cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Development and qualification of a high sensitivity, high throughput Q-PCR assay for quantitation of residual host cell DNA in purification process intermediate and drug substance samples

Methods of high sensitivity, accuracy and throughput are needed for quantitation of low level residual host cell DNA in purification process intermediates and drug substances of therapeutic proteins. In this study, we designed primer/probe sets targeting repetitive Alu repeats or Alu-equivalent sequences in the human, Chinese hamster and murine genomes. When used in quantitative polymerase chain reactions (Q-PCRs), these primer/probe sets showed high species specificity and gave significantly higher sensitivity compared to those targeting the low copy number GAPDH gene. This allowed for detection of residual host cell DNA of much lower concentrations and, for some samples, eliminated the need for DNA extraction. By combining the high sensitivity Alu Q-PCR with high throughput automated DNA extraction using an automated MagMAX magnetic particle processor, we successfully developed and qualified a highly accurate, specific, sensitive and efficient method for the quantitation of residual host cell DNA in process intermediates and drug substances of multiple therapeutic proteins purified from cells of multiple species. Compared to the previous method using manual DNA extraction and primer/probe sets targeting the GAPDH gene, this new method increased our DNA extraction throughput by over sevenfold, and lowered the lower limit of quantitation by up to eightfold.
Time-Series Analysis of Land Cover Using Landscape Metrics

Time series of thematic land-cover maps are used to measure changes in land cover over time. However, pixel-to-pixel comparisons of such maps are often not advisable when these maps are generated from different sources (i.e., satellite data, aerial photography, or historical land survey data). The purpose of this study was to examine the historical changes in land cover from 1827 to 1999 using land- scape metrics calculated on maps created from different sources. Regression and power law analyses were conducted to identify significant trends and threshold effects associated with land-cover change at Fort Benning, Georgia. Results indi- cated that since 1827 the landscape has become more fragmented with the introduc- tion of farming, military training, and forest management practices.
Determination of physical properties of a planetary surface by measuring the deceleration of a probe upon impact: Application to Titan

Abstract We report scale model laboratory experiments showing how an impact accelerometer on a planetary probe (based on the Huygens probe Phase A configuration) can provide significant information on the mechanical characteristics of the surface. In particular, solid and liquid surfaces can be discriminated. The density of liquids can in principle be determined from the peak deceleration, thereby providing a constraint on composition, although experimental uncertainties present challenges to the accuracy of this method.
OS DETERMINANTES DOS RESULTADOS DE SOMA POSITIVA EM MINAS GERAIS E NO RIO GRANDE DO SUL

O artigo trada dos processos decisorios no âmbito dos estados de Minas Gerais e Rio Grande do Sul entre 1999 e 2006. Pretende-se ampliar a abrangencia dos estudos sobre os poderes estaduais no Brasil focando nos poderes legislativos considerados mais desenvolvidos institucionalmente. O argumento geral e que resultados de soma positiva nao sao obtidos de maneira espontânea, mas construidos a partir de negociacao entre os governantes. Nessa direcao, afirma-se que a dinâmica dos governos subnacionais brasileiros nao segue uma constante de ultrapresidencialismo: ha variacao no tipo de relacionamento entre Executivo e Legislativo e entre governo e oposicoes, a depender do nivel de desenvolvimento institucional e do grau de estruturacao dos subsistemas partidarios. Os resultados mostram que essa variacao e ainda mais forte a depender do tipo de coalizao governativa. Vale destacar, primeiro, que o tipo de coalizao composta depende de caracteristicas do subsistema partidario. Em segundo lugar, que quanto mais coalescente uma coalizao de governo, e quanto mais contigua uma coalizao de governo, menor e o volume de resultados de soma positiva obtidos por um governo.
An assessment of stretch effects on a flame tip using the thin flame and thick flame formulations

Flames are stretched due to the interactions between nonuniform flow along the flame, flamefront curvature, and flame motion. Variations in the stretch rate induce local variations in the flame temperature and the mass burning rate. Williams defined flame stretch as the fractional rate of change of an area element on a flame surface [1]. This definition assumes an infinitesimally thin reaction zone, a single chemical reaction and single Lewis number. On the other hand, De Goey et al. [2] and De Goey and Boonkkamp [3] derived expressions for the flame stretch for flames of finite thickness based on mass conservation. Their formulation is consistent with simulations of multidimensional reacting flows with multicomponent transport and finite rate chemistry [2,4]. Markstein [5] used a semi-phenomenological model to propose a linear relation between flame speed and flame stretch. Although the relation between flame stretch and flame speed is well described by the asymptotic analyses for weak stretch, a corresponding relation for flames with high values of strain rate and curvature is not well established. Flame tips provide a convenient topology for investigating the response of flames to strong hydrodynamic straining and curvature. Recently, Choi and Puri [6,7] experimentally investigated stretch effects on rich premixed methane-air slot-burner flames. They identified a planar region and a curved tip in these flames that responded differently. We compared the flame stretch predicted by the conventional thin flame and the mass-based thick flame definitions along curved flame tips through a numerical simulation of a methane-air flame established on a slot burner. Our focus on the flame tip was motivated by the premise that the effect of flame thickness could be expected to be most severe in regions of high flame curvature. The simulation was conducted with the NIST Fire Dynamics Simulator (FDS) developed by McGrattan et al. [8]. This code employs an approximate form of the Navier-Stokes equations that is appropriate for low Mach number flows in which chemical reaction is modeled through a single global step.
Data-driven modeling and simulation framework for material handling systems in coal mines

