cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Saving California farmland: The politics of preservation

Abstract Increased discussion in the United States concerning the conversion of agricultural land to urban uses has caused attention to be focused on how state and local governments are dealing with the problem. The discussion is particularly relevant to the state of California which, while possessing only a small percentage of the country's farmland, generates an agricultural output which is among the highest in the nation. This paper explores the conversion through urbanization of California farmland, the consequences of such conversion, the response — or lack of response — of the state and local governments, and the responsibilities which the state government must assume in order to protect its disappearing agricultural base. The most recent official estimate places the loss of farmland in California at 150 000 acres a year, 59 000 acres of which is prime land. This loss is likely to continue since much of the state's agricultural land lies in the path of urban development. Moreover, recent years have witnessed a shift of population growth to rural areas, threatening the continuation of agricultural productivity in regions previously immune from developmental pressures. The State of California, with the exception of providing tax incentives for farmers and supervising the use of farmland along the coast, has left to the cities and counties the responsibility of protecting its agricultural land. Decision-making at the local level, however, is highly political and based on parochial considerations. Because of the large amount of money to be made in converting farmland to urban uses, and the difficulties experienced by farmers operating on the urban fringe, the political pressures to re-zone land to urban uses are intense. The major control device utilized to protect agricultural land is large-lot zoning, but minimum-size parcels of 5 or 10 acres are not generally efficient for farming purposes and frequently end up as residential estates. Local governments have individually adopted a wide range of additional techniques to preserve farmland, some with noted success, but they do not generally constitute elements of a comprehensive approach to the problem. The full resources and authority required for an effective farmland protection program are located only at the state level of government. At present, however, there is insufficient political support to enable the state to take a more active role in this policy area.
Interkeukin-34, a cytokine crucial for the differentiation and maintenance of tissue resident macrophages and Langerhans cells

IL-34 is a recently discovered cytokine that acts on tissue resident macrophages and Langerhans cells upon binding the receptor for CSF-1, CSF-1R. The existence of two ligands for CSF-1R, IL-34, and CSF-1, raises several intriguing questions. Are IL-34 and CSF-1 redundant or does each perform temporally and spatially distinct functions? Is IL-34 involved in human pathology? Would therapeutic strategies based on selective inhibition or administration of either IL-34 or CSF-1 be advantageous for preventing human pathology? Recent in vivo studies indicate that IL-34 promotes the development, survival, and function of microglia and Langerhans cells; therefore, this cytokine may predominately function in brain and skin biology. Here, we review the evidence for IL-34 as a key cytokine in the development and function of these two diverse cell types and discuss its potential role in pathological conditions.
Anemia in children after transplantation: Etiology and the effect of immunosuppressive therapy on erythropoiesis

Anemia in children after renal transplantation is more common than previously appreciated. Multiple factors appear to play roles in the development of post-transplant anemia, the most common of which is absolute and/or functional iron deficiency anemia. Most experts recommend that iron limited anemias in transplant patients should be diagnosed using the same criteria as for chronic renal failure patients. Serum erythropoietin (EPO) levels are expected to normalize after a successful renal transplantation with a normal kidney function, yet both EPO deficiency and resistance have been reported. While no large controlled trials comparing the effect of different immunosuppressive agents on erythropoiesis after transplantation have been performed, generalized bone marrow suppression attributable to azathioprine (AZA), mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), tacrolimus, antithymocyte preparations has been reported. Pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) occurs rarely after transplantation and is characterized by the selective suppression of erythroid cells in the bone marrow. PRCA has been reported with the use of AZA, MMF, tacrolimus, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEI), but not with cyclosporine (CSA) use. Post-transplant hemolytic uremic syndrome has been reported with orthoclone anti T-cell antibody (OKT3), CSA and tacrolimus therapy. Viral infections including cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus and human parvovirus B19 have been reported to cause generalized marrow suppression. Management of severe anemia associated with immunosuppressive drugs generally requires lowering the dose, drug substitution or, when possible, discontinuation of the drug. Because this topic has been incompletely studied, our recommendation as to the best immunosuppressive protocol after renal transplantation remains largely dependent on the clinical response of the individual patient.
Percutaneous Electro-Chemo-Mechanical Reshaping of Cartilage Tissue

For centuries, surgeons have heavily relied on scalpels and sutures to reshape cartilage. Reshaping the cartilaginous frameworks of the head and neck requires open surgery to counteract the intrinsic elastic forces that resist deformation. Recently, non-surgical techniques that use radio frequency or laser sources to reshape cartilage have been developed, but they rely on heat generation and may produce thermal injury [1,3]. We recently developed new techniques to reshape cartilage called Electro-Mechanical Reshaping (EMR ) that combines mechanical deformation with the application of low-level DC electric fields. Shape change is driven by electrochemical reactions that occur between electrodes placed in contact with the mechanically deformed specimen. Previous studies have shown that EMR of cartilage can be accomplished using graphite and aluminum surface electrodes [2,4]. In this study, EMR was further investigated with the use of needle electrodes that can be inserted into the mechanically deformed specimen rather than on the surface. Needle electrodes offer several advantages to surface electrodes because they can be incorporated into percutaneous surgical devices and instrumentation, deliver electric energy precisely to the site of desired shape change, and by design limit the spatial extent of tissue injury.© 2007 ASME
The Long Arc Behind Bill Gates' Wealth, Part 2

