cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Cognitive-Based Approach to Adaptive Intelligent Multiagent Applications

An integrated cognitive-based model (LEAP) and application (SALT) are presented. Building on a new Interlaced Micro-Patterns (IMP) theory and the Alchemy/Goal Mind environment, the LEAP research improves agent-to-human and agent-to-agent communication by incorporating aspects of human language development. The IMP theory further provides a theoretical basis for deep incorporation and sharing of knowledge from different sensor modalities. Research on LEAP points to a better understanding of human language development and the application of this knowledge within intelligent multiagent applications Research with SALT points to how this research supports Smart Home applications and provides feedback to LEAP modeling
Investigation and validation of the dynamic response of an acoustically levitated particle using the lattice Boltzmann method

The stable levitation of an analyte sample in an acoustic levitator is a primary requirement for accurate x-ray characterization of its scientific structure. A rigid particle oscillates in an under-damped manner when introduced into the node of established standing acoustic waves. This investigation has employed the lattice Boltzmann method (LBM), a computational fluid dynamics technique, for the analysis of such rigid particle dynamics in acoustic levitation. The simulation uses the two dimensional and nine velocity (D2Q9) Bhatnagar–Gross–Krook formulation to levitate a rigid 1.6 mm diameter nylon (ρ = 1150 kg/m3) particle in the air at standard pressure and temperature conditions. The presented work is the first reported simulation of realistic acoustic levitator boundary conditions using the LBM. The simulation can capture the particle–fluid interactions that produce dynamic levitation at less than one-period timescale in the ultrasonic frequency regime. An experiment was conducted by levitating a 1.6 mm-diameter nylon sphere to estimate the oscillations, and the oscillating frequency was found to be 50 Hz. The dynamic simulation results are consistent with experimental results for particle oscillations within the same order of magnitude, indicating that LBM formulation can be successfully used to study acoustic levitation to understand and mitigate particle jitter. The distortion of the acoustic field due to a levitating particle’s presence was also analyzed to demonstrate how the presence of the particle can disrupt adjacent levitating nodes.
Class A G protein-coupled receptors assemble into functional higher-order hetero-oligomers.

Although class A seven-transmembrane-helix (7TM) receptor hetero-oligomers have been proposed, information on the assembly and function of such higher-order hetero-oligomers is not available. Utilizing bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET), bimolecular luminescence/fluorescence complementation (BiLC/BiFC) and BiLC/BiFC BRET in HEK293T cells, we provide evidence that chemokine (C-X-C motif) receptor 4 (CXCR4), atypical chemokine receptor 3 (ACKR3), α1a -adrenoceptor (α1a -AR), and arginine vasopressin receptor 1A (AVPR1A) form hetero-oligomers composed of 2-4 different protomers. We show that hetero-oligomerization per se and ligand binding to individual protomers regulate agonist-induced coupling to the signaling transducers of interacting receptor partners. Our findings support the concept that receptor hetero-oligomers form supramolecular machineries with molecular signaling properties distinct from the individual protomers. These findings provide a mechanism for the phenomenon of context-dependent receptor function.
COVID-19 County Level Severity Classification with Class Imbalance: A NearMiss Under-sampling Approach

COVID-19 pandemic that broke out in the late 2019 has spread across the globe. The disease has infected millions of people. Thousands of lives have been lost. The momentum of the disease has been slowed by the introduction of vaccine. However, some countries are still recording high number of casualties. The focus of this work is to design, develop and evaluate a machine learning county level COVID-19 severity classifier. The proposed model will predict severity of the disease in a county into low, moderate, or high. Policy makers will find the work useful in the distribution of vaccines. Four learning algorithms (two ensembles and two non-ensembles) were trained and evaluated. Class imbalance was addressed using NearMiss under-sampling of the majority classes. The result of our experiment shows that the ensemble models outperformed the non-ensemble models by a considerable margin.
Questions Of Collaboration, Engagement, And Belonging In Zoom And Blogs

This piece argues for a combination of synchronous (Zoom) and asynchronous (blogs) classroom activities to in an upper-division writing class, with the goal of creating a space where students connected to peers, the teacher, and their work. Via a review of literature and semi-structured interviews with students, the author argues for a learner-centered approach that allows students to have a meaningful classroom experience during the realities of teaching online during the Covid-19 crisis.
Analogical Transfer in Problem Solving

When people encounter a novel problem, they might be reminded of a problem they solved previously, retrieve its solution, and use it, possibly with some adaptation, to solve the novel problem. This sequence of events, or “problem-solving transfer,” has important cognitive benefits: It saves the effort needed for derivation of new solutions and may allow people to solve problems they wouldn't know to solve otherwise. Of course, the cognitive benefits of problem-solving transfer are limited to the case in which people retrieve and apply a solution to an analogous problem that, indeed, can help them solve the novel problem ( positive transfer ). But people might be also reminded of and attempt to transfer a solution to a nonanalogous problem ( negative transfer ) and thereby waste their cognitive resources or arrive at an erroneous solution. The challenge facing researchers and educators is to identify the conditions that promote positive and deter negative problem-solving transfer. In this chapter, I describe how researchers who study analogical transfer address this challenge. Specifically, I describe work that examined how problem similarity affects transfer performance and how people determine whether the learned and the novel problems are similar. Throughout the chapter I highlight the relevance of research on analogical transfer to instructional contexts and illustrate the main concepts and findings with examples of mathematical word problems. SIMILARITY IN SURFACE AND STRUCTURE As in every other case of learning generalization, the main variable that mediates problem-solving transfer is the degree of similarity between the learned ( base ) and novel ( target ) problems.
A non-Monte Carlo approach to analyzing 1D Anderson localization in dispersive metamaterials

