cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Automated MRI measures predict progression to Alzheimer's disease

The prediction of individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) destined to develop Alzheimer's disease (AD) is of increasing clinical importance. In this study, using baseline T1-weighted MRI scans of 324 MCI individuals from two cohorts and automated software tools, we employed factor analyses and Cox proportional hazards models to identify a set of neuroanatomic measures that best predicted the time to progress from MCI to AD. For comparison, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) assessments of cellular pathology and positron emission tomography (PET) measures of metabolic activity were additionally examined. By 3 years follow-up, 60 MCI individuals from the first cohort and 58 MCI individuals from the second cohort had progressed to a diagnosis of AD. Cox models on the first cohort demonstrated significant effects for the medial temporal factor [Hazards Ratio (HR) = 0.43{95% confidence interval (CI), 0.32-0.55}, p < 0.0001], the fronto-parietoccipital factor [HR = 0.59{95% CI, 0.48-0.80}, p < 0.001], and the lateral temporal factor [HR = 0.67 {95% CI, 0.52-0.87}, p < 0.01]. When applied to the second cohort, these Cox models showed significant effects for the medial temporal factor [HR = 0.44 {0.32-0.61}, p < 0.001] and lateral temporal factor [HR = 0.49 {0.38-0.62}, p < 0.001]. In a combined Cox model, consisting of individual CSF, PET, and MRI measures that best predicted disease progression, only the medial temporal factor [HR = 0.53 {95% CI, 0.34-0.81}, p < 0.001] demonstrated a significant effect. These findings illustrate that automated MRI measures of the medial temporal cortex accurately and reliably predict time to disease progression, outperform cellular and metabolic measures as predictors of clinical decline, and can potentially serve as a predictive marker for AD.
Pyriproxyfen Effects on Newly Engorged Larvae and Nymphs of the Lone Star Tick (Acari: Ixodidae)

Newly engorged larvae and nymphs of the lone star tick, Amblyomma aniericanum (L.), were exposed to 9 treatments of pyriproxyfen in glass vials consisting of dosages of 4, 8, and 16 μg/cm2 for 7 d, 14 d, and continuous exposure periods at each concentration. Treatment of newly engorged larvae resulted in decreased molting, altered postmolt defecation, and nymphal survival with results being dose and exposure dependent. Molting inhibition ranged from 35.9 to 68.4%. Successfully molted nymphs were lethargic, exhibited altered defecation patterns, and were short-lived compared with untreated adults. By 65 d after treatment, cumulative inhibition of molting and hastened mortality of molted adults resulted in 82.6–100% control, depending on dosage and exposure. Treatment of newly engorged nymphs showed minimal to no effect on molting; however, adults were lethargic and displayed altered postmolt defecation patterns. Subsequent adult longevity was most dramatically affected with 87.9–100% control achieved by 82–84 d after treatment. Fecal patterns and survivorship were dose and exposure dependent. Estimates of subsequent feeding success of adults treated as engorged nymphs, show reduced capacities of attachment, engorgement and reproduction.
Understanding the Kinetics and Nanoscale Morphology of Electron-Beam-Induced Deposition via a Three-Dimensional Monte Carlo Simulation: The Effects of the Precursor Molecule and the Deposited Material

The electron-beam-induced deposition of silicon oxide from tetraethyorthosilicate and tungsten from tungsten hexafluoride is simulated via a Monte Carlo simulation. Pseudo one-dimensional nanopillars are grown using comparable electron-beam parameters and a comparison of the vertical and lateral growth rate and the pillar morphology is correlated to the precursor and deposited material parameters. The primary and secondary electrons (type I) are found to dominate the vertical growth rate and the lateral growth rate is dominated by forward and secondary electrons (type II). The resolution and morphology of the nanopillars are affected by the effective electron interaction volume and the resultant surface coverage of the precursor species in the effective electron interaction region. Finally, the simulated results are compared to previously reported experimental results.
Estrogen and tamoxifen differentially regulate beta-endorphin and cFos expression and neuronal colocalization in the arcuate nucleus of the rat.

Estrogen regulates hypothalamic gene expression, synthesis and release of the endogenous opioid peptide β-endorphin (βEND), although a consensus estrogen response element sequence has not been identif
Welcoming the Stranger

. Thinking about teaching as an act of intellectual hospitality has the potential to shape productively how teachers conceive of their own roles in the classroom, their interactions with students, and their execution of crucial tasks. It also offers a path to helpful reflection about a persistent issue that arises particularly for the many faculty members who teach in small departments of religion and are therefore called upon to address a wide range of topics in their teaching. In addition, adopting an ethos of hospitality in the classroom provides a salutary counterpoint to the pervasive and often corrosive academic practices of critique, refutation, and dispute.
Submarine processes of the middle Atlantic continental rise based on GLORIA imagery

