cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mapping Phosphodiesterase 4D (PDE4D) in Macaque Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex: Postsynaptic Compartmentalization in Layer III Pyramidal Cell Circuits.

cAMP signaling has powerful, negative effects on cognitive functions of the primate dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC), opening potassium channels to reduce firing and impair working memory, and increasing tau phosphorylation in aging neurons. This contrasts with cAMP actions in classic circuits, where it enhances plasticity and transmitter release. PDE4 isozymes regulate cAMP actions, and thus have been a focus of research and drug discovery. Previous work has focused on the localization of PDE4A and PDE4B in dlPFC, but PDE4D is also of great interest, as it is the predominant PDE4 isoform in primate association cortex, and PDE4D expression decreases with aging in human dlPFC. Here we used laser-capture microdissection transcriptomics and found that PDE4D message is enriched in pyramidal cells compared to GABAergic PV-interneurons in layer III of the human dlPFC. A parallel study in rhesus macaques using high-spatial resolution immunoelectron microscopy revealed the ultrastructural locations of PDE4D in primate dlPFC with clarity not possible in human post-mortem tissue. PDE4D was especially prominent in dendrites associated with microtubules, mitochondria, and likely smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER). There was substantial postsynaptic labeling in dendritic spines, associated with the SER spine-apparatus near glutamatergic-like axospinous synapses, but sparse labeling in axon terminals. We also observed dense PDE4D labeling perisynaptically in astroglial leaflets ensheathing glutamatergic connections. These data suggest that PDE4D is strategically positioned to regulate cAMP signaling in dlPFC glutamatergic synapses and circuits, especially in postsynaptic compartments where it is localized to influence cAMP actions on intracellular trafficking, mitochondrial physiology, and internal calcium release.
The structure of pseudo-holomorphic subvarieties for a degenerate almost complex structure and symplectic form on $S^1 \times B^3$

A self-dual harmonic 2–form on a 4–dimensional Riemannian manifold is symplectic where it does not vanish. Furthermore, away from the form’s zero set, the metric and the 2–form give a compatible almost complex structure and thus pseudo-holomorphic subvarieties. Such a subvariety is said to have finite energy when the integral over the variety of the given self-dual 2–form is finite. This article proves a regularity theorem for such finite energy subvarieties when the metric is particularly simple near the form’s zero set. To be more precise, this article’s main result asserts the following: Assume that the zero set of the form is non-degenerate and that the metric near the zero set has a certain canonical form. Then, except possibly for a finite set of points on the zero set, each point on the zero set has a ball neighborhood which intersects the subvariety as a finite set of components, and the closure of each component is a real analytically embedded half disk whose boundary coincides with the zero set of the form.
On the Basis of Race: The Utility of a Race Factor in Estimating Glomerular Filtration.

Background Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a measure of the combined rate of filtration of all functional nephrons in the kidney. Measurement of GFR is used in the clinic to detect, stratify, and monitor progression of kidney dysfunction, and also serves as a prognostic tool for staging chronic kidney disease (CKD). The gold standard method for measuring GFR is by plasma or urine clearance of exogenous filtration markers, but this is not feasible in routine clinical practice. The most commonly used method to assess GFR is using equations for estimated GFR (eGFR). Content Addition of a race factor to eGFR equations has been recommended to optimize performance for Black individuals. Here, we review the basis of the race-based equation and assess its utility and widespread applicability. Summary Although evidence supporting the performance of a race factor exists in the unique populations in which these estimation equations were derived, more studies are needed to assess the need, or lack thereof, for race factors for all ethnicities. Furthermore, ethnicity is complex and likely cannot be qualified with a 2-level descriptor.
3-D Vertical via Nitrogen-Doped Aluminum Oxide Resistive Random-Access Memory

Resistive random-access memory (RRAM) with atomic layer deposited (ALD) nitrogen-doped aluminum oxide (AlO x N y ) resistive dielectric appropriate for high-density 3-D vertical via array is demonstrated. With appropriate ALD electrodes, the RRAM exhibits almost forming-free, sub-microamperes programming currents, and appropriate resistance ranges. As the via size is scaled down, the set voltage and reset current decrease and the memory window widens, due to the 3-D nature of the device. Programming endurance of $5\times 10^{{4}}$ cycles and retention up to 10 years at 90 °C are demonstrated.
Use of a metalearner to predict emergency medical services demand in an urban setting