Did Bill Gates acquire most of his wealth by fair means or foul? Last issue's column examined the 1980s and early 1990s and largely saw fair actions. A few fell on the border. Today we ask about the mid-1990s and beyond. What a period this was for Gates. The diffusion of the Internet required a redirection of numerous Microsoft activities. Gates had the skills to lead such an organizational renewal, and he did. Those actions were impressive. The Internet also raised numerous challenges to Microsoft's market dominance. In protecting that dominance, Gates was accused of committing many fouls. These also were impressive, albeit in an infamous way. The details make for a rich story behind a wealthy man.
Further studies on the dissociation of adult mouse tissue.

Summary1. A series of compounds known to complex Na+ or K+ has been studied with respect to their capacity to dissociate various tissues of the adult mouse. 2. Single cell suspensions of kidney, brain and connective tissue retaining the morphology of the various cellular types in situ may be obtained with the appropriate complexing agent. 3. The findings suggest that cells in most tissues are aggregated predominantly by coordination about K+. The extent to which cells may be aggregated by coordination through Na+ in some tissues cannot now be evaluated.
Outcomes of Infection-Related Hospitalization in Medicare Beneficiaries Receiving In-Center Hemodialysis

Background Infection is a common cause of hospitalization in adults receiving hemodialysis. Limited data are available about downstream events resulting from or following these hospitalizations. Study Design Retrospective cohort study using the US Renal Data System. Setting & Participants Medicare beneficiaries initiating in-center hemodialysis therapy in 2005 to 2008. Factors Demographics, dual Medicare/Medicaid eligibility, body mass index, comorbid conditions, initial vascular access type, nephrology care prior to dialysis therapy initiation, residence in a care facility, tobacco use, biochemical measures, and type of infection. Outcomes 30-day hospital readmission or death following first infection-related hospitalization. Results 60,270 Medicare beneficiaries had at least one hospitalization for infection. Of those who survived the initial hospitalization, 15,113 (27%) were readmitted and survived the 30 days following hospital discharge, 1,624 (3%) were readmitted to the hospital and then died within 30 days of discharge, and 2,425 (4%) died without hospital readmission. Complications related to dialysis access, sepsis, and heart failure accounted for 12%, 9%, and 7% of hospital readmissions, respectively. Factors associated with higher odds of 30-day readmission or death without readmission included non-Hispanic ethnicity, lower serum albumin level, inability to ambulate or transfer, limited nephrology care prior to dialysis therapy, and specific types of infection. In comparison, older age, select comorbid conditions, and institutionalization had stronger associations with death without readmission than with readmission. Limitations Findings limited to Medicare beneficiaries receiving in-center hemodialysis. Conclusions Hospitalizations for infection among patients receiving in-center hemodialysis are associated with exceptionally high rates of 30-day hospital readmission and death without readmission.
Childhood stuttering and dissociations across linguistic domains.

Abstract The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the possible presence of dissociations in the speech and language skills of young children who do (CWS) and do not stutter (CWNS) using a correlation-based statistical procedure [Bates, E., Appelbaum, M., Salcedo, J., Saygin, A. P., & Pizzamiglio, L. (2003). Quantifying dissociations in neuropsychological research. Journal of Clinical and Experimental Neuropsychology, 25, 1128–1153]. Participants were 45 preschool CWS and 45 CWNS between the ages of 3;0 and 5;11 (years;months), with the two groups matched by age, gender, race, and parental socioeconomic status. Children participated in a parent–child interaction for the purpose of disfluency analysis and responded to four standardized speech-language tests for subsequent analyses as main dependent variables. Findings indicated that CWS were over three times more likely than CWNS to exhibit dissociations across speech-language domains, with 44 cases of dissociation for CWS and 14 for CWNS across 10 possible comparisons. Results suggest that there may be a subgroup of CWS who exhibit dissociations across speech-language domains, which may result in a greater susceptibility to breakdowns in speech fluency. Educational objectives: The reader will be able to: (1) summarize findings from previous studies examining differences in speech and language performance between children who do and do not stutter; (2) describe what is meant by “dissociations” in the speech and language skills of young children who do and do not stutter; and (3) discuss three hypotheses that could account for the present findings that suggest CWS, more often than CWNS, exhibit dissociations in their speech-language system.
Estimating the Leaf Area Index of Winter Wheat Canopies with Crop Growth Model CERES-Wheat

