cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Lumbar intervertebral disc mRNA sequencing identifies the regulatory pathway in patients with disc herniation and spondylolisthesis.

Abstract Lumbar degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a multifaceted progressive condition and often accompanied by disc herniation (DH) and/or degenerative spondylolisthesis (DS). Given the high prevalence of the disease (up to 20% according to some estimates) and the high costs associated with its care, there is a need to explore novel therapies such as regenerative medicine. Exploring these novel therapies first warrants investigation of molecular pathways underlying these disorders. Here, we show results from next generation RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) on mRNA isolated from 10 human nucleus pulposus (NP) samples of lumbar degenerated discs (DH and DS; n = 5 for each tissue) and other musculoskeletal tissues (Bone, cartilage, growth plate, and muscle; n = 7 for each tissue). Pathway and network analyses based on gene ontology (GO) terms were used to identify the biological functions of differentially expressed mRNAs. A total of 701 genes were found to be significantly upregulated in lumbar NP tissue compared to other musculoskeletal tissues. These differentially expressed mRNAs were primarily involved in DNA damage, immunity and G1/S transition of mitotic cell cycle. Interestingly, DH-specific signaling genes showed major network in chemotactic (e.g., CXCL10, CXCL11, IL1RL2 and IL6) and matrix-degrading pathway (e.g., MMP16, ADAMTSL1, 5, 8, 12, and 15), while DS-specific signaling genes were found to be those involved in cell adhesion (e.g., CDH1, EPHA1 and EFNA2) and inflammatory cytokines (e.g., CD19, CXCL5, CCL24, 25 and XCL2). Our findings provide new leads for therapeutic drug discovery that would permit optimization of medical or pharmacological intervention for cases of lumbar DDD.
Multi-scale robustness model for highway networks under flood events

Abstract Transportation system infrastructure often experiences severe flood-related disruptions such as overtopping, erosion, and scour. The ensuing damages can result in enormous direct and indirect economic losses to the traffic network and consequently the individuals through conditions like inaccessibility to commuters and reduction in traffic safety. Many studies have claimed that a robust transportation system could significantly prevent such consequences from natural hazards such as floods, highlighting the importance of robustness measures that could be used by decision-makers to properly manage flooded transportation system. Most available measures related to network robustness assessment are qualitative, and while some recent studies have focused on such evaluation using quantitative assessment approaches related to environmental or social-economic operations, they lack the holistic view towards robustness under flood events. This study develops a composite multi-scale transportation-system robustness model considering flood hazards by synthesizing geographical damage recognition, topological functionality analysis, network operation evaluation, and traffic-user loss estimation. This integrated model has been applied in a real-world highway network, mainly revealing that a given intensive flood occurrence at different locations may result in a variety of after-flood disruptions in the transportation network. To assist the asset owners with developing more reasonable prevention and recovery plans, the developed multi-scale robustness index presents both visible multi-denominational flood consequences and an overall post-event transportation-system robustness indicator.
Promoting Antimicrobial Stewardship by Incorporating it in Undergraduate Medical Education Curricula.

Background Education related to antimicrobial stewardship-the judicious use of antimicrobials-is essential to stem the rising tide of resistance. Methods Using a scoping review method that includes a consultation component, we explored the extent to which antimicrobial stewardship is incorporated in undergraduate medical education. Results We found 4 studies evaluating stewardship content in undergraduate medical school curricula along with 2 studies assessing the effectiveness of specific stewardship training programs in medical education. Discussion We highlight three recommendations: (1) if applicable, identify an institutional "champion" and incorporate antibiotic stewardship-related content into medical school curriculum; (2) evaluate the status and effectiveness of antibiotic stewardship curricular components in medical education; (3) conduct research evaluating the long-term outcomes of antibiotic stewardship training in medical education.
The hardware/software integration phase

Abstract This chapter is a detailed examination of the hardware/software integration phase. It covers each phase of the integration process and looks at possible defects that can be introduced, or are introduced, in that phase. It also considers performance issues as the product begins to be tested against its design specifications. Finally, it examines compliance issues that will inevitably come to light during final product validation.
Making a Bee-Line for Food with Octopamine

![Graphic][1] How do you find the newest, trendiest restaurants with the best food in your neighborhood (that is, of course, during non-pandemic times when restaurants are all open)? Well, one way that you may notice the new hip spot is to follow the crowds. If you wander by a spot filled
Salmonella enterica Typhimurium engineered for nontoxic systemic colonization of autochthonous tumors.

