients during the second cycle of therapy; median value was 19.3 μg/ml (range: 1.6-104.6 μg/ml) and titers generally plateaued at below 20 μg/ml. Serum TST88 levels remained measurable in PK assays at doses up to 2.8 mg/m2 despite the presence of antibodies, and antibody titers did not appear to correlate with drug dose. Response data is available for 22 patients. Four patients achieved stable disease as the best response, with one patient (melanoma) having near complete regression of pulmonary metastases; 15 progressed, and 3 were deemed inevaluable. Recruitment is ongoing at 3.8 mg/m2. Conclusions: At the doses evaluated thus far, TST88 is tolerable and exhibits favorable PK. Further dose escalations continue and updated clinical and PK data will be presented.
Identifying the optimal configuration of an express care area in an emergency department: a DES and metamodeling approach

Annual Emergency Department (ED) visits have increased 44% over the last two decades while the number of EDs nationwide has fallen by 11%. This increase in demand has led to overcrowded EDs and increased length of stay, both of which have the potential to negatively affect patient outcomes and satisfaction. The University of Virginia (UVA) ED is considering process changes to the express care treatment area, an area that mostly treats low acuity patients, in an effort to reduce length of stay. We developed a discrete-event simulation model to assess the impact of changes to the express care area, including the number of treatment beds, hours of operation, and the types of patients sent to express care. Then, we developed a regression metamodel to analyze the impact of the proposed changes. The model findings suggest the current UVA ED express care settings are near optimal among the options considered.
Characterizing Time to Diagnostic Resolution After an Abnormal Cancer Screening Exam in Older Adult Participants in the Ohio Patient Navigation Research Program.

Objective: This study aims to test the effectiveness of a patient navigation (PN) intervention to reduce time to diagnostic resolution among older adults age ≥65 years versus those <65 years with abnormal breast, cervical, or colorectal cancer screening exams participating in the Ohio Patient Navigation Research Program (OPNRP). Method: The OPNRP utilized a nested cohort group-randomized trial design to randomize 862 participants (n = 67 for ≥65 years; n = 795 for <65 years) to PN or usual care conditions. A shared frailty Cox model tested the effect of PN on time to resolution. Results: Older adult participants randomized to PN achieved a 6-month resolution rate that was 127% higher than those randomized to usual care (p = .001). This effect was not significantly different from participants <65 years. Discussion: PN significantly reduced time to diagnostic resolution among older adults beginning 6 months after an abnormal cancer screening exam. Health care systems should include this population in PN pro...
The effect of nonparabolic energy bands on tunneling through thin insulating films

Previously derived equations for the volt-current characteristic are applied to trapezoidal barriers, keeping the energy momentum relations arbitrary. Techniques for deriving the energy-momentum relation in the forbidden gap of the insulating film are presented.
Assessing military community support: relations among perceived military community support, child psychosocial adjustment, and parent psychosocial adjustment

ABSTRACT Introduction: The emotional, cognitive, and behavioral health of the nearly two million children of military service members in the United States is important as these children play an integral role in the operational readiness of the armed forces. For example, when a service member's child experiences psychosocial difficulties, these difficulties often impact the service member's personal well-being and ability to focus at work, impairing the service member's ability to focus on the mission. Although military service members and their families (e.g., children and spouses) face many of the same stressors as their civilian counterparts, they also experience additional stressors related to being a military family, including frequent relocation, unpredictable schedule changes, short- and long-term family separation, and threats to service members' safety. Psychosocial functioning and resilience to stress may be influenced by a variety of factors. One important factor that influences parent and child...
Contemporary H3N2 influenza viruses have a glycosylation site that alters binding of antibodies elicited by egg-adapted vaccine strains.

H3N2 viruses continuously acquire mutations in the hemagglutinin (HA) glycoprotein that abrogate binding of human antibodies. During the 2014–2015 influenza season, clade 3C.2a H3N2 viruses possessing a new predicted glycosylation site in antigenic site B of HA emerged, and these viruses remain prevalent today. The 2016–2017 seasonal influenza vaccine was updated to include a clade 3C.2a H3N2 strain; however, the egg-adapted version of this viral strain lacks the new putative glycosylation site. Here, we biochemically demonstrate that the HA antigenic site B of circulating clade 3C.2a viruses is glycosylated. We show that antibodies elicited in ferrets and humans exposed to the egg-adapted 2016–2017 H3N2 vaccine strain poorly neutralize a glycosylated clade 3C.2a H3N2 virus. Importantly, antibodies elicited in ferrets infected with the current circulating H3N2 viral strain (that possesses the glycosylation site) and humans vaccinated with baculovirus-expressed H3 antigens (that possess the glycosylation site motif) were able to efficiently recognize a glycosylated clade 3C.2a H3N2 virus. We propose that differences in glycosylation between H3N2 egg-adapted vaccines and circulating strains likely contributed to reduced vaccine effectiveness during the 2016–2017 influenza season. Furthermore, our data suggest that influenza virus antigens prepared via systems not reliant on egg adaptations are more likely to elicit protective antibody responses that are not affected by glycosylation of antigenic site B of H3N2 HA.
Caring for You, the Physician

