cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A model for the determination of the scavenging rates of submicron aerosols by snow crystals

Abstract A theoretical model for the determination of the rate at which submicron aerosol particles are scavenged by snow crystals is presented. This scheme incorporates Brownian diffusion, thermophoresis, diffusiophoresis, and electrostatic attraction. Scavenging rates are derived as a function of aerosol size, snow crystal capacitance, atmospheric temperature, and relative humidity. The model applies to any snow crystal type that can be described by its capacitance and a generalized gamma distribution where the coefficients are dependent on the crystal type. The crystal surface properties are determined by applying the Gauss theorem over an arbitrary surface where a linearized capacitance is applied. Relative humidity is the most sensitive of the terms being modeled in this particle size range. A 5% change in relative humidity results in a change in the scavenging rate of up to an order of magnitude, while a 50% change in capacitance changes the scavenging rate by a factor to two. Empirical models do not include relative humidity effects. Observed data are limited but lend partial verification to this model.
DFT Study of Unligated and Ligated ManganeseII Porphyrins and Phthalocyanines

A theoretical study of the electronic structure, bonding, and properties of unligated and ligated manganese(II) porphyrins and phthalocyanines has been carried out "in detail" using a density functional theory (DFT) method. While manganese tetraphenylporphine (MnTPP) in the crystal is high spin (S = 5/2) with the Mn(II) atom out of the porphyrin plane, the present calculations find that the free manganese porphine (MnP) molecule has no obvious tendency to distort from planarity even in the high-spin state. The ground state of the planar structure is found to be intermediate spin (S = 3/2). Manganese phthalocyanine (MnPc) is calculated to have a 4E(g) ground state, in agreement with the more recent magnetic circular dichroism (MCD) and UV-vis measurements of the molecule in an argon matrix but different from the early magnetic measurements of solid MnPc. The effect of the crystal structure on the electronic state of MnPc is examined by the calculations of a model system. For the six-coordinate adducts with two pyridine (py) ligands, the strong-field axial ligands raise the energy of the Mn d(z2)-orbital, thereby making the Mn(II) ion low spin (S = 1/2). The recent assignment of MnPc(py)2 as an intermediate-spin state proves to be incorrect. Some issues involved in the reduced products have also been clarified. Five-coordinate MnP(py) and MnPc(py) complexes are high spin and intermediate spin, respectively.
Microbiota in Surface Films: an Historical Perspective

Abstract Research over the past 50 years has revealed the ubiquitous nature of the organic surface film and the significant enrichment of bacteria in it. This enrichment is greater with certain types of microorganisms and is related to the lipid content of the film. Surface films are trapping devices for bacteria and vehicles for the passive dispersion of bacteria into the atmosphere. The secretions of these bacteria and phytoplankton, as well as proteins and lipids liberated from autolyzing microorganisms, may be important for the formation and regeneration of the surface film.
Electronic Resources and Mission Creep: Reorganizing the Library for the Twenty-First Century

The position of electronic resources librarian was created to serve as a specialist in the negotiation of license agreements for electronic resources, but mission creep has added more functions to the routine work of electronic resources such as cataloging, gathering information for collection development, and technical support. As electronic collections continue to grow in size and complexity, libraries have resorted to automation, the redistribution of work to other library staff, and interdepartmental workflows to ensure that electronic resources remain accessible to their patrons. Prescribed solutions vary, but a growing number of librarians all over the world are beginning to recognize that libraries are not properly organized for the work that actually has to be done in the twenty-first century. These solutions fall short of what is required: an integrated electronic resources department.
Headspace volatiles from heated pork fat

Abstract Volatile chemicals formed in the headspace of heated pork fat were purged into dichloromethane, and the chemicals trapped were analyzed by gas chromatography and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Volatile compounds identified in the headspace samples were nine n-alkanes, 19 n-alkenes, eight cyclic alkanes, three cyclic alkenes, five aromatic hydrocarbons and three ketones. Fifty-three peaks out of 124 peaks on the gas chromatogram of six replicated headspace samples were used for the statistical treatments.
Plutonium partitioning to colloidal and particulate matter in an acidic, sandy sediment: implications for remediation alternatives and plutonium migration.

