cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Intestinal malabsorption of 45calcium in young Gy mice, a second model for X-linked hypophosphatemia

X-linked hypophosphatemia, a common metabolic bone disease in humans and mice (the Hyp and Gy mutations), is characterized by decreased plasma phosphate, decreased renal tubular reabsorption of phosphate, rickets, and osteomalacia. The question of whether intestinal malabsorption of calcium contributes to the bone disease is controversial. Intestinal absorption of 45Ca was studied in three different mouse colonies: Gy on B6C3H background, Hyp on B6C3H background, and Hyp on C57BL/6J background, all at 4 weeks of age. The duodenum was isolated by sutures, and 45Ca in a 150 mM NaCl and 2 mM CaCl2 solution at pH 7.2 was injected into the lumen. Absorption was measured by the amount of 45Ca remaining in the lumen and by the plasma isotope level. The Gy and Hyp mice of both sexes significantly malabsorbed 45Ca at 4 weeks of age compared to normal littermates. Following the 4 week study, intestinal absorption was measured at 2, 7-8, and 12 weeks of age in normal and Gy mice on the B6C3H background. At 2 and 7-8 weeks of age, the Gy males significantly malabsorbed 45Ca compared to their normal littermates. Serum 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D was not significantly altered in Gy males at 4 weeks of age. This suggests the possibility of resistance of the intestine to stimulation. Malabsorption of calcium in young Gy and Hyp mice may exacerbate the low mineralization in their rachitic bone disease.
Plants as bioreactors for biopharmaceuticals: regulatory considerations

Plants are one of several novel hosts that can be used for the production of recombinant biopharmaceuticals such as cytokines, hormones, monoclonal antibodies, enzymes and vaccines. The novelty of this technology and its wide range of potential applications require an assessment of possible regulatory concerns in the clinical development of plant-derived biopharmaceuticals. General principles extrapolated from experience gained with biotechnology products from other sources can serve as a foundation to develop scientifically sound strategies for the large-scale production and clinical development of safe and effective biopharmaceuticals in plant hosts.
On the variability in the vertical structure of the Delaware coastal current

Abstract Previous studies have concluded that a distinctive feature of the buoyancy-driven Delaware coastal current lies in the fact that the coastal current extends to the bottom and flows next to the heavier shelf water rather than on top of it. The present study examines two sets of observations conducted in 1990 and 1992. The 1990 observations are consistent with previous findings, but the 1992 survey shows that the Delaware coastal current forms a clear surface layer on top of the shelf water. The wind does not provide an adequate explanation for the discrepancy between the two surveys, as downwelling favorable winds were present during both periods. The differences in the river discharge also appear inadequate in explaining the variability observed. The data suggest that the variation in the tidal mixing characteristics associated with the spring-neap modulation may contribute to the observed differences between the two cruises.
Preliminary Infrastructure Development for Altair Sortie Operations

*† NASA’s Exploration Systems Architecture Study ( ESAS) rep ort envisions humans returning to the Moon in the 2020 timeframe. However, many factors still need to be addressed in depth. They include site selection, materials, and design of inhabitable and survivable infrastructure elements. One of the most important issues dealing with a manned return mission to the Moon is lunar dust. Dust suppression is a critical issue with regard to Altair operations as well as surface vehicles in the proximity of the habitat. Dust and debris thrown up by vehicles can also degrad e exposed payloads such as telescope elements and photovoltaic arrays. This paper explores several architectural concepts relating to developing essential preliminary infrastructure for humans on the lunar surface during the first several missions. Concept s discussed include certain selection criteria aspects for lunar habitat location as well as a variety of architectural elements, which can ameliorate the effects of lunar dust during Altair operations and routine surface vehicle movement around the primar y lunar settlement. Specifically, these elements include a microwave sintered landing zone around a hard, paved and topped landing pad for repeated service use, inflatable structures for blast aprons, a light rail system with pallet, winch and gantry suppo rt for lander and payload transport from landing pad to hangar or habitat location, a hard, topped dust -free platform on which to erect the habitat and allied structures, and a built -up access road from the habitat area to the hangar and the landing pad. A n emergency exit route from habitat to a standby escape vehicle is also depicted as well as a dust monitoring system and a dust cleaning rover attachment is suggested as well.
Learning in the Geoscience Classroom: Q-Methodology, Learning Styles, and Individual Preferences

One of the challenges of traditional student learning, from an instructor’s perspective, involves achieving an understanding of how students learn. Q-method is an effective approach to improve understanding of human subjectivity, and, as this research suggests, it is an appropriate tool to assist educators to better understand how students learn. In particular, Q-methodology provides the educator with a robust tool to assess student learning styles. This paper adapted an existing learning style instrument to a Q-method analysis in an introductory geographic information system class. The analysis resulted in three learning groups: lone pragmatist, explorer, and synergistic. These three learning groups are described. The paper concludes that the use of Q-method can deepen understanding of students’ learning skills and improve instruction through more balanced and learner-focused curricular approaches. 2013 National Association of Geoscience Teachers. [DOI: 10.5408/12-301.1]
In Silico Models of Alcohol Kinetics: A Deterministic Approach

