cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Excess-Risk Analysis of Distributed Stochastic Learners

In this work, we analyze the learning ability of diffusion-based distributed learners that receive a continuous stream of data arising from the same distribution. We establish four distinctive advantages for these learners relative to other decentralized schemes. First, we obtain closed-form expressions for the evolution of their excess-risk for strongly-convex risk functions under a diminishing step-size rule. Using the result, we then show that the distributed strategy can improve the asymptotic convergence rate of the excess-risk by a factor of N relative to non-cooperative schemes, where N is the number of learners in the ad-hoc network. We further show that the fastest attainable rate
Fluvial Sediment Discharge to the Sea and the Importance of Regional Tectonics

In recent years erosion and sediment discharge to the oceans have become topics of increasing interest among a wide diversity of scientists. Not only can a quantitative understanding of erosion and discharge help us delineate the various processes controlling the erosion, transport, and deposition of fluvially derived materials, but it also can have important implications for environmental management. The discussion in this paper shows that tectonic character (and associated factors) and the area of the drainage basin play the major roles in determining the sediment (both suspended and dissolved) discharge from rivers, but that climate, geology, and human factors also have marked impacts.
WE-D-M100J-05: Estimation of Tumor Control Probability Model Parameters for Early Stage Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)

Purpose: To estimate parameters for the tumorcontrol probability (TCP) model based on the linear‐quadratic (LQ) cell survival formalism from published clinical data for early stage NSCLC and to investigate potential outcomes of alternate dose fractionation schemes. Method and Materials: A comprehensive literature search was performed to identify studies reporting local control after conventionally fractionated 3DCRT and hypofractionated stereotactic body radiation therapy(SBRT) for T1‐2N0M0 NSCLC. Parameters of the LQ‐based TCP model were estimated by fitting the selected clinical data sets using the maximum likelihood method. Fits were obtained and compared for three versions of the TCP model: without the time effect, with an exponential growth of clonogens, and with delayed onset of clonogen proliferation. Obtained parameter estimates were used to compare different fractionation schemes that take advantage of increase in tumorcontrol as the overall treatment time is reduced. Results: A fit to the exponential growth model was significantly better (p < 0.0001) than a fit to the model with no time effect. Also, the model with delayed onset provided a significantly better fit (p = 0.0142) to the data than the exponential growth model assuming no delay in clonogen repopulation. Parameter estimates for the model with delayed onset were: α = 0.066 Gy−1, α/β = 21.1 Gy, γ = 1.85 Gy/day, T k = 32.2 days, and k (the number of clonogens) = 6.3. Our analysis of different hypofractionated regiments confirms observations by others and suggests that a moderate reduction in the number of fractions (with the increase in the dose per fraction) may result in better tumorcontrol for the same level of late complications. Conclusion: The derived TCP model parameter estimates may prove useful for biologically based treatment planning of Stage I NSCLC, especially when unconventional fractionation schemes, such as in SBRT, are employed.
PGF2α activation of Na/H antiporter and ammoniagenesis in parent/variant LLC-PK1 cells

PGF 2α activation of Na + /H + antiporter and ammoniagenesis in parent/variant LLC-PK 1 cells. A novel variant of the LLC-PK 1 cell line was used to examine directly the mechanism whereby PGF 2α and TPA inhibit renal ammoniagenesis. The variant cells, which exhibit a growth pattern and morphology similar to the parent cell line, were isolated by a self selection process utilizing long-term cultures of parent cells maintained under conditions of continuous gentle rocking of the media fluid. Incubation of both parent and variant LLC-PK 1 cells for one hour in a glutamine supplemented Krebs-Hensleit media of low pH (pH 6.8) increased ammonia and alanine production in comparison to the basal rates at pH 7.4. The phorbol ester TPA and also PGF 2α inhibited the low pH-induced increases in ammonia and alanine formation in parent cells; however, neither TPA nor PGF 2α inhibited ammonia or alanine metabolism in variant cells. TPA and PGF 2α activated PKC similarly in the parent and variant cells as demonstrated by a significant increase in membrane bound enzyme activity. BCECF labeling of cells indicated that the parent and variant cells possess an amiloride sensitive Na + /H + antiporter of comparable activity. Exposure of parent cells to PGF 2α or TPA resulted in the activation of Na + /H + antiporter activity. By contrast, neither compound stimulated antiporter activity in variant cells. These studies strongly suggest that PKC mediated activation of the Na + /H + antiporter accounts for the inhibition of ammonia production produced by both PGF 2α and TPA. In addition, this novel variant of LLC-PK 1 cells should provide a valuable tool to investigate various normal and pathophysiological functions involving mediation by PKC and/or Na + /H + antiporter activity.
Relation of hematocrit values to coronary heart disease, arterial hypertension, and respiratory impairment in occupational and population groups of the Athens area.

