cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Compact Marx Generator to Drive a Low-Impedance MILO

A low-impedance MILO is being developed at Texas Tech University, and a compact Marx generator was designed to drive it. The target design goals of the Marx are an output voltage greater than 500 kV and an output current greater than 40 kA. Risetime needs to be sub 150 ns and the pulsewidth must be greater than 100 ns. These performance goals were determined from PIC simulation of the MILO such that an RF efficiency (>10%) and RF peak power (> 1 GW) can be achieved. Tests using smaller 3 and 4 stage Marx generators with the same topology as the final design were used to determine a per-stage inductance of approximately 120 nH. From this derived inductance, multiple configurations were simulated to decide upon the ideal design for the desired performance goals. From these simulations, an 18-stage Marx with 2 capacitors per stage was chosen as the most optimal design, and from simulations into a 12 Ohm load a number of the criteria can be met with this configuration. The simulated peak voltage and current are 570 kV and 48 kA, respectively, while pulse risetime and pulsewidth are 170 ns and 540 ns, respectively. The designed Marx is being experimentally validated to confirm the findings of the simulation, firing into an approximately 12 Ohm water load to represent the low-impedance MILO that is being designed.
Dimerization and structure formation of colloids via capillarity at curved fluid interfaces

Capillary interactions are ubiquitous between colloids trapped at fluid interfaces. Generally, colloids in fluid interfaces have pinned, undulated contact lines that distort the interface around them. To minimize the area, and therefore the energy of these distortions, colloids interact and assemble in a manner that depends on the shape of the host interface. On curved interfaces, capillary interactions direct isolated colloid motion along deviatoric curvature gradients. This directed motion relies on the leading order, long-ranged quadrupolar distortions made by the colloids' undulated pinned contact lines. Here we study pair interactions and dimer formation of colloids on non-uniformly curved fluid interfaces. Pair interaction energies are inferred to be order of 104kBT, and interacting forces are of order 10-1 pN for 10 micron particles adsorbed on interfaces formed around a 250 micron micropost. We compare experiments to analysis for the pair interaction energy, and identify criteria for dimers to form. We also study the formation of trapped structures by multiple particles to discern the influence of the underlying interface shape and the contact line undulations. By comparison to Monte Carlo simulations with potentials of interactions based on analysis, we find that higher order terms in the distortion fields generated by the particles play a major role in the structure formation on the curved interface. These interactions are determined by the particle's contact line and the host interface shape, and can be used to assemble particles independent of their material properties.
Designing Ultra-Compact Silicon T-Junctions using Machine Learning

We designed an ultra-compact and low-loss T-junction via a reinforcement learning algorithm coupled with finite difference time domain (FDTD) simulations. Simulated insertion loss is < 1dB with a device footprint of 1.2 μm × 1.2 μm.
Mechanical Behavior Evolution and Damage Characterization of Coal under Different Cyclic Engineering Loading

The cyclic loading causes the strength change of porous rocks, which can be frequently encountered in underground coal mining. In order to quantify the cumulative damage of porous coal, multilevel uniaxial cyclic compressive tests were carried out considering different loading frequencies. The results show that under cyclic loading, Young’s modulus of coal shows a first drastic increase and then decrease trend in terms of the number of loading-unloading cycles, while the Poisson’s ratio gradually increased at lower peak stress amplitudes and then increased sharply with peak cyclic stress amplitude until losing load bearing capacity, following a stepwise rising trend. At a higher loading frequency, volumetric compressibility-dilatancy transition is shifted to an earlier time. The loading/unloading response ratio (LURR) was used to evaluate the damage of coal under cyclic loading. It is found that LURR is an effective parameter to evaluate the damage of coaly rock under cyclic loading and is also useful in distinguishing different deformation mechanism at different loading stages. The results also show that the damage of coal can initiate at the early stage of cyclic loading at a low loading frequency; however, the increase in frequency of cyclic loading can delay the damage time, requiring a relatively higher level of peak cyclic stress amplitude.
Abdominal Trauma Associated with Multiple Injuries

Summary Abdominal trauma due to nonpenetrating or penetrating injury is frequently associated with multiple injuries. The overall mortality rate is high (25 per cent) with an operative mortality of 14 per cent. Associated extra-abdominal injuries play a significant role in increasing mortality. The diagnosis of abdominal injuries is most often made on the basis of clinical findings. Radiologic examination is often helpful. Percutaneous aspiration of the peritoneal cavity is a valuable and accurate diagnostic procedure and should be employed in all doubtful cases, especially in the comatose patient. Establishment of treatment priorities is essential, with adequate ventilation first, followed by measures to control hemorrhage and to combat shock. The management of injuries to various abdominal viscera has been discussed. Emphasis is placed on the importance of a carefully prearranged plan for the emergency care, diagnosis, and management of the injured patient and on the value of a well trained staff for the successful care of the patient with abdominal injury.
The power of community science to quantify ecological interactions in cities.

