cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Global SST/SLP waves during the 20th century

[1] A discrete number of global signals in covarying sea surface temperature (SST) and sea level pressure (SLP) dominated climate variability from 40°S to 60°N during the 20th Century. They are the quasi-biennial (∼2.2-year period), interannual (3- to 7-year period band), quasi-decadal (∼11-year period), and interdecadal (∼17-year period) signals. A joint frequency-domain analysis of SST and SLP anomalies over the global ocean finds these signals composed of mixed global standing modes and traveling waves that are similar in pattern and evolution. On each period scale, the global traveling wave is composed of global zonal wavenumbers-1 and -2, directed eastward with a phase speed that takes 1 to 2 cycles to traverse the global ocean between 40°S and 20°N. The existence of these global traveling waves may enhance the predictability of regional climate variability.
Information loss and reconstruction in diffuse fluorescence tomography.

This paper is a theoretical exploration of spatial resolution in diffuse fluorescence tomography. It is demonstrated that, given a fixed imaging geometry, one cannot—relative to standard techniques such as Tikhonov regularization and truncated singular value decomposition—improve the spatial resolution of the optical reconstructions via increasing the node density of the mesh considered for modeling light transport. Using techniques from linear algebra, it is shown that, as one increases the number of nodes beyond the number of measurements, information is lost by the forward model. It is demonstrated that this information cannot be recovered using various common reconstruction techniques. Evidence is provided showing that this phenomenon is related to the smoothing properties of the elliptic forward model that is used in the diffusion approximation to light transport in tissue. This argues for reconstruction techniques that are sensitive to boundaries, such as L1-reconstruction and the use of priors, as well as the natural approach of building a measurement geometry that reflects the desired image resolution.
The PSB27 protein facilitates manganese cluster assembly in photosystem II

Photosystem II (PSII) is a large membrane protein complex that uses light energy to convert water to molecular oxygen. This enzyme undergoes an intricate assembly process to ensure accurate and efficient positioning of its many components. It has been proposed that the Psb27 protein, a lumenal extrinsic subunit, serves as a PSII assembly factor. Using a psb27 genetic deletion strain (Δpsb27) of the cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803, we have defined the role of the Psb27 protein in PSII biogenesis. While the Psb27 protein was not essential for photosynthetic activity, various PSII assembly assays revealed that the Δpsb27 mutant was defective in integration of the Mn4Ca1Clx cluster, the catalytic core of the oxygen-evolving machinery within the PSII complex. The other lumenal extrinsic proteins (PsbO, PsbU, PsbV, and PsbQ) are key components of the fully assembled PSII complex and are important for the water oxidation reaction, but we propose that the Psb27 protein has a distinct function separate from these subunits. We show that the Psb27 protein facilitates Mn4Ca1Clx cluster assembly in PSII at least in part by preventing the premature association of the other extrinsic proteins. Thus, we propose an exchange of lumenal subunits and cofactors during PSII assembly, in that the Psb27 protein is replaced by the other extrinsic proteins upon assembly of the Mn4Ca1Clx cluster. Furthermore, we show that the Psb27 protein provides a selective advantage for cyanobacterial cells under conditions such as nutrient deprivation where Mn4Ca1Clx cluster assembly efficiency is critical for survival.
Perturbation theory of dense point spectra

Abstract The property of a self-adjoint operator having pure point spectrum is stable under certain random compact perturbations. In particular, a compact perturbation of a self-adjoint operator whose spectrum has Lebesgue measure zero has pure point spectrum, almost surely.
Role of prolonged breast feeding in infant growth.

Abstract. The growth of 238 healthy full-term infants was followed under a carefully monitored nutritional protocol during the first year of life. The infants were weaned at different ages either to a proprietary infant milk formula or to a home-prepared cow's milk formula. Solid foods were introduced at 3.5 months of age. The 56 infants who were breast-fed for a period of at least 6 months were compared to infants weaned prior to one month of age to one of the two milk regimens. In the breast-fed infants, the weight, weight-for-height-age, and skinfold thickness were similar to values in the proprietary formula-fed infants but were lower than the corresponding values in the cow's milk-fed infants at 6 months of age and subsequently. By using weight-for-height-age as a criterion, no obesity was found among any of the 238 infants, and only 1.7% were considered to be overweight. The results indicate that present recommendations for infant feeding in Finland—including prolonged breast feeding, the use of proprietary milk formulas after weaning, and later introduction of solid foods—prevent over-nutrition.
A new murine lymphocyte alloantigen, Ly-21.2, mapping to the seventh chromosome

