cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Palladium-catalyzed salt-free double decarboxylative aryl allylation

This report describes a palladium-catalyzed decarboxylative aryl allylation between unactivated benzoic acids and allylic carbonates. This transformation successfully couples a variety of carbonates and benzoic acids in good yield (up to 94%) using 1 mol% palladium. This salt free allyl-arylation proceeds without added base, copper, or silver. The only stoichiometric byproducts are carbon dioxide and tert-butanol.
Deep learning-based label-free imaging flow cytometry for on-site analysis of water samples (Conference Presentation)

We introduce a field-portable and cost-effective holographic imaging flow cytometer, which provides phase contrast microscopic images of the contents of water samples at a throughput of 100 ml/h. This imaging cytometer uses a high power multi-colored LED and a custom designed circuit to illuminate continuously flowing water samples with short-pulses of red, green, and blue light that are simultaneously on, thereby eliminating motion blur and making the system vibration resistant. The recorded color holograms are segmented and reconstructed in real time and are phase recovered using a deep learning-based algorithm. Weighing 1kg with the dimensions of 15.5 cm × 15 cm × 12.5 cm, our label-free imaging flow-cytometer is controlled by a laptop computer equipped with a graphical processing unit. We tested the capabilities of our field-portable device by imaging micro- and nano-plankton inside ocean water samples collected at six beaches along the California coastline. We also determined Pseudo-Nitzschia algae concentration of these samples, providing a good agreement with the measurements made by the California Department of Public Health. Our device represents 1-2 orders of magnitude reduction in the cost and size of an imaging flow cytometer compared to state-of-the-art designs, while providing a similar or better performance in terms of volumetric throughput, detection limit and imaging resolution.
Proteins: "Boil 'Em, Mash 'Em, Stick 'Em in a Stew".

Cells of the vast majority of organisms are subject to temperature, pressure, pH, ionic strength, and other stresses. We discuss these effects in the light of protein folding and protein interactions in vitro, in complex environments, in cells, and in vivo. Protein phase diagrams provide a way of organizing different structural ensembles that occur under stress and how one can move among ensembles. Experiments that perturb biomolecules in vitro or in cells by stressing them have revealed much about the underlying forces that are competing to control protein stability, folding, and function. Two phenomena that emerge and serve to broadly classify effects of the cellular environment are crowding (mainly due to repulsive forces) and sticking (mainly due to attractive forces). The interior of cells is closely balanced between these emergent effects, and stress can tip the balance one way or the other. The free energy scale involved is small but significant on the scale of the “on/off switches” that control si...
No Safe Space: Neoliberalism and the Production of Violence in the Lives of Central American Migrants

This paper explores the ways in which neoliberal policies enacted by elites across the Northern Triangle have led to increased violence in Central America, a lived experience that continues as individuals migrate to Mexico and the United States. In this work, I examine how neoliberal polices in the region have created limited economic opportunities and means of subsistence for the poor in Central America, as well as the rise of extra-legal actors and criminal enterprises. Together these conditions leave Central Americans with no choice but to migrate north. This paper then explores the violence migrants experience as they move through Mexico. In this stage of the journey, migrant bodies are objectified and then commodified as cheap labor for the global market as well as local economies of violence. Lastly, I discuss the multiple zones of violence that migrants experience at Mexico's border with the United States. This project relies on in-depth, semi-structured interviews (n = 99) with Central American migrants over the course of 4 years (2014–18). Ultimately, I find that for Central American migrants, violence can be a seemingly inescapable reality as neoliberal forces maintain and normalize violence in order to preserve an established social order at the expense of these migrants.
Modeling succinate dehydrogenase loss disorders in C. elegans through effects on hypoxia-inducible factor

Mitochondrial disorders arise from defects in nuclear genes encoding enzymes of oxidative metabolism. Mutations of metabolic enzymes in somatic tissues can cause cancers due to oncometabolite accumulation. Paraganglioma and pheochromocytoma are examples, whose etiology and therapy are complicated by the absence of representative cell lines or animal models. These tumors can be driven by loss of the tricarboxylic acid cycle enzyme succinate dehydrogenase. We exploit the relationship between succinate accumulation, hypoxic signaling, egg-laying behavior, and morphology in C. elegans to create genetic and pharmacological models of succinate dehydrogenase loss disorders. With optimization, these models may enable future high-throughput screening efforts.
Sex and substance use behaviors among children of teen mothers: A systematic review.