Hematocrit values (Hct) were studied in relation to clinical and electrocardiographic (ECG) manifestations of coronary heart disease (CHD), arterial hypertension (AH), and respiratory impairment (RI) in 2901 adults (2033 men, 868 women) thirty to seventy years old, who comprised selected groups of large occupational (8611 workers) and population (5573 individuals) samples of the Athens area. The results of this study were as follows:1. The women of the population sample with high Hct values had a significantly greater frequency of CHD (14.6%) as compared with women of the same sample with low Hct values (7.4%) (χ2=12.778 P < 0.005).2. Subjects of both sexes in the population sample with high Hct values had signifi cantly higher mean levels of systolic and diastolic blood pressure as compared with subjects of the same population sample with low Hct values (F:4.61, P < 0.01).3. In the women of the population sample with RI, the mean Hct values were signif icantly higher than those in the normal population (...
Addressing construction worker safety in the design phase

Facility designers can positively influence construction site safety by integrating safety considerations into the design process. Although their potential influence on safety has been documented, designers typically lack knowledge of and limit their involvement in construction worker safety. This research effort involved the accumulation of suggestions for improving construction worker safety while in the design phase. Using these design suggestions, a design tool has been developed to assist designers in identifying project-specific safety hazards and to provide best practices to eliminate the hazards. Although use of the design tool is voluntary in the United States, it is one resource which can be used by designers to fulfill their obligations required by the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations in UK.
An Evaluation of Visible Implant Elastomer for Marking the Federally Listed Fountain Darter and the San Marcos Salamander

Abstract Visible marks can aid in population studies but, depending on the type of mark used, may result in poor retention and increased mortality. Visible implant elastomer (VIE) was evaluated as a marking technique for two species listed as endangered or threatened under the federal Endangered Species Act: The fountain darter Etheostoma fonticola and the San Marcos salamander Eurycea nana. We compared VIE with acrylic latex paint (ALP) marks in the fountain darter and found that VIE marks exhibited greater retention than ALP marks (88% versus 23% at 244 d). Fountain darter survival and growth were not affected by mark type. In the San Marcos salamander, the use of VIE marks did not affect survival or growth. For both species, mark placement (dorsally versus ventrally) did not affect retention. Visible implant elastomer marks would be the preferred method for population studies of these listed species.
Partitioning Point Sets in Arbitrary Dimension

Abstract We introduce a new type of partition called a parallel planes partition. We prove there exists a parallel planes partition of any set of n points in arbitrary dimension. This partition yields a data structure for the half-space retrieval problem in arbitrary dimension; it has linear size and achieves a sublinear query time. Also, we give efficient algorithms for computing this partition.
Solution history effects in polybutene-1

Abstract The crystal structure and helical conformation of polybutene-1 crystallized from dilute solution is shown to be a function of the crystal structure before dissolution, the maximum temperature in solution attained before cooling to the crystallization temperature, and the time at that maximum temperature. The effect is, in general, reversible if the solution is held for sufficient time (on the order of 1 hr) before crystallization. The results suggest a temperature-dependent equilibrium helix conformation in solution, which only slowly approaches equilibrium and which determines the helical conformation of the resulting nuclei during crystallization. Solution viscosity measurements indicate a substantial difference in molecular size corresponding to the variation in thermal history. The results indicate that the prior history of a polymer may not be removed by solution.
MULTIKILOGRAM ELECTROREFINING OF PLUTONIUM METAL

Abstract Fused salt electrorefining processes have been developed for producing high purity, high density plutonium metal on the 3.5 kg scale. The refined metal, which is collected as a liquid on a tungsten cathode, drains continuously into a reservoir where it is collected as a batch casting. Product collection yields are greater than 95 per cent. The electrolyte consists of an equimolar mixture of NaCl-KCl containing either PuCl3 or PuF3. Amagnesia-yttria cell contains the fused salt and liquid metal. The electrolyte and liquid anode are stirred by a ceramic stirrer to avoid polarization effects. The importance of these operational variables is discussed.
Clonal variation in cultured neuroblastoma cells. II. The relationship of increased intracellular cyclic amp content to increased anchorage requirement for growth and flattened morphology

Flat variant clones were isolated from both the N18 neuroblastoma cell line and from a subclone of the parent line exhibiting the typical round cell morphology. Several revertant clones exhibiting the round parental morphology were also isolated from one of the flat variant clones. The flat variants exhibit decreased cloning efficiency in suspension and increased amounts of myosin heavy chain when compared to the round cell clones. Intracellular cAMP levels were increased from two- to fivefold over those in clones representative of the parent line and in the round cell revertants. Treatment with the phosphodiesterase inhibitor RO20-1724 increased cAMP levels and reduced suspension cloning efficiency without altering doubling time or attached cloning efficiency. Increasing cAMP levels of two of the round cell clones by treatment with the phosphodiesterase inhibitor caused increased flattening of the cell body and increased myosin heavy chain content. Thus, even though increased cAMP level may be sufficient to explain the reduced cloning efficiency of the flat variants, it is not the sole cause of the flat morphology.
Nox1-dependent Reactive Oxygen Generation Is Regulated by Rac1 *

