cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Corrosion and Mechanical Performance of Grade 92 Ferritic-Martensitic Steel After Exposure to Supercritical Carbon Dioxide

Grade 92 ferritic-martensitic steel is a candidate alloy for medium temperature (< 550 °C) components for the supercritical carbon dioxide (s-CO2) Brayton cycle. 1000 hours exposures were performed on base and welded material in s-CO2 at temperatures of 450 °C or 550 °C and compared to samples aged in Ar at 550 °C. Both s-CO2 exposures resulted in a duplex oxide growth and carburization, with 450 °C exhibiting carburization in a power law diffusion profile up to a depth of 200-250 µm, while 550 °C showed a linear profile up to a depth of 100 µm. The different profiles indicate much slower precipitation and coarsening of carbides at the lower temperature, allowing carbon to diffuse deeper into the material. However, 450 °C produced improved mechanical properties while 550 °C produced deteriorated properties. This was due to the higher density of carbon near the metal–oxide interface which leads to significant carbide coarsening and, subsequently, crack initiation and early failure. Additional exposure at 450 °C is predicted to increase deposited carbon, but further study would be needed to understand if and when carburization will produce a negative mechanical effect.
Targeting neurotrophic factors: Novel approaches to musculoskeletal pain

Chronic pain represents a substantial unmet medical need globally. In recent years, the quest for a new generation of novel, safe, mechanism-based analgesic treatments has focused on neurotrophic factors, a large group of secreted proteins that control the growth and survival of different populations of neurons, but that postnatally are involved in the genesis and maintenance of pain, with biological activity in both the periphery and the central nervous system. In this narrative review, we discuss the two families of neurotrophic proteins that have been extensively studied for their role in pain: first, the neurotrophins, nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain-derived growth factor (BDNF), and secondly, the GDNF family of ligands (GFLs). We provide an overview of the pain pathway, and the pain-producing effects of these different proteins. We summarize accumulating preclinical and clinical findings with a focus on musculoskeletal pain, and on osteoarthritis in particular, because the musculoskeletal system is the most prevalent source of chronic pain and of disability, and clinical testing of these novel agents - often biologics- is most advanced in this area.
The Lorentz-Debye-Sack theory and dielectric screening of electrostatic effects in proteins and nucleic acids

The chapter discusses the Lorentz–Debye–Sack (LDS) theory and dielectric screening of electrostatic effects in proteins and nucleic acids. Electrostatic forces and interactions constitute one of the main classes of physical effects that govern the structure, function and dynamics of proteins and nucleic acids. Because of this it is essential to provide a reliable and, if possible, easily construable characterization of electrostatic interactions in these systems that can be used to interpret the results of experiments and calculate properties that are electrostatically controlled. The chapter reviews LDS theory that allows a rigorous derivation of an expression for the radially dependent dielectric permittivity. It is shown how reaction field corrections are incorporated into the theory and finally formulas for calculating Born-like hydration energies are presented. Results that are obtained with this approach are briefly discussed. Then electrostatic screening and its relation to the radial dielectric permittivities is reviewed, and results of applying the theory to the calculation of equilibrium properties, and in using it to model solvent effects in molecular dynamics (MD) and Monte Carlo simulations are discussed.
Finger tapping as a proxy for gait: Similar effects on movement variability during external and self-generated cueing in people with Parkinson's disease and healthy older adults

Abstract Background Rhythmic auditory cueing has been widely studied for gait rehabilitation in Parkinson's disease (PD). Our research group previously showed that externally generated cues (i.e., music) increased gait variability measures from uncued gait, whereas self-generated cues (i.e., mental singing) did not. These different effects may be due to differences in underlying neural mechanisms that could be discerned via neuroimaging; however, movement types that can be studied with neuroimaging are limited. Objective The primary aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of different cue types on gait, finger tapping, and foot tapping, to determine whether tapping can be used as a surrogate for gait in future neuroimaging studies. The secondary aim of this study was to investigate whether rhythm skills or auditory imagery abilities are associated with responses to these different cue types. Methods In this cross-sectional study, controls (n = 24) and individuals with PD (n = 33) performed gait, finger tapping, and foot tapping at their preferred pace (UNCUED) and to externally generated (MUSIC) and self-generated (MENTAL) cues. Spatiotemporal parameters of gait and temporal parameters of finger tapping and foot tapping were collected. The Beat Alignment Task (BAT) and Bucknell Auditory Imagery Scale (BAIS) were also administered. Results The MUSIC cues elicited higher movement variability than did MENTAL cues across all movements. The MUSIC cues also elicited higher movement variability than the UNCUED condition for gait and finger tapping. Conclusions This study shows that different cue types affect gait and finger tapping similarly. Finger tapping may be an adequate proxy for gait in studying the underlying neural mechanisms of these cue types.
A Machine Learning Approach for Improving Power Efficiency on Clustered Multi-Processor System

Modern embedded systems have adopted the clustered Chip Multi-Processor (CMP) paradigm in conjunction with dynamic frequency scaling techniques for improving application performance and power consumption. However, applications suffer from performance saturation due to resource contention. Thus, after a certain point, any frequency increase results only in power overheads without any performance gains. In this work, we present a run-time manager that focuses on power efficiency improvement for clustered CMPs. Specifically, it monitors the activity of concurrently executing applications and utilizes neural networks to select an appropriate frequency that keeps performance high, while reducing power consumption. Experimental results on the Odroid-XU3 board show that the proposed methodology improves power efficiency (MIPS/Watt) by 23% compared to Linux's performance governor with a negligible performance drop of only 3%.
Home Modification Assessments for Accessibility and Aesthetics: A Rapid Review.

