cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Impact of building block structure on ion transport in cyclopropenium-based polymerized ionic liquids

Ion transport and morphology are studied in cationic polymers based on tris(dialkyl)aminocyclopropenium ions tethered onto polystyrene (PS-TAC) and Cl− counterions. To investigate how molecular structure impacts single-ion transport and physical properties, the substituents on TAC were varied. Modifying the polarity, along with the size and flexibility of the functional groups on TAC significantly changes the glass transition temperature. Ionic conductivity of the PS-TAC with branched functional groups is 1–2 orders of magnitude lower than more compact and bulkier moieties on polymers at their glass transition temperature, Tg. Decreasing the size of the substituents correlates with increasing ionic conductivity in the polymers with non-polar functional groups. However, it is the geometry of the functional groups on the cation (isopropyl, ring, or linear) in PS-TAC that has a much larger effect on conductivity than the size of the group itself. Mimicking the transport properties of ionic liquids using polymers imbued with mechanical stability is essential for the development of robust, non-volatile electrolytes for batteries and fuel cells. Changing a number of variables in this tunable PS-TAC system is a step towards developing soft materials design rules for selecting solid ion supports.
Nitric oxide production in celomocytes of the earthworm Eisenia hortensis following bacterial challenge

In this in vitro investigation, nitric oxide (NO) production was induced within celomocytes of the earthworm Eisenia hortensis following microbial challenge. Celomocytes were pre-loaded with the fluorescent indicator 4-amino-5-methylamino-2’, 7’-difluorofluorescein diacetate (DAF-FM DA) in order to detect the presence of intracellular nitric oxide subsequent to a 16 h incubation with chemicallyfixed soil bacteria including Bacillus megaterium, Arthrobacter globiformis, Pseudomonas stutzeri, and Azotobacter chroococcum at a range of multiplicities of infection (MOIs). Flow cytometric analysis measuring increases in relative fluorescence intensity (RFI), which is directly proportional to the amount of intracellular NO produced, permitted determination of statistical significance (p < 0.05) of exposed celomocytes compared to baseline controls. Significant increases in NO were detected reproducibly in celomocytes treated with all bacterial species used. The most prominent results were observed after exposure to Gram positive B. megaterium and A. globiformis where 100 % of earthworms tested exhibited statistically significant increases of RFI at MOIs of 100:1 and 500:1, respectively. Furthermore, significant decreases in NO production in bacteria-stimulated earthworm celomocytes incubated with the NOS inhibitor aminoguanidine hydrochloride were observed. These results demonstrate microbial induction of NO synthesis in earthworms and provide evidence of an antimicrobial role of NO in the innate immune system.
Risk-Based Assessment of Seismic Repair Costs for Reinforced Concrete Bridges Considering Competing Repair Strategies

AbstractThis paper outlines a procedure to support the selection of repair strategies for damaged structures after an earthquake. Under strong shaking, modern code-compliant bridges can sustain sig...
Optimal Mismatched Filtering to Address Clutter Spread from Intra-CPI Variation of Spectral Notches

It was recently shown that cognitive spectral notching of FM noise waveforms on transmit is an effective means with which to avoid relatively narrow in-band interference, such as occurs for radar/communication spectrum sharing. It was likewise observed, however, that when the notch is required to move during the coherent processing interval (CPI) to address dynamic interference, the resulting nonstationarity induces increased residual clutter after cancellation. Here we examine the impact of least-squares based mismatched filtering (MMF) to compensate for this residue. This manner of MMF is required not only to reduce the range sidelobe modulation that arises from dynamic transmit notching, but also to maintain the notch on receive so that the effect of in-band interference is minimized.
The Taste of Defeat: Food, Peace and Power in US-Occupied Germany

Kaete O’Connell’s chapter examines US–German food relationships in conquered and early occupied Germany (1945–1946). Defeated Germany was the site of elaborate food negotiations, with food serving as both a weapon of war and tool of peace. Rather than explore the economic or nutritional impact of food, it focuses on the cultural significance and symbolic power behind various aspects of food and feeding, including looting by American forces, black market activity and fraternization. The hands-on experience with hunger and deprivation complicated established hierarchies, while spontaneous acts of food sharing fostered new relationships. This chapter argues that food and feeding both complemented and contradicted American occupation policy, offering an alternative measure of power in the postwar period.
Cultivating next generation of healthcare leaders in Havana: Barriers and recommendation for succession planning

This study explores how Cuban healthcare organizations are planning for the next generation of leaders through succession planning strategies. This study analyzed three critical factors which influ...
Formal Framework for Safety, Security, and Availability of Aircraft Communication Networks

As the costs of fuel and maintenance increase and regulations on weight and environmental impact tighten, there is an increasing push to transition onboard aircraft networks to wireless, reducing w...
Metabolic, Radiation, and Medication Induced Sialadenitis

