cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Hydrogen Phosphide Residues and Efficacy To Control Hessian Fly (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) in Compressed Hay for Export to Japan

The response of Hessian fly, Mayetiola destructor (Say), puparia to 0.9- 6.4 g/m3 aluminum phosphide showed that higher mortality occurred at 20.0°C for 3 d at all doses tested than at 15.6°C for 4 d and that higher mortality was related to higher fumigant concentrations. A linear relation between dose and mortality was observed for both temperatures and durations tested, but complete mortality was not attained. The range in fumigant concentrations and mortality in all dose-response tests was 92.9-620.8 ppm and 85.6-99.3%, respectively. We attributed high mortality at the lower doses tested to desiccation of the puparia in the fumigation chamber. A large-scale test of the multiplequarantine treatment that included compression (80 kg/cm2) and hydrogen phosphide fumigation (60 g/28.3 m3 aluminum phosphide) for 7 d at a constant mean temperature of 17.6°C or above to control Hessian fly puparia in compressed timothy hay, Phleum pratense , loaded in freight containers for export to Japan resulted in 118 survivors in 54,593 insects tested (99.784% mortality). Significantly higher numbers of puparia survived the treatment in the front bottom row of the freight container, where lower fumigant concentrations occurred. Copper-plate corrosion values, bale temperatures, and fumigant concentrations were similar throughout the freight container. Hydrogen phosphide residues 1 d after fumigation and overnight aeration in previous large-scale tests with six species of hay and in the large-scale test with timothy hay resulted in residues below the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency tolerance of 0.1 ppm.
Effect of intraocular lens design on neodymium:YAG laser capsttlotomy rates

Abstract Purpose: To compare the effect of 2 poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), 1-piece, biconvex intraocular lens (IOL) designs on the cumulative frequency of neodymium:YAG (Nd:YAG) laser posterior capsulotomy. Setting: Department of Ophthalmology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA. Methods: This retrospective study evaluated 369 eyes that had phacoemulsification with continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis (CCC) and IOL implantation in the capsular bag. Patients were placed in 1 of 2 groups based on the 1-piece, biconvex PMMA IOL design: large IOL, with a lens diameter of 13.50 to 13.75 mm, optic size of 6.5 mm, and 10 degree haptic angulation; small capsular IOL, with a lens diameter of 12.0 to 12.5 mm, optic size of 5.5 mm, and 2 degree haptic angulation. Results: Using Kaplan-Meier analysis, the frequency of Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy 1, 2, and 3 years after cataract surgery was 1.6, 12.3, and 26.5%, respectively, in the large IOL group and 3.4, 9.5, and 23.5%, respectively, in the small capsular IOL group. The cumulative frequency of Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy was not statistically different between the 2 groups. Conclusion: After phacoemulsification and CCC, there was no significant difference in the Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy rate in eyes with a small, capsular design, 1-piece, biconvex PMMA IOL and those with a larger, angulated, 1-piece, biconvex PMMA IOL.
Predictors of Teachers' Perceived Self-Competence in Classroom Management.

The purpose of this exploratory study was to identify predictors of teacher manageability beliefs (the degree to which teachers believe they can personally manage a behavior). One hundred and eighty-two teachers completed the 39-item, nine-subtest Teacher Manageability Scale (TMS), which asked participants to rate each behavior (on a 5-point scale) by responding to the question “How easily can you manage the behavior when any student…?” Results of a multivariate regression analysis evaluating the relationship between the nine subtests (dependent variables) and eleven teacher-reported independent variables indicated that between 13% and 18% of the variance was predicted for the six TMS subtests achieving significance. The variables related to the greatest number of dependent measures were student academic achievement and socioeconomic status. Surprisingly, principal's disciplinary support and class size (enrollment) failed to predict even a single subtest. Implications for professional educators working with students identified for special educational services and future research are discussed.
Hypnogenic paroxysmal dystonia with panic attacks responsive to drug therapy.

Hypnogenic paroxysmal dystonia is a rare syndrome thought to be the result of abnormal epileptiform discharges in deep. mesial regions ofthe brain. The scalp EEG is usually normal. I Attacks occur at night. usually during non-REM sleep. and are characterized by the sudden onset oftwisting. dystonic movements of the limbs that may last from 15 to 45 seconds. The sleeper is usually aroused by the episodes. The syndrome is thought to be a variant of an epileptiform disorder and partially resembles frontal lobe complex partial seizures. which tend to be characterized by motor automatisms. kicking. thrashing. and vocalizations.' We report the case of a patient with hypnogenic paroxysmal dystonia presenting with nocturnal panic attacks who responded to carbamazepine and imipramine. given as single agents.
Renal Toxicity of Perchloroethylene and S-(1,2,2-Trichlorovinyl)glutathione in Rats and Mice: Sex- and Species-Dependent Differences

