cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cord Blood Metabolites Associated with Newborn Adiposity and Hyperinsulinemia.

Objective To evaluate the association between cord blood amino acid and acylcarnitine profiles and measures of adiposity and hyperinsulinemia in healthy newborns. Study design A cross-sectional study of 118 full-term infants born to mothers without gestational diabetes was performed. Cord blood leptin, C-peptide, acylcarnitine, and amino acid levels were measured. Body composition was measured by air displacement plethysmography. Multivariate linear regression and principal component analysis were used to analyze associations of cord blood metabolites with newborn anthropometrics, leptin, and C-peptide. Results Acylcarnitines AC C2, AC C4-DC/Ci4-DC, and AC C8:1-OH/C6:1-DC were positively associated with leptin, and AC C14, AC C14:2, AC C16, AC C18, and AC C18:2 were negatively associated with C-peptide (P ≤ .0016). Principal component analysis revealed a positive association between factor 1(AC C2, AC C3, AC C5, AC C4/Ci4, AC C4-OH, AC C4-DC/Ci4-DC, glutamate/glutamine, and glycine) and adiposity measures. Conclusions The positive association of AC C2 and AC C4-DC/Ci4-DC levels with leptin may reflect excess fat stores, higher fatty acid oxidation rate, and mitochondrial dysfunction leading to accumulation of acylcarnitine intermediates. Principal component analysis revealed a positive association between branched chain amino acid and ketone body metabolites and adiposity, confirming prior findings in adults. Cord blood acylcarnitine profiles may identify at-risk children before obesity or insulin resistance develops.
What's Race Got to do with it? Exploring the In-Race Adoption of Asian Children

This study sought to explore adoption in Asian American families. There has been much discussion and sometimes heated debate about outcomes for children of color placed transracially and the abilit...
Non-apoptotic Roles of Caspases in Stem Cell Biology, Carcinogenesis, and Radiotherapy

To summarize recent findings on novel roles of caspases in stem cell biology, tumor repopulation, and tissue regeneration. Contrary to the long-held notion that apoptotic caspases are exclusively executioners of programmed cell death, an abundance of evidence is emerging that activation of caspases does not inevitably lead to cell death. It is now known that sublethal activation of caspases occurs in development, stem cell differentiation, epigenetic reprogramming, and a whole host of other key biological processes. Important for cancer biology, recent studies show that activation of caspases in tumors facilitates carcinogenesis, metastasis, and tumor relapse after cancer treatment. We have found that apoptotic cells secrete prostaglandins to stimulate proliferation of neighboring cells. This pathway functions to regenerate tissues and stem cells in multiple organisms, but it also poses problems in emerging tumor resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Novel findings on caspases are contrary to established paradigms and might explain why cancer therapies aimed at activating apoptotic caspases have not been very successful in the clinic. In this brief review, we summarize some novel findings regarding caspases with the hope of stimulating more interest in this nascent but increasingly important research area. Better understanding of the diverse roles of caspases may one day help us establish novel approaches for treating cancer.
Safe Spaces, Difficult Dialogues, and Critical Thinking

In this essay we explore a participation paradox associated with high-order learning. The greater the complexity and emotionality of the material, the more dangerous it becomes to participate in classroom discussions. We discuss the tensions involved with trying to balance building “safe spaces” and critical thinking capacity and examine those “moments of difficulty” when comfort and evaluation collide. Baxter Magolda’s four strategies that promote holistic learning are used to analyze the results from a focus group of ten graduating seniors. Results are discussed in the context of strategies to enhance student learning through the implementation of safe spaces that enhance critical thinking.
Optical sensing of laminar to turbulent transition and boundary layer turbulence (Conference Presentation)

Characterizing turbulent instabilities in transitional and developed turbulent boundary layers is of critical importance to the development of methods to suppress such instabilities, which has important implications for research into drag reduction and energy-efficient propulsion methods. This includes the cancellation of Tollmien-Schlichting (TS) waves in the transitional and the counteracting of large-scale coherent structures in the developed turbulent boundary layer. To efficiently respond to instabilities near a boundary, the instabilities have to be sensed and described with a high level of accuracy. We visualize and measure velocity fluctuations in a laminar to turbulent flow tank to study the development of TS waves for active cancellation and identify boundary layers streaks for the development of stabilization methods. The flow structure in the tank is described through dye experiments, Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV), novel high-frequency fiber-optics flow sensors, and Acoustic Doppler Velocimeters (ADV), with the goal of identifying TS waves in transitional turbulence, as well as boundary layer streaks in developed turbulence. The impact of passive elastic boundary materials on the flow is investigated to aid the development of active actuated membranes aimed at reducing boundary layer turbulence and drag. In addition to flow measurements from various sensors, we employ computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to emulate the laboratory setting and complement the measurements. The CFD representation of the laboratory tank is implemented as high-resolution large-eddy simulation with elastic boundary conditions simulating the compliant boundary. The combined setup is a critical tool in the ongoing development of methods for active boundary later control.
Asymmetry as a challenge to counterfactual accounts of non-causal explanation

