cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fluoride inhibition of Klebsiella aerogenes urease: mechanistic implications of a pseudo-uncompetitive, slow-binding inhibitor.

Klebsiella aerogenes urease uses a dinuclear nickel active site to catalyze the hydrolysis of urea. Here, we describe the steady-state and pre-steady-state kinetics of urease inhibition by fluoride. Urease is slowly inhibited by fluoride in both the presence and absence of substrate. Steady-state rate studies yield parallel double-reciprocal plots; however, we show that fluoride interaction with urease is not compatible with classical uncompetitive inhibition. Rather, we propose that fluoride binds to an enzyme state (E) that is in equilibrium with resting enzyme (E) and produced during catalysis. Fluoride binding rates are directly proportional to inhibitor concentration. Substrate reduces both the rate of fluoride binding to urease and the rate of fluoride dissociation from the complex, consistent with urea binding to E and E.F in addition to E. Fluoride inhibition is pH-dependent due to a protonation event linked to fluoride dissociation. Fluoride binding is pH-independent, suggesting that fluoride anion, not HF, is the actual inhibitor. We assess the kinetic results in terms of the known protein crystal structure and evaluate possible molecular interpretations for the structure of the E state, the site of fluoride binding, and the factors associated with fluoride release. Finally, we note that the apparent uncompetitive inhibition by fluoride as reported for several other metalloenzymes may need to be reinterpreted in terms of fluoride interaction with the corresponding E states.
Sex determination and the evolution of polyandry in honey bees (Apis mellifera)

Many hypotheses attempt to explain why queens of social insects mate multiply. We tested the sex locus hypothesis for the evolution of polyandry in honey bees (Apis mellifera). A queen may produce infertile, diploid males that reduce the viability of worker brood and, presumably, adversely affect colony fitness. Polyan- dry reduces the variance in diploid male production within a colony and may increase queen fitness if there are non-linear costs associated with brood viability, spe- cifically if the relationship between brood viability and colony fitness is concave. We instrumentally inseminated queens with three of their own brothers to vary brood vi- ability from 50% to 100% among colonies. We measured the colonies during three stages of their development: (1) colony initiation and growth, (2) winter survival, and (3) spring reproduction. We found significant relationships between brood viability and most colony measures dur- ing the growth phase of colonies, but the data were too variable to distinguish significant non-linear effects. However, there was a significant step function of brood viability on winter survival, such that all colonies above 72% brood viability survived the winter but only 37.5% of the colonies below 72% viability survived. We discuss the significance of this and other "genetic diversity" hy- potheses for the evolution of polyandry.
Geothermal heating and the properties of bottom water in Cascadia Basin

[1] A new compilation of CTD data sheds light on the circulation and properties of bottom water within Cascadia Basin. A relatively high salinity water mass is revealed in a region of likely bottom water inflow east of the Blanco Fracture Zone. Water mass distributions and the deep geostrophic shear field are consistent with a general cyclonic circulation within the basin and suggest a northward-flowing boundary current next to the deep continental slope. Shifts in temperature-salinity relationships are consistent with a vertical transition from waters of northern origin to waters of southern origin approaching the seafloor. This vertical water-mass transition complicates the interpretation of temperature anomalies. We redefine the temperature anomaly due to geothermal activity and the thickness of the layer influenced by seafloor heating. Simple heat budget calculations lead to a residence time of about one year for the bottom water, shorter than suggested by previous studies.
BASEBAND CARRIER PHASE TRACKING TECHNIQUE FOR GAUSSIAN MINIMUM SHIFT-KEYING

This paper presents a technique that provides the means to recover the carrier phase at baseband with high accuracy, while at the same time suffering negligible loss due to nonrandom data patterns. Simulation results for tracking performance are presented, as are the simulation results showing the effects of imperfect tracking performance on the bit error rate (BER) performance.
The unfashionable Drucker: ethical and quality chic

Representing the soft and hard sides of management, ethics and quality are core aspects of an organization. Both are a philosophy as well as a process that seek to optimize behavior through clarifying the purpose and nature of work. This study examines Drucker′s treatment of these central components of management. Following a discussion of the methodology employed, each concept is analyzed. The implications of the findings are then explored.
Nailing Heads and Splitting Hairs: Conflict, Conversion, and the Bloodthirsty Yakṣi in South India

she is enduring. This article explores how the yak.si, cast as a foil against which religious adepts prove their mettle, complicates easy distinctions between religious traditions, good and evil, and questions whether conversion is a desirable aim. Using similar strategies to fight a common foe Christian and Hindu holy men appear to inhabit common religious turf. Upon close inspection, this turf is the yaksi's as well; she is not an Other to eliminate but an opponent with whom holy men are interdependent. The de-centered contemporary yaksi has her own de-centering job to do.
Electronic Mail in Foreign Language Writing: A Study of Grammatical and Lexical Accuracy, and Quantity of Language

