cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Genotype variation in bark texture drives lichen community assembly across multiple environments

A major goal of community genetics is to understand the influence of genetic variation within a species on ecological communities. Although well-documented for some organisms, additional research is necessary to understand the relative and interactive effects of genotype and environment on biodiversity, identify mechanisms through which tree genotype influences communities, and connect this emerging field with existing themes in ecology. We employ an underutilized but ecologically significant group of organisms, epiphytic bark lichens, to understand the relative importance of Populus angustifolia (narrowleaf cottonwood) genotype and environment on associated organisms within the context of community assembly and host ontogeny. Several key findings emerged. (1) In a single common garden, tree genotype explained 18-33% and 51% of the variation in lichen community variables and rough bark cover, respectively. (2) Across replicated common gardens, tree genotype affected lichen species richness, total lichen cover, lichen species composition, and rough bark cover, whereas environment only influenced composition and there were no genotype by environment interactions. (3) Rough bark cover was positively correlated with total lichen cover and richness, and was associated with a shift in species composition; these patterns occurred with variation in rough bark cover among tree genotypes of the same age in common gardens and with increasing rough bark cover along a -40 year tree age gradient in a natural riparian stand. (4) In a common garden, 20-year-old parent trees with smooth bark had poorly developed lichen communities, similar to their 10-year-old ramets (root suckers) growing in close proximity, while parent trees with high rough bark cover had more developed communities than their ramets. These findings indicate that epiphytic lichens are influenced by host genotype, an effect that is robust across divergent environments. Furthermore, the response to tree genotype is likely the result of genetic variation in the timing of the ontogenetic shift from smooth to rough bark allowing communities on some genotypes to assemble faster than those on other genotypes. Organisms outside the typical sphere of community genetics, such as lichens, can help address critical issues and connect plant genotype effects to long-established streams of biological research, such as ontogeny and community assembly.
Effect of Sub‐2‐Micron Particle Size on Peak Efficiency, Capacity, and Resolution in Preparative Liquid Chromatography

Abstract Near and above overload concentrations of seven separate compounds were injected onto three separate C18 columns containing 1.7, 3.5, and 5.0 µm particles to determine “loadability” of the column during preparative chromatography. The columns differed in particle size only, and assay conditions were consistent for all three columns. The flow rate was chosen so as to maximize efficiency (plates) for each particle size according to the Van Deemter curves. Theoretical plates for each peak, along with the resolution between peaks, were compared for each particle size before and at overload concentrations. It was found that for each compound, both the number of theoretical plates and resolution were consistently superior for the 1.7 µm particles compared to the 3.5 and 5.0 µm particles before and after overload concentrations. It was also observed that at no time did the 5.0 µm particles offer a greater loading capacity than the 1.7 µm particles.
Transition state modeling and catalyst design for hydrogen bond-stabilized enolate formation

[reaction: see text] A catalyst for enolate formation was designed that incorporates an amine base along with a thiourea to bind to the oxygen atom of the substrate and enolate through hydrogen bonding. A computational model of the transition state was developed in which the thiourea (modeled initially as a urea) and amine were separate molecules. This model and models incorporating one or two methanol molecules in place of the urea showed an out-of-plane hydrogen bond, apparently to the carbonyl pi-bond, in addition to an in-plane hydrogen bond to an unshared electron pair. In contrast, optimized complexes of the ketone and the fully formed enolate showed only in-plane hydrogen bonding. The transition state model with the urea and amine was used to define a database search with the computer program CAVEAT to identify structures suitable for linking the amine and urea/thiourea moieties in the transition state. On the basis of a group of structures identified from this search, a flexible but conformationally biased linker was designed to connect the two catalytic moieties. The molecule having the amine and thiourea moieties connected by this linker was synthesized and was shown to catalyze proton exchange between methanol and deuterated acetone. The catalyst was about 5-fold more efficient than the amine and thiourea as separate molecules and relative to a similar but less conformationally biased catalyst.
Sorption and coprecipitation of trace concentrations of thorium with various minerals under conditions simulating an acid uranium mill effluent environment

Abstract Sorption of thorium by pre-existing crystals of anglesite (PbSO4), apatite (Ca5(PO4)3(HO)), barite (BaSO4), bentonite (Na0.7Al3.3Mg0.7Si8O20(OH)4), celestite (SrSO4), fluorite (CaF2), galena (PbS), gypsum (CaSO4·2H2O), hematite (Fe2O3), jarosite (KFe3(SO4)2(OH)6), kaolinite (Al2O3·2SiO2·2H2O), quartz (SiO2) and sodium feldspar (NaAlSi3O8) was studied under conditions that simulate an acidic uranium mill effluent environment. Up to 100% removal of trace quantitiees of thorim (approx. 1.00 ppm in 0.01 N H2SO4) from solution occurred within 3 h with fluorite and within 48 h in the case of bentonite. Quartz, jarosite, hematite, sodium feldspar, gypsum and galena removed less than 15% of the thorium from solution. In the coprecipitation studies, barite, anglesite, gypsum and celestite were formed in the presence of thorium (approx. 1.00 ppm). Approximately all of the thorium present in solution coprecipitated with barite and celestite; 95% coprecipitated with anglesite and less than 5% with gypsum under similar conditions. When jarosite was precipitated in the presence of thorium, a significant amount of thorium (78%) was incorporated in the precipitate.
RxLegal - Academic Detailing and the IDEA Act

