cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Meaning, Ideality and Subjectivity

In Chapter 2, following Habermas and Apel, we introduced the concept of communicative rationality in contrast to the traditional notion of cognitive rationality, and formulated some of its basic principles deemed to be relevant to our program. In addition to the rules or principles already discussed by our philosophical contemporaries in Germany, we formulated one more principle called “the principle of choice between incompatible alternatives” (or “choice principle”). We also incorporated the Apelian-Habermasian concept of “ performative contradiction” into what we call The Principle of Performative Consistency (PPC), so that a refutation of a validity claim can be realized by showing that, similar to what is called the “ indirect proof in formal logic, making such a claim violates PPC.
Comparing morbidity rates between wise pattern and standard horizontal elliptical mastectomy incisions in patients undergoing immediate breast reconstruction.

BACKGROUND Breast cancer patients with ptotic breasts pursuing mastectomy with immediate reconstruction can present challenges. A wise pattern (inverted-T) mastectomy incision (WPM) has been suggested as an alternative to the standard horizontal elliptical mastectomy (EM) to reduce redundant skin and correct ptosis. Herein, we sought to examine the differences in morbidity between the two techniques. METHODS We performed a retrospective review of women undergoing mastectomy with immediate reconstruction at our institution from June 2007 to January 2016. We compared those undergoing WPM to a control population undergoing EM. Statistical analysis was performed evaluating clinical, pathological, and surgical outcome variables according to patient and per breast. All tests were two-sided with alpha level set at 0.05 for statistical significance. RESULTS A total of 241 women underwent mastectomy and reconstruction in 421 breasts; 78/241 (32%) had WPM (149 breasts), 163/241 (68%) had EM (272 breasts). Both groups were similar in age, smoking status, diabetes, race, tumor type, and pathologic stage (all P > 0.07). Skin flap necrosis was the most frequently encountered complication, occurring in 58/149 (38.9%) of WPM breasts and in 24/272 (8.9%) of EM breasts (P < 0.0001). There was no difference in the need for revisional procedures between the groups (WPM: 24.1% vs EM: 17.6%, P = 0.207). CONCLUSION Patients should be counseled WPM is associated with higher rates of skin flap necrosis. However, this does not translate into higher rates of revisional procedures or return to OR.
Experience with Active Learning and Formative Feedback for a SQL Unit

This Full Paper in the Research to Practice Category describes experience with using active learning combined with formative feedback for the SQL unit in both undergraduate and master’s-level database courses at a regional public university in the United States. The contributions of this paper are: a detailed description of the implementation of this active learning unit including software configuration and the queries used for the activity; providing hints about the correct solution as a method of formative feedback, and how the example database and SQL problems must be carefully designed in order for this feedback to be useful; and experience with implementing the activity in both a computer lab and a classroom, with class sizes ranging from 20 to 50 students. Additionally, experience with using a virtual machine to provide a computing environment that students can use on their personal computers is discussed as part of this paper. The computer programs and SQL problems that are described in this paper are available for download from the author’s website.
Mitochondrial Ca 2+ concentrations in live cells: quantification methods and discrepancies.

Intracellular Ca2+ signaling controls numerous cellular functions. Mitochondria respond to cytosolic Ca2+ changes by adapting mitochondrial functions and, in some cell types, shaping the spatiotemporal properties of the cytosolic Ca2+ signal. Numerous methods have been developed to specifically and quantitatively measure the mitochondrial-free Ca2+ concentrations ([Ca2+ ]m ), but there are still significant discrepancies in the calculated absolute values of [Ca2+ ]m in stimulated live cells. These discrepancies may be due to the distinct properties of the methods used to measure [Ca2+ ]m , the calcium-free/bound ratio, and the cell-type and stimulus-dependent Ca2+ dynamics. Critical processes happening in the mitochondria, such as ATP generation, ROS homeostasis, and mitochondrial permeability transition opening, depend directly on the [Ca2+ ]m values. Thus, precise determination of absolute [Ca2+ ]m values is imperative for understanding Ca2+ signaling. This review summarizes the reported calibrated [Ca2+ ]m values in many cell types and discusses the discrepancies among these values. Areas for future research are also proposed.
Method for in situ analysis of volatiles generated during cure of composites

Abstract Conventional epoxies used in composites are formulated to release minimal amounts of volatiles during cure, aside from moisture, which is a perpetual concern. However, a variety of polymers are used in production of composite parts, including adhesives, prepregs, and non-epoxy polymers, and sources of volatilization during processing can be both difficult to determine and problematic. Here we demonstrate a general method for in situ analysis of volatile release during cure. The method improves upon traditional characterization techniques of TGA/MS and TGA/FTIR (thermogravimetric analysis, mass spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy). We characterize a commercial epoxy prepreg typical of those used in aerospace, a benzoxazine/epoxy blended liquid resin intended for high-temperature service, and finally, a high-temperature polyimide. By understanding the identity, origin, and kinetics of volatile release in these three materials, we can prescribe additional pre-treatments and define process windows to minimize and even eliminate volatile-induced porosity. Finally, we demonstrate the utility of the reaction cell/FTIR approach for characterizing cure-induced volatiles and mitigating final part porosity.
Implementation and Optimization of Protracted Colored Noise Dynamics to Block Copolymer Grafted Nanoparticles