Plutonium partitioning within a bulk, freshwater sediment and to specific size fractions of the sediment was determined. Fission track analysis was used to observe the spatial heterogeneity of fiss...
Assessing hypothetical scenario methodology in genetic susceptibility testing analog studies: a quantitative review

Hypothetical scenario methodology is commonly employed in the study of genetic susceptibility testing uptake estimation. The methodology, however, has not been rigorously assessed and sizeable gaps exist between estimated and actual uptake for tests that have recently become available. This quantitative review explores the effect of several theoretically based factors on genetic test uptake accuracy among a sample of 38 articles. These factors include verbal immediacy and temporal proximity of test scenarios, method of decision assessment, content of testing detail provided, processing demand required, and study features related to administration and sample. A number of assessed factors influenced uptake accuracy. Among these, temporal proximity of the genetic susceptibility test appeared to be the most consistent. There was also some evidence for effects of verbal immediacy and decision-assessment method on interest in testing. We recommend strategies for increasing accuracy using hypothetical scenario methodology to examine genetic susceptibility test uptake prediction.
Charge exchange reactions of O2+ ions with noble gases at 2800 eV

Abstract Charge exchange cross sections for O 2 + in the 2 Π g and 4 Π u states with the noble gases have been measured using a modified time-of-flight mass spectrometer. The ground state ion appears to charge exchange to produce the ground state molecule ( 3 Σ − g ) while the excited ion appears to yield the lowest excited state of the molecule ( 1 Δ g ). With the exception of the reaction of the 4 Π u state of O 2 + with xenon, the product ions all appear to be formed in the lowest state ( 2 P 1 2 .
Recurrence Rates and Prognostic Factors in ypN0 Rectal Cancer After Neoadjuvant Chemoradiation and Total Mesorectal Excision

Neoadjuvant chemoradiation followed by surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy is typically recommended for patients with locally advanced rectal cancer. Patients with pathologically node-negative tumors have an improved prognosis, but recurrence patterns and independent prognostic factors in these patients have been incompletely characterized. Using a retrospective cohort study design, we included all rectal cancer patients treated with neoadjuvant chemoradiation and curative surgery from 1993 through 2003, who had ypN0 tumors. We characterized recurrence rates and patterns in patients not treated with adjuvant chemotherapy. Secondarily, we compared them to patients who did receive adjuvant treatment and assessed for independent prognostic factors, using univariate and multivariable survival analyses. Overall, 324 ypN0 patients (ypT0: n = 73; ypT1–2: n = 130; ypT3–4: n = 120) were followed for a median of 5.8 years. The risk of recurrence was associated with pathologic stage—2.7% ypT0, 12.3% ypT1–2, 24.2%ypT3–4. Five-year recurrence-free survival in patients who did not receive adjuvant treatment was 100% (ypT0), 84.4% (ypT1–2) and 75% (ypT3–4). There was no significant difference in 5-year recurrence-free survival between patients who did and did not receive adjuvant treatment. In multivariable analysis, pathologic stage was the factor most strongly associated with recurrence (hazard ratio 3.6 for ypT3–4 vs. ypT0–2, 95% confidence interval 1.9–6.7, P < 0.0001). The recurrence rates for selected patients with ypT0–2N0 rectal cancer after neoadjuvant chemoradiation and total mesorectal excision are low. Although standard practice remains completion of planned postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy for all patients undergoing chemoradiation, these data suggest prospective trials may be warranted to measure the benefit of adjuvant chemotherapy in favorable subgroups, such as ypT0–2N0.
Impaired Memory Consolidation in Rats Produced with β-Adrenergic Blockade

Despite abundant evidence that systemic administration of adrenergic drugs and hormones can produce retrograde memory enhancement, the literature contains no clear demonstration that postlearning systemic administration of adrenergic antagonists produces retrograde amnesia. Here we demonstrate retrograde amnesia for a stressful learning task (a spatial water maze) with systemic administration of the beta-adrenergic antagonist propranolol (5 mg/kg). The amnesic effect of the drug depended on the degree of learning in the subjects: Propranolol caused a robust retrograde amnesia in "good learners," but did not significantly affect memory in "poor learners." The findings provide critical additional support for the hypothesis that postlearning adrenergic activation modulates memory consolidation processes after emotionally stressful events and help explain previous failures to detect memory impairment after systemic administration of adrenergic blocking drugs.
The Greening of the Boston Park Plaza Hotel

This article discusses the relationship between personal, family, and organizational values in the development and implementation of an environmental action program at the family-owned and -operated Boston Park Plaza Hotel. In this instance, a ‘spirit of responsibility’ that evolved through three generations of the family meshed with a traditional ‘spirit of ownership’ to produce a program that is a financial and public relations success and that is recognized as the most progressive in the industry. Moreover, the hotel and family have received significant awards for industry leadership and environmental achievement.
Controlling Lice and Chorioptic Mange Mites on Dairy Cattle