Welcome to the inaugural column of RxLegal. This quarterly column will discuss a wide range of legal topics of interest to the pharmacy community. In this installment, the impact of potential federal funding for academic detailing through the Independent Drug Education and Outreach Act (IDEA) on the practice of pharmacy will be reviewed.
REM in a UHV TEM for the observation of dynamic phase transformation processes on the Cu3Au(111) surface

Abstract Reflection electron microscopy (REM) in a transmission electron microscope (TEM) has been used to observe the order-disorder phase transformation on the Cu 3 Au(111) surface. The samples are spherical Cu 3 Au single crystals with (111) facets. The observation is in situ over a range of temperatures in UHV environment. Stable 1 × 1 and 2 × 2 structures, corresponding to the ideal truncation of the disordered and ordered bulk crystal, respectively, have been seen by RHEED. A long-period structure has also been found on the ordered 2 × 2 surface. The surfaces under different sample treatments have been imaged with REM. It was established that atomically flat surfaces can be obtained on the cleaned sample, but the surface morphology of the disordered crystal was quite different from that of ordered crystal. The former was very flat, similar to the clean Au(111) surface, whereas the latter was flat on a local scale but rough and wavy on a large scale. The dynamic change of the surface morphology in the phase transformation process has, for the first time, been observed directly by an electron microscopy method. The surface morphology change is believed to be caused by the formation of the tetragonal long-period Cu 3 Au(II) phase during the bulk disorder-order transition. The results indicate that REM and RHEED are very useful techniques for studying surface phase transformations and morphology changes.
Schooling and Smoking.

Abstract The effect of schooling on the odds that men and women smoke is estimated for five age cohorts. Particular attention is given to the issue of endogeneity between schooling and smoking behavior. It is shown that schooling reduces the odds that men ages 25 to 54 smoke. Schooling also reduces the odds that women ages 25 to 44 smoke. Schooling either has no effect or a positive effect on the likelihood that older men and women smoke.
Model for synchronization of pancreatic beta-cells by gap junction coupling

Pancreatic beta-cells coupled by gap junctions in sufficiently large clusters exhibit regular electrical bursting activity, which is described by the Chay-Keizer model and its variants. According to most reports, however, isolated cells exhibit disorganized spiking. We have previously (Sherman, A. J. Rinzel, and J. Keizer, 1988. Biophys. J. 54:411–425) modeled these behaviors by hypothesizing that stochastic channel fluctuations disrupt the bursts. We showed that when cells are coupled by infinite conductance gap junctions, so that the cluster is isopotential and may be viewed as a single "supercell," the fluctuations are shared over a larger membrane area and hence dampened. Bursting emerges when there are more than approximately 50 cells in the cluster. In the model the temporal organization of spikes into bursts increases the amplitude of intracellular calcium oscillations, which may be relevant for insulin secretion. We now extend the previous work by considering the case of a true "multicell" model with finite gap junctional conductance. Whereas the previous study assumed that the cells were synchronized, we can now study the process of synchronization itself. We show that, for sufficiently large clusters, the cells both synchronize and begin to burst with moderate, physiologically reasonable gap junctional conductance. An unexpected finding is that the burst period is longer, and calcium amplitude greater, than when coupling is infinitely strong, with an optimum in the range of 150–250 pS. Our model is in good agreement with recent experimental data of Perez-Armendariz, M., D. C. Spray, and M. V. L. Bennett. (1991. Biophys. J. 59:76–92) showing extensive gap junctions in beta-cell pairs with mean interfacial conductance of 213 +/- 113 pS. The optimality property of our model is noteworthy because simple slow-wave models without spikes do not show the same behavior.
Instruction translation for an experimental S/390 processor

The IBM™ S/390™ architecture is a complex architecture, which has grown over a long period of time. Typical implementations use microcode to cope with the more complex instructions and facilities of S/390. Current IBM S/390 processors even contain two levels of microcode.We report on an experimental S/390 processor based on a RISC processor kernel employing superscalar, out of order execution of instructions. S/390 instructions have to be translated into internal sequences of RISC instructions. Actually two closely coupled internal sequences - one for register based execution and one for storage based execution are generated. The translation is a straight-forward mapping in most cases with some flexibility for special instructions.The paper introduces the hardware mechanisms used for mapping S/390 instructions to internal sequences. The facilities, which provide a greater degree of flexibility are discussed. The interactions of the low-level mapping scheme with the microcode levels is examined. Finally we discuss our experiences with this type of implementation of a CISC architecture on a RISC processor kernel.
Emerging perspectives in the research of bovine babesiosis and anaplasmosis

