cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Detection and monitoring of the multiple inflammatory responses by photoacoustic molecular imaging using selectively targeted gold nanorods

In vitro cell experiments have been performed to detect and monitor the upregulation of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and E-selectin simultaneously by photoacoustic molecular imaging (PMI). Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were grown on gelatin-coated glass slides and stimulated with inflammatory cytokines to induce the expression of the inflammatory biomarkers, ICAM-1 and E-selectin. Gold nanorods (GNRs) of aspect ratio (AR) 1:3 with absorption centered at 715 nm conjugated to anti-ICAM-1 antibody and GNRs of AR 1:3.5 with absorption centered at 800 nm conjugated to anti-E-selectin were exposed to HUVECs with different stimulation conditions. A focused high frequency ultrasonic transducer (60 MHz, f/1.5) was used to scan the photoacoustic (PA) signal over the top surface of the cell containing slides. Averaged PA signal intensity from the stimulated cells was about 3 folds higher (~10 dB) compared to the un-stimulated cells for both ICAM-1 and E-selectin. The strong binding of GNRs to the stimulated HUVEC cells was evidenced by fluorescence imaging. Exposure of HUVEC cells to GNRs conjugated to isotype control antibodies confirms a low level non-specific binding. Also, at 0, 2, 6, and 24 hours after inflammatory stimulation, the HUVECs were exposed to GNRs conjugated anti-ICAM-1 antibody and anti-E-selectin antibody. PA intensity at each stage of inflammation compares well with fluorescence imaging and rt-PCR quantification.
Three-dimensional Nevoscope image reconstructions using diverging ray ART

ABSTRACTNevoscope is a transillumination imaging device which was designed to obtain an estimate of the 3D shape and volume ofan embedded skin lesion using light in the visible spectrum. Light which is introduced into the skin surrounding the lesion,undergoes multiple scattering and re-emerges as back-scattered radiation through the lesion and surrounding skin. Sincethis light illuminates the lesion from within the skin structure, the images ofthe lesion as viewed at various angles are twodimensional optical projections ofthe skin lesion. Tomographic reconstruction techniques are used to reconstruct theselesions. Previous work assumed parallel ray geometiy and used ART for reconstruction. In this paper we present animproved reconstruction technique based on the image formation principle at the surface ofplane mirrors which arepositioned inclined from the vertical on the Nevoscope. Phantoms are created to validate the volumes ofthe reconstructedlesions. A qualitative comparison ofthe volumes depict a better representation of the volumes using the new improvedalgorithm.Keywords: Nevoscope, Image Reconstruction, ART, skin lesions.INTRODUCTIONChanges in three dimensional features of skin lesions such as shape, size and texture, in addition to its surface parameterssuch as appearance, pigmentation with variegated color, irregularity of the boundary of the lesion, and asymmetry of shapeare precursors ofmalignant melanoma [1J.Early malignant melanoma can probably be detected by detecting the changes in these parameters ofthe skin lesions whichare difficult to detect during the early stages of development of these lesions. Non-invasive measurement and quantificationofthese parameters is necessary to determine the signature of malignant lesions and hence discriminate them from benignones. Measurement and quantification ofthese features have been attempted by different researchers. The techniques usedvary from detection of significant differences in fluorescence spectra between melanoma-covered skin and healthy skin [2],measurement ofcapillary blood flow variations using laser Doppler blood flow meter, point thermometry, ultrasoundmeasurements of dermal expansion [3J. Image analysis techniques have been previously employed in an effort to quantifythe characteristic features ofthe skin lesions [4, 5,
Gas phase methanol oxidation on V-MCM-41

Abstract Gas phase methanol partial oxidation was carried out on a highly ordered vanadium substituted MCM-41 and an acid site related active site is proposed for this reaction. All synthesized samples showed similar values for the methanol percent conversion and the formaldehyde selectivity independent of the vanadium content. The turnover frequency of methanol and formaldehyde was also similar when it was normalized by the accessible active site concentration measured by the oxygen titration at reaction temperature. The active site concentration was found to be correlated with the acid site concentration of V-MCM-41. The main active site is proposed to be a weak Lewis acid site, which has an isolated tetrahedral coordination of vanadium with surrounding oxygen anions. V-MCM-41 is a stable catalyst against gas phase methanol oxidation at 350°C. The saturation value of vanadium concentration in this catalytic system was estimated to be 0.41 wt.%, and produces a very stable isolated tetrahedral coordination V site.
The role of celestial cues in short range migrations of the hermit crab, Pagurus longicarpus

Abstract Two populations of hermit crabs, Pagurus longicarpus , one from the testing location on Narragansett Bay and the other from the Pettaquamscutt River, an estuary 7·5 km to the south of that location, were tested for directional preferences in outdoor ‘Zugunruhe’ tanks. The estuarine population exhibited seasonal migrations into and out of the estuary and indicated a directional preference under sunny and partially cloudy skies. The Narragansett Bay population exhibited seasonal inshore-offshore movements and did not indicate a preferred direction. Relocation and retesting indicated that the directionality was fixed; therefore, homing was not involved. Attempts to phase-shift the biological clock regulating sun-compass mechanisms were only partially successful. Many of the crabs indicated no shift. It is hypothesized that the Pettaquamscutt River estuarine population randomly migrates into the estuary in the spring, at which time the direction of the estuary's mouth is learned. Several environmental features, including a sun-compass, are used when leaving the estuary in autumn.
A survey on the clinical use of epidural catheters for acute pain management