Purpose:The purpose of this study was to identify assessments used to evaluate the homes of people with disabilities in terms of accessibility, usability, activities, comfort/satisfaction, and aest...
Risk of ambulatory colonoscopy in patients with cirrhosis: a propensity-score matched cohort study.

Background and study aims Patients with cirrhosis demonstrate alterations in physiology, hemodynamics, and immunity which may increase procedural risk. There exist sparse data regarding the safety of performing ambulatory colonoscopy in patients with cirrhosis. Patients and methods From a population-based sample of three North American states (California, Florida, and New York), we collected data on 3,590 patients with cirrhosis who underwent ambulatory colonoscopy from 2009 to 2014. We created a control cohort propensity score-matched for cirrhotic severity who did not undergo colonoscopy (N = 3,590) in order to calculate the attributable risk for adverse events. The primary endpoint was the rate of unplanned hospital encounters (UHEs) within 14 days of colonoscopy (or from a synthetic index date for the control cohort). Predictors for UHE were assessed in multivariable regression. Results The attributable risk for any UHE following colonoscopy was 3.1 % (confidence interval [CI] 2.1-4.1 %, P < 0.001). There was increased risk for infection (0.9 %, CI 0.7-1.1 %), spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (0.1 %, CI 0.0-0.3 %), decompensation of ascites (0.3 %, CI 0.2-0.4 %), and cardiovascular event (0.4 %, CI 0.3-0.5 %). There was no increased attributable risk for gastrointestinal bleeding, perforation, or development of the hepatorenal syndrome. The presence of ascites at time of procedure was the only predictor for UHE in the fully-adjusted model (OR 2.6, CI 1.9-3.5, P < 0.001). Conclusions There is a moderate though detectable increase in risk for adverse event following ambulatory colonoscopy in patients with cirrhosis. The presence of ascites in particular portends higher risk. These data may guide clinicians when counseling patients with cirrhosis on the choice of colorectal cancer screening modality.
Global trends in the frequency and duration of temperature extremes

Anthropogenic climate change has affected the frequency and duration of extreme climate events, including extreme heat events (EHE) and extreme cold events (ECE). How the frequency and duration of both EHE and ECE have changed over time within both terrestrial and marine environments globally has not been fully explored. Here, we use detrended daily estimates of minimum and maximum temperature from the ERA5 reanalysis over a 70-year period (1950–2019) to estimate the daily occurrence of EHE and ECE across the globe. We measure the frequency and duration of EHE and ECE by season across years and estimate how these measures have changed over time. Frequency and duration for both EHE and ECE presented similar patterns characterized by low spatial heterogeneity and strong seasonal variation. High EHE frequency and duration occurred within the Antarctic during the austral summer and winter and within the Arctic Ocean during the boreal winter. High ECE frequency and duration occurred within the Nearctic and Palearctic during the boreal winter and the Arctic Ocean during the boreal summer. The trend analysis presented pronounced differences between frequency and duration, high spatial heterogeneity, especially within terrestrial environments, and strong seasonal variation. Positive EHE trends, primarily in duration within marine environments, occurred during the boreal summer within the mid-latitudes of the Northern Hemisphere and during the austral summer within the mid-latitudes of the Southern Hemisphere. The eastern tropical Pacific contained positive EHE and ECE trends, primary in duration during the boreal winter. Our findings emphasize the many near-term challenges that extreme temperature events are likely to pose for human and natural systems within terrestrial and marine environments, and the need to advance our understanding of the developing long-term implications of these changing dynamics as climate change progresses.
Experimental Study of Argon and Nitrogen Plasmas Sustained by High Voltage, High Repetition Rate Nanosecond Pulses

Plasmas generated by high voltage, high repetition rate nanosecond pulses have shown potential for a number of applications due to their efficient ionization and production of excited species as well as low power cost. In this work, experimental studies of plasmas generated by 800 V, 2 ns, 10–100 kHz pulses in argon and nitrogen at pressures of 1–10 Torr in a parallel-plate electrode configuration were conducted. A 60 GHz microwave interferometry system was constructed and used to provide time-resolved, spatially-averaged electron number densities in order to study plasma decay between the pulses. Time-resolved voltage and current measurements were also performed.
Data Handling in Fourier Transform Spectroscopy