The Babesia bovis and B. bigemina apicomplexan protozoa in conjunction with the rickettsia Anaplasma marginale are intraerythrocytic pathogens that are responsible for the most prevalent and costly tick borne diseases (TBD's) of cattle worldwide. These organisms are historically associated as they can cause clinically related hemolytic diseases in cattle, are all transmitted by Rhiphicephallus (Boophilus) ticks, and share an uncanny ability to evade the immune systems of the vertebrate hosts, causing persistent disease. In addition, acute babesiosis and anaplasmosis can be prevented quite effectively by combining tick control and vaccination with living attenuated organisms. However these methods of control have numerous limitations and improved approaches are needed. Importantly, immunizations of cattle with inactivated experimental Babesia and Anaplasma vaccines can elicit variable degrees of protection, indicating the feasibility for the development of inactivated or subunit vaccines. A new research toolbox that includes full genome sequencing combined with the improved ability to genetically modify the organisms is enhancing our understanding of their biology. An emerging paradigm is the use of recently developed Babesia and Anaplasma transfection methods for functional gene characterizations and for vaccine development. Promising recently identified subunit vaccine candidates are also emerging, including babesial proteases, putative rhoptry, microneme, and sexual stage antigens, as well as subdominant, conserved, A. marginale outer membrane major surface proteins. However, significant knowledge gaps on the role of key parasite molecules involved in cell invasion, adhesion, asexual and sexual reproduction, tick transmission, and evasion of the immune system, remain. A better understanding of the biology of these organisms and the protective immune responses will positively contribute toward the goal of developing improved immunological and pharmacological interventions against these elusive pathogens that are responsible for the most devastating TBD's of cattle. Importantly, the currently available research toolbox provides basic research instruments for helping close current knowledge gaps which will aid the design and production of effective vaccines and alternative pharmacological interventions.
Signalizer functors, proper 2-generated cores, and nonconnected groups

As has been well understood since its inception, the signalizer functor method works most smoothly in finite groups satisfying some connectedness condition-in particular, in groups with a connected Sylow 2-subgroup. The original approach to nonconnectivity disposed of the problem ‘once and for all by completely classifying all groups of sectional 2-rank at most 4 and then determining those with a nonconnected Sylow 2-subgroup as a corollary (by a theorem of MacWilliams [ 141, every section of a nonconnected 2group can be generated by at most four elements). Even though this approach was very effective, it was extremely elaborate, for the actual proof of the classification of such groups runs to 464 pages [l 11, and, in addition, depends upon a number of other classification theorems concerning groups with specified types of Sylow 2-subgroups. Moreover, although the sectional 2-rank 4 theorem has been invoked at many other points in the classification of finite simple groups, the analysis of nonconnected groups has remained its primary application. Hence in attempting to simplify the existing classification of the finite simple groups, one of the first natural questions to consider is whether there exists a shorter, more direct way of treating nonconnectivity. Indeed, Harada has recently achieved just such a direct approach by a short, elementary fusion argument [ 121. His result can be stated as follows (here a K-group is any finite group whose composition factors are among the known simple groups):
Modified growth kinetics of ion induced yttrium–silicide layers during subsequent thermal annealing

Yttrium and amorphous silicon bilayers were irradiated with 600‐keV inert ions between −190 and 265 °C. Ion‐induced YSi1.7 layers occurred in those samples irradiated above ≥ (R18)205 °C. These ion‐mixed samples were thermally annealed at temperatures between 325 and 380 °C. The diffusion‐limited growth was observed only in those samples which had an ion‐induced YSi1.7 layer present prior to thermal annealing. This type of growth is distinctly different from the interface limited, nonuniform, and irreproducible growth seen during typical thermal annealing of yttrium and silicon bilayers. This type of growth still occurred in those samples annealed after ion irradiations at ≤190 °C.
Situational effects on the communication behaviors of pediatric residents.

Abstract The variation in communication behaviors of pediatric residents in different interview circumstances was examined. Twenty-three residents were videotaped in three simulated counseling sessions. Two of the sessions entailed counseling a mother of a toddler with multiple handicaps during a well-child visit. The third, which took place between the other two sessions, entailed informing a new mother that her child has Down's syndrome. The residents′ performances were evaluated using a subjective rating scale and an objective frequency count of behaviors. Analysis of variance demonstrated significant effects for both observation scales. Spearman correlations were not significant between any of the situations. The results suggest that residents′ communication behaviors vary with the type of counseling situation.
Numerical evaluation of magnetic photon splitting rates via a proper-time technique

Abstract The results of our numerical computation of magnetic photon splitting rates according to the proper-time formulation developed by Stoneham are presented in this paper. Calculations were performed for both the total rate of splitting and the differential distributions for the polarization mode ⊥ → ∥∥ of splitting. Analytic asymptotic limits obtainable from the triple integral expressions of Stoneham's formalism are also presented, and these are reproduced by the full computation of the integrals. The rates produced here agree with numerous previous analyses of photon splitting but fall somewhat below the S-matrix calculation of Wilke and Wunner. The numerical determination of these rates is of great use to current topical models of gamma-ray pulsars and magnetar scenarios for soft gamma repeaters.
Concentrative accumulation of 3H-prostaglandins by some rabbit tissues in vitro: the chemical nature of the accumulated 3H-labelled substances.

