cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ab initio dynamics of the cytochrome P450 hydroxylation reaction

The iron(IV)-oxo porphyrin π-cation radical known as Compound I is the primary oxidant within the cytochromes P450, allowing these enzymes to affect the substrate hydroxylation. In the course of this reaction, a hydrogen atom is abstracted from the substrate to generate hydroxyiron(IV) porphyrin and a substrate-centered radical. The hydroxy radical then rebounds from the iron to the substrate, yielding the hydroxylated product. While Compound I has succumbed to theoretical and spectroscopic characterization, the associated hydroxyiron species is elusive as a consequence of its very short lifetime, for which there are no quantitative estimates. To ascertain the physical mechanism underlying substrate hydroxylation and probe this timescale, ab initio molecular dynamics simulations and free energy calculations are performed for a model of Compound I catalysis. Semiclassical estimates based on these calculations reveal the hydrogen atom abstraction step to be extremely fast, kinetically comparable to enzymes such as carbonic anhydrase. Using an ensemble of ab initio simulations, the resultant hydroxyiron species is found to have a similarly short lifetime, ranging between 300 fs and 3600 fs, putatively depending on the enzyme active site architecture. The addition of tunneling corrections to these rates suggests a strong contribution from nuclear quantum effects, which should accelerate every step of substrate hydroxylation by an order of magnitude. These observations have strong implications for the detection of individual hydroxylation intermediates during P450 catalysis.
Weak Measurements from the Point of View of Bohmian Mechanics

The theory of weak measurements developed by Aharonov and coworkers has been applied by them and others to several interesting problems in which the system of interest is both pre- and post-selected. When the probability of successful post-selection is very small the prediction for the weak value of the measured quantity is often “bizarre” and sometimes controversial, lying outside the range of possibility for a classical system or for a quantum system in the absence of post-selection (e.g. negative kinetic energies associated with particles found immediately after the weak measurement deep inside a classically forbidden region). In Bohmian mechanics a quantum particle is postulated to be a point-like particle which is always accompanied by a wave which probes its environment and guides its motion accordingly. Hence, from the point of view of this theory, it is natural to ask whether the measured weak value under consideration is a property of the point-like particle or of the wave (or of both) and what, if anything, it is that is actually being measured. In this paper, weak measurements of position, momentum and kinetic energy are considered for very simple case studies with these questions in mind.
Respiratory symptoms associated with sulfur dioxide exposure.

Exposures to sulfur dioxide (SO2) have been associated with progressive, dose-dependent bronchoconstriction in sensitive individuals. The clinical significance of such changes remains poorly characterized. We studied subjective responses following exposure to low level concentrations of SO2 (< 1 ppm) in a group of 10 healthy and 10 asthmatic subjects. The number and severity of complaints associated with SO2 increased with concentrations in both healthy and asthmatic subjects. Asthmatics indicated progressive lower respiratory complaints, such as wheezing, chest tightness, dyspnea and cough with increasing levels of SO2 while healthy subjects complained more frequently of upper airway complaints such as taste and odor with increasing levels of SO2. Exercise increased the frequency of lower airway symptoms in asthmatics but led to no increases in symptoms in healthy subjects.
A novel multiblock immersed boundary method for large eddy simulation of complex arterial hemodynamics

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations are becoming a reliable tool to understand hemodynamics, disease progression in pathological blood vessels and to predict medical device performance. Immersed boundary method (IBM) emerged as an attractive methodology because of its ability to efficiently handle complex moving and rotating geometries on structured grids. However, its application to study blood flow in complex, branching, patient-specific anatomies is scarce. This is because of the dominance of grid nodes in the exterior of the fluid domain over the useful grid nodes in the interior, rendering an inevitable memory and computational overhead. In order to alleviate this problem, we propose a novel multiblock based IBM that preserves the simplicity and effectiveness of the IBM on structured Cartesian meshes and enables handling of complex, anatomical geometries at a reduced memory overhead by minimizing the grid nodes in the exterior of the fluid domain. As pathological and medical device hemodynamics often involve complex, unsteady transitional or turbulent flow fields, a scale resolving turbulence model such as large eddy simulation (LES) is used in the present work. The proposed solver (here after referred as WenoHemo), is developed by enhancing an existing in-house high-order incompressible flow solver that was previously validated for its numerics and several LES models by Shetty et al. (2010) [33]. In the present work, WenoHemo is systematically validated for additional numerics introduced, such as IBM and the multiblock approach, by simulating laminar flow over a sphere and laminar flow over a backward facing step respectively. Then, we validate the entire solver methodology by simulating laminar and transitional flow in abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). Finally, we perform blood flow simulations in the challenging clinically relevant thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA), to gain insights into the type of fluid flow patterns that exist in pathological blood vessels. Results obtained from the TAA simulations reveal complex vortical and unsteady flow fields that need to be considered in designing and implanting medical devices such as stent grafts.
Interaction of onconase with the human ribonuclease inhibitor protein