Abstract Molecular dynamics simulation of the ordering polymer grafted nanoparticles is problematic because of the long time and length scales required, even when using coarse-graining techniques. In order to better sample over the large energy barriers present in these systems, protracted colored noise dynamics (PCND) was implemented for a model block copolymer grafted nanoparticle in two ways: i) a whole body force, which applies the same force to every particle on a polymer grafted nanoparticle, and ii) a polymer arm force, which applies a different force to each polymer graft. The effectiveness of each implementation was tested as a function of the magnitude of the force ( ξ ) and the correlation time of the force ( τ ). It is found that the whole body force was very effective in reaching the equilibrium lamellae state, and showed the same functional dependence on ξ and τ as found previously for a backbone correlated force for linear diblock copolymers, while the polymer arm force was less effective, requiring larger ξ and τ values, and longer simulation times, to equilibrate.
Corneal Hydration Control during Ex Vivo Experimentation Using Poloxamers.

ABSTRACTPurpose: The purpose of this study was to develop an effective treatment method using poloxamers to restore and maintain physiological hydration in postmortem porcine and human corneas duri...
Revisiting the Fates of Dead Leaves That Fall into Streams

As terrestrial leaf litter decomposes in rivers, its constituent elements follow multiple pathways. Carbon leached as dissolved organic matter can be quickly taken up by microbes, then respired bef...
Modeling Tumor Evolutionary Dynamics to Predict Clinical Outcomes for Patients with Metastatic Colorectal Cancer: A Retrospective Analysis

Over 50% of colorectal cancer patients develop resistance after a transient response to therapy. Understanding tumor resistance from an evolutionary perspective leads to better predictions of treatment outcomes. The objectives of this study were to develop a computational framework to analyze tumor longitudinal measurements and recapitulate the individual evolutionary dynamics in metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) patients. A stochastic modeling framework was developed to depict the whole spectrum of tumor evolution prior to diagnosis and during and after therapy. The evolutionary model was optimized using a nonlinear mixed effect (NLME) method based on the longitudinal measurements of liver metastatic lesions from 599 mCRC patients. The deterministic limits in the NLME model were applied to optimize the stochastic model for each patient. Cox proportional hazards models coupled with the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) algorithm were applied to predict patients' progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). The stochastic evolutionary model well described the longitudinal profiles of tumor sizes. The evolutionary parameters optimized for each patient indicated substantial interpatient variability. The number of resistant subclones at diagnosis was found to be a significant predictor to survival, and the hazard ratios with 95% CI were 1.09 (0.79-1.49) and 1.54 (1.01-2.34) for patients with three or more resistant subclones. Coupled with several patient characteristics, evolutionary parameters strongly predict patients' PFS and OS. A stochastic computational framework was successfully developed to recapitulate individual patient evolutionary dynamics, which could predict clinical survival outcomes in mCRC patients. SIGNIFICANCE: A data analysis framework depicts the individual evolutionary dynamics of mCRC patients and can be generalized to project patient survival outcomes.
The effect of moisture on the nonlinearly viscoelastic behavior of an epoxy

The shear and bulk relaxation moduli required to characterize a homogeneous, isotropic, and linearly viscoelastic material were determined using a confined compression experiment and by introducing a new iterative scheme that accounts for the fact that the hoop and radial strains are not step functions. In addition, the coefficients of thermal and hygral expansion of the epoxy being considered were determined along with its diffusive behavior. Fickian diffusion of moisture was confirmed by coupling radial diffusion in an epoxy disk with optical interference measurements of the out-of-plane displacements. These properties are essential components of the modified free-volume model of nonlinear viscoelasticity established by Popelar and Liechti (J. Eng. Mater. Technol. 119:205–210, 1997, Mech. Time-Depend. Mater. 7(2):89–141, 2003). For the nonlinear component of the model, its distortional parameters were evaluated from Arcan pure shear test results at one strain rate and temperature/humidity state. The nonlinear viscoelasticity model was then used to predict the shear stress-strain response under other conditions. The dilatational parameters were extracted from uniaxial tensile test results at one strain rate and temperature humidity state and predictions under other conditions compared favorably with the results from experiments. This exercise adds to a growing list of glassy polymers whose nonlinear stress-strain behavior can be modeled by this modified free-volume model.
Positive thoughts or cognitive balance as a moderator of the negative life events-dysphoria relationship : A reexamination

