cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Public facility location using dispersion, population, and equity criteria

Abstract From a practical perspective, the paper demonstrates that the appropriate use of dispersion, population, and equity criteria can lead to fairly good solutions with respect to the p-median objective. The only stipulation is that the decision maker verifies (through simple constraint checks) that the chosen locations meet the dispersion, population, and equity criteria. An empirical investigation is conducted to obtain appropriate values for these parameters. From a location science perspective, a new location model that accounts for equity and efficiency simultaneously is studied and analyzed. Specifically, the p-maxian problem with side constraints on dispersion, population, and equity is developed, its NP-completeness established, and valid inequalities and bounds derived. Computational tests show encouraging results.
Parametric studies of applications of controlled thermonuclear reactor fusion energy for food production

Abstract Food and energy shortages in many parts of the world in the past two years raise an immediate need for the evaluation of energy input in food production. The present paper investigates systematically 1. (1) the energy requirement for food production 2. (2) the provision of controlled thermonuclear fusion energy for major energy intensive sectors of food manufacturing. Energy input for fertilizers, irrigation water and food processing (such as beet sugar refining, dough making and single cell protein manufacturing) have been chosen for detailed study. A controlled thermonuclear power reactor was used to provide electrical and thermal energy for these processes. Conceptual designs of the application of controlled thermonuclear power, water and air for methanol and ammonia synthesis and single cell protein production are presented. Economic analysis shows that these processes can eventually be competitive.
An RNA Binding Site in a tRNA Synthetase with a Reduced Set of Amino Acids

A 30 amino acid helix-loop of known structure on the surface of the C-terminal domain of the class I Escherichia coli methionine tRNA synthetase is essential for methionine tRNA anticodon discrimination. Replacing this 30 amino acid peptide with a previously described sequence containing residues from the wild-type protein imbedded in a sequence matrix of mostly alanines and serines, we used a combinatorial mutagenesis and selection strategy to define residual wild-type residues that are not replaceable with alanine or serine, because they are needed for specific recognition of methionine tRNA. Four were identified, of which three have functional side chains (Asn, Arg, Lys). These four and a fifth (Trp) that was previously identified are located at the end of the helix and within the loop, lie on the same side of the structure, and span a distance of about 20 A. We conclude that, within the alanine, serine sequence matrix, only a few non-alanine, non-serine residues in the specificity-determining part of the structure are essential.
Decomposition of nonlinear non-Gaussian process and its application to nonlinear filter and predictor design.

An approach for decomposing of a Nonlinear Non-Gaussian Process (NNGP) is presented. A set of adjoin processes α's are first constructed based on the orthogonal principle so that the linear and nonlinear part of the process can be completely separated by a correlation operation without the statistical assumption on the process (i.e., it is not necessarily a Gaussian Process). The linear and nonlinear filters or predictors can then be designed and implemented independently and the consistency of parameters is guaranteed. An algorithm is given for a second order nonlinear process, and it can easily be extended to higher order cases if necessary. The method is first demonstrated by applying it to a nonlinear filter design problem, i.e., system identification. Finally, the necessity of a proposed decomposition procedure is proven by applying it to an example in which the parameters of a signal model are extracted from a version which is distorted due to the nonlinearity of the channel.
Fostering Creativity or Teaching to the Test? Implications of State Testing on the Delivery of Science Instruction.

Abstract High-stakes testing has driven the way that educators deliver instruction. Historically, standardized testing has been in existence since the 1800s, but the impact of accountability was not recognized until the late 1970s. Science educators are trying to balance the requirements of state assessments with creative and meaningful curricula. Inquiry-based science instruction has led the way in assisting students in the process of discovering knowledge for themselves instead of simply being asked to recall information. Inquiry learning promotes creativity by increasing motivation, wonderment, and curiosity. The author proposes that inquiry is the key to enhancing creativity, while still meeting the demands of standardized testing.
A Blueprint for Designing a Successful Extension Program: Advice from Some Master Builders

The focus of the typical Ph.D. program in agricultural economics is on research. Little emphasis is placed on teaching, and, in most cases, there is no emphasis on extension, thus placing the new extension specialist in a difficult starting position. Even so, the current order or priorities may be appropriate, because an extension specialist must first understand economic theory and then be a capable researcher and teacher to work effectively in an extension program (Hildreth and Armbruster, p. 857).
Multi-unit demand auctions with synergies: behavior in sealed-bid versus ascending-bid uniform-price auctions