Monte Carlo simulations have long been used to study Anderson localization in models of one-dimensional random stacks. Because such simulations use substantial computational resources and because the randomness of random number generators for such simulations has been called into question, a non-Monte Carlo approach is of interest. This paper uses a non-Monte Carlo methodology, limited to discrete random variables, to determine the Lyapunov exponent, or its reciprocal, known as the localization length, for a one-dimensional random stack model, proposed by Asatryan, et al., consisting of various combinations of negative, imaginary and positive index materials that include the effects of dispersion and absorption, as well as off-axis incidence and polarization effects. Dielectric permittivity and magnetic permeability are the two variables randomized in the models. In the paper, Furstenberg’s integral formula is used to calculate the Lyapunov exponent of an infinite product of random matrices modeling the one-dimensional stack. The integral formula requires integration with respect to the probability distribution of the randomized layer parameters, as well as integration with respect to the so-called invariant probability measure of the direction of the vector propagated by the long chain of random matrices. The non-Monte Carlo approach uses a numerical procedure of Froyland and Aihara which calculates the invariant measure as the left eigenvector of a certain sparse row-stochastic matrix, thus avoiding the use of any random number generator. The results show excellent agreement with the Monte Carlo generated simulations which make use of continuous random variables, while frequently providing reductions in computation time.
Climate impacts of a large-scale biofuels expansion

[1] A global biofuels program will potentially lead to intense pressures on land supply and cause widespread transformations in land use. These transformations can alter the Earth climate system by increasing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from land use changes and by changing the reflective and energy exchange characteristics of land ecosystems. Using an integrated assessment model that links an economic model with climate, terrestrial biogeochemistry, and biogeophysics models, we examined the biogeochemical and biogeophysical effects of possible land use changes from an expanded global second-generation bioenergy program on surface temperatures over the first half of the 21st century. Our integrated assessment model shows that land clearing, especially forest clearing, has two concurrent effects—increased GHG emissions, resulting in surface air warming; and large changes in the land's reflective and energy exchange characteristics, resulting in surface air warming in the tropics but cooling in temperate and polar regions. Overall, these biogeochemical and biogeophysical effects will only have a small impact on global mean surface temperature. However, the model projects regional patterns of enhanced surface air warming in the Amazon Basin and the eastern part of the Congo Basin. Therefore, global land use strategies that protect tropical forests could dramatically reduce air warming projected in these regions.
The Tyranny of the Inefficient: An Enquiry into the Adverse Consequences of Power Struggles

There are many instances where two closely related parties do not agree to mutually advantageous transactions even when there are simple enforceable contracts, and side transfers of fungible resources, that would implement them. Peace treaties are not signed, inefficient regulations are not altered, and possibilities for investment are frittered away. One reason, which has been extensively analyzed in the literature, is the presence of informational asymmetries. In this paper we focus on another potential explanation: the externality generated by the transfer of fungible resources. Unlike in a one-off transaction among unrelated parties, related parties will interact in the future. The very fungibility of the resources that are transferred to facilitate the immediate transaction can make it hard to restrict their use. As a result, if future interactions are influenced by the distribution of current resources, an externality can endogenously arise from the current transaction. Under some circumstances, even transactions that considerably enhance value can be inhibited by the endogenous externality. Agreement typically breaks down when the required transfer is large and the proposed recipient of the transfer is relatively unproductive or poor. The paper examines the implications for a theory of property rights, and for competitive strategy.
Summary of Physics from Measurements with Longitudinally Polarized Beams and Targets at ZGS Energies

An extensive amount of data were obtained from measurements of proton-proton elastic scattering from 1 to 12 GeV/c using longitudinally polarized beams and targets. We summarize physics learned from these data as well as other related experimental results. The topics will include structures observed in nucleon-nucleon scattering at lower energies and dinucleon resonances, pp scattering-amplitude measurements at 6 GeV/c, and large p⊥ results in pp elastic scattering.
The Living Stage

The use of theatrical drama as a therapeutic process began in the 1930s when Psychiatrist Jacob Levy (J. L.) Moreno used the combination of psychodrama, sociometry, and psychotherapy as a healing o...
Comparative production and rapid purification of Candida acid proteinase from protein-supplemented cultures