This paper examines some recent attempts that use counterfactuals to understand the asymmetry of non-causal scientific explanations. These attempts recognize that even when there is explanatory asymmetry, there may be symmetry in counterfactual dependence. Therefore, something more than mere counterfactual dependence is needed to account for explanatory asymmetry. Whether that further ingredient, even if applicable to causal explanation, can fit non-causal explanation is the challenge that explanatory asymmetry poses for counterfactual accounts of non-causal explanation. This paper argues that several recent accounts (Woodward, in: Reutlinger and Saatsi (eds) Explanation beyond causation: philosophical perspectives on non-causal explanations, Oxford University Press, Oxford, pp 117–140, 2018; Jansson and Saatsi in Br J Philos Sci, forthcoming; Jansson in J Philos 112:7–599, 2015; Saatsi and Pexton in Philos Sci 80: 613–624, 2013; French and Saatsi, in: Reutlinger and Saatsi (eds) Explanation beyond causation: philosophical perspectives on non-causal explanations, Oxford University Press, Oxford, pp 185–205, 2018) fail to meet this challenge. The paper then sketches a more positive proposal for dealing with explanatory asymmetry in non-causal explanations.
Near-Optimal Adversarial Policy Switching for Decentralized Asynchronous Multi-Agent Systems

A key challenge in multi-robot and multi-agent systems is generating solutions that are robust to other self-interested or even adversarial parties who actively try to prevent the agents from achieving their goals. The practicality of existing works addressing this challenge is limited to only small-scale synchronous decision-making scenarios or a single agent planning its best response against a single adversary with fixed, procedurally characterized strategies. In contrast this paper considers a more realistic class of problems where a team of asynchronous agents with limited observation and communication capabilities need to compete against multiple strategic adversaries with changing strategies. This problem necessitates agents that can coordinate to detect changes in adversary strategies and plan the best response accordingly. Our approach first optimizes a set of stratagems that represent these best responses. These optimized stratagems are then integrated into a unified policy that can detect and respond when the adversaries change their strategies. The near-optimality of the proposed framework is established theoretically as well as demonstrated empirically in simulation and hardware.
Depth Map Improvements for Stereo-based Depth Cameras on Drones

Using stereo-based depth cameras outdoors on drones can lead to challenging situations for stereo algorithms calculating a depth map. A false depth value indicating an object close to the drone can confuse obstacle avoidance algorithms and lead to erratic behavior during the drone flight. We analyze the encountered issues from real-world tests together with practical solutions including a post-processing method to modify depth maps against outliers with wring depth values.
From the margin to the center: A framework for rehumanizing mathematics education for students with dis/abilities

Abstract Mathematics education for students with dis/abilities has a legacy of exclusion; its scholarship has been dominated by ableist perspective: a focus on rote mathematics facts, procedural instruction, and a narrow range of mathematics content. Grounded in critical pedagogy and critical disabilities studies, we argue for a shift in the focus away from the student as the site of defect and intervention to recognize the complex embodiment of dis/ability as a process produced within historical, political, social, and material contexts. The theoretical assumptions and guiding principles for a framework of culturally responsive and relational understanding of dis/ability will be shared together with a case of such an approach in classroom practice. The paper advances efforts to support all learners in robust mathematics learning communities and to situate research from perspectives that acknowledge the situated, interactional nature of ability, identity, and achievement.
Bisphosphonates: Mechanisms of Action and Role in Osteoporosis Therapy

Bisphosphonates are the most commonly prescribed treatments for osteoporosis in both postmenopausal women and men. They inhibit bone resorption by osteoclasts and indirectly reduce bone formation coupled to resorption without direct effects on bone formation by osteoblasts. Several of the nitrogen-containing bisphosphonates (N-BP) have been shown to reduce the risk of fractures of the spine, proximal femur and non-vertebral fractures in prospective placebo-controlled studies up to 4 years long. While fracture risk reduction implies improved bone strength and bone strength cannot be measured in individual patients, current models indicate that decreased bone resorption results in both improved bone microarchitecture and greater bone mass, and that both effects contribute to bone strength. All bisphosphonates share the “bisphosphonate” P-C-P structure responsible for their affinity for hydroxyapatite on bone surfaces, while the chemistry of the moiety linked to the central carbon results in their inhibition of osteoclast-mediated bone resorption. The pharmacokinetic profiles of all N-BPs are similar and differ substantially from most other drugs. Oral bioavailability is <1% and they must be administered fasting or via intravenous (IV) infusion. BPs in blood distribute quickly to bone surfaces or are eliminated in urine. The half-life of BPs on bone surfaces is 3–5 weeks, where they inhibit osteoclasts that form resorption lacunae on BP-coated surface. Their long bone-surface half-life allows weekly, monthly and even yearly treatment regimens. BPs are not metabolized and may be incorporated into new bone, where they are not pharmacologically active unless a subsequent round of bone remodeling results in their resorption. When BP treatment is stopped, bone resorption increases in two phases. The first phase occurs over weeks to months as the concentration on the surface of bone decreases. If enough BP has been incorporated into new bone formed during prior treatment, that bisphosphonate may be released and again inhibit bone resorption. The second phase of post-treatment resorption increase occurs gradually as BP within bone decreases (estimated half-life with bone is approximately 5 years). Upper gastrointestinal symptoms are the only common side effects of oral bisphosphonates and may require use of an intravenous formulation. Less common side effects include musculoskeletal pain that begins several months after the start of treatment and resolves when treatment is interrupted. Two rare potential side effects (osteonecrosis of the jaw and atypical femoral fractures) limit broader patient acceptance and lead to the use of a “drug holiday” after 3–5 years of treatment to reduce side effect risk. Controlled clinical trials are required to determine the persistence of both fracture risk reduction and risk of adverse events (including atypical femoral fractures) after long-term (3–5 years) treatment with bisphosphonates is either discontinued, continued at the same dose or continued at a lower dose, to develop an evidence-based approach to the use of drug holidays.
Impairment of Flow-Sensitive Inwardly Rectifying K+ Channels via Disruption of Glycocalyx Mediates Obesity-Induced Endothelial Dysfunction.

