cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
ASSESSING THE RISK OF ACQUIRED INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY KNOWLEDGE LOSS

Mergers and Acquisitions in Information Technology (IT) industry have reached record levels in the last decade. Especially in the fast-growing market of IT, more and more companies merge or acquire for the purpose of gaining access to knowledge, skills, and innovation. However, even in a sector that recognizes the importance of knowledge, where smart people are the competitive edge of a company little attention is being paid to the turnover of acquired employees. We develop two hypotheses related to increase of employee turnover following an acquisition consideration and potential loss of future innovation capacity. Given the limited availability of empirical data approximations like Quarterly Workforce Indicator and U.S. Patents are considered to test the increase in turnover of acquired employees and loss of innovators for the acquiring firm. Preliminary data analysis shows mixed results steering the consideration towards additional factors like acquirer’s reputation and form of acquisition to mediate turnover decisions.
Current and Future Assisted Reproductive Technologies for Mammalian Farm Animals

Reproduction in domestic animals is under control by man and the technologies developed to facilitate that control have a major impact on the efficiency of food production. Reproduction is an energy-intensive process. In beef cattle, for example, over 50 % of the total feed consumption required to produce a unit of meat protein is consumed by the dam of the meat animal (Anim Prod 27:367–379, 1978). Sows are responsible for about 20 % of the total feed needed to produce animals for slaughter (Adv Pork Prod 19:223–237, 2008). Accordingly, energy input to produce food from animal sources is reduced by increasing number of offspring per unit time a breeding female is in the herd. Using beef cattle as an example again, life-cycle efficiency for production of weaned calves is positively related to early age at puberty and short calving intervals (J Anim Sci 57:852–866, 1983). Reproductive technologies also dictate the strategies that can be used to select animals genetically for traits that improve production. Of critical importance has been artificial insemination (AI) (Anim Reprod Sci 62:143–172, 2000; Stud Hist Philos Biol Biomed Sci 38:411–441, 2007; Reprod Domest Anim 43:379–385, 2008; J Dairy Sci 92:5814–5833, 2009) and, as will be outlined in this chapter, emerging technologies offer additional opportunities for improvements in genetic selection. Given the central role of reproduction as a determinant of production efficiency and in genetic selection, improvements in reproductive technologies will be crucial to meeting the challenges created by the anticipated increases in world population (from seven billion people in 2011 to an anticipated nine billion by 2050; World population prospects: the 2010 revision, highlights and advance tables. Working Paper No. ESA/P/WP.220, New York) and by difficulties in livestock production wrought by climate change (SAT eJournal 4:1–23, 2007).
Using Semiparametric Risk Sets for the Analysis of Cross-Sectional Duration Data

It is a common sampling scheme that individuals in a prospective cohort study are selected using a cross-sectional criterion. Suppose an epidemic process is characterized by three chronologically ordered events, termed event-A, -B, and -C. Suppose a prospective cohort only recruits individuals who have experienced event-A and have not experienced event-C. Therefore data from those who have experienced event-C prior to the time of recruitment are excluded from the analysis. In this paper we consider the situation when the time from event-A to event-B is treated as the major outcome variable, and interests are focused on nonparametric or semiparametric models for this variable. A class of semiparametric risk sets is introduced for constructing a variety of statistical methods. The general relationship between cross-sectional duration data and intercepted renewal data is characterized. The application of the proposed methods to intercepted renewal data is discussed. An example in which the event-ABC process corresponds to (HIV-infection, first diagnosis of AIDS, death) is presented.
Witchcraft or Spiritual Power among Bajju Christians

The Bajju in Northern Nigeria believe in an inherent inherited capacity for the use of spiritual power, also termed witchcraft, that results in illnesses, misfortune, evil, and death in the physical realm. This article explores this system, including indications that an individual is practicing witchcraft and the assumptions behind this conceptual system. It is a system that some Bajju Christians are seeking to Christianize by asserting that it is an evil spirit or evil spirits that can enter a person whose own spirit then leaves his or her body to meet with other spirits in the spiritual realm, resulting in dire consequences for someone in the physical realm. Thus, witchcraft is used to explain evil even among Christians. I suggest that a more biblical understanding of evil, rooted in a mother tongue translation of the Bible, is needed to prepare Christians to take responsibility for their own behavior and to properly attribute evil to Satan, the father of lies.
Near-Infrared Spectroscopy and Anharmonic Theory of Protonated Water Clusters: Higher Elevations in the Hydrogen Bonding Landscape.

