cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Dynamics and management of Alaska boreal forest: An all-aged multi-species matrix growth model

Abstract Studies on the dynamics of Alaska boreal forest are sporadic and rare, and forest management in the region has been conducted in the absence of a useful growth model. This paper presents a matrix stand growth model to study the dynamics and management of Alaska's boreal forest, with harvests and artificial regeneration being accounted for. The model was calibrated with data from 446 constantly monitored permanent sample plots distributed across interior and south-central Alaska, and was tested to be accurate on an independent validation sample. The present model was applied on a most frequent commercial stand in interior Alaska to study a forest management regime that is being commonly used in the region. The simulation was for 300 years with a 40-year cutting cycle, and management outcomes under various permafrost levels and site elevations were investigated with sensitivity analysis. Despite the comparatively low financial returns, current management regime may generally benefit wildlife species by maintaining continuous forest cover and decent stand diversity, and properly managed forests had potential for timber production and wood-based energy. It was predicted by the model that both permafrost and site elevation had substantial impact on the management outcomes. Other variables being held constant at sample mean, net present value of harvests increased from $434 to $831 ha−1 and the annual volume of harvest more than tripled from 1.68 to 5.75 m3 ha−1 y−1 as permafrost declined from obvious to unlikely. Managers were also advised to focus on stands on medium elevation (300 m), as stands on lower or higher elevations were expected to produce less harvested volume and net present value. For rural Alaska communities suffering from expensive heating costs, it was suggested that approximately 20 ha of properly managed forest could sustain a household's annual heating requirement, while continuous forest coverage and decent diversity could still be maintained.
Chemistry and electronegativity

This article addresses the chemical aspects of electronegativity: (1) What is its present status in the chemical community? (2) What are the necessary chemical criteria for a quantitative definition? (3) To what extent do contemporary proposals satisfy these criteria? (4) What connection can be made between the traditional free-atom scales and an in situ electronegativity appropriate for a particular atom in a specific molecule or solid? A longstanding special feature of electronegativity has been the seeming inability to measure it in the laboratory and this aspect proves to be a key to its definition. © 1994 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Genetic Analysis of Tumorigenesis: IX Suppression of Anchorage Independence in Hybrids Between Transformed Hamster Cell Lines

In many hybrid cell systems fusion of normal cells to tumorigenic cells suppresses the transformed phenotype. We have now examined the expression of anchorage independence, one characteristic of the transformed phenotype, in hybrids between different anchorage-independent Chinese hamster fibroblasts. Examination of many different crosses was facilitated by a rapid screening procedure. Instead of isolating individual hybrid clones, the fraction of hybrid cells that were anchorage independent was estimated directly after fusion and compared to the total hybrid recovery. Seven different anchorage-independent cell lines were crossed to derivatives of the previously characterized CHEF/16 tumorigenic cell line. Two of these cell lines gave anchorage-independent hybrids, while the 5 others gave anchorage-dependent hybrids. These results support previous observations with interspecies hybrids that the transformed phenotype can be suppressed in hybrids between transformed cells. We interpret these results as showing that there are at least two alternative genomic changes by which Chinese hamster fibroblasts can become anchorage independent.
A return to time, cells, systems, and aging: III. Gompertzian models of biological aging and some possible roles for critical elements.

Abstract In this paper, I continue my investigation into the modeling of senescence in biological hierarchies. Making use of my previous discussion on non-reestablishable biological components, I derive a mathematical model which has Gompertzian-like dynamics. I show how this model may be approximated, in certain instances, by a Gompertzian equation. I then demonstrate how our approach yields a biological interpretation for the parameters in the Gompertzian equation. I then demonstrate how changes in the parameter values may be interpreted in light of the biology. Subsequently, I review the literature on the allometry of aging, and I demonstrate how my reliability model may be used to obtain — in a qualitative manner — some of the lifespan curves found in the literature. I close my discussion by constructing a more complex reliability model which incorporates the deterministic failure of biological components with stochastic aspects of sensescence.
Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS): nanoimaging probes for biological analysis

We have developed a surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) based nanoimaging probe capable of chemical imaging with nanometer scale spatial resolution. Using this SERS-nanoimaging probe it is possible to image individual chemical components within sub-cellular environments. The probe consists of a tapered coherent fiber optic imaging bundle that has been coated with a roughened layer of metal, providing a SERS active substrate. The fiber optic bundle is tapered using a specially programmed micropipette puller, allowing precise control over the probe tip's diameter, and thus the resolution of images. Tapered bundles having individual fiber elements ranging from 100-800 nanometers on the tapered end and 4 micrometers in diameter on the proximal end have been investigated. Through modification of the fibers' tapered tips, generation of nanoscale imaging with inherent image magnification and short pass filtering effects is possible. Following tapering of the fiber optic bundles, the fiber probes are spin-coated with alumina particles and coated with silver to provide a reproducible SERS active surface. Characterization of the response of these SERS nanoimaging probes has been evaluated using common SERS active chemical species (e.g., benzoic acid, brilliant cresyl blue, etc.) and application of these nanoimaging sensors to biological systems is discussed.
Fecal solids excreted by young men following the ingestion of dairy foods.