Rac1 has been implicated in the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in several cell types, but the enzymatic origin of the ROS has not been proven. The present studies demonstrate that Nox1, a homolog of the phagocyte NADPH-oxidase component gp91phox, is activated by Rac1. When Nox1 is co-expressed along with its regulatory subunits NOXO1 and NOXA1, significant ROS generation is seen. Herein, co-expression of constitutively active Rac1(G12V), but not wild-type Rac1, resulted in marked further stimulation of activity. Decreased Rac1 expression using small interfering RNA reduced Nox1-dependent ROS. CDC42(G12V) failed to increase activity, and small interfering RNA directed against CDC42 failed to decrease activity, pointing to specificity for Rac. TPR domain mutants of NOXA1 that interfere with Rac1 binding were ineffective in supporting Nox1-dependent ROS generation. Immunoprecipitation experiments demonstrated a complex containing Rac1(G12V), NOXO1, NOXA1, and Nox1. CDC42(G12V) could not substitute for Rac1(G12V) in such a complex. Nox1 formed a complex with Rac1(G12V) that was independent of NOXA1 and NOXO1, consistent with direct binding of Rac1(G12V) to Nox1. Rac1(G12V) interaction with NOXA1 was enhanced by Nox1 and NOXO1, suggesting cooperative binding. A model is presented comparing activation by regulatory subunits of Nox1 versus gp91phox (Nox2) in which Rac1 activation provides a major trigger that acutely activates Nox1-dependent ROS generation.
Two vertex-disjoint cycles in a graph

LetG be a graph of ordern ≥ 6 with minimum degree at least ⌈(n + 1)/2⌉. Then, for any two integerss andt withs ≥ 3,t ≥ 3 ands + t ≤ n, G contains two vertex-disjoint cycles of lengthss andt, respectively, unless thatn, s andt are odd andG is isomorphic toK (n−1)/2,(n−1)/2 + K1. We also show that ifG is a graph of ordern ≥ 8 withn even and minimum degree at leastn/2, thenG contains two vertex-disjoint cycles with any given even lengths provided that the sum of the two lengths is at mostn.
Magnetic susceptibility measurements for some of the intermetallic compounds R2Pt (R = Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er)

Abstract The magnetic properties of some of the intermetallic compounds R 2 Pt have been studied by means of susceptibility measurements. The compounds are probably ferrimagnetic or they possess some noncollinear structure. With the exception of Gd 2 Pt two magnetic transitions with temperature are observed. At 4.2 K the magnetization of Tb 2 Pt shows appreciable hysteresis. In the paramagnetic region the compounds confirm the free ion picture of the R 3+ except for Gd 2 Pt which is still in a nonparamagnetic state even at 300 K.
Tidal Modulation of Sr/Ca Ratios in a Pacific Reef Coral

[1] The strontium-to-calcium ratio (Sr/Ca) of reef coral skeleton is an important tool for reconstructing past sea surface temperatures (SSTs). However, the accuracy of paleoSSTs derived from fossil coral Sr/Ca is challenged by evidence that physiological processes influence skeletal chemistry. Here we show that water level variations from tidal forcing are correlated with changes in coral Sr/Ca that cannot be accounted for by changes in SST. Ion microprobe measurements of Sr/Ca ratios in a Pacific Porites lutea reveal high-frequency variations at periods of ∼6, ∼10, and ∼25 days. The relationship between Sr/Ca and temperature on these short timescales does not follow trends observed at longer periods, indicating that an additional forcing is required to explain our observations. We demonstrate that Sr/Ca is correlated with both tidal water level variations and SST, and that their contributions to the Sr/Ca content of the skeleton vary as a function of period. We propose that water level influences Sr/Ca indirectly via modulation of photosynthetically-active radiation (PAR) that drives large changes in zooxanthellate photosynthesis.
Phosphorus and uremic serum up-regulate osteopontin expression in vascular smooth muscle cells

Phosphorus and uremic serum up-regulate osteopontin expression in vascular smooth muscle cells. Background Dialysis patients have accelerated atherosclerosis, with extensive calcification of both the intima and media. Cross-sectional studies have implicated hyperphosphatemia in this process, but the mechanism is unclear. Methods To test the hypothesis that hyperphosphatemia and/or uremia induces vascular calcification, bovine vascular smooth muscle cells (BVSMC) were treated with increasing concentrations of β-glycerophosphate, a phosphate donor, in the presence or absence of inhibitors for sodium/phosphate (Na/Pi) co-transport (foscarnet) or alkaline phosphatase (levamisole) for 48 hours. BVSMC also were incubated for various times with DMEM plus 15% pooled uremic sera from patients with low (LP) or high serum phosphorus (HP), or from pooled healthy control serum. Calcification in BVSMC was examined by quantitation of calcium deposition. Osteopontin expression and alkaline phosphatase activity were assessed by Western blotting and a colorimetric assay. Results β-glycerophosphate increased osteopontin expression and alkaline phosphatase activity in BVSMC. Inhibition of either alkaline phosphatase activity or Na/Pi co-transport abolished this effect. Compared to incubation with control human serum, BVSMC cultured with uremic sera had increased mineral deposition. Uremic sera also increased alkaline phosphatase activity and osteopontin expression in BVSMC. The addition of β-glycerophosphate to uremic HP or LP sera did not further augment osteopontin expression. Blocking Na/Pi co-transport or alkaline phosphatase activity only partially inhibited uremic sera-induced osteopontin expression, indicating that other non-Na/Pi co-transport dependent mechanisms also are involved. Conclusion β-glycerophosphate and uremic sera induce calcification and osteopontin expression in BVSMC. The uremic sera-induced osteopontin expression in BVSMC is partially mediated through alkaline phosphatase activity and a Na/Pi co-transporter dependent mechanism. However, other non-Na/Pi dependent mechanisms also contribute to accelerated vascular calcification in patients with ESRD.
Measurement of the state of stress in silicon with micro-Raman spectroscopy

