cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Bird abundance in forests managed for timber and wildlife resources

Abstract Bird abundances and species composition were compared in the western Sierra Nevada between 1983 and 1984, and between 1986 and 1987 in stands that were managed by even- and uneven-aged silvicultural systems (treatments) for both timber and wildlife resources. Residency status had no significant relationship with bird numbers between treatments. Of the 26 bird species analyzed, significant yearly variation in numbers was found for 10 species between 1983 and 1984 and six species between 1986 and 1987. Significant treatment effects were shown for 10 species during 1983 and 1984 and 10 species during 1986 and 1987; a tendency was found for higher numbers on uneven-aged stands. Maintenance of a somewhat natural mix of tree species may have reduced possible treatment effects on bird numbers. If managed for maintenance of high tree-species diversity and other wildlife needs, even- and uneven-aged stands may support similar bird communities.
A mechanical, thermal and electrical packaging design for a prototype power management and control system for the 30 cm mercury ion thruster

A prototype electric power management and thruster control system for a 30 cm ion thruster is described. The system meets all of the requirements necessary to operate a thruster in a fully automatic mode. Power input to the system can vary over a full two to one dynamic range (200 to 400 V) for the solar array or other power source. The power management and control system is designed to protect the thruster, the flight system and itself from arcs and is fully compatible with standard spacecraft electronics. The system is easily integrated into flight systems which can operate over a thermal environment ranging from 0.3 to 5 AU. The complete power management and control system measures 45.7 cm (18 in.) x 15.2 cm (6 in.) x 114.8 cm (45.2 in.) and weighs 36.2 kg (79.7 lb). At full power the overall efficiency of the system is estimated to be 87.4 percent. Three systems are currently being built and a full schedule of environmental and electrical testing is planned.
Maddox rod effect to confirm the visual significance of laser in situ keratomileusis flap striae.

Laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) flap striae can act as a Maddox rod, producing streaks of light perpendicular to the orientation of the striae. This phenomenon can be used in the diagnostic and surgical decision-making process after LASIK. We correlated persistent complaints of starburst by a patient to the presence of LASIK flap striae in both eyes. The more severe striae were subsequently treated with phototherapeutic keratectomy, with complete resolution of symptoms. The LASIK flap striae–induced Maddox rod effect can be used as a simple and useful method with high diagnostic and therapeutic value. Financial Disclosure Neither author has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.
Structure-Function Relationships of the Signaling System for the Somatostatin Peptide Hormone Family1

Somatostatins are a diverse family of peptide hormones that regulate a vast array of biological processes in vertebrates, including the modulation of growth, development, and metabolism. The multi-functional nature of the somatostatin family arises from the an elaborate, multi-faceted signaling system consisting of somatostatin signaling molecules, G-protein-coupled receptors, and cellular effector pathways. A striking aspect of this signaling system is the substantial diversity at every level. The signal molecules themselves display considerable structural heterogeneity. This molecular heterogeneity results from tissue-specific differential processing of a single large precursor protein (preprosomatostatin) as well as from the existence of multiple somatostatin genes, each giving rise to different precursors. In addition, numerous SS receptor subtypes have been characterized (five in mammals), some of which exhibit preferential binding to one ligand form over another. Propagation of the signal results from linkage of the receptors via numerous types of G-proteins to several different cellular effector pathways, including adenylyl cyclase, various protein kinases, numerous ion channels, and phospholipase C/inositol-3-phosphate. Ultimately, a particular response in a given target cell may be determined by structural interactions between and among the various elements of the signaling system.
The pattern of hominin postcranial evolution reconsidered in light of size-related shape variation of the distal humerus.

Previous research suggests that some hominin postcranial features do not follow a linear path of increasing modernization through geological time. With respect to the distal humerus, in particular, the earliest known hominin specimens are reportedly among the most modern in morphology, while some later humeri appear further removed from the average modern human shape. Although Plio-Pleistocene humeri vary widely in size, previous studies have failed to account for size-related shape variation when making morphometric comparisons. This study reexamines hominin postcranial evolution in light of distal humeral allometry. Using two-dimensional landmark data, the relationship between specimen size and shape among modern humans is quantified using multivariate regression and principal components analysis of size-shape space. Fossils are compared with modern human shapes expected at a given size, as well as with the overall average human shape. The null hypothesis of humeral isometry in modern humans is rejected. Subsequently, if one takes allometry into account, the apparent pattern of hominin humeral evolution does not resemble the pattern described above. All 14 of the Plio-Pleistocene hominin fossils examined here share a similar pattern of shape differences from equivalently-sized modern humans, though they vary in the extent to which these differences are expressed. The oldest specimen in the sample (KNM-KP 271; Australopithecus anamensis) exhibits the least human-like elbow morphology. Similarly primitive morphology characterizes all younger species of Australopithecus as well as Paranthropus robustus. After 2 Ma, a subtly more human-like elbow morphology is apparent among specimens attributed to early Homo, as well as among isolated specimens that may represent either Homo or Paranthropus boisei. This study emphasizes the need to consider size-related shape variation when individual fossil specimens are compared with the average shape of a comparative group, particularly when specimens fall near an extreme of the comparative size distribution.
On the evaluation of patient specific IMRT QA using EPID, dynalog files and patient anatomy

