cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Temperature dependence of fluorescent probes for applications to polymer materials processing

We have examined the temperature dependence of fluorescence spectra from dyes that can be used as molecular probes during polymer processing. The dyes, perylene and benzoxazolyl stilbene, are in a class of dyes called band definition dyes, so called because their fluorescence spectra contain distinct intensity peaks at characteristic wavelengths. The dyes were chosen for this study because they are soluble at dopant levels of concentration in organic polymers at elevated temperatures and they survive without degradation at polymer processing temperatures up to 300 °C. Changes induced in the fluorescence spectra over a range of typical processing temperatures were examined using statistical techniques that establish correlations between fluorescence intensity, wavelength, and temperature. The derived correlations are the basis for temperature calibrations that can be applied to process monitoring. A phenomenological model that assumes temperature dependence for both nonradiative and radiative decay modes is developed. A fit of the model parameters to the fluorescence spectra yielded activation energies for the temperature dependence of fluorescence decay rates.
Kinetics Study of ZnO Nanorod Growth in Solution

ZnO nanorods were synthesized via a solution synthesis method with temperatures ranging from 55 to 85 °C. The nanorods have a hexagonal cross-section length of 200−300 nm. Powder X-ray diffraction analysis showed the nanorods are single crystal materials. Using inductively coupled plasma technique, the Zn2+ concentration in solution was analyzed and the lengths of the nanorods were obtained from a SEM micrograph with ImageJ software. The concentration of Zn2+ could be described with a first-order reaction mechanism. Nanorod length analysis showed that lower temperature was beneficial to nanorod growth and high temperature resulted in a competition between nucleation and nanorod growth. With some reasonable assumptions, the correlation between the concentration of zinc ions and the length of nanorods was developed. The simple kinetics model developed in this paper agrees with the experimental results very well for low-temperature reaction, at which the nucleation could be ignored. However, at high temperat...
Efficacy Tests and Determination of Optimal Spray Timing Values to Control Nantucket Pine Tip Moth (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) Infestations

The Nantucket pine tip moth, Rhyaciona frustrana (Comstock), a common regeneration pest of loblolly pine, Pinus taeda L., has been shown to reduce tree volume yields through larval feeding. Chemical applications can be effective in protecting trees from the growth losses associated with this feeding, and optimum spray timing values are commonly used to reduce the number of necessary applications and to increase insecticide efficacy. Optimal spray timing values for the Georgia Piedmont were obtained for the following four insecticides available for use in loblolly pine plantations: permethrin (Pounce), lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior T), spinosad (SpinTor 2 SC), and Bacillus thuringiensis variety kurstaki Berliner (Foray 48B). Optimal timing values were similar between the first and second generations for each of these compounds. All of the insecticides used in this study significantly reduced tip moth damage below the control treatment levels. Lambda-cyhalothrin was the most efficacious and had the longest spray timing window. B. thuringiensis was the least effective and had the shortest timing window. Spinosad and permethrin were similar in efficacy and spray timing values. This information is applicable to regions where there are three tip moth generations per year, as found in the southern Piedmont region and the coastal plain of Virginia and most of North Carolina.
Separation of Time-Based and Trial-Based Accounts of the Partial Reinforcement Extinction Effect

Two appetitive conditioning experiments with rats examined time-based and trial-based accounts of the partial reinforcement extinction effect (PREE). In the PREE, the loss of responding that occurs in extinction is slower when the conditioned stimulus (CS) has been paired with a reinforcer on some of its presentations (partially reinforced) instead of every presentation (continuously reinforced). According to a time-based or "time-accumulation" view (e.g., Gallistel and Gibbon, 2000), the PREE occurs because the organism has learned in partial reinforcement to expect the reinforcer after a larger amount of time has accumulated in the CS over trials. In contrast, according to a trial-based view (e.g., Capaldi, 1967), the PREE occurs because the organism has learned in partial reinforcement to expect the reinforcer after a larger number of CS presentations. Experiment 1 used a procedure that equated partially and continuously reinforced groups on their expected times to reinforcement during conditioning. A PREE was still observed. Experiment 2 then used an extinction procedure that allowed time in the CS and the number of trials to accumulate differentially through extinction. The PREE was still evident when responding was examined as a function of expected time units to the reinforcer, but was eliminated when responding was examined as a function of expected trial units to the reinforcer. There was no evidence that the animal responded according to the ratio of time accumulated during the CS in extinction over the time in the CS expected before the reinforcer. The results thus favor a trial-based account over a time-based account of extinction and the PREE. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Associative and Temporal Learning.
From indigenismo to zapatismo: Theory and practice in Mexican anthropology

