cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Functional response and progeny production of the Madeira mealybug parasitoid, Anagyrus sp. nov. nr. sinope: the effects of host and parasitoid densities.

Abstract Anagyrus sp. nov. nr. sinope Noyes & Menezes is a gregarious koinobiont parasitoid of the Madeira mealybug, Phenacoccus madeirensis Green. In this study, we explored the influence of host and parasitoid densities on the functional response and progeny production of Anagyrus sp. nov. nr. sinope. In the first experiment, which was designed to detect the occurrence of mutual interference among foraging parasitoids, we exposed a constant number of mealybugs (N = 60) to varying numbers of parasitoids (P = 1, 2, 4, 8, and 20). Mutual interference among 20 parasitoids reduced the number of mealybugs parasitized and the number of progeny produced per parasitoid by 9 and 7 times, respectively, compared to 1 parasitoid. The interference constant (m) (±SE) was estimated at 0.62 ± 0.03. The presence of conspecifics increased the proportion of males in the offspring population. In the second set of experiments, the parasitoids were released alone or in groups of 2 or 4 into patches containing one of six parasitoid/mealybug ratios (1:2, 1:5, 1:10, 1:20, 1:40, and 1:60). Anagyrus sp. nov. nr. sinope exhibited a type II functional response. The estimated maximum number of mealybugs parasitized (i.e., the asymptote of functional response) over a 24-h period was reduced from 10.4 ± 0.6 when foraging alone to 8.1 ± 0.4 and 5.1 ± 0.2 when in groups of 2 and 4, respectively. The number of progeny reflected the effects of the parasitoid and host densities on the parasitism rate. The highest number of progeny was produced by the parasitoids foraging alone in patches containing the highest parasitoid/host ratio (1:60). The results of this study suggest that both the host and parasitoid densities have significant impact on the functional response and progeny production of Anagyrus sp. nov. nr. sinope.
Up-regulation of Cavβ3 Subunit in Primary Sensory Neurons Increases Voltage-activated Ca2+ Channel Activity and Nociceptive Input in Neuropathic Pain

High voltage-activated calcium channels (HVACCs) are essential for synaptic and nociceptive transmission. Although blocking HVACCs can effectively reduce pain, this treatment strategy is associated with intolerable adverse effects. Neuronal HVACCs are typically composed of α1, β (Cavβ), and α2δ subunits. The Cavβ subunit plays a crucial role in the membrane expression and gating properties of the pore-forming α1 subunit. However, little is known about how nerve injury affects the expression and function of Cavβ subunits in primary sensory neurons. In this study, we found that Cavβ3 and Cavβ4 are the most prominent subtypes expressed in the rat dorsal root ganglion (DRG) and dorsal spinal cord. Spinal nerve ligation (SNL) in rats significantly increased mRNA and protein levels of the Cavβ3, but not Cavβ4, subunit in the DRG. SNL also significantly increased HVACC currents in small DRG neurons and monosynaptic excitatory postsynaptic currents of spinal dorsal horn neurons evoked from the dorsal root. Intrathecal injection of Cavβ3-specific siRNA significantly reduced HVACC currents in small DRG neurons and the amplitude of monosynaptic excitatory postsynaptic currents of dorsal horn neurons in SNL rats. Furthermore, intrathecal treatment with Cavβ3-specific siRNA normalized mechanical hyperalgesia and tactile allodynia caused by SNL but had no significant effect on the normal nociceptive threshold. Our findings provide novel evidence that increased expression of the Cavβ3 subunit augments HVACC activity in primary sensory neurons and nociceptive input to dorsal horn neurons in neuropathic pain. Targeting the Cavβ3 subunit at the spinal level represents an effective strategy for treating neuropathic pain.
Fostering student learning in information security fields through collaborative learning in virtual computer laboratories

This paper discusses the benefits of group work in a Collaborative Virtual Computer Laboratory (CVCLAB) to enhance student learning in information security fields. The CVCLAB integrates virtual machine technologies and pedagogical approaches in a collaborative leaning model to address the challenges in the information security education. A qualitative analysis of student experiences of the CVCLAB was performed using the grounded theory. The outcomes of this qualitative analysis indicated that students who performed challenging activities in groups experienced less frustration and reported higher satisfaction with the activities and learning environment. Finally, the paper recommends strategies to design collaborative activities for virtual computer laboratories.
Heteronuclear NMR Studies of Cobalt Corrinoids. 18. Correlation of Structure and Magnetic Resonance Parameters in Base-On Cobalamins1