Abstract Objective To develop and internally validate a metalearner algorithm to predict the hourly rate of emergency medical services (EMS) dispatches in an urban setting. Methods We performed an analysis of EMS data from New York City between years 2015-2019. Our outcome was hourly EMS dispatches, expressed as continuous data. Hours were split into derivation (75%) and validation (25%) datasets. Candidate variables included averages of prior rates, temporal and weather characteristics. We used a metalearner to evaluate and aggregate individual learners (generalized linear model, generalized additive model, random forest, multivariable adaptive regression splines, and extreme gradient boost). Four models were investigated: 1) temporal variables, 2) weather and temporal variables, and datasets in which weather data were lagged by 3) six and 4) twelve hours. In exploratory analyses, we constructed learners for high acuity and trauma encounters. Results 7,364,275 EMS dispatches occurred during the 43,823-hour period. When using temporal variables, the mean absolute error (MAE) rate was 11.5 dispatches in the validation dataset. These were slightly improved following incorporation of weather variables (MAE 11.3). When using 6- and 12-hour lagged weather variables, learners demonstrated lower accuracy (MAE 11.8 in 6-hour lagged datasets; 12.2 in 12-hour lagged dataset). All models had a coefficient of determination (R2) ≥0.91. The extreme gradient boosting and random forest learners were assigned the highest coefficients. In an investigation of variable importance, hour of day and average EMS dispatches over the previous six hours were the most important variables in both the extreme gradient boosting and random forest learners. The algorithm performed well at predicting frequently occurring peaks, with greater challenges at both extremes. Learners created high-acuity and for trauma-related encounters demonstrated superior MAE, but with lower R2 in the validation cohort (MAE 6.9 and R2 0.84 for high acuity encounters; MAE 5.3 and R2 0.79 for trauma in learners using time and weather variables). Conclusion We developed an ensemble machine learning algorithm to predict EMS dispatches in an urban setting. These models demonstrated high accuracy, with MAEs
Proposal for a destructive controlled phase gate using linear optics

Knill, Laflamme, and Milburn showed that linear optics techniques could be used to implement a nonlinear sign gate. They also showed that two of their nonlinear sign gates could be combined to implement a controlled-phase gate, which has a number of practical applications. Here we describe an alternative implementation of a controlled-phase gate for a single-rail target qubit that only requires the use of a single nonlinear sign gate. This gives a much higher average probability of success when the required ancilla photons are generated using heralding techniques. This implementation of a controlled-phase gate destroys the control qubit, which is acceptable in a number of applications where the control qubit would have been destroyed in any event, such as in a postselection process.
Impact of global warming on performance of ground source heat pumps in US climate zones

Abstract Ground source heat pumps (GSHP) have attracted increasing attention because of their high energy efficiencies. The aim of this paper is to study the performance of (GSHP) in future climate conditions (2040–2069) by using projected future hourly weather data of selected representative cities in the US to estimate future ground temperature change. The projected hourly weather data and estimated ground temperatures are input to an hourly simulation tool (TRNSYS and eQuest for this research), which provides reliable coupling of GSHP system and building performance. The simulation results show that global warming will decrease the energy efficiency of GSHP in US residential buildings because a rise in inlet and outlet water temperature is predicted for GSHP systems during the cooling season and because buildings will become more cooling dominated in the future. For office buildings, although the cooling performance of GSHP will not drop significantly under future climate, the overall energy efficiency for the system will decrease due to the increasing energy consumption of the ground loop pump. In the future, considering the significant ground heat imbalance for GSHP operation, GSHP will become less competitive both economically and technically than it is now in the context of US climate zones.
Aging in Lower Animals

Biologists have long recognized that the study of simpler animals often provides understanding of how our bodies work. Basic biological processes are similar in very diverse organisms. Most of what is known about the transmission of nerve impulses, for example, has come from studies of the giant nerves of squid. Ideas on the nature of hormone action and the role of hormones in turning on or off the activity of genes have come from studies of insect metamorphosis and crustacean moulting cycles. Fruit flies have been invaluable in the study of genetics because of their rapid generation time (about 2 weeks) and because giant chromosomes in the salivary glands of their larvae are easy to see. Many more examples could be given to illustrate the usefulness of lower animals in biological research, but these few should give a general idea of the extent to which invertebrate animals have served in the progress of biological thinking.
An improved power free tracking system for box type solar cookers

Abstract An improved power free solar tracking system for box type solar cookers, suitable for up to six hours of cooking is being reported in this brief note. The requirement for solar tracking along the altitude has been eliminated by orienting a relatively larger booster mirror at a predetermined optimum angle for the day for a particular location. The requirement for tracking along the azimuth has been addressed by using the gravitational potential energy stored in a water container connected to a pair of springs. Discharge of water from the container at a constant predetermined rate drives a timing belt mounted wooden disc to rotate with the sun at a uniform rate. Experimental results indicate that the system faithfully tracks the sun for up to six hours, starting 3 h before solar noon and up to 3 h after it.
Constraint-Based Contact Analysis between Deformable Objects