Studying animals in urban environments is especially challenging because much of the area is private property not easily accessible to professional scientists. In addition, collecting data on animals that are cryptic, secretive, or rare is also challenging due to the time and resources needed to amass an adequate dataset. Here, we show that community science can be a powerful tool to overcome these challenges. We used observations submitted to the community science platform iNaturalist to assess predation and parasitism across urbanization gradients in a secretive, ‘hard-to-study’ species, the Southern Alligator Lizard (Elgaria multicarinata). From photographs, we quantified predation risk by assessing tail injuries and quantified parasitism by counting tick loads on lizards. We found that tail injuries increased with age and with urbanization, suggesting that urban areas are risky habitats. Conversely, parasitism decreased with urbanization likely due to a loss of hosts and anti-tick medications used on human companion animals. This community science approach generated a large dataset on a secretive species rapidly and at an immense spatial scale that facilitated quantitative measures of urbanization (e.g. percent impervious surface cover) as opposed to qualitative measures (e.g. urban vs. rural). We therefore demonstrate that community science can help resolve ecological questions that otherwise would be difficult to address.
Enhancement of channel-flow convection heat transfer using piezoelectric fans

Abstract This paper presents the experimental and numerical studies on the convection heat transfer enhancement of air channel flow using a piezoelectric fan. Significant improvements in channel convection heat transfer are observed experimentally by operating the piezoelectric fan at 90.3 Hz under various channel flow velocities. The peak-to-peak displacement of the piezoelectric fan increases up to 11.8 mm, which covers 53% of the channel width. The piezoelectric fan is tested at three different relative locations from a heated surface in the channel. As a result, the piezoelectric fan, aligned at the front-end of the heated surface, achieves a maximum heat transfer enhancement of 102% at the channel Reynolds number of 603. The numerical study is performed using ANSYS Fluent to investigate complex flow fields created by the piezoelectric fan and their impact on the thermal responses of the heated surface in the channel. The Q-criterion analysis is used to identify vortical structures generated from the piezoelectric fan and understand their transport characteristics. It is found that the formation, propagation, and impinging dynamics of vortical structures are the significant factors that affect the convective heat transfer rate of the heated surface in the channel.
Control-aware batch process scheduling

Abstract Batch processes are inevitably affected by disturbances. The process control system can often reject them and ensure that the final product is “in spec.” Nevertheless, processing times and the quality of the final product and any intermediates can fluctuate as a result. In turn, this impacts the computation and execution of production schedules. We propose a new scheduling framework that considers the effect of disturbances and the impact of process control on short-term production scheduling of batch processes. Processing time expressions are derived using historical closed-loop process operating data. Subsequently, a two-stage stochastic scheduling problem is formulated, whereby exogenous and endogenous uncertainties are considered at the first stage, with the exception of product demand, which is dealt with in the second stage. Two case studies are presented in detail.
Gastrojejunal Enteral Tube Serving as a Small Bowel Bezoar Nidus.

Gastrojejunal (GJ) tube placement is indicated in the management of gastric feeding-related intolerance. Though uncommon, GJ complications may occur. We present the case of a five-year-old male with congenital heart disease in which image-guided replacement of a GJ tube was unable to be completed due to a mass adhered to the tip of the tube. The subsequent endoscopic evaluation identified the mass as a hair-based bezoar and the tube was successfully removed. The child was subsequently diagnosed with trichotillomania, trichophagia, and pica. This case illustrates the importance of recognizing bezoar formation as a potential complication of GJ enteric tubes, particularly in children with trichophagia and pica.
An Evaluation of Unsigned Discretionary Accrual Measures after Relieving the Impact of Influential observations on Accrual Model Estimation and Hypothesis Testing

This study evaluates the accrual models after mitigating the impact of influential observations using MM-estimation, a robust regression method. I find that, relative to ordinary least squares (OLS) regression using winsorized data, MM-estimation reduces the magnitude of the unsigned abnormal accruals for the majority of the observations and dramatically reduces the type I error rates in hypothesis testing. Also, relative to their robust counterparts, the small OLS unsigned abnormal accruals have low test power due to the noise caused by influential observations. Using a prior study, I show that influential observations that are 1 percent of the sample cause a type I error. I also show that small robust unsigned abnormal accruals have higher power than their OLS counterparts.
Stability and Effect of Parkinsonian State on Deep Brain Stimulation Cortical Evoked Potentials.