Near-infrared spectroscopy measurements are presented for protonated water clusters, H+(H2O)n, in the size range of n = 1–8. Clusters are produced in a pulsed-discharge supersonic expansion, mass selected, and studied with infrared laser photodissociation spectroscopy in the regions of 3600–4550 and 4850–7350 cm–1. Although there is some variation with cluster size, the main features of these spectra are a broad absorption near 5300 cm–1, a sharp doublet near 7200 cm–1, as well as a structured absorption near 4100 cm–1 for n ≥ 2. The vibrational patterns measured for the hydronium, Zundel, and Eigen ions are compared to those predicted by different forms of anharmonic theory. Second-order vibrational perturbation theory (VPT2) and a local mode treatment of the OH stretches both capture key aspects of the spectra but suffer understandable deficiencies in the quantitative description of band positions and intensities.
Hierarchical Graphical Models for Context-Aware Hybrid Brain-Machine Interfaces

We present a novel hierarchical graphical model based context-aware hybrid brain-machine interface (hBMI) using probabilistic fusion of electroencephalographic (EEG) and electromyographic (EMG) activities. Based on experimental data collected during stationary executions and subsequent imageries of five different hand gestures with both limbs, we demonstrate feasibility of the proposed hBMI system through within session and online across sessions classification analyses. Furthermore, we investigate the context-aware extent of the model by a simulated probabilistic approach and highlight potential implications of our work in the field of neurophysiologically-driven robotic hand prosthetics.
“No voice or vote:” trauma-coerced attachment in victims of sex trafficking

Trauma-coerced attachment (TCA)—often referred to as trauma bonding— has been noted and documented across various abusive contexts. TCA involves a powerful emotional dependency on the abusive partn...
In vivo long-term cortical photoacoustic microscopy using ultrasound-sensitive chronic cranial window

We report an ultrasound-sensitive cranial window integrated with a highly sensitive micro-ring resonator ultrasound detector. We demonstrated implantation of the functional cranial window in mice and performed long-term intravital photoacoustic microscopy of cortex vasculature.
Arthroscopic Proximal Biceps Versus Subpectoral Tenodesis: Short-Term Differences and Long-Term Follow-Up

Recent publications have suggested that proximal biceps tenodesis creates higher reoperation rates and complications related to retention of the biceps in the bicipital groove. Few studies have presented comparative data between the two techniques. Presented here is the first study contrasting the long-term outcome of arthroscopic proximal biceps tenodesis versus mini-open subpectoral repair. Ninety-two patients were followed for a mean 10.4 years in the proximal group. Fifty-three were soft tissue tenodesis, the remainder proximal suture anchor repairs. This was in contrast to 44 patients treated with mini-open subpectoral repair with mean follow-up of 6.71 years. The biceps was tenotomized arthroscopically. It was then sutured to the rotator cuff tendon using permanent sutures in the soft tissue group, and in the remainder, the suture used was from an arthroscopically placed suture anchor incorporated in the repair. In open, distal group, the bicipital groove was exposed through a subpectoral approach, and the tendon is then fixed in place using a screw and spiked washer. UCLA scores improved in the proximal group from a mean of 18.93 to a mean of 30.12 and in the distal group from 17.61 to 32.37. Following proximal tenodesis, two patients had mild deformity, but all patients rated their arms as cosmetically normal, and no patient complained of upper arm cramping. There were no complications related to the procedure in either group. Operative times were significantly shorter for proximal tenodesis (p < 0.0001), but perioperative narcotics and recovery room stays were not significantly different between the two procedures. The shorter operating times and absence of cost of an interference screw resulted in a cost savings of $1647.37 with proximal tenodesis. All patients who obtained a good result at short-term follow-up continued to maintain a good result at final follow-up. Reoperation involving conversion to distal tenodesis was not required in any proximal tenodesis patient. Arthroscopic proximal biceps tenodesis appears to be a reliable technique to manage the pathologic biceps tendon. The operative time and cost were significantly less than with a subpectoral approach, especially if interference screws were used. The subpectoral approach however did not appear to have significant increase in morbidity in short or long term. Concerns about pain related to the retention of the biceps within the bicipital groove appear unfounded even at long-term follow-up.
SOLID PARTICLE SETTLEMENT IN OPEN-CHANNEL FLOW

A random walk is formulated to describe the settlement of solid particles in open-channel flows. Both uniform and mixed-size sediment particles are tested. Results from simulations indicate that the probability density function of the settling length can be a lognormal distribution. The mean settling length can be estimated by the ratio of the unit-width discharge to the fall velocity of particles. The coefficient of variation is determined to be a power function of the ratio between flow shear velocity and fall velocity of solid particles. The simulation results are generally in agreement with measured data. The procedure for the design of settling basins is presented.
Catheter Directed Lysis and Thrombectomy Are Equally Effective for Extensive Deep Vein Thrombosis.

