cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Closed-Loop Supply Chains: A Critical Review, and Future Research†

In this article, I present a review and tutorial of the literature on closed-loop supply chains, which are supply chains where, in addition to typical forward flows, there are reverse flows of used products (postconsumer use) back to manufacturers. Examples include supply chains with consumer returns, leasing options, and end-of-use returns with remanufacturing. I classify the literature in terms of strategic, tactical, and operational issues, but I focus on strategic issues (such as when should an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) remanufacture, response to take-back legislation, and network design, among others) and tactical issues (used product acquisition and disposition decisions). The article is written in the form of a tutorial, where for each topic I present a base model with underlying assumptions and results, comment on extensions, and conclude with my view on needed research areas.
Titration of the recombinant bovine somatotropin dosage that maximizes the anabolic response in feedlot steers.

The objective of this study was to determine the minimum dosage of recombinant bovine somatotropin (bST) required to elicit maximum depression in plasma urea nitrogen (PUN), an indicator of anabolic activity. Twenty-four steers (389 kg) were blocked by weight into six pens. Six steers were placed on each of the following bST doses: 0, 8, 16 and 32 mg bST/d. Treatments were administered once daily via subcutaneous injections for 21 d. Steers were weighed and jugular blood samples were taken on d 0, 1, 4, 7, 10, 13, 16 and 21 at 1400, approximately 4 h after feeding. Delta PUN (DPUN) was calculated as PUN - d 0 PUN. There was no dose x time interaction (P = .94) in DPUN. Maximum reduction in DPUN with bST occurred by d 7 (P less than .05). Linear (P less than .01) and quadratic (P less than .05) orthogonal contrasts indicated that DPUN depression increased with bST administration, with maximal reduction calculated to occur with 23 mg (59 micrograms/kg) bST/d. There was no further decrease in DPUN with 32 than with 16 mg bST, indicating that the minimum daily dose is at least 16 mg but no more than 23 mg. A similar dose response was observed in daily gain. Results from this study indicate that bST reduced PUN in a dose-dependent manner and that 41 to 64 micrograms/kg body weight maximized the anabolic effect of bST in growing steers.
RELATIVISTIC ELECTRON‐BEAM EXCITATION OF GAS LASERS*

The experimental apparatus used to study the xenon vuv laser and the HF chemical laser is described. Also presented are some experimental results, including measurements of the net-gain cross section, the laser output spectrum, and the effect of diluent cooling. (MOW)
Section I. Cleaned surfaces of germanium and silicon: Energy level diagrams for germanium and silicon surfaces

Abstract The concept of localized atomic orbitals has been used to show how the structure and type of binding of surface atoms to the crystal may affect the energy level diagram of the surface region. In particular it has been shown in a qualitative way that the s or p character of the non- bonding orbitals of the surface atoms may determine the energy of the surface state bands and the type of space charge region at cleaned germanium and silicon surfaces. The transport data of the p -type space charge region of the cleaned germanium have been used to determine the parameters. N o , the density of states per cm 2 eV, and ( E f — E o ), the degree of degeneracy of a two-dimensional surface state band. Using the value of these parameters obtained from the transport data and the simple model of a two-dimensional surface state band, it has been shown that the linear temperature dependence of the thermionic emission data of Allen on silicon may be predicted to within a factor of 2 or 3.
Functional Aspects of Gait in Essential Tremor: A Comparison with Age-Matched Parkinson’s Disease Cases, Dystonia Cases, and Controls

Background : An understanding of the functional aspects of gait and balance has wide ramifications. Individuals with balance disorders often restrict physical activity, travel, and social commitments to avoid falling, and loss of balance confidence, itself, is a source of disability. We studied the functional aspects of gait in patients with essential tremor (ET), placing their findings within the context of two other neurological disorders (Parkinson’s disease [PD] and dystonia) and comparing them with age‐matched controls. Methods : We administered the six‐item Activities of Balance Confidence (ABC‐6) Scale and collected data on number of falls and near‐falls, and use of walking aids in 422 participants (126 ET, 77 PD, 46 dystonia, 173 controls). Results : Balance confidence was lowest in PD, intermediate in ET, and relatively preserved in dystonia compared with controls. This ordering reoccurred for each of the six ABC‐6 items. The number of near‐falls and falls followed a similar ordering. Use of canes, walkers, and wheelchairs was elevated in ET and even greater in PD. Several measures of balance confidence (ABC‐6 items 1, 4, 5, and 6) were lower in torticollis cases than in those with blepharospasm, although the two groups did not differ with respect to falls or use of walking aids. Discussion : Lower balance confidence, increased falls, and greater need for walking aids are variably features of a range of movement disorder patients compared to age‐matched controls. While most marked among PD patients, these issues affected ET patients as well and, to a small degree, some patients with dystonia.
A reverse-phase protein microarray-based screen identifies host signaling dynamics upon Burkholderia spp. infection