One of the tightest known protein-protein interactions in biology is that between members of the ribonuclease A superfamily and the ribonuclease inhibitor protein (RI). Some members of this superfamily are able to kill cancer cells, and the ability to evade RI is a major determinant of whether a ribonuclease will be cytotoxic. The archetypal cytotoxic ribonuclease, onconase (ONC), is in late-stage clinical trials for the treatment of malignant mesothelioma. We present here the first measurement of the inhibition of the ribonucleolytic activity of ONC by RI. This inhibition occurs with K(i)=0.15muM in a solution of low salt concentration.
Locomotor analysis of surface propulsion by three species of reduced‐limbed fossorial lizards (Lerista: Scincidae) from western australia

The relatively large, but superficially similar, Lerista macropisthopus, L. connivens, and L. lineopunctulata differ in bodily elongation and limb reduction, inhabit sandy areas, and move under sand. Visual analysis and computer-generated excursion and curvature graphs show that each species moves differently on smooth and rough surfaces, on surfaces with and without nails, and in channels. The reduced-limbed quadruped, Lerista macropisthopus walks frequently, using its four clawed limbs, whenever traction is available. Its undulating body curves uniformly but never generates slide-pushing curves. The biped L. connivens walks with its hindlimbs, although less frequently, and/or oscillates its tail in propelling its relatively stiff, short body. The biped L. lineopunctulata rarely uses its hindlimbs but always undulates body and. tail. It can use single nails in cam-follower progression. L. macropisthopus and L. connivens walk well in channels with rough bottoms, but only L lineopunctulata uses tunnel concertina to travel in channels with smooth bottoms. Friction of body surfaces dragged and of those transmitting propulsive forces is critical to these lizards and explains the division of movement into slow and rapid progression rates. Animals that have clawed limbs, no matter how reduced, use them. Body and tail generally are used differently. The tail may be flipped anteriorly to facilitate concertina. In nail arrays, travel is by simple, never by lateral, undulation. Apparently distinct motor coordination patterns are associated with differences in morphology, habit, and habitat. © 1994 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Motherless mothers revisited: Rhesus maternal behavior and rearing history

Classic studies have demonstrated that isolation- and peer-rearing in infancy can result in overt deficits in maternal behavior in rhesus monkeys, although nonmother-reared monkeys may become adequate caretakers if allowed experience with infants. Maternal styles in normally-reared mothers have been reported to vary widely. In the present study, the range of maternal proficiency of nonabusive, nonrejecting nonmother-reared mothers was examined. The behavior of mother-reared, peer-reared, and isolate-reared multiparous mothers was observed and compared for the first six months following parturition. Both peer-reared and isolate-reared mothers exhibited differences in maternal behavior from mother-reared mothers. Inasmuch as variations in maternal behavior may impact on the infant, investigators should be aware of the rearing histories of females used as breeders in the laboratory.
Central cardiovascular effects produced by the GABA receptor agonist drug, THIP.

Abstract In chloralose-anesthetized cats, injection of THIP (30–1000 μg) into the fourth ventricle produced dose-dependent decreases in blood pressure and heart rate. Administration of similar doses into either the lateral and third ventricle or administration of the largest dose intravenously did not produce these effects. Microinjection of THIP (1.95 μg) into nucleus ambiguus reversed bradycardia evoked by microinjection of bicuculline methiodide (160 ng) into this nucleus. These results confirm previous findings indicating that activation of GABA receptors in the hindbrain produces hypotension and bradycardia as well as reversal of bicuculline-induced activation of cardiac parasympathetic nerves.
A New, Directly Computer-Controlled pH Stat.

Abstract The design and implementation of a computer-controlled pH-stat is presented. The reagent delivery system used in the design of the pH-stat is based on a computer-controlled droplet generator able to add selectively reagent aliquots of 0.06 μl. Precise reagent control enables the stationary control of pH to within 0.0008 pH units. Algorithms for program operation are structured as autonomous concurrent tasks and are written entirely in FORTRAN. The pH-stat is operated by means of simple directives entered into a terminal. During an experiment, directives permit the graphic display of data and the alteration of experimental parameters. To evaluate the pH-stat. standard working curves were obtained from which the concentration of glucose in a sample of standard human blood serum was determined to within 3% of the value specified by the manufacturer. Two alternative measurement approaches, the fixed-time technique and the use of enzymatic induction times, were evaluated for the determination of glucose concentrations.
Effect of processing techniques on the performance of Epoxy/MWCNT nanocomposites