Using a monoclonal antibody raised by fusing spleen cells from A/J mice, immunized with B10.A splenocytes and lymph-node cells, with a BALB/c myeloma, we have described a new surface alloantigen, Ly-21.2. Ly-21.2 is present in varying amounts in all lymphoid tissues, is not detectable in the brain, kidney, lung or erythrocytes, and is found in only trace amounts in the liver. Strain distribution studies showed that Ly-21.2 is present in all strains examined, including B10, except the A strain and segregation analysis of (A/J × 1310) F2 mice showed that Ly-21.2 expression (1) is encoded by one gene and (2) is linked to albinism on chromosome 7. Studies performed on mice developing T-cell leukemia showed that, regardless of the etiologic agent, Ly-21.2 expression increases dramatically in mice with overt leukemia. In addition, preliminary studies suggest that expression of Ly-21.2 is linked to increased susceptibility of mice to Friend-virus-induced erythroleukemia.
Potential errors in P/R measurements by the methods of Pavletic, Matonickin, Stilinovic, and Habdija

Where: D, = average oxygen concentration in morning at the onset of photosynthesis. D2 = average oxygen concentration at the end of the photosynthesis period. Ni = average oxygen concentration at the beginning of the dark phase. N, = average oxygen concentration at the end of the dark phase. Ad = amount of 02 diffused into the atmosphere. An = amount of O2 diffused into the water. when Ad = d2 _ d, and d, = saturation D, d2 = saturation D2 and when An = nl n2 and nI = saturation Ni n2 = saturation N2 Saturation values can be taken from Liebmann (1962) or comparable works. In the field, I used a modified Winkler dissolved oxygentechnique(Burke, 1962; McCullough, 1975) for sampling stations along Owl Creek, in Montana (U.S.A.). Water temperature was also measured for determination of saturation values. In the laboratory at the University of Tulsa, I used the same technique on macrophyte samples in 1 liter containers of pond water placed alternately in light and dark boxes. In all cases, field and laboratory, P/R calculations were not significantly different from 1 (equilibrium P/R = 1). Similar ranges of P/R ratios were reported by Pavletic et al. (1976). A closer examination of the equations revealed that there exist some mathematical problems. Although founded on a sound basic idea of what should be observed during a 24-hour oxygen cycle, the equation can be simplified. Substituting in the values of Ad and An into equation (I),
Detection of Merkel cell carcinoma polyomavirus in mucosal Merkel cell carcinoma

A 61-year-old woman presented with solitary lymphadenopathy suspicious for lymphoma. An excisional biopsy of a right inguinal lymph node demonstrated metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC). No skin lesions were detected, but a primary nasopharyngeal mass was identified. A microscopic examination of the nasopharyngeal tumor and the lymph node metastasis showed a monotonous population of small- to intermediate-sized, round blue cells with vesicular nuclei, finely granular and dusty chromatin, and multiple nucleoli. Immunohistochemistry showed perinuclear dot-like staining for cytokeratins AE1/AE3 and CK20. Microscopic appearance and immunohistochemical stains were consistent with MCC. MCC was recently shown to harbor a novel polyomavirus, Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV), in the majority of cases. In this case, MCPyV was detected in the primary tumor and metastasis using polymerase chain reaction and CM2B4 immunohistochemical stain. This is the first report to demonstrate the presence of MCPyV and CM2B4 in a mucosal MCC and its metastasis.
Diffuse Selection on Resistance to Deer Herbivory in the Ivyleaf Morning Glory, Ipomoea hederacea

Abstract: Recent work defines coevolution between plants and herbivores as pairwise when the pattern of selection on resistance traits and the response to selection are both independent of the presence or absence of other herbivores. In addition, for a pairwise response to selection, resistance to a focal herbivore must have the same genetic basis in the presence and absence of other herbivores. None of these conditions were satisfied for the ivyleaf morning glory, Ipomoea hederacea, and its insect, fungal, and mammalian natural enemies with a quantitative genetics field experiment. A significant negative genetic correlation exists between resistance to deer and generalist insect herbivory that would preclude an independent response to selection. In addition, resistance loci under selection differ depending on the composition of the natural enemy community as indicated by genetic correlations between deer resistances in the presence and absence of other natural enemies that differ substantially from 1. Fi...
Density based pruning for identification of differentially expressed genes from microarray data

Identification of differentially expressed genes from microarray datasets is one of the most important analyses for microarray data mining. Popular algorithms such as statistical t-test rank genes based on a single statistics. The false positive rate of these methods can be improved by considering other features of differentially expressed genes. We proposed a pattern recognition strategy for identifying differentially expressed genes. Genes are mapped to a two dimension feature space composed of average difference of gene expression and average expression levels. A density based pruning algorithm (DB Pruning) is developed to screen out potential differentially expressed genes usually located in the sparse boundary region. Biases of popular algorithms for identifying differentially expressed genes are visually characterized. Experiments on 17 datasets from Gene Omnibus Database (GEO) with experimentally verified differentially expressed genes showed that DB pruning can significantly improve the prediction accuracy of popular identification algorithms such as t-test, rank product, and fold change. Density based pruning of non-differentially expressed genes is an effective method for enhancing statistical testing based algorithms for identifying differentially expressed genes. It improves t-test, rank product, and fold change by 11% to 50% in the numbers of identified true differentially expressed genes. The source code of DB pruning is freely available on our website http://mleg.cse.sc.edu/degprune
BECOMING AN INTERNATIONAL CONSULTANT

