cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Pilot Study Testing Aspects of the Integrated Marketing Communications Concept

This article describes a pilot study testing some aspects of the integrated marketing communications concept. The study is timely and relevant to the field because it employs an empirical approach to addressing the heated controversy over the validity of the integrated marketing communications concept. This controversy is based upon doubt about the theoretical basis for integrated marketing communications and the lack of empirical research in the field identified in the integrated marketing communications literature. In an effort to address the conceptual validity controversy directly, the study adopted the first use of an experimental approach in the integrated marketing communications field. The results of the experiment suggest that messages employing some of the key aspects of an integrated marketing communications strategy (i.e. messages with a common theme that are executed across multiple media in a visually consistent manner) may prompt a stronger attitude towards the brand level than the same mes...
Language disorders as a window on universal grammar : An abstract theory of Agreement for IP, DP, and V-PP

Abstract A new concept of Agreement (AGR) has been represented as a Formal Feature that can appear in a wide range of different configurations (Chomsky, 1998). A case study from language disorders supports and extends this abstract concept. The child shows no agreement in Inflectional Phrase me can and Determiner Phrase them eyes. We then extend the notion of AGR to include verb–Prepositional Phrase relations, where the child also systematically avoids certain prepositions (go beach). The analysis is supported by intuitional data from compounds (sweep with broom → broom-swept). We also define a systematic notion of Possible deficit as a premature fixation of functional items which normally require additional Phi-features. The notion of Maximization of Formal Features then emerges as a significant feature of learnability from both a normal and disordered perspective.
Computational biochemistry: models of transition.

Is it possible to determine the role of an enzyme from its structure? The latest findings suggest that it is, and prove the point by predicting the substrate for an enzyme of unknown function.
Individual-based modeling of phytoplankton: Evaluating approaches for applying the cell quota model

Present phytoplankton models typically use a population-level (lumped) modeling (PLM) approach that assumes average properties of a population within a control volume. For modern biogeochemical models that formulate growth as a nonlinear function of the internal nutrient (e.g. Droop kinetics), this averaging assumption can introduce a significant error. Individual-based (agent-based) modeling (IBM) does not make the assumption of average properties and therefore constitutes a promising alternative for biogeochemical modeling. This paper explores the hypothesis that the cell quota (Droop) model, which predicts the population-average specific growth or cell division rate, based on the population-average nutrient cell quota, can be applied to individual algal cells and produce the same population-level results. Three models that translate the growth rate calculated using the cell quota model into discrete cell division events are evaluated, including a stochastic model based on the probability of cell division, a deterministic model based on the maturation velocity and fraction of the cell cycle completed (maturity fraction), and a deterministic model based on biomass (carbon) growth and cell size. The division models are integrated into an IBM framework (iAlgae), which combines a lumped system representation of a nutrient with an individual representation of algae. The IBM models are evaluated against a conventional PLM (because that is the traditional approach) and data from a number of steady and unsteady continuous (chemostat) and batch culture laboratory experiments. The stochastic IBM model fails the steady chemostat culture test, because it produces excessive numerical randomness. The deterministic cell cycle IBM model fails the batch culture test, because it has an abrupt drop in cell quota at division, which allows the cell quota to fall below the subsistence quota. The deterministic cell size IBM model reproduces the data and PLM results for all experiments and the model parameters (e.g. maximum specific growth rate, subsistence quota) are the same as those for the PLM. In addition, the model-predicted cell age, size (carbon) and volume distributions are consistent with those derived analytically and compare well to observations. The paper discusses and illustrates scenarios where intra-population variability in natural systems leads to differences between the IBM and PLM models.
In vitro shoot regeneration from cotyledons of immature ovules of Impatiens platypetala Lindl.

An efficient and reproducible protocol has been developed for in vitro shoot regeneration from cotyledonary explants derived by germinating immature ovules ofImpatiens platypetala Lindl. ‘TR6-27-2’. Cotyledonary explants were cultured on a modified Murashige and Skoog (MS) agar-solidified medium containing 7.5g · liter−1 sucrose, 22.2µ M N6-benzyladenine (BA), and 0.54µM α-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA). The induction of organogenic tissues occurred after 6 to 8 wk in culture. Exogenous auxin and cytokinin were essential for the induction of organogenic tissues and survival of explants, and BA was most effective for the induction of organogenic tissues, compared with other cytokinins tested. The addition of glutamine (500 mg · liter−1) was also important for growth of organogenic tissues after induction and for reducing explant death during culture. The induction of organogenic tissue was also influenced by the type of cotyledon cultured and the age of the donor seedlings. On average, eight shoots per explant were induced from organogenic tissues larger than 0.5 cm in diameter 6 to 8 wk after transfer to a modified MS agar-solidified medium without NAA and BA reduced to 4.44µM. Shoots longer than 0.5 cm in length were successfully rooted 2 to 4 wk after transfer to a basal MS medium containing 30g · liter−1 sucrose.
Effect of particle asphericity on single-scattering parameters: comparison between Platonic solids and spheres

