cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Seeding the clouds for industrial relations climate change in emerging economies

merging economies have received growing atten-tion in the international business literature due to the opportunities they offer in the areas of trade, technology transfer, and investment. Relatively less has been written on the risks associated with in-vestment in emerging economies despite the acknowl-edgment that traditional risks such as labor strife re-main challenges for international business (McTernan, 2005; Moran, 1998; Poole-Robb & Bailey, 2002; Wells, 1998). As production continues to internationalize and manufacturing businesses move labor-intensive pro-duction to emerging economies (Athukorala, 2007), it behooves international managers to understand the economic, social, and political factors that shape the industrial relations climate in which management and labor interact.
Network Reconstruction Using Nonparametric Additive ODE Models

Network representations of biological systems are widespread and reconstructing unknown networks from data is a focal problem for computational biologists. For example, the series of biochemical reactions in a metabolic pathway can be represented as a network, with nodes corresponding to metabolites and edges linking reactants to products. In a different context, regulatory relationships among genes are commonly represented as directed networks with edges pointing from influential genes to their targets. Reconstructing such networks from data is a challenging problem receiving much attention in the literature. There is a particular need for approaches tailored to time-series data and not reliant on direct intervention experiments, as the former are often more readily available. In this paper, we introduce an approach to reconstructing directed networks based on dynamic systems models. Our approach generalizes commonly used ODE models based on linear or nonlinear dynamics by extending the functional class for the functions involved from parametric to nonparametric models. Concomitantly we limit the complexity by imposing an additive structure on the estimated slope functions. Thus the submodel associated with each node is a sum of univariate functions. These univariate component functions form the basis for a novel coupling metric that we define in order to quantify the strength of proposed relationships and hence rank potential edges. We show the utility of the method by reconstructing networks using simulated data from computational models for the glycolytic pathway of Lactocaccus Lactis and a gene network regulating the pluripotency of mouse embryonic stem cells. For purposes of comparison, we also assess reconstruction performance using gene networks from the DREAM challenges. We compare our method to those that similarly rely on dynamic systems models and use the results to attempt to disentangle the distinct roles of linearity, sparsity, and derivative estimation.
Sorption Of Molybdenum In Soils Field-equilibrated With Biosolids

Molybdenum (Mo) adsorption by soil is a function of several chemical factors, including added Mo load, solution pH, competing anion concentration, and iron (Fe) and aluminum (Al) oxide concentration in the soil, all of which can be changed by biosolids additions. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of biosolids on Mo sorption in two sandy Florida soils field-equilibrated with various biosolids. Molybdenum sorption was determined on surface samples of soils taken for up to 4 yr after biosolids amendment. Various parameters (soil pH, oxalate extractable-Fe and Al, and complementary ion concentrations) were measured and related to Mo sorption to explain biosolids effects. Biosolids application had only a small effect on Mo sorption as a result of added Fe and Al oxides in both soils studied. Molybdenum sorption was strongly related to soil pH and was maximized at soil pH values <4 to 5 for both soils studied. Although biosolids-additions had only a small effect on Mo sorption as a result...
Search: a Gaged Watershed Inventory

: A method, adapted to an APL interactive terminal, is described which allows the operator to thoroughly search a large set of gaged watersheds in order to find sources of comparable hydrologic data for detailed analysis. Bases of the search - and inventory - include drainage basin size and elevation, and geographical and temporal parameters, and should enhance opportunities for more reliable use of existing data.
Autonomic Nervous System in Alte and Sids: Is Confluent Vulnerability During Development A Valid Unifying Hypothesis?

Autonomic Nervous System in Alte and Sids: Is Confluent Vulnerability During Development A Valid Unifying Hypothesis?
Social condition affects the courtship behavior of male ring doves with posterior medial hypothalamic lesions

Following bilateral lesions to the posterior medial hypothalamus (homologue of the mammalian ventromedial nucleus), adult male ring doves regain full courtship behavior and the ability to stimulate female egg-laying when housed continuously with females. Males with PMH lesions housed singly and only tested periodically with females continue to show deficits in courtship. These findings suggest that the social environment present in adulthood itself can directly influence recovery from brain lesions. They also demonstrate the importance of PMH in the mediation of male ring dove courtship behavior.
Toxic and therapeutic effects of methotrexate-folinic acid (Leucovorin) in advanced cancer and leukemia.