Abstract We construct a relatively simple model of bidding with synergies and solve it for both open outcry and sealed-bid uniform-price auctions. The essential behavioral forces involved in these auctions are: (1) A demand reduction force resulting from the monopsony power that bidders with multiple-unit demands have when synergies are relatively inconsequential, and (2) Bidding above stand-alone values in order to capture significant complementarities between units. The latter creates a potential “exposure problem,” as bidders may win only parts of a package and earn negative profits. Bidding outcomes are closer to equilibrium in clock compared to sealed-bid auctions. However, there are substantial and systematic deviations from equilibrium, with patterns of out-of-equilibrium play differing systematically between the two auction formats. These patterns of out-of-equilibrium play are analyzed, along with their effects on revenue and efficiency.
5‐Methoxymethyl‐2‐furaldehyde: A Natural Furanoid from Jaborosa Magellanica (Solanaceae) 5‐Methoxymethyl‐furfural: ein natürliches Furanoid aus Jaborosa magellanica (Colanaceae)

It is known that when fructose or a carbohydrate which yields fructose, such as saccharose or inulin, is heated with methanol in the presence of dilute hydrochloric acid, dehydrative cyclization occurs with formation of 5-methoxymethyl-2-furaldehyde (1)1–3). In 1958, it was reported that furan 1 was present as a component of the roots of Asparagus lucidus, but it was assumed that this product had been formed as an artifact from fructose during the isolation process. Similarly, in 1978, it was stated that 5-methoxymethyl-2-furaldehyde was present in the extracts from flue-cured tobacco, apparently formed as an artifact from the reaction of fructose with sulfuric acid in methanol. 5-Methoxymethyl-2-furfural: ein naturliches Furanoid aus Jaborosa magellanica (Colanaceae)
An Automated Determination of Alkaline Phosphatase Utilizing p-Nitrophenol Phosphate

A technic is described for the automated determination of serum alkaline phosphatase. This method permits a production rate of 60 determinations per hour on 0.2 ml. of serum per determination. Calculations are simplified since no serum blank is required.
Recent Developments in the Design, Testing and Impact-Damage Tolerance of Stiffened Composite Panels

Structural technology of laminated filamentary-composite stiffened-panel structures under combined in-plane and lateral loadings is discussed. Attention is focused on (1) methods for analyzing the behavior of these structures under load and for determining appropriate structural proportions for weight efficient configurations, and (2) effects of impact damage and geometric imperfections on structural performance. Recent improvements in buckling analysis involving combined in-plane compression and shear loadings and transverse shear deformations are presented. A computer code is described for proportioning or sizing laminate layers and cross-sectional dimensions, and the code is used to develop structural efficiency data for a variety of configurations, loading conditions, and constraint conditions. Experimental data on buckling of panels under in-plane compression is presented to validate the analysis and sizing methods and to illustrate structural performance and efficiency obtained from representative structures. Experimental results show that strength of panels under in-plane compression can be degraded by low-velocity impact damage. Mechanisms of impact-damage initiation and propagation are described. Finally, data are presented that indicates the matrix is a significant factor influencing tolerance to impact damage.
Petrography and geochemistry of five new Apollo 16 mare basalts and evidence for post-basin deposition of basaltic material at the site

We present the petrography and geochemistry of five 2-4 mm basalt fragments from the Apollo 16 regolith. These fragments are 1) a high-Ti vitrophyric basalt compositionally similar to Apollo 17 high-Ti mare basalts, 2) a very high-Ti vitrophyric basalt compositionally similar to Apollos 12 and 14 red-black pyroclastic glass, 3) a coarsely crystalline high-Al basalt compositionally similar to group 5 Apollo 14 high-Al mare basalts, 4) a very low-Ti (VLT) crystalline basalt compositionally similar to Luna 24 VLT basalts, and 5) a VLT basaltic glass fragment compositionally similar to Apollo 17 VLT basalts. High-Ti basalt has been reported previously at the Apollo 16 site; the other basalt types have not been reported previously. As there are no known cryptomaria or pyroclastic deposits in the highlands near the Apollo 16 site (ruling out a local origin), and scant evidence for basaltic material in the Apollo 16 ancient regolith breccias or Apollo 16 soils collected near North Ray Crater (ruling out a basin ejecta origin), we infer that the basaltic material in the Apollo 16 regolith originated in maria near the Apollo 16 site and was transported laterally to the site by small- to medium-sized post-basin impacts. On the basis of TiO2 concentrations derived from the Clementine UVVIS data, Mare Tranquillitatis (300 km north) is the most likely source for the high-Ti basaltic material at the Apollo 16 site (craters Ross, Arago, Dionysius, Maskelyne, Moltke, Sosigenes, Schmidt), Mare Nectaris/Sinus Asperitatis (220 km east) is the most likely source for the low-Ti and VLT basaltic material (craters Theophilus, Madler, Torricelli), and a large regional pyroclastic deposit near Mare Vaporum (600 km northwest) is the most likely source region for pyroclastic material (although no source craters are apparent in the region).
Emotion and Decision Making