Crop leaf area index (LAI) is an important parameter for crop growth monitoring and yield estimation. Considering the reliability and applicability of the statistical algorithms and the nonparametric algorithms in LAI estimation, a way for crop LAI estimation based on crop growth model is proposed in this study. For this LAI estimation scheme, firstly, the crop growth model is calibrated using history observations of the experimental area, then the calibrated values are input into the physical model for LAI estimation. Winter wheat in Beijing in 2002 is selected as experimental object. The RMSE, R2, and Accuracy of CERES-Wheat model for crop LAI estimation are 0.87, 0.38, and 1.05 (N=128), respectively.
interfaces in aluminum-silicon carbide composites

Abstract In transmission electron microscopy examinations of cast Al matrix-SiC particulate composites, it was noted that a coating of Al4C3 had been formed in contact with some SiC particles. The observed epitaxial orientation relationships at the SiC Al 4 C 3 interface and between the carbides and interfacial Al formed by Al4C3 decomposition are described. The lattice matching between SiC, Al4C3, and reprecipitated Al particles may result in strong bonding and thus permit crack propagation across such interfaces, contributing to the detrimental effects on fracture and fatigue associated with the presence of Al4C3 in aluminum-silicon carbide composites.
Statistical approaches to determine analytical variability and specifications: Application of experimental design and variance component analysis

Assessment of analytical variability is recognized as an important factor for the establishment of specifications. Estimation of the variance for an analytical procedure can be accomplished using a variety of approaches. The approach of variance component analysis was applied retrospectively, as well as prospectively, to estimate analytical variance. The prospective approach also included the use of experimental design. Recent new drug substance examples illustrating these approaches are presented. In these examples, the analytical property of potency was evaluated. Factors examined in the experimental design include laboratory, day, analyst, instrument and column. Process variability can also be determined by variance component analysis. For a stable drug substance, combining the analytical and process variances provides an estimate on the total variance for the analytical property of potency. With the total variability statistically derived, an appropriate specification that is consistent with process and analytical capability can be established.
Identification, Partial Purification, and Characterization of Two Guanosine Triphosphate-Binding Proteins Associated with Insulin Receptors*

We have previously suggested that at least two different G-proteins are involved in mediating insulin receptor functions. Here we identify and partially purify two G-proteins with apparent molecular masses of 41 and 67 kilodaltons (kDa) that interact with insulin receptors in rat adipocytes and human placenta. Treatment of isolated rat adipocytes with insulin inhibited pertussis toxin-catalyzed ADP-ribosylation of a 41-kDa G-protein in subsequently isolated plasma membranes by 30.2 +/- 3.0% and in partially purified insulin receptor preparations by 35.6 +/- 5.7%. There was no associated decrease in the concentration of the 41-kDa G-protein in the plasma membranes, as determined by immunoblot with a common G alpha antibody. The common G alpha antibody also recognized a 67-kDa protein in the plasma membranes, the concentration of which was not affected by insulin. However, the 67-kDa protein was enriched in partially purified solubilized insulin receptor preparations. Two similar, 41- and 67-kDa G-proteins ...
Developments in lead-free solders and soldering technology

Accelerated R&D efforts in industry, universities, national laboratories, and government agencies have recently identified several promising lead-free solders to replace lead-containing solders in microelectronic applications. The leading candidates are Sn-3.5Ag, Sn3.5Ag-0.7Cu, Sn-3.5Ag-4.8Bi, and Sn-0.7Cu (in weight percent). These lead-free solders are all tin-rich with a melting temperature between 210°C and 227°C. They are recommended for such soldering applications as surfacemount technology, plated-through-hole, ball grid arrays, flip chip, and others. Despite the R&D progress and the proliferation of published technical findings on lead-free solders, our knowledge and understanding of these new materials are still at an infancy stage compared to lead-containing solders. Thus, unanswered questions and unresolved issues still persist: Can we make and properly test reliable leadfree solder joints? What are the implications of higher reflow temperatures required for the new solders? Are the new surface finishes needed? What is the lead-free solder candidate for flipchip applications? Can we maintain the solder hierarchy between the first and second level interconnection? What are the reliability issues of new solder alloys? What are the solidification mechanisms in solder joints? How well are microstructure-property relations understood in lead-free solder alloys and joints? Have interfacial reactions between tin-rich solders and new surface finishes been adequately characterized? What are the influences of microstructural evolution during thermomechanical processes? There is much to be learned regarding thermal fatigue mechanisms in solder joints, creep and fatigue interactions, corrosion behavior, etc. To Developments in Lead-Free Solders and Soldering Technology
Discrete Backbone Disorder in the Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Structure of Apo Intestinal Fatty Acid-Binding Protein: Implications for the Mechanism of Ligand Entry †,‡