Burkholderia is a diverse genus of gram-negative bacteria that causes high mortality rate in humans, equines and cattle. The lack of effective therapeutic treatments poses serious public health threats. Developing insights toward host-Burkholderia spp. interaction is critical for understanding the pathogenesis of infection as well as identifying therapeutic targets for drug development. Reverse-phase protein microarray technology was previously proven to identify and characterize novel biomarkers and molecular signatures associated with infectious disease and cancer. In the present study, this technology was utilized to interrogate changes in host protein expression and phosphorylation events in macrophages infected with a collection of geographically diverse strains of Burkholderia spp. The expression or phosphorylation state of 25 proteins was altered during Burkholderia spp. infections of which eight proteins were selected for further characterization by immunoblotting. Increased phosphorylation of AMPK-α1, Src, and GSK3β suggested the importance of their roles in regulating Burkholderia spp. mediated innate immune response. Modulating the inflammatory response by perturbing their activities may provide therapeutic routes for future treatments.
Quantification of dopamine transporter density with [18F]FECNT PET in healthy humans

Introduction Fluorine-18 labeled 2β-carbomethoxy-3β-(4-chlorophenyl)-8-(2-fluoroethyl)nortropane ([18 F]FECNT) binds reversibly to the dopamine transporter (DAT) with high selectivity. [18 F]FECNT has been used extensively in the quantification of DAT occupancy in non-human primate brain and can distinguish between Parkinson's and healthy controls in humans. The purpose of this work was to develop a compartment model to characterize the kinetics of [18 F]FECNT for quantification of DAT density in healthy human brain.
Abstract 4205: Simultaneous high resolution fluorescence imaging of cellular DNA and RNA enabled by complex oligonucleotide libraries in various sample types.

Proceedings: AACR 104th Annual Meeting 2013; Apr 6-10, 2013; Washington, DC Fluorescence in situ Hybridization (FISH) is a powerful technique for determining the structure, organization, and localization of specific nucleic acid sequences within individual cells. However, the use of FISH has often been dependent upon access to cloned template DNA for the generation of probes, which can be difficult if clones for specific regions are unavailable, or if the genomic region of interest contains repetitive and/or other problematic sequences. We have leveraged our ability to chemically synthesize DNA in massively parallel reactions to produce libraries of oligonucleotides up to 200 bases in length that can be used for the generation of FISH probes. The sequences of the oligonucleotides in these libraries are selected in silico using empirically determined criteria so as to avoid repetitive elements or regions homologous to other non-targeted loci. Using oligonucleotide library-derived FISH probes on DNA, human genomic regions as small as 1.8 kb and as large as whole chromosomes can be visualized in both metaphase and interphase cells using the same simple assay protocol. Because of the inherent flexibility in our probe design methods, we readily visualized regions rich in repeats and/or GC content. We have also used these oligonucleotide library-derived FISH probes to detect the localization of a variety of both coding and non-coding RNAs in fixed cells, using both conventional fluorescence and structured illumination microscopy. Simultaneous hybridization of FISH probes labeled with different fluorophores enables visualization of multiple sequences at once. Using probes designed specifically to transcribed vs. non-transcribed regions, we have been able to simultaneously detect DNA and RNA from the same locus in the same FISH assay. We have successfully used this technique in several types of fixed tissue culture cells as well as in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue sections. Our oligo FISH methods are readily compatible with the co-detection of cellular proteins by immunocytochemistry. The ability to generate high performance FISH probes using chemically synthesized oligo libraries that can work flexibly with co-detection of other molecules yields a valuable tool for studies of how localization of specific nucleic acids impacts biological function. Citation Format: Robert A. Ach, Peter Tsang, Alicia Scheffer-Wong, Laurakay Bruhn, Weston Powell, Janine LaSalle, Alice Yamada. Simultaneous high resolution fluorescence imaging of cellular DNA and RNA enabled by complex oligonucleotide libraries in various sample types. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 4205. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-4205
Dielectric loss of poly(vinylacetate) at electric fields of 400 kV/cm

Using quasi-steady-state and time-resolved high-field impedance techniques, the frequency-dependent dielectric permittivity of poly(vinylacetate) has been studied at electric field amplitudes as high as 400 kV/cm. The relative changes of the dielectric loss depend quadratically on the field amplitude and reach about 1 %. The magnitude and frequency-dependence of this non-linear dielectric effect and its time evolution after applying the high field are consistent with energy absorption from the field being at the source of the non-linear behavior. Based upon a phenomenological model of heterogeneous dynamics at isothermal conditions, the observed changes can be explained by locally increased configurational temperatures and the resulting accelerated dynamics.
Context-sensitive synthesis of executable functional models of cyber-physical systems

The high complexity of cross-domain engineering in combination with the pressure for product innovation, higher quality, time-to-market, and budget constraints make it imperative for companies to use integrated engineering methods and tools. Computer engineering tools are mainly focused on a particular domain and therefore it is difficult to combine different tools for system-level analysis. This paper presents a novel approach and tool for integrated cyber-physical systems (CPS) design based on the FBS (Function-Behavior-State) methodology where multi-domain simulation models capturing both the behavioral-structural aspects of a system are automatically generated from its functional description. Our approach focuses on simulation-enabled FBS models using automatic and context - sensitive mappings of standard Functional Basis elementary functions to simulation components described in physical modeling languages (i.e. Modelica). Using a real electromechanical CPS application we demonstrate how our context-sensitive synthesis approach generates industry-quality executable functional models of higher quality than state-of-the-art approaches using manual mapping.
In vitro synthesis of T4 proteins: control of transcription of gene 57.