Much of the bacterial anticancer therapy being developed relies on the ability of bacteria to specifically colonise tumours. Initial attempts to translate promising Salmonella enterica Typhimurium ...
Aptamers for Detection and Diagnostics (ADD) is a proposed mobile app acquiring optical data from conjugated quantum nanodots to identify molecules indicating presence of SARS-CoV-2 virus: Why public health and healthcare need smartphone sensors as a platform for early detection and prevention

Proposed SARS-CoV-2 surveillance tool using a mobile app for non-invasive monitoring of humans and animals Engineering a biomedical device as a low-cost, non-invasive, detection, and diagnostic platform for surveillance of infections in humans, and animals The system embraces the IoT “digital by design” metaphor by incorporating elements of connectivity, data sharing and (secure) information arbitrage Using an array of aptamers to bind viral targets may help in detection, diagnostics, and potentially prevention in case of SARS-CoV-2 The ADD tool may become part of a broader platform approach
First principles simulation of ultracold ion crystals in a Penning trap with Doppler cooling and a rotating wall potential

A direct numerical simulation of many interacting ions in a Penning trap with a rotating wall is presented. The ion dynamics is modeled classically. Both axial and planar Doppler laser cooling processes are modeled using stochastic momentum impulses based on two-level atomic scattering rates. The plasmas being modeled are ultracold two-dimensional crystals made up of hundreds of ions. We compare Doppler cooled results directly to a previous linear eigenmodes analysis. Agreement in both frequency and mode structure is obtained. Additionally, when Doppler laser cooling is applied, the laser cooled steady state plasma axial temperature agrees with the Doppler cooling limit. Numerical simulations using the approach described and benchmarked here will provide insights into the dynamics of large trapped-ion crystals, improving their performance as a platform for quantum simulation and sensing.A direct numerical simulation of many interacting ions in a Penning trap with a rotating wall is presented. The ion dynamics is modeled classically. Both axial and planar Doppler laser cooling processes are modeled using stochastic momentum impulses based on two-level atomic scattering rates. The plasmas being modeled are ultracold two-dimensional crystals made up of hundreds of ions. We compare Doppler cooled results directly to a previous linear eigenmodes analysis. Agreement in both frequency and mode structure is obtained. Additionally, when Doppler laser cooling is applied, the laser cooled steady state plasma axial temperature agrees with the Doppler cooling limit. Numerical simulations using the approach described and benchmarked here will provide insights into the dynamics of large trapped-ion crystals, improving their performance as a platform for quantum simulation and sensing.
Outcomes of Primary vs Secondary Delayed Sternal Closure in Pediatric Cardiac Surgery.

Abstract Background Delayed sternal closure (DSC) is a management strategy for hemodynamic instability and severe coagulopathy after complex congenital heart surgery. We hypothesized that DSC results in better outcomes than perioperative sternal reopening. Methods We reviewed patients aged 2 days (81 patients), and SDSC (45 patients) were analyzed. Results Median age was 120 days (range, 3-6553 days) and median DSC duration was 2 days (range, 1-60 days). The PDSC >2 days group was the youngest group, and the distribution of procedures was different between groups. Indications for DSC were hemodynamic instability in 152 patients (67.9%) and severe coagulopathy in 33 patients (14.7%), with no difference between groups (P = .141). Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation use was higher in the PDSC >2 days group than the other groups (47.5% vs 7.1%, P 2 days, P 2 days (44 ± 6, P = .01). Survival was better in PDSC regardless of duration than SDSC. Conclusions PDSC demonstrated better outcomes than SDSC. Sternal reopening can be life-saving, but, when anticipated, PDSC can yield better outcomes.
The role of culture in sustainable communities: the case of Rapa Nui (Easter Island, Chile)

We explore how the combination of cultural heritage and present-day cultural affiliations influences the construction of the concept of sustainability at the scale of the community using the case study of Rapa Nui (Easter Island, Chile). We argue that overlapping affiliations—expressed through administrative culture, organizational culture, and professional culture—influence the views held by governance leaders. Furthermore, the role of cultural heritage must be considered in efforts to change and perpetuate sustainability-related behaviors within a community. Using archeological and historical evidence from the pre-contact and historical record of Rapa Nui, we discuss how cultural heritage evolved endogenously in response to biophysical and socio-economic forces. We then explore how this cultural heritage interacts with cultural affiliations though the analysis of interviews with six governance leaders. Five different discourses that reflect elements of the common heritage of the respondents as well as elements of their various administrative/organizational/professional cultural affiliations emerge from this analysis.
Developing critical thinking skills: Simulations vs. cases

This paper compares case studies and simulations, two popular experiential learning techniques used in capstone strategy courses, to provide insights into how each may contribute to the development...
A case of pelvic actinomycosis affecting genital, urinary and digestive tracts: a rare misleading diagnosis

Pelvic actinomycosis is an uncommon chronic invasive disease caused by a bacteria of the Actinomyces spp. Its diagnosis constitutes a clinical challenge and is usually reached in the postoperative period after resecting a pelvic mass that usually mimics advanced ovarian cancer. Although pelvic actinomyocosis involving the digestive and genital tract has been commonly described, very few reports have described cases involving both ovaries and requiring partial cystectomy for bladder involvement. Herein, we illustrate a case of pelvic actinomycosis with extensive involvement of multiple pelvic organs, misleading the surgeon into undergoing a complete clearance of the wrongfully thought adnexal malignancy.
Reprogramming of bivalent chromatin states in NRAS mutant melanoma suggests PRC2 inhibition as a therapeutic strategy.

