cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Continuing the Conversation

Instructors can develop their own entrepreneurial mindset by discovering, evaluating, and exploiting opportunities to continue the conversation. In continuing the conversation, there are many potential next steps for the readers’ journey, including updating or creating entrepreneurially minded curriculum (as demonstrated in the previous chapter), disseminating teaching interventions, and networking with like-minded individuals toward future cocreation and collaboration efforts. This final chapter highlights benefits to disseminating teaching interventions, provides a guide for publishing teaching interventions and how to facilitate a virtual writing group (to aid in the writing feedback process), and concludes with recommended dissemination outlets and additional resources. Given the applicability across disciplines, there is much we can learn from each other. The purpose of this chapter is to express the benefit behind disseminating teaching interventions, describe one approach to the scholarship of teaching and learning writing process, explain how to facilitate and receive feedback through a virtual writing group, identify multiple outlets for disseminating teaching interventions, and demonstrate awareness of additional teaching and technical writing resources.
A convolution approach to calculating the m/z-dependent mass analyzer response in orthogonal acceleration time-of-flight mass spectrometers

Abstract A novel computational method is developed to calculate the mass bias of orthogonal acceleration time-of-flight mass spectrometers (OA-TOFMS) by evaluating the m/z-dependent transmission efficiency with which ions strike the surface of the detector and the m/z-dependent ion sampling efficiency with which ions are selected for mass analysis. The theory considers the initial ion energy distribution of the primary ion beam and utilizes mathematical convolution to establish the subsequent trajectory of all ions extracted into the OA-TOFMS. By considering the energy-dependent transmission of ions and the ion sampling efficiency together, the resultant mass bias is estimated. The mathematical description is developed for OA-TOFMS using different ionization sources and ion energy distributions, and several examples covering possible time-of-flight conditions and aspects of their application are considered.
Enhancement of Achilles tendon repair mediated by matrix metalloproteinase inhibition via systemic administration of doxycycline.

Collagenases or matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) have been shown to play an important role in the matrix degradation cascade associated with Achilles tendon rupture and disease. The goal of this study was to examine the effects of daily administration of doxycycline (Doxy) through oral gavage on MMP activity and on the repair quality of Achilles tendons in vivo. Our findings indicate that Achilles tendon transection resulted in increasing MMP-8 activity from 2 to 6 weeks post-injury, with peak increases in activity occurring at 4 weeks post-injury. Doxy adiministration at clinically relevant serum concentrations was found to significantly inhibit MMP activity after continuous treatment for 4 weeks, but not for continuous administration for shorter durations (96 h or 2 weeks). Extended doxy administration was also associated with improved collagen fibril organization, and enhanced biomechanical properties (stiffness, ultimate tensile strength, maximum load to failure, and elastic toughness). Our findings indicate that a temporal delay exists between Achilles tendon transection and associated increases in MMP-8 activity in situ. Our findings suggest that inhibition of MMP-8 at its peak activity levels ameliorates fibrosis development and improves biomechanical properties of the Achilles tendon. © 2013 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 32:500–506, 2014.
A dynamic soil water threshold for vegetation water stress derived from stomatal conductance models

[1] In many terrestrial ecosystems, vegetation experiences limitation by different resources at different times. These resources include, among others, light, nutrients, and water. Frequently, however, leaf-level modeling frameworks that unite these limitations rely on empirical functions to scale stomatal conductance as a function of water stress. These functions use prescribed values of soil water content to mark the transition between water-stressed and unstressed conditions without accounting for the dependence of such a water content threshold on atmospheric and hydrologic conditions and nutrient availability. To address the phenomenon of a variable threshold to water stress, we combine an existing water-limited stomatal conductance model with an existing assimilation (photosynthesis)-limited stomatal conductance model. In this manner, we simulate variable controls on stomatal conductance and use a combination of the two models to define the threshold at which soil water content becomes limiting to transpiration. Modeled plant processes are used to define this water stress threshold as functionally dependent upon local environmental conditions (light, temperature, and atmospheric vapor pressure), parameters representing different vegetation types, and nutrient status. Simulations demonstrate that as environmental conditions become more favorable for assimilation, the likelihood of water stress increases. Specifically, there exist ranges of leaf temperature, light, and atmospheric humidity for which water stress is maximized.
Some Classical and Quantum Algebras

We discuss the notion of a Batalin-Vilkovisky (BV) algebra and give several classical examples from differential geometry and Lie theory. We introduce the notion of a quantum operator algebra (QOA) as a generalization of a classical operator algebra. In some examples, we view a QOA as a deformation of a commutative algebra. We then review the notion of a vertex operator algebra (VOA) and show that a vertex operator algebra is a QOA with some additional structures. Finally, we establish a connection between BV algebras and VOAs.
A soluble guanylate cyclase stimulator, BAY 41-8543, preserves pulmonary artery endothelial function in experimental pulmonary embolism