The single-scattering properties of the Platonic shapes, namely, the tetrahedron, hexahedron, octahedron, dodecahedron, and icosahedron, are investigated by use of the finite-difference time-domain method. These Platonic shapes have different extents of asphericity in terms of the ratios of their volumes (or surface areas) to those of their circumscribed spheres. We present the errors associated with four types of spherical equivalence that are defined on the basis of (a) the particle's geometric dimension (b) equal surface area (A), (c) equal volume (V), and (d) equal-volume-to-surface-area ratio (V/A). Numerical results show that the derivations of the scattering properties of a nonspherical particle from its spherical counterpart depend on the definition of spherical equivalence. For instance, when the Platonic and spherical particles have the same geometric dimension, the phase function for a dodecahedron is more similar than that for an icosahedron to the spherical result even though an icosahedron has more faces than a dodecahedron. However, when the nonspherical and spherical particles have the same volume, the phase function of the icosahedral particle essentially converges to the phase function of the sphere, whereas the result for the dodecahedron is quite different from its spherical counterpart. Furthermore, the present scattering calculation shows that the approximation of a Platonic solid with a sphere based on V/A leads to larger errors than the spherical equivalence based on either volume or projected area.
Preparation of cells for assessing ultrastructural localization of nanoparticles with transmission electron microscopy

We describe the use of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) for cellular ultrastructural examination of nanoparticle (NP)-exposed biomaterials. Preparation and imaging of electron-transparent thin cell sections with TEM provides excellent spatial resolution (∼1 nm), which is required to track these elusive materials. This protocol provides a step-by-step method for the mass-basis dosing of cultured cells with NPs, and the process of fixing, dehydrating, staining, resin embedding, ultramicrotome sectioning and subsequently visualizing NP uptake and translocation to specific intracellular locations with TEM. In order to avoid potential artifacts, some technical challenges are addressed. Based on our results, this procedure can be used to elucidate the intracellular fate of NPs, facilitating the development of biosensors and therapeutics, and provide a critical component for understanding NP toxicity. This protocol takes ∼1 week.
Solar energy economics—the a priori decision

Abstract The initial decision concerning the economic viability of a solar energy heating system is shown to involve technical, physical, meteorological, geographic, design and cost factors as well as the source of funding and type of arrangements made to finance the system. Four economic/technical models, which include the influence of increasing fuel costs, are presented and compared with other possible kinds of investments to determine the economic viability of the system. It is found that different economic conclusions are both possible and justifiable for investment situations having different constraints.
Age-related differences in intestinal arteriolar responses to venous pressure elevation in the rat.

Objective: We previously reported differences in intestinal arteriolar responses of adult and suckling rats to three stressors (hemorrhage, hypoxia, and hypothermia) that decreased intestinal blood flow. The small, premucosal arterioles of adult rats dilated in response to all three stressors, whereas the premucosal arterioles of suckling rats constricted or remained unchanged. One explanation for this difference might be absence of myogenic responsiveness in the premucosal arterioles of the immature rat.Methods: We used in vivo videomicroscopy to observe the intestinal arteriolar responses to venous pressure elevation (a myogenic stimulus) in adult (8- to 12-week-old) and suckling (8- to 12-day-old) Sprague-Dawley rats. We increased portal venous pressure by 25 and 50% above the baseline pressure.Results: Arterioles in the adult rats displayed the expected “myogenic” response to venous pressure elevation (diameters decreased 12–19% when venous pressure was increased by 50%). In contrast to adult rats, ar...
Police crime analysis: A Survey of us police departments with 100 or more sworn personnel

The quality of police service is a function of the organization's capacity to effectively collect, collate, analyze and disseminate relevant data. Our understanding about the general state of police crime analysis in the USA is limited. We have some data from the LEMAS survey and a good deal of anecdotal information about crime analysis operations. To date, researchers have not engaged in systematic, rigorous efforts to develop a comprehensive sense of various administrative, technological, and operational aspects of the police crime analysis function. In this study, a census of police departments with over 100 sworn personnel was administered (summer 2000). Findings of that survey are reported here.
Risk Estimation for Common Consumer Products

This paper reports a study of risk estimation for common consumer products. Subjects estimated injury frequencies and recalled/identified accident scenarios. While performance on the frequency estimation task highlighted a surprising ability to assess relative levels of risk very quickly, the scenario recall task showed severe errors in judgment. In the frequency estimation task, estimates that were made within 2 seconds of category presentation were just as accurate as those made after lengthy analysis. In the scenario recall task, subjects could recall or generate only about 40 percent of the common accident scenarios associated with each product category, and they overestimated their own ability to recall scenarios. When asked about specific scenarios that they had failed to identify, subjects cited both awareness and memory problems. These findings are discussed with reference to a model of risk perception in which the individual uses a readily accessible base of knowledge for assessing risks.
Segmentation and analysis of breast cancer pathological images by an adaptive-sized hybrid neural network