Recent studies suggest that a therapeutic advantage with reduced toxicity can be achieved by the administration of intensive high doses of methotrexate in malignant disease. The action of methotrexate can be reversed by the administration of folinic acid (Leucovorin) which bypasses the major site of methotrexate action, the binding of dihydrofolic reductase, preventing the formation of tetrahydrofolic acid. Thus, the duration of exposure of sensitive cells to lethal doses of methotrexate can be accurately controlled. Patients with metastatic cancer or acute leukemia were treated with oral methotrexate administered in 4 equally divided doses totalling 100, 200, or 300 mg/m2 over a 24-hour period once weekly. Leucovorin, in doses of 5 mg every 6 hours for 6, 9, or 12 doses depending upon the creatinine clearance, was begun on a randomized basis at 24 or 36 hours after methotrexate to determine if there were any differences in response or toxicity by the delay in “rescue.” Objective and/or subjective responses were observed in 25% of 93 patients with metastatic cancer and remissions (3 complete and 5 partial) in 23% of 35 evaluable patients with acute leukemia. The highest response rates were obtained in head and neck carcinomas (22%) and breast carcinomas (45%). Responses were also seen in other carcinomas, including ovary, cervix, and choriocarcinoma. Toxicity was Minimal and similar in all combinations of schedules of methotrexate and Leucovorin. This approach warrants further study alone or in combination with other drugs in carcinoma of the breast and head and neck, and in acute leukemia.
A nonparametric statistical approach in noisy chaos identification

Data resulting from some deterministic dynamic systems may appear to be random. To distinguish these kinds of data from random data is a new challenge for statisticians. This paper develops a nonparametric statistical test procedure for distinguishing noisy chaos from i. i. d. random processes. The procedure can be easily implemented by computer and is very effective in identifying low dimensional chaos in certain instances.
Linear transformations of optimal linear estimates

Basic properties of optimal linear estimates are used to prove that linear transformations of such estimates are also optimum.
Fiber-matrix interface studies on bioabsorbable composite materials for internal fixation of bone fractures. I. Raw material evaluation and measurement of fiber-matrix interfacial adhesion.

The objective of this study was to characterize and evaluate the performance of various fiber-matrix composite systems by studying the mechanical, thermal, and physical properties of the fiber and matrix components, and by studying the fiber-matrix interface adhesion strength using both microbond and fragmentation methods. The composites studied were poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA) matrix reinforced with continuous fibers of either nonabsorbable AS4 carbon (C), absorbable calcium phosphate (CaP), poly(glycolic acid) (PGA), or chitin. Carbon and CaP single fibers had high Young's moduli and failed in a brittle manner. PGA and chitin single fibers had relatively lower Young's moduli and relatively higher ductility. Upon in vitro hydrolysis, CaP fibers retained 17% of their tensile strength and 39% of their Young's modulus after 12 h, PGA fibers retained 10% of their tensile strength and 52% of their Young's modulus after 16 days, and chitin fibers retained 87% of their tensile strength and 130% of their Young's modulus after 25 days. PLLA films had much lower strength and Young's moduli, but much higher ductility relative to the single fibers. Using the microbond method, the initial fiber-matrix interfacial shear strength (IFSS) of C/PLLA and CaP/PLLA microcomposites was 33.9 and 12.6 MPa, respectively. Upon in vitro hydrolysis, C/PLLA retained 49% of IFSS after 15 days and CaP/PLLA retained 46% of IFSS after 6 h. Using a fiber fragmentation method, the initial IFSS of C/PLLA, CaP/PLLA, and chitin/PLLA was 22.2, 15.6, and 28.3 MPa, respectively. The performance of carbon fibers and C/PLLA composites was superior to the other fibers and fiber/PLLA systems, but the carbon fiber was nonabsorbable. CaP had the most suitable modulus of the absorbable fibers for fixing cortical bone fractures, but its rapid deterioration of mechanical properties and loss of IFSS limits its use. PGA and chitin fibers had suitable mechanical properties and their retention for fixing cancellous bone fractures, but likely had insufficient stiffness for applications such as bone plates for fixing cortical bone fractures. © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 36, 469–477, 1997.
Possible involvement of nitric oxide in chlordiazepoxide-induced feeding in the mouse

Abstract Two experiments investigated a possible role of nitric oxide (NO) in chlordiazepoxide (CP)-induced feeding in nondeprived male ICR mice in independent groups designs. Experiment 1 demonstrated a dose-related decrease in CP-induced solid food intake over a 60-min test period with increasing dose (10, 25, and 50 mg/ kg SC) of the NO-synthase (NOS) inhibitor, l -N G -nitro arginine ( l -NOARG), reaching statistical significance at 10 mg/kg l -NOARG when compared to vehicle control. Identical doses of l -NOARG failed to significantly affect normal feeding in vehicle treated mice. In Experiment 2, initial pretreatment with l -arginine (500 and 1000 mg/kg IP) partially or completely restored the feeding inhibitory action of a challenge dose (25 mg/kg SC) of l -NOARG; d -arginine (500 mg/kg IP) was ineffective, thus supporting a stereospecific action of arginine. Arginine isomers did not differentially affect intake in normal feeding animals. These results implicate involvement of NO in CP-induced hyperphagia; they are consistent with and extend research linking NO and ingestive behaviors.
Peak Shape Distortions in the Capillary Electrophoretic Separations of Strong Electrolytes When the Background Electrolyte Contains Two Strong Electrolyte Co-Ions