The goals of this article are to give students advice related to entering the world of development and a clear view of the responsibilities and pitfalls that come along with the profession of international consultancy as applied anthropologists. In doing so, I discuss the necessary skills required, such as a background in research, knowledge of foreign and vernacular languages, and fieldwork experience. I also give some advice about contacting development agencies and preparing for overseas work. In addition, I comment on what to expect while working in developing countries in the field of public health. In order to illustrate some of the interventions, I have drawn examples from my own experiences in the field. Motivation is very important for this career and students must be aware that although the profession may be exciting, it is also difficult and demanding. Apart from giving counsel, I have attempted to show that being a consultant is a great opportunity to learn more about the human race and that the job is full of challenges and rewards.
Cardiovascular and Central Nervous System Toxicity of Local Anesthetics

E VER SINCE the introduction of cocaine as a local anesthetic into medical practice by Keller, 1 it has been known that these agents are a double-edged sword providing immense benefits as well as a potential for toxicity. While describing the effects of cocaine, and also acting as guinea pigs for their research, Halsted and Hall in New York became cocaine addicts. 2 The quest for safer local anesthetics began toward the end of the 19th century, soon after the toxic effects of cocaine became known. Around the dawn of the 20th century, three cocaine substitutes, tropocaine, stovaine, and novocaine, were tried. In 1943, Lofgren 1 synthesized the amide-linked local anesthetic lidocaine; this started the practice of regional anesthesia with which we are familiar today. Lidocaine had a short duration of action; thus, the longer-acting bupivacaine and etidocaine were introduced in clinical practice (in the 1970s in the United States). The latter two had their own problems, and the search for a safe and efficacious local anesthetic continues with the introduction of ropivacaine. This review will focus on the factors influencing local anesthetic toxicity: the manifestations, underlying mechanisms, and prevention and treatment of central nervous system (CNS) and cardiovascular system toxicity. The incidence of toxic events is not well documented. However, it is reasonable to state that in performing a major nerve block (exclusive of spinal anesthesia), the patient is more likely to experience a CNS or cardiovascular reaction than to suffer permanent nerve damage, but is far less likely to experience one of these events than to have a failed anesthetic. We now know that these anesthetics exert their
1V rail-to-rail constant Gm amplifier with common-mode elimination technique

In this paper we present a novel common-mode elimination technique for a 1V rail-to-rail CMOS amplifier. For 1V single supply voltage, the input signal compression technique ([1]) is used to avoid the dead zone of input stage. Before the conventional PMOS input amplifier, the original signal is processed by the common mode elimination block which is composed with signal compression block, signal inverting block and 4 resistors. After this common mode elimination block, the original common mode signal variation from 0V to 1V is compressed with about 3.7mV variation while the compression rate of differential signal is about 71.4%. With this technique, ultra high CMRR (min 115.1dB) is obtained with 43.3dB differential gain. Cadence SPECTRE simulator and TSMC 0.25-μm CMOS technology are used to simulate this work.
Towards a Declarative Framework for Managing Application and Network Adaptations

Cross layer optimizations are increasingly being used in a variety of applications to improve application performance. However most of these implementations are ad hoc and performed on a per application basis. In this paper we propose a declarative framework for managing application and network adaptations. The declarative paradigm provides a much needed clean line of separation between the high level goals and the low level implementations. Our framework exposes the tunable features of both the application and the network across layers of the network stack which can then be jointly optimized. We allow operators to control the adaptation process through operator specified policies. This enables operators to retain control over their networks while the application and the network adapt in response to changing conditions. To support evolution, we pursue an ontological approach and use semantic web languages such as OWL and RDF in our framework for the policy and declarative specifications, thereby also leveraging the inherent reasoning and conflict resolution features of these languages. We then describe our framework developed on top of NS2 to demonstrate the utility of our approach in the easy implementation of cross layer optimizations through sample application scenarios.
The Significance of Regional Studies for the Elaboration of National Economic History

The purpose of this paper is to serve as a point of departure for discussion of the relationship of regional differentiation and growth to general economic development. In addition to touching on methodological problems, I hope to establish two specific points: (a) that the needs of economic history call for particular perspectives in delimiting regions, and (b) that study of regional interaction can provide insights in an understanding of national economic development.
Bundled postconditioning therapies improve hemodynamics and neurologic recovery after 17 min of untreated cardiac arrest