Following incubation with [3H]-PGF2α, 73–91% of the 3H activity accumulated by rabbit uterus, choroid plexus or anterior uvea was shown to remain associated with PGF2α on two different chromatographic systems. The tissue to medium ratios, calculated on the basis of chromatographically identified [3H]-PGF2α, were greater than unity (2.3–10.4) for all three tissues and the extracted 3H activity could be effectively accumulated by these tissues for a second time. Under conditions when 85% of authentic [3H]-PGF2α and only 8% of [3H]-15-keto-PGF2α was adsorbed on rabbit anti-PGF2α serum, 60–75% of the extracted 3H was adsorbed onto the antiserum. Following incubation with a mixture of 5,6-[3H]-PGE1 and 2-[14C]-PGE1, the anterior uvea and the uterus showed similar TM ratios for 3H and 14C and the 3H14C ratios were essentially constant in their respective homogenates, extracts and chromatographic fractions, indicating insignificant β-oxidation of the accumulated PGE1. In the case of the kidney cortex, a substantial fraction of the accumulated 14C did not extract as a PG presumably as a result of β-oxidation. It is concluded that metabolic alteration of the accumulated PG molecule does occur in some tissues, but such chemical alterations are not an integral part of the PG accumulative process. These results are consistent with the concept that some vertebrate tissues can accumulate PGs against a concentration gradient by an active transport mechanism.
A simple CAD method for constructing sand-heap formations as an analogous means of determining the fully plastic torque capacity of various structural sections

A brief review is presented of the sand-heap analogy as a means of determining the ultimate plastic torque capacity of a ductile metallic prismatic bar of known cross-section. A novel method using an industry-standard computer-aided design (CAD) tool is then described for determining the shape and corresponding sand-heap volume for a general cross-section that can include the presence of keyways, fillets, rebates, and holes. Existing solutions for simple regular cross-section shapes are used as a benchmark for the solutions from the new method, and perfect agreement is found. Subsequent examples are presented which demonstrate the ease with which sand-heap formations and their corresponding volumes can be found for more general cross-sections that are more representative of those used in practical engineering applications.
A new species of Dermatocarpon (Verrucariaceae) from the United States and the Bahamas

Dermatocarpon tomentulosum is newly described from North America and the Bahama Islands. This species is characterized by a lower cortex which bears a tomentum of moniliform hyphae. It is closely related to D. moulinsii and D. schaechtelinii, but differs from both in bearing delicate, linear hyphae on the lower surface of the thallus, and not rhizinomorphs. ^^^ A new species of Dermatocarpon with a unique tomentose lower surface was discovered while col- lecting for a proposed ''Lichens of the Ozarks,'' an NSF-sponsored project of Richard C. Harris and Douglas Ladd. Examination of specimens in NY filed as D. moulinsii (Mont.) Zahlbr. and D. miniatum (L.) Mann uncovered additional material from Texas and the Bahamas. The new species described here is characterized by a lower surface which bears a light brown tomentum of moniliform hyphae.
HSSR airborne and ground interfaces

Since a need has been established for solid-state recorders for airborne reconnaissance system and since solid-state memory technology has been demonstrated as a high-speed recorder in high-performance aircraft, Fairchild Defence presents concepts and suggestions involving the use of the new High-speed Solid Recorder. Furthermore, the transition from film reconnaissance system to EO systems has only recently emerged in US military with systems being readied for active duty use. CONOPS from past systems may not be applicable to the newer EO system, especially when a solid- state recorder is utilized. This paper takes a brief, initial look at how solid-state recorders might be used with deployed tactical reconnaissance systems. It attempts to amplify the benefits of using solid-state recorders in place of older film or tape recorder systems.
Using a Serious Game Approach to Teach 'Operator Precedence' to Introductory Programming Students

In this paper we describe the design, development, formative evaluation and initial findings of one level of a serious game whose objective is to teach Information Assurance concepts to undergraduate students in introductory programming courses. The game level focuses on the concept of 'operator precedence'. The player travels through a multilevel 3- dimensional maze and at each junction in the maze he/she is required to solve a mathematical problem that involves the application of operator precedence rules. A correct answer allows the player to move closer to the maze exit, an incorrect solution moves the player farther from the end of the maze. Initial findings from a formative study with a group of 14 undergraduate students show that the game level is usable, engaging and useful for learning/reviewing the intended programming concept.
Bistable wavelength switching in a two-section quantum-dot mode-locked diode laser

We investigate the wavelength-switching dynamics of a bistable two-section quantum-dot diode laser. The switching time between the two stable wavelengths is about 150 ps, which corresponds to two round trips in the laser.
Index sets and degrees of unsolvability