A series of 25 mM phosphate buffer background electrolytes were prepared from phosphoric acid and mixtures of lithium hydroxide and tetrabutylammonium hydroxide as pH adjusters and sources of background electrolyte co-ions. These background electrolytes were used for the capillary electrophoretic separation of quaternary ammonium analytes. Abnormally distorted peaks, different from the simple characteristic triangular peaks usually attributed to electromigration dispersion, were observed. In order to understand the origin of the greatly distorted peaks, capillary electrophoretic separations with two co-ion background electrolytes were numerically simulated using a mathematical model of the electrophoretic process. Generalized peak shape rules were derived from the simulations which can be used to predict the shape of the analyte, co-ions, and counterion concentration peaks, as well as the local electric field strength changes. Abnormal peak shape and peak disappearance can occur when the analyte peak and ...
The brain slicer: Anatomical precision for organotypic expiant culture

Abstract A brain slicing apparatus originally developed for electrophysiological studies of cat visual cortex slices has been used to prepare expiants from anatomically identifiable regions of the developing CNS for long-term organotypic culture in Maximow double coverslip assemblies. This instrument permits the very rapid, reproducible and atraumatic preparation of viable explants from specific brain regions with an optimal thickness range of 350–400 μm. The stainless steel cutting grid with its gold-plated tungsten wires and the Agarose cutting base are nontoxic and easy to sterilize. The degree of atlas-quality, anatomic precision achieved makes the brain slicer also uniquely suited for the preparation of anatomically defined brain regions for use as transplants.
Determination of serum metabolic profiles of bile acids by microcolumn liquid chromatography/laser-induced fluorescence

A method for the determination of individual free and conjugated bile acids in serum using microcolumn liquid chromatography coupled with a laser-induced fluorescence detector is described. Bile acids are separated into free/glycine-conjugate and taurine-conjugate fractions using a Sep-Pak SIL cartridge. The taurine-conjugated bile acid fraction is subjected to enzymatic hydrolysis. Subsequently, free and conjugated bile acids are labeled using 4-(bromomethyl)-7-methoxycoumarin as a fluorogenic reagent, producing stable derivatives that can be excited by the 325 nm line of a He/Cd laser. Prior to their fluorimetric detection, the individual components of a bile acid serum profile are separated by reversed-phase microcolumn liquid chromatography.
Astrocytes are important for sprouting in the septohippocampal circuit

Damage to the fimbria-fornix, and separately to the perforant path, leads to distinct and dramatic time-dependent increases in glial fibrillary acidic protein immunoreactivity (GFAP-IR) in specific areas of the hippocampal formation. Specifically, fimbria-fornix lesions resulted in an increase in the GFAP-IR in the pyramidal and oriens area of the CA3 as well as the inner molecular layer of the dentate gyrus. In addition, in the septum ipsilateral to the lesion, there was a rapid and robust increase in GFAP-IR in the dorsal lateral quadrant of the septum, but not in the medial region. Only after 30 days did the GFAP-IR reach the medial septum. Following perforant path lesions, there was a selective increase in GFAP-IR in the outer molecular layer of the dentate gyrus. Most of these changes were transient and had disappeared by 30 days postlesion. We speculate that the increase in GFAP-IR in these target areas is a necessary requirement for the sprouting responses that are observed. This hypothesis is supported by the fact that astrocytes secrete NGF in vitro and that NGF activity increases in these target areas following these same lesions. A mechanism for the selective activation of the astrocytes through the initial activation of microglia and secretion of interleukin-1 is postulated.
Laboratory measurement of the rate of the reaction O+ + O2 → O2+ + O at thermal energy

Abstract The rate coefficient for the reaction N 2 + + O → NO + + N at 300°K has been measured to be k 1a = 2.5(± 1) × 10 −10 cm 3 se −1 . No previous laboratory measurements of this reaction rate at thermal energies have been reported. This reaction clearly plays an important role in the E - and F1 -regions of the ionosphere, accounting for significant N 2 + loss, outweighing the N 2 + loss rate with molecular oxygen.
Coherent versus incoherent modulation of a resonant level:?the effect of modulation noise on the propagation of light through quantum wells

The propagation of a weak light beam through a quantum well in the vicinity of an excitonic resonance that is modulated harmonically in time at terahertz frequency is considered. It is found that the reflection probability of the light beam is considerably different in the cases of purely coherent versus Gaussian incoherent terahertz modulation, even in the limit of long coherence times.
Abelian symmetry groups in social choice

Abstract For every finite abelian group G there exists (i) a social choice rule f for which the group of permutations of individuals leaving f unchanged is isomorphic to G ; and (ii) a social choice rule g for which the group of permutations of alternatives leaving g unchanged is isomorphic to G .
FLUORESCENCE QUENCHING OF INDOLES BY N,N‐DIMETHYLFORMAMIDE

Abstract. The quenching of the excited state of indoles by small polar molecules is believed to occur via the formation of excited state complexes. The rate of excited state complex formation of indoles with dimethylformamide is shown to be a function of the group appended to the indole ring at the 3- or 5-position. Substituents which can strengthen the charge transfer character of the exciplex are observed to enhance the rate of fluorescence quenching. In contrast to other amides, dimethylformamide appears to be a moderately good quencher of indole fluorescence, and may be a useful probe for proteins.
Women's experiences in the engineering laboratory in Japan