This review will cover clinical presentations for sialadenosis, radiation-related sialadenitis, and medication-induced salivary disorders. Presentation of metabolic disorder–related sialadenosis or gland enlargement is gradual and progressive without obstructive salivary symptoms. In contrast, radioactive iodine therapy can induce acute and chronic sialadenitis due to salivary gland dysfunction and duct damage with subsequent duct stenosis. Obstructive symptoms associated with fluctuating gland swelling and pain can be treated with sialendoscopy and dilation of the main salivary ducts. Further investigation of radioprotective agents to prevent salivary gland damage from radioactive iodine and external beam radiation to the head and neck is necessary. Iodine contrast–induced sialadenitis and medications that may affect salivary function are also described. Metabolic disorders, medications, radiation, and iodine contrast can cause salivary gland dysfunction. Management of salivary gland swelling and obstruction depends on the cause of chronic sialadenitis.
Relationship between inflammatory biomarker galectin-3 and hippocampal volume in a community study.

Abstract Galectin-3 (Gal3) is expressed by microglia and performs functions including adhesion; activation of macrophages and fibroblasts, and mediates inflammatory responses in the hippocampus. The present study examined whether serum Gal3 levels predict hippocampal volume in a multi-ethnic, community-based sample. Results of a multiple linear regression (controlling for depression, serum creatinine level, age, BMI, total brain volume, MoCA score, sex, ethnicity, smoking status, history of diabetes) showed that Gal3 levels significantly predicted left (p = .027) but not right hippocampal volume. The relationship was stronger in men than women. Findings suggest this novel inflammatory biomarker is associated with human hippocampal volume.
Pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) in women with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) to assess the feasibility of delivering group-based psychosocial care via videoconference.

257Background: Women with lung cancer are vulnerable to psychological distress and social isolation, which may be related to the smoking-related stigma of the disease. We developed a group-based ps...
Measurements of electroweak-boson-tagged jet energy loss and modification by ATLAS

Abstract These proceedings describe the preliminary results from the ATLAS Collaboration at the LHC on Z-tagged charged hadron production in Pb+Pb and pp collisions, presented in a parallel talk at the Quark Matter 2019 conference.
From Usable to Useful Assessment Knowledge and Evaluation

En este trabajo se contraponen los conceptos de conocimiento utilizable y conocimiento util en evaluacion. Un conocimiento utilizable es aquel que alguien encuentra pertinente, mientras que un conocimiento util es aquel que tiene una funcion y puede conducir a una accion especifica. Las implicaciones de esto para la evaluacion educativa son claras dado que la evaluacion del conocimiento se desarrolla a un nivel que es nominalmente utilizable, pero que no ofrece una orientacion real para la mejora del aprendizaje. Se sugiere que la gestion del conocimiento a traves de la medida del capital social y organizacional, puede ser una estrategia que aumente las politicas de rendicion de cuentas basadas exclusivamente en las puntuaciones de los tests. Este enfoque podria ser util para establecer objetivos y monitorizar el desarrollo de las escuelas como instituciones, responsables del rendimiento de adultos y estudiantes, mas alla del rendimiento simplemente medido.
Trauma care at the University of Mississippi Medical Center: economic & other realities.

There are a number of complicating factors which do, or have the potential to, impact trauma care at the University of Mississippi Medical Center and the University Hospital. These are (Exhibit 6): Number of Trauma Patients. There are more trauma patients in Mississippi than any single hospital or group of physicians can care for under present circumstances. Type of Trauma Patients. The only Level I center is constantly stressed with trauma patients, many of whom could be adequately treated at other facilities. Hospital Resources. Resources are frequently stretched beyond reasonable limitations. Primary examples include the SICU and nursing personnel on numerous units. Lack of a Trauma Network. The effects of the first three factors are compounded by the lack of a trauma network in the State of Mississippi. Trauma Funding. The lack of trauma funding, on a statewide basis, for equipment and other needed resources impairs the ability of all hospitals (including the University Hospital) to meet the needs of trauma patients. Patient Finances. Tied to the lack of specific funding is the financial case mix of trauma patients. It is simply not financially worthwhile for hospitals or physicians to involve themselves, on a regular basis, in the care of these patients. These issues are related to one another in a complex fashion. Many are beyond the scope of the University Hospital and the University of Mississippi Medical Center to resolve. But, they adversely impact our facilities, and others throughout the state, on a daily basis. As these issues are reviewed and thought about, one final fact should be kept in mind.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) Language: en
The Role of Statistics in IS/IT: Practical Gains from Mined Data