Micro-Raman spectroscopy has been widely used to measure local stresses in silicon and other cubic materials. However, a single (scalar) line position measurement cannot determine the complete stress state unless it has a very simple form such as uniaxial. Previously published micro-Raman strategies designed to determine additional elements of the stress tensor take advantage of the polarization and intensity of the Raman-scattered light, but these strategies have not been validated experimentally. In this work, we test one such stategy [S. Narayanan, S. Kalidindi, and L. Schadler, J. Appl. Phys. 82, 2595 (1997)] for rectangular (110)- and (111)-orientated silicon wafers. The wafers are subjected to a bending stress using a custom-designed apparatus, and the state of (plane) stress is modeled with ABAQUS. The Raman shifts are calculated using previously published values for silicon phonon deformation potentials. The experimentally measured values for σxx, σyy, and τxy at the silicon surface are in good ag...
Calibration and standardization of the emission light path of confocal microscopes

Recently, there has been a large expansion in the usage of optical microscopes for obtaining quantitative information from biological samples in order to determine fundamental biological information such as molecular kinetics and interaction, and heterogeneity within cell populations. Consequently, we built a highly stable, uniform, isotropically emitting and convenient-to-use light source, and designed image analysis procedures for calibrating the emission light path of optical microscopes. We used the source and procedures to analyse the quantitative imaging properties of a widely used model of laser scanning confocal microscope. Results showed that the overall performance was as high as could be expected given the inherent limitations of the optical components and photomultiplier tubes. We observed that the photon detection efficiency did not vary with photomultiplier tube gain and that the highest dynamic range was achieved with relatively low gain and 12-bit digitization. Practical applications of the light source for checking the transmission of optical components in the emission light path are presented.
Serum γ-Glutamyltranspeptidase Predicts All-cause, Cardiovascular and Liver Mortality in Older Adults

Serum gamma-glutamyltranspeptidase (GGT) is a blood test routinely used in clinical practice to evaluate individuals for fatty liver disease.1 It is elevated in both alcohol and obesity-associated fatty liver.1 Although serum GGT is predominantly secreted by the liver, it is present in all epithelial cells of the body where it plays an important role in glutathione metabolism. Cellular GGT is responsible for metabolizing extracellular reduced glutathione and replenishing intracellular glutathione by assimilation and reutilization of precursor amino acids.2 A rise in GGT is associated with a parallel increase in reactive oxygen species that induce cellular injury and lead to glutathione depletion especially in the presence of iron, which may potentiate the effect of free radical damage to cells.2,3 Therefore, serum GGT is a marker of oxidative stress.4 This mechanism has been thought to be responsible for its association with atherosclerosis, and cardiovascular disease (CVD).4,5 It has been also shown that active GGT enzyme is present in atherosclerotic plaques and might contribute to its progression.6 We recently showed that serum GGT and metabolic syndrome traits have significant genetic covariance that may explain the genetic link between CVD and fatty liver disease.7 Serum GGT concentrations are associated with prevalent and incident CVD.8,9 Recent studies show that serum GGT predicts CVD mortality in young adults.8,10–12 A 12-year follow-up study by Ruhl and Everhart using the 1988–94 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) dataset (mean age 44 years) demonstrated that elevated serum GGT (>51 U/L in men and >33 U/L in women) was an independent predictor of all-cause and liver mortality, but not of CVD mortality in multivariate analyses.13 However, age-adjusted analyses showed an association between log transformed serum GGT (continuous variable) and CVD mortality.13 A nested case-control study derived from the Minnesota Heart Study showed that GGT was a robust predictor of CVD mortality only in younger adults, but not among participants who were age 70 years or more.14 Ghouri and colleagues conducted a systematic review of published data on GGT and cardiovascular risk and reported that the strength of association between serum GGT and cardiovascular mortality was not significant in older adults.15 Therefore, it is unclear if serum GGT predicts all-cause, CVD, and liver mortality in older adults in a community-dwelling cohort. We hypothesized that: 1) Elevated serum GGT is associated with an increased risk of CVD, liver, and all-cause mortality in older men and women; 2) The association between elevated serum GGT and mortality is independent of metabolic risk factors. In order to test our hypotheses, we conducted a prospective study to examine the association between elevated serum GGT levels and all-cause, CVD, and liver mortality in a well-characterized, community-dwelling, population-based cohort of older men and women residing within Southern California in the United States.
The maize Brown midrib1 locus affects cell wall composition and plant development in a dose-dependent manner