The topic of emotion and decision making is an old one. Classic Western philosophical perspectives generally considered emotion a contaminating influence on cognition, one that needed to be suppressed, ignored, or ideally brought in line with reason. Recent psychological research shows that, contrary to such pessimistic perspectives, emotion plays a largely functional and adaptive role in regulating cognition and decision making. We first outline how affect regulates cognition using the affect-as-information account as a guiding framework. We next discuss foundational research on the role of emotion in regulating cognition and decision making consistent with this account. Finally, we end with a discussion of new research developments and open research questions. Keywords: emotion; decision making; cognition; judgment; mood
Identification of a growth defect in solid C60 by electron diffraction

The origin of an anomalous sawtooth-shaped feature in x-ray powder diffraction of solid C60 is explained via electron diffraction analysis. Films sublimed on holey carbon crystallize with close-packed (111) planes parallel to the surface. Rods of diffuse scattering are found along the 〈111〉 axis normal to the surface but not along other 〈111〉 axes. Powder averaging of these rods, coupled with the x-ray form factor of spherical shells with 3.5 A radius, accounts for the sawtooth feature. We attribute this phenomenon to planar defects parallel to close-packed layers, which form during the growth of solid C60 by sublimation. A possibly related consequence of the growth mode is the observation of strong macroscopic (111) preferred orientation in films sublimed on a variety of substrates.
Reconfiguration of binary trees in faulty hypercubes

The authors present a distributed scheme for reconfiguration of embedded binary trees in hypercubes. Their scheme can reconfigure around any 3n/2 faulty nodes in O(n) time, in an n-dimensional hypercube. Their technique, which is based on a key concept called degree of occupancy, can be generalized to any task graph. >
Photothermal confocal multicolor microscopy of nanoparticles and nanodrugs in live cells.

AbstractGrowing biomedical applications of non-fluorescent nanoparticles (NPs) for molecular imaging, disease diagnosis, drug delivery, and theranostics require new tools for real-time detection of nanomaterials, drug nano-carriers, and NP-drug conjugates (nanodrugs) in complex biological environments without additional labeling. Photothermal (PT) microscopy (PTM) has enormous potential for absorption-based identification and quantification of non-fluorescent molecules and NPs at a single molecule and 1.4 nm gold NP level. Recently, we have developed confocal PTM providing three-dimensional (3D) mapping and spectral identification of multiple chromophores and fluorophores in live cells. Here, we summarize recent advances in the application of confocal multicolor PTM for 3D visualization of single and clustered NPs, alone and in individual cells. In particular, we demonstrate identification of functionalized magnetic and gold–silver NPs, as well as graphene and carbon nanotubes in cancer cells and among bl...
DNA Mapping in Growth and Developmental Disorders

DNA mapping techniques are being increasingly applied to familial and acquired disorders affecting growth and development. To understand the potential applications of these techniques, one must first have a good understanding of the components and basic structue of DNA, the genetic code, the basic structure of genes and the roles that various components of gene structure play in regulating gene expression. Following review of this basic information, a variety of DNA mapping techniques including in situ hybridization, Southern blotting, polymerase chain reaction amplification, DNA sequencing and linkage analysis will be covered. Applications of these techniques can enable mapping of unknown genes by detection of loss of allelic heterozygosity or use of linkage analysis and genetic maps. With increasing ease, mutations such as deletions, expansions, rearrangements and point mutations can be detected in diseases such as congenital adrenal hyperplasia, cystic fibrosis, diabetes insipidus, growth hormone deficiency, fragile X syndrome, Laron dwarfism and Turner syndrome. From this discussion, a better understanding of methods of gene localization, uses of genetic maps and rapid, convenient methods to detect a variety of molecular derangements causing familial disorders affecting growth and development will be gained.
Quantification of 3-D field effects during 2-D microwave imaging

Two-dimensional (2-D) approaches to microwave imaging have dominated the research landscape primarily due to the moderate levels of measurement data, data-acquisition time, and computational costs required. Three-dimensional (3-D) approaches have been investigated in simulation, phantom, and animal experiments. While 3-D approaches are certainly important in terms of the potential to improve image quality, their associated costs are significant at this time. In addition, benchmarks are needed to evaluate these new generation systems as more 3-D methods begin to appear. In this paper, we present a systematic series of experiments which assess the capability of our 2-D system to image classical 3-D geometries. We demonstrate where current methods suffer from 3-D effects but also identify situations where they remain quite useful. Comparisons between reconstructions utilizing phantom measurements and simulated 3-D data are also shown to validate the results. These findings suggest that for certain biomedical applications, 2-D approaches remain quite attractive.
Strategies for representing metabolic pathways within biochemical systems theory: reversible pathways.

