cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A new maximum power point tracking algorithm for ocean wave energy converters

Abstract This paper describes a new maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithm developed to control a wave energy converter (WEC) in random seas. This algorithm, named the cycling MPPT algorithm, is compared to a perturb and observe algorithm described in numerous literature. Both algorithms were initially tested during 2012 ocean tests of the half-scale prototype Wave Energy Technology – New Zealand (WET-NZ) WEC off the Oregon coast. During these sea trials the perturb and observe algorithm failed to provide effective control of the WET-NZ, while the cycling algorithm was observed to give effective control. More complete investigations were later carried out using MATLAB-Simulink simulations of an autonomous WEC (AWEC) being developed at Oregon State University. The results of the AWEC simulations also showed the cycling algorithm provided better control than the perturb and observe algorithm. The operation of the cycling algorithm was fully characterized during the AWEC simulations and these results are presented.
Analysis of Ciliary Membrane Protein Dynamics Using SNAP Technology

The sensory functions of the primary cilium rely on receptors and other membrane proteins that are specifically sorted to the ciliary compartment, which is a subdomain of the plasma membrane. Defects in this process underlie a large number of human diseases, yet it is poorly understood. Thus, it is of great interest to understand the mechanisms by which the cell sorts and traffics proteins to the ciliary membrane. Here, we provide an overview of our method to study the sorting and trafficking of ciliary membrane proteins using SNAP technology. This technology enables pulse-chase analysis of the movement of proteins through the endomembrane system and onto the cilium.
Multi-criteria based approach to identify critical links in a transportation network

Abstract A wide range of disruptive events occur on transportation networks which have intense impacts on network users’ travel time. Moreover, limited funds is forcing national, regional and local governments to carefully prioritize their investments. Therefore, reliable quantitative tools are needed to help decision-makers in choosing their investments so that the allocation of available resources is optimized. In this research, the authors attempt to understand the relative importance of links in a road network and suggest a methodology to rank the links according to three importance factors while combining the network improvement investment decision and subsequent network user response in a feedback loop. The first factor is based on the link flows at equilibrium. The second factor is based on the importance of facilities served. The third factor is based on the number of origin-destination pairs served by a link. The proposed methodology is demonstrated with a small test network and with real scale transportation network. Sensitivity analysis is performed using various budget scenarios and it is found that with the increase in budget the ranking of critical links changes.
Methoden zur formalen Semantikbeschreibung

Programmiersprachen sind kunstliche Sprachen, mittels derer sich Algorithmen ausdruk- ken und auf Rechenanlagen ausfuhren lassen. Sie dienen somit der Kommunikation zwischen Mensch und Maschine. Dies erklart, weshalb die Entwicklung und Untersuchung von Programmiersprachen seit jeher ein wichtiges Forschungsgebiet in der Informatik ist.
Spiritual distress and spiritual care in advanced heart failure.

As patients face serious and chronic illness, they are confronted with the realities of dying. Spiritual and existential issues are particularly prominent near the end of life and can result in significant distress. It is critical that healthcare professionals know how to address patients’ and families’ spiritual concerns, diagnose spiritual distress and attend to the deep suffering of patients in a way that can result in a better quality of life for patients and families. Tools such as the FICA spiritual history tool help clinicians invite patients and families to share their spiritual or existential concerns as well as sources of hope and meaning which can help them cope better with their illness. This article presents ways to help clinicians listen to the whole story of the patient and support patients in their care.
In utero diagnosis of globoid cell leukodystrophy (Krabbe's disease)

Abstract The first in utero diagnosis of globoid cell leukodystrophy was made by assaying the activity of galactocerebroside β-galactosidase in cultured amniotic fluid cells from a fetus at risk. The enzyme activity was approximately 5% of control levels. Galactocerebroside β-galactosidase activities in brain and liver tissue obtained from the aborted fetus were 1% or less of control tissues, confirming the diagnosis.
Abstract 645: Immunological landscape of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): PD-1 expression in lung TILs correlate with co-expression of other checkpoint inhibitor molecules