Approximately 6,100 km of 3.5-kHz echo-sounding profiles was correlated with a GLORIA side-scan sonar image of the mid-Atlantic United States (34°N, 70°W) lower slope-upper continental rise. The image allows us to map the major erosional and depositional features and to identify major processes that have shaped the area. The GLORIA imagery shows three approximately triangular-shaped sediment-gather areas that cover the upper-rise and slope transition areas near Wilmington, Baltimore, and Norfolk Canyons. The gather areas, which are interspersed with hemipelagic drape areas, are composed of dendritic networks of channels that extend from the base of the slope toward major channel systems on the middle rise, such as Wilmington Valley. Seaward of Cape Hatteras, a tongue-shaped area of mottled high back scatter on the GLORIA imagery denotes the Albemarle-Currituck mass-movement complex, a large (60 km wide by >190 km long) area of the sea floor that is marked by the disruption of upper-rise sedimentary strata and by mass-flow deposits. Interpretation of GLORIA imagery and echo-sounding profiles indicates that mass movement is the predominant process affecting sediment on the United States east coast mid-Atlantic slope and upper rise and that isobath-parallel sediment movement by geostrophic currents is restricted mainly to the lower continental rise. The mass-movement processes evident on the rise probably were most active during the Pleistocene, when sea level was lower and sediment input more active.
T Cell Factor-1 Controls the Lifetime of CD4+ CD8+ Thymocytes In Vivo and Distal T Cell Receptor α-Chain Rearrangement Required for NKT Cell Development

Natural killer T (NKT) cells are a component of innate and adaptive immune systems implicated in immune, autoimmune responses and in the control of obesity and cancer. NKT cells develop from common CD4+ CD8+ double positive (DP) thymocyte precursors after the rearrangement and expression of T cell receptor (TCR) Vα14-Jα18 gene. Temporal regulation and late appearance of Vα14-Jα18 rearrangement in immature DP thymocytes has been demonstrated. However, the precise control of lifetime of DP thymocytes in vivo that enables distal rearrangements remains incompletely defined. Here we demonstrate that T cell factor (TCF)-1, encoded by the Tcf7 gene, is critical for the extended lifetime of DP thymocytes. TCF-1-deficient DP thymocytes fail to undergo TCR Vα14-Jα18 rearrangement and produce significantly fewer NKT cells. Ectopic expression of Bcl-xL permits Vα14-Jα18 rearrangement and rescues NKT cell development. We report that TCF-1 regulates expression of RORγt, which regulates DP thymocyte survival by controlling expression of Bcl-xL. We posit that TCF-1 along with its cofactors controls the lifetime of DP thymocytes in vivo.
Spatial variability in SeaWiFS imagery of the South Atlantic bight as evidenced by gradients (fronts) in chlorophyll a and water-leaving radiance

Abstract Ocean margin waters contain a host of dissolved and particulate materials of terrestrial and marine origin. The presence of these materials can confound the chlorophyll a (chl a ) estimates retrieved by ocean-color satellites’ empirical algorithms. We apply edge detection software to chlorophyll a and water-leaving radiance ( L wn ) data from 1998 sea-viewing wide field-of-view sensor (SeaWiFS) imagery to examine this problem within ocean margin waters off the southeastern continental United States (SEC) and South Atlantic bight (SAB). We identify the location of boundaries differentiating waters containing different backscattering components. Identifying those areas where apparent chl a gradients may be caused by differential backscattering helps to determine the location of those gradients caused by real changes in chl a concentrations. An onshore/offshore phytoplankton gradient and seasonal signal not previously detected in SEC waters was revealed from examination of cross-shelf transect data for the months of the study. Phytoplankton concentrations and associated gradients or fronts were connected with the inner, middle or outer shelf based on the biological response to local physical and atmospheric forcings. River flow and wind stress affect inner shelf chl a distributions, while offshore chl a distributions are controlled by Gulf Stream meanders. Carolina Capes’ oceanography influenced chl a frontal variability in that local region. We also explore the possibility of utilizing the edge detection algorithm to delineate boundaries between waters dominated by different algal classes.
A Comparison of the Use of Cleithra to the Use of Scales for Age and Growth Studies

Abstract Cleithra and scales were obtained from each of 110 muskellunge captured by anglers in the Niagara River. The results obtained from cleithral age-and-growth analysis were compared to those from a similar scale analysis. Ages agreed on 87% of the sample. When ages disagreed, it was most often judged that the cleithral age was correct. Fish older than IX+ years could not be aged from scales, but cleithra were useful for fish as old as XVI+ years. Lengths back-calculated from the two techniques were statistically (95% level) equivalent at all ages except age I.
Intensive Glucose Lowering and Cardiovascular Disease Prevention in Diabetes: Reconciling the Recent Clinical Trial Data