Objective: To determine if endothelial dysfunction in a mouse model of diet-induced obesity and in obese humans is mediated by the suppression of endothelial Kir (inwardly rectifying K+) channels. ...
Mechanistic Insight into Hydrogen-Assisted Carbon Dioxide Reduction with Ilmenite

The transformation of CO2 to chemicals and fuels offers a means of CO2 utilization while mitigating the global carbon footprint. An attractive strategy involves the CO2 reforming of methane with ox...
Race to the Bottom? Local Tax Break Competition and Business Location

I analyze how competition between localities affects tax breaks and business location decisions. I first use a geographic instrument to show that spatial competition substantially increases firm-specific property tax breaks. I then use this pattern to estimate a model of localities competing for mobile firms by offering tax exemptions. Incounterfactual exercises, restricting which levels of government can offer tax breaks has little effect on equilibrium business locations but lowers total exemptions by 30 percent. This suggests that local tax break competition primarily reduces taxes for mobile firms and is unlikely to substantially affect the efficiency of business location.
Predicting an optimal oxide/metal catalytic interface for hydrodeoxygenation chemistry of biomass derivatives

Complex reaction pathways such as hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) of multi-oxygenated reactants like furfuryl alcohol towards 2-methylfuran can benefit from a close connection between multi-component (oxide–metal) catalytic site properties and their catalytic performance. The HDO activity can be tuned by optimizing the synergy between the individual metal oxide and metal site properties towards the HDO catalytic cycle consisting of C–O activation, C–H formation, and oxygen vacancy formation steps. Through our previously reported model of an oxide–metal interface catalyst – a TiO2 nanorod on a Pd (111) surface, we identified the following material descriptors that dictate furfuryl alcohol HDO activity: work function (Φ), oxygen vacancy formation energy (ΔEvac), metal–carbon binding energy (M–CB.E.), and extent of metal–metal oxide interfacial charge transfer (q). The descriptors were examined over the interface with the composition altered towards closed pack metals: Ag, Au, Cu, Pd, Rh, Ru and Zn, and monolayer surfaces of Ag, Au, Co, Cu, Fe, Ir, Ni, Pt, Rh, Ru and Zn metals atop Pd (111). We identified a greater stabilization of the C–O activation transition state, the key HDO step, through electronic charge redistribution at the interface, facilitated by a higher metal work function. Stronger metal–carbon binding dictates the favorable hydrogenation of the resulting organic fragment. The role of these descriptors was further investigated under experimentally relevant hydrogenation reaction conditions of H2 and hydrocarbons partial pressures. Such fundamental knowledge of the descriptors dictating HDO can provide opportunities for further tuning the structural, electronic, and chemical properties of a multicomponent interface to achieve optimal HDO activity.
Loop Diuretics Inhibit Ischemia-Induced Intracellular Ca2+ Overload in Neurons via the Inhibition of Voltage-Gated Ca2+ and Na+ Channels.