The three-dimensional structure of the unliganded form of Escherichia coli-derived rat intestinal fatty acid-binding protein (I-FABP) has been determined using triple-resonance three-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance (3D NMR) methods. Sequence-specific 1 H, 13 C, and 15 N resonance assignments were established at pH 7.2 and 33 °C and used to determine the consensus 1 H/ 13 C chemical shift-derived secondary structure. Subsequently, an eight-stage iterative procedure was used to assign the 3D 13 C- and 15 N-resolved NOESY spectra, yielding a total of 3335 interproton distance restraints or 26 restraints/ residue. The tertiary structures were calculated using a distance geometry/simulated annealing algorithm that employs pairwise Gaussian metrization to achieve improved sampling and convergence. The final ensemble of NMR structures exhibited a backbone conformation generally consistent with the ‚-clam motif described for members of the lipid-binding protein family. However, unlike holo-I-FABP, the structure ensemble for apo-I-FABP exhibited variability in a discrete region of the backbone. This variability was evaluated by comparing the apo- and holoproteins with respect to their backbone 1 H and 13 C chemical shifts, amide 1 H exchange rates, and 15 N relaxation rates. Together, these results established that the structural variability represented backbone disorder in apo-I-FABP. The disorder was most pronounced in residues K29-L36 and N54-N57, encompassing the distal half of R-helix II, the linker between helix II and ‚-strand B, and the reverse turn between ‚-strands C and D. It was characterized by a destablization of long-range interactions between helix II and the C-D turn and a fraying of the C-terminal half of the helix. Unlike the solution-state NMR structure, the 1.2-A X-ray crystal structure of apo-I-FABP did not exhibit this backbone disorder. In solution, the disordered region may function as a dynamic portal that regulates the entry and exit of fatty acid. We hypothesize that fatty acid binding shifts the order-disorder equilibrium toward the ordered state and closes the portal by stabilizing a series of cooperative interactions resembling a helix capping box. This proposed mechanism has implications for the acquisition, release, and targeting of fatty acids by I-FABP within the cell.
Intracerebral schwannoma in a child

This 7-year-old boy presented with generalized seizures and normal physical and neurological examination. MRI (Fig. 1) revealed a left parietooccipital intraaxial mass surrounded by abundant oedema...
Forward Modeling of Metal Complexation by NOM: II. Prediction of Binding Site Properties

An a priori model of metal complexation by natural organic matter (NOM) has previously been shown to predict experimental data at pH 7.0 and 0.1 M ionic strength (Cabaniss, S. E. Environ. Sci. Technol. 2009). Unlike macroscopic models based only on stoichiometry and thermodynamics, this a priori model also predicts the ligand groups and properties of complexed (occupied) molecules. Ligand molecules with strong binding sites form complexes at low metal concentrations and have average properties (molecular weight, charge, aromaticity) which can differ significantly from the average properties of bulk NOM. Cu(II), Ni(II) and Pb(II) preferentially bind to strong amine-containing sites which are often located on small (MW < 1000), lower-aromaticity molecules. Cd(II) and Zn(II) show generally weaker binding, although they also prefer amine-containing sites to pure carboxylates and bind to smaller, less aromatic molecules. Ca(II) shows no real preference for amine over carboxylate ligand groups, preferentially b...
A 43-year-old African American man with low-risk prostate cancer

Challenging Case A 43-year-old African American man had his fi rst prostate-specifi c antigen (PSA) level test, with a value of 8 ng/mL. He had no family history of prostate cancer. He was six feet tall and appeared moderately overweight at 267 pounds. Digital rectal examination (DRE) of the prostate was normal. He had no symptoms and negative past medical history. A transrectal ultrasound biopsy was performed. Three of 12 biopsies were positive for a Gleason score of 6, with small volume in each. A bone scan, not surprisingly, was normal. The patient had normal erectile function and no voiding complaints. How would you proceed?
Impact of Burkholderia Infection on Lung Transplantation in Cystic Fibrosis

Rationale: Lung transplantation offers the only survival option for patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) with end-stage pulmonary disease. Infection with Burkholderia species is typically considered a contraindication to transplantation in CF. However, the risks posed by different Burkholderia species on transplantation outcomes are poorly defined.Objectives: To quantify the risks of infection with Burkholderia species on survival before and after lung transplantation in patients with CF.Methods: Multivariate Cox survival models assessed hazard ratios of infection with Burkholderia species in 1,026 lung transplant candidates and 528 lung transplant recipients. Lung allocation scores, incorporating Burkholderia infection status, were calculated for transplant candidates.Measurements and Main Results: Transplant candidates infected with different Burkholderia species did not have statistically different mortality rates. Among transplant recipients infected with B. cenocepacia, only those infected with nonepid...
Spin diffusion in solid 3He

Abstract A systematic study of the spin diffusion constant D in solid b.c.c. 3He at temperatures below 0.8°K is reported. It is shown that the measured D, which is temperature independent, is proportional to the exchange parameter J, defined from the isotropic Hamiltonian H = −hJ I 1 · I 2 .
Effect of Vacuum Evaporation of Liquid Egg White on Foaming Properties