The amounts of intestinal residue excreted by healthy human subjects following the ingestion of a low-residue intake alone and in the presence of a dairy food, or a combination of dairy foods, have been determined. Sweet milk, buttermilk, Cheddar cheese, and a combination of sweet milk, Cheddar cheese, and vanilla ice cream were fed at three levels of intake.
Perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis in cataract surgery.

Purpose To review the rationale for various methods of perioperative prophylaxis in elective cataract surgery. Methods The surgical and ophthalmologic literature is reviewed to determine accepted principles for the use of perioperative prophylactic agents in clean elective surgical procedures. Results After an assessment of the nonophthalmic surgical literature, specific principles are applied to the use of antimicrobial agents in perioperative prophylaxis of cataract surgery. Current practice patterns and specific techniques of perioperative prophylaxis are scrutinized. The emerging problem of antimicrobial resistance in the world and specifically in ophthalmology is addressed. Recommendations are offered balancing the needs of the individual patient with the best interests of society as a whole. Conclusion Potent therapeutic agents should be reserved for therapy. A method of perioperative prophylaxis is suggested, with a stratified approach indicated in selected circumstances. A clear consensus is probably not possible with divergent views expressed.
Do “bad boys” really get the girls? Delinquency as a cause and consequence of dating behavior among adolescents

Drawing on Zahavi's (1975) handicap principle, we suggest that delinquency and other risk-taking behavior might be seen as evidence of positive, adaptive qualities such as nerve and bravery. Drawing on Akers' (1998) social learning theory, we also suggest that potential romantic partners might be attracted to such traits and that this romantic attention might reinforce delinquency and other risk-taking behavior. Using data from the first and third waves of the National Youth Survey, we test these assertions with a series of longitudinal OLS and contemporaneous-effects covariance structure models. Results suggest that delinquency serves to increase romantic involvement and that romantic involvement may provide vicarious, but not necessarily direct, reinforcement for delinquency among both male and female adolescents.
Non-intrusive electrical load monitoring in commercial buildings based on steady-state and transient load-detection algorithms

Abstract Increased interest in energy scorekeeping, load forecasting and improved control of electricity-consuming equipment has focused attention on the instrumentation required to obtain the desired data. Work performed by the authors and other researchers has shown that individual loads can be detected and separated from rapid sampling of power at a single point serving a number of pieces of equipment, for example the electrical service entrance for an entire house or all of the central space-conditioning equipment in a commercial building. This technique has worked well in tests in houses but faces more difficult challenges in commercial buildings. We present our results for this centralized or non-intrusive load monitoring technique, applied to the space-conditioning equipment in an office/laboratory building in which equipment start-up and shut-down was centrally observed and analyzed on the basis of changes in steady-state power. We further describe our enhanced technique for distinguishing loads by matching start-up transients to known patterns, and present laboratory tests of fully automated detection hardware and software.
Linkage analysis of a large African family segregating stuttering suggests polygenic inheritance

We describe a pedigree of 71 individuals from the Republic of Cameroon in which at least 33 individuals have a clinical diagnosis of persistent stuttering. The high concentration of stuttering individuals suggests that the pedigree either contains a single highly penetrant gene variant or that assortative mating led to multiple stuttering-associated variants being transmitted in different parts of the pedigree. No single locus displayed significant linkage to stuttering in initial genome-wide scans with microsatellite and SNP markers. By dividing the pedigree into five subpedigrees, we found evidence for linkage to previously reported loci on 3q and 15q, and to novel loci on 2p, 3p, 14q, and a different region of 15q. Using the two-locus mode of Superlink, we showed that combining the recessive locus on 2p and a single-locus additive representation of the 15q loci is sufficient to achieve a two-locus score over 6 on the entire pedigree. For this 2p + 15q analysis, we show LOD scores ranging from 4.69 to 6.57, and the scores are sensitive to which marker is chosen for 15q. Our findings provide strong evidence for linkage at several loci.
Methodology for Improving Quality of Instruction

This paper describes a Teaching Effectiveness Improvement Program based on a multidisciplinary approach and the use of Total Quality Management (TQM) principles. The success of the program underscored the value of cross-functional teams for teaching effectiveness improvement programs. In the case study discussed in this paper, the College of Education, the College of Engineering, the University administration and students participated extensively in framing the requirements and the structure of the program. The program was implemented in the College of Engineering at the University of Cincinnati to improve teaching effectiveness over the last three years. The Plan, Do, Study, Act (PDSA) cycle was used as a framework for improving teaching. The Student evaluations of faculty were used to measure the effectiveness of this program and the results are very promising.
Taming epidemic outbreaks in mobile adhoc networks

