cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Agriculturally induced vegetation change, 1950–1975

Changes in worldwide grain production area are analyzed to assess the impact of major agricultural activity onglobal biomass. During the 26-year study period, nearly 1% of the earth's ice-free land surface was converted to grain production. This increase in agricultural area reduced the planetary biomass; however, it had minimal effect on net primary productivity. Geographically, the overall change caused by increased grain production has been to redistribute the planetary biomass poleward.
Rheumatoid arthritis: Psychological factors in the etiology, course, and treatment

Abstract Behavioral scientists have become increasingly involved in the psychological assessment and treatment of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The present paper provides a critical review of research on the role of psychological factors in the etiology, pathogenesis, and treatment of this chronic illness. While the existence of a premorbid “rheumatoid arthritis personality” has not received substansive support, there is growing evidence for the deleterious impact of psychological stress on RA pathophysiology. Further, biofeedback and cognitive-behavioral therapy have been shown to be effective in reducing symptomatology and functional disability among RA patients. The long-term benefit of these treatments, however, has yet to be demonstrated.
Pseudoneglect and the cross-over effect.

Abstract Several studies have found that patients with left hemi-neglect bisect long lines too far to the right, but bisect short lines too far to the left (the ‘cross-over’ effect). Some studies have reported that normal participants bisect long lines too far to the left, presumably reflecting an over-estimation of the left side due to the role of the right hemisphere in attention. The purpose of the present series of studies was to further study the cross-over effect in normal participants and to determine whether it may be due to perceptual or motor factors. Participants in the first study showed no cross-over effect on either the traditional line bisection task, or on the purely perceptual Landmark task. However, improvements in the Landmark task in Study 2 did lead to a significant cross-over effect. In Study 3 there was no cross-over on the traditional line bisection task even after changes were made to eliminate the ‘ceiling effect’ that is usually found with very short lines. Overall, the results suggest that normal participants do show a cross-over effect on a purely perceptual task, but not on the traditional manual line bisection task that includes a motor component. Possible implications for models of right hemispheric involvement in attention are discussed.
Multiple electromagnetic excitations of relativistic projectiles.

Conditions optimum for the first experimental verification of the multiplication electromagnetic excitations of nuclei in relativistic nucleus-nucleus collisions are described. The relative magnitudes of three important physical processes that might interfere with such a measurement are compared to the predicted strengths for the single and multiple electromagnetic excitations for various choices of the projectile mass and beam energy. Strategies are presented for making inferences concerning the presence of multiple excitation strength in experimental data.
Information salience and interpreting information

The information available for many situations often causes information overload. To help prevent this overload, the designer and writer need to carefully consider the issues of what are the most salient information elements for the reader and what can be done to queue the reader that this is the most salient information.
Effects of stratification in a fluidized bed bioreactor during treatment of metalworking wastewater

During wastewater treatment, biofilm-coated sand particles stratified in a fluidized bed bioreactor (FBB); particles coated by thicker biofilm segregated toward the top of the bed. Stratification was so well developed that at least two co-existing regions of significantly different mean biofilm thickness were visually distinct within the operating FBB. The observed stratification is attributed to differences in forces of drag, buoyancy, shear, and collisional impact, as well as differences of collision rate within the different regions. Particles with thick biofilm (thickness >100 μm) near the top of the bed consumed substrate at significantly lower rates per unit biomass than particles with thin biofilm (10–20 μm) near the bottom of the bed, thereby suggesting that substrate mass-transfer resistance through biofilm may limit biodegradation rates in the upper portion of the FBB. Large agglomerates of biomass floc and sand, which formed at the top of the fluidized bed, and sand particles with thick biofilm were susceptible to washout from the FBB, causing operational and treatment instability. Radial injection of supplemental liquid feed near the top of the bed increased shear and mixing, thereby preventing formation and washout of agglomerates and thickly coated sand particles. Supplemental liquid injection caused the mean specific biomass loading on the sand to increase and also increased the total biomass inventory in the FBB. Rates of biodegradation in the FBB appeared to be limited by penetration of substrates into the biofilm and absorption of oxygen from air into the wastewater. © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Biotechnol Bioeng 63: 129–140, 1999.
Determination of total, and bound Se in sera by INAA

In this study we report on the comparison between the total selenium in serum (“total Se”) with that which is apparently bound to high molecular weight (>12,000 D) species, presumably proteins (“bound Se”). Nine hundred seventy seven (977) serum samples arising out of a population-based epidemiological study were prepared in duplicate for the determination of “total Se” by pipeting directly into irradiation vials; and separate duplicate aliquots were dialyzed against DI water for the determination of “bound Se”. All samples were analyzed by neutron activation analysis via77mSe (17.4 s). A small dialyzable Se component (∼6%) (“free Se”), defined as the difference between the “total Se” minus the “bound Se”, was identified.
Sorption and desorption of dissolved organic phosphorus onto iron (oxyhydr)oxides in seawater