Abstract Introduction Adolescent birth is a known correlate of many challenging behavioral health consequences for offspring. This systematic review seeks to understanding the sex and substance use behaviors of children born to teen mothers extending the body of literature on the long-term outcomes of being born to a teen mother. Methods A systematic approach, in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, was used to review and identify eligible studies in the following electronic databases: Web of Science, ProQuest, PubMed, and Ovid MEDLINE. Study inclusion: (a) maternal age (>20) was the key predictor or group variable and (b) children's risky sexual or substance use behaviors were outcome variables. All articles meeting inclusion criteria were next screened using the quality assessment tool created by the Effective Public Health Practice Project. Results Seventeen articles reporting on risky sexual behaviors and 12 articles on substance use behaviors met inclusion criteria. We found a consistent association between being born to a teen mother and risky sexual behaviors, including early sexual debut and transitioning into motherhood during adolescence/young adulthood. The link between being born to a teen mother and substance use behaviors was inconsistent and only found in large population-based studies. Conclusion Teen mothers and their children have unique individual, family, and structural needs. Evidence highlights that while there is no clear need to adapt substance use prevention interventions for these children, investing in targeted adaptations of abstinence and safer sex interventions to meet the unique experiences of children of teen mothers and their children is warranted.
Area-Optimized UAV Swarm Network for Search and Rescue Operations

Intelligent robot swarms are increasingly being explored as tools for search and rescue missions. Efficient path planning and robust communication networks are critical elements of completing missions. The focus of this research is to give unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) the ability to self-organize a mesh network that is optimized for area coverage. The UAVs will be able to read the communication strength between themselves and all the UAVs it is connected to using RSSI. The UAVs should be able to adjust their positioning closer to other UAVs if RSSI is below a threshold, and they should also maintain communication as a group if they move together along a search path. Our approach was to use Genetic Algorithms in a simulated environment to achieve multi-node exploration with emphasis on connectivity and swarm spread.
Medical thoracoscopy in the diagnosis of pleural disease: a guide for the clinician.

Developing a feasible and accurate means of evaluating pleural pathology has been an ongoing effort for over 150 years. Pleural fluid cellular and biomarker analyses are simple ways of characterizi...
On the Possible Correlation Between the Orbital Periods of Extra-solar Planets and the Metallicity of the Host Stars

We investigate a possible correlation between the orbital periods $P$ of the extra-solar planet sample and the metallicity [Fe/H] of their parent stars. Close-in planets, on a few-days orbits, are more likely to be found around metal-rich stars. Simulations show that a weak correlation is present. This correlation becomes stronger when only sigle stars with one detected planet are considered. We discuss several potential sources of bias that might mimic the correlation, and find they can be ruled out, but not with high significance. If real, the absence of very short-period planets around the stellar sample with [Fe/H] $< 0.0$ can be interpreted as evidence of a metallicity dependence of the migration rates of giant planets during formation in the protoplanetary disc. The observed $P-$[Fe/H] correlation can be falsified or confirmed by conducting spectroscopic or astrometric surveys of metal-poor stars ([Fe/H] $< -0.5$) in the field.
Thromboelastometry-guided neuraxial anesthesia in a parturient with severe thrombocytopenia due to large granular lymphocytic leukemia.

Severe thrombocytopenia (platelet count <50 000/μl) in pregnancy is uncommon and is generally considered a contraindication to neuraxial anesthesia. We present a case of a parturient who presented with severe thrombocytopenia secondary to bone marrow failure. After receiving platelet and cryoprecipitate transfusions to correct coagulopathy as verified by thromboelastometry, neuraxial anesthesia was safely utilized.
UNDERPRICING OF IPOS THAT FOLLOW PRIVATE PLACEMENT

In this study we examine the underpricing of initial public offerings (IPOs) by firms that have private placements of equity before their IPOs (PP IPO firms). We find that PPIPOsareassociatedwithsignificantlylessunderpricingthantheirpeers.Furthermore, PP IPOs are associated with lower underwriting spreads, more reputable underwriting syndicates, and greater postissue analyst coverage as compared to IPOs that are issued by their industry peers under similar market conditions. Consistent with the implications of the information asymmetry explanation for IPO underpricing, our findings suggest that companies could benefit by conveying their quality via successful pre-IPO private placements that help reduce the cost of going public.
A Highly Scalable, Modular Test Bench Architecture for Large-Scale DC Power Cycling of SiC MOSFETs: Towards Data Enabled Reliability

Silicon carbide (SiC) power MOSFETs have superior conduction, switching and thermal properties compared to silicon (Si) MOSFETs and IGBTs [1]. However, unlike Si devices, whose reliability is well understood from decades of research and field data, SiC device technology is relatively nascent and has only recently started witnessing wide scale deployment. This reliability challenge can possibly be addressed through two complementary solutions as shown in Figure 1: 1) developing a large accelerated aging dataset of SiC devices under various conditions to understand their long term reliability and guide future device development, 2) using on-board, in-system prognostics and device health monitoring techniques to predict imminent device failures well ahead of time, thus ensuring reliable system operation [2]. In both cases, the large-scale reliability testing of SiC MOSFETs is needed. Generally, remaining useful lifetime (RUL) estimation methods for power devices use an empirical model obtained from fitting accelerated aging data [3]-[7], [9], [10]. Consequently, the accuracy of RUL models is directly related to the size and variety of available accelerated aging dataset. Moreover, large datasets are crucial in enabling machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) based reliability models.
The variant gambit: COVID-19's next move.

