cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mandalas: A Simple Project to Explore Creativity

Creativity is more important than ever in today’s knowledge-based economy. Although many students doubt their own creativity, very few exercises are designed to help them access this ability. We be...
EFFECT OF PHORATE ON SOIL ARTHROPODS AND SOYBEAN PRODUCTIVITY IN A NORTH CAROLINA COASTAL PLAIN CROPPING SYSTEM

Soil arthropods were sampled from untreated and phorate-treated conventionally tilled soybean (Forrest cv) systems at the Tidewater Research Station, Plymouth, NC. Arthropods larger than 420 microns (U.S. Std. 40 mesh) were collected in 10-cm diameter by 15-cm depth soil cores and extracted through an elutriation process. Microarthropods larger than 149 microns (U.S. Std. 100 mesh) were collected in 5-cm diameter by 5 cm-depth soil cores and extracted using a salt flotation technique. Soybean root weight, root damage, nodulation, and yield were also quantified. Coleopteran larval number in early-planted soybean was positively correlated with root weight (r = 0.404, P < 0.01) and nodulation, yet soybean yields were higher (P < 0.05) in phorate-treated than in untreated plots. Adult Ataenius spp. number was higher (P < 0.05) in phorate-treated than in untreated plots in 1984 and 1985, suggesting higher arthropod decomposer activity in phorate- than in untreated soil. Predaceous centipede number was positive...
Reconfigurable underwater embedded systems architectures

Underwater sensor networks are bounded by data sensing, transmitting, and forwarding limitations. The transmitting of large volumes of data can require a large amount of time and power. This has led researchers to focus on the new technology of underwater computing systems, in which information is extracted under the water using embedded processors via data mining and/or data compression. In this paper, a set of underwater embedded system (UWES) architectures is developed that can handle different network configurations. These developed architectures have a single processing node and are assumed to be homogenous. An architecture is selected to match a given set of requirements including data rate, processing node capabilities, gathering nodes capabilities, and water depth. Analytical models are developed for each type of architecture, which estimate both end to end delay and power consumption. Simulations that verify the results and evaluate the performance of the architectures are also provided.
Fentanyl and the Evolving Opioid Epidemic: What Strategies Should Policy Makers Consider?

Major policy efforts are being aimed at combating the epidemic of opioid addiction and overdose deaths. In response to the epidemic, the medical community and policy makers have attempted to intervene; to date, these varied approaches have done little to reverse the increase in mortality related to opioid overdose. One factor that has complicated efforts to control overdose deaths has been the emergence of a public health crisis related to illicit fentanyl. The rise in fentanyl-related overdose deaths means that new approaches are needed to combat the opioid epidemic, including adoption of harm reduction strategies. Specific strategies that should be considered as part of efforts to combat the opioid crisis include safe drug consumption sites, anonymous drug-checking services, updated naloxone distribution policies, harm reduction–oriented policing, expansion of evidence-based pharmacological treatments in criminal justice and emergency department settings, and stigma-reduction messaging emphasizing the r...
The motions of the oceans: Circulation, displacement, expansion, and Carlos Bulosan’s America is in the Heart

This paper identifies in Atlantic studies three fundamental “oceanic” motions and their attendant conditions of possibility that seem useful for further developing the notion of the transpacific as...
Corticospinal and intracortical excitability differ between athletes early after ACLR and matched controls.

Neuromuscular impairments, such as quadriceps weakness and activation deficits, persist after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Recent research demonstrating changes in the function of the primary motor cortex after ACLR posits that quadriceps impairments may be influenced by reduced corticospinal excitability. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the integrity of the neuromotor axis of the vastus medialis is altered in subjects 2 weeks post-ACLR compared to uninjured control subjects. Eighteen athletes 2 weeks post-ACLR and 18 age and sex matched uninjured control subjects participated in this cross-sectional study. We quantified corticospinal (resting motor threshold, RMT; motor evoked potential amplitudes at 120% RMT, MEP120 ) and intracortical (inhibition and facilitation) excitability using single and paired pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), respectively. We assessed spinal-reflex excitability (H-reflex amplitude normalized to maximal M-wave, H/M ratio) using peripheral stimulation. Subjects post-ACLR had higher RMTs (p = 0.001), greater MEP120 amplitudes (p = 0.001), and more asymmetric facilitation (p = 0.041) than the uninjured control subjects. No significant group differences were found for intracortical inhibition (p = 0.289) and H/M ratio (p = 0.332). Our findings indicate that both intracortical and corticospinal excitability of vastus medialis are bilaterally altered in subjects 2 weeks after ACLR. Given persistent neuromuscular deficits seen after ACLR, rehabilitation strategies targeting intracortical and corticospinal deficits may potentially improve clinical outcomes. © 2018 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:2941-2948, 2018.
Right atrial mapping and linear ablation for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation.