Abstract Sorption of phosphorus (P) onto particulate surfaces significantly influences dissolved P concentrations in aquatic environments. We present results of a study contrasting the sorption behavior of several dissolved organic phosphorus (DOP) compounds and phosphate onto three commonly occurring iron (oxyhydr)oxides (Fe ox ): ferrihydrite, goethite, and hematite. The DOP compounds were chosen to represent a range of molecular weights and structures, and include: adenosine triphosphate (ATP), adenosine monophosphate (AMP), glucose-6-phosphate (G6P), and aminoethylphosphonic acid (AEP). All P compounds displayed decreasing sorption as a function of crystallinity of the Fe ox substrate, with ferrihydrite adsorbing the most, hematite the least. In general, maximum sorption density decreased with increasing molecular weight of P compound; sorption of G6P onto goethite and hematite excepted. P compound size and structure, and the nature of the Fe ox substrate all appear to play a role dictating relative sorption capacity. Failure of a simple, 1-step sorption–desorption model to describe the data suggests that P sorption cannot be explained by a simple balance between sorption and desorption. Instead, the data are consistent with a 2-step sorption model consisting of an initial rapid surface sorption, followed by a slow, solid-state diffusion of P from surface sites into particle interiors. Desorption experiments provide additional support for the 2-step sorption model. Without exception, DOP compounds showed less efficient sorption than did orthophosphate. This suggests that in aquatic systems enriched in reactive Fe ox , whether as suspended particulates in the water column or in benthic sediments, DOP bioavailability may exceed that of orthophosphate. Since biological uptake of P from DOP requires enzymatic cleavage of orthophosphate, a system enriched in DOP relative to orthophosphate may impact ecosystem community structure.
Retinal Prostheses Development in Retinitis Pigmentosa Patients-Progress and Comparison.

PURPOSE Since 2000, several groups have initiated chronic studies, implanting electronic retinal prostheses into the blind eyes of patients with retinitis pigmentosa to produce formed vision. DESIGN A review and comparison of their techniques and results. METHODS The 4 groups reviewed comprise 2 epiretinal and 2 subretinal groups. Visual function results reported in their publications during approximately the past 2 years are compared. RESULTS Serious adverse effects occurred in both epiretinal groups but none in the 2 subretinal groups. Phosphenes with some similarity to the multielectrode stimulation pattern were induced by 1 group (EpiRet GmbH), and a somewhat higher phosphene pattern was created by another group (Second Sight). In 1 subretinal group (Retina Implant AG), an even higher phosphene pattern allowed recognition of letters and objects such as a cup or saucer. In the second subretinal group (Optobionics), besides perceived phosphenes, a neurotrophic rescue of visual function produced a marked improvement of visual acuity, color and contrast perception, visual field size, and improved darkness perception. In some subjects, recognition of facial features and household objects was restored. CONCLUSIONS Both epiretinal and subretinal prostheses created phosphene-type patterned vision in some subjects. The phosphene resolution of Retina Implant AG's subretinal device was substantially greater than both epiretinal devices. Of the 4 groups, only Optobionic's paracentrally placed subretinal Artificial Silicon Retina implant induced an unexpected neurotrophic rescue and return of lost visual function resulting in the greatest return of visual acuity, color and contrast perception, visual field enlargement, and darkness perception.
Specifying and testing econometric models for rank-ordered data

Abstract The rank-ordered logit model is used as the basic specification for rank-ordered consumer choice data. Two specification tests are proposed for this specification. The first is a Hausman specification test for the independence from irrelevant alternatives hypothesis. The second test examines the possibility that the estimates of equivalent prices are consistent. Two alternative estimators are also proposed. One generalizes the rank-ordered logit specification to allow for a form of heteroscedasticity that permits top ranked choices to be more precisely ranked than bottom ranked choices. The other estimator is an application of a weighted M -estimator that yields consistent equivalent price estimators despite any misspecification of the distribution in the rank-ordered logit model.
Buffer Insertion Considering Process Variation

A comprehensive probabilistic methodology is proposed to solve the buffer insertion problem with the consideration of process variations. In contrast to a recent work, we point out, for the first time, that the correlation between the required arrival time and the downstream loading capacitance must be considered in order to solve the problem "correctly". We develop an efficient bottom-up recursive algorithm to calculate the joint probability density function that accurately captures the above correlation, and propose effective pruning rules to exclude probabilistically inferior solutions. We verify our buffer insertion using timing analysis with both device and interconnect variations, and show that compared to the conventional buffer insertion algorithm using nominal device and interconnect parameters, our new buffer insertion methodology can reduce the probability of timing violation by up to 30%.
Electron photoemission predictions with CEPXS/ONETRAN

The author has written a cross-section-generating code called CEPXS that produces multigroup cross sections for use in ONETRAN. The combined CEPXS/ONETRAN code is a general-purpose fully coupled electron-photon-positron transport code. The accuracy and efficiency of electron photoemission predictions with CEPXS/ONETRAN are assessed by comparisons to both TIGERP and experiment. >
On the road to sustainable development

