cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Applying Generalizability Theory for Making Quantitative RTI Progress-Monitoring Decisions

Language in the Individuals With Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEIA) allows the use of response-to-intervention (RTI) methodology in the identification of specific learning disabilities. However, there is no consensus on decision rules using curriculum-based measurement of oral reading fluency (CBM-R) for defining responsiveness. The purpose of this article is to describe how to apply generalizability (G) theory for making quantitative high-stakes RTI decisions. A sample of 68 first-grade students (36 females and 32 males) was randomly administered the first-grade Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills oral reading fluency probes and correct words per minute (CWPM) were calculated for conducting both a generalizability (G) study and a decision (D) study using G theory. The results showed that the average raw scores (CWPM) across 20 probes encompassed a wide range from a low of 69 CWPM to a high of 88 CWPM. In addition, 90.2% of the variance was due to student reading skill, 7.0% was ...
Synthesis of Branched Methyl Hydroxy Stearates Including an Ester from Bio-Based Levulinic Acid

We report the synthesis of five useful branched methyl α-hydroxy stearate esters from commercially available methyl oleate and common organic acids. Of special interest is the synthesis utilizing the natural byproduct, levulinic acid. The other common organic acids, used herein, were propionic acid, hexanoic acid, octanoic acid, and 2-ethylhexanoic acid. The kinetics of the ring opening reaction were studied under pseudo-first-order conditions in the propionic acid system. An Arrhenius activation energy of 66.7 kJ mol-1 (16.0 kcal mol-1) was found. One product, the octanoic ester of methyl hydroxy stearate, was shown to have pour point, cloud point, and viscosity indices of −31 °C, −33 °C, and 101, respectively, all favorable properties in the synthesis of a bio-based lubrication fluid. These products may also prove useful in the synthesis of agriculturally based surfactants and fuel additives.
Proatherosclerotic Mechanisms Involving Protein Kinase C in Diabetes and Insulin Resistance

In diabetes and insulin resistance, activation of protein kinase C (PKC) in vascular cells may be a key link between elevated plasma and tissue concentrations of glucose and nonesterified fatty acids and abnormal vascular cell signaling. Initial studies of PKC activation in diabetes focused on microvascular complications, but increasing evidence supports that PKC plays a role in several mechanisms promoting atherosclerosis. This review explains how PKC is thought to be activated in diabetes and insulin resistance through de novo synthesis of diacylglycerol. Furthermore, the review summarizes studies that implicate PKC in promoting proatherogenic mechanisms or inhibiting antiatherogenic mechanisms, including studies of endothelial dysfunction; gene induction and activation of vascular NAD(P)H oxidase; endothelial nitric oxide synthase expression and function; endothelin-1 expression; growth, migration, and apoptosis of vascular smooth muscle cells; induction of adhesion molecules; and oxidized low-density lipoprotein uptake by monocyte-derived macrophages.
Gender inequalities in the college pipeline

Abstract In this paper, we present a comprehensive framework for understanding gender inequality in baccalaureate degree attainment. Our “college pipeline” model addresses two main shortcomings in prior research. First, we examine multiple outcomes and stages in the pipeline that lead to four-year college entry and completion. Second, we examine multiple different pathways that students can pursue in attaining a four-year degree. Our findings indicate that females enjoy a cumulative advantage over males in the pursuit of a baccalaureate degree, but with two important exceptions. First, although females are more likely apply to college at the end of high school, they are also more likely to terminate their schooling in a two-year college than comparable males. Second, females who make an on-time transition into a four-year college experience the greatest advantages over males, and females who delay entering the college pipeline actually do no better than males in attaining a bachelor’s degree.
Thermodynamics applied to gradient theories involving the accumulated plastic strain : The theories of Aifantis and Fleck and Hutchinson and their generalization

Abstract We discuss the physical nature of flow rules for rate-independent (gradient) plasticity laid down by Aifantis and by Fleck and Hutchinson. As a central result we show that: • the flow rule of Fleck and Hutchinson is incompatible with thermodynamics unless its nonlocal term is dropped. If the underlying theory is augmented by a general defect energy dependent on γ p and ∇ γ p , then compatibility with thermodynamics requires that its flow rule reduce to that of Aifantis. We establish this result (and others) within a general framework obtained by combining a virtual-power principle of Fleck and Hutchinson with the first two laws of thermodynamics—balance of energy and the Clausius–Duhem inequality—under isothermal conditions.
Technique for Canine Total Hip Replacement

Between August 1976 and April 1980, a total of 132 canine total hip replacements using a commercially available prosthesis, were performed on clinical patients at The Ohio State University Veterinary Hospital and Berwyn Veterinary Hospital, Chicago. The technique for total hip replacement is described. Details of preoperative evaluation, the operative procedure, and postoperative care are presented.
Design and Analysis of the Quench Protection System for the MICE Coupling Coils

