cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Atom-by-atom fabrication with electron beams

Assembling matter atom-by-atom into functional devices is the ultimate goal of nanotechnology. The possibility of achieving this goal is intrinsically dependent on the ability to visualize matter at the atomic level, induce and control atomic-scale motion, facilitate and direct chemical reactions, and coordinate and guide fabrication processes towards desired structures atom-by-atom. In this Perspective, we summarize recent progress in chemical transformations, material alterations and atomic dynamics studies enabled by the converged, atomic-sized electron beam of an aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscope. We discuss how such top-down observations have led to the concept of controllable, beam-induced processes and then of bottom-up, atom-by-atom assembly via electron-beam control. The progress in this field, from electron-beam-induced material transformations to atomically precise doping and multi-atom assembly, is reviewed, as are the associated engineering, theoretical and big-data challenges. Electron beams in a transmission electron microscope can be used to manipulate matter atom-by-atom. This Review surveys the recent advances and discusses how the further development and integration of machine learning, theory, feedback and instrumentation will push the field forward.
Evaluation of the sedative effects and pharmacokinetics of detomidine gel administered intravaginally to horses

Abstract Objectives To determine the sedative effects and pharmacokinetic profile of detomidine when administered intravaginally as a gel formulation to horses. Study design Randomized, crossover, masked experimental design. Animals A group of six healthy adult mares (494 ± 56 kg). Methods Mares were studied on two occasions and were administered either detomidine hydrochloride (10 μg kg–1) intravenously (treatment IV) or detomidine gel (40 μg kg–1) intravaginally (treatment IVG), separated by 1 week. Sedation, ataxia, muzzle–floor distance and heart rate (HR) were evaluated every 15 minutes for 240 minutes. Venous blood samples were collected at 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, 120, 150, 180, 240, 300 and 360 minutes postadministration and were analyzed for detomidine and metabolites using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Measured variables were compared over time and between treatments using mixed model analysis. Correlation between drug plasma concentrations and muzzle–floor distance, and sedation and ataxia scores was determined using the Spearman correlation coefficient. Data are presented as mean ± standard error of the mean and p value was set at Results Sedation was shorter with IV (119 ± 16 minutes) than with IVG (188 ± 22 minutes). Ataxia scores remained greater than baseline for 90 and 135 minutes for treatments IV and IVG, respectively. HR was lower than baseline for 45 and 30 minutes for IV and IVG, respectively, but did not differ between treatments. The mean maximum plasma concentration of detomidine, time to maximum concentration and bioavailability for treatment IVG was 8.57 ng mL–1, 0.37 hour and 25%, respectively. There was a significant correlation (r = 0.68) between plasma detomidine concentrations and sedation score. Conclusions and clinical relevance Detomidine gel administered intravaginally resulted in clinically important sedation and is a viable method for detomidine gel delivery in mares.
Canopy Cover Shapes Bat Diversity across an Urban and Agricultural Landscape Mosaic

Human alteration of the planet’s terrestrial landscapes for agriculture, habitation and commerce is reshaping wildlife communities. The threat of land cover change to wildlife is pronounced in regions with rapidly growing human populations. We investigated how species richness and species-specific occurrence of bats changed as a function of land cover and canopy (tree) cover across a rapidly changing region of Florida, USA. Contrary to our predictions, we found negligible effects of agriculture and urban development on the occurrence of all species. In contrast, we found that a remotely sensed metric of canopy cover on a broad scale (25 km2) was a good predictor of the occurrence of eight out of ten species. The occurrence of all smaller bats (vespertilionids) in our study increased with 0–50% increases in canopy cover, while larger bats showed different patterns. Occurrence of Brazilian free-tailed bats (Tadarida brasiliensis) decreased with increasing canopy cover, and Florida bonneted bats (Eumops floridanus) were not influenced by canopy cover. We conclude that remotely sensed measures of canopy cover can provide a more reliable predictor of bat species richness than land-cover types, and efforts to prevent the loss of bat diversity should consider maintaining canopy cover across mosaic landscapes with diverse land-cover types.
Determining the source of silcrete sarsen stones

Abstract Materials used in the construction of man-made structures can reveal information about societies, their environment, culture and mobility. Cultures throughout human history have used natural stone to construct funerary monuments and tool technologies. Stone materials from igneous rocks can be provenanced by petrographic examination and geochemical methods that provide a direct link between the artefact and their source. For sedimentary sarsen stones, provenance is often complicated by diagenetic processes acting on source rocks. Here I use an example of stones used to build 6000-year-old earth and sarsen megalith structures from the River Medway valley (Kent, UK). These megalith structures lie on the strategic and pre-Neolithic North Downs migration route into Britain, but the provenance of the sarsens used in their construction has not been established. The highly competent sarsens are diagenetic groundwater silcretes, resulting from acid leaching of glauconitic clay components, and addition of a quartz cement. Heavy rare earth and high field strength element abundances and ratios are resistant to diagenetic effects and show a geochemical association with Paleogene sandstones from the Upnor Formation of the Lambeth Group at the 95% confidence limit. Detrital zircon and titanite grain compositions confirm this relationship. Preferential erosion and removal of the less competent sandstone around silcretes left large (>2 m), durable and isolated sarsen blocks on top of the chalk downs that were subsequently exploited by Neolithic peoples. Use of local stone to construct the Medway megaliths is consistent with their distinct morphological characteristics that have been used to imply independence from continental European cultures at that time. Combined with careful field collection of possible source rocks and sarsen materials, provenance of stones of sedimentary origin that have been affected by diagenesis can be accurately assessed through a combination of petrography, bulk-rock heavy rare earth element and high field strength element abundances, and detrital mineral compositions.
From Monstrosity to Postnormality: Montaigne, Canguilhem, Foucault