This paper discusses two of the several models developed by the author over the past few years that attempt to portray an understanding of sustainable development. The first, an overview model, depicts a current understanding of SD. The second, a process model, positions role of education on the road to SD. Both models recognise the verity of interdisciplinary approach to and resolution environmental issues.
A low-complexity GSM baseband detector for RF BIST

We present a low-complexity digital baseband detector for GSM applications for functional RF BIST of the receiver section of a complex transceiver SoC implemented in 90-nm digital CMOS process. The detector can be used as a pass/fail criterion during factory testing using a Tx-Rx RF loopback mode or with an inexpensive signal generator. It can also be used for testing of the analog and digital base-band data paths of the receiver without requiring any external equipment. The detector is implemented as part of a quad-band GSM/GPRS transceiver SoC implemented in 90-nm digital CMOS process and it occupies 0.05mm2. In a special configuration of the receiver, the detector also supports a fully functional Bluetooth mode.
An Experiment Testing the Determinants of Non-Compliance with Insider Trading Laws

Recent stories of corporate insiders avoiding losses and, in some cases, generating enormous personal profits as their companies crumbled have led investors to question the integrity of American business and the fairness of the United States stock markets. The SEC tries to ensure the fairness of the stock markets by making and enforcing laws against unfair practices such as insider trading. In the United States, when insiders trade stock based on non-public information, they have broken the law and betrayed the trust that has been placed in them. This study used student subjects to test the rela- tionship between the likelihood of trading based on insider information and subjective probabilities of deterrents and motivations for insider trading. Expected gain, guilt, cynicism, and fairness of laws were the determinants that had a significant relation- ship with the intent to trade based on insider infor- mation. This study also found support for prospect theory with regard to insider trading. The results indicate that subjects are more likely to trade based on insider information to avoid a loss than to achieve an abnormal gain. The study also finds evidence of social desirability response bias. Additional findings of the study were that subjects did not view the determinants for themselves in a manner consistent with how they viewed those same deterrents and motivations for other people. Also, a test of the effects of gender found that certainty and social stigma were significantly higher for female respondents than for male respondents.
The Influence of Head, Forearm and Back Support on Myoelectric Activity, Performance and Subjective Comfort during a VDT Task

VDT work consists of static muscle activity in the arms, neck, shoulders and back to keep the head and hands in a mostly fixed working position. The aim of this study was to investigate alternative VDT workstation configurations that may reduce the muscle force of these static contractions by providing support to the head/neck, arm and back regions of the body. Effects of an inclined chair back with headrest and a chair mounted split keyboard (CMSK) were investigated. For a typing task, combining a CMSK with the headrest and inclined chair back resulted in significantly lower muscle activity in the neck (>35% reduction) and shoulders (>64% reduction), compared to utilizing a straight keyboard in a more upright posture without a headrest. No significant difference in typing accuracy existed between the configurations; however, productivity was reduced with the CMSK. Potential applications for alternative VDT work postures are discussed.
A multipulse transmitter for UWB radar and communication systems

A new ultra-wideband (UWB) transmitter capable of producing multiple monocycle pulses has been developed for UWB radar and communication systems. The developed transmitter is simple, compact and can be realized using planar or uniplanar integrated circuits. Measurement results show multiple monocycle pulses with duration from 0.4-1.2 ns, corresponding approximately to 0.2-3.9 GHz operating frequency range, and 6.5-9 V of peak-to-peak voltage. The calculated and measured pulse durations agree reasonably well. An effective pulse width is introduced, via the pulse's spectrum analysis, as an accurate parameter for characterizing the range resolution of UWB radar.
THE EFFECT OF HYDROGEN PEROXIDE ON YEAST GROWTH AND FERMENTATION

Summary. 1Hydrogen peroxide, when added in the form of superoxol to an aerated yeast molasses mash, is very toxic to the yeast, greatly inhibiting or entirely stopping yeast growth, fermentation and inversion. 2The yeast yield without aeration in a mash of this kind is greatly diminished, while the other changes are only shghtly inhibited, the total loss of solids bekg appreciably greater than with aeration. 3If the pH change in such an aerated mash is allowed to progress normally, a marked fall from 7.0 to 2.0 is observed, apparently due to the formation of organic acids, and to removal of ammonia from the ammonium salts.
A low-g three-axis accelerometer IC