Abstract In vitro suppression of an amber mutation in RNA prepared from Escherichia coli infected with a mutant in T4 gene 57 proves that a particular band observed on acrylamide gels is the product of gene 57 (P57). The capacity of RNA preparations to direct the synthesis of P57 in vitro has been used to study the regulation of transcription of gene 57. Gene 57 message is absent from RNA made on a T4 DNA template in vitro , and from RNA prepared from cells infected with T4 in the presence of chloramphenicol. It is present in early RNA from cells infected with wild-type T4, a DNA-negative mutant, and a maturation-defective mutant. It is present more abundantly in late RNA in these three infections. These results suggest that gene 57 message is a member of the class termed “postreplicative early” RNA.
Can it ever be better never to have existed at all? Person-based consequentialism and a new repugnant conclusion.

Broome and others have argued that it makes no sense, or at least that it cannot be true, to say that it is better for a given person that he or she exist than not. That argument can be understood to suggest that, likewise, it makes no sense, or at least that it cannot be true, to say that it is worse for a given person that he or she exist than that he or she never have existed at all. This argument is of critical importance to the question of whether consequentialist theory should take a traditional, aggregative form or a less conventional, person-affecting, or person-based, form. I believe that, potentially, the argument represents a far more serious threat to the person-based approach than does, for example, Parfit's two medical programmes example. Parfit's example nicely illustrates the distinction between aggregative and person-based approaches and raises important questions. But the example — though not, I think, by Parfit — is sometimes pressed into service as a full-fledged counterexample against the person-based approach. As such, I argue, the example is not persuasive. In contrast, the Broomeian argument, if correct, is definitive. For that argument relies on certain metaphysical assumptions and various uncontroversial normative claims — and hence nicely avoids putting into play the controversial normative claims that lie at the very heart of the debate. The purpose of the present paper, then, is to evaluate the Broomeian argument. I argue that this potentially definitive challenge to a person-based approach does not in fact succeed.
Structural characterization of the intramolecular interaction between the SH3 and guanylate kinase domains of PSD-95.

Abstract PSD-95/SAP90 is a member of the MAGUK superfamily. In excitatory synapses, PSD-95 clusters receptors and ion channels at specific sites in the postsynaptic membrane and organizes downstream signaling and cytoskeletal molecules. We have determined the crystal structures of the apo and GMP-bound forms to 2.3 and 2.0 A resolutions, respectively, of a fragment containing the SH3, HOOK, and guanylate kinase (GK) domains of PSD-95. We observe an intramolecular interaction between the SH3 and GK domains involving the formation of a β sheet including residues N- and C-terminal to the GK domain. Based on amino acid conservation and mutational data available in the literature, we propose that this intramolecular interaction is a common feature among MAGUK proteins.
FEEDING AND SUBSTRATE PREFERENCE IN FIVE SPECIES OF PHOXOCEPHALID AMPHIPODS FROM CENTRAL CALIFORNIA

ABSTRACT Feeding habits and sediment preferences were examined for five species of phoxocephalid amphipod crustaceans from high-energy sandfats in California. Crop contents indicated that phoxocephalids are predaceous omnivores, consuming a variety of meiofaunal prey as well as detritus. Prey availability, prey size, and predator size were related to the meiofauna consumed. In laboratory preference experiments, different species of phoxocephalids showed different preferences for sediment size. Amphipods swam from sediment that was much finer or coarser than the sediment they normally inhabited in the field. They burrowed rather than swam from sediment that was only slightly coarser or finer than their native sediment. Each species had the greatest preference in the laboratory for sediments that were collected where the largest populations were found. Habitat selection could allow phoxocephalids to locate favorable microhabitats, and help to maintain broad depth zonation.
An approach for integration of data processing in a distributed enviornment

A translation process designed to translate queries between data models in a distributed environment is examined. Such a translation mechanism will enable the user to have access to the database resource in a distributed database for which different data base management systems coexist. The translation process is described and examples illustrating the process are given. The discussion has been limited to operating in the environment where the source and target database have the same semantics. Hypergraphs are used as the intermediate representation format for the query during the translation process. The semantics of both the source and target database are described in terms of hypergraphs. In addition, the hypergraph is extended to incorporate the operations of the data manipulation language in order to define a general model for query translation.
Kinetic folding studies of the P22 tailspike beta-helix domain reveal multiple unfolded states