Abstract Background There is currently little consensus on the role of thrombectomy compared with catheter-directed lysis (CDL) for acute, extensive, proximal deep vein thrombosis (DVT). We sought to determine whether any differences in outcomes exist between thrombectomy and CDL in terms of postoperative venous patency, pulmonary emboli (PE), and bleeding/hematoma. Methods In an institutional review board-approved retrospective cohort study, patients from a single academic medical center with confirmed lower extremity DVT were divided into thrombectomy and CDL cohorts. Demographic information, comorbidities and laboratory data, postoperative patency, postoperative bleeding, postoperative PE, popliteal hematoma, and recurrence of DVT were collected. Type I error level was set at 0.05. Results Eighty-seven patients were identified, 51.7% received CDL, and 48.3% underwent thrombectomy. Patient comorbidities and hypercoagulable states were not significantly different among the groups. The two techniques did not have significantly different postoperative patency (P = 0.472), bleeding (P = 0.598), PE (P = 0.868), popliteal hematoma (P = 0.331), or recurrence of DVT (P = 0.835). Conclusions In selecting optimum treatment for acute, extensive, proximal DVT, our retrospective cohort study found no significant differences among treatment groups in safety, efficacy, recurrence, and progression to PE. We conclude that modality of treatment should be decided based on hospital resources, surgeon experience, and comfort with each technique, patient's physiologic status, and associated costs.
Mitochondrial-targeted Hsp90 C-terminal inhibitors manifest anti-proliferative activity.

Abstract The development of C-terminal heat shock protein 90 kDa (Hsp90) inhibitors has emerged as a potential treatment for cancer. Similarly, small molecules that target the mitochondria have proven to be efficacious towards cancer, as the reprogramming of mitochondrial function is often associated with oncogenic transformation. Herein, we report the development of triphenylphosphonium (TPP)-conjugated Hsp90 C-terminal inhibitors, their anti-proliferative activity, and accumulation in the mitochondria. In general, TPP-conjugated Hsp90 C-terminal inhibitors were found to manifest increased activity against various cancer cell lines when compared to the parent compounds.
“Science Olympiad Is Why I’m Here”: the Influence of an Early STEM Program on College and Major Choice

In the interest of building a larger and more diverse science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) workforce, many K-12 STEM programs have proliferated in recent years, yet the long-term effects of participation in these programs remain underexplored. This mixed methods study focuses on an established program, Science Olympiad, and uses administrative, survey, and focus group data to investigate characteristics of former Science Olympiad participants at one postsecondary institution and participants’ perceived influence of the program on their postsecondary trajectories. Using social cognitive career theory, we identify themes in the ways in which Science Olympiad influenced academic and career decisions among participants, especially focusing on college and major choices. Among former participants who indicated that the program influenced their college decisions, participation in a state tournament hosted by the site institution was especially impactful. Half of the study participants indicated that the program influenced their major choice at this institution, largely through providing opportunities for exposure to and exploration of new subject areas with limited risk. Data suggest that Science Olympiad can influence participants’ academic and career interests and trajectories, highlighting implications for K-12 STEM out-of-school programs and opportunities for enhanced partnerships between K-12 and postsecondary STEM educational settings.
Autoantibody Responses to Apolipoprotein A-I Are Not Diet- or Sex-Linked in C57BL/6 Mice

Atherosclerosis is responsible for a large percentage of all-cause mortality worldwide, but it is only now beginning to be understood as a complex disease process involving metabolic insult, chronic inflammation, and multiple immune mechanisms. Abs targeting apolipoprotein A-I (ApoA-I) have been found in patients with cardiovascular disease, autoimmune conditions, as well as those with no documented history of either. However, relatively little is known about how these Abs are generated and their relationship to diet and sex. In the current study, we modeled this aspect of autoimmunity using anti-ApoA-I immunization of male and female C57BL/6 mice. Unexpectedly, we found that autoantibodies directed against a single, previously unknown, epitope within the ApoA-I protein developed irrespective of immunization status or dyslipidemia in mice. When total IgG subclasses were analyzed over the course of time, we observed that rather than driving an increase in inflammatory IgG subclasses, consumption of Western diet suppressed age-dependent increases in IgG2b and IgG2c in male mice only. The lack of change observed in female mice suggested that diet and sex might play a combined role in Th1/Th2 balance and, ultimately, in immunity to pathogen challenge. This report demonstrates the need for inclusion of both sexes in studies pertaining to diet and aging and suggests that further study of immunogenic epitopes present in ApoA-I is warranted.
Peptide-Conjugated Phosphorodiamidate Morpholino Oligomers Retain Activity against Multidrug-Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa In Vitro and In Vivo.

