cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Resolved difference spectra of redox centers involved in photosynthetic electron flow in Rhodopseudomonas capsulata and Rhodopseudomonas sphaeroides.

Abstract 1. In Rhodopseudomonas sphaeroides the Qx absorption band of the reaction center bacteriochlorophyll dimer which bleaches on photo-oxidation is both blue-shifted and has an increased extinction coefficient on solubilisation of the chromatophore membrane with lauryldimethylamine-N-oxide. These effects may be attributable in part to the particle flattening effect. 2. The difference spectrum of photo-oxidisable c type cytochrome in the chromatophore was found to have a slightly variable peak position in the α-band (λmax at 551–551.25 nm); this position was always red-shifted in comparison to that of isolated cytochrome c2 (λmax at 549.5 ± 0.5 nm). The shift in wavelength maximum was not due to association with the reaction center protein. A possible heterogeneity in the c-type cytochromes of chromatophores is discussed. 3. Flash-induced difference spectra attributed to cytochrome b were resolved at several different redox potentials and in the presence and absence of antimycin. Under most conditions, one major component, cytochrome b50 appeared to be involved. However, in some circumstances, reduction of a component with the spectral characteristics of cytochrome b−90 was observed. 4. Difference spectra attributed to (BChl)2, Q⨪II, c type cytochrome and cytochrome b50 were resolved in the Soret region for Rhodopseudomonas capsulata. 5. A computer-linked kinetic spectrophotometer for obtaining automatically the difference spectra of components functioning in photosynthetic electron transfer chains is described. The system incorporates a novel method for automatically adjusting and holding the photomultiplier supply voltage.
Operating Experience with LAMPF Main Beam Lines Instrumentation and Control System

Instrumentation and control (I&C) for the Los Alamos Clinton P. Anderson Meson Physics Facility (LAMPF) main beam line is based upon central computer control through remote stations which provide input and output to most devices. Operating experience shows that the ability of the computer to give high-quality graphical presentation of the measurements enhances operator performance and instrument usefulness. Experience also shows that operator efficiency degrades rapidly with increasing instrument response time, that is, with increasing delay between the time a control is changed and the result can be observed. For this reason, instrumentation upgrade includes speeding up data acquisition and display times to under 10 s. Similarly, television-viewed phosphors are being retained where possible since their instantaneous response is very useful. Other upgrading of the instrumentation system is planned to improve data accuracy, reliability, redundancy, and instrument radiation tolerance. Past experience is being applied in adding or relocating devices to simplify tuning procedures.
Catheter-Directed Embolectomy, Fragmentation, and Thrombolysis for the Treatment of Massive Pulmonary Embolism After Failure of Systemic Thrombolysis

Purpose The standard medical management for patients in extremis from massive pulmonary embolism (PE) is systemic thrombolysis, but the utility of this treatment relative to catheter-directed intervention (CDI) is unknown. We evaluated the effectiveness of CDI as part of a treatment algorithm for life-threatening PE. Methods A retrospective review was performed on 70 consecutive patients with suspected acute PE over a 10-year period (from 1997 to 2006) who had been referred for pulmonary angiography and/or intervention. The criteria for study inclusion were patients who received CDI due to angiographically confirmed massive PE and hemodynamic shock (shock index, ≥ 0.9). CDI involved suction embolectomy and fragmentation with or without catheter thrombolysis. Results Twelve patients were treated with CDI. There were seven men and five women (mean age, 56 years; age range, 21 to 80 years). Seven patients (58%) were referred for CDI after failing systemic infusion with 100 mg of tissue plasminogen activator, and five patients (42%) had contraindications to systemic thrombolysis. Catheter-directed fragmentation and embolectomy were performed in all patients (100%). Additionally, catheter-guided thrombolysis was performed in eight patients (67%). Technical success was achieved in 12 of 12 cases (100%). There were no major procedural complications (0%). Significant hemodynamic improvement (shock index, Conclusion In the setting of hemodynamic shock from massive PE, CDI is potentially a life-saving treatment for patients who have not responded to or cannot tolerate systemic thrombolysis.
The Domains of Undergraduate International Business and International Management Courses in Accredited Schools of Business.