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a very common, if not the most common, cause of morbidity and mortality in developed countries, and there has been longstanding recognition that diabetes is a potent risk factor for CVD.1,–,3 Individuals with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus manifest CVD rates up to 4 to 10 times higher than those observed in nondiabetic subjects. Subjects with diabetes also have been shown to have more advanced atherosclerosis, as measured by carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) measures or coronary artery calcium (CAC) scores.4,–,7 The potential pathophysiology of accelerated atherosclerosis and CVD risk in diabetes is complex8 (Table 1). Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus commonly have hypertension and manifest a number of abnormalities in systemic lipoprotein metabolism and in inflammatory and coagulation pathways that are predicted to be proatherogenic and to increase CVD risk on the basis of observational and mechanistic studies conducted in diabetic and nondiabetic experimental models. These abnormalities are related to coexisting insulin resistance in the majority of patients with diabetes and manifest as low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, increased triglyceride-rich lipoprotein cholesterol, postprandial lipemia, elevated levels of C-reactive protein and other inflammatory markers, and increased levels of plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 and fibrinogen levels. Insulin resistance in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus is generally but not always related to obesity and may be more specifically linked to central obesity and accumulation of fat in the visceral fat depot.9,10 View this table: Table 1. Potential Contributors to Accelerated Atherosclerosis and CVD in Diabetes In patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus, understanding of the potential pathophysiologies for accelerated atherosclerosis and CVD is complicated by the young age (usually before the second or third decade of life) of these patients at the time of diagnosis of …
Structure of Brain Ganglioside

THE brain gangliosides of Klenk1 are macro-molecular glycolipids of unknown structure and function, composed of neuraminic acid, sphingosine, fatty acids, hexoses and a hexosamine1–4. Structural evidence has now been obtained by acid hydrolytic cleavage of a highly purified preparation of brain ganglioside. A glucocerebroside has been isolated and the structure of the repeating unit formulated.
Enalapril improves albuminuria by preventing glomerular loss of heparan sulfate in diabetic rats.

Abstract Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, particularly enalapril and captopril, have been shown to decrease proteinuria in diabetic animals and human subjects. Since heparan sulfate proteoglycan confers a negative charge on the glomerular basement membrane, and either decreased synthesis or loss of this charge causes albuminuria in diabetic animals, we examined the possiblity that enalapril prevents albuminuria through glomerular preservation of heparan sulfate in long-term diabetic rats. A total of 22 male Wistar rats were used in the study. Diabetes was induced in 15 rats by a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (60 mg/kg). The remaining 7 rats received buffer. One week following induction of diabetes, 8 diabetic rats were allowed to drink tap water containing enalapril at a concentration of 50 mg/liter; the remaining 7 diabetic and 7 nondiabetic rats were given only tap water. The drug treatment was continued for 20 weeks. Systolic blood pressure and 24-hr urinary excretion of albumin were measured at 2, 8, 16, and 20 weeks. At the end of 20 weeks, all rats were killed, kidneys were removed, and glomeruli were isolated by differential sieving technique. Total glycosaminoglycan and heparan sulfate synthesis was determined by incubating glomeruli in the presence of [35S]sulfate. Characterization of heparan sulfate was performed by ion-exchange chromatography. Systolic blood pressures were significantly lower in enalapril-treated diabetic rats compared to untreated diabetic rats. Diabetic glomeruli synthesized less heparan sulfate than glomeruli from nondiabetic rats. Also, glomerular heparan sulfate content of diabetics was significantly lower than that of nondiabetics. Further characterization of heparan sulfate showed that the fraction eluted with 1 m NaCl was significantly lower and the fraction eluted with 1.25 m NaCl significantly higher in diabetic than in normal rats. Enalapril treatment normalized not only glomerular synthesis and content but also various fractions of heparan sulfate in diabetic rats. Diabetic rats excreted increased quantities of heparan sulfate and albumin than nondiabetic rats. Enalapril therapy prevented both these increases in diabetic rats. These data suggest that enalapril treatment improves albuminuria through preservation of glomerular heparan sulfate and prevention of its urinary loss in diabetic rats.
High-energy asymptotics for the scattering matrix on the line

The authors consider the Schrodinger equation on the line and prove asymptotic expansions for the S-matrix S(k) in inverse powers of k as k to infinity . The order of these expansions depends on the number of L1 derivatives of the potential. They establish and exploit a connection between S(k) and the two Titchmarsh-Weyl m-functions (m+or-) associated with this problem.
Effects of carbon content, deformation, and interfacial energetics on carbide precipitation and corrosion sensitization in 304 stainless steel

Abstract Utilizing transmission electron microscopy analysis of (110)/(110) grain boundaries in 304 stainless steel thin films prepared from specimens having 0.011, 0.025, 0.05, and 0.07% C, the M23C6 precipitate density was measured for grain boundary misorientations, Θ, for aging times of 10 and 50 h at 670°C, and for unstrained and 20% strained conditions. The density of precipitates in grain boundaries increased with increasing carbon content above 0.011% C and with increasing angles of misorientation. The propensity for precipitation also increased with straining to 20% and with increasing aging time, i.e. at high misorientation angles the sizes of precipitates increased with aging time. Essentially no precipitates were observed on grain boundaries at 0.011% C and no precipitates were observed on coherent (Σ3) twin boundaries. Average energies at 670°C were calculated for random, high-angle grain boundaries, non-coherent twin boundaries, and coherent twin boundaries from experimental data and corresponding temperature coefficients. Precipitation observations suggested a critical or threshold energy requirement for precipitation. Correspondingly, a carbon content threshold also seems to exist for precipitation. It appears that of the special (Σ) boundaries, only coherent twin (Σ3) boundaries possess sufficiently low interfacial free energy to deter precipitation and sensitization, leading to the conclusion that only a twin-dominant grain boundary character could assure a significantly reduced corrosion sensitivity.
An algorithm for optimal free-form object matching