ABSTRACT Most antimicrobials currently in the clinical pipeline are modifications of existing classes of antibiotics and are considered short-term solutions due to the emergence of resistance. Pseudomonas aeruginosa represents a major challenge for new antimicrobial drug discovery due to its versatile lifestyle, ability to develop resistance to most antibiotic classes, and capacity to form robust biofilms on surfaces and in certain hosts such as those living with cystic fibrosis (CF). A precision antibiotic approach to treating Pseudomonas could be achieved with an antisense method, specifically by using peptide-conjugated phosphorodiamidate morpholino oligomers (PPMOs). Here, we demonstrate that PPMOs targeting acpP (acyl carrier protein), lpxC (UDP-(3-O-acyl)-N-acetylglucosamine deacetylase), and rpsJ (30S ribosomal protein S10) inhibited the in vitro growth of several multidrug-resistant clinical P. aeruginosa isolates at levels equivalent to those that were effective against sensitive strains. Lead PPMOs reduced established pseudomonal biofilms alone or in combination with tobramycin or piperacillin-tazobactam. Lead PPMO dosing alone or combined with tobramycin in an acute pneumonia model reduced lung bacterial burden in treated mice at 24 h and reduced morbidity up to 5 days postinfection. PPMOs reduced bacterial burden of extensively drug-resistant P. aeruginosa in the same model and resulted in superior survival compared to conventional antibiotics. These data suggest that lead PPMOs alone or in combination with clinically relevant antibiotics represent a promising therapeutic approach for combating P. aeruginosa infections. IMPORTANCE Numerous Gram-negative bacteria are becoming increasingly resistant to multiple, if not all, classes of existing antibiotics. Multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria are a major cause of health care-associated infections in a variety of clinical settings, endangering patients who are immunocompromised or those who suffer from chronic infections, such as people with cystic fibrosis (CF). Herein, we utilize antisense molecules that target mRNA of genes essential to bacterial growth, preventing the formation of the target proteins, including acpP, rpsJ, and lpxC. We demonstrate here that antisense molecules targeted to essential genes, alone or in combination with clinically relevant antibiotics, were effective in reducing biofilms and protected mice in a lethal model of acute pneumonia.
Co-Constructing Business Governance

This Article explores how to structure global enterprises to make a positive contribution to economic development when many of the host states of corporate activities are non-democratic. In today’s globalized world, global supply chains are dominated by authoritarian regimes: China is “the world’s factory,” and nearby countries such as Vietnam and Cambodia are popular “China Plus One” destinations. Literature on transnational business governance, however, has largely dismissed the potential of host states as willing or able regulators of supply chain conduct. I argue that because authoritarian regimes directly regulate global supply chains, today’s transnational business governance is enmeshed with host states’ autocratic agendas. This necessitates studying and understanding the structure and underlying logic of “authoritarian legality”; that is, a system designed to derive benefits from formal law and legal institutions while minimizing risk to political stability and social control. Only by understanding the political economy of autocratic systems and matching the incentives of actors involved can international and transnational law bridge the so-called “governance gap” created by the globalized, fragmented nature of supply chains. Drawing insights from comparative law and sociolegal studies of authoritarian regimes, this Article examines three case studies—China, Vietnam, and Cambodia—to illustrate how the logic of authoritarian legality drives transnational business governance in each respective jurisdiction. It ends with a normative suggestion: Mediation—a form of non-judicial remedy that so far has attracted little attention in the context of business and human rights—can be a viable forum for business-related human rights disputes in autocratic host states.
Maternal Effects of Aseptic and Septic Injury on Embryonic Larval Gene Expression in the Tobacco Hornworm, Manduca Sexta

Cross-generational effects of physical and pathogenic stress have been demonstrated in several insect groups, including our model insect Manduca sexta. Prior studies in our laboratory have shown that maternal exposure to the soil-dwelling gram-negative bacteria, Serratia marcescens, just prior to adult eclosion alters egg morphology and larval immunity. Our goal is to identify mechanisms underlaying pathogen-associated parental effects on offspring. The current study advances this goal through measurement of embryonic size, embryonic histone modification, and both embryonic and larval gene expression. Two days prior to eclosion, parents were injected with saline, heat killed S. marcescens, or live S. marcescens. Embryos were collected at 24 (+/- 2) h or permitted to hatch for clearance assays (first instar) or measurement of fat body gene expression (fourth instar). We find that maternal, but not paternal, pathogen exposure significantly increases egg volume variability, and that maternal pathogen exposure may delay hatching. Furthermore, maternal injection with bacteria conferred on their offspring an enhanced ability to clear infection when compared to their saline injected peers. Histone analysis revealed that maternal treatment does not globally alter embryonic histones, however, several immune-related genes demonstrated altered expression in both embryos and fourth instar larvae.
Cold sintering of the ceramic potassium sodium niobate, (K0.5Na0.5)NbO3, and influences on piezoelectric properties

Abstract Cold Sintering was applied to densify a Potassium-Sodium Niobate solid solution composition, 0.5KNbO3-0.5NaNbO3 (KNN); the process uses a transient chemical sintering aid, moderate pressure (400 MPa), and temperatures between 230–300 °C to obtain ceramics of ∼92 to 96 % theoretical density. Typically, sintering temperatures between ∼1000−1050 °C are required to density KNN using conventional methods. In this paper, the densification was investigated during heating, particularly the shrinkage in the first 60 min of the cold sintering process. The low-field dielectric and electrical properties of the resulting ceramics were found to be comparable to conventionally sintered KNN. Electric fields up to 80 kV/cm could be applied, however the ceramics showed pinched hysteresis loops, even after poling over a wide range of temperatures and electric fields. A Rayleigh analysis was used to investigate domain dynamics and high reversible permittivity. The irreversible behavior was an order of magnitude lower than in conventionally sintered KNN, likely associated with defect pinning of ferroelectric domains. A Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) study revealed a high density of line defects in most grains; dislocations in the grains limit poling and domain wall movement, thus suppressing both the piezoelectric properties and the hysteresis. Furthermore, TEM observations indicated crystalline grain boundaries that were faceted with terrace kink ledges. These observations point to the importance of the initial powder optimization and grain boundary diffusion when using cold sintering to prepare ceramics that are intended to show bulk cooperative properties such as ferroelectricity. The impact of limited high temperature homogenization of bulk diffusional processes is discussed.
Operations Research in Underground Mine Planning: A Review