Data mining has, in the past, tended to use simplistic statistical methods (or even none at all). In this paper we show by example how cutting edge (but easy to use and comprehend) statistical methods can yield substantial gains in data mining. The role of statistics in IS/IT (information systems and information technology) in general can be substantial, yielding more nearly optimal performance of problems at the emerging frontiers in all their aspects.
Taking WGU seriously: Implications of the Western Governors University

After much attention during its development, the continued importance of the Western Governors University (WGU) has not been significantly addressed since it opened in 1998. While certainly not dominating the higher education environment as predicted by its founders, it has nonetheless demonstrated a new competency-based distance education model for higher education. For that reason, the implications of WGU should be taken seriously. Three potential implications for colleges and universities are outlined: accreditation policies, organizational models, and faculty roles. While its survival as an institution is questionable, the concepts behind WGU remain important in changes in American higher education.
Regulation of plasma membrane recycling by CFTR

The gene that encodes the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) is defective in patients with cystic fibrosis. Although the protein product of the CFTR gene has been proposed to function as a chloride ion channel, certain aspects of its function remain unclear. The role of CFTR in the adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate (cAMP)-dependent regulation of plasma membrane recycling was examined. Adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate is known to regulate endocytosis and exocytosis in chloride-secreting epithelial cells that express CFTR. However, mutant epithelial cells derived from a patient with cystic fibrosis exhibited no cAMP-dependent regulation of endocytosis and exocytosis until they were transfected with complementary DNA encoding wild-type CFTR. Thus, CFTR is critical for cAMP-dependent regulation of membrane recycling in epithelial tissues, and this function of CFTR could explain in part the pleiotropic nature of cystic fibrosis.
Microprocessor analysers in the development and support of microprocessor-based systems

When designers working with logic circuits found that the available equipment, primarily multichannel oscilloscopes, was severely limited in their ability to help them solve problems, a new instrument was introduced to help - the logic analyser. It appeared in two forms: the logic-state analyser and the logic-timing analyser
Using network-level support to improve cache routing

Abstract We present the design of a new distributed Web caching infrastructure that uses network-level mechanisms to provide routing of Web requests to caches. Our work is motivated by the need to provide effective caching not only for the small number of extremely popular Web documents, but also for the large number of documents of only intermediate popularity. In currently existing and proposed systems, requests for less popular documents suffer from long latency stemming from the inefficiencies of routing through an application-level overlay network. We combat this problem by integrating cache routing into the network layer, which results in shorter search paths and fewer application-level checks.
Mother–Infant Interactions in Early Head Start: A Person-Oriented Within-Ethnic Group Approach

SYNOPSIS Objective . This article identifies patterns of mothering in low-income families from three ethnic groups and explores whether those patterns yield similar associations with child outcomes. Design . A person-centered within-group approach was used to examine observed patterns of mothering among European American (n = 740), African American (n = 604), and Mexican American (n = 322) low-income mothers and their 1-year-olds who were participating in the Early Head Start Research and Evaluation Project. Cluster analytic techniques were employed using four dimensions of mothering coded from videotapes: supportiveness, directiveness/intrusiveness, negative regard, and detachment. Results . Three similar mothering patterns were seen within each ethnic group: Supportive (48%–52%), Directive (29%–30%), and Detached (14%–19%). Although the patterns of mothering were similar, mean scores on discrete mothering behaviors differed across ethnic groups. A fourth pattern—Harsh—was found among European American a...
Transient Response of the Southern Hemisphere Subtropical Jet to Tropical Forcing

GCM simulations and data for the August 6-8, 1979 period are used to investigate the effect of tropical latent heat release in accelerations of the Southern Hemisphere subtropical jet. The analysis indicates that the jet accelerations were due both to external and internal Rossby modes, with somewhat stronger contributions from the external mode. The case study and GCM results suggest that divergent circulations which project mostly into inertia-gravity waves react to changes in latent heat release in 1-2 days, that the impact in subtropical latitudes to latent heat release is felt in 2-4 days, and that this impact becomes fully established after about 6 days.
Digestive enzyme activities are higher in the shortfin mako shark, Isurus oxyrinchus , than in ectothermic sharks as a result of visceral endothermy

Lamnid sharks are regionally endothermic fishes that maintain visceral temperatures elevated above the ambient water temperature. Visceral endothermy is thought to increase rates of digestion and food processing and allow thermal niche expansion. We tested the hypothesis that, at in vivo temperatures, the endothermic shortfin mako shark, Isurus oxyrinchus, has higher specific activities of three digestive enzymes—gastric pepsin and pancreatic trypsin and lipase—than the thresher shark, Alopias vulpinus, and the blue shark, Prionace glauca, neither of which can maintain elevated visceral temperatures. Homogenized stomach or pancreas tissue obtained from sharks collected by pelagic longline was incubated at both 15 and 25 °C, at saturating substrate concentrations, to quantify tissue enzymatic activity. The mako had significantly higher enzyme activities at 25 °C than did the thresher and blue sharks at 15 °C. This difference was not a simple temperature effect, because at 25 °C the mako had higher trypsin activity than the blue shark and higher activities for all enzymes than the thresher shark. We also hypothesized that the thermal coefficient, or Q 10 value, would be higher for the mako shark than for the thresher and blue sharks because of its more stable visceral temperature. However, the mako and thresher sharks had similar Q 10 values for all enzymes, perhaps because of their closer phylogenetic relationship. The higher in vivo digestive enzyme activities in the mako shark should result in higher rates of food processing and may represent a selective advantage of regional visceral endothermy.
An electronic fringe counter for interferometric applications