Indwelling epidural catheters are commonly used to provide analgesia in the postoperative setting. In an attempt to determine how epidurals are used in clinical practice, a survey was conducted at the 1992 annual meeting of the American Society of Pain Management Nurses (ASPMN). A total of 42 institutions were surveyed regarding epidural management practices and procedures. Although there were numerous variations in practice, certain similarities and themes regarding drug choice, patient monitoring, and levels of activity are evident. Technology has made possible continuous infusions of drugs on intermediate care floors, with most institutions relying upon nursing personnel for monitoring.
The ultramicrostructure of commensurate graphite intercalation compounds

The ultramicrostructure of commensurate graphite intercalation compounds has been investigated using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. By directly examining the intercalate lattice at atomic resolution, the authors have discovered intercalate domains of nearly macroscopic dimensions (>1000 AA) extending along the graphite basal plane of commensurate superlattice structures. Along the c axis, evidence for long-range staging order is also found (>200 AA). They have found no evidence of stacking faults characteristic of the Daumas-Herold staging domain model for intercalation compounds nor have they found evidence for fractional staging.
Glomalin content of forest soils in relation to fire frequency and landscape position

Low-intensity, dormant season fires were frequent and widespread in oak-hickory (Quercus-Carya) forests of eastern North America until widespread fire suppression began in the mid-1900s. To assess how reintroduction of fire into such ecosystems might affect the activity of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi and, thereby, predict the long-term responses of plants and soils to fire, we analyzed the content of the immunoreactive fractions of the AM-fungus-specific glycoprotein glomalin in soils taken in 1994 and 2000 from three forested watersheds in southern Ohio, USA. One watershed remained unburned, one was burned annually from 1996–1999 and one was burned twice, in 1996 and 1999. In addition, to account for the strong landscape-scale gradients of microclimate and soil that typify these watersheds, we stratified each watershed-scale treatment area into three microclimatic zones (=landscape positions) using a GIS-based integrated moisture index (IMI). In the unburned control, the concentrations of immunoreactive, easily-extractable glomalin (IREEG) and immunoreactive total glomalin (IRTG) did not change significantly over the 6-year interval between sampling times, either overall or within any of the three IMI classes. IRTG content was greatest in the mesic landscape positions and lowest in the relatively xeric landscape positions, but IREEG did not vary among landscape positions. Neither IREEG nor IRTG contents were affected by fire, nor were there significant interactions between fire and landscape position in glomalin content. Both correlation and regression analyses demonstrated significant linkages between soil glomalin content, the density/diversity of herbaceous plants, and soil N availability. Despite significant effects of fires on soil N availability and root growth, we resolved no effect of fire on AM fungal activity at this spatial scale.
Structural Behavior of Short Span Precast Channel Beam Bridges without Shear Reinforcement

This paper presents findings of a research study conducted by the writers for the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department. The study investigated precast nonprestressed concrete channel beam sections cast without shear reinforcement used in short, multispan bridges. The original objective of the study was to establish a correlation for inspection purposes between the beam’s visual deteriorated state and its corresponding approximate structural capacity. However, during four-point load testing of 33 beams, it was found that beam strength was more a function of a beam’s concrete compression strength rather than deterioration state. A national survey of state transportation departments within the contiguous states was conducted by the authors and found that 13 states currently use precast channel beam bridges. The particular section considered in this paper is a 5.79 m (19 ft) precast channel beam section used to cross small streams and depressions; however constructed without shear reinforcing ...
Effect of Pressure on the Diffusion of Fe in Ti and Ti + 10% Fe

Measurements have been made of the variation of the diffusion coefficient of Fe as a function of hydrostatic pressure in Ti at 902 °C and of Fe in Ti + 10% Fe at 808 °C. Hydrostatic pressures up to 4000 atm were used. For Ti + 10% Fe the diffusion coefficient decreases with pressure and corresponds to a value of 0.6 for the ratio of the activation volume to the atomic volume. For Ti the diffusion coefficient increases nonlinearly with pressure. These results are discussed in terms of diffusion due to vacancies, interstitials, and sub-grain boundary networks. Die Abhangigkeit des Diffusionskoeffizienten vom hydrostatischen Druck von Fe in Ti bei 902 °C und von Fe in Ti + 10% Fe bei 808 °C wurde gemessen. Hydrostatische Drucke bis zu 4000 atm wurden benutzt. In Ti + 10% Fe nahm der Diffusionskoeffizient mit steigen-dem Druck ab. Daraus ergibt sich fur das Verhaltnis von Aktivierungsvolumen zu Atom-volumen ein Wert von 0,6. In Ti nahm der Diffusionskoeffizient nichtlinear mit steigendem Druck zu. Diffusion der Fe-Atome uber Leerstellen und Zwischengitterplatze und entlang von Netzwerken von Kleinwinkelkorngrenzen werden als Moglichkeiten zur Erklarung der Mesergebnisse diskutiert.
Pseudoparticipation and countermobilization: roots of the Iranian revolution