At the time of this writing, the U.S. Geological Survey estimates that the average American-born human will need millions of pounds of fuels, minerals, and other extracted resources in his or her l...
Regulation of Macrophage Polarity by HDL, Apolipoproteins, and Apolipoprotein Mimetic Peptides

Macrophages are a versatile and heterogeneous group of cells which vary in phenotype and function. M1-polarized macrophages play a key role in the host defense response via the production of inflammatory mediators and cytokines. The concept of macrophage plasticity proposes that these cells can be reprogrammed to an alternatively activated, M2-polarized state, thus allowing conversion of the initial inflammatory response to one of wound healing and repair. The focus of this chapter is to discuss mechanisms by which high-density lipoprotein (HDL) modulates macrophage phenotype and function. Specifically, recent studies are discussed suggesting that HDL reduces inflammatory tissue injury by inducing macrophages to undergo M2 polarization. This response may be mediated by both HDL-associated lipids and proteins. We additionally review recent studies suggesting that apolipoprotein A-I mimetic peptides replicate effects of HDL on macrophage polarization.
The Biosynthesis of Cytidine Diphosphate Diglyceride by Embryonic Chick Brain

A particulate fraction from embryonic chick brain catalyzes the incorporation of cytidine triphosphate-3H into CDP-diglyceride and is stimulated by the addition of phosphatidic acid. It is concluded that CDP-diglyceride is synthesized by a CTP:1,2-diacylglycerophosphate-cytidyl transferase (EC 2.7.7) reaction. Palmitoyl coenzyme A inhibits CDP-diglyceride formation from endogenous substrates as well as from added phosphatidic acid. Chromatographic methods for the identification of CDP-diglyceride are described.
Network connectivity via inference over curvature-regularizing line graphs

Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) provides estimates of local directional information regarding paths of white matter tracts in the human brain. An important problem in DTI is to infer tract connectivity (and networks) from given image data. We propose a method that infers high-level network structures and connectivity information from Diffusion Tensor images. Our algorithm extends principles from perceptual contours to construct a weighted line-graph based on how well the tensors agree with a set of proposal curves (regularized by length and curvature). The problem of extracting high-level anatomical connectivity is then posed as an optimization problem over this curvature-regularizing graph - which gives subgraphs which comprise a representation of the tracts' network topology. We present experimental results and an open-source implementation of the algorithm.
Two mathematical models of Mg and Sr partitioning into solution during incongruent calcite dissolution

Abstract Positive correlation between Sr/Ca and Mg/Ca in cave dripwaters and speleothem is often attributed to ‘prior calcite precipitation’ (PCP), where exclusion of Mg and Sr from calcite precipitated upstream of the dripwater/speleothem site results in enrichment in the Mg/Ca and Sr/Ca ratios of residual effluent. Modelling predicts that PCP will produce a straight line correlation in graphs of ln(Sr/Ca) vs. ln(Mg/Ca) with a theoretical slope that is given by ( Kd Sr − 1) / ( Kd Mg − 1) (calculated to be ∼ 0.88 ± 0.13) regardless of rock or absolute dripwater composition ( Sinclair et al., submitted for publication ). While this makes the correlation slope potentially diagnostic for PCP, Mg and Sr are also preferentially released from calcite during incongruent calcite dissolution (ICD), and it is possible that ICD produces a similar correlation between ln(Sr/Ca) and ln(Mg/Ca). To examine this possibility, mathematical formulations for two different mechanisms of ICD are presented. Model 1 simulates net dissolution as a dynamic kinetic process where forward and reverse reactions compete: dissolution is congruent but ions are fractionated by a simultaneous reverse reaction where new calcite forms with Sr/Ca and Mg/Ca ratios that are determined by the solution composition and Kd Sr and Kd Mg . Model 2 simulates leaching of Mg and Sr from a fresh calcite surface by tracking the dissolution of a thin layer where high ion mobility allows the calcite to maintain a homogenous composition controlled by Kd Sr and Kd Mg . In both models, generalised kinetic equations are used in the derivations meaning that the results are not specific to a particular kinetic model. In both models of ICD, the mathematics predict that under conditions that may prevail during dissolution of limestone, the correlation between ln(Sr/Ca) and ln(Mg/Ca) is approximately linear with a slope given by ( Kd Sr − 1) / ( Kd Mg − 1). Thus, this property is not specific to just PCP. However, for both PCP and ICD, this slope is universal—expected to occur regardless of kinetics and the absolute composition of solution or host rock. A correlation slope of ∼ 0.88 in either karst waters or speleothem is therefore diagnostic for calcite–water interaction.
THE DETERMINANTS OF GRADE INFLATION: A RESEARCH NOTE

