cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Residue quality, loading rate and soil temperature relations with hairy vetch (Vicia villosa Roth) residue carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus mineralization

ABSTRACT Studies were conducted 1) to determine the effects of crop residue quality, loading rate and their interaction on residue decomposition; and 2) to assess these same effects on predicting residue N and N turnover with thermal units. Two residue qualities were obtained by harvesting field grown hairy vetch (Vicia villosa Roth) in the fall and spring. Loading rates equivalent to 0, 2150, 4300, and 6450 kg ha−1 (dry weight basis) of each of the two residue qualities were added to a soil. Residue loading rate did not affect residue C or N mineralization when expressed as a percentage of added C or N mineralized, respectively. Therefore predicting residue N mineralization with thermal units does not appear limited by differential residue loading rates. Residue quality exhibited a dramatic effect on vetch C mineralization, with approximately 35% of the added C mineralized 30 days after application of the fall vetch and about 17% of added C mineralized 30 days after application of spring vetch. Considera...
GBPs take AIM at Francisella

Guanylate-binding proteins (GBPs) induced by type I interferon signaling cause lysis of Francisella bacteria that have reached the host-cell cytosol. The liberated bacterial DNA is then sensed by the cytosolic AIM2 inflammasome, which activates caspase-1 and leads to pyroptotic cell death.
The use of crab-shell chitin for biological denitrification: Batch and column tests

Crab-shell chitin (SC-20) was evaluated for its ability to enhance biological denitrification in bench-scale tests. In the presence of SC-20, highly reducing conditions were generated, supporting both denitrification and sulfate reduction of aerated water. Rapid degradation of protein in SC-20 was observed to cause an initial high release of ammonium and carbon, while a slower, continuous release of calcium carbonate from the crab shell maintained the pH near 9 throughout the tests. In batch tests, denitrification rates of 2.4 ± 0.2 mg N/L-d were obtained. Columns receiving a continuous nitrate load of 24.5 mg N/L-d sustained complete denitrification for an average of 149 d (250 pore volumes). The denitrification rates and longevity of SC-20 chitin are comparable to, or better than, those previously reported for other polymeric substrates. This, in addition to its particle size, non-swelling nature, and ease of delivery in slurry form make SC-20 an attractive electron donor source for groundwater bio-denitrification.
Global Naming in Distributed Systems

This Unix-based global naming system, developed for debugging distributed programs, provides concise notation for accessing networks, tasks, modules, data, and files.
ESC Effectiveness During Property Variations on Scaled Vehicles

Scaled passenger vehicles in conjunction with computer simulation have proven to be a valuable tool in determining rollover propensity. In this study, vehicle properties are varied to see their impact on roll stability and a stability threshold is derived empirically using simulation. The stability threshold is validated by scaled vehicle experiments. This is made possible with the lower cost and increased safety of using a scaled vehicle versus full size passenger vehicles. A simple electronic stability control (ESC) is then developed to keep the scaled vehicle within the stability threshold. The ESC is tested using varying vehicle properties with a constant vehicle model to see how these property changes affect the ESC’s effectiveness to prevent rollover. The ESC is then implemented with an Intelligent Vehicle Model (IVM) which updates the controller’s vehicle model as vehicle properties such as loading conditions change. This study shows that an IVM greatly increases the success of ESC in keeping the vehicle in the stability region.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Concepts, Theory, and Techniques PRINCIPLES OF MULTIOBJECTIVE OPTIMIZATION*

This paper attempts to isolate and analyze the principal ideas of multiobjective optimization. We do this without casting aspersions on single-objective optimization or championing any one multiobjective technique. We examine each fundamental idea for strengths and weaknesses and subject two—efficiency and utility—to extended consideration. Some general recommendations are made in light of this analysis. Besides the simple advice to retain single-objective optimization as a possible approach, we suggest that three broad classes of multiobjective techniques are very promising in terms of reliably, and believably, achieving a most preferred solution. These are: (1) partial generation of the efficient set, a rubric we use to unify a wide spectrum of both interactive and analytic methods; (2) explicit utility maximization, a much-overlooked approach combining multiattribute decision theory and mathematical programming; and (3) interactive implicit utility maximization, the popular class of methods introduced by Geoffrion, Dyer, and Feinberg [24] and extended significantly by others.
Genetics Inquiry: Strategies and Knowledge Geneticists Use in Solving Transmission Genetics Problems

Scientists are increasingly challenged to solve problems that require conceptualizing and understanding dynamic complex natural systems. Computer simulations have become an integral tool in helping solve complex problems because they can be effectively used to model dynamic systems. Today's reform standards advocate that science teachers and students be involved in scientific inquiry that is consistent with the practice of science. The goal of this research is to determine methods of inquiry geneticists' use in solving dynamic complex computer-generated transmission genetics problems, specifically, their strategies and conceptual knowledge. Six geneticists representing three areas of genetics (transmission, molecular, and population) solved four problem types. Using their solution protocols, and through interviews, a hierarchical framework and pathway for solving the problems were developed. For science education researchers, teachers, and students, it is hoped the geneticists' insights and the framework developed can provide a guide for inquiry-based problem solving that extends beyond genetics. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Sci Ed87:161–180, 2003; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/sce.10065
NUMERICAL SOLUTION OF TRANSIENT, FREE SURFACE PROBLEMS IN POROUS MEDIA