The openness of the smartphone operating systems has increased the number of applications developed, but it has also introduced a new propagation vector for mobile malware. We model the propagation of mobile malware among humans carrying smartphones using epidemiology theory and study the problem as a function of the underlying mobility models. We define the optimal approach to heal an infected system with the help of a set of static healers that distribute patches as the T-Cover problem, which is NP-COMPLETE. We then propose three families of healer protocols that allow for a trade-off between the recovery time and the energy consumed for deploying patches. We show through simulations using the NS-3 simulator that despite lacking knowledge of the exact future, our healers obtain a recovery time within a 7.4×~10× bound of the oracle solution that has knowledge of the future arrival time of all the infected nodes.
Paediatric and neonatal intensive care

The major objective of intensive care for infants and children is to provide maximum surveillance and support of organ systems during acute, but reversible, ]ire-threatening illness) In contrast to adult patients, there are fewer children admilted to intensive care unit~ (ICU's) who suffer from either chronic or degenerative organ system disorders. Although infants and children with chronic and severe debilitating neurologic and respiratory problems are increasing in prevalence in paediatric intensive care settings, still the majority of children admitted to these units have suffered from or are at high risk for developing a potentially reversible life-threatening illness or injury, which, if successfully treated, will restore the child to a normal, productive life. Recognizing the potential for productivity over a child's life expectancy of 50 to 70 years, the rationale for and the cost of paediatfic intensive care is probably justifiable, at least in Western societies. Although the principles of intensive care for infants and children are similar m those for adult intensive earn, the age spectrum from infancy through adolescence requires that the intensive care staff have special expertise in developmental physiology, pharmacology, and psychology. The paediatric intensive care team must be familiar with fetal and neonatal development of children to adulthood. In addition, an understanding of family dynamics and the responses of families to acute or chronic illness in children is essential in managing the complex parental behaviours that often arise during stressful times. The paediatrie ICU is generally considered a hospital unit that provide~ treatment to infants and children having or being at risk for a wide variety of illnesses of a lifethreatening nature. All critically ill children, regardless of diagnosis or subspecialty category, should be eohorted in units dedicated exclusively to children whenever possible. The precise age distribution and spectrum of illnesses will vary considerably from one paedialric ICU to another, on the basis of size, referral pattern, and the surgical activity of their respective hospitals at large.
Pressure measurements in the AGS Booster ultra-high vacuum system☆

An average pressure of mid 10{sup {minus}11} Torr has been achieved and maintained in the AGS Booster ring vacuum system during its first year of operation. This ultra-high vacuum system is monitored through remote controlled Bayard-Alpert Gauges (BAGs). The characteristics of the pressure measurements with BAGs over the long cable lengths (up to 200 m) and under various accelerator operating conditions will be described. Two types of noise in the pressure readouts have been identified; the electromagnetic interference (EMI) associated with the acceleration cycles of the Booster and the environment noise associated with the temperature of the collector cables. The magnitude of the noise pickup depends on the routing of the collector cables and reaches the equivalent pressure of low 10{sup {minus}9} Torr.
Covalent binding of benzo[a]pyrene metabolites to DNA, RNA and chromatin proteins in the AKR mouse embryo cell-line.

Abstract A specific fraction from the nuclei of the AKR mouse embryo cell-line (fraction I) displayed a much greater localization of radioactivity compared to fraction II and III when the chemical carcinogen, [ 3 H]benzo[ a ]pyrene (B[a]P) was incubated with the cells for 24 h. The radioactivity in fraction I consisted of both covalently and non-covalently bound metabolites. Isolation of the DNA, RNA and protein of fraction I revealed that 94% of the covalently bound radioactivity was to protein, 5% to RNA and 1% to DNA. Analysis of the fraction I proteins by SDS gel electrophoresis revealed that there was more radioactivity covalently bound to the larger proteins than to smaller proteins. Isoelectric focusing (IEF) of the purified proteins displayed two peaks of radioactivity, one at a pH of 5 and the other at 11. The former proteins bound more radioactivity per mass of protein than the latter proteins. Analysis of fraction I histones on acid urea polyacrylamide gels showed that the radioactivity coincided with histones H3 and H2B and low levels of radioactivity associated with histones H1, H2A and H4. Two significant peaks of radioactivity closely migrated near but did not co-migrate with histone H1. The distribution of the bound radioactivity is probably a reflection of the availability of the proteins to the reactive carcinogen metabolites. The possible binding of B[ a ]P metabolites to phosphorylated histones and to the high mobility of group (HMG) proteins 1 and 2 is discussed.
Cohesion methods in inductive learning

According to Webster, cohesion is “the act or process of sticking together tightly.” Here the term represents the underlying forces that drive the formation of classes during inductive learning. This paper considers several numerical and conceptual induction algorithms, and compares their methods of cohesion. While these algorithms represent several different methods, they also exhibit some significant commonalities. Selon le dictionnaire, coherence se definit comme ≪l'union etroite des divers elements d'un corps≫. Ici, le terme represente les forces sous-jacentes qui entrainent la formation de classes durant l'apprentissage inductif. Cet article examine plusieurs algorithmes d'induction numeriques et conceptuels et compare leurs methodes de coherence. Bien que ces algorithmes representent plusieurs methodes differentes, ils ont egalement certains points en commun dont l'importance n'est pas a negliger.
Behavioral laterality in captive bonobos (Pan paniscus) : replication and extension