Suspensions of renal cells from rats and renal mitochondria from rats and mice were used to assess the sex and species dependence of acute toxicity due to perchloroethylene (Perc) and its glutathione conjugate S-(1,2,2-trichlorovinyl)glutathione (TCVG). A marked sex dependence in the acute cytotoxicity of both Perc and TCVG was observed: Perc caused significant release of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in isolated kidney cells from male but not female rats, and TCVG caused much more LDH release from male than female rat kidney cells. Assessment of toxicity in suspensions of isolated mitochondria from kidneys of male and female rats revealed a generally similar pattern of sensitivity, with mitochondria from males exhibiting significantly more inhibition of State 3 respiration and decrease of respiratory control ratio than mitochondria from females. Respiratory function in mitochondria from male and female mice, however, was also significantly inhibited by Perc or TCVG but exhibited little sex dependence in the degree of inhibition. Comparison with results from similar studies using the congener trichloroethylene and its glutathione conjugate suggested that Perc and TCVG are more potent nephrotoxicants. Neither Perc nor TCVG produced any significant effects on cytotoxicity or mitochondrial function in isolated hepatocytes from rats or in isolated liver mitochondria from rats or mice, suggesting that the liver is not a major acute target for Perc or its glutathione conjugate. Thus, many of the species-, sex-, and tissue-dependent differences in toxicity of Perc and TCVG that are observed in vivo are also observed in these in vitro models.
Addressing Patients' Concerns about Pain Management and Addiction Risks

Fear of engendering addiction is frequently reported as both a provider and a patient barrier to effective pain management. In this study, a clinical scenario ascertained nursing staff members' usual practice in addressing addiction fears for patients with concerns about the addictive potential of pain medication. One hundred forty-five Veterans Health Administration nursing staff members from eight ambulatory care sites were queried to identify variables associated with proclivity to address patient fears about addiction risks in a population where pain is prevalent and the risk for substance abuse is high. Regarding addressing addiction concerns, 66% of nursing staff were very likely, 16% somewhat likely, 9% unsure, 6% somewhat unlikely, and 2% very unlikely to take action. Health technicians were less likely to address addiction concerns than registered or licensed vocational nurses (odds ratio [OR] 0.116; p=.004). Nursing staff with more years' experience (OR 1.070; p=.005) and higher levels of self-efficacy/confidence (OR 1.380; p=.001) were more likely to engage in discussions related to addiction risks. Targeted efforts to improve pain management activities should focus on retaining experienced nursing staff in initial assessment positions and improving the skills and confidence of less experienced and less skilled staff.
From single to multiple atomic layers: a unique approach to the systematic tuning of structures and properties of inorganic-organic hybrid nanostructured semiconductors.

In order to systematically tailor the structures and properties of a unique family of inorganic−organic hybrid nanostructured materials based on II−VI semiconductors, we have designed and engineered a new group of two-dimensional crystalline [(M2Q2)(L)] nanostreuctures (where M = Zn, Cd; Q = S, Se; and L = ethylamine, n-propylamine, n-butylamine, n-amylamine, n-hexylamine). These compounds are composed of double atomic layers of M2Q2 separated by organic monoamines. The crystal structures of 2D-[(M2Q2)(L)] are characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) analysis. The crystal structures of these compounds are similar to the 2D-[(MQ)(L)] series that we reported earlier, in that they also contain II−VI slabs sandwiched by organic monoamines. The main difference is in the thickness of the II−VI slabs, where they are single-layer (n = 1) in 2D-[(MQ)(L)] but double-layer (n = 2) in 2D-[(M2Q2)(L)]. Optical absorption experiments show that all double-layer compounds exhibit a blue shift in their absorption e...
Evolving CT Applications in Ischemic Heart Disease

Current technological advances in multidetector-row computed tomography (MDCT) have widened the scope of cardiac CT in ischemic heart disease. Initially employed to determine the status of the coronary arteries, assessment of cardiac function, perfusion, and viability has now become a reality. In this article, basic concepts, technical advances, appropriate clinical indications, and current clinical role of cardiac MDCT in this specific clinical scenario are reviewed.
Tardive dyskinesia and cognitive impairment

Several studies (Famuyiwa et al. 1979; Struve and Wilner 1983; Wolf et al. 1983; Myslobodsky et al. 1985) point to an association between tardive dyskinesia and cognitive functioning, although these findings are not always replicated (Pryce and Edwards 1966; Edwards 1970; Donnelly and Jeste 1981). The present study was conducted to further evaluate the relationship between cognitive function and tardive dyskinesia. Given the notion that Parkinson’s and Huntington’s diseases might provide a neuropsychological, as well as a biochemical, model for tatdive dyskinesia (Myslobodsky et al. 1985), tasks were selected that reveal cognitive impairment in these disorders.
Parametric cost estimation based on activity-based costing: A case study for design and development of rotational parts

