cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
To threshold or not to threshold? That's the question

Abstract The concept of evaluating multiple alternative models to determine ecological response form is over a century old and is ever more relevant as modern computing power allows ever more complicated models to be routinely used but often without a reasonable model verification process, particularly in fields where the ecological conceptual model is still developing. The emphasis for developing a statistical model is to test the validity of the hypothesis represented by the model. We present a framework of model identification and evaluation that includes exploratory data analysis and model diagnostics and evaluation. This framework emphasizes the importance of evaluating multiple alternative models when evaluating the validity of the model. This process is illustrated by using a model-building problem for quantifying the stream ecological response to urbanization using a data set from a large ecological study designed to understand how stream ecosystems respond to urbanization. The paper focuses on the question of whether a threshold model is appropriate, and demonstrates the importance of evaluating multiple alternative models in the detection of ecological thresholds, and illustrates how choosing an inappropriate model can lead to erroneous conclusion regarding the existence of thresholds.
Damping and modulus measurements in B2 transition metal aluminides

The polycrystalline intermetallic alloys FeAl (50.9 to 58.2 percent Fe), NiAl (49.2 to 55.9 percent Ni) and CoAl (48.5 to 52.3 percent Co) have the B2 structure and are of interest for high temperature applications. The PUCOT (piezoelectric ultrasonic composite oscillator technique) has been used to measure mechanical damping or internal friction and Young's modulus has been used as a function of temperature and composition for these materials. The modulus data for six CoAl alloys at temperatures up to 1300 K are presented. Examples are given of the strain amplitude dependence of internal friction for four CoAl alloys. The curves showed the break away phenomenon and are interpreted in terms of a theory dealing with the pinning of dislocation lines and their eventual break away at large strain amplitudes. The dislocation density was calculated to be about 10 to the 8th per sq m. For all the compositions (X1) of CoAl studied, a single equation could be fitted to the data.
Maternal and Neonatal Vitamin B12 Deficiency Detected through Expanded Newborn Screening—United States, 2003–2007

The incidence of neonatal vitamin B 12 (cobalamin) deficiency because of maternal deficiency was determined by surveying state newborn screening programs. Thirty-two infants with nutritional vitamin B 12 deficiency were identified (0.88/100 000 newborns). Pregnant women should be assessed for their risk of inadequate intake/malabsorption of vitamin B 12 .
Low energy radiation detection with silicon semiconductor detectors using a new type preamplifier

Abstract A low noise preamplifier utilizing a temperature controlled FET input stage is described. In conjunction with a lithium drifted silicon detector, the amplification system makes possible measurements of low energy nuclear radiation with high resolution. Experimental data are presented which show that a resolution of 335 eV (fwhm) can be obtained for X-rays of about 6 keV. The Fano-factor (statistical “smoothing” factor) for silicon has been determined as F =0.29±0.04.
Constant-attitude thrust program optimization.

Optimum thrust programming studies include a comparison of constant and variable attitude thrust programs for an earth-mars rendezvous
Synthesis of periodic mesoporous silica thin films

We have synthesized periodic mesoporous silica thin films from homogeneous solutions. To synthesize the films, a thin layer of a pH 7 micellar coating solution that contains TMOS (tetramethoxysilane) is dip or spin-coated onto Si wafers, borosilicate glass, or quartz substrates. NH3 gas is diffused into the solution and causes rapid hydrolysis and condensation of the TMOS and the formation of periodic mesoporous thin films within 10 seconds. Combination of homogenous solutions and rapid product formation maximizes the concentration of the desired product and provides a controlled, predictable microstructure. The films have been made continuous and crack-free by optimizing initial silica concentration and film thickness. The films are being evaluated as high surface area, size-selective coatings for surface acoustic wave (SAW) sensors.
The Nature of Congressional Committee Jurisdictions

Jurisdictions are the defining characteristics of committee systems, and they are central in any discussions about the U. S. Congress; yet we know little about them. Where do committee property rights come from? Are they rigid? Are they flexible? I introduce a distinction between statutory jurisdictions (which are written in the House and Senate Rules) and common law jurisdictions (which emerge through bill referral precedents). Turf is gained through common law advances, not through formal rules changes (like the “reforms” passed by the House in 1946, 1974, and 1980). Jurisdictional change is ongoing and incremental. The analysis draws on an examination of hearings held by the House Commerce Committee from 1947 through 1990.
Electron Transport Materials for Organic Light-Emitting Diodes

A comprehensive review of the literature on electron transport materials (ETMs) used to enhance the performance of organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) is presented. The structure−property−performance relationships of many classes of ETMs, both small-molecule- and polymer-based, that have been widely used to improve OLED performance through control of charge injection, transport, and recombination are highlighted. The molecular architecture, electronic structure (electron affinity and ionization potential), thin film processing, thermal stability, morphology, and electron mobility of diverse organic ETMs are discussed and related to their effectiveness in improving OLED performance (efficiency, brightness, and drive voltage). Some issues relating to the experimental procedures for the estimation of relevant material properties such as electron affinity and electron mobility are discussed. The design of multifunctional electroluminescent polymers whereby light emission and electron- and hole-transport pro...
Childhood Abuse and Age at Menarche