Recent X-ray crystal structure determinations (including a new X-ray determination of the structure of cyano-13-epicobalamin reported herein) create a series of seven base-on cobalamins structurall...
Class numbers of quadratic function fields and continued fractions

Abstract A function field version of a theorem of F. Hirzebruch relating continued fractions to class numbers of quadratic number fields is established. Our approach is based on Artin's thesis and Zagier's proof of Hirzebruch's theorem. Some of our results seem to be of independent interest, e.g. explicit formulas for Zeta functions of real quadratic function fields.
Neurotrophic factors for the treatment of Parkinson's disease

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a slowly progressive disorder with no known etiology. Pathologically, there is a loss of the dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra that project to the striatum. Current available therapies for PD are targeted to the restoration of striatal dopamine. These approaches may alleviate symptoms transiently, but fail to slow the progression of disease. One emergent therapeutic approach is the use of neurotrophic factors to halt or reverse the loss of dopaminergic neurons. There have been intensive research efforts both preclinically and clinically testing the efficacy and safety of neurotrophic factors for the treatment of PD. In this review, we discuss the neuroprotective and neuroregenerative properties of various trophic factors, both old and recent, and their status as therapeutic molecules for PD.
A Computational Architecture for Programmable Automation Research

This short paper describes recent work at the IBM T. J. Watson Research Center directed at developing a highly flexible computational architecture for research on sensor-based programmable automation. The system described here has been designed with a focus on dynamic configurability, layered user inter-faces and incorporation of sensor-based real time operations into new commands. It is these features which distinguish it from earlier work. The system is cur-rently being implemented at IBM for research purposes and internal use and is an outgrowth of programmable automation research which has been ongoing since 1972 [e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6] .
Stability of landscape trees in engineered and conventional urban soil mixes

Urban trees are frequently exposed to unsuitable soil conditions that can hamper root system development, potentially affecting both tree health and stability. Engineered soil designs have been developed to increase soil volume for trees planted in confined spaces, and past research has shown that these designs improve growing conditions. However, tree stability in these engineered soils has received limited attention from researchers. In this study, we evaluated the stability of two tree species of contrasting soil quality tolerance (Prunus serrulata and Ulmus parvifolia) after 3 years growth in two skeletal soil mixes, in a suspended pavement design (uncompacted soil), and in a conventionally prepared soil pit. Tree stability was evaluated by measuring trunk resistance to a lateral deflecting force applied with a rope winch system under both ambient and near-saturated soil conditions. Although heavily irrigating the experimental soils had no effect on tree stability, species-specific responses to soil mixes were observed. P. serrulata grown in the gravel-based skeletal soil showed greater trunk deflection resistance than trees grown in the other soil treatments, yet the stability of U. parvifolia was unaffected by soil type. These species-specific responses were consistent with earlier observations of root development in which P. serrulata grew up to 60 times greater root length in gravel-based skeletal soil whereas U. parvifolia root growth was similar in all soil treatments. This research provides evidence that certain tree species planted in conventional tree pits may be more prone to uprooting due to poor root development and that root anchorage might be improved for these species by utilizing a skeletal soil mix.
A Review of Paleotemperature Lapse Rate Methods for Estimating Paleoelevation from Fossil Floras

One widely-applied method for estimating paleoelevation from fossil floras uses the relation between vegetation and temperature to estimate mean annual temperature from two isochronous fossil assemblages (one at elevation and one at or near sea level), and the difference between these temperatures is multiplied by the reciprocal of a temperature lapse rate to estimate paleoelevation. Three fundamentally different approaches have been developed, and these vary both in the method by which paleotemperatures are estimated and in the way by which modern lapse rates can be measured. Paleotemperature methodologies include the use of plant physiognomy, or the use of nearest living relatives. Lapse rate methodologies use either a global terrestrial lapse rate as the world mean, a regional terrestrial lapse rate that represents a large portion of a continent, or a local terrestrial lapse rate for areas narrowly confined by latitude and longitude. Other variables and/or corrective factors that should be considered in these applications include the thermal effects of continentality and elevated land surfaces in the continental interior, and standardization to compensate for fluctuations or variability in sea level, global climate change, and paleolatitude. These different methodologies can be contrasted by their common application to the late Eocene Florissant flora of Colorado, with results ranging from 455 to 4133 meters.
Psychogenic Coma After Use of General Anesthesia for Ethmoidectomy