(1980). Pseudoparticipation and countermobilization: roots of the Iranian revolution. Iranian Studies: Vol. 13, No. 1-4, pp. 31-53.
Identification, accumulation, and biosynthesis of the cuticular hydrocarbons of the southern armyworm, Spodoptera eridania (cramer) (lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

The accumulation and biosynthesis of cuticular and internal hydrocarbons in the Southern armyworm, Spodoptera eridania, were examined at closely timed intervals during larval and pupal development. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was used to identify n-alkanes, monomethylalkanes, and dimethylalkanes ranging in chain length from 23 to 35 carbons. The amount of cuticular hydrocarbon stayed relatively constant during each stadium, while the amount of internal hydrocarbon increased dramatically during the first half of each larval stadium, presumably to replace the cuticular hydrocarbon lost on the shed cast skin with each molt. The accumulation of internal hydrocarbon was mirrored by large increases in the rate of incorporation of labeled acetate into the hydrocarbon fraction. Hydrocarbon production fell to very low rates during the latter part of the fourth and fifth larval stadia. Relatively high rates of hydrocarbon production were observed during the first and last one-third of the pupal stage and essentially all of the hydrocarbons produced during this stage remained internal. These data document large changes in the rates of hydrocarbon production during development in S. eridania and suggest that most of the hydrocarbon produced during each stage was stored internally and then transported to the cuticle of the next stage.
Degraded Broadcast Diamond Channels With Noncausal State Information at the Source

A state-dependent degraded broadcast diamond channel is studied where the source-to-relays cut is modeled with two noiseless, finite-capacity digital links with a degraded broadcasting structure, while the relays-to-destination cut is a general multiple access channel controlled by a random state. It is assumed that the source has noncausal channel state information and the relays have no state information. Under this model, first, the capacity is characterized for the case where the destination has state information, i.e., has access to the state sequence. It is demonstrated that in this case, a joint message and state transmission scheme via binning is optimal. Next, the case where the destination does not have state information, i.e., the case with state information at the source only, is considered. For this scenario, lower and upper bounds on the capacity are derived for the general discrete memoryless model. Achievable rates are then computed for the case in which the relays-to-destination cut is affected by an additive Gaussian state. Numerical results are provided that illuminate the performance advantages that can be accrued by leveraging noncausal state information at the source.
Assessing coherent feature kinematics in ocean models

Abstract We propose a method for comparing ocean models based on their ability to reproduce the kinematics associated with coherent features such as mesoscale eddies. Of particular focus is the reproduction of transport and mixing processes around the feature in question. The feature boundaries are represented by material curves, known as effective invariant manifolds, and the error in the location of the manifolds as manifest in different models is measured here in terms of separation area and distance between them. As part of the case for such a Lagrangian discriminant of ocean models, we show that, in reference to a Rossby wave, critical-layer kinematic model, an Eulerian error metric based on energy is insufficient to determine the proximity of vortex boundaries in different perturbations. The manifold comparison technique developed here is applied to a model double-gyre flow to analyze the effects of finite resolution and uncertainty in wind forcing. The results of the Lagrangian evaluation showed that, in the resolution experiments, the manifold accuracy correlates with the average Eulerian error ( L 2 norm of the velocity error field). However, for the models with modulated wind forcing, the Eulerian error was found to be an inadequate indicator of the quality of transport predictions.
Bridge Piers with Structural Fuses and Bi-Steel Columns. II: Analytical Investigation

This paper presents the results of an analytical investigation conducted to replicate experimentally obtained behavior, and better understand the behavior of the proposed structural fuse concept for bridges that is presented in a companion paper. First, a steel plate shear link (SPSL) proposed as a new type of structural fuse is described. Equations are derived to define its shear-moment interaction equation, to determine some of its critical design parameters, and to quantify the link ductility, lateral stiffness and strength. Strengths and stiffnesses equations are developed using free-body diagrams (FBDs) for the tested systems as a convenient simple design tool. Finite-element models (FEM) are developed by using the finite-element software package ABAQUS/explicit to validate the proposed SPSL concept, and then to replicate the full range of results obtained from the experiments. Comparisons between the analytical and experimental results are conducted to highlight the differences in behavior among all tested specimens. The simple numerical equations correctly represent the expected strengths and stiffnesses of the fuse systems. Further, the results obtained from the ABAQUS model accurately captured the global behavior of the system, and provided valuable insight into individual fuse behavior.
NIMBY Then and Now: Land-Use Conflict in Worcester, Massachusetts, 1876–1900