Six Candida spp. that were previously characterized for cutaneous pathogenicity were assessed for Candida acid proteinase (CAP) production in albumin-supplemented, nitrogen-restricted media. C. albicans CAP production was compared in media supplemented with albumin, casein, collagen, hemoglobin, or keratin and in TC medium 199. C. albicans, C. stellatoidea, and C. tropicalis, which are cutaneous pathogens in murine infections, produced 3.3 to 4.7 times more CAP than did the nonpathogens C. parapsilosis and C. guilliermondii. C. krusei, a nonpathogen, produced negligible amounts of enzyme. C. albicans CAP production was similar in each protein-supplemented medium, and only a single acid proteinase was recovered from each one. Rapid CAP purification from culture supernatants was achieved by hollow fiber and stirred cell ultrafiltration followed by Affi-Gel blue and Sephacryl column chromatographies. The highest yield, purity, and specific activity of CAP were obtained from keratin-supplemented medium supernatants, producing 2.86 mg of purified CAP from a 7-liter culture. CAP was characterized as a 41,500-dalton glycoprotein, with a pI of 4.5; a pH range of 2.5 to 5.5; and broad substrate specificity, including that for keratin, denatured collagen, hemoglobin, casein, and albumin. Isolation of CAP also isolated the keratinolytic proteinase of Candida spp. CAP was inhibited by pepstatin A, but not by EDTA or phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride. Monospecific antibody to CAP was produced in mice and reacted only to the 41,500-dalton protein, as determined by immunoblot analysis. High CAP production by cutaneous pathogenic Candida spp. supports the fact that CAP is a potential virulence factor that may facilitate Candida colonization and invasion of skin. CAP production from keratin-supplemented medium was superior to that from the other media that were tested and yielded sufficient and suitable enzyme for use in immunoassays of CAP antigen and antibody.
Ozone-induced tolerance to hyperoxia in rats.

Preexposure of adult rats to ozone (0.8 +/- 0.1 ppm for 7 days) has been found to produce a marked degree of tolerance to hyperoxia (greater than 95% O2). The survival of O/sub 3/-preexposed rats in hyperoxia for 168 h was 28 of 32 (88%) compared with a rate of 2 of 18 (11%) for nonpreexposed rats. Total lung superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GP), glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6-PD), and catalase (CAT) activities were all significantly increased after O/sub 3/ preexposure and after the subsequent hyperoxic challenge. Probable mechanisms accounting for the markedly improved survival in hyperoxia after O/sub 3/ preexposure include both increased lung antioxidant enzyme and repair of structural damage by proliferation of alveolar lining cells. The demonstration of cross-tolerance between the atmospheric oxidants O/sub 3/ and O/sub 2/ suggests that there are similarities in the lung's adaptation to both oxidants.
Genetic differences in plasma corticosterone levels in response to nicotine injection.

Abstract Changes in plasma corticosterone (CCS) levels following intraperitoneal injections of nicotine were measured in four inbred mouse strains: DBA/2Ibg, C57BL/6Ibg, C3H/2Ibg, and A/J. In all four strains, nicotine produced a dose-dependent (0.5–2.0 mg/kg nicotine) increase in plasma CCS levels which peaked 10–30 min after injection. Saline increased plasma CCS levels in C57BL, A, and C3H, but not in DBA mice. After correcting for plasma CCS levels produced by saline injection, the nicotine-induced rise in plasma CCS was significantly lower for the C57BL strain than for the other three strains tested. These mouse strains also varied in their responses to saline injection with the rank order: C57BL > A = C3H > DBA. However, the two most divergent strains (C57BL and DBA) did not differ in the effects of a cold water stress. The response to nicotine was completely inhibited by mecamylamine in two strains tested (C3H and C57BL) whereas the response to saline injection was unaffected, suggesting that only the response to nicotine was mediated by nicotinic receptors. It is clear that elevations in plasma CCS induced either by saline injection or by nicotine are influenced by genetic factors.
Training the physician-scholar in otolaryngology-head and neck surgery.

Abstract The Resident Education Committee of the Society of University Otolaryngologists constructed a questionnaire for young academic otolaryngologist–head and neck surgeons to better understand their training background and to garner their opinions concerning adequacy or deficiencies in various aspects of that training. The questionnaire was mailed to 145 individuals who were in academic posts for 5 years or fewer in 1997. There was an overall response rate of 88.3%. Of the 128 respondents, 89% identified additional training, most commonly a clinical fellowship, in preparation for an academic career. The median number of hours per week devoted to professionally related activity was 61, of which two thirds was spent in direct patient care. The most common source of funds to pursue research activities was intradepartmental resources. Most individuals were satisfied with their jobs, although one quarter were considering leaving academic practice within the year. The single most important reason motivating selection of an academic career was a desire to teach. Details of the specific training and competencies and recommendations for improvement in resident training were obtained. Specific recommendations were generated for improving the training of future academic otolaryngologists; these recommendations include clarity of job description, a single track for clinical training for academicians and nonacademicians, more training in pertinent skills including research training, protected time for research, and amelioration of some of the downsides of academic life. (Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 1999;121:214-9.)
The Isoscalar Giant Dipole Resonance: Where We Are and Where We AreHeaded

Over the past few years, very good evidence has emerged for the Isoscalar Giant Dipole Resonance from small-angle inelastic scattering of α particles between 50–100 MeV/nucleon. A reconciliation between the available theoretical predictions and the experimental results still remains far from satisfactory, however, and there are interesting implications of the observed ISGDR strengths on the experimental determination of the incompressibility of nuclear matter. Some possible future measurements are also discussed.
Photoemission study of absorption mechanisms in Bi 2.0 Sr 1.8 Ca 0.8 La 0.3 Cu 2.1 O 8+δ , BaBiO 3 , and Nd 1.85 Ce 0.15 CuO 4