Lung cancer is the leading cause of annual cancer related mortality in the United States. More than 150,000 people in the U.S. will die from lung cancer this year which will lead to roughly as many deaths as breast, prostate, colon, and pancreatic cancers combined. Lung cancer is also of global concern as tobacco and cigarette use, a significant known risk factor, in developing countries have risen significantly. Stage II and III non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients often have a 5-year disease free survival of less than 50% even after surgical resection and post-operative chemotherapy and a dismal 5% overall survival for patients with stage IV metastatic disease. Even with the advent of PD-1/PDL-1 checkpoint blockade immunotherapies, only about 20% of patients are responsive to the treatment. This limited scope of success may be due to our lack of understanding the immune landscape of NSCLCs. Therefore, we set out to characterize the immune composition from surgical lung resections via flow cytometry. We found that NSCLCs have a diverse set of checkpoint inhibitor and co-stimulatory molecules expressed by T cells, including PD-1, TIM-3, and TIGIT. Interestingly, even though PD-1 was elevated compared to a normal donor, the expression level was lower than either breast or melanoma tumor samples. We also discovered that PD-1 heavily correlates with co-expression of other checkpoint inhibitor molecules. In our regulatory T cell analysis, FoxP3+ populations have a profound presence in these lung tumors suggesting there is a highly suppressive environment for tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs). Our lung resection screenings furthermore suggests a dynamic range of both frequency and proportion of CD3-CD56+ natural killer (NK) cells. Finally, our data indicates there is a large population of CD11b+CD33+ myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) in the tumors, with varying degrees of arginase-1 expression, a functional marker for MDSCs. Altogether, these findings in concert suggest there are potential goldmine of opportunities to target molecules on different immune cell populations. This multi-modal approach, directing combination of immunotherapies that influences multiple immune compartments yet complement each other, may have significant implications for future clinical studies. Citation Format: Se W. Jeong, Timothy Bullock. Immunological landscape of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): PD-1 expression in lung TILs correlate with co-expression of other checkpoint inhibitor molecules [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2017; 2017 Apr 1-5; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2017;77(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 645. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2017-645
Efficient access to bisphenol A metabolites: Synthesis of monocatechol, mono-o-quinone, dicatechol, and di-o-quinone of bisphenol A

2-Iodoxybenzoic acid (IBX) oxidation of bisphenol A (BPA) is described. The selective production of either the mono-o-quinone or the di-o-quinone can be controlled by IBX stoichiometry. Isolated yi...
EPA Regulatory Requirements for Plant-Incorporated Protectants

This chapter provides a discussion on EPA regulation of pest control traits expressed in living plants, termed Plant-Incorporated Protectants (PIPs). These are regulated as pesticides and, as such, require assessment by EPA prior to field testing and commercialization. This chapter provides a discussion of EPA regulatory requirements for PIPs as well as a description of the data that EPA typically uses to make safety determinations.
Hospital do Rim, São Paulo: A World Leader in Kidney Transplantation

In the current issue of Brazilian Journal of Nephrology, Jose Medina-Pestana and colleagues present data on renal transplants at the Hospital do Rim (Hrim) in Sao Paulo, a unique institution focusing on the care of renal disease and transplantation.1,2 Their reported outcomes and progress is astonishing with the single hospital having performed 11,436 kidney transplants over an 18-year period. […] Hospital do Rim, Sao Paulo: A World Leader in Kidney Transplantation
Reduced Blood Lipid Levels With In Vivo CRISPR-Cas9 Base Editing of ANGPTL3.

Naturally occurring loss-of-function mutations in ANGPTL3 (angiopoietin-like 3) are associated with reduced blood triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and risk of coronary heart disease, with no apparent adverse health consequences, making ANGPTL3 a compelling therapeutic target.1 We assessed whether base editing, a variation on CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing that does not require DNA double-strand breaks, could be used in vivo to introduce loss-of-function mutations into ANGPTL3 and reduce blood lipid levels. Base editor 3 (BE3) can introduce cytosine-to-thymine changes at desired sites in the genome,2 eg, nonsense mutations, into Pcsk9 (proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9) in mice.3 Animal studies and other procedures were performed as previously described3 in accordance with University of Pennsylvania guidelines. We screened potential sites of base-edited nonsense mutations in Angptl3 in Neuro-2a cells, identifying robust BE3 activity at the codon Gln-135 …
Induction of necrotic cell death and activation of STING in the tumor microenvironment via cationic silica nanoparticles leading to enhanced antitumor immunity

Nanotechnology has demonstrated tremendous clinical utility, with potential applications in cancer immunotherapy. Although nanoparticles with intrinsic cytotoxicity are often considered unsuitable for clinical applications, such toxicity may be harnessed in the fight against cancer. Nanoparticle-associated toxicity can induce acute necrotic cell death, releasing tumor-associated antigens which may be captured by antigen-presenting cells to initiate or amplify tumor immunity. To test this hypothesis, cytotoxic cationic silica nanoparticles (CSiNPs) were directly administered into B16F10 melanoma implanted in C57BL/6 mice. CSiNPs caused plasma membrane rupture and oxidative stress of tumor cells, inducing local inflammation, tumor cell death and the release of tumor-associated antigens. The CSiNPs were further complexed with bis-(3'-5')-cyclic dimeric guanosine monophosphate (c-di-GMP), a molecular adjuvant which activates the stimulator of interferon genes (STING) in antigen-presenting cells. Compared with unformulated c-di-GMP, the delivery of c-di-GMP with CSiNPs markedly prolonged its local retention within the tumor microenvironment and activated tumor-infiltrating antigen-presenting cells. The combination of CSiNPs and a STING agonist showed dramatically increased expansion of antigen-specific CD8+ T cells, and potent tumor growth inhibition in murine melanoma. These results demonstrate that cationic nanoparticles can be used as an effective in situ vaccine platform which simultaneously causes tumor destruction and immune activation.
A Modified Teaching-Learning Optimization Algorithm for Economic Load Dispatch Problem

For the original Teaching-learning algorithm, it is weak in global search and prone to local search when solving complex optimization problems of high dimension. A modified algorithm based on space reverse-solution is proposed in this paper. Improvement of teacher phrase is based on the chaotic mapping and that of student phrase is based on the multi learning strategy. Then Self-learning phrase is added. The modified algorithm is applied to the complex high-dimensional benchmark functions for simulation experiments. Finally, the modified algorithm is applied to two typical power load distribution problems including 13 units and 40 units. The validity of the algorithm is verified from the aspects of convergence speed, convergence accuracy and stability.
Effects of magnesium on cyclic GMP hydrolysis by the bovine retinal rod cyclic GMP phosphodiesterase.