The aim of this study is to investigate the optimum technique to disperse Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNTs) in SC-1 epoxy uniformly and to evaluate the effect of processing technique on the performance of SC-1 epoxy. To achieve better dispersion, MWCNT was mixed with SC-1 resin directly or premixed with a solvent and then mixed with SC-1 resin after evaporating the solvent using sonication, thinky mixing and three-roll mill methods either in isolation or combination. Flexural tests were performed to evaluate mechanical performances and results exhibit up to 27.13, 13.51, and 21.99% improvement on flexural strength, flexural modulus, and maximum strain, respectively, over neat epoxy with only 0.2 wt % loading. Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) indicated improvement in storage modulus, Tg, inflection temperature, and residue content, respectively over neat SC-1 epoxy. Thermal and mechanical properties at higher loading conditions were seen to either reduce or not significantly improve. This was attributed to high viscosity of nanocomposites as determined by rheological analysis which prevents good dispersion of MWNCTs into epoxy system at 0.4 wt % loading. V C 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 127: 4211-4224, 2013
In search of the ideal allogeneic inoculum

For more than 30 years, physicians have transplanted allogeneic hematopoietic cells (HCs) harvested from the bone marrow cavity without any specific HC stimulation. During the past decade, blood HCs collected by apheresis after stimulation with granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) of the
Lentiviral vectors with two independent internal promoters transfer high-level expression of multiple transgenes to human hematopoietic stem-progenitor cells

Lentiviral vectors (LVs) offer several advantages over traditional oncoretroviral vectors. LVs efficiently transduce slowly dividing cells, including hematopoietic stem-progenitor cells (HSCs), resulting in stable gene transfer and expression. Additionally, recently developed self-inactivating (SIN) LVs allow promoter-specific transgene expression. For many gene transfer applications, transduction of more than one gene is needed. We obtained inconsistent results in our attempts to coexpress two transgenes linked by an internal ribosomal entry site (IRES) element in a single bicistronic LV transcript. In more than six bicistronic LVs we constructed containing a gene of interest followed by an IRES and the GFP reporter gene, GFP fluorescence was undetectable in transduced cells. We therefore investigated how to achieve consistent and efficient coexpression of two transgenes by LVs. In a SIN LV containing the elongation factor 1alpha promoter, we included a second promoter from cytomegalovirus, the phosphoglycerate kinase gene, or the HLA-DRalpha gene. Using a single LV containing two constitutive promoters, we achieved strong and sustained expression of both transgenes in transduced engrafting CD34(+) HSCs and their progeny, as well as in other human cell types. Thus, such dual-promoter LVs can coexpress multiple transgenes efficiently in a single target cell and will enable many gene transfer applications.
Synthesis of alkylaminoethanethiolsulfuric acids substituted with heterocyclic moieties

Several alkylaminoethanethiolsulfurie acids substituted with heterocyclic moieties have been synthesized to determine their effectiveness as radiation protection agents. These compounds are represented by the structure R(CH2)3NH(CH2)2S2O3H, where R is 8-quinoly-oxy (V), 8-quinaldyloxy (IX), 5-quinolyloxy (XII), 4-pyridyl (XVI), and 4-pyridylmethyl (XXIII). The diheterocyclic-substituted compound, 2-[bis-(2-phenyl-1, 2, 3, 2H-triazol-4-ylmethyl)amino]ethanethiolsulfuric acid (XIV) was also synthesized.
A perceptual study on haptic rendering of surface topography when both surface height and stiffness vary

This study is concerned with the distorted perception of surface topography when both surface height and surface stiffness vary. Three psychophysical experiments were conducted using virtual surfaces rendered with a force-feedback device. In Exp. 1, we found that the threshold for detecting a height difference between two adjacent planes was quite small (0.17-0.63 mm) and decreased as surface stiffness increased (0.4-1.0 N/mm). In Exp. II, we tested our force constancy hypothesis which stated that users maintained constant penetration forces while exploring haptic virtual surfaces. Data collected during lateral stroking of surfaces of varying stiffness supported this hypothesis. In Exp. III, subjects stroked two surfaces with a surface height difference of 2 mm (well above the thresholds obtained in Exp. I) and with varying stiffness values. Our results showed that the relative stiffness of the two surfaces dramatically affected subjects' ability to discriminate the height of these surfaces. Our findings underscore the importance of understanding the interplay of haptic rendering parameters. Future work will focus on the development of compensation rules for ensuring perceptual accuracy of haptic virtual environments.
Low-power radix-4 combined division and square root

Because of the similarities in the algorithm it is quite common to implement division and square root in the same unit. The purpose of this work is to implement a low-power combined radix-4 division and square root floating-point double precision unit and to compare its performance and energy consumption with a radix-4 division only unit. Previous work has been done on reducing the energy dissipated in a divider. Here we apply the same techniques to the combined division and square root unit and consider modifications and tradeoffs. Results show that the energy dissipation for the combined division/square root unit can be reduced by about 35% without affecting the latency and an additional 20% reduction can be obtained using a dual voltage. Moreover the unit is 5% slower than a divider and its energy dissipation is 15% higher.
Mechanisms of Antisense Transcription Initiation from the 3′ End of the GAL10 Coding Sequence In Vivo