The key to the successful simulation of deformable objects is to model the realistic behavior of deformation when they are influenced by intricate contact conditions and geometric constraints. This paper describes constraint-based contact modeling between deformable objects using a nonlinear finite element method. In contrast to the penalty force based approaches, constraint-based enforcement of contact provide accuracy and freedom from finding proper penalty coefficients. This paper is focused on determining contact regions and calculating reaction forces at appropriate nodes and elements within the contact regions. The displacement and deformation of all nodes are dynamically updated based on the contact reaction forces. Our constraint based contact force computation method guarantees tight error bound at the contact regions and maintains hard constraints without overshoot or oscillation at the boundaries. In addition, the proposed method doesn’t require us to choose proper penalty coefficients, thus greater numerical stability can be achieved and generally large integration steps can be utilized for the ODE solver. Contact conditions are formulated as nonlinear equality and inequality constraints and the force computation is cast into a nonlinear optimization problem. Our rigid-to-deformable and deformable-to-deformable contact simulation demonstrates that the non-penetration constraints are well maintained.
DIETARY CHOLESTEROL INHIBITS WHOLE-BODY BUT NOT CEREBRUM CHOLESTEROL SYNTHESIS IN YOUNG PIGS

We studied the effect of dietary cholesterol on tissue cholesterol synthesis in 10 genetically lean pigs using the 2H2O incorporation method. Five pigs were fed a diet containing 0% cholesterol (controls) and five were fed a diet containing 0.5% cholesterol (cholesterol-fed) from d 1 to d 54 of age. From d 30 to d 54, they received 2H2O and cholesterol synthesis was determined by measuring deuterium enrichment in erythrocyte cholesterol. All pigs were killed on d 54 and liver, ileum, jejunum, kidney, adipose tissue, muscle, and cerebrum were collected for measurement of free and esterified cholesterol and of the deuterium content of tissue free cholesterol. In vivo cholesterol synthesis was inhibited by dietary cholesterol as reflected by a decrease in fractional synthesis rate from 16.8 +/- 1.7%/d in controls to 2.3 +/- 1.1%/d in cholesterol-fed pigs. Cholesterol feeding raised cholesterol ester concentration in plasma, liver, and other tissues. Deuterium enrichment of free cholesterol in tissues, such as liver, was reduced from 11.98 +/- 2.82 milli atom percent excess in controls to 1.83 +/- 1.14 in cholesterol-fed pigs. Greater cholesterol intake did not inhibit cholesterol synthesis in the cerebrum. Deuterium enrichment levels of cholesterol in plasma and liver were similar to those in other tissues except for brain, suggesting an equilibration of cholesterol between the liver and most extrahepatic tissues. The control of cholesterol synthesis in brain appears to be independent of that in liver and other tissues of the body.
Design Risk Analysis Comparison Between Low-Activation Composite and Aluminum Alloy Target Chamber for the National Ignition Facility

The baseline design for the target chamber for the National Ignition Facility (NIF) consists of an aluminum alloy spherical shell. A low-activation composite chamber (e.g., carbon fiber/epoxy) has important advantages such as enhanced environmental and safety characteristics, improved chamber accessibility due to reduced neutron-induced radioactivity, and elimination of the concrete shield. However, it is critical to determine the design and manufacturing risk for the first application. The replacement of such a critical component requires a detailed development risk assessment. A semiquantitative approach to risk assessment has been applied to this problem based on failure modes, effects, and criticality analysis. This analysis consists of a systematic method for organizing the collective judgment of the designers to identify failure modes, estimate probabilities, judge the severity of the consequence, and illustrate risk in a matrix representation. The results of the analyses indicate that the composite chamber has a reasonably high probability of success in the NIF application. The aluminum alloy chamber, however, represents a lower risk, partially based on a more mature technology. 8 refs., 4 figs., 5 tabs.
Event-related potential evidence for the processing efficiency theory.

Abstract The purpose of this study was to examine the central tenets of the processing efficiency theory using psychophysiological measures of attention and effort. Twenty-eight participants were divided equally into either a high or low trait anxiety group. They were then required to perform a simulated driving task while responding to one of four target light-emitting diodes. Cortical activity and dual task performance were recorded under two conditions – baseline and competition – with cognitive anxiety being elevated in the competitive session by an instructional set. Although driving speed was similar across sessions, a reduction in P3 amplitude to cue onset in the light detection task occurred for both groups during the competitive session, suggesting a reduction in processing efficiency as participants became more state anxious. Our findings provide more comprehensive and mechanistic evidence for processing efficiency theory, and confirm that increases in cognitive anxiety can result in a reduction...
VCSEL based Faraday rotation spectroscopy with a modulated and static magnetic field for trace molecular oxygen detection

Faraday Rotation Spectroscopy (FRS) is a useful technique for quantification of paramagnetic trace gases with significantly higher sensitivity when compared to direct absorption techniques. Our prototype system based on the openPHOTONS sensor core measures the concentration of molecular oxygen (O2) in the A band using a 763-nm vertical cavity surface emitting laser. We provide detailed analysis of two measurement methods based on FRS using the same sensor configuration: one with a modulated magnetic field, and one with a static magnetic field in combination with wavelength modulation. Our spectra signal-to-noise ratios agree well with our simulations via modeling of the FRS signal. For alternating magnetic field, we achieve an equivalent minimum detectable absorption (MDA) of \(8.86\times 10^{-7}/\mathrm{Hz}^{\frac{1}{2}}\) resulting in a minimum detection limit of 30 ppmv⋅m/\(\mathrm{Hz}^{\frac{1}{2}}\) of O2, limited by detector noise and laser noise. For the same system configuration in the static field case, parasitic etalon fringes limited the MDA to \(4.8\times 10^{-6}/\mathrm{Hz}^{\frac{1}{2}}\). In both cases, we describe methods to improve signal-to-noise ratio based on our data and models.
Analysis of human immunodeficiency virus in semen: indications of a genetically distinct virus reservoir