The focus of this paper is the development of numerical schemes for tracking the moving fluid surface during the filling of a porous medium (e.g., polymer injection into a porous mold cavity). Performing a mass balance calculation on an arbitrarily deforming control volume, leads to a general governing filling equation. From this equation, a general, fully time implicit, numerical scheme based on a finite volume space discretization is derived. Two numerical schemes are developed: (1) a fully deforming grid scheme, which explicitly tracks the location of the filling front, and (2) a fixed grid scheme, that employs an auxiliary variable to locate the front. The validity of the two schemes is demonstrated by solving a variety of one- and two-dimensional problems; both approaches provide predictions with similar accuracy and agree well with available analytical solutions.
Design and performance of a prototype analog neural computer

Abstract A prototype programmable analog neural computer and selected applications are described. The machine is assembled from over 100 custom VLSI modules containing neurons, synapses, routing switches and programmable synaptic time constants. Connection symmetry and modular construction allow expansion to arbitrary size. The network runs in real time analog mode, however connection architecture as well as neuron and synapse parameters are controlled by a digital host that monitors also the network performance through an A/D interface. Programming and monitoring software has been developed and several application examples including the dynamic decomposition of acoustical patterns are described. The machine is intended for real time, real world computations including ATR. In current configuration its maximal speed is equivalent to that of a digital machine capable of more than 1011 flops. A much larger machine is currently under development.
Assimilation and differentiation needs as motivational determinants of perceived in-group and out-group homogeneity

The goal of the present research was to demonstrate the influence of perceiver motivations on perceptions of in-group and out-group homogeneity. Based on Optimal Distinctiveness Theory (Brewer, 1991), it was predicted that arousal of assimilation and differentiation needs (through threats to intragroup standing and intergroup distinctiveness) would lead to heightened perceptions of both in-group and out-group homogeneity. Because perceived homogeneity enhances both intragroup assimilation and intergroup contrast, such perceptions can serve both the need for increased inclusion within the in-group and the need for increased distinctiveness between in-group and out-group. As predicted, compared to no-arousal controls, participants in the assimilation and differentiation arousal conditions showed heightened perceptions of in-group and out-group homogeneity, greater perceived in-group stereotypicality, and the tendency to be more restrictive in defining in-group membership.
The structure of attitudes toward persons who are deaf: emotions, values, and stereotypes.

Abstract The relative effects of affect, cognition, and stereotyping on attitudes toward persons who are deaf were studied. Respondents (N = 175) were initially asked to list terms or phrases that described (a) a typical person who is deaf, (b) the feelings the respondent experienced when thinking of a typical person who is deaf, and (c) beliefs about how a typical person who is deaf either facilitates or blocks cherished values held by the respondent. Then, each respondent evaluated as positive or negative each of the terms or phrases he or she wrote down. The relative effects of personality variables and structural variables on prejudicial attitudes were also assessed. Affect and past experience figured prominently in respondents' attitudes toward people who are deaf. Explanations for these findings and the implications of these results for prejudice formation and reduction were explored, especially in light of the passage, implementation, and enforcement of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Characterization of the copper(II) binding site in the pink copper binding protein CusF by electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy

Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy has been used to structurally characterize the copper-binding site in CusF protein from Escherichia coli. The EPR spectra indicate a single type II copper center with parameters typical for nitrogen and oxygen ligands (A∥~200 G, g∥~2.186, g⊥~2.051). The pulsed EPR data show that one of the ligands to Cu2+ is an imidazole ring of a histidine residue. The remote amino nitrogen of this imidazole ring is readily observed by electron spin-echo envelope modulation spectroscopy, while the imino nitrogen that is directly coordinated to the Cu2+ ion is observed by pulsed electron–nuclear double resonance (ENDOR). In addition, the ENDOR spectra reveal the presence of one more nitrogen ligand that was assigned to be a deprotonated peptide nitrogen. Apart from the two nitrogen ligands, it has been established that there are two nearby hydroxyl protons, although whether these belong to a single equatorial water ligand or two equatorial hydroxide ligands is not known.
Objective differentiation of force-based laparoscopic skills using a novel haptic simulator.

