cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
3D plant root system reconstruction based on fusion of deep structure-from-motion and IMU

Roots play a critical role in the functioning of plants. However, it is still challenging to generate detailed 3D models of thin and complicated plant roots, due to the complexity of the structure and the limited textures. Limited by the difficulty of realization and inaccessibility of labeled data for training, few works have been put in exploring this problem using deep neural networks. To overcome this limitation, this paper presents a structure-from-motion based deep neural network structure for plant root reconstruction in a self-supervised manner, which can be applied by mobile phone platforms. In the training process of deep structure-from-motion, each depth is constrained from the depth map and predicted relative poses from their adjacent frames captured by the mobile phone cameras, and the LSTM-based network after CNN for pose estimation is learnt from the ego-motion constraints by further exploiting the temporal relationship between consecutive frames. IMU unit in the mobile phone is further utilized to improve the pose estimation network by continuously updating the correct scales from the gyroscope and accelerometer moment. Our proposed approach is able to solve the scale ambiguity in recovering the absolute scale of the real plant roots so that the approach can promote the performance of camera pose estimation and scene reconstruction jointly. The experimental results on both real plant root dataset and the rendered synthetic root dataset demonstrate the superior performance of our method compared with the classical and state-of-the-art learning-based structure-from-motion methods.
Minimal area surfaces in AdS n+1 and Wilson loops

The AdS/CFT correspondence relates the expectation value of Wilson loops in $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 4 SYM to the area of minimal surfaces in AdS5. In this paper we consider minimal area surfaces in generic Euclidean AdSn+1 using the Pohlmeyer reduction in a similar way as we did previously in Euclidean AdS3. As in that case, the main obstacle is to find the correct parameterization of the curve in terms of a conformal parameter. Once that is done, the boundary conditions for the Pohlmeyer fields are obtained in terms of conformal invariants of the curve. After solving the Pohlmeyer equations, the area can be expressed as a boundary integral involving a generalization of the conformal arc-length, curvature and torsion of the curve. Furthermore, one can introduce the λ-deformation symmetry of the contours by a simple change in the conformal invariants. This determines the λ-deformed contours in terms of the solution of a boundary linear problem. In fact the condition that all λ deformed contours are periodic can be used as an alternative to solving the Pohlmeyer equations and is equivalent to imposing the vanishing of an infinite set of conserved charges derived from integrability.
Prebriefing in Nursing Simulation: Does the Use of Concept Mapping in the Prebriefing Process Impact Clinical Competency in Nursing Students?

The prebriefing phase of simulation lacks development and research. The aim of this project was to evaluate the use of a concept map in the prebriefing process of simulation. A quasi-experimental post-test only project was implemented using a concept map in the prebriefing process to evaluate the impact on clinical competence in nursing students in a prelicensure associated degree nursing program. The Creighton Clinical Competence Evaluation (C-CEI) was used to compare the two groups (n = 113). Results of the Mann Whitney U test revealed no significant difference between the intervention/concept map concept (Mdn = 38) compared to the experimental group, (Mdn = 39), U = 1904, z = 1.781, p = .075. A Pearson Chi-Square analysis on the individual variables of the C-CEI revealed a statistically significant relationship in the concept map group on the following variables: Assesses the Environment (p = .003), Documentation, (p = .043), Professionalism ( p =.011), Interprets Data, (p = .028), Provides Evidence-Based Rationale for Interventions (p = .007), Evaluates Evidence-Based Interventions and Outcomes, (p = .000) and Reflects on Potential Hazards and Errors (p = .016). Results suggest a concept map in the prebriefing process may impact the clinical competency of nursing students in certain areas. Further research is needed to develop and define the prebriefing process using a concept map and the undergraduate nursing student.
An Analytical Study of Egyptian Orange and Competition for External Markets

The importance of competitiveness in maximizing the benefit of the features offered by the global economy and the reduction of its negatives, and the global competitive report indicates that small States are more able to take advantage of the concept of competitiveness from large countries. The problem of study was in the small production of junior traveler despite the far flexible areas of the Republic and although the climate in the Arab Republic of Egypt is characterized by many other countries competing for us. The strategic location of the Republic is qualified for export to all countries of the world easily and without imposing extra charges for the shipping or transport process. The aim of studying me to know some of the competitiveness of the export of Egyptian citizens and study the centimeter of the overall industrial competition for the oral Egyptian orange. The study was adopted on published and unpublished secondary data, published data from the Internet and the International Trade Organization. The study was adopted in the analysis and viewing of the results on the desired and quantum of al-Asi and al Qa'i al-Asi, as well as to use some statistical and statistical indicators such as the contrast analysis, relative importance estimates, the time period of time, the factual differences and growth rate, as well as some competitiveness indicators. The results of the study indicate 1. The General Index to the Stability In the amount of Egyptian export of orange exports is about 4.252%. Which indicates the extension of the amount of Egyptian orange exports. 2. Calculate the export efficiency of the Orange Transport in 2018 showed that about 189.05%. 3. The high-ratio of the assessment of the Egyptian orange competition is exposed to the OSA, which is about 20.445
Linked fate, #MeToo, and political participation