The growing use of the Fourier transform in various forms of spectroscopy has necessitated the introduction of the minicomputer as an integral part of the spectrometer system. It is used both for data collection and processing and cannot be used effectively without some understanding of its potential limitations.
Activation of Brainstem Neurons in Voluntarily Diving Rats after Bilateral Sectioning of the Anterior Ethmoidal Nerve

This project was designed to investigate the functional role of the anterior ethmoidal nerve (AEN) during underwater diving in rats. The AEN innervates the nasal passages and is thought to be an im...
Persistent Polyhalogenated Compounds: Biochemistry, Toxicology, Medical Applications, and Associated Environmental Issues

This chapter will focus on several classes of halogenated compounds that have had widespread practical applications in industry and commerce. Because many of these compounds are chemically and thermally very stable, their extensive use has evoked serious concerns over potential longterm harmful effects to the environment. Indeed, many of these compounds have proven to be quite toxic, and environmental concerns are increased by their bioaccumulation in the food chain. Research designed to elucidate mechanisms of toxicity has helped define environmental issues and has produced significant biochemical data not only on the toxicology of the compounds of concern, but also on cellular mechanisms of the organisms involved, including humans. The environmental impact of certain halogenated compounds makes this topic a matter of extreme relevance, and inclusion of this subject in this volume clearly is appropriate. Biochemistry, toxicity, and potential environmental impact of several classes of halogenated insecticides will be considered first. This will be followed by a review of the problems associated with the toxicity of polyhalogenated hydrocarbons and related phenols, dioxins, and dibenzofurans. The development of halogenated volatile anesthetics and the use of perfluorinated aliphatic hydrocarbons as artificial oxygen carriers will be reviewed briefly. The biochemistry of simple halogenated aliphatic compounds, such as chloroform and carbon tetrachloride, is related in large part to metabolic activation to toxic species and will be discussed in Chapter 9.
Fields with indecomposable multiplicative groups

Abstract We classify all finite fields and all infinite fields of characteristic not equal to 2 whose multiplicative groups are direct-sum indecomposable. For finite fields, we obtain our classification using a direct argument and also as a corollary to Catalan’s Conjecture. Our answer involves both Fermat and Mersenne primes. Turning to infinite fields, we use the classification of indecomposable non-torsion-free abelian groups to prove that any infinite field whose characteristic is not equal to 2 must have a decomposable multiplicative group.
Investigation of photometric stereo method for 3-D shape recovery from underwater imagery

We explore the application to underwater imagery of the photometric stereo technique - the recovery of 3-D shape from three or more images of the same scene acquired under different lighting conditions. Ignoring back-scatter effects, we generalize McGlamery's (1975) model - expressing the image in terms of two direct and small-angle forward-scattered components - to devise a recursive 3-D shape reconstruction technique. By correction for certain range-dependent effects in underwater imagery - e.g. due to the medium attenuation, point source spreading loss, and irradiance gain from small-angle forward scattering - that are responsible for deviations from the land model, we construct rectified images in order to apply a closed-form solution based on the land image model of a Lambertian surface under collimated-source illumination. The method requires knowledge of the medium attenuation coefficient - readily measured from standard instruments (e.g. AC-9 (http://www.wetlabs.com/Products/ac9/ac9.htm)) - and is relatively robust with respect to rough estimates of two other empirical parameters approximated by the tabulated values of the absorption and total scattering coefficients for different bodies of water. Experimental results with images acquired under a variety of medium conditions are presented to demonstrate performance.
Quantification and Metaphysical Discourse

It is common in metaphysical discourse to make claims like “Everything is self-identical” in which “everything” is intended to range over everything. This sort of “unrestricted” generality appears central to metaphysical discourse. But there is debate whether such generality, which appears to involve quantification over an all-inclusive domain, is even meaningful. To address this concern, Shaughan Lavine and Vann McGee supply competing accounts of the generality expressed by this use of “everything.” I argue that, from the perspective of the metaphysician, neither of their proposals is entirely suitable. But their central insights, as well as their shortcomings, suggest an account which is suitable for metaphysical discourse, what I call “genuinely unrestricted quantification.” For while genuinely unrestricted quantification does not directly supply an account of the metaphysician's “everything,” it disentangles what are properly metaphysical issues from issues concerning how we ought to understand the quantifiers. It makes clear that whether the metaphysician's “everything” is meaningful cannot simply be resolved by supplying an appropriate account of our understanding of quantification. It depends on addressing certain substantive ontological questions.
A model for Raman-active librational modes on a metal surface: Pyridine and CN− on silver

Abstract A physical model is presented for the origin of very low frequency librational modes seen in the enhanced Raman spectrum of pyridine and CN − on an electrochemically prepared silver surface The image dipole of the molecule provides a anharmonic restoring torque for molecules adsorbed with their dipole moment perpendicular to the surface. The calculated librational modes are in reasonable agreement with experiment.
Problems of Innovation in Rural Social Services

