cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Journey Toward Spirit: Examining Moments of SpiritualGrowth Through Story

Approaching and constructively discussing the idea of spirituality are complicated, especially within the framework of public education. Yet, exploring and celebrating the human spirit are significant components to the human life journey. As a spiritual person, I am constantly seeking ways to expand my own knowledge of what it means to be spiritual. As a student, I am constantly seeking experiences within my campus environment that enrich my spiritual development. A series of conversations with family, friends, and colleagues has led me to believe that examining personal and collective spirituality is important during the college experience. I have chosen to look at my own spirit, an essential piece of my being that guides my interactions with the world around me on physical and metaphysical levels, the experiences that have nourished its growth, and the ways in which I embrace this part of myself. It is through the art of storytelling that I embark on my own quest toward spiritual identity and development.
Differential effects of mutations in human endothelial nitric oxide synthase at residues Tyr-357 and Arg-365 on l-arginine hydroxylation and GN-hydroxy-l-arginine oxidation ☆

Biosynthesis of nitric oxide (NO) is catalyzed by NO synthase (NOS) through a two-step oxidation of L-arginine (Arg) with formation of an intermediate, GN-hydroxy-L-Arg (NHA). In this study we have employed mutagenesis to investigate how residues Y357 and R365 which interact primarily with the substrate Arg and (6R)-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-L-biopterin (H(4)B) modulate these two steps of the NOS reaction. Mutant Y357F preserved most wild-type heme characteristics and NADPH oxidation ability. However, mutation of this residue markedly increased the dissociation constants for both Arg and NHA by 20-fold and decreased the NO synthesis from Arg by 85% compared to that of wild type. Mutation of Y357 had less effect on the rate of NO generated from NHA. Mutant R365L purified in the presence of Arg had a normal heme environment and retained 9 and 55% of the wild-type NO formation rate from Arg and NHA, respectively. When Arg was removed from buffer, R365L instantly became a low-spin state (Soret peak at 418 nm) with the resultant loss of H(4)B and instability of the heme-CO complex. The low-spin R365L exhibited an NADPH oxidation rate higher than that of wild type. Its Arg-driven NO formation was decreased to near the limit of detection, whereas the rate of NHA-driven NO synthesis was one third that of wild type. This NHA-driven NO formation completely relied on H(4)B and was not sensitive to superoxide dismutase or catalase but was inhibited by imidazole. The wild-type eNOS required 14 microM NHA and 0.39 microM H(4)B to reach the half-maximal NHA-driven NO formation rate (EC(50)), while R365L needed 59 microM NHA and 0.73 microM H(4)B to achieve EC(50). The differential effect of mutation on Arg and NHA oxidation suggests that distinct heme-based active oxidants are responsible for each step of NO synthesis.
Diálogo del profesorado en un desarrollo profesional centrado en el alumnado en una escuela secundaria de los Estados Unidos de América

Esta investigacion estudia el impacto sobre un grupo de maestras y administradoras escolares de una iniciativa de desarrollo profesional culturalmente preparada y disenada para un instituto de ensenanza secundaria hasta bachillerato en proceso de reforma de su organizacion. Usando paradigmas emergentes de la educacion transformadora, dialogo educativo y el marco teorico del Desarrollo Profesional Orientado hacia el Alumno (en ingles, Learner Centered Professional Development), la investigacion examina como resultaron afectadas las identidades adoptadas por maestras y directivos. Trece profesoras y tres lideres escolares de ensenanza secundaria hasta bachillerato participaron en la iniciativa de formacion profesional impartida en un periodo de tres semanas. Los datos de este estudio forman parte de un corpus de datos mas amplio que exploran iniciativas de desarrollo profesional en una gran ciudad en la region suroeste de Texas. Se utilizo la herramienta metodologica de analisis narrativo para codificar y analizar los datos. Los resultados apuntan hacia una renovacion de identidades profesionales y la revitalizacion de actitudes y praxis por parte de las maestras y lideres escolares en lo relativo a los alumnos latinos. Los hallazgos indican que las identidades profesionales son transformadoras cuando se implementan desarrollos profesionales culturalmente responsables en los sistemas escolares. Ademas, los resultados implican que esta iniciativa de desarrollo profesional empodera a las maestras y administradoras escolares, transforma sistemas de creencias, y proporciona un conocimiento y entendimiento profundo en cuanto a practicas pedagogicas culturalmente responsivas y de liderazgo, que resultan basicas a la hora de trabajar con estudiantes latinos. Mas aun, los hallazgos sirven como catalizador para estudios futuros cuya meta es explorar como estas iniciativas de desarrollo profesional influyen en el indice de permanencia de maestros y administradores en sistemas educativos desde pre-escolar hasta bachillerato.
Cognitive, Affective, and Behavioral Outcomes of Participation in Quality Circles: Conceptual and Empirical Findings

Little reliable longitudinal research has investigated the outcomes of participating in quality circles (QCs). This article reports the results of such a study whose evaluation criteria were developed according to a heuristic model of key cognitive, affective, and behavioral results of the QC process. A sample of 225 military and civilian employees of a U.S. Air Force base was evaluated using survey and performance appraisal measures administered within the framework of a non-equivalent control design. Analyses of covariance yielded evidence that QC participation significantly affected the study's criterion variables. The authors discuss the limitations and implications of their study and offer suggestions for future research.
Abstract B161: PIK3CA mutations H1047R are associated with response to PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway inhibitors in early-phase clinical trials.