OBJECTIVES To characterize and compare the stability of cortical potentials evoked by deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the subthalamic nucleus (STN) across the naive, parkinsonian, and pharmacologically treated parkinsonian states. To advance cortical potentials as possible biomarkers for DBS programming. MATERIALS AND METHODS Serial electrocorticographic (ECoG) recordings were made more than nine months from a single non-human primate instrumented with bilateral ECoG grids spanning anterior parietal to prefrontal cortex. Cortical evoked potentials (CEPs) were generated through time-lock averaging of the ECoG recordings to DBS pulses delivered unilaterally in the STN region using a chronically implanted, six-contact, scaled DBS lead. Recordings were made across the naive followed by mild and moderate parkinsonian conditions achieved by staged injections of the 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) neurotoxin. In addition to characterizing the spatial distribution and stability of the response within each state, changes in the amplitude and latency of CEP components as well as in the frequency content were examined in relation to parkinsonian severity and dopamine replacement. RESULTS In the naive state, the STN DBS CEP presented as a multiphase response maximal over M1 cortex, with components attributable to physiological activity distinguishable from stimulus artifact as early as 0.45-0.75 msec poststimulation. When delivered using therapeutically effective parameters in the parkinsonian state, the CEP was highly stable across multiple recording sessions within each behavioral state. Across states, significant differences were present with respect to both the latency and amplitude of individual response components, with greater differences present for longer-latency components (all p < 0.05). Power spectral density analysis revealed a high-beta peak within the evoked response, with significant changes in power between disease states across multiple frequency bands. CONCLUSIONS Our findings underscore the spatiotemporal specificity and relative stability of the DBS-CEP associated with different disease states and with therapeutic benefit. DBS-CEP may be a viable biomarker for therapeutic programming.
Encircling of exceptional points with quantum light

We investigate how a non-Hermitian photonic system will respond when excited with quantum states of light after dynamically encircling an exceptional point. We find that photon transport is chiral even in the quantum domain.
Distributed parameter optimal structural design: some basic problem formulations and their applications

As a part of the broad development that has taken place in the field of structural optimization in recent years, analytical modelling for the design of continuum structures has been extended to cover a variety of new applications. Thus there are formulations available now for the optimization with respect to various modes of response or measures of performance, for most types of structural form, to be optimal relative to material distribution, shape, choice of materials, prestress, and so on. Only a modest part out of the comprehensive list of topics is to be covered in these lectures. The reader will find a good many of the major areas of application e.g., ‘design for dynamic response,’ ‘shape design’, ‘grid optimization,’ and ‘sensitivity analysis’ — to name a few, treated in separate lectures given elsewhere within the institute. (Citations to other lectures in this collection are identified by the authors name with an asterisk attached to it.) Our effort is directed more toward an exposition of methods for the interpretation of design problems into a form convenient for analysis. This is to be done mainly within the perspective of well known results from the mathematics of optimization. The material presented here is comprised for the most part of formal problem statements, listings and interpretation of necessary conditions, and the presentation of example applications.
Time Effects on Dynamic Shear Modulus of Clays

A Hardin oscillator was used to apply a steady-state, torsional vibratory load to remolded specimens of kaolinite and calcium bentonite inside a triaxial chamber and under an isotropic consolidation pressure. The principles of the resonant column test were used to determine the dynamic shear modulus. After completion of primary consolidation, the response was studied as a function of time for both drained and undrained conditions. Regression analyses were performed on these data and relationships are presented which show the effects that void ratio, effective stress, and time have on the dynamic response of these two clays. The shear modulus was shown to increase with increasing pressure, decreasing void ratio and time for both materials. This increase was approximately 10% of kaolinite and 40% for bentonite per logarithmic cycle of time after completion of primary consolidation for constant effective stress.
Feminism & popular culture: investigating the postfeminist mystique, by Rebecca Munford and Melanie Waters

Uniting women’s studies and popular culture studies, Rebecca Munford and Melanie Waters offer an excellent and in-depth exploration of the inherent relationship between popular culture, feminism an...
The Big Question for Performance Management: Explaining Performance Information Use

One of the “big questions” facing public management research centers on the use of performance data. Governments have devoted extraordinary effort in creating performance data, wagering that it will be used to improve governance, but there is much we do not know about why managers actually use performance information. This paper addresses this question, testing the antecedents of self-reported performance information use from a survey of local government managers. The paper develops and tests a series of individual, job, organizational and environmental influences. The results show that public service motivation, leadership role,information availability, organizational culture, and flexibility all affect performance information use.
More Work for Mother: How Spouses, Cohabiting Partners and Relatives Affect the Hours Mothers Work

This paper investigates the determinants of work hours for mothers ofsmall children living in households with one other adult. We hypothesize that the presence and characteristics of the other adult affect a mother's work-related decision-making, and that the nature of the effect varies by the relationship to the otheradult—whether a spouse, an unmarried partner, or a relative. The results indicate that relationship type shapes how mothers' weekly hours of work respond to financial need, childcare pressures, and their own human capital. Married mothers appear to be more able to call on the earnings of their partners to reduce their work hours than mothers in other household situations. There was little evidence that female relatives freed mothers to work.
Practical considerations for estimating clinical trial accrual periods: application to a multi-center effectiveness study

Adequate participant recruitment is vital to the conduct of a clinical trial. Projected recruitment rates are often over-estimated, and the time to recruit the target population (accrual period) is often under-estimated. This report illustrates three approaches to estimating the accrual period and applies the methods to a multi-center, randomized, placebo controlled trial undergoing development. Incorporating known sources of accrual variation can yield a more justified estimate of the accrual period. Simulation studies can be incorporated into a clinical trial's planning phase to provide estimates for key accrual summaries including the mean and standard deviation of the accrual period. The accrual period of a clinical trial should be carefully considered, and the allocation of sufficient time for participant recruitment is a fundamental aspect of planning a clinical trial.
Past, Present, and Future of Digital Medievalism