Abstract Modern manufacturing systems are facing a globally competitive market to an extent not experienced before. This competitive pressure forces manufacturers to produce more products with shorter life span and better quality, yet at a lower cost. To succeed in this environment, manufacturing firms need to have an accurate estimate of product design and development costs. This is especially important since the shorter life span of products accentuates design and development stages. This paper presents a cost-estimation model that links activity-based costing (ABC) with parametric cost representations of the design and development phases of machined rotational parts. It also presents several parametric models applicable at design time by using parts’ feature geometry. A comparison of various parametric cost models is provided, reflecting on the accuracy of the various approaches. There is an evident trade-off between the details embedded in the parametric representation and the cost-estimation accuracy. Thus, more detailed methods, which can be used later in the life cycle of the product, are more precise, while these methods that can be used as early as design time have a higher but acceptable error rate.
Cu4I4 clusters supported by P^N-type ligands: new structures with tunable emission colors.

A series of Cu4I4 clusters (1–5) supported by two P∧N-type ligands 2-[(diRphosphino)methyl]pyridine (1, R = phenyl; 2, R = cyclohexyl; 3, R = tert-butyl; 4, R = iso-propyl; 5, R = ethyl) have been synthesized. Single crystal X-ray analyses show that all five clusters adopt a rare “octahedral” geometry. The central core of the cluster consists of the copper atoms arranged in a parallelogram with μ4-iodides above and below the copper plane. The copper atoms on the two short edges of the parallelogram (Cu–Cu = 2.525(2)–2.630(1) A) are bridged with μ2-iodides, whereas the long edges (Cu–Cu = 2.839(3)–3.035(2) A) are bridged in an antiparallel fashion by the P∧N ligands. This Cu4I4 geometry differs significantly from the “cubane” and “stairstep” geometries reported for other Cu4I4L4 clusters. Luminescence spectra of clusters 3 and 4 display a single emission around 460 nm at room temperature that is assigned to emission from a triplet halide-to-ligand charge-transfer (3XLCT) excited state, whereas clusters 1, ...
Anomalies in protein synthesis: the release of soluble proteins from plant ribosomes.

Abstract Pea ribosomes have been claimed to synthesize proteins in vitro in milligram quantities. Under analogous conditions using the varieties of pea and bean listed below soluble proteins do appear, but they arise as a loss from the particulate fraction. Net increase in protein was not found. Incubation at 37 °C. damages some of this protein but the RNase present in the system destroys the majority of the ribosomal RNA. These results suggest that such conditions are not favorable for protein synthesis.
Voronoi Diagram Properties in Polynomials with Polynomiography Applications and Extensions

We have previously established delicate connections between the Voronoi diagram of polynomial roots and their basins of attraction with respect to the Basic Family of iteration functions. We have also previously defined polynomiography, visualization techniques in solving a polynomial equation, resulting in a medium with multidisciplinary applications. Here we describe several novel results and survey our recent work on polynomials and polynomiography and their extensions and applications. These include, (i) extension of root-finding methods to analytic functions and the analysis of infinite Voronoi diagram and basins of attraction of their roots, (ii) an application of polynomiography in the visualization of least square polynomial approximations, (iii) a Voronoi diagram property of roots of a cubic equation in connection to its critical points and its algorithmic application, (iv) association of polynomiography to special matrices such as permutation matrices, Latin Squares and Sudoku solutions, and alternating sign matrices. We will consider the application of the above and present corresponding polynomiographies.
Photoperiodism and Adaptive Behaviour in a Small Mammal

SEASONAL changes in photoperiod have wide-ranging effects on the biology of most temperate zone vertebrates1,2. Although photoperiodic responses have been extensively studied in birds3, research on photoperiodic effects in mammals has been confined largely to their influence on reproductive and pelage cycles4,5. Less well understood are the effects of seasonal differences in photoperiod on mammalian behaviour, although modification of behaviour is the principal means by which small mammals adjust to seasonal changes in their environment6. Furthermore, seasonal changes in photoperiod may be used as a cue by small mammals to alter behaviour before more critical changes in other environmental conditions, such as temperature. We describe here the effects of previous exposure to differences in both photoperiod and temperature on the expression of nesting, hoarding, daily activity, and food consumption in the white-footed mouse, Peromyscus leucopus.
High-Contrast Fluorescence Imaging Using new Optical Switches and Optical Lock-in Detection Imaging Microscopy

We have developed a new microscope imaging technique to isolate specific fluorescence signals from background signals by using lock-in detection of the modulated fluorescence of a unique class of optical probe. This optical lock-in detection (OLID) approach involves modulating the fluorescence emission of an optical switch probe through defined optical manipulation of its fluorescent and non-fluorescent states - a digital lock-in detection method is employed to isolate the modulated signal of interest from non-modulated signals in the sample, such as conventional fluorescent probes and natural fluorophores. I will discuss the spectroscopic and photochemical properties of several new synthetic and genetically-encoded optical switches and illustrate their applications in high contrast (OLID) imaging studies of specific structures and proteins in cultured cells and in living organisms.
Reconstructing teacher education for disadvantaged communities