Based on their role as exter nal evaluators of a national demonstration project, the au thors assess the efficacy of a new model of rural social ser vice delivery—the Satellite Di agnostic Social Services Center —implemented in Arizona. The differences between the mod el's original design concept and its actual form as a project for service delivery are analyzed. The authors show how the dy namics operating at the com munity level and the processes involved in funding can affect a project's implementation.
Nitric oxide: a spatial second messenger

Fast synaptic transmission by excitatory neurotransmitters endows neural tissue with remarkable computational power but is limited in its ability to adapt with experience. Information in the nervous system can also be distributed beyond the synapse by biogenic amines or neuropeptides released at non-synaptic sites to elicit volume transmission and by the spatial second messenger nitric oxide which can diffuse from a synapse to a volume of surrounding neural tissue. Volume transmission and spatial signaling complement classic point-to-point transmission and may coordinate local activity among groups of neurons and glia. An interesting dialogue exists between these systems. Nitric oxide produced in response to excitation of a neuron by glutamate stimulates exocytosis and release of glutamate and dopamine from nearby neurons. Dopamine in turn can alter the strength of glutamatergic synapses and affect synaptic plasticity.
Mechanisms of competitive adsorption of albumin and sodium myristate at the silicon oxide/aqueous interface.

The competitive adsorption of proteins and surfactants has applications to chromatographic systems and biological materials. Adsorption for systems of bovine serum albumin (BSA) and sodium myristate (SM) was investigated with in-situ ATR-IR spectroscopy and ex-situ ellipsometry. The results were used to determine quantitatively the surface densities of the adsorbates at the surface. For a mixture of SM and BSA at 25 °C in water, the adsorbed density of BSA is 0.3 mg/m2, which is much less than the value of 3.1 mg/m2 for BSA alone. Sodium myristate, some of which is protonated to myristic acid (MA) when adsorbed because of a pH decrease from 9.0 to 8.2, adsorbs to a surface density of 4.0 × 10-6 mol/m2, which is greater than the value of 1.7 × 10-6 mol/m2 from a solution of SM alone. Adsorbed SM and MA are removed, or desorbed, when the bulk mixture is replaced with water, with only a slight amount of SM remaining. When placed in contact with a layer of BSA, SM can displace most of the adsorbed protein, ev...
Amiloride-sensitive Na+ transport across cultured renal (A6) epithelium: evidence for large currents and high Na:K selectivity.

Electrical techniques were used to determine the Na∶K selectivity of the amiloride-sensitive pathway and to characterize cellular and paracellular properties of A6 epithelium. Under control conditions, the mean transepithelial voltage (V T) was −57±5 mV, the short-circuit current (I sc) averaged 23±2 μA/cm2 and the transepithelial resistance (R T) was 2.8±0.3 kΩcm2 (n=13). V T and I sc were larger than reported in previous studies and were increased by aldosterone. The conductance of the amiloride-sensitive pathway (G amil) was assessed before and after replacement of Na+ in the mucosal bath by K+, using two independent measurements: (1) the slope conductance (G T), determined from current-voltage (I-V) relationships for control and amiloride-treated tissues and (2) the maximum amiloride-sensitive conductance (G max) calculated from the amiloride dose-response relationship. The ratio of G amil in mucosal Na+ solutions to G amil for mucosal K+ solutions was 22±6 for G T measurements and 15±2 for G max data. Serosal ion replacements in tissues treated with mucosal nystatin indicated a potassium conductance in the basolateral membrane. Equivalent circuit analyses of nystatin and amiloride data were used to resolve the cellular (E c) and paracellular (R j) resistances (∼5 kΩcm2 and 8–9 kΩcm2, respectively). Analysis I-V relationships for tissues depolarized with serosal K+ solutions revealed that the amiloride-sensitive pathway could be described as a Na+ conductance with a permeability coefficient (P Na)=1.5±0.2× 10−6 cm/s and the intracellular Na+ concentration (Nai)=5±1 mM (n=5), similar to values from other tight epithelia. We conclude that A6 epithelia are capable of expressing large amiloride-sensitive currents which are highly Na+ selective.
Identifying the Effect of Polar Constituents in Coal-Derived NAPLs on Interfacial Tension

Interfacial tension, which is a critical variable affecting multiphase flow of nonaqueous phase liquids (NAPLs) in the subsurface, varies greatly with the composition of complex NAPLs recovered from field sites. Much of this variability stems from the presence of acid and base molecules in the NAPL mixture. The interfacial tension and acid and base concentration in six coal-derived NAPLs were measured. Creosotes generally have lower interfacial tensions due to their higher concentrations of organic acid and base macromolecules as compared with coal tar samples. Interfacial tension is a function of pH, with lower values measured at pH greater than approximately 9. At a neutral pH, the interfacial tensions are inversely proportional to the total acid concentration. Asphaltenes in these coal-derived NAPLs account for most of the acid and base constituents. It is found in this study that acid and base numbers are valuable indicators of interfacial tension and, therefore, the capillary phenomena associated with multiphase flow behavior of NAPLs in the subsurface.
Would gene therapy for the treatment of male infertility be safe