Summary The dynamic evolution of chromatin state patterns during metastasis, their relationship with bona fide genetic drivers, and their therapeutic vulnerabilities are not completely understood. Combinatorial chromatin state profiling of 46 melanoma samples reveals an association of NRAS mutants with bivalent histone H3 lysine 27 trimethylation (H3K27me3) and Polycomb repressive complex 2. Reprogramming of bivalent domains during metastasis occurs on master transcription factors of a mesenchymal phenotype, including ZEB1, TWIST1, and CDH1. Resolution of bivalency using pharmacological inhibition of EZH2 decreases invasive capacity of melanoma cells and markedly reduces tumor burden in vivo, specifically in NRAS mutants. Coincident with bivalent reprogramming, the increased expression of pro-metastatic and melanocyte-specific cell-identity genes is associated with exceptionally wide H3K4me3 domains, suggesting a role for this epigenetic element. Overall, we demonstrate that reprogramming of bivalent and broad domains represents key epigenetic alterations in metastatic melanoma and that EZH2 plus MEK inhibition may provide a promising therapeutic strategy for NRAS mutant melanoma patients.
Two-Dimensional Spectroscopy as a Conformational Probe of Cellular Phosphates

Cellular phosphates have been extensively investigated by a variety of techniques to determine their conformations, concentrations, and metal binding properties. The ubiquity of cellular phosphates in biological systems insures their continuing popularity, which has recently increased quite considerably with the advent of their in vivo detection via phosphorus-31 NMR (Hoult et al., 1974; Moon and Richards, 1973; Shulman, 1983). Investigation of the conformation of a particular cellular phosphate in a pure solution is reasonably straightforward. NMR is the method of choice. The advantages are many, not the least of which is the vast literature available correlating proton coupling constants and chemical shifts to conformational and structural features (Davies, 1978; Guschlbauer, 1980). The literature on nucleotides, alone, is prodigious.
Areas of research in political advertising: a review and research agenda

Political advertising is an increasingly researched area. Yet the sundry natures of research findings to date demonstrate a body of work searching for direction and a unifying theory. A review of 129 published research articles specifically related to the use of advertising in the marketing of elections uncovered eight themes within this body of work, and helped identify gaps that led to six recommendations for areas of future research, in an effort to stimulate and guide future investigations of political advertising.
A Development Approach to Trade and Labor Regimes

While the World Trade Organization has effectively rejected the linkage of labor and trade at the multilateral level, labor provisions have become a standard component of U.S. bilateral and regional free trade agreements. How these provisions ought to be designed, however, continues to be a subject of intense debate. This Article argues that trade and labor regimes should be oriented toward catalyzing and reinforcing the development functions of labor regulation, and toward creating institutions that further labor-development objectives. These objectives include expanding worker capabilities and promoting democracy and citizenship both in the workplace and in the nation-state. My goals in this Article, however, are broader than promoting a particular approach to trade and labor regimes. I also seek to place the subject of labor regulation, both domestic and transnational, more squarely into the development discourse, and conversely place development into the labor regulation discourse.
U.S. Aquaculture

Abstract U.S. aquaculture has continued to grow. New technological developments have provided a basis for the emergence of new aquaculture sectors in the U.S. Profitable and feasible aquaculture businesses grow over time. As they do, economic impacts are generated because businesses create demand for other goods and services and provide employment opportunities. Economic impacts include direct effects of the value of the productive output, indirect effects from the value of output from industries that either supply inputs or market the outputs, and induced effects of the additional household spending created. The impacts from well-established industries such as catfish, trout, oysters, and clams can be measured with input-output techniques. However, the potential impacts of emerging sectors of aquaculture must be analyzed with other types of modeling techniques. The overall diversity of aquaculture results in equally diverse types of economic impacts. However, even small-scale aquaculture businesses can r...
Resource Allocation in Spectrum Overlay Cognitive Radio Networks

Opportunistic spectrum access (OSA) is an emerging concept for spectrum overlay based spectrum sharing model where SUs identify spectrum opportunities in licensed bands and use them opportunistically without interfering with PUs [12, 20, 34, 36]. In spectrum overlay approach, as SUs are not allowed to co-exists with PUs in the same channel, they are required to either sense spectrum to find idle channels or search for idle channels in spectrum database [1, 8, 27]. Spectrum database can maintain geolocations of idle bands and provide a global view on entire frequencies which could be used to find best suitable channels for the SUs. Based on the global view of wideband RF regime, SUs could be granted a channel that has more adjacent channels so that SUs could implement channel bonding for higher data rates [13]. To prepare and update the spectrum database, database server can get spectrum occupancy information from PUs’ infrastructure (e.g. base stations or access points) in a real-time basis. Alternatively, spectrum sensors (e.g., crowd sourcing for sensing [9, 38]) could be deployed to collect information about channel status. Based on the collected information, spectrum server can process data (with the help of cloud computing platform) to create a spectrum maps for spectrum opportunities for different wireless networks such as satellite, WiMAX, Wi-Fi, cellular, TV, etc. Spectrum servers could be associated with a single or multiple spectrum brokers. When a SU wants to access spectrum opportunities, it searches the geolocation database for idle bands. If there is an idle band available in given location and time, SU would access it. Otherwise, the SU has to wait until it finds spectrum opportunities that meets its needs.
Constructed heritage and co-produced meaning: the re-branding of wines from the Koshu grape