This qualitative study aims to examine Japanese women undergraduate engineering students’ experiences of interacting with departmental peers of the same year in the laboratory setting by using interview data of 32 final-year students at two modestly selective national universities in Japan. Expectation state theory that explains unequal relationship between men and women is used as a framework. Findings suggest that women generally had a discouraging experience while working with their male peers. Specifically, women participated less and lost confidence by comparing with the men who appeared to be confident and competent.
Chronic Disseminated Cutaneous Blastomycosis in an 11‐Year Old, with a Brief Review of the Literature

Chronic disseminated cutaneous blastomycosis is rare in children. We discuss an 11-year-old immunocompetent boy who presented with a history of persistent and multiple skin lesions of >1 year's duration. These lesions proved to be secondary to chronic Blastomyces dermatitidis infection. Complete resolution of clinical disease occurred after a 6-month course of oral itraconazole. We also present a brief review of the literature focusing on the epidemiology, manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment of pediatric blastomycosis.
Compliance in CAPD and CCPD patients as measured by supply inventories during home visits

This study was performed to determine compliance with prescribed exchanges in continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) and continuous cycler peritoneal dialysis (CCPD) patients via a home supply inventory, to evaluate numerous other factors against this standard, and to compare compliant and noncompliant patient characteristics and outcomes. It was an open enrollment of patients with prospective follow-up of 49 CAPD and CCPD adult patients at a university dialysis center. Two home visits for dialysis solution inventories were conducted 1 to 3 months apart. The number of exchanges actually performed (based on the inventory and deliveries) divided by the number of exchanges prescribed determined the percent compliance. Patient self-evaluation of compliance, attitudes about compliance and medical care, Derogatis Affects Balance Sheet (DABS) (a validated tool of affects balance), staff evaluations, patient demographics, hospitalizations, dialysis adequacy (measured to predicted creatinine ratio) and patient outcomes were evaluated against compliance with prescribed exchanges. Thirty-five percent of the patients were found to be noncompliant with prescribed exchanges based on the supply inventory, performing only 74% of exchanges. Compliant and noncompliant patients were not different by age, race, gender, peritoneal dialysis (PD) time, number of comorbid conditions, nor incidence of diabetes. The affects balance score from the DABS test was a poor predictor of compliance, as were staff evaluations. Delivered dialysis, adjusted for percentage of compliance, was significantly lower in noncompliant than in compliant patients by weekly Kt/V (2.2 v 1.74, P < 0.003), Ccreatinine L/week/1.73m2 (69 v 58, P = 0.05), as was normalized protein nitrogen appearance rates (nPNA), g/kg/day (0.89 v 0.70, P = 0.001). Technique survival was significantly lower (P < 0.05) in noncompliant patients. Twenty-nine percent of the noncompliant patients transferred to hemodialysis for uremia compared with 6% of compliant patients, P = .04, with a mean follow-up time of 1 year per patient. Patient survival did not differ in the two groups. Peritonitis rates were higher in noncompliant than compliant patients (1.03/yr v 0.66/yr, P < 0.03), as were days hospitalized (908 per 100 patient-years v 1,016 per 100 patient-years, P < 0.04). Noncompliance with PD exchanges is significantly common in CAPD and CCPD patients. It occurs in one third of the patients at our center and contributes significantly to technique failure, inadequate dialysis, and an increased risk of both peritonitis and hospitalized days. Home visits to conduct supply inventories provide an excellent method of monitoring compliance.
DISRUPTING ILLEGAL FIREARMS MARKETS IN BOSTON: THE EFFECTS OF OPERATION CEASEFIRE ON THE SUPPLY OF NEW HANDGUNS TO CRIMINALS*

Research Summary: The question of whether the illegal firearms market serving criminals and juveniles can be disrupted has been vigorously debated in policy circles and in the literature on firearms and violence. To the extent that prohibited persons, in particular, are supplied with guns through systematic gun trafficking, focused regulatory and investigative resources may be useful in disrupting the illegal supply of firearms to criminals. In Boston, a gun market disruption strategy was implemented that focused on shutting down illegal diversions of new handguns from retail sources. Multivariate regression analyses were used to estimate the effects of the intervention on new handguns recovered in crime. Our results suggest that focused enforcement efforts, guided by strategic analyses of ATF firearms trace data, can have significant impacts on the illegal supply of new handguns to criminals. Policy Implications: The problem-oriented policing approach provides an appropriate framework to uncover the complex mechanisms at play in illicit firearms markets and to develop tailor-made interventions to disrupt the illegal gun trade. Strategic enforcement programs focused on the illegal diversion of new firearms from primary markets can reduce the availability of new guns to criminals. However, the extent to which criminals substitute older guns for new guns and move from primary markets to secondary markets in response to an enforcement strategy focused on retail outlets remains unclear. Our evaluation also does not provide policy makers with any firm evidence on whether supply-side enforcement strategies have any measurable impacts on gun violence. Jurisdictions suffering from gun violence problems should implement demand-side violence prevention programs to complement their supply-side efforts. Language: en
An Analytical Metal Resistance Model and Its Application for Sub-22-nm Metal-Gate CMOS