Purpose: This research, investigates the viability of using the Electronic portal imaging device (EPID) coupled with the treatment planning system (TPS), to calculate the doses delivered and verify agreement with the treatment plan. The results of QA analysis using the EPID, Delta 4 and fluence calculations using the multi-leaf collimator (MLC) dynalog files on 10 IMRT patients are presented in this study. Methods : EPID Fluence Images in integrated mode and Dynalog files for each field were acquired for 10 IMRT (6MV) patients and processed through an in house MatLab program to create an opening density matrix (ODM) which was used as the input fluence for dose calculation with the TPS (Pinnacle 3 , Philips). The EPID used in this study was the aSi1000 Varian on a Novalis TX linac equipped with high definition MLC. The resulting dose distributions were then exported to VeriSoft (PTW) where a 3D gamma was calculated using 3 mm-3% criteria. The Scandidos Delta 4 phantom was also used to measure a 2D dose distribution for all 10 patients and a 2D gamma was calculated for each patient using the Delta 4 software. Results: The average 3D gamma for all 10 patients using the EPID images was 98.2% ± 2.6%. The average 3D gamma using the dynalog files was 94.6% ± 4.9%. The average 2D gamma from the Delta 4 was 98.1% ± 2.5%. The minimum 3D gamma for the EPID and dynalog reconstructed dose distributions was found on the same patient which had a very large PTV, requiring the jaws to open to the maximum field size. Conclusion : Use of the EPID, combined with a TPS is a viable method for QA of IMRT plans. A larger ODM size can be implemented to accommodate larger field sizes. An adaptation of this process to Volumetric Arc Therapy (VMAT) is currently under way. ----------------------------- Cite this article as: Defoor D, Mavroidis P, Quino L, Gutierrez A, Papanikolaou N, Stathakis S. On the evaluation of patient specific IMRT QA using EPID, dynalog files and patient anatomy. Int J Cancer Ther Oncol 2014; 2(2):020219. DOI: 10.14319/ijcto.0202.19
Persistence of GSR changes as a function of repeated verbal satiation of emotionally-charged words

The effects of repeated verbal-satiation applications, i.e., rapid repetitions of words for several minutes at a time, was studied over the course of several weeks by means of GSR changes. Highly charged, personally relevant words were divided into experimental words and control words, equally matched on emotional-response intensity. The satiation treatment consisted of three 40-min periods occurring once a week, with the outcome that the formerly highly charged words that were satiated yielded significantly lower GSR tracings than did the highly charged but unsatiated words. The satiation effect persisted for at least a week, i.e., the time lapse between the last satiation session and the post-satiation test. GSR levels dropped more quickly after the first satiation, and continued to drop throughout the rest of the satiation sessions. Thus, the interpretation of the effects of reactive inhibition as the sole process involved in satiation was questioned.
Molecular Analysis of Potatoes from the Pacific Northwest Tri-State Variety Development Program and Selection of Markers for Practical DNA Fingerprinting Applications

DNA fingerprinting is a valuable tool for plant cultivar discrimination and identification. Simple Sequence Repeat (SSR) markers represent an excellent option for obtaining DNA fingerprints of potatoes in an easy, fast, and reliable fashion. The highly polymorphic and co-dominant nature of SSRs gives them good discrimination power to declare the distinctiveness of new potato clones for Plant Variety Protection (PVP) and to properly identify existing cultivars. They are also useful for confirming origin and avoiding duplications and mixtures in breeding, foundation and certification programs, and also during growing and marketing stages. A total of 54 (50 tetraploid and 4 diploid) potato clones, including new cultivars released by the Pacific Northwest Tri-State Potato Variety Development Program and a set of common commercial cultivars, were analyzed using 25 SSR markers. Marketing classes (French fry processing, fresh market, and chip processing) were clearly separated using those markers. We have empirically selected a subset of six SSRs that differentiate all the potato varieties and clones present in the study. This subset of six SSR markers could be used for practical DNA fingerprinting. In order to declare distinctiveness, we recommend that common reference varieties always be genotyped together with the newly tested potato clones and that focus be placed on the relative allelic differences between the new clones and the reference varieties.
An analysis of the integration between articular cartilage and nondegradable hydrogel using magnetic resonance imaging.