This paper reviews the close relationship between theory and practice in Mexican anthropology, comparing and contrasting it to U.S. anthropology. The discipline in Mexico has successfully engaged public policy and politics in different ways, ranging from participation in the construction of nationalist ideologies to development anthropology to cooperation with popular movements. The experience of Mexican anthropology might provide U.S. anthropologists with creative ideas for connecting theory and practice in future projects.
THE PROTEINS IN UNHEATED CULTURE FILTRATES OF HUMAN TUBERCLE BACILLI : II. DETERMINATION OF SEROLOGICAL PROPERTIES

1. Only two serologically different proteins were found in the unheated culture filtrates of both virulent and slightly virulent tubercle bacilli. One of them was the protein which had a sedimentation constant of 3.4 S, and the other was in filtrate fractions with a constant of 2 S. 2. That these proteins were distinct was demonstrated by three methods: quantitative precipitin and precipitin absorption tests with rabbit antisera, skin tests in guinea pigs actively sensitized with the culture filtrate fractions, and skin tests in passively sensitized guinea pigs. 3. A third antigen of unknown nature was found by means of the precipitin tests, but only in certain fractions from the virulent culture filtrate. 4. The protein with the constant of 3.4 S could not be demonstrated serologically in an O.T. made from the same culture filtrate as the unheated preparation from the virulent organism.
Simultaneous Gate and Interconnect Sizing for Circuit-Level Delay Optimization

With delays due to the physical interconnect dominating the overall logic path delays, circuit-level delay optimization must take interconnect effects into account. Instead of sizing only the gates along the critical paths for delay reduction, the trade-off possible by simultaneously sizing gate and interconnect must also be considered. We show that for optimal gate and interconnect sizing, it is imperative that the interaction between the driver and the RC interconnect load be taken into account. We present an iterative sensitivity-based approach to simultaneous gate and interconnect sizing in terms of a gate delay model which captures this interaction. During each iteration, the path delay sensitivities are efficiently calculated and used to size the components along a path.
Active antenna elements for millimeter-wave cellular communications

The direct modulation of oscillators in an active array provides an efficient means of communicating over millimeter-wave carriers. This paper describes how various forms of digital modulation can be applied and gives details of the development of a 28 GHz transmission system designed to operate at 2 Mbit/s using frequency shift keying.
Theory and applications of modular reconfigurable robotic systems

A modular reconfigurable robotic system consists of various link and joint units with standardized connecting interfaces that can be easily separated and reassembled into different configurations. Compared to a fixed configuration robot, which is usually a compromised design for a limited set of tasks, a modular robot can accomplish a large class of tasks through reconfiguration of a small inventory of modules. This thesis studies how to find an optimal module assembly configuration constructed from a given inventory of module components for a specific task. A set of generalized module models that bear features found in many real implementations is introduced. The modular robot assembly configuration is represented by a novel Assembly Incidence Matrix (AIM). Equivalence relations based on module geometry symmetries and graph isomorphisms are defined on the AIMs. An enumeration algorithm to generate non-isomorphic assembly configurations based on this equivalence relation is proposed. Examples demonstrate that this method is a significant improvement over a brute force enumeration process. Configuration independent kinematic models for modular robots are developed, and they are essential for solving the task-optimal configuration problem. A task-oriented objective function is defined on the set of non-isomorphic module assembly configurations. Task requirements and kinematic constraints on the robot assembly are treated as parameters to this objective function. The task-optimal configuration problem is formulated as a combinatorial optimization problem to which genetic algorithms are employed for solutions. Examples of finding task-optimal serial revolute-jointed robot configurations are demonstrated. In addition, the applications of modular robots to planning multifinger grasping and manipulation are developed. Planning two-finger grasps is done through finding antipodal point grasps on a smooth shaped object. Planning n-finger grasps is achieved by defining a qualitative force-closure test function on the n-finger grasps on an object. Applications of this test function to manipulation task and finger gaiting are illustrated.
Implicit time integration for the material point method: Quantitative and algorithmic comparisons with the finite element method

An implicit integration strategy was developed and implemented for use with the material point method (MPM). An incremental-iterative solution strategy was developed around Newton's method to solve the equations of motion with Newmark integration to update the kinematic variables. Test problems directly compared the implicit MPM solutions with those obtained using an explicit MPM code and implicit finite element (FE) code. Results demonstrated very good agreement with FE predictions and also illustrated several advantages in comparison to calculations using the explicit MPM code. In particular, the accuracy of the implicit solution was superior to the explicit MPM when compared to validated FE solutions, and by definition the implicit time integration is unconditionally stable. Similarities between the assembly of the implicit MPM equations and those of the FE method were identified and should allow further algorithmic improvement. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cytotoxicity against human tumor cells mediated by the conjugate of anti-epidermal growth factor receptor monoclonal antibody to recombinant ricin A chain.