Background There is a growing need for effective surgical simulators to train the novice resident with a core skill set that can be later used in advanced operating room training. The most common simulator-based laparoscopic skills curriculum, the Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Skills (FLS), has been demonstrated to effectively teach basic surgical skills; however, a key deficiency in current surgical simulators is lack of validated training for force-based or haptic skills. In this study, a novel haptic simulator was examined for construct validity by determining its ability to differentiate between the force skills of surgeons and novices. Methods A total of 34 participants enrolled in the study and were divided into two groups: novices, with no previous surgical experience and surgeons, with some level of surgical experience (including upper level residents and attendings). All participants performed a force-based task using grasping, probing, or sweeping motions with laparoscopic tools on the simulator. In the first session, participants were given 3 trials to learn specific forces associated with locations on a graphic; after this, they were asked to reproduce forces at each of the locations in random order. A force-based metric (score) was used to record performance. Results On probing and grasping tasks, novices applied significantly greater overall forces than surgeons. When analyzed by force levels, novices applied greater forces on the probing task at lower and mid-range forces, for grasping at low-range forces ranges and, for sweeping at high-range forces. Conclusions The haptic simulator successfully differentiated between novice and surgeon force skill level at specific ranges for all 3 salient haptic tasks, establishing initial construct validity of the haptic simulator. Based on these results, force-based simulator metrics may be used to objectively measure haptic skill level and potentially train residents. Haptic simulator development should focus on the 3 salient haptic skills (grasping, probing, and sweeping) where precise force application is necessary for successful task outcomes.
Fluorinated gases for semiconductor manufacture: process advances in chemical vapor deposition chamber cleaning

Abstract In the past several years, the semiconductor industry has been presented with various options for cleaning of plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) tool chambers. In this paper, we assess the relative merits of the latest chamber cleaning processes. These processes will be compared on the overall cleaning performance (process throughput, efficiency of clean) the economic performance (gas usage, costs) and the environmental performance (perfluorocarbon (PFC) emissions). Direct comparisons between chemistries will be made whenever relevant process factors (e.g. tool type, film, analysis methods) are held constant. We have previously reported both laboratory and commercial CVD tool results comparing different chamber cleaning gases. These studies using both Novellus Concept-1 and AMAT P-5000 tools, indicated that a “drop-in” alternative such as octafluorocyclobutane (c-C 4 F 8 ) would significantly lower PFC emissions (up to 85%) as well as decrease process costs through reductions in gas consumption. In this paper, we further extend this work to include qualification and implementation at chipmakers on a variety of tools, wafer sizes, and films. Key process data on film properties such as uniformity, number of particles, and thickness is also presented. The overall results support and extend the basic conclusions reached earlier: c-C 4 F 8 has the lowest process cost of any cleaning gas, without any penalty in cleaning performance (process throughput) but most importantly, it also offers the lowest PFC emissions of any fluorocarbon-based process. It is a true drop-in alternative offering the unique win–win combination of improved environmental performance while also reducing processing costs.
The independence of James Rest's components of morality: evidence from a professional ethics curriculum study

Rest's hypothesis that the components of morality (i.e., sensitivity, reasoning, motivation, and implementation) are distinct from one another was tested using evidence from a dental ethics curriculum that uses well-validated measures of each component. Archival data from five cohorts (n = 385) included the following: (1) transcribed responses to a measure of ethical sensitivity collected at the end of the third year; (2) pre- and post-test moral judgment scores; (3) pre- and post-test motivation scores; and (4) implementation scores – performance on eight cases completed during the third and fourth years. Because the ethical sensitivity test had been scored by multiple raters, and interrater reliability did not meet acceptable standards, 120 portfolios were randomly selected from the five cohorts and responses were rescored prior to analysis. Correlations among the measures were low, ranging from − .08 to .34, supporting Rest's contention that the processes are distinct from one another and competence in...
Lower epidural anesthesia use associated with labor support by student nurse doulas: Implications for intrapartal nursing practice

Summary Interventions of baccalaureate nursing students, trained as doulas, were examined for their association with epidural anesthetic use. Doulas, trained to support laboring mothers, are associated with shorter labors and fewer medical interventions. Data from a convenience sample of 89 vaginal births attended between 1999 and 2002 were analyzed. Analysis showed an association of lower epidural use with increased complementary doula interventions (.62 OR, P = . 003 ) and an association of higher epidural use with longer labors (1.22 OR, P = . 004 ). No significant association was found between epidural use and parity, income, education and type of health care provider. These findings support previous research of decreased analgesia use by doula-supported women and suggest benefits of the interventions by student nurse doulas. Students trained in providing low-tech supportive care may change the environment for intrapartum nursing practice. Institutional changes may be required to allow greater opportunity for intrapartal nurses to provide support to laboring women.
Algal pigments in Lake Erie dreissenids, pseudofeces and sediments, as tracers of diet, selective feeding and bioaccumulation