The search for systematic methods to deal with the integrated behavior of complex biochemical systems has over the past two decades led to the proposal of several theories of biochemical systems. Among the most promising is biochemical systems theory (BST). Recent comparisons of this theory with several others that have recently been proposed have demonstrated that all are variants of BST and share a common underlying formalism. Hence, the different variants can be precisely related and ranked according to their completeness and operational utility. The original and most fruitful variant within BST is based on a particular representation, called an S-system (for synergistic and saturable systems), that exhibits many advantages not found among alternative representations. Even within the preferred S-system representation there are options, depending on the method of aggregating fluxes, that become especially apparent when one considers reversible pathways. In this paper we focus on the paradigm situation and clearly distinguish the two most common strategies for generating an S-system representation. The first is called the “reversible” strategy because it involves aggregating incoming fluxes separately from outgoing fluxes for each metabolite to define a net flux that can be positive, negative, or zero. The second is the “irreversible” strategy, which involves aggregating forward and reverse fluxes through each reaction to define a net flux that is always positive. This second strategy has been used almost exclusively in all variants of BST. The principal results of detailed analyses are the following: (1) All S-system representations predict the same changes in dependent concentrations for a given change in an independent concentration. (2) The reversible strategy is superior to the irreversible on the basis of several criteria, including accuracy in predicting steady-state flux, accuracy in predicting transient responses, and robustness of representation. (3) Only the reversible strategy yields a representation that is able to capture the characteristic feature of amphibolic pathways, namely, the
Effect of reticulo-endothelial blockade on immunity to the Shwartzman phenomenon.

SummaryA study has been made of the effect of R-E blockade upon natural or induced immunity of rabbits to the Shwartzman phenomenon. Striking results were obtained when Thorotrast was used as the blocking agent. Rabbits that had shown a natural immunity, or had become immune following a series of previous Shwartzman reactions, responded, after the injection of Thorotrast, by developing typical areas of hemorrhagic necrosis. In addition to eliciting a positive skin reaction in a previously immune animal, R-E blockade increased the injurious effect of the bacterial toxin, causing death in the majority of animals tested.
Punch’s portrayal of Redmond, Carson and the Irish question, 1910–18

The Irish question in the form of home rule reasserted itself in British politics during the years 1910-18, first as the central issue in British political debate, then as a secondary, though still significant, concern for Britain during the First World War. One of Britain’s national institutions, Punch, a weekly magazine of political commentary and satire with a circulation of 100,000, reflected the significance of the Irish question by devoting a great deal of attention during these years to the leaders of the two opposing forces in Irish politics, the Irish nationalist leader John Redmond and the Irish unionist leader Sir Edward Carson. Redmond and Carson became regular members of Punch’s leading cast of characters in its political cartoons in the 1910s, a group which included the Liberal premier H. H. Asquith, his leading ministers David Lloyd George and Winston Churchill, and the opposition leader Andrew Bonar Law.
Effect of the inhibition of PLA2 on the oxidative stress in the lungs of glutathione depleted rats given endotoxin intratracheally.

Background: As one of the etiologies of acute respiratory distress syndrome(ARDS), sepsis is one of the morbid causes of this cryptogenic malady. Even though many documents on the role of endotoxin(ETX) in the pathogenesis of ARDS have been issued, still the underlying mechanism associated with oxidative stress and activation of has been controversial. In the present study, the role of phospholipase in the neutrophilic respiratory burst, which is presumed to cause acute lung injury during sepsis, was probed. Method: In glutathione-depleted Sprague-Dawley rats, lung leak, infiltration of neutrophils, activity and lipid peroxidation in the lung were measured after intratracheal instillation of endotoxin(delete). In addition, gamma glutamyl transferase(GGT) activity and the amount of pulmonary surfactant were measured. Morphologically, the changes in ultrastructure and cytochemical demonstration of oxidants were presented to confirm the neutrophilic oxidative stress and to elucidate the effects of activation on(delete) oxidative stress. Results: Instillation of ETX to glutathione-depleted rats intensified lung leak and lipid peroxidation when compared with non-glutathione depleted rats treated with the endotoxin. Moreover, oxidative stress was confirmed by the assay of GGT and malondialdehyde. Functionally, the depletion of glutathione altered the secretion of pulmonary surfactant from alveolar type II cells. Ultrastructurally and cytochemicaliy, oxidative stress was also confirmed after treatment of with ETX and diethylmaleate(DEM). Conclusion: The endotoxin-induced acute lung injury was mediated by oxidative stress, which in turn was provoked by the neutrophilic respiratory burst. The activation of in the lung seems to playa pivotal role in the oxidative stress of the lung.
Voltage stability after grid-connection of wind farm

The voltage stability becomes more intricate after the wind farm connects with grid and the main influencing factors are analyzed,such as the load characteristics,connection point selection,reactive power sources and unit characteristics.Several countermeasures are proposed to improve voltage stability and avoid voltage collapse,including the sufficient reactive power compensation,proper power source structure,perfect load shedding schedule and enhanced wind turbine performance.Simulation for a real power system indicates that,the LVRT(Low-Voltage Ride Through) capability of doubly-fed induction generators is critical in the prevention of voltage collapse.
Explanation and Ontology