Two identical MICE coupling coils have the largest diameter and stored energy, at 13 MJ each, of all coils in the Muon Ionization Cooling Experiment (MICE). The coils have an inner diameter of 1.5 m and radial and axial builds of 102.5 and 285 mm, respectively. The coils contain approximately 15 936 turns and are wound with a single rectangular NbTi strand with a copper-to-superconductor ratio of 3.9:1. Each coil is conduction cooled using three cryocoolers, which maintain an operating temperature at about 4.5 K. Each coil is powered through a pair of series-connected copper and 500 A HTS current leads. The quench protection analyses described here show that subdividing the winding into four or more, cold-diode-protected subsections maintain hot spot temperatures below 150 K and internal winding voltages below 300 V. The superconducting subdivision interconnect loops are protected by heat sinking them to the aluminum winding housing. Stabilizing the coil leads from the winding to HTS current leads minimizes the likelihood of lead quench. The first of three coils will be tested at Fermi Lab and the final two coils will be installed in MICE at Rutherford Laboratory.
TEACH-M: A pilot study evaluating an instructional sequence for persons with impaired memory and executive functions

Primary objective: The purpose of this pilot study was to evaluate an instructional package that facilitates learning and retention of multi-step procedures for persons with severe memory and executive function impairments resulting from traumatic brain injury.Research design: The study used a multiple baseline across participants design.Methods and procedures: Four participants, two males and two females, ranging in age from 36–58 years, were taught a 7-step e-mail task. The instructional package (TEACH-M) was the experimental intervention and the number of correct e-mail steps learned was the dependent variable.Main outcomes and results: Treatment effects were replicated across the four participants and maintained at 30 days post-treatment. Generalization and social validity data further supported the treatment programme.Conclusions: The results suggest that individuals with severe cognitive impairments are capable of learning new skills. Directions for future research include application of the instruc...
Preamplifiers And Clock Drivers For The University Of California At Los Angeles Reticon Spectrometer

I describe two critical subsystems of the UCLA Reticonm Spectrometer: the pulsed-reset charge-sensitive preamplifiers and the duty cycle invariant, temporally nonaligned clock drivers. I outline the evolution of the underlying design philosophies and present schematics and performance results.© (1982) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Health beliefs, treatment preferences and complementary and alternative medicine for asthma, smoking and lung cancer self-management in diverse Black communities.

Abstract Objective The purpose of this literature review is to characterize unconventional health beliefs and complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) for asthma, smoking and lung cancer as those that are likely safe and those that likely increase risk in diverse Black communities. These findings should provide the impetus for enhanced patient–provider communication that elicits patients’ beliefs and self-management preferences so that they may be accommodated, or when necessary, reconciled through discussion and partnership. Methods Original research articles relevant to this topic were obtained by conducting a literature search of the PubMed Plus, PsychINFO and SCOPUS databases using combinations of the following search terms: asthma, lung cancer, emphysema, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), smoking, beliefs, complementary medicine, alternative medicine, complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), explanatory models, African American, and Black. Results Using predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria, 51 original research papers were retained. Taken together, they provide evidence that patients hold unconventional beliefs about the origins of asthma and lung cancer and the health risks of smoking, have negative opinions of standard medical and surgical treatments, and have favorable attitudes about using CAM. All but a small number of CAM and health behaviors were considered safe. Conclusion When patients’ unconventional beliefs and preferences are not identified and discussed, there is an increased risk that standard approaches to self-management of lung disease will be sub-optimal, that potentially dangerous CAM practices might be used and that timely medical interventions may be delayed. Practice implications Providers need effective communication skills as the medical dialog forms the basis of patients’ understanding of disease and self-management options. The preferred endpoint of such discussions should be agreement around an integrated treatment plan that is effective, safe and acceptable to both.
Development of freezing and immobility, predator defenses, in the bobwhite quail (Colinus virginianus)

In two experiments freezing and immobility responses were investigated with Bobwhite quail ( Colinus virginianus ). Posttest responses were also recorded. Groups of birds were tested at 4–5, 9–10, 14–15, 19–20, and 29–30 days of age. Durations of immobility increased from 0 sec at 5 and 10 days to more than 60 sec from 15 to 30 days. Durations of freezing increased from 0 sec at 4 and 9 days to 10 sec at 29 days. Freezing was a more probable response at 9 days than immobility at 10 days. Posttest distress calls and locomotion were greater after freezing than after immobility, but both decreased with age. The results are discussed in relation to studies of freezing and immobility of other birds.
Characterization of refuse-derived fuel at various stages of processing

Abstract The calorific value, moisture, ash, sulfur and chlorine contents were measured by the National Bureau of Standards (NBS) and the results analyzed to characterize refuse-derived fuel (RDF) as a function of the type of processing that the RDF had undergone. The RDF was separated from a municipal solid waste (MSW) sample from New Castle County, Delaware at the Bureau of Mines (BuM) pilot resource recovery plant in College Park, Maryland. The RDF streams were collected at seven points after various stages of processing through air classifiers and trommels. NBS characterized RDF as a function of the type of processing that the RDF had undergone. Air classifiers were very effective in separating the light components of RDF (i.e. paper and plastic films) from the heavier components of RDF. A trommel in the RDF separation scheme removes some of the undesirable characteristics of RDF, namely, the non-combustible, sulfur- and chlorine-containing components of RDF.
Desirability of differences in destinations