The grandmother of Hippocrates goes on to hope that Daphne, his bride, can “teach this grandson of mine to live a happy life.” She might well also have wished him good health and longevity.
Immune Responsive Resolvin D1 Programs Peritoneal Macrophages and Cardiac Fibroblast Phenotypes in Diversified Metabolic Microenvironment

Bioactive lipid mediators derived from n-3 and n-6 fatty acids are known to modulate leukocytes. Metabolic transformation of essential fatty acids to endogenous bioactive molecules plays a major role in human health. Here we tested the potential of substrates; linoleic acid (LA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and their bioactive products; resolvin D1 (RvD1) and 12- S-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acids (HETE) to modulate macrophage plasticity and cardiac fibroblast phenotype in presence or absence of lipid metabolizing enzyme 12/15-lipoxygenase (LOX). Peritoneal macrophages and cardiac fibroblasts were isolated from wild-type (C57BL/6J) and 12/15LOX -/- mice and treated with DHA, LA, 12(S)-HETE, and RvD1 for 4, 8, 12, and 24 hr. LA, DHA, 12(S)-HETE, and RvD1 elicited mRNA expression of proinflammatory markers; tumor necrosis factor-α ( Tnf-α), interleukin 6 ( IL-6), chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2 (Ccl2), and IL-1β in wild type (WT) and in 12/15LOX -/- macrophages at early time point (4 hr). Bioactive immunoresolvent RvD1 lowered the levels of Tnf-α, IL-6, and IL-1β at 24 hr time point. Both DHA and RvD1 stimulated the proresolving markers such as arginase 1 ( Arg-1), chitinase-like protein 3 ( Ym-1), and mannose receptor C-type 1 in WT macrophage. RvD1 induced proresolving phenotype Arg-1 expression in both WT 12/15LOX -/- macrophages even in presence of 12(S)-HETE. RvD1 peaked 5LOX expression in both WT and 12/15LOX -/- at 24 hr time point compared with DHA. RvD1 diminished cyclooxygenase-2 but upregulated 5LOX expression in fibroblast compared with DHA. In summary, the feed-forward enzymatic interaction with fatty acids substrates and direct mediators (RvD1 and 12(S)-HETE) are responsive in determining macrophages phenotype and cardiac fibroblast plasticity. Particularly, macrophages and fibroblast phenotypes are responsive to milieu and RvD1 governs the milieu-dependent chemokine signaling in presence or absence of 12/15LOX enzyme to resolve inflammation.
Trends in Readmission and Costs After Transcatheter Implantation Versus Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement in Patients With Renal Dysfunction