We report observational data on behavioral laterality in 10 captive bonobos (Pan paniscus)at the San Diego Zoo. The unimanual measures include carrying, leading limb in locomotion, self-touching, face-touching, reaching, and gestures. We also recorded bimanual feeding in these subjects. A significant population level left-hand bias exists for carrying. Right-hand biases occur for leading limb in locomotion and gestures. During bimanual feeding, the bonobos hold food items with the left hand while feeding with the right hand. Overall, bonobos exhibit behavioral asymmetries that are similar to previous findings in other pongid ape species. The asymmetries in gestures and bimanual feeding represent novel findings with theoretical implications for the origins of tool use and language.
A modified Ecteola cellulose assay for M and P phenol sulfotransferase.

Abstract The development and applications of a modified Ecteola cellulose, ion exchange assay for phenol sulfotransferase (EC 2.8.2.1, PST) are described. Mixtures containing dopamine or phenol and 35 S-labeled 3′-phosphoadenosine-5′-phosphosulfate (PAPS) were incubated with 100,000 g supernatant solution from human frontal cortex and applied to 0.5 × 2 cm columns of Ecteola cellulose. Dopamine sulfate was eluted with 3 ml of distilled water, while phenyl sulfate, inorganic sulfate and unreacted PAPS were eluted with successive step gradients of 5, 20 and 200 mM NH 4 HCO 3 . The solution volume for phenyl sulfate was 11 ml, while those for inorganic sulfate and PAPS were both 6 ml. The new assay method yielded apparent K m values for dopamine, 3-methoxytyramine, tyramine and norepinephrine similar to those obtained by other methods. Comparison of the activities of various amine substrates at a concentration of 20 μM showed that dopamine was the preferred substrate, followed in decreasing order of relative activity by 3-methoxytyramine, norepinephrine, tyramine and octopamine. When mixed substrate inhibition of dopamine sulfation by phenol was examined, phenol was found to effectively inhibit dopamine sulfation over a range of 0.1 to 10 mM. The procedure described in this paper offers a number of significant advantages over currently available assays: these include a rapid, simple product isolation procedure and a complete, discrete separation of the radiolabeled products and reactants. This property allows the detailed study of the flux of radiolabel through the enzymatic system and also makes alternative substrate inhibition studies possible.
Evaluation of heats of transition in scanning calorimetry

Abstract A procedure for the evaluation of heats of transition in scanning calorimetry has been developed. A formula for evaluation of the energy of fusion of a compound at its melting point is derived that takes into account the baseline shift that is attributable to the heat capacity change on melting. Several other calorimeter parameters of importance are discussed. These include heat exchange between calorimeter vessel and jacket, the time constant of the instrument, the scanning rate, and the heater placement.
Accessibility of second regions of stability in tokamaks

Second regions of stability to the ideal ballooning modes have been shown to exist in large-aspect-ratio circular and small-aspect-ratio bean-shaped tokamaks. We report on the existence of these second stability regions in finite-aspect-ratio dee-shaped tokamaks. We also report on the discovery of a second-stable region with respect to the n = 1 external kink mode in a bean-shaped plasma. The role of the shear and current profile in determining these regions of parameter space are discussed. 13 refs., 6 figs.
Gully and tunnel erosion in the hilly Loess Plateau region, China

article i nfo Article history: Although gully development is frequently observed to be associated with piping and tunnel erosion in many parts of the world, there is a lack of detailed studies on their spatial interactions. Such studies not only con- tribute to developing geomorphic theories on the evolution of both hillslopes and drainage networks but also are useful to design effective control measures of erosion. The present study aims to examine the interactions between gully development and tunnel erosion in the hilly Loess Plateau region of northern China. Firstly, gullies, tunnel inlets and mass movements in the 9.1 km 2 Wangjiagou watershed were mapped through ae- rial photo interpretation and reconnaissance surveys. Secondly, detailed field studies were carried out to in- vestigate the interactions between gully development and tunnel formation processes in the selected gullies. Thirdly, the physiographic variables of gullies, derived from GIS and field measurements, were analyzed to identify differences between tunneled and untunneled gullies. A total of 704 channels, 967 tunnel inlets and 547 mass movements were identified in the study watershed. On the basis of their location and morphology, all the channels were classified into four types: headwater gullies, hillside gullies, valleyside gullies and ephemeral river channels. Tunnels are associated with 79% of headwater gullies, 48% of hillside gullies, 3% of valleyside gullies and none of ephemeral river channels. Mass movements are dominated by falls in headwater gullies, falls and slides in hillside gullies, and soil creeps in ephemeral stream channels. Statistical tests indicate that there are significant differences in phys- iographic variables between tunneled and untunneled gullies. Tunnel formation in gullies is intricately affect- ed by topographic conditions, land uses, knickpoint distribution, soil materials and mass movements. Published by Elsevier B.V.
Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis: Prenatal Testing for Embryos Finally Achieving Its Potential