Abstract Can teacher education be reconstructed to help teachers acquire the knowledge and skills they need to teach disadvantaged populations as proposed by new theories of learning? What shape should this type of teacher education take? After making a case for a transformative teacher education, responsive to current thinking in teaching and learning, I present two instances of school-based approaches to educating teachers that incorporate elements of constructivist, cognitive, and developmental theory when teaching poor rural children. I discuss these cases vis-a-vis their reach and potential for the future of teacher education.
Publicity as Covert Marketing? The Role of Persuasion Knowledge and Ethical Perceptions on Beliefs and Credibility in a Video News Release Story

Publicity may be considered “covert marketing” when the audience believes the message was created by an independent source (journalist) rather than the product marketer. We focus on one form of publicity—video news releases (VNRs)—which are packaged video segments created and provided for free by a third party to the news organization. VNRs are usually shown without source disclosure. In study one, viewers’ beliefs about and perceptions of credibility in a news story (that is actually a VNR) are altered when they acquire persuasion knowledge about VNRs and learn that the source of the story was an unedited VNR. Study two results show similar patterns despite the fact that source disclosure of the story was provided on screen. Importantly, the perceived ethics of VNRs impact perceptions of credibility.
Density functional analysis of a decomposition of 4‐nitro‐1,2,3‐triazole through the evolution of N2

Abstract : A density functional computational study shows that 4-nitro- 1,2,3-triazole, which is highly impact sensitive, can decompose through ring opening and subsequent N2 evolution, with the net release of 12 kcal/mole. An input of 52 kcal/mole is required to initiate the process. jg
The Value of Search Engine Optimization: An Action Research Project at a New E-Commerce Site

AbstrAct A Web site that wants to increase its number of visitors can pay for search engine ads or attempt to improve its natural search engine ranking. Nobody really knows, which, if either, of these methods provides a positive return on investment (ROI). A search engine optimization (SEO) project was undertaken at a new e-commerce site. The siteâ€™s search engine rankings and traffic were measured after each phase in the project. The results indicate that SEO is an effective method for improving search engine rankings and site traffic. In addition, the costs and benefits of the SEO project are compared with a pay-per-click (PPC) search marketing campaign. The SEO project proved more cost effective than the PPC campaign.
Toxicity and efficacy of spiromesifen, a tetronic acid insecticide, against sweetpotato whitefly (homoptera: aleyrodidae) on melons and collards

Abstract Laboratory bioassays were conducted to determine the toxicity of spiromesifen, a tetronic acid insecticide to eggs, nymphs, and adults of the sweetpotato whitefly, Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) biotype “B”, on melon and collard. Two field trails we also conducted to determine the efficacies of spiromesifen at four different rates (96, 112, 114, and/or 149 g [AI]/ha) against B. tabaci on melon and collards. Foliar sprays of thiamethoxam and/or buprofezin were used for comparisons. In laboratory bioassays, spiromesifen was highly toxic to nymphs of B. tabaci on both melon and collard, causing ≈100% mortality to young nymphs (first and second instars). Spiromesifen was moderately toxic to old nymphs (third and fourth instars), but not toxic to eggs (2.8–6.3% on melon and 2.9–6.4% on collard and slightly toxic to adults 4.5–15.1% on melon and 25.1–37.0% on collard). Spiromesifen was also highly toxic to the early first instars or crawlers that hatched from the survived spiromesifen-treated eggs, and they died shortly after they became sessile on treated leaf surfaces. Field efficacy trials indicate that spiromesifen showed excellent promise as a foliar spray. One application of spiromesifen at a rate of 149 g [AI]/ha or two applications at 122 and 149 g [AI]/ha were as effective as two applications of thiamethoxam and buprofezin on melons. On collards, three rates of spiromesifen (96, 114 and 149 g [AI]/ha) provided similar control to buprofezin. Because of its unique mode of action and chemistry, spiromesifen might have potential in integrated whitefly management programs and insecticide resistance management on vegetables and other field crops.
A graph-theoretic metric for distributed data fusion in multi-target tracking

Abstract This paper presents properties of a graph-theoretic metric developed to measure the difference between two surveillance pictures in multiple target tracking. The metric is an essential component of a distributed data fusion architecture allowing geographically separated processing sites to form local surveillance pictures and, by exchanging information, derive a consistent global view. The metric is used to control communication between the sites. Information is exchanged only if the difference between a local picture and the common global picture exceeds a dissimilarity threshold.
Significance of plaque morphology in modifying flow characteristics in a diseased coronary artery: Numerical simulation using plaque measurements from intravascular ultrasound imaging