A hydrogel is a highly hydrated polymer gel suitable for use as a scaffold for tissue engineering. One important application is to the repair of cartilage defects due to injury or osteoarthritis. Integration of the hydrogel with surrounding tissue is critical for the long-term functionality of the implant; however direct visualization of integration is difficult and invasive. Accordingly, we used MRI to noninvasively investigate the integration of hydrogel in cartilage. Two integration methods were assessed: (1) cartilage-initiated and (2) chemical, using chondroitin sulphate–methacrylate-aldehyde (CS-MA-ald) as an adhesive. These were compared to a control group, that is, standard, nonintegrated hydrogel photopolymerization. Spatial variation of the transverse relaxation time, T2, across the transition region was used to determine the effectiveness of integration. In the CS-MA-ald group only, two interfaces were found. This provides evidence of an intermediate adhesive layer between hydrogel and cartilage. Second, the thickness of the transition region between hydrogel to cartilage in the CS-MA-ald group was 1.32 mm as compared to 1.20 mm and 1.17 mm in the tissue-initiated and nonintegrated groups, respectively. We interpret this as a more gradual transition region of hydrogel to cartilage and hence a greater degree of integration when an adhesive layer is present. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Published 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2006
Differentiation of commercial fuels based on polar components using negative electrospray ionization/mass spectrometry

Polar components in fuels may enable differentiation between fuel types or commercial fuel sources. A range of commercial fuels from numerous sources were analyzed by flow injection analysis/electrospray ionization/mass spectrometry without extensive sample preparation, separation, or chromatography. This technique enabled screening for unique polar components at parts per million levels in commercial hydrocarbon products, including a range of products from a variety of commercial sources and locations. Because these polar compounds are unique in different fuels, their presence may provide source information on hydrocarbons released into the environment. This analysis was then applied to mixtures of various products, as might be found in accidental releases into the environment.
Management of technology and responsive policies in a new economy

Proper management of technology is what creates wealth for nations, companies, and individuals. It forms the foundation for economic growth and determines national and organisational competitiveness, particularly in an increasingly global and fiercely competitive marketplace. The distinction between developed and developing economies lies primarily in the ability to effectively manage resources and technological assets. In order for developing countries to avoid being marginalised, they must formulate strong public policy, and their companies must improve the way they manage technology and innovation. This paper discusses globalisation, competitiveness, and the risk of marginalisation of developing nations in the emerging new economy. It also discusses the responses in public policy needed, with emphasis on human resource development.
Supramolecular chemistry and the control of the crystallization behavior by the choice of the counter-ion. Part 11. The stereochemistry and crystallization architecture of [(tren)Co(NO2)2]A (I), [(tren)Co(ox)]A (II), [(en)2Co(ox)]A (III) and [trans-(pn)2Co(NO2)2]A (IV), with A = [trans-(NH3)2Co(NO2)4]

Abstract In continuation of studies carried out previously [I. Bernal, Inorg. Chim. Acta 96 (1985) 99; I. Bernal, Inorg. Chim. Acta (1986) 121; I. Bernal, E.O. Schlemper, C.K. Fair, Inorg. Chim. Acta 115 (1986) 25; I. Bernal, Inorg. Chim. Acta 101 (1985) 175; I. Bernal, J. Cetrullo, J. Coord. Chem. 20 (1989) 237], we have now expanded the nature and number of cations associated with the [trans-(NH3)2Co(NO2)4] anion in order to better document when, and how, this helical propeller species crystallizes as a conglomerate. [(tren)Co(NO2)2][trans-(NH3)2Co(NO2)4] (I) crystallizes as a racemate in space group P21/n with cell constants of a = 15.8900(2), b = 19.7800(3), c = 26.6200(4) A, β = 101.970(3)°, z = 15. [(tren)Co(ox)][trans-(NH3)2Co(NO2)4] (II) crystallizes as a racemate in space group I2/a with cell constants of a = 21.592(11), b = 7.050(4), c = 26.46(2) A, β = 93.09(6)°, z = 8. [(en)2Co(ox)][trans-(NH3)2Co(NO2)4] (III) crystallizes as a racemate in space group P21/n with cell constants of a = 6.4740(1), b = 22.8950(6), c = 13.1660(3) A, β = 97.3310(10)°, z = 4. [trans-(pn)2Co(NO2)2][trans-(NH3)2Co(NO2)4] (IV) also crystallizes as a racemate in space group P(¯1; no. 2) with cell constants of a = 6.508(2), b = 8.829(5), c = 9.851(5) A, α = 72.84(2), β = 80.15(3), and γ = 81.45(6)°, z = 1. The most notable results are as follows: (1) all four compounds studied are racemates unlike the previously studied [cis-Co(en)2(NO2)2][trans-(NH3)2Co(NO2)4] [I. Bernal, Inorg Chim Acta 101 (1985) 175] (V) and K[trans-(NH3)2Co(NO2)4] (VI) that crystallize as conglomerates. Nevertheless, they share certain crystalline features, which are readily observed in their packing diagrams. In all the four cases the new data were collected at 295 K and 120 K, using Mo Kα radiation; the former with a Nonius CAD-4 diffractometer and the latter with a Nonius CCD instrument. Of primary interest to us are the changes in packing caused by repeated changes in the charge compensating cations. Comparisons with the packing observed previously in [cis-Co(en)2(NO2)2][trans-(NH3)2Co(NO2)4] (V) and K[trans-(NH3)2Co(NO2)4] (VI) are made since, at the time of publications of those early papers, no detailed study of the packing characteristics of these anions was published and the existing graphic software were primitive compared with the current packages. This oversight is remedied below.
The Shielding Constants and Scalar Couplings in N-H···OC and N-H···NC Hydrogen Bonded Systems: An ab Initio MO Study