Background: Activating mutations in the PIK3CA gene have been identified in many malignancies. Preclinical and early clinical data suggest that these mutations predict response to PI3K/AKT/mTOR inhibitors in subsets of patients. Sensitivity and resistance mutation have not been reported to date. Methods: Patients with diverse cancers referred to the Phase I Clinical Trials Program for targeted therapy starting from October 2008 were analyzed for PIK3CA, and if, possible for KRAS mutations using PCR-based DNA sequencing. Patients with any tumor type and any PIK3CA mutation were treated whenever possible with agents targeting the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. Treatment outcomes with respect to mutation types were analyzed. Results: Overall, 1012 patients were tested and 105 (10%) had PIK3CA mutations. Of the 105 patients with PIK3CA mutations, 66 (median number of prior therapies, 3) were treated on a protocol that included a PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway inhibitor. Of these 66 patients, 11 (17%) achieved a partial response (PR) and 4 (6%) stable disease ≥ 6 months (SD≥6). The total of SD≥6/PR was 15 (23%). Patients with PIK3CA H1047R mutation (n=16) compared to patients with other PIK3CA mutations (n=50) had higher PR rate (6/16, 37.5% vs. 5/50, 10%; p=0.018), higher rate of SD≥6/PR (7/16, 44% vs. 8/50, 16%; p=0.037), and trend toward longer median progression-free survival (PFS) (5.7 months, 95%CI 0.4–11.0 vs. 2.0 months, 95%CI 1.8–2.2; p=0.064). Patients with a PIK3CA E542K mutation (n=11) compared to others (n=55) trended toward a worse median PFS (1.8 months, 95%CI 1.4–2.2 vs. 2.6 months, 95%CI 1.4–3.8; p=0.058). Of the 66 treated patients with PIK3CA mutations, 55 (83%) had enough tissue for KRAS testing. None of the 16 patients with PIK3CA and simultaneous KRAS mutations in codon 12 or 13 had a PR (0/16, 0% vs. 9/39, 23%; p=0.046) or SD≥6/PR (0/16, 0% vs. 13/39, 33.3%; p=0.011) as compared to patients with PIK3CA, but not KRAS codon 12 or 13 mutations, whereas 2 of 2 (100%) patients with PIK3CA and Q61H KRAS mutation in codon 61 had SD≥6 (n=1) and PR (n=1). Conclusion: Despite the small number of patients, our data suggest that PIK3CA mutations H1047R are associated with response to PI3K/AKT/mTOR inhibitors, whereas codon 12 and 13, but not codon 61 KRAS mutations are associated with resistance. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR-NCI-EORTC International Conference: Molecular Targets and Cancer Therapeutics; 2011 Nov 12-16; San Francisco, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Mol Cancer Ther 2011;10(11 Suppl):Abstract nr B161.
Ferroelectric liquid-crystal polarization switching-based high-speed multiwavelength add/drop filters using fiber and array waveguide gratings

Ferroelectric Liquid Crystal Polarization Switching-based High Speed Multi-WavelengthAdd/Drop Filters using Fiber and Array Waveguide GratingsNabeel A. RizaCenter for Research & Education in Optics and Lasers (CREOL)and the Department of Electrical & Computer EngineeringUniversity of Central FloridaP. 0. Box 162700, Orlando, FL 32816-2700Tel: 407-823-6829; Fax: 407-823-3354email: riza@creol.ucf.eduA number of approaches have been used to implement programmable add/drop optical filters for wavelength divisionmultiplexed (WDM) optical communications. These include integrated-optic (10) acousto-optic tunable filters(AOTFs) [1], all-fiber mechanically tuned fiber Bragg grating (FBG) devices [2], 10 grating switch with 10 couplerdevices [3], array waveguide grating (AWG) multiplexer with 10 thermo-optic switches [4], FBG devices withmagnetic field tuning [5],
Essential Role of the Homeodomain for Pituitary Homeobox 1 Activation of Mouse Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Receptor Gene Expression through Interactions with c-Jun and DNA

The gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor (GnRHR) is expressed primarily in the gonadotropes of the anterior pituitary. Pituitary homeobox 1 (Pitx-1) has been shown to activate pituitary-specific gene expression by direct DNA binding and/or protein-protein interaction with other transcription factors. We hypothesized that Pitx-1 might also dictate tissue-specific expression of the mouse GnRHR (mGnRHR) gene in a similar manner. Pitx-1 activated the mGnRHR gene promoter, and transactivation was localized to sequences between -308 and -264. Pitx-1 bound to this region only with low affinity. This region includes an activating protein 1 (AP-1) site, which was previously shown to be important for mGnRHR gene expression. Further characterization indicated that an intact AP-1 site was required for full Pitx-1 responsiveness. Furthermore, Pitx-1 and AP-1 were synergistic in the activation of the mGnRHR gene promoter. A Pitx-1 homeodomain (HD) point mutation, which eliminated DNA binding ability, caused only a partial reduction of transactivation, whereas deletion of the HD completely prevented transactivation. Pitx-1 interacted directly with c-Jun, and the HD was sufficient for this interaction. While the point mutation in the Pitx-1 HD did not affect interaction with c-Jun, deletion of the HD eliminated the interaction. Taken together, our studies indicate that Pitx-1 can direct transactivation of the mGnRHR gene, in part by DNA binding and in part by an action of Pitx-1 as a cofactor for AP-1, augmenting AP-1 activity through a novel protein-protein interaction between c-Jun and the HD of Pitx-1.
Analysis and configuration assignments of the amino acids in a pyoverdine-type siderophore by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography

The amino acid composition of the siderophore pyoverdine Pf244 was determined by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) of phenylthiocarbamyl derivatives of the acid-hydrolyzed pyoverdine. The siderophore contains an acid-labile amino acid, Nδ-hydroxyornithine, and an amino acid previously unknown in naturally occurring systems, l-threo-β-hydroxyhistidine. Amino acid chirality assignments were determined by RP-HPLC of the β-d-glucopyranosyl isothiocyanate tetraacetate derivatives. Reactions with amino acid oxidases established the l-configuration of threo-β-hydroxyhistidine.
Applications of parallel processors to some hard discrete problems

A part of investigation of problems in discrete mathematics involves using the computer. Such problems may or may not be exponential in complexity. This paper investigates the effect of complexity in such investigations and points out that such investigations are in essence an experimental science.
Perichondrial arthroplasty insmall joints of the hand

Abstract Perichondral arthroplasty can selectively be applied to restore function and limit pain in adolescents and youngadults with traumatic, postinfectious, or inflammatory arthritis of the small joints in the hand in cases in which more common treatments, such as silastic arthroplasty or fusion, are, undesirable alternatives.
Evaluation of fouling mechanisms in asymmetric microfiltration membranes using advanced imaging

This contribution details the use of advanced microscopy to study the fouling of asymmetric polyethersulfone membranes during the microfiltration of protein (casein), polyphenol (tannic acid), and polysaccharide (β-cyclodextrin) mixtures to better understand the solute–solute and solute–membrane interactions leading to fouling. Fluorescently labeled probes were used to visualize the fouling profiles of individual components within the wet membrane structure with confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Cross-sectional CLSM imaging provided information on the location and extent of fouling throughout the entire thickness of the PES membrane, overcoming the depth of penetration limit observed by researchers in previous studies. Quantitative analysis of the cross-sectional CLSM images provided a measurement of the masses of foulants deposited throughout the membrane. Moreover, flux decline data were collected for different mixtures of casein, tannic acid and β-cyclodextrin (model foulants) and were analyzed with standard fouling models to determine the fouling mechanisms at play when processing different combinations of foulants. Results from model analysis of flux data were compared with the quantitative visual analysis of the correspondent CLSM images. This approach, which couples visual and performance measurements, is expected to provide a better understanding of the causes of fouling that, in turn, is expected to aid in the design of new membranes with tailored structure or surface chemistries that prevent the deposition of the foulants in “prone to foul” regions.
Binding of epidermal growth factor (EGF) and insulin to human liver microsomes and Golgi fractions.

Abstract Microsomes and Golgi fractions were isolated from 13 human liver samples without local malignancy. Binding of insulin to microsomes (per cent per 0.5 mg protein) was 14.4±7.9% with two classes of receptors: K1=1.4 nM, R1=0.28 pmol/mg; K2=8.1 nM, R2=0.62 pmol/mg. The binding was insignificantly lower than in rats. Binding of EGF was only 3.4±1.7% with two classes of receptors: K1=1.4 nM, R1=0.06 pmol/mg; K2=10.8 nM, R2=0.22 pmol/mg; the binding was much lower than in rats (26.3±5.8%). Binding of insulin to Golgi fraction (per cent per 0.1 mg protein) was 5.5±0.4% with straight line Scatchard plot; Kd=5.6 nM, Ro=3.06 pmol/mg; it was only half of that found in rats. In one case of hepatoma, the binding of insulin to microsomes was normal but that of EGF very low.
Three‐Dimensional Porous Copper–Tin Alloy Electrodes for Rechargeable Lithium Batteries

Three-dimensional (3D) foam structure of a Cu 6 Sn 5 alloy was fabricated via an electrochemical deposition process. The walls of the foam structure are highly porous and consist of numerous small grains. When used as a negative electrode for a rechargeable lithium battery, the Cu 6 Sn 5 samples delivered a reversible capacity of about 400 mA h g - 1 up to 30 cycles. Further, these materials exhibit superior rate capability, attributed primarily to the unique porous structure and the large surface area for fast mass transport and rapid surface reactions. For instance, at a current drain of 10 mA cm - 2 (20C rate), the obtainable capacity (220 mA h g - 1 ) was more than 50 % of the capacity at 0.5 mA cm - 2 (1C rate).
Cotinine replacement levels for a 21 mg/day transdermal nicotine patch in an outpatient treatment setting.