Abstract Liquid egg white was concentrated under a vacuum (4.7 kPa) and at various water-jacket temperatures and processing times to 13.8 to 21.8% solids. One-half of the concentrated samples were frozen; furthermore, half of all samples were treated with sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) or guar gum. Generally, higher water-jacket temperatures, longer processing times, and freezing of the concentrates had detrimental effects on foaming properties. Higher water-jacket temperatures increased consumer acceptance of angel food cakes. Longer processing times and freezing of the concentrates resulted in longer whipping times and reduced cake volume. Addition of SLS reduced whipping time and increased cake volume. Foam stability decreased with higher water-jacket temperatures and longer processing times; however, addition of guar gum improved foam stability. Results of electrophoretic studies indicate possible damage to globulins A1 and A2.
Fatigued on Venus, sleepy on Mars—gender and racial differences in symptoms of sleep apnea

Clinical guidelines for the care of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) recommend evaluation of daytime sleepiness but do not specify evaluation of fatigue. We studied how subjects with and without OSA experience fatigue and sleepiness, examining the role of gender and race. Consecutive subjects entering our heart health registry completed validated questionnaires including Berlin Questionnaire for OSA, Fatigue Scale, and Epworth Sleepiness Scale. Data analysis was performed only with Whites and Blacks as there were too few subjects of other races for comparison. Of 384 consecutive subjects, including 218 women (57 %), there were 230 Whites (60 %) and 154 Blacks (40 %), with average age of 55.9 ± 12.8 years. Berlin Questionnaires identified 221 subjects (58 %) as having high likelihood for OSA. Fatigue was much more common in women (75 %) than in men (46 %) with OSA (p < 0.001), while frequency of fatigue was similar in women (30 %) and men (29 %) without OSA (p = 0.86). In multivariate analysis, men with OSA were sleepier than women; Black men with OSA had higher Epworth scores (mean ± SD, 12.8 ± 5.2) compared to White men (10.6 ± 5.3), White women (10.0 ± 4.5), and Black women (10.5 ± 5.2), p = 0.05. These gender differences were not related to the effects of age, body mass index, perceived stress, sleep duration, or thyroid function. Women report fatigue more commonly with OSA than men. Men experience sleepiness more commonly with OSA than women. The findings suggest that evaluation of sleep disorders must include an assessment of fatigue in addition to sleepiness to capture the experience of women.
Designing algorithms on hierarchical memory multiprocessors

We study here the behavior of two numerical algorithms (matrix multiplications and finite difference methods) on a three-level memory hierarchy multiprocessor RP3. Using different versions of these algorithms which differ on data placement (global, local, global and cacheable, local and cacheable) and on data access (blocked on non-blocked), we study the impact of these parameters on the performance of the program. This performance analysis is done using a very accurate monitoring system (VPMC) which records instructions, memory requests, cache requests and misses. We perform also a theoretical performance analysis of these programs using a model of computation and communication. Good agreements are found between theoretical and experimental results. As a conclusion we discuss the use of local memory on such a machine and show it is not worth with the RP3 ratio of communication between local and global memories. We also discuss optimal use of cache, show the optima can only be met under some cache properties (private store-in cache with user control of write-back) and show blocked optimal algorithms are to be used to meet it.
Diffuse Optical Spectroscopies for Evaluation of Muscle Hemodynamic Enchantments by Electrical Stimulation

Muscle blood flow and oxygenation were continuously monitored by diffuse optical spectroscopies during electrical stimulation (ES). Muscle blood flow increased significantly during 5-minute ES and remained high for more than 15 minutes after ES.
Spectral Method for Thermal Conductivity Calculations

We discuss several post-processing issues in molecular dynamics (MD) calculation of lattice thermal conductivity using the Green–Kubo formula. For crystals with high thermal conductivity such as SiC, converting the MD raw data on heat current fluctuations into thermal conductivity result is non-trivial. One can accelerate the process using Fast Fourier Transform and the spectral method. A few mathematical subtleties are cleared up. Due to finite data length, integration of the correlation function must be terminated before noise takes over; two termination criteria are proposed which give reasonable results for crystalline β-SiC. A simple solvable model that illustrates the above points and can be used for code-checking is presented.
ANOTHER LOOK AT CHILDREN'S COMPREHENSION OF TELEVISION

Research on children's comprehension of television suggests that very young children have difficulty ordering major scenes from a story, and generally do not have adultlike understandings of television. More recent research with young children using short and simple stimuli and a method designed to maximize children's communication abilities suggests that these earlier studies may have underestimated children's comprehension. In this study, three- to five-year-olds viewed an 8-minute version of Diff'rent Strokes, and then were asked to reenact the story with dolls and appropriate props. Analyses of the quality of the stories showed that 70% of the children comprehended most of the event clusters of the program. While their versions of the story were not nearly as detailed or rich as adults' versions, they did not indicate that the children had constructed qualitatively different meanings from the story.
GRB2: a pivotal protein in signal transduction