This study reexamined Lightsey's (1994a) evidence that positive cognitions moderate the negative life event–dysphoria relation. In his research Lightsey failed to fully consider the relevance of the states of mind (SOM) ratio as an alternative moderator variable, and conducted an imprecise analysis of the predictiveness of the SOM model. The present study compared Lightsey's original analysis and an analysis based on the SOM model. The results replicated Lightsey's finding of a Positive Thoughts × Stress interaction but also supported a SOM × Stress interaction. Although the two models were equal in accounting for predicted variance, the present findings, plus Lightsey's (1994b) results from a second study, suggest that negative thoughts and the balance of positive and negative thoughts are important to consider. Limitations plus evidence that positive monologue, in contrast to positive dialogue, showed a greater stress-dampening effect (contrary to SOM model predictions) are discussed.
Survey on a public health emergency event caused by norovirus

Objective: To study the epidemiological characteristics of an outbreak caused by norovirus infection in a school in Haidian district, Beijing. Methods: Basic information of the school and data related to patients in the fields survey were collected and analyzed descriptively. Laboratory tests were performed to test the stool and anal swab specimens of both patients and cooks as well as the environmental specimens. Risk factors related to the incidence were analyzed through a case-control study. Results: A total number of 119 patients were identified in the school. Clinical symptoms were mild, mainly involving vomiting (94.1%, 112/119), abdominal pain (46.2%, 55/119), but no need of hospitalization. The average age of the student patients was 6.38, with minimum and maximum between 5 and 11. Patients were found in 22 classes, but mainly in grade 1 and class 7 where 35 patients were found (30.17%). A total of 134 specimens of rectal swabs and stool were collected, with 7 positive for norovirus and 6 for sappovirus. Salmonella, Shigella, lapactic Escherichia coli and Vibrio parahaemolyticus were not found in on dinner sets, residual foods, bottled water or in drinking fountains. Index on water hygiene was unsatisfactory in classrooms or dormitories where more cases were found. Accommodation, north-facing-classrooms, abnormal water hygiene indexes were found related to the occurance of the disease (P<0.05). Conclusions: The outbreak was identified a gastroenteritis infection, caused by norovirus with symptoms as vomiting and abdominal pain. This event reached the reporting standards of public health emergencies-level Ⅳ. Discovery and isolation of the first case was not timely while transmission of the disease might be water-borne. Surveillance programs on symptoms, disinfection of vomit and stool in places like nurseries and schools should be strengthened to prevent the norovirus outbreak.
The Characterization of Thin Films and Layered Structures Using X-Ray Absorption and Reflection at Grazing Incidence

X-rays at grazing incidence have a short, controllable penetration depth and are well suited as a probe of surface and interface structures. This paper examines the possibility applying grazing-incidence reflectivity and Extended X-Ray Absorption Fine Structure (EXAFS) measurements to such systems. Results are presented for an Al-Cu couple for which both high resolution reflectivity and interface EXAFS measurements are made. The latter results are the first interface specific EXAFS data to be reported. Distinct changes in both signals are observed upon annealing, demonstrating the potential of the techniques.
39. MOTIVATIONAL INTERVIEWING: THE CURRENT STATE OF TEACHING AND ASSESSMENT IN ADOLESCENT MEDICINE FELLOWSHIPS

Background Motivational interviewing (MI) is an evidence-based counseling approach to facilitate choosing healthier behaviors. “Demonstration of MI” is a curricular component of the Adolescent Medicine (AM) specific entrustable professional activity (EPA) “Provide care for adolescent and young adult patients with acute physical and mental health issues.” Objective To assess if and how AM fellowships teach and assess MI. Methods AM Fellowship Directors from all 33 US and Canadian programs were surveyed anonymously online about individual training and curricular inclusion of MI. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis of comments were conducted. Results Our response rate was 91% (N=30/33). 93% (n=28/30) of respondents received training in MI; 60% (n=18/30) each during and post-fellowship. However, 40% (n=12/30) have not received any MI faculty development in the last 3 years. Teaching methods for MI include direct observation of patient encounters in real-time (63%, n=19/30), by audio/videotape (7%, n=2/30), role-play (47%, n=14/30), and simulation (20%, n=6/30). Only 30% (n=9/30) offer written observational feedback after patient encounters. Only 53% (n=16/30) felt their program's MI teaching and assessment methods result in adequate “demonstration of MI” by graduating fellows. Time, assessment, and curriculum were the most common needs reported to improve MI skills. Of the 90% (n=26/29) of programs that offer direct observation in patient encounters to give feedback on verbal communication skills (not MI specific), most observation is by an “attending”, 27% (n=7/26) offer written formative feedback, and 15% (n=4/26) ask fellows to write an improvement plan based on their feedback. Conclusions Opportunities for MI curricular improvement include longitudinal faculty development, written feedback and self-reflection after observed patient encounters. We plan to perform semi-structured interviews to better understand these preliminary findings, feasibility of collaborating with other residency faculty, and sharing of resources and experiences across AM Fellowships.
B-to-B relationships: A resource, knowledge, and capability (RKC) perspective

