cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Quarantine treatment of cherries using 915 MHz microwaves: temperature mapping, codling moth mortality and fruit quality

Sweet cherries (Prunus a6ium L.) were treated by 915 MHz microwaves in a pilot-scale multimode microwave system with an auxiliary hot air heater to determine heating characteristics and the effect of treatments on insect mortality and fruit quality. Quality parameters of the microwave-treated ‘Bing’ cherries were compared with control fruit and those subjected to methyl bromide fumigation. When heating cherries to average pit temperatures of 45, 50 and 55°C, the cherry pits heated faster than the surface, and larger cherries heated more quickly than smaller ones. Cherry temperature increased linearly with time with heating rates dependent on the microwave power, sample weight, cherry size and radial location inside the cherry. With a 2 min holding and 5 min hydrocooling protocol after microwave treatments, adjusted percentage 3rd instar codling moth (Cydia pomonella L.) mortality ranged from 5 to 62% and 39 to 98% without and with 1‐2 days cold storage, respectively. A higher mortality rate was obtained for insects in ‘Bing’ than ‘Rainier’ fruit. Firmness, percentage soluble solids content, titratable acidity, fruit weight, and objective fruit colour of microwave-treated ‘Bing’ fruit were comparable with these properties of control fruit and to those of cherries fumigated with methyl bromide. Stem greenness colour was reduced after the microwave and dry hot air combined treatments. Microwave energy may provide an alternative non-chemical quarantine treatment against codling moth in export cherries, but further study is needed to optimize the treatment protocol for insect control and fruit quality. © 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
Muscle-enhancing Behaviors Among Adolescent Girls and Boys

OBJECTIVE: Media images of men and women have become increasingly muscular, and muscle-enhancing techniques are available to youth. Identifying populations at risk for unhealthy muscle-enhancingbehaviors is of considerable public health importance. The current study uses a large and diverse population-based sample of adolescents to examine the prevalence of muscle-enhancing behaviors and differences across demographic characteristics, weight status, and sports team involvement. METHODS: Survey data from 2793 diverse adolescents (mean age = 14.4) were collected at 20 urban middle and high schools. Use of 5 muscle-enhancing behaviors was assessed (changing eating, exercising, protein powders, steroids and other muscle-enhancing substances), and a summary score reflecting use of 3 or more behaviors was created. Logistic regression was used to test for differences in each behavior across age group, race/ethnicity, socioeconomic status, BMI category, and sports team participation. RESULTS: Muscle-enhancing behaviors were common in this sample for both boys and girls. For example, 34.7% used protein powders or shakes and 5.9% reported steroid use. Most behaviors were significantly more common among boys. In models mutually adjusted for all covariates, grade level, Asian race, BMI category, and sports team participation were significantly associated with the use of muscle-enhancing behaviors. For example, overweight (odds ratio = 1.45) and obese (odds ratio = 1.90) girls had significantly greater odds of using protein powders or shakes than girls of average BMI. CONCLUSIONS: The use of muscle-enhancing behaviors is substantially higher than has been previously reported and is cause for concern. Pediatricians and other health care providers should ask their adolescent patients about muscle-enhancing behaviors.
Multifunctional Magnetic–Optical Nanoparticle Probes for Simultaneous Detection, Separation, and Thermal Ablation of Multiple Pathogens

Multifunctional nanoparticles possessing magnetization and near-infrared (NIR) absorption have warranted interest due to their significant applications in magnetic resonance imaging, diagnosis, bioseparation, target delivery, and NIR photothermal ablation. Herein, the site-selective assembly of magnetic nanoparticles onto the ends or ends and sides of gold nanorods with different aspect ratios (ARs) to create multifunctional nanorods decorated with varying numbers of magnetic particles is described for the first time. The resulting hybrid nanoparticles are designated as Fe(3)O(4)-Au(rod)-Fe(3)O(4) nanodumbbells and Fe(3)O(4)-Au(rod) necklacelike constructs with tunable optical and magnetic properties, respectively. These hybrid nanomaterials can be used for multiplex detection and separation because of their tunable magnetic and plasmonic functionality. More specifically, Fe(3)O(4)-Au(rod) necklacelike probes of different ARs are utilized for simultaneous optical detection based on their plasmon properties, magnetic separation, and photokilling of multiple pathogens from a single sample at one time. The combined functionalities of the synthesized probes will open up many exciting opportunities in dual imaging for targeted delivery and photothermal therapy.
Modelling spatial concordance between Rocky Mountain spotted fever disease incidence and habitat probability of its vector Dermacentor variabilis (American dog tick)