Purpose Physical and sexual abuse are prevalent social hazards. We sought to examine the association between childhood physical and sexual abuse and age at menarche.
ATP‐induced cell contraction in dermal fibroblasts: Effects of cAMP and myosin light‐chain kinase

When 1 mM ATP is added to human dermal fibroblasts (DF) in monolayer culture permeabilized by glycerol, they undergo a rapid reduction in length and their intracellular actin filaments aggregate. This process is referred to as cell contraction. Treating glycerol-permeabilized DF with alkaline phosphatase before adding 1 mM ATP should cause dephosphorylation. Dephosphorylated preparations do not undergo cell contraction initiated by ATP. When myosin light-chain kinase (MLCK) isolated from turkey gizzard is added with cofactors to cells dephosphorylated by alkaline phosphatase treatment, contraction is restored. DF incubated for 24 h with db cAMP or cholera toxin show elevated intracellular concentrations of cAMP and little cell contraction. Contraction is reestablished when MLCK with cofactors is incubated with these preparations before ATP is added. Fibroblasts from Epidermolysis Bullosa dystrophica recessive patients produce excess cAMP. Those cells show minimal contraction, however; treating them with MLCK and cofactors renews contraction brought about by ATP. When DF are incubated with trifluoperazine to block calmodulin-dependent enzyme reactions, cell contraction is inhibited. Adding cytochalasin B disrupts microfilaments and also inhibits contraction. This work supports the idea that myosin ATPase is critical to cell contraction. Myosin ATPase is dependent on the phosphorylation of the regulatory peptide, myosin light chain. Elevating intracellular concentrations of cAMP or treatment of permeabilized cell preparations with alkaline phosphatase may inhibit myosin ATPase activity. The restoration of phosphorylation by adding MLCK with cofactors served to reestablish cell contraction.
Follicular lymphoma with prominent Dutcher body formation: a pathologic study of 3 cases in comparison with nodal or splenic lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma and marginal zone lymphoma

Dutcher bodies have been described in lymphoid neoplasms with plasmacytic differentiation, including plasma cell myeloma, lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma, and marginal zone lymphoma. We report a pathologic study of 3 cases of follicular lymphoma with extensive Dutcher body formation in comparison with lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma and marginal zone lymphoma. Of 3 cases, 1 showed a follicular growth pattern, whereas the other 2 cases demonstrated only a vague nodular appearance highlighted by immunohistochemical analysis. Cells containing Dutcher bodies were counted at 25, 90, or 110 per high-power field in each case, respectively. In 2 cases, cells with Dutcher bodies were clustered in an intrafollicular distribution, a possible histopathologic clue for follicular lymphoma. Immunoglobulin M κ was identified as the component of Dutcher bodies in all 3 cases, implying a possible molecular basis for the formation of Dutcher bodies in B-cell lymphomas. All 3 cases had cytogenetic changes supporting the diagnosis of follicular lymphoma, including dual rearrangement of BCL2 and BCL6, rearrangement of BCL2 with trisomy 3 (BCL6), and isolated BCL6 rearrangement. We emphasize immunohistochemical analyses with anti-κ/λ and anti-immunoglobulin heavy-chain isotypes to characterize Dutcher bodies and document clonality in addition to the routine lymphoma workup and indicated cytogenetic studies in B-cell lymphomas with prominent Dutcher bodies.
New therapeutic approaches in primary systemic AL amyloidosis

Primary systemic AL (amyloid light-chain) amyloidosis is a plasma cell disorder in which depositions of amyloid light-chain protein cause progressive organ failure. The prognosis of primary amyloidosis is generally poor, with a median survival of 1-2 years. There is no available treatment which improves impaired organ function by induction of amyloid mobilization. Since amyloidosis is a dynamic process, measures that reduce the supply of the amyloid fibril precursor protein can result in a major regression of the deposits. Conventional-dose melphalan can prolong the median duration of survival from 8.5 to 18 months, but the clinical response rates with improvement of impaired organ function are low and the response is slow. Preliminary data suggest that VAD is effective in AL amyloidosis. Up-front high-dose chemotherapy with autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation can result in an improvement of the patient's clinical condition, but the treatment-related toxicity can be high, owing to impaired organ function. The use of VAD followed by high-dose chemotherapy is the concept of a German trial. The improvement of the patient's condition prior to high-dose chemotherapy by induction of a remission with VAD might reduce the transplantation-related morbidity and mortality in amyloidosis.
Decomposing cerebral blood flow MRI into functional and structural components: A non-local approach based on prediction