The scalar spin−spin coupling constants, both intra- and intermolecular, were evaluated for the models of biological systems: formamide−formamide (Fa−Fa) and formamide−formamidine (Fa−Fi) dimers using the MCSCF method. Additionally, the shielding constants were calculated at the MCSCF and MP2 levels. 1J(NH) and 2J(NH) couplings are the most significantly affected by the hydrogen bond formation. The hydrogen-bond transmitted coupling constants 1hJ(NH) and 2hJ(NN) calculated for the Fa−Fi dimer are in agreement with recent experimental results for nucleic acids. The short-distance hydrogen-bond-transmitted couplings (e.g., 1hJ(NH) and 2hJ(NN)) decrease fast with increase in the hydrogen bond length, in contrast to the long-distance proton−proton intermolecular couplings. The changes in the shieldings of the protons engaged in the hydrogen bond formation and proton acceptors are found to decrease fast with increase in the hydrogen bond length, in accordance with the previous results.
No horizon theorem for vacuum gravity with spacelike g(1) isometry groups

We show that (3+1) vacuum spacetimes admitting a global, spacelike, one-parameter Lie group of isometries of translational type cannot contain apparent horizons. The only assumption made is that of the existence of a global spacelike Killing vector field with infinite open orbits; the four-dimensional vacuum spacetime metric is otherwise arbitrary. This result may thus be viewed as a hoop conjecture theorem for vacuum gravity with one spacelike translational Killing symmetry.
Cenozoic evolution of the sulfur cycle: Insight from oxygen isotopes in marine sulfate

Abstract We report new data on oxygen isotopes in marine sulfate (δ18OSO4), measured in marine barite (BaSO4), over the Cenozoic. The δ18OSO4 varies by 6‰ over the Cenozoic, with major peaks 3, 15, 30 and 55 Ma. The δ18OSO4 does not co-vary with the δ34SSO4, emphasizing that different processes control the oxygen and sulfur isotopic composition of sulfate. This indicates that temporal changes in the δ18OSO4 over the Cenozoic must reflect changes in the isotopic fractionation associated with the sulfide reoxidation pathway. This suggests that variations in the aerial extent of different types of organic-rich sediments may have a significant impact on the biogeochemical sulfur cycle and emphasizes that the sulfur cycle is less sensitive to net organic carbon burial than to changes in the conditions of that organic carbon burial. The δ18OSO4 also does not co-vary with the δ18O measured in benthic foraminifera, emphasizing that oxygen isotopes in water and sulfate remain out of equilibrium over the lifetime of sulfate in the ocean. A simple box model was used to explore dynamics of the marine sulfur cycle with respect to both oxygen and sulfur isotopes over the Cenozoic. We interpret variability in the δ18OSO4 to reflect changes in the aerial distribution of conditions within organic-rich sediments, from periods with more localized, organic-rich sediments, to periods with more diffuse organic carbon burial. While these changes may not impact the net organic carbon burial, they will greatly affect the way that sulfur is processed within organic-rich sediments, impacting the sulfide reoxidation pathway and thus the δ18OSO4. Our qualitative interpretation of the record suggests that sulfate concentrations were probably lower earlier in the Cenozoic.
Sensory Texture and Mechanical Properties of Stranded and Particulate Whey Protein Emulsion Gels

: The influence of gel structure type and amount of lipid on texture of whey protein isolate (WPI) gels was evaluated by descriptive sensory analysis and determination of fracture and water-holding properties. A series of 16 gels of varying structure (particulate or stranded) and lipid composition (0% to 20%) were developed at a constant protein concentration (12% w/v). Stranded gels had higher values for fracture strain, strain hardening, and held-water. Particulate and stranded gels were similar in fracture stress. Eighteen sensory texture attributes were used to evaluate gels throughout the mastication process that was separated by the following phases: prefracture, 1st bite, chew-down, and preswallowing. The 1st bite property of firmness and preswallowing properties of number of chews and time to swallow were the only sensory properties associated with lipid content. Fracture stress was correlated with these properties. The remaining 15 texture terms were primarily determined by gel structure type. It appears that gel structure type determines the primary texture properties of WPI emulsion gels. An increase in lipid content increases gel firmness and amount of chews required; however, it did not change the primary texture sensation.
Decentralised adaptive control with partial communication

The adaptive control of strictly decentralised adaptive control systems has been investigated in the past and it has been demonstrated that, under very general conditions, exact asymptotic tracking by the different subsystems can be achieved without any communication between them. Here, the problem is discussed when communication between the different subsystems is permitted. The problems considered range from totally decentralised control to totally centralised control with emphasis on partial communication. In all cases, the problems can be posed as ones related to the stability of switching systems. The principal theoretical contribution is the demonstration that the overall system is globally stable, resulting in exact asymptotic tracking by all the subsystems. Decoupling stability and performance issues permit the designer to focus on improving the behaviour of the overall system. The principal practical contribution is the demonstration that significant improvement in transient responses of the subsystems can be achieved with communication at relatively few instants of time.
Obesity and human biology: Toward a global perspective