Popular accounts suggest the surge in political participation post-2016, particularly among women, was driven by the #MeToo movement. But emerging research demonstrates few people report being poli...
Sliding Mode Control of Target Tracking System for Two Degree of Freedom Gun Turret Model

This paper presents the detailed derivation of gun turret modelling along with the estimation of the ideal azimuth and elevation angles for accurate firing. A control strategy for the gun turret is developed to ensure the capability of an actuator to provide sufficient torque and accurate firing angle for the gun platform and turret. A DC motor model is constructed to actuate the gun platform and turret in high accuracy for firing angle according to the desired target angle. The desired target angle is designed based on the three-dimensional (3D) projectile motion to obtain an accurate firing angle by depending on the distance parameter x, y and z plane coordinates. The control structure for the system is controlled using the PID and sliding mode control (SMC). The controllers are evaluated based on the performance to generate the drive torque and reduce the error of the system in tracking the desired target angle accurately. The simulation result shows that the SMC controller has advantages of high precision and efficient for tracking the trajectory of firing angle. A comparison between PID and SMC is also presented to indicate the effectiveness of the SMC controller in terms of tracking performance and firing accuracy.
Rheumatic fever

Rheumatic fever is a multisystem inflammatory disease that occurs as a delayed sequel to group A streptococcal pharyngitis. It is less common than it was 50 years ago but is still a major cause of heart disease in developing areas of the world. The relationship between the site of infection, the type of causative organism, and susceptibility of the host is essential in the development of the disease. Its major clinical manifestations include carditis, migratory polyarthritis, chorea, erythema marginatum, and subcutaneous nodules. It can manifest as an acute febrile illness consisting of migratory polyarthritis involving the large joints, as carditis and valvulitis, or as Sydenham’s chorea with involvement of the central nervous system. The disorder in its milder form resolves itself without sequelae. Carditis is the condition most associated with increased mortality and morbidity and may be fatal in its severe forms. Penicillin is the most appropriate primary and secondary prophylaxis. Antiinflammatory agents provide symptomatic relief but do not prevent rheumatic heart disease.
Neurons undergo pathogenic metabolic reprograming in models of familial ALS

Normal cellular function requires a rate of ATP production sufficient to meet demand. In most neurodegenerative diseases (including Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, ALS), mitochondrial dysfunction is postulated raising the possibility of impaired ATP production and a need for compensatory maneuvers to sustain the ATP production/demand balance. We find in our rodent models of familial ALS (fALS), impairment in neuronal glycolytic flux with maintained or enhanced activity of the citric acid cycle. This rewiring of metabolism is associated with normal ATP levels and redox status, supporting the notion that mitochondrial function is not compromised in neurons expressing fALS genes. Genetic loss-of-function manipulation of individual steps in the glycolysis and the pentose phosphate pathway blunt the negative phenotypes seen in various fALS models. We propose that neurons adjust fuel utilization in the setting of neurodegenerative disease-associated mitochondrial dysfunction in a baleful manner and targeting this process can be healthful.
The Father of Biophysics in China

This chapter intends to elucidate the academic heritage and intellectual background of the father of biophysics in China. My central argument is that if we want to learn about biophysics in China, we have to learn more about Bei Shizhang; if we want to understand Bei, we have to pay a visit to his intellectual world. But this world is complex and many-faceted, for Bei is not just an institution builder and a visionary leader, he is also a charismatic leader and a controversial scientist. This chapter explores these various facets of Bei Shizhang by chronicling his early life in China, the correlation between the formation of his scientific worldview and the naturphilosophie of his neo-Lamarckian German teacher, Wilhelm Harms. I also consider Bei’s contested scientific pursuit––the theory of cell reformation which had some parallels with O.B. Lepeshinskaya’s now discredited studies of “the origins of life” in the Soviet Union––within the larger sets of issues involving Soviet-styled biology, the perception of Marxist philosophy, and political patronage of cytology in twentieth-century Communist states.
War and Peace among Artificial Nations – A Model and Simulation Based on a Two-Layered Multi-agent System

This paper attempts to model the dynamics of war and peace in a virtual world to deepen our understanding why wars continue arising in spite of many peace keeping efforts. Land is modelled as a toroidal plain divided into square grid. Each nation consists of several villages that own a limited number of adjoining tiles of grids. A nation sometimes invades an adjacent village of another nation and occupies it. Inhabitants in each village consists of farmers, officers, and soldiers. Village can enlarge their territory by developing an empty tile, and can be independent from the nation they currently belong to. Each nation and village have their own meme for decision making that mutates when their successors inherit the strategies. In order to investigate what occurs in the virtual world we built a simulation system with a GUI that facilitates parameter set-up. The results displayed a typical phenomenon: repeated rise and fall of big nations. With other parameter settings, we also observed a period of equilibrium by a number of nations followed by a period of domination by one large ruling nation.
Are user runtime estimates inherently inaccurate