Conventional high-gallonage, high-volume spraying of dairy cattle with 0.03% diazinon, 0.1% coumaphos, 0.1% carbaryl, or 0.1-0.5% Ciodrin® ( alpha -methylbenzyl 3-hydroxycrotonate dimethyl phosphate) controlled cattle biting lice, Bovicola bovis (L.); long-nosed cattle lice, Linognathus vituli (L.); and short-nosed cattle lice, Haematopinus eurysternus (Nitzsch). Ciodrin and carbaryl were not as completely effective as diazinon and coumaphos when herds were sprayed only once. 0.125% rotenone plus 2.5% sulfur required 2 applications for adequate control. Concentrations of Ciodrin as low as 0.03-0.06% applied twice, were completely effective against the chorioptic mange mite, Chorioptes bovis (Hering), but not against lice. An electric mist blower was used to apply low-volume concentrates at 2-8 oz of mist/cow. Ciodrin emulsion, 1-2%, at 8 oz/cow, applied twice, completely controlled all the louse species previously mentioned as well as the chorioptic mange mite. In one of the 8 herds treated, a small number of the little blue louse, Solenopotes capillatus Enderlein, survived 6 weeks after the 2nd application. A similar application of 2% ronnel completely controlled 2 species of sucking lice. Rotenone, 0.5%, applied twice gave good but not complete louse control, and was not effective against the chorioptic mange mite. Ciodrin was tested also as a 2% solution in a livestock spray oil at 71-107 ml/cow and completely controlled cattle biting and sucking lice and chorioptic mange mites with 2 applications. Also effective was 83-150 ml/cow of 1 % Ciodrin plus 0.25% dichlorvos solution. Dichlorvos, 1%, alone was effective against all louse species but not the chorioptic mange mite. Preliminary experiments indicated that 2% trichlorfon, 2% coumaphos, and 1% fenthion were effective when applied as a low-volume mist. Emulsions containing 8.3% Ruelene® (4-tert-butyl-2-chlorophenyl methyl methylphosphoramidate) or 5% fenthion, poured on the backs of cattle, reduced populations of the cattle biting louse and the long-nosed cattle louse. Two applications of Ruelene did not completely control the cattle biting louse.
Spatial-dispersion cancellation in quantum interferometry

We investigate cancellation of spatial aberrations induced by an object placed in a quantum coincidence interferometer with type-II parametric down conversion as a light source. We analyze in detail the physical mechanism by which the cancellation occurs and show that the aberration cancels only when the object resides in one particular plane within the apparatus. In addition, we show that for a special case of the apparatus it is possible to produce simultaneous cancellation of both even-order and odd-order aberrations in this plane.
Computer-aided detection and classification of minelike objects using template-based features

In this paper the classification of small sidescan sonar images is considered. The features of the image that are used for classification are the outputs from various convolution masks based on ray-generated images of targets and their corresponding edge masks at various aspects and ranges. This procedure has the advantage that a detailed segmentation of the image into highlight and shadow is avoided. The procedure is efficient to implement and robust. In this paper we concentrate on the identification of cylindrical objects. This case is more complicated than some other targets because of the aspect dependence. A set of sidescan sonar images of a specific type of cylinder, as well as images from a large variety of clutter events is considered. A subset of the cylinder images is used for training the algorithm.
The Dynamics of Conditioning and Extinction

Pigeons responded to intermittently reinforced classical conditioning trials with erratic bouts of responding to the conditioned stimulus. Responding depended on whether the prior trial contained a peck, food, or both. A linear persistence-learning model moved pigeons into and out of a response state, and a Weibull distribution for number of within-trial responses governed in-state pecking. Variations of trial and intertrial durations caused correlated changes in rate and probability of responding and in model parameters. A novel prediction--in the protracted absence of food, response rates can plateau above zero--was validated. The model predicted smooth acquisition functions when instantiated with the probability of food but a more accurate jagged learning curve when instantiated with trial-to-trial records of reinforcement. The Skinnerian parameter was dominant only when food could be accelerated or delayed by pecking. These experiments provide a framework for trial-by-trial accounts of conditioning and extinction that increases the information available from the data, permitting such accounts to comment more definitively on complex contemporary models of momentum and conditioning.
The Effects of Targeted Muscle Reinnervation on Neuromas in a Rabbit Rectus Abdominis Flap Model

Purpose A targeted muscle reinnervation (TMR) model was created using a pedicled rabbit rectus abdominis (RA) flap to receive the input from previously amputated forelimb neuromas. We hypothesize that a segmental muscle flap can undergo TMR and that it is possible to differentiate the signal from 3 independent nerves. In addition, by virtue of the nerve coaptation, the morphology of the previous amputation neuroma would become more like that of an in-continuity neuroma. Methods Five New Zealand white rabbits had a forelimb amputation. In a second-stage surgery, an RA flap was transposed onto the chest wall. After neuroma excision, 3 neurorrhaphies were made between the median nerve, radial nerve, and ulnar nerves, and 3 motor nerves of the RA. After 10 weeks, the electrophysiologic properties of the reinnervated flap were tested. Nerve specimens from the median, radial, and ulnar nerves were harvested before and after TMR to quantify the histomorphometric changes effected by TMR on the mixed nerve neuromas. Results Of the 12 nerve coaptations performed in the 4 viable flaps, all 12 were grossly successful. Muscle surface EMG data demonstrated that the RA retained its segmental innervation pattern after TMR. Similarly, prolonged stimulation of 1 nerve reinnervating the RA resulted in the depletion of glycogen specific to the territory of the muscle stimulated by that nerve. TMR was found to favorably alter the histomorphometric characteristics of the neuroma by decreasing myelinated fiber counts and increasing fascicle diameter in the transferred nerves. Conclusions This study demonstrates that 1 segmented muscle having TMR by multiple nerve ingrowth and in turn generate discrete EMG signals. During this process, the previous amputation neuroma undergoes favorable morphologic alteration. Clinical relevance Based on these preclinical results, this technique might be useful in upper extremity amputees to recruit target muscles to have reinnervation to drive myoelectric prostheses and to treat symptomatic neuromas.
The initial stage of nucleation and growth of Al on H/Si(100)-1×1 by dimethylaluminum hydride vapor deposition