The number of nuclei on a pathology image assists pathologists in consistent diagnosis of breast cancer. Currently, most pathologists make a diagnosis based on a rough estimation of the number of nuclei on pathology images. Because of the rough estimation, the diagnosis is not objective. To assist pathologists to make a consistent, objective and fast diagnosis, it is necessary to develop a computer system to automatically recognize and count several kinds of nuclei. We have developed an algorithm for the automatic segmentation and counting of nuclei in breast cancer pathology images. In the development of the algorithm, we proposed two novel methods: an adaptive-sized hybrid neural network for the automatic segmentation of nuclei, insulin-like growth factor-II messenger RNAs and other structures, and the combined use of both the focused gradient filter and the watersheds algorithm for segmentation of overlapped nuclei.
Comparative effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of antiretroviral therapy and pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV prevention in South Africa

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) and oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) are effective in reducing HIV transmission in heterosexual adults. The epidemiologic impact and cost-effectiveness of combined prevention approaches in resource-limited settings remain unclear. We develop a dynamic mathematical model of the HIV epidemic in South Africa’s adult population. We assume ART reduces HIV transmission by 95% and PrEP by 60%. We model two ART strategies: scaling up access for those with CD4 counts ≤ 350 cells/μL (Guidelines) and for all identified HIV-infected individuals (Universal). PrEP strategies include use in the general population (General) and in high-risk individuals (Focused). We consider strategies where ART, PrEP, or both are scaled up to 100% of remaining eligible individuals yearly. We measure infections averted, quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) gained and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios over 20 years. Scaling up ART to 50% of eligible individuals averts 1,513,000 infections over 20 years (Guidelines) and 3,591,000 infections (Universal). Universal ART is the most cost-effective strategy at any scale ($160-$220/QALY versus comparable scale Guidelines ART expansion). General PrEP is costly and provides limited benefits beyond ART scale-up ($7,680/QALY to add 100% PrEP to 50% Universal ART). Cost-effectiveness of General PrEP becomes less favorable when ART is widely given ($12,640/QALY gained when added to 100% Universal ART). If feasible, Focused PrEP is cost saving or highly cost effective versus status quo and when added to ART strategies. Expanded ART coverage to individuals in early disease stages may be more cost-effective than current guidelines. PrEP can be cost-saving if delivered to individuals at increased risk of infection.
Medical Emergencies Aboard Commercial Aircraft

The Federal Aviation Administration has recently ordered a physician's kit be installed aboard all commercial aircraft in the United States. The kit includes epinephrine, diphenhydramine HCl, nitroglycerin tablets, 50% dextrose injection, oropharyngeal airways, stethoscope, and sphygmomanometer. The addition of the kit prompts an examination of medical problems while aloft. We review the incidence of inflight medical emergencies, the equipment available for treating such incidents, and first aid training of the cabin crew. Ongoing issues such as the legal status of physician volunteers and the security of first aid supplies aboard an aircraft are discussed. The most effective step to prevent further inflight medical incidents would be to initiate an educational program in both medical and aviation circles detailing the hazards and contraindications to flight.
Offering more support than we seek

Abstract Two studies provide evidence that, in friendships, people offer support to partners more often than they request identical support for themselves. In one study, people reported being more likely to offer different types of support (e.g., a ride to a train station) than to request identical support. This effect was more pronounced for casual than established friendships. In a second study, people assigned randomly to be in a position to give support or to seek identical support from a friend gave more support than they sought. The observed asymmetry is attributed to people balancing desires to establish and strengthen communal relationships against desires to protect the self from rejection, not to people being inherently more unselfish than selfish.
Fuel droplet vaporization and spray combustion theory

Abstract A critical review is presented of modern theoretical developments on problems of droplet vaporization in a high-temperature environment and of spray combustion. Emphasis is placed upon analytical and computational contributions to the theory with some mention of empirical evidence. Four areas of basic phenomena are discussed in some detail: (i) droplet slip and internal circulation, (ii) transient heating of the droplets, (iii) multicomponent fuel vaporization, and (iv) combustion and vaporization of droplet arrays, groups, and sprays. Various relationships amongst these phenomena are analyzed as well. Several other problem areas are given brief mention. Future directions are suggested.
Myogenin-dependent nAChR clustering in aneural myotubes

During development of the neuromuscular junction, nerve-derived agrin and the cell substrate laminin stimulate postsynaptic nAChR clustering. This clustering is dependent on activation of the tyrosine kinase, MuSK, which signals receptor clustering via a rapsyn-dependent mechanism. Myogenin is a muscle-specific transcription factor that controls myoblast differentiation and nAChR gene expression. Here, we used RNA interference to investigate if myogenin is also necessary for nAChR clustering. We find that myogenin expression is essential for robust nAChR clustering and cannot be compensated by the muscle regulatory factors MyoD, myf5, and MRF4. In addition, we show that clustering cannot be rescued in myogenin-depleted myotubes by simply overexpressing the essential clustering molecules MuSK, rapsyn, and nAChRs. These data suggest that myogenin controls the expression of molecules crucial to nAChR clustering in addition to its role in regulating nAChR gene expression.
Current status and future directions of computer-aided diagnosis in mammography