Objective: Catheter ablation techniques to cure atrial fibrillation (AF) are under investigation. This study evaluates a mapping-based, individualized approach to right atrial (RA) linear ablation in patients with paroxysmal AF.
Problems of understanding in conflicts and a semiotic solution

This paper argues that one of the biggest problems for resolving conflicts by negotiation are epistemological problems, or more precisely: the problem to understand one another. In conflict research, it has been discussed under the heading of “framing.” I apply Charles Peirce’s theory of signs to clarify this epistemological problem. According to a certain interpretation of Peirce’s semiotic approach, understanding is a reaction to a sign that is codetermined by what can be called “collateral knowledge”: belief systems, interests, experiences, character, and skills as tacit preconditions of understanding. My thesis is that a semiotic reconstruction of understanding is not only useful to analyze conflicts, but also to resolve them. The idea is that by challenging negotiators to create a joint model of their conflict situation collateral knowledge can become visible. Making visible step-by-step what lies at the root of a conflict – in a process called “model-based reasoning” – permits reflection on and communication about the negotiators’ habits of thinking and acting. And experimenting with those models opens up possibilities to change them.
Bibliographical Background: The Ortho Effect in The Catellani Reaction

Pallado-catalyzed sequential reactions involving direct C–H bond activations have emerged as powerful tools for rapid access to complex polycyclic scaffolds, starting from simple precursors. In this context, Professor Marta Catellani has pioneered in the mid 1980s the utilization of norbornene in cooperation with palladium to achieve sequential C-halide and C–H activations via the formation of a five-membered alkylaromatic palladacycle.
Field Techniques and Research Design

This chapter discusses the basic phytolith sampling procedures. There are three basic kinds of sampling procedures employed at archaeological sites: (1) column sampling from an exposed and profiled wall, (2) canal sampling from an exposed and profiled wall, and (3) selective horizontal sampling of deposits as the excavation is in progress. The first and third are the easiest, most common, and least labor-intensive. Canal sampling requires somewhat more time and labor expenditure than the other two but yields samples that preserve the stratigraphy of a site after it has been filled in. Column samples are taken from an exposed and profiled wall after excavations are essentially completed. They involve demarcating a subarea along the wall of a test pit or trench and removing samples at specified intervals from the top to the bottom. The use of column samples goes hand-in-hand with a horizontal sampling strategy, even in small sites. Horizontal samples provide a better comparison between contemporaneous but spatially discrete areas of a site than do single or multiple column samples. Canal samples are a kind of variant of column samples. In canal sampling, a section of a wall approximately 5–10 cm wide is actually cut out into a three-sided aluminum container, wrapped tightly in plastic, and stored in the laboratory for later sampling. Canal samples offer advantages over column samples in that the stratigraphy and soil characteristics of the sampling area remain intact for later visual examination and, if necessary, resampling.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based talking therapy that concentrates on how a patient's thoughts, behaviors, and emotions are interconnected. In particular, CBT focuses on altering thoughts (‘cognitions’) and behaviors to impact emotions. Typically delivered as a short-term treatment (16–24 sessions), CBT has been applied to a number of different mental health problems including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, substance use disorders, and psychotic disorders. It has also been studied more recently for coping with and managing chronic pain syndromes such as fibromyalgia and other musculoskeletal pain conditions. In CBT, the patients have an active role in identifying the goals they want to achieve and working collaboratively with the therapist to achieve these goals.
Data Mining Ancient Script Image Data Using Convolutional Neural Networks

The recent surge in ancient scripts has resulted in huge image libraries of ancient texts. Data mining of the collected images enables the study of the evolution of these ancient scripts. In particular, the origin of the Indus Valley script is highly debated. We use convolutional neural networks to test which Phoenician alphabet letters and Brahmi symbols are closest to the Indus Valley script symbols. Surprisingly, our analysis shows that overall the Phoenician alphabet is much closer than the Brahmi script to the Indus Valley script symbols.
Rapid Development of Efficacious Swine Vaccines for Pandemic H1N1

Pandemic H1N1 (pH1N1) influenza was first reported in the United States in April 2009. Since then, the virus has spread worldwide in both human and swine populations. Currently, pH1N1 influenza is the most common H1N1 virus infecting pigs in the United States. Vaccination of swine against pH1N1 represents the single best method of protecting against infection.
Identification of Thermal Response, of Plasmatron Plasma Reactor

This paper presents identification of heat characteristic of plasmatron powered plasma reactor designed and build in Industrial Research Institute for Automation and Measurements. Plasma reactor is the key element of the test setup, designed to research processing and recovery of metals from waste of electric and electronic equipment, focusing on electronic printed circuit boards. Identification was based on step response of the reactor, to step input power of the plasmatrons. Two experiments were carried out. First experiment with power of 36 kW, and second experiment using 29 kW. In each experiment two temperatures were measured in two points of the reactor chamber, allowing identification of four thermal responses. Object transfer function G(s) was assumed as second order inertial. This assumption was confirmed during identification. The model will be utilized for determination of PID controller with additional functionality.
Use of a Macrophage-Tropic GFP-Tagged Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 (HIV-1) to Study Viral Reservoirs