Using Census data and grade Information provided by four year public universities in the southwestern United States, this research note offers a conjecture about the relationship between the size of state university systems and the severity of grade inflation.
Radar and conventional occupancy sensors performance comparison

Doppler Radar sensor is designed for occupancy detection application and tested in conjunction with common occupancy sensors such as passive infrared and ultrasonic to determine the optimal design for a robust and power efficient occupancy sensor. A 2.4 GHz CW radar is employed for the microwave presence detection. Sensors have been tested for different scenarios like hand waving, writing, and mechanical targets at directions perpendicular and parallel to the sensors. Results showed that infrared and ultrasonic both have limitations with sensing through materials and direction of movement. Doppler radar was shown to be superior, but must be integrated with other sensors to create a power efficient occupancy sensor.
Mechanical Properties of Particulate-Filled Systems

The theory of the elastic moduli of filled systems is reviewed from the interests of the experimental scientist rather than that of the theoretician. From the many theories and equations to be found in the literature, only those which fit closest to what is considered to be the best experimental data are selected for dis cussion. The effects of filler concentration, size, shape, and agglomeration are reviewed as well as the effects of interfacial adhesion. Based largely on experimental experience rather than theory, the general behavior of the stress-strain and dynamic mechanical properties of filled systems are summarized. Theoret ical equations are presented which cover the wide variations found in experimental determinations of thermal coefficients of expansion. To give some perspective to the scientist interested in all types of composite materials, a comparison is made between the modulus of an isotropic composite filled with spherical par ticles and the moduli of anisotropic composite containing uni...
III. Intracellular signaling in response to toxic liver injury.

Toxin-induced liver injury was formerly considered a passive biochemical event, but recent evidence has demonstrated that signal transduction pathways actively modulate the hepatocyte’s response to this form of injury. Investigations have examined the effects of a variety of toxins on the activation of receptor-coupled signal transduction, mitogen-activated protein kinases, and Fas signaling, as well as the generation of second messengers such as ceramide and nitric oxide. Many of these pathways culminate in the activation of transcription factors such as activator protein-1, c-Myc, or nuclear factor-κB. This Themes article discusses the effects of toxic injury on these signaling pathways and their known functions in regulating hepatocyte death and proliferation following injury.
Efficient structure-preserving signature scheme from standard assumptions

We present an efficient signature scheme that facilitates Groth-Sahai proofs [25] of knowledge of a message, a verification key, and a valid signature on the message, without the need to reveal any of them. Such schemes are called structure-preserving. More precisely, the structure-preserving property of the signature scheme requires that verification keys, messages, and signatures are group elements and the verification predicate is a conjunction of pairing product equations. Our structure-preserving signature scheme supports multiple messages and is proven secure under the DLIN assumption. The signature consists of 53 + 6n group elements, where n is the number of messages signed, and to the best of our knowledge is the most efficient one secure under a standard assumption. We build the scheme from a CCA-2 secure structure-preserving encryption scheme which supports labels, non-interactive zero-knowledge (NIZK) proofs, and a suitable hard relation. We provide a concrete realization using the encryption scheme by Camenisch et al. [12], Groth- Sahai (GS) NIZK proofs, and an instance of the computational Diffie- Hellman (CDH) problem [17]. To optimize the scheme and achieve better efficiency, we also revisit the Camenisch et al. structure-preserving encryption scheme and GS NIZK proofs, and present a new technique for doing more efficient proofs for mixed types of equations, namely, for multi-exponentiation and pairing product equations, using pairing randomization techniques. Together with non-interactive zero-knowledge proofs, our scheme can be used as a building block for constructing efficient pairing-based cryptographic protocols that can be proven secure without assuming random oracles, such as anonymous credential systems [4], oblivious transfer [23,11], e-cash schemes [13], range and set membership proofs [9], blind signatures [20,3], group signatures [5].
Predation by the introduced carnivorous snail Euglandina rosea (Ferussac) on endemic aquatic lymnaeid snails in Hawaii

Abstract Conservation biologists have long been aware of the fact that introduction of generalized carnivores as biological control agents may have negative effects on native species with habitats similar to target species. However, behavioral plasticity of the predator may allow it to extend its activities to previously unutilized habitats resulting in unanticipated environmental problems. Euglandina rosea, a predaceous snail, is known to have serious impacts when introduced to islands with native land snail populations. This carnivorous snail has now been observed in aquatic habitats, raising the possibility that it could also have deleterious effects on populations of endemic freshwater snails. Observations and experiments confirm that E. rosea has, as part of its behavioral repertoire, the ability to seek and capture aquatic snails. These results suggest that the potential for damage to native molluscan faunas by this snail is greater than previously realized.
Proteomic Identification of Mitochondrial Targets of Arginase in Human Breast Cancer