Although its existence is readily apparent in the published literature of a number of fields, pre-1950 exclusionary land-use conflict is largely ignored in studies assessing such conflict today. An inventory of land-use conflicts mentioned in a Worcester, Massachusetts, daily newspaper in the years 1876–1900 found a high incidence of efforts to exclude various undesired land uses. The results put in question many of the characterizations and explanations advanced of contemporary NIMBY activity.
Comparison of Electrocardiograms of Hypertensive and Hypotensive Male Turkeys

Abstract INTRODUCTION ELECTROCARDIOGRAPHY is recognized as a laboratory aid in diagnosing cardiovascular diseases. Electrocardiograms (ECG) reported for poultry have been primarily those of the chicken. The avian ECG as reported by Sturkie (1965) shows that the waves and complexes of lead I are of lower voltage than those of leads II and III, with S waves greater than R waves in all leads. METHODS Electrocardiograms were recorded from Broad White male turkeys 12 weeks of age. The populations of birds observed were the result of four generations of upward and downward blood pressure selection. Thirty turkeys were observed from each of the high and low blood pressure lines. Indirect systolic blood pressure measurements were recorded from these same poults at eight weeks of age by the method described by Krista et al. (1963). Comparison of indirect systolic blood pressure to central mean blood pressure by Krista et al. (1964) showed a…
Patterns of brain structural connectivity differentiate normal weight from overweight subjects

Background Alterations in the hedonic component of ingestive behaviors have been implicated as a possible risk factor in the pathophysiology of overweight and obese individuals. Neuroimaging evidence from individuals with increasing body mass index suggests structural, functional, and neurochemical alterations in the extended reward network and associated networks.
The Power of Informal Conversations in Diffusing Buy-in to Planned Organizational Change

Researchers have recognized that informal, change-related conversations (i.e., interactions that occur outside of formal change-related events and meetings) play a key role in shaping the success o...
Laboratory studies of perchlorate phase transitions: Support for metastable aqueous perchlorate solutions on Mars

Abstract Perchlorate salts, recently discovered on Mars, are known to readily absorb water vapor from the atmosphere and deliquesce into the aqueous phase at room temperature. Here we study the deliquescence (crystalline solid to liquid transition) and efflorescence (liquid to crystalline solid transition) of perchlorate salts at low temperatures relevant to Mars. A Raman microscope and environmental cell were used to determine the deliquescence relative humidity (DRH) and efflorescence relative humidity (ERH) of NaClO 4 and Mg(ClO 4 ) 2 as a function of temperature and hydration state. We find that the deliquescence of anhydrous NaClO 4 is only slightly dependent on temperature and occurs at ~ 38% RH. The DRH of NaClO 4 ·H 2 O increases with decreasing temperature from 51% at 273 K to 64% at 228 K. The DRH of Mg(ClO 4 ) 2 ·6H 2 O also increases with decreasing temperature from 42% at 273 K to 64% at 223 K. The efflorescence of both NaClO 4 and Mg(ClO 4 ) 2 salt solutions occurs at a lower RH than deliquescence due to the kinetic inhibition of crystallization. For all temperatures studied, the ERH values of NaClO 4 and Mg(ClO 4 ) 2 are 13% and 19%, respectively. These results indicate perchlorate salts can exist as metastable, supersaturated solutions over a wide range of RH and temperature conditions. Summer diurnal temperature and relative humidity cycles at low latitudes on Mars could allow the surface salts to be aqueous for several hours per day.
Republished: Smoking-related interstitial fibrosis (SRIF): pathologic findings and distinction from other chronic fibrosing lung diseases

Smoking-related interstitial fibrosis (SRIF) is a common, histologically striking finding in smokers that must be distinguished from the idiopathic interstitial pneumonias and other chronic interstitial fibrosing lesions. It is characterised by marked thickening of alveolar septa by fibrosis composed of thick collagen bundles that have a distinctive hyalinised quality and often are admixed with variable numbers of hyperplastic smooth muscle fibres. There is minimal accompanying inflammation. This fibrosis is usually most prominent in subpleural and centrilobular parenchyma, but can be present elsewhere as well. It is accompanied by emphysema and respiratory bronchiolitis. Most patients are asymptomatic or only mildly symptomatic, and the clinical course is stable in most. This paper reviews the pathologic features of SRIF in detail, its differentiation from more ominous interstitial fibrosing processes, and the clinical implications of its diagnosis.
An Age-Stable Feed Yarn for Draw Texturing by the False-Twisting Process 1

Coupled drawing and false-twist texturing of undrawn polyester yarns offers potential for better dye and bulk uni formi'ty, higher fabric stretch and bulk, and reduced texturing costs. However, the well known age instability of un drawn polyester yarn makes difficult the use of draw texturing by throwsters. The research on which this paper is based defined a feed yam for draw texturing with the age stability required to permit throwsters to use the draw texturing process. The new feed yam is described, and the structural morphology responsible for its age stability is discussed. Results of accelerated laboratory ageing experiments are reported and related to severe warehouse storage exposures. Information is presented on the draw texturing process needed to handle the new yarn and on its textured yarn properties. Product advantages resulting from the draw textured yarns are illustrated.
Variations in Utilization and Cost of Inpatient Psychiatric Services Among Adults in Maryland

