cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Species richness determines C. difficile invasion outcome in synthetic human gut communities

Abstract Understanding the principles of colonization resistance of the gut microbiome to the pathogen Clostridioides difficile will enable the design of next generation defined bacterial therapeutics. We investigate the ecological principles of community resistance to C. difficile invasion using a diverse synthetic human gut microbiome. Our results show that species richness is a key determinant of C. difficile growth across a wide range of ecological contexts. Using a dynamic computational model, we demonstrate that C. difficile receives the largest number and magnitude of incoming negative interactions. We identify molecular mechanisms of inhibition including acidification of the environment and competition over glucose. We demonstrate that C. difficile’s close relative Clostridium hiranonis strongly inhibits C. difficile via a pH-independent mechanism. While increasing the initial density of C. difficile can increase its abundance in the assembled community, the community context determines the maximum achievable C. difficile abundance. Our work suggests that the C. difficile inhibitory potential of defined bacterial therapeutics can be optimized by designing communities that feature a combination of mechanisms including species richness, environment acidification, and resource competition.
A Proactive Approach to Evaluating Intersection Safety Using Hard-Braking Data

Typical safety improvements at signalized intersections are identified and prioritized using crash data over 3–5 years. Enhanced probe data that provides date, time, heading, and location of hard-braking events has recently become available to agencies. In a typical month, over six million hard-braking events are logged in the state of Indiana. This study compared rear-end crash data over a period of 4.5 years at 8 signalized intersections with weekday hard-braking data from July 2019. Using Spearman’s rank-order correlation, results indicated a strong correlation between hard-braking events and rear-end crashes occurring more than 400 ft upstream of an intersection. The paper concludes that using a month or two of hard-braking events occurring upstream from the stop bar may be a useful tool to screen potential locations with elevated rear-end crashes. Using these techniques described in this paper, new commercially available hard-braking data sources will provide an opportunity for agencies to follow up with mitigation measures addressing emerging problems much quicker than typical practices that rely on 3–5 years of crash data.
Governing the Commons: ANALYZING INSTITUTIONAL CHANGE

In the preceding chapter I examined institutions for governing CPRs in which appropriators have devised governance systems that have survived for long periods of time in environments characterized by considerable uncertainty and change. Although the particular problems involved in governing mountain commons vary from those involved in governing irrigation systems, all of these long-enduring institutional arrangements have shared commonalities. These cases clearly demonstrate the feasibility (but obviously not the likelihood) of robust, self-governing institutions for managing complex CPR situations, but the origins of these systems are lost in time. It is not possible to reconstruct how earlier users of Swiss alpine meadows, Japanese mountain commons, the Spanish huertas , or the Philippine zanjeras devised rules that have survived such long periods. We do not know who originated or opposed various proposals, or anything about the process of change itself. A study of the origins of institutions must address the problem of supply raised in Chapter 2. As Bates (1988) points out, the presence of collective benefits as a result of designing new institutions is itself a second-order collective dilemma. A proposed new institution uis subject to the very incentive problems it is supposed to resolve” (Bates 1988, p. 395). Many questions need to be addressed. How many participants were involved? What was their internal group structure? Who initiated action? Who paid the costs of entrepreneurial activities? What kind of information did participants have about their situation? What were the risks and exposures of various participants? What broader institutions did participants use in establishing new rules? These questions are rarely answered in the extensive case-study literature describing behavior within ongoing institutional arrangements. Once a set of rules is in place, the incentives facing appropriators are entirely different from the incentives that faced an earlier set of appropriators when confronted with severe appropriation or provision suboptimalities. In this chapter, the origins of a set of institutions to manage a series of groundwater basins located beneath the Los Angeles metropolitan area are examined. Louis Weschler and I did extensive fieldwork in these areas during the late 1950s and early 1960s, when many changes were occurring (E. Ostrom 1965; Weschler 1968). We attended meetings, read internal memoranda, and interviewed participants to obtain information about the strategies of groundwater producers to organize voluntary associations, to undertake litigation, to create special districts, and to constitute a complex public-private governance system to regulate their basins.
Changes in rhesus monkey amniotic fluid pH, pCO2, and bicarbonate concentration following maternal and fetal hypercarbia and fetal death in utero.

Abstract Amniotic fluid pH, pCO 2 , and bicarbonate concentrations are reported in pregnant rhesus monkeys during periods of fetal distress secondary to: (1) maternal inhalation of 10 per cent carbon dioxide; (2) premature separation of the placenta; (3) prolonged intrauterine surgery; and (4) following fetal death in utero. Elevations in fetal plasma carbon dioxide tensions, secondary to stress situations, were quickly followed by a corresponding increase in pCO 2 of amniotic fluid, and a decrease in its pH. Although fetal plasma bicarbonate concentrations decreased during periods of stress, similar changes in amniotic fluid bicarbonate were not observed. Fetal death in utero was accompanied by an increase in amniotic fluid pCO 2 and a decrease in amniotic fluid bicarbonate concentration and pH.
The Fractal Structure of Data Reference: Applications to the Memory Hierarchy