We present RIPMMARC (Rotation Invariant Patch-based Multi-Modality Analysis aRChitecture), a flexible and widely applicable method for extracting information unique to a given modality from a multi-modal data set. We use RIPMMARC to improve the interpretation of arterial spin labeling (ASL) perfusion images by removing the component of perfusion that is predicted by the underlying anatomy. Using patch-based, rotation invariant descriptors derived from the anatomical image, we learn a predictive relationship between local neuroanatomical structure and the corresponding perfusion image. This relation allows us to produce an image of perfusion that would be predicted given only the underlying anatomy and a residual image that represents perfusion information that cannot be predicted by anatomical features. Our learned structural features are significantly better at predicting brain perfusion than tissue probability maps, which are the input to standard partial volume correction techniques. Studies in test-retest data show that both the anatomically predicted and residual perfusion signals are highly replicable for a given subject. In a pediatric population, both the raw perfusion and structurally predicted images are tightly linked to age throughout adolescence throughout the brain. Interestingly, the residual perfusion also shows a strong correlation with age in selected regions including the hippocampi (corr = 0.38, p-value <10(-6)), precuneus (corr = -0.44, p < 10(-5)), and combined default mode network regions (corr = -0.45, p < 10(-8)) that is independent of global anatomy-perfusion trends. This finding suggests that there is a regionally heterogeneous pattern of functional specialization that is distinct from that of cortical structural development.
Attention and Inattention in Rats

*Received for publication by K. S. Lashley of the Editorial Board, November 19, 1929. 1The author wishes to express his thanks to Lester J. Waldman of Long Island University for his conscientious assistance throughout the experiments.
Comprehensive mapping of whisker-evoked responses reveals broad, sharply tuned thalamocortical input to layer 4 of barrel cortex

Cortical neurons are organized in columns, distinguishable by their physiological properties and input-output organization. Columns are thought to be the fundamental information-processing modules of the cortex. The barrel cortex of rats and mice is an attractive model system for the study of cortical columns, because each column is defined by a layer 4 (L4) structure called a barrel, which can be clearly visualized. A great deal of information has been collected regarding the connectivity of neurons in barrel cortex, but the nature of the input to a given L4 barrel remains unclear. We measured this input by making comprehensive maps of whisker-evoked activity in L4 of rat barrel cortex using recordings of multiunit activity and current source density analysis of local field potential recordings of animals under light isoflurane anesthesia. We found that a large number of whiskers evoked a detectable response in each barrel (mean of 13 suprathreshold, 18 subthreshold) even after cortical activity was abolished by application of muscimol, a GABAA agonist. We confirmed these findings with intracellular recordings and single-unit extracellular recordings in vivo. This constitutes the first direct confirmation of the hypothesis that subcortical mechanisms mediate a substantial multiwhisker input to a given cortical barrel.
The effect of quantization in sampled-feedback systems

THE RAPID ADVANCE of digital computers and digital technology has resulted in recent years in the development of digital versions of practically every control system component. As a result, mixed systems composed of both digital and analog elements are becoming quite common.
Inhibition of mechanosensitive signaling in myofibroblasts ameliorates experimental pulmonary fibrosis

Matrix stiffening and myofibroblast resistance to apoptosis are cardinal features of chronic fibrotic diseases involving diverse organ systems. The interactions between altered tissue biomechanics and cellular signaling that sustain progressive fibrosis are not well defined. In this study, we used ex vivo and in vivo approaches to define a mechanotransduction pathway involving Rho/Rho kinase (Rho/ROCK), actin cytoskeletal remodeling, and a mechanosensitive transcription factor, megakaryoblastic leukemia 1 (MKL1), that coordinately regulate myofibroblast differentiation and survival. Both in an experimental mouse model of lung fibrosis and in human subjects with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), we observed activation of the Rho/ROCK pathway, enhanced actin cytoskeletal polymerization, and MKL1 cytoplasmic-nuclear shuttling. Pharmacologic disruption of this mechanotransduction pathway with the ROCK inhibitor fasudil induced myofibroblast apoptosis through a mechanism involving downregulation of BCL-2 and activation of the intrinsic mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. Treatment with fasudil during the postinflammatory fibrotic phase of lung injury or genetic ablation of Mkl1 protected mice from experimental lung fibrosis. These studies indicate that targeting mechanosensitive signaling in myofibroblasts to trigger the intrinsic apoptosis pathway may be an effective approach for treatment of fibrotic disorders.
Perceptions Of Benefits and Losses Associated With The Use and Discontinuance Of Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids Among Male Bodybuilders

Abstract Research has shown the mesomorphic physique to be the most preferred body type among males. Specifically, the hypermesomorphic physique, which displays extreme muscularity and definition, is the most desired (Tucker, 1983). Mishkind, Rodin, Silberstein, and Streigel-Moore (1987) concluded that multiple reasons exist for this preference, most notably the intimate ties that exist among societal conceptions of masculinity, the male sex role, and the mesomorphic physique. Bodybuilding has been perceived as an avenue by which males attempt to develop the preferred mesomorphic physique, and, at times, anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) have been ingested as a means for further development. This study entailed in-depth interviews with 10 male bodybuilders, all of whom had taken, or were currently taking, AAS. This article presents the findings of the interviews concerning the perceived benefits of and psychological dependency on AAS. The data, particularly responses concerning psychological dependency, ...
LIMING OF TWO ACIDIC SOILS IMPROVED GRASS TETANY RATIO OF STOCKPILED TALL FESCUE WITHOUT INCREASING PLANT AVAILABLE PHOSPHORUS