More than a year after its emergence, COVID-19, the disease caused by SARS-CoV-2, continues to plague the world and dominate our daily lives. Even with the development of effective vaccines, this coronavirus pandemic continues to cause a fervor with the identification of major new variants hailing from the United Kingdom, South Africa, Brazil, and California. Coupled with worries over a distinct mink strain that has caused human infections and potential for further mutations, SARS-CoV-2 variants bring concerns for increased spread and escape from both vaccine and natural infection immunity. Here, we outline factors driving SARS-CoV-2 variant evolution, explore the potential impact of specific mutations, examine the risk of further mutations, and consider the experimental studies needed to understand the threat these variants pose. In this review, Plante et al. examine SARS-CoV-2 variants including B.1.1.7 (UK), B.1.351 (RSA), P.1 (Brazil), and B.1.429 (California). They focus on what factors contribute to variant emergence, mutations in and outside the spike protein, and studies needed to understand the impact of variants on infection, transmission, and vaccine efficacy.
A Multi-Phase Cascaded Series-Parallel (CaSP) Hybrid Converter for Direct 48 V to Point-of-Load Applications

The rapid growth in data-center electricity consumption has created an imperative need for more energy-efficient solutions to data center power delivery. This work proposes a multi-phase hybrid switched-capacitor (SC) converter for direct 48 V to point-of-load (PoL) conversion with high performance. The proposed topology can be viewed as a 6to-1 cascaded series-parallel (CaSP) converter merged with a three-phase interleaved buck converter with automatic current balancing. Due to multi-phase operation, the CaSP stage is able to achieve a higher conversion ratio compared to twophase SC converters with the same number of components as well as lower turn-on voltage for switching devices. Moreover, the proposed CaSP-PoL topology benefits from the frequency multiplication effect similar to that in flying capacitor multilevel converters, which allows for lower frequency operation of higher voltage rated switches and doubled frequency operation of buck inductors, contributing to a further reduction in switching loss and inductor size. A 48 V-to-PoL hardware prototype was built in vertical assembly structure for compact packaging and tested up to 90 A output current, achieving 94.1% peak efficiency (93.2% including gate drive loss) and 702 W/in 3 power density (by box volume) at 2.0 V output voltage.
New York for Sale: Community Planning Confronts Global Real Estate

Remarkably, grassroots-based community planning flourishes in New York City--the self-proclaimed "real estate capital of the world"--with at least seventy community plans for different neighborhoods throughout the city. Most of these were developed during fierce struggles against gentrification, displacement, and environmental hazards, and most got little or no support from government. In fact, community-based plans in New York far outnumber the land use plans produced by government agencies. In New York for Sale, Tom Angotti tells some of the stories of community planning in New York City: how activists moved beyond simple protests and began to formulate community plans to protect neighborhoods against urban renewal, real estate mega-projects, gentrification, and environmental hazards. Angotti, both observer of and longtime participant in New York community planning, focuses on the close relationships among community planning, political strategy, and control over land. After describing the political economy of New York City real estate, its close ties to global financial capital, and the roots of community planning in social movements and community organizing, Angotti turns to specifics. He tells of two pioneering plans forged in reaction to urban renewal plans (including the first community plan in the city, the 1961 Cooper Square Alternate Plan--a response to a Robert Moses urban renewal scheme); struggles for environmental justice, including battles over incinerators, sludge, and garbage; plans officially adopted by the city; and plans dominated by powerful real estate interests. Finally, Angotti proposes strategies for progressive, inclusive community planning not only for New York City but for anywhere that neighborhoods want to protect themselves and their land. New York for Sale teaches the empowering lesson that community plans can challenge market-driven development even in global cities with powerful real estate industries
Multipurpose Uses and Basin-Wide Development

Except in the so-called fluvial civilizations, where the same waterworks served the purposes of irrigation, flood control, and navigation,1 there was little correlated development of water resources throughout history until recent times. Each use was developed separately without regard to possible conflict with other uses. By the end of the nineteenth century, however, it had become evident to men of vision that for fullest utilization the waters of a stream or of an entire basin should be made to perform as many tasks as possible. Greatly increased demand for water made this desirable. Technology made it feasible2.
Preparation of homogeneous elongation factor G and examination of the mechanism of guanosine triphosphate hydrolysis.