Abstract The surface morphology of Al deposition by dimethylaluminum hydride (DMAH) vapor on H-terminated Si(100)-1×1 was investigated using scanning tunneling microscope (STM) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Al(110), Al(111) and Al(100) islands can be grown on this surface. Elevated temperatures enhance Al cluster nucleation, but suppress crystalline island growth below a certain critical precursor flux. Al nucleation on the H/Si(100)-2×1, and -3×1 surfaces were compared and discussed. Amorphous clusters can be nucleated on the bare and oxidized Si surfaces. Direct comparison of the Al growth between the H/Si(100)-1×1 and oxidized surfaces was demonstrated by using STM to desorb H locally and create native oxide patterns on the H/Si(100)-1×1 surface.
Comparison of time‐resolved photoluminescence from InGaN single quantum wells grown on nonpolar and semipolar bulk GaN substrates

Single quantum wells of low InN concentration InGaN grown on high quality nonpolar and semipolar substrates cut from bulk GaN boules are studied by time-resolved photoluminescence techniques. Data is presented for different well widths at varying pump fluence and sample temperature to study nonlinear non-radiative recombination, radiative lifetimes, and carrier localization or separation. (© 2009 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Thermodynamic model of creep at constant stress and constant strain rate

Abstract A thermodynamic model has been developed that describes the entire creep process, including primary, secondary, and tertiary creep, and failure for both constant stress (CS) tests ( σ = const. ) and constant strain rate (CSR) tests ( ϵ = const. ), in the form of a unified constitutive equation and unified failure criteria. Deformation and failure are considered as a single thermoactivated process in which the dominant role belongs to the change of entropy. Failure occurs when the entropy change is zero. At that moment, the strain rates in CS tests reach the minima and stress in CSR tests reaches the maximum (peak) values. Families of creep (ϵ vs t) and stress-strain (σ vs ϵ) curves, obtained from uniaxial compression CS and CSR tests of frozen soil, respectively (both presented in dimensionless coordinates), are plotted as straight lines and are superposed, confirming the unity of the deformation and failure process and the validity of the model. A method is developed for determining the parameters of the model, so that creep deformation and the stress-strain relationship of ductile materials such as soils can be predicted based upon information obtained from either type of test.
Application of self-organising maps for data mining with incomplete data sets

Self-organising maps (SOM) have become a commonly-used cluster analysis technique in data mining. However, SOM are not able to process incomplete data. To build more capability of data mining for SOM, this study proposes an SOM-based fuzzy map model for data mining with incomplete data sets. Using this model, incomplete data are translated into fuzzy data, and are used to generate fuzzy observations. These fuzzy observations, along with observations without missing values, are then used to train the SOM to generate fuzzy maps. Compared with the standard SOM approach, fuzzy maps generated by the proposed method can provide more information for knowledge discovery.
Discrete event simulation in the NEURON environment

Abstract The response of many types of integrate and fire cells to synaptic input can be computed analytically and their threshold crossing either computed analytically or approximated to high accuracy via Newton approximation. The NEURON simulation environment simulates networks of such artificial spiking neurons using discrete event simulation techniques in which computations are performed only when events are received. Thus, computation time is proportional only to the number of events delivered and is independent of the number of cells or problem time.
Abutment stabilization through endosseous and cross-arch splinting

Abstract The increasing longevity of the general population makes it incumbent upon dentistry to develop methods of maintaining bony support and subminimal abutment teeth for denture retention. Knowledge gained from oral surgery, periodontics, endodontics, fixed partial prosthodontics, and removable partial prosthodontics enables dentists to restore masticatory and psychologic security of the patient. The clinical benefits of cross-arch splinting have been well established. Vertical endodontic endosseous splinting is biologically and physiologically sound. Integrating the advantages of both has provided noteworthy benefits.
Measuring the success of the HRH Global Resource Center