Previous research demonstrated that phosphorus (P) fertilization of tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.) pastures on acidic soils increased leaf P, magnesium (Mg), and calcium (Ca) concentrations and reduced the risk of grass tetany. It has been suggested that liming could have a similar effect by increasing soil pH and remobilizing sorbed P. To investigate this option, calcitic or dolomitic limestone was applied to stockpiled tall fescue plots on two acidic soils, a fragipan and a claypan. As expected, increasing rates of limestone were correlated with higher soil pHs. Contrary to predictions, limestone applications had very little effect on soil or plant P. However, both types of limestone at both locations altered leaf macronutrient concentrations in a manner that improved the grass tetany equivalent ratio: increased Ca and/or Mg and decreased K concentrations, thus lowered the likelihood of grass tetany in grazing beef cattle.
Comparison of electrochemical impedance and noise data in the frequency domain

Impedance and noise data obtained for two polymer coated steel samples in sea water have been compared in the frequency domain (Bode plots). Potential and current noise data were collected simultaneously and transformed into power spectral density (PSD) plots from which spectral noise plots were obtained. Excellent agreement between impedance and noise spectra obtained with two different sets of instrumentation was observed. The noise resistance Rn is frequency-independent only if the slopes of the potential and current PSD plots are equal. In all other cases Rn is frequency dependent and therefore not a systems parameter. A limitation of the electrochemical noise technique applied to the study of polymer coatings is the fact that meaningful data can usually be collected only at frequencies below 1 Hz. Therefore features of impedance spectra indicating coating degradation and water uptake which occur at higher frequencies cannot be detected.
Extended focused assessment with sonography for trauma (EFAST) in the diagnosis of pneumothorax: experience at a community based level I trauma center.

Abstract Introduction Early identification of pneumothorax is crucial to reduce the mortality in critically injured patients. The objective of our study is to investigate the utility of surgeon performed extended focused assessment with sonography for trauma (EFAST) in the diagnosis of pneumothorax. Methods We prospectively analysed 204 trauma patients in our level I trauma center over a period of 12 (06/2007-05/2008) months in whom EFAST was performed. The patients’ demographics, type of injury, clinical examination findings (decreased air entry), CXR, EFAST and CT scan findings were entered into the data base. Sensitivity, specificity, positive (PPV) and negative predictive values (NPV) were calculated. Results Of 204 patients (mean age – 43.01 ± 19.5 years, sex – male 152, female 52) 21 (10.3%) patients had pneumothorax. Of 21 patients who had pneumothorax 12 were due to blunt trauma and 9 were due to penetrating trauma. The diagnosis of pneumothorax in 204 patients demonstrated the following: clinical examination was positive in 17 patients (true positive in 13/21, 62%; 4 were false positive and 8 were false negative), CXR was positive in 16 (true positive in 15/19, 79%; 1 false positive, 4 missed and 2 CXR not performed before chest tube) patients and EFAST was positive in 21 patients (20 were true positive [95.2%], 1 false positive and 1 false negative). In diagnosing pneumothorax EFAST has significantly higher sensitivity compared to the CXR (P = 0.02). Conclusions Surgeon performed trauma room extended FAST is simple and has higher sensitivity compared to the chest X-ray and clinical examination in detecting pneumothorax.
Tumor Selective Hyperthermia Induced by Short-Wave Capacitively-Coupled RF Electric-Fields

There is a renewed interest in developing high-intensity short wave capacitively-coupled radiofrequency (RF) electric-fields for nanoparticle-mediated tumor-targeted hyperthermia. However, the direct thermal effects of such high-intensity electric-fields (13.56 MHZ, 600 W) on normal and tumor tissues are not completely understood. In this study, we investigate the heating behavior and dielectric properties of normal mouse tissues and orthotopically-implanted human hepatocellular and pancreatic carcinoma xenografts. We note tumor-selective hyperthermia (relative to normal mouse tissues) in implanted xenografts that can be explained on the basis of differential dielectric properties. Furthermore, we demonstrate that repeated RF exposure of tumor-bearing mice can result in significant anti-tumor effects compared to control groups without detectable harm to normal mouse tissues.
Relative work function, surface composition and topography of “pedigreed” impregnated tungsten dispenser cathodes☆

Abstract A study has been made of the variation in work function, surface composition, and topography of 5:3:2 impregnated tungsten dispenser cathodes made under carefully controlled conditions (pedigreed cathodes). Despite these conditions several cathodes had unexpected deposits on their emitting surfaces, and one showed a variation in work function and composition across the surface during activation.
Self-organized quantum dot lasers monolithically grown on silicon

Monolithic optoelectronic integrated circuits on CMOS chips are envisioned for realizing future high speed systems. Some of the key technologies that are required include electrically injected, low threshold and highly reliable lasers and the monolithic integration of lasers, waveguides and modulators on Si with Si-based electronic devices in a CMOS-compatible process.
ENHANCING FIRE DEPARTMENT HOME VISITS THROUGH IMPROVED PROGRAM MONITORING