Computer system batch schedulers typically require information from the user upon job submission, including a runtime estimate. Inaccuracy of these runtime estimates, relative to the actual runtime of the job, has been well documented and is a perennial problem mentioned in the job scheduling literature. Typically users provide these estimates under circumstances where their job will be killed after the provided amount of time elapses. Also, users may be unaware of the potential benefits of providing accurate estimates, such as increased likelihood of backfilling. This study examines user behavior when the threat of job killing is removed, and when a tangible reward for accuracy is provided. We show that under these conditions, about half of users provide an improved estimate, but there is not a substantial improvement in the overall average accuracy.
The Market Performance of Tracking Stocks

Tracking stocks have been a popular form of equity restructuring in recent years. AT&T, Disney, General Motors, Sprint, US West, and many others have issued tracking stocks. While the positive announcement returns of tracking stocks are well documented, an examination of their post-issue market performance is lacking. This paper examines the post-issue returns and the subsequent restructuring events through December 2000 by using a comprehensive sample of tracking stocks. We document three key results. First, we find that tracking stocks earn significantly negative buy-and-hold excess returns during a three-year period following the issue date. We also find significantly negative returns surrounding the earnings announcements during this period. This evidence contrasts with the post-issue returns of spinoffs, which are known to be positive, and of carveouts, which are known to be insignificant. Second, contrary to a common justification given to adopt tracking stocks, we find that they do not increase the transparency of firm earnings. Third, we find large positive announcement-period returns to events resulting in the elimination of tracking stock structure.
Spatial technologies for coastal management

This demonstration will be presented at the 2004 National Conference on Digital Government Research. The third year results of the project "Digitalization of Coastal Management and Decision Making Supported by Multi-Dimensional Geospatial Information and Analysis" will be presented. Mobile wireless communications, internet web services, and web GIS are integrated into a web-based decision-making system for coastal management. Employing three-dimensional visualization technology, athe system also provides a visualization tool for multisource spatial-temporal data integration and uncertainty analysis. Also demonstrated is an interactive QuickBird image processing subsystem used for high resolution DEM and three-dimensional shoreline extraction of Tampa Bay.The goal of this project is to develop technologies to enhance the operational capabilities of federal, state, and local agencies responsible for coastal management and decision making. The pilot test site is along the Lake Erie coastline from Port Clinton to East Cleveland, Ohio. Research strategies are currently being applied to Painesville, OH and Tampa Bay, Florida. The demonstration will include the following sections.
Transmission channel model and capacity of overhead multi-conductor medium-voltage power-lines for broadband communications

A channel model suitable for multi-wire overhead medium-voltage lines is proposed. The model, incorporating ground admittance, is more appropriate for broadband communications. This model is then employed in order to evaluate the multipath channel impulse response and the associated transmission capacity limit in actual overhead medium-voltage power distribution networks for broadband power-line communications applications.
Determination of the biogenic emission rates of species contributing to VOC in the San Joaquin Valley OF California

Abstract As part of an extensive effort to characterize biogenic hydrocarbon emission rates in the San Joaquin Valley and surrounding areas during the SJVAQS/AUSPEX field experimental period, July–August 1990, measurements were made for the first time of isoprene, terpene, and other VOC emission rates from blue oak (Quercus douglasii), foothill pine (Pinus sabiniana), and a ground cover plant called tarweed (Holocarpha sp.) at a rural site near Mariposa, CA. A flow-through plant enclosure method was used to measure the emission flux rates from these species; the plant limb or whole plant was flushed with clean air just prior to hydrocarbon sampling. Samples of the plant emissions were collected on Tenax GC or Tenax GC-Carbosieve S-I1 cartridges and analysed by gas chromatography- Fourier transform infrared-mass spectrometry (GC-FTIR-MS). Quantifiable biogenic emissions from two blue oak specimens consisted only of isoprene, with an average emission rate of 8.4 μg g−1 dry biomass h−1. Emission rates (above the detection of about 0.05 μg−1 h−1) from two foothill pine specimens consisted mostly of α-pinene; an average emission rate of 0.64 μg−1 h−1 of α-pinene was observed. The tarweed species emitted both α- and β-pinenes, along with other terpene and oxygenated species, some of which have been tentatively identified. The emission rates of biogenic hydrocarbons from foothill pine and blue oak species as determined in this study make these species potentially significant contributors to summertime VOC levels in the San Joaquin Valley of California, based on vegetation classification data and the predominant summer meteorology.
Recent advances in breast MRI and MRS.