Abstract In coal mining industry, discrete-event simulation has been widely used to support decisions in material handling system (MHS) to achieve premiums on revenues. However, the conventional simulation modeling approach requires extensive expertise of simulation during the modeling phase and lacks flexibility when the MHS structure changes. In this paper, a data-driven modeling and simulation framework is developed for MHS of coal mines to automatically generate a discrete-event simulation model based on current MHS structural and operational data. To this end, a formal information model based on Unified Modeling Language (UML) is first developed to provide MHS structural information for simulation model generation, production information for simulation execution, and output requirement information for defining simulation outputs. Then, Petri net-based model generation procedures are designed and used to automatically generate a simulation model in Arena® based on the simulation inputs conforming to the constructed information model. The proposed framework is demonstrated for one of the largest open-pit coal mines in the USA, and it has been demonstrated that the framework can be used to effectively generate the simulation models that precisely represent MHS of coal mines, and then be used to support various decisions in coal mining such as equipment scheduling.
Growth of the Human Prepubertal and Pubertal Larynx

Prepubertal, pubertal, and adult measurements of human larynges were used to describe growth of the larynx from prepuberty to adulthood. Linear and weight measurements made of 10 Caucasian male and 10 Caucasian female prepubertal and pubertal cadaveric larynges were compared to adult measurement data obtained from another study on 20 male and 20 female larynges of adults, aged 37-70. In both studies measurements and experimental protocols were similar, allowing direct comparisons to be made between samples. Results highlight specific quantitative characteristics and trends in circumpubertal growth of the laryngeal cartilages and the vocal folds for each sex and with respect to sex differences. The results are discussed with respect to the literature on postnatal laryngeal development and to published research on adolescent voice change.
Surgical site infection: A comparison of multispecialty and single specialty outpatient facilities.

Abstract Background Reoperation secondary to surgical site infections can be a devastating complication in orthopaedic surgery. Infection rates in the ambulatory setting have been reported to be lower than those cited in a hospital setting. However, a direct comparative analysis of infection rates of orthopaedic procedures performed in a single specialty ambulatory surgical center (ASC) versus a multi-specialty ASC has, to our knowledge, not been performed. Methods Four surgeons performed more than 10,000 orthopaedic surgeries in a multispecialty and single specialty ambulatory setting over 8 years. These procedures were reviewed for postoperative deep infection within one year of initial operation. Results The post-surgical deep infection rate in a multi-specialty ASC was 0.81% in 2867 operations compared with a rate of 0.38% in 7311 operations performed in a single specialty ASC (p = 0.007). Conclusions This study demonstrated that the rate of infection leading to reoperation was significantly lower in a single specialty ambulatory surgery setting as opposed to one accommodating multiple specialties.
Nonlinear optimization; some applications to colorant formulations

A nonlinear optimization technique is applied to metameric and spectral color matchings. This technique proves very powerful in always obtaining feasible solutions and smaller errors, particularly in the high reflectance region.
Monitoring sulfate-reducing bacteria: comparison of enumeration media

Abstract The standard medium (API Recommended Practice RP-38) for the enumeration of sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) in oil-field waters was modified by the addition of an ammonium salt, a Ca salt, vitamins, trace metals and an additional reductant, cysteine. The modified medium was compared to API RP-38 medium, Postgate's medium B a modified Baar's medium. While the enumeration of Desulfovibrio desulfuricans and Desulfovibrio vulgaris was not influenced by the medium used, the enumeration of SRB from environmental samples did depend on the choice of medium. Higher counts of SRB were obtained from environmental samples in a shorter time with the modified compared to the standard API RP-38 medium. Enumeration of SRB was also generally more rapid with the modified medium compared to Postgate's medium B and the modified Baar's medium
Recent IBEX Observations and the Evolving Interstellar Interaction

The first all‐sky maps of Energetic Neutral Atoms (ENAs) from the Interstellar Boundary Explorer (IBEX) exhibited smoothly varying, globally distributed flux and a narrow “ribbon” of enhanced ENA emissions. Since then, IBEX has completed another set of full sky maps, which show that the large‐scale structure was generally stable between the first and second halves of 2009. However, these maps also indicate some very intriguing smaller scale temporal changes in the outer heliospheric emissions. This paper provides an update on the IBEX observations in general and examines their temporal variations in particular. The observed large‐scale stability and the systematic changes at smaller spatial scales provide important new information about the outer heliosphere and its global interaction with the galaxy, as well as illuminating possible mechanisms for producing the IBEX ribbon.
The Effects of Pharmacol ogic Agents on Immune‐Complex‐induced Redistribution of B‐Lymphocyte Fc Receptors