The spatial distribution of Dermacentor variabilis, the most commonly identified vector of the bacterium Rickettsia rickettsii which causes Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) in humans, and the spatial distribution of RMSF, have not been previously studied in the south central United States of America, particularly in Texas. From an epidemiological perspective, one would tend to hypothesise that there would be a high degree of spatial concordance between the habitat suitability for the tick and the incidence of the disease. Both maximum-entropy modelling of the tick’s habitat suitability and spatially adaptive filters modelling of the human incidence of RMSF disease provide reliable portrayals of the spatial distributions of these phenomenons. Even though rates of human cases of RMSF in Texas and rates of Dermacentor ticks infected with Rickettsia bacteria are both relatively low in Texas, the best data currently available allows a preliminary indication that the assumption of high levels of spatial concordance would not be correct in Texas (Kappa coefficient of agreement = 0.17). It will take substantially more data to provide conclusive findings, and to understand the results reported here, but this study provides an approach to begin understanding the discrepancy.
Predistortion linearization system for high power amplifiers

This paper presents an adaptive wideband, digitally controlled RF envelope predistortion linearization system for high power amplifiers. The advantages of this predistortion architecture over conventional baseband digital approaches are that a 20/spl sim/33% wider correction bandwidth is achievable at the same clock speeds, and it can perform linearization without the need for a digital baseband input signal. Using 3-carrier CDMAOne and wideband multi-tone signals, the linearization performances for a 90W PEP LDMOS PA and a 680W PEP LDMOS PA were examined.
Experience and modification update for the minimally invasive Nuss technique for pectus excavatum repair in 303 patients

Purpose: The aim of this study is to review the new technical modifications and results of 303 patients who have had pectus excavatum repair utilizing the minimally invasive technique. Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted of 303 patients undergoing minimally invasive pectus repair from 1987 through August 2000. Since 1997, a standardized treatment pathway was implemented, and 261 of the 303 patients have been treated on this pathway. Preoperative evaluation included computed tomography (CT) scan, pulmonary function tests (PFT), and cardiac evaluations with electrocardiogram (EKG) and echocardiogram. Indications for operation included at least 2 of the following: progression of the deformity, exercise intolerance or restrictive disease on PFT, Haller CT index greater than 3.2, mitral valve prolapse (MVP), or cardiac compression. Technical and design modifications since 1998 have included routine thoracoscopy, the use of an introducer/dissector for creating the substernal tunnel and elevating the sternum, and routine use of a wired lateral stabilizer to prevent bar displacement. The bar is removed as an outpatient procedure in 2 to 4 years. Results: In 303 patients undergoing minimally invasive pectus repairs, single bars were used in 87% and double in 13%. Lateral stabilizers were applied in 70% of patients and were wired for further stability in 65%. Bar shifts before the use of stabilizers were 15%, which decreased to 6% after stabilizers were placed and 5% with a wired stabilizer. Excellent results were noted in 85% with failure in only 1 patient. Complications included pneumothorax with spontaneous resolution in half of the patients and pericarditis in 7. Conclusions: The minimally invasive technique has evolved into an effective method of pectus excavatum repair. Modifications of the technique have reduced complications. Long-term results continue to be excellent.
SOR Revisited: Partitioning and Recovering after Shrinking

In this paper, we present an enhancement to our previously proposed algorithm, SOR, for the minimum energy broadcasting problem in wireless sensor ad hoc networks. We implement the enhanced algorithm, PSOR (Partitioning- based SOR), and compare its solution quality with other algorithms in the literature: BIP, OMEGa, SOR, and EWMA. The enhancement comes from the diversification of solution space by allowing more shrinking than the original algorithm, SOR. We can achieve the diverse solution search without hurting the original algorithm's theoretical performance bound. The experimental results confirm that the enhancement further improves the solution quality of the original algorithm, SOR.
THE DIVERSITY–VALIDITY DILEMMA: BEYOND SELECTION—THE ROLE OF AFFIRMATIVE ACTION

Several of the most valid predictors used to make employment decisions create a diversity–validity dilemma (Pyburn, Ployhart, & Kravitz, this issue, 2008). This diversity–validity dilemma can be resolved by (a) reducing adverse impact through a variety of technical steps (Ployhart & Holtz, this issue, 2008) or (b) using affirmative action to increase representation of the disadvantaged groups. This paper focuses on the second approach. The paper begins with a very brief review of the legal bases of affirmative action and a summary of the research on affirmative action attitudes. This is followed with reviews of research on the ongoing existence of workplace discrimination, the economic impact of affirmative action on target groups and organizations, and stigmatization of target group members by others and by target group members themselves. Most problems with affirmative action apply only or primarily to preference-based forms, so nonpreferential approaches to affirmative action are recommended to increase the attraction, selection, inclusion, and retention of underrepresented group members.
Activity of phasic motor neurons partially transforms the neuronal and muscle phenotype to a tonic-like state

We present a model preparation, the crayfish, to investigate chronic stimulation effects in muscle fiber type and neuronal conversion from fast to slow. The results show a presynaptic alteration in transmitter release after 1 week of stimulation at 5 Hz for a 2-h daily regime. With the same stimulation paradigm, the muscle proteins displayed on a polyacrylamide gel only start to show changes after 3 weeks. The original phasic motoneurons within 1 week display an enhanced ability to resist synaptic depression, as do tonic motoneurons. The results show that identified phasic motoneurons and muscle fibers in the crayfish can be transformed to a toniclike state, and that the nerve terminals convert prior to the muscle fibers. Electrophysiological clinical measures indicating a change in transmitter release properties may not necessarily mean that the muscle fibers have fully adapted for long-lasting effects. This preparation allows stimulation conditions to be examined with ease.
General analysis and stability study of finite pulsed feedback systems