We have previously reported arginase expression in human breast cancer cells and demonstrated that the inhibition of arginase by Nω hydroxy L-arginine (NOHA) in MDA-MB-468 cells induces apoptosis. However, arginase expression and its possible molecular targets in human breast tumor samples and potential clinical implications have not been fully elucidated. Here, we demonstrate arginase expression in human breast tumor samples, and several established breast cancer cell lines, in which NOHA treatment selectively inhibits cell proliferation. The over-expression of Bcl2 in MDA-MB-468 cells abolished NOHA-induced apoptosis, suggesting that the mitochondria may be the main site of NOHA’s action. We, therefore, undertook a proteomics approach to identify key mitochondrial targets of arginase in MDA-MB-468 cells. We identified 54 non-mitochondrial and 13 mitochondrial proteins that were differentially expressed in control and NOHA treated groups. Mitochondrial serine hydroxymethyltransferase (mSHMT) was identified as one of the most promising targets of arginase. Both arginase II (Arg II) and mSHMT expressions were higher in human breast tumor tissues compared to the matched normal and there was a strong correlation between Arg II and mSHMT protein expression. MDA-MB-468 xenografts had significant upregulation of Arg II expression that preceded the induction of mSHMT expression. Small inhibitory RNA (siRNA)-mediated inhibition of Arg II in MDA-MB-468 and HCC-1806 cells led to significant inhibition of both the mSHMT gene and protein expression. As mSHMT is a key player in folate metabolism, our data provides a novel link between arginine and folate metabolism in human breast cancer, both of which are critical for tumor cell proliferation.
A Modified Surgical Technique for Lengthening of a Metatarsal Using an External Fixator

Brachymetatarsia is a congenital or developmental condition that results in a short metatarsal. Problems that arise from this condition can include pain, difficulty with shoe wear, and cosmetic concerns. Multiple techniques have been described that successfully correct the deformity, including both acute and gradual distraction. We describe a modification of the technique of gradual lengthening by way of distraction osteogenesis in which an axial transarticular K-wire is incorporated into a monolateral frame, thereby increasing the stability of the construct and potentially minimizing complications.
China’s Sustainable Development in Global Perspective

In addition to the boost from economic reform, China’s rapid economic growth in the past two decades resulted mainly from the disposition of its surplus agricultural labor and the massive inflow of foreign direct investment, both of which led to its rapid export expansion and high overall growth. This paper argues that the extensive use of foreign capital and the supply of cheap labor in China’s economy are the main driving forces for rapid economic growth in the post-reform period. Yet, sustainable development requires not just the existing supply of cheap labor, but also the necessary capital investment, which may not be forthcoming forever. It is argued that while the agricultural surplus labor is endogenous, the flow of foreign investment is exogenous because there is no guarantee that foreign direct investment will continue. Moreover, trade, which served as an engine of growth in the past, may become a stumbling block in the future. As China reaches the bottleneck of development, the nation will have...
Accelerated universe from gravity leaking to extra dimensions

We discuss the idea that the accelerated universe could be the result of gravitational leakage into extra dimensions over Hubble distances rather than the consequence of a nonzero cosmological constant.
Up-down asymmetry of the electrons ejected from barium 6p{sub 1/2}nk autoionizing states

We have measured the ejected electron signals from Ba $6{p}_{1/2}\mathit{nk}$ autoionizing Stark states, of $n=28$ and 29, produced by linearly polarized laser excitation in weak electric fields. These states do not have well-defined parities and as a result do not lead to angular distributions which are up-down symmetric with respect to the laser polarization direction. The weakness of the electric field makes the observation of the up-down asymmetry of the ejected electrons possible. We observe that the electrons from Ba $6{p}_{1/2}\mathit{nk}$ autoionizing red states are ejected in the upfield direction, while the electron from Ba $6{p}_{1/2}\mathit{nk}$ autoionizing blue states are ejected in the downfield direction.
Effects of moderately high pressure plus heat on the germination and inactivation of Bacillus cereus spores lacking proteins involved in germination.

Aims: To determine the germination and inactivation of Bacillus cereus spores lacking various germination proteins using moderately high pressure (MHP) and heat. Methods: The inactivation and germination of wild-type B. cereus spores in buffer by MHP (150 MPa) at various temperatures, as well as the MHP inactivation and germination of B. cereus spores lacking individual germinant receptors and monovalent cation antiporters, was determined. Results: Loss of individual germinant receptors had no large effects on spore inactivation or germination, although germination of receptor-deficient spores was generally slightly decreased. Loss of the GerN in particular the GerN and GerT antiporters also decreased spore germination by MHP, especially at 40 and 50°C. Conclusions: Both inactivation and germination of B. cereus spores by MHP increased with rise of temperature; however, mutant strains lacking individual germinant receptor had similar levels of germination as compared to wild-type spores. To evaluate the role of germinant receptors in MHP, a strain lacking a large number of germinant receptors is needed. Significance and Impact of the Study: The results of this work may lead to a better understanding of how MHP causes germination of spores of B. cereus.
Identification of an alternatively spliced Kd and the Qa-6d mRNAs by using amplified cDNA.