Patients with renal dysfunction are at increased risk for developing aortic valve pathology. In the present era of value-based healthcare delivery, a comparison of transcatheter and surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) readmission performance in this population is warranted. All adult patients who underwent transcatheter or SAVR from 2011 to 2014 were identified using the Nationwide Readmissions Database, containing data for nearly 50% of US hospitalizations. Patients were further stratified as chronic kidney disease stage 1 to 5 as well as end-stage renal disease requiring dialysis. Kaplan-Meier, Cox Hazard, and multivariable regression models were generated to identify predictors of readmission and costs. Of the 350,609 isolated aortic valve replacements, 4.7% of patients suffered from chronic kidney disease stages 1 to 5 or end-stage renal disease. Transcatheter aortic valve patients with chronic kidney disease stages 1 to 5/or end-stage renal disease were older (81.9 vs 72.9 years, p <0.0001) with a higher prevalence of heart failure (15.2 vs 4.3%, p = 0.04), and peripheral vascular disease (31.1 vs 22.8%, p <0.0001) compared to their SAVR counterparts. Transcatheter aortic valve replacement in chronic kidney disease stage 1 to 3 patients had a higher rate of readmission due to heart failure and pacemaker placement than SAVR. Transcatheter aortic valve replacement was associated with increased costs compared with SAVR for all renal failure patients. In conclusion, in this national cohort of chronic and end-stage renal disease patients, transcatheter aortic valve implantation was associated with increased mortality, readmissions for chronic kidney disease stages1 to 3, and index hospitalization costs.
Thoracic spine manipulation did not improve maximal mouth opening in participants with temporomandibular dysfunction.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) have a prevalence of more than 5% in the general population. A positive correlation exists between temporomandibular joint mobility and cervical spine mobility. Similarly, a relationship exists between thoracic and cervical spine mobility. However, it is unknown if interventions to improve the mobility of the thoracic spine positively impact temporomandibular joint motion and pain. This study tested the hypothesis that a single thoracic thrust joint manipulation (TJM) would improve maximum mouth opening (MMO) compared with participants without TMD as well as decrease TMD symptoms. METHODS Forty-eight people with TMD (30.9 years old ±11.3) and 55 people without TMD (28.5 years old ±9.2) participated. Both groups received a seated upper thoracic TJM and were measured for MMO before and immediately following the TJM. The duration of TMD symptoms and pre-thrust current pain, using the 11-point Verbal Pain Rating Scale (VPRS), was recorded in the TMD group. Participants in the TMD group were contacted 2-3 days after TJM to report current VPRS and improvement utilizing the Global Rating of Change (GROC) scale. RESULTS No difference in MMO treatment response over time was observed between groups (p = .56). The MMO in the TMD group improved from 40 to 41.3 mm, and the non-TMD similarly improved from 44.5 to 45.4 mm. The VPRS decreased from 2.4 (±1.8) to 1.3 (±1.5) following thoracic TJM (p < .001), and the average GROC score was 1.8 (±2.25), which was statistically different than zero (no change; p < .001). The duration of TMD symptoms prior to TJM was not associated with GROC scores (r = .018, p = .90) or VPRS change scores (r = -.07, p = .64). CONCLUSION The observed treatment effects did not exceed previously reported standards for clinical relevance (5 mm and 2 points, respectively).
DIRECTED ENTRY OF HYBRID PROTEINS INTO CELLS VIA ALTERNATE RECEPTORS

Artificial hybrid proteins which contain the receptor binding specificity of one protein and the effector function of another protein enter cells and elicit effects via alternate receptors. Thus mannose-6-PO 4 -low density lipoprotein can enter mutant fibroblasts lacking the low density lipoprotein receptor and normal cholesterol metabolism is restored. Monoclonal antibodies can also be used to direct the entry of toxins into specific cell types. Anti-Thy l.2-ricin in the presence of lactose specifically kills normal cells and tumor cells carrying the Thy 1.2 antigen. The mechanism of entry of hybrid toxins and their therapeutic potential will be discussed.
Fatigue Performance of Doped SAC Solder Joints in BGA Assembly

Fatigue failure of interconnected solder joints is a critical consideration for the reliability of an electronic product. Commonly, fatigue properties of solder materials are investigated using large bulk samples. However, limited studies considered the actual solder joints that are typically found in BGA components. This study includes customized sandwich BGA test vehicles with 3×3 solder joints connected between two substrates. Instron Micromechanical Tester is used to test the samples in both stress-controlled and strain-controlled experiments at room temperature. The testing was conducted at a constant strain rate. The tested solder materials are Sn-3Ag-0.5Cu (SAC305), Sn-3.5Ag-0.7Cu-3Bi-1.5Sb-0.125Ni (Innolot), Sn-3.41Ag-0.52Cu-3.3Bi (SAC-Q), and Sn-0.92Cu-2.46Bi (SAC-R). The displacement-load (hysteresis) loops for each sample were systematically recorded, and thus the work per cycling and plastic strain range are measured. The results showed that Innolot has better fatigue life than SAC305, SAC-Q and SAC-R in both stress-controlled test and strain-controlled test, while the fatigue performance of SAC305 in strain-controlled test is better than that in stress-controlled test.
Explantation Rates of High Frequency Spinal Cord Stimulation in Two Outpatient Clinics.

Objectives To report the explantation rates of high frequency 10 kHz spinal cord stimulation (SCS) in a real-world setting. Materials and methods This is a retrospective review of patients implanted with high frequency spinal cord stimulators over a 4-year period in two outpatient private practice clinics, from July 2015 through June 2019, using the Kaplan-Meier product-limit method to estimate probabilities of implant survival over time. Results The estimated median time to explantation was 3.5 years (95% confidence interval [CI] = 3.1-3.7) [Correction added on 15 October 2020, after first online publication: The preceeding sentence was amended to reflect the estimated median time.]. The estimated probabilities of implant survival beyond 1, 2, and 3 years postimplantation were 88.4% (95% CI = 81.3-93.0%), 76.5% (95% CI = 67.8-83.2%), and 60.7% (95% CI = 50.2-69.6%), respectively. The minimum (i.e., known) cumulative percentages of patients explanted by 1, 2, and 3 years postimplantation were 11.1% (14/126), 22.2% (28/126), and 32.5% (41/126), respectively. 65.9% of patients in this study had prior neurostimulation. Conclusions Recently, high frequency SCS technology has been demonstrated as more effective in treatment of lower- and leg-pain, compared to conventional low frequency SCS, in a 12-month randomized controlled trial (SENZA-RCT). Longer term results have yet to be published. In this study, we found that the explantation rate was much higher than expected, based on the prior studies demonstrating its efficacy. As the use of neuromodulation continues to grow, longitudinal data will be critical in understanding its long-term effects on treated patients.
Surface property study of additively manufactured Inconel 625 at room temperature and 510 °C