List of Figures. List of Tables. Preface. Acknowledgments. 1. Hierarchical Reuse Model. 2. Hierarchical Reuse Daemon. 3. Use of Memory by Multiple Workloads. 4. Use of Memory at the I/O Interface. 5. Memory Management in an LRU Cache. 6. Free Space Collection in a Log. 7. Transient and Persistent Data Access. 8. Hierarchical Storage Management. 9. Disk Applications: A Statistical View. References. Index.
Radiocarbon‐age differences among coexisting planktic foraminifera shells: The Barker Effect

[1] For slowly accumulating sediments, a major contrast exists in the radiocarbon-age differences among coexisting shells of planktic foraminifera between those experiencing little dissolution and those experiencing significant dissolution. In the former, the ages generally agree to within a couple of hundred years. In the latter, age differences as large as 1000 years are common. The most likely explanation appears to be the Barker Effect, which involves the preferential fragmentation of dissolution-prone G. sacculifer and G. ruber. The whole shells of these species picked for radiocarbon dating have shorter residence times in the bioturbation zone than those for dissolution-resistant species (including benthics). As low accumulation rate sediment cores often fail to yield reliable radiocarbon-based ocean ventilation ages, where possible, such studies should be conducted on high accumulation rate cores.
Enterobacterial Common Antigen-Induced Lymphocyte Reactivity in Inflammatory Bowel Disease

The enterobacterial common antigen of Kunin was shown to possess an antigenic relationship to colon cell membranes, and patients with inflammatory bowel disease were found to have elevated titers of humoral antibody to this antigen. The presence of cellular immunity to enterobacterial common antigen was sought by studying its ability to stimulate lymphocytes from patients with inflammatory bowel disease to produce migration-inhibition factor, an in vitro correlate of in vivo cellular immunity. Antigen-stimulated lymphocytes from patients with ulcerative colitis yielded marked migration inhibition activity. Lymphocyte cultures from patients with regional enteritis were activated to a lesser degree by this antigen. Culture supernatants from lymphocytes of healthy volunteers or of patients with a variety of other intestinal diseases were inactive or minimally active. Cellular immunity to enterobacterial common antigen may be important in the initiation or perpetuation of inflammatory bowel disease.
A fiber-optic absorption cell for remote determination of copper in industrial electroplating baths

Abstract A device for remote optical sensing is developed and evaluated for monitoring the concentration of copper(II) ions in an industrial plating bath. The sensor consists of an absorption cell which resides in the plating bath, and utilizes fiber optics to direct light into and out of the cell. The sensor is capable of being located in harsh environments for extended periods of time (on the order of weeks to years) and thus is ideal for long-term monitoring applications. The light source and detection electronics can be maintained in a controlled environment and can be multiplexed to several sensors of similar design, if desired. The sensor constructed operates by measuring the copper(II) absorbance with a near-infrared light-emitting diode (820 nm) as the light source. The device is capable of measuring copper(II) ion concentrations from 50 mM to 500 mM with relative standard deviations less than 1%. The construction and operation of the sensor are described and the effects of various interferences found in plating baths are evaluated, including those from temperature variations and variations in the concentrations of concomitant species in the plating bath. Also, drift compensation and noise sources are considered, with an evaluation of the long-term stability of the sensor and the feasibility of its use in an industrial environment.
Functional consequences of disulfide bond formation in gelsolin

Gelsolin is an actin monomer binding and filament severing protein synthesized in plasma and cytoplasmic forms differing by an N-terminal amino acid extension and a disulfide bond between Cys-188 and Cys-201. To determine whether this bond altered gelsolin regulation or function, oxidized and reduced plasma gelsolins were assayed for severing, monomer binding and nucleation activity at a variety of rate-limiting calcium concentrations. The results indicate that the disulfide bond in domain 2 of gelsolin influences the transmission of information from C-terminal regulatory sites to functional sites in the N-terminus.
Comparison of the Optical Cross Section for the Si Dangling Bond in a — Si:H and at the c — Si/SiO2 Interface

The optical properties of the trivalent silicon dangling bond defect in hydrogenated amorphous silicon and at the Si/SiO2 interface are compared. While both defects give rise to ambipolar deep levels within the gap, significant differences in the optical properties between the two systems are found. The absorption in a-Si:H is significantly stronger and is dominated by a transition from the defect to the conduction band while the absorption at the interface is dominated by hole emission. The average dipole matrix element squared is roughly independent of energy in both systems with a magnitude of ∼30A2. Implications of these results for optical measurements in other silicon systems are discussed.
Quantum efficiency of GaAs electroluminescent diodes

Abstract The external quantum efficiency of tin-doped GaAs diodes in the 1016 to 5 × 1018 cm−3 carrier concentration range was investigated. A maximum efficiency of about 0·18 per cent at 100° K was found at 5 × 1017 cm−3 carriers, when a fixed diode geometry and ZnAs2 junction diffusion at 870° C was employed. The results from a study of the effect of zinc diffusion conditions on efficiency indicate that a substantial increase in efficiency can be obtained by proper control of the zinc concentration gradient near the p−n junction. With the same fixed diode geometry, a quantum efficiency of 0·65 per cent (300° K) was obtained in tin-doped GaAs with a 1·7 × 1018 cm−3 carrier concentration by employing a Zn-Ga alloy diffusion procedure to decrease the surface zinc concentration to less than 1019 cm−3. Capacitance-voltage measurements indicate that this increased efficiency is associated with a linearly graded junction.
Administrators' views on school-based nutrition education