: This article describes an experiment that observed the effects of dialogue journaling through electronic mail on the language produced by learners of Spanish as a second language, compared with the paper-and-pencil version of the technique. The authors statistically analyzed the quality and quantity of discourse generated via the electronic and the traditional (i.e., paper-and-pencil) medium. The primary objective was to determine whether the use of electronic mail had any effect on grammatical accuracy, appropriate use of vocabulary, and language productivity. In addition, the participants completed a written survey at the end of the semester that elicited their opinions of the program's effectiveness. It was found that the electronic version of dialogue journals had a significantly positive effect on the amount of language generated by the students, and that it improved students' attitude towards learning and practicing the target language. However, the electronic version of dialogue journals did not seem to pose any significant advantage over the paper-and-pencil version with regard to lexical and grammatical accuracy.
The Effect of Moist Convection on the Tropospheric Response to Tropical and Subtropical Zonally Asymmetric Torques

Tropospheric winds can be altered by vertical transfers of momentum due to orographic gravity waves and convection. Previous work showed that, in dry models, such zonally asymmetric torques produce a pattern of tropical ascent that is well described by linear dynamics, together with meridional shifts of the midlatitude jet. Here a series of idealizedmodels is used to understand the effects of moisture on the tropospheric responseto tropical and subtropical zonally asymmetric, upper-tropospheric torques. The vertical motion response to a torque is shown to be amplified by the reduction in effective static stability that occurs in moist convecting atmospheres. This amplification occurs only in precipitating regions, and the magnitude of subsidence in nonprecipitating regions saturates when clear-sky radiative cooling balances induced adiabatic warming.For basic statesinwhichprecipitationisconcentrated inan intertropicalconvergence zone (ITCZ), most of the vertical motion response is thus confined within the basic-state ITCZ, even when the torqueisremotefromtheITCZ.Tropicalandsubtropicaltorquesperturbtheextratropicalbarocliniceddyfield and the convectively coupled equatorial wave field. Resulting changes in momentum flux convergence by transient eddies induce secondary meridional overturning circulations that modify the zonal-mean response to a torque. The net effect allows tropical torques to merge a double ITCZ into a single equatorial ITCZ. The response of tropical transient eddies is highly sensitive to the representation of convection, so the zonal-mean response to a torque is similarly sensitive, even when the torque is located in the subtropics.
Wave-Induced Sediment Resuspension and Mixing in Shallow Waters

A field and modeling study on the resuspension and vertical mixing of sediments in Tampa Bay, a large shallow estuary, and Lake Okeechobee, a large shallow lake in Florida, U.S.A. has been studied. The study was aimed to obtain a quantitative understanding of the fundamental processes controlling resuspension and vertical mixing of sediments in the water column and to develop models for simulating resuspension and mixing of sediments in shallow waters. For the field study, field data (including wind, wave, currents, suspended sediments and water quality parameters) were collected from Tampa Bay and Lake Okeechobee during several episodic events. These data were then used for the development of a onedimensional water column model of hydrodynamics, sediment dynamics and water quality dynamics. Results of the study indicate that during episodic events, bottom stresses induced by the wind waves are very effective in causing significant resuspension of sediments and nutrients from the bottom of shallow estuaries and lakes. Vertical turbulent mixing due to wind-driven and tidal currents, however, are more effective in distributing suspended sediments through the water column.
A Property of Legendre Polynomials

Remark I: The Legendre polynomials are the spherical functions for the symmetric space SO(3)/SO(2). A property analogous to that stated in the above theorem holds for other symmetric spaces. In this fashion we get also new properties for Gegenbauer polynomials, Bessel, and Legendre functions. The methods of proof presented in this note extend to these cases. Remark II: The case of Euclidean symmetric spaces can be easily handled once we have the property analogous to (2) for those of compact type. Remark III: If r and s are even and n is odd, (2) cannot hold close to 0 = r. But this is the only case in which the validity of (2) cannot be extended to the whole interval [0, 7r]. This is also the situation in all the cases SO(2p + 1)/ SO(2p). In the cases SO(2p)/SO(2p-1) the property analogous to (2) holds in [0, r] and thus it truly becomes an inequality for spherical functions. The latter is also the case for Euclidean and noncompact type of symmetric spaces. Proof of the Theorem: Assume 1 5, a restriction that will prove to be quite useful. Let f(x) stand for cos(x1/2). If one rewrites (1) as
The time-dependence of post-irradiation interface trap build-up in deuterium-annealed oxides (n-MOSFET)

The time-dependent creation of interface traps N/sub it/, in irradiated MOS devices has been studied in oxides which were annealed in either deuterium or hydrogen. It is found that the rate of N/sub it/, buildup is significantly retarded in the deuterium-annealed oxides. It is noted that this result demonstrates conclusively that hydrogen must be involved in the N/sub it/, creation process. >
Performance of ultraviolet photocatalytic oxidation for indoor air cleaning applications.