Overweight bodies will soon be the modal human form. In this special issue of American Journal of Human Biology, authors use varied approaches to examine the expansion of obesity globally, particularly what shape variability in people's vulnerability to weight gain and its negative effects. The contributions together highlight how complex pathways between biology and health related to excess weight are strongly medicated, at multiple levels, by both socio-ecological context and life history. A systems approach, which can place human biological and biocultural variation iteratively within the broader contexts of developing and globalizing adiposity, will be a useful next step to informing effective prevention and intervention efforts.
The effect of tryptophan depletion on alcohol self-administration in non-treatment-seeking alcoholic individuals.

Background Alcohol self-administration in the laboratory has been used to evaluate pharmacological treatments and neurobiological mechanisms that underlie alcohol use in alcohol-dependent individuals. This study evaluated whether attenuation of serotonin synthesis via depletion of its precursor tryptophan reduces the amount of alcohol consumed in a self-administration paradigm in non-treatment-seeking individuals with alcohol use disorders. Methods Individuals with alcohol dependence (n= 8) and alcohol abuse (n= 4) who were not seeking treatment were recruited by advertisement and participated in two test days, 1 week apart. Each test session was preceded by administration of a concentrated amino acid drink that resulted in a rapid and significant decline in plasma free tryptophan (active depletion) or a similar drink containing tryptophan (placebo depletion). Tests were conducted in a randomized, double-blind fashion. The test session began with a cue exposure session where subjects were exposed to their favorite alcoholic beverage and asked to rate their craving for alcohol. After this, subjects were administered a priming drink designed to raise blood alcohol levels to 0.02 g%. Subjects then had the opportunity to drink up to eight additional drinks, each designed to raise blood alcohol levels by 0.02 g%, or to receive $3 for each drink not consumed over a 2-hr period. Results There were no significant differences in alcohol consumed or subjective intoxication with active tryptophan depletion compared with placebo. Self-reported craving correlated with the amount of alcohol consumed in the session. Conclusions These data question the dependence of alcohol self-administration on the ongoing synthesis of serotonin.
Clinical results of PRK touch-up using Chiron/Technolas Keracor 116 excimer laser

Regression of effect as well as undercorrection are well established complications of excimer photorefractive keratectomy for the correction of myopia. In thirteen eyes initially treated with the VISX Taunton excimer laser and then retreated with the Chiron Technolas laser, the minimum follow-up time was six months. The mean postoperative refraction at six months was -0.442 +/- 0.996 D (diopters), significantly different from the pretreatment mean of -1.904 +/- 1.297 D. At six months after retreatment (10/13 eyes) 76.9% had an uncorrected visual acuity greater than or equal to 20/40 and (10/13 eyes) 76.9% were within 1 diopter of emmetropia. Only one eye had a significant increase in postoperative haze. The results of this study indicate that the majority of photorefractive keratectomy regressions and undercorrections can be successfully retreated.
How might a tracheary element which is embolized by day be healed by night

The problem of the putative nocturnal refilling of diurnally embolized tracheary elements is considered. It is shown that: (i) an embolus should be close to compositional equilibrium with the ambient atmosphere by the end of the day; and (ii) if an embolus is compressed to as little as 2% above atmospheric pressure, it should be resorbed in 1000 sec or less. Such a compression could arise from nocturnally developed root pressure; however, it could also result from the release of intracellular water by temperature-associated osmosis, especially at the plant's apex.
A General Equilibrium Model of Interregional Monetary Flows

A model is presented to explain how a competitive equilibrium is achieved between multiple regions trading in multiple financial markets. The process of interregional arbitrage developed by Moore, Hill, and others over the past few years is combined with the work of Nagurney in spatial price equilibrium to provide an interesting extension of the original model. This is the first application of spatial equilibrium to monetary flows; an essential ingredient in the eventual development of a general model of spatial equilibrium.
Crystallization of human prostatic acid phosphatase using biphasic systems

Abstract Crystals of prostatic acid phosphatase (PAP) have been obtained using several vapor diffusion experiments. The only crystals which diffract X-rays, however, are those grown using biphasic systems. This method has yielded crystals of PAP which diffract X-rays to 6A˚resolution. Biphasic systems like the one described in the text may provide an alternative method for obtaining X-ray quality crystals of proteins when monophasic systems of polyethylene glycol or ammonium sulfate are not successful. A discussion of some possible pathways which lead to equilibrium is also included.
Expanding the structural diversity of self-assembling dendrons and supramolecular dendrimers via complex building blocks.