Abstract Various mechanical systems are subjected to inherent oscillatory motions often paired with extreme, high-temperature environments resulting in fretting wear. In this work, the fretting wear resistance of additively manufactured Inconel 625 was studied at room and elevated temperatures. In-situ temperature-controlled nanoindentation was employed to further elucidate mechanical property evolution as a function of temperature. The results showed a 30% decrease in near-surface mean hardness at 510 °C compared to room temperature. However, the material exhibited significantly lower wear and coefficient of friction values at high temperatures, attributed to the formation of a compacted, intermediate oxide layer preventing excessive friction and wear.
Infrared Generation by Nonlinear Optical Means in Hg 0.77 Cd 0.23 Te

Hg 1-X Cd X Te is an alloy semiconductor which has found widespread use in photoconductive and photovoltaic infrared detectors. Thus methods for preparing homogeneous single crystals of controlled composition (x-value) and purity are well established. Many of the same properties which make it useful for infrared detection can also be exploited in nonlinear optics experiments [1]. Those of interest depend upon interaction of incident photons from a CO 2 laser with free electrons when the sample is immersed in a magnetic field. Three such third order nonlinear optical effects are the spin-flip Raman laser, resonant four-photon mixing, and optical phase conjugation. A second order nonlinear optical effect of interest is far infrared generation by difference frequency mixing. To maximize the scattering cross section, the composition is adjusted during growth to that value such that the optical absorption edge at 4°K coincides with the CO 2 laser wavelength. The appropriate composition is Hg 0.77 Cd 0.23 Te. At this composition the free electron effective mass ratio is small, ∼0.0095 so that the spin-level splitting factor (g-value) is large, ∼80. This also gives rise to a large scattering cross-section. Furthermore, conduction band nonparabolicity effects due to the small forbidden energy gap give rise to other, non-resonant, nonlinearities. Each of these nonlinear optical effects is discussed below.
SANDO Syndrome associated with new POLG heterozygous gene mutation: Case Report. (2137)

Objective: To describe a novel mutation of the DNA polymerase subunit gamma (POLG) gene with a phenotypic presentation of Sensory Ataxic Neuropathy, Dysarthria and Ophthalmoparesis Syndrome (SANDO). Background: The nuclear-encoded POLG gene encodes gamma subunit of the mitochondrial DNA polymerase that is responsible for the replication of the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). Mutations of the POLG gene can have multiple phenotypic presentations including sensory ataxic neuropathy with dysarthria and ophthalmoplegia or SANDO syndrome, first described in 1997. At the molecular level, A467T and W748S POLG mutations have been described in SANDO. Design/Methods: NA Results: A 69-year-old female presented with two years of progressive ophthalmoplegia, ataxia, falls, hoarseness and dysphagia. Her mother also suffered from ataxia and falls. Neurological exam showed multifocal dystonia, significant truncal ataxia with postural instability, minimal appendicular ataxia, diffuse hyperreflexia, abnormal Hoffman and Babinski reflexes and frontal release signs. She had minimal rigidity and bradykinesia without tremors. Neuro-ophthalmological exam showed near-total absence of both vertical and horizontal eye movements bilaterally, esotropia and right hypertropia and weak orbicularis oculi and oris weakness bilaterally. She had abnormalities of alternate trail marking, figure copying, and clock drawing indicating visuospatial and executive dysfunction. Extensive workup including CSF, blood work and MRI Brain were unremarkable. Growth differentiation factor 15 levels were elevated suggesting a mitochondrial cytopathy. Genetic evaluation revealed single nucleotide heterozygous gene mutation of the POLG gene (c.3614G>C p.Gly1205Ala). This mutation has previously not been associated with pathology and hence felt to be of uncertain significance. Conclusions: We report the phenotypic presentation of SANDO syndrome with a gene mutation previously classified as uncertain significance. Due to the clinical heterogeneity, overlapping phenotypes, diagnosis of mitochondrial diseases relies on the molecular detection of genetic mutations. Disclosure: Dr. Crespo has nothing to disclose. Dr. Nandanwar has nothing to disclose. Dr. Kedar has received royalty, license fees, or contractual rights payments from EON Reality. Dr. Bhatti has received personal compensation for consulting, serving on a scientific advisory board, speaking, or other activities with Abbvie, Accadia, Merz, Allergan Pakistan, Medtronic, Adamas and Teva Neurosciences.
Model-driven Per-panel Solar Anomaly Detection for Residential Arrays