A finite pulsed system is defined as a system containing one or more samplers whose outputs are pulses of finite width and amplitude. In this report a method is presented for the exact analysis of finite pulsed feedback systems. The actual pulse width and the pulse shape are considered in its analytical treatment. The technique is based on the superposition principle, as well as some operational properties of the Laplace transform. It is applicable to a general linear system. The application of this method to systems with periodic samplers leads to a set of simultaneous first-order difference equations with constant coefficients. These equations can be solved for C(z), the z-transform of the output at t = nT. The stability of the system can be determined from the roots of C(z). It is found that the stability conditions are independent of the input but are functions of the pole-zero configurations of both the open- and closed-loop transfer functions, as well as the sampler characteristics. The technique is demonstrated by means of an example in the Appendix. Tables are also included to reduce the algebraic burden. These will be found useful in solution of second- and third-order systems. They can be extended whenever the need arises. The responses of an error pulsed second-order system to a step, ramp, and a sinusoidal input function are also plotted to show the effect of different pulse widths. These indicate that, in each case, as the pulse width h approaches the sampler period the output approaches the equivalent continuous system response. In a similar way it can be shown that as h?0 and the gain of the system is increased inversely as h, the output corresponds to the equivalent sampled-data system.
Transverse spin dynamics of a one-dimensional XY system: A fit to spin-spin relaxation data

At low temperatures, the spin-spin relaxation mechanism in PrCl3 is caused by the fluctuating electric-field gradients due to the transverse Pr moments. In this paper, a finite-chain calculation for the transverse autocorrelation function Sxx(q,ω) has been performed and evaluated in the temperature range kT/J < 4. Qualitative agreement is found for the temperature dependence of the spin-spin relaxation time, and an explanation is proposed for the deviations observed.
Characterization of magnetic tapes and substrates

Ultra-thin advanced magnetic tape substrates are shown to have superior characteristics when compared to PET. In particular, PEN and ARAMID are viable alternatives to PET with elastic moduli that range from 4-5.4 GPa for PEN, and 10 GPa for ARAMID. Also, the ARAMID material is more isotropic than PET or PEN with a higher glass transition temperature of 277/spl deg/C. Thermal and hygroscopic expansion measurements show that PEN and ARAMID are typically superior to PET. Characteristics of two developmental materials (a polybenzoxazole and a polyimide) are also presented.
Bovine Fetal Encephalitis and Myocarditis Associated with Protozoal Infections

Bovine fetuses submitted to the California Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory System were evaluated during a 2-year period (1987 to 1989) for the presence of multifocal necrotizing nonsuppurative encephalitis, nonsuppurative myocarditis, or tissue protozoa. Eighty-two of 445 (18%) fetuses submitted met these histologic criteria. Fetuses were from 54 dairy and two beef herds located throughout the state. In 17 fetuses (21%) protozoa were found in fetal tissues. Protozoa were found in brain parenchyma of ten fetuses (12%), in endothelial cells in four fetuses (5%), in cardiac myofibers in one fetus (1%), and were associated with endothelial cells in two fetuses (2%). In most fetuses there were no significant gross pathologic findings other than autolysis. While aborted fetuses were from 3 to 9 months gestation, the majority were between 5 and 7 months gestation. They were submitted year round, but more were seen in the fall and winter months. Additional salient histologic features included portal nonsuppurative hepatitis, focal hepatic inflammation and necrosis, and focal nonsuppurative myositis. Nonsuppurative inflammation was also found in decreasing frequency, in the adrenal medulla, kidney, mesentery or abdominal fat, placenta, and lung. In two fetuses (Nos. 1 and 2), the location and morphology of the protozoa were compatible with Sarcocystis spp. The identity of protozoa in the remaining 15 fetuses is unknown. The histopathologic changes in these 82 fetuses and the presence of protozoa in 21% of the fetuses suggest these abortions are due to fetal protozoal infections.
Decision making for physical therapy service delivery in schools: a nationwide survey of pediatric physical therapists.