Abstract We have produced monoclonal antibodies against the epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor which bind to the receptor with high affinity, compete with EGF for binding, block EGF-induced tyrosine kinase activity, and activate internalization and down-regulation of the receptor. These antibodies are cytostatic against cultured A431 cells at concentrations of 5–20 nm. In addition, they prevent the growth of A431 tumor xenografts in athymic mice. In the present experiments, we have attempted to improve the antitumor activity of monoclonal antibody 528 IgG2a against the EGF receptor by linking it to recombinant ricin A chain (rRA). The immunoconjugate (528 IgG-rRA) showed a potent cytotoxic effect on A431 cells in vitro. At a concentration of 10 pm, it inhibited the proliferation of cultured A431 cells by 50% and also inhibited protein synthesis in these cells by 50%. Proliferation was prevented and cell death occurred at 528 IgG-rRA concentrations of 60 pm or greater. Recombinant free ricin A chain was far less toxic. The cytotoxic effect of the immunoconjugate was neutralized by 528 IgG at concentrations 100-fold higher than 528 IgG-rRA. When the cytotoxic effect of 528 IgG-rRA was compared among several human cell lines expressing different numbers of EGF receptors, the capacity to inhibit both proliferation and protein synthesis generally correlated with the number of EGF receptors on the plasma membranes of these cells. Since 528 IgG-rRA is a very potent immunotoxin against A431 cells in culture, we designed experiments to test its in vivo antitumor activity against A431 xenografts in athymic mice. To measure the clearance of 528 IgG-rRA, 50 µg of immunotoxin were injected i.p. into athymic mice, blood was collected from the animals at regular intervals, and the level of immunotoxin in the serum was assayed by protein synthesis inhibition in cultured A431 cells. The blood level of active immunoconjugate reached a maximum 6 h after i.p. injection. The half-life of the absorption phase was 2.2 h, the half-life for elimination was 9.2 h, and blood levels which could be potentially cytotoxic were maintained for 48–72 h. We investigated a number of immunotoxin treatment schedules, including every other day for 4 days, based on these data. The results demonstrate that, while 528 IgG-rRA has higher in vivo antitumor activity than 528 IgG against A431 cell xenografts, this is accompanied by toxicity against the murine host.
Some solar energy programmes in the United Nations system

Abstract The report outlines recent activities in the United Nations system concerning solar and wind energy applications, particularly for the benefit of developing countries. Summaries are provided of some of the main programmes undertaken in the field of solar energy by a number of agencies and bodies of the United Nations system such as: the economic and Social Council, the Department of International Economic and Social Affairs of the Secretariat; the Department of Technical Co-operation for Development and its Centre for Natural Resources, Energy and Transport; the regional commissions; the financial institutions (UNDP and World Bank); the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO); the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and the United Nations University (UNO); specialized agencies—UNESCO, FAO, WHO, WMO and ITU; the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space. Some highlights are given on the future United Nations Conference on New and Renewable Sources of Energy, recently approved by the General Assembly of the United Nations.
Fano subplanes in finite Figueroa planes

It has been conjectured that all non-desarguesian projective planes contain a Fano subplane. The Figueroa planes are a family of non-translation planes that are defined for both infinite orders and finite order q3 for q > 2 a prime power. We will show that there is an embedded Fano subplane in the Figueroa plane of order q3 for q any prime power.
The Effects of C-Terminal Mutations on the Folding of Cardiac Myosin Binding Protein-C

Cardiac myosin binding protein-C (cMyBP-C) is a modular protein involved in stabilizing interactions with the thick filament of the sarcomere. The N-terminus of cMyBP-C associates with actin and myosin S2 and the C-terminus interacts with titin and myosin rods. While no high-resolution structure of C-terminal cMyBP-C exists, disruption of this region is proposed to destabilize cMyBP-C and adversely affect cardiac structure and function. In particular, deletion of 25 base pairs (Δ25) in the gene encoding for cMyBP-C results in amino acid substitutions in the C10 domain of cMyBP-C (C10 Δ25) which may be associated with the development of hypertrophic and dilated cardiomyopathies by unknown molecular mechanisms. The prevalence of this mutation is approximately 1% of the world population, underscoring the necessity of determining its role(s) in the pathogenesis of cardiomyopathies. In this study, circular dichroism (CD) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopies have been used to examine the conformation of wild-type (Wt) and mutant C-terminal domains of cMyBP-C. Comparison of near UV CD spectra revealed alterations in the packing of aromatic residues in C10 Δ25 suggesting it is less stably folded as compared to C10 Wt. C10 Δ25 exhibited less beta-sheet content than C10 Wt as evidenced by the estimation of secondary structure from CD data. NMR analyses of amide proton/nitrogen chemical shifts and line-widths were used to probe the conformation of C10 domains and to map residues of importance in protein-protein association onto cMyBP-C models. Taken together, these data suggest that the Δ25 mutation structurally modulates cMyBP-C sites involved in binding titin and myosin.
A Note on the Duquenois-Levine test for Marijuana