There has been significant growth in both utility-scale and residential-scale solar installations in recent years, driven by rapid technology improvements and falling prices. Unlike utility-scale solar farms that are professionally managed and maintained, smaller residential-scale installations often lack sensing and instrumentation for performance monitoring and fault detection. As a result, faults may go undetected for long periods of time, resulting in generation and revenue losses for the homeowner. In this article, we present SunDown, a sensorless approach designed to detect per-panel faults in residential solar arrays. SunDown does not require any new sensors for its fault detection and instead uses a model-driven approach that leverages correlations between the power produced by adjacent panels to detect deviations from expected behavior. SunDown can handle concurrent faults in multiple panels and perform anomaly classification to determine probable causes. Using two years of solar generation data from a real home and a manually generated dataset of multiple solar faults, we show that SunDown has a Mean Absolute Percentage Error of 2.98% when predicting per-panel output. Our results show that SunDown is able to detect and classify faults, including from snow cover, leaves and debris, and electrical failures with 99.13% accuracy, and can detect multiple concurrent faults with 97.2% accuracy.
Parameterization of eddy fluxes based on a mesoscale energy budget

Abstract It has recently been proposed to formulate eddy diffusivities in ocean models based on a mesoscale eddy kinetic energy (EKE) budget. Given an appropriate length scale, the mesoscale EKE can be used to estimate an eddy diffusivity based on mixing length theory. This paper discusses some of the open questions associated with the formulation of an EKE budget and mixing length, and proposes an improved energy budget-based parameterization for the mesoscale eddy diffusivity. A series of numerical simulations is performed, using an idealized flat-bottomed β -plane channel configuration with quadratic bottom drag. The results stress the importance of the mixing length formulation, as well as the formulation for the bottom signature of the mesoscale EKE, which is important in determining the rate of EKE dissipation. In the limit of vanishing planetary vorticity gradient, the mixing length is ultimately controlled by bottom drag, though the frictional arrest scale predicted by barotropic turbulence theory needs to be modified to account for the effects of baroclinicity. Any significant planetary vorticity gradient, β , is shown to suppress mixing, and limit the effective mixing length to the Rhines scale. While the EKE remains moderated by bottom friction, the bottom signature of EKE is shown to decrease as the appropriately non-dimensionalized friction increases, which considerably weakens the impact of changes in the bottom friction compared to barotropic turbulence. For moderate changes in the bottom-friction, eddy fluxes are thus reasonably well approximated by the scaling relation proposed by Held and Larichev (1996), which ignores the effect of bottom friction.
Man-Machine Communications in Civil Engineering

The performance of engineering with the aid of a computer is basically a problem in man-machine communications. The conventional program approach to the use of a computer is incompatible with most engineering situations. The full potential usefulness of the computer is not realized, and the computer is sometimes misused. Hardware developments relate to efficient interaction between the man and the machine in an on-line mode. Software advances relate to problem-oriented programming languages for describing engineering situations to the computer. The combination of these developments represent a totally new level of man-machine communications ability which will materially change the role of the computer in engineering. Examples of the developments and their potential impact on engineering practice and engineering education are examined.
Effect of Cavity Design on Optical Parametric Oscillator Performance

The effect of resonator cavity design on parametric oscillator performance is investigated theoretically. Certain unstable resonators produce superior energy conversion and beam quality than traditional resonators.
Mechanisms of Microbially Influenced Corrosion

The chapter demonstrates that biofilms can influence the corrosion of metals (1) by consuming oxygen, the cathodic reactant; (2) by increasing the mass transport of the corrosion reactants and products, therefore changing the kinetics of the corrosion process; (3) by generating corrosive substances; and (4) by generating substances that serve as auxiliary cathodic reactants. These interactions do not exhaust the possible mechanisms by which biofilm microorganisms may affect the corrosion of metals; rather, they represent those few instances in which we understand the microbial reactions and their effect on the electrochemical reactions characteristic of corrosion. In addition, we can use electrochemical and chemical measurements to detect one or more products of these reactions. An important aspect of quantifying mechanisms of microbially influenced corrosion is to demonstrate how the microbial reactions interfere with the corrosion processes and, based on this, identify products of these reactions on the surfaces of corroding metals using appropriate analytical techniques. The existence of these products, associated with the increasing corrosion rate, is used as evidence that the specific mechanism of microbially influenced corrosion is active. There is no universal mechanism of MIC. Instead, many mechanisms exist and some of them have been described and quantified better than other. Therefore, it does not seem reasonable to search for universal mechanisms, but it does seem reasonable to search for evidence of specific, well-defined microbial involvement in corrosion of metals.
A research report on the anti-fatigue effects of magnesium pemoline.