Abstract A new procedure for the isolation of physically and enzymatically homogeneous Elongation Factor G based on the isolation of an Elongation Factor G · ribosome · GDP · fusidic acid complex is described. The yield from this procedure is 23 to 36% of the theoretical and results in an enzyme of specific activity 6200 to 6700 units per A280. The enzyme was shown to be physically homogeneous by disc gel electrophoresis under both native and denatured conditions. The enzymatic purity of the preparation with respect to enzymes utilizing guanine nucleotides was examined by quantitation of contaminating nonribosomal dependent GTPase, GDPase, nucleoside diphosphate kinase, and polynucleotide phosphorylase activities. The highest contaminating activity was found to be 0.002% of the activity of Elongation Factor G. Utilizing this homogeneous Elongation Factor G, the reaction involving the hydrolytic cleavage of GTP catalyzed by the ribosome and Elongation Factor G was examined. The position of GTP cleavage was elucidated by the technique of 18O incorporation from water. It was demonstrated that solvent oxygen is incorporated only into the inorganic phosphate derived from the γ-phosphate of GTP. The number of solvent oxygen atoms incorporated per phosphate was 0.81 ± 0.19. Neither the α- nor β-phosphates of GDP, the other product of hydrolysis, incorporated solvent oxygen. From these observations the position of GTP cleavage was identified as occurring between the γ phosphorus atom and the oxygen bridging the β and γ phosphorus atoms. Using 32Pi and [α-32P]GDP, it was determined that neither the exchange of Pi into GTP nor the exchange of GDP into GTP are catalyzed by Elongation Factor G and the ribosome.
Diet induced obesity promotes aortic stiffness by impairing elastin functionality (LB695)

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of mortality in the United States. Obesity is a primary risk factor for CVD resulting in greater large elastic artery stiffness. Importantly, stiffening of the aorta is an independent predictor of CV events and is a novel therapeutic target for attenuating CVD risk with obesity. The purpose was to determine if a high fat diet promotes aortic stiffening in mice that would result in a significant increase in aortic pulse wave velocity (aPWV) and intrinsic mechanical stiffness. Mice were randomly assigned into two groups receiving either a low fat (LF, 10% kcal fat) or high fat (HF, 60% kcal fat) diet. HF mice had greater aortic stiffness as assessed by aPWV (401 ± 26 vs. 304 ± 17 cm/s, P < 0.05) and in vitro aortic mechanical stiffening. Specifically, the elastic modulus of the elastin region was decreased in HF compared with LF mice (398 ± 6 vs. 615 ± 42 kPa, P < 0.05), whereas the collagen elastic modulus showed no difference between groups (3707 ± 694 v...
The Great Lakes Charter Fishing Industry

Abstract The existing sportfisheries of the Great Lakes were established in the 1960s and 1970s, when species of trout and salmon were stocked. Angler participation in the 1980s quickly increased in response to these developing fisheries, but began to decline in the early 1990s, negatively impacting sportfishing-dependent businesses such as charter boat operations. We sought to identify the current status of the Great Lakes charter boat fishing industry and to identify industry-related trends over the past three decades. In 2002 and 2003, a mail survey was distributed to a qualified sample of 1,767 Great Lakes charter captains in the United States. Data for 2002 are presented for the Great Lakes Region as a whole and for each of the states comprising the region (i.e., New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan, Illinois/Indiana, Wisconsin, and Minnesota). Data collected from surveys in the 1970s, 1980s, and 1994 are included for comparison purposes. Results indicate that the number of Great Lakes charter boat...
Deep, Sticky, Transient, and Gracious: An Expanded Buyer–Supplier Relationship Typology

The cooperative–adversarial dichotomy has served as the prevailing buyer–supplier relationship typology in the literature. Cooperative buyer–supplier relationships have been associated with closely tied relationships, while adversarial relationships have been equated to arms-length relationships. We propose, however, that this perspective is overly simplified; a cooperative relationship is orthogonal to a closely tied relationship and an adversarial relationship to an arms-length relationship. That is, there can be a closely tied yet adversarial relationship and an arms-length yet cooperative relationship. We theorize the buyer–supplier relationship in two orthogonal aspects—(1) relational posture, that is, how two firms regard each other (as cooperative partners or as adversaries) and (2) relational intensity, that is, how much two firms’ operations are interlinked (closely tied or arms-length). By considering the two aspects concurrently, this article proposes an expanded typology of buyer–supplier relationships. We label a closely tied and cooperative buyer–supplier type as “deep”; a closely tied but adversarial type as “sticky”; an arms-length and adversarial type as “transient”; and an arms-length but cooperative type as “gracious.” We then present an analysis that supports the orthogonality of the two relational dimensions. This analysis suggests that the expanded relationship types are associated with different relational outcome trade-offs. The data are collected from a global, large Japanese automaker and 163 of its suppliers in North America. Overall, the results provide empirical support for the expanded buyer–supplier relationship typology.
Miniature microwave plasma sources based on microstripline designs