Abstract An electronic fringe counter for use with optical interferometers is described. Provision is made for automatic fringe counting and indication of change in the direction-of-motion of the interferometer flats. Two cadmium sulphide cells, with peak spectral response closely matched to the wavelength of the interferometer light source, serve as photosensors. Changes in cell resistance are measured with dc bridge circuits, the output of which is amplified and plotted on strip recorders. In this manner, a continuous display of fringe to fringe displacements is obtained. The system described here permits integral fringe counting accurate to ∼0.01 fringe.
Economic Feasibility of Energy Efficiency Measures in Residential Buildings

A study has been performed to develop cost benefit data to be used by a local electric utility in defining a rebate program to encourage energy efficient construction in the Desert Southwest region of the USA. Several potential efficiency upgrades for production homes in the region were identified and an evaluation of each building component was performed using building energy simulation software. A model home developed in Las Vegas was used to calibrate the numerical model and was considered as a basis for further study. The validated building models were then used to predict the annual energy savings and payback periods for various upgrades. In all cases, comparisons were made to code-built houses with the same general overall characteristics. Useful life of most of these upgrades far exceeds their payback periods. It is found that a typical house, with the cost-effective upgrades installed, consumed 42.5% less annual energy compared to a home built to code. A 3.19 kWp PV system installed on the south-facing roof of the home can generate 5982 kWh annually, making it a net-zero (electrical) energy home. PV systems in Las Vegas have encouraging benefit cost ratios when federal and state rebates are considered.
Asymptotic Performance of ALOHA-Based Cognitive Overlaid Networks

We study the asymptotic performance of two overlaid wireless ad-hoc networks that utilize the same temporal, spectral, and spatial resources based on random access schemes. The primary network consists of Poisson distributed legacy users with density $n$ and the secondary network consists of Poisson distributed cognitive radio users with density $m = n^{β}$ ($β > 1$) that utilize the spectrum opportunistically. Both networks are \emph{decentralized} and deploy ALOHA protocols where the secondary users are equipped with range-limited \emph{perfect} spectrum sensors to monitor and protect primary transmissions. First, we show that both networks can achieve their corresponding stand-alone throughput scaling even without secondary spectrum sensing (i.e., sensing range set to zero), which implies the need for a more comprehensive performance metric than just throughput scaling to evaluate the influence of the overlaid interactions. We thus introduce a new criterion, termed as the \emph{asymptotic multiplexing gain}, which captures the effect of spectrum sensing and inter-network interferences.
Use of Petroleum Derived Spray Oils in Washington Grapevine Powdery Mildew Management Programs

The effects of petroleum-derived spray oils (PDSO) on powdery mildew control and selected berry characteristics were evaluated in vineyards in eastern Washington during 2001 and 2002. Up to seven PDSO applications were made during each growing season between the 15-to-30-cm shoot stage and veraison. The use of oil decreased total soluble solids (TSS) at harvest by 0.17% per application but had no significant effects on berry weight, pH, or titratable acidity. Because of their documented eradicant and antisporulant properties, PDSO were also utilized as the initial treatment in fungicide treatment sequences initiated upon the first visual detection of powdery mildew signs in the vineyard. When used in this fashion very early in powdery mildew epidemics, PDSO helped to reduce fungicide usage and input costs without compromising disease control.
Nanoscale disorder in CaCu3Ti4O12: a new route to the enhanced dielectric response.

Significant nanoscale disorder of Cu and Ca atomic substitution is observed in CaCu{sub 3}Ti{sub 4}O{sub 12}, based on our integrated study using quantitative electron diffraction and extended x-ray absorption fine structure. Unambiguous identification of this previously omitted disorder is made possible by the unique sensitivity of these probes to valence-electron distribution and short-range order. Furthermore, first-principles-based theoretical analysis indicates that the Ca-site Cu atoms possess partially filled degenerate e{sub g} states, suggesting significant boost of dielectric response from additional low-energy electronic contributions. Our study points to a new route of enhancing dielectric response in transitional metal oxides by exploiting the strong electronic correlation beyond classical static pictures.
Legitimations of class structure in Gone With The Wind