ABSTRACT This study compared undergraduate international business and international management course syllabi from 190 management departments at accredited U.S. business schools. Comparisons revealed considerable overlap in topic areas in the two courses. The findings indicate the need for greater domain clarity and differentiation in objectives, topic areas covered, and textbooks used. Domain clarification could lead to more truthful representation of the two courses, better training and disciplinary grounding of course instructors, more appropriate hosting of the courses in business school departments, and enhanced skill-sets among students in these courses. Finally, clear domain definitions are necessary for reliability and validity in international business research.
Mechanisms of cephalosporin nephrotoxicity: A comparison of cephaloridine and cephaloglycin

Of the various drugs in each of the three major groups of bactericidal antibiotics, the aminoglycosides regularly carry some risk of producing nephrotoxic side effects [1]. Of the approximately two dozen penicillins developed [2], so far only one (guanylureidopenicillin, BL-P1654) has recognized nephrotoxicity [3]. This drug has not been released for general use. Most of the cephalosporins are also not obviously nephrotoxic [1, 4, 5]. The production, however, of acute proximal tubular necrosis by therapeutic-range doses of cephaloridine [6], the second drug developed in this group, and by very large doses of the newer cephalosporins cefazolin [7] and cefa-mandole [8] has caused concern about the cephalosporins in general [4, 9-11]. This concern is influenced by the fact that the aminoglycosides and the cephalosporins are commonly used in combination. The consistent risk of toxicity from any drug in the former group makes a further risk from one in the latter group extremely undesirable. Studies in this laboratory have been mainly concerned with the cephalosporins. Our interest in this group of drugs was brought about by some unusual properties of cephaloridine. This antibiotic stands in sharp contrast to various other cephalosporins [5] and to the structurally related penicillins [2] in undergoing little or no net secretion by the mammalian kidney [12-14]. Cephaloridine is, however, highly cytotoxic to the proximal renal tubule [6, 12-15], the segment of the nephron responsible for the secretion of organic anions [16], including para-am-minohippurate (PAH), as well as the various penicillin and cephalosporin antibiotics [2, 5, 17]. The cytotoxicity of cephaloridine is completely prevented by probenecid [14, 18, 19] and several other inhibitors of organic anion transport [14, 20], including the nearly nontoxic [21] cephalosporin cephalothin [22].
Jamieson meets Lucas: Eloquence and pedagogical model(s) in the art of public speaking

The current state of speech pedagogy does not fully reflect modern theory and research. This paper critically evaluates the best‐selling public speaking textbook in America, Stephen Lucas's The Art of Public Speaking, in terms of Kathleen Hall Jamieson's redefinition of “eloquence in the electronic age.”; This paper explores how, if at all, the Lucas text takes account of the latest developments in rhetorical theory and changes in media technologies. Finally, the paper suggests how public speaking texts might uphold the classical virtues of eloquence while taking account of changes in the rhetorical environment.
Ethical issues in using Twitter for public health surveillance and research: developing a taxonomy of ethical concepts from the research literature

Background: The rise of social media and microblogging platforms in recent years, in conjunction with the development of techniques for the processing and analysis of “big data”, has provided significant opportunities for public health surveillance using user-generated content. However, relatively little attention has been focused on developing ethically appropriate approaches to working with these new data sources. Objective: Based on a review of the literature, this study seeks to develop a taxonomy of public health surveillance-related ethical concepts that emerge when using Twitter data, with a view to: (1) explicitly identifying a set of potential ethical issues and concerns that may arise when researchers work with Twitter data, and (2) providing a starting point for the formation of a set of best practices for public health surveillance through the development of an empirically derived taxonomy of ethical concepts. Methods: We searched Medline, Compendex, PsycINFO, and the Philosopher’s Index using a set of keywords selected to identify Twitter-related research papers that reference ethical concepts. Our initial set of queries identified 342 references across the four bibliographic databases. We screened titles and abstracts of these references using our inclusion/exclusion criteria, eliminating duplicates and unavailable papers, until 49 references remained. We then read the full text of these 49 articles and discarded 36, resulting in a final inclusion set of 13 articles. Ethical concepts were then identified in each of these 13 articles. Finally, based on a close reading of the text, a taxonomy of ethical concepts was constructed based on ethical concepts discovered in the papers. Results: From these 13 articles, we iteratively generated a taxonomy of ethical concepts consisting of 10 top level categories: privacy, informed consent, ethical theory, institutional review board (IRB)/regulation, traditional research vs Twitter research, geographical information, researcher lurking, economic value of personal information, medical exceptionalism, and benefit of identifying socially harmful medical conditions. Conclusions: In summary, based on a review of the literature, we present a provisional taxonomy of public health surveillance-related ethical concepts that emerge when using Twitter data. [J Med Internet Res 2014;16(12):e290]
Calculation of Plasma Level versus Time Profiles for Variable Dosing Regimens

Equations are presented and flow charts are given for obtaining plasma level versus time profiles utilizing a high-speed digital computer for drug dosing regimens in which both dose and dosing interval can vary. Examples are given for drugs that can be described by both the one- and two-compartment open models.
The status and habitat of the Nightjar Caprimulgus europaeus in coastal Suffolk