Failure of a patient to awaken promptly after use of general anesthesia may be due to various causes, including medication-related effects, neurologic insults, or metabolic disturbances. Herein we describe a 49-year-old woman with a history of depression, for which she was receiving treatment, who did not awaken promptly after use of general anesthesia for ethmoidectomy. Results of neurologic examinations were normal, as were laboratory tests and radiologic studies. Six hours after completion of the operation, the patient spontaneously awakened. We hypothesize that she underwent a transient, self-limited period of dissociation related to unresolved grief due to the recent death of a family member.
Integrating the Use of Commercial Simulators into Lecture Courses

Since commercial simulators are commonly used in the practice of engineering, we need to ensure they are included in engineering education. Computer laboratory sections were added to a “lecture” course to teach the use of a simulator and to give the students practice in solving realistic problems. By thinking about the computer lab as a problem-based learning environment, minimal lecture time was necessary to train the students on the simulator. Examples of instructions, problem statements and results from a student survey are presented.
Intelligence and past use of recreational drugs

Abstract One motivation for trying recreational drugs is the desire for novel experiences. More intelligent people tend to value novelty more highly and may therefore be more likely to have tried recreational drugs. Using data from a national survey, it is shown that intelligence tends to be positively related to the probabilities of having tried alcohol, marijuana, cocaine and several other recreational drugs. Evidence is also presented that those relationships typically disappear or change sign at high levels of intelligence. These patterns persist after accounting for a wide range of personal characteristics.
Abstract 876: Molecular mechanisms of paclitaxel-resistance and resveratrol sensitivity in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells.

Treatment of drug-resistant cancer cells remains a difficult problem in cancer therapy because most resistant cells can pump out drugs or upregulate other survival pathways to bypass a targeted therapy. To study cancers that are resistant to the common cancer drug, paclitaxel, a novel paclitaxel-resistant cell line was generated from the breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231. A “spiking” method of paclitaxel treatment was used to select for a population of cells that are resistant to the drug. This method mimics the development of resistance in recurrent tumors in patients. The IC50 of paclitaxel in these cells was 75 μM compared to the 0.037 μM IC50 of the parent cell line, a 2000-fold increase in resistance. In this very heterogeneous population, the mechanism of resistance was not due to increased protein levels of the efflux protein, p-glycoprotein, as quantitated by western blot analysis. To better study these cells, the paclitaxel-resistant cell line was cloned using a limiting dilution method to provide more homogeneous populations of resistant cells. The 29 clones obtained exhibited a paclitaxel IC50 range of 8 μM to 78 μM which was equivalent to a 200- to 2000-fold increase in resistance compared to the parent line. It has been suggested that the polyphenol natural compound, resveratrol, which has been shown to inhibit cell growth of multiple cancer types, may be useful as a combination anti-cancer treatment or novel therapeutic for drug-resistant cancer cells. There was no significant difference among the 72 hour IC50 of resveratrol in the parent line, the heterogeneous resistant line, the least paclitaxel-resistant clone or the most paclitaxel-resistant clone. We observed that treatment with 10-100 μM concentrations of resveratrol in all cell lines showed a reduction in cell proliferation and increased apoptosis within 72 hours (p Citation Format: Alyssa A. Sprouse, Brittney-Shea Herbert. Molecular mechanisms of paclitaxel-resistance and resveratrol sensitivity in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 876. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-876
Barriers to Accessible Health Care for Medicaid Eligible People With Disabilities: A Comparative Analysis

People with disabilities (PWD) are more likely than those without disabilities to experience barriers when accessing healthcare, often leading to unmet needs. The chasm between what providers perceive as adequate care for PWD and the actual health care needs as perceived by PWD remains significant. Using data from 360 health care providers and 540 Medicaid eligible PWD, we compared perceived barriers to care faced by PWD from the perspective of both providers and PWD. Our results indicated major variations in provider and PWD perceptions about barriers to care. PWD and providers both perceived transportation issues as the highest ranked barriers and physical access issues as the lowest ranked barriers. Multivariate results indicated that PWD reported barriers when communicating with providers, although providers did not consider communication as a major barrier. Among PWD, those with multiple types of disabilities were more likely to experience barriers when communicating with providers compared with othe...
Swelling and dissolution rate measurements of polymer thin films in supercritical carbon dioxide