A novel method of matching for 3-D free-form objects (points vs. surface and surface vs. surface) is proposed. The method formulates the problem in terms of solution of a non-linear polynomial equation system, which can be solved robustly by the Interval Projected Polyhedron (IPP) algorithm. Two intrinsic surface properties, the Gaussian and the mean curvatures, are used as object features for matching. The related iso-curvature lines are used to establish the correspondence between two objects. The intersection points of these iso-curvature lines are calculated and sorted out to satisfy the Euclidean constraints from which the translation and rotation transformations are estimated. The performance of the proposed algorithm is also analyzed. This approach can cover global and partial matching, and be applied to automated inspection, copyright protection of NURBS models, and object recognition. Examples illustrate our technique.
Relation of air ions to air pollution and some biological effects

High concentrations of large air ions were associated with reduced germination percentage of uredospores of Puccinia striiformis. Concentration of large air ions during the period of spore hydration (the first hour) was most critical in determining germination percentage. One of the main sources of large air ions appeared to be combustion nuclei from automobile exhaust. Aitken nuclei and atmospheric lead also increased due to this source. Some wheat varieties inoculated with P. striiformis uredospores during an extended temperature inversion period, which resulted in especially high concentrations of large ions, showed shifts toward greater resistance and the incubation period was prolonged by about four days. Air ion monitoring, combined with germination bioassay, was used at different locations to assess relative air quality.
History of Psychology: Cornerstone Instead of Capstone.

A history of psychology course designed as a prerequisite for advanced work in experimental psychology is described. Research design and methodology are introduced in an historical context. Student...
Hedgehog signalling within airway epithelial progenitors and in small-cell lung cancer

Embryonic signalling pathways regulate progenitor cell fates in mammalian epithelial development and cancer. Prompted by the requirement for sonic hedgehog (Shh) signalling in lung development, we investigated a role for this pathway in regeneration and carcinogenesis of airway epithelium. Here we demonstrate extensive activation of the hedgehog (Hh) pathway within the airway epithelium during repair of acute airway injury. This mode of Hh signalling is characterized by the elaboration and reception of the Shh signal within the epithelial compartment, and immediately precedes neuroendocrine differentiation. We reveal a similar pattern of Hh signalling in airway development during normal differentiation of pulmonary neuroendocrine precursor cells, and in a subset of small-cell lung cancer (SCLC), a highly aggressive and frequently lethal human tumour with primitive neuroendocrine features. These tumours maintain their malignant phenotype in vitro and in vivo through ligand-dependent Hh pathway activation. We propose that some types of SCLC might recapitulate a critical, Hh-regulated event in airway epithelial differentiation. This requirement for Hh pathway activation identifies a common lethal malignancy that may respond to pharmacological blockade of the Hh signalling pathway.
Investigating the effect of ciliary body photodynamic therapy in a glaucoma mouse model

PURPOSE To investigate the morphologic and functional effects of verteporfin ciliary body photodynamic therapy (PDT) in a murine glaucoma model and normal mouse eyes. METHODS A glaucomatous mouse strain, DBA/2J and a normal control mouse strain (C57BL/6) were used in the study. Verteporfin was injected intravenously at doses of 1.0 (DBA/2J) or 2.0 or 4.0 (C57BL/6) mg/kg. Transscleral irradiation of the ciliary body was performed with light at a wavelength of 689 nm delivered through an optical fiber, with irradiance of 1800 mW/cm2 and fluence of 100 J/cm2. Laser irradiation was applied for 360 degrees of the corneoscleral limbus in C57BL/6 normal mice and for 180 degrees in DBA/2J mice. Retreatment was performed in C57BL/6 normal mice that had been treated with 2.0 mg/kg of verteporfin at post-PDT day 7. One eye of each animal was treated, and the fellow eye served as the control. The morphologic effect of PDT on the ocular structures was assessed by light and electron microscopy. The IOP was measured using an applanation tonometer with a fiber-optic pressure sensor. Surviving retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in DBA/2J mice eyes were retrogradely labeled with a neurotracer dye at 12 weeks after PDT. RESULTS In all groups, almost all ciliary body blood vessels in the treated area were thrombosed 1 day after PDT. In DBA/2J mice, ciliary epithelium and stroma were severely damaged 1 day after PDT. The mean IOP in treated eyes was significantly reduced compared with that in the control eyes in all groups. The reduction of mean IOP in DBA/2J mouse eyes persisted for 7 weeks, although the mean IOP in normal mouse eyes treated with 2 or 4.0 mg/kg verteporfin returned to the level of the fellow control eyes by 7 and 17 days after treatment, respectively. The mean number of RGCs in the DBA/2J treated eyes was significantly higher than in control eyes. CONCLUSIONS Ciliary body PDT resulted in morphologic changes in the ciliary body, significant reduction of IOP, and prevention of ganglion cell loss in a mouse glaucoma model. These results suggest that ciliary body PDT is a more selective cyclodestructive technique with potential clinical application in the treatment of glaucoma.
A comparison of vasopressin and glucagon in beta-blocker induced toxicity