It is well established that HIV is found in semen, either as cell-free or cell associated virus, yet many questions remain about the source of the virus. A number of factors, including anatomic features of the male reproductive tract, the restricted access of the immune system to the germ cell compartment, and the results from sexually transmitted virus studies, suggest that the source of HIV in semen may be different from that in the peripheral blood. In this study, we examine the HIV in the infected cells of semen as indicators of the virus producing reservoir. The frequency of HIV positive leukocytes in semen is compared to that of concurrent blood samples from eight donors and these values are found to be highly variable and frequently discordant. The protease gene sequences of HIV strains isolated from semen cells and blood cells were determined and phylogenetic analyses were performed which indicate the virus populations in the two sources are genetically distinct. In one patient receiving anti-HIV protease inhibitor therapy, gene sequences indicative of protease inhibitor resistance were found in the blood, but not the semen cell compartment. These results suggest that HIV in the semen and blood compartments are distinct, and further, may respond differently to antiviral therapy.
Towards developing robust algorithms for solving partial differential equations on MIMD machines

Methods for efficient computation of numerical algorithms on a wide variety of MIMD machines are proposed. These techniques reorganize the data dependency patterns to improve the processor utilization. The model problem finds the time-accurate solution to a parabolic partial differential equation discretized in space and implicitly marched forward in time. The algorithms are extensions of Jacobi and SOR. The extensions consist of iterating over a window of several timesteps, allowing efficient overlap of computation with communication. The methods increase the degree to which work can be performed while data are communicated between processors. The effect of the window size and of domain partitioning on the system performance is examined both by implementing the algorithm on a simulated multiprocessor system.
Molecular structure and composition of fish otoliths

Recent and fossil otoliths from 25 different fishes have been studied for their amino acid content and for their C13/C12 and O18/O16 distribution in the carbonate fraction. The selection includes specimens from a wide phylogenetic range as well as from various freshwater and marine habitats. All otoliths are composed of aragonite, and their total organic matter ranges from 0.2 to 10%. The organic matter is a protein (MW>150,000), which is characterized by a high abundance of acidic amino acids. In comparison to molluscs that exhibit a wide variety of different mineralized tissues which are species specific, the proteinaceous matter of all otoliths is chemically rather uniform. The high abundance of oxygen-rich amino acids accounts for the ease of mineralization of the organic template. Namely, oxygen supplied by carboxyl grops is used for the coordination of Ca++ ions, resulting in the formation of metal ion coordination polyhedra. Carbonate groups linked via hydrogen bridges to the template will exchange their oxygen with that of the metal polyhedra to stabilize the structure; Ca++O9 polyhedra are the consequence. Subsequent nucleation and crystal growth will lead to aragonite. Oxygen and carbon isotope data indicate that the aragonite is formed close to isotopic equilibrium with the sea. This is surprising, because seawater has no direct access to the inner ear where the otolith orginates. Isotope data may serve a threefold purpose: (1) to determine the mean water temperature where the fish lived, (2) to distinguish between fresh water and marine fish in ancient deposits, and (3) to reveal information on migrtory tendencies of fish.
777 LCD backlight life

ABSTRACTLiquid ciystal flat panel displays used in avionics applications require an efficient, long life, high luminance backlight capable of dimming over a wide luminance range. If properly designed a fluorescent backlighting system should providemaintenance free operation with only minimal reductions in performance for at least 20,000 hours of operation. The 9.5inchdiagonal size active matrix LCD primary flight instruments on the Boeing 777 aircraft utilize backlights designed tooperate for 30,000 hours while providing a nominal maximum white level of 100 IL at the LCD, dropping to 75 fL at theend of the 30,000 hour interval.To ensure reliability goals for the 777 display systems are met, Honeywell began a three and one-half year life test of thedisplay backlight systems in July of 1992. To date, sixteen backlight assemblies have accumulated over 12,500 hours of test operation using a luminance profile that is representative of that expected for 777 flight operations. This paperdescribes design and operating characteristics, life test design. and life test results for the backlight systems of the 777
Gastrointestinal metastases from malignant melanoma