In this chapter, we use advanced pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics mathematical models of ethanol to enable simulation of drinking addiction in humans. Derived from the known physiology of ethanol and the literature of both ethanol intoxication and ethanol absorption, the different models are combined into a minimal model (as simple as the complexity of the data allows) that can be made to represent any specific patient. Finally, we use the latter mathematical representation to study critical paradigm shifts in blood alcohol levels after the specific average number of drinks per day, and propose the existence of two critical thresholds in humans (one at 5 drinks/day and the other at 11 drinks/day) at which the system goes from stable to critical and to supercritical.
Modified needle method with simultaneous thickness and refractive-index refinement for the synthesis of inhomogeneous and multilayer optical thin films

Useful features of an efficient thin-film synthesis technique based on the refinement of inhomogeneous films are adapted to the needle method. As in the former approach, all the layer refractive indices and thicknesses are refined simultaneously, and special attention is given to computation speed and accuracy. In particular, key parameters are calculated from analytical formulas, namely, the gradients used in the optimization routines and the optimum needle positions and refractive indices. Inhomogeneous as well as multilayer solutions are possible. The efficiency of the modified approach is demonstrated by the solution of a complex nonpolarizing, wide-angle antireflection coating problem. The results are compared with those obtained in the past by the conventional needle method and by refinement of inhomogeneous films.
CAUSALITY, STRUCTURE AND THE UNIQUENESS OF RATIONAL EXPECTATIONS EQUILIBRIA*: Causality and RE Solutions

Consider a rational expectations (RE) model that includes a relationship between variables `x_t` and `z_(t+1)`. To be considered structural and potentially useful as a guide to actual behavior, this model must specify whether `x_t` is influenced by the expectation at t of `z_(t+1)` or, alternatively, that `z_(t+1)` is directly influenced (via some inertial mechanism) by `x_t` (i.e., that `z_t` is influenced by `x_(t-1)`). These are quite different phenomena. Here it is shown that, for a very broad class of multivariate linear RE models, distinct causal specifications involving both expectational and inertial influences will be uniquely associated with distinct solutions--which will result operationally from different specifications concerning which of the model's variables are predetermined. It follows that for a given structure, and with a natural continuity assumption, there is only one RE solution that is fully consistent with the model's specification. Furthermore, this solution does not involve "sunspot" phenomena.
Some Analysis Techniques for Asynchronous Multiprocessor Algorithms

Efficient algorithms for asynchronous multiprocessor systems must achieve a balance between low process communication and high adaptability to variations in process speed. Algorithms that employ problem decomposition may be classified as static (in which decomposition takes place before execution) and dynamic (in which decomposition takes place during execution). Static and dynamic algorithms are particularly suited for low process communication and high adaptability, respectively. For static algorithms the following analysis techniques are presented: finding the probability distribution of execution time, deriving bounds on mean execution time using order statistics, finding asymptotic mean speedup, and using approximations. For dynamic algorithms the technique of modeling using a queueing system is presented. For each technique, an example application to parallel sorting is given.
Permutation tests from biased samples for the equality of two distributions

Suppose that independent samples are taken from two distributions according to two biased (nonrandom) sampling plans. This study constructs a class of biased-adjusted permutation tests for the equality of the two distributions. A resampling algorithm that generates permutations with unequal probabilities is proposed to estimate the tests’ exact P-values with a manageable Monte Carlo simulation error. This algorithm leads to the derivation of large-sample, normal theory tests. Conditions under which these tests are consistent are given. The tests’ power at finite sample sizes is examined via a simulation study.
Soft error rate analysis for sequential circuits

Due to reduction in device feature size and supply voltage, the sensitivity to radiation induced transient faults (soft errors) of digital systems increases dramatically. Intensive research has been done so far in modeling and analysis of combinational circuit susceptibility to soft errors, while sequential circuits have received much less attention. In this paper, we present an approach for evaluating the susceptibility of sequential circuits to soft errors. The proposed approach uses symbolic modeling based on BDDs/ADDs and probabilistic sequential circuit analysis. The SER evaluation is demonstrated by the set of experimental results, which show that, for most of the benchmarks used, the SER decreases well below a given threshold (10-7 FIT) within ten clock cycles after the hit. The results obtained with the proposed symbolic framework are within 4% average error and up to 11000X faster when compared to HSPICE detailed circuit simulation.
Analyzing methods for improved management of workflow in an outpatient pharmacy setting