In spite of the important regulatory functions of antisense transcripts in gene expression, it remains unknown how antisense transcription is initiated. Recent studies implicated RNA polymerase II in initiation of antisense transcription. However, how RNA polymerase II is targeted to initiate antisense transcription has not been elucidated. Here, we have analyzed the association of RNA polymerase II with the antisense initiation site at the 3' end of the GAL10 coding sequence in dextrose-containing growth medium that induces antisense transcription. We find that RNA polymerase II is targeted to the antisense initiation site at GAL10 by Reb1p activator as well as general transcription factors (e.g., TFIID, TFIIB, and Mediator) for antisense transcription initiation. Intriguingly, while GAL10 antisense transcription is dependent on TFIID, its sense transcription does not require TFIID. Further, the Gal4p activator that promotes GAL10 sense transcription is dispensable for antisense transcription. Moreover, the proteasome that facilitates GAL10 sense transcription does not control its antisense transcription. Taken together, our results reveal that GAL10 sense and antisense transcriptions are regulated differently and shed much light on the mechanisms of antisense transcription initiation.
Massive Magnetic Monopoles in Cosmology and Astrophysics

The astrophysical and cosmological consequences of magnetic monopoles are discussed. The production of monopoles during phase transition in the early universe is addressed, and proposals which have been made to alleviate the monopole problem are summarized. Astrophysical limits on galactic magnetic monopoles are discussed along with experimental efforts to detect monopoles. Finally, monopole-induced proton decay is addressed. 48 references.
Free vascularized fibular graft reconstruction of large skeletal defects after tumor resection.

Skeletal reconstruction of large tumor resection defects is challenging. Free vascularized fibular transfer offers the potential for rapid autograft incorporation in limbs compromised by adjuvant chemotherapy or radiation. We retrospectively reviewed 30 patients treated with free vascularized fibular graft reconstruction of large skeletal defects after tumor resections (mean defect length, 14.8 cm). The minimum followup was 2 years (mean, 4.9 years; range, 2–15 years). One patient died with liver and lung metastases at 3 years postoperatively. Loss of limb occurred in one patient. Five patients either had metastatic disease (one patient) or had metastatic disease (four patients) develop after treatment, with a mean time to metastasis of 18 months. The overall complication rate was 16 of 30 (53%), with a reoperation rate of 12 of 30 (40%). Union was attained in all 30 grafts. Primary union was attained in 23 (77%) at a mean of 6 months. Secondary union was achieved in seven (23%) after revision fixation and bone grafting; the mean subsequent time to union was 9.2 months, with an index of 1.33 additional operations per patient. Graft fracture (20%) and infection (10%) were other common complications. Despite a high complication rate, free vascularized fibular graft reconstruction offers a reliable treatment of large skeletal defects after tumor resection without increased risk of limb loss, local recurrence, or tumor metastasis. Level of Evidence: Level IV, case series. See Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Sol-gel Encapsulated Gold-Silica Nanoshell-based SERS Sensors

We have used sol-gel methods to immobilize gold-silica nanoshells to create robust SERS based sensors. Using a protocol commonly used to immobilize proteins, biologically friendly SERS sensors for the study of gold binding peptides and proteins have been created. Specifically, by combining tetramethyl orthosilicate (TMOS), methyltrimethoxysilicate (MTMS), phosphate buffer, and gold nanoparticles we have created sol-gels with reduced fluorescence and Raman backgrounds. The resulting substrates have been tested using the Raman scattering response of 4-mercaptonbenzoic acid (4-MBA) to determine porosity and long-term stability of this SERS substrate. Multiple rinse cycles using phosphate buffer showed no significant decline in the SERS response of the substrate up to ten rinse cycles. Future studies will test the feasibility of using such substrates for the detection of biomolecules on the surface of gold.
Teens, Porn and Videogames: Time to Rethink Ginsberg ?

This term the Supreme Court will decide whether states can constitutionally ban sales of violent videogames to minors. In reaching its decision, the Court will inevitably be faced with how to deal with Ginsberg v. New York, the case that allowed states to forbid sales of non-obscene (constitutionally "protected") pornography to persons under age 17. The opinion in Ginsberg, if not the result, is an odd duck in First Amendment jurisprudence. It is a case that applied "rational basis" review in an area where the Supreme Court now insists on strict scrutiny. But the Court predicated its use of rational basis review on reasoning that was analytically flawed. Not only was the reasoning circular but it was founded on the startling idea that states have the power to modify the scope of a constitutional concept (i.e., obscenity) and, therefore, to cut down constitutional rights.It is doubtful that Ginsberg could be decided on the same reasoning today and, on its record, it probably could not have the same outcome. Rather than gloss over or ignore the analytical flaws of Ginsberg, the Court should take the occasion to rethink Ginsberg and to place this area of law, and minors' constitutional rights, on a sounder footing that is in harmony with the rest of First Amendment law.
Electrocardiogram signal classification based on fractal features