Gate resistance, middle of line resistance, and back end of line resistance in modern metal-gate CMOS increase drastically as the dimensions of the gates, interconnects and vias scale down close to or below the bulk electron mean free paths (MFPs) of the metal materials. These resistances, especially the gate resistance, impose more and more significant RC delay to CMOS circuits and become significant concerns in sub-22-nm CMOS. In order to optimize the metal-gate materials and structures for low resistance, accurate metal resistance model is needed. In this letter, we propose an analytical metal resistance model applicable for metal wires and films even with sub-MFP sizes. Our model includes scattering effects from surfaces, interfaces, and grain boundaries, and has been successfully verified on $W$ metal gates with the feature sizes ranging from 20 to 70 nm.
Current Practices of Counseling Psychology Faculty in K-12 Schools A National Survey

Given the debates about the identity and future of counseling psychology programs in colleges of education and given the growing national crisis in K-12 education, this study examined the involvement of counseling psychology faculty in school-related issues. Full-time faculty from APA-accredited counseling psychology programs were surveyed about the extent of their involvement in K-12-related teaching, research, service, policy, and program development. The results suggest a significant interest and involvement by many counseling psychology faculty. 7he results are discussed in terms of implications for the profession of counseling psychology.
Isoform- and cell-specific function of tyrosine decarboxylase in the Drosophila Malpighian tubule.

SUMMARY The biogenic amine tyramine (TA) is a potent diuretic factor when applied to the Malpighian tubule (MT) of Drosophila melanogaster , stimulating both urine production and transepithelial chloride conductance. Isolated MTs can respond not only to TA but also to its precursor, tyrosine; this observation led to the proposal that MTs are able to synthesize TA from applied tyrosine through the action of the enzyme tyrosine decarboxylase (TDC). In the current study it is shown that the non-neuronal isoform of TDC, Tdc1 , is expressed in the principal cells of the MT. A mutant allele of Tdc1 , Tdc1 f03311 , was identified that reduced expression of the mature Tdc1 transcript by greater than 100-fold. MTs isolated from Tdc1 f03311 homozygous flies showed no significant depolarization of their transepithelial potential (TEP) or diuresis in response to tyrosine while retaining normal sensitivity to TA. By contrast, a previously identified null mutant allele of the neuronal TDC isoform Tdc2 had no effect on either tyrosine or TA sensitivity. To determine in which cell type of the MT Tdc1 expression is required, flies were generated carrying a UAS-Tdc1 transgene and cell-type-specific Gal4 drivers on a Tdc1 f03311 homozygous background. Rescue of Tdc1 expression in principal cells fully restored sensitivity to tyrosine whereas expression of Tdc1 in stellate cells had no rescuing effect. It is concluded that synthesis of TA by Tdc1 in the principal cells of the MT is required for physiological responses to tyrosine. TA synthesis in the MT is the first reported physiological role for Drosophila Tdc1 .
A new means for observation of small comets and other water-laden bodies entering earth's upper atmosphere

This paper shows that the infrared radiance of comet-associated water vapor clouds described by Frank et al. (1986b) is large relative to natural background emissions. This IR emission arises from scattering of solar radiation and earth-shine and from excitation by upper atmospheric atomic oxygen. As a consequence, observations in space or from high-altitude platforms should provide an unambiguous signature of the entry of such objects into earth's atmosphere.
Mobility Outcomes Following Five Training Sessions with a Powered Exoskeleton

BACKGROUND: Loss of legged mobility due to spinal cord injury (SCI) is associated with multiple physiological and psychological impacts. Powered exoskeletons offer the possibility of regained mobility and reversal or prevention of the secondary effects associated with immobility. OBJECTIVE: This study was conducted to evaluate mobility outcomes for individuals with SCI after 5 gait-training sessions with a powered exoskeleton, with a primary goal of characterizing the ease of learning and usability of the system. METHODS: Sixteen subjects with SCI were enrolled in a pilot clinical trial at Shepherd Center, Atlanta, Georgia, with injury levels ranging from C5 complete to L1 incomplete. An investigational Indego exoskeleton research kit was evaluated for ease of use and efficacy in providing legged mobility. Outcome measures of the study included the 10-meter walk test (10MWT) and the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) as well as measures of independence including donning and doffing times and the ability to walk on various surfaces. RESULTS: At the end of 5 sessions (1.5 hours per session), average walking speed was 0.22 m/s for persons with C5-6 motor complete tetraplegia, 0.26 m/s for T1-8 motor complete paraplegia, and 0.45 m/s for T9-L1 paraplegia. Distances covered in 6 minutes averaged 64 meters for those with C5-6, 74 meters for T1-8, and 121 meters for T9-L1. Additionally, all participants were able to walk on both indoor and outdoor surfaces. CONCLUSIONS: Results after only 5 sessions suggest that persons with tetraplegia and paraplegia learn to use the Indego exoskeleton quickly and can manage a variety of surfaces. Walking speeds and distances achieved also indicate that some individuals with paraplegia can quickly become limited community ambulators using this system. Language: en
Multimodal E-Mental Health Treatment for Depression: A Feasibility Trial