The second Viewpoint in the series of articles on gene therapy for male infertility evaluates safety aspects. Lamb describes the ideal vector for DNA transfection, and draws on data from previous studies to describe the safety of various vectors under investigation.
Simulation Studies for a Space-Based CO2 Lidar Mission

We report results of initial space mission simulation studies for a laser-based, atmospheric CO 2 sounder, which are based on real-time carbon cycle process modelling and data analysis. The mission concept corresponds to the Active Sensing of CO 2 Emissions over Nights, Days and Seasons (ASCENDS) recommended by the US National Academy of Sciences’ Decadal Survey. As a pre-requisite for meaningful quantitative evaluation, we employ a CO 2 model that has representative spatial and temporal gradients across a wide range of scales. In addition, a relatively complete description of the atmospheric and surface state is obtained from meteorological data assimilation and satellite measurements. We use radiative transfer calculations, an instrument model with representative errors and a simple retrieval approach to quantify errors in ‘measured’ CO 2 distributions, which are a function of mission and instrument design specifications along with the atmospheric/surface state. Uncertainty estimates based on the current instrument design point indicate that a CO 2 laser sounder can provide data consistent with ASCENDS requirements and will significantly enhance our ability to address carbon cycle science questions. Test of a dawn/dusk orbit deployment, however, shows that diurnal differences in CO 2 column abundance, indicative of plant photosynthesis and respiration fluxes, will be difficult to detect. DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0889.2010.00486.x
Learning Style Preferences of Bachelor’s and Master’s Students in Occupational Therapy

A pre-test/post-test design was used to study the learning style preferences of two classes of occupational therapy students of the University of Southern California. Forty students were in the 1976-1977 class and 49 in the 1977-1978 class. The Learning Preferences Inventory was administered before and after completion of courses in the basic professional curriculum. The results indicated that both bachelor's and master's students preferred learning experiences that were teacher-structured, concrete, and interpersonal. Although the changes in learning styles that occurred during basic professional education were not consistent from sample to sample, they did suggest that an instructional program can influence learning style preference. The comparison of higher and lower achievers in the academic and fieldwork components also yielded inconsistent findings. Thus, while the learning style preferences of occupational therapy students were confirmed, the influence of the curriculum on learning styles and the preferences of better versus less successful students merit further investigations.
Distributional Patterns of Selected Western North American Insects: Problems of Bee Distribution in Western North America

There are approximately 3,500 described species and subspecies of bees in America north of Mexico. Nearly two-thirds of these occur in the area west of the Mississippi River and are especially well represented in the more arid regions of Western North America. For many of these species there is already a reasonably sufficient basis to determine the more prevalent patterns of distribution. One must remember, however, that for the majority of these species there is scarcely more than a fragmentary idea of their distribution. Even so, it is anticipated that once the problem of incomplete data is overcome it seems unlikely that it will appreciably alter the major patterns of distribution as we now understand them.
A long-run simulation model for analysing social security retirement policies☆

Abstract This paper analyses social security retirement policy using a simple long-run simulation model which incorporates lifecycle consumption behaviour. Three policy alternatives are considered: 1 a validation policy in which the retirement of the baby boom generation is partially financed by an increase in national saving brought about by the projected build-up in the social security trust funds; 2 an offset policy in which national saving does not increase because the social security trust fund build-up is offset by increases in deficits of other government programmes; 3 a policy of cutting social security taxes and returning the system to pay as you go. Each policy is judged by how it affects the well-being of age cohorts alive at the start of the simulation.
Preparing Peer Educators for Teen HIV/AIDS Prevention

Adolescents, as a group, are at risk for contracting HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases because of their developmental level, which often leads to impulsiveness and desire for experimentation. Finding ways to educate and motivate adolescents to avoid sexual risk behaviors is a challenge to pediatric nurses and teachers. Theoretically based peer education programs help change adolescent risk behaviors because of the influence of peers during adolescence. This article presents information on a project aiming to prepare peer leaders in an urban high school to become peer educators using the program Teens for AIDS Prevention. Nurses can play a major role in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of peer education programs to prevent adolescent risk behaviors.
Aspergillus fumigatus keratitis after laser in situ keratomileusis.