Knowledge of the kinetics of the rod cyclic GMP phosphodiesterase is essential for understanding the kinetics and gain of the light response. Therefore, the interactions between Mg2+, cyclic GMP, and purified, trypsin-activated bovine rod cyclic GMP phosphodiesterase (EC 3.1.4.17) were examined. The effects of Mg2+ and of cyclic GMP on the rod phosphodiesterase activity were mutually concentration-dependent. Formation of a free Mg-cyclic GMP complex is unlikely due to its high dissociation constant (Kd = 19 mM). Plots of 1/velocity versus 1/[cyclic GMP] as a function of [Mg2+] and 1/velocity versus 1/[Mg2+] as a function of [cyclic GMP] intersected to the left of the 1/velocity axis. This is consistent with the formation of a ternary complex between the phosphodiesterase, Mg2+, and cyclic GMP. A competitive inhibitor of the phosphodiesterase relative to cyclic GMP, 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine, non-competitively inhibited the enzyme relative to Mg2+, Pb2+, a competitive inhibitor of the phosphodiesterase relative to Mg2+ [D. Srivastava, R.L. Hurwitz and D. A. Fox (1995) Toxicol. Appl. Pharmacol, in the press] non-competitively inhibited the enzyme relative to cyclic GMP. Collectively these results are suggestive of a rapid equilibrium random binding order of Mg2+ and cyclic GMP to the rod phosphodiesterase.
Origin of Milk Fat Globules and the Nature of the Milk Fat Globule Membrane

Available evidence suggests that milk fat globules originate from endoplasmic reticulum of mammary epithelial cells. The actual process by which these globules are formed is unknown, but there are indications that triglyceride-containing vesicles which bleb from endoplasmic reticulum may serve as nucleation sites for globules. After formation, lipid droplets grow within the cell and this growth appears to be mediated by fusion of triglyceride-containing vesicles with intracellular lipid droplets. After formation, lipid droplets migrate to apical regions of cells, from where they are secreted into the alveolar lumen. Some evidence that microtubules and microfilaments may be involved in the intracellular migration of lipid droplets has been obtained, but this evidence is equivocal. Lipid droplets are released from the cell by envelopment in specialized regions of apical plasma membrane. Membranes of secretory vesicles may also make a contribution to the membrane which envelops lipid droplets. As reviewed herein, the membrane which surrounds fat globules in milk has been extensively characterized.
A Neural Model for Language and Speech.

Abstract A neural model in the form of a servo-mechanism is developed to account for certain aspects of language and speech in the human nervous system. Emphasis is placed on encoding processes as well as on-going feedback during production; consequently, both motor and sensory networks are shown to be at work during linguistic activity. We draw upon behavioral, neuroanatomical and pathological evidence to support our inclusion of the various structures in constructing the model.
Rapid and Chemodivergent Synthesis of N-Heterocyclic Sulfones and Sulfides: Mechanistic and Computational Details of the Persulfate-Initiated Catalysis

N-Heterocyclic sulfones and sulfides are key functional motifs in medicinal and agricultural chemistry and important building blocks in organic synthesis. Currently available methods produce N-hete...
PHOTOCHEMISTRY ON SEMICONDUCTOR SURFACES. VISIBLE LIGHT INDUCED OXIDATION OF C60 ON TIO2 NANOPARTICLES

The photochemical behavior of C60 adsorbed on TiO2 particles has been investigated using diffuse reflectance laser flash photolysis. At submonolayer coverages, irreversible oxidation of C60 is observed on titanium dioxide particles. A photochemical transient with a difference absorption maxima at ∼390 nm and at wavelengths greater than 700 is observed following the 532 nm laser pulse excitation of the C60-coated TiO2 particles. This transient is not sensitive to the presence of oxygen. The bleaching in the 600 nm region confirms the depletion of C60 during the surface photochemical oxidation of C60. Formation of both triplet excited state and the oxidation product are observed at higher coverages. This suggests that direct interaction with the oxide surface is crucial for observing the photochemical oxidation of C60. A biphotonic electron ejection from excited C60 is followed by the formation of fullerene epoxide on the TiO2 surface. The diffuse reflectance laser flash photolysis experiments which highlig...
A Family of Approximations for the Numerical Computation of the Randles–Sevcik Function in Electrochemistry

An integral representation for the reversible Randles–Sevcik function is developed using some relations from the theory of special functions. This integral formulation is employed to generate a two-parameter family of analytical expressions for computing the reversible Randles–Sevcik function correct to a specified number of decimal digits. This work extends the practical application of a novel series expression for the Randles–Sevcik function previously developed by Oldham.
Girl Meets Tumor