In this article, the author looks back at over 30 years of experience with “Digital Humanities” and argues that while our media for research, delivery, have changed, our methodologies have not. That fact poses a significant challenge for Digital Medievalists because the author believes and advocates for a significant change not just in our delivery systems, but that the digital tools we now have should be changing the way we think and do research, teach, and advertise Medieval Studies as a whole. At once a personal story of experience in the field and an analysis of current practices, this article critiques practices frequently touted as innovative and the wave of the future as nothing more than the same old packages using a new delivery system that may or may not be as effective as the previous delivery system. This critique in the author’s view applies to our teaching as well as to our research. Finally, the author offers some suggestions for both research and teaching that attempt to break out of the old molds and methods and use the digital tools we have in innovative ways that do change the way medievalists research and teach and take fuller advantage of what working digitally offers the field.
Water balance and rice growth responses to direct seeding, deep tillage, and landscape placement: Findings from a valley terrace in Nepal

Abstract For maximizing water retention and attaining high yields, transplanting into puddled soil (TPR) is often considered the optimal method of rice ( Orzya sativa L.) establishment. Alternative management techniques like direct seeding (DSR) and deep tillage have been proposed as mechanisms to improve soil physical properties for subsequent dry-season crops, but the risks to rice are uncertain. In this full factorial study on a valley terrace in Nepal, the influence of tillage (shallow—T 1 , deep chisel—T 2 , deep chisel + moldboard plough—T 3 ) and establishment practice (TPR, DSR) on the field water balance and rice performance were evaluated in two adjacent landscape settings (terrace edge “upland”, central terrace “lowland”). Although deep tillage had only modest influences on seepage and percolation (SP) rates in both years (Y 1 , Y 2 ), landscape placement and establishment practice had significant implications for the water balance (e.g. Y 2 SP cm day −1 : TPR-lowland = 1.6, DSR-lowland = 2.3, TPR-upland = 4.1, DSR-upland = 6.1). During low rainfall periods, however, soil water potential and drought vulnerability were governed solely by landscape placement. Despite water balance differences, there was little evidence that rice rooting behavior was substantially modified by landscape or establishment method. Weed biomass was higher in DSR, but was uncorrelated with water balance and productivity trends. In Y 1 , lower SP rates and more days with continuous flooding were positively associated with rice productivity. DSR yields were significantly lower than TPR in both landscape positions, with the lowland outperforming the upland (Y 1 mt ha −1 : TPR-lowland = 6.4, DSR-lowland = 5.2, TPR-upland = 5.7, DSR-upland = 4.7). To determine if N dynamics were contributing to productivity differences, fertilizer nitrogen was increased from 120 to 150 kg N ha −1 in Y 2 . Results suggest that DSR performance is comparable – and landscape less important – if nitrogen is non-limiting (Y 2 mt ha −1 : TPR-lowland = 6.9, DSR-lowland = 6.5, TPR-upland = 7.0, DSR-upland = 6.5); no aspect of the field water balance was associated with yield variability in Y 2 . For direct seeding in N-deficient farming systems, landscape criteria may prove useful for minimizing production risks by identifying field areas with lower SP rates.
Spectroscopic properties of gold nanoparticles at the single particle level in biological environments

Labeling cells and tissues with fluorescent probes, such as organic dyes and quantum dots (Qdots) is a widespread and successful technique for studying molecular dynamics both in vitro and in vivo. However, those probes usually suffer from undesirable photophysical/photochemical processes, such as blinking and photobleaching, limiting their utilization. The main challenges in fluorescent probe design are to improve their absorption/emission properties, and to provide higher stability against photobleaching. In the last few years, metallic nanoparticles (NPs) of various sizes, shapes, and compositions have been used as a new alternative for cellular microscopy. This is in part because-unlike common organic dyes and Qdots-metallic NPs do not bleach or blink upon continuous illumination, are extremely stable, very bright, and their luminescence spans over the visible spectrum. These characteristics make them attractive contrast agents for cell imaging both in vitro and in vivo. For these reasons, the emission of metallic NPs in bulk solutions has already been extensively characterized. In contrast with bulk experiments, where billions of molecules are measured simultaneously, single-particle techniques allow the observation of characteristics and dynamical processes otherwise hidden in the measured average. A full understanding of the photophysical properties of the NPs is critical when they are used for single-molecule applications. Photophysical processes can be a source of artifacts if they are not interpreted accordingly, and thus a careful characterization of these labels at the single-particle level became crucial for the correct interpretation of the experimental results. Herein, we study some of their unique optical properties at the single-particle level and show examples that illustrate their intrinsic heterogeneity when used in biological environments.
Formation of palmityl-[3′-32P]coenzyme a from [γ-32P]ATP in mitochondrial extracts of guinea pig liver☆