The effects of magnesium pemoline were compared to those of caffeine and methylphenidate on the performance of a nonmotivated task which required continuous attention over a two hour testing period. The drug treatment consisted of: 25 or 50 mg magnesium pemoline, 100 or 200 mg caffeine, 15 mg methylphenidate or a placebo. Ten unhospitalized volunteers were each tested six times, once on each treatment. The significant increase in errors which occured under placebo conditions did not occur with 50 mg magnesium pemoline, or 200 mg caffeine or 15 mg methylphenidate. These results support the contention of others that magnesium pemoline acts as a nonspecific CNS stimulant.
Structural Correlates of Cytoplasmic and Chloroplast Lipid Body Synthesis in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii and Stimulation of Lipid Body Production with Acetate Boost

Light microscopy and deep-etch electron microscopy were used to visualize triacylglyceride (TAG)-filled lipid bodies (LBs) of the green eukaryotic soil alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, a model organism for biodiesel production. Cells growing in nitrogen-replete media contain small cytoplasmic lipid bodies (α-cyto-LBs) and small chloroplast plastoglobules. When starved for N, β-cyto-LB formation is massively stimulated. β-Cyto-LBs are intimately associated with both the endoplasmic reticulum membrane and the outer membrane of the chloroplast envelope, suggesting a model for the active participation of both organelles in β-cyto-LB biosynthesis and packaging. When sta6 mutant cells, blocked in starch biosynthesis, are N starved, they produce β-cyto-LBs and also chloroplast LBs (cpst-LBs) that are at least 10 times larger than plastoglobules and eventually engorge the chloroplast stroma. Production of β-cyto-LBs and cpst-LBs under the conditions we used is dependent on exogenous 20 mM acetate. We propose that the greater TAG yields reported for N-starved sta6 cells can be attributed to the strain's ability to produce cpst-LBs, a capacity that is lost when the mutant is complemented by a STA6 transgene. Provision of a 20 mM acetate "boost" during N starvation generates sta6 cells that become so engorged with LBs-at the expense of cytoplasm and most organelles-that they float on water even when centrifuged. This property could be a desirable feature for algal harvesting during biodiesel production.
Modeling the Impact of Exotic Annual Brome Grasses on soil Organic Carbon Storage in a Northern Mixed-Grass Prairie

Annual brome grasses, Bromus japonicus and B. tectorum, are common invaders of northern mixed-grass prairie, and have been shown to alter the structure and function of prairie ecosystems, including plant biomass production and litter decomposition. To build on previous findings, our objective was to model the impact of annual brome grasses on soil organic carbon storage as a step towards forecasting ecological change. Specifically, we measured differences in carbon storage between patches dominated by annual bromes and perennial grasses, in addition to evaluating key plant functional characteristics that impact carbon storage. Using the CENTURY model, we simulated high- and low-brome vegetation based on differences in functional characteristics, allowing us to extrapolate the findings from the field study across a broader time scale. We sampled a prairie site in 1996 and 1997 to quantify differences between the high- and low-brome cover plots. High-brome plots averaged 40% brome cover, while the low-brome plots averaged 1% brome cover. We found differences in functional attributes for growth characteristics and litter quality, as well as minor differences in edaphic variables between the plots. Based on field measurements, more soil organic carbon was stored under high-brome vegetation than low-brome, but the differences were not statistically significant. Results from model simulations were consistent with field measurements, and suggested that this prairie ecosystem was not significantly impacted by the functional differences between high- and low-brome vegetation for the first 50 years after the brome invasion under historical management and climate. However, the model results also showed that the differences in soil organic carbon storage continue to diverge after 50 years and consequently could be significant in the future.
A study of metalorganic molecular beam epitaxy growth of InAs by mass spectrometry and reflection high-energy electron diffraction

Abstract Mass spectrometry and reflection high-energy electron diffraction intensity oscillations have been used to study metalorganic molecular beam epitaxy growth of InAs using trimethylindium and arsenic. We find that the growth rate increases and then decreases with increasing arsenic beam flux, as well as with increasing substrate temperature and that the decrease of growth rate at higher temperature seems to correspond to the increase of dimethylindium (DMIn) signal in mass spectroscopy.
The Two-Point Threshold: Not a Measure of Tactile Spatial Resolution