This paper presents a three-axis, low-g accelerometer IC with analog and digital outputs for applications in consumer and mobile markets. This accelerometer is consisted of a sensing element chip and a digital IC, and is packed in a 3mm x 5mm x 0.9mm LGA package. The sensing element integrates three spring-proof mass systems with self test electrodes on a single structure for sensing three-axis motion for operating range of ± 5 g. The programmable resolution for digital output which offers user to adjust the resolution for different applications; and, nominally, the maximum resolution is as high as 16 Bits. The overall noise floors of the x-, y-, and z-axis are 408µg/√Hz, 460µg/√Hz, 238µg/√Hz, respectively. From the characterization, this accelerometer IC demonstrates high cross-axis sensitivity immunity, high sensitivity, and good linearity for both in-plane and out-of-plane accelerometers that suggests this three-axis accelerometer to be potential for satisfying the needs of current applications to consumer and mobile market.
Ecological Interactions of Pieris brassicae L. (Lepidoptera: Pieridae) and Native Pierini in Chile

Abstract Pieris brassicae, a Palaearctic pest introduced into Chile about 1970, co‐occurs spatially and temporally with three native Pierini of the genus Tatochila. The habit of P. brassicae of laying eggs in large masses on large, succulent hosts effectively prevents competition for hosts with T. mercedis and T. blanchardii, both of which oviposit singly on small, slender Cruciferous hosts. The early stages of T. theodice are unknown, but it is apparently not a Crucifer feeder. P. brassicae appears to have filled a “vacant niche”; created by the naturalization of robust, weedy European Crucifers in Chile.
In Vitro Interactions Between Yeasts and Bacteria and the Fungal Symbionts of the Mountain Pine Beetle ( Dendroctonus ponderosae )

Multi-trophic interactions between prokaryotes, unicellular eukaryotes, and ecologically intertwined metazoans are presumably common in nature, yet rarely described. The mountain pine beetle, Dendroctonus ponderosae, is associated with two filamentous fungi, Grosmannia clavigera and Ophiostoma montium. Other microbes, including yeasts and bacteria, are also present in the phloem, but it is not known whether they interact with the symbiotic fungi or the host beetle. To test whether such interactions occur, we performed a suite of in vitro assays. Overall, relative yield of O. montium grown with microbes isolated from larval galleries was significantly greater than when the fungus was grown alone. Conversely, the yield of G. clavigera grown with these same microbes was less than or equal to when it was grown alone, suggesting that O. montium, and at least some microbes in larval galleries, have a mutualistic or commensal relationship, while G. clavigera and those same microbes have an antagonistic relationship. A bacterium isolated from phloem not colonized by beetles was found to inhibit growth of both G. clavigera and O. montium and appears to be an antagonist to both fungi. Our results suggest that bacteria and yeasts likely influence the distribution of mycangial fungi in the host tree, which, in turn, may affect the fitness of D. ponderosae.
Comparison of extradural and general anaesthesia on the fibrinolytic response to total knee arthroplasty

Extradural anaesthesia is associated with lower incidences of deep vein thrombosis after total knee arthroplasty. It is not known if the type of anaesthesia influences thrombogenesis or fibrinolysis during knee surgery performed under tourniquet. We studied 31 patients allocated randomly to receive either extradural or general anaesthesia for primary unilateral total knee arthroplasty performed under tourniquet. Radial artery blood samples were obtained before surgery, during surgery with the tourniquet inflated and on deflation of the tourniquet. Plasma samples were assayed for markers of thrombin generation and fibrinolysis. Two of the circulating indices of thrombin generation, fibrinopeptide A and thrombin-antithrombin complexes, increased to a similar degree in the perioperative period in both groups. Fibrinolytic activity was similar in both groups, as measured by tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) antigen, t-PA activity, t-PA-plasminogen activator inhibitor complexes, alpha 2-plasmin inhibitor-plasmin complexes and D-dimer. Extradural and general anaesthesia did not result in significant differences in either thrombin generation or fibrinolytic activity during total knee arthroplasty performed under tourniquet.
Drug discovery for Duchenne muscular dystrophy via utrophin promoter activation screening.

Background: Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a devastating muscle wasting disease caused by mutations in dystrophin, a muscle cytoskeletal protein. Utrophin is a homologue of dystrophin that can functionally compensate for its absence when expressed at increased levels in the myofibre, as shown by studies in dystrophin-deficient mice. Utrophin upregulation is therefore a promising therapeutic approach for DMD. The use of a small, drug-like molecule to achieve utrophin upregulation offers obvious advantages in terms of delivery and bioavailability. Furthermore, much of the time and expense involved in the development of a new drug can be eliminated by screening molecules that are already approved for clinical use. Methodology/Principal Findings: We developed and validated a cell-based, high-throughput screening assay for utrophin promoter activation, and used it to screen the Prestwick Chemical Library of marketed drugs and natural compounds. Initial screening produced 20 hit molecules, 14 of which exhibited dose-dependent activation of the utrophin promoter and were confirmed as hits. Independent validation demonstrated that one of these compounds, nabumetone, is able to upregulate endogenous utrophin mRNA and protein, in C2C12 muscle cells. Conclusions/Significance: We have developed a cell-based, high-throughput screening utrophin promoter assay. Using this assay, we identified and validated a utrophin promoter-activating drug, nabumetone, for which pharmacokinetics and safety in humans are already well described, and which represents a lead compound for utrophin upregulation as a therapy for DMD.
Simplified method for sterilization of the female.