(1971). A Note on the Duquenois-Levine test for Marijuana. Clinical Toxicology: Vol. 4, No. 2, pp. 287-289.
Influence of Age, Strain, and β-Adrenergic Agonist on Insulin Sensitivity in Chicks as Determined by an Adaptation of the Euglycemic Clamp Technique

Abstract The euglycemic clamp technique has been widely used to examine changes in in vivo insulin sensitivity during physiological changes in mammals. The technique offers the advantage that the tissue uptake of glucose induced by a set dose of insulin is determined at the normal (steady state) circulating concentration of glucose (euglycemia). The euglycemic clamp technique has been modified to examine in vivo sensitivity to insulin in chickens. Insulin sensitivity is determined by the rate of infusion of exogenous glucose required to maintain euglycemia. Young (6 to 8-wk-old) male chickens (White Leghorn) are more sensitive to insulin than adult males of the same strain. There is, however, no difference in insulin sensitivity between young male chicks of broiler and White Leghorn strains. Chronic administration of β-adrenergic agonist (L-640,033, donated by Merck, Sharp, and Dohme Research Laboratories, Rahway, NJ) in the diet, at levels of 0, .25, 1.0, and 4.0 ppm for 3 to 5 days also did not influence in vivo insulin sensitivity.
Frequency Distortion of Second- and Third-Order Phase-Locked Loop Systems Using a Volterra-Series Approximation

In this paper, the frequency distortion for the nonlinear phase-locked loop (PLL) is derived analytically using a Volterra-series approximation. Both first- and second-order filters are considered in the PLL architecture. Theoretical results are then compared to those obtained via simulation. Comparisons are drawn between the two types of PLL with regard to the amount of distortion observed. Convergence of the Volterra-series solution is also discussed with regard to the system parameters.
Functional homology of chemotaxis genes in Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhimurium.

Abstract Generally nonchemotactic mutants of Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhimurium were analyzed by interspecies complementation tests to determine the functional correspondence between the che genes of these two organisms. The E. coli che region was introduced into Salmonella recipients by means of a series of F-prime elements. Wild-type che genes of E. coli F'420 complemented all che mutants of Salmonella except cheS, cheV, and a subclass of cheU. A series of tester episomes carrying E. coli che mutations were then used to determine which E. coli che function was responsible for the complementation of each Salmonella che defect. By this method, the following correspondences were determined: cheAE and chePS,cheWE, and cheWS, cheXE and cheRS, cheYE and cheQS, cheCE and cheUS, cheBE and cheXS, and cheZE and cheTS. (The subscripts E and S refer to E. coli and S. typhimurium genes, respectively.) In some tests, especially those involving the last two pairs of genes, poor complementation was observed between noncorresponding genes. A model explaining these observations in terms of subunit interactions is proposed.
Identification and control of a DC motor using back-propagation neural networks

An artificial-neural-network (ANN)-based high-performance speed-control system for a DC motor is introduced. The rotor speed of the DC motor can be made to follow an arbitrarily selected trajectory. The purpose is to achieve accurate trajectory control of the speed, especially when motor and load parameters are unknown. The unknown nonlinear dynamics of the motor and the load are captured by the ANN. The trained neural-network identifier is combined with a desired reference model to achieve trajectory control of speed. The performances of the identification and control algorithms are evaluated by simulating them on a typical DC motor model. It is shown that a DC motor can be successfully controlled using an ANN. >
Large Animal Models of Disc Degeneration

Intervertebral discs are largely of embryonic notochordal origin and impart a unique biomechanical function to the spine of vertebrate animals (Singh et al. 2005). The intervertebral disc is anatomically comprised of two constituents: a proteoglycan-rich nucleus pulposus contained within a collagen 1-rich annulus fibrosus (Singh et al. 2005). Together, these structures effectively dissipate mechanical loads within the spine while allowing controlled motion between adjacent vertebrae. The biologic environment of the disc is uniquely harsh due to the avascular nature of the tissue and the long distance between metabolically active cells and their nutritional source. Tissue degeneration progresses through a well-defined series of changes (Singh et al. 2005) including breakdown of the long-chain proteoglycan constituents of the extracellular matrix, loss of water-binding capacity, decreased cellularity, and annular disorganization/disruption (Lotz 2004).
Increasing the STEM pipeline: Impact of a multi-faceted STEM organization

Aggie STEM serves K-12 teachers and students by providing professional development (PD) over a wide range of STEM educational topics in a variety of formats and settings. The goal of the PD is to provide teachers with the tools they need for effective classroom instruction, with the objective of increasing the STEM pipeline by providing students with more engaging instruction in formal and informal settings. This paper describes Aggie STEM's role in improving STEM instruction and experiences through PD for teachers and summer camp for students. By supporting teachers to improve classroom instruction, Aggie STEM impacted more students than was possible by teaching secondary students in the classroom. In a single year, through PD to more than 800 teachers, the number of students whose STEM knowledge was enriched exceeded 24,000.
Abstract 58: Modeling Pathogenesis in Familial Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Using Patient-Specific Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells

Background: Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a prevalent familial cardiac disorder linked to development of heart failure, arrhythmia, and sudden cardiac death. Molecular genetic studies have d...
Air-Stable Conversion of Separated Carbon Nanotube Thin-Film Transistors from p-Type to n-Type Using Atomic Layer Deposition of High-κ Oxide and Its Application in CMOS Logic Circuits

Due to extraordinary electrical properties, preseparated, high purity semiconducting carbon nanotubes hold great potential for thin-film transistors (TFTs) and integrated circuit applications. One ...
Museums' role: pollen and forensic science.