ABSTRACT Algal class biomarkers revealed the importance of diatoms and chlorophytes in the diet of dreissenids (n 18) collected from eastern Lake Erie (2–20 m depths; hard and soft substrate), during summer and fall, from 2003 to 2005. The most prominent biomarkers in dreissenids, typical of August, were fatty acid esters of carotenoids derived from diatoms (monoesters of fucoxanthinol, average 61%) and chlorophytes (diesters of mactraxanthin, average 30%), while non-esterified biomarkers from diatoms, chlorophytes, cryptophytes and cyanobacteria were below 4% of the total. At cool temperatures (June 2003, 13 °C), dreissenids had 84%:12% diatom:chlorophyte biomarkers, but with unseasonably warm temperatures (June 2004, 18 °C) and a nearshore chlorophyte bloom, dreissenids had a biomarker distribution similar to August. Bioconcentration factors in dreissenids relative to phytoplankton from Lake Erie were largest for the biomarkers from diatoms (21 L/g ww) and chlorophytes (29 L/g ww), compared to those from cryptophytes (2 L/g ww) and cyanobacteria (3 L/g ww). Unlike dreissenids (2003), matching pseudofeces (n 6) and sediments (n 16) contained a relatively large percentage of biomarkers for cryptophytes (20% June, 27% August) and cyanobacteria (31% August), suggesting that their low levels in dreissenids represent ingested feces, which are being rejected. Increased shell size (12–27 mm; surrogate for age; 3 sets) corresponded to an increase in diatom biomarkers (from 60 to 73%) but a decrease in chlorophyte biomarkers (from 31 to 17%); biomarker concentrations also decreased significantly (−3000 pmol/g ww/mm) in the most offshore collection, near Buffalo (Oct. 2005).
An elegant miRror: microRNAs in stem cells, developmental timing and cancer

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) were first discovered in genetic screens for regulators of developmental timing in the stem-cell-like seam cell lineage in Caenorhabditis elegans. As members of the heterochronic pathway, the lin-4 and let-7 miRNAs are required in the seam cells for the correct progression of stage-specific events and to ensure that cell cycle exit and terminal differentiation occur at the correct time. Other heterochronic genes such as lin-28 and lin-41 are direct targets of the lin-4 and let-7 miRNAs. Recent findings on the functions of the let-7 and lin-4/mir-125 miRNA families and lin-28 and lin-41 orthologs from a variety of organisms suggest that core elements of the heterochronic pathway are retained in mammalian stem cells and development. In particular, these genes appear to form bistable switches via double-negative feedback loops in both nematode and mammalian stem cell development, the functional relevance of which is finally becoming clear. let-7 inhibits stem cell self-renewal in both normal and cancer stem cells of the breast and acts as a tumor suppressor in lung and breast cancer. let-7 also promotes terminal differentiation at the larval to adult transition in both nematode stem cells and fly wing imaginal discs and inhibits proliferation of human lung and liver cancer cells. Conversely, LIN-28 is a highly specific embryonic stem cell marker and is one of four “stemness” factors used to reprogram adult fibroblasts into induced pluripotent stem cells; furthermore, lin-28 is oncogenic in hepatocellular carcinomas. Therefore, a core module of heterochronic genes—lin-28, lin-41, let-7, and lin-4/mir-125—acts as an ancient regulatory switch for differentiation in stem cells (and in some cancers), illustrating that nematode seam cells mirror miRNA regulatory networks in mammalian stem cells during both normal development and cancer.
Label-free bioelectronic detection of aptamer–protein interactions

Abstract We demonstrate for the first time the utility of nucleic acid aptamers for electrochemical detection of proteins. Highly specific and sensitive label-free detection of the target protein is achieved by combining aptamer-coated magnetic beads and chronopotentiometric stripping measurements of the captured protein (in connection to the intrinsic electroactivity of the protein). Lysozyme has thus been detected selectively in a mixture containing a large excess of six proteins and amino acids (both electroactive and non-electroactive), with a detection limit of 350 fmol (7 nM). While aptamer-based electronic sensors are in their infancy, such devices offer attractive opportunities for electrochemical detection of proteins and for developing proteomic chips.
A tissue phantom for visualization and measurement of ultrasound-induced cavitation damage

Many ultrasound studies involve the use of tissue-mimicking materials to research phenomena in vitro and predict in vivo bioeffects. We have developed a tissue phantom to study cavitation-induced damage to tissue. The phantom consists of red blood cells suspended in an agarose hydrogel. The acoustic and mechanical properties of the gel phantom were found to be similar to soft tissue properties. The phantom's response to cavitation was evaluated using histotripsy. Histotripsy causes breakdown of tissue structures by the generation of controlled cavitation using short, focused, high-intensity ultrasound pulses. Histotripsy lesions were generated in the phantom and kidney tissue using a spherically focused 1-MHz transducer generating 15 cycle pulses, at a pulse repetition frequency of 100 Hz with a peak negative pressure of 14 MPa. Damage appeared clearly as increased optical transparency of the phantom due to rupture of individual red blood cells. The morphology of lesions generated in the phantom was very similar to that generated in kidney tissue at both macroscopic and cellular levels. Additionally, lesions in the phantom could be visualized as hypoechoic regions on a B-mode ultrasound image, similar to histotripsy lesions in tissue. High-speed imaging of the optically transparent phantom was used to show that damage coincides with the presence of cavitation. These results indicate that the phantom can accurately mimic the response of soft tissue to cavitation and provide a useful tool for studying damage induced by acoustic cavitation.
Evaluation of calcium binding by molluscan shell organic matrix and its relevance to biomineralization