On one especially humid afternoon, we learned the head and neck examination. Then, my classmates and I learned I had a tumor.
Between Zero and One: Tolerances of Fabrication and Society in Architecture’s Digital Materialism

Architecture is a medium of tolerance. It is a space of negotiation which straddles and accommodates different material and social entities and tensions within urban development. The ongoing techno...
Teaching Parallel and Distributed Computing Concepts in Simulation with WRENCH

Teaching topics related to high performance com- puting and parallel and distributed computing in a hands-on manner is challenging, especially at introductory, undergraduate levels. There is a participation challenge due to the need to secure access to a platform on which students can learn via hands-on activities, which is not always possible. There are also pedagogic challenges. For instance, any particular platform provided to students imposes constraints on which learning objectives can be achieved. These challenges become steeper as the topics being taught target more heterogeneous, more distributed, and/or larger platforms, as needed to prepare students for using and developing Cyberinfrastructure. To address the above challenges, we have developed a set of pedagogic activities that can be integrated piecemeal in university courses, starting at freshman levels. These activities use simulation so that students can experience hands-on any relevant application and platform scenarios. This is achieved by capitalizing on the capabilities of the WRENCH and SimGrid simulation frameworks. After describing our approach and the pedagogic activities currently available, we present results from an evaluation performed in an undergraduate university course.
Freedom Was the Call but “Instead, They Got a Bank”

Claims that Black people should pool their savings, assets, and wealth with the use of Black-owned banks has a long history of being shown as insufficient in addressing economic inequality. The claim has a particular attachment to the myth of buying power and, therefore, deserves some special attention. If, as the claim goes, there is this pool of money that Black people spend which is calculated as buying power, that money should be deposited in Black banks which would allow those banks to better serve Black communities. However, this myth, being built in part upon another, that of buying power, assures, as its history makes clear, that banking Black cannot solve inequality.
CHAPTER 5-3 – TAUTOMERISM

Publisher Summary The term “tautomerism” is usually defined as structural isomerism with a low barrier to interconversion between the isomers. As the actual range of values can only be arbitrarily defined, the phenomenon of tautomerism simply fades into ordinary isomerism for high barriers and into resonance for a zero barrier. In spite of the artificiality of the concept, tautomeric equilibria cover an important area of organic chemistry and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy has been widely applied to their study. This chapter presents a brief resume of the applicability of the method with emphasis on its limitations. It discusses the major fields of application of NMR spectroscopy to the study of tautomeric equilibria. The classical examples of tautomerism in β-dicarbonyl compounds are particularly well-suited to investigation by NMR spectroscopy because the interconversion rates between the tautomers are generally slow, thus permitting direct determination of the proportions of the keto and enol tautomers by integration of NMR spectra.
High Rates of Nicotine Use Relapse and Ulcer Development Following Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass.

Given that smoking is known to contribute to gastrojejunal anastomotic (GJA) ulcers, cessation is recommended prior to laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB). However, smoking relapse rates and the exact ulcer risk remain unknown. This study aimed to define smoking relapse, risk of GJA ulceration, and complications after LRYGB. We performed a retrospective cohort study of patients who underwent primary LRYGB during 2011–2015. Initially, three patient categories were identified: lifetime non-smokers, patients who were smoking during the initial visit at the bariatric clinic or within the prior year (recent smokers), and patients who had ceased smoking more than a year prior to their initial clinic visit (former smokers). Smoking relapse, GJA ulcer occurrences, reinterventions, and reoperations were recorded and compared. A total of 766 patients were included in the analysis. After surgery, 53 (64.6%) recent smokers had resumed smoking. Out of these relapsed smokers, 51% developed GJA ulcers compared with 14.8% in non-relapsed recent smokers, 16.1% in former smokers, and 6% in lifetime nonsmokers (p < 0.001). Furthermore, relapsed smokers required more frequently endoscopic reinterventions (60.4%) compared with non-relapsed smokers (20.8%, p < 0.001), former smokers (20.7%, p < 0.001), and lifetime non-smokers (15.4%, p < 0.001). Additionally, relapsed smokers required a reoperation (18.9%) more often than non-relapsed recent smokers (5.7%, p < 0.001) and lifetime non-smokers (1.3%, p < 0.001). Smokers relapse frequently after LRYGB, and the majority experience GJA complications. They should be counseled about this risk preoperatively and directed towards less ulcerogenic procedures when possible. Alternatively, longer periods of preoperative smoking abstinence might be needed.
Context-aware Graph Embedding for Session-based News Recommendation