The effects of pharmacologic agents on the immune-complex-induced redistribution of B-lymphocyte Fc receptors (and, as a control, the anti-Ig induced redistribution of surface Ig) were examined. Immune-complex-induced capping of B-cell Fc receptors was moderately to markedly inhibited by the combination of colchicine and cytochalasin B, the Ca++ ionophore A23187, and the local anaesthetic lidocaine but was only slightly inhibited by cytochalasin B alone and was not inhibited by colchicine alone. Inhibition of capping was not due to the inhibition of binding of immune complexes to the B-lymphocytes or to decreased cell viability since these effects were absent. Preformed immune complex-Fc receptor caps were disrupted by A23187, lidocaine, and the combination of colchicine and cytochalasin B, but not by either colchicine or cytochalasin B alone. The effects of the pharmacologic agents were similar for Fc receptors and surface Ig in all cases. These results suggest that ligand bound Fc receptors are affected by cytoskeletal structures and that the ligand-induced redistribution of two distinct B lymphocyte surface receptors (fc receptors and surface Ig) occurs by similar or identical mechanisms.
Optical decoherence and spectral diffusion at 1.5 μ m in Er 3 + : Y 2 SiO 5 versus magnetic field, temperature, and Er 3 + concentration

The mechanisms and effects of spectral diffusion for optical transitions of paramagnetic ions have been explored using the inhomogeneously broadened 1536 nm $^{4}\mathrm{I}_{15∕2}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}^{4}\mathrm{I}_{13∕2}$ transition in ${\mathrm{Er}}^{3+}:{\mathrm{Y}}_{2}{\mathrm{SiO}}_{5}$. Using photon echo spectroscopy, spectral diffusion was measured by observing the evolution of the effective coherence lifetimes over time scales from $1\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\ensuremath{\mu}\mathrm{s}$ to 20 ms for magnetic-field strengths from 0.3 to 6.0 T, temperatures from 1.6 to 6.5 K, and nominal ${\mathrm{Er}}^{3+}$ concentrations of 0.0015%, 0.005%, and 0.02%. To understand the effect of spectral diffusion on material decoherence for different environmental conditions and material compositions, data and models were compared to identify spectral diffusion mechanisms and microscopic spin dynamics. Observations were successfully modeled by ${\mathrm{Er}}^{3+}\ensuremath{-}{\mathrm{Er}}^{3+}$ magnetic dipole interactions and ${\mathrm{Er}}^{3+}$ electron spin flips driven by the one-phonon direct process. At temperatures of 4.2 K and higher, spectral diffusion due to $^{89}\mathrm{Y}$ nuclear spin flips was also observed. The success in describing our extensive experimental results using simple models provides an important capability for exploring larger parameter spaces, accelerating the design and optimization of materials for spatial-spectral holography, and spectral hole-burning devices. The broad insight into spectral diffusion mechanisms and dynamics is applicable to other paramagnetic materials, such as those containing ${\mathrm{Yb}}^{3+}$ or ${\mathrm{Nd}}^{3+}$.
Common coding and dynamic interactions between observed, imagined, and experienced motor and somatosensory activity.

Motor imagery and perception - considered generally as forms of motor simulation - share overlapping neural representations with motor production. While much research has focused on the extent of this "common coding," less attention has been paid to how these overlapping representations interact. How do imagined, observed, or produced actions influence one another, and how do we maintain control over our perception and behavior? In the first part of this review we describe interactions between motor production and motor simulation, and explore apparent regulatory mechanisms that balance these processes. Next, we consider the somatosensory system. Numerous studies now support a "sensory mirror system" comprised of neural representations activated by either afferent sensation or vicarious sensation. In the second part of this review we summarize evidence for shared representations of sensation and sensory simulation (including imagery and observed sensation), and suggest that similar interactions and regulation of simulation occur in the somatosensory domain as in the motor domain. We suggest that both motor and somatosensory simulations are flexibly regulated to support simulations congruent with our sensorimotor experience and goals and suppress or separate the influence of those that are not. These regulatory mechanisms are frequently revealed by cases of brain injury but can also be employed to facilitate sensorimotor rehabilitation.
Effects of tetracyclines on bone metabolism.

The anti-resorptive properties of tetracyclines (TCs) and their non-antimicrobial, chemically modified analogues (CMTs) have enormous therapeutic potential in medicine and dentistry. Osseous destructive diseases associated with excessive mammalian collagenase (matrix metalloproteinase) activity and collagen breakdown include malignancy, arthritis, and periodontitis. However, apart from the significant antimatrix metalloproteinase effects of TCs, TCs/CMTs are also potent inhibitors of osteoclast function (i.e., anti-resorptive). Thus, TCs can affect several parameters of osteoclast function and consequently inhibit bone resorption by (1) altering intracellular calcium concentration and interacting with the putative calcium receptor; (2) decreasing ruffled border area; (3) diminishing acid production; (4) diminishing the secretion of lysosomal cysteine proteinases (cathepsins); (5) inducing cell retraction by affecting podosomes; (6) inhibiting osteoclast gelatinase activity; (7) selectively inhibiting osteoclast ontogeny or development; and (8) inducing apoptosis or programmed cell death of osteoclasts. TCs/CMTs, as anti-resorptive drugs, may act similarly to bisphosphonates and primarily affect osteoclast function.
Effects produced by metal-coated near-field probes on the performance of silicon waveguides and resonators

