cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
InSAR Evidence for an active shallow thrust fault beneath the city of Spokane Washington, USA

[1] In 2001, a nearly five month long sequence of shallow, mostly small magnitude earthquakes occurred beneath the city of Spokane, a city with a population of about 200,000, in the state of Washington. During most of the sequence, the earthquakes were not well located because seismic instrumentation was sparse. Despite poor-quality locations, the earthquake hypocenters were likely very shallow, because residents near the city center both heard and felt many of the earthquakes. The combination of poor earthquake locations and a lack of known surface faults with recent movement make assessing the seismic hazards related to the earthquake swarm difficult. However, the potential for destruction from a shallow moderate-sized earthquake is high, for example Christchurch New Zealand in 2011, so assessing the hazard potential of a seismic structure involved in the Spokane earthquake sequence is important. Using interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) data from the European Space Agency ERS2 and ENVISAT satellites and the Canadian Space Agency RADARSAT-1, satellite we are able to show that slip on a shallow previously unknown thrust fault, which we name the Spokane Fault, is the source of the earthquake sequence. The part of the Spokane Fault that slipped during the 2001 earthquake sequence underlies the north part of the city, and slip on the fault was concentrated between ~0.3 and 2 km depth. Projecting the buried fault plane to the surface gives a possible surface trace for the Spokane Fault that strikes northeast from the city center into north Spokane.
Flavoenzymes: Covalent versus Noncovalent

The use of nonprotein cofactors by enzymes expands the range of biological chemistries supported in nature. Flavins, which are derivatives of vitamin B2, are highly conjugated rings that are particularly useful for oxidoreduction and group transfer reactions. Most flavins are noncovalently associated with their enzymes, but around 10% of flavoproteins have the flavin covalently attached in vivo. Extensive research has investigated how the presence of the covalent bond between enzyme and flavin cofactor influences enzymatic catalysis. This work identified that the primary roles of the covalent flavin are to allow catalysis of more thermodynamically challenging reactions and to prevent the cofactor from disassociating from the enzyme. Major questions in the field now include the mechanism of covalent flavinylation. The earliest studies on a subset of covalent flavoproteins suggested that cofactor attachment could be an autocatalytic posttranslational process. However, the recent identification of assembly factors that promote covalent flavinylation identifies that ancillary proteins may be important for covalent flavinylation in vivo. Key Concepts Covalent flavin attachment increases stability of the holoenzyme and increases the enzyme's redox potential. Covalent flavinylation may occur either through an entirely autocatalytic mechanism, or be assisted by assembly factors. Enzyme-associated flavin can promote a variety of chemistries. Flavoenzymes can have covalent or noncovalent flavin. Covalent flavinylation can occur on multiple sites of the protein and flavin molecule. Keywords: flavoenzymes; flavin; covalent flavinylation; flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD); flavin mononucleotide (FMN); cofactors
Self-stabilizing algorithms for minimal dominating sets and maximal independent sets

In the self-stabilizing algorithmic paradigm for distributed computation each node has only a local view of the system, yet in a finite amount of time, the system converges to a global state satisfying some desired property. In this paper we present polynomial time self-stabilizing algorithms for finding a dominating bipartition, a maximal independent set, and a minimal dominating set in any graph.
Simulation of DC spacecraft power systems

A modular state-variable approach is presented for DC spacecraft power system modeling and simulation. Each modular component is treated as a multiport network, and a state model is written with the port voltages as the inputs. The state model of a component is solved independently of the other components, using its state transition matrix. The state variables of each component are updated, assuming that the inputs are constant. Network analysis principles are then utilized to calculate the component inputs. >
Safety assessment for non-genotoxic rodent carcinogens: curves, low-dose extrapolations, and mecanisms in carcinogenesis

The most frequent biologic events associated with multispecies multisite rodent non-genotoxic carcinogenesis include robust liver P450 enzyme induction without liver toxicity. This cancer process is not relevant for humans as exemplified by phenobarbital. A host of other pharmaceuticals, including loratidine and atorvastatin, with current sales in the billions of dollars attests to the lack of relevance of our rodent models acting via this specific process. Hopefully, the mechanism of phenobarbital will no longer draw research money in further probing the irrelevant in human carcinogenesis. The known human carcinogens not linked with genetic injury all perturb tissue growth/replication in humans as well as in rodent short-term tests at doses ultimately linked with cancer. Clearly identifying exposures perturbing growth/replication versus exposures not perturbing growth provides an effective tool for demonstrating the threshold for cancer risk in refining the risk assessment as capably described by Dr. Klaunig. Hopefully, we can begin to increasingly use data-based decisions in risk assessment versus hypothetical low- dose extrapolations and mathematical modeling, building on the wealth of current understanding in human and rodent cancer processes in arenas beyond pharmaceutics.
Computation of Space Shuttle Flowfields Using Noncentered Finite-Difference Schemes