Summary form only given, as follows. In the past, the challenge in microwave plasma research was to develop techniques that provide high ion and free radical densities uniformly, over large and ever increasing process areas. Since scale-up was usually an important issue when considering industrial applications, the study of very small microwave plasmas, on the order of a few millimeters, was rarely done. Recently, interest in the development of systems on a chip, MEMS and their related micro system applications, has suggested the possibility of numerous applications for mini and micro plasma sources. Accordingly, this investigation is devoted to the development and the understanding of the behavior of very small microwave plasma sources. We have constructed microwave plasma systems based on microstripline technology that create and allow for the experimental investigation of millimeter size plasmas. Plasma are generated across a wide range of input parameters, including pressure variation from below 1 Torr to 1 atmosphere, input power at 2.45 GHz from one watt to 100 watts, and a variety of gas mixtures including argon, nitrogen and hydrogen. Microwave plasmas of various sizes (volumes) and aspect ratios are studied. Plasma density, size, shape, ignition, and emission spectra are measured to characterize the miniature plasma over the operating range. Companion modeling work based on the global model is used to further understand the operation of miniature microwave plasma sources. The experimental and modeling results are used to identify the experimental operating regime necessary to excite and maintain stable, high density, miniature microwave plasma sources. Data will be presented showing the discharge power density as a function of discharge pressure, input power and size. The power densities for discharges of dimensions in the range of 2 mm to 0.4 mm range from 100's to 1000's W/cm/sup 3/ and the plasma densities as indicated by the global model are in the range of 10/sup 13/-10/sup 14/ cm/sup -3/.
Survival of Home Parenteral Nutrition-Treated Patients: 20 Years of Experience at the Mayo Clinic

Objective To present the largest single institutional review of demographics, associated primary diseases, and survival of patients receiving home parenteral nutrition (HPN). Material and Methods We conducted a retrospective review of medical records of all Mayo Clinic patients treated with HPN between 1975 and 1995. The probability of survival was calculated by using Kaplan-Meier analysis. Results In the 225 study patients requiring HPN (median age, 51 years), the main underlying primary diseases were as follows: inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) (N = 50), nonterminal active cancer (N = 39), ischemic bowel (N = 35), radiation enteritis (N = 32), motility disorder (chronic pseudo-obstruction) (N = 26), and adhesive intestinal obstruction (N = 18). Other conditions included intestinal and pancreatic fistula, refractory sprue, dumping syndrome, and protein-losing enteropathy. The overall probability of 5-year survival during HPN was 60%. The probability of survival at 5 years based on the primary disease was 92% for IBD, 60% for ischemic bowel, 54% for radiation enteritis, 48% for motility disorder, and 38% for cancer. The probability of 5-year survival stratified by age at initiation of HPN was as follows: younger than 40 years, 80%; 40 through 60 years, 62%; and older than 60 years, 30%. Most deaths during therapy with HPN were attributable to the primary disease. Among the 20 patients who died of an HPN-related cause, 11 deaths were from catheter sepsis, 4 from liver failure, 2 from venous thrombosis, and 2 from metabolic abnormalities. Conclusion Survival of HPN-treated patients is best predicted on the basis of the primary disease and the age at initiation of HPN Patients with IBD and age younger than 40 years have a better 5-year survival in comparison with other groups. Most deaths during treatment with HPN are a result of the primary disease; HPN-related deaths are uncommon.
State of Denial: The United States and the politics of global warming

Abstract Climate science in the United States has been uniquely politicized, which has caused considerable confusion among the general public regarding the climate change issue. Right-wing politicians and think tanks have used the legacy of climate research strategically to deny the current crisis by falsely depicting greenhouse science as uncertain and contradictory. The corporate media has largely accepted this frame of the issue. This history helps account for the success of the carbon interests and the politicians who work for them and the lack of political action against global warming in the United States.
The cnemic index: A critique

The accuracy of the cnemic index is questioned. Excessive random variation is found to be present in the datum for this index, the nutrient foramen. It is suggested that the index be taken at a fixed location on the tibial shaft. A new index, the cnemic index (one-third), is proposed.
Young, Single Gay Men's Commitment and Long-Term Partner Preferences

In the present study, using a nationwide online survey, we investigate preferences for a commitment ceremony and long-term partners among 114 single, young (ages 18 to 29 years old) gay men. We take into account market characteristics (age, location, education level) and self-perceptions of participants’ bodies. We found notable diversity in participants’ aspirations for a commitment ceremony and preferences for long-term partners. Men who were more preoccupied with their own appearance (i.e., higher rates of self-objectification and wanting to be muscular) were more likely to want to have a commitment ceremony. Furthermore, respondents who lived in large metropolitan cities were more likely than respondents in small cities to value attractiveness in a potential partner. We draw on objectification and market theories, situate our findings in contemporary cultural landscape, raise questions, and offer future directions for research.
The importance of EUV indices for the international reference ionosphere

Abstract The International Reference Ionosphere (IRI), a standard model for ionospheric densities and temperatures developed by a joint working group of the Committee on Space Research (COSPAR) and the International Union of Radio Science (URSI), is widely used for specifications of the ionospheric environment. This paper will discuss the importance of the solar and/or ionospheric indices for driving the IRI model. The different existing indices will be reviewed and future needs will be outlined.
Insulin Stimulates Tyrosine Phosphorylation and Inactivation of Protein-tyrosine Phosphatase 1B in Vivo