UNLABELLED: Ultraviolet photocatalytic oxidation (UVPCO) systems for removal of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from air are being considered for use in office buildings. Here, we report an experimental evaluation of a UVPCO device with tungsten oxide modified titanium dioxide (TiO2) as the photocatalyst. The device was challenged with complex VOC mixtures. One mixture contained 27 VOCs characteristic of office buildings and another comprised 10 VOCs emitted by cleaning products, in both cases at realistic concentrations (low ppb range). VOC conversion efficiencies varied widely, usually exceeded 20%, and were as high as approximately 80% at about 0.03 s residence time. Conversion efficiency generally diminished with increased airflow rate, and followed the order: alcohols and glycol ethers > aldehydes, ketones, and terpene hydrocarbons > aromatic and alkane hydrocarbons > halogenated aliphatic hydrocarbons. Conversion efficiencies correlated with the Henry's law constant more closely than with other physicochemical parameters. An empirical model based on the Henry's law constant and the gas-phase reaction rate with hydroxyl radical provided reasonable estimates of pseudo-first order photocatalytic reaction rates. Formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, acetone, formic acid and acetic acid were produced by the device due to incomplete mineralization of common VOCs. Formaldehyde outlet/inlet concentration ratios were in the range 1.9-7.2. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: Implementation of air cleaning technologies for both VOCs and particles in office buildings may improve indoor air quality, or enable indoor air quality levels to be maintained with reduced outdoor air supply and concomitant energy savings. One promising air cleaning technology is ultraviolet photocatalytic oxidation (UVPCO) air cleaning. For the prototype device evaluated here with realistic mixtures of VOCs, conversion efficiencies typically exceeded the minimum required to counteract predicted VOC concentration increases from a 50% reduction in ventilation. However, the device resulted in the net generation of formaldehyde and acetaldehyde from the partial oxidation of ubiquitous VOCs. Further development of the technology is needed to eliminate these hazardous air pollutants before such a UVPCO device can be deployed in buildings.
Bloody foreigners! Overseas equity on the London Stock Exchange, 1869–1929

This article presents data on quantity, capital gains, dividend yields, and total returns of domestic and overseas equities listed on the London Stock Exchange during 1869–1929. Indices are presented for Africa, Asia, Australia (including New Zealand), Europe, Latin America, and North America (as well as for the UK), and for the finance, transportation, raw materials, and utilities sectors in each region. Returns and volatility were typically highest in emerging regions and the raw materials sector. Dividend yields were similar across regions and differences in total returns were due largely to disparities in capital gains. Contingent liability was most extensively employed where leverage was high and the physical assets were either meagre or inaccessible to creditors.
Vigilance: Taxonomy And Utility

This paper examines the current status of a taxonomy of vigilance that integrates several critical aspects of performance as seen in the laboratory. Among these are (1) intertask and intermodal relations, (2) perceptual and response bias determinants of the vigilance decrement and (3) the impact of resource demands. The pertinence of laboratory studies of vigilance to operational situations and to other areas of psychological inquiry is also discussed.
Institutional Isomorphism and Informal Social Control: Evidence from a Community Mediation Center

Widespread satisfaction among users of community mediation, but low voluntary usage, provides a context within which institutional isomorphism between state and informal social control organizations can be empirically investigated. Data drawn from a triangulated ethnography of a single community mediation center suggest that community mediation centers come to be isomorphic with more established governmental social control agencies in order to manage resource uncertainties and assure organizational survival. These findings are relevant to an understanding of linkages between community mediation centers and the state, the struggle for autonomy from the state by mediation practitioners, institutional constraints on community mediation centers generating voluntary users, tensions between staff members' and volunteers'framing of organizational premises and practices, and community mediation's limitations as a vanguard of private alternatives to legal dispute settlement.
Numerical investigation of three-dimensionally evolving jets under helical perturbations

We study the three-dimensional evolution of a nominally axisymmetric jet subject to helical perturbations. Our approach is a computational one, employing an inviscid vortex filament technique to gain insight into the vorticity dynamics of jets dominated by helical vortices. For the case of a helical perturbation only, the streamwise vorticity forming in the braid is of the same sign everywhere, with the vortex helix representing streamwise vorticity of opposite sign. Owing to the helical symmetry, concentrated structures do not form in the braid. By introducing an additional periodic perturbation in the azimuthal direction, the helical symmetry is broken and we observe the emergence of concentrated streamwise braid vortices all of the same sign, in contrast to the counter-rotating braid vortices of ring-dominated jets. A Kelvin—Helmholtz-like instability of the braid vorticity layer plays a significant role in their generation. We furthermore find that the initial evolution of the braid vorticity is strongly dependent upon the ratio between the helical and azimuthal perturbation amplitudes. Smaller azimuthal perturbation amplitudes slow down the concentration process of the braid vorticity. However, we find that the long-time strength of the streamwise braid vortices should not depend on the amplitudes of the streamwise and azimuthal perturbation waves, but rather on their wavenumbers. The evolution of the helical vortex varies with the ratio between jet radius R and shear-layer momentum thickness θ. While for a jet with R/θ = 22.6 and azimuthal wavenumber five, the emerging helix continuously rotates and thereby avoids instability, we observe in a jet with R/θ = 11.3 the reduction of this rotation and the near exponential growth of waves on the helical vortex, characteristic of vortex helix instability.
Computational scheme for passivity based control of mechanical manipulators