The concept of computer-aided detection (CADe) was introduced more than 50 years ago; however, only in the last 20 years there have been serious and successful attempts at developing CADe for mammography. CADe schemes have high sensitivity, but poor specificity compared to radiologists. CADe has been shown to help radiologists find more cancers both in observer studies and in clinical evaluations. Clinically, CADe increases the number of cancers detected by approximately 10%, which is comparable to double reading by two radiologists.
The Kock Ileal Neobladder: Updated Experience in 295 Male Patients

AbstractPurpose: Since 1986 orthotopic lower urinary tract reconstruction using the Kock ileal neobladder has been our diversion of choice in patients undergoing cystectomy. We report on the first 295 male patients undergoing this procedure from May 1986 through December 1993.Materials and Methods: Complications were assessed, tabulated, subdivided into early (3 months or less postoperatively) and late types, and further categorized with respect to relationship to neobladder construction. Continence was individually evaluated via a detailed patient questionnaire.Results: The pouch related early and late complication rates were 7.2 and 11.6 percent, respectively, and pouch related abdominal reoperation rates were 0.0 and 1.4 percent, respectively. Analysis of late pouch related complications revealed 4.1 percent stone formation and 2.4 percent afferent nipple stenosis rates, and only 1 case (0.3 percent) of ileal urethral anastomotic stricture. Of the patients 87 and 86 percent reported good or satisfactor...
Nuclear Medicine and Early Discovery of Disease

There is an urgent need for the early detection of diseases such as Alzheimer’s (AD) and Cancers in order to enable their successful treatment. Cancer is the second major cause of death after Heart Disease, and AD is the third major cause of death with major consequences for the society.Three major Nuclear Medicine techniques that are established for diagnostic and research purposes are: Positron Emission Tomography (PET) CAT/CT and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Imaging (NMRI/MRI). These nuclear medicine techniques are discussed together with their clinical and research applications to early diagnosis of Alzheimer's Disease (AD) and cancers. Novel approaches to early detection and modeling of AD and cancers are then proposed.
Modeling the flow of 15N after a 15N pulse to study long-term N dynamics in a semiarid grassland.

Many aspects of nitrogen (N) cycling in terrestrial ecosystems remain poorly understood. Progress in studying N cycling has been hindered by a lack of effective measurements that integrate processes such as denitrification, competition for N between plants and microbes, and soil organic matter (SOM) decomposition over large time scales (years rather than hours or days). Here I show how long-term measurements of 15N in plants, microbes, and soil after a one-time addition of 15N (“labeled” N) can provide powerful information about long-term N dynamics in a semiarid grassland. I develop a simple dynamic model and show that labeled-N fractions in plant and microbial-N pools (expressed as a fraction of total N in each pool) can change long after 15N application (≥5 years). These 15N dynamics are closely tied to the turnover times of the different N pools. The model accurately simulated the labeled-N fractions in aboveground biomass measured annually during five years after addition of 15N to a semiarid grassla...
Cell adhesion and signal transduction: the Armadillo connection

The products of the Drosophila segment polarity gene armadillo and its vertebrate homologue beta-catenin are components of the signal transduction pathway for Wingless/Wnt-1; this signal regulates cell-fate choices in embryos of the fruit fly Drosophila and vertebrates. Armadillo/beta-catenin is also a component of cell-cell adherens junctions in epithelia. How can these two seemingly distinct roles be reconciled? Evidence suggests that Armadillo has distinct functions: one in the adherens junction and one or more in the cytoplasm. The biochemical role of Armadillo may be to serve as a scaffold upon which different multiprotein complexes are assembled.
Phosphorylation of MLL by ATR is required for execution of mammalian S-phase checkpoint

Cell cycle checkpoints are implemented to safeguard the genome, avoiding the accumulation of genetic errors. Checkpoint loss results in genomic instability and contributes to the evolution of cancer. Among G1-, S-, G2- and M-phase checkpoints, genetic studies indicate the role of an intact S-phase checkpoint in maintaining genome integrity. Although the basic framework of the S-phase checkpoint in multicellular organisms has been outlined, the mechanistic details remain to be elucidated. Human chromosome-11 band-q23 translocations disrupting the MLL gene lead to poor prognostic leukaemias. Here we assign MLL as a novel effector in the mammalian S-phase checkpoint network and identify checkpoint dysfunction as an underlying mechanism of MLL leukaemias. MLL is phosphorylated at serine 516 by ATR in response to genotoxic stress in the S phase, which disrupts its interaction with, and hence its degradation by, the SCF(Skp2) E3 ligase, leading to its accumulation. Stabilized MLL protein accumulates on chromatin, methylates histone H3 lysine 4 at late replication origins and inhibits the loading of CDC45 to delay DNA replication. Cells deficient in MLL showed radioresistant DNA synthesis and chromatid-type genomic abnormalities, indicative of S-phase checkpoint dysfunction. Reconstitution of Mll(-/-) (Mll also known as Mll1) mouse embryonic fibroblasts with wild-type but not S516A or ΔSET mutant MLL rescues the S-phase checkpoint defects. Moreover, murine myeloid progenitor cells carrying an Mll-CBP knock-in allele that mimics human t(11;16) leukaemia show a severe radioresistant DNA synthesis phenotype. MLL fusions function as dominant negative mutants that abrogate the ATR-mediated phosphorylation/stabilization of wild-type MLL on damage to DNA, and thus compromise the S-phase checkpoint. Together, our results identify MLL as a key constituent of the mammalian DNA damage response pathway and show that deregulation of the S-phase checkpoint incurred by MLL translocations probably contributes to the pathogenesis of human MLL leukaemias.
Myxosporidan genera Auerbachia, Sphaerospora, Davisia and Chloromyxum in macrourid Fishes and the sablefish, Anoplopoma fimbria