The time has come to review the various approaches to explanation and scientific understanding that have been covered in the text up to this point. What we are after, here, is an account of how it is that theories lead to rich and powerful explanations and deep scientific understanding of the occurrence of a variety of phenomena. This is what we have been searching for all along, namely, answers to such questions as how theories work to explain, predict, determine what we observe and so on. Our intellectual quest is essentially to develop a theory about the nature of theories. Various key formulations have been presented in Chapters 2 to 5 of the text, theories about theories that have played a dominant role in the traditional philosophy of science. According to the logical positivists, explanation and understanding were not all that complex. Once all theoretical language is translated into laws or correlations between observables, explaining a phenomenon amounts to demonstrating how it fits within this overall pattern of observables. Nature is understood in terms of how events systematically and economically repeat themselves. The D-N model, which renders explanation as the subsumption of a phenomenon under a lawlike proposition (s), is not really all that different from logical positivism, except that Hempel explicitly disavows the verification principle of meaning, allowing for the incorporation of theoretical entities in our explanans.
Temporal features of the responses of primate spinothalamic neurons to noxious thermal stimulation of hairy and glabrous skin

Extracellular recordings were made from 81 primate spinothalamic (STT) neurons in the L7-S1 segments of the spinal cord. The majority of the sample was recorded from within laminae IV-V. The temporal features of the responses to noxious thermal stimulation of glabrous and hairy skin were studied in an attempt to determine whether natural groupings of STT neurons could be identified on the basis of response time course alone and whether these groups were skin type dependent. The relationship between these groups and those based on static response features (37) was also explored in an attempt to define more fully their potential functional roles. In most STT neurons, the thermally evoked responses typically appeared to have two response components, particularly at stimulus temperatures above 49 degrees C. The first response phase typically peaked within 1-12 s of stimulus onset and then adapted. The second phase slowly rose to a maximum, typically 15-30 s following stimulus onset. The existence of natural groupings of STT neurons based upon the characteristics of these two response components was assessed with a k-means cluster analysis. On the basis of the onset and early peak latencies, two well-defined short and long latency neuronal clusters were found in the responses evoked from both glabrous and hairy skin; these were referred to as the SP1 and LP1 classes, respectively. The glabrous and hairy skin SP1 classes did not differ significantly in either onset or early peak latency for stimuli of 47-55 degrees C. However, the hairy skin LP1 class had significantly shorter onset latencies than the glabrous skin LP1 class for stimuli of 49-53 degrees C, as well as shorter peak latencies for stimuli of 49 and 51 degrees C. The SP1 class constituted 62% of the hairy skin subset, whereas the LP1 class constituted 57% of the glabrous skin subset. A cluster analysis of the late-peak latencies also revealed two subgroups. In the responses evoked from both glabrous and hairy skin, the longer latency classes (LP2) constituted more than 80% of the samples. With one exception, no dependence upon the type of skin that was stimulated was found in the latencies of either the LP2 class or the shorter latency SP2 class. Prior conditioning of the skin with a 30-s thermal pulse of 51-55 degrees C led to a suppression of the early response phase and an enhancement of the late phase in nearly all cases examined (n = 11). This pattern was independent of skin type.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
Monocyte Trafficking, Inflammation, and Atherosclerosis

Macrophages are central to the progression of atherosclerosis. An increased number of macrophages in plaque are associated with larger, more stenotic lesions. Furthermore, activated plaque macrophages promote rupture, the most significant clinical event affecting mortality. Plaque macrophages derive from monocytes that are recruited from blood. We have thus focused our efforts on understanding the mechanisms that regulate plaque macrophages, with emphasis on how macrophage-burden might be reduced to lower disease risk. We have developed techniques to discern whether macrophage contraction in plaques is due to emigration out of the plaque environment. Although this idea was our leading hypothesis, data obtained in a model of regression carried out in apoE -/- mice indicates that emigration of macrophages does not occur during regression. The idea was based on previous literature that monocyte-derived cells might be removed from sites of acute inflammation by emigrating to local lymph nodes. After finding that emigration of macrophages from resolving plaque in apoE -/- mice was poor, we revisited models of acute inflammation; in particular, thioglycollate-induced peritonitis, where emigration had been claimed to account for macrophage removal. New methodology to improve the quantification of macrophage loss from the peritoneum indicated that, like atherosclerosis, emigration of macrophages was a minor contributor to the contraction of macrophages associated with resolution. Instead, in both settings, macrophage loss was associated with a strong suppression of monocyte recruitment, coupled with ongoing macrophage apoptosis. These data strongly suggest that methods to block monocyte recruitment may provide a viable approach to reversing atherosclerosis. Current efforts focus on integrating the role of monocyte recruitment with local proliferation of macrophages in plaques, investigating macrophage motility in plaques during different disease states, and evaluating contraction of macrophages from plaques using other models of disease regression. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
The application of multiply constrained minimum-variance adaptive beamforming to regional monitoring