Abstract The purpose of this study was to explore how potential tourists interpret representations in terms of familiarity and desirability, and whether stereotypes influence interpretation. College sophomores viewed guidebook images of two locations and listed thoughts about the scenes in terms of the people who live there and what vacations and living there would be like. Responses were analyzed using a computer-assisted content analysis program that identifies co-occurrence of terms within cases, and terms were cluster-analyzed to determine relationships. Results indicated that familiarity and desirability are complex concepts. Respondents preferred familiar images for vacations, differentiating among various images of those destinations. Interpretation of destination images and perceived familiarity appears to strongly rely on stereotypes of the places considered.
The Built Environment and Travel Behavior: Making the Connection

This annual special issue of "Transportation" comprises selected papers presented at the Annual Meeting of the Transportation Research Board (TRB) in January 2007. These papers all address the interrelationship between the built environment and travel behavior. Specifically, they provide insight into several important aspects of this topic, including residential self-selection; interaction between long-, medium-, and short-term choices; the long-term perspective on the influence of the built environment; and a focus on the physically active mode of bicycling.
On the practical significance of critical international relations theory

The question of relevance of international relations theory must be approached through an awareness of the distinctiveness of various perspectives’ relations to existing structures of power. It becomes, in effect, a matter of asking for whom and for what purposes of practical action the theory is or is not relevant. Critical theories of international relations, ranging from modernist to post‐structural forms, share a commitment to challenging the naturalness of the existing world order and the acceptability of its dominant relations and practices of power. Critical theory focuses analysis on the effects of power on the differential ability of actors to control their own circumstances. It also goes beyond that theoretical contribution to provide impetus for practical political action in challenging, confronting, and disrupting existing relations of power. Thus, in the contemporary era, critical IR theory is relevant, among other ways, as a stimulus to resist empire in its many guises.
Using the Bulge of M31 as a Template for the Integrated X-Ray Emission from Low-Mass X-Ray Binaries

We have performed joint ASCA + ROSAT PSPC spectral fitting on the inner 5' of the bulge of M31. We find that single-component spectral models provide an inadequate fit to the spectrum, in contrast to previous studies by Einstein and Ginga. Although the 2-10 keV spectrum can be fitted adequately with a bremsstrahlung model with kT = 7.4 ± 0.3 keV, an additional soft component with kT = 0.38 ± 0.03 keV is required to fit the spectrum below 2 keV. This soft component comprises 38% ± 6% of the total emission in the 0.1-2.0 keV band, and possibly more depending on the absorption value used in the fit. Since previous spatial studies of the bulge of M31 indicate that less than 25% of the X-ray emission from the bulge in this band is from a diffuse gaseous component, this implies that stellar sources, namely, low-mass X-ray binaries (LMXBs), are responsible for some if not all of the soft component. The spectral properties of M31 are very similar to those of the X-ray-faint early-type galaxy NGC 4382. This supports the claim that the unexplained soft X-ray emission seen previously in these galaxies also emanates from LMXBs.
The minimum semidefinite rank of the complement of partial k-trees

Abstract For a graph G = ( V , E ) with V = { 1 , … , n } , let S ( G ) be the set of all real symmetric n × n matrices A = [ a i , j ] with a i , j ≠ 0 , i ≠ j if and only if ij ∈ E . We prove the following results. If G is the complement of a partial k -tree H , then there exists a positive semidefinite matrix A ∈ S ( G ) with rank ( A ) ≤ k + 2 . If, in addition, k ≤ 3 or G is k -connected, then there exist positive semidefinite matrices A ∈ S ( G ) and B ∈ S ( H ) such that rank ( A ) + rank ( B ) ≤ n + 2 .
Nonlinear analysis in the phase plane

Abstract The study of a second order system often involves solution of the first order phase plane equation. The Lienard construction and its several extensions have been very popular as procedures for obtaining the solution graphically. Here-to-fore the classic Van der Pol equation and any others similar to it have not beeen amenable to solution in the phase plane by a Lienard-like construction. The extension to the Lienard construction given in this paper shows how to obtain a solution to such problems using a graphic construction.
Conditioned heart-rate change in the pigeon: Analysis and prediction of acquisition patterns

A large sample of pigeons (n = 458) was trained in a classical conditioning paradigm where whole-field retinal illumination and footshock were paired to produce conditioned heart-rate change. Analysis of the acquisition data indicated two distinct learning patterns (denoted C and C), and any given group of animals can be characterized by describing the proportion of animals showing each acquisition pattern (the C:C ratio). It is shown that mean learning curve variability among groups is largely a function of group differences in this ratio, such that accurate prediction of mean learning curves is possible knowing only this parameter. Furthermore, this ratio is itself predictable only from responses to an initial visual stimulus presentation. Consequently, from reactivity (orienting response) to a single presentation of the to-be-conditioned stimulus, it is possible to predict accurately the mean learning curve of any given group.
The influence of nonbilinear system-bath coupling on quantum-mechanical activated rate processes