Objective We compared the efficacy of vasopressin and glucagon in a porcine model of beta-blocker toxicity. Our primary outcome was survival over 4 hours. Methods Sixteen pigs received a 1-mg/ kg bolus of propranolol IV followed by continuous infusion at 0.25 mg/kg/minute. Toxicity was defined as a 25% decrease in the product of heart rate (HR) and mean arterial pressure (MAP), at which point 20 mL/kg normal saline was rapidly infused. Each pig was randomly assigned to receive either vasopressin or glucagon after the saline bolus. The vasopressin group received a continuous infusion at 0.0028 U/kg/minute, titrated up to a maximum of 0.014 U/ kg/minute. The glucagon group received a 0.05-mg/kg bolus followed by continuous infusion at 0.15 mg/kg/hour. The HR, MAP, systolic BP (SBP), cardiac output (CO), glucose, and pH were monitored for 4 hours from toxicity or until death. Results One pig survived at 4 hours (vasopressin group). Analysis of the 4-hour Kaplan-Meier survival curves found no differences between the groups (log-rank test 0.059, p = 0.81). No overall differences were identified in MAP, systolic BP, cardiac output, glucose, pH, or HR. However, over the first hour MAP and SBP were significantly higher in the vasopressin group (p = 0.004, p = 0.006, respectively). Conclusion In this beta-blocker toxicity model, there were no differences in the survival curves between vasopressin- and glucagon-treated pigs during a 4-hour analysis period. No overall differences were noted in MAP, systolic BP, CO, HR, pH, or glucose levels, although vasopressin treatment yielded higher MAP and systolic BP early in resuscitation.
The Barriers to Media Opening in Latin America

Despite the spread of electoral democracy, few Latin American media systems today encourage the deepening of democracy. We attribute this outcome to (a) generalized weakness in the rule of law, (b) holdover authoritarian legislation, (c) oligarchic ownership of media outlets, (d) uneven journalistic standards, and (e) limited audience access to diverse sources of information. Reforms designed to address these problems could include the appointment of special prosecutors to investigate crimes against journalists; replacement of criminal libel laws with civil procedures; legislation protecting journalists' sources and guaranteeing transparency in government; the establishment of nonpartisan boards to allocate broadcast concessions, administer state-owned stations, and distribute government advertising; user fees to expand public media; and various measures to enhance professional standards.
The Montreal Protocol at 20: Ongoing opportunities for integration with climate protection

Abstract The Montreal Protocol, implemented because of the risks posed by stratospheric ozone depletion, has successfully brought about international cooperation to address a serious global environmental hazard. We show how flexibility in destruction offsets could improve efficiency and propose a simple methodology to jointly account for the ozone and climate protection impacts of investment projects. Our approach utilizes data from projects funded by the Montreal Protocol's Multilateral Fund and from the emerging carbon emissions markets to measure what is currently being spent by governments, firms, and international agencies to reduce emissions of ozone-depleting substances and greenhouse gases. The tradeoffs and/or joint benefits implied by these expenditures can be used to evaluate future investments that reduce one or both kinds of emissions, and as a benchmark for subsequent increases in regulatory stringency. Simultaneously considering the effects of projects or technologies on the ozone layer and climate would improve progress towards achieving global environmental goals. The case of two competing refrigerants for building chillers illustrates the tradeoffs between climate and ozone impacts, and demonstrates that use of an ozone-depleting refrigerant as part of a more energy-efficient technology can be justified, particularly if the ozone-depleting compound's emissions are offset by destruction of ozone depleters that would otherwise be emitted.
Remediation/Restoration of Degraded Soil: II. Impact on Crop Production and Nitrogen Dynamics

Published in Agron. J. 106:261–272 (2014) doi:10.2134/agronj2013.0279 Copyright © 2014 by the American Society of Agronomy, 5585 Guilford Road, Madison, WI 53711. All rights reserved. No part of this periodical may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher. ABSTRACT
Personalized Medicine: Challenge and Promise

The new health care buzz words include “personalized or individualized medicine.” Populations such as American Indians and Alaska Natives potentially have much to gain from this new science to overcome the known health disparities in these populations. This will require participation and acceptance of diverse populations. This article reviews the promise and challenges of individualizing cancer care using principles of community-based participatory research.
Crystal structures of MoCl2(O)(O2)(OPMePh2)2 and mixtures of MoCl2(O2)(OPPh3)2 and MoCl2(O)(O2)(OPPh3)2: allylic alcohol isomerization studies using MoCl2(O)(O2)(OPMePh2)2