Purpose The results of a workflow analysis at a large central outpatient pharmacy are reported, with theoretical modeling of potential efficiencies attainable through workflow enhancements. Summary In keeping with concepts of “lean health care,” a time–motion analysis was conducted at a central outpatient pharmacy that dispenses an average of 250 prescriptions per day. Through direct observation over an eight-week period, pharmacists’ dispensing-oriented activities were categorized as either value-added (i.e., centered on direct pharmacist–patient contact and, hence, providing increased value to the patient) or non-value-added. The workflow analysis suggested opportunities to derive more value from pharmacists’ time by shifting their efforts away from non-value-added activities (i.e., technical dispensing functions) toward value-added activities: engagement of patients on entry into the pharmacy, pharmacist order verification, and patient counseling. The theoretical application of two models of enhanced workflow indicated that model A (expansion of pharmacy technicians’ standard duties to include prescription preparation, stock-container retrieval, and prescription processing) could reduce pharmacists’ non-value-added time by about 55%, or more than six minutes per prescription, with an even greater (74%) potential reduction offered by model B (technician performance of checkout procedures in addition to expanded standard duties). Although the research site was atypical in its high staffing level relative to prescription volume, the findings suggest that similar workflow enhancements might be applicable in a range of community practice settings. Conclusion Through analysis of existing workflow in an outpatient pharmacy, opportunities to optimize the use of value-added pharmacist time in the dispensing process were identified.
Refinement and extension of encrypted key exchange

In their recent paper, "Encrypted Key Exchange: Password-based Protocols Secure Against Dictionary Attacks," Bellovin and Merritt propose a novel and elegant method for safeguarding weak passwords. This paper discusses a possible weakness in the proposed protocol, develops some enhancements and simplifications, and provides a security analysis of the resultant minimal EKE protocol. In addition, the basic 2-party EKE model is extended to the 3-party setting; this yields a protocol with some interesting properties. Most importantly, this paper illustrates, once again, the subtlety associated with designing password-based protocols.
Mechanism of the Antimicrobial Action of Pyrithione: Effects on Membrane Transport, ATP Levels, and Protein Synthesis

Pyrithione is a general inhibitor of membrane transport processes in fungi. A brief preincubation of Penicillium mycelia with pyrithione resulted in a marked decrease in the activities of a variety of independently regulated transport systems, including those for inorganic sulfate, inorganic phosphate, methylamine (actually, the NH4+ permease), choline-O-sulfate, glucose, l-methionine (a specific system), and several hydrophobic l-α-amino acids (the general amino acid permease). The degree of inhibition at any fixed pyrithione concentration and exposure time increased as the pH of the incubation medium was decreased. This result strongly suggests that the active species is the un-ionized molecule and that pyrithione acts by collapsing a transmembrane ΔpH driving force. The degree of transport inhibition caused by a given concentration of pyrithione increased with increasing time of exposure to the inhibitor. However, exposure time and pyrithione concentration were not reciprocally related. At “low” pyrithione concentrations, transport inhibition plateaued at some finite value. This observation suggests that the fungi can detoxify low levels of the inhibitor. The concentration of pyrithione required for a given degree of growth inhibition increased as the experimental mycelial density increased. This phenomenon was consistent with the suggestion that the fungi are capable of inactivating pyrithione.
Fathers and Parental Leave Attitudes and Experiences

This research examined the parental leave-taking behaviors and attitudes of a sample of 550 U.S. men whose wives/partners were pregnant, in a longitudinal design that assessed them during the middle trimester of pregnancy, 1 month after the birth, and 4 months after the birth. Identity theory provided the theoretical framework. The fathers' mean length of leave was 5 days, with 71% of fathers taking 5 or fewer days; 91% of fathers took at least some leave. Generally both men and women were strong supporters of job-guaranteed parental leave for fathers, although opinions were mixed about paid parental leave for fathers. The employer's policy regarding length of leave was a significant predictor of the length of leave taken. As predicted by identity theory, sex role attitudes predicted length of leave; supervisor/co-worker attitudes were marginally significant predictors. As predicted by our analysis of the good-provider model and the father involvement model, fathers holding egalitarian sex role attitudes ...
Dual-polarized K/Ka-band planar log-periodic antenna

This paper demonstrates an 18–40GHz four-arm planar log-periodic antenna with integrated wideband hybrid fabricated using printed circuit board (PCB) process. The two orthogonal linear polarizations are obtained by exciting the log-periodic structure with two microstrip lines perpendicularly oriented in two PCB layers. Two circular polarizations are obtained by monolithically integrating a quadrature hybrid with the antenna. The antenna with hybrid achieves return loss greater than 11dB, gain around 3dBi, and good radiation pattern consistency throughout the bandwidth.
Are Guinea Pigs Rodents? The Importance of Adequate Models in Molecular Phylogenetics