In her News & Analysis story, "Budget crunch to shrink science programs at Chicago's Field Museum" (4 January, p. [19][1]), V. Morell reports that Chicago's Field Museum's science program will be slashed by $3 million. Now more than ever, it is essential to convey the importance of natural history
Negro Student Rebellion against Parental Political Beliefs

In their May 1963 article, "Student Rebellion against Parental Political Beliefs," Russell Middleton and Snell Putney discussed one aspect of political socialization, that of reaction of young adults to their parents' political beliefs.' Testing, as they did, a sample drawn from several public and private institutions in the four geographic regions of the United States, their results reveal this process of political socialization amongst the predominant white group in our society. The present article attempts to compare their results with a similar study undertaken at a primarily Negro institution, in order to suggest any differences that may appear in this process between the subgroup and the predominant group. The data for this study were collected by means of anonymous questionnaires administered to 396 students in ten different courses in the College of Liberal Arts, at Howard University, Washington, D.C. Analysis of the characteristics of the respondents showed that the students represented a diversity of age, family income, and academic class standing. For this report, only Negro United States citizens at Howard are considered; these total 169 males and 147 females. The students were asked to place themselves on a left-to-right political continuum which Middleton and Putney suggested to be the most meaningful for student groups. Thus, each respondent was asked:
The Consequences of Social Processes: Aggregate Populations, Projectile Point Accumulation, and Subsistence Patterns in the American Southwest

Tracking broad-scale behavioral patterns using both lithics and faunal remains offers one line of evidence for investigating both prehistoric subsistence activities and the consequences of aggregation and increases in population size. Accumulation research, which examines the ratio of projectile points to cooking pottery sherds from the same context, shows a higher ratio of projectile points in areas with lower population densities. This pattern holds true when examining faunal assemblages and large-game procurement practices from A.D. 900 to 1300 in southwestern Colorado and southeastern Utah. This research demonstrates that social processes such as aggregation and increases in population density influence human hunting strategies as much as changes in natural environment, which lead to changes in a group’s dietary regime.
Assessing the Reliability of Low Frequencies In Geophone Records

The reliability of low frequencies is a crucial question for geophone records. An example is the data recorded for passive seismic studies using geophones paired with TEXAN miniature recorders, where the high resonance frequency of the geophones degrades the low-frequency waveforms and increases the ambiguity in phase picking. We have evaluated the reliability of such data from a mobile array of geophoneTEXAN pairs in central China. The frequency response of the geophones can be easily established using the Power Spectral Density Ratio (PSDR) between records of the geophoneTEXAN pairs and a broadband seismometer occupying the same sites. This method allows a quantification of the retrievable frequencies of short-period seismic data and a reliable spectral extension. For instance, the retrievable frequency band of the data recorded by 4.5-Hz geophones can be extended down to 0.3 Hz for regional M2.0 earthquakes in our study area, and down to 0.04 Hz for surface wave of a M6.2 teleseismic event in Indonesia. After applying an inverse filter within the retrievable frequency band, the quality of the data is improved significantly and matched well with the records of a nearby broadband permanent station. The new method is useful for assessing and extracting low-frequency information from geophone data.
Occurrence of fipronil and its biologically active derivatives in urban residential runoff.

Insecticides are commonly used around homes for controlling insects such as ants, termites, and spiders. Such uses have been linked to pesticide contamination and toxicity in urban aquatic ecosystems. Fipronil is a relatively new and popular urban-use insecticide that has acute toxicity to arthropods at low-ppb levels. In this study, we collected runoff water from 6 large communities, each consisting of 152 to 460 single-family homes, in Sacramento County and Orange County, California, and evaluated the occurrence of fipronil and its biologically active derivatives over 26 months under dry weather conditions. Statistical modeling showed that the levels of fipronil and derivatives in the runoff water were both spatially and temporally correlated. More than 10-fold differences were observed between the Sacramento and Orange County sites, with the much higher levels for Orange County (southern California) coinciding with heavier use. The median concentrations of combined fipronil and derivatives for the Oran...
Solid Propellant Rockets