We study the effects of metal-coated fiber near-field probes on the performance of nanophotonic devices. Employing a heterodyne near-field scanning optical microscope and analyzing transmission characteristics, we find that a metal-coated probe can typically introduce a 3 dB intensity loss and a 0.2 rad phase shift during characterization of a straight waveguide made in a silicon-on-insulator system. In resonant nanophotonic structures such as a 5 μm radius microring resonator, we demonstrate that the probe induces a 1 nm shift in resonant wavelength and decreases the resonator quality factor, Q, from 1100 to 480.
Cardiovascular responses to microinjections of excitatory amino acids into the area postrema of the rat.

Although, area postrema (AP) as been implicated in the regulation of cardiovascular function, there is no consensus regarding the type of responses elicited by stimulation of this brain structure. Microinjections (50 nl) of smaller concentrations of excitatory amino acid receptor agonists (e.g., NMDA, KA and trans-ACPD, 10 microM each) into the AP elicited pressor and tachycardic responses in unanesthetized decerebrate as well as urethane-anesthetized rats. Microinjections of higher concentrations (e.g., 50 microM NMDA) of excitatory amino acids (EAAs) into the AP elicited an initial pressor and tachycardic response which was followed by a depressor and bradycardic response; when high concentrations of NMDA were microinjected into the AP, enough concentration may have reached the nucleus tractus solitarius (nTS) to elicit depressor and bradycardic responses. Alternatively, high concentrations of NMDA may excite known projections from AP to the nTS.
Peripheral Functionalization of Diruthenium Compounds via Heck Reactions

The coordination compounds Ru2Cl(L)3(L‘), where L is D(3,5-Cl2Ph)F and L‘ is either D(4-IPh)F or DMBA-I, underwent Heck cross-coupling reactions with terminal olefins to afford compounds 1 and 2; the organometallic compound trans-(PhC⋮C)2Ru2(L)3(DMBA-I) also underwent the Heck reaction under different conditions to yield compounds 3. Structural and voltammetric data indicated that the addition of peripheral olefins resulted in a minimal perturbation in both the coordination geometry around the Ru2 center and the electronic properties of the Ru2 species.
Greenhouse gas mitigation can reduce sea-ice loss and increase polar bear persistence

On the basis of projected losses of their essential sea-ice habitats, a United States Geological Survey research team concluded in 2007 that two-thirds of the world's polar bears (Ursus maritimus) could disappear by mid-century if business-as-usual greenhouse gas emissions continue. That projection, however, did not consider the possible benefits of greenhouse gas mitigation. A key question is whether temperature increases lead to proportional losses of sea-ice habitat, or whether sea-ice cover crosses a tipping point and irreversibly collapses when temperature reaches a critical threshold. Such a tipping point would mean future greenhouse gas mitigation would confer no conservation benefits to polar bears. Here we show, using a general circulation model, that substantially more sea-ice habitat would be retained if greenhouse gas rise is mitigated. We also show, with Bayesian network model outcomes, that increased habitat retention under greenhouse gas mitigation means that polar bears could persist throughout the century in greater numbers and more areas than in the business-as-usual case. Our general circulation model outcomes did not reveal thresholds leading to irreversible loss of ice; instead, a linear relationship between global mean surface air temperature and sea-ice habitat substantiated the hypothesis that sea-ice thermodynamics can overcome albedo feedbacks proposed to cause sea-ice tipping points. Our outcomes indicate that rapid summer ice losses in models and observations represent increased volatility of a thinning sea-ice cover, rather than tipping-point behaviour. Mitigation-driven Bayesian network outcomes show that previously predicted declines in polar bear distribution and numbers are not unavoidable. Because polar bears are sentinels of the Arctic marine ecosystem and trends in their sea-ice habitats foreshadow future global changes, mitigating greenhouse gas emissions to improve polar bear status would have conservation benefits throughout and beyond the Arctic.
Cu/Pd multilayers: An atomistic structural study.

The embedded-atom method (EAM) has been used to perform molecular-dynamics (MD) calculations of Cu/Pd multilayer films. In a recent publication, we presented our results on the elastic properties of these multilayers from our EAM-MD technique. In this paper we illustrate the simulation technique in detail. Comparisons are made with first-principles (local-density) calculations with respect to structural aspects of the multilayer. The local-density results follow trends similar to those seen in the EAM-MD approach. Various assumptions used in these calculations are critically examined.
Stress intensity factors in spot welds

Abstract This paper looks at stress intensity factors of cracks in resistance spot welded joints. Stress intensity factors have been used in the past to predict fatigue crack propagation life of resistance spot welds. However, the stress intensity factors from all previous work was based on assumed initial notch cracks at the nugget, parallel to the sheets. Physical evidence shows, however, that fatigue cracks in spot welds propagate through the thickness of the sheets rather than through the nugget. In this work, stress intensity factors of assumed notch cracks and through thickness cracks in tensile shear (TS) and modified coach peel (MCP) specimens were determined by the finite element method. The finite element results from the assumed notch cracks were compared with the results in the literature and were found to be in agreement with the results from Zhang’s equations [Int. J. Fract. 88 (1997) 167]. The stress intensity factors of assumed notch cracks were found to be different from those of through thickness cracks. To date, no analytic equations for stress intensity factors of through thickness cracks in spot welds have been published. In the current work, simple equations are proposed to estimate the KI and KII values of through thickness cracks in TS and MCP specimens.
Subversive bacteria reveal new tricks in their cytoskeleton-hijacking arsenal.