Purpose. To report a case of Aspergillus fumigatus keratitis after a laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) enhancement procedure. Method. Case report. Results. A 56-year-old woman developed an ulcer in the flap 13 days after LASIK enhancement. A 4-week course of fortified antibiotics for a presumed bacterial infection followed. The ulcer progressed, causing 60% thinning of the corneal stroma. A biopsy was performed 5 weeks after onset of symptoms, and antifungal agents were initiated. Cultures showed A. fumigatus. Her cornea perforated after the biopsy, requiring cyanoacrylate and lamellar overlay sutures, but the infiltrate resolved on antifungal agents. Conclusion. This report is the first description of Aspergillus keratitis after LASIK. We hypothesize that the infection became established on the stromal bed during surgery and led to melting, anteriorly through the flap and posteriorly through the stroma. Diagnosis was made by a corneal biopsy and inoculation of a wide array of media. This case demonstrates the need to consider atypical organisms, including fungi, in the differential diagnosis of post-LASIK infections when there is no response to therapy and highlights the role of corneal biopsy and flap lifting in the diagnosis of this condition.
Query-dependent banding (QDB) for faster RNA similarity searches.

When searching sequence databases for RNAs, it is desirable to score both primary sequence and RNA secondary structure similarity. Covariance models (CMs) are probabilistic models well-suited for RNA similarity search applications. However, the computational complexity of CM dynamic programming alignment algorithms has limited their practical application. Here we describe an acceleration method called query-dependent banding (QDB), which uses the probabilistic query CM to precalculate regions of the dynamic programming lattice that have negligible probability, independently of the target database. We have implemented QDB in the freely available Infernal software package. QDB reduces the average case time complexity of CM alignment from LN2.4 to LN1.3 for a query RNA of N residues and a target database of L residues, resulting in a 4-fold speedup for typical RNA queries. Combined with other improvements to Infernal, including informative mixture Dirichlet priors on model parameters, benchmarks also show increased sensitivity and specificity resulting from improved parameterization.
QSR1, an essential yeast gene with a genetic relationship to a subunit of the mitochondrial cytochrome bc1 complex, is homologous to a gene implicated in eukaryotic cell differentiation.

Subunit 6 of the mitochondrial cytochrome bc1complex regulates the activity of the bc1complex in Saccharomyces cerevisiae but is not essential for respiration. To test whether QCR6, the nuclear gene which encodes subunit 6, might be functionally redundant with any other gene(s), we screened for mutations in yeast genes which are essential when the otherwise non-essential QCR6 is deleted from the yeast chromosome. We obtained such q uinol-cytochrome c reductase subunit-requiring mutants in two complementation groups, which we named qsr1 and qsr2. The qsr mutants require QCR6 for viability on fermentable and non-fermentable carbon sources, indicating that QCR6 is covering lethal mutations in qsr1 and qsr2, even when the yeast do not require respiration. QSR1 was cloned by rescuing the synthetic lethality of a qsr1-1 mutant. QSR1 encodes a 25.4-kDa protein which is 65% identical to a protein encoded by QM, a highly conserved human gene which has been implicated in tumorigenesis. In mammals QM is down-regulated during adipocyte, kidney, and heart differentiation, and in Nicotiana the homolog of QM is also down-regulated during differentiation. When one chromosomal copy of QSR1 was deleted in a diploid yeast strain, haploid spores derived therefrom and carrying the deletion were unable to grow on fermentable or non-fermentable carbon sources. Although QCR6 allows the qsr1-1 mutant to grow, it will not substitute for QSR1, since the deletion of QSR1 is lethal even if QCR6 is present. These results indicate a novel genetic relationship between a subunit of the mitochondrial respiratory chain and an essential gene in yeast which is homologous to a gene implicated in differentiation in other eukaryotes.
Cellular pharmacology of cerulenin analogs that inhibit protein palmitoylation.

Abstract S -Palmitoylation is a dynamic post-translational modification of certain proteins, which helps determine membrane association and may function to enhance the interactions of signaling molecules with their activated receptors and effector systems. Unlike enzymes that catalyze other protein lipidation reactions, e.g. farnesylation and N -myristoylation, protein palmitoyltransferase is virtually uncharacterized biochemically. We have described previously the synthesis of cerulenin analogs including cis -2,3-epoxy-4-oxononadecanamide (16C) and cis -2,3-epoxy-4-oxododecanamide (9C) that inhibit protein palmitoylation (Lawrence et al., J Med Chem 1999;42:4932–41), most likely through covalent alkylation of protein palmitoyltransferase. [ 3 H]9C and [ 3 H]16C were prepared by catalytic incorporation of 3 H 2 into unsaturated precursors for further study of their cellular pharmacology. After 4 hr, T24 bladder carcinoma cells in the absence of serum accumulated a 4-fold higher intracellular level of [ 3 H]16C than of [ 3 H]9C. Uptake of [ 3 H]9C and [ 3 H]16C was reduced by the presence of serum in the medium, suggesting their binding to serum proteins. [ 3 H]9C and [ 3 H]16C alkylated unique patterns of proteins in T24 cells, with proteins of approximately 80 and 31 kDa being labeled by each compound. A panel of human tumor cell lines demonstrated half-maximal proliferation inhibition at concentrations of 7–30, 4–16, and 8–36 μM, for cerulenin, 9C, and 16C, respectively, indicating that the cell lines have approximately equal sensitivity to these compounds. Different cell lines have similar patterns of protein alkylation by [ 3 H]9C or [ 3 H]16C, with labeling intensity related to cytotoxicity of the compounds. Since both 9C and 16C inhibit palmitoylation, the commonly labeled proteins are candidates for human protein palmitoyltransferase.
The effect of β-phenylethylamine on behavior and polyribosomes in the rat