Abstract This study examined plasma cotinine replacement levels of 56 outpatient smokers administered a 21 mg/day transdermal nicotine patch (Nicoderm CQ®). The percentage of cotinine replacement ranged from 35 to 232% (mean 107%; median 90.5%). Four subject variables were found to be significantly correlated with percentage of cotinine replacement-baseline cotinine level, prior quit attempts, gender, and the Fagerstrom Tolerance Questionnaire score. A two-variable model consisting of baseline cotinine level and gender provided the most powerful predictor combination. The percentage of cotinine replacement was not predictive of post-treatment smoking. The relatively high levels of cotinine replacement obtained using the Nicoderm CQ® 21 mg/day patch suggest cautious use of higher dose treatment with this particular patch.
Arguing Anselm's Argument

Interpretation surrounding Saint Anselm's celebrated Proslogion often divides across analytical (philosophical) and non-analytical (historical, phenomenological, etc.) lines, with focus on the argument(s) of Chapters 2 and 3 isolated from the rest of the text. Interpretations may vary significantly, but the lines of interpretation continue along these divisions, thus propagating the distinction. Alternative tools, however, expose difficulties of such a division of the Proslogion; they permit analytical justification of claims, concerns and intuitions of historical, phenomenological, and other interests, implicating a more complex re-interpretation of the presuppositions supporting the isolation of Chapters 2 and 3. Based on an approach to reading developed from semiotics and text linguistics, this analysis challenges the major line of analytic interpretation of the Proslogion. This paper argues that the Proslogion has a structure different from the previously realized one, and that the structure consists of three nested frameworks within a devotional whole, faith leading the heart to illuminate the intellect, which in turn can grasp the syllogisms of chapters 2–3/4. Such a textual structure suggests strongly different conclusions about the core significance, utility, and meaning of the Proslogion as ”argument“.
Oxidation behavior of Fe-20Cr-5Al rare earth alloys in air and synthetic exhaust gas

Fe-20Cr-5Al alloy foils are used in automotive catalytic converters. This work examines oxidation behavior of four production-processed alloy foils in both air and synthetic exhaust gas environments. Oxidation tests were performed between 750° C and 1150° C for times to 96 hrs. Weight gain results in both atmospheres were similar, an indication that the same mechanism controls oxidation in both environments. At high temperatures (>-950° C) both atmospheres produce weight gains consistent with α-alumina growth. Activation energies of 323 kJ/gmole and 271 kJ/gmole were calculated for oxidation in air and synthetic exhaust gas, respectively. At lower temperatures (<-850° C), accelerated weight gains can occur from growth of transition alumina. Despite similar weight gain results, the two atmospheres produce different oxide morphologies: at 950° C and above, air produces a rounded, porous oxide while synthetic exhaust produces a more compact, angular oxide. Unexpectedly, oxide spalling occurred on foils oxidized in synthetic exhaust at 1050° C and above.
Synthesis of titanium polyethers by the interfacial and aqueous solution techniques

Abstract Titanium polyethers were formed via the interfacial and aqueous solution techniques as illustrated below. Synthesis was effected employing both aromatic and aliphatic diols for the interfacial system but was effected only for aromatic diols when employing the aqueous solution technique. Some products exhibit Ti-OH and/or R-OH endgroups.
Biotemplating of metallic nanoparticle arrays through site-specific electrostatic adsorption on streptavidin crystals.

The protein streptavidin exhibits unique properties advantageous for “bottom-up” nanofabrication applications. It self-assembles into various 2-D crystalline lattices onto which nanoparticles can be attached through both electrostatic and ligand−receptor mechanisms. We examine the electrostatic adsorption of gold nanoparticles onto non-close-packed streptavidin crystals and show that site-specific attachment preferentially occurs in between protein molecules. The resulting nanoparticle arrangement consequently displays a long-range structural coherence with the underlying protein lattice, although with a reduced degree of order relative to that of the biological template. Monte Carlo simulations reveal that this remittent ordering is due to (1) the random offset between the nanoparticles and their respective adsorption sites and (2) nonspecific binding to the surface of the protein molecules. Overall, our results indicate that streptavidin crystals are capable of templating ordered nanoparticle arrays.
The Effects of a Parent Guidance Intervention on Communication among Adolescents Who Have Experienced the Sudden Death of a Sibling

This study examined the effectiveness of an intensive parent guidance intervention with bereaved adolescents relative to communication. Five adolescents participated in the study, all of whom had experienced the sudden death of a sibling 12 to 24 months prior to the research study. Based on a single-case design, the results reflected a strong pattern of increased communication between the adolescents and their parents during and after the intervention. This study demonstrates that helping bereaved adolescents recognize the importance of communication skills in everyday life allows them to feel understood, acknowledged, and less alone in their grief.
Contributor Profile and Acknowledgment

As the Journal of Organizational Computing and Electronic Commerce (JOCEC) begins its 24th volume, we pause for a brief introspective profile, including acknowledgements to recent contributors who ...
Failure analyses of nonceramic insulators. Part 1: Brittle fracture characteristics

Nonceramic insulators, also referred to as composite, polymer or polymeric insulators, are used in overhead transmission lines with line voltages in the range of 69 to 735 kV. Despite the many benefits that nonceramic insulators offer in comparison with their porcelain counterparts, they can fail mechanically in service by rod fracture. One of the mechanical failure modes of the insulators is a failure process called brittle fracture, which is caused by the stress corrosion cracking (SCC) of the GRP rods. The process is catastrophic and unpredictable, leading to the drop of energized transmission lines. The most important characteristics of the brittle fracture process, which can occasionally affect high voltage nonceramic transmission line insulators, leading to their catastrophic in-service failures, have been presented in this article. In addition, several experimental techniques were suggested for the simulation of brittle fracture under laboratory conditions. Only the most important aspects of brittle fracture process have been discussed here.
The role of a bioengineered artificial kidney in renal failure