Abstract The beta-helix is an important protein fold in many pathogens, and is a challenging system for folding pathway prediction because it primarily is stabilized by non-local interactions along the primary sequence. A useful experimental model of this fold is a monomeric truncation of P22 tailspike protein, the beta-helix domain (bhx). This report describes a systematic in vitro study of the chemical denaturation and refolding of bhx. Results from equilibrium chemical denaturation experiments were consistent with a two-state folding mechanism, but showed only partial reversibility. Stopped-flow fluorescence studies showed a single unfolding step, but two refolding steps. The slow refolding step could be partly attributed to proline isomerization, based on an increased rate during refolding in the presence of PPIase and an increased relative amplitude of this step with increasing delay time in double-jump refolding experiments observed over delays of 5–100 s. However, double-jump refolding experiments with delay times longer than 100 s along with size exclusion chromatography and dynamic light scattering of refolding samples showed that the overall refolding yield decreased as bhx was unfolded for longer periods of time. Furthermore, the losses resulted from aggregate formation during refolding. This suggests that a change occurs over time in the unfolded or denatured state ensemble that increases the propensity for aggregation upon the shift to more native-favoring conditions. Alternatively aggregate nuclei may be able to form even under high denaturant conditions, and these subsequently grow and consume monomer when placed under native-favoring conditions.
A distribution-free approach to inducing rank correlation among input variables

A method for inducing a desired rank correlation matrix on a multivariate input random variable for use in a simulation study is introduced in this paper. This method is simple to use, is distribution free, preserves the exact form of the marginal distributions on the input variables, and may be used with any type of sampling scheme for which correlation of input variables is a meaningful concept. A Monte Carlo study provides an estimate of the bias and variability associated with the method. Input variables used in a model for study of geologic disposal of radioactive waste provide an example of the usefulness of this procedure. A textbook example shows how the output may be affected by the method presented in this paper.
Characteristics of leucine transport by isolated hepatocytes of Antarctic fish at low temperatures.

Abstract Hepatocytes prepared by collagenase perfusion from Antarctic nototheniid fish of genus Trematomus are active in uptake of [ 14 C]leucine at 0, 5, and 10°C. The system is saturable with apparent K m about 1.0 mM. Isoleucine and phenylalanine were major competitors, valine was about one-half as effective, while alanine, glycine and histidine had no effect. Temperature dependency of rates in the 0–10°C range yielded E a = 65 kJ/mol ( Q 10 = 2.7 ). The average first-order rate constant at 0°C was 0.1 min −1 , one-third the value of 0.3 min −1 estimated for clearance of [ 14 C]leucine by liver of these species in vivo. Affinity and specificity agreed well with in vivo data on liver clearance of leucine, both in Antarctic fish at 0°C and in temperate fish acclimated to 10°C and 20°C. The results indicate similar modifications of leucine transport associated with evolutionary cold adaptation and seasonal acclimation in fish.
Attenuation of the lordosis-inhibiting effects of 8-OH-DPAT by TFMPP and quipazine

Regularly cycling, proestrous female rats received infusions of 200 ng of the serotonin (5-HT) 1A receptor agonist, (+/-) 8-hydroxy 2-(di-n-propylamino) tetralin-HBr (8-OH-DPAT), or 200 ng 8-OH-DPAT and 1000 or 2000 ng of N-(3-trifluoro-methylphenyl) piperazine hydrochloride (TFMPP) or 2-(1-piperazinyl) quinoline dimaleate (quipazine). Infusions were made bilaterally into the ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus (VMN). Animals receiving 200 ng 8-OH-DPAT exhibited a decline in lordosis behavior following infusion. Rats receiving 8-OH-DPAT and 1000 or 2000 ng quipazine or TFMPP were protected from the lordosis-inhibiting effects of 8-OH-DPAT, alone. Although both quipazine and TFMPP act on multiple 5-HT receptors, they overlap in their agonist action at 5-HT2 receptors. Consequently, these results provide further evidence supporting the contention that within the VMN, both 5-HT1A and 5-HT2 receptor subtypes contribute to the modulation of lordosis behavior in the female rat. The data are discussed in terms of the relative potency of 5-HT at 5-HT receptors mediating inhibition and facilitation of lordosis behavior.
Medical Devices and Attachment: Holistic Healing in the Age of Invasive Technology

The environment is filled with wonderful examples of medical technology that provide emergency life support, improve well-being, and offer the possibility of a longer and more productive life. But these devices are no longer only a part of the external environment. As technology advances, more devices are becoming a part of the internal environment (i.e. our bodies) as well. For some people an implanted mechanical device, such as a cardiac pacemaker or a cardioverter defibrillator, is readily accepted; for others it may be seen as an encroachment. It may be a symbol of loss and debilitation or of independence and resilience. What makes the difference? How can nurses facilitate a healthy adjustment and healing in an era permeated with technology? A discussion of the symbolism, related theory, and nursing implications is provided.
Comparative dynamic response of mesomachine tool structures