Abstract A method of sterilization of women is described which offers technical simplicity, minimal operative time, reduced risk to the patient, absence of blood loss, and possibly reversability. More extensive use of the procedure is essential to assess its value. It is hoped that the idea will appeal to others to the point where they will try the method and aid in its evaluation.*
Time-Domain Orthogonal Finite-Element Reduction-Recovery Method for Electromagnetics-Based Analysis of Large-Scale Integrated Circuit and Package Problems

A time-domain orthogonal finite-element reduction-recovery method is developed to overcome the large problem sizes encountered in the simulation of large-scale integrated-circuit and package problems. In this method, a set of orthogonal prism vector basis functions is developed. Based on this set of bases, an arbitrary 3-D multilayered system such as a combined package and die is reduced to a single-layer system with negligible computational cost. More importantly, the reduced single-layer system is diagonal and, hence, can be solved readily. From the solution of the reduced system, the solution of the other unknowns is recovered in linear complexity. The method entails no theoretical approximation. It applies to any arbitrarily shaped multilayer structure involving inhomogeneous materials or any structure that can be geometrically modeled by triangular prism elements. In addition, it permits nonlinear device modeling and broadband simulation within one run. Numerical and experimental results have demonstrated its accuracy and high capacity in simulating on-chip, package, and die-package interface problems.
Can Leaders Step Outside of the Gender Box? An Examination of Leadership and Gender Role Stereotypes

This study examined gender stereotypes for leaders using a more indirect method than is typical in stereotype research. Rather than reveal the leader's gender, this study used vignettes in which th...
A prospective study of coffee intake and pancreatic cancer: results from the NIH-AARP Diet and Health Study.

A prospective study of coffee intake and pancreatic cancer: results from the NIH-AARP Diet and Health Study
Destructive arthropathy in chondrocalcinosis: a case report.

ABSTRAGT A case of Chondrocalcinosis with unusually severe destruction of the ankle joint, as well as erosions in the knees, hands and shoulders, is presented. The role of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate (CPPD) crystals in destructive arthropathy is discussed, with the recommendation that in cases of chondrocalcinosis with destructive arthropathy, examination for conditions leading to deposit of CPPD crystals should be considered.
Small associative molecule thickeners for ethane, propane and butane

Abstract The abilities of three classes of low molecular weight, metal-based, associative compounds to thicken high pressure ethane, propane or butane have been assessed with a close clearance falling ball viscometer. Tributyltin fluoride (TBTF) does not require a heating/cooling cycle to attain dissolution, and at a concentration of 1 wt% in ethane, propane or butane yields 70–100-fold viscosity increases at 25 °C. Increasing temperature substantially reduces TBTF’s thickening ability. Although hydroxyaluminum di-2-ethylhexanoate (HAD2EH) is insoluble in ethane, it does dissolve in liquid propane or butane after mixing at ∼100 °C and cooling to temperatures as low as 40 °C. HAD2EH induces small viscosity increases in propane, but is a very effective butane thickener. Increasing temperature causes a relatively small decrease in HAD2EH’s thickening performance. Combining a phosphate ester and a crosslinker in ethane, propane or butane yields a translucent liquid with viscosity increases that are significantly less than those attained with TBTF or HAD2EH.
Transformation of fibroma into myxoma virus in tissue culture.

Summary1. Eleven experiments are described in which fibroma was transformed into myxoma virus in cultures of rabbit tissues, both of testes and of kidneys. 2. The transforming agent (TAM) was myxoma virus inactivated by heating at 65–67°C. 3. Live fibroma virus and TAM were inoculated into tissue cultures simultaneously and TAM was re-added at times of fluid change. 4. A good growth of supporting cells appeared essential to successful transformations.
Differentiation-inducing effects of IC163 on K562 cells

Objective:To determine the differentiation-inducing potentiality of IC163 on K562 cells.Method:Differentiation induction experiment was performed by culturing K562 cells with the presence of IC163(0-64 μmol/L) for 6 days.The changes of morphology,cytochemisrty and cytophyletic characteristic markers(CD71 and CD235a) of K562 cells were observed before and after the treatment with IC163,by the methods of wright's-Giemsa staining,benzidine staining and flowcytometry respectivly.Result:K562 cells treated with 8 μmol/L IC163 were found differentiated and morphologically changed to polychromatic normoblasts and orthrochromatic normoblasts.Treatment of K562 cells with IC163 increased hemoglobin content,benzidine-positive cells from(4.03±1.46)%(0 μmol/L) to(13.39±2.49)%(8 μmol/L) and up-regulated the expressions of CD71 and CD235a.Conclusion:IC163 can induce K562 cells differentiation.
A temperature-dependent in silico model of the human ether-à-go-go-related (hERG) gene channel.