Abstract: Renal failure continues to carry substantial burden of morbidity and mortality in both acute and chronic forms, despite advances in transplantation and dialysis. There is evidence to suggest that the kidney has metabolic, endocrine, and immune effects transcending its filtration functions, even beyond secretion of renin and erythropoietin. Our laboratory has developed experience in the tissue culture of renal parenchymal cells, and has now been able to demonstrate the metabolic activity of these cells in an extracorporeal circuit recapitulating glomerulotubular anatomy. We have observed active transport of sodium, glucose, and glutathione. We describe the design and initial preclinical testing of the bioartificial kidney, as well as future directions of our research.
Joule heating effects in electroosmotically driven microchannel flows

Analytical solutions for temperature distributions, heat transfer coefficients, and Nusselt numbers of steady electroosmotic flows are obtained for two-dimensional straight microchannels. This analysis is based on an infinitesimal electric double layer in which flow velocity becomes “plug-like”, except very close to the wall. Both constant surface temperature and constant surface heat flux conditions are considered in this study. Separation of variables technique is applied to obtain analytical solutions of temperature distributions from the energy equation of electroosmotically driven flows. The thermal analysis considers interaction among inertial, diffusive and Joule heating terms in order to obtain thermally developing behavior of electroosmotic flows. Heat transfer characteristics are presented for low Reynolds number microflows where the viscous and electric field terms are very dominant. For the parameter range studied here (Re⩽0.7), the Nusselt number is independent of the thermal Peclet number, except in the thermally developing region. Analytical results for cases with and without Joule heating are also compared with the existing heat transfer results, and an excellent agreement is obtained between them.
Economic evaluation in long-term clinical trials

Economic endpoints have been increasingly included in long-term clinical trials, but they pose several methodologic challenges, including how best to collect, describe, analyse and interpret medical cost data. Cost of care can be measured by converting billed charges, performing detailed micro-costing studies, or by measuring use of key resources and assigning cost weights to each resource. The latter method is most commonly used, with cost weights based either on empirical regression models or administratively determined reimbursement rates. In long-term studies, monetary units should be adjusted to reflect cost inflation and discounting. The temporal pattern of accumulating costs can be described using a modification of the Kaplan-Meier curve. Regression analyses to evaluate factors associated with cost are best performed on the log of costs due to their typically skewed distribution.Cost-effectiveness analysis attempts to measure the value of a new therapy by calculating the difference in cost between the new therapy and the standard therapy, divided by the difference in benefit between the new therapy and the standard therapy. The cost-effectiveness ratio based on the results of a randomized trial may change substantially with longer follow-up intervals, particularly for therapies that are initially expensive but eventually improve survival. A model that projects long-term patterns of cost and survival expected beyond the end of completed follow-up can provide an important perspective in the setting of limited trial duration.
Initiation-Promotion Skin Carcinogenesis and Immunological Competence

The immune competence of mice during initiation-promotion skin carcinogenesis was determined by skin allograft rejection and lymphocyte mitogenesis. The carcinogen 7, 12-dimethylbenzanthracene inhibited the cellular immune competence of mice while lymphocytes from croton oil treated mice had enhanced PWM response. Chlorphenesin, a stimulator of cellular immunity, was found to inhibit tumorigenesis in initiation-promotion skin carcinogenesis when injected during promotion.
A novel non-rigid registration method

Image registration is a fundamental step in image processing systems where there is a need to match two more images. Applications include motion detection, target recognition, video processing, and medical imaging. Although a vast number of methods have been proposed, it is not possible to claim that the problem is solved, especially when the deformation is locally variant and nonrigid. In this paper, we propose a registration method that is superior to other available algorithms, avoiding user interaction, and manual parameters, being noniterative (having a closed form solution), locally-variant, and allowing for sub-pixel registration. The method is successfully appliled using computer simulations.
Self-stopping worms

Modern network worms spread with tremendous speed-potentially covering the planet in mere seconds. However, for most worms, this prodigious pace continues unabated long after the outbreak's incidence has peaked. Indeed, it is this ongoing infection activity that is typically used to identify compromised hosts. In principle, a stealthier worm might eliminate this telltale sign by coordinating its members to halt infection activity after the vulnerable population is subverted. Thus, after a short initial spreading period all infected hosts could become quiescent "sleep eragents." In this paper, we show that such "self-stopping" capabilities are trivial to add to existing worms, and can be efficiently implemented without any explicit coordination or additional network traffic.
Hepatic Fatty Acid Transporter Cd36 Is a Common Target of LXR, PXR, and PPARγ in Promoting Steatosis