The four brown midrib (bm) mutants of maize have a reduced content and altered subunit composition of the cell wall polymer lignin. The bm mutations have traditionally been considered completely recessive, because the brown midrib phenotype is only apparent in plants homozygous for the mutation. In addition to an effect on cell wall composition, some bm mutations have been shown to affect flowering time. We had preliminary evidence for a dosage effect of the Bm1 locus on flowering time, which prompted this detailed study on the Bm1 locus. In this study, near-isogenic lines (in an A619 background) with zero, one or two bm1 mutant alleles were compared. The bm1 heterozygotes flowered significantly earlier than both the wild-type plants and bm1 mutants. This difference can at least be partly attributed to an accelerated growth rate in the later stages of plant development. Furthermore, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy revealed that the cell wall composition of the bm1 heterozygous plants is distinct from both the bm1 and wild-type homozygotes. The combination of the data on flowering time and the data on cell wall composition provide evidence for a dosage effect at the Bm1 locus.
Glycosidases. Ligands for affinity chromotagraphy: II. Syntheses of p-aminophenyl 1-thio-L-fucopyranosides☆

Abstract Syntheses of p-aminophenyl 1-thio-α- L - and β- L -fucopyranosides are described. 1,2,3,4-Tetra-O-acetyl-α- L -fucopyranose, on heating with p-nitrothiophenol in the presence of p-toluenesulfonic acid under diminished pressure, gave a mixture of p-nitrophenyl 2,3,4-tri-O-acetyl-1-thio-α- and β- L -fucopyranosides, which was separated by chromatography on silica gel. When the reaction was carried out in the presence of zinc chloride at atmospheric pressure, the β-anomer was the exclusive product. Deacetylation of the aryl α- L - and α- L -thiofucopyranosides with sodium methoxide, followed by catalytic hydrogenation in the presence of palladium on barium sulfate, afforded the respective aminophenyl 1-thiofucopyranosides. The aryl thiofucopyranosides thus synthesized were tested for their inhibitory activity toward clam α- L -fucosidase. The p-aminophenyl 1-thio α- L -fucopyranoside showed a competitive-type inhibition, with a Ki of 0.71m M .
Personality, attitudes, and intentions

Investigations of computer user behavior become especially important when behaviors like security software adoption affect organizational information resource security, but adoption antecedents remain elusive. Technology adoption studies typically predict behavioral outcomes by investigating the relationship between attitudes and intentions, though intention may not be the best predictor of actual behavior. Personality constructs have recently been found to explain even more variance in behavior, thus providing insights into user behavior. This research incorporates conscientiousness and agreeableness into a conceptual model of security software use. Attitudinal constructs perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness were linked with behavioral intent, while the relationship between intent and actual use was found to be moderated by conscientiousness and agreeableness. The results that the moderating effect of personality greatly increases the amount of variance explained in actual use. Display Omitted
Understanding Why and How Some Chartered Accountants Object to the Proposed Merger of the Three Accounting Professions in Canada

This study examines the objections of some chartered accountants (CAs) to the recently proposed merger of the three accounting professions in Canada. An exploratory content analysis was conducted to investigate CAs' discussions on the online forum set up by the three accounting bodies. The results suggest that CAs viewed themselves narrowly as: (1) someone who passed the Uniform Evaluation (UFE), (2) much different from or superior to certified management accountants (CMAs) and certified general accountants (CGAs), and (3) validated by third parties (such as international counterparts) and external factors (such as job market opportunities). As a result, the proposed merger was seen as a threat to their professional identities. CAs also perceived unfairness of the merger process and the leadership of their institute. These factors together were found to have influenced CAs' objections, which were manifested in multiple levels of resistant behavior toward different targets. Implications for practice are also discussed. Comprendre pourquoi et comment certains comptables agrees s'opposent a la proposition de fusion des trois professions comptables au Canada Resume L'auteur s'interesse a l'opposition de certains comptables agrees (CA) a la fusion recemment proposee des trois professions comptables au Canada. Il soumet a une analyse de contenu exploratoire les reflexions des CA sur le forum de discussion cree par les trois organismes comptables. Les resultats de cette analyse semblent indiquer que les CA ont d'eux-memes une vision etroite selon laquelle 1) ils ont reussi l'evaluation uniforme (UFE), 2) ils sont tres differents des comptables en management accredites (CMA) et des comptable generaux accredites (CGA) ou superieurs a eux et 3) leurs competences sont validees par des tiers (comme leurs homologues internationaux) et par des elements externes (comme les ouvertures dont ils beneficient sur le marche de l'emploi). Ils envisagent donc la fusion proposee comme une menace a leur identite professionnelle. Les CA ont egalement percu une deloyaute dans le processus de fusion et le leadership de leur institut. Ces facteurs reunis, a-t-on constate, ont influe sur l'opposition des CA, qui s'est manifestee par des comportements de resistance d'intensite diverse a l'egard de differentes cibles. L'auteur analyse egalement les consequences de ces oppositions pour l'exercice de la profession.
Genotype–environment interaction and the ontogeny of diet-induced phenotypic plasticity in size and shape of Melanoplus femurrubrum (Orthoptera: Acrididae)