Second- and third-order, noncentered finite-difference schemes are described for the numerical solution of the hyperbolic equations of fluid dynamics. The advantages of noncentered methods over the more conventional centered schemes are: simpler programming logic, nonhomogeneous terms are easily included, and generalization to multidimensional problems is direct. Second- and third-order methods are compared with regard to dissipative and dispersive errors and shock-capturing ability. These schemes are then used in a shock-capturing technique to determine the inviscid, supersonic flow field surrounding space shuttle vehicles (SSV). Resulting flow fields about typical pointed and blunted, delta-winged SSVs at angle of attack are presented and compared with experiment.
Current Indications and Outcomes of Total Wrist Arthroplasty

This article reviews the current indications and clinical outcomes of total wrist arthroplasty. The section on indications reviews both rheumatoid and nonrheumatoid arthritic conditions. The section on clinical outcomes examines the data regarding the 3 current total wrist implants approved by the Food and Drug Administration.
Nigeran synthesis by regenerating protoplasts of Aspergillus awamori correlates with formation of hyphae

Abstract Aspergillus awamori and certain other Aspergillus and Penicillium species accumulate the α-glucan, nigeran, in their hyphal walls when shifted to a growth medium deficient in nitrogen. A. awamori hyphae, actively synthesizing negeran, were converted to protoplasts by digestion with a lytic enzyme mixture and the regeneration process was observed. Germ tubes were evident within 3 to 5 h and by 9 h hyphal development was extensive. Freshly prepared protoplasts were immediately active in biosynthesis of new wall and capable of transporting and utilizing exogenous substrates as evidenced by their loss of lytic sensitivity within 1 to 3 h of reversion and by the fact that incubation of new protoplasts with [3H]glucose resulted in incorporation into cellular products within 10 min. Among these products was a (β-1,3)-glucan fraction. Accumulation of nigeran, also monitored by incorporation of radioactivity from [3H]glucose, did not occur until 12 to 24 h into the regeneration period and was correlated with the observed reversion of the protoplasts to a hyphal mode of growth. Thus, although protoplasts were prepared from hyphae synthesizing nigeran, they did not continue to do so immediately at the start of regeneration. Synthesis of other wall polymers and/or attainment of a particular cell shape precede nigeran deposition in the regenerating protoplasts, a result consistent with a probable role for nigeran as a secondary wall polymer. A monoclonal immunoglobulin A conjugated to phenylisothiocyanate and specific for dextrans with (α-1,3) linkages has been utilized to detect glucans of this type on the surface of the regenerating protoplasts.
Age and growth of the brick soldierfish, Myripristis amaena

Otoliths (sagittae) of the coral reef fish, Myripristis amaena, the brick solderfish were examined internally by Scanning Electron Microscope methods to observe microincrements. The daily nature of increment deposition was validated through tetracycline and acetazolamide marking experiments. Utilization of multivariant mathematical models relating age to otolith size and fish size demonstrated that age could be reliably determined from body measurements and otolith weight measurements. Consequently, M. amaena grows slowly, maturing at about 6 years of age, lives at least 14 years and reaches at least 215 mm SL.
Common-path multichannel heterodyne laser interferometer for subnanometer surface metrology

A multi-channel heterodyne laser interferometer is proposed for measurement of optical surface deformations at the sub- nanometer level. This interferometer employs a common-path configuration and heterodyne detection, by which fringe errors due to laser frequency fluctuations and optical path variations due to vibration can be reduced. By measuring the heterodyne signal phase among sub-apertures (pixels) with a 2- D detector array, the surface height can be reconstructed and surface deformation can be measured by comparing consecutive measurements. Detection of sub-nanometer level surface deformation is achieved using high precision digital phase meters and athermalized opto-mechanical systems. This paper describes the interferometer design criteria and experiment methodologies.© (1999) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Far-Infrared Reflectivity And Magnetic Field Dependence Of High T c Superconductors

Far-Infrared reflectivity technique over the wavenumber region 10 - 800 per centimeter was utilized to observe the surface reflection of a Y-Ba-Cu-O high temperature superconductor specimen. The specimen was introduced inside a liquid helium dewar, the tail of which passes through a two inch bore Bitter solenoid high intensity d.c. magnet.
The effect of knot location, suture material, and suture size on the gliding resistance of flexor tendons.

The effect of knot location, suture material, and suture size on gliding resistance between the pulley and flexor tendon was investigated in a canine model. Different suture materials [monofilament nylon (Ethilon), braided polyester suture coated with silicone (Ticron) and uncoated braided polyester suture (Mersilene)] and suture sizes (4-0, 5-0) were tested. A knot was made on either the volar surface, on one lateral side, or on both lateral sides of canine hind-paw tendons, and gliding resistance was measured. In addition, the frictional coefficient between three suture materials (4-0 nylon, 4-0 Ticron, 4-0 Mersilene) and a nylon rod were measured. The gliding resistance of the tendon with knots on both sides was highest, while tendons with one lateral knot had the lowest resistance (p < 0.01). The gliding resistance of 4-0 suture size was higher than that of 5-0 size (p < 0.0001). The coefficient of friction of nylon was lower than that of braided polyester suture (Ticron or Mersilene) (p < 0.001). The placement of knots and choice of suture material affect gliding resistance after tendon repair, and may, therefore, have an effect on the result of tendon repair.
Coronary heart disease incidence in sleep disordered breathing: the Wisconsin Sleep Cohort Study