Abstract Adding one equivalent of H2O2 to compounds of stoichiometry MoCl2(O)2(OPR3)2, OPR3 = OPMePh2 or OPPh3, leads to the formation of oxo–peroxo compounds MoCl2(O)(O2)(OPR3)2. The compound MoCl2(O)(O2)(OPMePh2)2 crystallized with an unequal disorder, 63%:37%, between the oxo and peroxo ligands, as verified by single-crystal X-ray diffractometry, and can be isolated in reasonable yields. MoCl2(O)(O2)(OPPh3)2, was not isolated in pure form, co-crystallized with MoCl2(O)2(OPPh3)2 in two ratios, 18%:82% and 12%:88%, respectively, and did not contain any disorder in the arrangement of the oxo and peroxo groups. These complexes accomplish the isomerization of various allylic alcohols. A mechanism of this reaction has been constructed based on 18O isotopic studies and involves exchange between the alcohol and metal bonded O atoms.
Effects of salts, hydrogen ions and auxin on cell elongation and H-ion secretion in barley coleoptile sections

Summary The effect of auxin (IAA) and pH on cell elongation and H-Ion efflux by barley coleoptile tissues was studied in the presence of salts. The final pH of external solutions was reduced by low auxin concentrations (less than 3 ppm) and an absence of salts. Auxin-induced cell elongation occurred at almost the same rate both in the presence of salts and at higher auxin concentrations (up to 18 ppm). In this case a steady rise in the final pH of external solutions was observed. The pH optimum for cell elongation in both the presence and absence of auxin was about 5.0. This pH optimum was almost the same as that required for maintenance of maximum osmotic pressure by the cell sap. The data presented here support the hypothesis that auxin-induced cell elongation may not necessarily be accompanied by acidification of the external solutions.
Systems assurance standards and processes

In this paper we present an example of a senior/graduate level course focused on standards and processes in Information Assurance. Our claim is that this course design can be used as a model for a capstone course in Information Assurance. The premise is that Standards represent a knowledgebase enabling a comprehensive treatment of Assurance Processes at the system level, and that, consequently, a standards based approach is appropriate for a capstone concentrated on using lessons learned. Our capstone course intent is the education of Information Systems Security Officers (ISSO) in compliance with NSA training standard requirements CNSS 4014, and a standards-based course fits that requirement.
Outcome evaluation of a referral system for juvenile offenders

Referral systems, among the most recent delinquency prevention programs, have not been evaluated on outcome measures. This paper describes the effectiveness of a referral system for young offenders. The subjects were 239 referred and nonreferred juveniles who were apprehended by the police. Program effectiveness was measured in two areas: diverting youths from court and preventing youths from having further police contact (preventing recidivism). Results indicated that the program served multiple offenders more frequently than it did first offenders, and first offenders who received the greatest amount of service had a higher incidence of recidivism than did low-service clients. Suggestions are made for more effective development and evaluation of referral systems.
Preference for decision control in organizational decision making

Two studies examined preference for authority or subordinate decision control in dispute resolution and allocation procedures in an organizational setting. In both studies, a marked preference for the authority/subordinate sharing of decision control was found. In Study 1, nearly one third of respondents preferred that subordinates share decision control with supervisors in both dispute and allocation situations; for several of the situations decision sharing was the modal preference. The study also found a tendency to prefer subordinate decision control in disputes but supervisor decision control in allocations. In Study 2, again the most preferred procedure was one in which subordinates shared decision control with their supervisors. The procedure high in decision sharing was rated as the one most fair. It was also rated as more likely to improve relationships among members and to result in the best decision. Some differences in preference for decision control and decision sharing depending upon social factors predominant in the setting were found.
13 C NMR spectroscopy of amorphous hydrogenated carbon and amorphous hydrogenated boron carbide

We report the {sup 13}C NMR spectrum of amorphous hydrogenated carbon and boron carbide. The amorphous hydrogenated carbon spectra consist primarily of an sp{sup 3} line at 40 ppm and an sp{sup 2} line at 140 ppm and are in reasonable agreement with the recent theoretical calculations of Mauri, Pfrommer, and Louie, but there are some notable discrepancies. The amorphous hydrogenated boron carbide spectra are very different from those of amorphous hydrogenated carbon, being dominated by one line at 15 ppm. We interpret this line as due to carbon bound in boron carbide icosahedra, because polycrystalline boron carbide with boron carbide icosahedra as the unit cell gives very similar NMR spectra. {copyright} {ital 1999} {ital The American Physical Society}
A slight anticonvulsant effect of CNQX and DNQX as measured by homocysteine- and quisqualate-induced seizures.