AbstractThe last decade has seen large-scale cultural changes in the table grape and wine production industries of the Kōfu Basin in Yamanashi Prefecture. From the perspective of wineries, the recent rise in popularity of wines produced from the Koshu grape (Vitis vinifera var. orientalis) has secured their industrial recovery in the short term. This paper explores these changes, thereby contributing to the literature on the invention of traditions for economic profit and rural revitalization. Conclusions are drawn from archival research, interviews with stakeholders in the table grape and wine industries, and over one and one-half years as a grape farmer in the Kōfu Basin. Rather than significant improvements in educational or technical advancement in growing Koshu for wine or even wine production, the rise in popularity of wines produced from Koshu is argued to be more linked to the cultural re-branding of the grape based on co-produced and glocalized perceptions of simulacra in which the historical and...
A Polymerization Model of Chiasma Interference and Corresponding Computer Simulation

A model of chiasma interference is proposed and simulated on a computer. The model uses random events and a polymerization reaction to regulate meiotic recombination between and along chromosomes. A computer simulation of the model generates distributions of crossovers per chromosome arm, position of events along the chromosome arm, distance between crossovers in two-event tetrads, and coincidence as a function of distance. Outputs from the simulation are compared to data from Saccharomyces cerevisiae and the X chromosome of Drosophila melanogaster. The simulation demonstrates that the proposed model can produce the regulation of recombination observed in both genetic and cytological experiments. While the model was quantitatively compared to data from only Drosophila and Saccharomyces, the regulation observed in these species is qualitatively similar to the regulation of recombination observed in other organisms.
Seasonal variation and freezing response of glucose transporter 2 in liver of the wood frog: implications for geographic variation in freeze tolerance

Subarctic populations of the wood frog Rana sylvatica survive freezing to temperatures at least 10–13°C below those of more southerly conspecifics. This profound freeze tolerance is due in part to an enhanced glucosic cryoprotectant system that requires rapid mobilization of glucose from hepatocytes during the early hours of freezing. To determine if glucose transporter 2 (GLUT2) in the liver contributes to geographic variation in freeze tolerance, we examined changes in the protein’s abundance seasonally and in response to experimental freezing in frogs from Interior Alaska and southern Ohio, USA. Using immunoblotting techniques, we found that GLUT2 abundance increased in preparation for winter in both populations, but tests with Ohioan frogs showed that that altered temperature alone does not cause these seasonal changes. In Ohioan frogs, transporter expression apparently was regulated transcriptionally, as mRNA levels, assessed using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, changed in accordance with protein abundance. However, this pattern was not observed in Alaskan frogs, suggesting that other mechanisms of regulation are important in this phenotype. Overall, GLUT2 abundance was constitutively greater and more responsive to freezing in Alaskan R. sylvatica, suggesting that GLUT2 contributes substantively to the extreme freeze tolerance of subarctic wood frogs.
Structure and growth mode of metastable fcc cobalt ultrathin films on Cu(001) as determined by angle-resolved x-ray photoemission scattering

Abstract The structure and growth mode of metastable fcc Co(001) films on Cu(001) substrates were determined by using angle-resolved X-ray photoemission scattering (ARXPS). The results show that at room temperature on Cu(001), cobalt grows with a small but measureable deviation from ideal layer-by-layer mode, with the formation of two-layer thick islands for average coverages below two monolayers (ML). When the coverage exceeds two monolayers, cobalt grows to a well-ordered fcc-(001) film via a layer-by-layer growth mode. The combination of low-energy electron diffraction (LEED) and ARXPS as the structural probes shows that high quality fcc films of Co of up to 20 ML thickness can be stabilized at room-temperature by epitaxial growth. Upon heating to 400° C, an unusual structure is formed in which substrate Cu atoms diffuse through the cobalt film to form a flat layer on top of an ordered fcc cobalt film.
Ligands effects on the magnetic anisotropy of tetrahedral cobalt complexes

The effect of ligands with heavy donor atoms on the magnetic anisotropy of the pseudo-tetrahedral cobalt complexes, Co(quinoline)2I2 (1) and Co(EPh3)2I2 (2–3) (E = P, As) has been investigated. The axial zero-field splitting parameter D was found to vary from +9.2 cm−1 in 1 to −36.9 cm−1 in 2 and −74.7 cm−1 in 3. Compounds 2 and 3 exhibit slow relaxation of the magnetization up to 4 K under an applied dc field, indicating SMM behavior.
Size-Dependent Reactions of Ammonium Bisulfate Clusters with Dimethylamine