Early modern authors theorize the non-normative body, sometimes even calling into question the designation of such bodies as monstrous and arguing that they are natural, in accordance with Saint Augustine’s recognition that monstrosity is the effect of human ignorance of the variety of divine creation. This view of difference as the natural and normal mode of existence is echoed in Georges Canguilhem’s work on The Normal and the Pathological. Canguilhem questioned the normal long before it became a central to queer theory, fueled by Michel Foucault’s work on the abnormal and the history of sexuality. Canguilhem responded to the theories of medical philosophers, who designate particular beings who do not fit into rigidly defined normative types as monstrous. Hundreds of years before Canguilhem and Foucault, Michel de Montaigne had already defied the nascent field of medical philosophy by redefining “monstrous” particularity as the universal condition of mankind and of natural creation. This reconceptualization of the norm is closely related to a fundamental questioning of the systems of thought at the basis of Western knowledge, systems that generalize about observed phenomenon and create categories to justify those generalizations.
Awareness of breast cancer risk related to a positive family history and alcohol consumption among women aged 15–44 years in United States

Abstract Awareness of the link between breast cancer and risk factors such as family history of breast cancer and alcohol consumption may help modify health behaviors. To reduce risk factors for breast cancer among young women, it is important to understand overall levels of risk awareness and socioeconomic differences in awareness. Data from the National Survey of Family Growth 2011–2015 were used to examine awareness of two risk factors for breast cancer, positive family history and alcohol consumption, among women aged 15–44 years (n = 10,940) in the United States by presence of risk factors and by socioeconomic characteristics. Prevalence of positive family history, non-binge, and binge drinking was 30%, 29%, and 31%, respectively among women aged 15–44. Awareness of positive family history of breast cancer as a risk factor for breast cancer was 88%, whereas for alcohol consumption it was 25%. Awareness of family history as a risk factor was higher among women with positive family history of breast cancer compared to those without. Current drinkers were more likely to believe that alcohol was not a risk factor for breast cancer compared to those who did not drink. Racial/ethnic minority women and those with lower education and income had lower awareness of family history as a risk factor. Awareness of alcohol consumption as a risk factor for breast cancer was low across all socioeconomic groups. Evidence-based interventions to increase risk awareness and decrease excessive alcohol use among young women are needed to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer.
Human epidermal growth factor 2 (HER2) in early stage uterine serous carcinoma: A multi-institutional cohort study

Abstract Background Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) has emerged as an important prognostic and therapeutic target in advanced stage and recurrent uterine serous carcinoma (USC). The significance of tumoral HER2 expression in early-stage disease has not been established. Methods This multi-center cohort study included women with stage I USC treated from 2000 to 2019. Demographic, treatment, recurrence, and survival data were collected. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was performed for HER2 and scored 0–3+. Equivocal IHC results (2+) were further tested with fluorescence in-situ hybridization (FISH). HER2 positivity was defined as 3+ IHC or FISH positive. Results One hundred sixty-nine patients with stage I USC were tested for HER2; 26% were HER2-positive. There were no significant differences in age, race, stage, adjuvant therapy, or follow-up duration between the HER2-positive and negative cohorts. Presence of lymph-vascular space invasion was correlated with HER2-positive tumors (p = .003). After a median follow-up of 50 months, there were 43 (25.4%) recurrences. There were significantly more recurrences in the HER2-positive cohort (50.0% vs 16.8%, p Conclusions Given its significant association with worse recurrence and survival outcomes, HER2 positivity appears to be a prognostic biomarker in women with stage I uterine serous carcinoma. These data provide support for clinical trials with anti-HER2-directed therapy in early-stage disease.
Rural RPPs: Going from The Middle of Nowhere to Getting Somewhere

We have an RPP grant, but do we have a Research Practitioner Partnership? We have found ourselves asking that question over the past year as we have struggled to accomplish project goals and objectives. In this paper, we aim to help others learn from our experience the importance of understanding the difference in working with an RPP under construction and an RPP fully formed, share a summary of our story, and offer some advice based on our situation and plans moving forward.
Next-generation sequencing not superior to culture in periprosthetic joint infection diagnosis