Abstract CNQX and DNQX are compounds that have recently been reported to show potent non-NMDA excitatory amino acid receptor antagonist activity. Effects of these compounds on seizures induced by homocysteine thiolactone and quisqualic acid were studied in order to examine the pharmacological properties of these compounds. In a dosage of 1.16 μg intracerebroventricularly (ICV), CNQX prolonged the latency to the onset of quisqualate-, but not homocysteine-induced seizures. DNQX was not effective when given either ICV or systemically, although a 3.78 μg dose of DNQX given ICV markedly increased the variability in latency to seizure onset, suggesting a combination of pro- and anticonvulsant effects. Higher dosages of both CNQX and DNQX induced seizure-like activity after ICV injection. These data confirm that CNQX has pharmacological effects corresponding to its effects on cellular responses to quisqualate and kainate agonists, but these effects are weak and may limit its usefulness as a pharmacological tool.
Surface Chemistry and Dissolution of α-FeOOH Nanorods and Microrods: Environmental Implications of Size-Dependent Interactions with Oxalate†

Although recent evidence suggests that particle size plays an important role in the dissolution of iron from mineral dust aerosol, a fundamental understanding of how particle size influences the rate and extent of iron oxide dissolution processes remains unclear. In this study, surface spectroscopic methods are combined with solution phase measurements to explore ligand-promoted dissolution and photochemical reductive dissolution of goethite (α-FeOOH) of different particle sizes in the presence of oxalate at pH 3 and 298 K. Both X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) revealed differences between α-FeOOH particles in the nanometer-size range as compared to α-FeOOH particles in the micrometer-size range (nanorods and microrods, respectively). ATR-FTIR spectra showed a significant presence of surface hydroxyl groups as well as differences in surface complexes formed on nanorod surfaces. Furthermore, the saturation coverage of oxala...
Observations on translation from the classical Tibetan language into European languages

An increasing number of scholars are turning their attention to Tibetan studies, some having properly come to imagine by the relatively few translations of major works that there are untold riches of religious literature in the Tibetan language. The difficulty of these works, replete with subtle Buddhist terminology, raises a serious question about the ideals and standards of translation that should be employed. It is there. fore appropriate to devote an essay to clarify certain actualities of such translation endeavor. The discussion will proceed under these headings: A. The Tibetan Language: Generalities; B. Some Principles of Translating from Classical Tibetan; C. The Introductory Counsel of the Sarvarahasya-tantra; D. Tsofi-kha-pa's "Auspicious Preparation"; E. Apropos Translation of Some Madhyamika Passages.
Continuous interscalene brachial plexus block via an ultrasound-guided posterior approach: a randomized, triple-masked, placebo-controlled study.

Interscalene perineural catheters placed using the anterolateral approach provide a number of benefits after painful shoulder surgery.1–3 However, using this approach, nonstimulating catheters may have a failure rate of up to 20%,2,4 and stimulating catheters may take too long to insert (sometimes >30 min).3,5–7 Other challenges related to the anterolateral approach include avoiding the external jugular vein, superficial placement potentially leading to catheter dislodgement and inclusion of the catheter site in the sterile surgical field. A posterior approach to the brachial plexus may avoid these problems.8,9 The continuous cervical paravertebral block introduces the needle between the levator scapulae and trapezius muscles and directs the catheter anteriorly to lay along the brachial plexus.10–12 The needle is often advanced in an anterior direction until it contacts cervical vertebra, then further anterior and laterally until the brachial plexus is located using electrical stimulation.9,11,12 Recently, a case report described a new ultrasound-guided posterior approach using real-time imaging allowing needle/catheter insertion without requiring cervical vertebra contact.13 Unlike the anterolateral approach, the posterior approach has not been examined in a controlled investigation; and thus its benefits and risks remain unknown. Therefore, the objective of this randomized, triple-masked (patients, investigators, and statisticians), placebo-controlled study was to test the hypothesis that, compared to a single-injection ropivacaine interscalene block, an ultrasound-guided continuous posterior interscalene block provides superior postoperative analgesia after moderately painful shoulder surgery. The primary end point was average shoulder pain the day after surgery.
A rhetorical view of locutionary, illocutionary, and perlocutionary acts

J. L. Austin has argued that there are three kinds of linguistic acts: locutions, or utterances which possess sense and reference; illocutions, or utterances which have a certain force and are to be understood in a certain way; and perlocutions, or utterances which produce effects on the hearer and/or the utterer himself. But Austin's system ignores the poetic‐rhetorical dimensions of language and eliminates speaker, hearer, and situation as sources of meaning. Thus, his work has had little impact on communication.
Effect of depositional method on the microstructure of silty sand

The results from a laboratory experimental study on silty sand are presented. A scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used to investigate the effect of depositional method and silt content on the ...
Regulation of store-operated Ca2+ entry during the cell cycle.