Background and Purpose. A nationwide survey was conducted to explore decision making among school-based physical therapists and to examine recommendations regarding the models, contexts, frequency, and intensity of physical therapy service delivery. Factors that the therapists considered important in making clinical decisions also were examined. Subjects and Methods. A survey instrument using a clinical case format was sent to all members of the American Physical Therapy Association's Section on Pediatrics who identified themselves as school-based therapists (N=1,154); 626 respondents, from all 50 states, completed the survey. Four case descriptions were presented in the survey: 2 preschool girls with developmental delay (1 with and 1 without cognitive impairment) and a boy with cerebral palsy (at 6 and 12 years of age). Results. Individual direct services were recommended by 52% to 55% of the respondents for both 4-year-old girls and for the boy at 12 years of age; 92% of the respondents recommended them for the boy at 6 years of age. The most prevalent choice (48%-73%) for the context of service delivery (location or environment) was a combination of integrated and isolated contexts. For those respondents who selected direct services (individual or group, or both), the mean recommended monthly frequency for the boy at 6 years of age (5.8) was more than twice that for the boy at 12 years of age (2.4). The mean suggested direct frequency for the girl with cognitive impairment (4.5) was greater than that for the girl without cognitive impairment (4). The students' functional levels were considered very to extremely important in decision making by 87% to 90% of the respondents. Discussion and Conclusion. Survey responses were relatively consistent with current literature regarding school practice and principles of motor learning. Recommendations varied for each case, regarding the models, contexts, frequency, and intensity of physical therapy service delivery.
Lipoarabinomannan Localization and Abundance during Growth of Mycobacterium smegmatis

Lipoarabinomannan (LAM) is a structurally heterogeneous amphipathic lipoglycan present in Mycobacterium spp. and other actinomycetes, which constitutes a major component of the cell wall and exhibits a wide spectrum of immunomodulatory effects. Analysis of Mycobacterium smegmatis subcellular fractions and spheroplasts showed that LAM and lipomannan (LM) were primarily found in a cell wall-enriched subcellular fraction and correlated with the presence (or absence) of the mycolic acids in spheroplast preparations, suggesting that LAM and LM are primarily associated with the putative outer membrane of mycobacteria. During the course of these studies significant changes in the LAM/LM content of the cell wall were noted relative to the age of the culture. The LAM content of the M. smegmatis cell wall was dramatically reduced as the bacilli approached stationary phase, whereas LM, mycolic acid, and arabinogalactan content appeared to be unchanged. In addition, cell morphology and acid-fast staining characteristics showed variations with growth phase of the bacteria. In the logarithmic phase, the bacteria were found to be classic rod-shaped acid-fast bacilli, while in the stationary phase M. smegmatis lost the characteristic rod shape and developed a punctate acid-fast staining pattern with carbolfuchsin. The number of viable bacteria was independent of LAM content and phenotype. Taken together, the results presented here suggest that LAM is primarily localized with the mycolic acids in the cell wall and that the cellular concentration of LAM in M. smegmatis is selectively modulated with the growth phase.
Application of Atomic Fluorescence Spectrometry to the Determination of Sulfide Ion in Sewage Waters

Abstract Atomic fluorescence spectrometry and direct flame photometry are evaluated as alternative methods for the determination of inorganic sulfide in municipal sewage. The sulfide is volatilized as H2S from the sewage influent or effluent sample, which has been stabilized by a 0.05 M sodium ascorbate buffer. Both flame spectrometric methods are more sensitive than the standard colorimetric method, but quantification is easier for the atomic fluorescence method. The latter technique has a wide linear dynamic range and is unaffected by a gradual increase in the residual H2S level in the system. The atomic fluorescence signal is also unaffected by the presence of volatile hydrocarbons in the sewage. The results obtained with the fluorescence method agree well with those obtained with the standard method, while the flame photometric results are low. Studies on the effect of metal ions on the fluorescence signal indicate that the method determines “total sulfide”.
Forbidden or Forgiven?: Rape in Cross-Cultural Perspective

This article describes a conceptual framework with which to study rape cross-societally. The model considers the powerful effects of social norms in condoning certain types of rape. It also distinguishes clearly between rape and sex by making the absence of female choice the fundamental factor in defining rape. Using this conceptual model as a guide, rape is examined in a random sample of 35 world societies. Rape is not a forbidden behavior; this research demonstrates the masking effects of social norms that tend to institutionalize rape within various social customs or rituals. The concept of a rape-free culture was not supported; rape was found in all the sample societies once the definition of rape was broadened to include socially condoned rapes. The presence of both normative (condoned) and nonnormative (uncondoned) rapes in a majority of the societies studied illustrates that rape is regulated rather than prohibited. Implications for defining and studying rape in the United States are discussed.
Stem respiration increases in CO2-enriched sweetgum trees

Summary • Stem respiration in trees results in substantial CO 2 release to the atmosphere. Stem respiration is an important component of the carbon budget of forest stands that could be perturbed by CO 2 enrichment of the atmosphere. • We measured stem respiration in a free-air CO 2 enrichment (FACE) experiment in a 15-yr-old sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua) plantation. The trees were exposed to ambient or 1.4× ambient [CO 2 ]. Stem respiration of 12 trees in ambient [CO 2 ] and 12 trees in CO 2 -enriched plots was continuously monitored over a period of 1 year. • CO 2 enrichment caused a 23% increase in annual growth respiration (R g ) and a 48% increase in maintenance respiration (R m ). During a 4-d period when CO 2 fumigation was turned off, both respiration and stem sucrose concentrations declined in the CO 2 -enriched trees . Concentrations of other soluble sugars did not change. • We conclude that elevated [CO 2 ] caused stem respiration to increase and that the increase was driven by increased substrate supply from leaves. We suggest that both R g and R m rate responses may result from changes in growth rates and live to dead tissue ratios rather than from mechanistic alterations of the respiratory processes.
Relationship between salt tolerance and resistance to chloramphenicol in Staphylococcus pyogenes.