The two-point threshold, or compass test, has long been used as a measure of tactile spatial resolution; however, since it was first developed, there have been problems associated with its use. Some of these problems include setting an appropriate criterion for responding “two,” extreme variability both within and between subjects, and the ability of subjects to discriminate two points from one at separations well below the two-point threshold. Recent neurophysiological results have clarified some of the neural mechanisms responsible for spatial resolution and demonstrated the inadequacy of the two-point threshold as a measure of spatial mechanisms. Several new methods may overcome these problems and provide a valid measure of spatial resolution and a reflection of neural mechanisms.
Fine structure of the male reproductive system in two species ofHaplognathia sterrer (Gnathostomulida, Filospermoidea)

The structure of the male reproductive systems of two species ofHaplognathia cf.lyra andH. cf.rosacea was described. The structure of the testes and the anterior portions of the sperm ducts in both species was found to be similar. However, considerable species differences were found between the structures of the glands and muscles associated with the reproductive systems. These were more elaborate inH. cf.lyra than inH. cf.rosacea. The former species possessed an H-shaped sperm duct gland, three distinct groups of penis muscles and a penis with two cell types and with a lumen. The latter species had paired sperm duct glands, no specialized penis muscles and a penis with only one cell type and without a detectable lumen. No open gonopore was observed in either species. The sperm presumably exit through a ventral tissue connection observed connecting the penis and the ventral epidermis. These findings were discussed in the light of Mainitz's (1977) theory concerning the primitive penis type within the Gnathostomulida.
A note on the effect of schooling, experience and aging on wage growth

Abstract Our analysis of the National Longitudinal Survey of Young Men data suggests that changes in job experience and schooling play a large part in explaining wage growth, leaving a negative effect of chronological aging per se .
Cavernous Sinus-Orbital Vein Thrombosis due to Infection and Thrombophilia

We present a patient with cavernous sinus-orbital vein thrombosis while highlighting the causes, risk factors and diagnostic modalities. The onset was acute while she was in labor. She was off of anticoagulation, had history of deep vein thrombosis and recent sinus infection which were thought to be the etiological factors. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.4021/jcgo33w
Differential sensitivity of laryngeal and pharyngeal motoneurons to iontophoretic application of serotonin

Abstract Serotonergic neurons decrease their activity during sleep, especially rapid eye movement sleep, thereby reducing their facilitatory effect on upper airway motoneurons. The magnitude of the sleep-related loss of tone varies among upper airway muscles (e.g., pharyngeal dilator motoneurons are more suppressed than laryngeal motoneurons). We hypothesized that these differences may be related to the sensitivity of different groups of upper airway motoneurons to serotonin. Experiments were done on decerebrate, vagotomized, paralysed and artificially-ventilated cats. Hypoglossal and laryngeal motoneurons were recorded extracellularly using five-barrel pipettes filled with: serotonin, glutamate and methysergide (serotonergic antagonist) for iontophoresis, and NaCl for recording and current balancing. All but two of the 65 hypoglossal motoneurons (45 inspiratory, 10 expiratory, 10 tonic) and 27 out of 32 laryngeal motoneurons (14 inspiratory, 18 expiratory) were excited by serotonin, and the excitation was abolished by methysergide. To compare the magnitude of the excitatory effect among distinct motoneuronal groups, we applied small ejection currents in a standardized manner (+15 nA for 3 min; 10 mM serotonin in 150 NaCl) onto spontaneously active motoneurons (13 inspiratory hypoglossal, 11 inspiratory laryngeal and 11 expiratory laryngeal). Serotonin increased the number of spikes per respiratory burst of inspiratory hypoglossal motoneurons from 19±4.0 (S.E.M.) to 35±4.8, of inspiratory laryngeal motoneurons from 44±8.3 to 55±8.8, and of expiratory laryngeal motoneurons from 23±4.8 to 33±6.2. The relative increases in activity (to 220%±24, 147%±23 and 148%±9 of control, respectively) were significantly higher in hypoglossal than in laryngeal motoneurons. In addition, the excitatory effect developed significantly faster in hypoglossal than in laryngeal motoneurons. Methysergide reduced the spontaneous activity of about half the hypoglossal and laryngeal motoneurons to 66%±5 of control. Thus, the sensitivity to the excitatory effects of serotonin varies among different pools of upper airway motoneurons. These differences correlate with the pattern of airway muscle hypotonia seen during sleep.
A Method for Evaluating Manufacturing Change in Engineering Design