Numbers of male Nightjars Caprimulgus europaeus were counted annually 1983–¸87 on the heathlands of the Suffolk coast (the Sandlings), and within coniferous plantations of the same region. The population of Nightjars here has shown a dramatic increase since a national survey in 1981 owing to the colonization of recently cleared coniferous plantation. The response of the population to the availability of habitat suggests that the reason for an earlier decline in numbers is habitat loss. Nightjars now exist in higher densities within plantations than on heathland. They prefer areas replanted for between 1 and 5 years, and occupy areas freshly felled up to 8 years old. The use of herbicides to suppress the growth of invasive plants is believed to be aiding Nightjar populations by prolonging the suitability of the habitat, The smallest size of clearing occupied by birds was 10 ha, and density was greatest when the shape of a clearing approached that of a circle. It is argued that restocked plantations resembl...
Residual pulmonary lesions of fungal origin in southern california

1. In 53 consecutive unselected autopsies performed in the Veterans Administration Hospital in Los Angeles, calcified lesions were found in 39.
Digitizer-based phase coherent measurements for multi-antenna phased array applications

There are numerous applications that employ antenna arrays for beamforming. From commercial and satellite communications to radio astronomy and RADAR, multiple antennas are employed for spatial selectivity and interference avoidance through beamforming techniques. When designing a phased array for beamforming, it is important to be able to measure the relative phase and amplitude between antennas in the array while minimizing errors caused by phase offsets created in the test system. For example in a dynamic phased array, the adjustable phase shifters in each element "steer" the antenna and therefore need to have known phase relationship by the control system that is used to point the beam in the desired direction. The better the cross-channel phase coherence is of the measurement system used to align the antennas, the more precisely the beam can be positioned. This paper will discuss using a multi-channel phase coherent digitizer, along with the necessary signal conditioning and down-conversion ahead of the digitizer, to characterize the relative phase and amplitude relationships between antennas in a phased array. The discussion will cover: calibrating a digitizer-based system for matched cross-channel magnitude and phase, using digital down-conversion for optimizing the system sensitivity at the required bandwidth, and algorithms used on the resulting complex signals necessary to achieve measurement results of cross-channel (between antennas) phase and gain. At the conclusion of the paper, a representative system configuration will be described with measurement results derived from the techniques presented.
The solid state x-ray image intensifier (SSXII) in single photon counting (SPC) mode

The new Solid State X-Ray Image Intensifier (SSXII) has the unique ability to operate in single photon counting (SPC) mode, with improved resolution, as well as in traditional energy integrating (EI) mode. The SSXII utilizes an electron-multiplying CCD (EMCCD), with an effective pixel size of 32μm, which enables variable signal amplification (up to a factor of 2000) prior to digital readout, providing very high-sensitivity capabilities. The presampled MTF was measured in both imaging modes using the standard angulated-slit method. A measured detector entrance exposure of 24μR per frame was used to provide approximately 0.8 interaction events per pixel in the 10μm-wide slit area. For demonstration purposes, a simple thresholding technique was used to localize events in SPC mode and a number of such frames were summed to provide an image with the same total exposure used for acquiring the EI image. The MTF for SPC mode, using a threshold level of 15% of the maximum 12-bit signal and 95% of the expected events, and for EI mode (in parentheses) was 0.67 (0.20), 0.37 (0.07), 0.20 (0.03), and 0.11 (0.01) at 2.5, 5, 7.5, and 10 cycles/mm, respectively. Increasing the threshold level resulted in a corresponding increase in the measured SPC MTF and a lower number of detected events, indicating a tradeoff between resolution and count efficiency is required. The SSXII in SPC mode was shown to provide substantial improvements in resolution relative to traditional EI mode, which should benefit applications that have demanding spatial resolution requirements, such as mammography.
Importance of Translation and Nonnucleolytic Ago Proteins for On-Target RNA Interference

In animals, both siRNAs and miRNAs are thought to diminish protein synthesis from transcripts that are perfectly complementary by directing endonucleolytic cleavage where they anneal, thereby triggering rapid degradation of the entire message [1-4]. By contrast, partially complementary messages are downregulated by a combination of translational repression and accelerated decay caused by rapid poly(A) tail removal [3, 5-12]. Here we present evidence that translational repression can also make a substantial contribution to the downregulation of fully complementary messages by RNA interference. Unlike mRNA destabilization, this inhibitory effect on translation is greater for perfectly complementary elements located in the 3' untranslated region rather than in the protein-coding region. In addition to known disparities in their endonucleolytic activity [13, 14], the four Ago proteins with which siRNAs associate in humans differ significantly in their capacity to direct translational repression. As a result, the relative effect of siRNA on targets that are fully versus partially complementary is influenced by the comparative abundance of the three nonnucleolytic Ago proteins, causing this on-target/off-target ratio to vary in a cell-type-dependent manner because of the dissimilar tissue distribution of these proteins. These findings have important implications for the efficacy and specificity of RNA interference.
Improving outcomes for neurofibromatosis 1–associated brain tumors