Photoemission measurements in the constant-final-state (absorption) mode were performed on three different classes of high-temperature superconductors ${\mathrm{Bi}}_{2.0}$${\mathrm{Sr}}_{1.8}$${\mathrm{Ca}}_{0.8}$${\mathrm{La}}_{0.3}$${\mathrm{Cu}}_{2.1}$${\mathrm{O}}_{8+\mathrm{\ensuremath{\delta}}}$, ${\mathrm{BaBiO}}_{3}$, and ${\mathrm{Nd}}_{1.85}$${\mathrm{Ce}}_{0.15}$${\mathrm{CuO}}_{4}$ using synchrotron radiation from 20 to 200 eV. Absorption signals from all elements but Ce are identified. The results firmly show that the Bi 6s electrons are more delocalized in ${\mathrm{BaBiO}}_{3}$ than in ${\mathrm{Bi}}_{2.0}$${\mathrm{Sr}}_{1.8}$${\mathrm{Ca}}_{0.8}$${\mathrm{La}}_{0.3}$${\mathrm{Cu}}_{2.1}$${\mathrm{O}}_{8+\mathrm{\ensuremath{\delta}}}$, in agreement with the results of band-structure calculations. Differences in the absorption signals due to O and Bi excitations between ${\mathrm{BaBiO}}_{3}$ and ${\mathrm{Bi}}_{2.0}$${\mathrm{Sr}}_{1.8}$${\mathrm{Ca}}_{0.8}$${\mathrm{La}}_{0.3}$${\mathrm{Cu}}_{2.1}$${\mathrm{O}}_{8+\mathrm{\ensuremath{\delta}}}$ are discussed. Delayed absorption onsets attributed to giant resonances (Ba 4d\ensuremath{\rightarrow}4f, La 4d\ensuremath{\rightarrow}4f, and Nd 4d\ensuremath{\rightarrow}4f transitions) are also reported.
Are the Terms Intergenerational and Multigenerational Synonymous

(2007). Are the Terms Intergenerational and Multigenerational Synonymous? Journal of Intergenerational Relationships: Vol. 5, No. 1, pp. 119-120.
Pteridines and Neuroimmune Function and Pathology

(1997). Pteridines and Neuroimmune Function and Pathology. Journal of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Vol. 3, No. 1, pp. 69-86.
Monoidal extensions of a locally quasi-unmixed UFD

Abstract Let R be a locally quasi-unmixed domain, a , b 1 , … , b n an asymptotic sequence in R , I = ( a , b 1 , … , b n ) R and S = R [ b 1 / a , … , b n / a ] = R [ I / a ] , the monoidal transform of R with respect to I . It is shown that S is a locally quasi-unmixed domain, a , b 1 / a , … , b n / a is an asymptotic sequence in S and there is a one-to-one correspondence between the asymptotic primes A ˆ ⁎ ( I ) of I and the asymptotic primes A ˆ ⁎ ( a S ) of a S = I S . Moreover, if a , b 1 , … , b n is an R -sequence, this extends to a one-to-one correspondence between Ass R ( R / I ) and Ass S ( S / a S ) . In the case that R is a unique factorization domain, the height one prime ideals of S are examined to determine how far S is from being a UFD. A complete description is given of which height one prime ideals P of S are principal or have a principal primary ideal in the case that P ∩ R has height 1. If the prime divisors of a satisfy a mild condition, a similar description is given in the case that P ∩ R has height >1. These are applied to give similar results for the Rees ring R [ 1 / t , I t ] where t is an indeterminate.
White sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus) passage at the Dalles Dam, Columbia River, USA

Summary White sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus) ≥95 cm TL were monitored using acoustic and radio telemetry at a large hydroelectric dam (the Dalles Dam) on the Columbia River, during March 2004 through November 2005 to determine timing and routes of passage and to characterize general movements. Transmitters were surgically implanted into 148 fish during the study; 90 were released into the tailrace and 58 into the forebay. We documented 26 passage events by 19 tagged fish: eight upstream via fish ladders and 18 downstream, mostly through open spill gates. During the study 17 fish entered the two ladders one or more times; 11 entered only the east ladder, three entered only the north ladder, and three entered both ladders at sometime. Residence time within the ladders by individual fish was variable, ranging from about 1 min to nearly 6 months (median = 7.7 h). Only six fish successfully ascended the east ladder, one fish twice. We could not unequivocally determine which fish ladder one fish used to pass upstream. Differences in construction between the north and east fish ladders may account for the greater success of the east fish ladder in passing sturgeon upstream. Changes to operations at hydroelectric dams to benefit migrating anadromous salmonids may influence upstream or downstream passage by white sturgeon. Altering patterns and timing of spill discharge, altering fish ladder entrance attraction flows, and the use of lights, sound, and partial barriers to direct other species of fish to preferred passage routes have unknown effects on sturgeon passage. A better understanding of the consequences to the metapopulation of increasing or precluding upstream or downstream passage is needed.
Short communication: Regulation of milk fat yield and fatty acid composition by insulin.