The role of popular culture in legitimating the existing social order is examined through an analysis of the film version ofGone With The Wind. This film was selected because, judging from its immense popularity, it has had great potential as a vehicle for legitimation. The analysis reveals several ways in which the audience is brought to identify with the upper class as well as several themes which legitimate class structure.
Telephone Communication: Synthetic and Dysarthric Speech Intelligibility and Listener Preferences

For many individuals with severe speech intelligibility challenges, deciding whether to use one's own oral dysarthric speech or synthesized speech when communicating on the telephone is a difficult process. In the present study, we investigated the intelligibility of dysarthric speech and two types of synthesized speech over the telephone and in quiet conditions, and listeners' preferences for these speech types. Participants heard short sentences in one of three types of speech: dysarthric female speech, DECTalk® Beautiful Betty, and MacinTalk™ Victoria, high quality. They were asked to transcribe sentences for a measure of intelligibility, and to answer questions to indicate their preferences for speech type and their preferences for synthesizer. The overall intelligibility of DECTalk® and MacinTalk™ were significantly higher than the intelligibility of the dysarthric speech. Additionally, the intelligibility of the speaker with dysarthria decreased significantly when listeners were presented with the m...
Cyclical variation in the short-run Federal Reserve reaction function, 1969–1978☆

Abstract This note reports an empirical study of the Federal Reserve reaction function, as indicated by changes in the Federal funds interest rate, for the period from 1969–1978. In particular we examine whether changes in the funds rate have shown responses to underlying economic conditions which vary on a cyclical basis. We find that the Fed reacted more strongly to downturns than to recovery, with its response during the early recovery phase perhaps even procyclical. We also find that response to changes in inflation was less significant than reaction to output fluctuations.
Adrenalectomy enhances the insulin sensitivity of muscle protein synthesis

After confirming that adrenalectomy per se does not affect skeletal muscle protein synthesis rates, we examined whether endogenously produced glucocorticoids modulate the effect of physiological in...
Ionization and pH Stability of Multilayers Formed by Self-Assembly of Weak Polyelectrolytes

The formation of polyelectrolyte multilayers using the layer-by-layer sequential self-assembly of a weak polybase and polyacid onto a surface of Si crystal and their stability under acidic conditio...
Dietary choline supplementation in rats increases carnitine concentration in liver, but decreases plasma and kidney carnitine concentrations

Abstract Choline and choline-containing compounds are used in the treatment of certain neurological disorders. Limited information is available regarding the metabolic consequences of choline supplementation. The effect of both acute and chronic dietary choline supplementation on carnitine concentration in plasma, urine and tissues was studied in adult, male Sprague-Dawley rats. Eight groups of rats (n = 6/group) were assigned to four timepoints and two diets. Carnitine concentrations in choline supplemented (CS) (10 g choline chloride/kg diet) rats were measured after 1, 3, 21, and 42 days and results compared to control (C) animals (1 g choline chloride/kg). The carnitine concentration of plasma, urine, liver, heart, kidney, and gastrocnemius muscle was determined by radioenzymatic assay. Urinary choline and betaine levels were analyzed by single proton NMR spectroscopy. Both choline and betaine excretion were higher in CS animals throughout the study period. A single choline supplemented feeding (one 3 h meal) produced no significant changes in carnitine concentrations 3 h post prandial. Plasma and kidney carnitine concentrations increased over time in both dietary groups (P = 0.0001, P = 0.0004, respectively) and choline supplementation depressed concentrations in both of these pools when compared to controls (P = 0.0001, P = 0.006, respectively). No effect on urinary carnitine excretion was observed. Heart carnitine concentration increased over the course of the study in both dietary groups (P = 0.006). Carnitine concentration in liver was increased due to supplementation (P= 0.016). We conclude that the administration of a single, large dose of choline in rats does not alter carnitine concentrations during the first 3 h post prandial. Chronic choline administration decreased plasma and kidney carnitine concentrations and increased liver concentration. Choline supplementation influences the distribution of carnitine in specific body compartments, perhaps, by influencing the the transport of carnitine into or out of the liver.
Research highlights from the UIC/NIH Center for Botanical Dietary Supplements Research for Women's Health: Black cohosh from the field to the clinic.