Preimplantation genetic diagnosis was developed nearly a quarter-century ago as an alternative form of prenatal diagnosis that is carried out on embryos. Initially offered for diagnosis in couples at-risk for single gene genetic disorders, such as cystic fibrosis, spinal muscular atrophy and Huntington disease, preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) has most frequently been employed in assisted reproduction for detection of chromosome aneuploidy from advancing maternal age or structural chromosome rearrangements. Major improvements have been seen in PGD analysis with movement away from older, less effective technologies, such as fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), to newer molecular tools, such as DNA microarrays and next generation sequencing. Improved results have also started to be seen with decreasing use of Day 3 blastomere biopsy in favor of polar body or Day 5 trophectoderm biopsy. Discussions regarding the scientific, ethical, legal and social issues surrounding the use of sequence data from embryo biopsy have begun and must continue to avoid concern regarding eugenic or inappropriate use of this technology.
Different types of moral cognition: Moral stages versus moral foundations

Abstract Two measures of moral cognition were compared across three samples: Rest’s neo-Kohlbergian stages of moral developmental (DIT) and Graham and Haidt’s intuition-based Moral Foundations Theory (MFQ). In spite of differences both in theory and in measurement, there was considerable overlap between Stage 2/3 “personal interests” (DIT) and In-group (MFQ), as well as Stage 4 “maintaining norms” (DIT) and Authority (MFQ). Unexpectedly, Stages 5/6 “post-conventional” (DIT) was unrelated to Fairness and Harm (MFQ) in two of the three samples. However, participants’ prioritization of Fair/Harm over Authority/In-group/Purity was positively related to their post-conventional reasoning across all three samples. Also, for conservatives, Stage 4 reasoning decreased in the cognitive load/depletion sample, matching that of liberals. Conceptual, operational, and developmental implications of these findings are discussed.
Social Justice Through Health Care Financing: The Birth and Signaling of a New Nonprofit Field:

This research note explores patterns in the ways that nonprofits use their Web sites to signal their membership in new organizational fields. Over the past 15 years, the Volunteers in Medicine movement has created a new organizational model for providing health care to the underserved, to specifically address some of the most unjust gaps in the U.S. health care fabric. Analyzing regional and time-of-founding variations in the content of organizational Web sites of this population of nonprofit organizations, this study helps to answer questions about the use and spread of organizational signals and symbols of field membership and boundaries.
Donor atom dependent geometric isomers in mononuclear oxo-molybdenum(V) complexes: implications for coordinated endogenous ligation in molybdoenzymes.

We have previously demonstrated that the complex [(L1O)MoOCl2], where L1OH = (2-hydroxy-3-tert-butyl-5-methylphenyl)bis(3,5-dimethylpyrazolyl)methane, exists as both cis and trans isomers (Kail, B.; Nemykin, V. N.; Davie, S. R.; Carrano, C. J.; Hammes, B. S.; Basu, P. Inorg. Chem. 2002, 41, 1281−1291). Here, the cis isomer is defined as the geometry with the heteroatom in the equatorial position, and the trans isomer is designated as the geometry with the heteroatom positioned trans to the terminal oxo group. The trans isomer represents the thermodynamically more stable geometry as indicated by its spontaneous formation from the cis isomer. In this report, we show that for complexes of [(LO)MoOCl2], where LOH is the sterically less restrictive (2-hydroxyphenyl)bis(3,5-dimethylpyrazolyl)methane, only the trans isomer could be isolated, while in the corresponding thiolate containing ligand (2-dimethylethanethiol)bis(3,5-dimethylpyrazolyl)methane (L3SH) only the cis isomer could be observed. In addition, we ...
Giant and supergiant lattices on graphite.

Anomalous giant lattices have been observed on four separate samples of highly oriented pyrolytic graphite with scanning tunneling microscopy. They exhibit hexagonal symmetry with lattice constants of 1.7, 2.8, 3.8, and 6.6 nm. Atomic resolution of graphite was obtained simultaneously. Kuwabara, Clarke, and Smith [Appl. Phys. Lett. 56, 2396 (1990)] have suggested that those superperiodic features may be Moire patterns due to rotational misorientation of the top layer relative to the underlying graphite single crystal. In this paper we present (1) evidence for the misorientation of the graphite top layer which causes the observed giant lattices, (2) a complete description to account for detailed features of these giant lattices, (3) observation of a supergiant lattice superimposed on the atomic and giant lattices, and (4) adsorption of cobalt particles on the giant lattice.
New Species of Stenocercus (Squamata: Iguania) from the Andes of Central Peru with a Redescription of Stenocercus variabilis

A new species of Stenocercus is described from the eastern slopes of the Andes in central Peru, Departamentos Ayacucho and Huancavelica. It differs from other Stenocercus by the combination of the following characters: scales on posterior surface of thighs granular, lateral body scales imbricate and keeled, vertebral row of enlarged scales present, gular scales unnotched, neck folds present, three caudal whorls per autotomic segment, postfemoral mite pocket absent, dorsal ground color gray or brown, without a black shoulder patch in males. Specimens of the new species have been misidentified as Stenocercus variabilis, which occurs allopatrically in Departamento Junin.
Discrete-time observers for singularly perturbed continuous-time systems