The author examined variations in the clinical characteristics, costs, utilization, and discharge patterns of adult inpatients who were hospitalized for psychiatric disorders in Maryland state general hospitals in 1998. Administrative discharge data on all 30,121 adult psychiatric patients in the state in 1998 were used to calculate descriptive statistics on elderly (age 65 years and over) and nonelderly (age 19 to 64 years) patients. The most common reasons for hospitalization were substance-related disorders, which affected 25 percent of the patients, and major depressive disorders, which affected 24.6 percent of the patients. After the effects of Medicare's prospective payment system were disregarded, the average cost of treating elderly persons for depression was calculated to be around 80 percent higher than national estimates.
Global monopolies and the transnational capitalist class

Globalization has led to world spanning corporations competing to become the dominant monopoly in their areas of economic interests. This competitive struggle is carried out by the transnational capitalist class rather than states backing national champions, and reflects the changing character of capitalism. The drive to create a seamless world system of finance and production is inherent to the structural needs of capitalism to seek out markets, resources and labor. This is a drawn out historical process in which individual nation states integrate into global patterns of production and accumulation according to their own conditions and pace. The project is filled with tension and competition, but the common goal is to create a unified system of global capitalism.
The efficacy of sonographically indicated cerclage in multiple gestations.

Objective. The purpose of this study was to determine the efficacy of sonographically indicated cerclage in multiple gestations with sonographic evidence of short cervical length (CL). Methods. Between 1996 and 2002, all multiple gestations undergoing serial CL determinations in the second trimester were identified in 2 separate institutions. Cervical lengths were measured sonographically with transvaginal probes (4-8 MHz). Short CL was defined as a closed CL of 2.5 cm or less. When a short CL was identified before 24 weeks, the study group underwent sonographically indicated cerclage via the modified Shirodkar technique; control patients were placed on bed rest without surgical intervention. The primary outcome was incidence of spontaneous preterm birth before 32 weeks. The groups were compared with the Mann-Whitney U test and the Fisher exact test, with a 2-sided P <.05 used to define statistical significance. Odds ratios were calculated, and 95% confidence intervals were reported. Results. A total of 414 sets of twin gestations and 92 sets of triplet gestations were identified. The median gestational age at delivery for twin gestations was 34.0 weeks for patients who received cervical cerclage and 34.4 weeks for patients with short cervix and no cerclage (P =.77). The median gestational age at delivery for triplet gestations was 34.1 weeks for patients who received cervical cerclage and 33.0 weeks for patients with short cervix and no cerclage (P =.21). There was no difference in the rate of spontaneous preterm delivery at fewer than 28, 30, 32, and 34 weeks or in the rate of preterm premature ruptured membranes. Conclusions. In our study of multiple gestations with short CL, sonographically indicated cerclage was not associated with a lower incidence of spontaneous preterm delivery compared with conservative management.
HIGH-RESOLUTION MICROANALYSIS AND ENERGY-FILTERED IMAGING IN BIOLOGY

Previous chapters in this book have considered how the composition of such biological entities as cells or subcellular organelles can be determined at electron microscopic spatial resolution using either x-ray (EPMA) or electron energy-loss (EELS) microanalysis. Because the sensitivity and spatial resolution of x-ray microanalysis is restricted by the low collection efficiency of x-ray detectors, its utility for microanalysis or for the generation of elemental distribution maps is limited to a few special cases.
Nitrogenated 1:12 compounds prepared by mechanical alloying

Nd(FeM)/sub 12/ compounds, with M=Mo, Ti, and V, prepared by mechanical alloying were nitrogenated using the gas phase interstitial modification process. The Nd(FeM)/sub 12/ structure has been found to be stable after nitrogenation at around 650 degrees C, but with increased lattice parameters. The change in unit cell volume, delta V/V, is larger in mechanically alloyed powders than in as-cast alloy powders. The change of Curie temperature upon nitrogenation is almost the same delta T/sub c//T/sub c/ approximately=30%, for the three compounds studied. The mechanically alloyed powders and metal-bonded magnets with the ThMn/sub 12/ crystal structure show interesting hard magnetic properties with a coercivity H/sub c/=7-10 kOe. The average grain size of the mechanically alloyed powders with the highest coercivity was shown about 4000 AA. >
Emergence: The Connected Lives of Ants, Brains, Cities, and Software