Abstract Investigations of the incorporation of 32 P into acyl-coenzyme A (CoA) in incubation mixtures containing a soluble protein preparation derived from mitochondria, [γ- 32 P]ATP, and palmityl-CoA have led to the discovery of an enzymatic activity which catalyzes the exchange of palmityl groups between molecules of CoA: CoA ∗ + palmityl-CoA ↔ palmityl-CoA ∗ + CoA. The preparation also contains dephospho-CoA kinase and palmityl-CoA thiolester hydrolase activities. The initial detection of the exchange reaction resulted from the formation of [3′- 32 P]CoA via the dephospho-CoA kinase reaction with exogenous [γ- 32 P]ATP. The described preparation of palmityl-[3′- 32 P]CoA and palmityl-[ 35 S]CoA facilitated demonstration of the reversibility of the reaction and ruled out the possibility that the exchange of fragments of the CoA molecule mediated the observed incorporation. The reversible palmityl group exchange does not appear to be catalyzed by a previously described enzyme. None of the possible acyl group acceptors considered in these studies participated in the reaction as efficiently as CoA itself. The possibility is discussed that the exchange reaction may explain reports of an unknown lipid formed by an oligomycin-sensitive mitochondrial ATPase preparation.
Disrotatory and Conrotatory Transition Structures for the Fe(CO)3-Templated Rearrangement of Methylenecyclopropane to Trimethylenemethane

Hybrid HF-DFT calculations were used to compute the structures and relative energetics of competing disrotatory and conrotatory transition states for ring-opening of Fe(CO)3-complexed methylenecyclopropanes.
Matrix isolation studies and potential function for perfluorocyclobutane

Abstract The infrared and Raman spectra of perfluorocyclobutane isolated in argon matrices at 1:100 and 1:200 mole ratios have been measured between 200 and 2000 cm−1. Although the ring-puckering fundamental (ν16) was not observed directly, an assignment for the 2 ← 1 (30 cm−1) transition of ν16 has been deduced from sum and difference bands resolved in the infrared spectrum. Potential functions based upon valence force models are considered in detail and correlated with those of similar ring systems. By using the frequency of the 2 ← 1 transition for ν16 and a vibrational reduced mass of 1501 amu, an approximate model potential function calculation yields a slightly puckered equilibrium conformation with a barrier on the order of 124 cm−1. The vibrational assignment for perfluorocyclobutane is discussed in terms of the new matrix isolation spectra.
The Decline of Latin American Student Activism.

If Latin America once represented a worldwide reference point for potent student activism, the region now stands out for the decline of activism. While other regions experience new forms and impacts of activism, Latin America's decline should be understood within two broad contexts: macropolitical and higher educational. The macropolitical context subsumes at least three major causal factors. One is the role of authoritarian rule, especially powerful in the 1970s but leaving a legacy that itself works against activism. Second, we must consider the more complex and mixed impacts of the redemocratization that has swept the region. The third factor is the general decline of the left both domestically and internationally. On the higher education side, decades of unprecedented growth in student numbers have fragmented the student body, especially as growth is accompanied by extraordinary institutional proliferation. Many of the newer institutions are inhospitable for student activism. Privatization has had an especially strong demobilizing effect. The institutional changes are accompanied by a changing profile of fields of study, away from some most associated with student politics. Finally, the concentration of top social scientists in research centers apart from the universities - and from the students - is also crucial.
Induction of TR4 Orphan Receptor by Retinoic Acid in Human HaCaT Keratinocytes

Human TR4 orphan receptor (TR4) can modulate the transcriptional activity of the reporter gene containing an AGGTCA direct repeat-hormone response element. Here we studied the potential role of TR4 in human HaCaT keratinocytes. Using a chloramphenicol acetyltransferase reporter gene assay, it was shown that TR4 can suppress retinoic acid-induced transactivation by 47.3% in human HaCaT keratinocytes. Electrophoretic mobility shift assay indicated that this suppression may be due to TR4 binding with higher affinity to the retinoic acid response element than retinoid receptors. Western blot analysis further suggested that retinoic acid can increase the expression of TR4 protein in human HaCaT keratinocytes, indicating that TR4 acts as a negative feedback modulator for retinoic acid action. Interestingly, TR4 expression is increased in normal human keratinocytes when substituting a low calcium medium with a high calcium medium. Together, our data suggested, for the first time, that an orphan receptor, such as TR4, may play an important part in retinoid-mediated signaling pathways in human keratinocytes, providing a new insight into keratinocyte biology.
Proton NMR Characterization of Room-Temperature Aging After Modest Thermal Cycling in Isotactic Polypropylenes

A proton NMR method, based on simple Bloch-decay spectra in the solid state, is presented that enables one to follow, with excellent sensitivity, structural changes associated with aging in semicrystalline polymers whose Tg is well below the aging temperature. The method is demonstrated for two representative isotactic polypropylene (iPP) samples, a Ziegler−Natta product and a metallocene product. Starting with samples that had been melt crystallized at a cooling rate of 1 °C/min and then aged at ambient temperature for long periods of time, subsequent mild heating cycles between ambient temperature and temperatures below 90 °C were applied. Such heating cycles remained more than 70 °C below the major crystalline melting temperature for iPP. Aging at 20 °C was monitored by NMR over aging times, 6 min < tage < 4 d, following those heating cycles. It was shown that changes in the Bloch-decay spectra, corresponding to a lower limit of 2−3% of the mass of iPP being transformed from mobile to rigid components,...
Risk-Taking and Risk-Avoiding Behavior: The Impact of Some Dispositional and Situational Variables