The use of discrete-time observers for nonlinear singularly perturbed continuous-time systems is explored. The observer design approach is based on inversion of state-to-measurement maps. The two-time-scale nature of the system is exploited by constructing separate reduced-order observers for the approximate slow and fast subsystems, using multirate measurements and computation. The reduced-order observers are compared to a full-order observer designed for the same system. The comparison shows that although the reduced-order observers exhibit some approximation error, they also result in reduced computational requirements if the inversion is performed on-line, reduced memory requirements if the inversion is implemented by look-up table and reduced stiffness. The trade-off between accuracy and implementation requirements always favors the reduced-order approach for systems with significant separation of time scales. Numerical examples are provided, including a case-study of an observer-based control system for permanent-magnet synchronous motors. >
Evolutionary conservation of sequence and secondary structures in CRISPR repeats

Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPRs) are a novel class of direct repeats, separated by unique spacer sequences of similar length, that are present in approximately 40% of bacterial and most archaeal genomes analyzed to date. More than 40 gene families, called CRISPR-associated sequences (CASs), appear in conjunction with these repeats and are thought to be involved in the propagation and functioning of CRISPRs. It has been recently shown that CRISPR provides acquired resistance against viruses in prokaryotes. Here we analyze CRISPR repeats identified in 195 microbial genomes and show that they can be organized into multiple clusters based on sequence similarity. Some of the clusters present stable, highly conserved RNA secondary structures, while others lack detectable structures. Stable secondary structures exhibit multiple compensatory base changes in the stem region, indicating evolutionary and functional conservation. We show that the repeat-based classification corresponds to, and expands upon, a previously reported CAS gene-based classification, including specific relationships between CRISPR and CAS subtypes.
Multiplexed mass cytometry profiling of cellular states perturbed by small-molecule regulators

Mass cytometry facilitates high-dimensional, quantitative analysis of the effects of bioactive molecules on human samples at single-cell resolution, but instruments process only one sample at a time. Here we describe mass-tag cellular barcoding (MCB), which increases mass cytometry throughput by using n metal ion tags to multiplex up to 2n samples. We used seven tags to multiplex an entire 96-well plate, and applied MCB to characterize human peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) signaling dynamics and cell-to-cell communication, signaling variability between PBMCs from eight human donors, and the effects of 27 inhibitors on this system. For each inhibitor, we measured 14 phosphorylation sites in 14 PBMC types at 96 conditions, resulting in 18,816 quantified phosphorylation levels from each multiplexed sample. This high-dimensional, systems-level inquiry allowed analysis across cell-type and signaling space, reclassified inhibitors and revealed off-target effects. High-content, high-throughput screening with MCB should be useful for drug discovery, preclinical testing and mechanistic investigation of human disease.
Confronting Myths about Teacher Leadership

Leadership in Freshman Physics is an NSF-funded professional development program designed to support 9 th grade teacher leaders in the successful implementation of a ‘Physics First’ or curriculum sequence that places physics prior to biology and chemistry. Leadership is viewed as an essential component in the initial success and long-term sustainability of such reforms. However, our own experiences working with teachers and the growing body of literature cautions that teachers may not view themselves as leaders and may hold ideas counterproductive to their development as leaders. In this article, we consider teachers’ myths about leadership, and describe how we helped teachers confront these in a professional development program. In this program, each teacher designed a plan of action, based on his or her professional experiences and school environment. A web-based online learning community was established to serve as a platform of interaction and support among teachers and project staff throughout the year. We emphasize that by developing their capacity for leadership, teachers can make a difference beyond their own classrooms through empowering others.
Syndromic craniosynostosis: complicated airway obstruction calls for progressive strategies in surgical management.

Evaluation of: Bannink N, Nout E, Wolvius EB, Hoeve HL, Joosten KF, Mathijssen IM. Obstructive sleep apnea in children with syndromic craniosynostosis: long-term respiratory outcome of midface advancement. Int. J. Oral Maxillofac. Surg. 39(2), 115–121 (2010).Children with syndromic craniosynostosis are at high risk for upper airway obstruction due to midface hypoplasia. Le Fort III osteotomy with midface advancement can expand the naso- and palatopharynx and potentially relieve obstruction. Short-term success has been demonstrated with these surgical techniques; however, little is known regarding the long-term effect of midface advancement on maintaining airway patency. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the long-term effect of midface advancement for treatment of severe obstructive sleep apnea in patients with syndromic craniosynostosis. Results showed that midface advancement had short-term (4 months) success in six of 11 patients with resolution of the need for positive airway pressure, tracheos...
Characterizing multimedia kernels on general-purpose processors