Abstract Introduction Current regulatory guidelines for assessing the risk of QT prolongation include in vitro assays assessing drug effects on the human ether-a-go-go-related (hERG; also known as Kv11.1) channel expressed in cell lines. These assays are typically conducted at room temperature to promote the ease and stability of recording hERG currents. However, the new Comprehensive in vitro Proarrhythmia Assay (CiPA) paradigm proposes to use an in silico model of the human ventricular myocyte to assess risk, requiring as input hERG channel pharmacology data obtained at physiological temperatures. To accommodate current industry safety pharmacology practices for measuring hERG channel activity, an in silico model of hERG channel that allows for the extrapolation of hERG assay data across different temperatures is desired. Because temperature may have an effect on both channel gating and drug binding rate, such models may need to have two components: a base model dealing with temperature-dependent gating changes without drug, and a pharmacodynamic component simulating temperature-dependent drug binding kinetics. As a first step, a base mode that can capture temperature effects on hERG channel gating without drug is needed. Methods and results To meet this need for a temperature-dependent base model, a Markov model of the hERG channel with state transition rates explicitly dependent on temperature was developed and calibrated using data from a variety of published experiments conducted over a range of temperatures. The model was able to reproduce observed temperature-dependent changes in key channel gating properties and also to predict the results obtained in independent sets of new experiments. Discussion This new temperature-sensitive model of hERG gating represents an attempt to improve the predictivity of safety pharmacology testing by enabling the translation of room temperature hERG assay data to more physiological conditions. With further development, this model can be incorporated into the CiPA paradigm and also be used as a tool for developing insights into the thermodynamics of hERG channel gating mechanisms and the temperature-dependence of hERG channel block by drugs.
Determination of benzene,toluene,dimethybenzene and dichloroethane in adhesive for shoes using capillary column chromatography

Objective:To establish a method for the determination of benzene,toluene,dimethybenzene and dichloroethane in adhesive for shoes by capillary column chromatography.Methods:The procedure involved the disolving of 0.1～0.2 g exactly weighed sample by carbon bisulfide.Separation was achieved on capillary column,and then detected by flame ionization detector(FID).Results:Recoveries were 94.3%～101.1%,the limits of detection and RSD for all chemicals were within 2.00 mg/L and 2%.Conclusion:The method is simple,effective,quick and easy to determine benzene,toluene,dimethybenzene and dichloroethane in adhesive for shoes.
Living alone and depression: the modifying role of the perceived neighborhood environment

ABSTRACTObjective: Older adults who live alone are more likely to report feelings of depression than those who live with a spouse or other family members. This study examines the effects of residential status and perceived neighborhood characteristics on depression in middle-aged and older adults. Methods: This study is based on a probability sample of 1049 adults aged 55–98 years (M = 69 years) residing in Allegheny County, Pittsburgh, PA, USA in 2014. Thirty percent of participants reported living alone. We tested a multivariate model using living alone (vs. living with a family member or others) and perceived neighborhood physical and social quality as predictors of depressive symptomatology while controlling for age, sex, race, education, and disability. Results: Living alone (compared to living with a family member) was associated with elevated levels of depressive symptomatology. However, perceptions of neighborhood social quality moderated this association. Living alone was more highly associated w...
Hyperbolic metasurfaces: Surface plasmons, light-matter interactions, and physical implementation using graphene strips

We investigate ultrathin metasurfaces defined by anisotropic conductivity tensors using a Green’s function approach, focusing on their exciting plasmonic interactions and dramatic enhancement of light-matter interactions for hyperbolic dispersion. We apply our analytical formulation to explore several practical implementations at THz and near infrared frequencies, including electrically and magnetically-biased graphene sheets – a natural isotropic elliptic metasurface – and densely-packed arrays of graphene ribbons modelled through an effective medium approach. This latter configuration allows the electrical control of their band diagram topology – from elliptic to hyperbolic, going through the extremely anisotropic σ-near-zero case – providing unprecedented control over the confinement and direction of plasmon propagation while simultaneously boosting the local density of states. Finally, we study the influence of the strip granularity to delimit the accuracy of effective medium theory to model the electromagnetic interactions with hyperbolic metasurfaces. Our findings may lead to the development of ultrathin reconfigurable plasmonic devices able to provide extreme confinement and dynamic guidance of light while strongly interacting with their surroundings, with direct application in sensing, imaging, hyperlensing, on-chip networks, and communications.
Africa, Fandom, and Shifting Identities: An Introduction to Football and Identity