During infection, pathogenic Yersinia species secrete the antiphagocytic factor YopO (or YpkA), which contains a kinase domain and a Rho GTPase guanine nucleotide–dissociation inhibitor (GDI) domain. The structure of YopO in complex with actin, along with biochemical analyses, reveals the mechanism by which YopO uses actin to activate its kinase domain and recruit, phosphorylate and deactivate actin-assembly factors implicated in phagocytic clearance of the bacterium.
Use of emergency medical services expedites in-hospital care processes in patients presenting with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention

To determine whether door-to-balloon (DTB) times of patients presenting with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) were reduced in patients transported by emergency medical services (EMS) compared to those who were self-transported. DTB time is an important measure of hospital care processes in STEMI. Use of EMS may expedite in-hospital processing and reduce DTB times. A total of 309 consecutive STEMI patients who underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention in our institution were analyzed. Excluded were patients who received fibrinolytics, presented in cardiac arrest, were intubated, or were transferred from another hospital. EMS-transported patients (n=83) were compared to self-transported patients (n=226). The primary outcome measure was DTB time and its component time intervals. Secondary end points included symptom-to-door and symptom-to-balloon times, and correlates for DTB >90 minutes. A higher percentage of EMS-transported patients reached the time goal of DTB 90 minutes were self-transport (odds ratio 5.32, 95% CI 2.65-10.70; p<0.001) and off-hours presentation (odds ratio 2.89, 95% CI 1.60-5.22; p<0.001). Use of EMS transport in STEMI patients significantly shortens time to reperfusion, primarily by expediting emergency department processes. Community education efforts should focus not only on the importance of recognizing symptoms of myocardial infarction, but also taking early action by calling the EMS.
Wavefronts for a Cooperative Tridiagonal System of Differential Equations

Consider the infinite system of nonlinear differential equations\(\dot u\)n =f(n−1, un, un+1),neℤ, wherefeC1,D1f > 0,D3f>0, andf(0, 0, 0) = 0 =f(1, 1, 1). Existence of wavefronts—i.e., solutions of the formun(t) = U(n + ct), whereceℝ,U(− ∞) = 0,U(+∞) = 1, andU is strictly increasing—is shown for functionsf which satisfy the condition: there existsa, 0 0 fora < x < 1.
Performance Validity and Neuropsychological Outcomes in Litigants and Disability Claimants

This study examined the relationship of performance validity and neuropsychological outcomes in a sample of individuals referred for independent neuropsychological examination in the context of reported traumatic brain injury (82% mild). Archival data were examined on 175 participants aged 20 to 65 who were administered at least two performance validity measures. Participants who passed all effort measures (Pass; n = 61) outperformed those who failed two or more (Fail; n = 70) on the majority of tests in the neuropsychological battery. The Fail group showed a higher percentage of impaired test scores than the Pass group with impairment defined at three levels (T scores < 40, 35, and 30). At the most conservative impairment cutoff (T < 30), 16% of the Pass group demonstrated impaired scores on more than three measures, while 79% of the Fail group showed impaired scores on more than three measures. The number of effort measures failed correlated highly with the overall test battery mean (r = −.73). On cogni...
Reducing Read Latency of Shingled Magnetic Recording With Severe Intertrack Interference Using Transparent Lossless Data Compression

With the distinct advantage of retaining conventional head and media, the emerging shingled recording technology improves areal storage density through intentional track overlapping that nevertheless introduces severe intertrack interference (ITI). An economically tenable option for shingled drives is to utilize a single read head. As we continue to increase its areal storage density, there will be a higher probability that a read operation demands reading multiple adjacent tracks for explicit ITI compensation. This directly results in a significant read latency penalty when using a single read head. In this work, we propose a simple design strategy to reduce such ITI-induced read latency penalty. If a sector of user data can be compressed to a certain extent, it will leave more storage space for coding redundancy and, hence, opportunistically enable the use of a stronger-than-normal error correction code (ECC). The stronger ECC can accordingly reduce the probability of reading multiple adjacent tracks for explicit ITI compensation. Beyond a simple intrasector compression, the absence of the update-in-place feature in shingled recording makes it feasible to apply lossless compression across multiple consecutive sectors. This can further improve the compression efficiency and, hence, reduce the probability of reading multiple adjacent tracks. We carried out simulations that successfully demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed design strategies on reducing the read latency penalty caused by severe ITI in shingled recording.
Isothermal Fatigue Behavior of the Near-Eutectic Sn-Ag-Cu Alloy between −25°C and 125°C