The growth factor receptor-bound protein-2 (GRB2) is essential for multiple cellular functions. Inhibition of GRB2 function impairs developmental processes in various organisms and blocks transformation and proliferation of various cell types. GRB2 is most well known for its ability to link the epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase to the activation of RAS and its downstream kinases, ERK1,2. We recently reported that GRB2 does not link the HER2 tyrosine kinase to the activation of ERK1,2 but to another kinase, AKT. So, different tyrosine kinases may converge on GRB2 for signaling; however, they may not always use GRB2 to effect the same downstream kinases for cellular functions. It is likely that GRB2 will be found to regulate many more kinases because it plays such a pivotal role in signal transduction.
Molecular Dynamics of Side Chain Liquid Crystalline Polysiloxanes

Molecular dynamics simulations have been used to characterize the development and longevity of associations between cholesterol and biphenyl mesogens when attached to linear siloxane oligomers by flexible spacer groups. Single substituents, alternating substituents, and diblock and triblock arrangements of the substituents were considered. The backbone and spacer groups allow sufficient flexibility that long-lived associations between cholesterol mesogens form quite rapidly, as do more fluid associations between biphenyl and cholesterol mesogens. The study of the individual mesogen interactions and how these lead to larger scale aligned structures has provided insight into the nature of the liquid crystalline state in these materials.
Synergistic approach to cancer therapy: exploiting interactions between anti-estrogens, retinoids, monoterpenes and tyrosine kinase inhibitors

Non-responsiveness and toxicity are large problems encountered during cancer treatment. Utilization of compounds that synergize should increase treatment efficacy while avoiding problems of toxicity. This review explores interactions between classes of compounds, including anti-estrogens, retinoids, monoterpenes and tyrosine kinase inhibitors, that are effective independent, and how their synergistic interaction could be exploited in cancer treatment. The effects of these compounds on insulin-like growth factors (IGF) and transforming-growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) will also be examined.
Characterization of a deletion mutant of bacteriophage φ29

A spontaneous deletion mutant of bacteriophage phi 29 (phi 29 delta 1) has been characterized. This mutant has a 1112-bp deletion, which covers almost the entire sequence of genes 14 and 15, including an early promoter (B2). While lysis is very delayed, the phage DNA synthesis and internal phage development appear to be normal in the cells infected with this deletion mutant. These results indicate that the early functions are intact in phi 29 delta 1. Our results also suggest that genes 14 and 15 are dispensable for bacteriophage phi 29 growth and that the B2 promoter may also be dispensable for early functions in phi 29.
Species-Specific Inhibition of RIG-I Ubiquitination and IFN Induction by the Influenza A Virus NS1 Protein

Influenza A viruses can adapt to new host species, leading to the emergence of novel pathogenic strains. There is evidence that highly pathogenic viruses encode for non-structural 1 (NS1) proteins that are more efficient in suppressing the host immune response. The NS1 protein inhibits type-I interferon (IFN) production partly by blocking the TRIM25 ubiquitin E3 ligase-mediated Lys63-linked ubiquitination of the viral RNA sensor RIG-I, required for its optimal downstream signaling. In order to understand possible mechanisms of viral adaptation and host tropism, we examined the ability of NS1 encoded by human (Cal04), avian (HK156), swine (SwTx98) and mouse-adapted (PR8) influenza viruses to interact with TRIM25 orthologues from mammalian and avian species. Using co-immunoprecipitation assays we show that human TRIM25 binds to all tested NS1 proteins, whereas the chicken TRIM25 ortholog binds preferentially to the NS1 from the avian virus. Strikingly, none of the NS1 proteins were able to bind mouse TRIM25. Since NS1 can inhibit IFN production in mouse, we tested the impact of TRIM25 and NS1 on RIG-I ubiquitination in mouse cells. While NS1 efficiently suppressed human TRIM25-dependent ubiquitination of RIG-I 2CARD, NS1 inhibited the ubiquitination of full-length mouse RIG-I in a mouse TRIM25-independent manner. Therefore, we tested if the ubiquitin E3 ligase Riplet, which has also been shown to ubiquitinate RIG-I, interacts with NS1. We found that NS1 binds mouse Riplet and inhibits its activity to induce IFN-β in murine cells. Furthermore, NS1 proteins of human but not swine or avian viruses were able to interact with human Riplet, thereby suppressing RIG-I ubiquitination. In conclusion, our results indicate that influenza NS1 protein targets TRIM25 and Riplet ubiquitin E3 ligases in a species-specific manner for the inhibition of RIG-I ubiquitination and antiviral IFN production.
Chronovolumes: a direct rendering technique for visualizing time-varying data

We present a new method for displaying time varying volumetric data. The core of the algorithm is an integration through time producing a single view volume that captures the essence of multiple time steps in a sequence. The resulting view volume then can be viewed with traditional raycasting techniques. With different time integration functions, we can generate several kinds of resulting chronovolumes, which illustrate differing types of time varying features to the user. By utilizing graphics hardware and texture memory, the integration through time can be sped up, allowing the user interactive control over the temporal transfer function and exploration of the data.
Development of a full-body biomechanical model of the golf swing