A computational scheme is presented for the implementation of passivity-based controllers for serial and graph structured manipulators. A special method of incorporating feedback improves the computational efficiency by allowing the designer to base the control on the passivity properties of the entire manipulator. Sufficient conditions are presented to guarantee trajectory tracking of the system. Example controllers and experimental results are presented. >
Treatability of Alternative Fuel Oxygenates Using Advanced Oxidation, Air Stripping, and Carbon Adsorption

Methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) is a gasoline oxygenate that has become a significant threat to groundwater supplies across the United States. Due to its physiochemical properties it has proven difficult and costly to remove from contaminated sites. This study was conducted to determine whether the alternative oxygenates (AO)—diisopropyl ether (DIPE), ethyltert-butyl ether (ETBE), tert-amyl methyl ether (TAME), tert-butyl alcohol (TBA), and ethanol (EtOH)—present a more efficient and less costly option from a remediation standpoint. Air stripping, carbon adsorption, and ultraviolet/ H2 O2 and O3 ∕ H2 O2 advanced oxidation processes were examined at pilot scale to develop design parameters from which technical and economic comparisons were made for each alternative oxygenate versus MTBE. The experimental results showed that the ether AOs—DIPE, TAME, and ETBE—were each more efficiently and more economically treated than MTBE. The alternative alcohol oxygenates—TBA and EtOH—were less efficiently and less econ...
Offshore blooms of the red tide dinoflagellate, Alexandrium sp., in the Gulf of Maine

Paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) occurs nearly every year in the Gulf of Maine. In a study of dynamics of the causative organism, the toxic dinoflagellate Alexandrium sp., we conducted three surveys of the coastal and oshore waters of Gulf of Maine during the summer of 1998, sampling more than 200 stations during each cruise in June, July and August. Hydrographic data were collected and concentrations of phytoplankton chlorophyll, inorganic nutrients and densities of Alexandrium cells were measured in discrete water samples. The distributions of Alexandrium at the surface and in subsurface waters displayed maximum cell densities in the oshore waters of the Gulf on all three cruises. Highest cell densities in surface waters (ca. 5.510 3 cellsl ˇ1 ) were observed in two broad patches: one in the Bay of Fundy and another in shelf and oshore waters of the central and eastern Gulf of Maine in association with the Eastern Maine Coastal Current. Highest subsurface densities of cells appeared to be associated with the frontal edges beyond the cold surface waters associated with the Eastern Maine Coastal Current. As the summer progressed, the highest surface densities of Alexandrium receded toward the eastern portions of the Gulf and the Bay of Fundy. We suggest that the oshore distributions of relatively high densities of Alexandrium are naturally occurring and can be related to inorganic nutrient fluxes, and to the ambient light field as it varies seasonally and vertically. Locations of high cell densities were described and interpreted using a nondimensional light-nutrient parameter, computed as the ratio of the depth of the 10% surface irradiance to the depth of 4mMNO3 concentration. Possible mechanisms responsible for periodic development of PSP outbreaks in nearshore shellfish beds are discussed. # 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
Performance enhancement in phased logic circuits using automatic slack-matching buffer insertion

A technique for automatic insertion of slack matching buffers for performance enhancement in the asynchronous design style known as Phased Logic (PL) is described. A description of how slack matching buffers can offer throughput increases in PL circuitry is presented and is supported through the use of a simulation tool developed for modeling the timing behavior of PL circuits. A description of the architecture of the simulator and its implementation is also discussed. Based on the analysis of results provided by the simulator and the topological characteristics of a PL circuit, an algorithm for automatic slack matching buffer placement is devised. Examples of the buffer insertion technique are given and the effectiveness of the technique is evaluated through a set of experimental results.
DEMETER DNA Glycosylase Establishes MEDEA Polycomb Gene Self-Imprinting by Allele-Specific Demethylation

MEDEA (MEA) is an Arabidopsis Polycomb group gene that is imprinted in the endosperm. The maternal allele is expressed and the paternal allele is silent. MEA is controlled by DEMETER (DME), a DNA glycosylase required to activate MEA expression, and METHYLTRANSFERASE I (MET1), which maintains CG methylation at the MEA locus. Here we show that DME is responsible for endosperm maternal-allele-specific hypomethylation at the MEA gene. DME can excise 5-methylcytosine in vitro and when expressed in E. coli. Abasic sites opposite 5-methylcytosine inhibit DME activity and might prevent DME from generating double-stranded DNA breaks. Unexpectedly, paternal-allele silencing is not controlled by DNA methylation. Rather, Polycomb group proteins that are expressed from the maternal genome, including MEA, control paternal MEA silencing. Thus, DME establishes MEA imprinting by removing 5-methylcytosine to activate the maternal allele. MEA imprinting is subsequently maintained in the endosperm by maternal MEA silencing the paternal allele.
Effect of Sensitivity Training on Tolerance For Dissonance