The monophyly of Rodentia has repeatedly been challenged based on several studies of molecular sequence data. Most recently, D'Erchia et al. (1996) analyzed complete mtDNA sequences of 16 mammals and concluded that rodents are not monophyletic. We have reanalyzed these data using maximum-likelihood methods. We use two methods to test for significance of differences among alternative topologies and show that (1) models that incorporate variation in evolutionary rates across sites fit the data dramatically better than models used in the original analyses, (2) the mtDNA data fail to refute rodent monophyly, and (3) the original interpretation of strong support for nonmonophyly results from systematic error associated with an oversimplified model of sequence evolution. These analyses illustrate the importance of incorporating recent theoretical advances into molecular phylogenetic analyses, especially when results of these analyses conflict with classical hypotheses of relationships.
Individual differences in ego value of academic performance and persistence after failure

Abstract Learned helplessness and ego threat are two identified reactions to failure, both of which may result in impaired performance on subsequent tasks. Learned helplessness occurs when the individual accepts that they have insufficient ability. Ego threat follows from aversion to demonstrating low ability. We hypothesized that learned helplessness will occur when the ego value of performance on academic tasks is low, while ego threat will occur when ego value is high. Seventy-four college students experienced failure on a matching figures task. This was followed by the presentation of 15 anagrams purported to be either moderately difficult or extremely difficult. We inferred persistence from the number of anagrams on which students gave up. Students scoring high in ego value were most persistent when told the task was very difficult, presumably because high difficulty minimizes ego threat. Students scoring low in ego value persisted less when told the task was very difficult. This was consistent with the prediction that these students would be more willing to accept low ability and helplessness. The results provide support for the role of ego value of academic performance in persistence after failure.
Thermal degradation of polymers with phenylene units in the chain. I. Polyphenylenes and poly(phenylene oxides)

The thermal degradation of polyphenylenes and poly(phenylene oxides) was studied under vacuum at temperatures between 350 and 620°C. The volatile and solid degradation products were analyzed by mass spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy, and elemental analysis. Overall mechanisms for the thermal breakdown have been proposed. Polyphenylene decomposes to form polymer carbon, while hydrogen is the major volatile product. Some ring breakdown occurs with evolution of methane. Poly(phenylene oxide) forms mainly low molecular weight chain fragments, partially with hydroxyl endgroups. Some of the ether linkages decompose with ring breakdown, yielding carbon monoxide, water, and some carbon dioxide. Pendent groups on polyphenylenes and poly(phenylene oxides) are removed at the lower temperatures. The hydroxyl group yields essentially carbon monoxide and dioxide (the carbon being supplied by the rings), the methyl group methane, and the methoxy group methane and some methanol.
Stack size reduction of recursive programs

For memory constrained environments like embedded systems, optimization for program size is often as important, if not more important, as optimization for execution speed. Commonly, compilers try to reduce the code segment and neglect the stack segment, although the stack can significantly grow during the execution of recursive functions as a separate activation record is required for each recursive call. An activation record holds administrative data like the return address and the frame pointer but also the function's formal parameter list and local variables.If a formal parameter or local variable is dead at all recursive calls, then it can be declared globally so that only one instance exists independent of the call depth. We found that in 70% of popular recursive algorithms and in all our real world benchmarks, it is possible to reduce the stack size by declaring formal parameters and local variables globally.Architectures might impose a penalty in code size for accessing global data. On IA32, this stack size reduction starts to materialize for our benchmarks no later than in the fifth recursion.
Case Study of Vehicle Maneuvers Leading to Rollovers: Need for a Vehicle Test Simulating Off-Road Excursions, Recovery and Handling