Abstract To determine administrators' views on nutrition education in elementary schools, a questionnaire was mailed to a 39% random sample (426) of superintendents and a 10% random sample (395) of elementary school principals in New York State and northern New Jersey. The questionnaire asked these administrators what they thought about foods and nutrition teaching, how they viewed the teaching that occurs in their schools, and how they have supported that teaching. Overall, 76% of these administrators returned completed questionnaires. Nearly all administrators said that elementary schools should have a role in teaching foods and nutrition to children. Sixty-one percent reported that in their school district there was a policy of teaching it. Teachers, administrators, and school nurses were most influential in determining whether nutrition education was taught and how it was taught. Three-fourths of the administrators expressed an openness to programs developed by specialists outside of their schools. Three-fourths also reported that their teachers wanted to learn more about foods and nutrition teaching, and that most preferred inservice or workshops as a means to do that. Administrators were most active regarding foods and nutrition teaching in discussing materials with teachers or nurses, observing the teaching of it, and in eating with students in school cafeterias.
Design, fabrication and characterization of high-speed asymmetric Fabry-Perot modulators for optical interconnect applications

Free-space ‘smart-pixel’ optical interconnect architectures promise to relieve the interconnect ‘bottleneck’ in high-speed parallel computers and switching systems. One of the most promising output devices that has been advanced for use in these systems is the asymmetric Fabry-Perot modulator, or AFPM, which offers high on-off contrast, low insertion loss, and low operating voltage swing, among other advantages. In this paper we summarize our work on optimizing the AFPM for high-speed operation, including analysis of the material structure design considerations, fabrication of small (16×20 μm) devices, and high-speed electrical and optical characterization of the finished modulators. We conclude that at relatively high incident optical intensities the modulators' speed appears to be limited by transit effects to about 18 GHz, but that at lower optical intensities their frequency response outstrips that of our 20 GHz measurement apparatus — that is, these AFPMs are still capable of large signal modulation (20 dB contrast, 1.5 dB insertion loss) at low AC voltage swings (±3 V) for operating frequencies up to 20 GHz. We presume that further investigation will prove them to be RC-limited in this low-intensity regime to speeds of about 35 GHz.
Pathological gambling and mood disorders: clinical associations and treatment implications.

Abstract Background The rapidly expanding gambling business has resulted in an increasing number of gamblers, and the problem is likely to get worse in the future. Traditionally, mood and gambling symptoms have been known to overlap. In the present review we attempt to examine the diagnostic associations and implications for treatment. Method Selected published papers on the frequencies of mood disorders among patients who have gambling disorder or gambling disorder among patients who have mood disorder have been reviewed. Recently emerging new treatment methods for gambling disorder have been reviewed and a brief summary has been added. Results SCID based study results show a close link between gambling and mood disorders. The prevalence of manic disorder reaches to approximately one fourth of the pathological gambling disorder population. The prevalence of depression is much higher, reaching to over half of the population in some studies. Limitations The studies included in the present paper involve inpatients, outpatients, subjects recruited through advertisements and prison populations. Thus the data need to be interpreted as such. Standardized assessment instruments are not used in all studies. Methodological issues such as primary or secondary nature of depression have not been addressed adequately in these studies. The findings, however, offer new insights for the assessment and treatment of complicated gambling disorder cases. Conclusions A high prevalence rate of manic and depressive disorders has been recorded among pathological gambling disorder patients. A rational treatment approach to each defined subset of complicated gambling disorder is discussed.
Late-Wisconsin paleohydrology of the West-Central Amargosa Desert, Nevada, U.S.A.

Studies of isotopes in groundwater using 14C, 2H (deuterium) and 18O have provided significant insight into the paleoclimate of middle and late Wisconsin age in a typical arid environment of southern Nevada, the west-central Amargosa Desert. Evidence indicates that recharge probably was through infiltration of runoff in paleostream channels and that this runoff was important only from ∼ 17,000 to ∼ 10,000 yr. B.P. Mean annual temperature at 17,000 yr. B.P. was ∼ 8°C less than present mean annual temperature; some summer moisture was effective in recharge. Winter (October–May) temperature at ∼ 10,000 yr. B.P. was ∼ 1°C less than present; summer moisture did not contribute to recharge.
Race, Socioeconomic Status, and Health The Added Effects of Racism and Discrimination

Higher disease rates for blacks (or African Americans) compared to whites are pervasive and persistent over time, with the racial gap in mortality widening in recent years for multiple causes of death. Other racial/ethnic minority populations also have elevated disease risk for some health conditions. This paper considers the complex ways in which race and socioeconomic status (SES) combine to affect health. SES accounts for much of the observed racial disparities in health. Nonetheless, racial differences often persist even at “equivalent” levels of SES. Racism is an added burden for nondominant populations. Individual and institutional discrimination, along with the stigma of inferiority, can adversely affect health by restricting socioeconomic opportunities and mobility. Racism can also directly affect health in multiple ways. Residence in poor neighborhoods, racial bias in medical care, the stress of experiences of discrimination and the acceptance of the societal stigma of inferiority can have deleterious consequences for health.
Trends in heart disease deaths in Olmsted County, Minnesota, 1979-1994.