Abstract β -phenylethylamine which has been reported to induce a behavior state in rats similar to paranoid schizophrenia in humans was found to disrupt polyribosomes. The effect on polyribosomes is similar to that found with amphetamine. The behavior response, however, is different and it is suggested that serotonin rather than dopamine may be responsible for this response.
VCSELs in '98: what we have and what we can expect

Recent results from the authors group are summarized as a general indicator of the current state of the art in vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs). These include results from engineered-aperture VCSELs with high wall-plug efficiencies at low powers, high-efficiency bottom-emitting cryo-VCSELs with wavelengths < 900 nm, low-threshold AlGaInAs VCSELs emitting at 850 nm, and arrays of VCSELs used in parallel free-space links as well as WDM arrays butt-coupled to multimode fiber. Analysis indicates that size-dependent losses limit the scaling of VCSELs below 5 micrometers in diameter unless special engineered apertures and/or short cavities are used. The analysis also shows that lateral carrier confinement is necessary to obtain efficient devices below 2 micrometers in diameter.
Random Juror Selection from Multiple Lists

We examine the selection of jurors' names from multiple source lists, using statistical and optimization methodology. Five plans for sampling at random from overlapping lists of names are analyzed for their probabilistic and cost properties. In each plan the probability of a name being selected is independent of which and how many lists it appears on. We consider the optimal ordering of the frames to minimize cost and develop a heuristic for solving this problem. Although the methods are discussed in terms of juror selection, the results apply to sampling from overlapping frames in any context. For instance, if lists of equipment are kept according to possible uses, with versatile equipment listed many times, the methods of this paper can be used to draw a random sample of equipment to check for readiness.
Teacher–parent partnership: an authentic teacher education model to improve student outcomes

This manuscript describes a statewide initiative to implement a training model for educators and parents of children with disabilities in more than 90 public school districts and 20 higher education institutions. The proposed model was designed to facilitate positive changes among families, teachers and administrators by increasing their knowledge, improving their attitudes and dispositions, and improving their ability to develop effective partnerships. Through this statewide initiative, teachers and families will be trained together in learning communities whose members share a vision and a mission to serve children with disabilities and improve student outcomes. This article describes (a) the theoretical and research basis that provides the foundation of this training model, (b) the core components of the training model, and (c) the procedures for implementing the model throughout the state.
Clinical evaluation of the internal automatic cardioverter-defibrillator in survivors of sudden cardiac death

Abstract An R-wave synchronous implantable automatic cardioverter-defibrillator (IACD) was evaluated in 12 patients with repeated episodes of cardiac arrest who remained refractory to medical and surgical therapy. Seven men and 5 women, average age 61 years, surgically received a complete IACD system. Coronary artery disease was found in 11 and the prolonged Q-T syndrome in 1. The average ejection fraction was 34%, and 6 patients had severe congestive heart failure (New York Heart Association class III or IV). The IACD is a completely implantable unit consisting of 2 bipolar lead systems. One system uses a lead in the superior vena cava and on the left ventricular apex through which the cardioverting pulse is delivered. The second system employs a close bipolar lead implanted in the ventricle for sensing rate. After the onset of ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation, the IACD automatically delivers approximately 25 J. Postoperative electrophysiologic study in 10 and spontaneous ventricular tachycardia in 1 patient demonstrated appropriate IACD function and successful conversion in all with an average of 18 ± 4 seconds. The induced arrhythmias were ventricular tachycardia (160 to 300 beats/min) in 9 and ventricular fibrillation in 1. These data demonstrate that ventricular tachycardia, not ventricular fibrillation, was the predominant rhythm induced during programmed ventricular stimulation in these survivors of cardiac arrest and that the IACD effectively responded to a wide range of ventricular tachycardia rates as well as ventricular fibrillation. Use of the IACD offers an effective means of therapy for some patients who otherwise may not have survived.
A mild and general synthesis of mixed orthoesters

Abstract Mixed orthoesters which contain two structurally simple and one complex alkoxy group may be synthesized in high yield and purity by an exchange process catalyzed by magnesium chloride. The reaction is procedurally straightforward, general and provides crude products requiring minimal or no subsequent purification.
Media Influence and Frame Diversity in the Debate Over Same-Sex Marriage

In this study the author uses content analysis of newspaper articles to analyze the frames used in debates over constitutional amendments that legally prohibit same-sex marriage and other relationship recognition. The findings from this analysis contradict previous research on mediated public discussion of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender rights that find polarization by values of equal rights versus traditional morality. Instead, analysis shows that debates also invoke broader themes including support of children, competing claims of harm, and separation of government powers. In addition, the author finds that elites and nonelites use themes of morality, marriage, and children at different rates and thus cautions against models that assume too high an influence of elites on nonelite public debate. This research adds to the literature on the role of newspapers in mediating public discussion and has broader implications for the culture wars hypothesis.
Use of the Direct Current Arc Voltage in Determining the Carbonate Content of Bone