In 1999, the Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy at the College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois (UIC) at Chicago was funded to establish a Botanical Dietary Supplements Research Center from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The emphasis of the UIC/NIH Center for Botanical Dietary Supplements Research (CBDSR) is botanical dietary supplements (BDS) for women’s health. The Center’s research has focused on BDS that may improve women’s health and quality of life, specifically in the areas of menopause, premenstrual syndrome, and persistent urinary tract infections. Center investigators have overcome many challenges associated with botanical dietary supplements research, including acquiring and identifying plant species for investigation, isolating and identifying active constituents, elucidating the mechanisms of action of these botanicals, and conducting Phase I and Phase II clinical studies. Black cohosh [Actaea racemosa L. (Ranunculaceae)] has been used as a model to illustrate th...
1589 VITAMIN D-DEFICIENT PROLINURIA IS EXPRESSED AT THE RENAL BRUSH BORDER MEMBRANE (BBM) INDEPENDENT OF PARATHYROID HORMONE(PTH)

1589 VITAMIN D-DEFICIENT PROLINURIA IS EXPRESSED AT THE RENAL BRUSH BORDER MEMBRANE (BBM) INDEPENDENT OF PARATHYROID HORMONE(PTH)
Opal accumulation rates in the equatorial Pacific and mechanisms of deglaciation

[1] A possible imprint on equatorial Pacific sediments of a deglacial reinvigoration of the Southern Ocean overturning is increased opal accumulation rate. This would arise from the transmission of silica-rich deep water to the equatorial thermocline via Subantarctic Mode Water and an associated increase in diatom productivity. In search of this imprint, sediment cores from the central (TT013-PC72) and eastern (V19-30) equatorial Pacific have been analyzed for 230Th-normalized opal accumulation rates over the past five and three glacial terminations, respectively. Equatorial opal accumulation rates sustained relatively low values over much of the records and were punctuated by large increases centered on some terminations, but not all. Furthermore, two periods of increased opal flux were observed that do not coincide with terminations. Sources other than the Southern Ocean may need to be considered in the silica budget of the equatorial Pacific, but the δ13C of Neogloboquadrina dutertrei can be used to support the presence of a deepwater nutrient signal in each case. Although a common deglacial mechanism, or a common imprint thereof, for each of the late Pleistocene glaciations remains elusive, the combination of opal flux and δ13C of N. dutertrei provides a diagnostic for past injection of deepwater nutrients into the Equatorial Undercurrent.
An unobtrusive computer monitor for multi-step problem solving†

This paper describes a procedural means for designing computer-assisted instructional (CAI) systems called Unobtrusive Problem Solving Monitors (UPSM'S) which (1) monitor students solving multi-step problems and (2) offer useful, pertinent advice to the student based on the prior student input history. These systems represent a conceptual advance over earlier types of systems in that they allow students to enter intermediate results of their problem solving activity, yet also allow them to discover and correct any errors in these results without unsolicited prompting from the system. At the same time, they can offer specific advice generated from a student's intermediate results whenever requested. These features allow students to obtain the benefits of problem solving in an unhindered, unguided fashion, yet allow them to request help when it is needed. This paper also outlines a prototype UPSM system that has been implemented in the area of plane geometry. This implementation incorporates a problem solver that solves portions of the problems under consideration while generating structured, verbalized descriptions of the solution process which are used as sources of incremental advice for the student. Because the problem solver attempts to extend lines of reasoning started by the student, the advice that is generated allows the geometry UPSM to adapt its responses to a variety of student input histories.
Objective assessment of overexcited hand movements using a lightweight sensory device

Hyperexcitability in hand is a disorder characterized by exaggerated muscle movement, and is a common symptom associated with neuro-degenerative diseases and spinal cord injuries. Current assessment methods for hyperexcitability rely on subjective examination, or on methods that evaluate the overall hand grip performance without particularization in the excitation. This paper introduces a system that utilizes an inexpensive body sensor device combined with a series of signal processing units that extract information specifically related to physiological phenomena generated by hyperexcitability. A clinical cohort study has been conducted on nine patients with cervical spinal cord injuries (mean age 58.2 ± 13.5). The experimental results show that the proposed signal processing mechanism accurately detects and analyzes the body signal. The medical significance of the experimental results is also investigated. This opens up a new opportunity for patients and clinical professionals to obtain accurate feedback of patient's motor function in an economical and ubiquitous manner.
Site-Specific Methionine Oxidation and Calmodulin Molecular Dynamics

We have examined the structural consequences of methionine (Met) oxidation in the calcium signaling protein calmodulin (CaM) using molecular dynamics simulations. Protein oxidation by reactive oxygen species (ROS) is a critical element of cell function, but in the context of oxidative stress, has been implicated in disease progression and biological aging. Calmodulin function is intimately tied to muscle redox state through methionine oxidation by ROS and reduction by methionine sulfoxide reductases. Our goal is to bridge our understanding of muscle dysfunction and protein oxidation with atomic-level insights into site-specific methionine oxidation and calmodulin structural dynamics. We have carried out multiple 100 ns molecular dynamics simulations of explicitly solvated calmodulin starting from the calcium bound (1cll) and apo (1cfc) crystal structures. Results from preliminary simulations suggest that calcium bound CaM is structurally insensitive to methionine oxidation, while methionine oxidation in apo CaM causes considerable changes in the distribution of conformational states. Our work is a component of a larger study in which spectroscopic distance measurements and nuclear magnetic resonance experiments are being carried out for site-specifically oxidized CaM in both the calcium bound and apo biochemical states. We expect that our in silico results will bring atomic-level insight to spectroscopic measurements, and will be integral to creating a more complete model for oxidation-induced changes in calmodulin structural dynamics. Further, we anticipate that our results will be applicable to the many biological and pharmaceutical contexts in which a detailed understanding of protein oxidation, function and structure relationships is sought. This work is supported by NIH (2R37AG026160-06) and the Minnesota Supercomputing Institute.
In situ observations of crack arrest and bridging by nanoscale twins in copper thin films