"This book is about the mystery of why the whole is sometimes smarter than the sum of its parts."Emergence is what happens when an interconnected system of relatively simple elements self-organizes to form more intelligent, more adaptive higher-level behavior. It's a bottom-up model; rather than being engineered by a general or a master planner, emergence begins at the ground level. Systems that at first glance seem vastly different -- ant colonies, human brains, cities, immune systems -- all turn out to follow the rules of emergence. In each of these systems, agents residing on one scale start producing behavior that lies a scale above them: ants create colonies, urbanites create neighborhoods.In the tradition of "Being Digital and "The Tipping Point, Steven Johnson, acclaimed as a "cultural critic with a poet's heart" ("The Village Voice), takes readers on an eye-opening intellectual journey from the discovery of emergence to its applications. He introduces us to our everyday surroundings, offering suprising examples of feedback, self-organization, and adaptive learning. How does a lively neighborhood evolve out of a disconnected association of shopkeepers, bartenders, and real estate developers? How does a media event take on a life of its own? How will new software programs create an intelligent World Wide Web?Drawing upon evolutionary theory, urban studies, neuroscience, and computer games, "Emergence is a guidebook to one of the key components of twenty-first-century culture. Until recently, Johnson explains, the disparate philosophers of emergence have worked to interpret the world. But today they are starting to change it. This book is the riveting story of thatchange and what it means for the future. If you've searched for information on the Web, played a recent video game, or accepted a collect call using voice recognition software, you've already encountered the new world of artificial emergence. Provocative, engaging, and sophisticated, "Emergence puts you on the front lines of a sweeping revolution in science and thought.
30-Question Leadership Journal

This paper examines joumaling as an effective strategy for teaching leadership constructs and processes in a beginning leadership course. The concept of a 30-question leadership journal, in which the instructor provides weekly questions based on lectures and readings for students to answer, is developed as a tool for teaching leadership. The use of video-tape motion picture clips that depict abstract leadership constructs or provide leadership case studies to critique is also introduced as a teaching tool and source of questions for the journal.
Liquid fuel conversion using gliding discharge in Tornado for direct use in solid oxide fuel cells

Conversion of liquid hydrocarbon fuels to produce synthesis gas using non-equilibrium gliding discharges is performed using a reverse vortex flow ("tornado") reactor. Part of the integrated system is plasma reformer, which utilizes syngas (CO + H2) for direct use in a solid oxide fuel cell for onboard conversion liquid fuels into electricity. This integrated system can be an advance power generator that can be used in remote areas where only hydrocarbon fuel sources are available and have potential military applications.
Smart Growth and Climate Change: Regional Development, Infrastructure and Adaptation

The title of this edited compilation catches the eye. With transportation sources responsible for one-third of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions and residential and commercial space heating, cooling, a...
STAT3 Expression, Molecular Features, Inflammation Patterns and Prognosis in a Database of 724 Colorectal Cancers

Purpose: STAT3 is a transcription factor that is constitutively activated in some cancers. It seems to play crucial roles in cell proliferation and survival, angiogenesis, tumor-promoting inflammation, and suppression of antitumor host immune response in the tumor microenvironment. Although the STAT3 signaling pathway is a potential drug target, clinical, pathologic, molecular, or prognostic features of STAT3-activated colorectal cancer remain uncertain. Experimental Design: Utilizing a database of 724 colon and rectal cancer cases, we evaluated phosphorylated STAT3 (p-STAT3) expression by immunohistochemistry. The Cox proportional hazards model was used to compute mortality HR, adjusting for clinical, pathologic, and molecular features, including microsatellite instability (MSI), the CpG island methylator phenotype (CIMP), LINE-1 methylation, 18q LOH, TP53 (p53), CTNNB1 (β-catenin), JC virus T-antigen, and KRAS , BRAF , and PIK3CA mutations. Results: Among the 724 tumors, 131 (18%) showed high-level p-STAT3 expression (p-STAT3-high), 244 (34%) showed low-level expression (p-STAT3-low), and the remaining 349 (48%) were negative for p-STAT3. p-STAT3 overexpression was associated with significantly higher colorectal cancer–specific mortality [log-rank P = 0.0020; univariate HR (p-STAT3-high vs. p-STAT3-negative): 1.85, 95% CI: 1.30–2.63, P trend = 0.0005; multivariate HR: 1.61, 95% CI: 1.11–2.34, P trend = 0.015]. p-STAT3 expression was positively associated with peritumoral lymphocytic reaction (multivariate OR: 3.23; 95% CI: 1.89–5.53, P Conclusions: STAT3 activation in colorectal cancer is associated with adverse clinical outcome, supporting its potential roles as a prognostic biomarker and a chemoprevention and/or therapeutic target. Clin Cancer Res; 17(6); 1452–62. ©2011 AACR .
The association between clinical mastitis and milk yield in dairy cows

A study of 1514 lactations that occurred between 1977 and 1982 in 790 Friesian, Ayrshire and Holstein crossbred cows was undertaken. One thousand and eighty-four of these lactations were used to consider the association between the occurrence of clinical mastitis and changes in milk yield, and to illustrate a technique that enables the previous lactation history of a cow to be used for estimating changes associated with the disease.The lactation curves were described using the model y(n) = anbe−cn from which values for peak yield, persistency, rate of decline at week 25, and recorded and extrapolated 305-day yield were calculated. A significant correlation between successive lactations of the same animal was observed for each of these variables. Pairs of successive lactations free from clinical mastitis were then compared by regression analysis with lactations in which the preceding lactation was free from the disease whilst the second lactation of the pair was infected.Significant reductions in peak yield, recorded and extrapolated 305-day yield were found when mastitis occurred before the week of peak yield. A reduction in recorded 305-day yield was also observed when the disease occurred between peak and 10 weeks after peak. Mastitis later in the lactation had no significant effect.The mean reduction in recorded 305-day yield of 540 kg when mastitis occurred before peak for a cow with a mean yield of 4830 kg, was higher than previous estimates. No evidence of recovery was observed in subsequent lactations that were free of clinical infection, indicating that once a cow has contracted mastitis it may not achieve its full milk-yield potential in the next lactation.
Simultaneous switching noise estimation for ASICs