Background House fires remain a significant problem in the U.S. and around the world. Despite a decades-long Home Visit (HV) program by the Baltimore City Fire Department (BCFD), including free smoke alarm installation, homes remain unprotected and fire-related injuries persist. We collaborated with BCFD to enhance their HV program and monitor its implementation. Aims/Objectives/Purpose To describe HV program enhancements, present novel program monitoring data, and discuss implications for program implementation monitoring in injury prevention programs. Methods Focus groups with firefighters identified needed HV program enhancements. When the enhanced HV program was in place, study observers accompanied BCFD teams and documented what transpired at each HV. Results/Outcomes Data were collected on 2139 HV conducted between April 2010 to April 2011 after program enhancements were made. Most of the time, BCFD staff followed the new protocol of installing the alarms using screws (73%) and explaining the 10-year lithium battery feature (66%). BCFD staff rarely explained how to use the alarm (18%) or pointed out its ‘hush’ feature (19%). Other educational messages were also conveyed infrequently: carbon monoxide risks (27%), escape planning (25%) and cooking (10%) and electrical (6%) safety. Results were shared with BCFD leadership. Significance/Contribution to the field Careful monitoring of program implementation is feasible and necessary to document compliance with protocols, to identify needed program improvements, to better understand program impacts, and to discover additional training needs.
A prospective open-label trial of lamotrigine monotherapy in children and adolescents with bipolar disorder.

Aim: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of lamotrigine monotherapy as an acute treatment of bipolar mood elevation in children with bipolar spectrum disorders. Method: This was a 12-week, open-label, prospective trial of lamotrigine monotherapy to assess the effectiveness and tolerability of this compound in treating pediatric bipolar disorder. Assessments included the Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS), Clinical Global Impressions-Improvement scale (CGI-I), Children's Depression Rating Scale (CDRS), and Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS). Adverse events were assessed through spontaneous self-reports, vital signs weight monitoring, and laboratory analysis. Results: Thirty-nine children with bipolar disorder (YMRS at entry: 31.6 ± 5.5) were enrolled in the study and 22 (56%) completed the 12-week trial. Lamotrigine was slowly titrated to an average endpoint dose of 160.7 ± 128.3 in subjects <12 years of age (N = 22) and 219.1 ± 172.2 mg/day in children 12–17 years of age (N = 17). Treatment with lamotrigine was associated with statistically significant levels of improvement in mean YMRS scores (−14.9 ± 9.7, P < 0.001) at endpoint. Lamotrigine treatment also resulted in significant improvement in the severity of depressive, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and psychotic symptoms. Lamotrigine was generally well tolerated with marginal increase in body weight (47.0 ± 18.0 kg vs. 47.2 ± 17.9 kg, P= 0.6) and was not associated with abnormal changes in laboratory parameters. Several participants were discontinued due to skin rash; in all cases, the rash resolved shortly after discontinuation of treatment. No patient developed Steven Johnson syndrome. Conclusions: Open-label lamotrigine treatment appears to be beneficial in the treatment of bipolar disorder and associated conditions in children. Future placebo-controlled, double-blind studies are warranted to confirm these findings.
Elastic constants of porous silicon superlattices

Porous silicon superlattices with constituent layer porosities of ∼30% and ∼60% and modulation wavelengths of 17 nm, 20 nm and 34 nm were fabricated by electrochemical etching in HF-based electrolytes. The elastic constants of the superlattices were estimated using Brillouin light scattering spectroscopy and compared to those calculated from an effective elastic constants model (M. Grimsditch and F. Nizzoli, Phys. Rev. B 33, 5891 (1986) [1]). The fair agreement between the experimental and calculated constants suggests that the model holds promise for predicting the elastic properties of these and possibly other porous multilayered systems. (© 2009 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Repeated cascade theory of homogeneous turbulence

The problem of turbulent spectrum engenders two coupled hierarchies: one originates from the development of stress, leading to a transfer function, and the other from the development of an eddy viscosity. In order to incorporate physical roles among scales, the turbulent velocity fluctuation is decomposed into a series of ranks in the increasing order of randomness, contributing successively to energy or stress, eddy viscosity, relaxation frequency, and higher-rank frequencies in the memory chain. As a result, the first hierarchy mentioned above becomes closed at the quadrupole correlation. The second hierarchy governs the eddy viscosities of different ranks, related to relaxation frequencies of such ranks, in the form of a memory chain. It is cut off by an implicit viscous mechanism. For zero wind gradient, the spectrum in the inertial subrange recovers the Kolmogoroff k to the minus 5/3 law with a numerical constant 1.58, in good agreement with experiments. For a strong wind gradient, the spectrum in the production subrange has a k to the minus 1 law.
Transdisciplinary technological futures: An ethnographic research dialogue between social scientists and engineers