Summary1) A chloramphenicol-resistant strain of Staphylococcus pyogenes (Strain R) has been found less tolerant to NaCl and KCl than its chloramphenicol-sensitive counterpart (Strain S). The restoration of salt-tolerance in Strain R by serial sub-cultivation in increasing concentrations of salts resulted in a decrease in resistance to chloramphenicol. 2) The combined effects of chloramphenicol and salts on both Strains S and R were additive in most concentrations and frequently synergistic.
A tobacco-specific carcinogen in the fetus.

A tobacco-specific carcinogen, 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanol (NNAL), and its metabolite, 4-[(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)but-1-yl]β-O-D-glucosiduronic acid (NNAL-Gluc), have been found in the urine of newborns whose mothers smoked during pregnancy. We set out to determine whether this carcinogen is present in the fetus in early pregnancy. Cell-free amniotic fluid (AF) was obtained through routine amniocentesis for prenatal genetic studies from groups of smokers and non-smokers. NNAL and NNAL-Gluc were quantified by previously published methods. A history of smoking was confirmed by assays for cotinine plus N-β-D-glucosiduronosyl-(S)-(−) cotinine inner salt (cotinine-Gluc) in AF. NNAL was detected in the AF of 11/21 (52.4%) of smokers and in 2/30 (6.7%) of non-smokers, a statistically significant difference (p=0.0006). There was not convincing evidence of NNAL-Gluc in the AF. This study documents for the first time that the tobacco-specific carcinogen NNAL is present in the fetus in early pregnancy. Further rigorous epidemiological studies are needed to determine whether the offspring of smoking mothers have an increased lifetime risk of cancer. Copyright © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Equity market implied volatility and energy prices: A double threshold GARCH approach

Abstract This study investigates the role of VIX in determining the returns and return volatilities of oil, heating oil, gasoline, and natural gas. A double threshold GARCH(1,1) methodology is utilized where the VIX index is used as the threshold regime change indicator. Daily data from January 4, 1999, to December 31, 2013, are used. A sub-period analysis covering only the financial crisis period of January 2, 2007, to December 31, 2009, is also performed. This study provides evidence that the level of equity market volatility (i.e., VIX) that triggers a regime shift is commodity specific. The results also indicate that the threshold VIX values are time varying. Furthermore, natural gas prices appear to withstand considerably more volatility in the equity market than do the prices of other energy commodities. This relationship is even more pronounced during the financial crisis period. Approximately 70% and 50% of the estimated coefficients display asymmetric sensitivities due to regime changes during the entire period and the crisis period, respectively. The findings have practical implications as the underlying volatility of an asset plays a significant role in determining its associated activity in the futures markets.
Pharmacokinetics and safety of intravesicular cidofovir in allogeneic HSCT recipients

Objectives The objective of this study was to evaluate the pharmacokinetics and safety of cidofovir administered via the intravesicular route to patients with haemorrhagic cystitis following allogeneic HSCT (allo-HSCT). Methods Patients with gross haematuria and confirmed BK or adenovirus viruria following allo-HSCT were prospectively enrolled in an open-label pharmacokinetic study (ClinicalTrials.gov registration: NCT01816646). Three hours after an oral probenecid dose (2 g), cidofovir (2.5-5 mg/kg in 50-100 mL of normal saline) was given via a transurethral catheter for up to 2 h of dwell time. Serial plasma samples were obtained over 24 h and assayed for cidofovir concentrations using LC-MS/MS. A custom pharmacokinetic model with a time-limited absorption compartment was fitted to the concentration-time profile of each patient. Systemic drug exposure was expressed as AUC0-24, by integrating the best-fit profile with respect to time. Results Six subjects (mean ± SD age = 38 ± 21 years) with baseline serum creatinine 50% increase in serum creatinine within 7 days of administration. Conclusions Intravesicular administration of cidofovir resulted in highly variable systemic exposures. The safety and efficacy of intravesicular cidofovir should be further evaluated before routine use.
Cytokine regulation of the human burst-forming unit-megakaryocyte.