Protein-tyrosine phosphatase (PTP) 1B has been implicated in negative regulation of insulin action, although little is known of the ability of insulin to regulate PTP1B itself. The ability of insulin to regulate phosphorylation and activation of PTP1B was probed in vivo. Challenge with insulin in vivo provoked a transient, sharp increase in the phosphotyrosine content of PTP1B in fat and skeletal muscle that peaked within 15 min. Insulin stimulated a decline of 60--70% in PTP1B activity. In mouse adipocytes, the inhibition of PTP1B activity and increased tyrosine phosphorylation of the enzyme were blocked by the insulin receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor AG1024. Phosphoserine content of PTP1B declined in response to insulin stimulation. Elevation of intracellular cyclic AMP provokes a sharp increase in PTP1B activity and leads to increased phosphorylation of serine residues and decreased tyrosine phosphorylation. Suppression of cyclic AMP levels or inhibition of protein kinase A leads to a sharp decline in PTP1B activity, a decrease in phosphoserine content, and an increase in PTP1B phosphotyrosine content. PTP1B appears to be a critical point for insulin and catecholamine counter-regulation.
A medical information relational database system (MIRDS)

A medical information relational database system (MIRDS) which is resident on a relational database machine and is accessed via microcomputers has been created for a pediatric pulmonary division of a research hospital. The power and flexibility of MIRDS has permitted the integration of clinical tasks, research interests, and laboratory functions. Procedures have been devised to assure data integrity, allow flexibility in data retrievals, produce standardized report formats, and permit data access for users with a wide range of query expertise. There are few impediments to the integration of additional clinical, research, and laboratory functions as the system evolves.
Ultrafiltration membrane synthesis by nanoscale templating of porous carbon

A novel method for producing carbon membranes for ultrafiltration applications is presented using a spray deposition and pyrolysis of poly(furfuryl alcohol)/poly(ethylene glycol) mixtures on macroporous stainless steel supports. The poly(ethylene glycol) or PEG employed as a carbonization template creates a mesoporosity that leads to pores in the ultrafiltration range. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) shows that the membranes consisted of 12- to 15-m thick carbon films. Gas permeation and water permeability data were used for the calculation of mean pore sizes, which were found to decrease with decreasing average molecular weight of the PEG template. Ultrafiltration of a polydisperse dextran solution was used to quantify the retention properties of the membranes. Molecular weight cutoffs determined from dextran retention data were shown to vary with template molecular weight: values of 2 × 10 4 ,3 .5 × 10 4 , and 6 × 10 4 gm ol −1 dextran were measured for respective templates of 2000, 3400, and 8000 g mol −1 PEG. For PEG molecular weights of 2000 or below, the templating effect was ill defined, membrane film cracking became more prominent, and membrane selectivity and reproducibility were adversely affected. © 2002 Published by Elsevier Science B.V.
Retinal Fundus Cameras

This paper includes the different manufacturers and models of the fundus cameras available on the market at the present time. With each model of fundus camera are listed the manufacturer's specifications and optional equipment available for each system. The present cost of a fundus camera may range from a few thousand to over $30,000. However, the price of a fundus camera does not reflect the overall optical quality, mechanical stability, or ease of operation. Many considerations should be taken to mind, and prospective purchasers would be well advised to familiarize themselves as to the quality and variable capabilities of each system, as no one fundus camera system is best suited for all applications. Upon considering the purchase of a fundus camera, actual photographs taken from each system should be reviewed, as quality will vary. Reproduction or marketing brochures do not represent the average quality of the photographs obtainable from a specific system. The authors present this material in the hope that it may aid those who may be considering the purchase of a fundus camera. From the The Wilmer Institute, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore.
Group Identification as a Moderator of the Relationship Between Perceived Social Norms and Alcohol Consumption

Previous research has shown that social norms are among the strongest predictors of college student drinking. Among college students, perceiving that others drink more heavily than themselves has been strongly and consistently associated with heavier drinking. Research has also shown that the more specifically others are defined, the stronger the association is with one's own drinking. In the current research, we evaluated whether group identification as defined by feeling closer to specific groups moderates the associations between perceived drinking norms in the group and one's own drinking. Participants included 3,752 (61% female) students who completed online assessments of their perceived drinking norms for 4 groups of students on their campus and identification with each group and participants' own drinking behavior. Results indicated that greater identification with same-sex students, same-race students, and same-Greek-status students was associated with stronger relationships between perceived drinking norms in the specific groups and own drinking.
Nutrient limitations on understory grass productivity and carbon assimilation in an African woodland savanna

Abstract Despite the ubiquity of sub-tropical savannas throughout the earth, limitations of savanna productivity are understudied relative to other terrestrial systems. The limitations of savanna productivity by precipitation have been documented but the roles of soil nutrients, particularly phosphorus (P), and light are not as clear. This study examined the role of increased P and nitrogen (N) in grass productivity in a woodland savanna in Botswana. We added aqueous forms of N and P to selected individual grasses. During the following growing season, we measured foliar nutrient concentrations, aboveground biomass and carbon assimilation at various light levels to estimate the productivity response. We observed an increase in foliar P concentrations for grasses with increased soil P. There was no increase in foliar N concentration for those with increased soil N. Neither N nor P treatments had higher levels of foliar C. Aboveground biomass increased significantly in the N+P treatment but there was no significant difference between the individual N and P treatments relative to the control. We did not see any effect of nutrients on either net carbon assimilation or stomatal conductance. These results suggest that the aboveground productivity of these woodland savanna grasses is co-limited by N and P.
Effects of Feeding Rate on Water Quality, Production of Channel Catfish, and Economic Returns