In 2006, IntraHealth International, as implementers of the USAID-funded Capacity Project, developed and launched the Human Resources for Health (HRH) Global Resource Center (GRC), www.hrhresourcecenter.org, a digital library committed to reducing access barriers in developing countries to the best HRH resources available. Since the launch, the GRC has transformed in response to usage, feedback, and changes in the field of HRH. Data gathered from monitoring and evaluating the GRC has driven many of these modifications. This article shares IntraHealth's experiences developing, using, and refining monitoring and evaluation methods and metrics for the HRH Global Resource Center.
Laser Ablative Patterning of Copoly(imide siloxane)s Generating Superhydrophobic Surfaces

Low surface energy copoly(imide siloxane)s were generated via condensation polymerization reactions. The generated materials were characterized spectroscopically, thermally, mechanically, and via c...
Generalized anxiety disorder patients seek evaluation for cardiological symptoms at the same frequency as patients with panic disorder

Although panic disorder (PD) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) have similar somatic symptoms, panic attacks with chest pain and/or palpitations may seem more likely to be mistaken for heart attacks because of their acute onset. One would therefore expect that PD patients are more likely than GAD patients to seek cardiological consultations. In a survey of 146 PD and 154 GAD patients entering a multi-site drug trial, we found virtually identical rates of such consults. Approximately 50% of each patient group sought medical evaluation for cardiac symptoms. Furthermore, 40% of each group had standard treadmill evaluations and 33% reported having an echocardiogram. This study suggests that future epidemiological studies in cardiology populations should include probes for generalized anxiety disorder.
Developing Cultural Competence With Latter-Day Saint Clients: A Strengths-Based Perspective

Despite social work's increasing focus on spiritual competency as one expression of cultural competency, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has received little mention in social work literature. This article utilizes a strengths perspective to help social workers better understand the unique cultural and religious dimensions of effective practice with LDS Church (i.e., Mormon) clients. It contains a summary of the basic beliefs, practices, and structure of the LDS Church. We discuss possible value conflicts, identify challenges that may be unique to members of the LDS Church, and provide suggestions for spiritual assessment and interventions. The article concludes by offering suggestions to enhance the cultural sensitivity of services provided to this growing population.
Exchange between interstitial and surface water: implications for stream metabolism and nutrient cycling

Metabolism of a Sonoran Desert stream was investigated by both enclosure and whole system oxygen techniques. We used recirculating chambers to estimate surface sediment metabolism and measured deep sediment respiration in isolated sediment cores. Metabolism of the stream ecosystem was determined for a 30-m reach as dark and light oxygen change with and without black plastic sheeting that darkened the stream and prevented diffusion. Average ecosystem respiration for two dates in August (440 mg O2 m-2 h-1) exceeded respiration of either the surface sediment community (155 Mg O2 m-2 h-1) or the hyporheic community (170 mg O2 m-2 h-1) alone. Deep sediments show substantial oxygen and nitrate uptake when isolated. In the stream, this low nitrate interstitial water is exchanged with surface water. Metabolism of the isolated surface community suggests a highly productive and autotrophic system, yet gross production is balanced or exceeded by community respiration when ecosystem boundaries include the hyporheic zone. Thus, despite high rates of gross primary production (600–1200 mg O2 m-2 h-1), desert streams may be heterotrophic (PG < R) during summer.
Microwave Remote Sensing - Active and Passive - Volume I - Microwave Remote Sensing Fundamentals and Radiometry

The three components of microwave remote sensing (sensor-scene interaction, sensor design, and measurement techniques), and the applications to geoscience are examined. The history of active and passive microwave sensing is reviewed, along with fundamental principles of electromagnetic wave propagation, antennas, and microwave interaction with atmospheric constituents. Radiometric concepts are reviewed, particularly for measurement problems for atmospheric and terrestrial sources of natural radiation. Particular attention is given to the emission by atmospheric gases, clouds, and rain as described by the radiative transfer function. Finally, the operation and performance characteristics of radiometer receivers are discussed, particularly for measurement precision, calibration techniques, and imaging considerations.
A Protean Look at the Russian Proteus: Pushkin Studies in Its Maturity