The human burst-forming unit-megakaryocyte (BFU-MK) is a primitive megakaryocytic progenitor cell. A marrow cell population enriched for BFU-MK (CD34+ DR-) was obtained by monoclonal antibody labeling and fluorescence-activated cell sorting. CD34+DR- cells were assayed in a serum-depleted, fibrin clot culture system. Recombinant granulocyte- macrophage colony-stimulating factor (rGM-CSF), recombinant interleukin- 3 (rIL-3), and megakaryocyte colony-stimulating factor (MK-CSF), partially purified from human plasma, were each individually capable of promoting BFU-MK-derived colony formation. Recombinant erythropoietin, rG-CSF, rIL-4, rIL-6, and thrombocytopiesis stimulating factor, partially purified from human embryonic kidney cell conditioned media, had no stimulatory effect on BFU-MK-derived colony formation when added alone or in various combinations with either GM-CSF, IL-3, or MK-CSF, GM-CSF and IL-3, GM-CSF and MK-CSF, but not IL-3 and MK-CSF had additive actions in promoting BFU-MK-derived colony formation, rIL-1 alpha had no influence alone on BFU-MK cloning efficiency, but had a dose-dependent, synergistic effect with IL-3, but not with GM-CSF or MK- CSF. The synergistic relationship between IL-1 alpha and IL-3 was abrogated by addition of an IL-1 alpha neutralizing antibody but not by a GM-CSF neutralizing antiserum, suggesting that IL-1 alpha acts directly on the BFU-MK and not by stimulating marrow auxiliary cells to secondarily release additional cytokines. Information presented here indicates that the regulatory influence, acting on the different stages of megakaryocyte development, are stage-specific and accomplished by multiple cytokines.
Laboratory Test Report for Fujitsu 12RLS and Mitsubishi FE12NA Mini-Split Heat Pumps

Mini-split heat pumps are being proposed as a new retrofit option to replace resistance heating in the Pacific Northwest. NREL has previously developed a field test protocol for mini-split systems to ensure consistent results from field tests. This report focuses on the development of detailed system performance maps for mini-split heat pumps so that the potential benefits of mini-split systems can be accurately analyzed for different climate regions and housing types. This report presents laboratory test results for two mini-split heat pumps. Steady-state heating and cooling performance for the Fujitsu 12RLS and Mitsubishi FE12NA was tested under a wide range of outdoor and indoor temperatures at various compressor and fan speeds. Cycling performance for each unit was also tested under both modes of operation. Both systems performed quite well under low loads and the experimental test data aligned with manufacturer reported values. Adequate datasets were attained to promote performance modeling of these two systems in the future.
Consultation on rescheduling ketamine.

FOLLOWING reports of increased abuse and serious harm to health, the Advisory Council on the Misuse of …
Trachoma viruses isolated in the United States. 4. Infectivity and immunogenicity for monkeys.

SummaryThree strains of trachoma virus and one strain of inclusion conjunctivitis virus isolated in the United States gave reproducible disease upon inoculation into eyes of rhesus or cynomolgus monkeys. Among several clinical criteria follicle scores were most suitable for quantitation of eye disease, and microscopic demonstration of inclusions in conjunctival scrapings served as additional criterion of infection. Significant differences were demonstrated in the infectivity of 2 strains for the monkey eye. Repeated eye infection failed to modify the response to re-infection. Repeated parenteral administration of live virus in large quantities significantly diminished disease from subsequent challenge infection but failed to induce solid immunity.
Monolithic Tandem Laser Based Active Matrix Addressed Full-Color Displays for Smart Projection Systems

Integrated semiconductor lasers in edge-emitting and surface-emitting configurations are examined for the realization of high-resolution displays for smart projection systems. The viability of multicolor tandem laser based pixel and associated addressing electronics are compared with other electroluminescent (EL) light emitting methodologies.
Selenium exposure results in reduced reproduction in an invasive ant species and altered competitive behavior for a native ant species.

Competitive ability and numerical dominance are important factors contributing to the ability of invasive ant species to establish and expand their ranges in new habitats. However, few studies have investigated the impact of environmental contamination on competitive behavior in ants as a potential factor influencing dynamics between invasive and native ant species. Here we investigated the widespread contaminant selenium to investigate its potential influence on invasion by the exotic Argentine ant, Linepithema humile, through effects on reproduction and competitive behavior. For the fecundity experiment, treatments were provided to Argentine ant colonies via to sugar water solutions containing one of three concentrations of selenium (0, 5 and 10 μg Se mL(-1)) that fall within the range found in soil and plants growing in contaminated areas. Competition experiments included both the Argentine ant and the native Dorymyrmex bicolor to determine the impact of selenium exposure (0 or 15 μg Se mL(-1)) on exploitation- and interference-competition between ant species. The results of the fecundity experiment revealed that selenium negatively impacted queen survival and brood production of Argentine ants. Viability of the developing brood was also affected in that offspring reached adulthood only in colonies that were not given selenium, whereas those in treated colonies died in their larval stages. Selenium exposure did not alter direct competitive behaviors for either species, but selenium exposure contributed to an increased bait discovery time for D. bicolor. Our results suggest that environmental toxins may not only pose problems for native ant species, but may also serve as a potential obstacle for establishment among exotic species.
Modeling of Arctic Storms with a Variable High-Resolution General Circulation Model

The Department of Energy’s (DOE) Biological and Environmental Research project, “Water Cycle and Climate Extremes Modeling” is improving our understanding and modeling of regional details of the Earth’s water cycle. Sandia is using high resolution model behavior to investigate storms in the Arctic.
Multi-class and multi-scale models of complex biological phenomena