Abstract Broadband operation of small regional seismic arrays suggests the need for beams whose widths are nearly frequency independent and for an adaptive processor capable of suppressing nonstationary noise and interference. It is shown that multiply constrained minimum-variance (MCMV) adaptive beamforming when trained on signal-and-noise windows can achieve these objectives better than conventional beamforming. This paper presents the theory, implementation, characteristics, and performance of such a beamformer in the context of seismic monitoring for underground nuclear tests. The adaptive beamformer was applied to a large set of Pn arrivals observed on the NORESS array to estimate first- and second-order sample statistics of the array gain as a function of frequency and subarray size. The relative merit of adaptive beamforming was established by comparing the mean gain with that realized by conventional beamforming. These comparative results and other findings showed that the MCMV beamformer can (1) improve average signal-to-noise ratios from 0 to 8.5 dB, (2) better identify and suppress organized components in the noise field, and (3) better suppress interference in comparison to the conventional beamformer. The adaptive beamformer also produced peak narrowband gains on the larger subarrays in the neighborhood of 24 dB for specific evens. When implementational, seismic environmental, and practical aspects are added to the findings, important configurational and operational strategies are identified. The array gain statistics for both the adaptive and conventional beamformers are also useful for modeling the performance of monitoring networks.
Phosphorylation of BlaR1 in Manifestation of Antibiotic Resistance in Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Its Abrogation by Small Molecules

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), an important human pathogen, has evolved an inducible mechanism for resistance to β-lactam antibiotics. We report herein that the integral membrane protein BlaR1, the β-lactam sensor/signal transducer protein, is phosphorylated on exposure to β-lactam antibiotics. This event is critical to the onset of the induction of antibiotic resistance. Furthermore, we document that BlaR1 phosphorylation and the antibiotic-resistance phenotype are both reversed in the presence of synthetic protein kinase inhibitors of our design, restoring susceptibility of the organism to a penicillin, resurrecting it from obsolescence in treatment of these intransigent bacteria.
Virtual Patient Simulation A Method to Study Diagnostic Process as an Emergent Aspect of Information Sampling Behavior

Medical diagnosis has begun to draw attention as a patient safety concern that is valid, yet difficult to study. In the current study, we implement a virtual patient simulation to assess different information sampling techniques practiced by a variety of health care providers including physicians, nurses, health technicians, and pharmacists who were tasked with diagnosing a virtual patient. Results suggest there are three different information sampling approaches used to arrive at a medical diagnosis: iteration, batch, and haste. In the iterative approach, clinicians sampled a series of hypothesis-generating sources of information (e.g., patient history, physical exam, etc.) that were immediately followed by a series of diagnostic tests (e.g., X-ray, EKG, etc.) and this process was repeated for 2-4 cycles before arriving at a diagnosis. In the batch approach, hypothesis-generating sources of information were sampled in a single series or “batch” that was then followed by a single series of diagnostic test...
Assessing the role of generalist predators in the biological control of alfalfa weevil (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

Alfalfa weevil (Coleoptera:Curculionidae) is a major pest of alfalfa throughout the United States of America. Biological control research has disproportionately focussed on introduced parasitoids. Generalist predators may also be important, but experimental work evaluating their impacts is lacking. I combined a cross-site survey with a predator exclusion experiment to identify key predators, and test for impacts on weevil survival and plant defoliation levels in Montana and North Dakota, United States of America. Spiders (Araneae) dominated the complex, followed by Nabidae (Hemiptera) and Coccinellidae (Coleoptera). None of the dominant predators showed aggregative responses to weevil (Hypera postica (Gyllenhal); Coleoptera: Curculionidae) or pea aphid (Acyrthosiphon pisum (Harris); Hemiptera: Aphididae) densities across 10 sites surveyed. However, weevil densities were positively correlated with both coccinellid and nabid densities across transects at the experimental site. Thus, predator groups traditionally associated with aphids can show strong aggregative numerical responses to alfalfa weevil larvae at smaller scales. Predator exclusion revealed no significant predator effects on larval survival or alfalfa damage. However, final densities of pea aphids were significantly higher in exclusion treatments relative to controls. The results suggest that even under conditions where predators exert significant pressure on aphids, they may still have minimal impacts on weevils. Additional experimental work is necessary to determine the broader potential of generalist predators as alfalfa weevil control agents.
Optimized fluid dynamics for heavy ion collisions