One consequence of ischemic stroke is disruption of intracellular ionic homeostasis. Intracellular overload of both Na+ and Ca2+ has been linked to neuronal death in this pathophysiological state. The etiology of ionic imbalances resulting from stroke-induced ischemia and acidosis includes the dysregulation of multiple plasma membrane transport proteins, such as increased activity of sodium-potassium-chloride cotransporter-1 (NKCC-1). Experiments using NKCC1 antagonists, bumetanide (BMN) and ethacrynic acid (EA), were carried out to determine if inhibition of this cotransporter affects Na+ and Ca2+ overload observed following in vitro ischemia-acidosis. Fluorometric Ca2+ and Na+ measurements were performed using cultured cortical neurons, and measurements of whole-cell membrane currents were used to determine target(s) of BMN and EA, other than the electroneutral NKCC-1. Both BMN and EA depressed ischemia-acidosis induced [Ca2+]i overload without appreciably reducing [Na+]i increases. Voltage-gated Ca2+ channels were inhibited by both BMN and EA with half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of 4 and 36 μM, respectively. Similarly, voltage-gated Na+ channels were blocked by BMN and EA with IC50 values of 13 and 30 μM, respectively. However, neither BMN nor EA affected currents mediated by acid-sensing ion channels or ionotropic glutamatergic receptors, both of which are known to produce [Ca2+]i overload following ischemia. Data suggest that loop diuretics effectively inhibit voltage-gated Ca2+ and Na+ channels at clinically relevant concentrations, and block of these channels by these compounds likely contributes to their clinical effects. Importantly, inhibition of these channels, and not NKCC1, by loop diuretics reduces [Ca2+]i overload in neurons during ischemia-acidosis, and thus BMN and EA could potentially be used therapeutically to lessen injury following ischemic stroke.
ADAM17 cleaves sphingosine 1 phosphate receptor 1 and regulates downstream signaling in endothelial cells (851.1)

Sphingosine-1- phosphate receptor 1 (S1PR1) is a high affinity seven-membrane G protein coupled receptor for bioactive lipid sphingosine-1- phosphate (S1P). S1PR1 plays a critical role in regulating several endothelial cell functions such as proliferation, migration and importantly enhances endothelial barrier function. However, mechanism regulating S1PR1 cell surface retention remains unclear. Members of the ADAM (a disntintegrin and metalloproteases) family of proteases are known for cleaving the ectodomain of a variety of cell surface receptors thereby regulating their activities. In our present study, we addressed the possibility that ADAM family of proteases target S1PR1 and thereby downregulate it’s signaling in endothelial cells. We found that treatment of human pulmonary arterial endothelial (HPAE) cells with phorbol-12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), an activator of ADAM proteases, induces cleavage of S1PR1 within 2 hrs, while treatment with a broad range MMP inhibitor (TAPI-0), stabilized S1PR1 expr...
Ver-vite: dynamic and experimental analysis for inchwormlike biomimetic robots

The intent of this work was to design an innovative robot to imitate inchworm locomotion. The prototype built demonstrates successful implementation of using only friction and variable masses to generate the motion. The theoretical model was simulated using working model and validated experimentally. The computer simulation shows the dynamic and kinetic effects on inchworm mobility, providing a complete understanding of the design concept. The experimental results compare well with the theoretical model, although the exact coefficient of friction during the experiment was not measured. Theoretical and experimental results both indicate a slight backward motion of the robot during the contractile phase of the cycle of motion. Although the results are similar, the theoretical model fails to include such phenomena as the friction in the revolute joints and the vibration produced by the pump and servos. The theoretical model will be used in future work to optimize the design of the robot for dynamic performance.
Using the Conceptual Graph Operations for Natural Language Generation in Medicine

Natural language generation systems for the medical domain have to take into account the specific domain vocabulary as well as the particular language style of a highly conventionalised language. This is particularily relevant for multilingual generation.
Achieving enhanced and tunable adhesion via composite posts

Surfaces with enhanced and tunable adhesion have a variety of applications, including microtransfer printing of semiconductor elements, material handling in manufacturing, and gripping surfaces on climbing robots. Traditionally, schemes to achieve tunable adhesion have relied on fabricating arrays of posts or fibers with complex geometries, such as angled posts terminated by wider caps. Here, we describe an alternative to post structures with complex geometries through the use of composite posts that consist of a stiff core and a compliant shell. Posts consisting of a stiff core and compliant shell have enhanced adhesion under normal loading, and the pull-off can be reduced via the application of shear. The adhesion mechanics of composite posts are demonstrated here through a combination of finite element simulations and experimental measurements on individual millimeter-scale posts.
On the Structure of Jets from Highly Underexpanded Nozzles Into Still Air

A method for calculating the position of the first normal shock, or Mach disc, in the jet behind a highly underexpanded nozzle is presented. In the calculation for a sonic orifice, the axial pressure distribution on the centerline of the flow behind the orifice, calculated by the method of characteristics, is used to define a fictitious nozzle extension, and the shock is then assumed to exist at that point where atmospheric pressure would be attained behind the shock—i.e., the shock is assumed to exist at the end of the fictitious nozzle extension. Physical arguments are then employed to extend this calculation to nozzles with supersonic exit Mach Numbers. The results compare favorably with experimental data. An approximate method for computing the jet boundary up to the point of maximum jet area is given, and the results are compared both with photographs of actual jets and with jet boundaries calculated by the method of characteristics. Favorable agreement exists at relatively low nozzle pressure ratios.
Cellular Automata Model of Macroevolution