Background : BAY 41-8543 reduces pulmonary vascular resistance and right ventricle injury in experimental PE. Objective : Test if BAY 41-8543 protects pulmonary artery (PA) endothelial function in PE. Methods : PE was induced (anesthetized, Sprague-Dawley rats, 25 µm polystyrene microspheres, 1.95 million/100g, IV) with BAY 41-8543 (50 ug/kg, IV) or solvent treatment. Controls had vehicle for microspheres. Rings isolated from primary PA branches (5hr. PE) were contracted (phenylephrine, 10-6M) and dilation was endothelium-dependent (acetylcholine, 10-7M – 10-5M) or with BAY 41-8543 (10-8M – 10-6M). Oxidant stress was assessed: PA tissue 4-hydroxynoneal (4-HNE) immunohistochemistry; plasma malondialdehyde (MDA). Other Control rings received red blood cell (RBC) lysate. Results : PE inhibited dilation to acetylcholine vs. Control (dose x group interaction p=0.001), while dilation to BAY 41-8543 was minimally changed. PE raised plasma hemoglobin (30-fold, p=0.003), 4-HNE stain and plasma MDA (2.2-fold, p=0.009). Treating PE rats with BAY 41-8543 reduced plasma hemoglobin, 4-HNE and MDA to levels not different from Control. Dilation to acetylcholine significantly improved in PE + BAY 41-8543 rats vs. PE (dose x group interaction p=0.04). Addition of RBC lysate to Control rings reduced dilation to acetylcholine, while BAY 41-8543 responses remained strong. Conclusion : PE caused PA endothelial dysfunction, elevated plasma hemoglobin and oxidant stress. Treating rats with BAY 41-8543 lowered plasma hemoglobin, oxidant stress and endothelial dysfunction in PE. Treating isolated rings with BAY 41-8543 bypassed endothelial dysfunction with PE or RBC lysate.
Cuban Americans have the highest rates of peripheral arterial disease in diverse Hispanic/Latino communities.

Objective Because Hispanic ethnicity in the United States is heterogeneous, the purpose of this study was to determine the epidemiology of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) within U.S. Hispanic/Latino groups defined by national background. Methods This analysis included 9648 men and women older than 45 years enrolled in the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL). The ankle-brachial index (ABI) was computed as the higher of the posterior tibial and dorsalis pedis systolic blood pressures for each leg divided by the higher brachial artery systolic blood pressure. The index ABI was the higher of the two. An ABI ≤0.90 was the criterion for the presence of PAD. Results The mean age was 56 years, and 55% were female. Overall, the prevalence of an ABI ≤0.90 (PAD), 0.90 to 0.99 (borderline), 1.0 to 1.39 (normal), and ≥1.40 (high) was 5.7%, 19.3%, 72.5%, and 2.6%, respectively. After multivariable adjustment for PAD risk factors and compared with Mexicans, Cubans had a nearly threefold higher odds for PAD (odds ratio, 2.9; 95% confidence interval, 1.9-4.4). The odds of PAD for the other Hispanic/Latino groups ranged from 1.2 to 1.8. Although men had a more than threefold higher odds of an ABI ≥1.40 (3.6; 2.0-6.5), the odds did not differ significantly by Hispanic/Latino background. Conclusions Compared with Mexican Americans, all other Hispanic/Latino background groups have a significantly higher odds of having PAD, with the odds being nearly threefold higher among Cubans.
A Decision Process Implementation for Microwave Near-Field Characterization of Concrete Constituent Makeup

Determination of concrete compressive strength is one of the most important factors in the construction industry. Concrete is a mixture of cement, water, sand (fine aggregate) and rock (coarse aggregate) of various sizes. Water and cement chemically bind to form the cement paste phase of concrete, which primarily influences the compressive strength. The aggregate content mainly acts as a filler but also influences the compressive strength of concrete. Currently, there is no single method for nondestructive determination of compressive strength of concrete. As a result, the only reliable method of compressive strength measurement is to core a specimen from an existing structure and perform a compressive failure test. In recent years, studies on the reflection properties of concrete with varying material content have been performed using microwave nondestructive testing techniques. These techniques, employing open-ended rectangular waveguide probes, have shown tremendous potential for determining concrete constituent makeup. The results have demonstrated that microwave reflection property measurements of concrete as a function of varying constituent makeup, possess statistical properties that provide for a unique “fingerprint”. In this paper a simple decision process is proposed, based on the maximum likelihood ratio, which uses the a priori statistical distribution of microwave reflection measurements for material content determination of concrete specimens. The results show that by simply performing two sets of microwave reflection property measurements at 3 and 10 GHz, the constituent makeup of an unknown concrete specimen can be very closely determined. Subsequently, the compressive strength of the specimen could be easily determined from a simple lookup table relating constituent makeup and compressive strength, which are readily available in the industry.
Lithium Tricarbonyl(pentanoyl)nickelate