This paper presents the development, verification, and application of a full-body biomechanical model of the golf swing. The model consists of a variable full-body computer model of a human interfaced to a flexible model of a golf club, a supporting ground surface, and a ball/club impact force. Data to drive the model are obtained from subject swings recorded using a multi-camera motion analysis system. Model output includes club trajectories, golfer/club interaction forces and torques, joint kinematics, joint loadings, work and power, and club deflections. The model was used to analyse the swings of 84 amateur golfers. The applicable data from these subjects were compared to published data. Experimental and analytical verifications are presented.
Discrimination of lichen genera and species using element concentrations

The importance of organic chemistry in the classification of lichens is well established, but inorganic chemistry has been largely overlooked. Six lichen species were studied over a period of 23 years that were growing in 11 protected areas of the northern Great Lakes ecoregion, which were not greatly influenced by anthropogenic particulates or gaseous air pollutants. The elemental data from these studies were aggregated in order to test the hypothesis that differences among species in tissue element concentrations were large enough to discriminate between taxa faithfully. Concentrations of 16 chemical elements that were found in tissue samples from Cladonia rangiferina, Evernia mesomorpha, Flavopunctelia flaventior, Hypogymnia physodes, Parmelia sulcata ,a ndPunctelia rudecta were analyzed statistically using multivariate discriminant functions and CART analyses, as well as t-tests. Genera and species were clearly separated in element space, and elemental discriminant functions were able to classify 91-100% of the samples correctly into species. At the broadest level, a Zn concentration of 51 ppm in tissues of four of the lichen species effectively discriminated foliose from fruticose species. Similarly ,aSc oncentration of 680 ppm discriminated C. rangiferina and E. mesomorpha, and a Ca concentration of 10 436 ppm discriminated H. physodes from P. sulcata. For the three parmelioid species, a Ca concentration >32 837 ppm discriminated Punctelia rudecta from the other two species, while a Zn concentration of 56 ppm discriminated Parmelia sulcata from F. flaventior. Foliose species also had higher concentrations than did fruticose species of all elements except Na. Elemental signatures for each of the six species were developed using standardized means. Twenty-four mechanisms explaining the differences among species are summarized. Finally, the relationships of four species based on element concentrations, using additive-trees clustering of a Euclidean-distance matrix, produced identical relationships as did analyses based on secondary product chemistry that used additive-trees clustering of a Jaccard similarity matrix. At least for these six species, element composition has taxonomic significance, and may be useful for discriminating other taxa.
Narrative versus Nonnarrative: The Role of Identification, Transportation, and Emotion in Reducing Health Disparities

This research empirically tests whether using a fictional narrative produces a greater impact on health-related knowledge, attitudes, and behavioral intention than presenting the identical information in a more traditional, nonfiction, non-narrative format. European American, Mexican American, and African American women (N = 758) were surveyed before and after viewing either a narrative or non-narrative cervical cancer-related film. The narrative was more effective in increasing cervical cancer-related knowledge and attitudes. Moreover, in response to the narrative featuring Latinas, Mexican Americans were most transported, identified most with the characters, and experienced the strongest emotions. Regressions revealed that transportation, identification with specific characters, and emotion each contributed to shifts in knowledge, attitudes, and behavioral intentions. Thus, narrative formats may provide a valuable tool in reducing health disparities.
Soy addition improves the texture of microwavable par-baked pocket-type flat doughs

Microwavable baked goods are used frequently by the food industry to enrobe meat, vegetable, and sweet items for convenient meal delivery but suffer from poor texture upon microwave re-heating. Par-baking the dough prior to the reheating stage provides an opportunity to supply fresh baked goods with a simple baking stage at retail locations. Nonetheless, reheating conditions signifi- cantly affect texture of reheated par-baked products, resulting in shrinkage, porosity reduction, and crust soft- ening. Appropriate formula modifications have been shown to reduce microwave-induced toughness of reheated bread by virtue of water-binding agents and lipids. The objective of this study was, therefore, to assess the effect of soy addition on the water state of microwavable par-baked doughs. Four dough formulations were developed by substituting wheat flour with increasing amounts of a soy blend. Addition of soy at 20 and 26% levels improved textural properties of microwaved products, resulting in a softer and less chewy texture. Thermogravimetric analysis (TG) showed increased water binding in soy formulations 20 and 26% with a broadening of the main peak (attributed to water loss) that shifted from 40 to 80 C. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) depicted a transition in the - 25/-10 C range, attributed to soy lipids melting, which broadened at high soy addition. This change in water dynamics was confirmed by proton nuclear magnetic resonance ( 1 H NMR) relaxation tests, T1 and T2, having lower values in soy products, and therefore, depicting a more solid-like matrix. Soy addition above 20% signifi- cantly improved the texture of microwave reheated par- baked flat doughs.
Sequencing n jobs on two machines with setup, processing and removal times separated