The effect of sensitivity training on an individual's ability to tolerate attitude-discrepant behavior was explored. A group of college seniors (Group i, N = 45) used a traditional case discussion method throughout a semester course in leadership. A second group (Group 2, N 39) participated in sensitivity training half the semester before discussing cases. During the fourteenth week of the semester each S was asked to evaluate the leadership behavior described in an assigned case. Each S then was asked to write an essay advocating a position contrary to his initial judgment. Each S was subsequently asked to reevaluate the appropriateness of the leadership behavior described in the case. Ss in Group 1 changed their initial assessment to favor the advocacy position (p < .ooi) Group 2 Ss did not significantly alter their judgment. The study was later replicated with a comparison group (Group 3, N = 16) taught by the experimental group instructor using the teaching method employed in the original control grou...
Toxoplasma gondii Development of Its Replicative Niche: in Its Host Cell and Beyond

ABSTRACT Intracellular pathogens can replicate efficiently only after they manipulate and modify their host cells to create an environment conducive to replication. While diverse cellular pathways are targeted by different pathogens, metabolism, membrane and cytoskeletal architecture formation, and cell death are the three primary cellular processes that are modified by infections. Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular protozoan that infects ∼30% of the world9s population and causes severe and life-threatening disease in developing fetuses, in immune-comprised patients, and in certain otherwise healthy individuals who are primarily found in South America. The high prevalence of Toxoplasma in humans is in large part a result of its ability to modulate these three host cell processes. Here, we highlight recent work defining the mechanisms by which Toxoplasma interacts with these processes. In addition, we hypothesize why some processes are modified not only in the infected host cell but also in neighboring uninfected cells.
Identification of gene interactions associated with disease from gene expression data using synergy networks

Analysis of microarray data has been used for the inference of gene-gene interactions. If, however, the aim is the discovery of disease-related biological mechanisms, then the criterion for defining such interactions must be specifically linked to disease. Here we present a computational methodology that jointly analyzes two sets of microarray data, one in the presence and one in the absence of a disease, identifying gene pairs whose correlation with disease is due to cooperative, rather than independent, contributions of genes, using the recently developed information theoretic measure of synergy. High levels of synergy in gene pairs indicates possible membership of the two genes in a shared pathway and leads to a graphical representation of inferred gene-gene interactions associated with disease, in the form of a "synergy network." We apply this technique on a set of publicly available prostate cancer expression data and successfully validate our results, confirming that they cannot be due to pure chance and providing a biological explanation for gene pairs with exceptionally high synergy. Thus, synergy networks provide a computational methodology helpful for deriving "disease interactomes" from biological data. When coupled with additional biological knowledge, they can also be helpful for deciphering biological mechanisms responsible for disease.
Seasonal abundance of resident parasitoids and predatory flies and corresponding soybean aphid densities, with comments on classical biological control of soybean aphid in the Midwest.

Abstract Seasonal abundance of resident parasitoids and predatory flies, and corresponding soybean aphid, Aphis glycines Matsumura (Hemiptera: Aphididae), densities were assessed in soybean fields from 2003 to 2006 at two locations in lower Michigan. Six parasitoid and nine predatory fly species were detected in 4 yr by using potted plants infested with soybean aphid placed in soybean fields. The parasitoid Lysiphlebus testaceipes Cresson (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) and the predatory flies Aphidoletes aphidimyza Rondani (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae), and Allograpta obliqua Say (Diptera: Syrphidae) were most numerous. Generally, L. testaceipes was more abundant late in the soybean growing season, but it also occurred during soybean vegetative growth; A. obliqua was more abundant during vegetative growth; and A. aphidimyza was common throughout the season. Soybean plants were visually inspected to estimate densities of soybean aphid, mummified aphids, and immature predatory flies. From 2003 to 2006, parasitism rat...
Form and Fashion: A Historical View

Nearly all observers of the contemporary architectural scene are dismayed by the proliferation of fashions, substyles and mannerisms; many of them believe that a working theory of modern architecture must be constructed and applied if the process is to be halted and order restored. In a paper read at the California Council AIA meeting at Coronado last October, Mr. Pickens proposes that such a theory must be based upon a proper understanding of the architectural past—and, if it is to be useful in America, of the American architectural past.
A dynamic programming approach to integrated assembly planning and supplier assignment with lead time constraints