Rollovers are an important vehicle safety issue. Various technologies have been developed to help prevent rollovers from occurring, but the evaluation of rollover resistance typically involves vehicle-handling tests that are conducted on flat road surfaces with a uniform or split coefficient of friction. The purpose of this study is to determine the precipitating events leading to rollovers by analyzing real-world rollover crashes. This is a first step in identifying and developing vehicle tests that are representative of the principal driving scenarios-leading to rollovers. The sequence of events leading to rollovers was determined from 63 in-depth investigated cases in the NASS-CDS database from 1995-1999. The sequence was evaluated by vehicle maneuvers, vehicle stability, Surface type, road and shoulder transition condition, posted and estimated speeds, vehicle type and driver injury severity. The cases were divided into 3 categories defining the precipitating event leading to a rollover: 1.) negotiating a curve at usually too high a speed, 2.) drifting off the road, or 3.) avoiding an obstacle in the traveling lane. 47% of the precipitating events were negotiating a curve at too high a speed prior to the sequence leading to a rollover, 27% were drifting off the road, and 25% left the road after avoiding an obstacle, such as an animal or vehicle in the traveling lane. 90% left the roadway with 66% having four wheels off the road and 34% two wheel off the road. The transition from a road surface to the shoulder often involved a drop of approximately 50 mm onto grass, gravel or dirt from an asphalt or concrete road surface. In 45% of the cases, the driver attempts a recovery to the road and steers. When the front wheel regains the road surface, the vehicle abruptly crosses the road and often departs it on the opposite side and then rolls over. In 45% of the cases, the driver attempts to keep the vehicle on the shoulder, but drifts further off road until it leaves the roadway and rolls over. In 10% of the cases, the precipitating event happens on the road, leading to a loss of control and rollover. This study prioritizes the need to carry out tests that simulate a vehicle leaving the road and having at least two wheels on the shoulder after negotiating a curve at high speed, drifting off the road or leaving the road by obstacle avoidance. The vast majority of rollovers involve the vehicle departing the road, so handling tests need to include a transition from a road surface to a shoulder where there may be a drop off of approximately 50 mm and an attempt to recover back onto the road with various degrees of steering or an attempt to maintain a straight heading during braking under a varying coefficient of friction road condition. Since current tests are carried out on a flat road, a new suite of handling maneuvers should be considered where the wheels leave the road surface to a simulated shoulder. Dry conditions should first be captured, followed by wet conditions.
Methods for an International Randomized Clinical Trial to Investigate the Effect of Gsk249320 on Motor Cortex Neurophysiology using Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in Survivors of Stroke.

Introduction: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a neurophysiological tool capable of assessing the motor nervous system and its change over time. In multi-site clinical trials, this technique has some advantages over other neuroimaging methods owing to its relatively low cost, low personnel and equipment infrastructure requirements, and greater ease in consistently applying technology to collect and analyze data. Limited published details exist regarding methods to deliver TMS and analyze data in a standardized and consistent manner as part of an international, multicenter, clinical trial. Purpose: The objective of this paper is to describe standardized methods of applying TMS motor cortex assessments in an international clinical trial of a pharmacological intervention for stroke patients, which was conducted at 15 centers in three countries. Materials and methods: A standardization process was developed to ensure TMS protocol adherence and data quality, and each clinical site was required to successfully complete standardization procedures prior to collecting patient data. Key elements of standardization included internet-based training, pilot subject data collection, common TMS equipment across sites, and corrective feedback provided by a standardization administrator. Subsequently, TMS assessments of motor hot spot location, motor threshold, and recruitment curve were conducted in stroke patients on post-stroke Days 5, 30, and 112. Ongoing standardization was maintained by regular review of patient data and communication between the clinical site and standardization administrator. Conclusion: Although TMS methodological approaches vary, a protocol with standardized procedures was successfully developed and implemented. Using this protocol, centers were formally certified to perform TMS-based neurophysiological measures in this clinical trial of stroke patients. The methodology described is potentially valuable to investigators who might construct future multi-site clinical trials using TMS.
Cash Flows vs. Earnings in the Valuation of Equity REITs

Executive Summary. This article examines the incremental information content of net income and cash flows for equity real estate investment trusts (REITs). REITs provide a natural setting for inves...
Dehydrative cyclocondensation mechanisms of hydrogen thioperoxide and of alkanesulfenic acids.

Structural features of hydrogen thioperoxide (oxadisulfane, H–S–O–H) and of alkanesulfenic acids (R–S–O–H; R = CH3, CH2CH3, CH2CH2CH3, CH(CH3)2, C(CH3)3, CF3, CCl3) and the mechanisms of their dehydrative cyclocondensation to the respective sulfinothioic acid (H–(S═O)–S–H) and alkyl alkanethiosulfinates (R–(S═O)–S–R) have been studied using coupled cluster theory with single and double and perturbative triple excitations [CCSD(T)] and quadratic configuration interaction with single and double and perturbative triple excitations [QCISD(T)] with the cc-pVDZ basis set and also using second-order Moller-Plesset perturbation theory (MP2) and the hybrid density functionals B3LYP, B3PW91, and PBE1PBE with the 6-311+G(d,p) basis set. The concerted cyclodehydration mechanisms include cyclic five-center transition states with relatively long distance sulfur–sulfur bonding interactions. Attractive and repulsive nonbonding interactions are predicted in the sulfenic acids, transition states, and thiosulfinates. In the...
Pathogenic detection of 36 hand-foot-month disease outbreaks in Shenzhen in 2008