Abstract The literature on the establishment and performance of business to business (B-to-B) relationships is extensive and diverse. Multiple perspectives such as the Resource-Based View, Knowledge-Based View, and more recently (Dynamic) Capability-Based View have been used by researchers to explain the existence of B-to-B relationships. While these perspectives have their own merits, they lack cohesion and paint a somewhat scattered picture of the rationale behind B-to-B relationships. This study is an attempt to bring these divergent perspectives together to offer a parsimonious logic for B-to-B relationships – a match or mismatch between what the buyers want (resource, knowledge, and capability) and what the sellers can offer (resource, knowledge, and capability). A 3 × 3 typological framework is proposed, which includes three broad types of B-to-B relationships – balanced relationships (BR), seller dominant relationships (SDR), and buyer dominant relationships (BDR). The boundary conditions and possible outcomes of the relationship types are also outlined. This study has important implications for theory and practice.
Sublime Sahib: white masculine identity formation in big mountain climbing

This article explores western big mountain climbing practices in the Himalaya as ‘secular’ processes of identity formation with historical roots in Victorian efforts at sublimation. Such practices ...
Natural Capital and Labor Allocation

Many poor rural households exploit natural resources, and losses in natural capital may affect their participation in outside employment. The analysis of this article confirms that both mangrove area and the type of mangrove-dependent activity pursued by coastal households in Thailand have significant influences on the participation decision of adult males and females, the wages that they receive for outside employment, and the number of hours worked. Controlling mangrove deforestation could reduce the negative impacts on household labor allocation, but it will require a new institutional framework for coastal mangrove management inducing cooperation between government and coastal households. Investments in female education and training could improve their outside employment prospects and wage rates.
Observation of the fundamental length scale of Branched Flow of light

Branched flow is a universal phenomenon in which waves form channels of enhance intensity that keep dividing as they propagate. We experimentally demonstrate the scaling behavior of the fundamental branching length for general anisotropic media.
Consequential life cycle assessment: Evaluating the environmental impact of dairy manure treatment using thermochemical conversion technologies

Abstract Dairy manure is an avoidable waste largely raising public concerns on the environment and human health issues. However, from the opposite perspective, it can be viewed as a steady-supplied feedstock with both high quantity and high nutrient contents and can be used to produce several value-added products, especially biochar and energy. To comprehensively compare the environmental impacts resulted from dairy manure treatment using four potential thermochemical conversion technologies: slow pyrolysis, fast pyrolysis, gasification, and hydrothermal liquefaction. In this study, we adopt two different life cycle assessment approaches, namely, attributional LCA (ALCA) and consequential LCA (CLCA). Unlike ALCA which only assesses environmental impacts directly related to the target process, CLCA also captures indirect environmental impacts in consequence of changes in the supply and demand through a simple partial equilibrium model by adopting microeconomic concepts. In both ALCA and CLCA results, slow pyrolysis outperforms the other technologies due to the splendid carbon sequestration ability of the biochar it produces.
Disorders of Fatty Acids

Fatty acids are a major constituent of brain, (1–3) and furthermore they appear to have crucial roles in determining the properties of membranes. Consequently, any substantive derangement of neural tissues might be expected to have, as one of its effects, a change in fatty acid composition. One of the major problems in evaluating data on fatty acid composition is that of differentiating primary changes in fatty acid metabolism from changes secondary to other abnormalities.
Fluorescence Phenomena in Nerve-Labeling Styryl-Type Dyes.

Several classes of diversely substituted styryl type dyes have been synthesized with the goal of extending their expected fluorescent properties as much towards red as possible given the constraint that they maintain drug-like properties and retain high affinity binding to their biological target. We report on the synthesis, optical properties of a series of styryl dyes ( d1-d14 ), and the anomalous photophysical behavior of several of these Donor-Acceptor pairs separated by long conjugated π-systems ( d7-d10 ). We further describe an unusual dual emission behavior with two distinct ground state conformers which could be individually excited to locally excited (LE) and twisted intramolecular charge transfer (TICT) excited state in push-pull dye systems ( d7 , d9 and d10 ). Additionally, unexpected emission behavior in dye systems d7 and d8 wherein the amino- derivative d7 displayed a dual emission in polar medium while the N,N-dimethyl derivative d8 and other methylated derivatives d12-d14 showed only LE emission but did not show any TICT emission. Based on photophysical and nerve binding studies, we down selected compounds that exhibited the most robust fluorescent staining of nerve tissue sections. These dyes ( d7 , d9 , and d10 ) were subsequently selected for in-vivo fluorescence imaging studies in rodents using the small animal multispectral imaging instrument and the dual-mode laparoscopic instrument developed in-house.
Role of cyclic GMP in atrial natriuretic factor stimulation of Na+,K+,Cl− cotransport in vascular smooth muscle cells

Atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) has been shown to bind to specific receptors on vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) and to cause an increase in intracellular cyclic GMP (cGMP) content. We have recently demonstrated that a prominent Na+,K+,Cl- cotransport system is present in VSMC and that a permeable cGMP analog (8-bromo-cGMP) stimulates activity of the cotransporter. We have also shown that the ANF peptide, rat atriopeptin III, stimulates Na+,K+,Cl- cotransport and elevates intracellular cGMP levels in VSMC. In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that ANF stimulation of Na+,K+,Cl- cotransport occurs via an increase in cGMP levels. When the quinolinedione, 6-anilo-5,8-quinolinedione (LY83583) (10 microM), was used to block formation of cGMP in VSMC from primary cultures of rat thoracic aorta, it was found that both basal and rat atriopeptin III (100 nM)-stimulated Na+,K+,Cl- cotransport were significantly inhibited. The effect of LY83583 was dose-dependent and the half-maximal inhibitory concentration was 0.5 microM. LY83583 also inhibited cotransport in the presence of a maximal concentration of 8-bromo-cGMP. However, this inhibition was not seen in cells also treated with 2-O-propoxyphenyl-8-azapurin-6-one (M&B 22,948), an inhibitor of cGMP phosphodiesterase. M&B 22,948 alone also increased levels of cotransport. Since inhibition of cGMP formation blocks ANF-stimulated Na+,K+,Cl- cotransport and inhibition of cGMP breakdown enhances Na+, K+, Cl- cotransport, we conclude that ANF stimulation of Na+,K+,Cl- cotransport in VSMC is mediated via increase in intracellular cGMP levels.
UV absorption spectra of H2O/HNO3 films

The ultraviolet (UV) absorption spectra were measured for amorphous and crystalline H2O/HNO3 films representative of polar stratospheric clouds (PSCs). Film compositions were determined using laser induced thermal desorption (LITD). Pure HNO3 films showed a broad absorption peak with a maximum absorbance at λ ≈ 195 nm. The absorbances of amorphous H2O/HNO3 films were also broad and peaked at λ=196–198 nm. The absorption cross sections increased slightly for more dilute films, although the band shape was nearly independent of the H2O content This increase in cross section was consistent with a change in the absorbing species from molecular HNO3 to ionic NO3−. The major absorbing species in crystalline NAT, NAD, and NAM is also NO3− and these films all had very similar UV absorption spectra. Their absorption peaks were all at λ ≈ 200 nm and the band shapes were nearly identical.
Dating the "window of therapeutic opportunity" in early rheumatoid arthritis: accuracy of patient recall of arthritis symptom onset.

OBJECTIVE: A "window of therapeutic opportunity" has been hypothesized to be present in early rheumatoid arthritis (RA). To determine the date of this window, we must know the symptom-onset date of the RA. Patients participating in an observational study of early aggressive rheumatoid factor (RF) positive RA were evaluated to assess the accuracy of their recall of symptom-onset date by comparing the onset date they reported at the first visit with that reported on subsequent 6-monthly questionnaires. METHODS: One hundred eighty-six patients with early RA (at entry: median disease duration 5.8 mo, mean RF 413.8 +/- 630.7 IU/ml, 20.6 +/- 10.9 swollen and 23.7 +/- 13.4 tender joints) completed a self-reported mailed questionnaire every 6 months for up to 5 years. As a part of each questionnaire, patients were asked to recall their RA symptom-onset date. These dates were then compared to the dates reported on the initial questionnaire. RESULTS: Thirteen months after symptom onset (i.e., about 6 mo after study entry) 61% of patients recalled the symptom-onset date (within 1 mo) that they had reported at baseline; the proportion decreased to 39% at 31 months and 25% after 70 months. During this period, the proportion overestimating RA duration remained about 20%, but the proportion underestimating it increased from 23% at 13 months to 39% at 31 months, and to 50% after 56 months. Patients with longer disease duration, less disease activity, and higher pain levels tended to be less accurate. CONCLUSION: Accuracy of recall of RA symptom-onset date by patients tends to decline over a period of 5 years. This should be taken into consideration when enrolling patients, when interpreting the findings of early RA clinical trials, and when attempting to ascertain the presence of a window of therapeutic opportunity.
Multi-mode microstrip antennas for reconfigurable aperture

A multi-mode reconfigurable antenna structure is explored. The unique phased array system utilizes three different microstrip antennas: the quasi-Yagi endfire antenna for wideband endfire coverage, patch antennas for moderate gain at broadside, and high gain frequency scanned leaky-wave antennas. The aperture configuration can be controlled through a combination of DSP and MEMS switches. The proposed structure exhibits good isolation between the different aperture ports. The radiation patterns in each reconfigured mode of operation do not show any noticeable degradation.
An Object-Oriented Approach to Banking Information Systems

Financial institutions like banks make extensive use of information systems and information technology, but they are risk-averse and slow to adopt new technology. In this paper, we explore how the new paradigm of object-oriented analysis and design can be used to advantage in banking information systems. We identify the similarities among the different financial instruments offered by banks and then exploit these similarities in a proposal for an object-oriented approach to banking information systems. We discuss the need for a migration strategy to minimize the risk of adopting the new technology.
The quartz microbalance: A sensitive tool to probe surface reconstructions on gold electrodes in liquid