In this paper I describe a cellular automaton model of a multi-species ecosystem, suitable for the study of emergent properties of macroevolution. Unlike majority of ecological models, the number of coexisting species is not fixed. Starting from one common ancestor they appear by "mutations" of existent species, and then survive or extinct depending on the balance of local ecological interactions. Monte-Carlo numerical simulations show that this model is able to qualitatively reproduce phenomena that have been observed in other models and in nature.
Chapter 10 – Water-Soluble Vitamins and Nonnutrients

Food contains many water-soluble nutrients. Some of them are essential because without them, we are less likely to survive from conception until we can raise offspring ourselves. Other water-soluble nutrients can be produced in the body, but added intake with food or dietary supplements may improve health, physical performance, and cognitive function. Most of the essential water-soluble nutrients were called vitamins early on, when acute deficiency symptoms were quickly resolved by increased intake. This has given the term vitamin a powerful aura of wholesome and risk-free compounds. Continued research has since made it clear that both consuming too little and consuming too much of these essential nutrients can cause harm. The line between essential and nonessential nutrients has also become increasingly blurred. Added consumption of some water-soluble nutrients may become recognized as essential for a minority of individuals. Detailed understanding of the metabolic pathways and functions of the compounds described in this chapter will help to identify vulnerable individuals and clarify health risks and potential harm of the parent compounds and their metabolites.
Whole-body heat shock protects the ischemic rat heart by stimulating mitochondria respiration

Whole-body heat shock (HS) leads to an enhancement of postischemic mechanical function and an improvement in glucose use by the rat heart. Here, we examine the effect of HS on isolated mitochondrial metabolism during reperfusion in the working rat heart. Rats were anesthetized, and their body temperature was raised to 41–42 °C for 15 min. Control rats were treated the same way but were not exposed to hyperthermia. Twenty-fours after HS or sham treatment, rats were reanesthetized and the hearts were removed for perfusion with Krebs–Henseleit buffer, containing 11 mmol glucose/L and 1.2 mmol palmitate/L prebound to 3% albumin. Hearts were subjected to 25 min of global ischemia followed by 30 min of reperfusion. At the end of reperfusion, heart mitochondria were isolated using differential centrifugation and respiration measured in the presence of pyruvate, glutamate, or palmitoylcarnitine. Hearts subjected to HS showed an enhanced recovery of function, expressed as aortic flow, during the reperfusion period...
Complex, aperiodic random signal modulation on pulse-LFM chirp radar waveform

In an effort to enhance the security of radar, the plausibility of using a complex, aperiodic random signal to modulate a pulse linear frequency modulation (LFM) or "chirp" radar waveform across both its fast-time and slow-time samples is investigated. A non-conventional threat is considered when illustrating the effectiveness of the proposed waveform as an electronic counter-countermeasure (ECCM). Results are derived using stretch processing and are assessed using the receiver cross-correlation function with a consideration for the unmodulated case as a basis for comparison. A tailored radar ambiguity function is also included in the analysis, and is used to demonstrate how the proposed waveform possesses an ideal characteristic suitable for combating today's electronic warfare (EW) threats while preserving its inherent functionality to detect targets.
The food and environmental safety of Bt crops

Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) microbial pesticides have a 50-year history of safety in agriculture. Cry proteins are among the active insecticidal ingredients in these pesticides, and genes coding for Cry proteins have been introduced into agricultural crops using modern biotechnology. The Cry gene sequences are often modified to enable effective expression in planta and several Cry proteins have been modified to increase biological activity against the target pest(s). Additionally, the domains of different but structurally conserved Cry proteins can be combined to produce chimeric proteins with enhanced insecticidal properties. Environmental studies are performed and include invertebrates, mammals, and avian species. Mammalian studies used to support the food and feed safety assessment are also used to support the wild mammal assessment. In addition to the NTO assessment, the environmental assessment includes a comparative assessment between the Bt crop and the appropriate conventional control that is genetically similar but lacks the introduced trait to address unintended effects. Specific phenotypic, agronomic, and ecological characteristics are measured in the Bt crop and the conventional control to evaluate whether the introduction of the insect resistance has resulted in any changes that might cause ecological harm in terms of altered weed characteristics, susceptibility to pests, or adverse environmental impact. Additionally, environmental interaction data are collected in field experiments for Bt crop to evaluate potential adverse effects. Further to the agronomic and phenotypic evaluation, potential movement of transgenes from a genetically modified crop plants into wild relatives is assessed for a new pest resistance gene in a new crop. This review summarizes the evidence for safety of crops containing Cry proteins for humans, livestock, and other non-target organisms.
The Very Separate Worlds of Academic and Practitioner Publications in Human Resource Management: Reasons for the Divide and Concrete Solutions for Bridging the Gap

In this article the author examines the difference between the academic study of personnel resource management and the practical performance of the same discipline in a real-life setting. She frame...
Interlimb coordination is impaired during walking in persons with Parkinson’s disease