The human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) predominantly infects two main cell types: T-lymphocytes and monocyte-derived cells such as macrophages, dendritic cells, and Langerhans cells. Studies in patients aimed at uncovering and understanding the molecular mechanisms for viral persistence and latency in macrophages in particular are challenging because these cells reside in tissues and can only be extracted using invasive methods. The in vitro human monocyte-derived macrophage (MDM) model provides an amenable system to study HIV-host cell interactions at the molecular level. Infection of macrophages with a recombinant M-tropic virus that contains the green fluorescent protein (GFP) gene within its genome allows the detection of cells with integrated viral DNA that are producing viral particles. The infected cells can be studied at the single-cell level using a variety of fluorescence-based technologies such as flow cytometry, conventional and confocal microscopy, and laser capture microdissection.
Digital Governance: New Technologies for Improving Public Service and Participation

The application of digital information and communication technologies (ICTs) to reform governmental structures, politics, and public administration is widely and perhaps naively viewed as the twenty-first century "savior," the enlightened way to reinvigorate democracy and improve the quality of citizen services. In this timely and thorough analysis, Michael Milakovich examines the assumptions underlying the ‘e-government revolution’ in light of the financial exigencies facing many commercial enterprises, governments and other organizations. Computer-driven information and communications technologies are impacting all aspects of public sector service delivery worldwide and many governments are moving away from an agency-centric toward a more citizen-centric approach to offering online services. This book explores the transition from electronic government (e-gov) to digital or d-governance, emphasizing the importance of citizen participation and information technology to accomplish the change. The chapters concentrate on strategies for public administration organizational transformation and their implications for improved and measurable government performance. Digital self-governance is a broader umbrella-term referring to the networked extension of ICT relationships to include faster access to the web, mobile service delivery, networking, teleconferencing and use of multi-channel information technologies to accomplish higher-level two-way transactions. The shift from bureaucracy-centered to customer-centric service orientation is viewed as a means to restore public trust and improve service quality: Digital governance is the next step for governments at all levels to reduce costs, meet citizen expectations, and achieve economic recovery goals.
Lymphoblastic leukemia following myelodysplastic syndromes or myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative neoplasms

Lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) following myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) or myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative neoplasm (MDS/MPN) is very rare. We report five cases: four had ALL diagnosed after MDS or MDS/MPN and one had ALL and MDS diagnosed simultaneously. At the onset of ALL, all patients showed co-existing MDS or MDS/MPN. Map-back FISH was performed in four patients, showing that ALL and MDS were cytogenetically related in two patients and unrelated in the other two patients. All five patients were treated with ALL-based chemotherapies, two patients with ALL clonally related to MDS were refractory to the therapies, whereas the other three patients achieved remission. We conclude that ALL developed after MDS is extremely rare. In some patients, ALL is clonally related to MDS and these patients may be refractory to ALL-based chemotherapies. In other patients who have no evidence of clonal relation between ALL and MDS, these patients more likely respond to ALL-based treatment regimens.
Transnational Nonprofits’ Social Media Use: A Survey of Communications Professionals and an Analysis of Organizational Characteristics:

In response to rapid changes in the communication environment, nonprofits are increasingly relying on digital technologies to achieve their communication goals. We examine factors influencing nonpr...
Abundance of the Sugarcane Borer (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) and Foraging Ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) in Sugarcane Grown on Organic and Mineral Soils in Florida.

A study was conducted in Florida to determine sugarcane borer, Diatraea saccharalis (F.), injury and infestation levels in sugarcane (Saccharum spp. hybrids), D. saccharalis parasitism rates, and ant foraging activity in 32 commercial fields as affected by soil type (shallow organic vs deep organic vs mineral). In 2017 and 2018, each field was sampled four times during the summer for D. saccharalis by inspecting 100 sugarcane stalks and for foraging ants using plastic tubes baited with hot dog at 12 locations. One non-parasitized D. saccharalis larva was collected in 2017 and in 2018 out of 12,100 and 12,600 stalks sampled, respectively. Additional sampling of 50 stalks per field in October showed that 0.6% (2017) and 0.1% (2018) of the sugarcane stalks had bored internodes, and one Cotesia flavipes (Cameron) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) cocoon mass was observed. Seven ant species foraged in sugarcane fields, including the red imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta Buren, which was the most abundant ant. Solenopsis invicta was not affected by soil type; however, sugarcane fields on shallow organic soils might represent a more suitable environment.The third most abundant foraging ant, Nylanderia bourbonica (Forel), was more abundant in mineral soil fields than in shallow and deep organic soil fields. Results suggest that D. saccharalis population levels in Florida sugarcane are extremely low under current production conditions regardless of soil type. In addition, the observation of C. flavipes, S. invicta, and six other ant species suggest that biological control contributes to these low D. saccharalis population levels.
Development of an Algorithm to Identify Cases of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis Cirrhosis in the Electronic Health Record.