Abstract A quartz resonator operated in solution is a sensitive tool to probe surface reconstructions on metal electrodes subjected to an electrochemical oxidiation/reduction cycle. The analysis of mass changes obtained on gold electrodes in neutral and alkaline solutions demonstrates that about 20% of the observed change is due to oxygen incorporation into the metal surface with the remainder arising from liquid confined in pockets of the roughened, oxidized surface. The roughening was confirmed by SEM micrographs.
Slow wave potentials in cucumber differ in form and growth effect from those in pea seedlings

A positive hydraulic signal in the form of a xylem pressure step was applied to the roots of intact seedlings of Cucumis sativus L. and Pisum sativum L. Surface electrodes at three positions along the epicotyl/hypocotyl recorded a propagating depolarization which appeared first in the basal, then the central and sometimes the apical electrode positions and fitted the characteristics of a slow wave potential (SWP). This depolarization differed between pea and cucumber. It was transient in cells of pea epicotyls but sustained in cucumber hypocotyls. It was not associated with a change in cell input resistance in pea epicotyls but preceded an increase in the input resistance of cucumber hypocotyl cells. With the increased xylem pressure the growth rate (GR) of cucumber hypocotyls and pea epicotyls underwent a transient increase, peaking after 5 min. If the depolarization reached the growing upper region, it preceded a sustained decrease in the GR of cucumber hypocotyls but only a transient decrease in the GR of pea epicotyls. A temperature jump in the root medium (heat treatment) induced a steep pressure spike in the xylem of the cucumber hypocotyl which showed similar electric and growth effects as the previously applied, non-injurious pressure steps. We suggest that the observed differences in the electric and growth responses between the species were caused by the closure of ion channels in depolarized cells of cucumber but not pea seedlings.
Leaf margins and temperature in the North American flora: Recalibrating the paleoclimatic thermometer

For almost a century, leaf margin analysis has been an important method of estimating Cenozoic paleotemperatures. However, the relation between the proportion of toothed versus entire leaves and temperature has so far been calibrated and characterized using relatively small numbers of opportunistically and irregularly collected floras. Here we present the results of the first systematic spatially-distributed analysis of the relation between leaf margins and temperature for North America. We used species range maps of native North American dicot trees to derive synthetic local floras for each 50 km grid cell in the USA and Canada, and compared the percentage of entire-margined species with the mean annual temperature in each cell. Leaf margin type for each species was assigned using illustrations from appropriate regional North America floras. This analysis confirms that high-rainfall areas of the eastern USA and Canada show a strong inverse relationship between toothed margin percentage and mean annual temperature in the range 0-25 degrees C. The values we estimate are roughly similar to those obtained from floras in east Asia and previous analyses in North America, but the detailed curve is more complex, showing a distinct change in slope above a mean annual temperature of 20 degrees C. Wetter climate areas of the coastal western USA do not show any significant correlation between leaf margin percentage and temperature. This may relate to the confounding effect of the diverse topography of the West Coast, or it may be caused by the depleted dicotyledonous tree flora of this area. Like previous studies, this paper demonstrates that there indeed is a strong relationship between leaf margin percentage and temperature on a regional scale in eastern North America. However the relationship does not have the same linear behavior as results obtained from previous analyses. We discuss the implications of the results obtained here for paleoclimatic reconstruction in the content of other leaf margin analyses based on North American sites. (c) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Wanted — wise policy not restrictive regulation☆

Abstract This article begins by restating some familiar tenets of information processing and telecommunications theory: that our emerging post-industrial economy is becoming increasingly service-oriented with a corresponding emphasis being placed upon information-intensive activities; 1 that technical improvements in telecommunications systems are forthcoming at an almost exponential rate of increase; 2 that a wide array of developed or developing telecommunications systems (including computer-based word processing, cable/satellite TV, interactive video, videotext, etc) are being considered for possible application in varied settings (ranging from the home to the office to the delivery of governmental services).
Boosting with structure information in the functional space: an application to graph classification

Boosting is a very successful classification algorithm that produces a linear combination of "weak" classifiers (a.k.a. base learners) to obtain high quality classification models. In this paper we propose a new boosting algorithm where base learners have structure relationships in the functional space. Though such relationships are generic, our work is particularly motivated by the emerging topic of pattern based classification for semi-structured data including graphs. Towards an efficient incorporation of the structure information, we have designed a general model where we use an undirected graph to capture the relationship of subgraph-based base learners. In our method, we combine both L1 norm and Laplacian based L2 norm penalty with Logit loss function of Logit Boost. In this approach, we enforce model sparsity and smoothness in the functional space spanned by the basis functions. We have derived efficient optimization algorithms based on coordinate decent for the new boosting formulation and theoretically prove that it exhibits a natural grouping effect for nearby spatial or overlapping features. Using comprehensive experimental study, we have demonstrated the effectiveness of the proposed learning methods.
Zygomycosis: an emerging fungal infection.