Abstract In situ tensile experiments in a transmission electron microscope revealed that micro-cracks in ultrafine grained, free-standing, thin copper foils containing nanoscale twins initiated in matrix domains separated by the twins and then arrested at twin boundaries as twin boundary sliding proceeded. The adjacent microcracks eventually coalesced through shear failure of the bridging twins. To investigate the atomic mechanism of this rarely seen nanoscale crack bridging behavior, molecular dynamics simulations were performed to show that during crack propagation twin boundaries are impinged upon by numerous dislocations from the plastically deforming matrix. These dislocations react at the interface and evolve into substantially impenetrable dislocation walls that strongly confine crack nucleation and resist crack propagation, leading to the experimentally observed crack bridging behavior. The present results raise an approach to significantly toughening polycrystalline thin films by incorporating nanoscale twin structures into individual grains that serve as crack bridging ligaments.
Cultures of rat anterior pituitary cells with differential gonadotrophin secretion and tinctorial properties.

The question of whether LH and FSH are secreted by the same or different rat anterior pituitary cells was investigated in vitro. Clone cultures were initiated from single cells in individual microwells and the levels of LH and FSH secreted into the medium were measured by radioimmunoassay. Media from 41% of clones contained only FSH, and that from 4.3% of clones contained only LH. Media from 1.7% of the wells contained both hormones. The presence of both LH and FSH seems most likely due to chance seeding of these wells with multiple cells. Media from 53% of clones contained no gonadotropins. The tinctorial characteristics of the cell clones, following staining with PAS—Methyl Blue— Orange G (Rennels, E. G., Z Zellforsch 45: 464, 1957) were correlated with the nature of the secreted hormones. Clones which secreted only LH stained PAS—red and clones which secreted only FSH stained PAS—purple. Clones which secreted no gonadotropins were usually PAS—negative and occasionally PAS—red. These results indicate th...
Identification and characterization of the domain structure of bacteriophage P22 coat protein.

The bacteriophage P22 serves as a model for assembly of icosahedral dsDNA viruses. The P22 procapsid, which constitutes the precursor for DNA packaging, is built from 420 copies of a single coat protein with the aid of stoichiometric amounts of scaffolding protein. Upon DNA entry, the procapsid shell expands and matures into a stable virion. It was proposed that expansion is mediated by hinge bending and domain movement. We have used limited proteolysis to map the dynamic stability of the coat protein domain structures. The coat protein monomer is susceptible to proteolytic digestion, but limited proteolysis by small quantities of elastase or chymotrypsin yielded two metastable fragments (domains). The N-terminal domain (residues 1−180) is linked to the C-terminal domain (residues 205−429) by a protease-susceptible loop (residues 180−205). The two domains remain associated after the loop cleavage. Although only a small change of secondary structure results from the loop cleavage, both tertiary interdomain...
Powdery mildew of tobacco (Erysiphe cichoracearum DC.): Susceptibility of proximal and distal parts of leaves from different stalk positions on intact and topped field plants in relation to free amino nitrogen and carbohydrate content

SUMMARY The area covered by visible mycelium of E. cichoracearum on the upper surface of leaves 4, 8, 12 and 16 of tobacco plants in field plots in Rhodesia was expressed as percentages of the proximal and distal halves at weekly intervals. Free amino nitrogen and carbohydrate in discs from proximal and distal halves of the same leaves were analysed when each leaf was expanding rapidly and was not infected, and several weeks later, when the rate of expansion had slowed down and there was slight infection. On two other occasions, similar leaf discs were inoculated with conidia, to measure the percentage germination and hyphal length from individual conidia after incubation for 2–3 days at constant temperature and humidity; duplicate discs were chemically analysed. Leaves were not susceptible until at least 6 weeks after they had emerged from the bud. Soluble carbohydrate increased and free amino nitrogen decreased during the change from resistance to susceptibility. Proximal parts of leaves were usually infected first; they initially contained less amino nitrogen and soluble carbohydrate than distal parts. All parts of the leaf seemed to be equally susceptible later, when there were no differences in their amino nitrogen or soluble carbohydrate. Upper leaves of intact plants had more natural infection than those from corresponding leaves from topped plants. More conidia germinated on discs from them and produced longer hyphae. The discs from intact plants contained less free amino nitrogen and more soluble carbohydrate than those from topped plants. The accuracy of visual assessments of susceptibility was, generally, confirmed by measurements of percentage germination and length of hyphae from individual conidia on leaf discs. Regressions of hyphal length on leaf composition showed that susceptibility was apparently related inversely to free amino nitrogen and water content and directly to insoluble carbohydrate per unit dry matter.
A questionnaire analysis of the needs and opportunities provided to employees at a computing center