Background Although age-adjusted heart disease mortality has declined since the 1960s, this decline may not have applied equally to all subgroups. Objective To examine recent trends in heart disease mortality, specifically in women and in the elderly. Methods Age- and sex-specific heart disease mortality (International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Edition, Clinical Modification [I CD-9-CM] codes 390-398, 402, 404-429) in Olmsted County, Minnesota, between 1979 and 1994 were studied. Results The total number of heart disease deaths was 3095; 1578 (51%) occurred in women and 1984 (64%) in persons aged 75 years or older. Most heart disease deaths (77%) were coronary disease deaths (ICD-9-CM codes 410-414). Age-adjusted heart disease mortality rates declined from 123 per 100,000 (95% confidence interval [CI], 102-144/100,000) in 1979 to 81 per 100,000 (95% CI, 67-95/100,000) in 1994. Poisson regression analyses indicated that the trends differed according to sex and age. For women, the relative risk (RR) of heart disease death in 1994 compared with 1979 was 0.69 vs 0.53 for men ( P = .06). This equates to a decline in heart disease mortality of 2.5% per year in women or 32% over the period and 4.2 % per year in men or 47% over the period. The decline was less pronounced as age increased ( P Conclusions Between 1979 and 1994, in Olmsted County, the decline in heart disease mortality was of lesser magnitude in women and in the elderly, emphasizing the importance of age- and sex-specific trends to characterize time patterns in heart disease deaths to target preventive measures.
Note to Instructors for Dealer Trade Group: High-Tech Venturing in a Low-Tech Industry

his case provides a rare insider’s perspective on the situation of a high-techcompany (Dealer Trade Group: DTG) attempting to upset the existing institutions, prac-tices, and norms of the traditional auto wholesaling industry. Because DTG’s businessmodel is built upon online marketplace technology, many of its operations are foreign toestablished industry processes. As DTG potentially stands to revolutionize the vehiclewholesaling industry, the case illustrates challenges facing Carter Crockett as heattempted to balance the divergent interests of investors, employees, and dealers.
Electrochemical performance of carbon onions, nanodiamonds, carbon black and multiwalled nanotubes in electrical double layer capacitors

Abstract This paper describes the electrochemical performance of carbon onions, nanodiamonds, carbon black and multiwalled nanotubes as electrodes in electrical double layer capacitors with organic electrolyte. Onions were formed by vacuum annealing of 5 nm nanodiamond (ND) powder at 1200–2000 °C with the goal to investigate the effect of carbon microstructure on specific capacitance and ion transport. In contrast to micro- or mesoporous activated carbons, the outer surface of carbon onions is fully accessible to electrolyte ions and the size of pores between carbon onions or nanotubes does not depend on the annealing temperature. Charge-discharge measurements revealed a two times decrease in the specific capacitance of onions and nanotubes upon graphitization and formation of polyhedral particles after annealing at 1800 °C and above. However, the capacitance became less current dependant. The carbon onion cells are able to deliver the stored energy under a high current density with a capacitance twice than the one obtained with MWCNT. Electrical measurements and impedance spectroscopy showed about two orders of magnitude increase in conductivity of electrodes and twofold decrease in the equivalent series resistance of the assembled cells after heat treatments of ND. The time constant extracted from the impedance data is around 10 times smaller for ND annealed at above 1800 °C than for activated carbons and is closely approaching the one for MWCNT. This shows that the open structure of carbon onions leads to an increased ability to quickly deliver the stored energy.
Abnormal uterine bleeding after ovarian vein embolotherapy for pelvic congestion syndrome: Case report and review of literature

Abstract Ovarian vein embolotherapy is a relatively new treatment for pelvic congestion syndrome that is claimed to be safe and effective. A 36-year-old woman underwent ovarian (without internal iliac) vein embolotherapy for pelvic congestion syndrome. Her pain was improved following the procedure. Within three months of the procedure, she started experiencing distressing abnormal uterine bleeding. Specifically, she developed profuse bleeding after intercourse. After thorough evaluation and counseling, a total abdominal hysterectomy was eventually performed. The use of ovarian vein embolization for treatment of pelvic congestion syndrome may be associated with abnormal uterine bleeding.
ANÁLISE DE RESÍDUOS, COMO MECANISMO DE AUXÍLIO ÀREDUÇÃO DE IMPACTOS AMBIENTAIS: UM ESTUDO DE CASO EM ABATEDOURO