Background: Internet interventions for depression have shown less than optimal adherence. This study describes the feasibility trial of a multimodal e-mental health intervention designed to enhance adherence and outcomes for depression. The intervention required frequent brief log-ins for self-monitoring and feedback as well as email and brief telephone support guided by a theory-driven manualized protocol. Objective: The objective of this feasibility trial was to examine if our Internet intervention plus manualized telephone support program would result in increased adherence rates and improvement in depression outcomes. Methods: This was a single arm feasibility trial of a 7-week intervention. Results: Of the 21 patients enrolled, 2 (9.5%) dropped out of treatment. Patients logged in 23.2 ± 12.2 times over the 7 weeks. Significant reductions in depression were found on all measures, including the Patient Health Questionnaire depression scale (PHQ-8) (Cohen’s d = 1.96, P < .001), the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (d = 1.34, P < .001), and diagnosis of major depressive episode (P < .001). Conclusions: The attrition rate was far lower than seen either in Internet studies or trials of face-to-face interventions, and depression outcomes were substantial. These findings support the feasibility of providing a multimodal e-mental health treatment to patients with depression. Although it is premature to make any firm conclusions based on these data, they do support the initiation of a randomized controlled trial examining the independent and joint effects of Internet and telephone administered treatments for depression.
Reprogramming the Ribosome for Selenoprotein Expression: RNA Elements and Protein Factors

Many of the benefits of the antioxidant selenium can be attributed to its incorporation into selenoenzymes as the 21st amino acid, selenocysteine. Selenocysteine incorporation occurs cotranslationally at UGA codons in a subset of messages in prokaryotes, eukaryotes, and archaea. UGA codons are recoded to specify selenocysteine, rather than termination, by the presence of specialized cis- and trans-acting factors. Here we discuss the mechanism of selenocysteine insertion, the factors which affect efficiency of incorporation, and regulation of mRNA levels. Although much remains to be learned about the multiple factors affecting gene and tissue-specific regulation of the selenoenzymes, significant advances in this regard have been made in understanding the role of selenium status, the expression and selective modification of specific trans-acting factors, and the cis-acting sequences associated with each selenoenzyme message.
The Effects of Decision Aid Design on the Information Search Strategies and Confirmation Bias of Tax Professionals

We report the results of a study involving 142 tax professionals designed to investigate the effects of decision aid design on information search (i.e., tax research) and confirmation bias. Results indicate that the participants exhibited confirmation bias when conducting tax research for clients. That is, participants showed a tendency to preferentially select information in support of their earlier recommendations to the client, even when the recommendation disagreed with the client's subsequent tax position. Results also indicate that while some decision aid features can reduce confirmation bias during tax research, others do not and may even enhance this bias. Specifically, a justification requirement decision aid reduced confirmation bias in terms of both the number and perceived importance of selected confirmatory cases, whereas a factor evaluation checklist decision aid either increased the bias (i.e., increased the perceived importance of cases) or had no effect on the bias (i.e., no effect on the...
Study of two G-protein coupled receptor variants of human trace amine-associated receptor 5

Here we report the study of two bioengineered variants of human trace amine-associated receptor 5 (hTAAR5) that were expressed in stable tetracycline-inducible HEK293S cell lines. A systematic detergent screen showed that fos-choline-14 was the optimal detergent to solubilize and subsequently purify the receptors. Milligram quantities of both hTAAR5 variants were purified to near homogeneity using immunoaffinity chromatography followed by gel filtration. Circular dichroism showed that the purified receptors had helical secondary structures, indicating that they were properly folded. The purified receptors are not only suitable for functional analyses, but also for subsequent crystallization trials. To our knowledge, this is the first mammalian TAAR that has been heterologously expressed and purified. Our study will likely stimulate in the development of therapeutic drug targets for TAAR-associated diseases, as well as fabrication of TAAR-based sensing devices.
Percutaneous permeation modifiers: enhancement versus retardation

Background: The use of permeation enhancers to compromise the barrier properties of skin has been ongoing for decades. However, toxicity associated with certain xenobiotics has led to the development of permeation retardants. Since both enhancers and retardants modify the surface layer of the skin, they can be collectively referred to as penetration modifiers. Objective: This review attempts to outline a comparison of two types of penetration modifiers: enhancers and retardants. Methods: In addition to reports of enhancement and retardation by modifiers, we also provide evidence as to why we should group these compounds together, since we have found that retardants can become enhancers in different formulation environments. Conclusion: Since modifiers influence drug delivery, further exploration of these compounds is required to understand their modifying action on the properties of skin.
Genome-wide linkage analyses of two repetitive behavior phenotypes in Utah pedigrees with autism spectrum disorders

Background It has been suggested that efforts to identify genetic risk markers of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) would benefit from the analysis of more narrowly defined ASD phenotypes. Previous research indicates that 'insistence on sameness' (IS) and 'repetitive sensory-motor actions' (RSMA) are two factors within the ASD 'repetitive and stereotyped behavior' domain. The primary aim of this study was to identify genetic risk markers of both factors to allow comparison of those markers with one another and with markers found in the same set of pedigrees using ASD diagnosis as the phenotype. Thus, we empirically addresses the possibilities that more narrowly defined phenotypes improve linkage analysis signals and that different narrowly defined phenotypes are associated with different loci. Secondary aims were to examine the correlates of IS and RSMA and to assess the heritability of both scales.
History of Antibiotics. From Salvarsan to Cephalosporins