Solid rocket motors and various solid propellant grain configurations are described. Burning rate and grain design effects on thrust-time tailoring are discussed, as well as the sensitivity of the solid propellant to temperature. Analysis of the transient behavior and equilibration of the combustion chamber pressure, the stability of the combustion chamber pressure, and the effects of erosive burning is presented. Solid rocket performance characteristics, dual-thrust solid rockets, rocket motor casings, and transient operation are discussed. Rocket motor nozzle heat transfer and ablative and film-cooling techniques are described. Hybrid rocket motors are introduced and their characteristics and operation are covered.
Crown Gall of Grapevine: Disease Management Considerations

Crown gall can be a serious disease on grapevine often causing extensive losses. Infected vines show reduced shoot growth and portions of the vine apical to the galls often die. Although the majority of galling is usually present within 12 to 15 cm of the soil line, aerial galling may extend a meter or more up the trunks and into wood that is at least one year old. Root galls may also be observed, however these are less common than trunk galls.
Obligation and Duty

The Kramers family was deeply Calvinistic. As a young boy, Hans Kramers went to church regularly, received additional religious training, and was confirmed when he was 14 years old. His mother had arranged a party (a supper) for this special occasion. But young Hans was quite unhappy. He felt that a religious ceremony did not call for parties or other frivolous entertainment, but should be the occasion for serious, thoughtful contemplation of human life.98 (His mother did manage to persuade him to come to the supper!) Kramers’ later attitude toward religion became ambiguous. He liked to discuss problems of Christian theology. Ever since his youth, he had read extensively in the religious literature, and was especially well versed in the letters of St. Paul. The Swiss theologist Karl Barth was one of his favorite authors. Kramers’ religious perorations had the same mixture of knowledge, brilliance, and irony as his discussions in other areas. After his adolescence, he never went to church, and he ignored any kind of organized dogmatic religious system. Actually, he did go to church once in a while, to escape the nagging of his sister-in-law, Mrs. Jan Kramers. But he then took his revenge by sleeping soundly through the whole service.
Mitochondrial Dynamics in Auditory Sensory Cells

BackgroundThe auditory sensory hair cells convert sound vibrations into neuronal impulses. Excessive loud sound exposure can result in the overproduction of oxidative free radicals by the mitochond...
Incorporating Snow Albedo Feedback into Downscaled Temperature and Snow Cover Projections for California’s Sierra Nevada

AbstractCalifornia’s Sierra Nevada is a high-elevation mountain range with significant seasonal snow cover. Under anthropogenic climate change, amplification of the warming is expected to occur at elevations near snow margins due to snow albedo feedback. However, climate change projections for the Sierra Nevada made by global climate models (GCMs) and statistical downscaling methods miss this key process. Dynamical downscaling simulates the additional warming due to snow albedo feedback. Ideally, dynamical downscaling would be applied to a large ensemble of 30 or more GCMs to project ensemble-mean outcomes and intermodel spread, but this is far too computationally expensive. To approximate the results that would occur if the entire GCM ensemble were dynamically downscaled, a hybrid dynamical–statistical downscaling approach is used. First, dynamical downscaling is used to reconstruct the historical climate of the 1981–2000 period and then to project the future climate of the 2081–2100 period based on clim...
Successes and failures in resisting cigarettes affect partner support for smoking cessation

Objective: Potential support providers may rely on observable behaviours (e.g. resisting a cigarette vs. smoking) to determine how much and what kind of support to provide. We evaluated the effect of smokers’ salient behaviour on partners’ likelihood of providing positive and negative support.Design: Partners of smokers (N = 131) were randomly assigned to recall a time when their partner either successfully resisted a cigarette, failed to resist a cigarette or a control condition (no recall). All participants reported the likelihood of providing positive and negative support to their partner. Perceived commitment to quitting smoking was measured as a potential mediator.Main Outcome Measures: The main outcome was intention to provide support for a quit attempt.Results: Participants who recalled their partners’ past failures reported more intentions to engage in negative support and smaller ratios of positive to negative intended support than did participants in the success or control condition. These effec...
Magneto-photo-acoustic imaging using dual-contrast agent

Magneto-photo-acoustic imaging — a technique that integrates ultrasound, photoacoustic and magneto-motive ultrasound imaging methods, was developed. To demonstrate the feasibility of magneto-photo-acoustic imaging, the initial experiments were performed using dual-contrast agent consisting of gold nanorods and iron-oxide nanoparticles. Tissue mimicking sample and a specimen of porcine muscle tissue labeled with dual-contrast agent were imaged. The results of our study demonstrate that magneto-photo-acoustic imaging is capable of identifying the localization and concentration of magneto-plasmonic nanoparticles within the anatomical maps of the surrounding tissue with sufficient contrast and high resolution. Therefore, magneto-photo-acoustic imaging using hybrid magneto-plasmonic nanoparticles is a promising platform for functional molecular and cellular imaging in vivo and at sufficient depth.
Nanomedicine: Catching tumour cells in the zone