Four genera and nine species of Myxosporida are reported from five genera and 12 species of macrourids and the sablefish, Anoplopoma fimbria. One new species, Chloromyxum kabatai, sp. n. is also described. Those species which are found in many geographically scattered hosts show remarkable uniformity in spore dimensions.
Experimental test of the planar tunneling model for ballistic electron emission spectroscopy

Using planar theory of ballistic electron emission spectroscopy with the addition of scattering at the metal-semiconductor interface, we calculate an expected change in the ratio of the collector current (I c ) to the tunnel current (I t ) as I t is varied in the well-known system Au/GaAs(100). This alternative spectroscopy is performed experimentally and is shown to differ drastically from the theory, which nevertheless agrees well with standard voltage spectroscopy. From this discrepancy, we question the applicability of one-dimensional (1D) planar theory to an inherently 3D system.
Hyaline bodies and giant cells associated with a radicular cyst

This case report describes an unusual granulomatous lesion that was curetted from the apices of 2 endodontically treated teeth. Microscopic evaluation revealed a radicular cyst with irregularly shaped eosinophilic hyaline bodies in close association with giant cells. Sections were stained with periodic acid-Schiff with and without diastase to evaluate the nature of the hyaline bodies. These stains revealed the presence of a carbohydrate material, possibly of plant origin. However, since starch cells could not be demonstrated morphologically, a definitive diagnosis of pulse granuloma was not made.
Metabolism of vitamin D2 and vitamin D3 in the rachitic chick

Abstract Uniformly labeled 14 C-vitamin D 2 (specific activity 30,740 dpm/IU) has been prepared by a biosynthetic method. A study of the time course of 14 C or 3 H appearing in the tissues from a 0.25 μg dose of 14 C-vitamin D 2 or 1,2- 3 H-vitamin D 3 given to rachitic chicks has been carried out. Initially the 14 C and 3 H were taken up equally well by all tissues examined. After 6 hours the 14 C was rapidly and dramatically lost from the blood and less rapidly from the bone and muscle as compared with 3 H from vitamin D 3 . This loss was accompanied by an appearance of 14 C in the gall bladder and feces. The largest fraction of the 3 H dose from the vitamin D 3 was found in bone, blood, muscle, and liver, but the highest concentration of radioactivity was found in bone cells and intestinal mucosa.
EFFECT OF PRESSOR AMINES ON EXPERIMENTAL INTRACARDIAC SHUNTS AND VALVULAR REGURGITATION.

Experimental atrial septal defects, aortico-pulmonary communications, ventricular septal defects and mitral insufficiency were created in dogs. Arterial indicator dilution curves were recorded before, during, and after the administration of norepinephrine and methoxamine. Alteration of the curves suggests an increase in left-to-right shunting in dogs with atrial septal defects and aortico-pulmonary communication. An inconstant response followed administration of norephinephrine to dogs with ventricular septal defects and mitral regurgitation. When methoxamine was infused, dogs with ventricular septal defects showed an apparent increase in the left-to-right shunt, and animals with mitral valvular insufficiency had an increase in regurgitant flow. The findings support the clinical observations of changing murmurs under these circumstances and may be applied during cardiac catheterization studies.
Kinetics of hydrolysis of polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan fatty acid ester surfactants.

The kinetics of the hydrolysis of the oleate ester of polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan (Tween 80) in aqueous buffers were studied at an initial concentration of 0m020% (w/v) and over the pH range of 1m10 to 10m28. The hydrolysis appears to be specific acid-catalysed at pH values below 3 and specific base-catalysed at pH values greater than 7m6. The pseudo first-order rate constants for hydrogen and hydroxyl ion catalysis were determined, and the temperature and ionic strength dependence of the acid-catalysed reaction was studied. Both the initial, acid- and base-catalysed hydrolysis of Tween 80 exhibited an unusual initial, micellar surfactant concentration-rate dependence, opposite to that previously reported for the hydrolysis of anionic surfactants of the n-alkyl sulphate-type. Specifically, as the initial concentration of Tween 80 was increased above its reported critical micellar concentration, there was a progressive, marked decrease in the rate of the reaction, with the rate eventually reaching a plateau value between 0m100 and 1m00% (w/v). It is suggested that this behaviour is due to alterations in the micellar state of the surfactant as its concentration is increased. The influence of the chemical structure of the Tween surfactant on the acid-catalysed hydrolysis reaction at 80° was also examined using the oleate (Tween 80), stearate (Tween 60), and palmitate (Tween 40) esters of polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan.
The economics of enforcing pollution taxation