ABSTRACT The purpose of this research was to assess the ability of a decision making model to correctly predict subjects' preferences for one of two alternatives; one alternative was highly valued but risky, whereas the other was less valuable but more certain. The model was based on the assumption that an additive relationship exists among self-efficacy, self-worth, and parental expectations in influencing subjects' propensity to take risks. The results suggested that the model did not work as expected. Rather, self-efficacy emerged as the principle variable influencing the risk-taking and risk-avoiding decision-making behaviors of subjects when a variety of resources were involved.
Alzheimer disease: Evidence for selective loss of cholinergic neurons in the nucleus basalis

The nucleus basalis of Meynert provides diffuse cholinergic input to the neocortex. When compared with an age- and sex-matched control, the nucleus basalis from a patient with Alzheimer disease demonstrated substantial reduction of neurons. Loss of this neuronal population may represent an anatomical correlate of the well-documented cholinergic derangement in Alzheimer disease.
The extraction and purification of microbial DNA from sediments

Abstract A new method for the isolation of intracellular and extacellular DNA from a range of sediment types has been developed. This method is based upon the direct lysis of cells in the sediment, extraction of released DNA from the sediments and its subsequent purification by CsCL-EtBr gradient centrifugation and/or hydroxyapatite chromatography. Yields of 26 μg intracellular DNA and 1 μg extracellular DNA have been obtained per gram of sediment.
A positive analysis of corporate capital budgeting practices

Although the academic literature has long argued that discounted cash flow methods are superior to other capital budgeting rules, these methods have only fairly recently come into widespread use. This article points out that there are both costs and benefits to using discounting rules such as net present value. Therefore, they may often not work better in practice than nondiscounting methods. Empirically, the use of discounting methods is positively correlated with market interest rates and the dissemination of information about these tools and negatively correlated with the degree of uncertainty in the economy, which is consistent with our hypotheses.
Dimers on the triangular kagome lattice

We derive exact results for close-packed dimers on the triangular kagome lattice (TKL), formed by inserting triangles into the triangles of the kagome lattice. Because the TKL is a non-bipartite lattice, dimer-dimer correlations are short-ranged, so that the ground state at the Rokhsar-Kivelson (RK) point of the corresponding quantum dimer model on the same lattice is a short-ranged spin liquid. Using the Pfaffian method, we derive an exact form for the free energy, and we find that the entropy is 1/3 ln2 per site, regardless of the weights of the bonds. The occupation probability of every bond is 1/4 in the case of equal weights on every bond. Similar to the case of lattices formed by corner-sharing triangles (such as the kagome and squagome lattices), we find that the dimer-dimer correlation function is identically zero beyond a certain (short) distance. We find in addition that monomers are deconfined on the TKL, indicating that there is a short-ranged spin liquid phase at the RK point. We also find exact results for the ground state energy of the classical Heisenberg model. The ground state can be ferromagnetic, ferrimagnetic, locally coplanar, or locally canted, depending on the couplings. From the dimer model and the classical spin model, we derive upper bounds on the ground state energy of the quantum Heisenberg model on the TKL.
Gas—liquid chromatographic method for routine detection of plasma sulfo-, gluco-, and free 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylglycol

Abstract A revised method is described for detection of human plasma 3-methoxy-4-hy-droxyphenylglycol (MHPG) using gas-liquid chromatography and electron capture detection. This method has comparable sensitivity and reproducibility as HPLC methods with amperometric detection but is less expensive. The extraction and detection of an internal standard of 3-ethoxy-4-hydroxyphenylglycol (EHPG) is identical to MHPG, making quantitation easier than with electrochemical detection. Techniques for measuring the sulfo-, gluco-, and free plasma MHPG fractions are described, and normal adult values are reported.
Glucocorticoid effects on contact hypersensitivity and on the cutaneous response to ultraviolet light in the mouse