Abstract The paper deals with numerical investigation of the effect of plaque morphology on the flow characteristics in a diseased coronary artery using realistic plaque morphology. The morphological information of the lumen and the plaque is obtained from intravascular ultrasound imaging measurements of 42 patients performed at Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Ohio. For this data, study of Bhaganagar et al. (2010) [1] has revealed the stenosis for 42 patients can be categorized into four types – type I (peak-valley), type II (ascending), type III (descending), and type IV (diffuse). The aim of the present study is to isolate the effect of shape of the stenosis on the flow characteristics for a given degree of the stenosis. In this study, we conduct fluid dynamic simulations for the four stenosis types (type I–IV) and analyze the differences in the flow characteristics between these types. Finely refined tetrahedral mesh for the 3-D solid model of the artery with plaques has been generated. The 3-D steady flow simulations were performed using the turbulence ( k – e ) model in a finite volume based computational fluid dynamics solver. The axial velocity, the radial velocity, turbulence kinetic energy and wall shear stress profiles of the plaque have been analyzed. From the axial and radial velocity profiles results the differences in the velocity patterns are significantly visible at proximal as well as distal to the throat, region of maximum stenosis. Turbulent kinetic energy and wall shear stress profiles have revealed significant differences in the vicinity of the plaque. Additional unsteady flow simulations have been performed to validate the hypothesis of the significance of plaque morphology in flow alterations in diseased coronary artery. The results revealed the importance of accounting for plaque morphology in addition to plaque height to accurately characterize the turbulent flow in a diseased coronary artery.
Role of complementarities in technology adoption: The case of DVD players

This paper estimates complementarities between DVD player adoption and availability of content on DVD. We use household level quasi-panel data on adoption decisions of 47,893 unique households; monthly data on the availability of movies for rental on DVD at 140 different local regions, and monthly data on the number of movies released on DVD nationally. We focus on an early period after the technology launch (2000–2001), and estimate statistically and economically significant complementarities.
Can the early elimination of calcineurin inhibitors result in clinical benefits

Ideally, every kidney should serve its owner for his or her remaining life expectancy. Current approaches with immunosuppression have steadily reduced early rejection rates. However, we have not seen a comparable improvement in graft longevity. Reduction of acute rejection rates should improve survival, unless concurrent nephrotoxicity offsets this benefit. An important question is whether selective substitution of other drugs/biologicals for calcineurin inhibitors will permit adequate immunoprophylaxis, yet improve graft longevity.
Energy conversions in the flow of high polymers: Applications to injection moulding

From a general energy balance and Spencer & Gilmore's equation of state, energy relationships are developed for steady and non-steady flow of high polymers. Use of the equations to determine the temperature variations in an injection-moulding cycle is indicated and the equations, together with one previously determined for non-flow conditions, are applied to an idealized injection-moulding process. The resulting calculations for polystyrene, neglecting heat transfer, indicate that large temperature variations take place during a cycle. Consequently, any analysis of the process must take into account the energy conversions taking place. The thermal energy supplied to the polymer by viscous friction is shown to be an appreciable fraction of the total received.
Effects of Sc 2 O 3 and MgO passivation layers on the output power of AlGaN/GaN HEMTs

The low temperature (100/spl deg/C) deposition of Sc/sub 2/O/sub 3/ or MgO layers is found to significantly increase the output power of AlGaN/GaN HEMTs. At 4 GHz, there was a better than 3 dB increase in output power of 0.5/spl times/100 /spl mu/m/sup 2/ HEMTs for both types of oxide passivation layers. Both Sc/sub 2/O/sub 3/ and MgO produced larger output power increases at 4 GHz than conventional plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposited (PECVD) SiN/sub x/ passivation which typically showed /spl les/2 dB increase on the same types of devices. The HEMT gain also in general remained linear over a wider input power range with the Sc/sub 2/O/sub 3/ or MgO passivation. These films appear promising for reducing the effects of surface states on the DC and RF performance of AlGaN/GaN HEMTs.
Can Transit-Oriented Development Reduce Peak-Hour Congestion?

This paper presents a study of whether transit-oriented development (TOD) helps reduce peak-hour congestion, a topic of ongoing public debate. Applying conventional four-step travel demand modeling techniques, the study simulates traffic outcomes in three TOD scenarios in the Austin, Texas, area, where a commuter rail line is under construction and TOD proposals are being developed. With TOD, the portion of congested roadway in the Austin region is estimated to decrease by nearly 770 lane miles. Daily vehicle miles traveled (VMT) are reduced by 10 to 12 million in the region, or by 3.5 to 4.5 person miles traveled (PMT) per person. This magnitude of congestion relief for peak-hour commuting indicates a potentially significant amount of savings in highway investments through TOD practice. No major modal shifts from driving to transit or non-motorized modes occur in the TOD scenario. Still, PMT for transit is estimated to grow significantly. TOD's role as a congestion relief strategy largely lies in the con...
A Language for Spatial Data Manipulation