Breast MRI is an area of intense research and is fast becoming an important tool for the diagnosis of breast cancer. This review covers recent advances in breast MRI, MRS, and image post-processing and analysis. Several studies have explored a multi-parametric approach to breast imaging that combines analysis of traditional contrast enhancement patterns and lesion architecture with novel methods such as diffusion, perfusion, and spectroscopy to increase the specificity of breast MRI studies. Diffusion-weighted MRI shows some potential for increasing the specificity of breast lesion diagnosis and is even more promise for monitoring early response to therapy. MRS also has great potential for increasing specificity and for therapeutic monitoring. A limited number of studies have evaluated perfusion imaging based on first-pass contrast bolus tracking, and these clearly identify that vascular indices have great potential to increase specificity. The review also covers the relatively new acquisition technique of MR elastography for breast lesion characterization. A brief survey of image processing algorithms tailored for breast MR, including registration of serial dynamic images, segmentation and extraction of morphological features of breast lesions, and contrast uptake modeling, is also included. Recent advances in MRI, MRS, and automated image analysis have increased the utility of breast MR in diagnosis, screening, management, and therapy monitoring of breast cancer. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Process variation aware wide tuning band pass filter for steep roll-off high rejection

A wide tuning band pass filter (BPF) with steep roll-off high rejection and low noise figure is presented. The design feature of steep roll-off high stopband rejection (>20 dB) and low noise figure (<6 dB) provides a wide tuning frequency span (1-2.04GHz) to accept desirable signals and reject close interfering signals. The process variation aware design approach demonstrates robustness of the BPF after calibration from process variations, operating in 1.04GHz tuning frequency span: almost zero deviation on center frequency, an average maximum deviation 1.16 dB on a nominal pass band gain of 55.6 dB, and an average maximum deviation 1.06MHz on a nominal bandwidth of 12.3MHz.
Managing Multiple Goals in Family Discourse About End-of-Life Health Decisions:

Previous research on end-of-life communication in families has largely considered whether family members have talked about end-of-life healthcare (quantity of talk) but not whether certain characteristics of that discourse matter (quality of talk). In the current study, the authors adopted a multiple goals theoretical perspective to examine discursive features that individuals use to manage goal dilemmas in family conversations about end-of-life health choices. Discourse analysis of end-of-life conversations between 121 older adults and their adult children showed that participants attended to relevant task, identity, and relational goals in ways that affirmed or threatened these goals, and the ways in which certain goals were accomplished had implications for how (and whether) other goals were pursued. Findings suggest that end-of-life talk in families is most effective when family members are able to address the task of discussing end-of-life decisions while also attending to the relevant identity and r...
Acquisition of Perceptual-Motor Skill: Adaptive and Part-Whole Training

The effectiveness of two training methods was investigated in the training of a complex perceptual-motor skill. Subjects learned how to play a computer controlled video-game. In adaptive training, pacing of the game elements was the adaptive variable. In the part training condition subjects received training in four subtasks which were designed to train specific elements of the skill necessary for the performance of the task. A comparison of training time as well as performance at fixed time points against a control group indicated that the training manipulations were effective. The part training method was clearly the best. The adaptive training method yielded mixed results. However, some support for the effectiveness of the method was observed. The results are discussed in terms of the principles for design of training devices and programs.
Calibration of panelized polarimetric phased array radar antennas: A case study

Demand for improvements in the performance and capabilities of new polarimetric radar systems beyond those of their predominantly mechanically-rotated predecessors has led to an effort to realize large, dual-polarized phased array an-tennas. These arrays have changing polarization characteristics with scan angle, requiring calibration and compensation. This paper provides a qualitative discussion of the challenge in meeting polarime-tric weather radar requirements, such as a low bias in differential reflectivity (Z DR ) and integrated cross polarization ratio (ICPR). A case study is presented using low-cost, aperture-coupled, stacked-patch antennas, a representative example of what may be used in large polarimetric phased array applications, to predict quantitatively the performance that can be achieved through suitable calibration and size constraints.
Distribution and abundance of soil fungi in Antarctica at sites on the Peninsula, Ross Sea Region and McMurdo Dry Valleys

Abstract Fungal abundance and diversity were studied from 245 soil samples collected in 18 distinct ice-free locations in Antarctica including areas in the McMurdo Dry Valleys, Ross Sea Region, and the Antarctic Peninsula. Cultivable fungal abundance in soil was found to be most positively correlated with percent carbon and nitrogen based on a Spearman’s rank correlation test of six soil parameters. Soil moisture and C/N ratio were also positively correlated with fungal abundance while pH and conductivity were negatively correlated. These results suggest that nutrient limitations in these highly oligotrophic environments are a primary factor in determining the distribution and abundance of indigenous fungi. Other effects of the extreme Antarctic environment likely affect fungi indirectly by limiting the distribution and abundance of plant-derived sources of carbon.
Duodenal or hepatic-portal glucose perfusion: evidence for duodenally-based satiety.