Aims Use of molecular sequencing methods in periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) diagnosis and organism identification have gained popularity. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) is a potentially powe...
When All Is Said and Done: Waiting for a Heart Transplant

Despite prevention of sudden cardiac death with an implantable defibrillator and the treatment of heart failure with optimal medical therapy and biventricular pacing for resynchronization, ultimately many patients will reach terminal heart failure in need of a heart transplant. In this chapter, the historical evolution of heart transplantation and the discovery of immunosuppressive therapy are addressed. In addition, the cases of two patients, one who received a transplant and another still waiting for one, are discussed.
The New Soviet Citizenship Law and Human Rights

An interesting aspect of the circumstances surrounding the adoption of the new Law on Citizenship of the USSR was the recurrent emphasis by the official rapporteur of the bill1 and three of the five delegates picked to speak on its behalf2 on the legislation’s complete concordance with the USSR’s treaty commitments in general and the provisions of various conventions dealing with human rights issues to which the USSR is a party in particular. The same note was sounded in two editorial commentaries on the latest law: “Grazhdanin Sovetskogo Soiuza”,3 and “Grazhdanin strany Sovetov”.4 In light of these official assertions, a brief inquiry into how valid these claims really are should be instructive.
Argentine Jurisprudence: Deltec Update

In the 1973 case of Compahia Swift de La Plata, S.A. (Cia. Swift), the Supreme Court of Argentina ruled that the bankruptcy estate should include not only the assets of Swift, but also the entire assets of what the Court referred to as the "Deltec Group."1 The decision established a theory of the economic unit, or unidad economical The theory justifies the aggregation of a parent corporation and its subsidiaries based upon a finding of close economic relations. The theory does not require any proof of fraud or misuse of the corporate structure. The Supreme Court of Argentina rejected the more traditional acknowledgement of the separate liability of a parent and its subsidiaries as an overly "formalistic use of the legal structures constituting business associations," suggesting that such legal formalism was "foreign to the objectives sought or to the social realities which would legitimize such objectives."3 The Court further indicated that "the legal structures which the laws of Argentina provide for lawful activities cannot legalize economic and financial policies contrary to the needs of our society, effectively recognized by the
Ability-skill relationships: An empirical explanation of change over time

Abstract The changing-subject and changing-task models were compared empirically as explanations of temporal change in the prediction of performance from ability measures. An experimental group of 48 college students was administered 6 measures of visual acuity, 6 of reaction time, and 12 of tracking performance. A control group of 18 students completed the tests of visual acuity and reaction time. Significant rank order changes occurred on reaction time measures but not on visual acuity measures. A significant temporal change occurred for the reaction-time-tracking-performance relationship but not the visual-acuity-tracking relationship. The validity coefficients for postdiction of late tracking, with reaction time, were higher than those for the prediction of late trials but lower than those for the prediction of early trials. These results (1) demonstrated that a complex model is needed to account for the phenomenon, (2) gave support to a changing-subject effect, and (3) gave ambiguous support to a changing-task effect.
A data-driven approach for event prediction

When given a single static picture, humans can not only interpret the instantaneous content captured by the image, but also they are able to infer the chain of dynamic events that are likely to happen in the near future. Similarly, when a human observes a short video, it is easy to decide if the event taking place in the video is normal or unexpected, even if the video depicts a an unfamiliar place for the viewer. This is in contrast with work in surveillance and outlier event detection, where the models rely on thousands of hours of video recorded at a single place in order to identify what constitutes an unusual event. In this work we present a simple method to identify videos with unusual events in a large collection of short video clips. The algorithm is inspired by recent approaches in computer vision that rely on large databases. In this work we show how, relying on large collections of videos, we can retrieve other videos similar to the query to build a simple model of the distribution of expected motions for the query. Consequently, the model can evaluate how unusual is the video as well as make event predictions. We show how a very simple retrieval model is able to provide reliable results.
Long-term survival in horses with strangulating obstruction of the small intestine managed without resection

SummaryReasons for performing study Although many studies have described results after small intestinal resection and anastomosis in horses, few have described the outcome in horses with strangulating lesions managed without resection. Objectives To examine short- and long-term recoveries in horses with strangulated small intestine that was judged to be viable during surgery and not resected. Study design Retrospective analysis of case records. Methods Data were reviewed from all cases (35 horses) with colic caused by small intestinal strangulation that underwent surgery between 1996 and 2011 at 2 university hospitals and that were managed without resection by 2 surgeons who used a clinical grading system to assess intestinal viability. Kaplan–Meier analyses were used to examine long-term survival. Results Survival to discharge from the hospital was 100%, and post operative complications developed in 11 horses (31%). Three horses (8.6%) required repeat coeliotomy because of persistent pain with or without reflux, and they responded favourably to decompression of distended intestine. Ten horses died after discharge, and 12 were still alive at follow-up from 20 to 192 months after surgery. Information was available on 13 horses after discharge, but these were eventually lost to follow-up. Kaplan–Meier analyses yielded a median survival probability of 120 months. Conclusions A subjective method of assessing small intestinal viability in strangulated small intestine in horses, as used in this study, could reduce the need for resection and anastomosis, with the associated complications and costs. Also, the favourable post operative course in these horses provides strong evidence that early referral could avoid the need for resection and improve survival. The numbers of horses with the most severe changes that were not resected were too small to allow a conclusion that such segments should be left in place, and additional criteria might be needed to guide that decision in such cases.
Low-level laser therapy for fat layer reduction: a comprehensive review.