The developmental origin of phenotypic plasticity in morphological shape can be attributed to environment-specific changes in growth of overall body size, localized growth of a morphological structure or a combination of both. I monitored morphological development in the first four nymphal instars of grasshoppers (Melanoplus femurrubrum) raised on two different plant diets to determine the ontogenetic origins of diet-induced phenotypic plasticity and to quantify genetic variation for phenotypic plasticity. I measured diet-induced phenotypic plasticity in body size (tibia length), head size (articular width and mandible depth) and head shape (residual articular width and residual mandible depth) for grasshoppers from 37 full-sib families raised on either a hard plant diet (Lolium perenne) or a soft plant diet (Trifolium repens). By the second to third nymphal instar, grasshoppers raised on a hard plant diet had significantly smaller mean tibia length and greater mean residual articular width (distance between mandibles adjusted for body size) compared with full-sibs raised on a soft plant diet. However, there was no significant phenotypic plasticity in mean unadjusted articular width and mandible depth, and in mean residual mandible depth. At the population level, development of diet-induced phenotypic plasticity in grasshopper head shape is mediated by plastic changes in allocation to tissue growth that maintain growth of head size on hard, low-nutrient diets while reducing growth of body size. Within the population, there was substantial variation in the plasticity of growth trajectories since different full-sib families developed phenotypic plasticity of residual articular width through different combinations of head and body size growth. Genetic variation for diet-induced phenotypic plasticity of residual articular width, residual mandible depth and tibia length, as estimated by genotype–environment interaction, exhibited significant fluctuation through ontogeny (repeated measures MANOVA, family × plant × instar, P < 0.01). For example, there was significant genetic variation for phenotypic plasticity of residual articular width in the third nymphal instar, but not earlier or later in ontogeny. The observed patterns of genetic variation are discussed with reference to short-term constraints and the evolution of phenotypic plasticity.
Effect of Erucic Acid on Platelets in Patients with Adrenoleukodystrophy

In a clinical trial for the management of adrenoleukodystrophy, we analyzed the effect of erucic acid (a component of Lorenzo's oil) on platelet number, fatty acid composition, and function. Analysis of variance was performed to compare platelet counts before starting treatment with Lorenzo's oil and at 6 and 12 months. We measured platelet fatty acid composition in subjects and control patients and correlated these values with their platelet counts using discriminant analysis. After 6 months, the mean platelet count decreased from 247,000/mm3 to 169,000/mm3 (+/- 1 standard deviation 58,000,n =39), P < 0.0001 compared to 18 subjects on a control diet having a mean baseline platelet count of 259,000/mm3 (+/- 1 standard deviation 67,000, n = 19) and at 6 months 267,000/mm3 (+/- 1 standard deviation 71,000). We found at P < 0.05 that the platelet counts showed a strong inverse relationship with erucic acid levels and other omega 9 fatty acids that form from the administration of the erucic acid component of Lorenzo's oil. Morphologic and platelet sizing measurements suggest that the physical properties of platelets may also be affected by erucic acid. Our studies show that the ingestion of erucic acid affects platelet biology. This indicates that platelet counts and properties are influenced by monounsaturated fatty acids, in addition to the well-known effects of polyunsaturated fatty acids. In areas of the world where erucic acid is widely ingested, the biology of platelets in these populations may be affected.
The Effectiveness of the Manchester Even Start Program in Improving Literacy Outcomes for Preschool Latino Students

Abstract Although widely implemented, the effectiveness of the Even Start program and other programs involving home-visiting and bilingual education in improving preschool literacy outcomes, particularly among Latino students, is uncertain. This study used a non-equivalent groups design to compare preschool literacy outcomes (measured by the PALS-PreK assessment) of 4-year-old Latino preschool students enrolled in the Manchester Even Start program to a comparison group consisting of low-income and ethnically diverse 4-year-old students enrolled in Manchester's Title I preschool program. The primary differences between the Even Start and Title I preschool programs were the presence of a bilingual teacher in the Even Start class and the participation of the Even Start students and their families in home visits, parent and child interactive literacy activities, and adult ESOL classes. Multiple regression analysis, controlling for pretest scores, indicated that 4-year-old students' participation in the Even S...
Biochemical characterization of recombinant β-glucosyltransferase and analysis of global 5-hydroxymethylcytosine in unique genomes.