Abstract 1. 1. EDTA used to dissolve mollusc shells associates with soluble matrix (SM) material and persists in SM preparations despite exhaustive conventional dialysis. 2. 2. EDTA-free oyster or clam SM material binds little calcium at physiological ionic strength. 3. 3. It is concluded that residual EDTA or failure to determine binding in physiological media may lead to binding artefacts and that hypotheses which rely on SM calcium binding to explain initiation of biomineral formation need to be re-evaluated. 4. 4. It is hypothesized that crystal binding, rather than calcium binding, by SM is responsible for initiation of biomineral formation.
Surface photoeffect for metals: Energy and angular electron distributions

The nonlocal theory of the author for the surface photoeffect produced in metals by $p$-polarized light is used to obtain energy and angular electron distributions for a range of low to moderate excitation energies. Considering only the effects from single-particle excitations, the energy distribution curves have, in general, a roughly triangular shape with the peak occurring for initial states near the Fermi energy. There is also a high-energy tail due to damping. Features in the angular distribution curves include confinement to decreasing angles with increasing light frequency and low-angle structure resulting from damping. Very striking structure appears in the energy-resolved angular distributions when the light frequency $\ensuremath{\omega}$ is such that $\ensuremath{\hbar}\ensuremath{\omega}g{E}_{F}+\ensuremath{\Phi}$ where ${E}_{F}$ is the Fermi energy and $\ensuremath{\Phi}$ the work function. A number of significant changes, including a sharp increase in the total yield, occur in the various distributions when Landau damping sets in, that is, when the plasmon enters the single-particle-excitation region. Arguments are presented that there is no reason to expect that the nonlocal surface contributions to the yield should vanish above the plasma frequency.
Mental imagery and sensory experience in congenital blindness

Abstract Imagery of congenitally blind and normally sighted subjects was compared in two experiments. In the first, subjects were asked to estimate how far away objects appeared in images. The results showed that blind subjects imaged objects “within arms' reach”, and with only a slight tendency to image larger objects farther from them. In contrast, sighted subjects tended to image larger objects as if they were farther away. In addition, unlike the sighted, blind subjects' images also failed to overflow an “image space” of fixed size. Finally, blind subjects were, with one exception, unable to mimic successfully the responses of a sighted person, when explicitly asked to do so. In the second experiment, subjects pointed to the left and right sides of three objects imaged at three distances. Sighted and blind groups both showed a decrease in pointing span with the size of the object, but only the sighted subjects showed a decrease with increased image distance, in accordance with the laws of perspective.
Effect of Hand Dominance on Bone Mass Measurement in Sedentary Individuals

Abstract The aim of this study was to determine in healthy sedentary subjects the effect of hand dominance on side-to-side difference in bone area and bone mass for upper and lower extremities. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) measurements of both forearms and hips were performed on 193 right-handed and 20 left-handed subjects as determined by self-report. Scan acquisition and scan analyses were performed by one investigator, but all scan pairs were independently assessed for symmetry of positioning and movement artifacts by three investigators. Results show that DXA measurements between sides may be highly correlated regardless of the symmetry of the scan pair. However, asymmetric DXA scan pairs may have more than twice the side-to-side difference found in symmetric DXA scan pairs at the hip. Side-to-side differences between subregions were greater than the differences between measurements at the total radius, ulna, or hip. For symmetric pairs of DXA scans, the dominant forearm has significantly higher bone area and bone mineral content (BMC). Bone mineral density (BMD) was significantly higher only in the ulna of the dominant forearm. However, the nondominant forearm has higher values than dominant forearm in at least one DXA measurement in >24% of the subjects. There were no significant differences in any DXA measurements between hips, and higher DXA measurements did not occur significantly more frequently at the hip corresponding to the dominant hand. We conclude that healthy sedentary subjects tend to have proportionally higher bone area and BMC in the dominant forearm that results in similar BMD between dominant and nondominant forearms. This relationship does not appear to be applicable to measurements at the hip. In addition, there is a significant proportion of subjects with higher bone area and BMC in the nondominant extremities. Thus, in sedentary subjects, the consistency in the use of same extremity and the consistency in scan acquisition techniques and scan analyses is of greater importance than the selection of an extremity based on hand dominance in DXA studies.
Green Tea Catechins and Cardiovascular Health : An Update