Children and adults with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) are predisposed to developing CNS tumors, including optic pathway gliomas (OPGs), brainstem gliomas (BSGs) and high-grade gliomas. Although current first-line treatments for low-grade gliomas (OPGs and BSGs) may prevent further tumor growth, they rarely result in restoration of the associated visual or neurological deficits. The availability of accurate small-animal models of NF1-associated brain tumors has established tractable experimental platforms for the discovery and evaluation of promising therapeutic agents. On the basis of these preclinical studies, biologically targeted agents are now being evaluated in children with NF1-associated low-grade brain tumors. Collectively, these models have also begun to reveal potential neuroprotective and risk assessment strategies for this brain tumor-prone population.
Effect of Degree of Starch Gelatinization on Quality Attributes of Fried Tortilla Chips

ABSTRACT: The effect of degree of starch gelatinization on the quality attributes of tortilla chips was studied. Three different samples were prepared: control (45% of starch gelatinized before frying), freeze-dried (5% of starch gelatinized before frying), and steamed-baked tortilla chips (87% starch gelatinized before frying). Compared to the control chips, the steamed-baked tortillas produced chips with lower oil content. They shrunk the most and showed a high degree of puffiness and lower crunchiness. Their texture was harder and not very crunchy. The majority of the oil in these chips was located at the surface. The freeze-dried tortilla yielded chips with high oil content. The texture was soft, and the porosity was very low, providing unacceptable characteristics in tortilla chips.
Psychosocial Characteristics and Gestational Weight Change among Overweight, African American Pregnant Women.

Objectives. To describe psychosocial factors identified as contributors of weight gain in the general population and to examine the relationship between these factors and gestational weight gain among low socioeconomic status, African American, overweight pregnant women. Methods. African American women () with a pregravid body mass index kg/m2 completed measures of eating, sleep, and depressed mood between 14 and 24 weeks of gestation. Weight was tracked. Descriptive statistics, correlations, and linear regression modeling were used to characterize the sample and examine predictors of gestational weight gain. Results. Four percent screened positive for night eating syndrome, with 32% consuming at least 25% of their daily caloric intake after dinner (evening hyperphagia). None met criteria for binge eating disorder; 4% reported occasional binge episodes. Cognitive restraint over eating was low. Participants slept 7.1 () h per night and reported 4.3 () awakenings per week; 18% reported some level of depressed mood. Night and binge eating were related to each other, sleep quality, and depressed mood. Eating due to cravings was the only psychosocial variable to predict gestational weight gain. Conclusions. Depressed mood, night eating, and nighttime awakenings were common in this cohort, while cognitive restraint over eating was low. Most psychosocial variables were not predictive of excess gestational weight gain.
A Novel microRNA and transcription factor mediated regulatory network in schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a complex brain disorder with molecular mechanisms that have yet to be elucidated. Previous studies have suggested that changes in gene expression may play an important role in the etiology of schizophrenia, and that microRNAs (miRNAs) and transcription factors (TFs) are primary regulators of this gene expression. So far, several miRNA-TF mediated regulatory modules have been verified. We hypothesized that miRNAs and TFs might play combinatory regulatory roles for schizophrenia genes and, thus, explored miRNA-TF regulatory networks in schizophrenia. We identified 32 feed-forward loops (FFLs) among our compiled schizophrenia-related miRNAs, TFs and genes. Our evaluation revealed that these observed FFLs were significantly enriched in schizophrenia genes. By converging the FFLs and mutual feedback loops, we constructed a novel miRNA-TF regulatory network for schizophrenia. Our analysis revealed EGR3 and hsa-miR-195 were core regulators in this regulatory network. We next proposed a model highlighting EGR3 and miRNAs involved in signaling pathways and regulatory networks in the nervous system. Finally, we suggested several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) located on miRNAs, their target sites, and TFBSs, which may have an effect in schizophrenia gene regulation. This study provides many insights on the regulatory mechanisms of genes involved in schizophrenia. It represents the first investigation of a miRNA-TF regulatory network for a complex disease, as demonstrated in schizophrenia.
Production of carpel wall phytoalexins in the developing cotton boll

Abstract Developing cotton bolls of Deltapine 61, grown under controlled conditions in environmental chambers, were artificially wounded on the carpel surface and treated with an elicitor, composed of cell-free mycelial extracts of Aspergillus flavus , at weekly intervals for eight weeks postanthesis. Two days after treatment, the bolls were harvested from cotton plants and discs containing the treated surfaces were excised and extracted to determine induction of the sesquiterpenoid naphthol phytoalexins, 2,7-dihydroxycadalene and 2-hydroxy-7-methoxy cadalene, their oxidation products lacinilene C and lacinilene C 7-methyl ether, and the coumarin phytoalexin-scopoletin. Maximum concentrations of the cadalenes and lacinilenes were present in bolls treated at seven weeks postanthesis; scopoletin concentrations were highest in bolls treated three weeks postanthesis. To determine the effects of the induced phytoalexins on the growth of A. flavus , a second set of wounded elicitor-treated discs were collected at weekly intervals for eight weeks postanthesis, inoculated with A. flavus and incubated on liquid plant nutrient. Fungal growth displayed a range from 80% of control for treated discs from bolls harvested one week postanthesis to 10% of control for discs from bolls harvested seven to eight weeks postanthesis. The induced phytoalexins on elicitor-treated carpel walls appear to be responsible for the reduction of fungal growth observed.
High-resolution structural study of Bi on Si(001)