Study objectives The aim of the study was to determine the association of objectively measured sleep disordered breathing (SDB) with incident coronary heart disease (CHD) or heart failure (HF) in a nonclinical population. Design Longitudinal analysis of a community-dwelling cohort followed up to 24 y. Setting Sleep laboratory at the Clinical Research Unit of the University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics. Participants There were 1,131 adults who completed one or more overnight polysomnography studies, were free of CHD or HF at baseline, were not treated by continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), and followed over 24 y. Interventions None. Measurements and results In-laboratory overnight polysomnography was used to assess SDB, defined by the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) using apnea and hypopnea events per hour of sleep. Incident CHD or HF was defined by new reports of myocardial infarction, coronary revascularization procedures, congestive heart failure, and cardiovascular deaths. We used baseline AHI as the predictor variable in survival analysis models predicting CHD or HF incidence adjusted for traditional confounders. The incidence of CHD or HF was 10.9/1,000 person-years. The mean time to event was 11.2 ± 5.8 y. After adjusting for age, sex, body mass index, and smoking, estimated hazard ratios (95% confidence interval) of incident CHD or HF were 1.5 (0.9-2.6) for AHI > 0-5, 1.9 (1.05-3.5) for AHI 5 ≤ 15, 1.8 (0.85-4.0) for AHI 15 ≤ 30, and 2.6 (1.1-6.1) for AHI > 30 compared to AHI = 0 (P trend = 0.02). Conclusions Participants with untreated severe sleep disordered breathing (AHI > 30) were 2.6 times more likely to have an incident coronary heart disease or heart failure compared to those without sleep disordered breathing. Our findings support the postulated adverse effects of sleep disordered breathing on coronary heart disease and heart failure.
Analysis of 59 ERCP lawsuits; mainly about indications.

Background This study reports the analysis of a personal series of 59 cases in which ERCP malpractice was alleged. Methods Half of the cases involved pancreatitis; 16 suffered perforation after sphincterotomy (8 of which involved pre-cutting), and 10 had severe biliary infection. There were 2 esophageal perforations. Fifteen of the patients died. The most common allegation (54% of cases) was that the ERCP, or the therapeutic procedure, was not indicated. Most of these patients had pain only, usually after cholecystectomy. Negligent performance was alleged in 19 cases, with corroborating evidence in 8. Inadequate postprocedure care was alleged in 5 cases, including 3 with a delayed diagnosis of perforation. Disputes about the extent of the education and consent process were common. Results The final outcome was available in 40 cases. Sixteen were withdrawn, and 14 were settled. Of the 10 that came to trial, half were defense verdicts. Conclusions The lessons are clear. ERCP should be done for good indications, by trained endoscopists with standard techniques, with good documented patient informed consent and communication before and after the procedure. Speculative ERCP, sphincterotomy, and pre-cuts are high-risk for patients and for practitioners.
Laser micro-fabrication systems for consumer electronics device manufacturing

Laser based micro-fabrication tools have become default choices for critical processes in consumer electronics. Smart beam delivery and system design enables high quality low cost manufacturing of several key components in mobile devices.
ACTH Effects on Aldosterone Production and Mitochondrial Ultrastructure in Adrenal Gland Cultures

The relationship between mitochondrial ultrastructure and aldosterone production was studied in organotypic cultures of adrenal glands derived from 19-day-old rat embryos. ACTH induced transformation of mitochondrial cristae from a tubular to a vesicular configuration, and simultaneously caused a 10-fold rise in both aldosterone and corticosterone production compared with control cultures. These findings are at odds with commonly held notions on the morphological and functional zonation of the adrenal cortex. (Endocrinology 93: 1104, 1973)
PRACTICAL TECHNIQUES FOR TESTING COMPREHENSION IN EXTENSIVE READING

Author's summary.— An outline of the criteria of construction, and methods of administration and scoring, of practical five to ten-minute “citation tests,” applicable to classes in extensive reading for comprehension.
Abstract 2481: Synthesis and characterization of PEGylated chlorin e6 sensitizers for the photodynamic killing of human ovarian cancer cells.

Proceedings: AACR 104th Annual Meeting 2013; Apr 6-10, 2013; Washington, DC Pegylated chlorin e6 photosensitizers have been synthesized with triethylene glycol attached at the ester bond(s) for a 1:1 conjugate, a 2:1 conjugate, and a 3:1 conjugate. These chlorin sensitizers were studied for hydrolytic stability and solubility. Our studies included an analysis of ovarian OVCAR-5 cancer cell uptake, localization, and phototoxicity. Because of our interest in fiber-based photosensitizer and singlet oxygen delivery methods, desirable aspects of the 3:1 chlorin e6 conjugate make it a potential sensitizer for incorporation into a fiber optic device, particularly in the area of ovarian cancer photodynamic therapy. Citation Format: Ashwini Ghogare, Goutam Ghosh, Stanley Kimani, Dorota Bartusik, Benjamin Rudshteyn, Tayyaba Hasan, Alexander Greer. Synthesis and characterization of PEGylated chlorin e6 sensitizers for the photodynamic killing of human ovarian cancer cells. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 2481. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-2481
Aerobic contributions to sustained activity metabolism in Xenopus laevis