Abstract Hepatic-portal infusions of glucose solutions of up to 30% concentration had no effect on food intake in free-feeding rabbits. In contrast, similar volumes and concentrations, intra-duodenally perfused, reduced food intake, especially in the first hour postinjection when compared to equal volumes and osmotic concentrations of saline solutions. This duodenally-based suppression of food intake was completely abolished in the recovered, subdiaphragmatically vagotomized rabbit. We propose, therefore, the possibility of vagally-mediated receptors which are activated either directly by nutrients or by the secretions which result from the presence of these nutrients in the duodenum.
Selection and Characterization of Single Domain Antibodies Specific for Bacillus anthracis Spore Proteins

To obtain thermostable immunoreagents specific for the spore form of Bacillus anthracis two llamas were immunized with a combination of six different recombinant proteins. These proteins BclA, gerQ, SODA1, SOD15, BxpB and the protein p5303 have all been shown as components of the B. anthracis spore and could potentially serve as targets for the detection of spores in multiplexed biosensors. Peripheral blood lymphocytes were used to construct a phage display library from which single domain antibodies (sdAbs) targeting each of the proteins were isolated. Unique sdAbs exhibiting nanomolar or better affinities for the recombinant proteins were obtained and most of the isolated sdAbs retained their ability to bind antigen after cycles of heating as determined by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). SdAbs targeting the BclA and gerQ proteins were able to successfully detect bacterial spores, whether broken or intact, using a direct ELISA; the sdAbs were specific, showing binding only to B. anthracis spores and not to other Bacillus species. Additionally, SODA1 and p5303 binding sdAbs detected spores in sandwich assays serving as both captures and tracers. Used in combination, sdAbs targeting B. anthracis proteins could be integrated into emerging biosensors to improve specificity in multiplex assays.
Electron Excitation of Nuclei

The cross section for an electric ${2}^{l}$-pole transition produced by the electromagnetic field of fast electrons is derived in the Born approximation. Electric dipole-quadrupole interference is also obtained. Deuteron electrodisintegration is further developed, the theory now extending to 150-Mev energy transfers. Characteristic features of electron excitation experiments are mentioned, in particular the possibilities of obtaining information about nuclei and of observing the scattered electrons.
Modeling Forces Including Elastic Recovery for Internal Thread Forming

This paper presents a model that incorporates the effects of elastic recovery for the prediction of thrust and torque experienced by a forming tap during an internal thread forming process. The tap tooth geometry has been parametrized to facilitate a generic representation of the geometry. The model relates the normal and frictional forces experienced by the teeth on both the entry taper and the back taper portions of the tap to contact areas between the teeth and the workpiece. Experiments to calibrate and validate the model are conducted on taps with different tooth geometries. The model-predicted thrust and torque values compare favorably with the experimental value. Elastic recovery is found to significantly increase the thrust and torque produced during form tapping.
The Box Spread Arbitrage Conditions: Theory, Tests, and Investment Strategies

This paper develops and tests arbitrage bounds for a combination of two option spread positions known as a box spread. This strategy involves the simultaneous use of four options and creates a position that is equivalent to riskless lending. The no-arbitrage conditions are compared to existing arbitrage bounds and are tested using Chicago Board Options Exchange data. Article published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Society for Financial Studies in its journal, The Review of Financial Studies.
STEROL, PHOSPHOLIPID, MINERAL CONTENT AND PROXIMATE COMPOSITION OF FILETS OF SELECT FRESHWATER FISH SPECIES

This paper tabulates the sterol, phospholipid, mineral content and the proximate composition of fifteen species of freshwater fish [Bass, Rock (Ambloplites rupestris); Bass, White (Morone chrysops); Bullhead, Brown (Ictalurus nebulosus); Burbot (Lota lota); Carp (Cyprinus carpio); Crappie, Black (Pomoxis nigromaculatus); Drum, Freshwater (Aplodinotus grunniens); Perch, White (Morone americanus); Perch, Yellow (Perca flavescens); Pike, Northern (Esox lucius); Pike, Walleye (Stizostedion vitreum); Smelt, American (Osmerus mordax); Sucker, White (Catostomus commersonni); Sunfish, Pumpkinseed (Lepomis gibbosus); Trout, Brook (Salvelinus fontinalis); Trout, Lake (Salvelinus namaycush); Trout, Rainbow (Salmo gairdneri)]. The fish contained an average 78, 19 and 1.1 percent moisture, protein and ash, respectively. Potassium, phosphorus and calcium averaging 400, 200 and 100 mg/100 g filet were the predominant mineral components. The lipid contents of filets ranged from 0.7 for rock bass to 7.2 for lake trout with most species averaging around 2.0% lipid. Phospholipids ranged from 185 to 875 mg/100 g filet and showed an inverse relationship to the total lipids. Cholesterol was the only sterol present and averaged 70 mg/100 g filet. Cholesterol showed a weak correlation with protein content of filet.
Optical waveguide tap with infinitesimal insertion loss.

The novel fluctuation characteristics predicted for two-photon coherent-state radiation make possible high signal-to-noise ratio detection from a directional coupler that is very weakly linked to an information-bearing optical waveguide.
An intraoral stent to improve examination of swallowing in a case involving gunshot wound to the face.