Objective:To understand the pathogenic detectable epidemics of hand-foot-month disease(HFMD),and provide reliable laboratory data for the epidemic control and patient care.Methods:Specific primers of enterovirus type 71(EV71) and coxsackie virus type A16(CA16) were designed,RNA was extracted from each stool sample that was collected from HFMD cases.EV71 and CA16 were diagnosed by RT-PCR method amplifying the virus specific fragments.Results:Among the 36 HFMD outbreaks,13 were infected by EV71,14 by CA16,with a ratio of 36.11% and 38.89%,respectively.Every district in Shenzhen has outbreak reported,but the majority is in Luohu and Nanshan,the two districts with high mobility and condensed population.The outbreaks mostly happened in April and May.Among the 99 samples collected,the positive rates of EV71 and CA16 are 28.28% and 23.23%,respectively,with no significant difference.There is also no significant difference was found between gender.Conclusion:The outbreaks of HFMD in Shenzhen 2008 are mainly caused by CA16 and EV71.The surveillance of severe case with EV71 central nervous system complication is need to be strengthened.
Realization on rooftop grid-connected photovoltaic generating system in city housing district

In light of the characteristics in city housing district,a scheme of the rooftop grid-connected photovoltaic generating system was put forward,to promote the commercial application of solar photovoltaic power generation technology.The technologies such as the disposal and grouping in series of rooftop photovoltaic plants,lightning protection of the outer equipment of the photovoltaic system,control and protection of the grid-connected inverter and the load choice of photovoltaic system were studied further.The technical measures and ways adopted by this system were illustrated by application of the rooftop grid-connected photovoltaic generating system at Tianhe housing district in Cixi city of Zhejiang province.Practice indicates that these measures and ways can satisfy the demands.
Polyacrylamide as a substitute for cervical mucus in sperm migration tests.

A synthetic migration medium for capillary sperm migration studies was developed. Parallel sperm migration in 1.8% polyacrylamide cross-linked with 0.042% N , N ′ -methylene bis acrylamide was similar to sperm migration in bovine cervical mucus. Bull spermatozoa varying widely in migration distances in bovine cervical mucus maintained similar relative migration distances in this synthetic medium. The advantages of the synthetic medium are its availability in large quantities, its uniformity, and its stability. There was no change in parallel sperm migration distances in the synthetic medium stored at 4° C for up to 4months. Use of this synthetic medium for human or bovine sperm migration studies would appear to overcome problems associated with the variability of cervical mucus.
Numerical Simulation on Multiphase Flow in the Two Side-Blown Oxygen-Enriched Copper Smelting Furnace

In order to understand flow regularity and select oxygen lancer operating parameters of the two side-blown oxygen-enriched copper smelting process, commercial software Ansys/Fluent13.0 was used to simulate the flow characteristics of multiphase flow in the bath under different nozzle arrangement. The results showed that when the nozzle arrangement was compact, the stirring effect of gas was enhanced and the local velocity and turbulent kinetic energy of the fluid increased while the fluctuation of copper matte layer was intensified. Meanwhile, local gas holdup also increased, which caused uneven distribution of gas near the oxygen lacer. However, when the nozzle arrangement was sparse, the stirring strength decreased in the smelting zone. The flow fields obtained by PIV technology agreed well with the CFD results, which indicated that the numerical simulation results were reliable. The results above provided theoretical foundation for the further study on the two side-blown copper smelting process.
Characteristics of Turbulent Cross and Alongshore Momentum Exchanges During a Thermal Bar Episode in lake Ontario

Time series flow data obtained during the thermal bar episode of 17 April to 24 May 1990 in Lake Ontario are analyzed to provide a kinematic description of the coastal flow and cross-margin exchange characteristics. A thermal bar is a shore-parallel front which separates descending waters at or near the fresh water temperature of maximum density (4°C) during Spring and Fall seasons. Thermal bars are important because of their influence mixing, cross-shore exchanges, and the variability of biotic factors in coastal zones. The analysis shows that cross-frontal exchange coefficients, K y , are nearly constant and consistently smaller than along-frontal counterparts, K x . Moreover, these exchange coefficients are several orders of magnitude smaller than typical coastal and oceanic values in the absence of the bar. The turbulent kinetic energy represents less than 6% of the total kinetic energy in the flow. These results suggest that small-scale horizontal fluctuations and cross-frontal turbulent momentum exchanges are severely inhibited in the spring during the thermal bar.
Lessons Learned About Serious Game Design and Development

The development of a serious game combines the skills of numerous disciplines, from subject matter experts on the topic being taught; to story developers, game designers, and software developers; to instructional designers, educational assessment scientists, and others. This section provides commentary on the Intelligence Advanced Research Projects Activity’s unique game development program, Sirius, where multiple games with the same training goal were independently developed and tested by different teams. We compare the experience of two of these teams not only in game design but also in how skills of various disciplines were woven together to produce and validate their games. Lessons learned are reviewed to provide guidelines and takeaway points to assist game development practitioners in their future efforts to create effective serious games.
Development and Therapeutic Potential of Small-Molecule Modulators of Circadian Systems