Current genetic research of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) cirrhosis is limited by our ability to accurately identify cases on a large scale. Our objective was to develop and validate an electronic health record (EHR) algorithm to accurately identify cases of NASH cirrhosis in the EHR. We used Clinical Query 2, a search tool at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, to create a pool of potential NASH cirrhosis cases (n = 5415). We created a training set of 300 randomly selected patients for chart review to confirm cases of NASH cirrhosis. Test characteristics of different algorithms, consisting of diagnosis codes, laboratory values, anthropomorphic measurements, and medication records, were calculated. The algorithms with the highest positive predictive value (PPV) and the highest F score with a PPV ≥ 80% were selected for internal validation using a separate random set of 100 patients from the potential NASH cirrhosis pool. These were then externally validated in another random set of 100 individuals using the research patient data registry tool at Massachusetts General Hospital. The algorithm with the highest PPV of 100% on internal validation and 92% on external validation consisted of ≥ 3 counts of “cirrhosis, no mention of alcohol” (571.5, K74.6) and ≥ 3 counts of “nonalcoholic fatty liver” (571.8–571.9, K75.81, K76.0) codes in the absence of any diagnosis codes for other common causes of chronic liver disease. We developed and validated an EHR algorithm using diagnosis codes that accurately identifies patients with NASH cirrhosis.
Characterization of basal forebrain glutamate neurons suggests a role in control of arousal and avoidance behavior

The basal forebrain (BF) is involved in arousal, attention, and reward processing but the role of individual BF subtypes is still being uncovered. Glutamatergic neurons are the least well-understood of the three major BF neurotransmitter phenotypes. Here we analyzed the distribution, size, calcium-binding protein content and projections of the major group of BF glutamate neurons expressing the vesicular glutamate transporter subtype 2 (vGluT2) and tested the functional effect of activating them. Mice expressing Cre recombinase under control of the vGluT2 promoter were crossed with a reporter strain expressing the red fluorescent protein, tdTomato, to generate vGluT2-cre-tdTomato mice. Immunohistochemical staining for choline acetyltransferase and a cross with mice expressing green fluorescent protein selectively in GABAergic neurons confirmed cholinergic, GABAergic and vGluT2+ neurons represent separate BF subpopulations. Subsets of BF vGluT2+ neurons expressed the calcium binding proteins calbindin or calretinin, suggesting that multiple subtypes of BF vGluT2+ neurons exist. Anterograde tracing using adeno-associated viral vectors expressing channelrhodopsin2-enhanced yellow fluorescent fusion proteins revealed major projections of BF vGluT2+ neurons to neighboring BF cholinergic and parvalbumin neurons, as well as to extra-BF areas involved in the control of arousal and regions responding to aversive or rewarding stimuli such as the lateral habenula and ventral tegmental area. Optogenetic activation of BF vGluT2 neurons in a place preference paradigm elicited a striking avoidance of the area where stimulation was given. Together with previous optogenetic findings suggesting an arousal-promoting role, our findings suggest BF vGluT2 neurons play a dual role in promoting wakefulness and avoidance behavior.
Effect of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) on apatite weathering under elevated CO2

Abstract Plants accelerate chemical weathering of minerals through the production of carbonic acid during root respiration, root exudation, and uptake of ions. These plant processes are increased by elevated concentrations of atmospheric CO2 and may in turn affect mineral weathering. We seek to understand the effect of predicted atmospheric CO2 concentrations on plant-mediated soil mineral weathering. Phaseolus vulgaris (common bean) was grown in flow-through microcosms consisting of a mixture of 85% quartz and 15% apatite sands (by weight). Nutrient release from apatite was measured using plants grown under two atmospheric conditions: ambient CO2 (~400 ppm) and elevated CO2 (~1000 ppm). To sustain plant growth, a nutrient solution without calcium (Ca) or phosphorous (P) was supplied to the plants using peristaltic pumps. Unplanted microcosms receiving the same nutrient solution served as abiotic controls in both CO2 treatments. Using atomic absorption spectroscopy and colorimetry, Ca and P concentrations of the leachate and plant tissue were measured as proxies for apatite dissolution. Plants were harvested every 2 weeks during the 8-week experiment to understand how Ca and P release in the two CO2 treatments changed over time. After 8 weeks, P. vulgaris grown in elevated CO2 had a greater root to shoot ratio than plants grown in ambient CO2. Plants grown in elevated CO2 released more P than plants grown in ambient conditions, possibly due to greater demands for mineral nutrients. P was preferentially released by the plants and there were no significant differences in Ca released by plants. Both elevated and ambient planted microcosms had a lower pH than abiotic controls, likely due to root respiration, nutrient uptake and exudation of organic acids. Organic acids were not identified in the leachate likely due to their low concentrations and rapid breakdown. Plants released as much as 7 times more Ca than abiotic controls, regardless of CO2 concentrations. Biotic experiments released over 200 times more P than abiotic experiments. Our results show increased atmospheric CO2 can determine rhizosphere processes, which in turn affect weathering products. Thus, mineral nutrient fluxes and C sequestration in inorganic pools are likely to increase as CO2 concentrations rise.
An Assessment of Mental Health Outcomes During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