Atrial fibrillation ECG signals have been classified with fractal features only. The fractal features -fractal dimension, mass dimension and lacunarities were estimated by a new box counting algorithm; called the true box counting method. The classification result and stepwise discriminant analysis for these fractal features were determined. It was seen that lacunarities based on higher mass moments were more important than fractal dimension and mass dimension. The results suggest further investigation of lacunarity features.
Early Child Maltreatment, Runaway Youths, and Risk of Delinquency and Victimization in Adolescence: A Mediational Model

This article examines whether running away from home mediates the link between child maltreatment and later delinquency and victimization in adolescence. Specifically, the authors tested the hypothesis that childhood physical and psychological abuse increase the risk of a child's running away from home by the time of adolescence. Running away from home is, in turn, hypothesized to increase the risk of delinquency and victimization. Childhood sexual abuse, modeled independently of physical and psychological abuse, is hypothesized to have a similar effect on the intervening factor of running away, as well as the two adolescent outcomes: delinquency and victimization. The sample of 416 adolescents was drawn from the Lehigh Longitudinal Study conducted in a two-county area of Pennsylvania. Findings show that physical and psychological abuse predict a child's running away from home. Running away predicts later delinquency and victimization and partially mediates the effect of earlier abuse. Both child abuse and running away from home are adverse events that can be addressed through systematic prevention and intervention efforts tailored to those who have been victimized. Findings can support social workers in their efforts to advocate on behalf of child abuse victims in developing interventions and support services.
Outcome of allogeneic stem cell transplantation in myelodysplastic syndrome patients: prognostic implication of monosomal karyotype.

Objective Monosomal karyotype (MK) is defined as the presence of two or more autosomal monosomies or a single monosomy associated with a structural abnormality. It was first described as a high-risk cytogenetic abnormality for acute myeloid leukemia and more recently in myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). However, allotransplant outcome in MDS with MK has not been described. Patients and Methods We retrospectively reviewed data of 79 patients with MDS who underwent allotransplant at the University of Iowa from 1990 to 2009. We recorded patients' cytogenetic data, clinical characteristics and evaluated outcome following allogeneic stem cell transplant stratified by cytogenetic classification. Results Of 79 patients, 37 (47%) had unfavorable karyotypes (23 complex karyotype, 25 abnormal chromosome 7). Twenty-four patients (30%) had MK. Twenty-four patients (30%) relapsed and 59 (74.7%) died during study period. Patients with MK had higher 2-yr relapse incidence (RI) (51% vs. 29%; P = 0.01), lower 2-yr event-free survival (EFS) (8% vs. 40%; P = 0.02), and lower 2-yr overall survival (OS)(6% vs. 41%; P = 0.02) than patients without MK. We further analyzed the effect of MK in each unfavorable karyotype composite. Although the outcome was not statistically different, unfavorable karyotypes with patients with MK showed a trend toward higher 2-yr RI [hazard ratio (HR), 1.7; P = 0.34], lower 2-yr EFS (HR, 1.5; P = 0.29), and lower 2-yr OS (HR, 1.5; P = 0.28) compared to unfavorable karyotypes without MK. Conclusion Cytogenetic abnormalities remain an important prognostic factor for allotransplant outcome of MDS. Our results suggested poor allotransplant outcomes with high RI and low OS in MDS with MK.
Pentacoordinate Silicon Complexes as Precursors to Silicate Glasses and Ceramics

The recent discovery that pentacoordinate alkali glycolato silicates such as monomeric MSi(OCH 2 CH 2 O) 2 OCH 2 -CH 2 OH or dimeric M 2 Si 2 (OCH 2 CH 2 O) 5 (where M=Li, Na, K, or Cs) can be synthesized directly from SiO 2 , ethylene glycol, and MOH suggests that these compounds may serve as useful, inexpensive precursors to alkali silicate glasses or ceramics, either by sol-gel processing or by simple pyrolysis. We report studies on the chemical changes and phase transformations that occur during the pyrolytic transformation of these compounds to ceramic and glassy materials. The evolutionary processes encountered as the materials are heated to selected temperatures were followed by X-ray powder diffraction, diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS), and thermal analysis techniques. In general, the crystalline compounds oxidatively decompose at temperatures above 300°C to form amorphous materials. At higher temperatures, the line compounds M 2 Si 2 O 5 begin to crystallize. During the transformation process, ligan oxidation forms CO 2 and H 2 O, which react with the alkali metals to form small amounts of carbonates as seen by DRIFTS. At higher temperatures, the carbonate decompose with coincident formation of the primary crystalline phase, except in the case of the potassium compound, which exhibits some phase segregation
INTEGRATING REPRESENTATION AND VULNERABILITY: TWO APPROACHES FOR PRIORITIZING AREAS FOR CONSERVATION