Abstract The efficient structure of pollution tax policy is examined when it is recognized that enforcing compliance will be costly. There are two components of this cost: (1) the direct cost of enforcement and (2) the cost polluters incur avoiding enforcement. Considering only the first cost, the efficient pollution policy calls for a tax in excess of that conventionally recommended as efficient, T∗ but with little enforcement. Once avoidance cost is recognized the efficient policy can be substantially altered; requiring a tax lower than T∗, but with greater enforcement. Even when direct enforcement cost is zero, it is shown that there is no unique advantage to T∗ in the absence of avoidance cost.
Dynamic stability assessment model of a parallel AC-DC power system

A small displacement or linearized model of a parallel ac-dc power system is developed and verified by comparison with a detailed hybrid computer representation of the system. An eigenvalue analysis of this linearized model of the system illustrates the dynamic interaction between the controls associated with the machine (excitation system and power system stabilizer) and those of the dc system (current regulator with dc modulation). The techniques set forth in this paper may be directly incorporated into digital program for dynamic stability or security assessment studies of multimachine ac-dc power system.
Comparative ORESTES-sampling of transcriptomes of immune-challenged Biomphalaria glabrata snails.

Abstract The snail Biomphalaria glabrata (Gastropoda, Mollusca) is an important intermediate host for the human parasite Schistosoma mansoni (Digenea, Trematoda). Anti-pathogen responses of B. glabrata were studied towards a better understanding of snail immunity and host–parasite compatibility. Open reading frame ESTs (ORESTES) were sampled from different transcriptomes of M line strain B. glabrata , 12 h post-challenge with Escherichia coli (Gram-negative) , Micrococcus luteus (Gram-positive) bacteria or compatible S. mansoni , and controls. The resulting 3123 ORESTES represented 2129 unique sequences (373 clusters, 1756 singletons). Of these, 175 (8.1%) were putative defense factors, including lectins, antimicrobial peptides and components of various immune-effector systems. Comparison of biological processes (GO-terms) within different transcriptomes indicated that B. glabrata increased oxygen transport and metal binding in reaction to all challenges. Comprehensive comparisons of transcriptomes revealed that responses of B. glabrata against bacteria were similar to each other and differed from the ineffective response to S. mansoni . Furthermore, the response to S. mansoni infection was less comprehensive than that to bacteria. Many novel (unknown) sequences were recovered in association with particular challenges. B. glabrata possesses multi-faceted, potent immune defenses. This agrees with the notion that S. mansoni is capable of immune-evasion and prevents effective host defense responses in order to survive in B. glabrata. Future analysis of the numerous unknown sequences recovered from challenged snails may reveal novel immune factors and provide increased understanding of immunity of B. glabrata in relation to parasite–host compatibility.
Border Crossings: New Geographies of Protection and Production in the Galápagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands, Ecuador, have been managed as a fortress of conservation since the late 1950s. Well-maintained borders separate the Galapagos National Park (GNP) and inhabited areas as incommensurable spaces of natural (protected) and human (productive) life. In recent years, ecological, political, and economic crises have challenged this separation and stimulated shifts in the socioecological thought that underlies conservation management. In this article, we draw on the insights of border studies and of studies that recognize the hybrid and collective nature of conservation to trace the discursive and material exchanges that traffic the GNP border. The goal is to resituate the contribution of borders in nature conservation: from borders as technologies that fix space for protection to borders as sites of lively encounters with the potential to transform conservation theory and practice.
Cell division patterns of the protoderm and root cap in the "closed" root apical meristem of Arabidopsis thaliana.

The peripheral root cap and protoderm inArabidopsis thaliana are organized into modular packets of cells derived from formative T-divisions of the root cap/protoderm (RCP) initials and subsequent proliferative divisions of their daughter cells. Each module consists of protoderm and peripheral root cap packets derived from the same periclinal T-division event of an RCP initial. Anatomical analyses are used to interpret the history of extensively coordinated cell divisions producing this modular construction. Within a given layer of root cap, the columella and RCP initials divided in a centrifugal sequence from the innermost columella initials toward the RCP initials. All RCP initials in the lineages around the circumference of the root divided nearly simultaneously in “waves” to form one module prior to the next wave of initial divisions forming a younger module. The peripheral root cap and protoderm packets within each module completed four rounds of proliferative divisions in the axial plane to produce, on average, 16 cells per packet in the basalmost modules in axial view. Peripheral root cap and protoderm cells predominantly in the T-type (trichoblast) lineages also underwent radial divisions as they were displaced basipetally. The regularity in the cellular pattern within the modules suggests a timing mechanism controlling highly coordinated cell division in the initials and their daughter cells.
Abstract 1085: Glioma-infiltrating myeloid derived suppressor cells inhibit anti-tumor T cell responses