[26402-51-7] C8H9LiNiO4 (MW 234.80) InChI = 1S/C5H9O.3CO.Li.Ni/c1-2-3-4-5-6;3*1-2;;/h2-4H2,1H3;;;;;/q-1;;;;+1; InChIKey = ZMVFNCNAWDIWSP-UHFFFAOYSA-N (acyl anion equivalent in alkylations;1 acylation of vinyl halides,3 conjugate additions3, 5) Physical Data: the pure reagent has not been isolated, but solutions have been characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and IR.1a Solubility: the reagent has been used in diethyl ether and THF. Preparative Methods: solutions of the title reagent can be prepared by adding n-BuLi to Ni(CO)4 in THF at −78 °C.1b Handling, Storage, and Precautions: the reagent is oxygen sensitive and is best used directly after preparation. NMR studies, however, indicate stability from +20 °C to −78 °C over a period of 8 h.1a See n-Butyllithium and Tetracarbonylnickel for handling of these reagents.
Who Gives a Hoot? Intercept Surveys of Litterers and Disposers

Across 14 different outdoor settings in 8 states, the authors interviewed 102 disposers to examine how littering behavior is affected by environmental factors, social norms, demographic characteris...
Fault Diagnosis and Prognosis for Fuel Supply System in Gas Turbine Engines

A fault diagnosis and prognosis method is developed for the fuel supply system in gas turbine engines. The engine startup profiles of the core speed (N2) and the exhaust gas temperature (EGT) collected with high speed sampling rate are extracted and processed into a more compact data set. The fuzzy clustering method is applied to the smaller number of parameters and the fault is detected by differentiating the clusters matching the failures. In this work, the actual flight data collected in the field is used to develop and validate the system, and the results are shown for the test on nine engines that experienced fuel supply system failure. The developed fault diagnosis system detects the failure successfully for all nine cases. For the earliest detection cases, the alarms start to trigger 26 days before the system completely fails and 7 days in advance for the last detection.© 2005 ASME
Long-term mechanical circulatory support (destination therapy): On track to compete with heart transplantation?

Objectives Average 2-year survival after cardiac transplantation is approximately 80%. The evolution and subsequent approval of larger pulsatile and, more recently, continuous flow mechanical circulatory support (MCS) technology for destination therapy (DT) offers the potential for triage of some patients awaiting cardiac transplantation to DT. Methods The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Interagency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support (INTERMACS) is a national multi-institutional study of long-term MCS. Between June 2006 and December 2011, 127 pulsatile and 1160 continuous flow pumps (24% of total primary left ventricular assist devices [LVADs]) carried an initial strategy of DT therapy. Results By multivariable analysis, risk factors (P Conclusions (1) Evolution from pulsatile to continuous flow technology has dramatically improved 1- and 2-year survivals; (2) DT is not appropriate for patients with rapid hemodynamic deterioration or severe right ventricular failure; (3) important subsets of patients with continuous flow DT now enjoy survival that is competitive with heart transplantation out to about 2 years.
Breast cancer screening patterns among military beneficiaries: racial variations in screening eliminated in an equal-access model.

African American women present with more aggressive breast tumors and at later stages than white women. Many factors have been proposed to explain these findings, including socioeconomic status, cultural beliefs, and access to medical care. The purpose of this project was to determine if stage at presentation would be equivalent in a system providing equal access to care and if screening was equivalent. The Naval Medical Center San Diego (NMCSD) tumor registry from 2007 to 2012 was queried for this cross-sectional study. Eligible women included all those diagnosed and treated for breast cancer at NMCSD. Distribution of tumor stage (early vs. advanced) between racial groups was compared by age, treatment, and receptor status. A total of 624 women were eligible; 88 % were early stage (0–II) and 12 % presented with advanced stage (III or IV). Racial differences in distribution were significant among African American and Hispanic women for early versus advanced presentation (p = 0.011). No racial disparity was seen in screening patterns among women. In a military health system with equal access to care and standard screening recommendations, screening patterns did not vary with race but did vary with stage and active duty status. African American women present with breast cancer at later stages and with more hormone-receptor negative tumors, suggesting that biology rather than socioeconomic or access factors may be the most important determinant of stage at presentation of breast cancer for African American women.
Resolution enhancement of lung 4D-CT via group-sparsity.