The dynamic characteristics of a machine tool structure used for machining engineering components at the microscale requires minimising the effects of vibrations. This requires a machine tool to be rigid and to be able to dissipate heat and vibrating waves in a symmetrical fashion. The idea for the structure comes from the structural stability afforded by using a tetrahedral geometry. The tetrahedral structure is a stable structure and it is considered that the geometry could minimise vibrations than conventional machine tool designs. The reason lies in the way that the structure is kinematically balanced. To explore the hypothesis, an experimental modal analysis established the vibration characteristics of the structure and of a conventional machine tool. Modal analysis consisted of measuring the Frequency Response Functions (FRFs) from impact tests to determine the natural frequencies, damping and mode shapes of the machine tool structures. A finite-element model was compared with the experimental data, thus validating the model so that it may be used for modelling future changes to the design of mesomachine tools.
La educación como conquista: Empresa franciscana en México

Transcurridos ya casi cinco siglos, aun en nuestros dias el tema "descubrimiento, conquista y colonizacion de America" sigue siendo uno de los mas interesantes de la historia de la humanidad. Parece todavia tener vigencia aquella sentencia del cronista Francisco Lopez de Gomara: ". . . la mayor cosa despues de la creacion del mundo, sacando la encarnacion y muerte del que lo crio, es el descubrimiento de Indias; y asi, las llaman Mundo Nuevo". Verdad es que el tema continua siendo excitante y que se presta facilmente a polemicas de varia indole, como ocurrio entre los propios espanoles del siglo XVl. Vemos ante todo en el descubrimiento, conquista y colonizacion de America verterse y arder aquel calor humano que hace del hombre lo que es: heroismo, codicia, afan de aventuras y glorias, sensualidad, fantasia, abnegacion y entrega total a algunos ideales superiores. Cada una de estas pretensiones humanas busco avidamente su mayor satisfaccion en tierras de America, que eran para muchos de los contemporaneos tierras de la utopia. En ellas se entrecruzaron y chocaron sus diversos ideales. Vemos ahi, dicho de otro modo, al hombre como agente de la historia en el sentido superlativo del termino. A todo esto se le suma la muerte de unas culturas de tradicion secular como la mesoamericana y el subsiguiente proceso de incorporacion de sus miembros a otra cultura muy distinta. Proceso que, dado su caracter totalizador debido a la religion del conquistador, supone multiples roces, muchas veces verdaderamente dolorosos, entre los dos mundos en encuentro, los cuales aumentan el dramatismo de sus hechos historicos. De aqui nuestro interes inagotable por el tema mencionado y por sus derivados. Los primeros conocimientos del idioma espanol nos abrieron, hace ya mas de diez anos, la puerta al mundo hispanico que nos resulto una sorpresa inesperada por su riqueza e interes en el campo de los estudios historicos. Se trata de una region cuyos conocimientos en Japon son muy escasos y limitados a causa del poco fomento de la ensenanza de la lengua espanola en el pais. Esto aun a nivel universitario y de especialistas, que son muy contados. Lo poco que se sabe resulta un circulo vicioso, dificil de ser superado. Los terminos con que se determina en Japon el perfil del mundo del rIo Bravo hacia abajo son subdesarrollo economico, mala distribucion de las riquezas nacionales, inestabilidad politica y otros problemas afines.
Evidence for the lack of oxygen repression of Fe−Mo protein in mutants ofAnabaena variabilis

Mutants ofAnabaena variabilis, unable to fix nitrogen under aerobic conditions, were used to determine whether nitrogenase synthesis is subject to O2 repression, as is the case in some heterotrophic bacteria. Nitrogenase activity in the mutants was induced as heterocysts matured under microaerophilic conditions. However, addition of 5% O2 to the assay system inhibited activity by 95%. Under aerobic conditions, nitrogenase activity in the mutants could not be detected, but an activity-independent, immunological assay showed that the Fe-Mo protein was present at levels similar to those found in wild-type and mutant strains induced microaerophilically. Reducing the O2 tension of an aerobically induced mutant resulted in a rate of nitrogenase activity induction twice the rate under continuous microaerophilic conditions. These results indicate that O2 does not repress Fe-Mo protein synthesis in these mutants.
Fluorescent Sensors for Zn2+ Based on a Fluorescein Platform: Synthesis, Properties and Intracellular Distribution

Two new fluorescent sensors for Zn2+ that utilize fluorescein as a reporting group, Zinpyr-1 and Zinpyr-2, have been synthesized and characterized. Zinpyr-1 is prepared in one step via a Mannich reaction, and Zinpyr-2 is obtained in a multistep synthesis that utilizes 4‘,5‘-fluorescein dicarboxaldehyde as a key intermediate. Both Zinpyr sensors have excitation and emission wavelengths in the visible range (∼500 nm), dissociation constants (Kd1) for Zn2+ of <1 nM, quantum yields approaching unity (Φ = ∼0.9), and cell permeability, making them well-suited for intracellular applications. A 3- to 5-fold fluorescent enhancement is observed under simulated physiological conditions corresponding to the binding of the Zn2+ cation to the sensor, which inhibits a photoinduced electron transfer (PET) quenching pathway. The X-ray crystal structure of a 2:1 Zn2+:Zinpyr-1 complex has also been solved, and is the first structurally characterized example of a complex of fluorescein substituted with metal binding ligands.
Using Teacher-Made Measurement Devices