An example is presented of the usefulness of are voltage recordings in the design of a synthetic matrix for the trace analysis of bone ash and bone mineral. In particular, the sensitivity of the voltage patterns of calcium phosphate to carbonate concentration enabled a simple quantitative estimate of the carbonate content of bone to be made, and measurement of the average arc temperatures substantiated the result. A method is therefore suggested for the determination of percent amounts of carbonate in similar materials which requires but a few milligrams of sample. This determination is important in the study of the nature, deposition, and crystallization of bone mineral and other biological calcifications. It may also be useful in the analysis of the various geological apatites.
A relay to (+)-pleuromutilin. I. synthesis of a levorotatory tricyclic lactone subunit

Abstract Construction of the optically active lactone (−)−13, required for a proposed total synthesis of (+)-pleuromutilin, has been successfully achieved.
Nanoscale Thermal Phenomena in Tunnel Junctions for Spintronics Applications

The nascent field of spintronics has great potential to enable new types of information processing and storage devices and supplement conventional semiconductor electronics. An overview of nanoscale thermal phenomena in a tunnel junctions is provided, which is one of the key building blocks of spintronic devices. Experiments showed that the thermal resistance of nanoscale AlO x tunnel barriers increases linearly with thickness, which is consistent with the theory of energy transport in highly disordered materials. Heat conduction across a tunnel junction is impeded by significant additional resistance at interfaces between the barrier layer and electrodes due to mismatch in atomic vibrational properties and nonequilibrium between electrons and phonons. The quantum-mechanical tunneling probability depends strongly on electron energy, which leads to asymmetry in heat-generation rate along the two opposing electrodes of a tunnel junction.
The shape of content: creative writing in mathematics and science, edited by Chandler Davis, Marjorie Wikler Senechal and Jan Zwicky

The shape of content: creative writing in mathematics and science, edited by Chandler Davis, Marjorie Wikler Senechal and Jan Zwicky, Wellesley, MA, A K Peters, 2008, 216 pp, USD $39.00, Hardcover,...
Audit and feedback as a clinical practice guideline implementation strategy: a model for acute care nurse practitioners.

Background: The transfer of research evidence into practice and changing provider behavior is challenging, even when the advantages are strong. Despite the availability of supportive care clinical practice guidelines (CPG), consistent integration of these principles into practice has not been achieved. The failure of dissemination strategies has been identified as a key barrier to successful implementation. A potentially effective approach to facilitating the transfer of research evidence into practice is audit and feedback. Audit and feedback is a summary of provider performance over a specified period of time, with or without recommendations to improve practice. Rationale: Cancer pain is an optimal symptom to examine when studying the effect of an audit and feedback intervention. It is a common condition with important consequences, established CPG are available, measurable outcomes are defined, and there is potential for improvement in current practice. Acute care nurse practitioners (NPs) are often responsible for overseeing and directly managing symptoms such as pain and are well positioned to implement CPG and study the effects of adherence to guidelines on patients' pain outcomes. Methodology: A systematic review of published articles, MEDLINE®, the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and the Cochrane Library computerized databases was performed to evaluate the state of the science on audit and feedback as a professional practice change strategy. A behavior change model is proposed for its application to advanced practice nursing. Implications for Practice: Recognized in medicine as a valuable intervention to improve healthcare quality, audit and feedback is a strategy that has not been widely studied in nursing. Although cancer pain cannot always be entirely eliminated, appropriate use of available therapies can effectively relieve pain in a majority of patients. This article is a review of the literature on audit and feedback as a professional practice change strategy and indicates a model for operationalizing the intervention.
Numerical simulation of chloramines formation in turbulent flow using a multi-fluid micromixing model

A study has been performed to investigate the use of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) for the analysis of ammonia injection methods to produce chloramines in water containing residual free chlorine. In this study, the Reynolds-averaged Naviere Stokes Equation and turbulence model were combined with chloramines kinetic models to predict downstream spatial distribution of residual free chlorine. As part of this study, a CFD model with the RNG ke3 turbulence model was combined with a multi-fluid microscale model (MFM) to investigate the impact of micromixing on the free chlorine residual. All model predictions were compared with experimental measurements of the free chlorine residual at different upstream and downstream locations from the ammonia injection point. Three types of ammonia diffusers were simulated and tested in the presented work. The results showed that the incorporation of the MFM approach can enhance the numerical prediction of the free chlorine spatial distribution. In addition, the modeling results confirmed the experimental observation that multi-nozzle diffusers displayed better mixing performance than the cone-shape diffuser with a single nozzle in a pilot-scale reactor. 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.