Online news recommender systems aim to make personalized recommendations according to user preferences, which require modeling users’ short-term reading interest. However, due to the limited logged user interactions in practice, news recommendation at session-level becomes very challenging. Existing methods on session-based news recommendation mainly focus on extracting features from news articles and sequential user-item interactions, but they usually ignore the semantic-level structural information among news articles and do not explore external knowledge sources. In this paper, we propose a novel Context-Aware Graph Embedding (CAGE) framework for session-based news recommendation, which builds an auxiliary knowledge graph to enrich the semantic meaning of entities involved in articles, and further refines the article embeddings by graph convolutional networks. Experimental results on a real-world news dataset demonstrate the effectiveness of our method compared with the state-of-the-art methods on session-based news recommendation.
A rapidly deployed, interactive, online visualization system to support fatality management during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

Objective To create an online visualization to support fatality management in North Carolina. Materials and methods A web application aggregates online datasets for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection rates and morgue utilization. The data are visualized through an interactive, online dashboard. Results The web application was shared with state and local public health officials across North Carolina. Users could adjust interactive maps and other statistical charts to view live reports of metrics at multiple aggregation levels (eg, county or region). The application also provides access to detailed tabular data for individual facilities. Discussion Stakeholders found this tool helpful for providing situational awareness of capacity, hotspots, and utilization fluctuations. Timely reporting of facility and county data were key, and future work can help streamline the data collection process. There is potential to generalize the technology to other use cases. Conclusions This dashboard facilitates fatality management by visualizing county and regional aggregate statistics in North Carolina.
Spin–orbit coupling in LaAlO3/SrTiO3 interfaces: magnetism and orbital ordering

Rashba spin–orbit coupling together with electron correlations in the metallic interface between SrTiO3 and LaAlO3 can lead to an unusual combination of magnetic and orbital ordering. We consider such phenomena in the context of the recent observation of anisotropic magnetism. Firstly, we show that Rashba spin–orbit coupling can account for the observed magnetic anisotropy, assuming a correlation driven (Stoner type) instability toward ferromagnetism. Secondly, we investigate nematicity in the form of an orbital imbalance between dxz/dyz orbitals. We find an enhanced susceptibility toward nematicity due to the van Hove singularity in the low-electron-density regime. In addition, the coupling between in-plane magnetization anisotropy and nematic order provides an effective symmetry breaking field in the magnetic phase. We estimate this coupling to be substantial in the low-electron-density regime. The resulting orbital ordering can affect magneto transport.
Client Status and Cooperation with Audit Requests

Auditors sometimes collect evidence from clients that have relatively higher status. While prior research considers the effect of this dynamic on auditor behavior, the effect on client behavior is not well understood. I investigate (1) whether high-status clients are more cooperative towards auditors, and (2) whether this effect dissipates when auditors make more costly requests. I conduct an abstract experiment in which auditors choose how much costly assistance they request from clients and clients choose how much to cooperate. Results indicate that high-status clients are more cooperative, but only for requests that are relatively less costly to comply with. Further analysis indicates that high-status clients are more sensitive to changes in the costliness of requests. Overall, my findings demonstrate that collecting evidence from high-status client personnel could benefit auditors, but only if they manage the costliness of their requests. This conclusion carries implications for practitioners that value client cooperation.
Conversion of Spiky Sweetgum tree (Liquidambar styraciflua) Seeds as into Bio-adsorbent: Static and Dynamic Adsorption Assessment

Abstract Diverse biomass materials have been explored as bioadsorbents for water treatment owing to their natural abundance. This study evaluated the adsorption performances of sweetgum tree (Liquidambar styraciflua) seeds (spiky balls) to remove methylene blue (MB) and lead ions (Pb2+) from water. The pristine spiky balls yielded higher adsorption capacities than the thermally treated ones at 200°C. The static adsorption of 10 mg·L−1 methylene blue (MB) dye and 10 mg·L−1 lead (Pb2+) from water reached high removal rates of MB and Pb2+ up to 89.1±1.3% and 92±4% respectively. The adsorption kinetics of MB and Pb2+ on pristine spiky balls followed the pseudo-second-order and the pseudo-first-order models (R2 = 0.998, and 0.953, respectively), suggesting that MB and Pb2+ follows chemosorption and physisorption, respectively. Consequently, the adsorption capacity for MB (143.512 mg·g−1) was significantly greater than that for Pb2+ (0.900 mg·g−1). The isotherm analysis further reveals that spiky balls may have a heterogeneous surface with multilayered adsorption and stronger adsorption interactions with MB than with Pb2+. Finally, dynamic adsorption was evaluated in packed adsorption columns, which provide insightful information (e.g., adsorption capacity and break-through dynamics) in practical applications.
Doubling Down on the Politics of Fear, Opening Up the Politics of Hope

The convergence of postcritique and Terrorism Studies underwrites new readings of Joseph Conrad’s political fiction. Correcting popular conceptions, experts in Terrorism Studies report that terrorists are not fanatics. Conrad’s political fiction is consistent with this finding: his anarchists illustrate how ordinary people can become terrorists. He portrays political terrorists and government agents as counterparts, similar in their quest for autonomy and solidarity despite their antithetical affiliations. Recognizing the lethal power of autocracy and terrorism, the tyranny of the police and the tyranny of the revolutionists, Conrad offers hopeful alternatives to these forces. In contrast to the suspicious stance of critique, a postcritical reading considers the possibility that Conrad’s hope is sincere.
Erosion, Corrective Maintenance, and Dispersive Clays