Environmental Observation and Forecasting Systems (EOFS) create new opportunities and challenges for generation and use of environmental data products. The number and diversity of these data products, however, has been artificially constrained by the lack of a simple descriptive language for expressing them. Data products that can be described simply in English take pages of obtuse scripts to generate. The scripts obfuscate the original intent of the data product, making it difficult for users and scientists to understand the overall product catalog. The problem is exacerbated by the evolution of modern EOFS into data product “factories” subject to reliability requirements and daily production schedules. New products must be developed and assimilated into the product suite as quickly as they are imagined. Reliability must be maintained despite changing hardware, changing software, changing file formats, and changing staff. We present a language for naturally expressing data product recipes over structured and unstructured computational grids of arbitrary dimension. Informed by relational database theory, we have defined a simple data model and a handful of operators that can be composed to express complex visualizations, plots, and transformations of gridded datasets. The language provides a medium for design, discussion, and development of new data products without commitment to particular data structures or algorithms. In this paper, we provide a formal description of the language and several examples of its use to express and analyze data products. The context of our research is the CORIE system, an EOFS supporting the study of the Columbia River Estuary.
The Two CcdA Proteins of Bacillus anthracis Differentially Affect Virulence Gene Expression and Sporulation

The cytochrome c maturation system influences the expression of virulence factors in Bacillus anthracis. B. anthracis carries two copies of the ccdA gene, encoding predicted thiol-disulfide oxidoreductases that contribute to cytochrome c maturation, while the closely related organism Bacillus subtilis carries only one copy of ccdA. To investigate the roles of the two ccdA gene copies in B. anthracis, strains were constructed without each ccdA gene, and one strain was constructed without both copies simultaneously. Loss of both ccdA genes results in a reduction of cytochrome c production, an increase in virulence factor expression, and a reduction in sporulation efficiency. Complementation and expression analyses indicate that ccdA2 encodes the primary CcdA in B. anthracis, active in all three pathways. While CcdA1 retains activity in cytochrome c maturation and virulence control, it has completely lost its activity in the sporulation pathway. In support of this finding, expression of ccdA1 is strongly reduced when cells are grown under sporulation-inducing conditions. When the activities of CcdA1 and CcdA2 were analyzed in B. subtilis, neither protein retained activity in cytochrome c maturation, but CcdA2 could still function in sporulation. These observations reveal the complexities of thiol-disulfide oxidoreductase function in pathways relevant to virulence and physiology.
Pharmacological activity of amantadine: effect of N-alkyl substitution.

Alkyl substitution on the nitrogen atom of the anti-parkinsonian drug amantadine resulted in changes in its pharmacological potency. Greater behavioural stimulation (i.e. increased motor activity) was observed following s.c. injection of several of the analogues, with optimal activity produced by N-n-propyl substitution. These molecular changes did not alter the activity of amantadine on inhibition of dopamine uptake or its weak affinity for dopamine receptors in-vitro. Several of the analogues were more effective than the parent compound in increasing the concentration of dopamine metabolites (suggesting an increase in dopamine utilization) following systemic injection, and these effects generally followed the same pattern as observed in the test of behavioural activity. These results provide further support for the concept that the activity of amantadine may be improved by molecular alterations, although the pharmacological basis for this activity remains obscure.
Three‐dimensional reconstruction and neural map of the serotonergic brain of Asplanchna brightwellii (Rotifera, Monogononta)

The basic organization of the rotifer brain has been known for nearly a century; yet, fine details on its structure and organization remain limited despite the importance of rotifers in studies of evolution and population biology. To gain insight into the structure of the rotifer brain, and provide a foundation for future neurophysiologic and neurophylogenetic research, the brain of Asplanchna brightwellii was studied with immunohistochemistry, confocal laser scanning microscopy, and computer modeling. A three-dimensional map of serotonergic connections reveals a complex network of approximately 28 mostly unipolar, cerebral perikarya and associated neurites. Cells and their projections display symmetry in quantity, size, connections, and pathways between cerebral hemispheres within and among individuals. Most immunopositive cells are distributed close to the brain midline. Three pairs of neurites form decussations at the brain midline and may innervate sensory receptors in the corona. A single neuronal pathway appears to connect both the lateral horns and dorsolateral apical receptors, suggesting that convergence of synaptic connections may be common in the afferent sensory systems of rotifers. Results show that the neural map of A. brightwellii is much more intricate than that of other monogonont rotifers; nevertheless, the consistency in neural circuits provides opportunities to identify homologous neurons, distinguish functional regions based on neurotransmitter phenotype, and explore new avenues of neurophylogeny in Rotifera. J. Morphol. 2009. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Observations of non-dimensional wind shear in the coastal zone

SUMMARY Vertical profiles of the time-averaged wind stress, wind speed and buoyancy flux from the off-shore tower site in the Rise Air Sea Experiment are used to evaluate similarity theory in the coastal zone. The observed dependence of the non-dimensional wind shear on stability is compared to the traditional parametrization. Relationships between the non-dimensional shear, development of internal boundary layers and wave state are explored. We find that the largest-scale turbulent eddies are suppressed in shallow convective internal boundary layers, leading to larger non-dimensional shear than that of the traditional prediction based only on stability. In shallow stable boundary layers, elevated generation of turbulence leads to smaller non-dimensional shear compared to the traditional prediction. Over young growing waves in stable stratification, the observed non-dimensional shear is less than that over older more mature waves in otherwise similar conditions. The non-dimensional shear is a function of wave state for stable conditions even though the observations are well above the wave boundary layer. We conclude that development of shallow internal boundary layers and young growing-wave fields, both of which are common in the coastal zone, can lead to substantial departures of the non-dimensional shear from the prediction based only on stability.
Cluster analysis and persistence in college majors