Abstract 1. 1. The aerobic capacity of Xenopus laevis during sustained activity was 0.64ml O 2 g −1 hr −1 at 18°C. 2. 2. Neither the type of activity (swimming or righting response) used to elicit activity or the length of the activity bout (3 or 30 min) had any significant effect on V O 2 during activity. 3. 3. The pulmonary contribution to the increase in oxygen consumption during activity was much greater than that of the cutaneous surface. 4. 4. The data indicate that Xenopus derives 80% of its energy for sustained activity from aerobic sources.
Assessment of estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) status in the fine needle aspirates of metastatic breast carcinomas

The assessment of estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR) and human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER2) status in the fine needle aspirates of metastatic breast carcinomas has prognostic and therapeutic implications. In this study, expression of ER, PR, and HER2 was assessed by immunohistochemical study in 70 cases of metastatic breast carcinomas and HER2 gene amplification was further evaluated by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) in 38 (54%) cases. Positive expression of ER and PR was seen in 42 (60%) and 16 (23%) cases of metastatic breast carcinomas, respectively. HER2 immunoreactivity was scored as 0/1+ in 39 (56%), 2+ in 10 (14%), and 3+ in 21 (30%) cases. HER2 gene amplification was seen in 20% of HER2 2+ and 64% of HER2 3+ cases. ER, PR, and HER2 status in primary breast cancers were available to comparison in 31 cases (44%). The concordance rates between metastatic and primary breast carcinomas were 81% for ER, 65% for PR and 71% for HER2. Our study demonstrates that ER, PR, and HER2 status can be assessed in the fine needle aspirates of metastatic breast carcinomas and ER has a higher concordance rate between metastatic and primary breast carcinomas than PR and HER2. The addition of HER2 gene amplification FISH test helps in accurate assessment of HER2 status in metastatic breast carcinomas.
Design Considerations in Class D MOS Power Amplifiers

The theory and design of high-efficiency Class D (Switching Mode) power amplifiers incorporating MOS power transistors are considered in this paper. Class D amplifiers suitable for servo, audio, and general purpose industrial applications are presented. Feedback techniques in Class D amplifiers are also examined.
Geomorphology: Tales of topography

The origins of topographic relief are challenging to disentangle. Modelling shows that differential isostatic rebound due to erosion of rocks of variable density may influence topography, inspiring a fresh look at topographic highs in landscapes.
Resonance Charge Transfer from a Photoexcited Donor State

We report the experimental observations of resonance charge transfer from a photoexcited donor state in sodium to excited acceptor states in protons and other rare-gas ions. This reaction is followed by rapid decay of the excited acceptor states with the emission of intense spontaneous radiation in the vuv.
A Salvage Procedure in the Treatment of the Boutonnière Deformity Caused by Contact Burn and Friction Injury

Summary Contact burns and friction injuries to the dorsum of the finger denude it of fullthickness of skin and central extensor tendon tissue, rendering the primary repair of the resultant boutonniere deformity difficult. A salvage procedure that offers both functional restoration and cosmesis is described. Here the unaffected lateral band aattachments are transposed en-masse, as a composite flap, to the dorsum of the finger to establish active extension of the proximal interphalangeal joint.
Transport of thermospheric NO to the upper stratosphere

Abstract The rate of production of NO in the thermosphere is expected to vary greatly over the course of an 11-year solar cycle because the fluxes of both extreme ultraviolet radiation and auroral particles are known to increase substantially from solar minimum to solar maximum. In the stratosphere, NO participates in a catalytic cycle which constitutes the dominant photochemical destruction mechanism for stratospheric ozone. If appreciable long range transport of NO from the thermosphere to the upper stratosphere occurs, its effects should therefore be manifested in upper atmospheric ozone density variations over the 11-year solar cycle. In this paper, model predictions of the seasonal and latitudinal variations in upper stratospheric O3 associated with NO transport for different levels of solar activity are compared to satellite observations of upper stratospheric ozone abundances.
Synergistic Effects of Pentoxifylline and Hyperbaric Oxygen on Skin Flaps

• This study investigated the effects of pentoxifylline and hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) on experimental skin flaps in rats under four conditions. Sixty animals were randomly divided into one of four groups: (1) a control group, (2) a pentoxifylline- or (3) an HBO-treated group, and (4) a pentoxifylline- plus HBO-treated group. Cranially based skin flaps were elevated on the dorsum. The surviving length was evaluated with fluorescein dye seven days after the operation. Rats that were treated with pentoxifylline received 20 mg/kg intraperitoneally at 24, 12, and 1 hour(s) before flap elevation and every 12 hours after the operation for seven days. Rats that were treated with HBO received a total of 14 two-hour treatments at 2.5
Tuning of Electronic Properties and Reactivity in Four-Coordinate Cobalt(III) Complexes by the Tetraazamacrocyclic Tropocoronand Ligand.