The dependence of quantum-mechanical activated rate processes on the system-bath coupling strength was investigated in the case of a double-well nonbilinearly coupled to a harmonic bath, where the system-bath coupling is linear in the bath coordinates and nonlinear in the reaction coordinate. Such nonbilinear coupling is known to give rise to a classical friction kernel which is explicitly dependent on the reaction coordinate. We show that it can also lead to quantum-mechanical barrier-crossing rates, whose dependence on the system-bath coupling strength is qualitatively different from that observed in the quantum-mechanical bilinear case and classical nonbilinear case. More specifically, it is shown that the quantum-mechanical barrier-crossing rate may monotonically increase as a function of the system-bath coupling strength, in cases where the classical barrier-crossing rate goes through a turnover, and that the rate of quantum-mechanical barrier-crossing can be lower than that of classical barrier-crossing. We show that those purely quantum-mechanical effects are of a thermodynamical, rather than dynamical, nature, and that they originate from the difference in friction between the barrier top and the reactant and product wells. Our conclusions are supported by results obtained via the CMD method, which were also found to be in very good agreement with numerically exact calculations based on the QUAPI method.
Graded motor responses in the time course of categorizing atypical exemplars

The time course of categorization was investigated in four experiments, which revealed graded competitive effects in a categorization task. Participants clicked one of two categories (e.g.,mammal orfish) in response to atypical or typical exemplars (e.g.,whale orcat) in the form of words (Experiments 1 and 2) or pictures (Experiments 3 and 4). Streamingx, y coordinates of mouse movement trajectories were recorded. Normalized mean trajectories revealed a graded competitive process: Atypical exemplars produced trajectories with greater curvature toward the competing category than did typical exemplars. The experiments contribute to recent examination of the time course of categorization and carry implications for theories of representation in cognitive science.
Primary and secondary CoQ10 deficiencies in humans

CoQ10 deficiencies are clinically and genetically heterogeneous. This syndrome has been associated with five major clinical phenotypes: (1) encephalomyopathy, (2) severe infantile multisystemic disease, (3) cerebellar ataxia, (4) isolated myopathy, and (5) nephrotic syndrome. In a few patients, pathogenic mutations have been identified in genes involved in the biosynthesis of CoQ10 (primary CoQ10 deficiencies) or in genes not directly related to CoQ10 biosynthesis (secondary CoQ10 deficiencies). Respiratory chain defects, ROS production, and apoptosis variably contribute to the pathogenesis of primary CoQ10 deficiencies.
Mesoporous Silica Nanosphere-Supported Chiral Ruthenium Catalysts: Synthesis, Characterization, and Asymmetric Hydrogenation Studies

Chiral RuCl 2 -diphosphine-diamine complexes with a pendant siloxy group were synthesized and characterized by NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. The Ru complexes were grafted onto three different types of mesoporous silica nanospheres (MSNs) through the siloxane linkage, and the resulting MSN-supported Ru catalysts were highly active for the asymmetric hydrogenation of aromatic ketones, to afford chiral secondary alcohols, and racemic arylaldehydes, to give chiral primary alcohols. Excellent activities and enantioselectivities were observed for these MSN-supported Ru catalysts owing to readily accessible and uniform catalytic sites within the large channels of MSNs (diameters of > 2 nm) and short diffusion lengths for the organic compounds as a result of small nano-particle sizes of less than 1 μm. This catalyst immobilization strategy with MSN supports should be amenable to the design of many highly active and enantioselective heterogeneous asymmetric catalysts.
Against the grain: an overview of celiac disease.

Purpose: To review the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of celiac disease (CD). Data sources: Review of literature using Pub Med and Access Medicine. The following search terms were used: celiac disease, malabsorption syndromes, diarrhea, and gluten-free diet (GFD). There was no limitation placed on publication year. Only articles written in English were included. Conclusions: CD is a chronic systemic autoimmune disorder triggered in genetically susceptible individuals by the ingestion of gluten proteins (wheat, barley, and rye). CD often presents atypically, and diagnosis delays are common. Currently, the only effective treatment for CD is strict adherence to a GFD. This is a difficult diet to comprehend and follow. Adherence to a GFD requires ongoing education and support from a multidisciplinary healthcare team, support groups, family, and friends. Implications for practice: Once considered a rare disease of childhood, CD is now recognized as a common disorder that can occur at any age. Clinicians need to be cognizant of risk factors, clinical manifestations, conditions, and complications associated with CD in order to make a timely diagnosis, ameliorate symptoms, and minimize disease complications.
Vicarious Emotional Responses of Macho College Males