In late 2019, the first case of COVID-19 was reported in Wuhan, China. Soon after, cases began to spread globally. This study aimed to examine the psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the adult population in the United States. We conducted an exploratory cross-sectional study using an anonymous online survey methodology distributed to participants across 13 states. The data collected included demographical information and outcomes from validated mental health screeners (GAD-7, PHQ-9, and IES-R) to assess levels of anxiety, depression, and stress. A total of 1356 participants completed the survey. GAD-7, PHQ-9, and IES-R levels differed significantly (p < 0.05) according to age, gender, and educational level. There was also significant difference between GAD-7 level as well as IES-R level between healthcare and non-healthcare workers (p = 0.02 and p = 0.028). Overall, this study has helped to garner a better understanding of COVID-19's impact on mental health outcomes.
Genetic Characterization and Curation of Diploid A-Genome Wheat Species

The A-genome diploid wheats represent the earliest domesticated and cultivated wheat species in the Fertile Crescent and the donor of the wheat A sub-genome. The A-genome species encompass the cultivated einkorn (Triticum. monococcum L. subsp. monococcum), wild einkorn (T. monococcum L. subsp. aegilopoides (Link) Thell.) and T. urartu. We evaluated the collection of 930 accessions in the Wheat Genetics Resource Center (WGRC), using genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) and identified 13,089 curated SNPs. Genomic analysis detected misclassified and duplicated accessions with most duplicates originated from the same or a nearby locations. About 56% (n = 520) of the WGRC A-genome species collections were duplicates supporting the need for genomic characterization for effective curation and maintenance of these collections. Population structure analysis confirmed the morphology-based classifications of the accessions and reflected the species geographic distributions. We also showed that the T. urartu as the closest A-genome diploid to wheat through phylogenetic analysis. Population analysis within the wild einkorn group showed three genetically distinct clusters, which corresponded with wild einkorn races , {beta}, and {gamma} described previously. The T. monococcum genome-wide FST scan identified candidate genomic regions harboring domestication selection signature (Btr1) on the short arm of chromosome 3Am at ~ 70 Mb. We established A-genome core set (79 accessions) based on allelic diversity, geographical distribution, and available phenotypic data. The individual species core set maintained at least 80% of allelic variants in the A-genome collection and constitute a valuable genetic resource to improve wheat and domesticated einkorn in breeding programs. One-sentence summaryGenotyping of gene bank collections of diploid A-genome relatives of wheat uncovered relatively higher genetic diversity and unique evolutionary relationships which gives insight to the effective use of these germplasm for wheat improvement.
Examination of the nutritional composition of alternative beef burgers available in the United States.

Alternative meat products provide help to reduce the consumption of meat; however, consumers are concerned with the nutritional quality of the novel and traditional plant-based burgers. The objective is to analyse the nutritional profile of commercially available burgers in the U.S. in the categories of beef, imitation, and veggie. We generated a database of burger products by investigating Mintel and company websites, which resulted in the inclusion of imitation (n = 28), veggie (n = 89), and conventional beef (n = 41) burgers. We analysed the nutritional composition (serving size, kcal, macro and micronutrients, vitamins, and minerals) across the three burger types. Beef burgers provided significantly more calories, fat (total fat, saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol), and protein while providing less sodium and fibre compared to alternative burgers. As consumers begin to make conscious decisions to reduce meat consumption, either for health or sustainability reasons, they need to be aware that these products are not nutritionally equivalent.
Abstract 344: Association Between Serum Retinol Binding Protein -4 Level and Coronary Artery Disease: A Meta Analysis

Background: Retinol binding protein 4 (RBP-4) is hepatokine/adipokine shown to be strongly associated with traditional and non-traditional (e.g. cytokines) cardiovascular risk factors via impairment of glucose and lipid metabolism and adipose tissue dysfunction. RBP-4 induce endothelial inflammation by stimulating expression of proinflammatory molecules whose effects are mediated via the activation of NADPH oxidase and NF-κB. The association of coronary artery disease (CAD) and RBP4 remains obscure. The objective of this study is to conduct a meta-analysis to evaluate the relationship between serum RBP-4 levels and CAD. Methods: We searched MEDLINE, CIINHAL and COCHRANE databases for studies reporting serum RBP-4 levels in the CAD and non CAD study population. We included case controls, cohort and cross-sectional studies. We calculated the weighted standardized mean difference (SMD) in serum RBP-4 levels between the CAD and control groups. Results: Our search strategy yielded 52 articles and we included 6...
9 Bioseparations by displacement chromatography

Publisher Summary This chapter summarizes the recent developments in displacement chromatography field and to place in perspective the role that displacement chromatography could play in preparative bioseparations in the years to come. Displacement chromatography is an efficient mode of preparative chromatography. Operationally, displacement chromatography is performed in a manner similar to step-gradient chromatography in which the column is subjected to sequential step changes in the inlet conditions. The displacement mode of chromatography takes advantage of the thermodynamic characteristics of the chromatographic system to overcome many of the shortcomings of preparative elution chromatography. Recent advances in the field have included the advent of low molecular weight displacers, a focus on the design of high-affinity displacer molecules, the extension of displacement chromatography to systems other than ion exchange and the application of displacement chromatography to several challenging problems from the biotechnology industry.
A New Approach for Information Security Risk Assessment: Value at Risk

Most of the tools that are used for Information Security (ISEC) risk assessment are qualitative and are not grounded in theory. This paper presents and applies a well-known financial risk theory, Value at Risk (VaR), to the ISEC risk assessment. VaR in its most succinct form is defined as a figure that relates the amount of potential loss in a given portfolio to its probability, and describes the quantile of the projected distribution of losses over a given time period. From the ISEC perspective, VaR summarizes the worst loss due to a security breach over a target horizon, with a given level of confidence. Using this quantitative measure of risk, the best possible balance between risk and cost of providing security to mitigate the risk can be achieved.
Evaluation of different diameter arterial tubing and arterial cannulae in simulated neonatal/pediatric cardiopulmonary bypass circuits.