A microfluidic chip with progressively stronger magnetic field gradients along its length can sort and classify circulating tumour cells based on the expression of cell surface markers.
Early Cranioplasty is Associated with Greater Neurological Improvement: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background Cranioplasty after decompressive craniectomy is a common neurosurgical procedure, yet the optimal timing of cranioplasty has not been well established. Objective To investigate whether the timing of cranioplasty is associated with differences in neurological outcome. Methods A systematic literature review and meta-analysis was performed using MEDLINE, Scopus, and the Cochrane databases for studies reporting timing and neurological assessment for cranioplasty after decompressive craniectomy. Pre- and postcranioplasty neurological assessments for cranioplasty performed within (early) and beyond (late) 90 d were extracted. The standard mean difference (SMD) was used to normalize all neurological measures. Available data were pooled to compare pre-cranioplasty, postcranioplasty, and change in neurological status between early and late cranioplasty cohorts, and in the overall population. Results Eight retrospective observational studies were included for a total of 528 patients. Studies reported various outcome measures (eg, Barthel Index, Karnofsky Performance Scale, Functional Independence Measure, Glasgow Coma Scale, and Glasgow Outcome Score). Cranioplasty, regardless of timing, was associated with significant neurological improvement (SMD .56, P = .01). Comparing early and late cohorts, there was no difference in precranioplasty neurological baseline; however, postcranioplasty neurological outcome was significantly improved in the early cohort (SMD .58, P = .04) and showed greater magnitude of change (SMD 2.90, P = .02). Conclusion Cranioplasty may improve neurological function, and earlier cranioplasty may enhance this effect. Future prospective studies evaluating long-term, comprehensive neurological outcomes will be required to establish the true effect of cranioplasty on neurological outcome.
Determining open cluster membership. A Bayesian framework for quantitative member classification

Aims. My goal is to develop a quantitative algorithm for assessing open cluster membership probabilities. The algorithm is designed to work with single-epoch observations. In its simplest form, only one set of program images and one set of reference images are required. Methods. The algorithm is based on a two-stage joint astrometric and photometric assessment of cluster membership probabilities. The probabilities were computed within a Bayesian framework using any available prior information. Where possible, the algorithm emphasizes simplicity over mathematical sophistication. Results. The algorithm was implemented and tested against three observational fields using published survey data. M 67 and NGC 654 were selected as cluster examples while a third, cluster-free, field was used for the final test data set. The algorithm shows good quantitative agreement with the existing surveys and has a false-positive rate significantly lower than the astrometric or photometric methods used individually.
Early Syntactic Bootstrapping in an Incremental Memory-Limited Word Learner

It has been suggested that early human word learning occurs across learning situations and is bootstrapped by syntactic regularities such as word order. Simulation results from ideal learners and models assuming prior access to structured syn-tactic and semantic representations suggest that it is possible to jointly acquire word order and meanings and that learning is improved as each language capability bootstraps the other.We first present a probabilistic framework for early syntactic bootstrapping in the absence of advanced structured representations, then we use our framework to study the utility of joint acquisition of word order and word referent and its onset, in a memory-limited incremental model. Comparing learning results in the presence and absence of joint acquisition of word order in different ambiguous contexts, improvement in word order results showed an immediate onset, starting in early trials while being affected by context ambiguity. Improvement in word learning results on the other hand, was hindered in early trials where the acquired word order was imperfect,while being facilitated by word order learning in future trials as the acquired word order improved. Furthermore, our results showed that joint acquisition of word order and word referent facilitates one-shot learning of new words as well as inferring intentions of the speaker in ambiguous contexts.
A Phase Ib/II Study of Ganetespib With Doxorubicin in Advanced Solid Tumors Including Relapsed-Refractory Small Cell Lung Cancer.

Introduction: Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) accounts for 15% of all lung cancers and is characterized by high response rates to cytotoxic chemotherapy and equally high rates of relapse. Many resistance mechanisms have been proposed including resistance to doxorubicin via induction of a heat shock response. Ganetespib is a novel and potent non-geldanamycin heat shock protein-90 (Hsp90) inhibitor. In preclinical studies, synergy between ganetespib and doxorubicin was shown. We conducted a Phase IB/II study of the safety, tolerability and preliminary efficacy of the combination of ganetespib and doxorubicin. Methods: Patients eligible for the Phase IB portion had advanced tumors that would be appropriate for doxorubicin therapy and those in the phase II portion had relapsed or refractory SCLC. All patients had an ECOG performance status 0-1 and adequate organ function including a cardiac ejection fraction > 50%. Patients who received a lifetime cumulative doxorubicin dose >150 mg/m2 or who had symptomatic brain metastases were excluded. Patients received ganetespib on days 1 and 8 and doxorubicin 50 mg/m2 on day 1 in 21-day cycles. Results: Eleven patients were enrolled including 9 in the Phase Ib dose escalation and 2 in the phase II expansion. The study was terminated by the sponsor. The dose recommended for future study is ganetespib 150 mg/m2 in combination with doxorubicin at a dose of 50 mg/m2. The most common adverse events of the combination were grade 1/2 diarrhea, nausea, fatigue, and transaminitis. No dose-limiting toxicities were observed. Response rate was 25% and median duration of response was 137 days. Conclusion: Ganetespib plus doxorubicin was a well-tolerated combination and there remains potential for the clinical development of Hsp90 inhibitors in SCLC. Clinical Trial Registry number: NCT02261805 https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02261805
Characterization of Intestinal Microflora of Captive Green Iguanas, Iguana iguana