Abstract Diet-induced milk fat depression in dairy cows has been known for many years and several theories have been proposed. One that continues to receive support is the glucogenic-insulin theory. Previous studies testing this theory using a hyperinsulinemic–euglycemic clamp have had variable results attributable to variability in the use of body fat reserves as a source of milk fatty acids. Our objective was to test the glucogenic-insulin theory using cows immediately postpartum, a period when the use of body fat for milk fat synthesis is greatest. During wk 2 postpartum, 5 cows were given a 2-d baseline period and then clamped for 4 d. Insulin was increased more than 2-fold during the clamp while the blood glucose concentration was maintained. Milk yield was not altered by administration of the clamp (38.7 vs. 39.0±1.4kg/d); however, the milk fat percentage and yield were reduced by 27% and plasma nonesterified fatty acids were reduced by 68%. Analysis of the milk fatty acid composition revealed that the decrease in milk fat yield during use of the clamp was almost exclusively due to reductions in preformed fatty acids; this is the exact opposite of what is observed with diet-induced milk fat depression. Therefore, our results do not support the glucogenic-insulin theory of diet-induced milk fat depression. The results further indicated that reductions in milk fat observed previously with hyperinsulinemic–euglycemic clamps or with glucose or propionate infusions were most likely consequences of the ability of insulin to inhibit lipolysis, thereby limiting the mammary availability of preformed fatty acids mobilized from body reserves.
Spray cooling effects on milk production, milk, and rectal temperatures of cows during a moderate temperate summer season.

Abstract During summer 1982, responses of lactating Holstein and Guernsey cows were measured by milk temperature recorded by a Digital Dataloger with thermocouples attached to Boumatic flow meters. Maximum air temperature and temperature-humidity index averaged 30.8°C and 75.6 for July. Breed did not affect milk temperature, but within-breed milk temperature increased with production. In a second study, benefits of spray cooling were evaluated with 24 Holsteins in midlactation assigned randomly to two groups of 12 and maintained under loose-housing conditions. Spray nozzles were installed in the walkways and under the manger shade for the spray treatment group. Maximum temperature and temperature-humidity index during the spray study were 27°C and 73.9. Rectal temperature taken following milking averaged less for treatment than control (38.8 versus 39.1°C). Milk temperature was similar (37.8 versus 38.1°C). Daily milk yield was .70kg higher than controls. Milk temperature may provide reliable indication of climate stress similar to rectal temperature, and spray cooling improves cow comfort and lessens summer decline of milk production.
Evaluations of NAM Forecasts on Midtropospheric Perturbation-Induced Convective Storms over the U.S. Northern Plains

Abstract In the U.S. northern plains, summer progressive convective storms that occur in weakly forced environments are often coupled with short-wave perturbations that are embedded in the midlevel northwesterly flow. These midtropospheric perturbations (MPs) are capable of inducing propagating convection that contributes to a majority of the rainfall over the northern plains during July and August. There is a possibility that the difficulties of numerical weather prediction models in forecasting summer convective rainfall over the northern plains are partly attributed to their deficiency in forecasting MPs. The present study tests this possibility through examining operational forecasts by the North American Mesoscale (NAM) model during the summers of 2005 and 2006. Forecasted MPs exhibit slower propagation speeds and weaker relative vorticity than the observations leading to systematic position errors. Underpredicted vorticity magnitudes weaken horizontal vorticity advection that influences the vorticit...
Simulation study of grain growth in layered materials Application to YBa2Cu3O7-δ ceramics

Abstract We propose a simple lattice model which takes into account the anisotropy of grain formation energy to study the grain growth of layered materials such as polycrystalline superconducting cuprates. The anisotropic parameter in this model is estimated in the case of YBa2Cu3O7-δvia a semi-empirical theory for surface energy anisotropy. Monte Car10 simulation shows that the anisotropy of grain formation energy causes abnormal grain growth in which large elongated grains grow at the expense of fine matrix grains. The evolution with time of parameters characterizing the grain sizes and shapes have been calculated. In general, the results agree very well with experimental observation.
Against the grain: knowledge alliances and resistance to agricultural biotechnology in Guatemala

Abstract Critical political economy views the global expansion of transgenic agriculture as emblematic of a new phase of transnational capital accumulation. This study seeks to understand resistance to agricultural biotechnology in Guatemala. There, despite backing from US-based Monsanto and a weakened Mayan indigenous movement, transgenic crop cultivation remains illegal. I argue that opposition to transgenic maize, by raising concerns over risks to biodiversity and farmer livelihoods, is leading to a re-articulation of Mayan movements and their increasing identification with environmental and campesino (or peasant) struggles. These “knowledge alliances” are shaping national debates over the technology and hindering the advancement of the neoliberal food regime. Resume La critique de l'economie politique voit l'expansion globale de l'agriculture transgenique comme un processes emblematique d'une nouvelle phase de l'accumulation transnationale du capital. Cette etude essaie de comprendre la resistance a l...
Lessons in natural-rate dynamics