The vicarious emotional responses of macho and less macho males, as measured by the Hypermasculinity Inventory, were examined among 107 college males, who reported their emotions on arrival for the study and in response to viewing three videotapes of a crying, quiescent, and smiling baby, respectively. Subjects then completed the Hypermasculinity Inventory and the Sexual Experiences Survey. As predicted, macho males responded to the crying baby with more anger and less empathy than did less macho males. The results are discussed in terms of how macho males respond to distressing stimuli by inhibiting “feminine” emotions (e.g., empathy) and by amplifying “masculine” emotions (e.g., anger), thereby increasing the risk of aggressive behavior.
Low temperature chemical vapor deposition of 3C-SiC on 6H-SiC — high resolution X-ray diffractometry and synchrotron X-ray topography study

Abstract Highly perfect 3C-SiC thin films, deposited on 6H-SiC by the chemical vapor deposition at low temperature with various Cl/Si, H/Si and C/Si ratios, were characterized by X-ray high resolution triple crystal diffractometry, synchrotron white beam X-ray topography (SWBXT) and synchrotron grazing incidence topography (SGIT) methods. The films were epitaxial with a low defect density (mostly in the range of 10 7 cm −2 ). The best films were produced with optimum C/Si ratio in the gas phase while the poorest quality films were produced at lower H 2 /Si ratio. Synchrotron topography revealed defects like cellular dislocation structure, super screw dislocations, pores, low angle grain boundaries and double positioning boundaries.
Toward Extended Change Types for Analyzing Software Faults

This research extends an existing source code change taxonomy that was designed to analyze change coupling. The extension expands change types related to statements in order to achieve more granular data about the type of statement that is changed. The extended taxonomy is evaluated to determine if it can be applied to software fault analysis. We found that the extended change types occur consistently and with high frequency in fault fixes for Eclipse 2.0 and 3.0. Faults were then clustered according to the source code changes and analyzed. We found that the types and sizes of clusters are highly correlated, indicating some consistency in the patterns of the fault fixes. Finally, we performed an initial investigation to determine whether faults in the same cluster have similar characteristics. Our results indicate that many of the change types can be used to characterize the type of fault that has been fixed. However, some of the change types obfuscate the true nature of the fix. Ideas for improving the taxonomy based on these findings are provided.
Spintronics: A lucky break

The ability to harness spin polarization is critical for many semiconductor spin devices. It now seems that spin–orbit coupling with locally broken symmetry can enable a giant spin polarization in a semiconductor that is otherwise inversion symmetric.
A map of the sites in the polyoma genome cleaved by endonuclease AluI

Abstract The 29 sites in the polyoma genome cleaved by endonuclease (endo) A lu l and the site cleaved by endo Xba I have been identified. The A lu I fragments range in size from 0.9 to 37 × 10 4 daltons; 17 sites are located in the early region, and 12 are in the late region. The Xba I site is located 17% of the genome away from the Eco RI site, towards the terminus of DNA replication.
Computer study of convection of weakly ionized plasma in a nonuniform magnetic field.

A weakly ionized plasma in a strong and nonuniform magnetic field exhibits an instability analogous to the flute instability in a fully ionized plasma. The instability sets in at a critical magnetic field. To study the final state of the plasma after the onset of the instability, the plasma equations are integrated numerically assuming a certain initial spectrum of small disturbances. In the regime studied, numerical results indicate a final steadily oscillating state consisting of a single finite amplitude mode together with a time‐independent modification of the original equilibrium. These results agree with the analytic results obtained by Simon in the slightly supercritical regime. As the magnetic field is increased further, the wavelength of the final oscillation becomes nonunique. There exists a subinterval in the unstable wave band. Final stable oscillation with a wavelength in this subinterval can be established if the initial disturbance has a sufficiently strong component at the particular wavelength.
Reversibility of Photoelectrochromism at the TiO2/Methylene Blue Interface

This paper describes the photoelectrochromic bleaching and recoloration of methylene blue in aqueous or methanolic slurry suspensions of TiO{sub 2}. Using simple modification of a UV-visible diode-array spectrometer setup, the spectral changes undergone by the dye in these solutions were monitored in situ during irradiation of the TiO{sub 2} particles and in the dark. A particular focus of this study was a systematic investigation of factors underpinning the chemical and electrochemical (kinetic) reversibility of the dye bleaching-recoloration sequence. Thus, choice of solution pH and hole capture agents is shown to be critical to the suppression of parasitic chemical and photochemical reactions involving the dye. On the other hand, dye adsorption on the TiO{sub 2} surface, the solvent medium itself, and its O{sub 2} content are all important factors in dictating the kinetic reversibility of the photoelectrochromic process. Finally, the practical implications of the findings are presented.
A preliminary pedagogical comparison study using the digital logic concept inventory

Digital logic instructors have created a myriad of new, innovative teaching methods. Comparing the effectiveness of these methods is elusive because of differences in topic coverage and assessment content. We have created a standardized assessment tool to provide a means to directly compare student conceptual learning in different digital logic design courses — the Digital Logic Concept Inventory (DLCI). We have used the DLCI along with instructor interviews and analysis of student final exams to compare student learning in two courses at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. These courses differed in course content, teaching philosophy, and pedagogical technology. We provide evidence that the DLCI can provide useful insight into what techniques and methods improve student learning.
Ion energization in Ganymede’s magnetosphere: Using multifluid simulations to interpret ion energy spectrograms