The characterization of classes of r.e. sets by their index sets has proved valuable in producing new results about the r.e. sets and degrees. The classic example is Yates' proof [5, Theorem 7] of Sacks' density theorem for r.e. degrees using his classification of {e: We denote some fixed recursive pairing function, i.e., a 1-1 map from N x N onto N. If A is a set, A(e) = { : E A} and A (<e) = Ui<eA W. All sets and degrees are r.e. except for index sets of r.e. sets.
Solvent effects on the acid-catalyzed hydrolysis of tetramethylurea

Tetramethylurea was hydrolyzed in aqueous hydrochloric acid at temperatures of 80, 90, and 100°C. All reactions were carried out in an excess of both tetramethylurea and water, with first-order dependence on acid concentration being observed. As the concentration of water was increased, the rate of hydrolysis decreased until equimolar amounts of water and tetramethylurea were present. Subsequent addition of water had no effect on the observed rate.
The First Clinical Skill: Students Teach Students to Take Vital Signs

Transition from the role of passive student to medical practitioner begins with learning the first clinical skill. This transition can be stressful for those experiencing it and to some extent by those coordinating it. Logistically, it requires demonstration of the techniques to the entire class by a single practitioner or to smaller groups of students by multiple practitioners. The former reduces the opportunity for close observation of technique and is less conducive to questions, while the latter requires multiple practitioners, which can be prohibitive given their already dense schedules. To reduce the stress for all involved and to maximize learning opportunities, an innovative approach to teaching the first skill, vital signs measurement, was developed. Small group instruction and practice were facilitated by senior medical student volunteers in a simulated outpatient clinic using actual equipment. Instruction was provided in a relaxed, but guided format. Students were provided with a lesson plan that detailed both, technique and brief physiology points, as well as check sheets to use during the lab and later as a refresher guide. The lesson plan, instructions for facilitators, and student check sheets were developed by a senior medical student and reviewed by the course faculty. Recruitment and briefing of student facilitators and conduct of the lab were also performed by the senior student. The purpose of this trend article is to describe the development of a new course format and to report our experience with implementation of the new format. It is intended to spark interest in applying similar approaches to other curricular issues.
Preparation and Properties of Monodispersed Colloidal Particles of Lanthanide Compounds: III, Yttrium(III) and Mixed Yttrium(III)/Cerium(III) Systems

Colloidal dispersions of uniform spherical particles of yttrium basic carbonate and rodlike particles of yttrium ammine carbonate were prepared by aging at elevated temperatures yttrium salt solutions in the presence of urea. Different composition and morphology were achieved by altering the aging temperature and time. Coprecipitation in mixed solutions of yttrium(III) and cerium(III) salts under similar experimental conditions yielded composite spherical particles of basic carbonate. The content of the two metals in the solids followed closely the initial composition of the reacting solutions. On calcination all prepared solids converted to their corresponding oxides while retaining their particle morphology. The so-prepared powders were characterized by various techniques.
Narrating Monumentality: The Piazza Navona Obelisk

The Egyptian obelisks at Rome are monuments par excellence: as sites of memory they have been distinctive, but over time also prone to appropriation and recontextualization. Owing to their bulk, ancient (and modern) attempts to transport them have attracted much attention. This paper begins with a biography of the obelisk now at Piazza Navona and proceeds to a broader consideration of the qualities that constitute a monument. In particular, its physical transportation is examined in relation to transmuta-tions of context and audience in time and space. The social processes within which they have been implicated suggest reconsideration of the nature, and indeed direction, of biographic narrative. To what extent can narrative, in this biographic form, adequately represent monumentality?
A Simple Inquiry-Based Lab for Teaching Osmosis

This simple inquiry-based lab was designed to teach the principle of osmosis while also providing an experience for students to use the skills and practices commonly found in science. Students first design their own experiment using very basic equipment and supplies, which generally results in mixed, but mostly poor, outcomes. Classroom “talk and argument” is then used to determine how their experiments could be changed to gather more reliable data. The final assessment consists of both formal and subjective testing, requiring students to explain their design choices.
Total airway obstruction by a mucous plug relieved with extreme positive pressure: case report of a pediatric patient.

Patricia Shoun is Staff RN, Pediatric ICU, Robert Steelman is Assistant Professor, Pediatric Critical Care, Brent Barber is Pediatric Cardiology Fellow, Matthew Olson is Pediatric Respiratory Therapist, and Mary Frances D. Pate is Pediatric ICU Clinical Nurse Specialist, Doernbecher Children’s Hospital, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Ore. For reprints, write: Mary Frances D. Pate, DSN, RN, Doernbecher Children’s Hospital, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd, Portland, OR 97239; E-mail: patem@ohsu.edu. J Emerg Nurs 2004;30:473-4. Available online 28 May 2004. 0099-1767/$30.00 Copyright n 2004 by the Emergency Nurses Association. doi:10.1016/j.jen.2004.04.005
A MyD88-Deficient Mouse Model Reveals a Role for Nramp1 in Campylobacter jejuni Infection