Circadian timekeeping systems drive oscillatory gene expression to regulate essential cellular and physiological processes. When the systems are perturbed, pathological consequences ensue and disease risks rise. A growing number of small-molecule modulators have been reported to target circadian systems. Such small molecules, identified via high-throughput screening or derivatized from known scaffolds, have shown promise as drug candidates to improve biological timing and physiological outputs in disease models. In this review, we first briefly describe the circadian system, including the core oscillator and the cellular networks. Research progress on clock-modulating small molecules is presented, focusing on development strategies and biological efficacies. We highlight the therapeutic potential of small molecules in clock-related pathologies, including jet lag and shiftwork; various chronic diseases, particularly metabolic disease; and aging. Emerging opportunities to identify and exploit clock modulators as novel therapeutic agents are discussed.
Spirochetal Lipoproteins and Immune Evasion

Spirochetes are a major threat to public health. However, the exact pathogenesis of spirochetal diseases remains unclear. Spirochetes express lipoproteins that often determine the cross talk between the host and spirochetes. Lipoproteins are pro-inflammatory, modulatory of immune responses, and enable the spirochetes to evade the immune system. In this article, we review the modulatory effects of spirochetal lipoproteins related to immune evasion. Understanding lipoprotein-induced immunomodulation will aid in elucidating innate pathogenesis processes and subsequent adaptive mechanisms potentially relevant to spirochetal disease vaccine development and treatment.
A phase I trial of RAD001 in combination with cetuximab in patients with advanced solid tumors

14075 Background: Cetuximab is a selective epidermal growth factor (EGFR) inhibitor approved for use in EGFR expressing advanced colorectal cancers. RAD001 inhibits mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin), a downstream effector of the PI3K/AKT pathway. Preclinical studies suggest that RAD001 may restore sensitivity to EGFR inhibitors in resistant cell lines, and that in combination it may augment anti-tumor activity. We assessed safety, pharmacokinetics (PK), and pharmacodynamic (PD) endpoints for mTOR inhibition and tumor vascular permeability in a phase I combination study. Methods: Pts with EGFR-expressing advanced solid tumors were randomized to a 3 week run-in of single agent RAD001 or cetuximab Q wk, followed by RAD001 + cetuximab Qwk. RAD001 was dosed at 30–70 mg PO. Standard dosing of cetuximab was used (400 mg/m2 IV loading, followed by 250 mg/m2 IV Qwk). DLT was defined as any grade 4 hematologic or =grade 3 non-hematologic toxicity associated with treatment during cycle 1. In addition to plasma an...
Tools to Support Data-driven Reflective Learning

Reflection is a process of "critical review" of previous experiences to inform future action. Reflection has its origins in design and engineering but has gained traction in education as well. Reflective learning affords students the opportunity to reflect critically on their learning and develop metacognitive skills. Scaffolding is necessary as students adopt a reflective practice, but few tools support this process. Our prior work with teams suggests that students have difficulty estimating their turn-taking behaviors during peer learning activities and reflecting on such misconceptions might be detrimental to the development of social and metacognitive skills. I propose two tools that support data-driven student reflection: BloomMatrix and IneqDetect. BloomMatrix allows students to encode their perceived cognitive processes in an interactive version of Bloom's Taxonomy Matrix. This supports individual reflection, and an aggregated peer heatmap shows other students' perceptions. IneqDetect uses lapel microphones and signal processing to encode live conversations into turn-taking behaviors. In each case, students can reflect about themselves and also about others.
The G grade ward sister: clinical expert and ward manager

The role of ward sister is changing and increasingly veering towards a middle management role. This article discusses the qualities and skills needed by a ward sister if she is to maintain her traditional role as clinical expert while also fulfilling her new role as ward manager.
The Role of Interface on the Properties of Cluster Assemblies

Atomic clusters characterized by finite size, low dimensionality, and reduced coordination number exhibit many novel properties that are very different from their bulk. As these clusters are assembled, their properties can be significantly altered due to the interaction of these clusters with each other as well as with their support. This paper provides a brief review of the cluster properties that are affected when clusters are deposited on metallic or organic substrates, isolated in matrices or in zeolite cages, coated with acetate ligands, or simply allowed to self-assemble without the presence of any reactive species. It is shown that the interface between the clusters and their support can play an important role on the properties of clusters as their unique characteristics do.
Parallel algorithms for nonlinear time–space fractional parabolic PDEs