Media applications have been driving microprocessor development for more than a decade. Future multimedia applications will have much higher computational requirements. Indeed, tomorrow's PC experiences will be even richer in audio-visual effects, easier to use, and, more importantly, computing will merge with communications. Such application characteristics will differ from current application characteristics and thus, a new detailed analysis of such kernels is required. This paper proposes a selection of key kernels we believe will be prominent across applications running on future processors. An extensive study of these applications on current general-purpose processor architectures makes it possible to determine future media and communication characteristics and to identify bottlenecks that are not well addressed in current designs.
Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay for Salmonella Serology using Lipopolysaccharide Antigen

Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using Salmonella lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to measure specific IgG titers in cattle has proven useful. Serology can be used to assess vaccine responses and infection rates, to detect carriers, and to aid in epidemiologic studies. The objective of this study was to assess cross-reactions using sera from cattle vaccinated with different Salmonella serogroups. ELISA plates using lipopolysaccharide from serogroup B, C1, C3, D1 or E1 as the plate antigens were tested. LPS was extracted from Salmonella typhimurium (Serogroup B; somatic antigens 01, 4, 12), S. montevideo (C1; 06, 7), S. kentucky (C3; 08, 20), S. dublin (D1; 01, 9, 12) and S. anatum (E1; 03, 10) using the Westphal method. Fifteen cows were found to be seronegative for all 5 of these serogroup antigens. Each cow was then vaccinated 3 times at 2-week intervals with a killed Salmonella bacterin. The 15 different serotypes used for vaccination were chosen to represent a wide array of Salmonella serogroups with a wide array of somatic "O" antigens expressed, including somatic antigens 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 18, 19, 20, 22, 23, 25, and 27. With each antigen tested, the highest ELISA titers were seen with sera from cattle vaccinated with homologous O antigens, indicating that reactions were highly O antigen-specific. Some cross reactions between subgroups sharing one O factor antigen were found; these titers were lower than those found with homologous serogroups sharing 2 or more antigens. Only serum from the cow vaccinated from S. anatum (group E; antigens 03, 10) cross-reacted at a low titer with group C1 (O somatic antigens 6, 7) and D1 (O somatic antigens 1, 9, 12) plate antigens, with which no somatic antigens were shared. We conclude from these results that Salmonella serology using LPS antigens is highly O antigen-specific and predictable.
Application of computer-based hypermedia in distance education course design, using elaboration theory as a framework

An attempt is made to establish the application of computer-based technology specifically hypermedia, in distance education course design using elaboration theory (ET) as a framework. The specific area of application in distance education is that of preprepared courses. The conclusion of this analysis is that: 1) hypermedia fits the elaboration theory framework especially because it is amenable to presenting information in segments that can be linked. ET's modular design approach and elaborations support the design of hypermedia but go further in that they provide structure. Distance education pre-produced study materials require structure that will keep students focused and interested. 2) The combination of flexibility and structure fit the notion of student control, defined as an opportunity and ability to direct the course of educational activity. 3) Hypermedia has limitations as do other technical media. It cannot take the place of the teacher especially to dialogue through two-way communication.
The Value of the Voting Right: A Study of the Milan Stock Exchange Experience

I study the large premium (82 percent) attributed to voting shares on the Milan Stock Exchange. The premium varies according to the ownership structare and the concentration of the voting rights, and it can be rationalized in the presence of enormous private benefits of control. A case study seems to indicate that in Italy private benefits of control can easily be worth more than 60 percent of the value of nonvoting equity. A tentative explanation for these findings is provided. Traditional finance theory disregards the value of voting rights in pricing common stock. In most cases this omission does not seem harmful. Many studies of differential voting stocks in different countries have indicated that voting rights are generally worth between 10 percent and 20 percent of the value of common stock.’ The Italian evidence I present differs sharply from this view. In Italy voting shares that have inferior dividend rights trade at an average premium
The carbon dioxide laser in soft tissue preprosthetic surgery

The surgical carbon dioxide laser has the ability to vaporize soft tissues with little bleeding, pain, swelling, or wound contraction. The laser was evaluated on 27 patients requiring soft tissue preprosthetic surgery, including frenectomies, tuberosity reduction, hyperplasia removal, and sulcus deepening. Surgery was performed on an ambulatory basis with no bleeding or infection. Swelling was minimal and pain, as measured on a linear pain scale, was moderate. One third of the patients required no analgesics. Wound contraction did occur but was less than is historically quoted for scalpel wounds. The carbon dioxide laser would appear to have advantages for soft tissue preprosthetic surgery that warrant further evaluation.
Driving Strategy Alters Neuronal Responses to Self-Movement: Cortical Mechanisms of Distracted Driving

We presented naturalistic combinations of virtual self-movement stimuli while recording neuronal activity in monkey cerebral cortex. Monkeys used a joystick to drive to a straight ahead heading direction guided by either object motion or optic flow. The selected cue dominates neuronal responses, often mimicking responses evoked when that stimulus is presented alone. In some neurons, driving strategy creates selective response additivities. In others, it creates vulnerabilities to the disruptive effects of independently moving objects. Such cue interactions may be related to the disruptive effects of independently moving objects in Alzheimer's disease patients with navigational deficits.
A Review of Elder Abuse Literature: An Age Old Problem Brought to Light