Campylobacter jejuni is a major worldwide cause of enteric illnesses. Adult immunocompetent mice are not susceptible to C. jejuni infection. However, we show here that mice deficient in the adaptor protein myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88), which is required for signaling through most Toll-like receptors, can be stably colonized by C. jejuni but not by isogenic derivatives carrying mutations in known virulence genes. We also found that Nramp1 deficiency increases the mouse susceptibility to C. jejuni infection when administered systemically. These results indicate that MyD88-deficient mice could be a useful model to study C. jejuni colonization and reveal a potential role for Nramp1 in the control of this bacterial pathogen.
Comparison of the macroscale and microscale tests for measuring elastic properties of polydimethylsiloxane

Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) has many biomedical applications, since it is biocompatible, easy to fabricate and inexpen- sive. The response of biological cells and tissues is affected by the mechanical properties of the PDMS surface, which can be con- trolled by varying the crosslinking percentage. It is essential to find reliable ways to measure elastic properties of PDMS prepared with different surface conditions or stiffness gradients. In this paper, the elastic modulus of PDMS was measured at different scales as a function of the crosslinking percentage varied from 2% to 9%. Macroscopic compression and tension tests were used and compared with the nano-JKR (Johnson-Kendall-Roberts) method applied to a microindentation test. Depending on the test, the PDMS elastic modulus increased from 10 to 85 fold with the crosslinking percentage change from 2% to 9%. The PDMS elastic modulus varied as a sigmoid function with the crosslinking percentage for each type of test. The compression macroscale test is the easiest way to estimate the elastic modulus of stiffer PDMS with higher crosslinking percentage. For the more compliant and tacky PDMS samples with lower crosslinking percentage the nano-JKR test is more suitable, as it is sensitive and accounts for the surface adhesion forces. The samples with the lower crosslinking percentage are much less stiff in tension than in compression, resembling liquid-like behavior. V C 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42680.
Preparation and Properties of Hot‐Pressed YBa2Cu3O7‐x

We have hot-pressed dense, bulk specimens of the YBa2Cu3O7-x composition to near-theoretical density. Powders made by the mixed-oxide method were pressed at 6.9 MPa (1000 psi) in Al2O3-lined SiC dies at 950°C in air or oxygen for 30 min. Relative densities of 94% to 97% of theoretical were obtained for speciments as large as 200 g. In the aspressed condition the ceramic has an oxygen stoichiometry near YBa2Cu3O6.28, as determined by thermogravimetric reduction in hydrogen and by wet chemical analysis. Scanning electron microscoy shows a microstructure of elongated grains that are partially oriented by the hotpressing. Oxidation of bulk specimens of dense, as-hot-pressed material produced intergranular porosity, presumably from anisotropic contraction as individual grains are converted from the tetragonal to the orthorhombic structure. We studied the reoxidation kinetics of hot-pressed specimens to the orthorhombic, superconducting state by thermogravimetry in flowing oxygen. Isothermal weight gains can be fitted to an Avrami model with an activation energy of 96 kJ / mol. Superconducting quantum interference detector (SQUID) measurements of magnetic susceptibility reveal a small anisotropy that is related to the preferred orientation seen in the microstructure. The average thermal expansion coefficient (CTE) of the ashot-pressed, tetragonal material is 135 × 10−7°C−1 from room temperature to 800°C, which increases to 155 × 10−7°C−1 for reoxidized specimens. For reoxidized material the CTE is not linear with temperature, but shows a sharp break at approximately 450°C. Measurements of Young's modulus show there is a 36% decrease for reoxidized specimens as compared with ceramics in the as-hot-pressed condition. The decrease in modulus appears to be related to the development of microstructural porosity and cracking as a result of the reoxidation.
Vibrations in the Flip-Chip Soldering Process

General results are presented for the dynamics of all six degrees of freedom of a rigid flip-chip device connected by an array of melted solder joints to a substrate subjected to small stationary random accelerations. The solder joints are modeled as dissipative fluid members which develop a linear restoring force when displaced in the horizontal or vertical directions. The parameters for this model (stiffness and damping of the melted joints) are obtained experimentally by measuring the resonant behavior of a device oscillating in the out-of-plane direction. A quantitative model is constructed for an arbitrary device for the statistics of the translational degrees of freedom, rotational degrees of freedom, and solder joint deformations.
Reliability of the Social Skills Rating System with Rural Appalachian Children from Families with Low Incomes

Reliability of scores on the parent and teacher forms of the Social Skills Rating System (SSRS) was examined with a sample of rural Appalachian, low-income, K-2 students. Coefficients of internal consistency, coefficients of stability for parents, and cross-informant coefficients were calculated. Internal consistency coefficients based on SSRS Total Score ranged from .86 to .90 for parents' ratings and from .94 to .98 for teachers' ratings. Parent and teacher ratings on the Behavior Problems supplementary scale averaged .87 and .92, respectively, and teacher ratings of Academic Competence had a median coefficient of .98. Long-term stability coefficients ranged from .32 to .72 for parent ratings. Cross-informant correlations on ratings by successive teachers ranged from .43 to .57, whereas parent-teacher coefficients ranged from .06 to .25.
AGRICULTURE IN A GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE

ABSTRACT: AGRICULTURE IN A GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE 1 Jonathan M. Harrisjonathan.harris@tufts.edu In the twenty-first century, it is evident that world agricultural systems will have to supply sufficientfood for a population somewhere between 7.5 and 12 billion. Projections for world agriculture in the firsthalf of the twenty-first century very widely, largely depending on assumptions about yield growth. Aninvestigation of the patterns of yield growth for major cereal crops offers evidence that the pattern is logistic,implying that an upper limit to yields is being approached. This pattern is consistent with ecological limitson soil fertility, water availability, and nutrient uptake. It is also evident that current agricultural productionis imposing serious strains on ecosystems, with widespread soil degradation, water overdraft and pollution,and ecological impacts such as loss of biodiversity and the proliferation of resistant pest species. The issue therefore is not simply the balance of supply and demand in agriculture. It is the needto develop ecologically sustainable agricultural systems which can provide an agricultural output about twicepresent aggregate levels (allowing for per capita growth in consumption). This level of output wouldsupport a population of about 8 billion. In addition, a population policy which can avert any much highergrowth is essential.Evidence exists to show that ecologically sustainable cropping systems can supply overall outputscomparable to intensive high-input agriculture. (The measure of overall output is distinct from the morecommonly used measure of single-crop yields.) This evidence, however, is more compelling for temperatezones with good soils. Much more research is needed on sustainable agriculture for tropical and aridzones. Agricultural policies need to be reformulated to meet the new goal of sustainability. Thesesustainable agriculture policies must be developed in tandem with population policies to ensure thatpopulation growth remains in the lower ranges of current projections.
Tidal Response in Estuaries

Abstract A new general theory has been developed to determine both the tidal response of estuaries and the effects of cross-channel tidal barriers on this response. The theory is shown to be widely applicable and provides a connecting framework against which the response of different estuaries can be compared. Assuming a breadth variation BL(X/λ)mM and a depth variation HL(X/λ)nM where X is the distance from the head of the estuary, general solutions are obtained for the, shallow-water wave equations expressed in a linearized one-dimensional form. These solutions introduce an important new parameter. v=(n+1)/(2−m), referred to as the estuarine shape number. For any estuary, tidal elevations and velocities are expressed as a function of position along the estuary and the appropriate v, value. By introducing a further dimensionless parameter y to represent position along the estuary, the expression for tidal elevation (or velocity) can be illustrated in a single diagram with v and y as orthogonal axes. For ...
Registries collecting level-I through IV Data: institutional and multicenter use: AAOS exhibit selection.

### What Is a TJR Registry? TJR registries represent ongoing prospective observational studies in which primary and revision TJR procedures are recorded1-4. Registries may be local, regional, national, or international. The data set collected must include a patient identifier and details regarding demographic, surgical, and clinical outcome data5. A registry can collect up to four levels of data. Level-I data include patient, surgeon, and hospital identifiers and procedure data, allowing monitoring of revision rates after TJR. Level-II data consist of patient factors, comorbidities, surgical data, perioperative care, and complications. Changes in complication rates over time can be evaluated and compared with changes in care. Level-III data include patient-reported outcome measures, which increase the ability of the registry to detect poor outcomes after TJR by assessing the patient’s perspective. Generic and disease-specific self-administered questionnaires measure general health, symptoms, function, activity level, and patient satisfaction. These allow for identification of risk factors for poor outcomes, assessment of overall health improvement after surgery, and analysis of the cost-effectiveness of TJR. Finally, radiographs are considered level-IV data. Inclusion of level-IV data increases the ability to detect subclinical implant failure. Storage of digital radiographic images in an organized registry framework facilitates analysis of large numbers of patient images for implant wear, osteolysis, alignment, and/or component positioning. Addition of level-V data to registries has been discussed; such data would comprise explanted components and would be used for assessing the relationship between device damage and the reason for revision. National TJR registries aim to capture all TJR procedures performed and are generally maintained by the national orthopaedic society and funded by the government6. Data quality is highly dependent on compliance by the hospitals performing TJRs. Full membership in the International Society of Arthroplasty Registers (ISAR) requires participation of >80% of national hospitals (high compliance) and …
Nonradiative Plasmon Decay and Hot Carrier Dynamics: Effects of Phonons, Surfaces, and Geometry.

The behavior of metals across a broad frequency range from microwave to ultraviolet frequencies is of interest in plasmonics, nanophotonics, and metamaterials. Depending on the frequency, losses of collective excitations in metals can be predominantly classical resistive effects or Landau damping. In this context, we present first-principles calculations that capture all of the significant microscopic mechanisms underlying surface plasmon decay and predict the initial excited carrier distributions so generated. Specifically, we include ab initio predictions of phonon-assisted optical excitations in metals, which are critical to bridging the frequency range between resistive losses at low frequencies and direct interband transitions at high frequencies. In the commonly used plasmonic materials, gold, silver, copper, and aluminum, we find that resistive losses compete with phonon-assisted carrier generation below the interband threshold, but hot carrier generation via direct transitions dominates above thre...
The influence of ageing on the ability of the skin to dissipate heat.