Between 1980 and 1992, 68 patients with clinical indications of involvement of the gastrointestinal (Gl) tract with metastatic melanoma were treated at Roswell Park Cancer Institute. Presenting symptoms were anaemia, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting. Sites commonly involved were the small bowel (75%), the large intestine (25%), and the stomach (16%). Twenty-one patients were considered unsuitable for surgery; their median survival after diagnosis of Gl metastases was 2.9 months. Forty-seven patients underwent abdominal surgery; effective palliation was achieved in most of them. Complete resection of Gl metastases was accomplished in 47% of patients. The median survival after operation was 27.6 months for patients with complete resection of Gl metastasis and no other disease, 5.1 months for patients with resection of involved Gl tract and other metastases present, and 1.9 months for patients who had a by-pass procedure only. The 5-year survival for patients with complete resection of Gl metastases and no other evidence of disease was 28.3%. The other groups had only 1-year survivors. Surgical intervention is justified on the basis of these findings, and extended palliation can be achieved in patients with complete resection of metastatic disease.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Structure of (μ-Sulfido)bis[(octaethylporphyrinato)ruthenium(III)], [Ru(OEP)]2S

Gentle thermolysis of the complex, trans-bis(ethylenesulfido)[(octaethylporphyrinato)ruthenium(II)] (1) unexpectedly yields a sulfur-atom-bridged dimer, (μ-sulfido)bis[(octaethylporphyrinato)ruthenium(III)] (2). Compound 2 represents the first example of a structurally characterized unsupported sulfur atom bridge between two ruthenium centers. The Ru−S−Ru bond angle is 135.7°, in marked contrast to the nearly linear Fe−O−Fe bond in homologous [Fe(OEP)]2O.
Wave journal bearing with compressible lubricant--Part 1: The wave bearing concept and a comparison to the plain circular bearing

To improve hydrodynamic journal bearing steady-state and dynamic performance, a new bearing concept, the wave journal bearing, was developed at the author's lab. This concept features a waved inner bearing diameter. Compared to other alternative bearing geometries used to improve bearing performance such as spiral or herring-bone grooves, steps, etc., the wave bearing's design is relatively simple and allows the shaft to rotate in either direction. A three-wave bearing operating with a compressible lubricant, i.e., gas is analyzed using a numerical code. Its performance is compared to a plain (truly) circular bearing over a broad range of bearing working parameters, e.g., bearing numbers from 0.01 to 100.
Enzymatic microdetermination of glycogen.

Abstract A method for the determination of isolated glycogen was developed. Glucose was released from glycogen with an amyloglucosidase from Rhizopus . The released glucose was determined with glucose oxidase and peroxidase utilizing diammonium 2,2′-azino-di-[3-ethyl-benzthiazoline sulfonate (6)] (ABTS) as a chromogenic substrate. The ABTS method was found to be three times as sensitive as the older o -dianisidine method. For rabbit liver glycogen, the results obtained with amyloglucosidase correlated highly with those obtained by acid hydrolysis.
Formation and detection of ultracold ground-state polar molecules

We report on the formation of translationally cold $\mathrm{NaCs}$ molecules starting from a laser-cooled atomic vapor of $\mathrm{Na}$ and $\mathrm{Cs}$ atoms. Colliding atoms are transferred into bound molecular states in a two-step photoactivated process in which the atoms are first photoassociated by trap photons into an excited state molecular complex and then allowed to decay into a bound molecular ground state. Time-of-flight measurements show a translational temperature $T=260\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}130\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\ensuremath{\mu}\mathrm{K}$ that reflects the measured temperature of the initial atomic gas.
A vegetation and fire history of Lake Titicaca since the Last Glacial Maximum

Fine-resolution fossil pollen and charcoal analyses reconstruct a vegetation and fire history in the area surrounding Lake Titicaca (3810 m, Peru/Bolivia) since ca. 27 500 cal yr BP (hereafter BP). Time control was based on 26 accelerator mass spectrometer (AMS) radiocarbon dates. Seventeen AMS dates and 155 pollen and charcoal samples between ca. 17 500 BP and ca. 3100 BP allow a centennial-scale reconstruction of deglacial and early- to mid-Holocene events. Local and regional fire signals were based on the separation of two charcoal size fractions, ≥180 μm and 179–65 μm. Charcoal abundance correlated closely with the proportion of woody taxa present in the pollen spectra. Little or no pollen was detected in the sedimentary record prior to ca. 21 000 BP. Very cold climatic conditions prevailed, with temperatures suggested to be at least 5–8°C cooler than present. Increases in pollen concentration suggest initial warming at ca. 21 000 BP with a more significant transition toward deglaciation ca. 17 700 BP. Between 17 700 BP and 13 700 BP, puna brava is progressively replaced by puna and sub-puna elements. The most significant changes between the Pleistocene and the Holocene floras were largely complete by 13 700 BP, providing an effective onset of near-modern conditions markedly earlier than in other Andean records. Fire first occurs in the catchment at ca. 17 700 BP and becomes progressively more important as fuel loads increase. No evidence is found of a rapid cooling and warming coincident with the Younger Dryas chron. A dry event between ca. 9000 BP and 3100 BP, with a peak between 6000 and 4000 BP, is inferred from changes in the composition of aquatics, and the marsh community as pollen of Cyperaceae is replaced by Poaceae, Apiaceae, Plantago and the shrub Polylepis. Human disturbance of the landscape is evident in the pollen spectra after ca. 3100 BP with the appearance of weed species.
Vascular grafts in the rat model: an anatomic study.