As the population continues to age, elder abuse is an issue that must not be ignored. Although elder abuse is not entirely a new issue, it is time for a unified definition to be identified, prevention programs to be implemented and effective interventions to emerge. This paper provides a synopsis of elder abuse through a comprehensive review of literature. Factors associated with defining elder abuse, types of abuse among the elderly, varying perceptions of elder abuse, perpetrations and situations of elder abuse, recognizing elder abuse, responding to and reporting elder abuse, and interventions and elder abuse are presented. Suggestions for further initiatives are provided.
A Coupled Local‐Mode Analysis of Surface‐Wave Propagation In A Laterally Heterogeneous Waveguide

SUMMARY We consider surface-wave propagation in a laterally heterogeneous waveguide based upon coupled local modes, which are the eigenfunctions of a laterally homogeneous waveguide with a vertical structure identical to that of the laterally heterogeneous waveguide at the horizontal location of interest. Energy transfer from one overtone to another is expressed in terms of local-mode amplitude coefficients which determine the surface-wave amplitude. The amplitude coefficients can be determined from a system of first-order partial-differential equations. In particular, we investigate the nature of forward-coupled Love and Rayleigh waves along a given surface-wave trajectory. We demonstrate that overtone coupling is determined by lateral gradients in density, elastic parameters, and topography on discontinuities, and that the coupling strength is on the order of the ratio of the lateral change in the model parameters to the squared wavenumber spacing and fluctuates with a wavelength on the order of 2n over this spacing. The theory allows for topography on solid-solid as well as fluid-solid boundaries. When overtone coupling is ignored the results are reduced to traditional surface-wave JWKB theory.
Balloon dilation angioplasty of postoperative aortic obstructions

Abstract Balloon dilation angioplasty (BDA) was attempted 29 times in 27 patients, aged 3 months to 22 years, with postoperative aortic obstructions. Previous operations included end-to-end anastomosis (n = 10), subclavian flap angioplasty (n = 7) and patch angioplasty (n = 3) for aortic coarctation, end-to-end anastomosis for interrupted aortic arch type B (n = 4) and aortic arch reconstruction for hypoplastic left heart syndrome (n = 3). Two of the patients with interrupted arch had multiple areas of obstruction. Balloon sizes were between 2 and 6 times the diameter of the lesion and up to twice the diameter of the proximal transverse arch (mean 1.1). BDA was at least partially successful (more than 50% decrease in gradient and more than 30% increase in diameter) in 26 of the 29 procedures (90%). BDA failed in the 2 lesions with an initial diameter of more than 8 mm. No differences were apparent In the success rate among any of the clinical groups. Peak systolic gradient decreased from 42 ± 14 to 14 ± 15 mm Hg (p
Words as Events: Cretan Mantinádes in Performance and Composition

Reviewed Medium: book Authors: Venla Sykari Year: 2011 Pages: 224 Publisher: Finnish Literature Society ISBN: 978-952-222-261-9 (soft cover).
Comparative Pharmacodynamics of the New Oxazolidinone Tedizolid Phosphate and Linezolid in a Neutropenic Murine Staphylococcus aureus Pneumonia Model

Tedizolid phosphate (TR-701) is a novel oxazolidinone prodrug (converted to the active form tedizolid [TR-700]) with potent Staphylococcus aureus activity. The current studies characterized and compared the in vivo pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PD) characteristics of TR-701/TR-700 and linezolid against methicillin-susceptible S. aureus (MSSA) and methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) in the neutropenic murine pneumonia model. The pharmacokinetic properties of both drugs were linear over a dose range of 0.625 to 40 mg/kg of body weight. Protein binding was 30% for linezolid and 85% for TR-700. Mice were infected with one of 11 isolates of S. aureus, including MSSA and community- and hospital-acquired MRSA strains. Each drug was administered by oral-gastric gavage every 12 h (q12h). The dosing regimens ranged from 1.25 to 80 mg/kg/12 h for linezolid and 0.625 to 160 mg/kg/12 h for TR-701. At the start of therapy, mice had 6.24 ± 0.40 log(10) CFU/lungs, which increased to 7.92 ± 1.02 log(10) CFU/lungs in untreated animals over a 24-h period. A sigmoid maximum-effect (E(max)) model was used to determine the antimicrobial exposure associated with net stasis (static dose [SD]) and 1-log-unit reduction in organism relative to the burden at the start of therapy. The static dose pharmacodynamic targets for linezolid and TR-700 were nearly identical, at a free drug (non-protein-bound) area under the concentration-time curve over 24 h in the steady state divided by the MIC (AUC/MIC ratio) of 19 and 20, respectively. The 1-log-unit kill endpoints were also similar, at 46.1 for linezolid and 34.6 for TR-700. The exposure targets were also comparable for both MSSA and MRSA isolates. These dosing goals support further clinical trial examination of TR-701 in MSSA and MRSA pneumonia.