Background & Aims: Liver X receptor (LXR) is known to promote hepatic lipogenesis by activating the lipogenic transcriptional factor sterol regulatory element-binding protein ( Srebp ). Pregnane X receptor (PXR), a previously known "xenobiotic receptor," could mediate a Srebp -independent lipogenic pathway by activating the free fatty acid uptake transporter Cd36 . The goal of this study is to investigate further the role of Cd36 in hepatic steatosis. Methods: Wild-type, LXR transgenic, PXR transgenic, and Cd36 null mice were used to study the regulation of Cd36 and other hepatic lipogenic genes and the implication of this regulation in hepatic steatosis. Promoter sequences of Cd36 and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor ( PPAR ) γ were cloned, and their respective regulation by LXR and PXR was investigated by combinations of receptor-DNA binding and reporter gene assays. Results: We showed that genetic (transgene) or pharmacologic (ligands) activation of LXR induced Cd36 . Promoter analysis established Cd36 as a novel transcription target of LXRα. Moreover, the hepatic steatosis induced by LXR agonists was largely abolished in Cd36 null mice. We also showed that PPARγ , a positive regulator of Cd36 , is a transcriptional target of PXR, suggesting that PXR can regulate Cd36 directly or through its activation of PPARγ . Interestingly, both LXR-mediated Cd36 regulation and PXR-mediated PPARγ regulation are liver specific. Conclusions: We conclude that Cd36 is a shared target of LXR, PXR, and PPARγ. The network of CD36 regulation by LXR, PXR, and PPARγ establishes this free fatty acid transporter as a common target of orphan nuclear receptors in their mediation of lipid homeostasis.
Hot tack of metallocene catalyzed polyethylene and low‐density polyethylene blend

Films made of metallocene catalyzed polyethylene (mPE), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), and their blend were prepared to investigate how LDPE influences the hot tack of film. Experimental results showed hot tack is independent of film thickness. The addition of 30 wt % of LDPE can increase the hot tack of mPE film. The thermograms of differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) suggest the respective partial melting and recrystallization of those smaller size crystals at the bond forming and joint fracture stages play very important roles. The large amount of partial melting and high flow may induce a higher degree of molecular diffusion. Higher residual crystallinity and recrystallization at the hot tack testing process may induce higher resistant to bond fracture. Those two positive influences show that the mPE/LDPE film has the higher hot tack. The evidence from optical (higher optical transmission and lower haze) as well as viscoelastic (higher storage modulus and lower melt viscosity) properties further support this hypothesis. © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 73: 1769–1773, 1999
Pharmaco-mechanical thrombectomy for early thrombus removal

Objectives:To review the current literature on the outcomes of pharmacomechanical thrombectomy (PMT) for early thrombus removal in patients with venous thromboembolism (VTE).Methods:We searched the MEDLINE database and performed a manual search of the references of selected articles to select reports reporting the outcomes of PMT alone and PMT compared to catheter-direct thrombolysis (CDT). Outcomes of interest included clot lysis rate, incidence of pulmonary embolism, major bleeding, recurrent deep vein thrombosis, number of venograms needed and amount of lytic utilized.ResultsWe found nine articles that reported outcomes of PMT. Three devices were utilized for PMT, the Angiojet, Trellis and Helix. Different thrombolytics were used to facilitate thrombus removal including urokinase, reteplase, tecneteplase, and tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA). Complete and partial thrombus removal were achieved in up to 84% and 64% and 81% and 59% of the limbs treated with PMT and CDT alone, respectively. Data on PE ...
Toward a strategic human resource management model of high reliability organization performance

In this article, we extend strategic human resource management (SHRM) thinking to theory and research on high reliability organizations (HROs) using a behavioural approach. After considering the viability of reliability as an organizational performance indicator, we identify a set of eight reliability-oriented employee behaviours (ROEBs) likely to foster organizational reliability and suggest that they are especially valuable to reliability-seeking organizations that operate under ‘trying conditions’. We then develop a reliability-enhancing human resource strategy (REHRS) likely to facilitate the manifestation of these ROEBs. We conclude that the behavioural approach offers SHRM scholars an opportunity to explain how people contribute to specific organizational goals in specific contexts and, in turn, to identify human resource strategies that extend the general high performance human resource strategy (HPHRS) in new and important ways.
Fuzzy modeling for intelligent decision making under uncertainty

We consider here the problem of decision making under uncertainty. We suggest an approach for the construction of decision functions which allow for the inclusion of probabilistic information as well as for the inclusion of information about the decision maker's attitude and preferences. Use is made of the fuzzy modeling technology to construct these functions from specifications provided by the decision maker.
Improvement of platelet function following plateletpheresis in patients with myeloproliferative diseases.

Four patients with myeloproliferative diseases and acute hemorrhagic or thrombotic complications of thrombocytosis were treated with plateletpheresis by discontinuous-flow centrifufation. Reduction of platelet counts was achieved rapidly, without complications and was associated with clinical improvement. In all four cases, abnormal platelet aggregation testing was present before pheresis, but improved immediately after pheresis. Platelet-sizing data obtained in one case suggested that during the pheresis procedure, a population of larger volume platelets was selectively removed. The efficacy of plateletpheresis in these clinical situations may be related to the selective removal of a large abnormal platelet population.
Insertion site and distribution of a genomic island conferring DNA phosphorothioation in the Mycobacterium abscessus complex.