Background and Objective: Low-level laser (light) therapy (LLLT) is a noninvasive, nonthermal approach to disorders requiring reduction of pain and inflammation and stimulationof healingand tissueregeneration. Within the last decade, LLLT started being investigated as an adjuvant to liposuction, for noninvasive body contouring, reduction of cellulite, and improvement of blood lipid profile. LLLT may also aid autologous fat transfer procedures by enhancing the viability of adipocytes. However the underlying mechanism of actions for such effects still seems to be unclear. It is important, therefore, to understand the potential efficacy and proposed mechanism of actions of this new procedure for fat reduction. Materials and Methods: A review of the literature associated with applications of LLLT related to fat layer reduction was performed to evaluatethefindings from preclinical and clinical studies with respect to the mechanism of action, efficacy, and safety. Results: The studies as of today suggest that LLLT has a potential to be used in fat and cellulite reduction as well as in improvement of blood lipid profile without any significant side effects. One of the main proposed mechanism of actionsisbaseduponproductionoftransientporesinadipocytes, allowinglipidstoleakout.Anotheristhrough activationofthecomplementcascadewhichcouldcauseinduction of adipocyte apoptosis and subsequent release of lipids. Conclusion: Although the present studies have demonstrated safety and efficacy of LLLT in fat layer reduction, studies demonstrating the efficacy of LLLT as a standalone procedure are still inadequate. Moreover, further studies are necessary to identify the mechanism of action. Lasers Surg. Med. 45:349–357, 2013. 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Amyloid A amyloidosis with subcutaneous drug abuse

Introduction: Amyloid A (AA) amyloidosis is a systemic form of amyloidosis secondary to chronic infections and inflammatory disorders. An acute-phase protein produced by the liver, serum amyloid A (SAA) is the precursor of AA amyloid fibrils. AA amyloid deposition occurs predominantly in the kidneys, spleen, adrenal glands, liver and gastrointestinal tract. The manifestations of AA amyloidosis involving the kidneys include proteinuria, tubular dysfunction and progressive loss of renal function.Case: We report a 47-year-old drug addict who developed AA amyloidosis as a result of recurrent suppurative skin infections secondary to subcutaneous drug injection. Elevated C-reactive protein concentrations attested to the presence of a chronic systemic inflammatory state. He suffered from the nephrotic syndrome and insidious loss of renal function. Isosthenuria and glycosuria were indicative of renal tubular dysfunction. Renal biopsy demonstrated AA amyloidosis involving the glomeruli, tubular basement membranes and blood vessel walls.Conclusion: Superimposed acute tubular necrosis due to concomitant endocarditis and cocaine use accelerated his renal disease. Case presentation is followed by a brief discussion of clinical features, natural history and outcome of AA amyloidosis with a particular emphasis on AA amyloidosis as a complication of subcutaneous drug abuse.
Takeovers, Governance and The Cross-Section of Returns

This paper considers the impact of the takeover channel on firm valuation. We usethe idea that takeover activity responds to investor expectations of future rate of return and hence to state variable(s) related to the time variation in risk premia. Thus firms with higher exposure to takeovers, due to higher expectations of receiving a takeover premium, have a higher exposure to the state variable that dictates time variation in risk premia. Consequently, the difference in the returns between firms that differ in their takeover vulnerabilities can be used to used to proxy these state variables. To do so, we create a takeover-spread portfolio that buys firms with low cash-adjusted-leverage(cheaper targets) and shorts firms with high cash-adjusted-leverage and show that sucha portfolio generates annualized abnormal returns of up to 11.20% between 1980 and2003. Also, abnormal returns associated with governance-spread portfolios (Gompers,Ishii and Metrick, 2003 and Cremers and Nair, 2004) decrease significantly once the assetpricing model includes this cash-adjusted-leverage factor. Finally, we propose a new takeover factor to proxy for the risk due to changes in these risk-premia related state variables, which is shown to be important in explaining cross-sectional differences in equity returns. The paper shows why investors require a higher rate of return on firms exposed to takeovers and yet value them higher than firms protected from takeovers.
Measuring skin cancer risk in African Americans: is the Fitzpatrick Skin Type Classification Scale culturally sensitive?