Purpose: 4D-CT typically delivers more accurate information about anatomical structures in the lung, over 3D-CT, due to its ability to capture visual information of the lung motion across different respiratory phases. This helps to better determine the dose during radiation therapy for lung cancer. However, a critical concern with 4D-CT that substantially compromises this advantage is the low superior-inferior resolution due to less number of acquired slices, in order to control the CT radiation dose. To address this limitation, the authors propose an approach to reconstruct missing intermediate slices, so as to improve the superior-inferior resolution. Methods: In this method the authors exploit the observation that sampling information across respiratory phases in 4D-CT can be complimentary due to lung motion. The authors’ approach uses this locally complimentary information across phases in a patch-based sparse-representation framework. Moreover, unlike some recent approaches that treat local patches independently, the authors’ approach employs the group-sparsity framework that imposes neighborhood and similarity constraints between patches. This helps in mitigating the trade-off between noise robustness and structure preservation, which is an important consideration in resolution enhancement. The authors discuss the regularizing ability of group-sparsity, which helps in reducing the effect of noise and enables better structural localization and enhancement. Results: The authors perform extensive experiments on the publicly available DIR-Lab Lung 4D-CT dataset [R. Castillo, E. Castillo, R. Guerra, V. Johnson, T. McPhail, A. Garg, and T. Guerrero, “A framework for evaluation of deformable image registration spatial accuracy using large landmark point sets,” Phys. Med. Biol.54, 1849–1870 (2009)]. First, the authors carry out empirical parametric analysis of some important parameters in their approach. The authors then demonstrate, qualitatively as well as quantitatively, the ability of their approach to achieve more accurate and better localized results over bicubic interpolation as well as a related state-of-the-art approach. The authors also show results on some datasets with tumor, to further emphasize the clinical importance of their method. Conclusions: The authors have proposed to improve the superior-inferior resolution of 4D-CT by estimating intermediate slices. The authors’ approach exploits neighboring constraints in the group-sparsity framework, toward the goal of achieving better localization and noise robustness. The authors’ results are encouraging, and positively demonstrate the role of group-sparsity for 4D-CT resolution enhancement.
Simulations for a wide swath synthetic aperture microwave radiometric imaging of wind speed and rain rate in hurricanes

There is a strong national interest in the observation of ocean surface winds with high spatial and temporal resolution for understanding tropical cyclones and their effects on weather and climate. In this paper, we will describe the details of an end-to-end simulation to support the development of the future airborne microwave Hurricane Imaging Radiometer (HIRAD). This new instrument will extend the measurements of the Stepped Frequency Microwave Imager (SFMR) from nadir looking only to a wide swath storm coverage of ± 60° earth incidence angel (EIA). A comprehensive simulation of the instrument radiances measurements during a hurricane overflight was developed based on realistic 3-D hurricane atmosphere and surface wind field using numerical weather models especially tunes to characterize hurricane environment. Afterwards, the simulated measurements were perturbed with instrument errors and input to the Maximum Likelihood Estimation (MLE) retrieval algorithm. Results will show statistical analysis and comparisons of the retrieved wind speeds and rain rates for different swath locations.
Transition dipole interaction in polypeptides: Ab initio calculation of transition dipole parameters

Ab initio calculations of dipole moment derivatives of a model system of N-methylacetamide hydrogen-bonded to two formamide molecules give values for amide I and amide II transition dipole moments consistent with those derived from observed band splittings in the spectra of polypeptides. Transition dipole coupling thus provides a reasonable mechanism for explaining these splittings.
The impact of alcohol use on depressive symptoms in human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients

Aims To examine the impact of alcohol use on depressive symptoms in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients. Design Data were collected at 6-month intervals and analyzed to evaluate the association between alcohol dependence and consumption on depressive symptoms using longitudinal mixed-effects regression models controlling for specified covariates. Measurements The two independent variables were current alcohol dependence assessed using the Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI) and past month consumption (heavy versus not heavy drinking) using a validated calendar-based method. The primary outcome was depressive symptoms as measured by the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D). Participants HIV-infected adults with current or past alcohol problems. Findings Alcohol dependence and heavy alcohol use were significantly associated with higher CES-D scores in unadjusted models. In adjusted analyses, the association of current alcohol dependence persisted [mean difference in CES-D was 3.49 for dependence versus non-dependence; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.76–5.22]; however, the effect of heavy drinking was no longer statistically significant (mean difference in CES-D was 1.04 for heavy versus not heavy drinking; 95% CI: −0.24–2.32). Conclusions Alcohol use is associated with more depressive symptoms in HIV-infected patients with alcohol problems. This association remains significant after adjusting for potential confounders only when alcohol use meets the criteria for alcohol dependence.
Catalytic conversion of alcohols: XXI. Comparison of aluminum and molybdenum oxide catalysts

Abstract Molybdena, as a very selective dehydration catalyst, resembles alumina. Neither catalyst causes isomerization of the initial gas-phase alkene dehydration products. This was confirmed by adding a similar alkene to an alcohol reactant. However, molybdena produced products from some alcohol reactants that even required methyl migrations. For example, dehydration of 4,4-dimethyl-2-pentanol with molybdena produced primarily β-elimination products, whereas the isomeric 2,2-di-methyl-3-pentanol produced only about 10% β-elimination with the remaining dehydration products requiring isomerization by methyl migration. On the basis of alkene distributions from cyclic and acyclic alcohols, molybdena catalyzes dehydration by an E-1-like mechanism in contrast to the concerted mechanism for alumina.
Weak links in the supply chain: measuring fragility and sustainability