The design and synthesis of the first examples of AB4 and AB5 dendritic building blocks with complex architecture are reported. Structural and retrostructural analysis of supramolecular dendrimers self-assembled from hybrid dendrons based on different combinations of AB4 and AB5 building blocks with AB2 and AB3 benzyl ether dendrons demonstrated that none of these new hybrid dendrons exhibit the previously encountered conformations of libraries of benzyl ether dendrons. These hybrid dendrons enabled the discovery of some highly unusual tapered and conical dendrons generated by the intramolecular back-folding of their repeat units and of their apex. The new back-folded tapered dendrons have double thickness and self-assemble into pine-tree-like columns exhibiting a long-range 7/2 helical order. The back-folded conical dendrons self-assemble into spherical dendrimers. Non-back-folded truncated conical dendrons were also discovered. They self-assemble into spherical dendrimers with a less densely packed cent...
Plug-in Hybrid Vehicles - A Vision for the Future

One of the unique advantages of plug-in hybrid vehicles is their capability to integrate the transportation and electric power generation sectors in order to improve the efficiency, fuel economy, and reliability of both systems. This goal is performed via integration of the onboard energy storage units of plug-in vehicles with the power grid by power electronic converters and communication systems. Employing energy storage systems improves the efficiency and reliability of the electric power generation, transmission, and distribution. Similarly, combining an energy storage system with the power train of a conventional vehicle results in a hybrid vehicle with higher fuel efficiency. In both cases, the energy storage system is used to provide load leveling. In this paper, viability of utilizing the same energy storage unit for both transportation and power system applications is discussed. Furthermore, future trends in analysis, design, and evaluation of distributed energy storage system for the power grid using power-electronic-intensive interface are identified.
Characterization of the 3′ UTR sequence encoded by the AQP-1 gene in human retinal pigment epithelium☆

Abstract The complete 3′ UTR sequence encoded by the human aquaporin-1 gene is reported. The sequence encompassed by two cDNA clones showed, 33 nucleotides of 5′ UTR sequence, a coding sequence of 807 nucleotides and 1886 nucleotides corresponding to the complete 3′ UTR sequence. High similarity with 3′ UTR sequences from rat and mouse counterparts was found. Northern blot analysis of several human tissues revealed a 2.8 kbp transcript. These data confirm the existence of water channels in the human retinal pigment epithelium.
Bifurcation and discretization errors in the solution on non-Newtonian flow problems

Les non-linearites introduites du fait que la viscosite de cisaillement est une fonction du tenseur de vitesse de deformation conduisent a une bifurcation de la solution et a des erreurs d'approximation importantes
Information-entropic stability bound for compact objects: Application to Q-balls and the Chandrasekhar limit of polytropes

Abstract Spatially-bound objects across diverse length and energy scales are characterized by a binding energy. We propose that their spatial structure is mathematically encoded as information in their momentum modes and described by a measure known as configurational entropy (CE) [1] . Investigating solitonic Q-balls and stars with a polytropic equation of state P = K ρ γ , we show that objects with large binding energy have low CE, whereas those at the brink of instability (zero binding energy) have near maximal CE. In particular, we use the CE to find the critical charge allowing for classically stable Q-balls and the Chandrasekhar limit for white dwarfs ( γ = 4 / 3 ) with an accuracy of a few percent.
Distinct patterns of protein binding to the MAT2A promoter in normal and leukemic T cells.

The metabolism of S-adenosylmethionine (AdoMet), a key molecule in regulating T cell differentiation and proliferation, is different in normal and leukemic T cells. To delineate the basis for these differences we studied the transcriptional regulation of human methionine adenosyltransferase II (MAT II), which catalyzes AdoMet synthesis in these cells. Recently, we identified an Sp1 site in the proximal promoter of the MAT2A gene, which encodes the α2 catalytic subunit of MAT II, that is essential for the in vitro and in vivo promoter activity in Jurkat leukemic T cells, and that involves binding of the nuclear factors Sp2 and Sp3, but not Sp1. Here, the in vitro and in vivo activity of the proximal MAT2A promoter in normal resting, PHA-stimulated, and leukemic human T cells was compared. Significantly different patterns of protein factor interaction in the proximal region of the MAT2A promoter were found. Normal resting and activated T cells produced complexes of significantly lower molecular weight than those formed in leukemic T cells. Supershift studies coupled with analysis of proteins bound to the proximal promoter suggest that low levels of expression of Sp2 and Sp3 in normal T cells may be responsible for the difference in the in vitro promoter activity between normal and leukemic cells. Mutation of the key Sp1 site equally reduced the in vivo promoter activity in normal and malignant T cells; by contrast, it had significantly different effects on protein–DNA interactions in normal and leukemic T cells. Together, the data support the idea that differences in protein–DNA interactions may contribute to significant differences in MAT2A regulation in normal and malignant cells.
Acceleration of charged particles in Mercury's magnetosphere