X-ray standing-wave measurements, along with first-principles local-density molecular-cluster calculations, have determined the Bi-dimer orientation, location, and bond length for the Si(001)-(1{times}2):Bi surface. The results for Bi directly scale with the covalent radii and with adsorption characteristics of other group-V elements (As and Sb) on Si(001).
Rarity as a criterion for endangerment in Florida's fauna

It has been argued that the initial rarity of an animal species may be a good indicator of subsequent vulnerability. The usefulness of this argument in the conservation of endangered species has been investigated by the authors, who have compared the apparent vulnerability of certain rare animals with their actual status. The two approaches agreed substantially, but some striking differences occurred. Some rare species seem more prone to extinction than is officially recognized, and their status should be reviewed. Other species are not particularly rare, but are threatened for other biological and economic reasons. Knowledge of rarity is a good starting point, but this sould be followed by a detailed examination of other relevant factors to discern genuine risk.
Connectivity Analysis Under Shadowing in Wireless Networks with Data Correlation Topology Control

Energy consumption in wireless sensor networks is an important topic, given the scarcity of resources of the node platforms. This work analyzes the relation between the increase in lifetime and the connectivity properties of a new topology control mechanism for wireless sensor networks. It is possible to extend the functional lifetime of a network by controlling its topology through a scheme that sets nodes to sleep, though at the expense of performance loss in other metrics. But even when controlling its topology, for a network to work it should remain connected at all times. Given the base network lifetime and its desired extension factor, this paper provides formulae for the required density of nodes to be deployed in order to keep the network connected with a given probability. The network connectivity is analyzed under Boolean and lognormal shadowing models for the communication channel and stochastic simulations corroborate the derived formulae. Using the proposed topology control mechanism and by adjusting the density of the node deployment, the lifetime of a network can be extended in a simple, autonomous, and scalable way.
CATIONIC LIPOSOMES AS AN OLIGONUCLEOTIDE CARRIER: MECHANISM OF ACTION

AbstractCationic liposomes are a useful in vitro but as yet unproven in vivo delivery system for oligonucleotides. An understanding of the mechanism of delivery mediated by cationic lipid/oligonucleotide complexes has been lacking. In this review, we describe recent results concerning several steps of the delivery process, including the formation of complexes, the intracellular distribution of the oligonucleotide and the lipid, as well as the uptake pathway and site of intracellular release. Cationic liposomes form a polyelectrolyte complex with the oligonucleotides, protect them from nuclease degradation, enhance their cellular uptake and improve the oligonucleotide potency. In the majority of cell types studied, cationic lipids deliver oligonucleotides into the cell predominately via an endocytotic pathway rather then by fusion with the plasma membrane. We propose that the oligonucleotide is released from the complex when anionic lipids from the cytoplasmic facing lipid monolayer of the cell flip into c...
Teachers, Teaching, and Teacher Education: Comments on the National Mathematics Advisory Panel’s Report

This article considers the analyses and recommendations presented in Foundations for Success: The Final Report of the National Mathematics Advisory Panel (2008), especially the chapters addressing teachers and teacher education (chap. 6) and instructional practices (chap. 7). The authors highlight critical recommendations; identify potential gaps in the specification of topics and review of research; and suggest ways to develop a coherent, systematic strategy to enact recommendations that will improve the quality of the teaching force and mathematics instruction. They organize their comments about the Panel’s findings and recommendations around two broad questions: What issues are (and are not) part of the conversation? and What evidence informs (and does not inform) the conversation?
Dust particle motion in the vicinity of dust acoustic waves

In DC glow discharge dusty plasmas, the formation of dust acoustic waves is a commonly observed phenomenon. Experiments in the dusty plasma experiment device produce naturally occurring dust acoustic waves with frequencies f/spl sim/5 to 25 Hz and phase velocities of /spl upsi//sub ph//spl sim/0.5 to 10 cm/s. Through the use of particle image velocimetry techniques, particle motion in the vicinity of the wavefronts is identified and measured. Particles are shown to have an oscillatory behavior near the dust acoustic wavefronts with peak speeds /spl upsi//sub max//spl sim/4 to 5 cm/s. Measurements are performed in argon DC glow discharge plasmas at pressures ranging from 90 to 120 mtorr. This paper discusses the correlation between the dust particle velocities and the density of dust particles in the vicinity of the wavefronts. The experimental measurements are compared against a linearized one-dimensional model for the waves. A brief discussion on the possible impact of nonlinear effects on the dust acoustic waves is also presented.
Climate and environmental monitoring for decision making