Epidemiological, clinical and experimental studies have established a positive correlation between green tea consumption and cardiovascular health. Catechins, the major polyphenolic compounds in green tea, exert vascular protective effects through multiple mechanisms, including antioxidative, anti-hypertensive, anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, anti-thrombogenic, and lipid lowering effects. (1) Tea catechins present antioxidant activity by scavenging free radicals, chelating redox active transition-metal ions, inhibiting redox active transcription factors, inhibiting pro-oxidant enzymes and inducing antioxidant enzymes. (2) Tea catechins inhibit the key enzymes involved in lipid biosynthesis and reduce intestinal lipid absorption, thereby improving blood lipid profile. (3) Catechins regulate vascular tone by activating endothelial nitric oxide. (4) Catechins prevent vascular inflammation that plays a critical role in the progression of atherosclerotic lesions. The anti-inflammatory activities of catechins may be due to their suppression of leukocyte adhesion to endothelium and subsequent transmigration through inhibition of transcriptional factor NF-kB-mediated production of cytokines and adhesion molecules both in endothelial cells and inflammatory cells. (5) Catechins inhibit proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells by interfering with vascular cell growth factors involved in atherogenesis. (6) Catechins suppress platelet adhesion, thereby inhibiting thrombogenesis. Taken together, catechins may be novel plant-derived small molecules for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. This review highlights current developments in green tea extracts and vascular health, focusing specifically on the role of tea catechins in the prevention of various vascular diseases and the underlying mechanisms for these actions. In addition, the possible structure-activity relationship of catechins is discussed.
The importance of integrating marketing planning with corporate planning

Abstract “Strategic marketing” implies that marketing has attained a corporate orientation. However, scant evidence is available to support this view. The primary focus of marketing remains at a micro, consumer-oriented level. Integration of marketing planning with corporate planning would suggest a higher perspective for marketers; recognizing that internal integration of planning is as important for effective marketing as external studies of customers and markets. Toward this end, four key dimensions of corporate planning are introduced. As corporate planning constrains marketing planning, it is this most “strategic” of outlooks that needs to be integrated into the process of marketing planning.
A study of thermal transpiration for the development of a new type of gas pump.

Thermal transpiration, the phenomenon of the flow of gases through porous media under the influence of a temperature gradient, can be utilized as a driving force in a new type of gas pump. A parametric study for determining conditions for the optimum performance of such a pump requires, in addition to the thermal transpiration measurements, appropriate independent measurements for determining the geometric properties of the porous media. Experiments were carried out on five porous ceramics and two Millipore fillers of different geometric properties. It was found that a maximum reduced efficiency of about 1 percent can be achieved with a thermal pump under optimum conditions. Equations based on the methods of nonequilibrium thermodynamics and the dusty-gas theory satisfactorily explain the experimental results and thus allow the prediction of pump performance for given conditions.
Pu and137Cs in coastal sediments

Abstract Analyses are presented of 137 Cs, 238 Pu, and 239,240 Pu, in relation to depth in sediment, in 21 gravity cores. These cores span the ranges of times 1964–1975, and of water depths 12–2000 m; they come from three distinct sedimentation areas off the northeast coast of the United States. Although the ranges of total sediment inventories of 239,240 Pu and of 137 Cs from the various areas hardly overlap, the range of ratios of the inventories of these two nuclides is probably the same in all the areas. In the shallow-water cores the 239,240 Pu/ 137 Cs ratio regularly diminishes with depth in the core, and a tendency is seen for curves of this function to have similar slopes in each area; ratios of 238 Pu/ 239,240 Pu show no change with depth in these shallow-water cores. In the deeper-water cores, the 239,240 Pu/ 137 Cs ratio shows no systematic change with depth, but sometimes the 238 Pu/ 239,240 Pu ratio shows a minimum at the sediment surface, and is much higher deeper in the cores. We believe that these phenomena can be explained in terms of a complicated bioturbational process moving the nuclides, together, down into the sediments, of chemical resolubilization, at depth, of plutonium only, and of its subsequent upward translocation in the interstitial solution. Some re-immobilization of plutonium near the sediment surface is implied, and a mechanism is suggested for this, based on displacement of plutonium from organic complexes by the increasing concentrations, in upper layers of the sediment, of re-oxidized dissolved iron.
SPECT quantification of [123I]iomazenil binding to benzodiazepine receptors in nonhuman primates: II. Equilibrium analysis of constant infusion experiments and correlation with in vitro parameters.