Computational modeling has significantly impacted our ability to analyze vast (and exponentially increasing) quantities of experimental data for a variety of applications, such as drug discovery and disease forecasting. Single-scale, single-class models persist as the most common group of models, but biological complexity often demands more sophisticated approaches. This review surveys modeling approaches that are multi-class (incorporating multiple model types) and/or multi-scale (accounting for multiple spatial or temporal scales) and describes how these models, and combinations thereof, should be used within the context of the problem statement. We end by highlighting agent-based models as an intuitive, modular, and flexible framework within which multi-scale and multi-class models can be implemented.
Differential physiological response to sea lamprey parasitism between lake trout (Salvelinus namaycush) morphotypes from Lake Superior

Assessment of stress from varied sources is usually evaluated using individuals derived from a single population and is assumed to represent all populations of that species. However, recent researc...
Low Testosterone and the Metabolic Syndrome

Pregnancy is a time of marked hormonal and immunological changes. Not only is there a disruption of the monthly alterations of FSH, LH, estrogen, and progesterone that accompany the menstrual cycle, but new hormonal and immune homeostasis is achieved. Simultaneously, new hormones are produced which have important metabolic impacts. Specifically, the placenta produces human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and human placental lactogen (HPL), both of which are critical to the progression of a normal pregnancy. However, both have unintended metabolic consequences. Human chorionic gonadotropin and thyrotropin-stimulating hormone (TSH) are composed of an alpha and beta subunit. The alpha subunit is identical in hCG and TSH, while the beta subunit in the two hormones shares approximately 85 % homology. Consequently, as hCG rises in the first trimester, it crossreacts with the TSH receptor resulting in a decrease in TSH levels and a constriction of the normal TSH range to 0.1–2.5 mIU/ml. Human placental lactogen peaks later in pregnancy and has the unintended impact of increasing insulin resistance. The selective immunosuppression which accompanies pregnancy has a direct impact on autoimmune diseases by impacting the titer of the etiological antibody. The present chapter discusses three common endocrinological abnormalities that are related to the hormonal and immunological perturbations of pregnancy. Specifically, this chapter will focus on a metabolic disorder which impedes a woman’s ability to become pregnant (polycystic ovarian syndrome), impacts the natural course of the disease (Graves’ disease), or results in the new onset of a disease state (gestational diabetes mellitus).
Regulation of Squamous Cell Carcinoma Carcinogenesis by Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are nuclear receptors that respond to endogenous and exogenous signaling molecules and modulate cellular functions. PPARs regulate many target genes that in turn influence cell growth, differentiation, and inflammatory signaling. These changes can occur through direct transcriptional up-regulation of target genes, through secondary changes subsequent to direct transcriptional up-regulation of target genes, and through protein-protein interactions. The focus of this chapter is to summarize PPAR-dependent regulation of cellular signaling in squamous epithelium, and how these changes influence cancer.
Phase II Multicenter, Randomized, Double-Blind Controlled Study of Efficacy and Safety of Umbilical Cord–Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells in the Prophylaxis of Chronic Graft-Versus-Host Disease After HLA-Haploidentical Stem-Cell Transplantation

PurposeAlthough mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) possess immunomodulatory properties and exhibit promising efficacy against chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD), little is known about the efficacy of MSCs in the prophylaxis of cGVHD after HLA-haploidentical hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (HLA-haplo HSCT).Patients and MethodsIn this multicenter, double-blind, randomized controlled trial, we investigated the incidence and severity of cGVHD among patients, and the changes in T, B, and natural killer (NK) cells after the repeated infusion of MSCs.ResultsThe 2-year cumulative incidence of cGVHD in the MSCs group was 27.4% (95% CI, 16.2% to 38.6%), compared with 49.0% (95% CI, 36.5% to 61.5%) in the non-MSCs control group (P = .021). Seven patients in the non-MSCs control group had severe lung cGVHD, but no patients in the MSCs group developed typical lung cGVHD (P = .047). After the MSC infusions, increasing memory B lymphocytes and regulatory T cells, as well as the ratio of type 1 T helper to t...
Effect of Temperature on the Localized Corrosion of AA2024-T3 and the Electrochemistry of Intermetallic Compounds During Exposure to a Dilute NaCl Solution

In this study, the electrochemical properties of synthesized intermetallic compounds (IMCs) similar to those commonly found in AA2024-T3 were studied in neutral 0.1 M NaCl at 10, 30, 50, and 70°C using the electrochemical microcell method. Results on the synthesized IMCs were combined with and supported by analysis of free corrosion experiments performed on AA2024-T3. Results reveal that, in general, corrosion rates of the IMCs increase with temperature and pitting potentials of most IMCs show a slight decrease with temperature. Increased dealloying kinetics of S-phase with increasing temperature was evident in both open-circuit potential transients and post-exposure corrosion morphology characteristics, leading to increased Cu surface areas and a higher likelihood of the propagation of localized corrosion into the matrix. The corrosion potential of synthesized Al-Cu-Mn-Fe type particles was found to be cathodic to the matrix at low temperatures, but anodic to the matrix at high temperatures. This high-te...
A New Hull House? The Monumental Challenge of Service-Learning and Community Engagement