These writers take a broad view of how locally developed as sessment tools can be used for a variety of instructional and administrative decisions.
Load Balancing Using Heterogeneous Processors for Continuum Problems on a Mesh

Continuum type problems are typically mapped onto a mesh with an equal distribution of computational load. However, such continuum problems typically cannot take advantage of wraparound communication links due to boundary conditions. Processors on corners and edges have fewer communication links, giving more capacity for computation, assuming it is desirable to synchronize computation. This paper is concerned with load balancing under these conditions and the introduction of heterogeneous processors for load balancing. The mapping of a continuum problem is typically considered a mapping of homogeneous tasks to homogeneous processors and communication links. This paper considers improvements in processing speed when homogeneous tasks characteristic of continuum problems are mapped to a topology heterogeneous in computation and communication, allowing the mesh array to overcome differences in processor communication time to take full advantage of processing speed.
Crowdsourcing Disease Prognosis

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive and ultimately fatal neurodegenerative disease affecting 1 in 400 people in which the motor neurons die. There is only one approved treatment but no shortage of clinical trials. One of the challenges in ALS trials is disease heterogeneity. Some patients with ALS progress slowly over many years, whereas others die within a year of diagnosis. This means that evaluating the effects of treatment requires larger sample sizes, more trial centers, trials of longer duration, and greater costs. Moreover, the absence of reliable prognostic tools leaves doctors and patients with the burden of uncertainty. Kuffner et al . now present a new prognostic algorithm to address these shortcomings. Of particular interest is the method used to derive the algorithm, namely crowdsourcing. The authors took advantage of PRO-ACT, an open-access platform containing pooled clinical trial data from over 8600 patients with ALS. Upon offering a $50,000 prize for the most accurate ALS disease progression models, there were 1073 registrants, although only 10 submitted a solution. The authors compared these 10 solutions to one they had created themselves and found that six performed better than their own. This process yielded many invaluable insights. First, it highlighted the value of bringing fresh perspectives to solve a persistent scientific problem. Second, the authors meticulously described the crowdsourcing process, including registrant surveys identifying motivating and discouraging factors. Third, they compared methodologies across the submitted entries, which included random forest machine learning, Bayesian trees, nonparametric regression, and simple regression. They concluded that tree-based ensemble regression techniques were the most effective. Fourth, the variables represented in the models highlighted known and potentially new relationships to the underlying disease process. Moreover, developing these models was estimated to decrease future clinical trial sizes by approximately 20%, owing to targeted enrollment of a more homogeneous and rapidly progressing patient population. Perhaps most important for the patients was the ability to more accurately offer prognostic information, decreasing some of the uncertainty associated with this disease. R. Kuffner et al. , Crowdsourced analysis of clinical trial data to predict amyotrophic lateral sclerosis progression. Nat. Biotechnol. 10.1038/nbt.3051 (2014). [[Full Text] ][1] [1]: http://www.nature.com/nbt/journal/vaop/ncurrent/full/nbt.3051.html
Characteristics of memory representations of sentence sets describing linear arrays

Subjects used a set of logically related, comparative sentences to construct a rank ordering of the items mentioned, attempted to recall the sentences (an unexpected task), and then learned the sentence set verbatim. Trial I recall responses were distributed randomly among acquisition sentences and five types of inferences. On the subsequent learning trials, commission errors continued to be randomly distributed over the five inference categories, implying no distinction among the inference types in the memory representation of the sentence set.
Sexual Orientation, Weight Concerns, and Eating-Disordered Behaviors in Adolescent Girls and Boys

ABSTRACT Objective To examine sexual orientation group differences in eating disorder symptoms in adolescent girls and boys. Method Cross-sectional associations were examined using multivariate regression techniques using data gathered in 1999 from 10,583 adolescents in the Growing Up Today Study, a cohort of children of women participating in the Nurses' Health Study II. Results Ninety-two percent of the cohort described themselves as heterosexual, 5% as mostly heterosexual, 1% as lesbian/gay/bisexual, and 2% as unsure. Both mostly heterosexual girls and boys had greater concerns with weight and appearance and were less happy with their bodies compared with same-gender heterosexuals (all p p p p Conclusions Mostly heterosexual girls and boys are a newly identified group at increased risk of eating disorder symptoms. Gay/bisexual boys were also at increased risk.
Political Theory and Linguistic Criteria in Han Feizi’s Philosophy