When near-eutectic Sn-Ag-Cu (SAC) alloys are used to make soldered ball-grid-array (BGA) assemblies, the grain size of the joints is very large. During thermomechanical cycling, the solder joint fatigue process is often initiated with recrystallization of the Sn grains, resulting in a smaller grain size in the deformed areas. Grain boundary sliding and increased grain boundary diffusion then results in intergranular crack nucleation and propagation along the recrystallized Sn grain boundaries. In this work, fatigue tests were used to study the initial stages of cyclic deformation damage in Sn-Ag-Cu alloy samples. To separate the solder properties from the constraints introduced by the substrate, the tests were done with free-standing solder specimens, instead of solder joints. The test samples were cast dog-bone specimens that have a cross-sectional diameter of 1 mm, which corresponds to a typical solder joint diameter in BGAs. Mechanical cycling was performed isothermally at several temperatures, from −25°C to 125°C. Typical test conditions were ± 1.5% strain and 15-minute hold at tensile peak stress to allow stress relaxation to take place. Optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and electron backscattering diffraction were used to study the microstructures of the samples before and after fatigue testing in order to obtain insight into the nucleation and growth mechanisms of fatigue damage.
Analysis of differential secondary effects of novel rexinoids: select rexinoid X receptor ligands demonstrate differentiated side effect profiles

In order to determine the feasibility of utilizing novel rexinoids for chemotherapeutics and as potential treatments for neurological conditions, we undertook an assessment of the side effect profile of select rexinoid X receptor (RXR) analogs that we reported previously. We assessed pharmacokinetic profiles, lipid and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels in rats, and cell culture activity of rexinoids in sterol regulatory element-binding protein (SREBP) induction and thyroid hormone inhibition assays. We also performed RNA sequencing of the brain tissues of rats that had been dosed with the compounds. We show here for the first time that potent rexinoid activity can be uncoupled from drastic lipid changes and thyroid axis variations, and we propose that rexinoids can be developed with improved side effect profiles than the parent compound, bexarotene (1).
Rat lens prostaglandin biosynthesis during galactose-induced cataractogenesis

Abstract The relationship between the development of galactose-induced cataractogenesis and rat lens microsomal prostaglandin (PG) biosynthesis was studied. Within 24 hr of the introduction of 50% galactose to the rat's diet, lens PGF 2α production fell dramatically to 31% of control. Following the initial depression of PGF 2α biosynthesis, the ability to generate PGF 2α in lens microsomes slightly recovered reaching 58- and 53% of controls at day 2 and day 5 on the sugar diet, respectively. Determination of microsomal PGF 2α biosynthesis at 9- and 21 days revealed a continued decline in PG synthesis with complete cessation of PGF 2α synthesis by day 36 (hypermature cataracts, +5). The decreased PGF 2α biosynthesis capacity was a result of decreased cyclo-oxygenase activity since: (1) PGE 2 production demonstrated a similar time course for inhibition; and (2) lens microsomes from control and galactose fed rats revealed no difference in the PGs produced from PGH 2 endoperoxide. Neither galactose (1 m m ) nor galactitol (1 m m ), when added to control microsomal preparations inhibited PG biosynthesis, eliminating the possibility of a direct effect of the sugar, or its metabolite, on cyclo-oxygenase activity. While PG biosynthesis was rapidly inhibited by the galactose feeding no changes were observed in basal lens cyclic AMP levels measured during the first 5 days of the feedings. These results demonstrate that depressed PG biosynthesis is an early consequence of galactose feeding.
Density and composition of microorganisms during long-term (418 day) growth of potato using biologically reclaimed nutrients from inedible plant biomass.

A study evaluating alternative methods for long term operation of biomass production systems was recently completed at the Kennedy Space Center (KSC). The 418-day study evaluated repeated batch versus mixed-aged production of potato grown on either standard 1/2-strength Hoagland's nutrient solution or solutions including nutrients recycled from inedible plant material. The long term effects of closure and recycling on microbial dynamics were evaluated by monitoring the microbial communities associated with various habitats within the plant growth system (i.e., plant roots, nutrient solution, biofilms within the hydroponic systems, atmosphere, and atmospheric condensate). Plate count methods were used to enumerate and characterize microorganisms. Microscopic staining methods were used to estunate total cell densities. The primary finding was that the density and composition of microbial communities associated with controlled environmental plant growth systems are stable during long term operation. Continuous production resulted in slightly greater stability. Nutrient recycling, despite the addition of soluble organic material from the waste processing system, did not significantly increase microbial density in any of the habitats.
The use of rinsing and heating of filter paper in an attempt to reduce phosphorescence background at room temperature.