Simultaneous switching noise (SSN) on power supply lines is caused by the switching current flowing through parasitic inductances at the chip-package-pin interface. A new formulation for SSN in CMOS circuits that includes the velocity saturation effects seen in the short-channel MOSFETs is derived. The effect of skewing output voltage switching among different drivers on SSN is studied. SSN of ASICs when used in single-chip printed wiring board and multichip module environments are discussed.
Context-dependent Pronunciation Error Pattern Discovery with Limited Annotations

A Computer-Assisted Pronunciation Training (CAPT) system can provide greater benefit to language learners if it provides not only scoring but also corrective feedback. However, the process of deriving pronunciation error patterns usually requires linguistic knowledge, or large quantities of expensive, annotated, corpora from nonnative speakers. In this paper we explore the possibility of deriving context-dependent error patterns with limited human annotations. A two-stage labeling mechanism is proposed, which first selects a set of templates for human annotation, and then propagates the labels. To deal with the imbalanced number of correct and incorrect phone-level pronunciations in nonnative speech, pronunciation patterns on an individual learner-level are first summarized, and then corpuslevel clustering is done for template selection. The concept of contextual similarity based on a phonemic broad class definition is also proposed for label propagation. For evaluation, we view the task as an information retrieval task, and take advantage of metrics that consider both the importance and the ranking of an error type. Experimental results on a Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) nonnative corpus show that the proposed framework can effectively discover prominent error patterns. Index Terms: Computer-Assisted Language Learning, unsupervised clustering, graph-based label propagation
Spectral Inequalities for Quantum Graphs

We review our joint work with Evans Harrell on semiclassical and universal inequalities for quantum graphs. The proofs of these inequalities are based on an abstract trace inequality for commutators of operators. In this article we give a new proof of this abstract trace inequality. Another ingredient in proving semiclassical and universal inequalities is an appropriate choice of operators in this trace inequality. We provide a new approximation method for such a choice.
What's hot in crowdsourcing and human computation

The focus of HCOMP 2014 was the crowd worker. While crowdsourcing is motivated by the promise of leveraging people's intelligence and diverse skillsets in computational processes, the human aspects of this workforce are all too often overlooked. Instead, workers are frequently viewed as interchangeable components that can be statistically managed to eek out reasonable outputs. We are quickly moving past and rejecting these notions, and beginning to understand that it is sometimes the very abstractions that we introduce to make human computation feasible, e.g., abstracting humans behind APIs or isolating workers from others in order to ensure independent input, that can lead to the problems that we then set about trying to solve, e.g., poor or inconsistent quality work. Creating a brighter future for crowd work will require new socio-technical systems that not only decompose tasks, recruit and coordinate workers, and make sense of results, but also find interesting tasks for people to contribute to, structure tasks so that workers learn from them as they go, and eventually automate mundane parts of work. Research in artificial intelligence will be vital for achieving this future.
Soft Technique for the Measurement of the Concentration of Pulverized coal in a Boiler with Its Pulverized coal Being Transported by Depleted Exhaust Gas and the Related Simulation Study

The non uniformity of pulverized coal concentration at a burner outlet during a boiler combustion process will lead to the skewing of a furnace flame center, thus resulting in the sweep of furnace gases onto the boiler rear wall and right wall. This, in turn, can set off a local overheating and an intensive slag formation in the high temperature superheater and reheater. In view of this, the accurate measurement of pulverized coal concentration in various flue pipes and its proper regulation play a key role in assuring the safe and economic operation of a pulverized coal fired boiler. To this end, it is essential to devise a simple, highly effective and practical for engineering use method for the measurement of pulverized coal concentration. A huge amount of research has been conducted both at home and abroad with respect to the techniques of measurement of pulverized coal concentration in boilers whose pulverized coal is transported by hot air. In this regard some cases of engineering application have been reported. The present paper focuses on an innovative method for calculating the concentration of pulverized coal, when the latter is transported by depleted exhaust gas. This method is based on a gas solid dual phase flow theory and mainly takes into account the pressure difference existing prior to and after the mixing of air and the pulverized coal. Furthermore, a simulation study has been performed on the basis of a theoretical deduction. The results of the study indicate that there exists a close correlation between the pulverized coal concentration magnitude and the pressure difference before and after the mixing of air and the pulverized coal, demonstrating the validity of the theoretical calculation formula based on the energy method.
Prevalence of chronic diseases and its influencing factors among rural residents in Ji'an,2012