BACKGROUND Ageing reduces the resting blood flow to the skin as well as the blood flow response to thermal stimuli. However, the interrelationships between skin thickness, subcutaneous fat, and skin blood flow in determining the heat dissipation characteristics of the skin have not been investigated. MATERIAL/METHODS In the present investigation, 60 male and female subjects were examined with either a continuous 0.15 watt heat source or a 40 degrees C instantaneous heat source applied to the skin. Data was correlated to skin and subcutaneous fat thickness measured by ultrasound and to skin blood flow measured by a laser Doppler flow meter. RESULTS The results of the experiments showed a significant negative correlation between age and skin thickness (p<0.0001) and between age and subcutaneous fat thickness (p<0.001). Blood flows in the skin, with the subject in a 24 degrees C, room were 61.8% less in the older subjects compared to the younger subjects. This was due to both a reduction in red cell concentration and red cell velocity. The lower concentration of red cells matches the reduction in skin thickness, implying a loss in the dermal layer of the skin associated with ageing. The skin blood flow response to continuous heat and to a single heat exposure were both reduced in the older subjects (p<0.01). Ageing also caused a slower response of the skin to heat stress. CONCLUSIONS The results support a reduction in both the resting and post local heat skin blood flows associated with ageing. Some of this may be due to a reduction in dermal layer thickness due to ageing.
Camphorated oil intoxication during pregnancy.

A fourth case of intoxication with camphorated oil during pregnancy is presented. The baby is apparently healthy. Camphor has been shown to cross the placenta, and is a potential toxin for the fetus in utero as well as the gravid female. Since no therapeutic effects have been attributed to camphorated oil, a ban on its sale is requested.
Model-based assignment and inference of protein backbone Nuclear Magnetic Resonances

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy is a key experimental technique used to study protein structure, dynamics, and interactions. NMR methods face the bottleneck of spectral analysis, in particular determining the resonance assignments, which help define the mapping between atoms in the protein and peaks in the spectra. A substantial amount of noise in spectral data, along with ambiguities in interpretation, make this analysis a daunting task, and there exists no generally accepted measure of uncertainty associated with the resulting solutions. This paper develops a model-based inference approach that addresses the problem of characterizing uncertainty in backbone resonance assignment. We argue that NMR spectra are subject to random variation, and ignoring this stochasticity can lead to false optimism and erroneous conclusions. We propose a Bayesian statistical model that accounts for various sources of uncertainty and provides an automatable framework for inference. While assignment has previously been viewed as a deterministic optimization problem, we demonstrate the importance of considering all solutions consistent with the data, and develop an algorithm to search this space within our statistical framework. Our approach is able to characterize the uncertainty associated with backbone resonance assignment in several ways: 1) it quantifies of uncertainty in the individually assigned resonances in terms of their posterior standard deviations; 2) it assesses the information content in the data with a posterior distribution of plausible assignments; and 3) it provides a measure of the overall plausibility of assignments. We demonstrate the value of our approach in a study of experimental data from two proteins, Human Ubiquitin and Cold-shock protein A from E. coli. In addition, we provide simulations showing the impact of experimental conditions on uncertainty in the assignments.
The Inequalities of Equity and the Search for an Ethical Professional in Charles Dickens’s Bleak House

The period in which Dickens wrote Bleak House was one in which England was heatedly engaged in a dialogue about what kinds of legal and social organization were best. These debates revolved around a series of mutually constructing juxtapositions: national tradition and Benthamite reform, families and the state, and the public and private. The solicitor, as a literary character whose profession historically demands continual movement between these realms, puts into focus the tensions between individual agency and institutional power. Dickens’s portrayal of solicitors is famously excoriating, but while several critics have argued that Dickens provides an alternate model for institutional authority by drawing on individuals in the domestic sphere, I argue that Dickens locates a model for the solicitor that, while emulating traits such as empathy and caretaking, is firmly rooted in the institutional world, that of the doctor Allan Woodourt. Dickens’s turn, however, is really an attempt to resuscitate Chancery’s origins: Woodcourt carries forth his professional work in ways that mimic Chancery’s original mandates. My argument begins with theorization of the term “character” as a literary and ethical concept, revisits debates between Utilitarian reformers and traditionalists, and draws on Dickens’s own concept of “fancy” as an ethical force in both imaginative and professional contexts.
The Reformer Reformed: John H. Reagan and Railroad Regulation

The changing attitude toward railroad regulation of reformer John H. Reagan tells much about the validity of the objections raised by railroadmen of the 1880's to such regulation. In tracing Reagan's career thus, a question of historiography is raised. Can careful utilization of contemporary attitudes toward business situations compensate for the subjectivity of the historian himself?