The natural rate perspective on economic activity is a new way of thinking and has caused more misunderstandings than I or anyone foresaw in the 1960s.' Some economists construed the natural rate to be a constant of nature, like the speed of light; not a variable deriving from the economy's circumstances and structure, its stocks and parameters. This was disappointing since my 1968 paper had begun to endogenize the natural rate.2 It made clear that, say, an exogenous increase in the stock of private wealth, in boosting employees' propensity to quit, would rekindle a 'wage competition' among employers and thus enlarge the natural rate.3 Practitioners went right on treating the natural rate as a constant, though, until models of the natural rate arrived having a fuller comparative-statics capability.4 The latest misimpression is that natural rate theory lacks dynamics. Some say it explains only how shocks disturb the present natural rate and neglects the dynamic processes set in motion that ultimately matter much more. Others say it provides only the steady-state jobless rate (if there is a steady state) and this steady state is
Effects of an Unseasonable Snowstorm on Red-Faced Warbler Nesting Success

Abstract. Earlier initiation of nests by breeding birds may reflect an adaptive response to changes in food availability or warming of spring temperatures, but the consequences of initiating nests too early may be severe, particularly at high elevations. A rare snowstorm in late May 2008 resulted in nest abandonment by 68% of Red-faced Warblers (Cardellina rubrifrons) breeding in a high-elevation riparian ecosystem of southeastern Arizona. In addition, climate data from our study site from 1950 to 2008 revealed higher-than-average springtime temperatures during the past 10 years. If birds respond to this increase in springtime temperatures by nesting earlier their vulnerability to spring snowstorms may increase.
Interdepartmental Simulation Collaboration in Academia: Exploring Partnerships With Other Disciplines

Abstract Multidisciplinary collaboration provides opportunities for growth in any simulation program. Simulation coordinators pursuing excellence may find unlikely partners among health care and non–health care professionals. Non-nursing collaborations can offer students, faculty, and simulation coordinators fresh views about simulation in an interdisciplinary climate. Examples of cooperative work with instructors and researchers in radiology, sports medicine, and criminal justice studies are described. Sports medicine students participated in scenarios involving a school-aged child with a spontaneous pneumothorax, a coach who was having a stroke, a pregnant yoga instructor experiencing an asthma attack, and a football player who had been momentarily unconscious after a tackle. Nursing students were asked to participate in criminal justice scenarios because of their understanding of simulation principles.
A CLASSIFICATION SCHEME FOR VISUAL DEFECTS ARISING IN SEMICONDUCTOR WAFER INSPECTION

Abstract In this paper we describe a novel scheme to characterize surface defects and flaws that arise in semiconductor wafer processing. This is done by analyzing the texture of an image of the defect. We have developed a taxonomy for textures, which classifies textures into the broad classes of disordered, strongly ordered and weakly ordered. Disordered textures are described in terms of their fractal dimension, strongly ordered textures are by the placement of primitives, and weakly ordered textures by the underlying orientation field. We have developed an algorithm to measure the fractal dimension of a given texture. We use the qualitative theory of differential equations to devise a symbol set for the weakly ordered textures in terms of singularities. We have devised an algorithm to process an image of a defect and extract qualitative descriptions based on this theory.
Sterile neutrinos and supernova nucleosynthesis

Author(s): Caldwell, DO | Abstract: A light sterile neutrino species has been introduced to explain simultaneously the solar and atmospheric neutrino puzzles and the results of the LSND experiment, while providing for a hot component of dark matter. Employing this scheme of neutrino masses and mixings, we show how matter-enhanced active-sterile (Formula presented) neutrino transformation followed by active-active (Formula presented) neutrino transformation can solve robustly the neutron deficit problem encountered by models of (Formula presented) nucleosynthesis associated with neutrino-heated supernova ejecta. © 2000 The American Physical Society.
Spatial patterning and information coding in the olfactory system

The ability of mammals to discriminate thousands of structurally diverse odorants appears to derive from the existence of a multigene family that encodes approximately 1000 different odorant receptors. Recent studies have used this family to explore how the olfactory system organizes sensory information. These studies reveal striking patterns of organization suggesting that incoming sensory information is first broadly organized in the nose and is then transformed in the olfactory bulb into a stereotyped and highly organized spatial map.
A stochastic dynamic programming model for valuing exclusivity from encroachment in franchising

Valuing territorial exclusivity in franchising is difficult because of the uncertainty associated with variables such as future franchise sales and brand strength. We present a stochastic dynamic programming model to value the exclusivity option from the perspective of both the franchisor and the franchisee. When there is positive value to the franchisor of including the exclusivity option in the contract, and to the franchisee of purchasing this option, the likelihood of franchisor-franchisee encroachment-related conflict is reduced. We also discuss structural results and explain our results using a numerical example.
Regulation of Insulin Gene Transcription by ERK1 and ERK2 in Pancreatic β Cells

We show that the mitogen-activated protein kinases ERK1/2 are components of the mechanism by which glucose stimulates insulin gene expression. ERK1/2 activity is required for glucose-dependent transcription from both the full-length rat insulin I promoter and the glucose-sensitive isolated E2A3/4 promoter element in intact islets and β cell lines. Dominant negative ERK2 and MEK inhibitors suppress glucose stimulation of the rat insulin I promoter and the E2A3/4 element. Overexpression of ERK2 is sufficient to stimulate transcription from the E2A3/4 element. The glucose-induced response is dependent upon ERK1/2 phosphorylation of a subset of transcription factors that include Beta2 (also known as NeuroD1) and PDX-1. Phosphorylation increases their functional activity and results in a cumulative transactivation of the promoter. Thus, ERK1/2 act at multiple points to transduce a glucose signal to insulin gene transcription.
Factors Contributing to the Quality of Sibling Relationships for Adults With Schizophrenia