As human populations grow, so do the resource demands imposed on ecosystems and the impacts of our global footprint. Natural resources are not invulnerable, nor infinitely available. The environmental impacts of anthropogenic actions are becoming more apparent – air and water quality are increasingly compromised, pests and diseases are extending beyond their historical boundaries, and deforestation is exacerbating flooding downstream and loss of biodiversity. Society is increasingly becoming aware that ecosystem services are not only limited, but also that they are threatened by human activities. The need to better consider long-term ecosystem health and its role in enabling human habitation and economic activity is urgent. In this context IRI conducts research to understand the impact of climate and environmental changes on different sectors including agriculture, water management, human health, and natural disasters. Through exhaustive, rigorous evaluation, analysis and interpretation of remotely-sensed products and in-situ measurements, IRI ensures its partners have access to the most reliable and relevant information about the climate and environment in a format that best informs their decision making and planning. We focus on monitoring satellite-derived and in-situ estimates of precipitation, temperature, vegetation, water bodies, evapotranspiration, and land cover. Ultimately, the new products developed at IRI in partnership with other institutions at national (e.g. NOAA, NASA, USGS) and international (e.g. National Meteorology Agencies, UN FAO) levels are integrated into operational early-warning systems for health, natural disasters, agriculture, and food security. The new products which monitor in almost real-time climate and environmental conditions are made available through two online data bases at IRI called IRI Data Library and Map Room. In this paper we present the products developed at IRI and how they are integrated into Early Warning Systems (EWS). We also discuss IRI’s experience in linking EWS into decisions and policies using the fire early warning system as a concrete example.
Adjuvant Immunotherapy of Resected, Intermediate-Thickness, Node-Negative Melanoma With an Allogeneic Tumor Vaccine: Impact of HLA Class I Antigen Expression on Outcome

PURPOSE: An association between expression of ≥ two of five HLA class I antigens (HLA-A2, HLA-A28, HLA-B44, HLA-B45, and HLA-C3; collectively called M5) and response to an allogeneic melanoma vaccine (Melacine; Corixa Corporation, Seattle, WA) has been described in stage IV melanoma. This study investigated whether class I antigen expression impacted relapse-free survival (RFS) after adjuvant therapy with this vaccine. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We performed class I (HLA-A, HLA-B, and HLA-C) serotyping on patients enrolled onto Southwest Oncology Group Trial 9035, a randomized, observation-controlled, phase III trial of adjuvant Melacine. All patients had clinically node-negative cutaneous melanoma (1.5 to 4.0 mm). Interactions between treatment and class I antigen expression were tested. Analyses involved all serotyped patients and were adjusted for tumor thickness, method of nodal staging, sex, ulceration, and primary tumor site. RESULTS: HLA typing was performed on 553 (80%) of the 689 enrolled patients (29...
Regrouping the categorization of group work a goals and process (GAP) matrix for groups

Abstract The four group work categories developed by the Association for Specialists in Group Work have been useful in organizing interventions and establishing training standards. The categories are problematic, however in that the goal and process dimensions of group work are combined within each category. Rigid fusion of goal and process makes it difficult to categorize the many groups that pursue goals from one category through a process associated with another. A new model for the classification of group work is proposed, which separates goals and process dimensions, forming a matrix that allows for more accurate categorization of group types.
Statistical analysis of microhardness variations in thermal spray coatings

A thermal barrier coating system consisting of a NiCoCrAlY bond coat and cerium-stabilized zirconia ceramic coating was sprayed on to a metallic substrate. Ageing at 400 and 800°C for 100, 500, and 1000 h was performed. Microhardness measurements of as-sprayed and heat-treated samples were used to evaluate microstructural variations throughout the thermally sprayed coating after different ageing conditions. Forty readings were taken at both the bond coat and ceramic coating positions within the thermal barrier coating (TBC) system and adjusted by subtracting the two largest and two smallest readings. Both data sets were statistically analysed to assess whether they belonged to Weibull or Gaussian (or “normal”) distributions. This study has established that the homogeneity of coatings, at least as measured by a microhardness test, varies during service and, thus, may influence the lifetime.
The cavity-dwelling ant Leptothorax curvispinosus uses nest geometry to discriminate between potential homes