Reserves protect biodiversity by ameliorating the threats to the persistence of populations. Methods for efficient, systematic reserve selection have generally been designed to maximize the protection of biodiversity while minimizing the costs of reserves. These techniques have not directly addressed the factors threatening species at specific sites. By incorporating measures of site vulnerability into reserve selection procedures, conservation planners can prioritize sites based on both representing biodiversity and the immediacy of factors threatening it. Here we develop two complementary approaches for identifying areas for conservation based on species composition and potential threats facing the species. These approaches build on two established methods of systematic reserve selection. The first approach in- volves mapping irreplaceability (a statistic derived from reserve selection theory that mea- sures the potential importance of a site for protecting all species) and the degree to which the area is vulnerable to threats from three basic anthropogenic factors (the percentages of a site devoted to agriculture, to urban and suburban development, and to open mines). We classified areas with respect to both irreplaceability and the three indicators of vulnerability, producing a continuous ranking of all sites based on these factors. Our second approach was to incorporate site vulnerability into a reserve selection algorithm. This approach allowed us to locate those sets of sites that protected all species and were most likely to be threatened by human activities. These two analyses can provide regional-scale guidance for conservation in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States, and they demonstrate two potential tools for solving complex conservation-planning problems.
Progression of occupational risk management with advances in nanomaterials.

Nanotechnology has been touted as a transformative technology that would encompass a broad range of products and application areas and improve many aspects of human life. As nanotechnology matures,...
Academic Dishonesty, Plagiarism Included, in the Digital Age: A Literature Review

The reviewed literature reported on plagiarism in the context of the digital era from the perspective of a broader educational spectrum. The authors of this review ask questions with regard to what constitutes plagiarism, how prevalent plagiarism is in our schools, colleges, and society, what is done to prevent and reduce plagiarism, the attitudes of faculty toward academic dishonesty in general, and individual differences as predictors of academic dishonesty. This article identifies research questions that have not been addressed sufficiently in the literature and suggests specific research areas for further investigation.
Effect of Storage on the Quality of Chicken Frankfurters

Abstract Chicken frankfurters were made by two formulae (with and without a phosphate mixture plus sodium isoascorbate). They were stored at 2°C., vacuum packaged and non-vacuum packaged, for up to 24 days. At intervals, samples were removed from storage, heated and served to a taste panel, for comparison with a freshly made sample. Non-protein nitrogen (NPN), 2-thiobarbituric acid (TBA) values, total plate counts and shear values were also determined. Results indicated that the vacuum packaged frankfurters with added phosphates and sodium isoascorbate showed little change in flavor, juiciness or overall acceptability over the 24 day storage period. With no additives and non-vacuum packaging, quality differences showed up by 10 days. Length of storage had no significant effect on NPN, TBA values, or shear values. Bacterial growth was not a problem, although there was some mold growth on the non-vacuum packaged frankfurters.
The clinicopathologic, light, and scanning electron microscopic features of eperythrozoonosis in four naturally infected llamas.

The hematologic, biochemical, and light and scanning electron microscopic features of eperythrozo- onosis in four llamas are described. One female and three male yearling llamas were presented for evaluation of chronic weight loss. Three of four llamas had historical evidence of chronic inflammatory conditions. On examination, multiple clinical problems were apparent, including poorly to non-regenerative anemia, inflam- matory disease, and hypoproteinemia. Coccoid- and ring-shaped basophilic organisms were present on the erythrocytes of all the llamas. On scanning electron microscopy, individual, pairs, and clusters of coccoid-shaped organisms were present on the erythrocytes. The organisms measured 0.4 to 0.6 micron in diameter and caused no marked deformation of the erythrocyte membrane. A rare organism could be found that produced a slight indentation into the erythrocyte membrane. The light and scanning electron microscopic morphologic features suggested that the organism was an Eperythrozoon. Serial evaluation of serum iron concentrations of the llamas showed a decrease serum iron in all animals, with a concurrent decrease in the total iron binding capacity and percent transfenin saturation in two of the llamas. Common abnormalities seen on serum electrophoresis included a decrease in albumin and beta serum fraction in all llamas and a decrease in the gamma globulin fraction of two individuals. Eperythrozoonosis is an erythroparasitemia that has been reported in rodents,I7 cattle,6JoJ2 sheep,'Jo and ~igs.~JlJ~ It is caused by a organism in the order Rick- ettsiales, the family Anaplasmataceae, and the genus Eperythrozoon. Clinical signs can vary greatly de- pending on the species of infective parasite, as well as the species of animal that is infected. Eperythrozoon wenyoni in cattle, for example, can be associated with edema of the distal limbs and teats.6J2 Experimentally, it may cause mildlo to no anemia12 in splenectomized calves. In contrast, in pigs, Eperythrozoon suis can cause severe anemia and i~terus,~J~ and similar ab- normalities can be induced in splenectomized pigs. l6 This report describes the clinical, hematologic, bio- chemical, and light and scanning electron microscopic features of eperythrozoonosis in four naturally infected llamas.
A Gendered Response to Disaster: In the Aftermath of Haiti's Earthquake