In vivo benzodiazepine receptor equilibrium dissociation constant, KD, and maximum number of binding sites, Bmax, were measured by single photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT) in three baboons. Animals were injected with a bolus followed by a constant i.v. infusion of the high affinity benzodiazepine ligand [123I]iomazenil. Plasma steady-state concentration and receptor-ligand equilibrium were reached within 2 and 3 h, respectively, and were sustained for the duration (4-9 h) of the experiments (n = 15). At the end of the experiments, a receptor saturating dose of flumazenil (0.2 mg/kg) was injected to measure nondisplaceable activity. Experiments were carried out at various levels of specific activity, and Scatchard analysis was performed for derivation of the KD (0.59 +/- 0.09 nM) and Bmax (from 126 nM in the occipital region to 68 nM in the striatum). Two animals were killed and [125I]iomazenil Bmax and KD were measured at 22 and 37 degrees C on occipital homogenate membranes. In vitro values of Bmax (114 +/- 33 nM) and 37 degrees C KD (0.66 +/- 0.16 nM) were in good agreement with in vivo values measured by SPECT. This study demonstrates that SPECT can be used to quantify central neuroreceptors density and affinity.
Selective suction for controlling bursting events in a boundary layer

Continuous and intermittent suction from a single streamwise slot was used to eliminate either a single burstlike event or a periodic train of artificially generated bursts in laminar and turbulent boundary layers. The experiments were conducted using a flat plate towed in an 18-m water channel. Flow visualization and hot-film probe measurements were used together with a burst detection algorithm to demonstrate the feasibility of controlling bursting events in a boundary layer. When the suction parameters were optimized, equivalent values of the suction coefficient as low as 0.0006-0.0015 were sufficient to eliminate the artificially generated hairpin vortices.
Distribution and relationship of radionuclides to streambed gravels in a small watershed

In White Oak Creek watershed in eastern Tennessee, the radionuclides60Co,90Sr, and137Cs were retained by streambed gravels on different sites:60Co was associated with manganese in the hydrous oxide coatings on rocks and minerals;90Sr occurred primarily as an exchangeable cation although small amounts were held in a nonexchangeable form; and137Cs was held very selectively, presumably by illite in shale fragments composing the sediment. The distribution of radionuclides on sediments was size dependent: the 0.85–3.35 mm fine-gravel fraction was higher in radionuclide concentration than the sand fraction. An areal survey of radionuclide concentrations on streambed gravels from throughout the watershed, located numerous contamination sources. These radionuclide concentrations, when combined with both distribution coefficients of radionuclides between gravel and water and drainage area, were used to rank subsections of the watershed by their relative contribution to the overall contamination of the watershed. For90Sr, this ranking procedure agreed with the measured discharges of subsections of the watershed which are routinely monitored.
On the (t, Sj) policy in an integrated production/inventory model with time-proportional demand

Abstract In this paper, we consider a two-level continuous time lotsizing problem with setup costs, inventory holding costs and time-proportional demand for a single end product and the raw materials used for manufacturing it. We analyze a ( t , S j ) ordering policy for the production of the end product, where at every equal and fixed scheduling cycle, t , a variable production quantity, S j , is produced during the j -th cycle. With the objective of minimizing the integrated total relevant cost, we formulate a mathematical programming problem to determine simultaneously the economic batch sizes for the end product and the economic order sizes for the raw materials. A heuristic is developed using the Lagrangian multiplier, and its solution compares very well with the exact solution. We compare the numerical results with the equal batch sizing policy, i.e., the ( s , Q ) policy, which is expected to be outperformed by the ( t , S j ) policy, and find that is not always the case.
Fluorescent in situ hybridization for evaluation of Prader-Willi and Angelman syndromes.

We have found fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) results more reliavle than high resolution chromosome analysis for the diagnosis of Prader-Willi (PWS) or Angelman syndromes (AS). Specifically, we have found success in the detection of 15q11q13 deletions among 55 cases. Our study suggests that FISH analysis using PWS/AS probes can facilitate diagnostic evaluation of these cases for deletions. 2 refs., 1 tab.
Money Matters: Children's Perceptions of Parent-Child Financial Disclosure

Children need financial acumen for their future well-being. Parents play a critical role in teaching young children about money. However, much of the research on parent–child communication has focused on parents or older children. Through interviews of 136 young children and a Communication Privacy Management (CPM) theory frame, this study uncovers the financial information children report their parents reveal and conceal (which can vary based on child sex) and children's perceptions of the reasons behind parents’ (non)disclosure. The investigation paints a richer picture of financial disclosure, suggesting child confidants are aware of concealed and revealed information and potential privacy rules governing (non)disclosure, a possible extension of CPM.
Crossed molecular beams studies of the reactions of uranium with selected oxidizers

Abstract Angular distributions of UO produced from the reaction of U with O 2 , NO, NO 2 , and SO 2 were measured using crossed molecular beams. Total cross sections for these four reactions as well as for U + N 3 O and U + CO 2 were estimated from product scattering signals. The cross sections range from 33 A 2 for U + NO to 1 A 2 for U + CO 2 , and U + N 2 O.
A Data Perspective on Long-Term Care

Continuing progress in developing empirical information on different facets of long-term care service use has been possible because of improvements in the design of data sets. New generations of data sets are being developed with a recognition of the inherent nature of long-term care. Notably, long-term care implies care received over an extended period of time, thereby presenting numerous occasions for changes in the characteristics of both the services that are used and the recipients of the services. In large part, the design of the data sets has been made in response to research and policy interests in long-term care. This article highlights some observations about progress in the development of long-term care data, and the relationship between policy questions in long-term care and the design of relevant data sets.
Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus G protein-coupled receptor signals through multiple pathways in endothelial cells.

Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV; human herpesvirus 8) encodes a chemokine-like G protein-coupled receptor (KSHV-GPCR) that is implicated in the pathogenesis of Kaposi's sarcoma (KS). Since endothelial cells appear to be targets for the virus, we developed an in vitro mouse lung endothelial cell model in which KSHV-GPCR is stably expressed and KSHV-GPCR signaling was studied. In mouse lung endothelial cells: 1) KSHV-GPCR does not exhibit basal signaling through the phosphoinositide-specific phospholipase C pathway but inositol phosphate production is stimulated by growth-related oncogene α (Gro-α) via a pertussis toxin (PTX)-insensitive pathway; 2) KSHV-GPCR signals basally through a PTX-sensitive pathway leading to a lowering of intracellular cAMP level that can be lowered further by Groα and increased by interferon γ-inducible protein 10; 3) KSHV-GPCR stimulates phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase via a PTX-insensitive mechanism; and 4) KSHV-GPCR activates nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) by a PTX-sensitive Gβγ subunit-mediated pathway. These data show that KSHV-GPCR couples to at least two G proteins and initiates signaling via at least three cascades in endothelial cells thereby increasing the complexity of regulation of endothelial cell function by KSHV-GPCR that may occur during viral infection.
The swarm application framework

The Swarm Application Framework (SAF) is a tool that makes the development of swarm applications more intuitive. Traditionally, swarm applications are created by programming several low-level rules. This approach leads to several problems in designing and testing swarms, which serve as inspiration for the features of SAF. SAF encourages a new paradigm for designing swarm applications: engineers can interact with a swarm at the abstract (swarm) level instead of the individual (agent) level. In this paper, we discuss the design of the framework, how agents and rules in SAF operate, and a planned rule abstraction feature.
Monolithic Integrated SiGe Optical Receiver and Detector

We present a monolithically integrated photodetector and optical receiver in a commercial SiGe process. Fabricating the receiver and detector on the same die, with a single low supply voltage, enables lower cost interchip optical interconnects.
Nonoperative Treatment of Rotator Cuff Injuries in Throwing Athletes

Shoulder pain in throwing athletes is reviewed. The anatomy and function of the rotator cuff and the biomechanics of the throwing mechanism are described. Physical examination for rotator cuff injuries, treatment considerations, and a protocol are presented. Failure to recognize glenohumeral instability may limit the success of nonoperative management of rotator cuff injuries in throwing athletes. This article provides a comprehensive review of some of the underlying causes of rotator cuff pathology in throwing athletes. Rotator cuff injuries in throwing athletes are closely associated with glenohumeral instability. The role of glenohumeral instability in the pathogenesis of rotator cuff injuries is described.
Quality of life and functional impairment in compulsive hoarding.

Compulsive hoarding patients have been found in previous studies to have substantial disability and functional impairment. However, no prior study has examined subjective and objective quality of life (QOL) in patients with compulsive hoarding. This present study compared compulsive hoarders and non-hoarding OCD patients across a variety of QOL domains. Subjects were 171 consecutive adult patients (34 compulsive hoarders, 137 non-hoarding patients with DSM-IV OCD) treated openly between 1998 and 2004 in the UCLA OCD Partial Hospitalization Program (OCD PHP), a specialized, intensive, multi-modal treatment program for treatment-refractory patients. Scores on the Quality of Life Scale and other symptom severity measures on admission were compared between compulsive hoarders and non-hoarding OCD patients. Compulsive hoarders were older and had lower global functioning than non-hoarding OCD patients. Both groups had low overall QOL scores across multiple domains. Compulsive hoarders had significantly lower levels of satisfaction with their safety than non-hoarding OCD patients, were more often the victims of both violent and non-violent crime, felt less safe in their neighborhoods, and felt less protected against attack. Compulsive hoarders were also much less satisfied with their living arrangements than non-hoarding OCD patients. No differences were found on financial variables, but the vast majority of patients in both groups were unemployed. Compulsive hoarders have lower QOL than non-hoarding OCD patients in the domains of safety and living situation. Psychosocial rehabilitation that focuses on problems with victimization, safety, employment, and financial areas may be a beneficial augmentation to treatment for compulsive hoarding.
Effectiveness of β-blockers in heart failure with left ventricular systolic dysfunction and chronic kidney disease.

Background Establishing medication effectiveness outside of a randomized trial requires careful study design to mitigate selection bias. Previous observational studies of β-blockers in patients with chronic kidney disease and heart failure have had methodologic limitations that may have introduced bias. We examined whether initiation of β-blocker therapy was associated with better outcomes among patients with chronic kidney disease and newly diagnosed heart failure with left ventricular systolic dysfunction.