Objective: Fitzpatrick’s Skin Type Classifica-tion Scale often is used to assess sun sensitivityand skin cancer risk. Because the scale wasdeveloped with Whites, its utility and validitywith Blacks may be limited by its reliance onthe European-cultural terms suntan and sun-burn. We tested the hypothesis that mostBlacks would be unable to classify their skininto the four Fitzpatrick skin types.Design, setting, participants: A random,statewide sample of 2085 California Blackadults were administered a survey to categorizetheir skin into the Fitzpatrick types of alwaysburn/never tan (I), usually burn/rarely tan (II),rarely burn/usually tan (III), and never burn/always tan (IV). We also added a responseoption not available in the scale, ‘‘none of theabove describes me.’’ Questions on sunscreenuse and demographics were included.Main outcome measure: Self-reported skin type.Results: 1231 (59%) selected none of theabove, and only 559 (26.8%) categorizedthemselves as type IV. When the none optionis removed and the 59% who chose it wereexcluded as non-responders, the 559 whoselected type IV constitute 65.5% of theremaining sample. Those who selected nonewere significantly less likely than all others to usesunscreen, and income and residential segrega-tionwerethestrongestpredictorsoftypeI/IIskin.Conclusion: Standard administration of theFitzpatrick Scale excludes the majority ofBlacks, yields data that overestimate Blackpopulation prevalence of type IV skin, andexcludes the Blacks who are least likely to usesunscreen. Suggestions are provided for im-proving the cultural sensitivity of the skin-typeassessment. (Ethn Dis. 2010;20:174–179)Key Words: Skin Type, Skin Cancer, Blacks,African Americans, Fitzpatrick Skin Type Clas-sification Scale
Clash of Spirits: The History of Power and Sugar Planter Hegemony on a Visayan Island

Clash of Spirits: The History of Power and Sugar Planter Hegemony on. Visayan Island. Filomeno V. Aguilar Jr. Manila/Honolulu: Ateneo de Manila University Press/University of Hawaii Press, 1998. 313 pp.
Comparing lignocellulose physiochemistry after decomposition by brown rot fungi with distinct evolutionary origins

Summary Among wood-degrading fungi, lineages holding taxa that selectively metabolize carbohydrates without significant lignin removal (brown rot) are polyphyletic, having evolved multiple times from lignin-removing white rot fungi. Given the qualitative nature of the ‘brown rot’ classifier, we aimed to quantify and compare the temporal sequence of carbohydrate removal among brown rot clades. Lignocellulose deconstruction was compared among fungi using distinct plant substrates (angiosperm, conifer, grass). Specifically, aspen, pine and corn stalk were harvested over a 16-week time series from microcosms containing Gloeophyllum trabeum, Fomitopsis pinicola, Ossicaulis lignatilis, Fistulina hepatica, Serpula lacrymans, Wolfiporia cocos or Dacryopinax sp. After quantifying plant mass loss, a thorough compositional analysis was complemented by a saccharification test to determine wood cell wall accessibility. Mass loss and accessibility varied depending on fungal decomposer and substrate, and trajectories of loss for hemicellulosic components and cellulose differed among plant tissue types. At any given stage of decomposition, however, lignocellulose accessibility and the fraction remaining of carbohydrates and lignin within a plant tissue type were generally the same, regardless of fungal isolate. This suggests that the sequence of plant component removal at this typical scale of characterization is shared among these brown rot lineages, despite their diverse genomes and secretomes.
Battlefield Trauma, Traumatic Shock and Consequences: War-Related Advances in Critical Care

Over the course of history, while the underlying causes for wars have remained few, mechanisms of inflicting injury and our ability to treat the consequent wounds have dramatically changed. Success rates in treating war-related injuries have improved greatly, although the course of progress has not proceeded linearly. From Homer's Iliad to the Civil War to Vietnam, there have been significant improvements in mortality, despite a concurrent increase in the lethality of weapons. These improvements have occurred primarily as a result of progress in three key areas: management of wounds, treatment of shock, and systems of organization.
The Future of Wireless Charging [AP-S Turnstile]

The dream of long-range wireless power transmission (WPT), pursued by Nikola Tesla in the nineteenth century, and more recently by the US Department of Energy (DOE) and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) (remember solar power satellite (SPS) systems, proposed in the 1970s?), is also alive and well. Powercast, a Pittsburgh-based company, has developed a range of wireless-charging products based on RF energy harvesting, which promise to deliver "milliwatts over meters" and "watts over meters" for charging low-power lighting and wireless sensors, among potential applications. Unfortunately, the RF power needed to charge cell phones and laptops over moderate distances may not pass muster with the regulators, because of potential human health hazards. Power-Beam, a Silicon Valley startup, which replaces radio waves with low-power laser beams for wireless charging, may also encounter regulatory hurdles.
Measurement of the Asymmetry Parameter in μ-e Decay

The asymmetry parameter in mu -e decay was measured in a situation in which polarization (P) was very nearly equal to unity. From the 10,791 recorded events, the corrected asymmetry parameter is a = -0.298 plus or minus 0.019. This corresponds to P xi = -0.89 plus or minus 06, which is 1.8 standard deviations below the theoretical prediction of xi = -1. (T.B.A.)
Mechanics of anisotropic spring networks.