The paper extends the machine flow-shop scheduling problem by separating processing time into setup, processing and removal times.
Control of multimanipulator systems-trajectory tracking, load distribution, internal force control, and decentralized architecture

The author proposes a coordinated control law for a multimanipulator system performing parts-matching tasks. This control law enables the manipulators to perform the preplanned parts-matching maneuver while the entire parts-matching system is driven to follow a desired path. Manipulators are essentially treated as six-degree-of-freedom actuators with some nonlinear dynamics, which exert a set of contact forces on the object so that trajectory tracking is achieved and the desired internal force is realized. When the parts-matching system consists of only a single object, the control law degenerates to an expression that will drive a group of manipulators transporting a single object. A load-sharing scheme minimizes the weighted norm of the force applied to the object. In this way, a heavily weighted direction tends to get less load. This scheme does not require a force sensor. The author also discusses the choosing of the weighting factor and shows that the proposed control law can be implemented in a decentralized fashion. >
Integrated monitoring and Control of Cycloconverter Drive System for Fault Diagnosis and Predictive Maintenance

Mining power systems have a unique industrial environment: low short-circuit levels, high-power non-linear equipments, transient over-voltages, high altitude locations, dust, vibrations, etc., where faults easily occur affecting the integrity of the electronics equiment and drives reducing reliability with undesirable effects on safety and production. In order to reduce the occurrence of failures, most power installations have protection systems intended for reliable and selective clearence of faults, but their protection signals are usually not integrated to the Distributed Control System (DCS). With advances of information technologies, it becomes more practical to create more powerful signal processing systems for a predictive monitoring function implementation. Predictive maintenance capability can reduce the costs associated with downtimes, as well as to avoid safety hazards associated with unexpected and catastrophic failures. This paper is mainly focused on the study and implementation of a laboratory scale prototype and monitoring system for a cycloconverter with a real-time model for observation of internal variables that works integrated with the DCS control. The main contribution of this system, over the conventional monitoring and diagnosis systems is the reduction of required measurements and the use of control variables for improving performance and robust system surveillance.
Modeling DIF for Simulations: Continuous or Categorical Secondary Trait?

For DIF studies, item responses are often simulated using a unidimensional item response theory (IRT) model, with the item difficulty varying by group for the DIF item(s). This implies that the item is easier for all members of one group. However, many researchers may want to conceptualize DIF as a continuous factor; in this conceptualization, one group finds the DIF item easier on average, but this is not true for all group members. Multidimensional IRT models allow item responses to be generated to correspond to this perspective. Data were simulated under both unidimensional and multidimensional models and effect sizes were estimated from the resulting item responses using the Mantel-Haenszel DIF procedure. The bias and empirical standard errors of the effect sizes were virtually identical. Thus, practitioners using observed-score methods of DIF detection can trust results from DIF simulation studies regardless of the underlying model used to create the data.
The Type of Tylostoma Gracile

White (2) published a paper on the Tylostomaceae of North America which included a discussion of the genera Tylostoma (Tulostoma sensu Persoon) and Chlamydopus. White described several new species, including T. gracile which had the following characters: whitish endoperidium; entire collar restricted around the top of the stipe, stipe fibrillose-stuffed, becoming hollow, base slightly enlarged; smooth spores 3-5 ,um in diam; dark-ferruginous capillitium. The type material was collected at Las Cruces, New Mexico. White's plate 32, FIGS. 1-3 illustrates a typical Tulostoma specimen with a collar membrane clasping the stipe, a slightly swollen base, and smooth spores. In the same publication White (2) discusses the genus Chlamydopus and described specimens of C. clavatus Speg. as having a fawn-colored peridium; densely verrucose, dark-ferruginous spores 4-6 jum in diameter, and hyaline capillitium characterized as ". . . not as distinct as those of Tylostoma . . ." Additionally, in a key to the two genera White uses the presence or absence of a collar to distinguish between Tulostoma and Chlamydopus. Her figure (pl. 35, FIG. 6) of a longitudinal section through the stipe of Chlamydopus shows its continuity with the peridium and emphasizes the lack of a collar. White states ". . the genus Chlamydopus . . . was later too summarily assigned as a synonym of Tylostoma for the differences are so marked that it would be unfortunate to include these two diverse types under one genus." Apparently White did not label her type material so that Long (1) was faced with the problem of selecting type specimens from among her collections. Based on the specimen he selected as type, Long amended the description of T. gracile as follows: base of stipe slightly swollen, endoperidium cinnamon-colored, collar lacking, spores 5.6-7.5 Am in diam, and distinctly echinulate, gleba ferruginous, capillitium hyaline, and he identified the specimen as C. meyenianus (Klotzsch) Lloyd. During my studies of Tulostoma I reexamined the lectotypes designated by Long. The lectotype of T. gracile is C. meyenianus as indicated by Long. Long's description of the lectotype, however, does not match White's illustration of the missing holotype: the collar and 1009