Abstract Objective Ischemic postconditioning (stutter CPR) and sevoflurane have been shown to mitigate the effects of reperfusion injury in cardiac tissue after 15min of ventricular fibrillation (VF) cardiac arrest. Poloxamer 188 (P188) has also proven beneficial to neuronal and cardiac tissue during reperfusion injury in human and animal models. We hypothesized that the use of stutter CPR, sevoflurane, and P188 combined with standard advanced life support would improve post-resuscitation cardiac and neurologic function after prolonged VF arrest. Methods Following 17min of untreated VF, 20 pigs were randomized to Control treatment with active compression/decompression (ACD) CPR and impedance threshold device (ITD) ( n =8) or Bundle therapy with stutter ACD CPR+ITD+sevoflurane+P188 ( n =12). Epinephrine and post-resuscitation hypothermia were given in both groups per standard protocol. Animals that achieved return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) were evaluated with echocardiography, biomarkers, and a blinded neurologic assessment with a cerebral performance category score. Results Bundle therapy improved hemodynamics during resuscitation, reduced need for epinephrine and repeated defibrillation, reduced biomarkers of cardiac injury and end-organ dysfunction, and increased left ventricular ejection fraction compared to Controls. Bundle therapy also improved rates of ROSC (100% vs. 50%), freedom from major adverse events (50% vs. 0% at 48h), and neurologic function (42% with mild or no neurologic deficit and 17% achieving normal function at 48h). Conclusions Bundle therapy with a combination of stutter ACD CPR, ITD, sevoflurane, and P188 improved cardiac and neurologic function after 17min of untreated cardiac arrest in pigs. All studies were performed with approval from the Institutional Animal Care Committee of the Minneapolis Medical Research Foundation (protocol #12-11).
Channel Coordination Under Price Protection, Midlife Returns, and End-of-Life Returns in Dynamic Markets

This paper examines three channel policies that are used in declining price environments: Price protection (P) is a mechanism under which the manufacturer pays the retailer a credit applying to the retailer's unsold inventory when thewholesale price drops during the life cycle; midlife returns (M) allow the retailer to return units partway through the life cycle at some rebate; and end-of-life returns (E) allow the retailer to return unsold units at the end of the life cycle. Under decliningretail prices, if the wholesale prices and the return rebates are set properly, then EM (i.e., midlife and end-of-life returns) achieves channel coordination. However, such a policy may not be implementable because it may require the manufacturer to be worse off as a result of coordination. If P is used in addition to EM and the terms are set properly, then PEM guarantees both coordination and a win-win outcome. If theretail price is constant over time, then EM is sufficient to guarantee both coordination and a win-win outcome.
Complex trait analysis of the mouse striatum: independent QTLs modulate volume and neuron number.

Background: The striatum plays a pivotal role in modulating motor activity and higher cognitive function. We analyzed variation in striatal volume and neuron number in mice and initiated a complex trait analysis to discover polymorphic genes that modulate the structure of the basal ganglia. Results: Brain weight, brain and striatal volume, neuron-packing density and number were estimated bilaterally using unbiased stereological procedures in five inbred strains (A/J, C57BL/6J, DBA/2J, BALB/cJ, and BXD5) and an F2 intercross between A/J and BXD5. Striatal volume ranged from 20 to 37 mm 3 . Neuron-packing density ranged from approximately 50,000 to 100,000 neurons/mm 3 , and the striatal neuron population ranged from 1.4 to 2.5 million. Inbred animals with larger brains had larger striata but lower neuron-packing density resulting in a narrow range of average neuron populations. In contrast, there was a strong positive correlation between volume and neuron number among intercross progeny. We mapped two quantitative trait loci (QTLs) with selective effects on striatal architecture. Bsc10a maps to the central region of Chr 10 (LRS of 17.5 near D10Mit186) and has intense effects on striatal volume and moderate effects on brain volume. Stnn19a maps to distal Chr 19 (LRS of 15 at D19Mit123) and is associated with differences of up to 400,000 neurons among animals. Conclusion: We have discovered remarkable numerical and volumetric variation in the mouse striatum, and we have been able to map two QTLs that modulate independent anatomic parameters.
Investigating the dynamics of affect: Psychological mechanisms of affective habituation to pleasurable stimuli

Affective habituation (i.e., reductions in stimulus-evoked affective reactions as a result of previous exposure) may serve a functional purpose. However, little is know about the psychological mechanisms underlying this process. To elucidate the characteristics of affective habituation, two experiments that examined affective reactions to repeated exposures of pleasurable stimuli were conducted. Results of these experiments indicated that habituation trajectories are characterized by linear decreases in affect. Results also demonstrated that habituation can be slowed by the introduction of novel stimuli (i.e., “novelty effects”), effects that are dimensional (rather than taxonic) in nature. Experiment 2 demonstrated that habituation is mediated by conceptual rather than perceptual processes. Depressed and anhedonic individuals were not more susceptible to habituation in either experiment. The current findings and previous theorizing suggest that habituation may be an important component of an adaptive affective processing system that promotes effective responses to salient stimuli and prevents compulsive reward-seeking behavior.
Evidence for the Role of Infectious Disease in Species Extinction and Endangerment