Purpose – The Bryant University Mathematics Department has been collecting math placement scores and admissions data for all incoming freshmen for many years. In the past, the authors have used these data mainly for placement in first-year classes and more recently to invite the most mathematically talented students to become mathematics majors. The purpose of this paper is to use the same data source to predict persistence in declared majors for all incoming students. Design/methodology/approach – In order to categorize the students, the authors use cluster analysis, one of the tools of data mining, to see if students in particular majors share similar strengths based on the available data. The authors follow up this analysis by running a multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) to confirm that the means of the clusters are significantly different. Findings – The cluster analysis resulted in five distinct clusters, which were confirmed by the results of the MANOVA. The authors also found how many stude...
Hymenolepis diminuta (Cestoda): effects of parasite density and temperature on the water balance of Tenebrio molitor and subsequent infectivity of the cysticercoids

Abstract The effects of the density of Hymenolepis diminuta and the effects of thermal acclimation on the water balance of Tenebrio molitor were examined. Also, the subsequent infectivity of the cysticercoids for rats were investigated. T. molitor beetles were fed known numbers of H. diminuta eggs and then were kept at 15° or 25°C for 14 days. After 14 days, beetles were desiccated and water loss was determined. Parasite density did not significantly affect transpiratory water loss in T. molitor kept at 15° or 25°C following 24 or 48 hr of desiccation. However, after 72 hr of desiccation, beetles maintained at 15°C evidently could not regulate water efficiently since there was a significant increase in the transpiratory water loss as parasite density increased. Beetles acclimated at 15°C produced fewer cysticercoids than did beetles maintained at 25°C. Also, fewer adult worms were recovered from rats intubated with cysticercoids from heavily infected, 15°C-acclimated beetles. Apparently, heavily infected beetles acclimated to 15°C do not produce viable cysticercoids.
Multiple virus isolations in a group of children hospitalized with acute respiratory illness.

Abstract22 children (below 6 years of age), admitted for acute respiratory illness to a pediatric hospital, were investigated for viral and/or bacterial infection by isolation attempts and serological techniques. A high frequency of virus isolations and also of multiple virus isolations from the upper respiratory tract was observed, whereas corresponding seroconversions were comparatively rare. The multiple isolates included combinations between an influenza virus and a paramyxovirus and even combinations within the paramyxovirus group. Further, in several cases, the findings of potentially pathogenic bacteria made the picture even more complex. Technical and other factors which may have contributed to these results are discussed, and possible implications of the findings are considered.
The Power of Declarative Languages: A Comparative Exposition of Scientific Workflow Design Using BioFlow and Taverna

Scientific workflow design is usually complex and demands integration of numerous resources. Geographical distribution and semantic heterogeneity of resources add to this complexity. The cost effectiveness of such workflow design thus depends upon the lifespan of the application and its anticipated use. Shorter application lifespan usually entails prohibitive development costs. In this paper, we present an alternative platform for declarative workflow design using BioFlow in such environments. We argue that a declarative workflow design using BioFlow is more efficient and cost effective compared to traditional approaches using systems such as Taverna. To demonstrate the advantages of BioFlow, we compare a canonical micro array data analysis workflow application design approach using both Taverna and BioFlow. We show that BioFlow supports ad hoc and modular application design at a throw away cost, and produces a superior maintainable application that can adapt to changes in the source without significant effort. Finally, we discuss a visual application builder, called VizBuilder, with which end users are able to design workflows without any knowledge of BioFlow.
Dynamic Association and Dissociation of the Tumor Supressor PTEN to Model Membranes

The tumor suppressor gene, Phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN) encodes a 403-amino acid protein that is mutated or deleted in a variety of human cancers. It binds to the plasma membrane to dephosphorylate the 3-position of phosphatidylinositol-3,4,5-trisphosphate producing phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate (PI[4,5]P2). PTEN is an agonist to PI 3-Kinase, thereby inhibiting the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway and controlling cell proliferation and survival. PTEN membrane association depends strongly on the composition and lateral distribution of the lipids in the membrane. Using kinetic methods, we aim to examine this multi-step process. Stopped-flow and steady state fluorescence experiments support our hypothesis that the association ofPTEN to the plasma membrane is synergistic; depending on both electrostatic interactions between the protein and anionic lipids like phosphatidylserine (PS) as well as specific binding to PI(4,5)P2 to form a stable protein-membrane complex. In addition, our results suggest that other lipids found in the inner leaflet of the plasma membrane might participate in PTEN binding.Furthermore, we use single molecule TIRF microscopy to determine the membrane binding and lateral diffusion constant of wtPTEN on supported lipid bilayers with differing lipid compositions. The information gained from these two techniques describes the dynamic and equilibrium behavior of wtPTEN binding to various binary and tertiary lipid compositions.
Carbon based graphene nanoelectronics technologies