We construct and analyze a model for a disordered linear spring network with anisotropy. The modeling is motivated by, for example, granular systems, nematic elastomers, and ultimately cytoskeletal networks exhibiting some underlying anisotropy. The model consists of a triangular lattice with two different bond occupation probabilities, ${p}_{x}$ and ${p}_{y}$, for the linear springs. We develop an effective medium theory (EMT) to describe the network elasticity as a function of ${p}_{x}$ and ${p}_{y}$. We find that the onset of rigidity in the EMT agrees with Maxwell constraint counting. We also find beyond linear behavior in the shear and bulk modulus as a function of occupation probability in the rigid phase for small strains, which differs from the isotropic case. We compare our EMT with numerical simulations to find rather good agreement. Finally, we discuss the implications of extending the reach of effective medium theory as well as draw connections with prior work on both anisotropic and isotropic spring networks.
Structural and Functional Analysis of the Native Peripherin-ROM1 Complex Isolated from Photoreceptor Cells

Peripherin and its homologue ROM1 are retina-specific members of the tetraspanin family of integral membrane proteins required for morphogenesis and maintenance of photoreceptor outer segments, regions that collect light stimuli. Over 100 pathogenic mutations in peripherin cause inherited rod- and cone-related dystrophies in humans. Peripherin and ROM1 interact in vivo and are predicted to form a core heterotetrameric complex capable of creating higher order oligomers. However, structural analysis of tetraspanin proteins has been hampered by their resistance to crystallization. Here we present a simplified methodology for high yield purification of peripherin-ROM1 from bovine retinas that permitted its biochemical and biophysical characterization. Using size exclusion chromatography and blue native gel electrophoresis, we confirmed that the core native peripherin-ROM1 complex exists as a tetramer. Peripherin, but not ROM1, is glycosylated and we examined the glycosylation site and glycan composition of ROM1 by liquid chromatographic tandem mass spectrometry. Mass spectrometry was used to analyze the native complex in detergent micelles, demonstrating its tetrameric state. Our electron microscopy-generated structure solved to 18 Å displayed the tetramer as an elongated structure with an apparent 2-fold symmetry. Finally, we demonstrated that peripherin-ROM1 tetramers induce membrane curvature when reconstituted in lipid vesicles. These results provide critical insights into this key retinal component with a poorly defined function.
Raman spectroscopy of fatty acid Blodgett-Langmuir multilayer assemblies

Abstract The Raman Spectra of Blodgett-Langmuir multilayer assemblies made from behenic acid, barium behenate and barium cis-13 erucate are reported. In particular, the peak height intensity ratio of the hydrocarbon chain methylene CH stretch Raman bands, I 2890 I 2850 , for each multilayer assembly is compared to that of phosphatidylcholine in powders and water dispersions as well as to samples of crystalline hydrocarbon chains. It is found that the fatty acid multilayers are more ordered than the phospholipid samples but less ordered than the crystalline samples. It is suggested that Blodgett-Langmuir multilayer assemblies of lipid might be a useful reference in quantitative studies of packing order in lipid phases.
Declines in pinyon pine cone production associated with regional warming

Global climate change is expected to produce large shifts in vegetation distribution and has already increased tree mortality, altering forest structure. However, long-term shifts will be partly dependent on the ability of species to reproduce under a novel climate. Few studies have examined the impact of climate change on the reproductive output of long-lived ‘masting' species, or species characterized by episodic reproductive events. Here, we show that seed cone production among pinyon pine (Pinus edulis), a masting species, declined by 40% from the 1974 decade (1969–1978) to the 2008 decade (2003–2012) in revisited stands throughout New Mexico and northwestern Oklahoma. Seed cone production was highly correlated with late summer temperatures at the time of cone initiation. Further, declines in seed cone production were greatest among populations that experienced the greatest increases in growing season temperatures, which were the populations located at the cooler, upper elevations. As growing season t...
A class of Kalman filters for real-time image processing

In this paper we derive the object-oriented requirements and a design for a class of Kalman filters suitable for real-time image processing. First, we describe the Kalman filter and we provide motivation for using it as a mechanism for fault-tolerant computing and sensor fusion. Next, the details of using Kalman filters in imaging applications are discussed. Then, the advantages of using object-oriented specification, design and languages for the implementation of Kalman filters are studied. Finally, we present a specification and design for a class of Kalman filters, which is suitable for coding.
Characterization of selective glucocorticoid-dependent responses in a glucocorticoid-resistant smooth muscle tumor cell line.