A custom intraoral stent to facilitate oral bolus transport without external drooling and aspiration during radiographic examination of dysphagia in a patient with severely compromised swallowing mechanism due to self-inflicted gun-shot wound to the face is described. This hollow stent, which conforms to the contour of the intraoral space, allows passage of contrast medium during videofluoroscopic modified barium swallow tests resulting in consistent successful swallowing. Severe extraoral leakage (drooling), aspiration, and coughing occurred when the modified barium test was performed without this device.
Engineering of Avermectin Biosynthetic Genes to Improve Production of Ivermectin in Streptomyces Avermitilis

Two new recombinants of avermectin polyketide synthases were constructed by domain and module swapping in Streptomyces avermitilis 73-12. However, only the strain, S. avermitilis OI-31, formed by domain substitution could produce ivermectin. Analysis of the ivermectin synthesized gene cluster showed that decreased amount of aveC transcripts was one of the factors causing low yield of ivermectin. Overexpression of aveC could improve ivermectin yield.
Diversity of urea-degrading microorganisms in open-ocean and estuarine planktonic communities

Urea is an important and dynamic natural component of marine nitrogen cycling and also a major contributor to anthropogenic eutrophication of coastal ecosystems, yet little is known about the identities or diversity of ureolytic marine microorganisms. Primers targeting the gene encoding urease were used to PCR-amplify, clone and sequence 709 urease gene fragments from 31 plankton samples collected at both estuarine and open-ocean locations. Two hundred and eighty-six amplicons belonged to 22 distinct sequence types that were closely enough related to named organisms to be identified, and included urease sequences both from typical marine planktonic organisms and from bacteria usually associated with terrestrial habitats. The remaining 423 amplicons were not closely enough related to named organisms to be identified, and belonged to 96 distinct sequence types of which 43 types were found in two or more different samples. The distributions of unidentified urease sequence types suggested that some represented truly marine microorganisms while others reflected terrestrial inputs to low-salinity estuarine areas. The urease primers revealed this great diversity of ureolytic organisms because they were able to amplify many previously unknown, environmentally relevant urease genes, and they will support new approaches for exploring the role of urea in marine ecosystems.
Chronic medical conditions and wishes to die among older primary care patients.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of wishes to die and the medical correlates of wishes to die among primary care patients aged 65 years and older. METHOD: Three-hundred and fifty-five adults with and without significant depressive symptoms who were screened in primary care offices and invited to participate completed a baseline in-home assessment. Participants were interviewed using standardized measures of medical conditions, functional status, and psychological status. Thoughts of death and wishes to die were assessed with standard questions from the Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI) Depression Section. RESULTS: The weighted point prevalence of thoughts of death was 9.7% and 6.1% for the wish to die. Several medical conditions were associated with a wish to die, for example myocardial infarction (MI). In multivariate models that adjusted for potentially influential characteristics, the association between a history of MI and the wish to die remained statistically significant (odds ratio (OR) = 3.32, 95% confidence interval (CI) (1.26, 8.75). CONCLUSIONS: Thoughts of death and a wish to die are common in older primary care patients and were more likely among persons with chronic medical conditions. Persons with a history of myocardial infarction may be particularly vulnerable to a wish to die. Language: en
Legal Pressure, Treatment Readiness, and Engagement in Long-Term Residential Programs

Abstract Clients are less likely to drop out of residential drug treatment programs prematurely when they are either internally motivated (i.e., having a high level of treatment readiness) or externally pressured by the legal system to enter, participate, and remain in treatment. However, little is known about the combined impact these factors have on treatment engagement and retention. This study focused on a national sample of 2,194 clients admitted to 18 long-term residential facilities. Although there was no significant interaction effect, findings indicated that clients with higher levels of treatment readiness at intake stayed in treatment at least 90 days, regardless of legal pressure. Likewise, those under legal pressure (defined by legal status and supervisory pressures) remained in treatment longer, regardless of treatment readiness. However, motivational readiness for treatment accounted for the greatest improvements in retention and, unlike legal pressure, was related to indicators of therapeu...
Neural Encoding: The Brain’s Representation of Space

Recent studies have shown that a part of the brain makes use of a grid of equilateral triangles to encode the location of the animal within the local environment.
Coping activities in chronic low back pain: relationship with depression