Erosion problems may result when the dispersive properties of clays are not suitably accounted for in the design of earth structures. These problems may become evident immediately upon introduction of water into the reservoir. An arid climate and alkaline soils are important indicators of the possible occurrence of dispersive clays. The phenomenon of dispersive clays has only recently been recognized, and all the effects are not yet understood. Experiences in southern California projects are used to demonstrate how problems associated with dispersive clays may be identified. Test results leading to the recognition of such clays are outlined, and the different mechanisms of erosion are discussed. The choice between alternative corrective actions is dependent on a number of variables. These are identified, and a decision-making approach to the selection of appropriate corrective action is discussed.
Six Sigma Beyond Manufacturing- A Concept for Robust Management

Six-sigma quality describes a production process of highly robust quality; one that has very low variability compared with the tolerance limits specified for the product being made. Achieving six-s...
Deaf Identity Centrality: Measurement, Influences, and Outcomes

In this study, I used a social psychological framework to better understand the influences and outcomes of Deaf identity centrality. An online survey was administered to 346 deaf individuals to measure facets of their Deaf identity. Results show that age, severity of hearing loss, age when an individual became deaf, and communication method (whether the individual uses sign language versus spoken communication) all influence Deaf identity centrality. Results also show that the higher a deaf individual's degree of Deaf identity centrality, the higher their self-esteem, the greater their degree of self-concept clarity, the more likely they are to attend events in the Deaf community, and the more comfortable they feel around others who are deaf. Implications of the study findings are discussed.
Assessment of Cell Viability in Primary Neuronal Cultures

Four commonly used methods for the assessment of neuronal (or glial) cell viability are described in this unit. The MTT assay is sensitive to the function of labile mitochondrial enzymes, which typically lose activity early in the progression towards death. The lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay measures the appearance of this cytosolic enzyme in the bathing medium, providing a measure of plasma membrane integrity. Loss of plasma membrane integrity is also the basis of the trypan blue dye assay and the propidium iodide assay. Trypan blue staining is assessed by cell counts; propidium iodide labeling can be assessed either by cell counts, typically in conjunction with fluorescein diacetate counterstaining to identify intact cells containing adequate levels of functional esterases, or with a fluorescence plate reader.
Mycotoxins produced by Fusarium nivale (fries) cesati isolated from tall fescue (festuca arundinacea schreb.) : Synthesis of 4-acetamido-4-hydroxy-2-butenoic acid-γ-lactone

Abstract d,l -4-Acetamido-4-hydroxy-2-butenoic acid-γ-lactone has been synthesized in 21% yield by reaction of 4-bromo-4-hydroxy-2-butenoic acid-γ-lactone and acetamide in chloroform to confirm the structure of a new mycotoxin.
Modest home makeovers to improve farmhouse accessibility: How our AgrAbility team used this fast, affordable alternative to remodeling with the Miller family

The Modest Home Makeover Program offers a cost-effective strategy for improving farmhouse accessibility. The program includes three key ingredients: (1) a team approach involving family members, Extension staff and/or other professionals and volunteers; (2) a focus on low-cost or no-cost improvements; and (3) advance preparation so the makeover can be completed in one intensive 'work day.' The makeover process that the AgrAbility team used with the Miller family is described in detail.
Effects of the group I metabotropic glutamate receptor agonist, DHPG, and injection stress on striatal cell signaling in food-restricted and ad libitum fed rats

Chronic food restriction augments the rewarding effect of centrally administered psychostimulant drugs and this effect may involve a previously documented upregulation of D-1 dopamine receptor-mediated MAP kinase signaling in nucleus accumbens (NAc) and caudate-putamen (CPu). Psychostimulants are known to induce striatal glutamate release, and group I metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluR) have been implicated in the cellular and behavioral responses to amphetamine. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate whether chronic food restriction increases striatal MAP kinase signaling in response to the group I mGluR agonist, DHPG. Western immunoblotting was used to demonstrate that intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) injection of DHPG (500 nmol) produces greater activation of ERK1/2 and CREB in CPu and NAc of food-restricted as compared to ad libitum fed rats. Fos-immunostaining induced by DHPG was also stronger in CPu and NAc core of food-restricted relative to ad libitum fed rats. However, i.c.v. injection of saline-vehicle produced greater activation of ERK1/2 and CREB in CPu and NAc of food-restricted relative to ad libitum fed rats, and this difference was not seen when subjects received no i.c.v. injection prior to sacrifice. In addition, although DHPG activated Akt, there was no difference in Akt activation between feeding groups. To probe whether the augmented ERK1/2 and CREB activation in vehicle-injected food-restricted rats are mediated by one or more GluR types, effects of an NMDA antagonist (MK-801, 100 nmol), AMPA antagonist (DNQX, 10 nmol), and group I mGluR antagonist (AIDA, 100 nmol) were compared to saline-vehicle. Antagonist injections did not diminish activation of ERK1/2 or CREB. These results indicate that a group I mGluR agonist induces phosphorylation of Akt, ERK1/2 and CREB in both CPu and NAc. However, group I mGluR-mediated signaling may not be upregulated in food-restricted rats. Rather, a physiological response to "i.c.v. injection stress" is augmented by food restriction and appears to summate with effects of the group I mGluR agonist in activating ERK1/2 and CREB. While the augmented cellular response of food-restricted rats to i.c.v. injection treatment represents additional evidence of enhanced CNS responsiveness in these subjects, the functional significance and underlying mechanism(s) of this effect remain to be elucidated.
Tipping Point Managers’ Self-Interest, Greed, and Altruism