Este trabalho relata o estudo de caso em uma empresa abatedoura de bovinos, situada na regiao noroeste do estado do Rio Grande do Sul, trazendo a tona um assunto de muita importância a gestao ambiental empresarial. Faz uso de uma avaliacao do processo produtivo da empresa, dos residuos gerados em cada uma das etapas do processo e de uma analise dos aspectos e impactos ambientais. Para o alcance dos objetivos leva-se em consideracao os materiais e metodos adotados atraves de uma revisao da literatura sobre o tema em questao, por meio de uma pesquisa exploratoria do tipo estudo de caso, numa abordagem qualitativa, com vista in loco. Na analise dos resultados obtidos pode-se constatar que as necessidades de melhorias nas etapas do processo produtivo da empresa sao das mais variadas. Diante disso e almejando um gerenciamento dos residuos gerados, buscou-se desenvolver um Programa de Gestao Ambiental (PGA) voltado a pequenas e medias empresas (PME) frigorificas com avaliacao criteriosa de cada residuo gerado no processo produtivo. Certamente este trabalho servira de modelo para outros projetos que possam trazer melhorias as praticas produtivas, e que profissionais envolvidos possam estar conscientes frente a questao da gestao ambiental em suas empresas.
Modified cobalt(II) acetylacetonate complexes as catalysts for Negishi-type coupling reactions: influence of ligand electronic properties on catalyst activity

Four known electronically diverse cobalt(II) acetylacetonate derivatives were synthesized by replacement of the acetylacetonate methyl groups with combinations of tert-butyl, ethoxy, and trifluoromethyl groups in order to study the effect of catalyst electronic properties on the reaction rate and product yield of the cobalt-catalyzed reaction between haloalkenes and butylzinc iodide. Infrared spectroscopy of these compounds showed an increase in the CO stretching frequency as the ligand substituents became more electron withdrawing. These compounds, in addition to cobalt(II) acetylacetonate itself, were evaluated as catalysts for the coupling reaction between (E)-1-iodo-1-octene and butylzinc iodide to form (E)-5-dodecene. Faster reaction rates were observed and higher yields of 5-dodecene were produced when catalysts containing electron-donating ligands were employed. Side reactions, including the homocoupling of 1-iodo-1-octene to produce 7,9-hexadecadiene, were also observed under the reported reaction conditions. The rate of side-product formation was more competitive with the rate of the cross-coupling reaction when slower, electron-deficient catalysts were employed.
Behaviorism, finite automata, and stimulus response theory

In this paper it is argued that certain stimulus-response learning models which are adequate to represent finite automata (acceptors) are not adequate to represent noninitial state input-output automata (transducers). This circumstance suggests the question whether or not the behavior of animals if satisfactorily modelled by automata is predictive. It is argued in partial answer that there are automata which can be explained in the sense that their transition and output functions can be described (roughly, Hempel-type covering law explanation) while their behaviors are in principle not predictable short of possession of their complete histories or of information concerning present internal states by indirect observation.
Performance of an optical stabilization system at NSLS beamline U12IR

Abstract A low-cost optical feedback system using dynamic mirrors has been developed at the NSLS for stabilizing the position and direction of an infrared synchrotron beam against thermal drift and mechanical noise. The system design has some unique features that potentially simplify installation into an existing infrared beamline. We describe the system and its features along with some performance results.
Porous, heat cured poly (methyl methacrylate) for dental implants

The use of polyl (methyl methacrylate) for tooth replica implants, as developed by Hodosh, is described as to indications, ingredients, and fabrication technique. Laboratory testing of this material for mechanical and thermal expansion properties, and porosity content were determined as a function of foaming agent and and anorganic bone particle content.
Prevalence of diabetes mellitus and dyslipidemia among antiretroviral naive patients co-infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) and HIV-1 compared to patients without co-infection.

Abstract Objective . An increased prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) has been associated with HCV in the non-HIV infected populations. To describe a similar association among HIV subjects, and explore the biological mechanisms. Methods . In a cross-sectional analysis, we compared the prevalence of DM (using American Diabetes Association criteria) and insulin resistance (HOMA IR) and dyslipidemia among ARV naive patients with HIV and HIV/HCV infected patients enrolled in CPCRA FIRST (058) and the Metabolic Substudy (061). Results . Among 1389 enrolled in the FIRST study and had HCV serology, the prevalence of diabetes was higher (5.9%) among HCV/HIV as compared to 3.3% among those with HIV alone ( p =0.04). Among 417 enrolled in the metabolic substudy, 88 (21%) had HIV/HCV co-infection. As in the main study, the prevalence of DM was higher in HIV/HCV group (9 vs. 3%, p =0.03). The HIV/HCV infected were significantly older (43 vs. 37 years), non-white (83 vs. 70%), with a history of IDU (55 vs. 3%), had higher AST (61 vs. 39 U/l), ALT (55 vs. 43 U/l,) and lower cholesterol levels (3.97 vs. 4.25 mmol/l). By multivariate analysis among subjects p =0.02). The insulin resistance (HOMA IR) was not different between the two groups, however, the prevalence of dyslipidemia was lower among HCV co-infected subjects. Conclusions . Subjects with HIV/HCV co-infection have a higher prevalence of diabetes and thus may need to be screened for it prior to initiation of anti-retroviral therapy, particularly if it is a PI based regimen.
Toxicity of oxytetracycline and calcein to juvenile striped bass