Purpose – There is significant anecdotal evidence of increasing global supply chain fragility; and, for this reason, robustness and operational sustainability are of notable concern to senior executives. Though the issues are myriad, four factors dominate these concerns: increasing complexity of products, processes, and technologies, increasing structural complexity of supply chains, increasing diversity and global nature of business systems, and the environmental costs and impacts of extended supply chains. This paper aims to focus on these factors.Design/methodology/approach – This conceptual, theoretical paper differentiates corporate sustainability and operational robustness in terms of profitability and costs, then defines and develops internal, external, and uncontrollable fragility factors. A process that measures and integrates these factors is proposed for brainstorming and decision making. Additionally, methods to represent and compare alternatives, progress against internal or external targets,...
SU-FF-T-491: Cell Survival Curve Fitting Techniques in High Dose Region for Use in Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT)

Purpose: To select a cell survival curve model that is capable of fitting cell survival at high dose region used in stereotactic body radiation therapy.Materials and Methods: Data from fourteen cell lines were examined. These include a Chinese hamster cell line, a human glioblastoma cell line, two prostate cell lines and ten lungcancer cell lines. Each of these cell lines were fitted to eight different models (4 with 2 parameters and 4 with three parameters) for cell survival. These models included among others the well known linear quadratic model and the single hit multi target model; and the more recent McKenna‐Ahmad repair model, Kavanagh‐Newman model and universal survival curve model. The χ2/df of each fit was compared to determine the model most appropriate for that survival curve. Results: No single model provided the best fit for all the cell lines. For all cell lines there were models that were superior to the linear quadratic. Two recent models (McKenna‐Ahmad repair model, Kavanagh‐Newman model) provided the best fits for many cell lines. These models have low dose quadratic behavior which changes to linear behavior at high doses. The McKenna‐ Ahmad and Kavanagh‐Newman formulas for cell survival are respectively as follows: ln S = −βD 2 1 1 + β γ D ln S = −K 0 ( 1− e −K g D ) D .; Conclusion: We recommend that one of the two recent two parameter models be used for fitting cell survival curves if one is primarily interested in cell survival into or past the shoulder region of the cell survival curve.
Nitrogen loss from deserts in the southwestern United States.

A lower limit for nitrogen loss from desert ecosystems in the southwestern United States was estimated by comparing nitrogen inputs to the amount of nitrogen stored in desert soils and vegetation. Atmospheric input of nitrogen for the last 10 000 years was conservatively estimated to be 2.99 kg N/m2. The amount of nitrogen stored in desert soils was calculated to be 0.604 kg N/m3 using extant data from 212 profiles located in Arizona, California, Nevada, and Utah. The average amount of nitrogen stored in desert vegetation is approximately 0.036 kg N/m2. Desert conditions have existed in the southwestern United States throughout the last 10 000 years. Under such conditions, vertical leaching of nitrogen below a depth of 1 m is small (ca. 0.028 kg N/m2 over 10 000 years) and streamflow losses of nitrogen from the desert landscape are negligible. Thus, the discrepancy found between nitrogen input and storage represents the amount of nitrogen lost to the atmosphere during the last 10 000 years. Loss of nitrogen to the atmosphere was calculated to be 2.32 kg N/m2, which is 77% of the atmospheric inputs. Processes resulting in nitrogen loss to the atmosphere from desert ecosystems include wind erosion, ammonia volatilization, nitrification, and denitrification. Our analysis cannot assess the relative importance of these processes, but each is worthy of future research efforts.
A Simulation for a Short Takeoff and Landing System Traffic Analysis

A model has been developed to simulate an urban short takeoff and landing (STOL) system. It was designed as a tool for the evaluation of flight hardware and also to provide insight into the specialized nature of an urban transportation system such as the one envisioned for the Northeast Corridor. The actions of aircraft are treated in the high level of detail characteristic of an urban shuttle system with its constraints and limitations. Considerations included: 1) variable passenger demands, 2) dispatching decisions, 3) takeoff and airspace regulations, 4) variations in interfering aircraft traffic, and 5) off-corridor services. The implementation allows for simulation and analysis of aircraft and passenger movements and the consequent interactions. Output is generated in terms of the realistic and useful figures of cost, revenue, and systems performance needed to evaluate each phase of the STOL operation. The model was written in the general purpose simulation system language.
Vanishing bone disease (Gorham-Stout syndrome): A review of a rare entity.

Vanishing bone disease (Gorham-Stout syndrome) is a rare entity of unknown etiology, characterized by destruction of osseous matrix and proliferation of vascular structures, resulting in destruction and absorption of bone. Despite the extensive investigation of the pathogenetic mechanisms of the disease, its etiology hasn’t been clarified and several theories exist. The syndrome can affect one or multiple bones of the patient, including the skull, the upper and lower extremities, the spine and pelvis. The clinical presentation of a patient suffering from vanishing bone disease includes, pain, functional impairment and swelling of the affected region, although asymptomatic cases have been reported, as well as cases in which the diagnosis was made after a pathologic fracture. In this short review we summarize the theories regarding the etiology as well as the clinical presentation, the diagnostic approach and treatment options of this rare disease.
Apo-AraC actively seeks to loop