As manufacturers face fierce competition in the global market, responsiveness has become an important competitiveness factor in addition to quality and cost. One essential responsiveness strategy is to reduce product development and lead times by integrating assembly planning with supplier assignment. This paper addresses the problem of integrated assembly and supply chain design under lead-time constraints by formulating and solving an optimisation problem with minimal total supply chain costs. This new time-constrained joint optimisation problem belongs to an NP-hard resource-constrained scheduling problem. To model this problem effectively, we develop a novel Hyper AND/OR graph and apply it for integrating assembly and supply chain decisions. We also develop a dynamic programming model and associated algorithm in order to solve the integrated optimisation problem with pseudo-polynomial time complexity in practice. Numerical case studies validate that the methods developed can solve the integrated decis...
Women undergoing aortic surgery are at higher risk for unplanned readmissions compared with men especially when discharged home

Objective Women undergoing vascular surgery have higher morbidity and mortality. Our study explores gender-based differences in patient-centered outcomes such as readmission, length of stay (LOS), and discharge destination (home vs nonhome facility) in aortic aneurysm surgery. Methods Patients were identified from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Project database (2011-2013) undergoing abdominal, thoracic, and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms (N = 17,763), who were discharged and survived their index hospitalization. The primary outcome was unplanned readmission, and secondary outcomes were discharge to a nonhome facility, LOS, and reasons for unplanned readmission. Univariate, multivariate, and stratified analyses based on gender and discharge destination were used. Results Overall, 1541 patients (8.7%) experienced an unplanned readmission, with a significantly higher risk in women vs men (10.8% vs 8%; P P P = .8], and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm [14.8% vs 10%; P = .051]). The higher odds of readmission in women compared with men persisted in multivariate analysis after controlling for covariates (odds ratio [OR], 1.21; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.05-1.4). Similarly, the rate of discharge to a nonhome facility was nearly double in women compared with men (20.6% vs 10.7%; P Conclusions Gender disparity exists in the risk of unplanned readmission among aortic aneurysm surgery patients. Women who were discharged home have a higher likelihood of unplanned readmission despite longer LOS than men. These data suggest that further study into the discharge planning processes, social factors, and use of rehabilitation services is needed for women undergoing aortic procedures to decrease readmissions.
Femtosecond Dephasing Measurements Using Transient Induced Gratings

Transient four-wave mixing techniques have been developed in the past several years for the investigation of ultrafast deohasina of electronic transitions in condensed matter [1,2]. These experiments involve self-diffraction of two noncollinear pulses from an optically induced absorption grating. We have recently reported an improved scheme utilizing three separate input pulses [3]. Similar three pulse grating experiments [4] can be used to study processes such as spatial diffusion, orientational relaxation and excited state relaxation; but the applicability to dephasing studies had not been previously recognized. Compared to the two pulse scattering, our three pulse experiment provides several important advantages, including resolution below the pulsewidth, clear demarcation between homogeneous and inhomogeneous broadening, and separation of energy relaxation (T1) effects from the phase relaxation (T2) effects.
Complementary D flip-flops based on inkjet printed single-walled carbon nanotubes and zinc tin oxide

We report clocked sequential complementary circuits that operate at 5 V in which the active semiconductors are deposited by inkjet printing. The p-channel thin-film transistors (TFTs) employ a network of predominantly semiconducting (>98%) single-walled carbon nanotubes and the n-channel TFTs employ amorphous zinc tin oxide formed from a printed precursor solution. The gate insulator material in both cases is zirconium oxide, deposited from solution. Edge triggered D flip-flops operate at clock speeds of 2.5 kHz. Our results suggest that this materials combination is promising for use in printed electronics.
Model refinement and system health monitoring using data from multiple static loads and vibration tests

In this paper, algorithmic approaches to enhance damage detection and model refinement capability are developed for cases in which experimental data from multiple tests are available. The tests may include both multiple vibration tests and multiple static load tests. The use of multi-test measurements are shown to be one method to address a part of the incomplete measurement problem common to system health monitoring and model refinement; namely the mismatch in the number of measured vibration modes in comparison to the number of modes included in the analytical finite element model. Key points made in the development will be highlighted using numerical "experiments".
The diffusion of cesium, strontium, and europium in silicon carbide

Abstract A novel multi-layer diffusion couple was used to isolate the diffusion of strontium, europium and cesium in SiC without introducing radiation damage to SiC and at concentrations below the solubility limit for the fission products in SiC. Diffusion occurred by both bulk and grain boundary pathways for all three fission products between 900 ∘ C and 1 , 300 ∘ C. Cesium was the fastest diffuser below 1 , 100 ∘ C and the slowest above this temperature. Strontium and europium diffusion tracked very closely as a function of temperature for both bulk and grain boundary diffusion. Migration energies ranged from 1.0 eV to 5.7 eV for bulk diffusion and between 2.2 eV and 4.7 eV for grain boundary diffusion. These constitute the first measurements of diffusion of cesium, europium, and strontium in silicon carbide, and the magnitude of the cesium diffusion coefficient supports the premise that high quality TRISO fuel should have minimal cesium release.
Posttraumatic stress symptoms and body mass index among World Trade Center disaster-exposed smokers: A preliminary examination of the role of anxiety sensitivity