Objectives: Research suggests that the quality of sibling relationships has a significant impact on the lives of adults with schizophrenia. A life course perspective was used to guide an investigation of the predictors of the quality of the relationship between adults with schizophrenia and their siblings. Methods: The data come from a longitudinal study of families of adults with schizophrenia. This study is based on a survey of 136 siblings of adults with schizophrenia. Multiple regression was used to estimate the predictors of sibling relationship quality. Results: Siblings reported a better relationship when they grew up in a more cohesive family environment (beta=.16, p<.05) and when they experienced more personal gains from coping with the challenges of a brother’s or sister’s mental illness (beta=.37, p<.001). Siblings reported a worse relationship when they perceived their brother or sister with schizophrenia as having control over his or her symptoms (beta=–.18, p<.05), expressed greater fear of their brother’s or sister’s behavior (beta=–.17, p<.05), and indicated that their brother or sister had struck or threatened them at some point in their lives (beta=–.18, p<.05). Conclusions: The quality of the sibling relationship is a major contributor to sibling involvement in the future and to the quality of life of adults with schizophrenia. By identifying the factors associated with positive sibling relationships, mental health providers will be better prepared to engage siblings in the treatment process and help promote stronger bonds of affection between adults with schizophrenia and their siblings. (Psychiatric Services 59:57–62, 2008)
In vitro synergy testing of levofloxacin, ofloxacin, and ciprofloxacin in combination with aztreonam, ceftazidime, or piperacillin against Pseudomonas aeruginosa

The synergistic potential of levofloxacin, ofloxacin and ciprofloxacin combined with aztreonam, ceftazidime, or piperacillin was compared using 24 strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa with varying susceptiblity profiles. Levofloxacin and ciprofloxacin demonstrated similar in vitro activity, with ofloxacin demonstrating less activity compared to the other agents. Predominately additive effects were seen with all combinations, with no significant differences detected between the fluoroquinolone agents.
Hamartomas in the setting of chronic epilepsy: A clinicopathologic study of 13 cases

Hamartomas are a poorly defined group of lesions and a rare cause of chronic epilepsy. We studied 13 patients, nine males and four females, whose cause of seizures was attributed to a hamartoma. The patients ranged in age from 6 to 33 years (mean, 21 years). Seizure duration before surgery ranged from 1.5 to 22 years (mean, 10 years). Seven hamartomas were located on the right side and six on the left. Six were located in the frontal lobe, five in the temporal lobe, and two in the occipital lobe. Twelve patients underwent gross total resection of the lesion and one a partial resection. All consisted of a circumscribed, disorganized collection of glial cells, primarily astrocytes. Rarely a neuronal component was admixed. One lesion contained an increased number of small blood vessels. Eight (62%) hamartomas contained eosinophilic granular bodies, and focal microcalcification was observed in three lesions (23%). Adjacent cortical architectural abnormalities (cortical dysplasia) were identified in eight (62%) resection specimens. Necrosis, mitoses, and prominent cytological atypia were absent in all lesions. Differential diagnostic considerations include low grade astrocytoma, ganglioglioma, dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumor, and cortical dysplasia. Postoperatively, 10 patients (77%) had complete resolution or greater than 90% reduction of seizure frequency. Two patients (16%) developed recurrent seizures 8 and 13 months postoperatively. One patient who underwent a partial resection showed no decrease in seizure frequency. No lesion recurrence on imaging studies has been observed in the 12 patients who underwent gross total resection of their hamartoma during 1 to 51 months (mean, 14 months) follow-up. We conclude that hamartomas seen in the setting of chronic epilepsy are generally low-grade lesions that respond well to gross total resection. Circumscription and lack of significant cytological atypia help distinguish these lesions from other neoplastic causes of epilepsy. Hamartomas that arise in the setting of chronic epilepsy appear to be associated with increased incidence of cortical architectural abnormalities (cortical dysplasia) and represent maldevelopmental lesions.
Generalization of verbal conditioning to verbal and nonverbal behavior: group therapy with chronic psychiatric patients.

Abstract Twelve chronic hospitalized female patients received token reinforcement contingent on two separate classes of verbalizations: (a) positive statements about optional activities available in the hospital setting, and (b) positive statements about people. Cross-class generalization of reinforced verbal responses about activities to overt behavior was tested by actual participation in activities; within-class generalization of verbal responses about people to verbalizations in another stimulus setting was assessed in a structured interview situation. A multiple baseline design with contingency reversals was employed to demonstrate experimental control of both classes of verbalizations in the group sessions. Positive statements about activities generalized to actual participation in activities, while generalization of positive statements about people to verbalization in the extragroup setting did not occur.
What road ahead for Microsoft the company

Mapping the critical decisions involved in building the next version of the software company.
Complement, c1q, and c1q-related molecules regulate macrophage polarization.