[1] We investigate the ion population and energy distribution within Ganymede’s magnetosphere by examining Ganymede’s ionospheric outflow as a source of heavy (O+) and light (H+) ions and the Jovian magnetospheric plasma as an external source of heavy ions. We develop a method for examining the energy distributions of each ion species in a three-dimensional multifluid simulation in a way directly comparable to the observations of the Plasma Experiment on the Galileo spacecraft. This is used to provide new insight to the existing controversy over the composition of Ganymede’s observed ionospheric outflow, and enables further examination of the energetic signatures of the ion population trapped within Ganymede’s magnetosphere. The model-predicted ionospheric outflow is consistent with the in situ ion energy spectrograms observed by the Galileo Plasma Experiment at closest approach, and requires that both ionospheric H+ and O+ are present in the population of ions exiting Ganymede’s ionosphere over the polar cap. The outward flux of ionospheric ions was calculated to be ~1026 ions/cm2/s, which is in agreement with independently calculated sputtering rates of Ganymede’s icy surface. The modeled spectrograms define characteristic energy signatures and populations for various regions of Ganymede’s magnetosphere, which illustrate the major sources of ions trapped within the magnetosphere are Ganymede’s ionospheric O+ and H+. The fact that very little plasma was observed inside Ganymede’s magnetosphere during the G8 flyby is attributed to the region being shadowed from the sun for ~60 h, which may indicate the importance of photoionization for sustaining Ganymede’s ionospheric plasma source.
Evaluation of Liquid Smoke Treated Ready-to-Eat (RTE) Meat Products for Control of Listeria innocua M1

Liquid smoke fractions (S1, S2, S3, and S4) were applied on ready-to-eat (RTE) meat products to control the growth of inoculated Listeria innocua M1. Turkey rolls and roast beef products were dipped in liquid smoke, surface inoculated with L. innocua M1 (10(2) CFU/25 cm(2) RTE meat surface), vacuum packaged, and stored at 4 degrees C. Section 8.5 of USDA's detection and isolation procedure for L. monocytogenes was employed in conjunction with a Micro-ID system for L. innocua M1 identification (ID). Products treated with smoke fractions S1, S2, and S3 were negative for L. innocua M1 at 2 and 4 wk during incubation at 4 degrees C. Products treated with S4 were positive for L. innocua M1 immediately following inoculation and after storage for 2 and 4 wk. Smoke fractions S1, S2, and S3 exhibited pH values lower than 4.6, acidity values higher than 1.5%, and carbonyl concentrations higher than 110 mg/mL. All liquid smoke fractions contained similar phenol concentrations (0.3 to 0.6 mg/mL), suggesting that phenols may have a limited role in the bactericidal effects of liquid smoke fractions against specific microorganisms.
Polarized targeting of ion channels in neurons

Since the time of Cajal it has been understood that axons and dendrites perform distinct electrophysiological functions that require unique sets of proteins [Cajal SR Histology of the nervous system, Oxford University Press, New York, (1995)]. To establish and maintain functional polarity, neurons localize many proteins specifically to either the axonal or the somatodendritic compartment. In particular, ion channels, which are the major regulators of electrical activity in neurons, are often distributed in a polarized fashion. Recently, the ability to introduce tagged proteins into neurons in culture has allowed the molecular mechanisms underlying axon- and dendrite-specific targeting of ion channels to be explored. These investigations have identified peptide signals from voltage-gated Na+ and K+ channels that direct trafficking to either axonal or dendritic compartments. In this article we will discuss the molecular mechanisms underlying polarized targeting of voltage-gated ion channels from the Kv4, Kv1, and Nav1 families.
Dynamic mechanical spectroscopy of sheet molding compound as a function of offset stress

It has been determined that preload and cyclic amplitude have significant effect on the results of dynamic mechanical measurements of tan δ. To illustrate these effects on composites, a particular type of sheet molding compound (SMC-R50) was used in this study. In addition to the effects of preload and cycle amplitude, the effects of frequency, and creep prior to dynamic mechanical testing were also investigated.
Local stability of critical fronts in nonlinear parabolic partial differential equations

For the Ginzburg-Landau equation and similar nonlinear parabolic partial differential equations on the real line, we prove the nonlinear stability of the slowest monotonic front solution by computing explicitly the leading term in the asymptotic behaviour of a small perturbation as t to infinity . The proof is based on the renormalization group method for parabolic equations.
WINE WARS—DIRECT SHIPMENT OF WINE: THE TWENTY‐FIRST AMENDMENT, THE COMMERCE CLAUSE, AND CONSUMERS’RIGHTS

The transportation or importation into any State, Territory, or possession of the United States for delivery or use therein of intoxicating liquors, in violation of the laws thereof, is hereby prohibited.1
A linear algorithm for the number of degree constrained subforests of a tree