We explore the potential effects of managers’ greed and altruism on their behaviors and firm outcomes. Greed represents extreme self-interest whereas altruism reflects concern for others. We argue ...
Biomechanics of the Coracoclavicular Ligament Complex and Augmentations Used in Its Repair and Reconstruction

Augmentation is a well-accepted and common component of coracoclavicular ligament repairs and reconstructions. The purpose of this study was to examine and compare the strength, stiffness, and mode of failure of the coracoclavicular ligament complex and four different augmentation techniques in cadaveric shoulders. There was no significant difference in the mean failure load between the intact ligament complex (724.9+/-230.9 N) and augmentations performed with braided polydioxanone (PDS) (676.7+/-115.4 N) or braided polyethylene placed through (986.1+/-391.1 N) or around (762.7+/-218.2 N) the clavicle. The mean failure load for augmentations using a 6.5-mm cancellous screw through the clavicle and into a single cortex of the coracoid (390.1+/-253.6 N) was significantly lower than that for the intact coracoclavicular ligaments. There was no difference in mean stiffness between the intact coracoclavicular ligament complex (115.9+/-36.2 N/mm) and the braided polyethylene augmentations placed through (99.8+/-22.2 N/mm) or around (90.0+/-25.5 N/mm) the clavicle. Polydioxanone augmentations were significantly less stiff (27.4+/-3.3 N/mm) than the intact complex, while screw augmentations were significantly stiffer (250.4+/-88.2 N/mm). There were no significant differences in strength or stiffness of braided polyethylene reconstructions placed around or through a drill hole in the clavicle.
Electrophilic Addition to Alkenes: The Relation between Reactivity and Enthalpy of Hydrogenation: Regioselectivity is Determined by the Stability of the Two Conceivable Products.

Although electrophilic addition to alkenes has been well studied, some secrets still remain. Halogenations, hydrohalogenations, halohydrin formations, hydrations, epoxidations, other oxidations, carbene additions, and ozonolyses are investigated to elucidate the relation of alkene reactivities with their enthalpies of hydrogenation (ΔHhyd ). For addition of electrophiles to unconjugated hydrocarbon alkenes, ln(k) is a linear function of ΔHhyd , where k is the rate constant. Linear correlation coefficients are about 0.98 or greater. None of the many previously proposed correlations of ln(k) with the properties of alkenes or with linear free-energy relationships match the generality and accuracy of the simple linear relationship found herein. A notable exception is acid-catalyzed hydration in water or in solvents stabilizing relatively stable carbocation intermediates (e.g., tertiary, benzylic, or allylic). (13) C NMR chemical shifts of the two alkene carbons also predict regioselectivity. These effects have not been noted previously and are operative in general, including addition to heteroatom-substituted alkenes.
Chemical, Electronic and Nanostructure Dynamics on Sr(Ti1-xFex)O3 Thin-Film Surfaces at High Temperatures

The surface structure, chemical composition and electronic structure of Sr(Ti1-xFex)O3 under different temperatures and oxygen pressures were studied by Scanning Tunneling Microscopy / Spectroscopy (STM/S) and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS). The surface structure remained stable to 430 oC at 10-3 mbar oxygen pressure. When annealing at low oxygen pressure, the A to B site ratio, Sr/(Fe+Ti) decreased, Fe content at the B site increased, and particles that are likely to be Fe enriched, precipitated to the grain boundaries. Moreover, Fe changed its valance state, in part, from Fe3+ to Fe2+, consistent with oxygen vacancy formation. The surface of STF was electrically insulating at room temperature, and exhibited by STS a well defined gap in the electronic density of states at 380 oC. With further increase to 430 oC, the energy gap disappeared. The variation in surface defects during thermal treatment is discussed as a likely reason for electronic structure changes at elevated temperatures.
Note on Standardization Curves for Gamma Globulin Determinations

Two methods have been described for obtaining standardization curves, relating optical density to Gm. per 100 ml. serum or plasma, in the determination of gamma globulin by the Huerga and Popper turbidimetric procedure.
Salt Transport Organelle in Artemia salenis (Brine Shrimp)

The branchiae of Artemia adapted to triple-strength sea water (105 per mil salinity) were studied with the electron microscope. The epithelial lining of the metepipodite segment possesses organelles composed of stacks of disc-shaped mitochondria interlaced with flattened extensions of a canalicular system that in turn communicates with the plasma-bound surface of the cells. The distance between the canalicular and mitochondrial membranes is small and quite constant. The marked similarity to "mitochondrial pumps" in the anal papillae of tosquito larvae suggests that the organelle is concerned with salt transport.
Effectively implementing psychiatric advance directives to promote self-determination of treatment among people with mental illness