We have employed the primer chain reaction method for direct sequencing of H-2 mRNAs. This approach is highly sensitive and permits quantitation and sequencing of the canonical as well as alternatively spliced mRNAs that may be expressed at 5–10% level in comparison to the major H-2 species. Using this technique, we have identified a novel species of alternatively spliced Kd mRNA expressed in L1210 lymphoma and in the spleen and liver of DBA/2 mice. Similarly, we found a previously described alternatively spliced species of H-2Dd mRNA to be expressed in L1210 lymphoma and have determined the sequence of the cytoplasmic domain of Ld mRNA. In addition, we have identified a Class I MHC transcript presumably encoded by a gene allelic to Q6 gene of BALB/c mice.
Effectiveness of individualized neurodevelopmental care in the newborn intensive care unit (NICU).

The individual infant's neurodevelopmental process provides an integrative framework for the delivery of medical care needed to assure the infant's survival and quality of outcome. The infant's neurobehavioral functioning and expression provides an opportunity for caregivers to estimate the individual infant's current strengths, vulnerabilities and threshold to disorganization, as well as to identify the infant's strategies in collaborating in his or her best progression. This perspective supports caregivers in seeing themselves in a relationship with the infant, and in considering opportunities to enhance the infant's strengths and reduce apparent stressors in collaboration with the infant and the family. The results of several randomized studies supporting the effectiveness of such a neuro developmental approach to NICU care will be presented, and suggest implications for staff education and nursery-wide implementation.
Structure–activity studies of 3′-4′-dichloro-meperidine analogues at dopamine and serotonin transporters

Abstract The structure–activity relationships of 3′,4′-dichloro-meperidine were investigated at dopamine (DAT) and serotonin transporters (SERT). Large ester substituents and lipophilic groups at the 4-position favored molecular recognition at the SERT. The benzyl ester of 3′,4′-dichloro-meperidine exhibited high potency and high selectivity for the SERT (DAT/SERT = 760). Chemical modification of the ester group and N-substitution generally led to compounds with decreased DAT affinity. Only small esters and alkyl groups were tolerated at the 4-position of the meperidine ring system by the DAT. Overall, the meperidine analogues were generally more selective for the SERT than for the DAT.
Atmospheric Role in Trace Metal Exchange at the Air-Water Interface

Abstract Trace metals are enriched in the surface flm (SF) in freshwater and marine environments as compared to the bulk water. Contributions to the metal burden of the SF are derived both from atmospheric fallout and in-lake bubble-scavenging processes. A significant fraction of the Cu, Cd, Pb, and Zn in southern Lake Michigan SFs is derived from aerosol deposition. Geochemical analysis of aerosol, SF, and bulk water of Lake Superior strongly suggests that 1) most of the Fe, Mn, Ca, Pb, Cr, Zn, Cd, and Ni in the SF is derived from in-lake processes; and 2) enrichment of Cu, Pb, Zn, and Cd in lake aerosol is partially a result of bubble-bursting at the air-water interface. Estimated metal residence times in the SF may be on the order of minutes. Although the total quantity of metal in the SF represents a negligible fraction of the total water burden, the metal accumulation and enrichment at the air-water interface without geochemical/physical controls (i.e., precipitation, sedimentation) in a biologically-active regime suggests its importance in biotic uptake and possible direct introduction into the food chain.
New rodenticidal compounds.

The toxicological and some of the pharmacological properties of Castrix, α-naphthylthiourea, and sodium fluoroacetate are reviewed. Information relating to the toxicity and rodenticidal efficacy of 2-chloro-4-dimethylamino-6-methylpyrimidine is reported. Sodium pentobarbital has been found to be effective as an antidote for Castrix poisoning.
The Clausius inequality corrected for heat transfer involving radiation

Abstract The objective of this paper is to prove that the Clausius inequality must be re-stated to have general applicability for heat transfer involving radiative fluxes. The integrand (đQ/T) of the Clausius expression applies to heat conduction and convection, but does not hold for most radiative transfer scenarios, with the exception of reversible infinitesimal net blackbody radiation transfer. In other cases involving radiative transfer, the equality holds for a cycle even though irreversible heat addition by radiative transfer occurs. This is without the erroneous presumption of entropy destruction anywhere in the cycle. Thus, the Clausius inequality indicates reversibility for a cycle that includes an irreversible process. Further, in some radiative cases the quantity đQ/T, where T is the boundary temperature, is not the entropy transfer at the system boundary, and in fact, primarily represents entropy production within the system. It is also clear that in another case considered, the quantity đQ/T had no physical meaning whatsoever. Consequently, the Clausius expression has been re-stated so that it is applicable to cycles with processes involving any form of heat transfer. A new integrand (đQcc/T + đSNet,Rad) is presented, allowing the Clausius inequality to generally apply to all heat transfer scenarios. The work in this paper emphasizes the need to re-state other fundamental equations allowing applicability to all heat transfer processes, and draws attention to the unique character of radiative entropy calculations.