In the absence of arabinose and interactions with other proteins, AraC, the activator-repressor that regulates the araBAD operon in Escherichia coli, was found to prefer participating in DNA looping interactions between the two well-separated DNA half-sites, araI1 and araO2 at their normal separation of 211 base-pairs rather than binding to these same two half-sites when they are adjacent to one another. On the addition of arabinose, AraC preferred to bind to the adjacently located half-sites. Inverting the distally located araO2 half-site eliminated the looping preference. These results demonstrate that apo-AraC possesses an intrinsic looping preference that is eliminated by the presence of arabinose. We developed a method for the accurate determination of the relative affinities of AraC for the DNA half-sites araI1, araI2, and araO2 and non-specific DNA. These affinities allowed accurate calculation of basal level and induced levels of expression from pBAD under a wide variety of natural and mutant conditions. The calculations independently predicted the looping preference of apo-AraC.
A 10,000-kva gas-insulated transformer — A progress report

An evaluation and progress report of a gas-insulated transformer recently put into operation at the Pennsylvania Power and Light Co. This type of transformer offers definite advantages to the utility industry which must participate in its development to realize its full potential.
The capacity to forgive: An object relations perspective

Forgiveness is commended by Christianity, as well as other religious traditions, as one of the most central of virtues, so central that the New Testament links man's very salvation to his ability to forgive. However, mental health professionals have correctly pointed out that the mandate to forgive is often used by religious patients in the service of defenses such as reaction formation, undoing, and denial. The forgiveness ideal is often misunderstood as a command not to experience aggressive feelings. It is the thesis of this paper that the capacity for genuine forgiveness is central not only to spiritual development but to psychological development as well. It is suggested that Kernberg's object relations theory provides the best model for understanding the nature and importance of forgiveness. Mature forgiveness does not involve the elimination of negative feelings toward others (or oneself) but the integration of negative and positive self-object representations and their connected affect. Anger at the offending persons must then be tempered by appreciation for their concomitant good qualities and motivations or, at the very least, empathy for the flaws which prompted them to behave destructively. The result is a more realistic and balanced view of others (and oneself), a more genuine relationship to the full range of one's own inner experience, and a greater ability to respond constructively to frustrating persons and situations.
Lithic-dominated pyroclastic flows at Galeras volcano, Colombia - an unrecognized volcanic hazard

Yellow, hydrothermally altered, lithic-dominated pyroclastic breccia deposits, having only a minor juvenile component, at Galeras volcano, Colombia, contain evidence that they were emplaced as hot, fluidized, true pyroclastic flows. The distribution of the flows around the caldera rim, their transport mechanisms inferred from grain-size analyses, and the presence of charcoal and coarse channel and fine overbank facies indicate that these deposits were emplaced as true pyroclastic flows. These deposits are the result of a regularly repeated eruption sequence, involving clearing of vent material as a prelude to more typical pumiceous pyroclastic flows. Recognition of the mode of origin of these deposits is important in terms of understanding Vulcanian-type eruption and flow- emplacement mechanisms. Failure to recognize the explosive eruption origin of these deposits at Galeras and other volcanoes could result in serious underestimation of potential hazards.
Cyclic AMP-mediated control of lipogenic enzyme synthesis during adipose differentiation of 3T3 cells

Abstract During the adipose differentiation of 3T3-F442A cells, there is an increase in the synthesis of numerous proteins, including the lipogenic enzymes glycerophosphate dehydrogenase, fatty acid synthetase and malic enzyme. Agents that increase cAMP content (dibutyryl cAMP, theophylline, and isoproterenol) are known to induce lipolysis in fat cells; but the same agents are shown here to reduce the synthesis of the lipogenic enzymes during adipose differentiation. The extent of reduction depends on the agent used and differs for the three enzymes; fatty acid synthetase is most sensitive and its synthesis can be suppressed completely. In contrast to their effects on lipogenic enzyme synthesis, these agents do not affect morphological changes or the synthesis of several other proteins, of which some increase and others (such as actin) decrease during the differentiation. The effects of the agents on the synthesis of lipogenic enzymes are not dependent on lipolysis, since they take place to the same degree in cells not permitted to accumulate triglyceride. Translation in vitro of mRNA isolated from cells treated with the agents promoting cAMP accumulation indicates that the levels of functional mRNA for lipogenic enzymes are reduced. We conclude that, in addition to its activation of lipolysis, cAMP reduces specifically mRNA accumulation for lipogenic enzymes. These results also demonstrate the independent control of morphological change and enzyme synthesis during adipose differentiation.
Causes of massive biotic extinctions and explosive evolutionary diversification throughout Phanerozoic time

Massive extinctions and explosive evolutionary radiations are caused principally by rates of change and secondarily by the magnitude, duration, and spatial extent of phenomena; the phenomena themselves may vary from extinction to extinction. Sudden changes over large areas result in massive biotic extinctions; gradual changes permit organisms to adapt behaviorally by migration and biochemically or physiologically by alterations in their cellular or molecular makeup and result in adaptive evolutionary diversification.
Charge Distributions in MOS Capacitors for Larg Irradiation Doses

The distributions of electrons, holes, ionized traps, electric fields and electrostatic potentials were obtained by computer simulation for an MOS capacitor subjected to large radiation dose levels. The results were obtained for irradiation over a wide range of both positive and negative values of gate bias voltages. The simulation results implied that, above a certain critical radiation dose level, the resulting flat band shift after even a very small incremental dose should be independent of all previous gate bias history. This conclusion was verified by experimental measurements.
Amebic meningoencephalitides and keratitis: challenges in diagnosis and treatment.