Han Feizi’s 韓非子 thought, I argue, contains a political theory that justifies principled, law-governed government. A key element of his theory is a solution to the problem of rectifying names. He recognized that the same word can have varying criteria of application depending on the purpose of the practice that requires a criterion. Some criteria for a practice are good and some bad. A wise ruler knows which criteria are good and appropriate to ruling. His view is illuminated by considering the phenomenon of paradiastole and a contemporary view about the relationship between meaning and criteria of application.
On kernel estimation of a multivariate distribution function

Abstract The optimal bandwidth of the d-dimensional kernel estimator of a density is well known to have order n−1/(4+d. In this note, the multivariate distribution function F(x) is estimated by integrating a kernel estimator of its density. The asymptotic optimal bandwidth of the d-dimensional kernel distribution estimator of F(x) is shown to have order n−1/3, for all dimensions d and at all points x except those satisfying the Laplace equation ΔF(x) = 0.
Sex Differences in Serotonergic But Not γ-Aminobutyric Acidergic (GABA) Projections to the Rat Ventromedial Nucleus of the Hypothalamus

Hormonal conditions that elicit lordosis in female rats are ineffective in males, suggesting that this behavior is actively suppressed in males. Previous studies theorize that serotonergic and γ-aminobutyric acidergic (GABA) inputs to the ventrolateral division of the ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus (VMNvl) may contribute to lordosis inhibition in males. Using triple-label immunofluorescent techniques, the present studies explored potential sex differences in the density of these projections within three hypothalamic sites: the VMNvl, the arcuate nucleus (ARC), and the dorsomedial nucleus of the hypothalamus. Antibodies directed against HuC/D, estrogen receptor (ER)-α and either serotonin (5-HT) or the γ-aminobutyric acid synthetic enzyme glutamic acid decarboxylase-65 were used to compare the densities of glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD)-65- and 5-HT-containing fibers in each brain area, the percentage of VMNvl HuC/D immunoreactive (ir) neurons that contained ERα, and the percentage of HuC/D an...
Elastofibroma Dorsi: Clinicopathologic Review of 6 Cases

Elastofibroma dorsi is a rare, benign lesion arising from connective tissue and usually found at the angle of the scapula. Surgical resection is often indicated in the presence of an enlarging mass or when malignancy can not be excluded. Herein we report our most recent case of elastofibroma dorsi and our review of 6 cases from the past 16 years.
Safety of repeated intermittent courses of aerosolized recombinant human deoxyribonuclease in patients with cystic fibrosis

Abstract Objectives: To determine the effect of repeated doses of aerosolized recombinant human deoxyribonuclease (rhDNase) on the development of anti-rhDNase antibodies, acute allergic reactions, and pulmonary function in patients with cystic fibrosis. Design: A multicenter, open-label study in which 184 patients received 10 mg aerosolized rhDNase twice a day for 14 days followed by a 14-day washout period for a total of 6 treatment cycles. Serial determinations of anti-rhDNase antibodies and pulmonary functions were performed. Results: Detectable anti-rhDNase antibodies developed in 16 (8.7%) patients. These patients had no changes in their symptoms from the time they entered the trial. Antibodies detected were all of the IgG isotype. Increases in both forced expired volume in 1 second and forced vital capacity were noted from the beginning to the end of each cycle of treatment returning to baseline during the off-treatment period of each cycle. Seropositivity to rhDNase was not associated with allergic reactions and had no relationship on improvement in pulmonary function. Conclusions: Development of anti-rhDNase antibodies occurred in a small number of patients and was not associated with side effects. Intermittent administration of rhDNase for 24 weeks to patients with cystic fibrosis was well tolerated and was not associated with anaphylaxis in any patient. Pulmonary function improved significantly during the 14-day cycles while rhDNase was administered and returned to baseline when rhDNase was discontinued. (J Pediatr 1997;131:118-24)
Anisotropic damage-plasticity model for concrete

Abstract A material model for concrete is proposed here within the framework of a thermodynamically consistent elasto-plasticity–damage theory. Two anisotropic damage tensors and two damage criteria are adopted to describe the distinctive degradation of the mechanical properties of concrete under tensile and compressive loadings. The total stress tensor is decomposed into tensile and compressive components in order to accommodate the need for the above mentioned damage tensors. The plasticity yield criterion presented in this work accounts for the spectral decomposition of the stress tensor and allows multiple hardening rules to be used. This plastic yield criterion is used simultaneously with the damage criteria to simulate the physical behavior of concrete. Non-associative flow rule for the plastic strains is used to account for the dilatancy of concrete as a frictional material. The thermodynamic Helmholtz free energy concept is used to consistently derive dissipation potentials for damage and plasticity and to allow evolution laws for different hardening parameters. The evolution of the two damage tensors is accounted for through the use of fracture-energy-based continuum damage mechanics. An expression is derived for the damage–elasto-plastic tangent operator. The theoretical framework of the model is described here while the implementation of this model will be discussed in a subsequent paper.
Glutamate Decarboxylase: Loss of N-terminal Segment Does Not Affect Homodimerization and Determination of the Oxidation State of Cysteine Residues