The management of the University of Nebraska Computing Center (UNCC) is faced with primarily two tasks. The first task is making decisions in accordance with externally imposed conditions, such as physical resources and policies established by the University administration. The second task is making decisions according to UNCC internal policies and professional staff needs. With respect to the second task, it became apparent during planning sessions that management had available various sources of data concerning the staff on a global level, primarily the monthly reports generated by the accounting system, but only one source of data concerning the needs of individual staff members, this being the individual's supervisor. While it was possible for the supervisors to meet and try to synthesize various views into a global picture of staff requirements, such a picture is necessarily highly subjective. An additional source of data was required.A review of the literature revealed that most studies related to such topics as “job satisfaction” were based on populations already well defined; the newly emerging profession(s) concerned with computers pose special problems for the researcher, problems which are largely definitional in nature.
AMG145, a Monoclonal Antibody Against Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin Kexin Type 9, Significantly Reduces Lipoprotein(a) in Hypercholesterolemic Patients Receiving Statin Therapy An Analysis From the LDL-C Assessment With Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin Kexin Type 9 Monoclonal Antibody Inhibition Combined With Statin Therapy (LAPLACE)–Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) 57 Trial

Background Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is an emerging risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Currently, there are few available therapies to lower Lp(a). We sought to evaluate the impact of AMG145, a monoclonal antibody against proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin type 9 (PCSK9), on Lp(a). Methods and results As part of the LDL-C Assessment With PCSK9 Monoclonal Antibody Inhibition Combined With Statin Therapy (LAPLACE)-Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) 57 trial, 631 patients with hypercholesterolemia receiving statin therapy were randomized to receive AMG145 at 1 of 3 different doses every 2 weeks or 1 of 3 different doses every 4 weeks versus placebo. Lp(a) and other lipid parameters were measured at baseline and at week 12. Compared with placebo, AMG145 70 mg, 105 mg, and 140 mg every 2 weeks reduced Lp(a) at 12 weeks by 18%, 32%, and 32%, respectively (P Conclusions AMG145 significantly reduces Lp(a), by up to 32%, among subjects with hypercholesterolemia receiving statin therapy, offering an additional, complementary benefit beyond robust low-density lipoprotein cholesterol reduction with regard to a patient's atherogenic lipid profile.
Novel Technique for Online Characterization of Cartilaginous Tissue Properties

Cartilaginous tissues (e.g., articular cartilage and intervertebral disk) are avascular, charged, and hydrated soft tissues [1–3] that bear and transmit loads. The complex and unique extracellular matrix (ECM) of these tissues consists of a collagen-proteoglycan network, abundant interstitial water (∼80%), and ions - mainly sodium (Na+), and chloride (Cl−). The charged nature of the ECM is derived from the charged groups on the glycosaminoglycan (GAG) chains of proteoglycans (PGs) [1–5], which are fixed to the ECM. The concentration of these fixed charges is therefore known as fixed charge density (FCD). The fixed charges attract opposite ions in the interstitial fluid, giving rise to physicochemical effects within tissues, such as Donnan osmotic pressure and streaming potential [6–14]. Tissue engineering offers an alternative to conventional approaches of pharmaceutical and surgical solutions to repair or replace injured tissues with engineered constructs. Highly specialized apparatuses such as bioreactors are used to promote tissue regeneration in vitro and to investigate tissue construct's growth behavior and signal transduction mechanisms. A number of bioreactors have been developed for cartilage tissue engineering, as noted in the review papers by Darling and Athanasiou [15] and by Schulz and Bader [16]. It is important to understand the mechano-electrochemical signals in the environment surrounding the cells in order to provide the optimal conditions for tissue growth [17]. These signals could be calculated using an appropriate model if the mechanical and biochemical properties of the tissue construct are known. However, the current bioreactors reported in the literature lack the ability to determine biochemical properties of tissue nondestructively and in a real-time fashion. That is, tissue constructs need to be removed from the bioreactor and tested via chemical assay in order to determine their material properties such as FCD and water content. Therefore, the objective of this study is to develop new bioreactor technology capable of nondestructively online-characterizing the FCD and water content of an engineered cartilaginous tissue.