The reaction kinetics of ammonium bisulfate clusters with dimethylamine (DMA) gas were investigated using Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FTICR-MS). Clusters ranged in size from 1 to 10 bisulfate ions. Although displacement of the first several ammonium ions by DMA occurred with near unit efficiency, displacement of the final ammonium ion was cluster size dependent. For small clusters, all ammonium ions are exposed to incoming DMA molecules, allowing for facile exchange ("surface" exchange). However, with increasing cluster size, an ammonium ion can be trapped in an inaccessible region of the cluster ("core" exchange), thereby rendering exchange difficult. DMA was also observed to add onto existing dimethylaminium bisulfate clusters above a critical size, whereas ammonia did not add onto ammonium bisulfate clusters. The results suggest that as the cluster size increases, di-dimethylaminium sulfate formation becomes more favorable. The results of this study give further evidence to suggest that ambient sub-3 nm diameter particles are likely to contain aminium salts rather than ammonium salts.
Restoring Arthropod Communities in Coastal Sage Scrub

Coastal sage scrub in California and northern Baja California has been severely affected by urban ex- pansion and is, in places, badly in need of restoration. We measured arthropod abundance and diversity on one of its primary components, the native shrub Artemisia californica (Asteraceae; California sage), to evaluate whether arthropod communities had become reestablished atoter a restoration attempt. Arthropods were collected from shrubs on planted and undisturbed sites 6 years after a restoration attempt. Ffty-seven families and 146 adult morphospecies were found. Family and species richness were greater on planted shrubs, but arthropod diver- sity, once differences in species'abundances were correctedfor, was greater on naturally established plants. Com- mon arthropods occurred at similar densities regardless of planting history. The proportion of single occurrences of a species, in contrast, was significantly greater on naturally established shrubs. Planted shrubs supported more predators relative to herbivores than did naturally established shrubs. Planted shrubs were still distinguishable from naturally established ones in that they were both more isolatedfrom neighboring shrubs and surrounded by more invasive weeds. We suggest that small-scale restoration attempts can be successful at restoring basic elements of surrounding biodiversity. They do create a different community, however, both taxonomically andfunctionally, and are at least initially less able to support rare species.
Copy number polymorphism at chromosome 19 locus associated with late-onset Alzheimer's disease

cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) series. Association analyses were performed using ANCOVA after adjustment for covariates. Power analyses were performed using PROC POWER in SAS. Results: We failed to detect association between CSF Ab42 levels and SNPs in SORL1 despite substantial statistical power to detect association. While we also failed to detect association between variants in GAB2 and CSF tau levels power to detect this association was limited. Finally, our data suggest that the minor allele of rs2986017, in CALHM1, is significantly associated with CSF Ab42 levels (p 1⁄4 0.0095). Conclusions: This association is consistent with previous reports suggesting that this non-synonymous coding substitution results in increased Ab levels in vitro and provides support for an Ab-related mechanism for modulating risk for AD. This finding provides further evidence that the use of CSF endophenotypes for genetic studies of AD can be an effective tool for understanding the biological mechanisms by which variants influence risk for LOAD.
Assembly of Polymer Microfluidic Components and Modules: Validating Models of Passive Alignment Accuracy

Low-cost modular polymer microfluidic platforms integrating several different functional units may potentially reduce the cost of molecular and environmental analyses, and enable broader applications. Proper function of such systems depends on well-characterized assembly of the instruments. Passive alignment is one approach to obtaining such assemblies. Model modular devices containing passive alignment features, hemispherical pins in v-grooves, and integrated alignment standards for characterizing the accuracy of the assemblies were replicated in polycarbonate using doubled-sided injection molding. The dimensions and locations of the assembly features and alignment standards were measured. The assemblies had mismatches from 16 ± 4 to $20\pm 6~\mu $ m along the x -axis and from 103 ± 7 to $118\pm 11~\mu $ m along the y -axis. The vertical variation from the nominal value of $287~\mu $ m ranged from −10 ± 4 to $34\pm 7~\mu $ m. An assembly tolerance model was used to estimate the accuracy of the assemblies based on the manufacturing variations of the alignment structures. Variation of the alignment structure features were propagated through the assembly using Monte Carlo methods. The estimated distributions matched the measured experimental results well, with differences of 2%–13% due to unmodeled aspects of the variations Accurate assembly of advanced polymer microsystems is feasible and predictable in the design phase. [2014-0125]
The metabolism of mescaline-14C in rats

Abstract The metabolism of mescaline-14C and N-acetylmescaline-14C was investigated in rats. N-Acetylmescaline, N-acetyl-3,5-dimethoxy-4-hydroxyphenylethylamine and N-acetyl-3,5-dimethoxy-4)hydroxyphenylethylamine were isolated from the urine and identified as metabolites of mescaline. After the administration of N-acetylmescaline the major metabolites excreted in the urine of rats were N-acetyl-3,5-dimethoxy-4-hydroxyphenylethylamine and N-acetyl-3,4-dimethoxy-5-hydroxyphenylethylamine. Suggestive evidence is presented that N-acetylation of mescaline proceeds O-demethylation. In iproniazid-treated animals the excretion of N-acetylated mescaline metabolites is increased, whereas the excretion of the deaminated metabolites is decreased as compared with the corresponding controls. β-Hydroxymescaline was not detected as a metabolite after the administration of mescaline to the rat.
Emerging Network Need for Alien Wavelength Management