Keywords: commentary, gender, women, disaster, Hurricane Katrina, Haiti, international development, international aid, ecology and environment, development
The functional interface between Salmonella and its host cell: opportunities for therapeutic intervention

Salmonella is a facultative intracellular pathogen that causes diseases ranging from self-limiting enteritis to typhoid fever. This bacterium uses two type III secretion systems to deliver effector proteins directly into the host cell to promote infection and disease. Recent characterization of these virulence proteins and their host-cell targets is uncovering the molecular mechanisms of Salmonella pathogenesis and is revealing a picture of the atomic interface between this pathogen and its host. This level of analysis provides the possibility of designing novel therapeutics to disrupt infection and disease processes at the molecular level.
TIME-DEPENDENT POLAR WIND MODELING

In the presence of a strongmagnetic field (such as the geomagneticfield) the plasmatends to flow along the magnetic field lines, therefore in most ionospheric flow calculations the use of the gyrotropic approximationis justified. In the first part of this paper it is shown that the gyrotropictwenty moment approximation is equivalent to the gyrotropic sixteenmoment approximation. Thesecond part of the paper is devoted to the study of return current generated polar wind transients. Ionosphericreturn currents generate significant downward heavy ion flows in the topside ionosphere with peak values well exceeding 108cm-2s-1. When the return current ceases the poiar ionosphere rapidly returns to its previous equilibrium state. During the recovery phase of the return current event an upward propagating heavy ion transient is formed,whichis mainly characterized by a relatively short O~ upwelling event. TheH~ escape flux remains relatively constant (within 10-20%)during field-aligned current events.
Reduced functional connectivity in visual evoked potentials in children with autism spectrum disorder.

Abstract Objective An analysis of EEG synchrony between homologous early visual areas tested the hypothesis that interhemispheric functional connectivity during visual stimulation is reduced in children with autism compared to controls. Methods EEG power and coherence within and between two homologous regions of the occipital cortex were measured during long latency flash visual evoked potentials. Measures were compared between two groups of children (5.5–8.5 years), one with autism spectrum disorders and the other with typical development. Results In and below the theta band, interhemispheric synchrony was reduced in autistic subjects compared to typical controls by as much as 50%. Above the theta band interhemispheric synchrony in autistic children became indistinguishable from what would occur for uncorrelated cortical activity. Interhemispheric synchrony in autistic subjects was decreased in spite of bilaterally increased power. Wavelet power showed autistic children had a more rapid initial response to stimulation, a slower recovery, and more modulation at longer latencies. Conclusions Results suggest that the sensory cortices of autistic children are hypersensitive to stimulation with concurrent diminished functional connectivity between hemispheres. Significance Simultaneously increased intrahemispheric power and decreased interhemispheric synchronization of elemental visual information suggests either that power increases cause poor interhemispheric connectivity or that processes, such as thalamocortical regulation, impact power and coherence independently.
Linear single phase inverter model for Battery Energy Storage System evaluation and controller design

A method for deriving a set of linear transfer functions for a single phase grid tied system is presented, which can be used to determine how small signal perturbations and transients on the utility side are translated through the inverter to the dc link, as well as assist in controller design. These transfer functions can be used by a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) designer to predict what harmonics the battery will see in the field, without the need for expensive simulation software. With this information, battery designers will be able to design a more robust battery specifically tailored for single phase inverter applications.
Origin and Stratigraphic Assessment of Pre-Mt. Simon Clastics (Precambrian) of Michigan Basin

Previous workers have synthesized the results of recent deep drilling in the Michigan basin with the concept of Keweenawan rifting. Their model correlates the pre-Mt. Simon clastics in the Sparks et al 1-8 well with those in the State-Beaver Island 1 well, identifies them both as turbidites, and places the pre-Mt. Simon sequence stratigraphically higher in the section than the Jacobsville Formation and Freda Sandstone. Reexamination of the cores and samples from the Sparks et al 1-8 suggests a lacustrine origin for the pre-Mt. Simon clastics whereas paleomagnetic age data suggest a time equivalence with the Freda Sandstone. The pre-Mt. Simon clastics at Beaver Island are possibly of marine origin and are considered to be time equivalents of the Jacobsville Formation.
Influence of ABCB1 Genotype in Collies on the Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Loperamide in a Dose-Escalation Study.