Cytoplasmic Ca2+ signals are central to numerous cell physiological processes, including cellular proliferation. Historically, much of the research effort in this area has focused on the role of Ca2+ signals in cell-cycle progression. It is becoming clear, however, that the relationship between Ca2+ signaling and the cell cycle is a ‘two-way street’. Specifically, Ca2+-signaling pathways are remodeled during M phase, leading to altered Ca2+ dynamics. Such remodeling probably better serves the large variety of functions that cells must perform during cell division compared with during interphase. This is clearly the case during oocyte meiosis, because remodeling of Ca2+ signals partially defines the competence of the egg to activate at fertilization. Store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) is a ubiquitous Ca2+-signaling pathway that is regulated during M phase. In this Commentary, we discuss the latest advances in our understanding of how SOCE is regulated during cell division.
Market Orientation -Transforming Trade and Firm Performance

This paper examines the role of market orientation on trade and firm performance. Recent studies conducted in the United States and Europe have shown significant evidence of the relationship between market orientation and business performance. Kohli and Jaworski’s empirical work has provided the critical first steps in the examination of market orientation theory. The overall aim of the research reported in this paper was to build on this limited body of literature and provide a conceptual model. Market orientation focuses on a business culture producing superior value to customers and outstanding performance for the firm leading to growth and benefits for trade. The findings of the study suggest market orientation is positively related to business performance. Secondly, firm performance can dramatically improve output, which can result in expanded markets and trade. The implications of this study for future research include the findings that market orientation is a reliable construct which has now become a necessary strategic direction for change in all organization and institutions.
Two time physics with gravitational and gauge field backgrounds

It is shown that all possible gravitational, gauge and other interactions experienced by particles in ordinary d dimensions (one time) can be described in the language of two-time physics in a spacetime with $d+2$ dimensions. This is obtained by generalizing the world line formulation of two-time physics by including background fields. A given two-time model, with a fixed set of background fields, can be gauged fixed from $d+2$ dimensions to $(d\ensuremath{-}1)+1$ dimensions to produce diverse one-time dynamical models, all of which are dually related to each other under the underlying gauge symmetry of the unified two-time theory. To satisfy the gauge symmetry of the two-time theory the background fields must obey certain coupled differential equations that are generally covariant and gauge invariant in the target $(d+2)$-dimensional spacetime. The gravitational background obeys a closed homothety condition while the gauge field obeys a differential equation that generalizes a similar equation derived by Dirac in 1936. Explicit solutions to these coupled equations show that the usual gravitational, gauge, and other interactions in d dimensions may be viewed as embedded in the higher $(d+2)$-dimensional space, thus displaying higher spacetime symmetries that otherwise remain hidden.
Quality improvement in gastrointestinal surgical oncology with American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program

Objective To assess the impact of American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS NSQIP) participation on outcomes in gastrointestinal surgical oncology. Study design A total of 6,076 resections for esophageal, gastric, pancreatic, hepatobiliary, and colorectal cancers at 316 hospitals from the 2006 to 2011 ACS NSQIP were examined. Thirty-day complication rates were analyzed longitudinally over time with the use of multiple regression; we adjusted for operation type and preoperative risk factors. Results The procedure mix was 3% esophagectomy, 5% gastrectomy, 16% pancreatectomy, 4% hepatectomy, 63% colectomy, and 9% proctectomy. Median age was 66 years, and 52% were male, 41% were American Society of Anesthesiologists class 2, and 52% were American Society of Anesthesiologists 3. Depending on anatomic surgical site, 21–45% of patients experienced a postoperative complication and 1.1–4.4% died. The incidence of patients with any complication decreased from 28 to 24% over the period (risk-adjusted odds ratio 0.95 per year, 95% confidence interval 0.94–0.96). In contrast, there was no substantial change in risk-adjusted mortality over the period (odds ratio 1.03, 95% confidence interval 0.99–1.07). Conclusion There was a decrease in complications over time for ACS NSQIP participants in gastrointestinal surgical oncology, but mortality did not decrease.
How to pitch an algorithm

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to determine whether there are some specific practices that communications professionals should follow in creating influence in a world in which people increasingly get their news via Facebook and other social media. Design/methodology/approach – The article examines how social media deliver news items to members to determine whether that process can be influenced by aspects of content design. Findings – There appears to be evidence that adopting specific sharing strategies, focusing on visual design and constructing narratives that feed into people’s existing beliefs increases the likelihood that one’s content becomes influential. Research limitations/implications – While the evidence seems compelling that certain strategies do have an impact on degree of influence, there are few hard metrics to prove causation. Practical implications – By adopting the strategies proposed in the article, communications professionals will have a set of guidelines for creating content...
Reflective micro-concentrator arrays from holographic photopolymerization: design, fabrication and characterization

We report a reflective micro-concentrator array developed using low-cost holographic photo-patterning based on polymeric Bragg reflection materials, which can selectively reflect and concentrate resonant wavelength at their focal points. The design principles, fabrication procedure and characterization results will be discussed. In addition, the potential of these arrays for miniaturized optical tweezers and biomimetics will be discussed.
Proboscis monkey (Nasalis larvatus) social organization: Group structure

Proboscis monkey (Nasalis larvatus) social organization was studied at the Tanjung Puting National Park in Kalimantan Tengah, Indonesia, for 12 months. Data were collected on one-male groups and all-male groups by using scan sampling and event sampling while following groups. Evening census surveys were also conducted. Proboscis monkeys were found to follow the typical Asian colobine pattern of one-male social groups, with extra-group males forming all-male groups. These groups appear stable, with few changes in membership. One-male groups appear to be "female bonded"; adult females direct affiliative behaviors towards their offspring and other adult females, not towards the male. Nearest-neighbor data indicate some peripheralization of juvenile animals.