5-Hydroxymethylcytosine (5-hmC) is an enzymatic oxidative product of 5-methylcytosine (5-mC). The Ten Eleven Translocation (TET) family of enzymes catalyze the conversion of 5-mC to 5-hmC. Phage-encoded glucosyltransferases are known to glucosylate 5-hmC, which can be utilized to detect and analyze the 5-hmC as an epigenetic mark in the mammalian epigenome. Here we have performed a detailed biochemical characterization and steady-state kinetic parameter analysis of T4 phage β-glucosyltransferase (β-GT). Recombinant β-GT glucosylates 5-hmC DNA in a nonprocessive manner, and binding to either 5-hmC DNA or uridine diphosphoglucose (UDP-glucose) substrates is random, with both binary complexes being catalytically competent. Product inhibition studies with β-GT demonstrated that UDP is a competitive inhibitor with respect to UDP-glucose and a mixed inhibitor with respect to 5-hmC DNA. Similarly, the glucosylated-5-hmC (5-ghmC) DNA is a competitive inhibitor with respect to 5-hmC DNA and mixed inhibitor with respect to UDP-glucose. 5-hmC DNA binds ∼10 fold stronger to the β-GT enzyme when compared to its glucosylated product. The numbers of 5-hmC on target sequences influenced the turnover numbers for recombinant β-GT. Furthermore, we have utilized recombinant β-GT to estimate global 5-hmC content in a variety of genomic DNAs. Most of the genomic DNAs derived from vertebrate tissue and cell lines contained 5-hmC. DNA from mouse, human, and bovine brains displayed 0.5–0.9% of the total nucleotides as 5-hmC, which was higher compared to the levels found in other tissues. A comparison between cancer and healthy tissue genomes suggested a lower percentage of 5-hmC in cancer, which may reflect the global hypomethylation of 5-mC observed during oncogenesis.
Microbiologic analysis of bottled water: Is it safe for use with contact lenses?

Abstract Objective To analyze commercially available bottled water as a possible source of microbial contamination of contact lenses. Methods Two different lots of 23 brands of noncarbonated bottled water were tested for coliforms, total bacteria, fungi, and free-living amebae. A sample consisted of three separate 100-ml aliquots from one lot of each brand (46 samples). Aliquots were vacuum-filtered using a 0.45-μm Nalgene analytical filter unit, and the membrane filter was placed on a filter pad in a Petri dish containing test medium. Plates were examined under a stereomicroscope, and the number of colony-forming units (CFUs) was calculated for each sample. To test for the presence of free-living amebae, three aliquots totaling approximately 3800 ml were concentrated using 8-μm filters, and the filters were placed on non-nutrient agar with live Enterobacter aerogenes. To assess the possibility of contaminating contact lenses, etafilcon lenses were rinsed in 2-ml aliquots of four brands of bottled water and then cultured. Results Seventeen (37%) of 46 samples, representing 11 (48%) of 23 brands, contained viable micro-organisms. Bacteria, including coliforms, were recovered from 12 samples of 8 brands. Yeasts or molds were recovered from seven samples of five brands. Free-living amebae were isolated from two samples, and fresh-water algae were found in both samples of one brand. Nine (20%) of 46 samples, representing 7 (30%) of the 23 brands, had more than 500 CFUs per ml or contained coliforms. Sterile contact lenses became contaminated when exposed for 1 minute to two of four brands of water from which micro-organisms were recovered. Conclusion Some bottled waters contain high numbers of potential ocular pathogens. Bottled water is not safe for routine use with contact lenses.
Prototyping and analysis of non-sequential systems using predicate-event nets

Abstract The specification language SEGRAS is centered on Predicate-Event nets (PrE-nets), a class of Petri nets with data tokens of an abstract data type. The data flowing in these nets and the firing constraints are specified using algebraic specification. The Petri net specifies the behavioral aspects: the specification of data distribution and synchronization of function calls. PrE-nets inherit from the algebraic theory of abstract data types and from net-theory; from the former, modular composition, information hiding, reasoning about consistency of specifications and correctness of implementations, which is a weakness of standard Petri nets; from the latter they inherit a natural graphical presentation of parallel activity and foremost a rich theoretically founded set of methods for simulating and analyzing the dynamic behavior of systems and the interaction of their components. This paper gives a short formal introduction into the theory of PrE-nets, relates the algebraic semantics to the net-semantics and illustrates this relation informally by sketching the simulation methods we have developed for these nets in the ESPRIT-project GRASPIN. The paper then presents some recent theoretical results with respect to the liveness and safeness of these nets and gives examples how these can be used in a specification environment that includes net transformation and decomposition.
A Posteriori Error Estimates for Weak Galerkin Finite Element Methods for Second Order Elliptic Problems

A residual type a posteriori error estimator is presented and analyzed for Weak Galerkin finite element methods for second order elliptic problems. The error estimator is proved to be efficient and reliable through two estimates, one from below and the other from above, in terms of an $$H^1$$ -equivalent norm for the exact error. Two numerical experiments are conducted to demonstrate the effectiveness of adaptive mesh refinement guided by this estimator.
Macronutrient Depletion and Redistribution in Soils under Conifer and Northern Hardwood Forests

While potentially important in the context of global biogeochemical change, the influence of different forest communities on chemical weathering rates in soils is poorly understood. We investigated the influence of four forest types (northern hardwood vs. three conifer plantations) on base cation depletion and redistribution in soils at Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park (MBRNHP) on 100-yr forest development time scales. This site was ideal for the examination of forest-type influence on the chemical denudation of the landscape during soil development due to a unique forest management history. Soils at MBRNHP are mildly acidic and developed on a silicate-rich parent material with trace carbonates. Soil composition beneath different forest types indicates significant depth-dependent differences in cation depletion. Conifer forest surface soils were more acidic and depleted in mineral-phase base cations than those under northern hardwood forests. This was presumably due to aggressive weathering agents produced by fine-root exudation and organic matter decomposition in conifer forest surface soils. At depth, there was a more acidic and sometimes cation-depleted soil profile under northern hardwood relative to conifer forests, which could be associated with deeper root networks of northern hardwood species and related high nutrient demands, proton release, and mechanical weathering of deep soil. Depth-dependent trends were more evident with Ca and Mg depletion profiles than Na and K, suggesting that vegetative enhancement of the weathering environment was most effective in dissolving more pedogenically reactive divalent cation mineral phases. This model of forest-type enhancement of chemical weathering has important ramifications in the context of global biogeochemical change and forest management.
On a new Newton-Mysovskii-type theorem with applications to inexact Newton-like methods and their discretizations