Purpose of review Acanthamoeba spp., Balamuthia mandrillaris, and Naegleria fowleri, although free-living amebae, also cause devastating diseases in humans leading to death. Acanthamoeba spp. and B. mandrillaris cause granulomatous amebic encephalitis, cutaneous and nasopharyngeal as well as disseminated infection. Acanthamoeba also causes a vision-threatening infection of the cornea, Acanthamoeba keratitis, principally in contact lens wearers. N. fowleri causes an acute, fulminating infection of the central nervous system, primary amebic meningoencephalitis, in healthy children and young adults who indulge in aquatic activities in fresh water. This review focuses on the recent developments in the diagnosis and treatment and clinical management of the diseases caused by these amebae. Recent findings Development of a multiplex real-time PCR test has made it possible to simultaneously detect all the three free-living amebae in a sample. It is a rapid assay with a short turn-around time of just 4-5 h. An early diagnosis would be helpful in initiating potentially effective treatment. A recent study reported exciting results indicating that loading of rokitamycin in chitosan microspheres improves and prolongs the in-vitro anti-Acanthamoeba activity of the drug. Summary Diagnoses of these infections are challenging and antimicrobial therapy is empirical, which often results in fatalities. Further research is needed to explore the possibility of a better drug delivery system that crosses the blood-brain barrier and effectively reach the central nervous system.
Lipid composition and fluidity of rat enterocyte basolateral membranes regional differences

The lipid composition and fluidity of basolateral membranes prepared from the mucosa of the proximal, middle and distal thirds of the rat small intestine were determined. Fluidity, as assessed by the fluorescence anisotropy of 1,6-diphenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene and a series of anthroyloxy fatty acid derivatives, is decreased in the distal third as compared to the proximal segments. This pattern is similar to that described previously for microvillus membranes. The decrease in fluidity of the distal as compared to the proximal membranes results from an increase in cholesterol content, cholesterol/phospholipid molar ratio and degree of saturation of the fatty acid residues. In the middle and distal thirds of the gut, the degree of saturation of the fatty acid residues is higher in microvillus as compared to basolateral membranes, accounting in part for the characteristically lower fluidity of the luminal membranes. The specific activity of the basolateral membrane (Na+ + K+)-dependent adenosine triphosphatase is significantly lower in the distal as compared to the proximal and middle thirds of the intestinal mucosa. Studies of the binding of [3H]ouabain indicate that this pattern results from fewer enzyme sites in the distal membranes.
Regioselectivity in free radical bromination of unsymmetrical dimethylated pyridines

During a literature review some curious inconsistencies in the free radical bromination of picolines were noted. To achieve a better understanding of the mechanisms and regioselectivity we reran these reactions, extending our work to unsymmetrical lutidines using N-bromosuccinimide in limiting amount. Characterization of the products was done with GC/MS and H NMR. The regioselectivity of bromination in unsymmetrical dimethylpyridines shows that nitrogen in the ring is deactivating inductively. The competition between 2,3, 2,4, and 2,5 dimethyl pyridine toward bromination results with bromination in the methyl group farthest from the N in the ring. 3,4-Lutidine shows only the 4,4-dibrominated product.
Abatacept: A novel therapy approved for the treatment of patients with rheumatoid arthritis

An enhanced understanding of the immunopathology of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has led to the development of novel therapies that target specific events occurring in the immune cascade that underlies the disease. In December 2005, abatacept became the first therapy to be approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of adult patients with moderately to severely active RA who have exhibited an inadequate response to traditional disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs or tumor necrosis factor antagonists. This article summarizes the characteristics and clinical profile of abatacept. Abatacept is a fully human soluble recombinant fusion protein that acts by binding to CD80/CD86 on antigen-presenting cells and inhibiting interaction with CD28 on T cells, thus preventing one of the co-stimulatory signals needed for full T-cell activation. It is indicated for reducing signs and symptoms of the disorder, inducing a major clinical response, slowing the progression of structural damage, and improving physical function in this patient population. Data on abatacept compiled to date demonstrate significant efficacy, combined with a consistent safety profile and tolerability, in a wide range of patients with RA, including those with an inadequate response to methotrexate or to tumor necrosis factor antagonists.
R&D 100 [IEEE Spectrum's fourth annual survey]