ABSTRACTInfections have represented for a long time the leading cause of death in humans. During the 19th century, pneumonia, tuberculosis, diarrhea and diphtheria were considered the main causes of death in children and adults. Only in the late 19th century did it become possible to correlate the existence of microscopic pathogens with the development of various diseases. Within a few years the introduction of antiseptic procedures had begun to reduce mortality due to postsurgical infections. Sanitation and hygiene played a significant role in the reduction of the mortality due to several infectious diseases. The introduction of the first compounds with antimicrobial activity succeeded in conquering many diseases.In this review we analyzed, from a historical perspective, the development of antibiotics and the circumstances that led to their discovery. The first compound with antimicrobial activity was introduced in 1911 by Erlich. He focused his research activity on the discovery of a “magic bullet” to t...
Longitudinal adaptive control of a platoon of vehicles

A technique for the longitudinal control of a platoon of automated vehicles is presented. A nonlinear model is used to represent the vehicle dynamics of each vehicle within the platoon. The controlled vehicle is assumed to be capable of measuring (or estimating) necessary dynamical information from the vehicle immediately in front of it by its on-board sensors. The computer in the vehicle processes the measured data and generates proper throttling and braking actions to follow the vehicle in front at a safe distance. Simulations are presented for the case of a platoon of four cars following a leader.
Segmental gestures at the laryngeal level in whispered speech: evidence from an aerodynamic study.

Peak intraoral air pressure and flow were measured simultaneously for the syllables /pa/and/ba/in two speaking conditions (syllable repetitions, and in carrier phrases) and in two phonation modes (...
Printed coupled-lines emulating anisotropic materials for miniature antenna design

We proposed a novel approach for designing small microstrip antennas by taking advantage of the DBE unit cells printed on a uniform substrate. The remarkably small antenna with very high gain are key features not realized before. Although the antenna design given here has a small bandwidth of 1%, we believe that further investigations on the geometry, feeding type and locations will alleviate some of the related issues leading to a larger bandwidth.
Immunophenotype of Pulmonary Cellular Infiltrates in Sheep with Visceral Caseous Lymphadenitis

Pulmonary lesions associated with Corynebacterium ovis were analyzed with an indirect immu- noperoxidase staining technique using monoclonal antibodies. The predominant cells in abscess walls and surrounding lung parenchyma were large macrophages which expressed major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I1 molecules on their surfaces. T lymphocytes were prominent in the same sites in the naturally occurring lesions, and SBU-T4-positive ("helpedinducer") cells were the major subset of lymphocytes (mean T4/T8 ratio = 3.5). B lymphocytes and granulocytes comprised minor populations of infiltrating cells. These results implicate activated macrophages and MHC class 11-restricted T lymphocytes in the pathogenesis of established C. ovis infections in sheep. Caseous lymphadenitis (CL) is a highly prevalent disease in the sheep populations of the world. 1,33,35,38 When limited to peripheral lymphoid tissue, the sys- temic effects and economic impact of CL lesions are usually In contrast, the visceral form of the disease has been implicated as a major factor in the development of the debilitating "thin ewe syn- drome," a condition which negatively affects repro- ductive efficiency in animals of breeding age.33 The lungs and associated lymph nodes in the thoracic cav- ity are the most common site of visceral involve- ment.1,33,35,38 Corynebacterium ovis, an intracellular parasite of macro phage^,^^ is the agent most often iso- lated from CL lesion^.^^,^^ Microbial factors which may contribute to pathogenesis of C. ovis infections include a vasoactive phospholipase D exotoxin, which is be- lieved to aid in the dissemination of the parasite from cutaneous sites of entry,16s31 and a leukotoxic surface lipid which defies lysosomal degradation in infected macrophages and thus determines the chronicity of the disease.I7 Pathogen-specific humoral and cell-mediat- ed immune responses have been identified in C. ovis- infected sheep with CL, and both are believed to play a role in immunopr~phylaxis.~~~~~J~J~ Beyond a mor- phologic description of the characteristic caseating ab- sce~ses,~O little is known about cellular interactions at the host-parasite interface within the infected animal. In order to define these interactions as a basis for un- derstanding how host factors may affect the develop- ment and outcome of disease, C. ovis-induced pul- monary lesions were examined with a panel of monoclonal antibodies specific for ovine leukocyte subsets. Results of this study suggest that activated macrophages and SBU-T4-positive ("helper/inducer") lymphocytes play a major role in the development and/ or resolution of visceral CL in sheep with naturally occurring C. ovis lesions.
Robust algorithms for direction-finding in the presence of model errors