Infectious disease is listed among the top five causes of global species extinctions. However, the majority of available data supporting this contention is largely anecdotal. We used the IUCN Red List of Threatened and Endangered Species and literature indexed in the ISI Web of Science to assess the role of infectious disease in global species loss. Infectious disease was listed as a contributing factor in <4% of species extinctions known to have occurred since 1500 (833 plants and animals) and as contributing to a species' status as critically endangered in <8% of cases (2852 critically endangered plants and animals). Although infectious diseases appear to play a minor role in global species loss, our findings underscore two important limitations in the available evidence: uncertainty surrounding the threats to species survival and a temporal bias in the data. Several initiatives could help overcome these obstacles, including rigorous scientific tests to determine which infectious diseases present a significant threat at the species level, recognition of the limitations associated with the lack of baseline data for the role of infectious disease in species extinctions, combining data with theory to discern the circumstances under which infectious disease is most likely to serve as an agent of extinction, and improving surveillance programs for the detection of infectious disease. An evidence-based understanding of the role of infectious disease in species extinction and endangerment will help prioritize conservation initiatives and protect global biodiversity.
Glucose metabolism during the early “flow phase” after burn injury

Abstract Background Burn injury (BI) is associated with insulin resistance (IR) and hyperglycemia which complicate clinical management. We investigated the impact of BI on glucose metabolism in a rabbit model of BI using a combination of positron emission tomography (PET) and stable isotope studies under euglycemic insulin clamp (EIC) conditions. Materials and methods Twelve male rabbits were subjected to either full-thickness BI (B) or sham burn. An EIC condition was established by constant infusion of insulin, concomitantly with a variable rate of dextrose infusion 3 d after treatment. PET imaging of the hind limbs was conducted to determine the rates of peripheral O 2 and glucose utilization. Each animal also received a primed constant infusion of [6,6- 2 H 2 ] glucose to determine endogenous glucose production. Results The fasting blood glucose in the burned rabbits was higher than that in the sham group. Under EIC conditions, the sham burn group required more exogenous dextrose than the B group to maintain blood glucose at physiological levels (22.2 ± 2.6 versus 13.3 ± 2.9 mg/min, P 2 consumption and 18 F 2-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose utilization by skeletal muscle remained at similar levels in both groups. Hepatic gluconeogenesis determined by the stable isotope tracer study was found significantly increased in the B group. Conclusions These findings demonstrated that hyperglycemia and IR develop during the early “flow phase” after BI. Unsuppressed hepatic gluconeogenesis, but not peripheral skeletal muscular utilization of glucose, contributes to hyperglycemia at this stage.
Variety—the Splice of Life—in Microbial Communities

Bacteria and Archaea are commonly thought to exist as clonal populations because they reproduce asexually. However, genomic studies have shown that the evolutionary trajectories of most bacterial and archaeal populations are profoundly modified by exchange of genetic information, which creates natural populations that are inherently diverse. Much of this genomic variation confers no selective advantage or leads to evolutionary dead ends, some provides the raw material for selection that gives rise to new capabilities and lineages, and some may be critically involved in defense against mobile elements. Recently, it has become apparent that many Bacteria and Archaea splice into their genomes tiny fragments from the viruses and other mobile elements that harness them to replicate and survive. The uptake of these fragments can be so rapid that most bacterial and archaeal cells in a single population could be genomically distinct at the hypervariable locus where fragment insertion occurs. Variety that results from this diversification process could, in some cases, be critical to host population survival.
Exercise training increases K+-channel contribution to regulation of coronary arterial tone

The present study examined whether regulation of coronary tone in conduit arteries (>1.0 mm ID) is altered by exercise training. Yucatan miniature swine were treadmill trained for 16–20 wk (Ex) and...
Statins: Targeting Inflammation by Lowering Low-Density Lipoprotein?⁎

The pivotal role of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and its ischemic complications are well established. Epidemiologic studies demonstrate a linear relationship between levels of LDL-C and the prospective risk of cardiovascular events ([1][1]). In
Systematic optimization of human pluripotent stem cells media using Design of Experiments

Human pluripotent stem cells (hPSC) are used to study the early stages of human development in vitro and, increasingly due to somatic cell reprogramming, cellular and molecular mechanisms of disease. Cell culture medium is a critical factor for hPSC to maintain pluripotency and self-renewal. Numerous defined culture media have been empirically developed but never systematically optimized for culturing hPSC. We applied design of experiments (DOE), a powerful statistical tool, to improve the medium formulation for hPSC. Using pluripotency and cell growth as read-outs, we determined the optimal concentration of both basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and neuregulin-1 beta 1 (NRG1β1). The resulting formulation, named iDEAL, improved the maintenance and passage of hPSC in both normal and stressful conditions, and affected trimethylated histone 3 lysine 27 (H3K27me3) epigenetic status after genetic reprogramming. It also enhances efficient hPSC plating as single cells. Altogether, iDEAL potentially allows scalable and controllable hPSC culture routine in translational research. Our DOE strategy could also be applied to hPSC differentiation protocols, which often require numerous and complex cell culture media.
Fiat without Authority under Vertical Integration

This paper develops a relational contracting model to show how fiat - a principal's ability to dictate her agent's performance - emerges in equilibrium under vertical integration, even when integration does not allocate distinctive formal authority to the principal. In a vertical structure, an efficient relational contract requires the downstream manager to take actions that maximize agrregate profits, in exchange for future rents. If the manager of a vertically integrated unit reneges, she benefits from greater free time, but does not appropriate the associated increase in unit profits. Therefore, when the actions that maximize aggregate profits and the individual unit's profits differ substantially - that is, when interest conflicts and spillovers between units are large - the manager's promise to perform will be more credible under vertical integration than under separation.
Correction of proton and Ca association constants of EGTA for temperature and ionic strength.