Stephanie Sandler's new book, which covers vast tracts of cultural and literary history through the optic of Pushkin veneration, is big and ambitious and, one is tempted to say, polymorphous. Refusing to dodge the first-person pronoun in its engagement with an awesome cultural institution, it comfortably spills over its boundaries as strict scholarly tome. At the same time, Commemorating Pushkin seems ever aware, in a tone both respectful and probing, of who and what has come before along this "people's path" that is anything but "overgrown" with the weeds of neglect. Pushkin museums; Pushkin anniversaries; films about Pushkin; the Pushkin studied (and created) by later poets and writers; ingenious interventions into classic texts; a viewpoint that chooses as interlocutors the finest commentators and thinkers from two centuries and two quite different cultural backgrounds and epistemes (Russian/Western, philological/postmodern, and so on)-it is all here. Sandler's writing is mature, confident, humane. Another distinct pleasure of this book is that it comes buttressed with a massive scholarly apparatus: a hundred pages of "reference matter," replete with scores of subtly argued explanatory notes that alone are worth the price of admission. At a time when scholarly publishing is seriously ailing (if not worse), Commemorating Pushkin gives us some reason to hope. Structurally, Commemorating Pushkin breaks down into an Introduction, seven chapters, and an Afterword. The Introduction sets the stage, skillfully pointing out the paradoxes inherent in the Pushkin myth-the obsession with the poet's death versus the insistence that "he lives," the public ("our") Pushkin versus the private ("my") Pushkin, etc. It then gets things started with readings of two poems, "The Prophet" ("Prorok," 1826) and "I have built myself a monument" ("Ia pamiatnik sebe vozdvig," 1836), that themselves have played key roles in mythologizing their author. Does Pushkin see himself as prophet (A la Soloviev), as poet tout court (a secular being), or as somehow straddling both? Chapter 1 establishes an immediate posthumous context by examining elegies of Lermontov ("The Death of the Poet" ["Smert' poeta," 1837]), Zhukovsky ("He was lying
Adipose-Derived Stem Cells From Diabetic Mice Show Impaired Vascular Stabilization in a Murine Model of Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy is characterized by progressive vascular dropout with subsequent vision loss. We have recently shown that an intravitreal injection of adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) can stabilize the retinal microvasculature, enabling repair and regeneration of damaged capillary beds in vivo. Because an understanding of ASC status from healthy versus diseased donors will be important as autologous cellular therapies are developed for unmet clinical needs, we took advantage of the hyperglycemic Akimba mouse as a preclinical in vivo model of diabetic retinopathy in an effort aimed at evaluating therapeutic efficacy of adipose-derived stem cells (mASCs) derived either from healthy, nondiabetic or from diabetic mice. To these ends, Akimba mice received intravitreal injections of media conditioned by mASCs or mASCs themselves, subsequent to development of substantial retinal capillary dropout. mASCs from healthy mice were more effective than diabetic mASCs in protecting the diabetic retina from further vascular dropout. Engrafted ASCs were found to preferentially associate with the retinal vasculature. Conditioned medium was unable to recapitulate the vasoprotection seen with injected ASCs. In vitro diabetic ASCs showed decreased proliferation and increased apoptosis compared with healthy mASCs. Diabetic ASCs also secreted less vasoprotective factors than healthy mASCs, as determined by high-throughput enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Our findings suggest that diabetic ASCs are functionally impaired compared with healthy ASCs and support the utility of an allogeneic injection of ASCs versus autologous or conditioned media approaches in the treatment of diabetic retinopathy.
Modeling Regional Ground‐Water Flow in Fulton County, Indiana: Using the Analytic Element Method

In 1989, the Four County Landfill (FCL) in Fulton County, Indiana was closed by a federal judge because of regulatory violations and its threat to the environment. As part of the litigation, a ground-water flow modeling study was performed on behalf of a group of concerned citizens. Time constraints and, even more importantly, budgetary constraints called for an approach which could be implemented quickly and would yield meaningful results without additional field data acquisition. The modeling was performed with the relatively new analytic element method. The new method employs superposition of closed form analytic solutions, rather than a grid or element network, and proved an effective tool in answering some unresolved hydrogeological questions. The study results demonstrate substantially higher regional and local hydraulic conductivities than suggested by the landfill consultants, well-connected upper and lower aquifer zones at the site, and potential ground-water travel times from the landfill to the nearby Tippecanoe River of less than 15 years.
Theoretical Studies of Inorganic and Organometallic Reaction Mechanisms. 9. Intermolecular versus Intramolecular Carbon−Hydrogen Bond Activation in Zirconium, Rhodium, and Iridium Complexes

Ab initio quantum mechanical calculations were performed on model reactions to analyze the behavior of intermolecular versus intramolecular C−H bond activation in zirconium, rhodium, and iridium co...
Analytical models for comparison of alternative service options for the transportation handicapped

Abstract Recently much debate has been generated over the issue of public transportation service for the transportation handicapped. In particular, older rapid rail systems have been required to make key stations accessible to the handicapped. However, a waiver of this requirement is permitted in cities where the handicapped community and local officials work out an alternative service system with equal or better station accessibility. In this context, it is the purpose of this paper to present a comparative analysis of a door-to-door demand responsive system and feeder/fixed-route service, two of the service options which are expected to represent acceptable alternatives to “key transit station accessibility” requirements. The comparisons evaluate alternative scenarios of doorstep accessible transportation for the transportation handicapped using analytical models. The results of the comparisons clearly indicate the relative advantage of door-to-door demand-responsive systems over the combination of a feeder and an existing fixed-route system. In particular, when compared to a feeder service, the direct door-to-door service is likely to be less costly, because it requires a smaller fleet and to provide a more desirable service, because it does not entail transfers.
Political Forces in Education: Bri ht Pros ects in the Shift to Systemic Reform