Abstract The first interferometric dissolution rate monitor (DRM) to probe polymer swelling and dissolution in supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2) is reported. Refractive index measurements of scCO2 as a function of pressure agree with literature and calculated values using the Lorenz–Lorentz equation, even for short equilibration times. The reflected intensity plot with
Age dependence of the composition of continental crust: evidence from Nd isotopic variations in granitic rocks

Abstract The Nd isotopic systematics of the sources of crustal granitic rocks are used to estimate the Sm/Nd ratio of the continental crust as a function of its age. It is found that the Sm/Nd value of granite magma sources in continental crust increases from about 0.47 to 0.64 times the chondritic value with decreasing age from the Early Archean to the Late Proterozoic. This trend is opposite to that inferred for the crust from rare earth element patterns in sedimentary rocks. The observed trend may apply strictly only to the felsic portions of the crust, but unless older crust contains a much higher percentage of mafic material than young crust (50% versus 0%), the direction of the trend also applies to the bulk crust. Because some portion of the earth's oldest crust has probably been destroyed by subsequent processes, the trend could conceivably be the result of preservational bias rather than a real shift in crustal composition with time. The isotopic data, combined with the crustal age distribution, indicate that the Sm/Nd value of the bulk continental crust is not lower than 0.60 times the chondritic value. This limit and estimates of the Nd concentration of the crust are consistent with the mass balance that equates the Nd in the continents to that missing from the upper mantle down to a depth of about 700 km.
FURTHER INSIGHT INTO THE STANDARDIZED UNEXPECTED EARNINGS ANOMALY: SIZE AND SERIAL CORRELATION EFFECTS

Studying size and serial correlation effects, the authors examine why portfolios selected on the basis of standardized unexpected earnings (SUEs) exhibit excess returns. Results of the study indicate that the SUE effect and the size effect are independent anomalies; however, a more plausible explanation of the SUE effect may involve serial correlation of SUEs. The authors demonstrate that more than half of the post-announcement responses to current quarter earnings may actually be pre-announcement adjustments to next quarter's earnings.
Does age affect the outcomes and management of pediatric appendicitis

Abstract Purpose Although it is recognized that younger children have higher appendiceal perforation rates, little is known about the effect of age on postoperative morbidity. The purpose of this study was to determine whether age affects the outcome and management of pediatric appendicitis. Methods A retrospective review of all patients 14 years and younger who were treated for appendicitis over a 10-year period was performed. Study outcomes included 30-day postoperative morbidity, use of laparoscopy, and length of hospitalization (LOH). Postoperative morbidity included rates of wound infection, postoperative abscess drainage, and readmission. Patients were categorized into 3 age groups: young (≤5 years), middle (6-9 years), and older (≥10 years). Data for univariate associations were analyzed using χ 2 and Wilcoxon rank sum tests and reported as medians with interquartile ranges (IQR). Study outcomes were also analyzed using multivariable regression. Results Overall, 5894 patients were identified. Median age was 10.3 years (IQR 7.3-12.5), and 61% were boys. The perforation rate was highest for patients 5 years and younger (≤5 years, 51%; 6-9 years, 32%; ≥10 years, 27%; P Conclusions Although older children had a higher risk of abscess drainage, younger children were more likely to have perforated appendicitis, be readmitted, and have longer LOH. Management of appendicitis differed according to age. Laparoscopic appendectomy was more frequently performed in older children, whereas the youngest children were more likely to be treated nonoperatively.
A polynomial-time algorithm for computing an optimal admission policy in a GI /M/1/N queue

A polynomial-time algorithm is proposed for computing an optimal admission policy for GI/M/1/N queueing systems. The approach is based upon mathematical programming in which a pointwise minimal value functions is to be found subject to a finite number of DP type constraints. The program is transformed by Fourier-Motzkin elimination into equivalent reduced systems to which a simple, forward-substitution type algorithm can be applied.
PROSPECTIVE ANALYSIS OF INTRAOPERATIVE FROZEN NEEDLE BIOPSY OF SOLID RENAL MASSES IN ADULTS