Abstract A single exposure to 254 nm ultraviolet irradiation (UV) can systemically suppress experimental sensitization to the simple allergen 2,4-dinitro, 1-chlorobenzene (DNCB) in the mouse. We show here that topical application at the site of irradiation of the 21-oic acid methyl ester derivative of the synthetic glucocorticoid triamcinolone acetonide (TAme) prevents UV suppression of sensitization. That is, mice painted with TAme at the site of UV exposure developed normal contact hypersensitivity (CH); mice exposed to UV only, like mice treated with the parent compound triamcinolone acetonide (TA), failed to be sensitized by DNCB applied to a distal site. TAme is inactivated rapidly by plasma esterases, so its effect is thought to be confined to the skin. Apparently, TAme blocked the cutaneous signal(s) for systemic suppression of CH. Histologically, irradiated skin exhibited mild inflammation and hyperproliferation, but these effects were greatly exaggerated and prolonged in the UV + TAme-treated skin, independent of sensitization at the distal site. The infiltrate consisted mostly of neutrophils and lacked the round cells characteristic of cell-mediated immunity. Apparently, normal immune suppression by UV prevented this vigorous reaction to irradiated skin. Applied together with DNCB, TAme blocked sensitization. It also prevented response to challenge by DNCB in previously sensitized animals. However, unlike the parent compound triamcinolone acetonide (TA), Budesonide or Beclomethasone diproprionate, each of which can penetrate the epidermis in active form, TAme had no effect on sensitization when applied at a distal site. Likewise, TAme did not affect plasma B (17-desoxycortisol) levels, whereas the other three compounds reduced plasma B tenfold, as expected of compounds causing adrenal-pituitary suppression. The results as a whole show that glucocorticoids can specifically inhibit cutaneous steps in induction of cell-mediated immunity or its suppression, and can, at the site of challenge, prevent its expression in CH.
Popular Resistance to Globalization and Neoliberalism in Latin America

Popular resistance to globalization and neoliberalism in Latin America is extensive and has been increasing both in scale and intensity. The polyarchic neoliberal regimes in Latin America have responded to this increasing popular resistance by relying on two types of measures: (1) tactical measures aimed at suppressing eruptions of popular resistance; and (2) more strategic measures aimed at preventing or at least maintaining within manageable limits the growing resistance to their policies. The United States Government and the main international financial institutions operating in the region have played a major role in both developing the second type of measures and assisting most of the Latin American governments to implement these measures. This essay examines the increasing popular resistance to neoliberal policies and capitalist globalization in Latin America; the responses of the existing neoliberal regimes and their backers to this increasing resistance; and the alternatives to polyarchy, neolibera...
Interactions between nutritional status and long-term responses to ultraviolet-B radiation stress in a marine diatom

Influences of nutritional status on the photoinhibitory effects of ultraviolet-B radiation (UVBR: 290 to 320 nm) on the specific growth rates (μobs) and biomass of Phaeodactylum tricornutum were determined using nutrient-replete batch cultures and nutrient-limited continuous cultures. P. tricornutum cultures were exposed to UVBR doses representative of current mid-latitude and ozone-depletion intensities. Specific growth rates and biomass were inhibited from 2 to 16% by UVBR during nutrient-replete growth. However, no effect of UVBR on μobs or biomass was detectable when nutrient limitation exceeded the potential for limitation by UVBR. Thus, a competitive interaction appears to occur between macronutrient stress and UVBR stress, such that μobs and biomass will be determined by the most limiting factor. Our results suggest that measurable decreases in phytoplankton μobs and biomass from UVBR are most likely in nutrient-rich areas of the ocean, while these parameters may not be appropriate for measuring UVBR stress in regions of nutrient limitation.
Optimal design and allocation of electrified vehicles and dedicated charging infrastructure for minimum life cycle greenhouse gas emissions and cost

Electrified vehicles can reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by shifting energy demand from gasoline to electricity. GHG reduction potential depends on vehicle design, adoption, driving and charging patterns, charging infrastructure, and electricity generation mix. We construct an optimization model to study these factors by determining optimal design of conventional vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), and battery electric vehicles (BEVs) with optimal allocation of vehicle designs and dedicated workplace charging infrastructure in the fleet for minimum life cycle cost or GHG emissions over a range of scenarios. We focus on vehicles with similar body size and acceleration to a Toyota Prius under government 5-cycle driving conditions. We find that under the current US grid mix, PHEVs offer only small GHG emissions reductions compared to HEVs, and workplace charging is insignificant. With grid decarbonization, PHEVs and BEVs offer substantial GHG emissions reductions, and workplace charging provides additional benefits. HEVs are optimal or near-optimal for minimum cost in most scenarios. High gas prices and low vehicle and battery costs are the major drivers for PHEVs and BEVs to enter and dominate the cost-optimal fleet. Carbon prices have little effect. Cost and range restrictions limit penetration of BEVs.
A PROPOSED METHOD TO ASSESS PHYSICAL INJURY TO FISHES FROM UNDERWATER SOUND PRODUCED DURING PILE DRIVING

(2008). A PROPOSED METHOD TO ASSESS PHYSICAL INJURY TO FISHES FROM UNDERWATER SOUND PRODUCED DURING PILE DRIVING. Bioacoustics: Vol. 17, No. 1-3, pp. 289-291.
A correction of three reports on the synthesis of the epoxide fragment of the azinomycins

Abstract We revise our report on the Sharpless epoxidation of (±)-3, and correct the reported specific rotation of epoxide (2S,3S)-2 to be dextrorotatory.
Leveraging the Social Aspect of Educational Games