Abstract Background Coordination between the upper and lower extremities is important to providing dynamic stability during human gait. Though limited, previous research has suggested that interlimb coordination may be impaired in persons with Parkinson's disease. We extend this previous work using continuous analytical techniques to enhance our understanding of interlimb coordination during gait in persons with Parkinson's disease. Methods Eighteen adults with Parkinson's disease and fifteen healthy older adults walked overground while undergoing three-dimensional motion capture. Ipsilateral and contralateral interlimb coordination between the sagittal shoulder and hip angles was assessed using cross-covariance techniques. Independent samples and paired samples t-tests compared measures of interlimb coordination between groups and between sides within the participants with Parkinson's disease, respectively. Pearson's correlations were applied to investigate associations between interlimb coordination measures and subscores of gait, posture, and bradykinesia on the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale. Findings Ipsilateral and contralateral interlimb coordination was reduced in persons with Parkinson's disease compared to the healthy older adults. Ipsilateral coordination between the upper and lower extremities more affected by disease was found to be negatively associated with clinical scores of gait and posture. Interlimb coordination was not significantly associated with clinical measures of bradykinesia. Interpretation Persons with Parkinson's disease exhibit reduced interlimb coordination during gait when compared to healthy older adults. These reductions in coordination are related to clinically-meaningful worsening of gait and posture in persons with PD and coordination of arm and leg movements should be considered in future research on gait therapy in this population.
Optical tools to assess naturalness of cosmetic films

Developing technologies and cosmetic formulations that mimic the optical properties of healthy, youthful skin is a significant challenge and has been one of the recent key areas of focus in the cosmetic industry. A common tool to assess optical properties of cosmetic formulations involves use of spectrophotometer with an integrating sphere to measure transmittance and opacity. Given that the human face is three-dimensional and contoured, and that the human eye processes information gathered at many angles, adding a measure that capture the angular behavior of light provides cosmetic scientists with an additional valuable tool. Here we describe addition of wide angle transmittance measurement via goniospectrophotometer to the optical tool kit. Results with soft focus materials and commercially available cosmetic products are reported. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 34, 170–172, 2009
Can Effective Risk Management Signal Virtue-Based Leadership?

Using exploratory factor analysis on a unique dataset of global executives, we find that their perceptions of their national government’s risk management effectiveness are largely driven by two latent factors: leadership virtue, and governance. We show that the leadership virtue signal is potentially a stronger signal (3.19 times more correlated with risk management perceptions than the governance indicator). We hypothesize that this may be because making decisions and taking actions to manage risk is a continuous process requiring inter alia foresight and moral discipline in looking to the interests of others and acting in service to those interests above self-interest. This suggests at least two propositions for further testing, for which, we offer rhetorical argument and anecdotal evidence at the end of this paper and suggest methodologies for further testing. To our knowledge, this is the first paper to uncover this connection empirically between national risk management and leadership virtue.
Transient flow behavior for a helium-cooled ceramic breeder blanket

This paper presents a thermal-hydraulic analysis of a helium-cooled ceramic breeder blanket for the ITER. It is found that the blanket can operate at moderate pressure and temperatures, which coupled to the use of an inert gas, makes it particularly attractive from a safety standpoint. Transient analysis of the manifolding flow distribution indicates that the introduction of a diffusive plate at the inlet of the blanket coolant flow path produces a more uniform coolant exit temperature. Control of the pump pressure head ensures that the coolant temperature is kept below its maximum limit, set by the maximum allowable operating temperature of the breeder.
Self-Consistent Modeling Of Amorphous Silicon Devices

We have developed a computer model to describe the steady-state behaviour of a range of amorphous silicon devices. It is based on the complete set of transport equations and takes into account the important role played by the continuous distribution of localized states in the mobility gap of amorpl iL,us silicon. Using one set of parameters we have been able to self-consistently simulate the current-voltage characteristics of p-i-n ( or n-i-p) solar cells under illumination, the dark behaviour of field-effect transistors, p-i-n diodes and n-i-n diodes in both the ohmic and space-charge limited regimes. This model also desribes the steady-state photoconductivity of amorphous silicon, in particular, its dependence on temperature, doping and illumination intensity.
Menstrual cycle phase modulates reward-related neural function in women

There is considerable evidence from animal studies that the mesolimbic and mesocortical dopamine systems are sensitive to circulating gonadal steroid hormones. Less is known about the influence of estrogen and progesterone on the human reward system. To investigate this directly, we used functional MRI and an event-related monetary reward paradigm to study women with a repeated-measures, counterbalanced design across the menstrual cycle. Here we show that during the midfollicular phase (days 4-8 after onset of menses) women anticipating uncertain rewards activated the orbitofrontal cortex and amygdala more than during the luteal phase (6-10 days after luteinizing hormone surge). At the time of reward delivery, women in the follicular phase activated the midbrain, striatum, and left fronto-polar cortex more than during the luteal phase. These data demonstrate augmented reactivity of the reward system in women during the midfollicular phase when estrogen is unopposed by progesterone. Moreover, investigation of between-sex differences revealed that men activated ventral putamen more than women during anticipation of uncertain rewards, whereas women more strongly activated the anterior medial prefrontal cortex at the time of reward delivery. Correlation between brain activity and gonadal steroid levels also revealed that the amygdalo-hippocampal complex was positively correlated with estradiol level, regardless of menstrual cycle phase. Together, our findings provide evidence of neurofunctional modulation of the reward system by gonadal steroid hormones in humans and establish a neurobiological foundation for understanding their impact on vulnerability to drug abuse, neuropsychiatric diseases with differential expression across males and females, and hormonally mediated mood disorders.
EGF and TGF-α Supplementation Enhances Development of Cloned Mouse Embryos