This paper presents the results of the IEEE Spectrum's fourth annual survey of the world's top 100 R&D spenders. While the top three spots were captured by the automobiles and components sector, the pharmaceuticals and biotechnology sector ranked as the second most research-intensive industry, just behind the software and services sector. Meanwhile, the trend in the technology hardware and equipment sector has been much more volatile, with its R&D intensity dropping 9 percent from 2000 to 2004. Like the auto industry, capital goods also had relatively low R&D intensity. However, the sector increased its share of the top 100 from 9 to 10 percent. Also increasing its share is the consumer durables and apparel sector.
Measurements and modeling of the flow and heat transfer in a contoured vane-endwall passage

Abstract Numerical simulations and laboratory measurements are obtained of the flow field and heat transfer in a linear cascade of turbine vanes, with and without secondary air injection through three discrete angled slots upstream of each vane. The hub endwall is axially profiled while the tip endwall is flat, with the hub endwall the focus of heat transfer investigation. Experimental measurements are compared to predictions of the steady-state flow obtained from solution of the Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equations. Surface heat transfer characteristics predicted in the simulations are similar to measured values, with the most significant differences occurring in the cooling effectiveness.
Competencies for Teachers of the Severely and Profoundly Handicapped. A Review.

The purpose of this review was to identify competency statements specified in the professional literature for teachers of severely and profoundly handicapped students. Computer searches and hand searches of the literature of the past 10 years were undertaken. As a result, 59 competency statements were found. These competencies fell into nine categories: general knowledge, planning, assessment, curriculum, behavior management, instruction, physical/ medical, other personnel, and parents. An overwhelming majority of the statements were found to be based on opinion or opinion with limited substantiation. Implications for further work in this area are discussed.
The complexity of on-line simulations between multidimensional Turing machines and random access machines

To study different implementations of arrays, we present four results on the time complexities of on-line simulations between multidimensional Turing machines and random access machines (RAMs). First, everyd-dimensional Turing machine of time complexityt can be simulated by a log-cost RAM running inO(t(logt)1−(1/d)(log logt)1/d) time. Second, everyd-dimensional Turing machine of time complexityt can be simulated by a unit-cost RAM running inO(t/(logt)1/d) time, provided that the input length iso(t/(logt)1/d). Third, there is a log-cost RAMR of time complexityO(n), wheren is the input length, such that, for anyd-dimensional Turing machineM that simulatesR on-line,M requires Ω(n1 + (1/d))/(logn(log logn)1 + (1/d))) time. Fourth, every unit-cost RAM of time complexityt can be simulated by ad-dimensional Turing machine inO(t2(logt)1/2) time ifd = 2, and inO(t2) time ifd ≥ 3. This result uses the weight-balanced trees of Nievergelt and Reingold.
Constrained regularization for noninvasive glucose sensing using Raman spectroscopy

Multivariate calibration is an important tool for spectroscopic measurement of analyte concentrations. We present a detailed study of a hybrid multivariate calibration technique, constrained regularization (CR), and demonstrate its utility in noninvasive glucose sensing using Raman spectroscopy. Similar to partial least squares (PLS) and principal component regression (PCR), CR builds an implicit model and requires knowledge only of the concentrations of the analyte of interest. Calibration is treated as an inverse problem in which an optimal balance between model complexity and noise rejection is achieved. Prior information is included in the form of a spectroscopic constraint that can be obtained conveniently. When used with an appropriate constraint, CR provides a better calibration model compared to PLS in both numerical and experimental studies.
Factors associated with the occurrence and treatment of supraventricular tachycardia in a pediatric congenital heart disease cohort.

In patients with congenital heart disease (CHD), the association between supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), type of pathophysiology, and therapeutic interventions in a population-based cohort warrants further examination. A retrospective, longitudinal 15-year data set (1996–2010) was analyzed. Inclusion criteria included age ≤17 years, enrolled in South Carolina State Medicaid, and diagnosed as having one or more CHDs as well as SVT. SVT was diagnosed in 6.5 % of CHD patients (N = 1,169) during the 15-year epoch investigated. SVT was less likely to occur in African-American (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.76) or male patients (HR = 0.88), but it was significantly more likely to occur in patients age ≤12 months or in adolescents ≥13 years in those undergoing multiple surgeries/medical interventions for their CHD (HR = 1.14), those receiving antiarrhythmic/diuretic/preload-/afterload-reducing medications (HR = 5.46), and those with severe/cyanotic CHDs (HR = 1.52) or chromosomal abnormalities (HR = 1.64). Children who had an atrial septal defect secundum (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 3.03) and those treated with diuretic or antiarrhythmic medication (aOR = 1.80) were significantly more likely to undergo SVT ablation, whereas those with late-onset pulmonary hypertension (ages 6–12 years old) were significantly less likely to undergo SVT ablation. SVT recurred in only 14 of 166 patients who underwent SVT ablation. Multiple medical interventions at an early age may increase the risk of SVT occurrence in young CHD patients regardless of the severity/complexity of the CHD.