Optical-transmission-distance reaches coast-to-coast without regeneration; costs have been reduced due to elimination of regenerations. Mixed-traffic-pattern leads to challenging task of managing the dynamic-wavelength which traverses multiple-network-domains. Effective optical interoperability starts with proper management of alien wavelength.
Evidence for separate modes of action in thermal radiosensitization and direct thermal cell death

It is not known whether heat potentiation of radiation damage and direct heat death are mediated by the same or by different heat lesions within the cell. In this study, three types of experiments were performed on BP-8 murine sarcoma cells to provide evidence against a common mode of action: (1)Evaluation of the kinetics of cell death from heat, radiation, and combined heat-radiation treatments: direct heat death is rapid and essentially complete within 24-48 hours after heat exposure, whereas radiation death develops only after a delay period of several days. Radiosensitization by heat affects only the delayed component of cell death, that is, the radiation component of death. (2)Thermal radiosensitization and direct heat death as a function of heating time: thermal radiosensitization requires only short exposures to heat; prolonged heating does not further enhance this effect. In contrast, direct heat death increases with increasing duration of heat exposure. (3)Independent modification of radiosensitization and thermal death: addition of 5% glycerol to the incubation medium protects cells against direct heat death, but not against thermal radiosensitization. In combination, these findings suggest that heat potentiation of radiation lethality and direct heat death are two distinct phenomena mediated by different cellular mechanisms.
Perceived characteristics of “competent” people

Abstract The purpose of this research was to determine the specific behaviors and cues which 104 assessors perceived as indicating the presence of psychological variables shown to be related to competent job behavior. The cue systems utilized were found to be reminiscent of theory Y conceptions of effective job behavior. Implications of the lack of correlation of cue utilization with assessor characteristics are discussed.
EFFECT OF A TELEPHONE-BASED DEMENTIA CAREGIVER INTERVENTION ON USE OF COMMUNITY SUPPORT SERVICES AND HEALTH CARE RESOURCES

teristics (i.e. demographics), primary stressors (i.e. participants’ cognitive, functional and behavioural decline over time), subjective stressors (i.e. distress due to participant’s behavioural symptoms and burden related to helping with everyday tasks), secondary role strains (i.e. caring for others), protective factors (i.e. coping) and personal stressors (i.e. self-rated health and quality of life). Over four years 37 participants developed dementia (7%), while 133 (24%) met Winblad criteria for mild cognitive impairment (35% incident cases). Our model fitted the data well (c 2/df1⁄42.517; CFI1⁄4.934; PCFI1⁄4.799; SRMR1⁄4.069; RMSEA1⁄4.052; PCLOSE1⁄4.172). Although change on all variables was subtle and informants overall did not experience significant increases in distress longitudinally (slope mean1⁄4-.03, p1⁄4.410), there was significant interindividual variability with respect to distress trajectories (slope variance1⁄4.10, p<.001). Accounting for baseline characteristics and initial symptomatology informants’ psychological distress increased over time if their coping abilities declined, or levels of task-burden, secondary role strain and behaviour distress increased (Table). Increases in distress were also indirectly (via associations with direct predictors) caused by participants’ poorer baseline performance and decline on executive function, decline on memory, worse baseline performance and functional decline on high cognitively demanding everyday tasks, baseline behavioural symptoms and informants’ older age. Increases in informants’ psychological distress were largely predicted by their subjective evaluation of the situation suggesting that there is a role for psychosocial interventions. Objective measures of participant decline only play a secondary role in the emergence of informants’ distress over time.
A leaf area model to simulate cultivar-specific expansion and senescence of maize leaves

Abstract Accurate prediction of leaf area is critical for precise forecasting of crop growth and yield by most crop simulation models. Most maize ( Zea mays L.) models simulate canopy growth using generic functions. In this paper, we present a new leaf area model that can simulate cultivar-specific growth of individual leaves of maize. The new model was linked to CERES-Maize and validated for several cultivars and environments. The model describes three processes of the life cycle of leaves articulated in a dynamic thermal time framework: expansion, longevity and senescence. Calculations are performed on a per leaf basis since current environmental conditions and stresses affect specific processes on individual leaves. Three cultivar-specific inputs are used to distinguish genotypes. These are: area of largest leaf (cm 2 ), longevity of most longevous leaf (growing degree days, base temperature 8 °C), and final leaf number. We tested the model by linking it to CERES-Maize and making the expansion and senescence processes responsive to the canopy-based carbon balance and stress indices of CERES. Model predictions were compared with field measured leaf area for different genotypes and with data available in DSSAT (version 3.5). The new model improved the accuracy of leaf area prediction compared to the original CERES-Maize. Our evaluation also showed that the carbon balance in CERES does not simulate correctly the effect of reduced assimilate supply for leaf growth caused by inter-plant competition. A sensitivity analysis revealed that this new leaf area model is very sensitive to the number of leaves predicted. The new model provides a flexible system to simulate area of leaves in maize. It also facilitates the evaluation and calibration of carbon, water, and nitrogen balances at the leaf level.
Early detection of periventricular leukomalacia by diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging techniques