A detailed analysis is presented of the measurements of the high-intensity bursts of electrons with energies of up to 600 keV, discovered in Mercury's magnetosphere during the two nightside encounters of the Mariner 10 with the planet in 1974 and 1975 (Simpson et al., 1974; Simpson, 1975; and Christon and Simpson, 1979). The results provide strong evidence for particle acceleration during explosive magnetic field reconnection within Mercury's magnetotail and suggest a rapid release of magnetic free energy through instabilities occurring in regions of magnetic field reconnection in the planetary magnetotail.
Automatic retrieval of biographical reference books

A description of one of the first projected attempts to automate a reference service, that of advising which biographical reference book to use. Two hundred and thirty-four biographical books were categorized as to type of subjects included and contents of the uniform entries they contain. A computer program which selects up to five books most likely to contain answers to biographical questions is described and its test results presented An evaluation of the system and a discussion of ways to extend the scheme to other forms of reference work are given.
‘Mexico City North’: Identity and anti-immigrant sentiment

This article presents data from a two-year case study using multiple qualitative methods to probe how residents of a suburban area interpreted the question of settlement by undocumented Latino immigrants in their neighborhoods. Though many residents framed their understanding of neighborhood problems via racialized portrayals alluding to ‘inferior’ countries of origin and culture, data here indicate that their hope was to restore both the worth of their properties and what they perceived to be an injured sense of place identity. Findings from this study suggest that non-governmental organizations could assist with mediating conflict and supporting immigrant incorporation into communities by serving as liaisons between newcomers and wary homeowners.
Economic Optimization of Shrimp Farming in Honduras

A profit-maximizing linear programming model with a risk programming component was developed to identify sets of optimal management strategies and outline an annual schedule of production activities for shrimp farming in Honduras. A database of 912 complete pond production records was used to define technical relationships between stocking density and survival and growth rates and to develop net return coefficients for the mathematical model. Separate matrices were developed for three farm-size scenarios to account for economies of scale. Results indicated that, in spite of recent viral epizootics, shrimp farming continues to be a profitable economic activity. Stocking density was found to have a negative effect on growth rate, but not on survival rate. As a consequence, low and intermediate stocking rates were most commonly selected, but high stocking densities were recommended in certain periods of the dry season. Results demonstrated some economic advantages of reducing the traditional levels of water exchange with supplemental aeration. The risk programming analysis indicated that the selection of low and intermediate stocking rates resulted in overall annual risk levels that were relatively low.
Tobacco components induce alterations in keratinocyte lipid membrane fluidity and inhibit cell proliferation in culture.

Guinea pig epidermal keratinocytes were harvested and grown in vitro (20). The cells were treated with polyphenolic compounds, acetate/shikimate aromatics, that are ubiquitous in plants. In addition, the cells were exposed to tobacco glycoprotein (TCP), a plant-derived substance prepared from cured tobacco (19). All of the polyphenolic compounds enhanced the attachment of cells to a defined substratum and inhibited cell proliferation. Tobacco glycoprotein (TOP), rutin conjugates and ellagic acid inhibited cell spreading and enhanced the apparent microviscosity of keratinocyte membrane lipids. These data suggest that the use of these compounds may be associated with alterations in cytoskeletal architecture and membrane fluid dynamics that might result in clinical alterations characterized by whitening of mucosae.
Constructing Competition Law in China: The Potential Value of European and US Experience

China will develop its own competition law on its own terms and on the basis of its own institutions, traditions, and goals, as it has in other recent contexts. It is unlikely to accept any foreign model of competition law as its own. In making choices about what kind of competition law to create, however, Chinese decision-makers are likely to make at least some use of concepts and institutions that have been developed elsewhere. In this brief Essay, I examine several of the key decisions to be made in constructing a competition law for China and consider ways in which foreign experience may be of value to Chinese decision-makers.I do not here suggest to Chinese decision-makers what they should do. The role I envision is much more modest. It is to comment on the two systems from which the Chinese are most likely to borrow concepts and institutions — that is, European and U.S. competition law — and to suggest ways in which information about them may be useful in the construction of a competition law regime for China. In particular, I review European and U.S. experiences in constructing and developing the goals and institutions of competition law in light of the potential relevance of those experiences for China’s decisions about competition law.
Longitudinal variation of radial growth at Alaska's northern treeline—recent changes and possible scenarios for the 21st century