Identity in football takes a variety of forms, ranging from fan, team, organization, community, nation, to a transnational one. Hundley and Billings argue that identity involves humans seeking membership in groups and then acting in support of their group against others perceived as members of out groups. They further point out that ‘identity is an extensive negotiation that is always changing, always being interpreted and reinterpreted, and always contested by various entities’ (2010: 5). In essence, identity is never stable even though studies of the concept presume its stability across time. Hundley and Billings were referring to media interpretation of identity, but researcher or participant interpretation of identity is not simple, it is just as complex and is always in flux. Each shape of identity is critical to understanding football, its essence, and its popularity. Of course, this book attempts to cover as many of those as possible. However, it is important in this introductory chapter that we clearly understand what we mean by identity, using several theories relevant to African football. Subsequently, we discuss critical shifts in football identity on the continent and preview the book’s chapters.
Physical and chemical alteration of soil by two subterranean termite species in Sonoran Desert grassland

Heterotermes aureus and Gnathamitermes perplexus are dominant factors in soil turnover, litter decomposition and nutrient cycling in the Sonoran Desert below 1200 m. Together they move c. 744 kg/ha of soil to the surface each year. They increase the clay content of surface soils by 21 kg/ha/year by selectively bringing up soil richer in clay. They alter the pH from slightly acidic to basic, mainly by bringing lime to the surface. They enrich the soil with organic C, total N, Ca, Mg, K and Na as a result of digesting plant material and depositing feces and/or saliva in their workings at the surface. Both are general feeders, but their characteristic attacks on different sets of preferred litter components tend to be complementary. Nutrients released by Heterotermes may remain in its workings for months or years, while those of Gnathamitermes are released within weeks or months by the first heavy rains.
Becoming a Client: The Socialization of Novice Buyers of Sexual Services

ABSTRACTContributing to the growing body of research on the buyers of commercial sex services, this study explores the socialization of novice clients. Drawing on data from a popular Web-based discussion forum, the article identifies the central questions and concerns of individuals who are on the verge of purchasing sex for the first time. A second dimension of the study examines the ways in which more seasoned clients respond to novices who ask for advice in the forum. We find that the veterans’ responses, taken together, help to socialize new clients and reflect a set of conduct norms and best practices within this online subculture.
Abstract C52: Collagen-mediated chromatin remodeling promotes chemoresistance in pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S., is associated with a pronounced collagenrich stromal reaction that has been shown to contribute to chemoresistance. We recently published that PDAC cells grown in the collagen microenvironment are resistant to gemcitabine-induced proliferation and checkpoint arrest (Dangi-Garimella et al, Cancer Research 2011). The effects were mediated through upregulation of membrane type 1-matrix metalloproteinase (MT1-MMP)- and ERK1/2-dependent expression of high mobility group A2 (HMGA2), a well-known chromatin remodeling protein. We have now found that relative to cells grown on tissue culture plastic, PDAC cells grown in 3-D collagen display increased acetylation of lysines K9 and K27 on histone H3 along with a reduction in the levels of the heterochromatin binding protein HP1-α, suggesting that cells in collagen have a more open chromatin state. Decreasing MT1-MMP or HMGA2 expression or inhibiting ERK1/2 activity attenuates the effect of collagen on K9 and K27 acetylation. Collagen also increases Aurora kinase B-dependent phosphorylation of S10 on histone H3, which has been shown to reduce HP1-α binding to the chromatin and thereby promote more open chromatin state. 3-D collagen also increases expression of the histone acetyl transferase enzymes pCAF and GCN5. Finally, cells in 3D matrix demonstrate increased H2AX and a reduced tailing with the comet assay following gemcitabine treatment, suggesting that there is increased DNA repair associated with the more open chromatin state when cells are in the 3-D collagen microenvironment. Overall, our results increase our understanding of how growth in 3-D collagen contributes to chemoresistance and identify potential therapeutic targets against this deadly cancer. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Second AACR International Conference on Frontiers in Basic Cancer Research; 2011 Sep 14-18; San Francisco, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(18 Suppl):Abstract nr C52.
Preaspiration in Hebrides English

Preaspirated voiceless stops, a well-documented feature of Scottish Gaelic (Ni Chasaide 1985, Clayton 2010, Nance & Stuart-Smith 2013), have also been reported in the English spoken in the Hebrides island chain (Borgstrom 1940, Wells 1982, Shuken 1984). However, a detailed description of preaspiration in Hebrides English has previously been unavailable. This paper presents the results of a phonetic study of preaspirated voiceless stops in Hebrides English, based on the speech of 24 English–Scottish Gaelic bilinguals from nine regions within the Hebrides island chain. The paper describes the effect of linguistic features on the duration and frequency of preaspiration, including place of articulation, word position, and vowel context. The paper also considers the role of social factors, including speakers’ geographic origin, age, and gender, finding that preaspiration is more frequent among women and among older speakers, especially older female speakers from Lewis. The paper concludes that preaspiration is likely to be an obsolescent feature in Hebrides English, rather than an innovative feature as in other varieties of English such as Tyneside or Aberystwyth (Docherty & Foulkes 1999, Foulkes, Docherty & Watt 2001, Hejna 2015).
The Prescription Opioid Addiction Treatment Study: What have we learned.