The DDT1 MF2 smooth muscle cell line was derived from an estrogen/androgeninduced leiomyosarcoma arising in the hamster ductus deferens. Growth of this cell line is arrested in Go/G1 by treatment with glucocorticoids. To facilitate the study of the mechanism of glucocorticoid-induced cell growth arrest, a glucocorticoid-resistant variant cell line, DDT1 MF2 GR1 (GR1), was developed by genetic selection. Growth of this mutant cell line is completely resistant to the inhibitory action of glucocorticoids. However, we now demonstrate that both primary and secondary glucocorticoid-induced events still exist in the GR1 cell line. By analyzing the expression and genetic pattern of glucocorticoid receptor, no detectable rearrangement of the glucocorticoid receptor gene was found although the expression of both mRNA and protein levels of the receptor were lower in the variant compared to wild-type cells. In addition, we found that the expression of two growth-associated genes, Ha-ras and transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) are down-regulated by glucocorticoids in wild-type DDT1 MF2 cells but not in GR1 cells. These results indicated that the function or activity of glucocorticoid receptor in the GR1 cells is not qualitatively altered. Our data suggest that a lower glucocorticoid receptor level is not the real cause or at least not the single cause for the GR1 cell's loss of sensitivity to the inhibitory action of glucocorticoid. Instead, we postulate the existence of a defect downstream of the primary site of action of glucocorticoid receptor complexes in GR1 cells. © 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
The Japanese Tsunami and Resulting Nuclear Emergency at the Fukushima Daiichi Power Facility: Technical, Radiologic, and Response Perspectives

The Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power facility, in the Futaba District of the Fukushima Prefecture in Japan, was severely damaged by the earthquake and ensuing tsunami that struck off the northern coast of the island of Honshu on March 11, 2011. The resulting structural damage to the plant disabled the reactor9s cooling systems and led to significant, ongoing environmental releases of radioactivity, triggering a mandatory evacuation of a large area surrounding the plant. The status of the facility continues to change, and permanent control of its radioactive inventory has not yet been achieved. The purpose of this educational article is to summarize the short-term chronology, radiologic consequences, emergency responses, and long-term challenges associated with this event. Although there is ongoing debate on preparedness before the event and the candor of responsible entities in recognizing and disclosing its severity, it largely appears that appropriate key actions were taken by the Japanese authorities during the event that should mitigate any radiologic health impact. These actions include an organized evacuation of over 200,000 inhabitants from the vicinity of the site and areas early in the emergency; monitoring of food and water and placement of radiation limits on such foodstuffs; distribution of stable potassium iodide; and systematic scanning of evacuees. However, the risk of additional fuel damage and of further, perhaps substantial, releases persists. The situation at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear facility remains fluid, and the long-term environmental and health impact will likely take years to fully delineate.
Using quaternions to design composite pulses for spin-1 NQR

The fictitious spin-1/2 operators are well known to describe the evolution of a pure nuclear quadrupole resonance (NQR) system; particularly, the application of a radio-frequency pulse at one of the NQR transition frequencies is equivalent to a three-dimensional rotation in a space defined by the corresponding fictitious spin-1/2 operators. We demonstrate, theoretically and experimentally, that consecutive noncommuting rotations applied at the same transition frequency are well described by a single rotation given by quaternion parameterization of the rotations in ficitious spin-1/2 operator space. This new route could greatly save computing time and efforts. We extend this approach to design composite pulses that compensate for the effects of the radio-frequency field inhomogeneity for a powder sample of spin-1 nuclei.
The Effect of Azochloramid on Certain Physiologically Active Products of Staphylococci

For the production of toxin the semi-synthetic medium of Leonard and Holm2 was used, except that the ammonium lactate of their formula was omitted and the amount of proteose peptone doubled. The medium was distributed in 100-150 cc. amounts to large prescription bottles, sterilized, and slanted for maximum surface. Each bottle was inoculated with 5 cc. of an 18-24 hour broth culture of Staphylococcus aureus (strain 611) and incubated 48-60 hours with 80% carbon dioxide and 20% oxygen. The bottles were shaken and the contents centri-
Compatibility of power delivery and voltage sensitive equipment

The demand for flexible electric energy will continue to drive the use of solid-state electronic devices. These electronic devices have safe operating ranges which are not always compatible with the electric energy distribution system operation. Equipment shutdown can be avoided if this compatibility is considered during the purchase process. An equipment shutdown case study is presented. >
Ethnic Boundary Maintenance among Pastoralists and Farmers in the Western Sudan (Niger) 1

The environment supports three major exploitative activities: horticulture, pastoralism, and mixed farming, practiced respectively by the Manga, Wodaabe, and Muslim Fulani. Because land for cultivation is available easily and without cost, anyone may farm. Muslim Fulani and Wodaabe have institutionalized means of acquiring cattle which enable them to rebuild their herds when, through disease, predation, or other loss, their numbers drop below the point where they can sustain themselves and the humans who depend upon them. The Manga, on the other hand, acquire cattle only through purchase and natural increase. The demands of their farms do not permit them to pay adequate attention to the cattle during the cultivating season, when the animals must be kept away from the planted fields. Therefore they are presented with an alternative: to abandon the farm and assume a pastoral existence, or to consign the cattle to a specialist with the tacit recognition that the herd will not increase to its natural potential, because the herder siphons off some of the animals for his own use. Those Manga who own cattle elect the latter alternative; though it minimizes the possibility of economic gain, it does not remove them from full participation in other relations, based in the village which, they explain, give their lives richness and meaning. The ethnic-ecologic mosaic is maintained as a result of conscious choices of the individuals of the region.
Prolonged Action Potential and after Depolarizations Are Not due to Changes in Potassium Currents in NOS3 Knockout Ventricular Myocytes