Abstract The (viscous) anisotropic hydrodynamic approach, especially after perturbative inclusion of all residual viscous terms, has been shown to dramatically outperform viscous hydrodynamics in several simplified situations for which exact solutions exist but which share with realistic expansion scenarios the problem of large dissipative currents. We will report on the present status of applying viscous anisotropic hydrodynamics in a highly efficient simulation of the full three-dimensional quark-gluon plasma. Results from accelerated 3+1-dimensional viscous hydrodynamic simulations using graphics processing units will be compared to the anisotropic frameworks.
Fibroblast-like synoviocyte mechanosensitivity to fluid shear is modulated by interleukin-1α

Fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) reside in the synovial membrane of diarthrodial joints and are exposed to a dynamic fluid environment that presents both physical and chemical stimuli. The ability of FLS to sense and respond to these stimuli plays a key role in their normal function, and is implicated in the alterations to function that occur in osteoarthritis (OA). The present work characterizes the response of FLS to fluid flow-induced shear stress via real-time calcium imaging, and tests the hypothesis that this response is modulated by interleukin-1α (IL-1α), a cytokine elevated in OA. FLS demonstrated a robust calcium signaling response to fluid shear that was dose dependent upon stress level and required both external and internal calcium sources. Preconditioning with 10ng/mL IL-1α for 24h heightened this shear stress response by significantly increasing the percent of responding cells and peak magnitude, while significantly decreasing the time for a peak to occur. Intercellular communication via gap junctions was found to account for a portion of the FLS population response in normal conditions, and was significantly increased by IL-1α preconditioning. IL-1α was also found to significantly increase average length and incidence of the primary cilium, an organelle commonly implicated in shear mechanosensing. These findings suggest that the elevated levels of IL-1α found in the OA environment heighten FLS sensitivity to fluid shear by altering both intercellular communication and individual cell sensitivity, which could affect downstream functions and contribute to progression of the disease state.
Alcohol Use and Problem Drinking among Women Firefighters.

Abstract Objectives Given high levels of occupational stress and toxic exposures, firefighters have a relatively high prevalence of occupationally related medical and mental health disorders compared with the general public. Previous research found high rates of heavy and binge drinking among male firefighters. This study is the first to examine alcohol use among women firefighters. Methods Data were collected as part of a national online survey of women, career firefighters. Results A total of 1,913 women firefighters completed questions regarding alcohol use. Nearly 40% reported binge drinking in the previous month and 4.3% reported driving while intoxicated. Among those who drank, 16.5% screened positive for problem drinking. Problem drinkers were more than 2.5 times as likely to have been diagnosed with depression or have symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder, and were approximately 40% more likely to have been injured on the job in the previous year, when compared with other women firefighters. Those who screened positive for problem drinking also were significantly less likely to say that they would recommend a fire service career to other women. Conclusions As with male firefighters, heavy and problem drinking are prevalent among women firefighters and are associated with negative occupational outcomes.
Does Psychological Depression Cause Immune Suppression in Humans

Considerable evidence suggests that major depression places people at increased risk for physical morbidity and mortality. The mechanisms responsible for the decline of well-being in persons with major depression are not known, but recent research has hypothesized that immune alterations might be one pathway through which depression influences physical health. However, disparate results have been obtained in the study of immune function in depressed patients, and a general consensus that depression is associated with immune alterations has not been reached.
SMAD4 mutation acquisition in the metastatic transformation of pancreatic cancer.

227Background: SMAD4 mutations have been associated with worse prognosis and metastatic disease in patients with pancreatic cancer. It is unknown whether pancreatic cancers that metastasize acquire...
Neural Retina and MerTK-Independent Apical Polarity of αvβ5 Integrin Receptors in the Retinal Pigment Epithelium

The apical plasma membrane domain of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells in the eye faces the outer segment portions of rods and cones and the interphotoreceptor matrix in the subretinal space. Two important receptor-mediated interactions between the apical surface of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and adjacent photoreceptors are adhesion ensuring outer segment alignment and diurnal phagocytosis of shed outer segment fragments contributing to outer segment renewal. Both depend on the apical distribution of the integrin family adhesion receptor αvβ5 as lack of αvβ5 in mice causes weakened retinal adhesion and asynchronous phagocytosis. With age, lack of αvβ5 leads to accumulation of harmful lipofuscin in the RPE and to vision loss. Here, we discuss three different possible mechanisms that could generate the exclusive apical distribution of αvβ5 integrin receptors in the RPE. (1) αvβ5 could be apical in the RPE because RPE attachment to neural retina generally or αvβ5 ligands specifically in the subretinal space stabilize apical but not basolateral αvβ5 surface receptors. (2) αvβ5 could be apical in the RPE because it resides in a complex with other components of the phagocytic machinery that assembles at the apical, phagocytic surface of the RPE. (3) αvβ5 could be apical due to mechanisms intrinsic to this receptor protein and specifically to its β5 integrin subunit.
Overview: Rationale and Terminology