Objective To explore the prevalence and influencing factorsof chronic diseases among rural residents in Ji'an City of Jiangxi Province,and to provide theoretical basis for the prevention and control of chronic diseases. Methods Using stratified cluster random sampling method to get the sample,and conduct questionnaire survey among 2160households' rural residents from 4 counties in Ji'an. Descriptive epidemiology was performed to analyze the prevalence of chronic diseases among rural residents; chi-square test and multivariable logistic regression analysis were utilized to explore the influencing factors. Results The prevalence of chronic diseases among rural residents in Ji'an was 16. 53% in 2012. It was different among population with different characteristics. The related influencing factors were age( OR = 2. 387,95%CI: 2. 213- 2. 561),educational level( OR = 0. 761,95% CI: 0. 742- 0. 780),divorced or widowed( OR = 1. 376,95% CI: 1. 238- 1. 514),higher income( OR = 0. 667,95% CI: 0. 521- 0. 813),smoking( OR = 1. 824,95% CI:1. 720- 1. 928) and drinking( OR = 2. 145,95% CI: 1. 701- 2. 589). Conclusion The prevalence of chronic diseases among rural residents in Ji'an is slightly higher than the national level; the relevant disease prevention and control organizations should take active preventive measures according to the risk factors,combining with the actual situation.
Some physical and chemical properties of crystalline α-glycerophosphate dehydrogenase☆

Abstract α-Glycerophosphate dehydrogenase was crystallized as rectangular plates, having the following properties: s 20, w = 6.5 × 10 −13 sec. , V = 0.75 cc./g. and f f 0 = 1.4 . The molecular weight has been estimated to be 173,000 g./mole. α-Glycerophosphate dehydrogenase was found to be relatively thermolabile, and is most stable at pH 5.7. Approximate Michaelis constants at pH 7.0 were found as follows: for α-glycerophosphate, 1.1 × 10 −4 M ; for dihydroxyacetone phosphate, 4.6 × 10 4 M ; for DPN, 3.8 × 10 −4 M . The equilibrium constant for the oxidation of α-glycerophosphate was found to be 5.8 × 10 −12 M at 25 °C. All the properties studied indicate that within the pH range 7–8 the reaction favors formation of α-glycerophosphate.
The relationship between childhood poverty, military service, and later life depression among men: Evidence from the Health and Retirement Study

Abstract Background Childhood poverty has been associated with depression in adulthood, but whether this relationship extends to later life major depression (MD) or is modified by military service is unclear. Methods Data come from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) 2010 wave, a longitudinal, nationally representative study of older adults. Men with data on military service and childhood poverty were included (N=6330). Childhood poverty was assessed by four indicators (i.e., parental unemployment, residential instability) experienced before age 16. Military service was categorized as veteran versus civilian, and during draft versus all-volunteer (after 1973) eras. Past year MD was defined by the Composite International Diagnostic Inventory. Results Four in ten men ever served, with 13.7% in the all-volunteer military. Approximately 12% of civilians, 8% draft era and 24% all-volunteer era veterans had MD. Childhood poverty was associated with higher odds of MD (Odds Ratio (OR): 2.38, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 1.32–4.32) and higher odds of military service (OR: 2.58, 95% CI: 1.58–4.21). Military service was marginally associated with MD (OR: 1.28, 95% CI: 0.98–1.68) and did not moderate the association between childhood poverty and MD. Limitations Self-report data is subject to recall bias. The HRS did not assess childhood physical and emotional abuse, or military combat exposure. Conclusions Men raised in poverty had greater odds of draft and all-volunteer military service. Early-life experiences, independent of military service, appear associated with greater odds of MD. Assessing childhood poverty in service members may identify risk for depression in later life.
A Pragmatic and Flexible Approach to Information Literacy: Findings from a Three-Year Study of Faculty-Librarian Collaboration

Abstract While faculty often express dismay at their students' ability to locate and evaluate secondary sources, they may also be ambivalent about how to (and who should) teach the skills required to carry out quality undergraduate research. This project sought to assess the impact of programmatic changes and librarian course integration on students' information literacy (IL) skills. Using an IL rubric to score student papers (n = 337) over three consecutive first-year student cohorts, our study shows that when faculty collaborate with librarians to foster IL competencies, the result is a statistically significant improvement in students' demonstrated research skills. Our study also reveals a collaboration “sweet spot”: the greatest gains accrue when librarians provide moderate input into syllabus and assignment design, followed by one or two strategically placed hands-on library sessions. Successful collaboration thus need not entail completely overhauling content courses so as to make library instruction the centerpiece. Quite the opposite, librarians can help reduce the potential burden on faculty by supporting discipline- and course-specific research goals, as well as by sharing resources and best practices in IL pedagogy.
Edmund K. Kostka, Schiller in Russian Literature. University of Pennsylvania Studies in Germanic Languages and Literatures

(1966). Edmund K. Kostka, Schiller in Russian Literature. University of Pennsylvania Studies in Germanic Languages and Literatures. The Germanic Review: Literature, Culture, Theory: Vol. 41, No. 2, pp. 143-145.