The application of high-resolution, subspace-based methods to narrowband direction-of-arrival (DOA) estimation relies on several critical assumptions. Two of these are that the response of the antenna array is known in all directions of interest, and that the spatial covariance of the background noise is known. Neither of these assumptions is satisfied in practice, often resulting in a serious degradation of algorithm performance. A model error sensitivity analysis is carried out for some popular high-resolution subspace-based algorithms. Theoretical expressions for the covariance of the DOA estimation error are developed and compared with that obtained by simulation. The analysis is also used to develop optimally weighted versions of the algorithms that are robust to the types of model errors considered. >
Interpretations of Indentation Size Effects

For very shallow indentations in W, Al, Au, and Fe-3wt%Si single crystals, hardness decreased with increasing depth irrespective of increasing or decreasing strain gradients. As such, strain gradient theory appears insufficient to explain the indentation size effect (ISE) at depths less than several hundred nanometers. Present research links the ISE to a ratio between the energy of newly created surface and plastic strain energy dissipation. Also, the contact surface to plastic volume ratio was nearly constant for a range of shallow depths. Based on the above, an analytical model of hardness versus depth provides a satisfactory fit to the experimental data and correlates well with embedded atom simulations. ©2002 ASME
Trophic and Guild Interactions in Biological Control

Jacques Brodeur, Guy Boivin Trophic and Guild Interactions in Biological Control 2006 Springer Dordrecht, The Netherlands 249 hardback 101-4020-4766-5 $169.00 Biological control of pests has traditionally focused on single predator-prey interactions, with the aim of selecting the most efficient natural enemy for a specific pest. However, there is increasing recognition that even in the most simplified agroecosystems, a wide variety of predators, alternative prey species, and plants are present, interacting within and among multiple trophic levels, and the results of these interactions can largely condition the success of biological control agents. This book successfully makes the case for the need to study these interactions to improve our design of biological control strategies. The authors of each chapter have contributed significantly to our knowledge of different aspects of these interactions, and they reflect that in this book using a diversity of approaches, including meta-analysis and review of the recent literature, case studies, theoretical models, and analysis of new data. The result is a well-balanced series of 10 chapters that explore the effects of intra- and interguild interactions such as predation, parasitism, disease, omnivory, competition, and mutualism on herbivore suppression. The first four chapters focus mainly on intraguild (IG) trophic interactions, particularly in intraguild predation (IGP). The first chapter, by Rosenheim and Harmon, presents cross-study trends in how adding an IG predator to a system affects herbivore suppression and …
Diagnosis of open-circuit fault in a three phase voltage inverter fed induction motor

The present paper is intended for the detection and diagnosis of open-circuit faults in a three phase voltage inverter fed induction motor. Two techniques are being presented and used in order to achieve the open-circuit faults detection and localization. The paper concludes with a comparison between both these two techniques supported by some simulation and experimental results in order to illustrate the merits and effectiveness of each of them.
Keeping it in the family: when Mexican American older adults choose not to use home healthcare services.

Mexican American elders are more functionally impaired and chronically ill than Anglo elders, yet use home care services less. The purpose of this study was to describe the cultural norms that influence Mexican American elders and their caregivers not to use home care services. A secondary analysis
C-cell Nodules in Adult Human Thyroid: A Common Autopsy Finding

This study was designed to examine the morphologic, features and distribution of calcitonin-producing cells (C-cells) in normal adults and in a general autopsy population. Random or serial sections from thyroid glands in forensic and general autppsies were examined by an immunoperoxidase stain for calcitonin to identify C-cells. Six glands out of 30 cases contained large C-cell nodules (85–343 C-cell nuclei per nodule). Five of the nodules were in patients over 50 years of age. C-cell nodules in thyroid sections may represent age-related hyperplasia or a normal variation of ontogeny. This study underscores the importance of serially sectioning the thyroid to evaluate nodujar C-cell hyperplasia in preneoplastic or nonneoplastic functional disorders.
Optimizing the use of Sinapis alba seed meal extracts as a source of thiocyanate (SCN−) for the lactoperoxidase system

Abstract The multi-component lactoperoxidase system (LPSys) is used for improving food safety and requires thiocyanate (SCN − ) as a substrate for the generation of antimicrobial hypothiocyanite (OSCN − ). Production of OSCN − is usually limited by intrinsic concentrations of SCN − or else SCN − must be supplied from a synthetic source. Our objective was to optimize the production of OSCN − in the LPSys using SCN − derived from glucosinolates present in yellow mustard ( Sinapis alba ) seed meal. Thiocyanate was produced from S. alba seed meal by shaking a 1:20 (w:w) meal:H 2 O mixture at 70 °C for 10 min. Increasing the exogenous H 2 O 2 to an equimolar concentration (500 μM) of SCN − further increased OSCN − production, whereas H 2 O 2 concentrations in excess of SCN − enhanced OSCN − decay. Glucose and glucose oxidase (GOx) were substituted for H 2 O 2 to sustain OSCN − production resulting in an optimized LPSys containing 4.92 U/mL lactoperoxidase, 64 mM glucose, 342 U/L GOx, and 500 μM SCN − . Maximum OSCN − in the optimized system was 40 μM, a concentration that is predicted to have antimicrobial effects, thus demonstrating the potential of the low value S. alba seed meal as source of SCN − for preparing a generally recognized as safe LPSys.