This book tells rich and moving stories about students who venture into the communities around their campuses, in places like Providence, Rhode Island; Bland County, Virginia; and Santa Cruz, California, to work with faculty and community partners on common issues. As they start off, they may hear their professors say (or tell themselves): “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”1
Engineering Central Metabolism for Production of Higher Alcohol-based Biofuels

Abstract Widespread concerns have been raised regarding the need to develop sustainable processes for the production of fuels from renewable resources. While bioethanol production processes have been studied and successfully developed at industrial scales, its inferior fuel properties (e.g., lower energy density and higher hygroscopicity) relative to higher chain alcohols have directed recent interest towards producing C3-C10 alcohols, a more challenging prospect than bioethanol production. Metabolic engineering enabled by systems biology and synthetic biology is an enabling technology in such efforts, and many research examples show great promise for addressing current issues, including engineering enzymes and pathway flux, enhancing cofactor and precursor availability, and improving hosts’ tolerance to toxic biofuel products. In this chapter, we discuss the challenges and research efforts towards engineering microbes for optimized production of alcohol-based biofuels, with an emphasis on C3-C10 alcohols produced via central metabolism. Section 1.1 begins with a general introduction and compares relevant properties of different fuels. Section 1.2 discusses two categories of alcohol-producing pathways in detail, including both fermentative (i.e., acetone-butanol-ethanol pathway called the ABE pathway) and non-fermentative (i.e., Ehrlich pathway linked with amino acid metabolism; and reverse β-oxidation pathway). In Section 1.3 , engineering strategies to improve higher alcohol production are reviewed, which include (1) enhancing the function of enzymes and pathways as well as cofactor and precursor availability, and (2) addressing product toxicity. Section 1.4 covers successes and challenges towards commercialization of higher alcohol-based biofuels, giving some examples of successful commercialization and current issues and topics such as product separation, host choice, and alternative feedstocks. Section 1.5 concludes this chapter with an outlook on the future of higher alcohol biofuel production.
Synthesis and characterization of ordered mesoporous materials for removal of heavy metal ions

Synthesis and characterization of novel multifunctional adsorbents for mercury ions from aqueous solutions, based on ordered mesoporous materials (OMMs), is reviewed. Ordered mesoporous silicas (OMSs) with chemically bonded surface ligands and periodic mesoporous organosilicas (PMOs) with incorporated bridging groups are compared with respect to their adsorption properties and affinity towards heavy metal ions. Various types of OMSs possessing a hexagonal or cubic arrangement of ordered mesopores, grafted with multifunctional 1-benzoyl-3-propylthiourea and 2,5-dimercapto-1,3,4-thiadiazole ligands, are compared to PMOs containing specific bridging groups incorporated directly into the silica framework. PMOs having a single type of organic functionality (e.g., tris(3-(trimethoxysilyl)propyl)isocyanurate) in the framework, or multiple framework and surface functionality (e.g., tris(3-(trimethoxysilyl) propyl)isocyanurate and 3-mercaptopropyl, respectively) are discussed. Nitrogen adsorption was a main method used to monitor changes in the porous structures of OMMs upon surface and framework modification.
Unusual case of pheochromocytoma presenting with diabetic ketoacidosis

Pheochromocytoma is a rare catecholamine-secreting tumour that arises from chromaffin cells in the adrenal medulla or extra-adrenal sympathetic ganglia. It classically presents with paroxysmal headaches, hypertension, palpitations and sweating related to catecholamine excess. Diabetes is reported to be present in approximately one-third of patients with pheochromocytoma; however, diabetic ketoacidosis is an extremely rare complication. We present a case of an African-American male aged 30 years who initially presented with diabetic ketoacidosis and hypertensive urgency whose blood pressure and glycaemic control improved remarkably following tumour excision. We will discuss this unusual presentation of pheochromocytoma along with a management approach for such adrenal incidentalomas.
Validation of the Participation Strategies Self-Efficacy Scale (PS-SES).

AbstractPurpose: To develop and examine the psychometric properties of a newly developed Participation Strategies Self-Efficacy Scale (PS-SES) designed to assess self-efficacy in using participation strategies following a stroke.Method: One hundred and sixty-six subjects with mild to moderate stroke were recruited and interviewed using the PS-SES. The principal axis factoring analysis was run to examine the factor structure, and internal consistency was assessed by computing Cronbach’s alpha coefficient.Results: The final measure is a 35-item scale with six subscales: (1) managing home participation, (2) staying organized, (3) planning and managing community participation, (4) managing work/productivity, (5) managing communication, and (6) advocating for resources. The instrument demonstrated high internal consistency.Conclusion: The PS-SES is a reliable measure offering unique information regarding self-efficacy in managing participation.Implications for RehabilitationPost-stroke participation requires c...