Statutes on psychiatric advance directives (PADs) allow competent individuals to document instructions for future mental health treatment in the event of an incapacitating crisis. PADs are aimed at promoting a stronger sense of patient self-determination, considered a central tenet of psychosocial rehabilitation and recovery; however, it is unknown what factors (if any) lead psychiatric patients with PADs to experience this benefit long term. The current study involves examination of 1 year effects on perceived treatment self-determination among 125 people with mental disorders who completed PADs via a 1-on-1 facilitated PAD intervention. Descriptive analyses showed participants documented medically relevant information that would assist doctors in a crisis and participants reported a high level of satisfaction with the facilitated PAD intervention. Multivariate analyses demonstrated that increased sense of autonomy at 1 year was predicted by race, understanding PADs, and verbal memory. Results provide useful guidance for administrators and clinicians, suggesting that PADs show promise in helping empower people with mental illness, especially African-American clients. Further, findings indicate that optimal implementation of PADs will be achieved when facilitated intervention assists people with mental illness to better understand what PADs are and to remember they have a PAD at the time they are experiencing a psychiatric crisis.
Molecule of the month: miRNA and HIV-1 TAR

A recent publication analyzed MicroRNAs (miRNAs) globallyinhumans [1]. Here, we summarize several key concepts from this article. Apparently during evolution, there were several origins of miRNAs and the authors embarked on a detailed and specific analysis of these events. In fact, the authors analyzed 1,433 extant human miRNAs that originated 15 times during evolution. These steps correspond to the evolutionary progression of the following species: avians, Prototheria platypus, Metatheria opossum/wallaby, Atlantogenata, Laurasiatheria, rodents/rabbits, tupai, lemur/galago, tarsier, marmoset, rhesus monkey, gibbon ape, orangutan, gorilla, chimpanzee, and humans. The rates of origin of miRNAs was greatest (most accelerated) in two periods, during the Atlantogenata-Laurasiatheria transition/origin period and during the monkey-gibbon ape transition/origin period. Across all 15 originations, the extents of expression are lower for the younger miRNAs [1]. It should be noted that the process of miRNA integration, stabilization, and expression in an organism’s transcriptome takes 60 million years. In addition, there is an ongoing process of miRNA expression increase during that time [2]. It is noteworthy that the HIV-1 antecedent viruses may have evolved among the primates during this most recent resurgence of miRNAs.
Augmenting cartographic resources for autonomous driving

In this paper we present algorithms for automatically generating a road network description from aerial imagery. The road network inforamtion (RNI) produced by our algorithm includes a composite topoloigical and spatial representation of the roads visible in an aerial image. We generate this data for use by autonomous vehicles operating on-road in urban environments. This information is used by the vehicles to both route plan and determine appropriate tactical behaviors. RNI can provide important contextual cues that influence driving behaviors, such as the curvature of the road ahead, the location of traffic signals, or pedestrian dense areas. The value of RNI was demonstrated compellingly in the DARPA Urban Challenge, where the vehicles relied on this information to drive quickly, safely and efficiently.The current best methods for generating RNI are manual, labor intensive and error prone. Automation of this process could thus provide an important capability. As a step toward this goal, we present algorithms that automatically build the skeleton of drivable regions in a parking lot from a single orthoimage. As a first step in extracting structure, our algorithm detects the parking spots visible in an image. It then combines this information with the detected parking lot boundary and information from other detected road-markings to extract a skeleton of the the drivable regions within the lot.
Intersexes in Mississippi River shovelnose sturgeon sampled below Saint Louis, Missouri, USA.

The Missouri Department of Conservation detected high organochlorine levels in tissues of fish from the Mississippi River south of Saint Louis. Chlordane, which is both a carcinogen and an endocrine disrupter, reached 2960 μg/kg in fillets of shovelnose sturgeon, Scaphirhynchus platyorynchus, and 1926 μg/kg in their roe, wet weight basis. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and p,p′-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE) in roe have reached 5810 and 780 μg/kg, respectively. The purpose of this study was to determine if endocrine disrupters and carcinogens are a potential cause of the significantly diminished reproduction capacity and population declines in the endangered pallid sturgeon, Scaphirhynchus albus. Twenty-four surrogate shovelnose sturgeons were sampled north of Saint Louis where contaminant levels were lower compared with 17 sampled south of Saint Louis where contaminant levels were high. Liver and gonad tissues were formalin-fixed, histologically processed and examined. Neoplasms were not found. The principal finding was that the testes of two of the seven downstream male fish contained ovigerous lamellae, in addition to mature sperm. Since sturgeons are gonochoristic and intersexes are rare and unusual, the occurrence of intersex in 29% of the male Mississippi River shovelnose sturgeon examined from a population contaminated with chlordane and other chemicals raise concern for human health, species biodiversity and preservation of waterway quality. These findings, however, need to be corroborated by expanded studies with a higher sample size.