Abstract This paper suggests that transdisciplinarity is rising as a powerful epistemic strategy for research in technology-related fields such as engineering. Though this topic has been approached from a philosophical perspective, we know little about the actual shape that transdisciplinarity might take in research and action. How is transdisciplinarity operationalized in research and professional practice? As a case study, we report an assessment study of communication modes and content used by engineering students in a special project-course, Robotics for Theater, focused on the planning and construction of a robot from scratch, to support theatric production as actor and prop. Our assessment tools were based on ethnographic research and included questionnaires, journals, and students' expressions of their views on the communication and learning processes. Analysis of the case study of the Robotics for Theater project revealed that: 1. Resource mobilization was fostered by the role of the advisor as information facilitator and “weak tie” in the network, and also by the frequent informal contacts among the students in the team. 2. Innovation was fostered by intra-team trust. The strong friendship and teaming experience of the group were critical for effective team dynamics. 3. Probably due to time constraints, the field of theater did not become a fundamental reference of the project, contrary to plans. 4. Time constraints and technical difficulties in implementation inhibited progress. 5. Informal meetings were crucial in the progression of design and implementation.
Interplay between reversible and irreversible magnetic phase transitions in polycrystalline Gd 5 Ge 4

Temperature and magnetic field dependent magnetization and heat capacity of polycrystalline ${\mathrm{Gd}}_{5}{\mathrm{Ge}}_{4}$ have been measured. In addition to the antiferromagnetic ordering observed at the N\'eel temperature, ${T}_{N}=128\mathrm{K},$ there is a cusp at $\ensuremath{\sim}17.5\mathrm{K}$ in the low-field zero-field cooled (zfc) $M(T)$ curves, below which the zfc and field-cooled (fc) magnetic data exhibit irreversibility. The zfc and fc magnetization data show a complex mixture of reversible and irreversible behaviors at fields between $\ensuremath{\sim}10$ and $\ensuremath{\sim}18\mathrm{kOe},$ which is correlated to the magnetic field induced transitions between the antiferromagnetic (AFM) and the ferromagnetic (FM) states. The initial zfc $M(H)$ data below a certain temperature exhibit two transitions: a discontinuous metamagnetic-like transition and a continuous magnetic moment rotation process. The anomalies in the isofield and isothermal magnetization data indicate a complex magnetic structure at low temperatures, e.g., a complex canted AFM structure. In addition, magnetic field or temperature induced $\mathrm{AFM}\ensuremath{\leftrightarrow}\mathrm{FM}$ transitions occur under certain conditions. The unusual magnetic behavior is discussed in terms of a possible complex magnetic structure at low temperatures and a martensitic-like structural change induced by the magnetic field
Solvent accessibility to flavin in oxynitilase

Abstract Oxynitrilase containing 2-thioFAD [C(2)=S]in place of FAD exhibits catalytic activity similar to that of native enzyme. Reaction of methyl metanethiolsulfonate with 2-thioFAD bound to oxynitrilase results in the formation of the corresponding flavin disulfide [C(2)-SSCH3]. Normal flavin [C(2)=0] is formed by reacting 2-thioFAD oxynitrilase with m-chloroperoxybenzoate or H2O2. Both reactions proceed via a spectrally detectable flavin 2-S-oxide intermediate [C(2)=S+-O−], but sizable amounts of this intermediate accumulate only in the m-chloroperoxybenzoate reaction (about 40%). While similar reactions have been reported with free 2-thioflavin, kinetic and other data indicate that the oxynitrilase reactions occur with intact enzyme. This shows that the 2-position of the pyrimidine ring in the bound coenzyme is accessible to solvent. The data are consistent with previous studies on the reaction of peroxides with oxynitrilase-bound 5-deazaFAD which show that the pyrimidine ring is accessible at position 4. Analogous studies indicate that the pyrimidine ring is buried in the case of flavin bound to lactate oxidase, since the data indicate that both positions 2 and 4 are inaccessible to solvent.
Thermodynamic properties of 1,6-anhydrohexopyranose crystals

Abstract When crystalline 1,6-anhydrohexopyranoses are heated, they all undergo closely similar, first-order transitions in the solid phase; these transitions are accompanied by major changes in the entropy and heat capacity of the compounds. The high-temperature phase has a very low entropy of fusion, and can be classified as a plastic crystal. With levoglucosan it has been shown that the transition is accompanied by softening of the crystal and changes in the i.r. and broad-line n.m.r. spectra that indicate a decrease in hydrogen bonding and increased molecular motion. The nature of these transformations is discussed in the light of the information available from other examples of phase transition to plastic crystal.
Will the new competitive landscape cause your firm's decline? It depends on your mindset

Abstract A view of the new competitive landscape shows globalization, rapid technological change, and hypercompetition as conduits leading to either organizational decline or organizational growth. In this article we explain how managers can use four mindsets to convert potential threats posed by these environmental challenges into pathways of prosperity, instead of pathways of decline. A global mindset, or the ability to view the world using a broad perspective, converts globalization threats into growth opportunities by thinking beyond geographic boundaries, valuing integration across borders, and appreciating regional and cultural diversity. An innovation mindset, meaning a mental framework that fosters development and implementation of new ideas, transforms rapid technological change threats into opportunities by valuing constant generation of new ideas and business models, realizing sources of new ideas, and stressing next practices rather than best practices. A virtual mindset, or the ability of managers to hand over their firms’ activities to external providers, turns hypercompetition into prospects for growth by facilitating flexibility and responsiveness. Finally, a collaboration mindset, meaning a willingness to engage in business partnerships, converts all three challenges into opportunities by allowing firms to form successful partnerships that can lead to synergy by combining business complementarities.
Glycosylation of hemoglobin S by reducing sugars and its effect on gelation