Abstract Washing or heating the paper is shown generally not to give a significant reduction in the background phosphorescence of filter paper used as a support
Formation of singlet oxygen from aromatic excimers and monomers

Abstract Singlet oxygen ( 1 Δ g ) formation is sensitized by excimers of aromatic hydrocarbons as well as by monomers. In methanol the pyrene excimer is a somewhat less efficient sensitizer than is pyrene itself, while the excimer of naphthalene is more efficient than the monomer. An explanation invoking involvement of upper triplet states in oxygen-enhanced intersystem crossing is suggested.
Topographical and developmental studies on target sites of 1,25 (OH2) vitamin D3 in skin

Tritium-labeled 1,25 (OH2) vitamin D3, when injected into vitamin D-deficient adult and pregnant rats is concentrated and retained strongest in nuclei of cells in the outer root sheath of the hair, followed by the stratum granulosum, spinosum, and basale of the epidermis. In the hair follicle, in addition to the most heavily labeled outer root sheath, nuclear labeling exists also in cells of the hair bulb and of the inner root sheath, as well as in basal cells of the sebaceous gland. In contrast, cells of the dermal papilla and the connective tissue of the dermis are generally unlabeled, except for labeled cells in the outer connective tissue sheath at the infundibulum of vibrissae of 20-day fetal rats and a few scattered labeled cells in the dermis, probably macrophages. In the developing hair, in 18- and 20-day fetal rats, a distinct topographic pattern of labeled cells can be seen, which is characteristic of the different stages of hair follicle development. In the hair germ, heavily labeled cells appear first in the stratum spinosum. In the hair peg, they remain in this position in its juxtaepidermal portion; however, when a dermal papilla develops, heavily labeled cells assume a marginal position. This suggests a sequential epidermal-epidermal and mesenchymal-epidermal receptor induction. Injection of tritium labeled 25 (OH) vitamin D3 did not show nuclear concentration in these tissues and excess unlabeled 25 (OH) vitamin D3 — unlike excess 1,25 (OH2) vitamin D3 — did not prevent nuclear uptake of tritium labeled 1,25 (OH2) vitamin D3. The results indicate differential effects of 1,25 (OH2) vitamin D3 on different structures in the epidermis and dermis.
Potentially complex biosphere responses to transient global warming

Feedback interactions between terrestrial vegetation and climate could alter predictions of the responses of both systems to a doubling of atmospheric CO2. Most previous analyses of biosphere responses to global warming have used output from equilibrium simulations of current and future climate, as compared to more recently available transient GCM simulations. We compared the vegetation responses to these two different classes of GCM simulation (equilibrium and transient) using an equilibrium vegetation distribution model, MAPSS. Average climatologies were extracted from the transient GCM simulations for current and doubled (2H )C O 2concentrations (taken to be 2070‐ 2099) for use by the equilibrium vegetation model. However, the 2 H CO2 climates extracted from the transient GCM simulations were not in equilibrium, having attained only about 65% of their eventual 2 H CO2 equilibrium temperature change. Most of the differences in global vegetation response appeared to be related to a very different simulated change in the pole to tropic temperature gradient. Also, the transient scenarios produced much larger increases of precipitation in temperate latitudes, commensurate with a minimum in the latitudinal temperature change. Thus, the (equilibrium) global vegetation response, under the transient scenarios, tends more to a greening than a decline in vegetation density, as often previously simulated. It may be that much of the world could become greener during the early phases of global warming, only to reverse in later, more equilibrial stages. However, whether or not the world’s vegetation experiences large drought-induced declines or perhaps large vegetation expansions in early stages could be determined by the degree to which elevated CO2 will actually benefit natural vegetation, an issue still under debate. There may occur oscillations, perhaps on long timescales, between greener and drier phases, due to different frequency responses of the coupled ocean‐atmosphere‐biosphere interactions. Such oscillations would likely, of themselves, impart further reverberations to the coupled Earth System.
Iron deficiency and its impact on academic achievement

Purpose – It is widely accepted that good health and education are important components of human capability. Although China has made encouraging progress in education and health causes, the role of poor health as an intervening factor in education has not been fully recognized. Iron deficiency is the major micronutrient deficiency encountered by children and adolescents. Many medical and social studies have found a negative correlation between iron deficiency and children physical growth and cognitive development. However, few of the existing literatures work to the conclusion of a causal relationship considering the endogenity problem in the estimation of a human capital model. The purpose of this paper is to study the iron status of elementary school children living in the poor countryside of western China and its educational consequence with the application of instrumental variable (IV) estimation.Design/methodology/approach – An analytical framework of academic achievement production is adopted in the...
The Human Mind as a Barrier to Wiser Environmental Agreements

Human ingenuity offers the best hope for tackling a whole range of environmental problems currently threatening global welfare, yet the human mind also creates cognitive barriers to wise environmental agreements. In this article, the authors focus on a set of six systematic cognitive barriers that are particularly endemic to environmental disputes. The fixed-pie bias grows from the assumption that disputants' interests are perfectly opposed. This mythical fixed pie inhibits the discovery of beneficial trade-offs that integrate parties' interests. The authors also discuss five other cognitive biases that combine with the fixed-pie assumption to influence the resolution of disputes in the environmental domain: pseudosacredness, egocentrism, overconfidence, unrealistic optimism, and endowment effects. They discuss the potential role of learning and experience in improving negotiator performance and conclude with prescriptive advice for overcoming these cognitive barriers.
Construction of a cDNA library from microdissected guinea pig crista ampullaris.