The syntheses of cationic, four-coordinate cobalt(III) complexes, [Co(TC-3,3)]+ and [Co(TC-4,4)]+, afforded by the tetraazamacrocyclic tropocoronand ligand [(TC-n,m)]2-, are described. The [Co(TC-4,4)]+ cation displays a unique geometry for tetracoordinate Co(III) between square-planar and tetrahedral. The reduction potentials and Lewis acidity of the [Co(TC-n,m)] tropocoronands, together with an extended Huckel MO analysis of the frontier orbitals, demonstrate electronic tuning through geometric variations imposed by the ligands.
Distal displacement of the mandible in adult rhesus monkeys

Abstract Cast gold splints were cemented on the teeth of four adult rhesus monkeys. The splints were made in such a way that forces of occlusion were directed distally against the temporomandibular joints. The monkeys were killed after 2, 8, 16, and 35 weeks. The traumatic changes in the periodontal structures were much more severe than the changes in the joints. The teeth moved bodily with the splints until posterior occlusal contacts were re-established. At that time, a slight distal displacement of the condyle had taken place. However, in the 35-week-experimental animal, where the teeth had been in occlusal function for the last 15 weeks, the joints were undergoing reversal changes, placing the condyles toward their original position. In no instance was there bone resorption in the inferior surface of the glenoid fossae or in the superior surface of the condyles.
An Evaluation of Six Brief Interventions That Target Drug-Related Problems in Correctional Populations

Finding brief effective treatments for criminal justice populations is a major public need. The CJ-DATS Targeted Intervention for Corrections (TIC), which consists of six brief interventions (Communication, Anger, Motivation, Criminal Thinking, Social Networks, and HIV/Sexual Health), were tested in separate federally-funded randomized control studies. In total, 1,573 criminal justice-involved individuals from 20 correction facilities participated (78% males; 54% white). Multi-level repeated measures analyses found significant gains in knowledge, attitudes, and psychosocial functioning (criteria basic to Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices (KAP) and TCU Treatment Process Models). While improvements were less consistent in criminal thinking, overall evidence supported efficacy for the TIC interventions.
Molecular cloning of the human gene SUVCC2 associated with mutagenesis following the induction of non-dimer DNA damages by solar UV radiation.

Abstract A mutant cell line, DRP 512, sensitive to the induction of non-dimer DNA damages produced by solar UV radiation was derived from ICR 2A frog cells. In addition, the DRP 512 cells exhibited an abnormally high level of ouabain-resistant mutants after exposure to solar UV. A level of 1.1 mutants per 106 survivors per kJ m−2 was measured for ICR 2A whereas the yield was 4.2 mutants per 106 survivors per kJ m−2 for the solar-UV-sensitive cell line. The DRP 512 cells were transfected with human DNA and a secondary transformant obtained in which normal solar UV sensitivity and mutation induction were restored. DNA from this secondary transformant was used to construct a genomic DNA library from which a recombinant phage was isolated containing the human gene capable of restoring normal solar UV sensitivity and mutation induction to DRP 512. This gene has been designated SUVCC2.
Interactive Graphics for the Analysis of Tires

REFERENCE: Prabhakaran, R., "Interactive Graphics for the Analysis of Tires," Tire Science and Technology, TSTCA, Vol. 13, No. 3, July-September, 1985, pp. 127-146. ABSTRACT: The finite element method, which is a numerical discretization technique for obtaining approximate solutions to complex physical problems, is accepted in many industries as the primary tool for structural analysis. Computer graphics is an essential ingredient of the finite element analysis process. The use of interactive graphics techniques for analysis of tires is discussed in this presentation. The features and capabilities of the program used for pre- and post-processing for finite element analysis at GenCorp are included. The fields of engineering and science contain complex problems for which exact solutions are hard to get, so numerical methods are used to obtain approximate solutions. The finite element method, which has evolved as a powerful tool for the solution of many such problems, is one such numerical technique. It gained early acceptance in the aerospace industry for solving structural analysis problems; now the automotive industry has also adopted it for design and analysis of vehicle components. The tire industry is currently evaluating it for structural analysis and design of tires. The input that goes into finite element analyses and the output received from them are usually voluminous. The input is difficult and tedious to prepare and the output is often so large that the user cannot interpret and comprehend the significance of results. So computers have been increasingly used for preparing
Use of the Coefficient of Community Loss (I) to Assess Cultural Stresses on Monongahela River Tributary Fish Communities

ABSTRACT We utilized a single metric, the coefficient of community loss (I) to assess the health of fish communities inhabiting 27 low-order Monongahela River tributaries in Pennsylvania. All streams were sampled during summers of 2003 and 2004 utilizing two-pass back-pack electrofishing from the mouth extending 200 m upstream. Environmental stressors observed in and on-stream were habitat alteration and non-point source discharges due to urbanization and agriculture along with point-source discharges of raw and treated sewage, net alkaline mine drainage, and acid mine drainage (AMD). Species richness and I-metric scores in streams impacted by major AMD and/or untreated sewage were 0 and α, respectively. While those exhibiting minimal cultural stress had species richness totals and I-metric scores of 24 and 0.24, respectively. Values of I were negatively correlated with index of biotic integrity scores (-0.951), suggesting that I could provide a rapid comprehensive assessment of the relative health of fis...
Spotter-compatible SOI waveguide devices for biomolecular sensing