Thirty-three Collies (14 male and 19 female) were used in a dose-escalation study to determine the impact of ABCB1 genotype on loperamide pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD). Loperamide was orally administered in four ascending doses (0.01, 0.05, 0.1, or 0.2 mg/kg) over a 4-wk period to fasted Collies. Comparisons were made within each dose to genotype, phenotype, and whether Collies received three (3D) or four (4D) loperamide doses. The 3D and 4D groupings had statistically significant differences in systemic drug exposure (defined by the area under the concentration-versus-time profile estimated from time zero to the last quantifiable drug concentration, AUC0–last). In contrast, statistical differences in AUC0–last only occurred in the comparison between wild-type (WT) Collies versus homozygous mutant (Mut) Collies administered 0.1 mg/kg. Statistical differences in the proportionality relationship were observed when comparing 3D to 4D Collies, and the WT to Mut Collies. Intersubject variability in drug exposure tended to be twice as high between Mut and WT Collies. Associations were observed between systemic drug exposure and ataxia or depression but not between systemic drug exposure and mydriasis or salivation. Thus, Collies expressing the greatest sensitivity to CNS-associated effects of loperamide (Mut) tended to have higher drug exposure compared with those less sensitive to the adverse effects of loperamide. Genotype and phenotype only partially explained differences in loperamide PK and PD, suggesting this relationship may not be straightforward and that other factors need to be considered. Accordingly, the PD and PK of one P-glycoprotein substrate only partially predicted the likelihood of adverse responses to unrelated substrates.
Are We Driven? Critical Theory and Psychoanalysis Reconsidered

If, as Axel Honneth has recently argued, critical theory needs psychoanalysis for meta-normative and explanatory reasons, this does not settle the question of which version of psychoanalysis critical theorists should embrace. In this paper, I argue against Honneth's favoured version – an intersubjectivist interpretation of Winnicott's object-relations theory – and in favour of an alternative based on the drive-theoretical work of Melanie Klein. Klein's work, I argue, provides critical theorists with a more realistic conception of the person and a richer explanatory account of human aggression and destructiveness than does Honneth's intersubjectivist view. As such, it better serves the ends for which Honneth claims that critical theory should turn to psychoanalysis in the first place.
Can Affect Disengagement Produce Moral Standard Violation

Bandura has suggested that people can escape the self-regulatory power of internalized moral standards by disengaging the standards, allowing violation. We consider the possibility that disengaging the emotional warning signs of impending self-censure may be sufficient to permit violation. To test this idea, we led some research participants to misattribute to a pill (actually a placebo) any feelings of tension and anxiety evoked by the prospect of violating their standards of fairness. As predicted, participants in the misattribution condition were more likely to self-favor than those in a no-misattribution condition. This effect was mediated by the amount of tension and anxiety attributed to the pill. The role that affect disengagement may play in moral decisions outside the laboratory is discussed.
“We Know Who You Are and We Know Where You Live”: A Research Agenda for Web Demographics

In the digital era, personal data, such as full name, address, age, phone number, and household members, may scatter across various administrative records, databases of private companies, and social networks, as well as through information contributed as volunteered geographic information (VGI). People-finder sites gather such data and provide user interfaces for Internet users to query web demographics. The emergence of web technologies such as mash-ups, web mapping, and webscraping presents opportunities to capitalize on the availability of web demographics and opens up new frontiers of research. The main objectives of this chapter are to (1) examine web demographics as an example of VGI and (2) explore the research agenda of web demographics. More research and development are needed to enhance extraction rules, identify and remove erroneous enumeration (e.g., duplicate, fictitious, and incomplete records), validate the coverage and accuracy of web demographics, and explore potential applications. Web demographics must be used cautiously in light of the uncertainty of web demographics (e.g., digital divide), privacy issues, and other societal impacts.
Note on Valuation of Options Using @Risk

This brief note explains how to set up a Monte Carlo simulation using @Risk for the purpose of valuing options. It should be used in conjunction with the Excel spreadsheet Monte.xls.
Calculating Dependence: Soviet Security Guarantees and China's Pursuit of Nuclear Weapons

In the early 1950s the Soviet Union reassured China that it was covered by a nuclear umbrella and did not need its own nuclear weapons, although the Soviet Union later provided extensive nuclear assistance to China. This paper applies existing theories of the credibility in international relations to examine why the Soviet extended nuclear deterrence guarantee failed to prevent China’s pursuit of nuclear weapons. The paper offers a theoretical framework for measuring junior alliance partners’ perceptions of changes in the credibility of security guarantees due to changes in the capabilities, interests and reputation of the superpower. It addresses a gap in the nuclear nonproliferation literature, which does not conclusively indicate whether, and if so when, security assurances are effective in preventing proliferation. According to new Chinese-language sources, Soviet violations of alliance commitments in the early 1950s persuaded Chinese leaders that they could not depend on the Soviet nuclear umbrella to protect their vital interests from US nuclear coercion.
Improving calibration of thermal stereo cameras using heated calibration board

Calibration of stereo cameras is important for accurate 3D reconstruction. For standard color cameras there are many available tools and algorithms for accurate calibration, such as detecting corners of chessboard patterns on planar calibration boards. When viewed in thermal imagery, these chessboard patterns are difficult to detect due to uniform temperature between the white and black squares. Previous techniques involve creating a custom calibration board using multiple materials. We propose improvements to a method that does not require a custom calibration board. Our method is made more reliable by using an iterative pre-processing technique to enhance contrast and a ceramic tile backing to retain heat longer. We present results which show our calibration board retains heat to reliably detect corners for over 10 minutes; our method performs well in real calibration trials.