Abstract Recent work of Farrell is concerned with determining the total number of ways in which one can cover the vertices of a tree T with vertex disjoint paths. Such path covers are spanning subforests in which each vertex is restricted to have degree at most two. If b: V(T)→N is a positive integer-valued function, then finding a b-matching is equivalent to finding a spanning subgraph in which the degree of each vertex v is at most b(v). A linear-time algorithm for determining the number of b-matching in a tree is presented.
Replication of herpesvirus DNA II. Sedimentation characteristics of newly synthesized DNA

Abstract The sedimentation behavior of viral DNA synthesized during short labeling periods at various times after infection was investigated. These experiments indicated that viral DNA synthesis may be divided into the following two phases: (1) During the early phase, newly synthesized DNA is associated with structures which sediment with S values up to approximately twice that of mature viral DNA; (2) during the later phase, newly synthesized DNA is associated with structures that sediment much more rapidly. Both at early and later times after infection, approximately 20% of the newly synthesized DNA sediments in sucrose gradients more slowly than does mature viral DNA. Furthermore, after isopycnic centrifugation in CsCl, most of the newly synthesized viral DNA sediments in sucrose gradients more slowly than does mature viral DNA. The smaller than unit-size, newly synthesized viral DNA molecules are breakage products resulting from the fragility of newly synthesized DNA. These molecules fragment, not only because of their fragility in the regions of the replicative forks but also because of the presence of fragile sites at other positions along the newly synthesized DNA molecule. Experiments dealing with the transfer of parental DNA to progeny virions show that most parental viral DNA strands that are transferred to progeny virions retain their integrity. Breakage and reunion of parental viral DNA strands with progeny DNA is a relatively rare event.
Perceptions of Organizational Politics and Subsequent Behaviors

The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that increases in perceptions of organizational politics are associated with increases in the frequency and type of subsequent political behaviors. Regression analysis using data from 260 full-time employees indicated that the frequency of proactive and reactive political behaviors would increase for those individuals who perceived greater politics in their organization.
Transcriptional inhibition by a glucocorticoid receptor-β-galactosidase fusion protein

Abstract Binary developmental decisions and homeostatic regulation by steroids require negative transcriptional regulation to balance steroid-mediated stimulatory effects. Human glucocorticoid receptor mutants were used to identify regions important for trans -repression of the gene encoding the α subunit of chorionic gonadotropin. While the amino terminus is not critical, the DNA binding and ligand binding domains are required for efficient repression. However, the function of the carboxyl terminus can be substituted by a polypeptide from the human mineralocorticoid receptor or β-galactosidase gene. The function of these fusion repressors supports the model that the human glucocorticoid receptor negatively regulates transcription via a steric hindrance mechanism. These results suggest a potentially general strategy for creation of sequence-specific transcriptional repressors.
Systemic lupus erythematosus monocytes are less responsive to interleukin-10 in the presence of immune complexes.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a systemic inflammatory disease characterized by autoantibody production and immune complex tissue deposition. The clinical picture of lupus varies from mild skin lesions to severe organ damage, such as glomerulonephritis that may ultimately result in end stage renal disease. Inflammatory illnesses such as lupus are characterized by an aberrant cytokine profile; the balance of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines is tipped towards inflammation. Interleukin-10 (IL-10) plays a key role in maintaining this balance, as it blocks inflammatory cytokine synthesis (1), chemokine secretion (2), inflammatory enzyme production and expression of co-stimulatory molecules including CD80, CD86 and MHC Class II (3). To limit inflammation, IL-10 also promotes production of IL-1 receptor antagonists and soluble TNFα receptors (1). In certain cases, however, IL-10 exerts immunostimulatory effects, acting as a potent cofactor for proliferation, differentiation, class switching, and antibody production in B lymphocytes (1). IL-10 is among the cytokines thought to be dysregulated in SLE. Serum IL-10 levels are elevated in SLE patients and the extent of elevation correlates with disease activity (4). Polymorphisms within the IL-10 gene promoter that are associated with high IL-10 levels may be important in the development of certain clinical features in SLE (5,6). Monocytes and B lymphocytes from SLE patients spontaneously produce high amounts of IL-10 in vitro (7,8) Cells from healthy relatives of SLE patients also produce increased amounts of IL-10 (9), suggesting that IL-10 may be a pathogenic factor in lupus. Indeed, immunoglobulin production by B lymphocytes in SLE is in part IL-10 dependent (10), and, in one small human trial, anti-IL-10 monoclonal antibody therapy was shown to be beneficial for SLE patients with active, steroid-dependent disease (11). SLE is characterized by increased production and decreased clearance of immune complexes. In SLE, immune complexes mediate tissue damage by cross-linking myeloid cell surface Fcγ recptors (FcγRs), thereby activating cellular effector functions, including phagocytosis of pathogens, endocytosis of immune complexes, and production of cytokines, chemokines and reactive oxygen intermediates (12–15). In the presence of IgG-containing immune complexes, macrophages produce high levels of IL-10, which can dampen innate inflammatory responses to microbial infections (16), or, in lupus patients, affect the autoimmune response. Previous studies have shown that IL-10 activity is suppressed at the level of Jak-Stat signal transduction when FcγRs are crosslinked by immune complexes in IFNγ-primed macrophages (17). Given paradoxically high levels of IL-10 and the abundance of immune complexes in SLE patients, we hypothesize that the anti-inflammatory function of IL-10 is limited in SLE monocytes, leading to unrestrained monocyte activation at sites of immune complex deposition.
Mechanical stresses keep endothelial cells healthy: beneficial effects of a physiological level of cyclic stretch on endothelial barrier function.