Nest site selection is a frequent context for decision making in ants, but little is known of the criteria used to make a choice. We tested the nest site preferences of Leptothorax curvispinosus, both by measuring hollow acorn nests occupied in nature, and by inducing laboratory colonies to choose between artificial nests of different design. Three criteria were examined. (1) Entrance size: the ants preferred small entrance holes, presumably for their greater defensibility and crypsis. Natural nest entrances were small, and 52% of them were reduced still further by the addition of rims of soil and leaf litter. In choice tests, colonies selected nest entrances near the median size of rimmed natural holes, rejecting those near the larger end of the distribution of raw natural holes. (2) Cavity volume: acorn cavity volume was weakly correlated with the size of the occupying colony. In choice tests, colonies rejected cavities near the median size of natural nests, preferring instead larger cavities near the upper end of the natural size distribution. This may reflect active size matching of colonies to nests, because the colonies used in the choice test were bigger than those from the natural nest sample. Alternatively, all colonies may prefer big nests, but face limited availability of large cavities in nature. (3) Cavity shape: colonies preferred shapes roughly similar to that of an acorn interior, rejecting thin crevices in favour of compact, high-ceilinged cavities.
Chronic Teacher Turnover in Urban Elementary Schools

This study examines the characteristics of elementary schools that experience chronic teacher turnover and the impacts of turnover on a school’s working climate and ability to effectively function. Based on evidence from staff climate surveys and case studies, it is clear that high turnover schools face significant organizational challenges. Schools with high teacher turnover rates have difficulty planning and implementing a coherent curriculum and sustaining positive working relationships among teachers. The reality of these organizational challenges is particularly alarming, given that high turnover schools are more likely to serve low-income and minority students. The negative relationship between teacher turnover and school functioning, and the fact that turbulent schools are disproportionately likely to serve lowincome and minority students have important implications for both district and school-level policies. Specifically: Teacher turnover rates are one indicator of school health, which school districts should consider when focusing on school improvements. Districts need to begin by developing the means to identify individual schools that experience high levels of teacher turnover. Current district policies in implementing professional development for teachers in low-performing schools are inefficient when teachers do not remain in the schools in which they are trained. In order for low-performing schools to improve, districts need to consider providing incentive programs so that high quality teachers apply for, and remain in, these schools. Future research is needed to address the causal link between turnover, organizational functioning and student outcomes. Additionally, there is a need for research examining district policies that may facilitate teacher turnover within a district, including how districts place and transfer teachers, as well as how teachers’ salaries are budgeted.
Treating depression in disabled, low-income elderly: a conceptual model and recommendations for care.

Background The treatment of depression in low-income older adults who live in poverty is complicated by several factors. Poor access to resources, disability, and mild cognitive impairment are the main factors that moderate treatment effects in this population. Interventions that not only address the depressive syndrome but also manage social adversity are sorely needed to help this patient population recover from depression. Methods This paper is a literature review of correlates of depression in late life. In the review we propose a treatment model that combines case management (CM) to address social adversity with problem solving treatment (PST) to address the depressive syndrome. Results We present the case of Mr Z, an older gentleman living in poverty who is also depressed and physically disabled. In this case we illustrate how the combination of CM and PST can work together to ameliorate depression. Conclusions The combination of age, disability, and social adversity complicates the management and treatment of depression. CM and PST are interventions that work synergistically to overcome depression and manage social problems. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Testing and simulation of silicon photomultiplier readouts for scintillators in high-energy astronomy and solar physics

Abstract Space-based gamma-ray detectors for high-energy astronomy and solar physics face severe constraints on mass, volume, and power, and must endure harsh launch conditions and operating environments. Historically, such instruments have usually been based on scintillator materials due to their relatively low cost, inherent ruggedness, high stopping power, and radiation hardness. New scintillator materials, such as LaBr 3 :Ce, feature improved energy and timing performance, making them attractive for future astronomy and solar physics space missions in an era of tightly constrained budgets. Despite this promise, the use of scintillators in space remains constrained by the volume, mass, power, and fragility of the associated light readout device, typically a vacuum photomultiplier tube (PMT). In recent years, silicon photomultipliers (SiPMs) have emerged as promising alternative light readout devices that offer gains and quantum efficiencies similar to those of PMTs, but with greatly reduced mass and volume, high ruggedness, low voltage requirements, and no sensitivity to magnetic fields. In order for SiPMs to replace PMTs in space-based instruments, however, it must be shown that they can provide comparable performance, and that their inherent temperature sensitivity can be corrected for. To this end, we have performed extensive testing and modeling of a small gamma-ray spectrometer composed of a 6 mm×6 mm SiPM coupled to a 6 mm×6 mm ×10 mm LaBr 3 :Ce crystal. A custom readout board monitors the temperature and adjusts the bias voltage to compensate for gain variations. We record an energy resolution of 5.7% (FWHM) at 662 keV at room temperature. We have also performed simulations of the scintillation process and optical light collection using Geant4, and of the SiPM response using the GosSiP package. The simulated energy resolution is in good agreement with the data from 22 keV to 662 keV. Above ~1 MeV, however, the measured energy resolution is systematically worse than the simulations. This discrepancy is likely due to the high input impedance of the readout board front-end electronics, which introduces a non-linear saturation effect in the SiPM for large light pulses. Analysis of the simulations indicates several additional steps that must be taken to optimize the energy resolution of SiPM-based scintillator detectors.
Homogenous epiphyseal-cartilage grafts; an experimental study.