Ventricular myocytes deficient in endothelial nitric oxide synthase (NOS3(-/-)) exhibit prolonged action potential (AP) duration and enhanced spontaneous activity (early and delayed afterdepolarizations) during β-adrenergic (β-AR) stimulation. Studies have shown that nitric oxide is able to regulate various K(+) channels. Our objective was to examine if NOS3(-/-) myocytes had altered K(+) currents. APs, transient outward (I(to)), sustained (I(Ksus)), and inward rectifier (I(K1)) K(+) currents were measured in NOS3(-/-) and wild-type (WT) myocytes. During β-AR stimulation, AP duration (measured as 90% repolarization-APD(90)) was prolonged in NOS3(-/-) compared to WT myocytes. Nevertheless, we did not observe differences in I(to), I(Ksus), or I(K1) between WT and NOS3(-/-) myocytes. Our previous work showed that NOS3(-/-) myocytes had a greater Ca(2+) influx via L-type Ca(2+) channels with β-AR stimulation. Thus, we measured β-AR-stimulated SR Ca(2+) load and found a greater increase in NOS3(-/-) versus WT myocytes. Hence, our data suggest that the prolonged AP in NOS3(-/-) myocytes is not due to changes in I(to), I(Ksus), or I(K1). Furthermore, the increase in spontaneous activity in NOS3(-/-) myocytes may be due to a greater increase in SR Ca(2+) load. This may have important implications for heart failure patients, where arrhythmias are increased and NOS3 expression is decreased.
Impact of Educational Interventions to Prevent Drug Interactions Between Oral Fluoroquinolone or Tetracycline Antibiotics With Polyvalent-Cation Supplements

PurposeFluoroquinolone and tetracycline antibiotics are routinely used for the treatment of a variety of bacterial infections. A disadvantage with their oral administration is the potential for a d...
The impact of human rights INGO activities on economic sanctions

What impact do human rights international non-governmental organizations (hereafter HROs) have on the initiation of economic sanctions? The extant literatures on sanctions and transnational non-state groups have largely overlooked the role, if any, the activities of these transnational non-state actors have on the use of economic coercion as a popular policy tool. In this study, we argue that HROs could affect sanction decisions through two distinct mechanisms: information production (“shaming and blaming”) and local empowerment (local presence). By bringing poor human rights performers into the international spotlight, we argue that this effect should hold even after accounting for human rights practices in the targeted countries. Using dyadic data on HROs and economic sanctions, we find robust support for our basic argument that HRO activities increase the likelihood of sanction events against repressive regimes. Additionally, much of the empirical support highlights the role of information production, as opposed to local empowerment, in leading to sanction onset. Overall, our findings indicate that HROs are powerful actors in influencing foreign policy decisions between states.
Energy use in Monroe county (Rochester), New York

In 1981, Monroe County residents sent more than $0.75 × 109 to other states and countries for energy purchases. As with most areas in the energy poor, frost-belt states of the northeastern United States, these energy costs have increased precipitously since the 1973–1974 OPEC embargo to a point today where they constitute a serious financial drain for the community. It is projected that by 1988 close to $1 × 109 will be needed for energy purchases. Energy conservation will save money and create jobs, as will production of local energy. Because of the job-creation differential for capital invested in large centralized energy facilities vs local, dispersed-energy projects, Monroe County could employ at least five people locally in energy-conservation jobs for each person that might be employed in a major petroleum- or utility-related job in some other region. By increasing energy efficiency only 10%, Monroe County could create 5000–10,000 jobs. To achieve these efficiency gains, a comprehensive energy plan convering all sectors of energy consumption must be devised, adopted, and implemented. A key element in such a plan would be a financing scheme to enable residents to make energy-efficiency improvements at little or no overall cost.
Computer simulation of transformation induced plasticity using finite element method

Abstract Some important aspects associated with the transformation induced plasticity in Al2O3ZrO2 are analyzed using a computer simulation based on Finite Element Method (FEM). These aspects include (i) an estimation of the residual stress in the second phase, arising during post fabrication cooling, which affects the critical stress for transformation, (ii) the constitutive behavior of the material during the dilatational transformation of ZrO2 and (iii) the crack deflection due to the transformation. This simulation study was conducted for angular as well as spherical shapes of second phase particles and also for varying volume fractions of the second phase, using a master finite element mesh. Apart from this numerical experiment, analytical expressions were derived for the residual stress and the constitutive behavior, assuming spherical shape for the second phase particles. The analysis of the constitutive behavior mainly consists of an estimation of the composite modulus and of the irreversible strain due to the transformation. The comparison of the analytical solutions with the results obtained through the simulation shows a very good agreement. Using the simulation of crack deflection, the increase in crack surface area due to the transformation was computed, to approximately estimate the improvement in fracture toughness due to the crack deflection mechanism.