The objective of this study is to evaluate three different diameters of arterial tubing and three diameters of arterial cannulae in terms of pressure drop, and hemodynamic energy delivery in simulated neonatal/pediatric cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) circuits. The CPB circuit consisted of a Terumo Capiox Baby FX05 oxygenator (Terumo Corporation, Tokyo, Japan), arterial tubing (1/4 in, 3/16 in, or 1/8 in × 150 cm), and a Medtronic Bio-Medicus arterial cannula (8, 10, or 12 Fr; Medtronic, Inc., Minneapolis, MN, USA). The pseudo patient's pressure was maintained at 50 mm Hg. The circuit was primed using lactated Ringer's solution and heparinized packed human red blood cells (hematocrit 30%). Trials were conducted at different flow rates and temperatures (35 and 28°C). Flow and pressure data were collected using a custom-based data acquisition system. Using 8 Fr arterial cannula at 500 mL/min, small diameter arterial tubing generated higher circuit pressure (294.6 ± 0.1 mm Hg [1/8 in], 213.5 ± 0.5 mm Hg [3/16 in], 208.4 ± 0.4 mm Hg [1/4 in] at 35°C) and arterial line pressure drop (158.3 ± 0.1 mm Hg [1/8 in], 79.6 ± 0.1 mm Hg [3/16 in], 62.1 ± 0.1 mm Hg [1/4 in] at 35°C). Using 10 Fr arterial cannula at 1000 mL/min, pre-oxygenator pressures were 266.8 ± 0.2 mm Hg (3/16 in) and 248.0 ± 0.3 mm Hg (1/4 in); arterial line pressure drops were 111.6 ± 0.0 mm Hg (3/16 in) and 74.0 ± 0.1 mm Hg (1/4 in) at 35°C. When using 12 Fr arterial cannula at 1500 mL/min, preoxygenator pressures reached 324.4 ± 0.3 mm Hg (3/16 in) and 302.5 ± 0.4 mm Hg (1/4 in); arterial line pressure drops were 154.0 ± 0.1 mm Hg (3/16 in) and 92.0 ± 0.2 mm Hg (1/4 in) at 35°C. Pressure drops across arterial line tubing were main CPB circuit pressure drops. High flow rate, hypothermia, small diameter arterial tubing. and arterial cannula created more hemodynamic energy at the preoxygenator site, but energy loss across CPB circuit also increased. Although small diameter (<1/4 in ID) arterial tubing may decrease total CPB priming volume, it also led to significantly higher circuit pressure, higher pressure drop, and more hemodynamic energy loss across CPB circuit. Larger diameter arterial cannula had less pressure drop and allowed more hemodynamic energy delivery to the patient.
Electronic and thermoelectric analysis of phases in the In2O3(ZnO)k system

The high-temperature electrical conductivity and thermopower of several compounds in the In2O3(ZnO)k system (k=3, 5, 7, and 9) were measured, and the band structures of the k=1, 2, and 3 structures were predicted based on first-principles calculations. These phases exhibit highly dispersed conduction bands consistent with transparent conducting oxide behavior. Jonker plots (Seebeck coefficient versus natural logarithm of conductivity) were used to obtain the product of the density of states and mobility for these phases, which were related to the maximum achievable power factor (thermopower squared times conductivity) for each phase by Ioffe analysis (maximum power factor versus Jonker plot intercept). With the exception of the k=9 phase, all other phases were found to have maximum predicted power factors comparable to other thermoelectric oxides if suitably doped.
Predicting asthma symptoms in low-income children with persistent asthma: The role of medication adherence, depressive symptoms and behavior problems☆

Abstract Rationale This study explored the relationships between child depressive symptoms and hopelessness, child behavior problems, caregiver depressive symptoms, adherence to Flovent and/or Singulair, and asthma symptoms in a low-income sample of children with persistent asthma. Methods Eighty-one children ages 6-11 were recruited from a primary care clinic (26%), an asthma clinic (46%), or the emergency room (28%) in an urban pediatric hospital. The child's adherence to Flovent/and or Singulair was measured by electronic monitoring devices over a 14 day period. Caregivers and children were interviewed after the monitoring period about child depressive symptoms and hopelessness, child behavior problems, caregiver depressive symptoms, and child asthma symptoms. Results Mean daily adherence was 65% (range=14-100%, n=70) to Flovent and 80% (range=21-100%, n=39) to Singulair. Parent- and child-reported asthma symptoms were positively and significantly correlated. Parent-reported daytime asthma symptoms were negatively correlated with Flovent and Singulair adherence, and positively correlated with caregiver-reported child behavior problems and depressive symptoms. Child-reported daytime asthma symptoms were significantly and positively correlated with child-reported depressive symptoms and hopelessness. Caregivers' self-reported depressive symptoms were positively correlated with caregiver-reported asthma symptoms for the child and negatively correlated with the child's Flovent and Singulair adherence. Regression analyses will explore the contribution of mental health variables to the prediction of asthma symptoms over and above the contribution of medication adherence. Conclusions Asthma treatment providers need to consider the impact of child and caregiver mental health on asthma morbidity, particularly in cases of poor medication adherence.
A 1.8 V continuous-time delta-sigma modulator with 2.5 MHz bandwidth