1. Epiphyseal cartilage from newborn rabbits was transplanted into complete segmental bony defects made in the shaft of the radius of a young rabbit. The healing process was studied roentgenographically and histologically, the opposite forelimb having been used as a control. 2. Most of the cartilage transplants showed typical endochondral ossification. 3. The rate of bone formation in the grafted limb was slow when compared to the rate of healing in the control limb in which no grafting material was placed in the bony defect in the radius.
Human Telomerase RNA Processing and Quality Control

The non-coding RNA subunit of telomerase provides the template for telomerase activity. In diverse fungi, 3' end processing of telomerase RNA involves a single cleavage by the spliceosome. Here, we examine how human telomerase RNA (hTR) primary transcripts are processed into the mature form of precisely 451 nt. We find that the splicing inhibitor isoginkgetin mimics the effects of RNA exosome inhibition and causes accumulation of long hTR transcripts. Depletion of exosome components and accessory factors reveals functions for the cap binding complex (CBC) and the nuclear exosome targeting (NEXT) complex in hTR turnover. Whereas longer transcripts are predominantly degraded, shorter precursor RNAs are oligo-adenylated by TRF4-2 and either processed by poly(A)-specific ribonuclease (PARN) or degraded by the exosome. Our results reveal that hTR biogenesis involves a kinetic competition between RNA processing and degradation and suggest treatment options for telomerase insufficiency disorders.
Effect of Bariatric Weight Loss on the Adipose Lipolytic Transcriptome in Obese Humans.

Background. Dysregulated lipolysis has been implicated in mechanisms of cardiometabolic disease and inflammation in obesity. Purpose. We sought to examine the effect of bariatric weight loss on adipose tissue lipolytic gene expression and their relationship to systemic metabolic parameters in obese subjects. Methods/Results. We biopsied subcutaneous adipose tissue in 19 obese individuals (BMI 42 ± 5 kg/m 2, 79% female) at baseline and after a mean period of 8 ± 5 months (range 3–15 months) following bariatric surgery. We performed adipose tissue mRNA expression of proteins involved in triglyceride hydrolysis and correlated their weight loss induced alterations with systemic parameters associated with cardiovascular disease risk. mRNA transcripts of adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL), hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL), and lipid droplet proteins comparative gene identification 58 (CGI-58) and perilipin increased significantly after weight loss ( for all). ATGL expression correlated inversely with plasma triglyceride (TG), hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C), and glucose, and HSL expression correlated negatively with glucose, while CGI-58 was inversely associated with HbA1C. Conclusion. We observed increased expression of adipose tissue lipolytic genes following bariatric weight loss which correlated inversely with systemic markers of lipid and glucose metabolism. Functional alterations in lipolysis in human adipose tissue may play a role in shaping cardiometabolic phenotypes in human obesity.
A Class of Spaces in which Compact Sets are Finite

(1969). A Class of Spaces in which Compact Sets are Finite. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 76, No. 1, pp. 42-42.
Development of Accurate DFT Methods for Computing Redox Potentials of Transition Metal Complexes: Results for Model Complexes and Application to Cytochrome P450

Single-electron reduction half potentials of 95 octahedral fourth-row transition metal complexes binding a diverse set of ligands have been calculated at the unrestricted pseudospectral B3LYP/LACV3P level of theory in a continuum solvent. Through systematic comparison of experimental and calculated potentials, it is determined that B3LYP strongly overbinds the d-manifold when the metal coordinates strongly interacting ligands and strongly underbinds the d-manifold when the metal coordinates weakly interacting ligands. These error patterns give rise to an extension of the localized orbital correction (LOC) scheme previously developed for organic molecules and which was recently extended to the spin-splitting properties of organometallic complexes. Mean unsigned errors in B3LYP redox potentials are reduced from 0.40 ± 0.20 V (0.88 V max error) to 0.12 ± 0.09 V (0.34 V max error) using a simple seven-parameter model. Although the focus of this article is on redox properties of transition metal complexes, we ...
Endogenous flow-induced superoxide stimulates Na/H exchange activity via PKC in thick ascending limbs.

Luminal flow stimulates Na reabsorption along the nephron and activates protein kinase C (PKC) which enhances endogenous superoxide (O2−) production by thick ascending limbs (TALs). Exogenously-add...
Person-Environment Relationships in Adulthood: Implications for Human Factors Engineering:

Environments for aging and the aged are best designed if human factors engineers incorporate a developmental view of adulthood in their planning. Accordingly, environments for living should be desi...