Efficacy of immunotherapeutic approaches against glioma is limited by the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Tumor derived TGF-β, IL-10 and Prostaglandin E2 along with the presence of regulatory T cells (Tregs) and tumor associated macrophages (TAMs) promote the immune escape in gliomas. Also, tumor derived factors induce the expansion of myeloid derived suppressor cells (MDSCs). MDSCs represent a heterogeneous population of myeloid cells at various stages of differentiation that have the potential to inhibit anti-tumor T cell responses. Herein we demonstrate the accumulation of MDSCs in GL26 brain tumor bearing mice. Absolute numbers of Ly-6G+ (Gr-1high) MDSCs showed a 200 fold increase within the tumor mass 28 days post-tumor implantation. In contrast, the numbers of Ly-6C+ (Gr-1low) MDSCs did not significantly change within the tumor microenvironment. While this massive influx of MDSCs was noted within intracranial tumors, the levels of Ly-6G+ or Ly-6C+ MDSCs did not increase in the tumor draining lymph nodes (dLNs), spleen, bone marrow or blood of intracranial tumor bearing mice. Mice bearing GL26 or B16-F0 tumors in the flank showed a ∼3 fold increased influx of Ly-6G+ MDSCs within the tumor mass, the spleen and circulating MDSCs. Ly-6G+ MDSCs isolated from the brain tumors and spleens of GL26 intracranial tumor bearing mice inhibited tumor antigen-specific CD8+ T cell proliferation and T cell proliferation mediated by CD3 ligation . On the other hand, Ly-6C+ MDSCs did not did not elicit inhibition of T cell proliferation. Preliminary experiments using tumor cells9 conditioned media indicate that CXCR2 signaling mediates the migration of MDSCs in a transwell assay and suggest the possibility that it could mediate MDSCs9 migration into the tumor microenvironment in vivo. Overall, our data shows that MDSCs accumulate within the glioma mass and inhibit tumor-specific T cell responses. Strategies that inhibit MDSC recruitment to the tumor microenvironment and/or block their activity may therefore enhance the T cell mediated tumor clearance and suppress glioma progression. Supported by National Institutes of Health/ National Institute of Neurological Disorders & Stroke (NIH/NINDS) Grants RO1-NS074387 and RO1-NS054193 Citation Format: Neha Kamran, Hikmat Assi, Marianela Candolfi, Mariela Moreno, Youping Li, Pedro R. Lowenstein, Maria G. Castro. Glioma-infiltrating myeloid derived suppressor cells inhibit anti-tumor T cell responses. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr 1085. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-1085
Study of amplification stage limitation of rotary traveling wave oscillators

In this work, an explanation for the frequency limiting factor through analysis and board level implementation of Rotary Traveling Wave Oscillator (RTWO) is proposed. We also established and demonstrate the relation between frequency limit and the amplification stage. To utilize RTWO for high frequency application, it was realized that, varying the ring size to achieve high frequency signals is governed by a length threshold which when exceeded contribute to signal instability and in some cases the possibility of no oscillation.
Activation Mechanism of Native NMDA Receptors in Cultured Rat Neurons in Culture

The activation mechanisms of recombinant NMDA receptor isoforms have been established in sufficient detail to account for their responses at both single-channel and macroscopic levels. Still, the reaction mechanism of native receptors remains uncertain due to indetermination of isoforms expressed, regulatory mechanisms and difficulties in regulating channel number. To investigate the activation mechanism of native receptors we recorded single-channel currents from cultured neurons dissociated from rat cerebral cortex and hippocampus. In several cell-attached patches, the currents originated from only one channel which remained active for tens of minutes. Activity recorded from neurons maintained for less than 19 days in vitro (DIV) resembled those of recombinant NR1/NR2B isoforms (means, s.d.): Po = 0.12 ± 0.06, MOT = 3.2 ± 0.5 ms (n = 8; 783,147 events). In contrast, in all one-channel records obtained from 21 - 35 DIV neurons we observed kinetics similar to those of recombinant NR1/NR2A receptors (means, s.d.): Po = 0.33 ± 0.10 and MOT = 5.6 ± 0.9 ms, (n = 7; 890,060 events). Importantly, for both types of activity we routinely identified clusters of activity characterized by three distinct open durations consistent with modal behavior. These data support previous reports indicating that dissociated neurons in culture recapitulate the developmental pattern of isoform observed in the intact animal and show for the first time that, like recombinant receptors in heterologous cells, receptors native to rat cortical neurons can adopt modal kinetics.
Advanced Model of Bi-Component Fuel Droplet Heating and Evaporating With Liquid Turbulence Effects at High Pressure

A new approach to account for finite thermal conductivity, finite mass diffusivity and turbulence effects within atomizing liquid sprays at high pressure condition is presented in this paper. The finite conductivity model is based on a newly developed two-layer film theory, where the turbulence characteristics of the droplet are used to estimate the effective thermal conductivity [1]. The present paper extends the formulation to model the multi-component mass diffusivities within the droplet phase at high pressures but less than components critical pressures. An approximate solution to the quasi-steady energy equation was used to derive an explicit expression for the heat flux from the surrounding gas to the droplet–gas interface, with inter-diffusion of fuel vapor and the surrounding gas taken into account. The Peng-Robinson equation of state (EOS) is used for extension of the model to the high pressures. The latent heat of vaporization and fuel enthalpies are also corrected for high pressure. The model includes the non-ideal gas and liquid behavior, and variable thermo-transport properties including their dependence on pressure and temperature. For this study a mixture of decane and hexadecane fuel droplet was considered. Predictions of the high-pressure single droplet model are in good agreement with the available data in literature.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Crystal Engineering of Organic Clay Mimics from 3,5‐Pyrazoledicarboxylic Acid and Amines