A retrospective view of the shift from technical to systemic reform seems to indicate an emerging realization of the complexity and comprehensiveness of schools as social organizations. Though still addressing change effects rather than processes, symptoms rather than causes of educational ills, the more systemic view of schools inherent in recently-instituted policies may have set a precedent.
An Examination of Material-related Performance in SiC Heated Elements for IR Emitter and Sensor Applications

Micro-hotplate platforms, including the heating and sensing resistors, are fabricated by surface micromachining techniques from nitrogen-doped, polycrystalline SiC films deposited by low-pressure chemical vapor deposition. The resulting heated elements are operated without the need for metal electrodes. For comparison, platinum is also used as the heating/sensing resistor on top of otherwise similar SiC micro-hotplates. After characterizing the fundamental thermal transient response of the resulting micro-hotplates, accelerated aging tests are carried out by increasing the input power until the heating resistors fail. Material-related kinetic degradation analysis is conducted to estimate the life time of such elements as infrared emitters.
Optimal parameters design of oilfield surface pipeline systems using fuzzy models

Abstract Establishing and operating an oilfield surface pipeline system involves a large capital expenditure, which includes pipeline cost, power consumption cost, and thermal energy cost, etc. In this process, there exists a vast amount of fuzzy information, in both the objective and the constraint functions for an optimal design. System design based on such a huge volume of fuzzy information about multi-objectives and multi-constraints cannot be well handled by conventional mathematical tools. In this paper, a mathematical model from the fuzzy optimization approach is formulated for such oilfield surface pipeline systems. Both the multi-objective and multi-constraint functions are defined in a feasible fuzzy domain within the design parameters space. An optimal solution is selected from this domain for the design, for which the degree of expert satisfaction reaches the maximum. The methodology presented in this paper offers a new approach and a significant improvement of cost savings in the establishment and operation of an oilfield surface pipeline network system, beneficial for the oil industry.
Implementing Basel II: Is the Game Worth the Candle?

In this article the author provides an extensive analysis of the various aspects of the Basel II Accord. Notwithstanding the gains from adoption of Basel II, he argues that these gains are unlikely to outweigh the costs of implementation and compliance: Basel II will be very costly for banks, home and host country supervisors, and, to the extent that it exacerbates macroeconomic cycles, to the broader economy as well.
Effects of Urban Sprawl on the Vulnerability to a Significant Tornado Impact in Northeastern Illinois

A sprawling U.S. population continues to spread into the fringes of urban development placing both populations and property in areas that were once largely unoccupied. Population tallies, housing unit totals, and housing values for 1990 and 2000 are examined to determine the extent to which this growth has affected the tornado hazard in northeastern Illinois. The growing town of Plainfield, Ill., located southwest of Chicago, is examined to determine how vulnerability to a tornado impact has changed in the town since an F5 tornado struck the community in 1990. The population and housing data indicate an increase of 8,629 persons and 3,058 housing units affected if the tornado were to have occurred in 2000 rather than 1990. Estimations of housing value affected by the Plainfield tornado indicate a 50% increase in 2000 compared with 1990 values. In addition to studying the impacts on Plainfield, four other scenarios are examined in suburban Chicago counties using the 1990 Plainfield tornado as a model for a potentially devastating strike. The large increase in total value of homes affected for each scenario highlights the overall increase in wealth throughout the study area, specifically along the urban fringe of development. The physical vulnerability throughout the study area has increased with the rise in population, but the most socially vulnerable areas appear to remain in the older urban centers.
Reliability impacts from cyber attack on electric power systems

The level of risk from cyber attack against control systems used in the electrical grid is uncertain. At various times, the likelihood of attack, the availability of opportunity in the form of cyber vulnerabilities, the impact to the power system, and the consequences have all been debated at length. This research addresses the issue of grid impacts from cyber attack. (The remaining issues are not considered; as such, intent and opportunity are assumed.) One significant part of the analysis is the development of a Cyber-to-Physical (C2P) bridge, which links cyber attack vectors to resulting events in the Electric Power Grid (EPG); for example, a successful cyber penetration of a protective relay in a substation may result in an unplanned breaker trip. The analysis approach calculates an estimate of the grid performance degradation of cyber attacks, as they affect system reliability. The work models cyber attack in terms of unexpected outages to grid equipment; this way, for a given probability of cyber attack, the additional degradation to system reliability that results may be quantitatively determined. After simulation, the difference in reliability (with or without cyber attack) is the average grid impact for a given attack probability. This report includes tests for the algorithm to show its efficacy and versatility for analysis of various cyber impacts. With refinement, the proposed approach could be used as an important tool for control system risk analysis.
N Glycolylation of the Nucleotide Precursors of Peptidoglycan Biosynthesis of Mycobacterium spp. Is Altered by Drug Treatment