This paper describes the implementation of a low-voltage, wide bandwidth, continuous-time low-pass /spl Delta//spl Sigma/ modulator. The presented modulator operates at a supply voltage of 1.8 V and can achieve a maximum SNDR of 74 dB (more than 12 bits) for an oversampling ratio of 32 and in a bandwidth of 2.5 MHz.
Protein Posttranslational Modification: A Potential Target in Pharmaceutical Development

Protein posttranslational modification (PTM) is a hallmark of signal transduction and it allows the cells to rapidly respond to extracellular signals. These modifications, which involve stable and sometimes irreversible additions of non-amino acid to primary translation products, occur in a large proportion of the cellular protein pool. This article focuses on important issues in PTM studies, such as need for protein modification, how proteins are modified, and basic tools for studying PTM. Keywords: protein posttranslational modification (PTM); extracellular signals; cellular protein pool; signal transduction
Assessing Local Water Conflicts: Understanding the Links Between Water, Marginalisation and Climate Change

The discourse and academic work around water conflicts is often focused on international water conflicts. As a consequence, although local water conflicts are common and affect the everyday life of many communities around the world, they are frequently overlooked. Analytical tools and trainings on local water conflicts are thus scarce. The Water, Crisis and Climate Change Assessment Framework (WACCAF) helps to close this gap. It guides users through an analysis of the different factors that play a role in local water conflicts. The goal of this tool is to better understand the conflict potential of competition around water resources, in order to prevent a water crisis from escalating into a conflict. It can also help to understand an existing water conflict and identify ways to solve it. The WACCAF specifically focuses on how the interaction between marginalisation and unequal water access and availability can create conflict (potential). These findings are then placed in wider social and historical contexts by looking at past conflicts and general marginalisation patterns in society. The analysis is completed by understanding the factors that decrease the potential for conflict, in particular cooperation and conflict resolution mechanisms.
Fine structure of chloroplasts in two flagellates.

THE structure of chloroplasts has been described in several recent reviews1. Previous information based on the use of the polarizing2, ultra-violet3 and electron microscopes4 has provided some evidence that the chloroplasts have a lamellar structure. The electron microscope studies have been made exclusively on isolated plastids in which artefacts may be easily produced by disintegration and injury during the preparation of the specimens. The electron micrographs obtained have shown that the chloroplasts and even the grana consist of disks; but they have not yielded information about the orientation of these disks to one another. Progress in embedding and thin-sectioning techniques now permits us to examine in the electron microscope the structure of intact chloroplasts in situ. The present communication summarizes observations made by such methods on the chloroplasts of two algal flagellates, Euglena gracilis bacillaris and Poteriochromonas stipitata (a phagotrophic chrysomonad).
Variation in recovery of motile sperm after preparation by a simple Percoll gradient technique.

Purpose: Numerous techniques have been used to prepare sperm for assisted reproduction technology. Density-gradient centrifugation with Percoll is becoming a method of choice. This study reviewed the results of a simple two-layer discontinuous Percoll gradient.
Partial Phase Behavior of HMX/DMSO Solutions

The phase diagram of HMX/DMSO and the solvated complex HMX·(DMSO)2 has been investigated by visual observation, high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and optical microscopy. Visual observations showed the solved complex exhibited an incongruent melting point, i.e., the melting point of the solvated crystal occurs within the region of the phase diagram where HMX itself precipitates. If the solvated crystal is removed from solution and heated, it reverts to solid HMX and DMSO at the peritectic temperature (∼70°C). Using HPLC the change in concentration of the liquid phase was monitored as a function of temperature to confirm the phase line of the DMSO/solvated complex based on visual observation. Polarized light microscopy of the dissolution of seeded solutions of different concentrations was also used to verify these results. It is possible that a 1:1 complex also exists, but no evidence for such a complex was found in these experiments.
A molecular orbital study of the dihedral angle dependencies of vicinal carbon-carbon coupling constants