Vascular grafts in animal models have been used extensively in the microsurgical laboratory, and the rat offers an excellent source of graft to meet these needs. In this study, we compiled a list of vessels that were previously identified in experimental literature for use as vascular grafts in the rat model. We then dissected and measured both arterial and venous grafts taken from these sites in 12 adult rats. The surgical procedure for approaching each vascular graft was recorded. The diameter and harvestable length, the start and end points, and the number of branches of the graft were tabulated. We believe that these data will provide valuable insight applicable to the use of the rat vascular graft in microsurgical research and training.
Radiation loss due to step discontinuities in symmetric biaxially anisotropic slab waveguides

This paper is an extension of previous work [1] dealing with guided wave propagation through step discontinuities in anisotropic slab waveguides which focused on the radiated fields only. As opposed to the earlier work, this paper deals with radiation power losses suered by a guided mode incident on the junction, with calculation carried out by an approximate perturbation technique. In addition, the radiation mode solutions to Maxwell's equations in a symmetric biaxially anisotropic slab waveguide are presented for both odd and even symmetries. Characteristics of anisotropic guides are discussed and compared to those of their conventional isotropic counterparts.
Mesoporous silicon@carbon composites via nanoparticle-seeded dispersion polymerization and their application as lithium-ion battery anode materials

Significant efforts have been devoted to synthesis and characterization of engineered silicon nanostructures able to withstand the large stresses and strains produced by lithium alloying/dealloying reactions during electrochemical cycling. Less attention has been given to ensuring robust connection between silicon and its host structure in the anode. The current work develops a new methodology to create nanocomposites in which silicon nanoparticles are uniformly dispersed in a mesoporous carbon host. The composite is synthesized through copolymerization of acrylonitrile and silicon nanoparticles densely functionalized with vinyl groups, which serve as seeds for free radical dispersion polymerization, followed by carbonization of the PAN coating/network. The method yields nanocomposites with high, reversible capacities and stable cycling performance.
The Wolf-Rayet phenomenon in the infrared: Massive stars probing stellar formation

A technique for identifying star formation that uses unambiguously stellar radiation has led to a class of objects known as Wolf-Rayet galaxies, so named because of their measured contingent of Wolf-Rayet (WR) stars, a class of peculiar emission-line objects characterized by extreme mass-loss rates of . The mass loss is driven in 4 1 10 M ∼ 10 M yr p 10 M , , fast ( km s ), dense stellar winds, in 1 365 km s ≤ v ≤ 5000 which broad emission lines are formed. Although detecting the unusual emission features that signal the presence of WR stars in the integrated spectra of galaxies is challenging, this direct diagnostic provides incontrovertible evidence of massive star formation and provides powerful constraints on the formation timescale. Although the WR direct detection technique is powerful, it has so far been applied using only a handful of strong optical wind lines, which cannot probe environments in which star formation is embedded in dust. Though intrinsically weaker, the possibility of extending this diagnostic to use infrared WR wind emission lines to pierce the veil of extinction that may cloak a substantial fraction of star formation in the local and distant universe is what motivated this thesis. To form an accurate template of their IR spectra, we undertook a mid-IR spectral survey of WR stars selected to cover a broad distribution of subtypes. We present 8–13 mm spectra at resolution of 29 northern Galactic WR stars, including R ∼ 600 14 WC, 13 WN, 1 WN/WC, and an additional reclassified WN star. Most constitute the first ever reported mid-IR spectrum. Lines of He i and He ii, accompanied in some stars by [Ne ii] and [S iv], are strongly present in 22 of the sources observed, while six of the sources exhibit the powerful emission of heated circumstellar carbon dust. Correspondence with optically determined subtypes is found to be incomplete, with significant deviations for the later types seen in both WN and WC. For a single WC star, WR 121, neon abundance in the wind is estimated
On the detection of a brief signal in the temporal center of a noise masker of varying duration.

The threshold of a brief signal temporally centered in a noise masker first increases and then decreases as the masker is increased in duration. We discuss two explanations for this “over-shoot” phenomenon which consider the role of peaks of an exponentially weighted sliding integrator. One such explanation takes into account the finding that the steepness of the psychometric function continues to increase monotonically as its location moves first right and then left.
A concept of local observability

Abstract A notion of local observability, which is natural in the context of nonlinear input/output regulation, is introduced. A simple characterization is provided, a comparison is made with other local nonlinear observability definitions, and its behavior under constant-rate sampling is analyzed.
The role of social media in local government crisis communications