Among individuals exposed to the World Trade Center (WTC) disaster on September 11, 2001, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and symptoms are both common and associated with increased cigarette smoking and body mass. However, there is little information on the specific processes underlying the relationship of PTSD symptoms with body mass. The current study is an initial exploratory test of anxiety sensitivity, the fear of internal bodily sensations, as a possible mechanism linking PTSD symptom severity and body mass index (BMI). Participants were 147 adult daily smokers (34.0% female) exposed to the WTC disaster (via rescue/recovery work or direct witness). The direct and indirect associations between PTSD symptom severity and BMI via anxiety sensitivity (total score and subscales of physical, cognitive, and social concerns) were examined. PTSD symptom severity was related to BMI indirectly via anxiety sensitivity; this effect was specific to physical concerns about the meaning of bodily sensations. Interventions focusing on anxiety sensitivity reduction (specifically addressing physical concerns about bodily sensations) may be useful in addressing elevated BMI among trauma-exposed persons.
Continuous Low Level Feed Administration of Pyrantel Tartrate in Lambs: I. Prophylaxis of Experimental T. colubriformis infections

SUMMARY In two experiments, worm-free lambs were given 2000 or 3000 T. colubriformis larvae daily for 20 days and medicated in the food for 7 weeks, with daily doses of pyrantel tartrate varying from 2•5 to 10 mg./kg. Faecal egg counts during the experiments and worm burdens at post-mortem examination were reduced by 97–100 per cent compared with controls in groups receiving 3 mg./kg. and higher.
Comparison of phenotypic and genetic clone delineation in quaking aspen, Populus tremuloides

Clonal delineation at nuclear microsatellites and phenotypic traits showed high correspondence and revealed an important role of both sexual and clonal reproduction for stand genetic structure. Quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx.) grows throughout the northern and central portions of North America. Reproduction occurs both sexually via seeds and clonally from root suckers. Clonal delineation using morphological/phenological traits, and more recently, highly variable nuclear microsatellites have shown considerable variation in the size of clonal assemblies, and the relative importance of sexual versus clonal reproduction across the species range. In order to provide reliable estimates of genet size (N/G; ramets per sampled genet) and genotypic diversity (G/N; genets/ramets), and to compare genetic and phenotypic clone delineation, we characterized 181 sampled stems (ramets) at seven nuclear microsatellites, and morphological and phenological traits from six clones (genet size ≥11). Genotypic diversity was moderate (G/N = 0.18) and within the range reported in other studies across North America. Multivariate statistics revealed a high correspondence between genetic and phenotypic clone delineation, both with and without predefined genetic groups (94.2 %, 81.7 %). Moderate average genet size (5.6 ramets per genet) and the occurrence of genetically distinct single-ramet genets surrounded by larger genets suggested intermediate levels of sexual reproduction contributing to the genetic structure of this stand. Significant differences among genets were found for phenological and morphological traits such as bark thickness and leaf shape. However, most clones showed no significant differences in diameter growth which was likely caused by poor drainage in this high clay soil that inhibited the expression of genetic differences in growth.
Vulvar pruritus secondary to hemochromatosis

Background: While acute pruritus is often attributable to yeast vulvovaginitis, chronic pruritus can present as the result different conditions including manifestation of a systemic disorder. Case: A 27-year-old woman presented with a 3 year history of vulvar pruritus, burning, and dyspareunia consistent with contact dermatitis. She failed to improve despite treatment prompting evaluation for an underlying systemic disorder, such as iron deficiency anemia. Interestingly, elevated iron levels were identified leading to the diagnosis of hemochromatosis. Following treatment and near normalization of her serum iron levels, the patient’s vulvar symptoms improved. Conclusion: Vulvar pruritus is a symptom and not a disease. Thus it is important to search for the cause keeping in mind that dermatologic complaints such as pruritus can be the first manifestation of a systemic process.
The Sulfur Cycles

The scientists' knowledge about details of the sulfur transfer is still limited. The sulfur concentrations in the air are so small that new, analytical methods had to be developed before accurate concentration measurements and rate transfer measurements became possible. In the ocean, sulfur concentrations are equally small and methods have yet to be improved before changes in the concentrations of intermediates can be tracked. In the sediment, problems are caused by inhomogeneity of strata and deposits, which exhibit erratic changes in total sulfur content and in the ratio of the various sulfur forms. Some steps of the sulfur cycle involve geological time periods, which are far beyond the meaningful extrapolation range of laboratory experiments. The residence time of sulfate in the ocean, for example, is believed to be about 40 million years; that of pyrite in sedimentary rocks is over 250 million years. The estimated values of the different steps of the global sulfur cycle vary considerably from author to author. The geochemical data of this type is based on difficult-to-test assumptions about global processes, which are obtained by computing the sum of a variety of different regional and local sulfur cycles, comparing processes in different areas, weighing the relative importance of different models, and adding, that is, extrapolating, data. Thus, only few steps in the sulfur cycle can be directly determined; the remaining links are deduced by balancing the cycle.
An 8-element 2–16 GHz phased array receiver with reconfigurable number of beams in SiGe BiCMOS