In the last several decades, with the advent of the Internet and globalization, the world has seen unprecedented information dissemination and exchange. Accompanying this explosion of information has been an unquestionable and previously unparalleled increase in the development and propagation of technology and techniques in medicine and, in particular, in minimally invasive surgery. Herein, we provide currently accepted usage of nomenclature and the rationale for utilitization of natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) and Laparoendoscopic single-site surgery (LESS) in urology.
The Poly(urethane)-Calcium Ion Interaction. I. Effect on the Mechanical and Thermal Properties

Understanding the effects of blood on poly(urethanes) requires a knowledge of the interactions between the polymer and individual blood components. This study examines the calcium-poly(urethane) interaction. Calcification has been associated with a loss of mechanical properties leading to premature failure of polymer implants. Using tensile testing, dynamic mechanical testing, differential scanning calorimetry and infrared spectroscopy, this study observed the changes in structure and properties of a poly(ether urethane) when calcium is blended with it. It is shown that the polyether soft segment may serve as an initiation site for calcification, leading to premature failure.
The auditory attributes of Golden Eagles: Do Golden (Aquila chrysaetos) and Bald Eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) share the same auditory space?

According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (2018), fatalities associated with wind turbine collisions have been reported for more than 200 bird species. Furthermore, based on statistical models of industry growth it has been suggested that as many as 1.4 million bird fatalities/year could be realized if the Department of Energy (DOE) wind energy goals are achieved; i.e., wind energy supplying 20% of total U.S. energy needs by 2030. Although passerine bird fatalities are most commonly reported, raptors that hunt by day, including bald and golden eagles, are the second most frequent casualties of turbine collisions. To address this concern, deterrence protocols designed to discourage eagles from encroaching into wind energy facility air spaces and thereby constrain the degree of risk to which birds are exposed are under investigation. As part of an effort to guide development of acoustic deterrence protocols, we report that the responsive frequency range of golden eagles is similar to that reported for bald eagles; upper and lower frequency limits of hearing are approximately 6.0 and 0.3 kHz, respectively. Suprathreshold response profiles measured in golden eagles exhibit standard features that will be compared with those of bald eagles. [Work supported by DOE grant #DE-EE0007881.]
Cellphone Usage in Academia: The Problem and Solutions

Focus and concentration on tasks is essential for optimum academic performance. Students can achieve higher grades by staying focused on their studies. However, staying focused on an academic task is not easy with the technological distractions currently surrounding students. The vast majority of college students possess a smart cellphone and use it often for many different reasons. Having the constant ding, ring, and vibration of notifications can be a serious distraction to staying on task. We seek to: 1) quantify the problem of cellphone distractions, 2) examine the effectiveness of existing applications, and 3) explore alternative solutions.
The Men of Mobtown: Policing Baltimore in the Age of Slavery and Emancipation

Scholars often distinguish formal, state-mandated policing institutions from non-state actors and vigilantes. Using antebellum and postbellum Baltimore as a case study, Adam Malka argues that this ...
Intravenous administration of ghrelin increases serum cortisol and aldosterone concentrations in heavy-drinking alcohol-dependent individuals: Results from a double-blind, placebo-controlled human laboratory study

Increasing evidence supports the role of appetite-regulating hormones, including ghrelin, in alcohol use disorder (AUD). Effects of ghrelin administration on cortisol and aldosterone, two hormones known to influence the development and maintenance of AUD, have been observed in ghrelin-exposed tissues or cells, as well as rodents and healthy volunteers, however whether these effects replicate in individuals with AUD is unknown. Here, we tested the hypothesis that intravenous administration of ghrelin leads to increase in endogenous serum cortisol and aldosterone concentrations in alcohol-dependent, heavy drinking individuals, and that these changes may predict ghrelin-induced alcohol craving. This was a double-blind, placebo-controlled human laboratory study in non-treatment-seeking, heavy-drinking, alcohol-dependent individuals randomized to receive either placebo, 1 mcg/kg or 3 mcg/kg of intravenous ghrelin. Then, participants underwent a cue-reactivity procedure in a bar-like setting, which included exposure to both neutral (juice) and alcohol cues. Repeated blood samples were collected and used to measure endogenous cortisol and aldosterone serum concentrations, in response to exogenous ghrelin administration. Furthermore, cortisol and aldosterone serum concentrations were used to develop a model to predict the effect of exogenous ghrelin administration on alcohol craving. Intravenous ghrelin administration increased endogenous cortisol and aldosterone serum concentrations. While the effects on cortisol were greater than those on aldosterone, only the ghrelin-induced changes in aldosterone serum concentrations predicted craving. These findings provide initial evidence of ghrelin effects on glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids in individuals with AUD, thereby providing additional information on the potential mechanisms by which the ghrelin system may play a role in alcohol craving and seeking in AUD.