The association constants of ethylene glycol-bis(beta-aminoethyl ether)-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid (EGTA) for protons and Ca can be used to calculate the apparent association constant of EGTA for Ca (K'CaEGTA). This value is often used in calculating the free [Ca2+] of complex solutions such as those used to determine the Ca sensitivity of skinned muscle fibers. As association constants are usually measured at 0.1 M ionic strength and between 20 and 25 degrees C, these constants must first be adjusted for conditions different from those at which they were measured, before calculation of K'CaEGTA. The proton and Ca association constants (and their delta H values) from A. E. Martell and R. M. Smith (Critical Stability Constants, New York: Plenum, vol. 1, 1974) adjusted for ionic strength and temperature using a semiempirical Debye-Huckel formalism and Van't Hoff isochore, respectively, closely describe the influence of both ionic strength and temperature on K'CaEGTA. Errors in the adjustment or calculation of association constants can dramatically affect the calculated value of K'CaEGTA and hence the calculated free [Ca2+] of complex solutions, such as those used to mimic the intracellular environment.
The Undecidability of Exponential Diophantine Equations

Publisher Summary This chapter focuses on the undecidability of exponential Diophantine equations. It is not known whether exponential Diophantine sets are necessarily Diophantine. However, it is known that every exponential Diophantine equation could be transformed mechanically into an equivalent ordinary Diophantine equation in more unknowns, provided that there is a Diophantine equation D (x, y, u 1 , …, u m ) and all solutions of D satisfy y x and for every n, there is some solution with y > x n . If such a Diophantine equation exists, then every recursively enumerable set could be Diophantine and Hilbert's tenth problem could be unsolvable. On the other hand, if some particular recursively enumerable set is not Diophantine, it may obtain surprising bounds on the solutions of Diophantine equations. Hilbert''s tenth problem asks for an algorithm to determine whether or not an arbitrary Diophantine equation has a solution in integers. The corresponding problem for exponential Diophantine equations (i.e., equations in which exponentiation as well as addition and multiplication is permitted) can be answered negatively.
A model of mitochonrial calcium induced calcium release

Cytoplasmic calcium plays a dual role in cellular physiology. On one hand it acts as a second messenger in intra-cellular signalling, and on the other hand it is also the trigger for calcium dependent apopotosis. A mechanistic explanation of this dual role of cytoplasmic calcium was proposed by Ichas and Mazat. Their hypothesis involved the permeability transition pore was based on the observation that the permeability transition pore can exist in multiple conductance states. Specifically there exist a persistent high conductance state and a transitory low conductance state. Ichas et.al. also observed that the low conductance state is opened by a rise in mitochondrial matrix pH, in contrast to what was already know about the high conductance state, which opens in response to prolonged elevation of mitochondrial calcium. In this dissertation we build a detailed, physiological model of the mitochondrial switch between calcium signalling and cell death based on a simple three state model of the permeability transition pore. This model agrees with the substance of the Ichas and Mazat hypothesis and provides a substrate for further modeling to study the spatial and temporal dynamics of mitochondrial involvement in intracellular calcium signalling, and the interaction of mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum during this process.
A Data Acquisition System to Monitor and Improve the Pinch and Roll Process of Compressor Blade Manufacture

This paper is concerned with a scientific study of the pinch and roll process that is currently used to produce compressor blades for jet engines. It is several decades old and has some shortcomings. The process has to be improved in order to insure the ongoing competitiveness of the pinch and roll process against other blade forming technologies. A major shortcoming is the cost in both time and material involved in the setup of the machine for a production run. This process requires a large amount of time of skilled personnel and scraps several parts for each setup process. Another shortcoming is the variation of the quality aspects of the parts produced by the pinch and roll process. The variations in machine setups and between different machines cause the pinch and roll process to produce a range of output product deficiencies. The development and installation of a data acquisition system (DAQ) specifically designed for the process has overcome these shortcomings. The DAQ system provides setup assistance tools as well as process monitoring capabilities. The DAQ system can monitor several factors that characterize the behavior of the machine and the subsequent part quality. The information obtained by the sensors on these factors can be used to provide information about “good” and “bad” parts in the form of “part signatures”, which are the waveforms of the monitored factors. This information has been used to improve and understand the current process and can be incorporated in any future press designs. The DAQ system has shown the greatest benefits concerning the setup procedures. Improvements in both the efficiency and the effectiveness of these procedures have reduced costs while enhancing part quality.
Dermatology referrals in an academic family medicine clinic.