We demonstrate Mach-Zehnder interferometer and ring resonator evanescent field sensors fabricated on the silicon-on-insulator material platform. These devices exploit the strong evanescent field of the transverse magnetic mode of a high index contrast, submicron dimension waveguide to obtain strong interaction of the guided mode with biomolecules adsorbed to the waveguide surface. We utilize the extremely small bend radius achievable with silicon photonic wire waveguides to fabricate spiral and folded waveguide sensors that maintain the high sensitivity of a long waveguide, while providing compact footprint. These devices offer a suitable geometry for the development of sensor arrays and provide compatibility with commercial spotting functionalization systems. We demonstrate sensors containing waveguides of up to 5.5 mm length that are contained within a 150 μm × 150 μm area.
A frequency domain method for tuning hydro governors

A frequency domain method to determine the optimum values for the parameters of a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) governor is presented. The method readily handles detailed models of turbine-penstock, gate dynamics, and other system components. The main advantages of the method are that it is computationally simple, that it does not involve any iterations, and that the designer can prespecify a speed response for load rejection. >
A comparison of cooling techniques to treat cardiac arrest patients with hypothermia.

Introduction. We sought to compare the performance of endovascular cooling to conventional surface cooling after cardiac arrest. Methods. Patients in coma following cardiopulmonary resuscitation were cooled with an endovascular cooling catheter or with ice bags and cold-water-circulating cooling blankets to a target temperature of 32.0–34.0°C for 24 hours. Performance of cooling techniques was compared by (1) number of hourly recordings in target temperature range, (2) time elapsed from the written order to initiate cooling and target temperature, and (3) adverse events during the first week. Results. Median time in target temperature range was 19 hours (interquartile range (IQR), 16–20) in the endovascular group versus. 10 hours (IQR, 7–15) in the surface group (P = .001). Median time to target temperature was 4 (IQR, 2.8–6.2) and 4.5 (IQR, 3–6.5) hours, respectively (P = .67). Adverse events were similar. Conclusion. Endovascular cooling maintains target temperatures better than conventional surface cooling.
Suitability of Jastrow functions of WKB type to cluster calculations of the quantum crystal ground state

The effect of choosing a Jastrow function of the WKB formexp (−k/r5) for use in the Nosanow cluster calculation of the quantum crystal ground state is studied via a previously developed exact one-dimensional model. The computed convergence rates confirm the inability of this form to resum the cluster expansion so as to provide a meaningful variational minimum.
Convergent and Discriminant Validation of a Traditionalism-Modernism Attitude Questionnaire for Thai Exchange Students

Summary To examine the convergent and discriminant validity of an attitudinal questionnaire measure of traditionalism-modernism in Thai exchange students, questionnaire scores were correlated with self and peer measures of traditionalism-modernism and with a measure of “culture-shock.” For the latter, it was anticipated that high scores on modernism would inversely correlate with culture-shock scores. Results indicated that the questionnaire measures were positively correlated with self and peer measures at significant levels; however, the relationship was not very substantial. Thus, there appears to be only a tenuous degree of convergent validity for questionnaire measures of traditionalism-modernism. The results further indicate a marginal amount of discriminant validity as measured by the relationship between the traditionalism-modernism questionnaire and the culture-shock questionnaire. Caution was suggested in using unvalidated attitudinal questionnaire measures of traditionalism-modernism, and the n...
A Feminist Pentecostal Theological Anthropology: North America and Beyond

Abstract In this article I focus on developing a feminist Pentecostal theological anthropology that can benefit Pentecostal women. I begin by highlighting various Pentecostal scholars whose anthropologies adopt the approaches of the imago Dei (a theo-logical approach) and the imago Christi (a christological approach). For all the merits that these two approaches have, they are ultimately inadequate on their own for Pentecostals as they have been presented thus far, because they lack a strong pneumatological component. Therefore, I expand the traditional theo-logical and christological approaches by highlighting the role of the Spirit in constituting the imago Dei and imago Christi, and by articulating a third way, the imago Spiritus, which enables pneumatology to stand on its own as a further approach to affirming women’s full humanity. I conclude by highlighting some of the issues Pentecostal women face globally and note how this anthropology can be beneficial for Pentecostal women worldwide.
Severe mitral insufficiency in mucopolysaccharidosis type III-B (Sanfilippo syndrome)

A 6-year-old girl with mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) III-B (Sanfilippo syndrome) who developed severe mitral regurgitation and congestive heart failure requiring surgery (valvuloplasty) is reported. One year after surgery the patient remains well, with marked improvement in her physical activity, and without signs of heart failure. This is only the second report of severe mitral regurgitation in MPS III, and is the first report of a successful repair (valvuloplasty) of a dysplastic mitral valve in the MPS. Mitral valvuloplasty should be considered instead of valve replacement in any MPS patient with mitral valve regurgitation requiring surgery.
FLUENCY AND THE DETECTION OF MISLEADING QUESTIONS : LOW PROCESSING FLUENCY ATTENUATES THE MOSES ILLUSION