Periventricular leukomalacia (PVL), the principal form of brain injury in the premature infant, is characterized by overt focal necrotic lesions in periventricular white matter and less prominent, more diffuse cerebral white matter injury. The early detection of the latter, diffuse component of PVL is not consistently possible with conventional brain imaging techniques. We demonstrate the early detection of the diffuse component of PVL by diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DWI). In a premature infant with no definite cerebral abnormality detectable by cranial ultrasonography or conventional magnetic resonance imaging, DWI showed a striking bilateral decrease in water diffusion in cerebral white matter. The DWI abnormality (ie, decreased apparent diffusion coefficient) was similar to that observed with acute cerebral ischemic lesions in adults. At 10 weeks of age, conventional magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasonography showed striking changes consistent with PVL, including the presence of small cysts. The observations indicate the importance of DWI in the early identification of the diffuse component of PVL and also perhaps the role of ischemia in the pathogenesis of the lesion.
Color vision and neuroretinal function in diabetes

Purpose We investigate how type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and diabetic retinopathy (DR) affect color vision (CV) and mfERG implicit time (IT), whether CV and IT are correlated, and whether CV and IT abnormality classifications agree.
Comparison of the hyperhydrating effects of angiotensin II and isoproterenol

Abstract Administration of a single dose of angiotensin II (AII) has been shown to induce a state of hyperhydration in rats that can last from 6–10 h depending upon the route of administration and the dose. The objective of the present study was to determine whether another dipsogenic agent, isoproterenol (ISO), a β-adrenoceptor agonist, could also induce a state of hyperhydration. The results indicate that a single SC dose of ISO can induce a hyperhydration that lasts from 4–6 h depending upon the dose administered. Administration of graded doses of either AII or ISO induced graded increases both in the time of hyperhydaration and change in accumulative mean fluid exchange, ( ΔFE , fluid exchange of treated less fluid excha3ge of control). These two parameters were related linearly and directly for each drug, although the slopes, but not the intercepts, of the relationship for each drug differed significantly. Because the objective of optimal hyperhydration should be to achieve the longest duration of positive fluid balance with the least amount of ingested fluid (i.e., ΔFE ), the slopes of the two lines provide a convenient way to compare the hyperhydration induced by AII and ISO. By this criterion, it would appear that AII provides a more optimal hyperhydration than ISO.
Chemiluminescence from Sulfur Compounds in Novel Flame and Discharge Systems: Proof of Sulfur Dioxide as the Emitter in the New Sulfur Chemiluminescence Detector

Gases from a hydrogen-rich, sulfur-dioxide-containing, hydrogen/oxygen flame were drawn into a reduced-pressure reaction vessel and reacted with ozone. Spectroscopic analysis of the low-pressure chemiluminescence showed that electronically excited sulfur dioxide is the principal emitter exploited in the new sulfur chemiluminescence detector (SCD). Sulfur dioxide phosphorescence was found to contribute significantly to the total emission, suggesting that the technique could be enhanced by detecting more of the phosphorescence at higher total pressures. A calibration plot of signal vs. sulfur dioxide concentration was found to have a slight positive curvature. Interferences from NO2* and OH* were spectroscopically characterized; it is suggested that these could be minimized in the SCD by judicious choice of the wavelength discrimination filter. Utilization of a microwave discharge was similarly efficient at producing the chemiluminescence.
The Rpd3 histone deacetylase is required for segmentation of the Drosophila embryo

Previous studies have implicated histone deacetylation and chromatin condensation as critical mechanisms of transcription repression in yeast and mammals. A specific histone deacetylase, Rpd3, interacts with a variety of sequence-specific transcriptional repressors, including Mad–Max heterodimers and members of the nuclear receptor superfamily. Here, we present evidence that a strong hypomorphic mutation in the Drosophila Rpd3 gene causes embryonic lethality and a specific pair-rule segmentation phenotype. The analysis of a number of segmentation genes suggests that the repressor function of Even-skipped (Eve) may be diminished, causing an indirect loss of Ftz-mediated activation of engrailed. The relatively mild defects observed in Rpd3 mutants suggest that the recently identified Groucho and dCtBP corepressor proteins do not function solely through the recruitment of histone deacetylases. We discuss the possibility that Eve mediates multiple mechanisms of repression, so that Rpd3 mutants disrupt the regulation of just a subset of Eve target genes.
Economic Aspects of Advanced Coal-Fired Gas Turbine Locomotives