To help clarify the nature of coping activities in chronic pain, this study compared how depressed (n = 37) and non-depressed (n = 40) chronic low back pain (CLBP) patients attempted to cope with pain-specific and general non-pain life Stressors, relative to matched healthy control subjects (n = 40). We hypothesized that depressed mood, rather than pain alone, would account for differences in coping activities between groups. Specifically, we expected that depressed CLBP patients would report a greater proportion of passive and avoidant coping responses and less active problem solving coping attempts than non-depressed patients and controls. Results indicated that depressed CLBP patients reported more passive-avoidant coping activities than did non-depressed CLBP patients and controls, whereas coping responses were similar for non-depressed CLBP patients and controls. Additionally, subjects across groups tended to report more passive-avoidant coping in response to the specific back pain Stressor (i.e., exacerbation of back pain during activity) than to other life Stressors. Finally, the magnitude of reported differences in coping attempts across groups varied as a function of the type of Stressor (i.e., specific back pain Stressor vs. general stressful life events), particularly with regard to a disinclination to seek social support in response to the back pain exacerbation. We conclude that: (1) chronic back pain patients may employ different coping activities when attempting to manage pain exacerbations than when confronting more general life Stressors, and (2) an increased rate of passive-avoidant coping responses (relative to matched healthy controls) is associated with the combination of CLBP and concurrent depressed mood, rather than with CLBP alone. These results suggest that although some patients may selectively employ passive-avoidant coping activities in response to pain exacerbations, an over-reliance on passive-avoidant coping activities is not characteristic of all CLBP patients but is more likely a function of depressed mood.
Hemodynamic regulation of tyrosine hydroxylase messenger RNA in medullary catecholamine neurons: a c- fos-guided hybridization histochemical study

Abstract Medullary catecholamine cell groups are involved in multiple modes of cardiovascular regulation and display indices of functional activation, including widespread c- fos expression, in response to hypotensive hemorrhage. Assessments of the impact of such challenges on transmitter-related gene expression are complicated by the biochemical and connectional heterogeneity that characterize these cell groups. Quantitative hybridization histochemical methods were used to follow the effects of 15% hemorrhage on levels of messenger RNA encoding tyrosine hydroxylase, the rate-limiting enzyme in catecholamine biosynthesis, in medullary aminergic neurons; concurrent staining for nuclear Fos-immunoreactivity permitted comparisons between cells that ostensibly were and were not targeted by the challenge. Increased levels of tyrosine hydroxylase messenger RNA were detected in Fos-immunoreactive neurons in all cell groups examined. Mean maximal increases ranged between 133 and 192% of control values, and were attained within 0.5–1 h post-hemorrhage in noradrenergic (A1 and A2) cell groups, and at 2 h in adrenergic ones (C1, C2, and C2d or dorsal strip). By 4 h after the challenge, tyrosine hydroxylase messenger RNA levels in Fos-immunoreactive neurons in all cell groups had returned to control values. By contrast, tyrosine hydroxylase messenger RNA in non-Fos-immunoreactive cells either did not change significantly over the course of the experiment (C2 and C2d), or showed a rapid and transient increase, whose magnitude tended to be less than that seen in Fos-immunoreactive cells. c- fos messenger RNA was prominently induced in catecholaminergic neurons in each of the medullary cell groups examined at 0.5 h after hemorrhage, suggesting that the early tyrosine hydroxylase messenger RNA response to hemorrhage in non-Fos-immunoreactive cells preceded the capacity of responsive neurons to manifest detectable Fos protein expression. These findings indicate that hemorrhage up-regulates tyrosine hydroxylase messenger RNA levels in medullary catecholaminergic cell groups which have access to adaptive neuroendocrine and/or autonomic control systems. The approach employed here should prove of general utility in assessing the impact of environmental events on messenger RNA expression in connectionally heterogeneous cell groups that share a common biochemical phenotype.
Radiation response and regulation of apoptosis induced by a combination of TRAIL and CHX in cells lacking mitochondrial DNA: a role for NF-κB--STAT3-directed Gene Expression

Mitochondrial DNA depleted (ρ(0)) human skin fibroblasts (HSF) with suppressed oxidative phosphorylation were characterized by significant changes in the expression of 2100 nuclear genes, encoding numerous protein classes, in NF-κB and STAT3 signaling pathways, and by decreased activity of mitochondrial death pathway, compared to the parental ρ(+) HSF. In contrast, the extrinsic TRAIL/TRAIL-Receptor mediated death pathway remained highly active, and exogenous TRAIL in a combination with cycloheximide (CHX) induced higher levels of apoptosis in ρ(0) cells compared to ρ(+) HSF. Global gene expression analysis using microarray and qRT-PCR demonstrated that mRNA expression levels of many growth factors and their adaptor proteins (FGF13, HGF, IGFBP4, IGFBP6, and IGFL2), cytokines (IL6, ΙL17Β, ΙL18, ΙL19, and ΙL28Β) and cytokine receptors (IL1R1, IL21R, and IL31RA) were substantially decreased after mitochondrial DNA depletion. Some of these genes were targets of NF-κB and STAT3, and their protein products could regulate the STAT3 signaling pathway. Alpha-irradiation further induced expression of several NF-κB/STAT3 target genes, including IL1A, IL1B, IL6, PTGS2/COX2 and MMP12, in ρ(+) HSF, but this response was substantially decreased in ρ(0) HSF. Suppression of the IKK-NF-κB pathway by the small molecular inhibitor BMS-345541 and of the JAK2-STAT3 pathway by AG490 dramatically increased TRAIL-induced apoptosis in the control and irradiated ρ(+) HSF. Inhibitory antibodies against IL6, the main activator of JAK2-STAT3 pathway, added into the cell media, also increased TRAIL-induced apoptosis in HSF, especially after alpha-irradiation. Collectively, our results indicated that NF-κB activation was partially lost in ρ(0) HSF resulting in downregulation of the basal or radiation-induced expression of numerous NF-κB targets, further suppressing IL6-JAK2-STAT3 that in concert with NF-κB regulated protection against TRAIL-induced apoptosis.
Accuracy of eigenvalue derivatives from reduced-order structural models