This paper details a method of change prediction that builds upon the traditional component-component design structure matrix by incorporating manufacturing costs and modeling higher orders of coupling. A coupling index is also created to assess the level of coupling between interfaced features. A BMW X5 headliner assembly and a Ryobi hand-held drill are analyzed using the proposed method to identify the features and components that offer the greatest ease of change. The analysis of the BMW X5 headliner shows that the rectangular slots on the bottom of the adapter plates are the feature that offers the greatest ease of change, while the handles are the component that offers the greatest ease of change. For the Ryobi drill, the battery is identified as the component that offers the greatest ease of change. The proposed method of change prediction proves to be an effective and efficient means of modeling change propagation and assessing change impact.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Binding of heavy metal ions by formaldehyde-polymerized peanut skins

Peanut skin, when treated with formaldehyde to polymerize tannins, is a highly efficient substrate for removal of many heavy metal ions from aqueous waste solutions. The ions Ag1+, Cd2+, Cr6+, Cu2+, Hg2+, Ni2+, Pb2+, Zn2+, as well as Ca2+ and Mg2+, were contacted with formaldehyde-treated peanut skin. Quantitative removal could be achieved with Ag1+, Cd2+, Cu2+, Hg2+, Pb2+, and Zn2+. Capacity of the substrate for ions was promising for Pb2+ (2.1 meq/g substrate), Cu2+ (3.0 meq/g), and Cd2+ (1.3 meq/g). Sorption from a solution containing Cd2+, Cu2+, Hg2+, Ni2+, Pb2+, Zn2+, on a packed column of formaldehyde-treated peanut skin indicated that Hg2+, Pb2+, and Cu2+ were rapidly and completely bound to the packing, while Cd2+, Ni2+, and Zn2+ were poorly bound until the preferred ions had been removed from solution.
The TaskTracker: assistive technology for task completion

A cognitive impairment can restrict the independence an individual has over their own life. Commonly, attention deficits affect individuals with cognitive impairments and make completion of everyday tasks difficult. While many technologies exist to assist this group in memory storage and retrieval, these individuals could also benefit from technology focused on time management and assistance with task completion. The TaskTracker has been created for this purpose by incorporating several features focused on task completion into one useful Android™ smart phone application. A progress bar, alarm reminders, and a motivational message have been combined to motivate task completion and time management rather than task memory alone.
Silver-tracer diffusion in Cu2O

Abstract The diffusion of110Ag in Cu2O has been measured by a serial-sectioning technique as a function of temperature (700–1132°C) and oxygen partial pressure (6 × 10−6 −8 × 10−2 atm). The data are fit to the defect model for Cu2O developed by the authors in the preceding paper. Silver ions have a larger impurity-vacancy binding free energy and/or a larger jump frequency for the singly charged cation vacancies relative to that for the neutral cation vacancies. The activation enthalpies for the diffusion of copper and silver ions in Cu2O are nearly equal, but the absolute value of D∗Ag is about three times larger than D∗Cu even though the silver ion is 31% larger than the copper ion.
Intentioned Recession: An Ideologically Driven Re-Structuring

Viewing broad middle class economic losses from the Great Recession as an accident leads many to imagine that a return to pre-recession policies and practices will restore this group's economic prosperity. Another perspective views these losses as part of a larger pattern of economic and political disenfranchisement directed toward the American middle class. To the extent that those who benefit from an event might be recognized as having a hand in its creation, insight into the values and beliefs held by this recession's beneficiaries may prove useful in designing policy changes needed to stem or reverse the continued enactment of these wider goals. This paper offers that insight: using responses to an original survey administered to faculty at major research universities across the United States in 2008–2009, certain values and beliefs held by academics across many departments and disciplines may be observed. Three interdependent elements pertaining to citizen democracy including population well-being, t...
A tennis forehand-backhand drive skill test which measures ball control and stroke firmness

Abstract A tennis skill test for use in quantifying achievement in the forehand and backhand drive strokes was developed and then validated using 76 college women enrolled in beginning tennis classes. The test consisted of returning balls pitched by a pneumatic ball machine into target areas drawn in chalk on a regulation tennis court. Speed of the subjects' shots was assessed by measuring accumulated time in flight for rounds of 10 trials using a stopwatch. A time factor was then employed to correct the target value total for the trials to adjust for ball speed, thus rewarding the more skilled player who could stroke the ball more firmly while still retaining control. The test-retest reliability of the test was found to be .84, while the validity of the test, using judges' ratings as a criterion, was .83. It was concluded that the test was a valid and reliable test of skill which was closely related to the actual game situation. Percentile norms were developed on a limited number of subjects.