Increases in the price of such conventional fuels as Diesel No. 2, as well as advancements in turbine technology, have prompted the present economic assessment of coal-fired gas turbine locomotive engines. A regenerative open cycle internal combustion gas turbine engine may be used, given the development of ceramic hot section components. Otherwise, an external combustion gas turbine engine appears attractive, since although its thermal efficiency is lower than that of a Diesel engine, its fuel is far less expensive. Attention is given to such a powerplant which will use a fluidized bed coal combustor. A life cycle cost analysis yields figures that are approximately half those typical of present locomotive engines.
Enhanced Mn accumulation by snapbean cultivars under FE stress

Abstract Iron deficiency in dicots is accompanied by an increased potential for Fe uptake and translocation. The mechanisms responsible for these changes in metabolism (Fe‐stress response) provide for the adaptation of Fe‐efficient genotypes to conditions which limit the availability of Fe. Previous studies indicated that when Fe‐stress response is initiated, the uptake of Mn, as well as Fe, is enhanced in Fe efficient species such as sunflower. The present study was conducted to determine the relationship between Fe‐stress response and Mn uptake in snapbean (Phaseolus vulgaris L., cvs. Bush Blue Lake 290, Bush Blue Lake 274). The plants were grown in complete nutrient solutions containing 0.02 to 0.52 mg L‐1 Mn, at acid or alkaline pH. Iron stress was induced with 0.22 mg l‐1 Fe(EDDHA) (molar ratio 1:1 or 1:2), high P (14.3 mg L‐1) and excess CaCO3. Bush Blue Lake 290 ('BBL 290') was more sensitive than Bush Blue Lake 274 ('BBL 274') to Mn toxicity in acid (pH 5.2) nutrient solutions with adequate Fe. Un...
Using PowerPoint to Encourage Active Learning: A Tool to Enhance Student Learning in the First Accounting Course

Educators have recognized that curricula must become more focused on developing student skills and less focused on memorization of rules. Increasing demands on student time make it necessary for students to access learning support tools on demand. Successful curricula give students opportunities for active learning and opportunities to be self-regulated learners. Teaching students how to be active, self-regulated learners prepares them for careers which will require them to be lifelong learners. The creative use of technology throughout the curriculum can help educators bring active learning experiences to their students. This article describes the development of an interactive PowerPoint module for use in an introductory accounting course in a business school. This use of PowerPoint provides students with immediate, appropriate feedback with explanatory details. This tool is designed to be used outside of the classroom at the studentâ€™s own pace and can be used in disciplines other than accounting.
Preliminary measurements and assessment of strength and fracture toughness in free-standing CVD diamond for high-speed missile domes

While the optical and thermal properties of CVD diamond have been previously addressed, its mechanical properties have received little attention. A preliminary study of strength and fracture toughness in free-standing DC arc-discharge CVD diamond is reported in this paper. The materials studied is characterized by near-randomly oriented grains ranging in size from 3 to 30 microns. Disks ranging from 40 to 800 microns in thickness and from 7 to 16 mm in diameter were tested for flexure strength using a ball-on-ring apparatus. Both polished and unpolished disks were studied resulting in strength values averaging over 100,000 psi. Fracture surface analysis showed that the fracture occurred transgranularly as is generally observed for other brittle polycrystalline materials. The fracture toughness value of 6.5 +/- 1.2 MPa-m1/2 determined by the analysis is enhanced over the previously measured single crystal value of 3.4 MPa-m1/2 reflecting the increased area of the rough fracture surface. The indentation toughness was shown to have a similar value providing additional evidence of this enhancement.© (1992) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Applications of the Geometric Design of Mechanical Linkages With Task Acceleration Specifications

This paper formulates the kinematic specification of the synthesis problem for planar and spatial open serial chains in which the acceleration of the end-effector is specified. While the planar RR synthesis has been reported by the authors in some of their previous work, the synthesis of the spatial perpendicular RRS mechanical linkage with prescribed acceleration task is described in details in this paper and is a new contribution. Applications of this research focus on the design of planar RR and four-bar linkages to maintain specified local motion. In extending the research to spatial applications, a new strategy for failure recovery of a general six degree of freedom TRS robot arm is presented. It combines the second order effects of the task with the particular joint failure to yield free parameters that allow reconfiguration of the system to accommodate the failure.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Factors limiting injury from pesticides

Factors are discussed that may limit injury from pesticides whether the victims are exposed occupationally, through other intentional uses, or simply accidently. Emphasis is placed on choice of methods fitted to the problems revealed by dependable vital statistics for each country. In general, good labeling of pesticides is the most important single factor in their safe use. Regulation of use combining agricultural advice to the farmer with surveillance of his practices in the handling of pesticides often is the best way to minimize occupational poisoning and restrict residues on crops brought to market. To be successful, these and other aspects of education must be directed toward the improvement of human health. International organizations may be the best source of practical solutions simply because of the range of their experience.
Empirical chaotic dynamics in economics

Barnett and Chen [4–6] have displayed evidence of chaos in certain monetary aggregates, but the tests have unknown statistical sampling properties. Using monthly growth rates in monetary aggregates, we conduct bispectral tests for nonlinearity. Our tests have known sampling properties, and we find deep nonlinearity in some monetary aggregate series.