Abstract Poly(A) RNA was isolated from microdissected guinea pig crista ampullaris epithelium and converted into cDNA with RNase H − murine leukemia virus reverse transcriptase. After size fractionation, the cDNA was directionally ligated into the vector pSPORT 1 and the plasmids electroporated into E. coli . The library was found to have 1.6 × 10 7 independent colonies with 5% of the colonies lacking an insert. Thirty randomly selected colonies were checked for inserts and the average insert size was 833 base pairs with a range of 400 to 2300 base pairs. The library was screened with a β-actin guinea pig cDNA probe and 0.16% of the colonies contained an insert hybridizing to the probe.
Ras oncogene expression as a prognostic indicator in rectal adenocarcinoma

In order to investigate the value of ras oncogene expression as a prognostic indicator in rectal adenocarcinoma, we evaluated the level of ras gene protein product (p21) in the available material of 149 consecutive Dukes' B and C specimens resected at our institution between 1965 and 1981. Five year follow-up was available in all patients. Pathology slides and archival paraffin blocks were retrieved for confirmation of the original diagnosis, study of histopathological features, and measurement of p21 content. P21 titers were obtained using the RAP-5 monoclonal antibody in a semiquantitative immunohistochemical assay. Titer was expressed as the highest dilution of antibody giving definitive staining using the avidin-biotin peroxidase method. The analysis indicated that the group of tumors with high (greater than or equal to 1:40,000) p21 titers had a worse 5-year survival (43.9 versus 64.3%, P less than 0.02), higher incidence of distant metastases (51.8 versus 23.2%, P less than 0.001), and more advanced Dukes' stage (53.7 versus 35.7% incidence of Dukes' C stage, P less than 0.04) than tumors with low (less than 1:40,000) titers. Multivariate analysis also demonstrated that the influence of the level of ras gene protein product on survival was independent of Dukes' stage. We conclude that detection of high levels of ras oncogene protein product indicates a group of tumors with a more aggressive behavior, characterized by a higher percentage of distant recurrences and worse prognosis. These findings suggest that measurement of p21 may become clinically important in identifying patients at high risk of recurrent disease.
Work related stress among gynecologic oncologists

Abstract Objective Up to one third of oncologists experience burnout. The objective was to determine correlates of work related stress in gynecologic oncologists (GOs). Methods Using an online tool, we surveyed 273 members of the International Gynecologic Cancer (IGCS) Society (60% from North America) to examine demographic, psychological and spiritual correlates of work related stress (WRS) and burnout. Measures of death anxiety (DA) and locus of control (LOC) were also administered. Results WRS did not correlate with religion, religiosity, race, or gender, but did correlate with DA (r=0.23, p=0.0006). WRS was also associated with younger age (p=0.01) and fewer years out of training (p=0.0286), higher scores on LOC Chance (r=0.18, p=0.007), higher scores on Powerful Other (r=0.30, p Conclusion Responses from younger and less experienced GOs, correlate with higher WRS scores especially if their LOC is weighted toward chance and powerful others. Responses of GO's with these two characteristics also correlate with higher DA scores and reports of difficulty talking about death.
Uptake and utilization of L-glutamine by human lymphoid cells; relationship to γ-glutamyl transpeptidase activity

Abstract Initial rates of glutamine uptake were studied in human lymphoid cell lines whose γ-glutamyl transpeptidase activities vary from 93 to 11,300 units/mg. In general, glutamine was transported at lower rates than other amino acids (met, phe, leu) in all cell lines studied. A cell line with very high transpeptidase activity exhibited an increased rate of glutamine uptake as compared to other amino acids, and a markedly decreased intracellular concentration of glutamine. In all cell lines transported glutamine was extensively (80%) converted to glutamate. Treatment of cells with 6-diazo-5-oxo-L-norleucine (DON) decreased transpeptidase and conversion of transported glutamine to glutamate by about 80%. Inhibition of glutamine transport was less pronounced (0–20%). The findings indicate that transported glutamine does not equilibrate with glutamine in the intracellular pool, but may enter a separate pool in which it is rapidly converted to glutamate.
Intracranial germinoma in the pineal region arising after subtotal resection of epidermoid cyst: Case report

We present an unusual case of a germinoma of the pineal region arising adjacent to an epidermoid cyst in a 16-year-old male. Initial imaging findings were classic for epidermoid cyst. The patient underwent two partial resections at an outside institution, each specimen demonstrating pure epidermoid cyst. Follow-up imaging over a period of 24 months showed an area of progressive contrast enhancement adjacent to the initial lesion, suggesting the development of a neoplasm. Given the area of contrast enhancement in addition to worsening headaches and visual changes, he underwent a third and final resection at our institution. Pathology revealed a mixed germ cell tumor with prominent germinoma component in addition to a well-differentiated epidermoid cyst. Details of his imaging and pathologic findings are presented, and possible explanations for these findings are explored, the most likely of which is lack of complete resection at the onset failed to identify the whole of the neoplasm. We conclude that pediatric epidermoid cysts of the pineal region should always receive close follow-up, particularly when total resection is not performed.