It is well known that the Fourier series of discontinuous functions converge slowly and that the derivatives of the series may not converge at all. Since modal expansion of structural response is a generalization of the Fourier series, we may expect slow convergence of modal expansion when the applied loads exhibit discontinuities in time or space. Thus, in a structure controlled by point actuators, we may expect slow convergence of derivatives of structural response with respect to system parameters. To demonstrate this, the sensitivity of the closed-loop response to structural changes is calculated for a multispan beam with direct-rate feedback using colocated velocity sensors and point actuators. Reduced models based on the natural modes of the structure are formed, and derivatives of the damping ratios of the closed-loop eigenvalues are calculated. As expected, the convergence of the derivatives of the damping ratios with an increasing number of modes is slower than the convergence of the damping ratios themselves. The convergence is unproved when distributed actuators replace the point actuators. In transient response problems, it is known that complementing the vibration modes with a mode representing static response to the loads can improve convergence. Indeed, for the example studied, when Ritz vectors corresponding to static responses caused by unit loads at the actuators are added to the basis vectors, the convergence of the reduced-model derivatives is greatly enhanced.
Use of Air Transportation by Business and Industry in Minnesota

Current and forecasted use of air transportation by businesses in Minnesota using the Standard Industrial Classification is described. The research is based upon a study on air service and commercial and industrial activity in Minnesota required by the Minnesota legislature in 1996. Purchases from the air transportation sector that includes scheduled and nonscheduled passenger and freight services are based upon the 1993 IMPLAN input-output model for Minnesota and Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) and Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) forecasts for Minnesota. In addition to intraindustry transfers within the air transportation sector, purchases of air transportation are dominated by business associations, management and consulting services, and the U.S. Postal Service sectors. These four sectors also represent the sectors with the largest share of purchases of air transportation. BLS historical and forecast data suggest that the major group of industries that purchased air transportation in 1977 will remai...
The US Food and Drug Administration review of the safety and effectiveness of nonstandardized allergen extracts.

Background Nonstandardized allergen extracts have been used for a century. Until 1972, these products were regulated by the National Institutes of Health, and products were not required to have an individualized showing of effectiveness. Jurisdiction was then transferred to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which established external review panels to make recommendations regarding safety and effectiveness. Two external panels deliberated, the first from 1974-1979 and the second from 1982-1983. Objective We sought to review external panels' recommendations and assess the safety and effectiveness of nonstandardized allergen extracts, FDA-reviewed available literature, and databases since 1972. Methods Currently licensed nonstandardized allergen extracts were reviewed according to extract type. Available data were collected from medical and nonscientific search engines. Nomenclature was ascertained by consulting www.itis.gov or www.atcc.org. The FDA's Adverse Event Reporting System was probed for events associated with extract use. Provisional threshold levels of safety and effectiveness were established, and extracts were sorted according to whether they met the thresholds. Results In the Adverse Event Reporting System, there were 178 adverse event reports, including 13 deaths, associated with allergen extract use over 23 years. No single group of extracts predominated. Among 1269 allergen extracts reviewed, there were 480 for which use in the diagnosis and treatment of allergic disease were addressed in the literature, 207 for which only diagnostic use was addressed, 565 for which minimal or no supportive literature was identified, and 17 for which potential safety concerns were found. Conclusions When used according to professional guidelines, almost all nonstandardized allergen extracts for diagnosis and therapy appear to be safe. Provisional thresholds of effectiveness were met by 54% of extracts reviewed.
A machine learning approach for dynamic spectrum access radio identification

Dynamic spectrum access (DSA) technologies offer solutions to the spectral crowding associated with static frequency allocation. Hierarchical DSA networks aim at allowing secondary users to efficiently utilize licensed spectrum, while still protecting primary users and ensuring them first priority to spectrum access. However, these networks are often multi-tiered and the concept of different operating policies for secondary users has arisen. In this study we consider the idea of two operating modes in a stochastically modeled DSA network. Observations from the radio frequency (RF) environment are classified using self organizing maps (SOMs). The discretized observations are then utilized to develop hidden Markov models (HMMs) of each type of radio. These models are developed for a variable number of map sizes and hidden states then sequence matched against unknown radios in order to determine identification performance. The system is shown to perform extremely well for certain combinations of SOM sizes and HMM states.