Glutamate decarboxylase (GAD) produces GABA, the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in adult mammalian brain. The physical characteristics of GAD were studied using mass spectrometry and partial protein digests. The N-termini of the two main isoforms, GAD65 and GAD67, were processed by removal of the initial methionine residues and acetylation of the penultimate alanines. Native recombinant GAD65 and GAD67 exist as homodimers that can be dissociated with non-reducing methods, indicating that homodimerization does not involve intermolecular disulfide bonds. Truncation of the N-terminal segment with trypsin digestion did not affect homodimerization but increased activity by decreasing the Km of GAD67 and increasing the Vmax of both isoforms. Of the 15 cysteines in GAD65, the six found in the N-terminal segment can form disulfide bonds and of the 13 cysteines in GAD67, cysteines 32 and 38 can form a disulfide bond. The in vitro formation of disulfide bonds in the N-termini, and the removal of the termini with relatively low amounts of trypsin, indicate that the N-terminal segments of GAD65 and GAD67 are exposed and flexible. The formation of a disulfide bridge between cysteines 30 and 45 of GAD65 suggests that alteration of normal redox conditions could affect GAD targeting.
Development and optimization of thermal sprayed ceramic microfiltration membranes

We prepared a number of Alumina (Al2O3) microfiltration membranes fabricated using a well-established large throughput thermal spray (TS) technique. In order to study the filtration characteristics and performance of the thermal spray membranes, a variety of microstructures were fabricated by the varying spray process, deposition parameters and the source materials. We characterized the prepared membranes using XRD (X-ray Diffraction), EDX (Energy dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy), SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy), pore size analysis and dead end filtration tests. Permeability and rejection rate of the sprayed membranes were comparable to some of the commercially available inorganic membranes with the advantage of being highly scalable and potentially orders of magnitude cheaper than the commercially available ceramic membranes.
Technical and strategic human resource management effectiveness as determinants of firm performance

We evaluated the impact of human resource (HR) managers' capabilities on HR management effectiveness and the latter's impact on corporate financial performance. For 293 U.S. firms, effectiveness was associated with capabilities and attributes of HR staff. We also found relationships between HR management effectiveness and productivity, cash flow, and market value. Findings were consistent across market and accounting measures of performance and with corrections for biases.
Multilayer grating for the Extreme Ultraviolet Spectrometer (EIS)

The design of the multilayer coatings and multilayer grating for the EIS spectrometer is presented. The grating substrate has a rectangular laminar groove profile with 4200 grooves/mm and a 58 angstrom groove depth. The grating and mirror have two multilayer coatings, each covering half of the areas of the grating and mirror, and with high reflectance in the two wavelength regions 170 - 210 angstrom and 250 - 290 angstrom. The reflectance of the multilayer coating and the efficiency of the multilayer grating were calculated using computer codes that were validated by comparison to reflectance and efficiency measurements performed using synchrotron radiation. The sensitivities of the calculated reflectance and grating efficiency to surface microroughness, layer interdiffusion, layer nonuniformity, illumination angle, grating groove variations, hydrocarbon contamination, and oxide buildup were analyzed.© (2000) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
GENDER DIFFERENCES IN THE PERCEPTION OF DRUG USER TREATMENT: ASSESSING DRUG USER TREATMENT FOR YOUTHFUL OFFENDERS

The present study sought to determine whether gender-specific differences existed in the perception of drug user treatment services delivered at a residential substance misuse treatment program operated by a large youth correctional agency in the western United States. Hypothesized gender differences in perceptions of treatment services and treatment-related needs were confirmed in a number of areas such as treatment engagement, counseling needs, and postrelease concerns. Findings of this exploratory study underscore the need to consider gender-specific issues in correctional substance misuse treatment for young offenders.
Mutations in the peptidyl transferase region of E.coli 23S rRNA affecting translational accuracy

Abstract We have produced mutations in a cloned Escherichia coli 23S rRNA gene at positions G2252 and G2253. These sites are protected in chemical footprinting studies by the 3' terminal CCA of P site-bound tRNA. Three possible base changes were introduced at each position and the mutations produced a range of effects on growth rate and translational accuracy. Growth of cells bearing mutations at 2252 was severely compromised while the only mutation at 2253 causing a marked reduction in growth rate was a G to C transversion. Most of the mutations affected translational accuracy, causing increased readthrough of UGA, UAG and UAA nonsense mutations as well as +1 and -1 frameshifting in a lacZ reporter gene in vivo. C2253 was shown to act as a suppressor of a UGA nonsense mutation at codon 243 of the trpA gene. The C2253 mutation was also found not to interact with alleles of rpsL coding for restrictive forms of ribosomal protein S12. These results provide further evidence that nucleotides localized to the P site in the 50S ribosomal subunit influence the accuracy of decoding in the ribosomal A site.
Continuing Professional Development: Chronic illness in adolescents and suicide risk

Overview Overview This article discusses chronic illness in adolescents and suicide risk. The health professional's role in recognising the association will be explored. The article includes some self-assessment to test the reader's knowledge