the cells of our bodies live in a sea of chemical and mechanical stimuli. A cell can be stimulated by a variety of molecules dissolved in body fluids as well as by the extracellular matrix and molecules expressed on the surface of other cells. These molecules (or ligands) are recognized by specific
Real-time protection against DDoS attacks using active gateways

This paper presents solutions for protecting servers against distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks that inundate the system with file download and script execution requests. Our solution uses a dynamic packet filtering on dual-ported active NIC based gateways to drop attacking packets based on locally measured request rates and information from the server (such as server loading, number of incomplete connections). A variety of techniques for performing such packet filtering in real-time are discussed. A prototype implementation using a test bed of several clients, attacking machines and servers indicates that considerable improvements in the response times to legitimate requests and overall improvements in the performance of the servers are realized by the proposed scheme. As a sustained high-volume attack is started, the intelligent gateway is successful in detecting and filtering out apparently malicious traffic in only a few 10s of seconds.
Jejunal Adenylate Cyclase Activity in Human Subjects During Viral Gastroenteritis

Summary The histopathological changes that occur in the jejunal mucosa of humans infected withthe Norwalk or Hawaii agent of acute infectious nonbacterial gastroenteritis ("viral" gastroenteritis) have been well, characterized. The pathogenesis of diarrhea in this syndrome remains unknown; however, recent reports have suggested a possible role for the adenylate cyclase system. In this combined paper, two groups of investigators working independently and employing slightly different techniques report that: (1) there is marked interindividual variation in the apparent specific activity of adenylate cyclase in human jejunal biopsy tissue; (2) such variation can be minimized by expressing enzyme activity as a fraction of maximal that can be stimulated by 10 -2 M sodium fluoride; and (3) adenylate cyclase activity in jejunal mucosa is not increased during diarrhea or illness in human viral gastroenteritis, therefore suggesting no role for the adenylate cyclase system in the pathogenesis of diarrhea in this common clinical entity.
Graceful insertion and removal of stations in FDDI networks

The effects of station insertion and removal from concentrators attached to the dual ring in FDDI networks are examined. The frame-loss caused by the insertion and removal of stations is compared to the frame-loss caused by the ring bit error rate (BER). This is found to be significant for most FDDI networks. Algorithms for 'graceful' insertion and removal are proposed to minimize the impact of these actions on the network performance. The effect on the network bandwidth of the proposed solutions is compared to the effect of normal insertion and removal. Overall, the merits of graceful insertion and removal are found to be marginally significant. >
Comparison of Sewage and Animal Fecal Microbiomes by Using Oligotyping Reveals Potential Human Fecal Indicators in Multiple Taxonomic Groups

ABSTRACT Most DNA-based microbial source tracking (MST) approaches target host-associated organisms within the order Bacteroidales, but the gut microbiota of humans and other animals contain organisms from an array of other taxonomic groups that might provide indicators of fecal pollution sources. To discern between human and nonhuman fecal sources, we compared the V6 regions of the 16S rRNA genes detected in fecal samples from six animal hosts to those found in sewage (as a proxy for humans). We focused on 10 abundant genera and used oligotyping, which can detect subtle differences between rRNA gene sequences from ecologically distinct organisms. Our analysis showed clear patterns of differential oligotype distributions between sewage and animal samples. Over 100 oligotypes of human origin occurred preferentially in sewage samples, and 99 human oligotypes were sewage specific. Sequences represented by the sewage-specific oligotypes can be used individually for development of PCR-based assays or together with the oligotypes preferentially associated with sewage to implement a signature-based approach. Analysis of sewage from Spain and Brazil showed that the sewage-specific oligotypes identified in U.S. sewage have the potential to be used as global alternative indicators of human fecal pollution. Environmental samples with evidence of prior human fecal contamination had consistent ratios of sewage signature oligotypes that corresponded to the trends observed for sewage. Our methodology represents a promising approach to identifying new bacterial taxa for MST applications and further highlights the potential of the family Lachnospiraceae to provide human-specific markers. In addition to source tracking applications, the patterns of the fine-scale population structure within fecal taxa suggest a fundamental relationship between bacteria and their hosts.
A novel fingerprint for the characterization of protein folds.

A novel fingerprint, defined without the use of distances, is introduced to characterize protein folds. It is of the form of binary matrices whose elements are defined by angles between the C=O direction, the backbone axis and the line connecting the alpha-carbons of the various residues. It is shown that matches in the fingerprint matrices correspond to low r.m.s.d.