Purpose. The epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical presentation and diagnosis, and management of zygomycosis are reviewed. Summary. The frequency of zygomycosis has been increasing over the past 10 years; infections have been identified in up to 6.8% of patients at autopsy. The most common route of transmission for Zygomycetes fungi is inhalation of spores from the environment. Patients at highest risk for infections caused by Mucorales fungi include those with profound immunosuppression or diabetes, intravenous drug abusers, premature infants, those receiving deferoxamine, and recipients of bone marrow transplants. Mucormycosis commonly presents as rhinocerebral or pulmonary disease; gastrointestinal presentations also occur. Clinical manifestations of invasive mucormycosis are tissue necrosis and subsequent thrombosis. Common features of pulmonary disease include fever, dyspnea, hemoptysis, and cavitation upon radiologic examination. The mainstays of treatment are control or reversal of the underlying disease or immunosuppression, antifungal therapy, and aggressive surgical debridement. Posaconazole, a new triazole antifungal, has been used successfully in a number of cases that did not respond to amphotericin B. Conclusion. Zygomycosis appears to be on the rise in the United States. The standard treatment is a combination of amphotericin B therapy, surgical debridement, and reversal of the underlying disease or immunosuppression.
Two-dimensional modulation and instability of a short wave riding on a finite-amplitude long wave

Abstract We study the effects of a long wave of finite amplitude on a short wave propagating in a different direction. To facilitate analytical treatment, the long wave is modelled by Gerstner's exact solution, and Lagrangian coordinates are used. Focus is first on the moderately long-scale modulation within a duration comparable to the period of the long wave. The angle of inclination is allowed to be arbitrary. Extension to the evolution over much longer time and distance of propagation is then made for a short wave colinear with the long wave but modulated slowly in both longitudinal and transverse directions. The instability of the short wave due to oblique side bands is examined, and is found to be significantly enhanced by the presence of the long wave.
Hypovolemia stimulates intraoral intake of water and NaCl solution in intact rats but not in chronic decerebrate rats

This experiment tested the hypothesis that afferent signals from cardiac baroreceptors to the caudal brain stem are integrated by hindbrain systems to control ingestive behavior in response to plasma volume deficits in rats. A supracollicular transection was made which should not interfere with the neural signal of volume depletion to the hindbrain. Decerebrate (n=5) and control rats (n=7) were given subcutaneous injections of 30% polyethylene glycol (PEG) to induce hypovolemia or of isotonic saline as a control. Four hours after the injection, either water or 0.1 M NaCl was administered through an intraoral cannula, and intakes were measured. Decerebrate rats did not ingest significantly more water or saline after PEG treatment than after the control treatment, whereas control rats ingested both fluids in significantly larger volumes after PEG treatment. In another test using the same animals, heart rate was monitored after intravenous injections of phenylephrine (to raise blood pressure) and nitroprusside (to lower it). Similar reflexive changes in heart rate were observed in control and decerebrate rats, showing that baroreflex function was not impaired by decerebration. These results indicate that baroafferent signals are processed at multiple levels of the neuraxis, with hindbrain systems mediating autonomic cardiovascular reflexes in response to changes in blood pressure, and midbrain or forebrain systems mediating behavioral responses associated with thirst.
Scheduling Full-Time and Part-Time Staff to Meet Cyclic Requirements

A simple algorithm is presented for the problem of allocating staff in order to meet demand over a repeating seven-day cycle. The formulation assumes that full-time employees are entitled to two consecutive days off and that the objective is to meet demand for staff with a minimum use of part-time employees. The algorithm requires only hand calculations.
From atomic scale reactant ordering to mesoscale reaction front propagation: CO oxidation on Pd(100)

We utilize a heterogeneous coupled lattice-gas (HCLG) approach to connect the length scales from a realistic atomistic description of surface reactions to the associated mesoscale spatiotemporal behavior. This method is applied to describe reaction front structure in a model for CO oxidation on Pd(100) which incorporates complex ordering of CO and O adlayers, and a precise treatment of the chemical diffusion for interacting CO adlayers in an environment of coadsorbed O.
Paradoxical hypermasculinization of the zebra finch song system by an antiestrogen