This paper presents an 8-element 2–16 GHz phased array receiver chip in SiGe BiCMOS with reconfigurable number of beams. An 8-input single-output, or a 4-input dual-output, or a 2-input 4-output beams can be synthesized in this chip. Additionally, two digital beamforming channels can also be used in this chip. The measured 2-input 4-output beam mode results in a gain of 10–11.5 dB at 2–16 GHz with excellent gain flatness. The measured noise figure and input referred P1dB is 11.5–12 dB and ∼ −15±1 dBm respectively, at 2–14 GHz. The wideband channel has a 5+3 bit phase shifter control and a 3-bit VGA ensuring a 5-bit phase response with 8 dB gain control over the entire band. The chip consumes 265 mW/channel from a 2.5 V supply.
Understanding Air-Sea Coupling Processes and Coupled Model Predictions Using GOTEX Measurements and COAMPS/NCOM

Abstract : The objectives of this project are: (1) to explore and test new methods for turbulence flux analyses over inhomogeneous surfaces and generalize the bulk formula; (2) to understand current coupled COAMPS/NCOM model behavior and identify error sources in the coupled model using the improved flux calculations; and (3) to obtain further in-depth understanding of the coupled processes and improve physical parameterizations of the coupled model.
The element of uncertainty

Molecular hydrogen is a deceptively complex system, especially at high pressures. New theoretical studies need to take into account the quantum character of the protons and electrons making up the system in order to reproduce the experimental behaviour of dense hydrogen.
Computer science + education: an assessment of CS professional development

This paper describes the results of a survey of high school teachers who participated in computer science teacher professional development (CSPD) workshops. The impact of CSPD on the teachers and their students is identified. The results of this survey show that discrete CSPD experiences are not sufficient to provide the number of CS teachers needed; rather, teacher preparation programs, particularly in mathematics, should include a computer science minor, ensuring a steady stream of well-qualified computer science educators, taught by computer science college and university faculty.
Duality in Vector Spaces

The idea of duality occurs in many parts of mathematics. Its earliest appearance (some 125 years ago) was in projective geometry where it permitted to halve the number of theorems to be proved. It also played a most important role in analysis, for example in Banach spaces. In topology, beginning with Poincare its role has been no less important.
A simple assay for toxic chemicals using a bacterial indicator

A simple, inexpensive and rapid technique to measure toxicity has been developed using Rhizobium meliloti as the indicator organism and its rapid reduction of the tetrazolium dye MTT (3-[4,5-dimethyl-thiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide). Toxic chemicals inhibited the reduction in this bacterium but not in others. Nearly 50 organic chemicals and 14 minerals were tested: inhibition was proportional to the concentration of the toxic chemical. The mechanism to account for both the reduction of the dye and the inhibition of reduction is uncertain. This method provides a simple and inexpensive way to determine the critical concentration of toxic compounds. The assay provides values comparable to those provided by the fat head minnow (Pimephales promelas). Results are also comparable to those obtained with the Microtox and Polytox assays, two commercial assays that use bacteria as indicator organisms.
Preliminary safety data from a randomized multicenter phase Ib/II study of neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy (CRT) alone or in combination with pembrolizumab in patients with resectable or borderline resectable pancreatic cancer.

4125Background: Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a challenging target for immunotherapy.Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) do not reach the PC cells in significant numbers due to the presence of stroma...
Lingering Questions: Postulating the Future of the Out LGBT Athlete in Modern Media

This concluding chapter identifies the key opportunities and threats present in the modern mediated LGBT athlete. It outlines three primary trends (coming out earlier in life, out athlete cohorts, and problematic media coverage) that permeate most current issues of out/outed athletes. The chapter then creates a warrant for LGBT media literacy before concluding by articulating robust potential avenues for scholarly investigations triangulating issues of sport, media, and LGBT issues.
Innatist and Interactionist Learning Approaches of Elementary School Students’ Language Acquisition

Language acquisition starts in childhood. Oral language is the initial language to learn. Within it, lies norms to make language functional. Children start to function the language through communication. Communication provides an identity that shapes them into different settings. As language acquisition is unique and individual, experts have been studying to interpret it. There are at least three theorists of language acquisition. They are a behaviorist, innatist, and interactionist. Experts are debating on which theory provides the most appropriate approaches for the students. The discussion will compare innatist and interactionist approaches to the students’ first and second language acquisition. It describes how the educational program would be like when using innatist and interactionist learning approaches. There are also critiques on innatist and interactionist approaches. A suggestion is provided to strategically integrate both approaches to understand language acquisition process in both first and second language students.