Abstract Acute toxicities of oxytetracycline hydrochloride (OTC) and calcein to juvenile striped bass Morone saxatilis (48 ± 5 mm total length) were determined by immersion. Fish were held in test solutions for 6 h, then placed in clean water and observed for 96 h post-exposure. Both OTC and calcein bind to calcium and fluoresce under ultraviolet light, which makes them useful for marking bony structures of fish. Information on toxicity of these chemicals to juvenile striped bass will help establish maximum concentrations that can be used to mark hatchery fish stocked for population enhancement or establishment. The no-observed-effect concentration (NOEL), 96-h LC 10, and LC50 (concentrations lethal to 10 and 50% of test fish) values for the 6-h chemical exposure were 447, 322, and 597 mg/L for OTC and 125, 160, and 240 mg/L for calcein.
OpenADR open source toolkit: Developing open source software for the Smart Grid

Demand response (DR) is becoming an increasingly important part of power grid planning and operation. The advent of the Smart Grid, which mandates its use, further motivates selection and development of suitable software protocols to enable DR functionality. The OpenADR protocol has been developed and is being standardized to serve this goal. We believe that the development of a distributable, open source implementation of OpenADR will benefit this effort and motivate critical evaluation of its capabilities, by the wider community, for providing wide-scale DR services.
New developments for the NIUST AUVs

The National Institute for Undersea Science and Technology operates two AUVs, Eagle Ray and Mola Mola that are primarily tasked with performing seafloor surveys. Upcoming missions will require surveys at 1200 to 1600 meters depth, so the vehicles are being prepared with new and updated systems and software. Recently, Eagle Ray was equipped with new batteries and a subbottom profiler. A descent weight system was added to Mola Mola, along with a revised power system and new mission capabilities.
Nutritive value of reed canarygrass as hay when grown with various nitrogen levels.

Summary A total collection digestion trial was carried out with four dairy heifers in a 4×4 Latin-square extra-period design. The rations fed were second-cutting alfalfa hay and three reed canarygrass hays, the latter fertilized at the rates of 0, 100, or 200lb. of nitrogen per acre. The reed canarygrass hay fertilized with 200lb. of nitrogen per acre was equal or superior to the alfalfa hay in the digestibility of protein, fiber, ether extract, and energy, and in the amounts of TDN (%) and DE (cal/g). A close relationship between the DE and TDN methods of forage evaluation was expressed in the correlation coefficient of +0.736. Digestible energy can be expressed in terms of TDN through the linear regression equation Y = 731.23 + 31.30 X [ Y = digestible energy (cal/g): X = total digestible nutrients (%)].
Genus formula for modular curves of $${\mathcal{D}}$$ -elliptic sheaves

We prove a genus formula for modular curves of $${\mathcal{D}}$$ -elliptic sheaves. We use this formula to show that the reductions of modular curves of $${\mathcal{D}}$$ -elliptic sheaves attain the Drinfeld-Vladut bound as the degree of the discriminant of $${\mathcal{D}}$$ tends to infinity.
Serotonergic projections to the rostroventrolateral medulla from midbrain and raphe nuclei

Double-label fluoresence immunohistochemistry was performed to define serotonergic projections from the raphe and midbrain to the sympathoexcitatory region of the rostroventrolateral medulla (RVLM). Immunolabelling of cholera toxin B subunit retrogradely transported from the pressor region of the RVLM was combined with serotonin (5-HT) immunohistochemistry. Major sources of serotonergic input to the RVLM were shown to include the raphe obscurus, raphe pallidus and raphe magnus with a minor contribution from the ventrolateral, lateral and ventral regions of the periaqueductal gray matter, and the dorsal raphe nucleus. Serotonergic modulation of sympathoexcitatory neurons may establish patterns of sympathetic nerve activity evident in many aspects of cardiovascular regulation.
Parametric Study of Circular Micro Flexure Hinge Design

Compliant mechanism is a monolithic device that utilizes flexible elements, instead of pins, to transform the input to a useful output position, and flexure hinge is an integral part of a compliant mechanism. Flexure hinge design is important because it provides a means for motion actuation in a mechanism. An ideal design of a flexure hinge for a displacement output mechanism is that it provides maximum displacement output with minimum input. The objective of this study is to establish a design guide based on stiffness, displacement, and stresses for a generalized circular micro flexure hinge model using finite element method. Parametric study of a circular flexure hinge was performed using ABAQUS finite element code. The finite element results were compared with relevant analytical model from literature. Micro flexure hinge finite element models with selected range of dimensions for study were evaluated, and the optimal dimensions for flexure hinge design for maximum output displacement and minimum stresses were identified. From this study, the following parameters were established as design guide for a circular micro flexure hinge. With the width (w) of a circular flexure from 300 to 500μm range, our recommended flexure hinge height (h) is twice of the width, and the flexure hinge thickness ratio (b/t) is about 10.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
Application of reduction-distillation method for preparing high-purity rare-earth isotope metals