Nearly half of US clinical isolates of the emerging pathogen Mycobacterium abscessus were reported to exhibit smeared DNA during PFGE. This DNA degradation (Dnd) phenotype results from DNA phosphorothioation, a sulfur modification found in other bacteria and conferred by dnd genes located on mobile elements. Putative dnd genes are located on a 19.6 kbp genomic island (GI) in the M. abscessus type strain ATCC 19977. We confirmed that ATCC 19977T is Dnd-positive by PFGE and we developed a PCR assay to predict Dnd phenotype. Dnd-positive strains generated an amplicon from dndC whereas Dnd-negative strains generated a bridge amplicon that spanned the GI insertion site, indicating they lacked the entire ‘Dnd-GI’. Comparative analyses of sequences from the bridge amplicon with ATCC 19977T revealed the Dnd-GI is flanked by 22 bp repeats in M. abscessus sensu stricto and inserted downstream of a tRNA-Ala gene and between inverted repeats. Regions flanking the Dnd-GI were highly conserved within the M. abscessus complex. Bioinformatics studies suggest the Dnd-GI inserted independently into a strain of Mycobacterium massiliense and that other species of mycobacteria also have dnd genes, supporting reports that the Dnd phenotype is common among actinomycetes. Within the M. abscessus complex, Dnd-positive clinical isolates were primarily M. abscessus sensu stricto, and tandem repeat typing indicated these isolates were highly related, confirming previous PFGE studies and revealing a widespread family of strains with significance in human disease.
Impaired Purinergic Neurotransmission to Mesenteric Arteries in Deoxycorticosterone Acetate-Salt Hypertensive Rats

Sympathetic nerves release norepinephrine and ATP onto mesenteric arteries. In deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA)-salt hypertensive rats, there is increased arterial sympathetic neurotransmission attributable, in part, to impaired prejunctional regulation of norepinephrine release. Prejunctional regulation purinergic transmission in hypertension is less well understood. We hypothesized that alpha(2)-adrenergic receptor dysfunction alters purinergic neurotransmission to arteries in DOCA-salt hypertensive rats. Mesenteric artery preparations were maintained in vitro, and intracellular electrophysiological methods were used to record excitatory junction potentials (EJPs) from smooth muscle cells. EJP amplitude was reduced in smooth muscle cells from DOCA-salt (4+/-1 mV) compared with control arteries (9+/-1 mV; P<0.05). When using short trains of stimulation (0.5 Hz; 5 pulses), the alpha(2)adrenergic receptor antagonist yohimbine (1 micromol/L) potentiated EJPs in control more than in DOCA-salt arteries (180+/-35% versus 86+/-7%; P<0.05). Norepinephrine (0.1 to 3.0 micromol/L), the alpha(2)adrenergic receptor agonist UK 14304 (0.001 to 0.100 micromol/L), the A(1) adenosine receptor agonist cyclopentyladensosine (0.3 to 100.0 micromol/L), and the N-type calcium channel blocker omega-conotoxin GVIA (0.0003 to 0.1000 micromol/L) decreased EJP amplitude equally well in control and DOCA-salt arteries. Trains of stimuli (10 Hz) depleted ATP stores more completely, and the latency to EJP recovery was longer in DOCA-salt compared with control arteries. These data indicate that there is reduced purinergic input to mesenteric arteries of DOCA-salt rats because of decreased ATP bioavailability in sympathetic nerves. These data highlight the potential importance of impaired purinergic regulation of arterial tone as a target for drug treatment of hypertension.
Opposed Migration Aerosol Classifier (OMAC)

A new differential mobility classifier is described. This instrument classifies aerosol particles in a channel flow between porous (or screen) electrodes. The aerosol enters the channel parallel to the porous electrodes, while a larger, particle-free cross-flow enters through one of the porous electrodes and exits through the opposing porous electrode. A potential difference between the electrodes causes charged particles to migrate upstream, against the cross flow. Particles whose migration velocity, v_m exactly balances the cross-flow velocity, v, are transmitted directly along the length of the channel with the minor aerosol flow. Particles whose migration velocities differ from the cross-flow velocity deposit on or pass through the porous electrodes. In the limit of nondiffusive particles, the probability of transmission of particles with migration velocities different from v^*_m = –v matches the triangular transfer function of the classical differential mobility analyzer (DMA). Monte Carlo simulations of the transmission of diffusive particles reveals that the resolution of this Opposed Migration Aerosol Classifier (OMAC) remains close to the same ideal, nondiffusive limit of the DMA to much lower voltages than those required by the DMA to achieve equivalent resolution. This extended range enables development of a Nano Opposed Migration Aerosol Classifier (nOMAC) with the same dynamic range of mobilities as the DMA but in a much smaller package. The lower voltage operation also enables operation at low pressure without the loss of dynamic range that DMAs suffer and at higher peak resolutions than are possible with DMAs. Furthermore, the classification method can be applied to gravitational, centrifugal, thermophoretic, and other separation fields, or to separations of particles in liquids.
A Model of Excellence for Training Managers And Non-Supervisory Employees In The Food Service Industry

The purpose of this study was to investigate the perceived effectiveness of instructional techniques used when training management and non-supervisory employees in the food service industry. Surveys were sent to 716 training directors of the largest food service organizations in the United States as listed by Dun and Bradstreet. A 72.5 percent response rate was achieved with the use of two follow-up mailings. The results of the factor analysis produced an eight factor structure of effective approaches for training employees in the food service industry.
Methodology for Aligning and Comparing Spaceborne Radar and Ground-Based Radar Observations