Abstract Using survey data collected from more than 300 local government officials from municipalities across the United States, this study examines social media use in a relatively unexplored context, local governments. It specifically addresses the adoption and use of social media tools for crisis communication and social media's part in managing a crisis. Results indicate the extent of social media use, but not the number of tools used, is positively associated with local city officials’ assessments of their ability to control a crisis situation as well as their overall evaluations of the strength of their responses. Implications and importance of findings are discussed.
The Role of miRNAs in Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the leading causes of cancer morbidity and mortality in developed countries. It is a heterogeneous disease with a variable natural history. Despite standard local therapies that include surgery and radiotherapy, a proportion of patients with localized PCa develop disease progression. Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is an effective systemic therapy for recurrent or metastatic PCa. Among patients with advanced disease, despite initial responses to ADT, nearly all men develop resistance to primary ADT and their disease evolves to castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). The emergence of CRPC heralds a lethal disease state. Molecular alterations such as chromosomal instability, epigenetic silencing, and changes in tumor-suppressor genes are associated with PCa tumorigenesis. In addition, androgen receptor signaling continues to play a critical role in PCa progression following castration. Measurement of prostate-specific antigen (PSA), a prototypical androgenregulated gene, is the current gold standard biomarker for PCa diagnosis and response to treatment, despite its wellknown limitations. The lack of sensitivity and specificity of PSA testing has contributed to controversy over the utility of PSA screening and monitoring [1]. Understanding the regulatory machinery involved in PSA synthesis, accumulation, and stability in PCa cells may help to improve the accuracy of PSA testing for PCa detection and prognostic prediction. In this issue of European Urology, Larne et al [2] identified miR-183 as a regulator of PSA expression through a gain-of-function screen. These findings offer new insights into PSA regulation and may enhance the value of PSA testing in clinical practice. miRNAs (miRs) are short noncoding RNAs, with an average length of 22 nucleotides. After their discovery in 1993, it was found that miRs function as post-transcriptional regulators that bind to complementary sequences on target mRNA, usually in the 3 0 untranslated region. Such binding usually results in mRNA degradation or translational repression, consequently reducing expression levels of encoded protein. Intriguingly, it has since been shown that miRs induce gene expression by binding to complementary promoter sequences [3]. We now recognize that the miR network is complex. Each individual miR can target hundreds of RNA transcripts, and each gene can be targeted by multiple miRs. The function of a given miR is largely determined by the relative availability of the target mRNAs [4].
Activation of FFA1 mediates GLP-1 secretion in mice. Evidence for allosterism at FFA1.

FFA1 (GPR40) and GPR120 are G-protein-coupled receptors activated by long-chain fatty acids. FFA1 is expressed in pancreatic β-cells, where it regulates glucose-dependent insulin secretion, and GPR120 has been implicated in mediating GLP-1 secretion. We show here that FFA1 co-localizes with GLP-1 in enteroendocrine cells and plays a critical role in glucose management by mediating GLP-1 secretion in vivo. Corn oil induces GLP-1 secretion in wild type mice and in GPR120−/− mice, but not in FFA1−/− mice. α-Linolenic acid, an endogenous ligand of FFA1, induces GLP-1 secretion in GLUTag cells and in primary fetal mouse intestinal cells. Synthetic partial FFA1 agonists do not stimulate GLP-1 secretion in mice, but partial and full agonists combined function cooperatively to enhance receptor activation and GLP-1 secretion both in vitro and in vivo. We conclude that allosterism at FFA1 can contribute to postprandial glucose management by stimulating insulin secretion via an extrapancreatic mechanism of action, and that GPR120 in GLP-1 secretion requires further investigation.
Electrical properties of nickel-zirconia cermet films for temperature- and flow-sensor applications

Low-resistance NiZrO2 cermet thin films with 30–78 vol.% Ni have been produced from metallo-organic deposition (MOD) precursor solutions. The films are spin coated onto Si or fused silica substrates and heat treated at 800–1100°C for 1 h in forming gas (10% H2/N2) to reduce Ni, resulting in Ni and ZrO2 dispersions. Based upon the linearity of the temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR) and the magnetic susceptibility data, the optimum condition for sintering of 1 μm thick NiZrO2 cermet films is determined to be 800–900°C in forming gas. The magnetic response of these cermets, and their increased resistance compared to NiFe-based alloys, make them suitable for use in magnetoresistive sensors. The objective in this work is to develop controlled NiZrO2 thin-film structures for potential temperature- and flow-sensor applications. Predominantly metallic conduction is obtained on both Si and fused SiO2 substrates in 1 μm thick cermet films with Ni content as low as 30 vol.%. TCR values of 3000–6800 ppm °C−1 are obtained for films with room-temperature resistances in the range 4–250 Ω/□. These films readily self heat, are strongly sensitive to air flow, with low power requirements of < 1 W and exhibit little hysteresis in flow response.
Association between type‐three metabotropic glutamate receptor gene (GRM3) variants and symptom presentation in treatment refractory schizophrenia

Objective Positive associations between polymorphisms in the type-three metabotropic glutamate receptor gene (GRM3) and the pathogenesis of schizophrenia as well as response to antipsychotic treatment have been reported. The objective of this study was to determine whether refractory psychiatric symptoms in antipsychotic non-responders are related to polymorphisms in GRM3.
Gentest: a Computer Program to Generate Individualized Objective Test Forms