With games captivating the minds of many children in the United States, educators may be interested in trying to introduce games into their classrooms. This article offers educators insights into how to understand and incorporate games that are inherently social, promoting effective discourse in their classrooms. Although educational games and more generally educational technology are largely seen as being designed for individuals, tools exist that are designed for group play that can spark both peer-group and intergenerational play and discussion. Games that promote conversation and cooperation allow children to develop social skills, build community, and practice various modes of mentorship. Knowing about both the history and the research concerning how social games can be used helps educators critically analyze the effective use of games in the classroom and augment students learning of difficult concepts.
New Synaptic Bouton Formation Is Disrupted by Misregulation of Microtubule Stability in aPKC Mutants

The Baz/Par-3-Par-6-aPKC complex is an evolutionarily conserved cassette critical for the development of polarity in epithelial cells, neuroblasts, and oocytes. aPKC is also implicated in long-term synaptic plasticity in mammals and the persistence of memory in flies, suggesting a synaptic function for this cassette. Here we show that at Drosophila glutamatergic synapses, aPKC controls the formation and structure of synapses by regulating microtubule (MT) dynamics. At the presynapse, aPKC regulates the stability of MTs by promoting the association of the MAP1Brelated protein Futsch to MTs. At the postsynapse, aPKC regulates the synaptic cytoskeleton by controlling the extent of Actin-rich and MT-rich areas. In addition, we show that Baz and Par-6 are also expressed at synapses and that their synaptic localization depends on aPKC activity. Our findings establish a novel role for this complex during synapse development and provide a cellular context for understanding the role of aPKC in synaptic plasticity and memory.
Preparation and Characterization of Macropolyhedral Metallaborane Clusters from the anti-B18H22 Borane Cluster: Crystal Structure of [(CH3)4N][anti-B18H20Co(CO)3]

The reaction of anti-B18H22 with [Co2(CO)8] and [(η5-C5H5)Fe(CO)2(C6H10)]+ yields the macropolyhedral metallaboranes [anti-B18H20Co(CO)3][(CH3)4N] (1) and [9-(Fe(CO)2(η5-C5H5))-anti-B18H21] (2), re...
NMR structure of an F-actin-binding “headpiece” motif from villin

Abstract A growing family of F-actin-bundling proteins harbors a modular F-actin-binding headpiece domain at the C terminus. Headpiece provides one of the two F-actin-binding sites essential for filament bundling. Here, we report the first structure of a functional headpiece domain. The NMR structure of chicken villin headpiece (HP67) reveals two subdomains that share a tightly packed hydrophobic core. The N-terminal subdomain contains bends, turns, and a four-residue α-helix as well as a buried histidine residue that imparts a pH-dependent folding. The C-terminal subdomain is composed of three α-helices and its folding is pH-independent. Two residues previously implicated in F-actin-binding form a buried salt-bridge between the N and C-terminal subdomains. The rest of the identified actin-binding residues are solvent-exposed and map onto a unique F-actin-binding surface.
Association of a corticotropin-releasing hormone receptor 1 haplotype and antidepressant treatment response in Mexican-Americans

There are well-replicated, independent lines of evidence supporting a role for corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) in the pathophysiology of depression. CRH receptor 1 (CRHR1), which we first mapped in the brain in 1994, has been implicated in the treatment of depression and anxiety. We studied the association of CRHR1 genotypes with the phenotype of antidepressant treatment response in 80 depressed Mexican-Americans in Los Angeles who completed a prospective randomized, placebo lead-in, double-blind treatment of fluoxetine or desipramine, with active treatment for 8 weeks. Subjects were included into the study if they had a diagnosis of depression without other confounding medical or psychiatric diagnoses or treatments. All patients were followed weekly and assessed for changes in the Hamilton rating scales for anxiety (HAM-A) and depression (HAM-D). Inclusion criteria in the study included a HAM-D of 18 or higher. Because CRHR1 affects both depression and anxiety. Patients were classified into a high-anxiety (HA) group if their HAM-A score was 18 or higher and in a low-anxiety (LA) group if their HAM-A score was less than 18. Utilizing the haplotype-tag single-nucleotide polymorphisms rs1876828, rs242939 and rs242941, we tested for haplotypic association between CRHR1 and 8-week response to daily antidepressant treatment. In the HA group (n=54), homozygosity for the GAG haplotype was associated with a relative 70% greater reduction in HAM-A scores compared to heterozygous (63.1±4.5 vs 37.1±6.9%, respectively, P=0.002). For HAM-D, GAG haplotype homozygosity was associated with a 31% greater reduction in scores after treatment compared to heterozygous (67.3±4.3 vs 51.2±6.0%, respectively, P=0.03). In those with lower-anxiety levels at screening, there were no associations between CRHR1 genotype and percent change in HAM-A or HAM-D. These findings of increased response to antidepressants in highly anxious patients homozygous for the GAG haplotype of CRHR1 need to be independently validated and replicated. Such work would support the hypotheses that response to antidepressant treatment is heterogeneous and that the CRHR1 gene and possibly other genes in stress-inflammatory pathways are involved in response to antidepressant treatment. These findings also suggest that variations in the CRHR1 gene may affect response to CRHR1 agonists or antagonists. All data are deposited in www.pharmgkb.org .