Abstract Theoretical studies are presented for the conformational dependencies of vicinal 13 C 13 C coupling constants within a variety of saturated and unsaturated molecular frameworks. Using the MO approach of Blizzard and Santry ( J. Chem. Phys. , 55 , 950 (1971); 58 , 4714 (1973)) , it is shown that three distinct patterns of dihedral angle vs 3 J CC contact coupling are produced, depending upon the degree of double bonding present within the direct coupling path. By means of calculations that involve modifying the various exchange integrals, two of these coupling patterns are found to depend on δ-π exchange. A rationalization of the origin of these coupling patterns is presented. In all systems studied, the orbital and dipolar contributions to the vicinal coupling constant are calculated to be negligible compared to the Fermi contact mechanism except in conjugated systems; in these cases the magnitude of the dipolar term is highly dependent on the dihedral angle and is approximately one-third of the total 3 J CC at dihedral angles of 0 and 180°. The effect of substituents on 3 J CC is discussed.
Myeloproliferative disease induced by TEL-PDGFRB displays dynamic range sensitivity to Stat5 gene dosage

Expression of the constitutively activated TEL/PDGFβR fusion protein is associated with the t(5;12)(q33;p13) chromosomal translocation found in a subset of patients with chronic myelomonocytic leukemia. TEL/PDGFβR activates multiple signal transduction pathways in cell-culture systems, and expression of the TEL-PDGFRB fusion gene induces myeloproliferative disease (MPD) in mice. We used gene-targeted mice to characterize the contribution of signal transducer and activator of transcription (Stat) and Src family genes to TEL-PDGFRB–mediated transformation in methylcellulose colony and murine bone marrow transduction/transplantation assays. Fetal liver hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells harboring targeted deletion of both Stat5a and Stat5b (Stat5abnull/null) genes were refractory to transformation by TEL-PDGFRB in methylcellulose colony assays. Notably, these cell populations were maintained in Stat5abnull/null fetal livers and succumbed to transformation by c-Myc. Surprisingly, targeted disruption of either Stat5a or Stat5b alone also impaired TEL-PDGFRB–mediated transformation. Survival of TPiGFP→Stat5a−/− and TPiGFP→Stat5a+/− mice was significantly prolonged, demonstrating significant sensitivity of TEL-PDGFRB–induced MPD to the dosage of Stat5a. TEL-PDGFRB–mediated MPD was incompletely penetrant in TPiGFP→Stat5b−/− mice. In contrast, Src family kinases Lyn, Hck, and Fgr and the Stat family member Stat1 were dispensable for TEL-PDGFRB disease. Together, these data demonstrate that Stat5a and Stat5b are dose-limiting mediators of TEL-PDGFRB–induced myeloproliferation.
Rapid image analysis using neural signals

The problem of extracting information from large collections of imagery is a challenge with few good solutions. Computers typically cannot interpret imagery as effectively as humans can, and manual analysis tools are slow. The research reported here explores the feasibility of speeding up manual image analysis by tapping into split second perceptual judgments using electroencephalograph sensors. Experimental results show that a combination of neurophysiological signals and overt physical responses--detected while a user views imagery in high speed bursts of approximately 10 images per second--provide a basis for detecting targets within large image sets. Results show an approximately six-fold, statistically significant, reduction in the time required to detect targets at high accuracy levels compared to conventional broad-area image analysis.
Tensile Stress Relaxation of Thermosetting Polyurethane Solid and Foam

Stress relaxation behavior of thermosetting polyurethane (PU) solid and foam were investigated in tensile mode using a dynamic mechanical analyzer (DMA). PU solid samples were manufactured in a closed mold under compression to avoid any foam formation, whilst the foam samples were manufactured inside a woven using a silicone mold. Effects of cure and the post-cure temperature were also investigated on the stress relaxation behavior. Samples in the form of rectangular cross-section were subjected to a predetermined amount tensile strain and the tensile force was recorded as a function of time. Relaxation modulus was determined for different temperatures up to near the glass transition temperature. It was found that the viscous part becomes dominant with increasing test temperature. The experimental data was precisely modeled using a generalized Maxwell’s model and the characteristic relaxation time was identified with the corresponding relaxation process. Although the stress relaxation behavior of PU solid and PU foams were found similar at room temperature, the relaxation behavior of the foam was found to be influenced by the cell morphology at higher temperature.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Settlement times of blue crab (Callinectes sapidus) megalopae during flood-tide transport

Settlement by blue crab (Callinectes sapidus Rathbun) megalopae on artificial settlement substrates was monitored relative to tidal currents throughout ten nights from July to September 1997 in which the phase relationship between tides and the light dark cycle differed. Most megalopae were in intermolt, and the total number settling to collectors sampled at hourly intervals was greater than totals on collectors immersed all night. Maximum settlement occurred at slack water before ebb tide (SBE), with a smaller peak at slack water before flood tide (SBF). These results support the hypothesis that during flood-tide transport (FTT) blue crab megalopae remain swimming during flood tide at night in response to water turbulence and settle in response to the decline in turbulence occurring near SBE. Settlement peaks near SBF can be explained by a behavioral response of megalopae to increasing salinity at the beginning of flood tide, which results in an ascent response lasting only a few minutes. Depth maintenance in the water column is not maintained at SBF because of low water turbulence. Since light inhibits swimming and upward movement into the water column, settlement, and, presumably, transport were reduced when SBE occurred near the times of sunrise and sunset. Collectively, these results suggest that the phase relationship between the tide and light: dark cycles affects FTT, the timing of settlement, and behaviors associated with habitat selection.