Complement is a critical system of enzymes, regulatory proteins and receptors that regulates both innate and adaptive immune responses. Natural mutations in complement molecules highlight their requirement in regulation of a variety of human conditions including infectious disease and autoimmunity. As sentinels of the immune system, macrophages are specialized to respond to infectious microbes, as well as normal and altered self, and dictate appropriate immune responses. Complement components such as anaphylatoxins (C3a and C5a) and opsonins (C3b, C1q, MBL) influence macrophage responses. While anaphylatoxins C3a and C5a trigger inflammasome activation, opsonins such as C1q and related molecules (MBL and adiponectin) downregulate inflammasome activation and inflammation, and upregulate engulfment of apoptotic cells consistent with a pro-resolving or M2 macrophage phenotype. This review summarizes our current understanding of the influence of the complement system on macrophage polarization with an emphasis on C1q and related molecules.
Reactivity of TiO2 rutile and anatase surfaces toward nitroaromatics.

The Au−TiO2 system is a promising catalyst for the synthesis of nitro-aromatic compounds. The adsorption of azobenzene (C6H5N═NH5C6) and aniline (C6H5NH2) on two single-crystalline TiO2 surfaces, anatase (101) and rutile (110), has been investigated with scanning tunneling microscopy (STM), low energy electron diffraction (LEED), and X-ray photoemission spectroscopy (XPS). While azobenzene adsorbs as an intact molecule at low coverages, ordered overlayers of phenyl imide (C6H5N) form at saturation coverage, indicating that TiO2 surfaces cleave the N═N bond even without the presence of Au. The same superstructures, p(1 × 2) on anatase and c(2 × 2) on rutile, form upon adsorption of aniline, suggesting the formation of the same, or a very similar, reaction intermediate. These results suggest that the main role of the supported Au in catalytic aniline ↔ azobenzene conversion is the activation of O2/H2 for de/hydrogenation reactions.
Synergia: An accelerator modeling tool with 3-D space charge

High precision modeling of space-charge effects, together with accurate treatment of single-particle dynamics, is essential for designing future accelerators as well as optimizing the performance of existing machines. We describe Synergia, a high-fidelity parallel beam dynamics simulation package with fully three-dimensional space-charge capabilities and a higher order optics implementation. We describe the computational techniques, the advanced human interface, and the parallel performance obtained using large numbers of macroparticles. We also perform code benchmarks comparing to semi-analytic results and other codes. Finally, we present initial results on particle tune spread, beam halo creation, and emittance growth in the Fermilab Booster accelerator.
Gold–sulfur bond breaking in Zn(II) tetraphenylporphyrin molecular junctions

Abstract Quantized conductance measured from single tetraphenylporphyrin molecules with and without a central zinc(II) [Zn(II)] atom was measured using a molecular break junction (MBJ) method. From the conductance histograms we observed an additional 1.7 A stretch for two-state conductance in a single Zn(II) tetraphenylporphyrin (ZnTPP) molecule as compared to single state conductance in a free tetraphenylporphyrin (TPP) molecule, i.e., no central Zn(II) atom. First-principles density functional calculations, using an electrode–molecule–electrode model, are completed to provide insight into the mechanisms attributed to bond stretching, and eventual bond breaking, to better understand the additional 1.7 A of stretching observed with ZnTPP.
The kinetics and energy dependence of prostaglandin transport processes. I. In vitro studies on the rate of PGF2α accumulation by the rabbit anterior uvea

Abstract The kinetics, energy dependence and specificity of prostaglandin (PG) accumulation by the anterior uvea of rabbits was studied in vitro by measuring the uptake of [3H]-PGF2α under a variety of conditions. The initial accumulation process, 5-min uptake at 37°C, conformed to Michaelis-Menten kinetics, exhibiting an apparent Kt of 34 μ m and a Jmax of 13·6 nmol×g tissue−1×min−1. Accumulation was inhibited by bromcresol green (BrCG; 10 μ m ) or incubation at 0°C. PGE2 (14 μ m ) or PAH (10 m m ) increased the apparent PGF2α Kt from 34 to 50 and 151 μ m , respectively, without changing the Jmax. The calculated Ki (2700 μ m ) of PAH on PGF2α accumulation was approximately 20 times greater than the apparent Kt of PAH transport (127 μ m ). Probenecid (50 μ m ) increased the apparent Kt of PGF2α transport to 104 μ m and caused a 50% reduction in Jmax. PGF2α transport rate was reduced in the absence of glucose or oxygen, or in the presence of 0·1 m m iodoacetic acid. Ouabaiu (10−5 m ) or substitution of Na with Li or mannitol significantly reduced the rate of PGF2α accumulation by the anterior uvea. It was concluded that in vitro PGF2α accumulation by the anterior uvea, and presumably the in vivo PG transport system of this tissue, is a saturable, energy and sodium dependent mechanism. PGE2 and PGF2α appear to share the same carrier while PAH interacts with, but is not primarily transported by, the PG system. The transport constants of this system indicate that anterior uveal PG transport would be fully effective even at the highest expected local PG concentration and would not be saturated even at pathological PG levels.