In this study, we sought to determine the extent to which mitogenic growth factors affect the survival and development of cloned mouse embryos in vitro. Cloned embryos derived by intracytoplasmic nuclear injection (ICNI) of cumulus cell nuclei into enucleated oocytes were incubated in culture media supplemented with EGF and/or TGF-α for 4 days. Compared to control, treatment with either growth factor significantly increased the blastocyst formation rate, the total number of cells per blastocyst, the cell ratio of the inner cell mass and the trophectoderm (ICM:TE ratio), and EGF-R protein expression in cloned embryos. In most instances these effects were enhanced in cloned embryos when EGF and TGF-α were combined. Although fewer blastocysts developed from cloned than from fertilized one-cell stage embryos, growth factor treatment appeared to have the greatest effect on cloned embryos. These results demonstrate that mitogenic growth factors significantly enhance survival and promote the preimplantation deve...
The Molecular Basis for Pyrimidine-Selective DNA Binding: Analysis of Calicheamicin Oligosaccharide Derivatives by Capillary Electrophoresis

Synthetic derivatives of the calicheamicin oligosaccharide were designed to probe the molecular basis for pyrimidine recognition. Binding affinities of the oligosaccharide derivatives for a range o...
van der Waals forces between metal microclusters and fullerenes.

Absolute integral cross sections for low-energy scattering of neutral sodium clusters ${\mathrm{Na}}_{\mathit{n}}$ (2n20) by ${\mathrm{C}}_{60}$ fullerenes have been measured. Cluster-cluster interaction is dominated by long-range van der Waals forces. Interaction constants determined from the data are in good agreement with the prediction of dispersion theory based on the spectral properties. The large cluster polarizabilities are responsible for the high strength of the interaction potential and, consequently, for the large center-of-mass cross sections (\ensuremath{\gtrsim}5000 A${\mathrm{\r{}}}^{2}$ for ${\mathrm{Na}}_{20\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}}$${\mathrm{C}}_{60}$ collisions).
A reconsideration of measurements of money left on the table - an analysis of OCS auctions over the period 1954–77

The analysis focusses on whether continuing information on market performance resulted in observable adaptations in behaviour by market participants in Outer Continental Shelf oil lease auctions. We suggest that one common measure of overbidding, money left on the table (MLOT), suffers from at least three easily identifiable deficiencies: failure to take account of plot size, failure to consider significant differences in plot value, and failure to take inflation into account. We set forth alternative measures and use deflated data in our empirical analysis. While we find a narrowing over time, relative overbidding remains large even in late periods
Plasma membrane Ca2+-ATPase isoforms: distribution of mRNAs in rat brain by in situ hybridization

Several mRNAs which encode for isoforms of the plasma membrane Ca(2+)-transport ATPase (PMCA) are present in adult rat brain. Using in situ hybridization with antisense oligonucleotide probes we found complex patterns of specific hybridization for three isoforms (PMCA1-3). Each rat brain region studied exhibited a distinct pattern of expression of isoforms. PMCA1 mRNA, which is widely distributed in rat tissues, was highest in CA1 pyramidal cells of hippocampus and very low in hypothalamic nuclei, cerebellum and choroid plexus. PMCA2 mRNA was highest in Purkinje cells of cerebellum and low in caudate-putamen, hypothalamic nuclei, habenula and choroid plexus. The highest levels of PMCA3 mRNA were found in habenula and choroid plexus. The PMCA1-3 isoforms appeared to be expressed primarily in neurons since hybridization was detected neither in white matter nor in regions rich in astrocytes. In different regions, different levels of expression of each PMCA mRNA may underlie specialized requirements for calcium homeostasis in specific neurons.
Current–voltage characteristics of tunneling molecular junctions for off-resonance injection

Abstract An analytical expression is obtained for the I – V curves for a tight-binding model of a molecule–metal junction for off-resonance injection. The derivation takes into account a self-consistent determination of the voltage that leads to a spatial pattern where the voltage drop occurs at the molecule–wire interface. The relevance of this model for electron transfer reactions and molecular conductance is assessed. It leads to a striking power law dependence of the current on the voltage, while preserving the exponential length dependence of either the conductance or the reaction rate.
Physical characterization of a) a series of ethyl esters and b) a series of ethanoate esters