When asked, “How many animals of each kind did Moses take on the Ark?” most people respond “Two” despite knowing that Noah rather than Moses was the biblical actor. Two experiments tested the role of processing fluency in the detection of such semantic distortions by presenting questions in an easy or difficult to read print font. As predicted, low processing fluency facilitated detection of the misleading nature of the question and reduced the proportion of erroneous answers. However, low processing fluency also reduced the proportion of correct answers in response to an undistorted question. In both cases, participants were less likely to rely on their spontaneous association when the font was difficult to read, resulting in improved performance on distorted and impaired performance on undistorted questions. We propose that fluency experiences influence processing style.
A quantum chemical study of the formation of cyanide (CN−) and acetate (CH3COO-) ions in astrophysical ices via proton transfer from HCN, HNC, or CH3COOH to NH3

Quantum chemical calculations at the B3LYP/6-31+G∗∗ and MP2/6-31+G∗∗ levels were employed to characterize proton transfer from hydrogen cyanide (HCN), hydrogen isocyanide (HNC), and acetic acid (CH3COOH) to ammonia (NH3) in clusters with up to 14 H2O molecules in order to model behavior in amorphous icy grain mantles. In keeping with previous work on cyanic acid (HOCN), isocyanic acid (HNCO), and formic acid (HCOOH), the calculations found that a proton transfers from the acids to NH3 with no barrier in clusters of sufficient size to form solvated anion complexes with NH4+. The infrared band origins and intensities for characteristic vibrational motions of the acetate and cyanide anions are identified in order to provide guidance for experimental studies and astronomical observations.
LYMPHOCYTE CONTENT AND PROLIFERATIVE CAPACITY OF SERIALLY TRANSPLANTED MOUSE BONE MARROW.

Results are reported from an investigation of the changes in cellular composition of bone marrow of mice resulting from serial transplantation. Emphasis was placed on the capacity of the marrow and of lymph node cells to promote survival and to repopulate the spleen in lethally irradiated recipient mice. Results are compatible with other evidence that suggest that a small mononucleated marrow cell is the progenitor of the hemic cells in mice. The cell is lymphocytic in appearance but was found to be functionally different from the lymph node lymphocyte and probably not derived from the lymph ncde lymphoblast. (C.H.)
Orientational and motional properties of copper (II) complexes of dibenzotetraaza [14]annulenes in lipid bilayers: an ESR study.

Abstract ESR studies of two copper(II) complexes of substituted dibenzotetraaza[14]annulenes, CuL and CuLA, in dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine (DMPC) and egg yolk phosphatidylcholine (EYPC) are reported. Our data show that both complexes partition into the membranes and that the rotational motion of CuL is faster than CuLA. Analysis of the ESR spectra of these complexes in DMPC vesicles indicate that the Cu-motion parameter, which is a measure of the degree of resolution of the nitrogen hyperfine structure, changes abruptly at the main phase transition. At 1 mole %, both complexes lowered the fluid/gel phase transition temperature by 2°C as measured by the Cu-motion parameter. A gradual change of the Cu-motion parameter is observed in EYPC liposomes over the same temperature range. ESR spectra of both CuL and CuLA in oriented membranes reveal that both complexes are well oriented with the plane of the complex perpendicular to the bilayer surface.
Soil erosion and productivity research : A regional approach

Soil erosion is occurring at an alarming rate and threatens soil productivity and crop growth. A regional research committee was formed in the North Central region of the US in 1983 to develop a better understanding of soil erosion and productivity relationships on a broad geographic scale. This paper presents the history, project development and implementation and results of the committee, and a perspective on soil erosion-productivity research approaches. The original project included multistate field experiments on soils selected f or their local extent or agricultural importance. Erosion was classified as slight, moderate, or severe. Cropping practices were continuous corn or small grains, with cultural practices appropriate f or the area. The crop yields on moderately and severely eroded soils were consistently lower than on comparable slightly eroded soils. Precipitation and soil available water holding capacity were the factors most often identified as affecting yields. Other specific limitations were soil- or location-dependent. The most frequent soil limitations were depth of the mollic epipedon/topsoil, organic matter and clay content. Evolving objectives of the committee and state-based research emphases have provided additional information germane to soil erosion-productivity research. More than 40 papers have been published on soil properties, crop growth, management, and modeling as a result of this effort. The regional approach has fostered research on complex interactions among management and environmental factors and led to an increased understanding of functional relationships between soil erosion and productivity.
ANTIBODY RESPONSE TO VACCINATION WITH PNEUMOCOCCAL CAPSULAR POLYSACCHARIDES IN SPLENECTOMIZED CHILDREN

. In 67 splenectomized children vaccinated with a 14-valent pneumococcal capsular polysaccharide vaccine an antibody fold increase above 2 from pre- to postvaccination samples was found in 60 % of all single type antibody determinations performed. The vaccine may only afford protection against 55 % of those serotypes that cause serious infections in children, assuming a protective antibody level of 300 ng antibody N/ml. Our results indicate a somewhat reduced antibody response to pneumococcal vaccine in splenectomized children and suggest that pneumococcal vaccination may not be relied upon as the only kind of prophylaxis against pneumococcal infection in this patient group.
Dynamic models of multi-trophic interactions in microbial food webs