Abstract Background The multi-site Prescription Opioid Addiction Treatment Study (POATS), conducted by the National Drug Abuse Treatment Clinical Trials Network, was the largest clinical trial yet conducted with patients dependent upon prescription opioids (N = 653). In addition to main trial results, the study yielded numerous secondary analyses, and included a 3.5-year follow-up study, the first of its kind with this population. This paper reviews key findings from POATS and its follow-up study. Methods The paper summarizes the POATS design, main outcomes, predictors of outcome, subgroup analyses, the predictive power of early treatment response, and the long-term follow-up study. Results POATS examined combinations of buprenorphine-naloxone of varying duration and counseling of varying intensity. The primary outcome analysis showed no overall benefit to adding drug counseling to buprenorphine-naloxone and weekly medical management. Only 7% of patients achieved a successful outcome (abstinence or near-abstinence from opioids) during a 4-week taper and 8-week follow-up; by comparison, 49% of patients achieved success while subsequently stabilized on buprenorphine-naloxone. Long-term follow-up results were more encouraging, with higher abstinence rates than in the main trial. Patients receiving opioid agonist treatment at the time of follow-up were more likely to have better outcomes, though a sizeable number of patients succeeded without agonist treatment. Some patients initiated risky use patterns, including heroin use and drug injection. A limitation of the long-term follow-up study was the low follow-up rate. Conclusions POATS was the first large-scale study of the treatment of prescription opioid dependence; its findings can influence both treatment guidelines and future studies.
Continuum fusion versions of the finite target matched filter for sub-pixel detection

New versions of the Finite Target Matched Filter are found by extending its statistical basis in several ways. The pure target signal is allowed to have nonzero variance, and a second model of background correlations is solved. Continuum fusion methods are used to show the second model to be a rare instance of a detection problem admitting uniformly most powerful solutions, and one fusion flavor is shown to generate all of them. Simple closed form solutions to the extended problems are permitted by the new continuum fusion approach, a methodology unknown at the introduction of the FTMF model in 1997.
Pagers, Smartphones, and HIPAA: Finding the Best Solution for Electronic Communication of Protected Health Information

Electronic communication is a topic that applies broadly to the professional activities of every physician and the pager has been the gold standard of communication for decades. We believe that this is a dated technology that is holding clinicians back from better, more efficient alternatives, particularly smartphones. In this manuscript, we examine the paradoxical reliance on pagers in academic medicine, at a time when the use of smartphones and text messaging is the subject of intense scrutiny with respect to its standing under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). We provide previously unreported data regarding the electronic communication practices of academic medical centers in the United States, which we obtained through a survey of Designated Institutional Officials. These data highlight both the controversy around text messaging and HIPAA and a puzzling widespread reliance on pagers as an alternative.
The Contested Right to the Right-of-Way

Prytherch asks in this chapter: What exactly does it mean to have legal right to the ROW? He begins by examining the critical role statutes play in regulating everyday mobility on the road as “traffic,” and how legislative assumptions and language mediate social relations among users. Returning to the UVC and state statutes modeled on it, he explores how laws construct mobility as the right-of-way or “right to proceed” in preference to others, mediating competing demands for roadway spaces. He shows how such statutes construct the power geometries of the street around the preferential right of the car, though pedestrians and bikes have right-of-way in other spaces like the sidewalk. The chapter then looks beyond the abstract framework set by statutes to how conflict and accidents on the roadway are adjudicated through the common law of torts, when judges must establish who has right and responsibility (defined as “duty of care”) and thus liability in case of accidents. The chapter highlights the ways statutory assumptions and biases are extended and elaborated by case law to socially construct—and unevenly allocate—mobility as a right and duty.
An investigation towards intelligent tyres using finite element analysis

ABSTRACTIntelligent tyres have the potential to be widely used to enhance the safety of road transportation systems by providing an estimation of the road surface friction, tyre load and several ot...
Comparative pathophysiology of pulmonary hypertension: development of a model.

The lesser circulation is affected by a considerable variety of diseases that involve the heart or lungs. Blood flow in the pulmonary vessels may be compromised by destruction of lung parenchyma and excessive positive alveolar pressure as in chronic obstructive lung disease, by frank obstruction of vessels, large or small, as in pulmonary thrombo-embolic disease, by obstruction to the outflow of blood as in diseases of the pulmonary veins, mitral valve or left ventricle, or by changes in the arteries due to chronic overloading as in several congenital heart conditions with left-to-right shunts. The response of the pulmonary circulation is conditioned by the necessity of maintaining sufficient perfusion of the lungs for effective gas exchange to take place, without allowing hydrostatic pressures in the capillaries to exceed plasma oncotic pressure so much as to result in frank edema. Ignoring for the moment the role of the lymphatics in draining away interstitial transudate to dispel such edema, it seems reasonable that one of the responses of the pulmonary arteries will be to protect the capillary bed by developing increased resistance to perfusion.