Abstract Channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) were stocked in 0.02 to 0.04-hectare ponds without aeration at three rates (4,942, 10,007, and 20,385 fish per hectare) and fed daily. Fish averaged 12 cm total length and 10 g at stocking. Each treatment was replicated six times. Maximum feeding rates of 34, 56, and 78 kg/hectare, respectively, were reached by midsummer. In the low treatment, no dissolved oxygen (DO) problems occurred, and survival was 99%. In the medium treatment, DO at dawn frequently fell below 2.0 mg/liter and some fish suffocated during an oxygen depletion in one pond; however, survival averaged 93%. In the high treatment, DO at dawn was usually below 2.0 mg/liter in August and September. Fish mortalities resulted from DO depletion in three ponds of the high treatment, but survival averaged 83%. Nitrite-nitrogen and un-ionized ammonia never reached concentrations recognized to be lethal to channel catfish in any of the treatments. However, concentrations of un-ionized ammonia were possi...
Random spin signal in magnetic resonance force microscopy

Abstract We study a random magnetic resonance force microscopy (MRFM) signal caused by the thermal vibrations of high frequency cantilever modes in the oscillating cantilever-driven adiabatic reversals (OSCAR) technique. We show that the regular MRFM signal with a characteristic decay time, τm, is followed by a non-dissipative random signal with a characteristic time τr. We present the estimates for the values of τm and τr. We argue that this random MRFM signal can be used for spin detection. It has a “signature” of a sharp peak in its Fourier spectrum.
Quantifying the coastal contribution to the North American carbon budget

[1] A Coastal Interim Synthesis Workshop; San Francisco, California, 11–12 December 2010; The contribution of coastal margins to regional and global carbon budgets is poorly constrained, largely due to limited information about the magnitude, spatial distribution, and temporal variability of carbon sources and sinks in coastal waters. Building on recommendations of the 2005 North American Continental Margins (NACM) Synthesis and Planning Workshop (http://www.us-ocb.org/publications/NACM small.pdf), the Ocean Carbon and Biogeochemistry (OCB) program (http://www.us-ocb.org) is collaborating with the North American Carbon Program (NACP) on a Coastal Interim Synthesis activity to compile observational and modeling results on carbon cycle fluxes along the North American continental margins. This activity is divided into five regions: East Coast, West Coast, Gulf of Mexico, Arctic, and Great Lakes. A coastal synthesis workshop, coordinated by OCB and NACP and sponsored by NASA, convened 56 participants.
EEG Biofeedback for Addictive Disorders—The State of the Art in 2004

This paper reviews studies of brainwave biofeedback as a therapeutic technique for substance use disorder. This modality is attractive as a medication free, neurophysiologic, and self actualizing treatment for a substance based, brain impaired and self-defeating disorder. Three approaches are described and the literature for each reviewed. Alpha–theta occipital feedback was originally employed to facilitate autosuggestion in hypnagogic states to augment standard therapy approaches in substance abuse treatment programs and appears most suited for chronic treatment resistant alcoholics. Beta augmentation feedback in conjunction with alpha/theta feedback has been employed in mixed substance abuse and stimulant abuse with good results. Individualized brainwave biofeedback based on correcting EEG abnormalities, or based on addressing comorbid conditions is a third approach that has been described, and may be most appropriate where confounding comorbid conditions are present. Although effectiveness in certain hard to treat populations (conventional treatment resistant alcoholics, crack cocaine addicts, cognitively impaired substance abusers) is promising, better-designed controlled studies are needed.
On (strong) α-favorability of the Wijsman hyperspace

The Banach-Mazur game as well as the strong Choquet game are investigated on the Wijsman hyperspace from the nonempty player's (i.e. a's) perspective. For the strong Choquet game we show that if X is a locally separable metrizable space, then a has a (stationary) winning strategy on X iff it has a (stationary) winning strategy on the Wijsman hyperspace for each compatible metric on X. The analogous result for the Banach-Mazur game does not hold, not even if X is separable, as we show that a may have a (stationary) winning strategy on the Wijsman hyperspace for each compatible metric on X, and not have one on X. We also show that there exists a separable 1st category metric space such that a has a (stationary) winning strategy on its Wijsman hyperspace. This answers a question of Cao and Junnila from [6].
Exhaust Nozzle Plume and Shock Wave Interaction