Abstract Reduction-distillation techniques were developed at Oak Ridge National Laboratory to provide high-purity rare-earth metal isotopes in a chemical and physical form compatible with cold-rolling of ultrathin foils. The method involves high-temperature reduction of rare-earth oxides, using a suitable metal reductant, with simultaneous distillation of the product metal from the reaction matrix. Metal condensates at a purity level of 99.95% (500 ppm total impurity) can be obtained, and the ductility of rare-earth metals at this purity permits ultrathin foils (0.00005 to 0.00002-in. thickness) to be prepared. Collection efficiencies of between 75 and 92% are achieved even when only 15 mg of the element (in oxide form) is processed by the reduction-distillation method, which makes it highly valuable and effective in obtaining most of the rare-earth isotopes in elemental form. Foils cold-rolled from these pure materials are applicable for use in precision nuclear cross-section measurements and in solid-state physics experiments.
Serum Antibodies from a Subset of Horses Positive for Babesia caballi by Competitive Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay Demonstrate a Protein Recognition Pattern That Is Not Consistent with Infection

Tick-borne pathogens that cause persistent infection are of major concern to the livestock industry because of transmission risk from persistently infected animals and the potential economic losses they pose. The recent reemergence of Theileria equi in the United States prompted a widespread national survey resulting in identification of limited distribution of equine piroplasmosis (EP) in the U.S. horse population. This program identified Babesia caballi-seropositive horses using rhoptry-associated protein 1 (RAP-1)-competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (cELISA), despite B. caballi being considered nonendemic on the U.S. mainland. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the suitability of RAP-1-cELISA as a single serological test to determine the infection status of B. caballi in U.S. horses. Immunoblotting indicated that sera from U.S. horses reacted with B. caballi lysate and purified B. caballi RAP-1 protein. Antibody reactivity to B. caballi lysate was exclusively directed against a single ∼50-kDa band corresponding to a native B. caballi RAP-1 protein. In contrast, sera from experimentally and naturally infected horses from regions where B. caballi is endemic bound multiple proteins ranging from 30 to 50 kDa. Dilutions of sera from U.S. horses positive by cELISA revealed low levels of antibodies, while sera from horses experimentally infected with B. caballi and from areas where B. caballi is endemic had comparatively high antibody levels. Finally, blood transfer from seropositive U.S. horses into naive horses demonstrated no evidence of B. caballi transmission, confirming that antibody reactivity in cELISA-positive U.S. horses was not consistent with infection. Therefore, we conclude that a combination of cELISA and immunoblotting is required for the accurate serodiagnosis of B. caballi.
Coprecipitation in the Barite Isostructural Family: 1. Binary Mixing Properties

Abstract This study attempts to provide a theoretical evaluation of coprecipitation and fundamental data of binary mixing properties in the barite isostructural family. Mixing properties of binary solid solutions in the barite isostructural family were derived from evaluation of coprecipitation experiments and partitioning coefficients reported in the literature. The Margules parameters, W, for these binary systems correlate well through the relationship, W−0.003875(Δ G n,M 2+ °−Δ G n,Tr 2+ °)=1262ΔV+30 where ΔḠn° denotes the non-solvation contribution to the standard partial molal Gibbs free energy of formation for the major (M2+) and trace (Tr2+) aqueous ions, and ΔV is the molar volume mismatch between the two substituting end-members ΔV≡ (V Tr SO 4 °−V M SO 4 °) 2 V Tr SO 4 ° , and V° is the molar volume of end-member components. From this correlation, Margules parameters for the BaSO4-TrSO4 and SrSO4-TrSO4 binary systems, for which no experimental data are available, were estimated. Tr here stands for trace divalent metals and includes Cu2+, Co2+, Zn2+, Fe2+, Mn2+, Eu2+, Cd2+, Ca2+, Sr2+, Pb2+, and Ra2+. These estimated mixing properties allow predictions of miscibility gaps for the BaSO4-TrSO4 and SrSO4-TrSO4 binaries, and partitioning coefficients for Tr2+ between barite or celestine and aqueous solutions.
Endocrine control of amphibian sexual behavior: Evidence for a neurohormone-androgen interaction

Abstract The incidence of sexual behavior increased after an injection of arginine-8 vasotocin or arginine-8 vasopressin into intact male newts (Taricha granulosa). Administration of arginine vasopressin to males that were castrated 35 days earlier enhanced sexual behaviors in only those males implanted with androgen.
Telehealth delivery of cognitive-behavioral intervention to youth with autism spectrum disorder and anxiety: A pilot study:

Youth with autism spectrum disorders frequently experience significant symptoms of anxiety. Empirically supported psychosocial interventions exist, yet access is limited, especially for families in rural areas. Telehealth (i.e. videoconferencing) has potential to reduce barriers to access to care; however, little is known about the feasibility or efficacy of directly intervening with youth with autism spectrum disorders through this modality. This study details the pilot testing of a telehealth version of an empirically supported intervention targeting anxiety in youth with autism spectrum disorders. The primary focus of this study is on feasibility, with evaluation of outcomes as a starting point for future randomized trials. In all, 33 families of youth with autism spectrum disorders and significant anxiety symptoms participated in this study (Telehealth Facing Your Fears (FYF) Intervention: n = 17; Wait-list control: n = 16). Youth of all functioning levels were included. Acceptability was strong; however, the usability of the technology was problematic for some families and impeded some sessions significantly. Fidelity of the telehealth version to the critical elements of the original, in vivo version was excellent. More work is needed to improve delivery of exposure practices and parent coaching. Preliminary efficacy analyses are promising, with improvements observed in youth anxiety over time (relative to a comparison group waiting for live intervention) and parent sense of competence (within group). Clearly, stronger designs are necessary to evaluate efficacy sufficiently; however, this study does provide support for further investigation of clinic-to-home videoconferencing as a direct intervention tool for youth with autism spectrum disorders and their parents.
A yeast antiviral protein, SKI8, shares a repeated amino acid sequence pattern with β-subunits of G proteins and several other proteins