Background Variations in referral rates among primary care physicians have implications for cost and quality of care, as well as primary care training. Dermatology referral rates of residents and faculty from an academic family medicine clinic are described. Methods Using a computerized referral tracking system, all dermatology referrals from January to March 1999 were retrospectively reviewed. Referral rates were calculated for individual providers, rates of uncompleted referrals were calculated, and reasons for referral were examined. Results Residents and faculty made 102 dermatology referrals during the study period. Although no significant differences occurred in referral rates between residents and faculty, significant variation occurred among individual providers. Junior residents had more uncompleted referrals (83%) than senior residents (29%) and faculty. Common skin conditions accounted for most referrals. Conclusions Wide variation exists in dermatology referral rates among family medicine residents and faculty. Moreover, many referral appointments are not kept. Family medicine training curricula should include formal education on the referral process.
Welfare and Development: The Case of Education

Powered by basic needs strategies, the populist revolutions that overthrew colonialism focused their developmental efforts on welfare programs. Improved health care, improved water supplies, better roads, better housing, education for all: across the world, these constituted governments’ core programs. At the top of the list stood education.
Die synaptische Übertragung

Kapitel 5 behandelt die Kommunikation zwischen Neuronen, speziell die Ubertragung an der chemischen Synapse. Dieses Kapitel untersucht die grundlegenden Mechanismen der synaptischen Ubertragung. Wie sehen verschiedene Arten von Synapsen aus? Wie werden Neurotransmitter synthetisiert und gespeichert, und wie werden sie als Reaktion auf ein Aktionspotenzial in der Axonterminale freigesetzt? Wie wirken Neurotransmitter auf die postsynaptische Membran? Wie integrieren einzelne Neuronen die ankommenden Informationen, die von Tausenden von Synapsen geliefert werden und das Neuron beeinflussen?
Sinonasal Tract – Benign

This chapter covers some common, benign sinonasal entities (Schneiderian papillomas) and uncommon, emerging entities (respiratory epithelial adenomatoid hamartoma and sinonasal serous hamartoma). The latter likely represent benign adenosis-like tumor processes rather than hamartomas. Benign peripheral nerve sheath tumors and ectopic central nervous system entities are also discussed.
Tomographic wave-front sensing with a single guide star

Adaptive optics or numerical restoration algorithms that restore high resolution imaging through atmospheric turbulence are subject to isoplanatic wave-front errors. Mitigating those errors requires that the wave-front aberrations be estimated within the 3D volume of the atmosphere. Present techniques rely on multiple beacons, either natural stars or laser guide stars, to probe the atmospheric aberration along different lines of sight, followed by tomographic projection of the measurements onto layers at defined ranges. In this paper we show that a three-dimensional estimate of the wave-front aberration can be recovered from measurements by a single guide star in the case where the aberration is stratified, provided that the telescope tracks across the sky with non-uniform angular velocity. This is generally the case for observations of artificial earth-orbiting satellites, and the new method is likely to find application in ground-based telescopes used for space situational awareness.
The Sustainable Planet: Towards an Education for Sustainability

Our planet is ever more interconnected, miniaturized, and fragile. With the increase in desertification, rising sea levels, erratic weather patterns and climate change, sustainable education becomes an exceedingly important priority the world over. Furthermore, in the age of the “globalization of indifference,” as Pope Francis has taught us, the environment we share becomes a powerful point of entry for educating all children and youth to become engaged, ethical, and competent stewards of a finite and frail world. With the alarming rate of environmental degradation and climate change the right to a sustainable environment is urgently becoming the human rights imperative of our times. As the law of disproportionality makes clear, it is the poor, the weak, immigrants & refugees; and the outcastes that are most vulnerable to both cataclysmic man-made environmental disasters and the slow and steady deterioration of environment qualities (i.e., air quality, water quality, and the like).
Functional SNPs in vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF-A) and overall survival (OS) in bevacizumab-treated patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC).

3594 Background: Functional SNPs in VEGF-A are prognostic for OS in several malignancies, but not described definitively in mCRC. In bevacizumab-treated patients with advanced breast cancer, VEGF -...
Nanoscale insight into the p-n junction of alkali-incorporated Cu(In,Ga)Se2 solar cells

The effects of alkali diffusion and post-deposition treatment in three-stage processed Cu(In,Ga)Se2 solar cells are examined by using atom probe tomography and electrical property measurements. Cells, for which the substrate was treated at 650°C to induce alkali diffusion from the substrate prior to absorber deposition, exhibited high open-circuit voltage (758 mV) and efficiency (18.2%) and also exhibited a 50 to 100-nm-thick ordered vacancy compound layer at the metallurgical junction. Surprisingly, these high-temperature samples exhibited higher concentrations of K at the junction (1.8 at.%) than post-deposition treatment samples (0.4 at.%). A model that uses Ga/(Ga + In) and Cu/(Ga + In) profiles to predict bandgaps (±17.9 meV) of 22 Cu(In,Ga)Se2 solar cells reported in literature was discussed and ultimately used to predict band properties at the nanoscale by using atom probe tomography data. The high-temperature samples exhibited a greater drop in the valence band maximum (200 meV) due to a lower Cu/(Ga + In) ratio than the post-deposition treatment samples. There was an anticorrelation of K concentrations and Cu/(Ga + In) ratios for all samples, regardless of processing conditions. Changes in elemental profiles at the active junctions correlate well with the electrical behaviour of these devices. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Successful Model for Clinical Training in Child/Adolescent Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Graduate Psychiatric Advanced Practice Nursing Students.