Fundamental research for sonic boom reduction is needed to quantify the interaction of shock waves generated from the aircraft wing or tail surfaces with the exhaust plume. Both the nozzle exhaust plume shape and the tail shock shape may be affected by an interaction that may alter the vehicle sonic boom signature. The plume and shock interaction was studied using Computational Fluid Dynamics simulation on two types of convergent-divergent nozzles and a simple wedge shock generator. The nozzle plume effects on the lower wedge compression region are evaluated for two- and three-dimensional nozzle plumes. Results show that the compression from the wedge deflects the nozzle plume and shocks form on the deflected lower plume boundary. The sonic boom pressure signature of the wedge is modified by the presence of the plume, and the computational predictions show significant (8 to 15 percent) changes in shock amplitude.
The Mathematics of Morality for Neonatal Resuscitation

This article discusses the ethical issues surrounding the resuscitation of infants who are at great risk to die or survive with significant morbidity. Data are introduced regarding money, outcomes, and prediction. Gestational age influences some of the outcomes after birth more than others do. Prediction is possible at four stages of the resuscitation process. Data suggest that antenatal and delivery room predictions are inadequate, and prediction at the time of discharge is too late. The predictive value (>95%) for the outcome of death or survival with neurodevelopmental impairment is discussed.
Outer-core— and valence—electron pseudopotential

We describe an energy-independent, norm-conserving pseudopotential which is accurate for outer-core and valence electrons simultaneously and thus extremely useful in cases such as transition-metal dimers and Cs compounds, where the outer-core electrons play a part in the binding.
Redundancy allocation for k-out-of-n: G systems with mixed spare types

This paper considers the redundancy allocation problem pertaining to k-out-of-n: G heterogeneous series-parallel systems. Different from existing approaches that consider either hot or cold standby redundancy for a parallel subsystem, our approach considers a mix of cold and hot standby redundancies within one subsystem to achieve a balance between fast recovery and power conservation in the optimal system design. Given the available versions of hot and cold standby units and minimum number of operating components (k) for the system to function, the objective of the optimal design is to select versions of components and hot and cold standby redundancy levels within the subsystem to minimize system unreliability while satisfying system-level constraint on cost. To formulate the objective function, an analytical method has been proposed for the reliability analysis of a k-out-of-n: G subsystem with both hot and cold standby units. The method has no limitation on the type of time-to-failure distributions for the system components. An optimization solution methodology based on genetic algorithm is presented for obtaining the optimal design configuration. The proposed methodology is tested on several example data sets.
Plant community responses to Scotland's changing environment

Summary The ecological dangers of global climatic change are frequently discussed in relation to their threat to biodiversity. Oceanic Scotland, however, differs in many respects from else- where, both in the nature of the current climatic change and the biodiversity of the flora on which it reacts. Scottish habitats, such as those in the more peripheral regions, are rarely rich in species and biodiversity may not be a relevant concept for assessing the impact of environmental change. In species-poor habitats ecosystem health may be a more useful measure of potential survival capacity than species wealth. Examination of the homeo-static properties of plant communities, and their ability to withstand environmental change, could provide a more practical method of predicting which sections of the Scottish flora are at risk from climatic change as well as indicating possible remedial action. Case histories from coastal, wetland, forest and mountain sites are discussed in terms of their present ecological robu...
Optimization of Raman Spectroscopy for Speciation of Organics in Water

We describe herein a method for determining constants for simultaneously occurring, site-specific "microequilibria" (as with tautomers) for organics in water. The method is based in part on modeling temperature-variant Raman spectra according to the van't Hoff equation. Spectra are measured with a charge-coupled device (CCD)-based, dispersive Raman spectrometer. The success of the method depends on accurate quantification of small spectral changes that are monotonic with temperature due to changes in relative concentration of equilibrium components. The method assumes that we can neglect intensity and frequency fluctuations in spectra collected over a period of days that are not due to chemical compositional changes (e.g., frequency shifts due to ambient instrument temperature fluctuations). Also, the method assumes that we can neglect the temperature dependence of the Raman spectrum of an individual conformer. We have investigated these assumptions and found that we can typically reduce frequency and intensity fluctuations to tolerable levels by normalizing all spectra on the basis of the atmospheric N2 stretching band at 2331 cm−1, which is observed in all of our spectra. Further, we have found that we can typically neglect the temperature dependence of Raman spectra if areas of depolarized bands are used in the modeling.
A new anthelmintic ussay using rats infected with Trichostrongylus colubriformis

Abstract A new anthelmintic assay is described which uses immunosuppressed (60 ppm hydrocortisone acetate in diet) rats infected with the nematode Trichostrongylus colubriformis. Immunosuppressed rats were infected with 1500 T. colubriformis larvae, treated either orally or subcutaneously on Day 14 post-infection and necropsied 4 days after treatment. The worm counts in immunosuppressed control animals averaged 775 worms per rat. A range of benzimidazoles, levamisole hydrochloride, morantel tartrate, 22,23-dihydroavermectin B1a and α-milbemycin have been evaluated in the assay. The ED95 values obtained indicate that rats infected with T. colubriformis provide a highly predictive model for assaying the activity of experimental drugs in vivo prior to studies in ruminants.