The binding of various reducing mono- and disaccharides to hemoglobin S has been measured both before and after treatment of the sugar-protein adducts with NaBH4. Incubation of 0.3 M solutions of d-glucose, d-galactose, d-maltose, and lactose, with 2% hemoglobin for 2 h at 37°C, pH 7.2, leads to the incorporation of 1.1, 1.8, 1.8, and 3.3 mol of sugar, respectively, into 1 mol of hemoglobin tetramer (either A or S). Exposure of these aldose-protein adducts to NaBH4 for an additional hour at 10°C increases the binding to 2.0, 3.3, 2.5, and 4.1 mol per mol tetramer, as would be expected if Schiff base linkages were involved in this protein modification reaction. The data suggest a stereochemical requirement for enhanced binding. The dependence of the pre-reduction binding of glucose on the sugar concentration, and on the oxygenation state of hemoglobin has also been examined. Glycosylation of hemoglobin significantly increases the minimum gelling concentration of the deoxy conformation, as measured by sedimentation equilibrium ultracentrifugation. Of the sugar derivatives of hemoglobin S examined by this method, those modified by d-galactose or lactose have minimum gelling concentration (in the absence of 2,3-diphosphoglycerate) which are comparable to, or greater than, that of fully carbamylated hemoglobin S.
Actin Cytoskeleton Regulates Hippo Signaling

Hippo pathway controls the organ size by modulating cell proliferation and apoptosis. However, the upstream regulation of hippo signaling by actin cytoskeleton is not clear. To elucidate the role of actin as an upstream regulator of Hippo signaling, the levels of F (filamentous)-actin in cells were elevated using jasplakinolide, an actin-stabilizing drug. Induction of F-actin formation in HeLa cells resulted in decreased phosphorylation of YAP, a key effector molecule for Hippo signaling. The activated YAP is localized to the cell nucleus and YAP increase was associated with increased expression of downstream CCN growth factors CCN1/CYR61 and CCN2/CTGF. The effect of the actin-stabilizing drug was blocked when YAP levels were suppressed in YAP “knock-down” cells. In summary, using an actin-stabilizing drug we show that actin cytoskeleton is one of the upstream regulators of Hippo signaling capable of activating YAP and increasing its downstream CCN growth factors.
Source monitoring 15 years later: What have we learned from fMRI about the neural mechanisms of source memory?

Focusing primarily on functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), this article reviews evidence regarding the roles of subregions of the medial temporal lobes, prefrontal cortex, posterior representational areas, and parietal cortex in source memory. In addition to evidence from standard episodic memory tasks assessing accuracy for neutral information, the article considers studies assessing the qualitative characteristics of memories, the encoding and remembering of emotional information, and false memories, as well as evidence from populations that show disrupted source memory (older adults, individuals with depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, or schizophrenia). Although there is still substantial work to be done, fMRI is advancing understanding of source memory and highlighting unresolved issues. A continued 2-way interaction between cognitive theory, as illustrated by the source monitoring framework (M. K. Johnson, S. Hashtroudi, & D. S. Lindsay, 1993), and evidence from cognitive neuroimaging studies should clarify conceptualization of cognitive processes (e.g., feature binding, retrieval, monitoring), prior knowledge (e.g., semantics, schemas), and specific features (e.g., perceptual and emotional information) and of how they combine to create true and false memories.
On “a quadratic integer program for the location of interacting hub facilities”

O'Kelly (1987) considers the following hub location problem: Given n interacting nodes, flows between pairs of nodes, denoted by W u (W, i = 0 by assumption), the transportation cost C u of a unit of flows between nodes i and j (with Cii = 0), and p the number of hub facilities to be located ( p < n). Let X~k = 1 if node i is serviced by a hub at k and 0 otherwise. Further, let X,, = 1 if node i is a hub and 0 otherwise. The problem is to find the locations of the hub facilities and the node assignments that minimize the total transportation cost. This problem is formulated as given below.
Topoisomerase II expression in osseous tissue