BACKGROUND: Graduate faculty in advanced practice nursing programs seek to provide clinical training in psychotherapy for psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) students and prepare t...
Enantiospecific Synthesis of β-Substituted Tryptamines

Functionalized tryptamines are targets of interest for development as small molecule therapeutics. The ring opening of aziridines with indoles is a powerful method for tryptamine synthesis where isomer formation can be controlled. 3,5-Dinitrobenzoyl (DNB)-protected aziridines undergo regioselective, enantiospecific ring opening to produce β-substituted tryptamines for a series of indoles. Attack at the more substituted aziridine carbon occurs in an SN2-like fashion to generate DNB-tryptamine products as synthetic precursors.
But I Had Windows

Vagle tells a story of three visceral moments from his childhood—that together he now reads as entangled intensities (Deleuze & Guattari, A thousand plateaus: Capitalism and schizophrenia, 1987), which have settled in his socially classed, White body (Jones & Vagle, Educational Researcher, 42(3), 129–141, 2013).
Impact of Enteric Health and Mucosal Permeability on Skeletal Health and Lameness in Poultry

Intestinal barrier leakage and/or altered gut microbial composition has been shown to markedly impact both osteoblast and osteoclast activities, systemically through circulation of gut immune cells and cytokines and locally by causing inflammation of extraintestinal organs such as the liver and bone marrow. Mild cases of heightened intestinal inflammation can cause bone loss in male mice in the absence of any overt nutritional deficiencies or weight loss, which has also been shown in chickens that have been infected with Salmonella. For poultry, ingredients selected for feed formulation have also a significant impact on gut health, intestinal microbiota, bone quality, and performance parameters. Consumption of diets with a high content of soluble non-starch polysaccharides (NSP) can affect bone quality parameters by reducing the amount of conjugated bile acids in the intestine, therefore diminishing the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamin D and minerals like calcium and phosphorus. Recent enteric inflammation studies have shown that high NSP-containing diets have effects on intestinal viscosity, bone mineral content, and breaking strength, along with increased fluorescein isothiocyanate-dextran (FITC-d) leakage. Other skeletal diseases, such as bacterial chondronecrosis with osteomyelitis and enterococcal spondylitis, have a microbial component that is associated with increased mucosal permeability of the gut. Probiotics targeted toward control of enteric inflammation, either created through infectious disease or poor diet, may serve as a strategy for control of predisposing factors that lead to bone disorders.
Asthma in inner city children: recent insights: United States.

Purpose of review Children living in US inner cities experience disparate burdens of asthma, especially in severity, impairment, exacerbations, and morbidity. Investigations seeking to better understand the factors and mechanisms underlying asthma prevalence, severity, and exacerbation in children living in these communities can lead to interventions that can narrow asthma disparities and potentially benefit all children with asthma. This update will focus on recent (i.e. late 2016-2017) advances in the understanding of asthma in US inner city children. Recent findings Studies published in the past year expand understanding of asthma prevalence, severity, exacerbation, and the outcomes of guidelines-based management of these at-risk children, including: asthma phenotypes in US inner city children that are severe and difficult-to-control; key environmental determinants and mechanisms underlying asthma severity and exacerbations (e.g. allergy-mediated exacerbation susceptibility to rhinovirus); the importance of schools as a place for provocative exposures (e.g. mouse allergen, nitrogen dioxide) as well as a place where asthma care and outcomes can be improved; and the development and validation of clinically useful indices for gauging asthma severity and predicting exacerbations. Summary These recent studies provide a trove of actionable findings that can improve asthma care and outcomes for these at-risk children.
Assessing the Customer-Based Impact of Up-Selling Versus Down-Selling:

This article evaluates customers’ postpurchase attitudinal and behavioral responses to two suggestive selling strategies employed in retail establishments: up-selling and down-selling. Our findings...
Psychologic Adaptation of Patients During Treatment of Acute Leukemia in Life Island Isolator

The patient treated for leukemia in the Life Island is subjected to the possibility of a complex set of severe stresses over a prolonged period of time. It is extraordinarily difficult to separate the stress of the leukemic process alone as distinct from the reaction to the unique treatment situation. These stresses can be catagorized into two major classes: A. Factors influencing physico-chemical equilibrium. B. Factors influencing psycho-social equilibrium.