Exogenous estrogens, when administered to hatchling female zebra finches, masculinize the morphology and function of their neural vocal control system. The first of two experiments evaluated whether tamoxifen citrate is an antiestrogen in zebra finches, and the second determined whether it would block the masculinization hypothesized to be caused in hatchling males by the males' endogenous estradiol. In the first experiment adult female zebra finches were ovariectomized and injected for 10 days with estradiol benzoate (EB), tamoxifen, EB and tamoxifen combined, or vehicle (control). The dependent variable was oviduct weight. The EB-stimulated growth of the oviduct was blocked by tamoxifen, which had no effects when administered alone. Thus, tamoxifen acts as an antiestrogen in the zebra finch oviduct. In Experiment 2, male and female zebra finches were treated with tamoxifen or vehicle for the first 20 days after hatching. The males were castrated at 20 days. At 60 days we compared the song control regions of experimental and control males and females. In both sexes tamoxifen increased the somatic areas of neurons in RA (robust nucleus of the archistriatum), HVc (caudal nucleus of the ventral hyperstriatum), and MAN (magnocellular nucleus of the anterior neostriatum). Tamoxifen also increased the volumes of HVc, RA, MAN, and Area X in males. Thus, tamoxifen failed to block masculinization of males, but masculinized females and hypermasculinized males. Tamoxifen's hypermasculinization of the male and masculinization of the female song system is paradoxical given that (1) estradiol does not have similar effects on the male song system, and (2) tamoxifen antagonizes the effects of EB in the oviduct.
Carcinoma of the extrahepatic biliary tract: Surgery and radiotherapy for curative and palliative intent

Forty-seven patients were treated for carcinoma of the extrahepatic biliary tract between 1962 and 1993: 17 by surgery alone, 20 by surgery and postoperative radiotherapy, and 10 with radiotherapy alone. Initial operations included gross total resection (17 patients), simple cholecystectomy (6 patients), subtotal resection (11 patients), biopsy (3 patients), and percutaneous decompression (10 patients). External-beam radiotherapy (30-60 Gy) was administered to 30 patients: 10 after gross total resection or simple cholecystectomy, 10 after subtotal resection or surgical biopsy, and 10 after percutaneous decompression. Overall survival was 26% at 3 years and 15% at 5 years. The 5-year survival rate was 15% for 17 patients treated by surgery alone and 14% for 30 patients treated with radiotherapy alone or following surgery. After gross total resection, median survival time was 26.1 months for 9 patients treated by surgery alone vs. 43.4 months for 8 patients who received postoperative radiotherapy. After gross total resection or cholecystectomy, 5-year survival rates were 19% for surgery alone and 35% for surgery and postoperative radiotherapy (P=.07). Median survival for 10 patients treated by radiation therapy alone after percutaneous decompression was 6.4 months. Postoperative adjuvant radiotherapy was well tolerated and may improve local-regional control after gross total resection.
3D Numerical Investigation of Thermally Assisted High Efficiency Ductile Machining of Brittle Materials

This study investigates the effects of four different variables (initial workpiece temperature, side rake angle, edge radius/feed rate, and nose radius/depth of cut) on ductile regime machining of a bioceramic material known as nanohydroxyapatite (nano-HAP) using 3D numerical simulation. AdvantEdge FEM Version 5.9 is used to conduct the simulation of turning of the nano-HAP. Tecplot 360 is used to analyze the results of the simulations. Because the workpiece is thin, the entire workpiece is set to a uniform initial temperature to simulate laser preheating of the material. By varying initial workpiece temperature, rake angle (side rake angle), edge radius, and nose radius, the effects of these operating conditions on pressure distribution (critical feed) are investigated. It is found that critical feed increases as initial workpiece temperature increases, and as negativity of rake angle increases. For the edge radius, the critical feed appears to increase with this parameter. For the nose radius, critical feed seems to be independent of it.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
TAPA: Temperature aware power allocation in data center with Map-Reduce

In this paper, we analytically derive, implement, and empirically evaluate a solution for maximizing the execution rate of Map-Reduce jobs subject to power constraints in data centers. Our solution is novel in that it takes into account the dependence of power consumption on temperature, attributed to temperature-induced changes in leakage current and fan speed. While this dependence is well-known, we are the first to consider it in the context of maximizing the throughput of Map-Reduce workdloads. Accordingly, we provide a new power model and optimization strategy for temperature-aware power allocation (TAPA), and modify Hadoop on a 13-machine cluster to implement our optimization algorithm. Our experimental results show that TAPA can not only limit the power consumption to the power budget but also achieves higher computational efficiency against static solutions and temperature oblivious DVFS solutions.
In vitro study of cytotoxic factors against endothelium in childhood dermatomyositis

• In a previous report we showed that leukocytes from a group of patients with childhood dermatomyositis (CDM) were not cytotoxic toward cultured normal human skeletal muscle cells. Blood products from 11 patients with CDM and 12 age- and sex-matched controls were tested for cytotoxicity toward human endothelium using a chromium 51 assay. Mixed lymphocytes, monocytes, and serum alone or in combination did not produce endothelial cell death. The combination of serum and leukocytes, however, did produce some cytotoxic effects in three of 11 patients with CDM. We conclude that those factors tested in vitro are not responsible for the endothelial cell death but together may produce cytotoxic changes in some patients.
Numerical and experimental investigation for a resonant optothermoacoustic sensor

A theoretical study of a resonant optothermoacoustic sensor employing a laser source and a quartz tuning fork receiver validates experimental results showing that the source should be positioned near the base of the receiver.