Non–steady-state mechanistic models were developed to examine the dynamics of organic pollutant utilization, microbial competition, inhibition and predation in a multi trophic system populated by bacteria of different growth rates and protozoa in a continuously mixed flow reactor and a batch reactor. The levels of substrate and cells were modeled during the biodegradation of naphthalene (a moderately bioavailable semi-volatile organic pollutant) by two bacteria in the presence of a predator assuming other nutrients were present in excess. The model predicts that multiple bacteria and predator species can co-exist in the system only if they differ in inhibition capacity, selective predation rate, and/or ability to employ predation defense mechanisms. These models further predict that predation can enhance the process of bioremediation, similar to what has been observed in some experimental studies. Together, these results provide a mechanistic model framework to support the idea that increased species dive...
A measure of relativized space which is faithful with respect to depth

Abstract It is known that NC1 ⊆ L ⊆ NL ⊆ NC2 ⊆ NC; however, known relativizations of these classes have failed to preserve these containments. These methods have failed to preserve either NC1 ⊆ L or NL ⊆ NC in the sense that one could construct oracles witnessing noncontainment. In this paper we introduce a new measure of relativized space: the oracle stack. With this measure, NC1 ⊆ L holds for all oracles, as does NL ⊆ NC3 (and NL ⊆ NC2 under certain circumstances).
Stabilized potentiometric solid-state polyion sensors using silver-calixarene complexes as additives within ion-exchanger-based polymeric films

Novel solid-state sensors for biomedically important polyions (i.e., heparin and protamine) that exhibit significantly enhanced initial EMF stability are prepared by incorporation of lipophilic silver-calixarene complexes along with the required ion-exchangers within polymeric films. A dithioether of tertiary butyl calix[4]arene together with its silver complex are added to the polyion sensing membranes which are deposited on a silver-epoxy conductor of a solid-state transducer. The silver-complex serves as a reversible electron transfer agent between the organic polymer film and the underlying solid-state conductor, resulting in highly reproducible starting EMF values and improved initial signal stability. This approach is further employed to devise a heparin sensing cartridge for blood measurements based on a novel differential measurement mode. One sensor responds to heparin, while the second identical solid-state sensor serves as a pseudo reference electrode with all heparin present in the sample within this half-cell complexed by the addition of excess protamine. The cartridges are evaluated by monitoring heparin response in spiked dog blood using poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) blends and fluorinated silicone rubber (Dow Corning RTV 730) films containing appropriate levels of ion-exchanger and Ag+-calixarene/free calixarene additives.
Not ready for hospice: characteristics of patients in a pre-hospice program.

Context:There are many patients with terminal illness for whom hospice care would be appropriate, but they either never enroll or enroll very late. In a pre-hospice program designed to help patients make the transition into hospice, we observed that many patients did not make the transition.Objectives:To understand more about the transition to hospice and the functions of a pre-hospice program, this paper compares patients who enrolled in hospice with those who died in the pre-hospice program.Design, setting, and patients:Data were collected from a retrospective review of the charts of 123 consecutive patients who enrolled in a prehospice program between January 1, 1995, and December 31, 1996.Main outcome measures:The patient’s decision to transfer to home hospice or (perhaps, by not making a decision) to remain enrolled in the pre-hospice program until death.Results:At the end of the research period, 38 patients had transferred to hospice and 36 had died without transfer. The remaining 49 patients had un...
Arnol'd diffusion in two dimensions.

The relativistic interaction of a charged particle with obliquely propagating waves of arbitrary polarization is considered. It is shown that an arbitrarily small wave packet composed of waves with parallel phase velocity comparable to the speed of light (e.g., slow extraordinary mode) can, under certain conditions, accelerate particles to unlimited energy through a process of Arnold'd diffusion in two dimensions.
Correlated proton transfer potentials. (HO-H-OH)− and (H2O-H-OH2)+

Abstract Potentials are computed for the transfer of a proton between two hydroxide anions in (HO-H-OH) − and between two neutral water molecules in (H 2 O-H-OH 2 ) + using polarized basis sets of various sizes. SCF transfer barriers are lowered in both complexes by electron correlation. As progressively higher orders of Moller-Plesset perturbation theory are applied, the correction reverses sign and diminishes in magnitude. As a consequence, MP2 results nearly coincide with full fourth-order data. The highest level calculations indicate the transfer barrier of (HO-H-OH) − exceeds that of (H 2 O-H-OH 2 ) + by 20–30%. The MP4 calculations agree well with coupled cluster CCD + ST results which include single, double, and triple substitutions to high order.
Building ‘validated’ mouse models of human cancer

As a model system for the understanding of human cancer, the mouse has proved immensely valuable. Indeed, studies of mouse models have helped to define the nature of cancer as a genetic disease and demonstrated the causal role of genetic events found in tumors. As the scientific and medical community's understanding of human cancer becomes more sophisticated, however, limitations and potential weaknesses of existing models are revealed. How valid are these murine models for the understanding and treatment of human cancer? The answer, it appears, depends on the nature of the research requirement. Certain models are better suited for particular applications. Using novel molecular tools and genetic strategies, improved models have recently been described that accurately mimic many aspects of human cancer.