ABSTRACTPurpose: We prospectively determined the accuracy of intraoperative needle biopsy of solid renal masses.Materials and Methods: A total of 103 patients diagnosed with a solid renal mass and scheduled for surgery were prospectively evaluated. Radical or partial nephrectomy was performed, and biopsy of the surgical specimen was done twice through the tumor using an 18 gauge biopsy gun. Biopsy specimens of 106 tumors were sent for frozen sectioning, stained with hematoxylin and eosin, and reviewed by 2 independent pathologists blinded to each other and whole tissue specimens. Biopsy results were compared to whole tissue specimens.Results: Specimens were obtained from 60 radical and 46 partial nephrectomy cases. Malignant neoplasms were present in 91 cases (86%). Overall, 15 cases (14%) were benign, of which 11 were oncocytomas. If lesions 4 cm. or less only were included in analysis, the incidence of benign lesions increased to 22%. Overall accuracy of the 2 pathologists was 76 and 80%. Nondiagnostic ...
Review of an Article: The international Warfarin Pharmacogenetics Consortium (2009). Estimation of the warfarin dose with clinical and pharmacogenetic data. NEJM 360 (8): 753-64

This article examines the use of clinical and genetic data to determine a dose algorithm for each, as well as a combined algorithm for dosing. Data for 4,043 patients were used. Only stable doses, not initial doses were considered. A validation cohort of 1,009 subjects was used to evaluate the clinical value of each of the three algorithms. Dosing ranges evaluated were those of 21 mg of warfarin per week or less and those requiring 49 mg of warfarin per week or more to achieve the target international normalized ratio (INR). It was felt that clinical factors, demographic variables and variations in the CYP2C9 and VKORC1 genes contribute significantly to variations in dose requirements. With this information in mind, researchers recruited 21 research groups from 9 countries. The groups contributed clinical and genetic data for 5,700 patients treated with warfarin. Analysis included those patients whose target INR was reached at 2-3. Variables such as smoking and vitamin K intake were not available. The researchers used 80% of the eligible patients (4,043) who had a stable INR of 23 to develop dose prediction models. Their modeling strategies are too complex for discussion in this review. The study included a pharmacogenetic, clinical and fixed-dose algorithm. The pharmacogenetic model provided dose estimates that were significantly closer to the actual doses than the estimates of the other two models. The addition of genetic information to the clinical information decreased the error in the dose estimate, above that of the clinical or fixed-dose approach. This finding was true for both the high and the low doses of warfarin (which was 46% of the entire cohort). However, the study and analysis did not address the issue of a precise initial dose of warfarin and its effect on clinical endpoints. The authors suggest a prospective trial to detect the benefits of incorporating pharmacogenetic information into the dose algorithm for patients who require high or low doses of warfarin. The subgroups in this study differed significantly from those based on the clinical algorithm. The authors list several limitations. They did not have enough data to include factors such as smoking, vitamin K intake or inherited genetic factors other than the ones included in this study. They had no data reporting adverse events before dose stabilization. In addition, they restricted their algorithms to those with a target INR of 2-3. Finally, only a small number of the patients were under age 40. Their conclusions: A pharmacogenetically devised dose algorithm for warfarin that used the genotypes mentioned and clinical variables predicts the stable therapeutic dose of warfarin better than a clinical or fixed-dose algorithm. The pharmacogenetically devised dose algorithm was most helpful in patients receiving high- and low-dose warfarin. Future dosing possibly will be guided by additional genetic data.
The entoptic view of the retinal vessels.

. The first time the retinal vessels were seen in man in vivo was reported in 1819 by Purkinje as an entoptic view. This was understood to show the shadow of the vessels, an interpretation objected to in 1834 by Brewster. Muller in 1855 (Uber die entoptische wahrnehmung der netzhautgefasse, insbesondere als beweismittel fur die lichtperception durch die nach hinten gelegenen netzhautelemente, Stahel, Wurzburg) used the phenomenon to deduce the location of the photoreceptive layer of the retina, and his conclusion is accepted as true today. Because the phenomenon has some characteristics of an afterimage, it touches on the question of what is subjective and what is objective physical reality. It was recently used clinically to measure potential visual acuity and in the diagnoses of diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration.
In Vivo Bioluminescence Imaging To Evaluate Systemic and Topical Antibiotics against Community-Acquired Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus-Infected Skin Wounds in Mice