Abstract In this paper, we develop a time stepping scheme for solving nonlinear time–space fractional partial differential equations (PDEs). In space, we use the matrix transfer technique to discretize the PDEs and obtain a system of nonlinear time-fractional differential equations. The developed scheme is similar to the Crank–Nicholson scheme for integer order PDEs and are shown to be of order 1 + α in time where α is the order of the time derivative described in the Caputo sense. The solution of the PDE at any point i in the t-stencil depends not only on the solution at the point i − 1 but on all previous solutions (memory effect). Thus, the implementation of schemes for such fractional PDEs, for long time interval, can be time consuming. This is basically due to the computation and re-computation of the history term at each time step. We lessen this computational time by implementing three parallel versions of the algorithm. The shared memory systems (OpenMP) and the distributed memory systems (MPI) are used for implementing the parallel algorithms. A third parallel version uses both the shared and distributed memory systems (Hybrid version). The advantages of the parallel algorithms over the sequential algorithm are discussed. The merits and demerits of each parallel versions of the algorithm over the others are examined. Numerical simulations are performed to support our theoretical observations.
The making of an Islamist public sphere in Bangladesh

The article examines the process of making an Islamist public sphere in Bangladesh and identifies the actors involved. It argues that Islamist social Islamization movements in the form of various d...
What Imaging Strategies Are Effective for Rapid and Accurate Diagnosis of Abdominal Pain Etiologies

Abdominal pain is a common presenting complaint in the emergency department (ED). A thorough history, physical examination, and knowledge of current guidelines can help the clinician select the most accurate, appropriate diagnostic imaging. Separating the abdomen into quadrants is useful in understanding the common etiologies that lead to abdominal pain. Right upper quadrant (RUQ) pain generally derives from a hepatobiliary source, while epigastric and left upper quadrant (LUQ) most commonly are gastric, pancreatic, or associated with other etiologies. Lower abdominal pain, both on the right and left side, is associated most commonly with intestinal or genitourinary problems. By understanding the locations of abdominal pain in relation to differential diagnosis, the most accurate and clinically validated imaging modalities can be obtained.
Co‐activation of SAM and HPA responses to acute stress: A review of the literature and test of differential associations with preadolescents’ internalizing and externalizing

Understanding co-activation patterns of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA) and sympathetic adrenal medullary (SAM) during early adolescence may illuminate risk for development of internalizing and externalizing problems. The present study advances empirical work on the topic by examining SAM-HPA co-activation during both the reactivity and recovery phases of the stress response following acute stress exposure. Fourth and fifth grade boys and girls (N = 149) provided cortisol and alpha-amylase via saliva at seven times throughout a 95-min assessment in which they were administered the modified Trier Social Stress Test. Parents reported on adolescents' life stress, pubertal development, medication use, and externalizing problems. Adolescents reported their own internalizing symptoms. Multiple linear regressions tested both direct and interactive effects of SAM and HPA reactivity and recovery on internalizing and externalizing problems. Results from these analyses showed that whereas SAM and HPA reactivity interacted to predict internalizing symptoms, it was their interaction during the recovery phase that predicted externalizing. Concurrent high SAM and HPA reactivity scores predicted high levels of internalizing and concurrently low SAM and HPA recovery scores predicted high levels of externalizing. Implications of the findings for further study and clinical application are discussed.
A Physiologically-Based Pharmacokinetic Model for Targeting Calcitriol-Conjugated Quantum Dots to Inflammatory Breast Cancer Cells

Quantum dots (QDs) conjugated with 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D3 (calcitriol) and Mucin-1 (MUC-1) antibodies (SM3) have been found to target inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) tumors and reduce proliferation, migration, and differentiation of these tumors in mice. A physiologically-based pharmacokinetic model has been constructed and optimized to match experimental data for multiple QDs: control QDs, QDs conjugated with calcitriol, and QDs conjugated with both calcitriol and SM3 MUC1 antibodies. The model predicts continuous QD concentration for key tissues in mice distinguished by IBC stage (healthy, early-stage, and late-stage). Experimental and clinical efforts in QD treatment of IBC can be augmented by in silico simulations that predict the short-term and long-term behavior of QD treatment regimens.
Distortion-free inside-out imaging for rapid diagnostics of rechargeable Li-ion cells.

Safety risks associated with modern high energy-dense rechargeable cells highlight the need for advanced battery screening technologies. A common rechargeable cell exposed to a uniform magnetic field creates a characteristic field perturbation due to the inherent magnetism of electrochemical materials. The perturbation pattern depends on the design, state of charge, accumulated mechanical defects, and manufacturing flaws of the device. The quantification of the induced magnetic field with MRI provides a basis for noninvasive battery diagnostics. MRI distortions and rapid signal decay are the main challenges associated with strongly magnetic components present in most commercial cells. These can be avoided by using Single-Point Ramped Imaging with T1 enhancement (SPRITE). The method is immune to image artifacts arising from strong background gradients and eddy currents. Due to its superior image quality, SPRITE is highly sensitive to defects and the state of charge distribution in commercial Li-ion cells.