SKI8 is a yeast antiviral gene, essential for controlling the propagation of M double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) and thus for preventing virus-induced cytopathology. Our DNA sequence of SKI8 shows that it encodes a 397 amino acid protein containing two copies of a 31 amino acid repeat pattern first identified in mammalian beta-transducin and Cdc4p of yeast. There are also four copies of this repeat in yeast Mak11p, necessary for M dsRNA propagation, and three copies in the putative product of the Dictyostelium AAC3 gene. Analysis of 36 cases of the repeat unit shows they have a consensus predicted structure: N-helix-sheet-turn-sheet-turn-sheet-helix-C.
Story Problems Vehicles to Develop Thinking Skills

The use of story problems in nontraditional ways can help LD students develop thinking skills.
Structural basis of activity and subunit recognition in G protein heterotrimers

Abstract Background: Inactive heterotrimeric G proteins are composed of a GDP-bound α subunit (G α ) and a stable heterodimer of G β and G γ subunits. Upon stimulation by a receptor, G α subunits exchange GDP for GTP and dissociate from G βγ , both G α and G βγ then interact with downstream effectors. Isoforms of G α , G β and G γ potentially give rise to many heterotrimeric combinations, limited in part by amino acid sequence differences that lead to selective interactions. The mechanism by which GTP promotes G βγ dissociation is incompletely understood. The Gly203→Ala mutant of G iα1 binds and hydrolyzes GTP normally but does not dissociate from G βγ , demonstrating that GTP binding and activation can be uncoupled. Structural data are therefore important for understanding activation and subunit recognition in G protein heterotrimers. Results: The structures of the native (G iα1β1γ2 ) heterotrimer and that formed with Gly203→AlaG iα1 have been determined to resolutions of 2.3 a and 2.4 a, respectively, and reveal previously unobserved segments at the G γ2 C terminus. The Gly203→Ala mutation alters the conformation of the N terminus of the switch II region (Val201–Ala203), but not the global structure of the heterotrimer. The N termini of G β and G γ form a rigid coiled coil that packs at varying angles against the β propeller of G β . Conformational differences in the CD loop of β blade 2 of G β mediate isoform-specific contacts with G α . Conclusions: The Gly203→Ala mutation in G iα1 blocks the conformational changes in switch II that are required to release G βγ upon binding GTP. The interface between the ras-like domain of G α and the β propeller of G β appears to be conserved in all G protein heterotrimers. Sequence variation at the G β –G α interface between the N-terminal helix of G α and the CD loop of β blade 2 of G β1 (residues 127–135) could mediate isoform-specific contacts. The specificity of G β and G γ interactions is largely determined by sequence variation in the contact region between helix 2 of G γ and the surface of G β .
Quality of Life and Well‐Being of Headache Patients: Measurement by the Medical Outcomes Study Instrument

SYNOPSIS Objective: To assess the reliability and validity of the Medical Outcomes Study (MOS) Short Form Health Survey as an indicator for quality of life in patients with chronic headaches. Design: Patient interview survey. Setting: A headache clinic within a multi-specialty group practice. Patients: 208 consecutive patients seeking evaluation of headache at the above site. Measurements: All six health components of the MOS Short Form Health Survey were included in the study. Main results: The MOS Short Form Health Survey was both reliable and valid in the group of patients with headache. Patients with headache had significantly worse physical, social, and role functioning, and worse mental health than did patients with chronic diseases (P<0.0001). The functioning associated with chronic headaches was worse than that associated with major chronic medical conditions such as arthritis and diabetes, and was comparable to the level of functioning associated with recent myocardial infarction or congestive heart failure. Conclusions: The MOS survey is a reliable measure of quality of life for patients with chronic headaches Chronic headache disorders cause significantly more morbidity and impairment of function than has previously been appreciated.
Two-photon decay and the lifetime of giant resonance states

Abstract The relative probability for two-photon decay in a low energy 0 + -0 + transition is shown to be related to the lifetime of the 1 − states of these nuclei in the giant resonance region. Estimates of this lifetime are made using nuclear reaction theory. Comparison of the resulting two-photon decay probability is made with experiment.
Consumers' sensitivity to health plan premiums: evidence from a natural experiment in California

Abstract: A recent policy change by the University of California (UC) provides a unique natural experiment for investigating how consumers respond to financial incentives when choosing health plans. In 1994 UC went from a premium contribution policy that subsidized more costly plans to a policy of contributing a constant dollar amount. As a result, employee premium contributions increased for roughly one-third of university employees. The response to this change in relative prices was strong. Whereas only 5 percent of employees facing constant premium contributions switched plans, roughly one-quarter of those facing premium contribution increases of less than $10 per month switched to lower-cost plans. Higher price increases led to even greater rates of plan switching.