The syntheses and crystal structures of sixteen compounds containing the monoanion of 3,5-pyrazoledicarboxylic acid (H2PzDCA) and ammonium-based counterions are reported. The cations contain short-chain alkyl, long-chain alkyl, phenyl, and chloro-, methoxy-, and amine-substituted aryl groups. Self-complementary HPzDCA intermolecular hydrogen bonds create nearly planar sheets, to which the cations connect through hydrogen bonds. Twelve of the structures exhibit virtually identical hydrogen-bonded layers, but the distance between layers varies from 9.33 to 14.10 A (±20 %), depending on the cation. The comparison of the sixteen structures leads to the identification of a building block (HPzDCA) that creates remarkably reproducible, lamellar structures despite substantial changes in the counterion.
Psychometric Evaluation of the Substance Use Risk Profile Scale (SURPS) in an Inpatient Sample of Substance Users Using Cue-Reactivity Methodology

The current project sought to examine the psychometric properties of a personality based measure (Substance Use Risk Profile Scale; SURPS: introversion-hopelessness, anxiety sensitivity, impulsivity, and sensation seeking) designed to differentially predict substance use preferences and patterns by matching primary personality-based motives for use to the specific effects of various psychoactive substances. Specifically, we sought to validate the SURPS in a clinical sample of substance users using cue reactivity methodology to assess current inclinations to consume a wide range of psychoactive substances. Using confirmatory factor analysis and correlational analyses, the SURPS demonstrated good psychometric properties and construct validity. Further, impulsivity and sensation-seeking were associated with use of multiple substances but could be differentiated by motives for use and susceptibility to the reinforcing effects of stimulants (i.e., impulsivity) and alcohol (i.e. sensation-seeking). In contrast, introversion-hopelessness and anxiety sensitivity demonstrated a pattern of use more focused on reducing negative affect, but were not differentiated based on specific patterns of use. Taken together, results suggests that among those receiving inpatient treatment for substance use disorders, the SURPS is a valid instrument for measuring four distinct personality dimensions that may be sensitive to motivational susceptibilities to specific patterns of alcohol and drug use.
EMC response along the tensile face of small wood beams

Small wood beams were loaded in a controlled environment to evaluate the effect of axial stress and strain on the equilibrium moisture content (EMC) of the tensile face. It was determined that the bending stress and the associated strain caused by the loading scheme increased the EMC of the wood along the extreme tensile face at the point of maximum bending moment.
Development of a PET/SPECT agent for amyloid imaging in Alzheimer’s disease

In the search for a cure for Alzheimer’s disease (AD), efforts have been focused on preventing or reversing amyloid deposition in the brain. Efficacy evaluation of these antimyloid therapies would greatly benefit from development of a tool for the in vivo detection and quantitation of amyloid deposits in the brain. Toward this goal, we have developed a series of benzothiazole derivatives as amyloid-imaging agents for positron emission tomography (PET). To extend the potential of these amyloid-imaging agents for routine clinical studies, we also set out to develop iodinated benzothiazole derivatives that could be used as dual agents for either PET or the complementary single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). Such dual agents would permit PET or SPECT studies using radiotracers with the same chemical identity but labeled with different radionuclides. This would facilitate the validation of clinical SPECT studies, based on quantitative PET studies. In this work we report the synthesis and biological evaluation of a potent, selective, and brain-permeable benzothiazole compound, 2-(3′-iodo-4′-methylaminophenyl)-6-hydroxy-benzothialzole, termed 6-OH-BTA-1-3′-I (4), which can be radiolabeled with either positron-emitting carbon-11 or single photon-emitting iodine-125/iodine-123. The synthesis and radiolabeling of [125I]4 or [11C]4 were achieved through direct iodination with sodium [125I]iodide in the presence of chloramine T or through radiomethylation with [11C]CH3I. In vitro amyloid binding assays indicated that [125I]4 bound to amyloid deposits in a saturable manner and exhibited affinities in the nanomolar concentration range. Binding studies of [125I]4 to postmortem human brain homogenates also showed preference of binding to frontal cortex in the AD homogenates relative to age-matched control homogenates or cerebellum from either AD or control. In vivo pharmacokinetic studies in normal mice following iv injection of [11C]4 indicated that the radioligand entered the brain readily at early time points and cleared from the brain rapidly at later time points with a 2- to 30-min ratio >3. These results suggest that the new radioiodinated benzothiazole ligand might be useful as a surrogate marker for the in vivo quantitation of mayloid deposition in human brain for use with either PET or SPECT.