Abstract The northern treeline is generally limited by available warmth. However, in recent years, more and more studies have identified drought stress as an additional limiting factor for tree growth in northern boreal forests and at treelines. Three growth responses to warming have been identified: increase in growth, decrease in growth, and nonsignificant correlation of tree growth with climate. Here we investigate the effect of drought stress on radial growth of white spruce at northern treelines along a longitudinal gradient spanning the entire Brooks Range in Alaska. We systematically sampled 687 white spruce at seven treeline sites. Where possible, we sampled three site types at a given site: high-density forest, low-density forest, and floodplain forest. We investigated the relationship of site and site type to tree growth responses. In the western part of our study area, we found very high numbers of trees responding with increase in growth to recent warming; while in the eastern part, trees responding with decrease in growth to recent warming are predominant. Within a given site, more trees reacting positively to warming grow on site types characterized by low tree density. These patterns coincide with precipitation decreases from west to east and local water availability gradients, therefore pointing to drought stress as the controlling factor for the distribution of trees responding with increase or decrease in growth to recent warming. Compared to 20th century climate, we project a 25–50% basal area (BA) increase in the western region for the 21st century due to climate warming as projected by five general circulation models, 4–11% in the central region and decreases (+1 to −11%) in the eastern region. The overall net change in projected 21st century BA increase at each site seems to be controlled by the relative proportion of responder groups. If these are similar, differences in the magnitude of increase versus decrease in growth control BA projections for that site. This study highlights the importance of regional-scale investigations of biosphere–climate interactions, since our results indicate a substantial gain in aboveground biomass as a result of future warming only in the western regions; while in the eastern regions, climate warming will decrease overall wood production and therefore carbon uptake potential.
Campylobacter jejuni as a cause of canine abortions in the United States

Although Campylobacter jejuni is a common cause of ruminant abortion with great economic impact, the organism has rarely been implicated in canine pregnancy loss, with only 2 documented cases to date. In the current report, 2 cases of perinatal death in adult female Bulldogs associated with C. jejuni infection of fetoplacental organs are described. Fetuses and placentas were received at the Iowa State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (Ames, Iowa) from 3 puppies that died soon after the birth (case 1) and from an aborted fetus (case 2). Microscopic examination of tissues was generally unremarkable; however, multifocal hemorrhage and infiltrates of macrophages and neutrophils were observed in placental sections from the first case (case 1), and low to moderate numbers of degenerate neutrophils were apparent within multifocal alveoli in the fetal lung in the second case (case 2). Ancillary diagnostics for common infectious causes of reproductive failure in dogs were negative. However, C. jejuni was isolated from the submitted placentas in high numbers in both cases as well as from the fetal lungs and livers. Genotyping of the abortion isolates indicated that the isolates were distinct from each other as well as from selected canine enteric C. jejuni isolates included herein for comparison. Both abortion strains were sensitive to all 9 antimicrobials tested, except the isolate from case 2, which displayed resistance to tetracycline. These findings provide convincing evidence for the inclusion of C. jejuni culture in routine diagnostic testing for causes of canine pregnancy loss.
On the Design and Control of Exoskeleton Knee

This paper describes a lightweight (2.7 pounds) exoskeleton orthotics knee which provides controllable resisting torque. In particular, exoskeleton knee uses friction forces between two surfaces to provide resistive torque and impede knee flexion. Creating an impeding torque at the exoskeleton knee will decrease the torque that needs to be provided by the wearer at his/her knee during flexion. The required external power (from batteries) to provide the controllable resistive torque is minimal in comparison to the dissipated locomotion power since the resistive torque generation is “self-energizing” and is using the energy of the knee itself for braking. The exoskeleton knee uses the absolute angle of the thigh for basic functionality; no other measurements such as ground reaction force or the knee joint angle are necessary for basic performance. This allows the exoskeleton knee to be worn not only independently on the wearer’s knee but also in conjunction with hip, ankle or foot exoskeletons. This gives a great deal of flexibility for use of exoskeleton knees in variety of medical, civilian and military applications.© 2013 ASME
Fascia augmentation of the vocal fold: graft yield in the canine and preliminary clinical experience.

Introduction: Glottal insufficiency resulting from vocal fold bowing, hypomobility, or scar is frequently treated by injection augmentation. Injection augmentation with fat, collagen, gel foam, polytef, and recently, fascia lata has been previously reported. Variable graft yield and poor host-tissue tolerance have motivated the continued search for an ideal graft substance. Study Design: A prospective trial of autologous fascia augmentation of the vocal cord in the human and in an animal model. Methods: Autologous fascia injection augmentation (AFIA) was evaluated in 8 canines and 40 patients at our institution between 1998 and 2000. The animal study compared graft yield from AFIA with autologous fat yield. The outcome measure was graft yield calculated from histological examination of larynges 12 weeks after injection augmentation. Clinical trial outcome measures included symptom surveys, acoustical voice analyses, and subjective voice assessments. Mean follow-up was 9 months. Results: In the canine larynx, the mean graft yield for AFIA was 33% (range, 5%-84%) compared with autologous lipoinjection (47%; range, 7%-96%; P = .57). Subjective improvement in vocal quality was reported by 95% of patients (38 of 40) after AFIA. Preoperative and postoperative voice analysis data were obtained from 26 patients. Subjective voice rating demonstrated a significant improvement after AFIA (P <.0001). Acoustical parameters of jitter, shimmer, noise-to-harmonic ratio, phonatory range, and degree unvoiced improved significantly (P <.05) in all patients after fascia augmentation. Conclusions: Based on the animal study, we concluded that graft yields are excellent but variable for AFIA. The result is similar in variability and overall yield to autologous lipoinjection. Subjective and objective analyses of voice outcomes after AFIA are universally improved. Fascia appears to be an excellent alternative to lipoinjection in properly selected cases of glottic insufficiency.