The molecular mechanisms that mediate the transition from an osteoprogenitor cell to a differentiated osteoblast are unknown. We propose that topoisomerase II (topo II) enzymes, nuclear proteins that mediate DNA topology, contribute to coordinating the loss of osteoprogenitor proliferative capacity with the onset of differentiation. The isoforms topo II-alpha and -beta, are differentially expressed in nonosseous tissues. Topo II-alpha expression is cell cycle-dependent and upregulated during mitogenesis. Topo II-beta is expressed throughout the cell cycle and upregulated when cells have plateaued in growth. To determine whether topo II-alpha and -beta are expressed in normal bone, we analyzed rat lumbar vertebrae using immunohistochemical staining. In the tissue sections, topo II-alpha was expressed in the marrow cavity of the primary spongiosa. Mature osteoblasts along the trabecular surfaces did not express topo II-alpha, but were immunopositive for topo II-beta, as were cells of the marrow cavity. Confocal laser scanning microscopy was used to determine the nuclear distribution of topo II in rat osteoblasts isolated from the metaphyseal distal femur and the rat osteosarcoma cells, ROS 17/2.8. Topo II-alpha exhibited a punctate nuclear distribution in the bone cells. Topo II-beta was dispersed throughout the interior of the nucleus but concentrated at the nuclear envelope. Serum starvation of the cells attenuated topo II-alpha expression but did not modulate expression of the beta-isoform. These results indicate that the loss of osteogenic proliferation correlates with the downregulation of topo II-alpha expression.
Research findings on the personality disorders

The personality disorders, having become officially recognized disorders separate from the symptom disorders with the arrival of DSM-III, are prevalent and debilitating conditions that require therapeutic intervention. However, research on the treatment of these disorders has been hampered by the multitude of complex and difficult issues of client heterogeneity, early dropout from treatment, length of treatment needed, manualization of therapies, and measurement of change. The existing research findings are reviewed, with an eye to the clinical implications in the treatment of these clients at this point in time. © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Comparative study of PSMA expression in the prostate of mouse, dog, monkey, and human.

Background Intraprostatic PSMA targeted prodrugs/protoxins are under development in our laboratory. Future toxicologic studies of these therapies require identification of animal models that express PSMA within the prostate. Method PSMA enzymatic activity and protein expression was determined. PSMA expression in the prostates of mouse, dog, and monkey were compared to humans by real-time PCR analysis. Results No substrate hydrolysis was observed in dog or monkey prostate homogenates. Monkey prostate was negative for PSMA protein expression. No significant PSMA mRNA levels were detected by real time PCR in mouse, dog, or monkey prostate tissue compared to PSMA negative tissues. Conclusions PSMA is not expressed in any significant amount in the prostates of mouse, beagle dog, or macaque monkeys in this study but is expressed in high levels by human prostate. These non-human species, therefore, are not suitable toxicologic models to assess prostate damage from PSMA-activated intraprostatic prodrug/protoxin therapies.
An Internet-based positive psychology program: Strategies to improve effectiveness and engagement

Internet-delivered health promotion/disease prevention programs need to be effective and engaging to both universal and targeted populations. We will illustrate the utility of organic programming (OP), a model to rapidly evaluate, revise, and re-deliver Internet-based programs, to achieve these aims. The project, which was conducted in two phases, included seven classes of ninth-grade student participants over two semesters. The first phase of the project examined the effects of InJoy, a psychoeducational program designed to teach skills related to positive psychology and depression prevention to adolescents. Data were compared with prespecified target benchmarks, and used to revise and recompile the program, which was then re-evaluated in the second phase. Compared to the initial version, the revised program was rated by students as higher on the targeted social learning domains and significantly more engaging, as reflected in being more helpful (d = 1.2), interesting (d = 1.1), and fun (d = 1.1). These ...
Serum hyaluronan and hyaluronidase: very early markers of toxic liver injury

Background: Dimethylnitrosamine (DMN), a potent hepatotoxin, administered to rats, provides a convenient model for toxic liver injury. Indicators of early liver injury are important clinically, for surveillance, for screening new drugs that are potentially hepatotoxic and for identifying drugs that protect against liver injury. Both cirrhosis and wound healing culminate in deposition of fibrous connective tissue and scarring. Increased hyaluronan (HA) occurs in the earliest stage of wound healing. Hyaluronidase, the enzyme that degrades hyaluronan, is also elevated whenever rapid turnover of hyaluronan occurs. We test the hypothesis that elevated levels of circulating hyaluronan and hyaluronidase could provide indicators of very early liver damage. Methods: Dimethylnitrosamine was administered to adult male albino rats by intraperitoneal injections for 7 consecutive days. Results: Increased serum hyaluronan levels observed on day 2 reached a maximum on day 4. Hyaluronidase was elevated on the first day and reached a maximum on day 2 that was 30-times control levels. Hyaluronan-specific staining in liver sections was maximal on day 7, occurring predominantly in portal triads and in sinusoidal spaces. Individual hepatocytes were slightly enlarged and contained intracellular hyaluronan, which was not evident in control sections. Though circulating hyaluronan levels had decreased after day 4, continued hyaluronan staining persisted in liver sections through day 21. Conventional indicators of liver injury, such as serum aminotransferase enzymes, did not reach a peak until day 7. Conventional gross and histopathological changes, including severe centrilobular congestion and hemorrhagic necrosis, were observed only after day 7. Both hyaluronan and hyaluronidase are indicators of very early liver damage in the dimethylnitrosamine-treated rat, occurring well before conventional indicators appear, or before overt histopathologic changes of liver damage can be seen. However, levels are increased only transiently, indicating that serial assays are necessary. Conclusions: Measures of circulating hyaluronidase activity may be used to assess liver damage. D 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.