In this manuscript we first introduce a new Newton-Mysovskii-type theorem to study the convergence of inexact Newton-like methods to a locally unique solution of a nonlinear operator equation with a nondifferentiable term. We then study their discretized versions in connection with the mesh independence principle. This principle asserts that the behaviour of the discretized process is asymptotically the same as that for the original iteration and consequently, the number of steps required by the two processes to converge to within a given tolerance is essentially the same. So far this result has been proved by others using Newton's method for certain classes of boundary value problems and even more generally by considering a Lipschitz uniform discretization. In some of our earlier papers we extended these results to include Newton-like methods under more general conditions. However, all previous results assume that the iterates can be computed exactly. This is not true in general. That is why we use perturbed Newton-like methods and even more general conditions. Our results, on the one hand, extend and on the other hand, make more practical and applicable all previous results. In particular, we solve a nonlinear integral equation appearing in radioactive transfer.
High Throughput Quantitation of cAMP Production Mediated by Activation of Seven Transmembrane Domain Receptors.

Impairment of G protein—coupled seven-transmembrane (7 TM) receptor function has been implicated in a variety of different pathologic conditions, suggesting that the discovery of specific antagonists may lead to the development of successful therapeutic agents. The effect of different agents on receptor-ligand interaction is often measured directly in a receptor binding assay; however, this assay format can be time consuming and does not detect agents that interact at sites distal to the native ligand binding site. Cyclic adenosine monophospate (cAMP) represents a ubiquitous second messenger generated in response to ligand binding to many 7 TM receptors. The present study describes the practical adaptation of scintillation proximity methodology, using FlashPlate™ (NEN Life Sciences, Boston, MA) technology to evaluate cAMP production. The bioassay is based on competition between endogenously produced cAMP and exogenously added radiolabeled [125I]-cAMP. Cyclic AMP capture is mediated through an anti-cAMP an...
Exploiting Stand-in Redundancy to Improve Resilience in a System-of-Systems (SoS)

Abstract Resilience is the ability of a system or organization to react to and recover from disturbances with minimal effect on its dynamic stability. While the resilience of system-of systems (SoSs) depends on the reliability of their constituent systems, traditional reliability approaches cannot adequately quantify their resilience. Given the heterogeneity and often wide geographic distribution of SoS constituent systems, inclusion of backup redundant systems for a SoS is usually impractical and costly. In this paper, we quantitatively assess the impact of compensating for a loss of performance in one constituent system by re-tasking the remaining systems. We call this “stand-in redundancy”, and we develop two concepts to implement stand-in redundancy in a SoS. First, reactive resilience deals with performance recovery after a system failure has occurred. We provide a method to determine feasible alternative SoS configurations based on performance level recovery and cost of implementation. Second, proactive resilience takes into account the gradual degradation of systems over time. The corresponding reduction in SoS performance could initiate a forcible transition to a different SoS configuration before actual failure of the system. These concepts, and their resulting upstream effects on development costs and risks, can be used by decision-makers to quantitatively assess the impact on resilience of different SoS architectures and their inherent ability to resist failures throughout the SoS lifecycle.
Directed Attention as a Common Resource for Executive Functioning and Self-Regulation

Research on executive functioning and on self-regulation have each identified a critical resource that is central to that domain and is susceptible to depletion. In addition, studies have shown that self-regulation tasks and executive-functioning tasks interact with each other, suggesting that they may share resources. Other research has focused specifically on restoring what we propose is the shared resource between self-regulation and executive functioning. Utilizing a theory-based natural environment intervention, these studies have found improvements in executive-functioning performance and self-regulation effectiveness, suggesting that the natural environment intervention restores this shared resource.
Comparing strategies to assess multiple behavior change in behavioral intervention studies.

Alternatives to individual behavior change methods have been proposed; however, little has been done to investigate how these methods compare. To explore the four methods that quantify change in multiple risk behaviors targeting four common behaviors, we utilized data from two cluster-randomized, multiple behavior change trials conducted in two settings: small businesses and health centers. Methods used were (1) summative, (2) z-score, (3) optimal linear combination, and (4) impact score. In the small business study, methods 2 and 3 revealed similar outcomes. However, physical activity did not contribute to method 3. In the health centers study, similar results were found with each of the methods. Multivitamin intake contributed significantly more to each of the summary measures than other behaviors. Selection of methods to assess multiple behavior change in intervention trials must consider study design and the targeted population when determining the appropriate method/s to use.