A computer program to generate individualized objective test forms for use in a Student Paced Statistics (SPS) course is described. The program features disproportionate sampling from different item domains and enhanced character generation facility for test printing purposes.
Dispersion of skylight polarization

The results of observations of the dispersion of skylight polarization are presented and discussed in relation to the importance of multiple scattering in a molecular atmosphere.
AGU Scientists Host Teacher Workshop in Ethiopia

When you look at a map of the world showing the location of ground-based space physics instrumentation (radars, magnetometers, ionosondes, GPS dual-frequency receivers, and lidars), you quickly recognize Africa's lack of space physics research infrastructure. One priority of the United Nations—sponsored International Heliophysical Year (IHY) is the development of such an infrastructure in Africa. Satellite data have shown that the equatorial ionospheric density structures, especially at the equatorial region in the African continent, respond to space weather effects differently than do other parts of the Earth. For example, in the African equatorial region, satellite observations show that depleted density irregularities known as bubbles are much deeper than the bubbles observed in any other longitudinal sectors, and are very active year round in Africa compared with other regions. Observations also show that the depleted density in Africa rises to high altitude (up to 1000+ kilometers) more frequently compared with other longitudes.
Pernicious anemia and monoclonal gammopathy in a patient with IgA deficiency

A patient with pernicious anemia was found to have undetectable IgA in serum, saliva and gastric juice, and a monoclonal IgG spike. This patient represents the unique association of an immunoglobulin deficiency, an autoimmune disease and a lymphoproliferative disorder. The M protein was isolated and tested for antibody activity with numerous antigens.
Measuring Efficiencies of Academic Departments within a College

Abstract Technical and allocative efficiencies of 26 academic departments in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Cornell University are computed using Data Envelopment Analysis over 2004/05. Allocations of faculty time between teaching, research, and extension vary by department and are used as unique prices in calculating allocative efficiencies. Departments not only vary in ability to convert inputs into outputs, but some also produce an incorrect mix of outputs given the prices placed on the outputs of that department. Colleges and universities can use this approach to evaluate and to adjust the performance of departments.
An inequality for multiplicative functions

Abstract Let k be a positive integer and f a multiplicative function with 0 ∑ l | n l ≤ n 1 / ( k + 1 ) f ( l ) ≥ 1 k + 1 ∑ l | n f ( l ) This improves some recent results of Alladi, Erdo˝s, and Vaaler.
T -chromatic polynomials

Abstract Given a set T of nonnegative integers, a T -coloring of a graph G is a labeling of the vertices of G with positive integers such that no pair of adjacent vertices is labeled with integers differing by a number in T . Let T G (λ) denote the number of ways to T -color G with numbers from the set {1, 2,…,λ}. We show that there is a polynomial, Q G (λ), such that Q G (λ) = T G (λ) provided that λ is big enough.
Nuclear envelope invaginations in hamster facial motor neurons during development and aging

Morphometric measurements of nuclear envelope invaginations (NEI) in hamster facial motor neurons were made. These showed that the amount of NEI increased markedly between fetal life and birth to a high level that was maintained during the period of accelerated neuronal somal growth. Subsequently, the amount of NEI decreased to a plateau of low incidence that persisted through maturity and aging. This sequence of NEI formation and subsidence differs from that previously observed in a similar developing and aging series of pyramidal neurons in the same species. This may indicate, as discussed, that the presence of NEI reflects stage-specific functions that may differ depending on neuronal type.
A REDOR study of diammonium hydrogen phosphate: A model for distance measurements from adsorbed molecules to surfaces

Abstract Magic angle spinning NMR techniques can be used to determine the molecular structure of proteins adsorbed onto polymer and mineral surfaces, but the degree to which the orientation of proteins on surfaces can be uniquely determined by NMR is less well understood. In this manuscript, REDOR data obtained from model systems are analyzed with a view to determine the orientation of rare spins coupled to a lattice populated by strongly coupled spin 1 2 nuclei. When the surface is populated by closely spaced spins, the REDOR dephasing of a rare spin on the protein contact point to the surface is under certain circumstances complicated by contributions from homonuclear dipolar interactions between the spins of the lattice. To study multiple spin effects on the dephasing signal in rotational-echo-double-resonance experiments, we carried out a measurement on crystalline diammonium hydrogen phosphate as a model for a spin system with multiple dipolar interactions. Information about the 31P–31P interactions is gathered from the reference measurement in the experiment. To fit the experimental 15N and 31P dephasing data well, it was necessary to account for as many as 6 and 8 spins in simulations, respectively. Using a single spin-pair interaction with an unknown distance yielded a good fit to the 31P data with a distance of 2.7 A that is nearly an Angstrom shorter than the shortest distance in the crystal structure. Homonuclear couplings are shown to have a significant effect on the expected dephasing.
Prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in uninsured women.

Background Vitamin D deficiency, an important risk factor for osteoporosis and other chronic medical conditions, is epidemic in the United States. Uninsured women may be at an even higher risk for vitamin D deficiency than others owing to low intake of dietary and supplemental vitamin D and limited sun exposure.