Graphene, a two-dimensional carbon form with the highest intrinsic carrier mobility and many desirable physical properties at room temperature, is considered a promising material for ultrahigh speed and low power devices with the possibility of strong scaling potential due to the ultra-thin body. (Fig. 1) [1–3] Here IBM reports progress in graphene nanoelectronics, synthesizing wafer-scale monolayer-controlled graphene and fabricating high-speed single atomic layer graphene FETs (GFET) with the highest value reported cut-off frequency (f T ) 50 GHz, exceeding that of the same gate length Si FETs. It is achieved by improving gate oxide deposition and reducing series resistance. Systematic characterization and small-signal models enable further engineering and optimization for even higher performance. The high I on /I off ratios from bi-layer graphene suggest potential not only for analog but also for logic applications.
On the space-time trade-off in solving constraint satisfaction problems

A common technique for bounding the runtime required to solve a constraint satisfaction problem is to exploit the structure of the problem's constraint graph [Dechter, 92]. We show that a simple structure-based technique with a minimal space requirement, pseudo-tree search [Freuder & Quinn, 85], is capable of bounding runtime almost as effectively as the best exponential space-consuming schemes. Specifically, if we let n denote the number of variables in the problem, w* denote the exponent in the complexity function of the best structure-based techniques, and h denote the exponent from pseudotree search, we show h < (w* + 1) (lg(n) + 1). The result should allow reductions in the amount of real-time accessible memory required for predicting runtime when solving CSP equivalent problems.
A software engineering curriculum incorporating formal methods: a progress report

Summary form only given. This project, which is funded by the NSF Educational Innovation Program, integrates a formal method into the undergraduate software engineering curriculum of the Systems Analysis Department of Miami University. A formal method consists of a mathematical model and methodology to aid in the creation of the specification, design, and verification of a software system. The justification for the introduction of a formal method not only stems from government and industry regulations/standards, but also from the national perception that the discipline of software engineering education lacks sufficient emphasis on mathematics and engineering science.
Natural Childbirth and Breastfeeding as Preventive Measures of Immune- Microbiome Dysbiosis and Misregulated Inflammation

Much of the prior century was spent applying the latest emerging technologies toward managing pregnancy, childbirth, and infant development. The idea was that each change was significantly improving the health of our children across their lifetime. But it is now clear that with several of the adopted practices, there have been unintended consequences. We have run the risk of losing certain distinct advantages that were inherently embedded in ancient cultures and practices. Among these were the microbial-rich experiences of natural childbirth, breastfeeding, and agrarian living. These practices permitted children to acquire a complete microbiome thereby facilitating immune development and appropriate later-life immune responses. Perceived technology-associated benefits such as scheduled Caesarian births, urban sanitized living, and earlier and ever increasing vaccine burdens have helped to reduce the burden of some childhood illnesses. But recent studies suggest that they have also produced serious, unanticipated consequences for today’s children: an increased likelihood for human-microbiome incompleteness, lifelong immune dysfunction, and inflammation-promoted chronic disease. This review will examine recent evidence suggesting that a more effective blending of ancient practices and remedies with modern technology and medical knowledge could help to restore the human-microbiome super organism to its historic status, improve pediatric immune homeostasis and reduce risk of later-life chronic diseases.
Plurality Versus Majority Election of Presidents: A Proposal for a “Double Complement Rule”

Under plurality rule, presidents may be elected with narrow support whenever there are more than two “serious” candidates. Even under majority-runoff rules, the eventual winner may have received th...
150 V, 100 mΩ, SOI power LDMOS with high avalanche current capability for MHz frequency power switching applications

To enable MHz frequency switching in high density power converters, power MOSFETs with very low gate charge and low on resistance are needed. In this paper, we report on the design and fabrication of a 150V, 100 mΩ, chip-scale SOI lateral power MOSFET. The power LDMOS transistor is based on the SOI RESURF principle and fabricated in a 0.35um CMOS foundry using a custom process. The device incorporates the “adaptive RESURF” principle as well as a P+ buried layer tied to the source in order to achieve high avalanche current capability. The adaptive RESURF technique is implemented by controlling the spacing between the N+ drain and the shallow trench isolation which runs across the drift region. This allows a drain buffer region to be formed without requiring any additional masks or ion implants. The source metal extends above the drift region as a field plate to reduce the electric field between drain and gate without increasing Miller capacitance. The device is packaged in a low-inductance, low profile flipchip package. The Qg×Rdson figure-of-merit for this device is considerably lower than state of the art commercial power MOSFETs.