Direct intercomparisons between space- and ground-based radar measurements can be a challenging task. Differences in viewing aspects between space and earth observations, propagation paths, frequencies, resolution volume size, and time synchronization mismatch between space- and ground-based observations can contribute to direct point-by-point intercomparison errors. This problem is further complicated by geometric distortions induced upon the space-based observations caused by the movements and attitude perturbations of the spacecraft itself. A method to align measurements between these two systems is presented. The method makes use of variable resolution volume matching between the two systems and presents a technique to minimize the effects of potential geometric distortion in space radar observations relative to ground measurements. Applications of the method are shown that make a comparison between the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) precipitation radar (PR) reflectivity measurements and ground radar. A method has been developed that aligns space radar (SR) data with ground radar (GR) observations for the purpose of cross validation of the two systems. Accurate and precise alignment of observations requires meticulous attention to detail that is important in minimizing measurement uncertainties between the two systems so that quantitative analysis of bias, attenuation, and characterization of the microphysical properties of the atmospheric medium can be made along space radar beams via ground-based measurements. Reconciliation of the difference in resolution volumes between the two systems, due to size and orientation, and the need to align ground and space radar points have been previously investigated: Bolen and Chandrasekar (1999, 2000a) used a correlation-shift procedure and a momentbased technique, respectively, for final alignment of points. The work of Bolen and Chandrasekar was motivated by the need to evaluate attenuation correction in space radar echo returns. An independent procedure, motivated by the need to match reflectivity, was presented by Anagnastou et al. (2001), who provided a comprehensive study comparing space radar with ground radar reflectivity measurements. The method presented in this paper uses a variable volume matching scheme with a polynomial technique for alignment of SR and GR points. A theoretical modeling of potential
Suppression of multipath and other interferers using electronically variable triple delay elements

A circuit that uses electronically variable time delay elements to suppress interfering signals on the basis of their difference-in-time-of-arrival at two spatially separated antennas is described. 40 dB of suppression of wideband interferers was demonstrated in cases where strong, wideband interferers overlapped the frequency of the desired signal, and where the difference in the difference-in-time-of-arrival of interferers and desired signals was as small as 30 picoseconds. >
L*-Combustion Instability in Solid Propellant Rocket Combustion

An analysis of the L*-combustion instability in solid propellant rockets is formulated to include (1) secondary or residual combustion in the rocket chamber and (2) the change of the mean chamber pressure. The aim was to explore if these factors might remedy the failure of the many transient heat-transfer theories with quasi-steady gaseous-phase reactions in predicting any L*-combustion instability. It became clear soon how and why the response functions derived from such quasi-steady gas-phase reaction theories must fail regardless of the aforementioned remedies.
Self-monitoring of lower leg skin temperature: accuracy of self-reported data and adherence to a cooling protocol for the prevention of venous leg ulcers.

BACKGROUND For intervention studies that require the use of participant self-reports, the quality and accuracy of recorded data and variability in participant adherence rates to the treatment can cause significant outcome bias. PURPOSE To assess the quality and accuracy of participant documentation of daily self-monitoring of leg skin temperature, adherence to a graduated cooling treatment protocol to prevent venous leg ulcers, and the potential for bias in treatment effect in a randomized controlled trial that included a population with chronic venous disease. METHODS Individuals were randomized to a leg cooling intervention or placebo treatment group to daily self-monitor and record lower leg skin temperature over a 9-month period on monthly paper study logs. Returned study logs for the first 100 completed participants (n=54 cooling intervention, n=46 control) were reviewed for quality and accuracy. Adherence was determined from evaluating the accuracy of participant documentation. To examine potential outcome bias in treatment effect, mean between group and within group comparisons of the before and after treatment differences were conducted using an intention-to-treat (ITT) versus a modified intention-to-treat (mITT) analysis approach with an 85% accuracy cut-off rate. Data were collected in 2011-2014. RESULTS Of the expected 900 study logs, 91.8% (826/900) were returned and 8.2% (74/900) were not. Non-mutually exclusive main error types in returned documentation included: 59.2% (489/826) white-outs, cross-off and/or overwrites, 34.9% (288/826) entries omitted, 29.4% (243/826) no performance of daily self-monitoring, 28.7% (237/826) no performance of the treatment intervention per the prescribed protocol regime, 26.8% (221/826) extraneous data, 8.6% (71/826) suspected fabrication, and 7.6% (63/826) questionable validity. Under ITT analysis, 38.4% (346/900) of all returned logs were <85% accurate, 25.0% (225/900) were 85%-99% accurate, and 36.6% (329/900) were 100% accurate. Mean overall participant adherence rates were: 22.0% at <85% accuracy, 53.0% at 85%-99% accuracy, and 25.0% at 100% accuracy. Under the mITT analysis, 54.0% (483/900) of returned logs were deemed adherent with ≥85% accuracy. CONCLUSION This study found good rates of adherence. Under ITT analysis, 78.0% of participants were deemed adherent to the study protocol with ≥85% accuracy in documenting daily self-monitoring of skin temperatures in response to a topically applied experimental cooling cuff intervention for the prevention of venous leg ulcers.