Physical characterizations of (1) the ethyl esters of the naturally occurring C6−C18 saturated fat acids and (2) the ethanoate esters of the saturated alcohols corresponding to the above acids have been made. They are a) refractive indices at 20°, 25°, 30°, 35°, and 40°C., b) densities and viscosities at 35°, 50°, 65°, 80°, and 95° C., and c) boiling points at several pressures. The physical characteristics exhibited by the two series of esters are quite similar. However the actual values obtained for the ethanoate esters are slightly higher than those obtained for the corresponding ethyl esters.
The effect of ion-implantation damage on dopant diffusion in silicon during shallow-junction formation

Low-thermal-budget annealing of ion-implanted BF 2 + , P, and As in Si was studied for shallow-junction formation. Implant doses were sufficient to amorphize the silicon surface region. Low-temperature furnace annealing and rapid-thermal annealing of ionimplanted boron, phosphorus and arsenic in silicon exhibit a transient enhanced diffusion regime resulting injunction depths considerably deeper than expected. The origin of this transient enhanced diffusion is the annealing of ion-implantation damage in the silicon substrate. We have found that point-defect generation during the annealing of either shallow end-of-range damage or small clusters of point defects dominates the transient enhanced diffusion process depending upon the annealing temperature and time. The net effect of damage annealing is to reduce the activation energy for dopant diffusion by an amount equal to the activation energy of the supersaturation of point defects in silicon. Models which can describe the transient enhancement characteristics in dopant diffusion during both furnace and rapid-thermal annealing of these implants are discussed.
Phase II trial of esorubicin (4'deoxydoxorubicin, DxDx) in patients with small cell lung cancer.

Esorubicin (4′-deoxydoxorubicin or DxDx) is an analog of doxorubicin with preclinical antitumor activity and no significant cardiotoxicity in model systems. Eleven patients with small cell lung cancer who had previously received chemotherapy were given esorubicin (25 mg/m2 intravenously) every 3 weeks. No major objective responses were observed (95% confidence limits: 0–25%). Nine of the 11 patients had grade 2 or greater toxicity, with 55% of the patients experiencing grade 3 or greater toxicity [myelosuppression (4/11), anemia (2/11) or elevated liver enzymes (3/11)]. Nausea, vomiting, alopecia and intravenous site phlebitis were also seen. Three of the 11 patients received 3 or more course of esorubicin without evidence of significant cardiotoxicity. At this dose and shedule, no significant antitumor response were seen in this population of patients. Esorubicin, with this low response rate and significant toxicity, appears to be of limited utility in this disease.
Is the Polar F6 heart rate monitor less accurate during aerobic bench stepping because of arm movements

Because of the well-documented linear relationship between heart rate and oxygen consumption (VO2), heart rate is commonly used to estimate energy expenditure during exercise. However, previous research suggests that heart rate increases without a concomitant rise in VO2 when arm movements are added to exercise. If so, this could impact the accuracy of heart rate monitors in estimating energy expenditure during combined arm and leg exercise. This study compared the cardiorespiratory responses to a bench step aerobics routine performed with and without arm movements and evaluated whether the accuracy of the Polar F6 heart rate monitor in predicting energy expenditure was impacted by the inclusion of arm movements. Thirty-two women performed the same routine with and without arm movements while stepping up and down off of a 15.24-cm bench at a cadence of 128 b·min-1. Heart rate and VO2 increased, whereas oxygen pulse (VO2·heart rate-1) decreased when arm movements were added (p < 0.001). However, the differences between the energy expenditure estimated by the Polar F6 heart rate monitor and the energy expenditure measured by indirect calorimetry were similar during the same aerobic bench stepping routine performed with and without arms (Δ∼2 kCal·min-1, p ≥ 0.05). Results confirm that arm movements during aerobic bench stepping elicit a disproportionate rise in heart rate relative to V[Combining Dot Above]O2. However, results do not support that these movements increase the prediction error in energy expenditure, as the Polar F6 heart rate monitor over predicted energy expenditure when arm movements were involved and when they were not involved.
A Preliminary Investigation into the Role of Positive Psychology in Consumer Sensitivity to Corporate Social Performance

Research on positive psychology demonstrates that specific individual dispositions are associated with more desirable outcomes. The relationship of positive psychological constructs, however, has not been applied to the areas of business ethics and social responsibility. Using four constructs in two independent studies (hope and gratitude in Study 1, spirituality and generativity in Study 2), the relationship of these constructs to sensitivity to corporate social performance (CSCSP) were assessed. Results indicate that all four constructs significantly predicted CSCSP, though only hope and gratitude interacted to impact CSCSP. Discussion focuses upon these findings, limitations of the study, and future avenues for research.
Negotiating Power: Getting and Using Influence

In this article the debilitating effects of negative commitments, especially threats made at an early stage of negotiation, are explored. Mistaken views of the sources of negotiating power are analyzed and six sources of negotiating power are presented. Would-be negotiators are offered a checklist of things they can do in advance of any particular negotiation to enhance their negotiating power.