The peptidoglycan of Mycobacterium spp. reportedly has some unique features, including the occurrence of N-glycolylmuramic rather than N-acetylmuramic acid. However, very little is known of the actual biosynthesis of mycobacterial peptidoglycan, including the extent and origin of N glycolylation. In the present work, we have isolated and analyzed muramic acid residues located in peptidoglycan and UDP-linked precursors of peptidoglycan from Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Mycobacterium smegmatis. The muramic acid residues isolated from the mature peptidoglycan of both species were shown to be a mixture of the N-acetyl and N-glycolyl derivatives, not solely the N-glycolylated product as generally reported. The isolated UDP-linked N-acylmuramyl-pentapeptide precursor molecules also contain a mixture of N-acetyl and N-glycolyl muramyl residues in apparent contrast to previous observations in which the precursors isolated after treatment with d-cycloserine consisted entirely of N-glycolyl muropeptides. However, nucleotide-linked peptidoglycan precursors isolated from M. tuberculosis treated with d-cycloserine contained only N-glycolylmuramyl-tripeptide precursors, whereas those from similarly treated M. smegmatis consisted of a mixture of N-glycolylated and N-acetylated residues. The full pentapeptide intermediate, isolated following vancomycin treatment of M. smegmatis, consisted of the N-glycolyl derivative only, whereas the corresponding M. tuberculosis intermediate was a mixture of both the N-glycolyl and N-acetyl products. Thus, treatment with vancomycin and d-cylcoserine not only caused an accumulation of nucleotide-linked intermediate compounds but also altered their glycolylation status, possibly by altering the normal equilibrium maintained by de novo biosynthesis and peptidoglycan recycling.
A novel modelling technique for analysis of current ripples in a fuel cell powertrain system

The fuel cell is a potential alternative energy source for an electric vehicle powertrain. The wide range of frequency spectrum generated by different types of power electronic converter in the fuel cell power conditioning unit causes ripples in the current drawn from fuel cells, and thus affects fuel cell performance in a vehicular environment. A new modelling technique based on harmonic balancing is presented to analyse the ripple contents in the output current of fuel cells. According to KCL, KVL and the switching functions of power electronic devices, the dynamic equations of a complete fuel cell power system are derived and further decomposed into three groups: DC equations, AC equations and ripple equations. The numerical simulation results show the relationship between the duty ratio of the converter and ripple and between the magnitude and phase angle of modulation signal of the inverter and ripple, which can provide insight for the design of a fuel cell powertrain system.
Volatility of Volatility, Expected Stock Return and Variance Risk Premium

Theory suggests a relationship between both volatility of volatility, variance risk premium, and the equity risk premium. We empirically investigate the relationship between volatility of volatility and the equity risk premium, and the relationship between the variance risk premium and the equity risk premium. We find that volatility of volatility alone explains 5 to 10% of the total variation of equity risk premium, and together with VIX data, it explains more than 20% of the total variation of equity premium. We fail to find a significant relationship between volatility of volatility and the variance risk premium.We use six measures of volatility of volatility based on non-parametric models, a GARCH model and VVIX data.
Host Factor Transcriptional Regulation Contributes to Preferential Expression of HIV Type 1 in IL-4–Producing CD4 T Cells

HIV type 1 (HIV-1) replicates preferentially in IL-4–producing CD4 T cells for unclear reasons. We show increased HIV-1 expression is irrespective of viral tropism for chemokine receptors as previously suggested, but rather transcription of the HIV-1 long terminal repeat (LTR) is increased in IL-4–producing CD4 T cells. Increased expression of HIV-1 message is also confirmed in IL-4–producing CD4 T cells from HIV-1–infected individuals ex vivo. In exploring a transcriptional mechanism, we identify a novel c-maf (required for IL-4 expression) transcription factor binding site just upstream of the dual NF-κB/NFAT binding sites in the proximal HIV-1 LTR. We demonstrate that c-maf binds this site in vivo and synergistically augments HIV-1 transcription in cooperation with NFAT2 and NF-κB p65, but not NFAT1 or NF-κB p50. Conversely, small interfering RNA inhibition of c-maf reduces HIV-1 transcription in IL-4–producing T cells. Thus, c-maf increases HIV-1 expression in IL-4–producing CD4 T cells by binding the proximal HIV-1 LTR and augmenting HIV-1 transcription in partnership with NFAT2 and NF-κB p65 specifically. This has important implications for selective targeting of transcription factors during HIV-1 infection because, over the course of HIV-1 progression/AIDS, IL-4–producing T cells frequently predominate and substantially contribute to disease pathology.
A interferência da frequência em fenômenos linguísticos

This article discusses frequency effects in some Brazilian Portuguese phonological and morphological variations. The theoretical background adopted is the Network Model (Bybee 1985, 2001, 2010). Different linguistic phenomena are compared to analyze which linguistic processes affect the most or the least frequent words first. As a conclusion, it is observed that variations based on analogy seem to affect the least frequent words first, whereas phonetic reductions seem to affect the most frequent words first.