ABSTRACT Although frequently criticized for their large size and status as a reservoir for Salmonella spp., green iguanas, Iguana iguana, remain a popular pet reptile in the United States. Because green iguanas can harbor Salmonella spp., they can serve as a potential zoonotic health risk for humans, especially young children, infants, and those individuals with suppressed immune systems. The poultry industry has had success in suppressing and eliminating Salmonella spp. with direct competitive exclusion using non-pathogenic microbes harvested from the flora of healthy chickens. The purpose of this study was to characterize the aerobic and anaerobic bacterial and opportunistic fungal microflora of captive green iguanas using standard biochemical techniques, with the hope that this information could be used to establish a competitive exclusion product specific to green iguanas. A total of forty-seven different bacteria and fungi were isolated from the iguanas. Twenty of these isolates were characterized to...
Medical Students’ Attitudes Toward Electroconvulsive Therapy

A seven-item multiple-choice questionnaire assessing attitudes toward electroconvulsive therapy was given to twenty-nine students of the Cornell University Medical College at the start and conclusion of their six-week clerkship in psychiatry. Attitudes toward ECT, which were generally favorable initially, shifted largely in a positive direction following direct clinical experience with patients undergoing ECT. Factors responsible for students’ attitudes at the beginning and conclusion of the clerkship are discussed, and the importance of students having an opportunity to observe and follow patients with ECT during the course of a psychiatric clerkship is emphasized.
Non-traumatic causes of fluid in the retropharyngeal space

There are multiple reasons for imaging the soft tissues of the neck in the emergency setting, in particular when symptoms are vague or if there is worry for complications from a certain clinical diagnosis. When fluid is seen in the retropharyngeal space, it is important to pay attention to history and look at key structures in the neck. This article will discuss anatomy of the retropharyngeal space, followed by four causes of fluid within the space that the radiologist is likely to encounter in the emergency setting: tonsillitis/pharyngitis, acute calcific tendinitis of the longus colli muscles, internal jugular vein thrombosis, and post-radiation changes. It is important to recognize these entities because each has different clinical implications and management.
Use of local anesthesia by dental hygienists who completed a Minnesota CE course.

Purpose This study assessed the use of local anesthesia administered by dental hygienists who completed continuing education (CE) courses in Minnesota in 1996. The aims of the study were to: evaluate the use of local anesthesia by these participants; the level of effective injections; the value the dental hygienists placed on this skill; and to provide data in areas less studied, such as injection techniques utilized, and the incidence of complications. Methods A pretested, 34-item questionnaire; cover letter; and return self-addressed, stamped envelope were sent in 1997 to dental hygienists (N = 355) who completed a CE course in local anesthesia offered by Minnesota dental hygiene programs between January and September 1996. A reminder postcard was sent to nonrespondents two weeks after the initial return date. The survey assessed the administration experience of dental hygienists including implementation of this skill, frequency of administration, types of clients receiving local anesthesia, treatments requiring local anesthesia, choice of injection techniques, level of successful anesthesia, complications observed, and value to practice. Data were analyzed using JMP version 3.1, Pearson's chi-square and one-way ANOVA. Results The response rate was 77.7% (N = 273). Ninety-five percent of the dental hygienists who responded reported delegation of local anesthesia to them by employers. A majority of respondents (64%) implemented this new skill within one week following completion of course work. Dental hygienists in periodontal specialty practice provided local anesthesia to adult clients more frequently than those in general practice. Respondents used nerve block techniques more frequently than supraperiosteal or infiltration techniques. In general, respondents reported high success rates in achieving adequate anesthesia with a very low incidence of complications. Dental hygienists most frequently administered local anesthesia for root planing or debridement (92%). A majority of respondents also administered local anesthesia to adults and children who were treated by the dentist. The frequency of administrations was strongly related (P = 0.00) to value placed on this skill and positive outcomes to their practice. Conclusions Dental hygienists who completed required CE course work in local anesthesia, provided safe, effective injections and reported this service to be of value to their practice. These data support the incorporation of local anesthesia into dental hygiene curricula to prepare future practitioners to provide this service to clients. Also, dental hygienists working in states not currently allowing this service, should consider these results when proposing change to their state practice acts.