Community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) frequently causes skin and soft tissue infections, including impetigo, cellulitis, folliculitis, and infected wounds and ulcers. Uncomplicated CA-MRSA skin infections are typically managed in an outpatient setting with oral and topical antibiotics and/or incision and drainage, whereas complicated skin infections often require hospitalization, intravenous antibiotics, and sometimes surgery. The aim of this study was to develop a mouse model of CA-MRSA wound infection to compare the efficacy of commonly used systemic and topical antibiotics. A bioluminescent USA300 CA-MRSA strain was inoculated into full-thickness scalpel wounds on the backs of mice and digital photography/image analysis and in vivo bioluminescence imaging were used to measure wound healing and the bacterial burden. Subcutaneous vancomycin, daptomycin, and linezolid similarly reduced the lesion sizes and bacterial burden. Oral linezolid, clindamycin, and doxycycline all decreased the lesion sizes and bacterial burden. Oral trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole decreased the bacterial burden but did not decrease the lesion size. Topical mupirocin and retapamulin ointments both reduced the bacterial burden. However, the petrolatum vehicle ointment for retapamulin, but not the polyethylene glycol vehicle ointment for mupirocin, promoted wound healing and initially increased the bacterial burden. Finally, in type 2 diabetic mice, subcutaneous linezolid and daptomycin had the most rapid therapeutic effect compared with vancomycin. Taken together, this mouse model of CA-MRSA wound infection, which utilizes in vivo bioluminescence imaging to monitor the bacterial burden, represents an alternative method to evaluate the preclinical in vivo efficacy of systemic and topical antimicrobial agents.
Development of standard reference materials for rheological measurements of cement-based materials

Abstract Rotational rheometers are routinely used for homogeneous materials, but their usage for characterization of a granular fluid like concrete is a relatively new phenomenon. As measurements with rheometers can involve flow in a complex geometry, it is important that they are calibrated with a reference material or an SRM. NIST has produced an SRM for cement paste (SRM 2492) as the first step for the development of a reference material for concrete rheometers. The second step is the development of a reference material for mortar, composed of the SRM 2492 with added spherical beads. Here, material properties, such as viscosity, cannot be measured in fundamental units with certainty, thus modeling was used to determine the plastic viscosity of the SRM mortar which in turn could be compared with experiments. This paper will present the process used to develop the mortar reference material. Measurements and modeling will be presented.
Principal Value Equations on a Semi-Infinite Interval

When we deal with principal value equations on (−∞, +∞), there are really two associated analytic functions, w +(z) and w −(z), which are not necessarily analytic continuations of one another. The techniques that we have used for finite and semi-infinite intervals are still applicable, but in some respects the case of an infinite interval is less complicated.
The effect of wearing the complete Lenox Hill Derotation Brace on energy expenditure during horizontal treadmill running at 161 meters per minute.

Ten volunteer subjects (x age = 26.6 ± 4.9 years, x height = 177.9 ± 5.6 cm, and x weight = 76.9 ± 11.2 kg) who had been wearing the Lenox Hill Derotation Brace (LHB) for a mean time of 23.9 ± 28.0 months were familiarized with horizontal treadmill running at 161 m/min with and without the LHB. They were then tested randomly for four runs, two with the LHB and two without the LHB. Metabolic measurements using a device that counted footstrikes on the treadmill were taken during the 3rd and 6th minutes of each run. Regardless of sampling time, wearing the LHB pro duced significantly higher values for VO2 (4.58%, P < 0.025) and heart rate (5.10%, P < 0.004) compared to the no brace condition. Regardless of whether or not the subjects were wearing the LHB, 6 minute values were significantly higher than 3 minute values for VO2 (5.89%, P < 0.0004), VE (10.08%, P < 0.004), heart rate (5.35%, P < 0.0000), and R (2.17%, P < 0.038). The mean 6 minute values of VO2 with (37.42 ± 3.55 ml/kg/min) and without (35.54 ± ...
New map of surface water isotope variation

The isotopic composition of hydrogen and oxygen in water varies in waters of different sources, and isotopic composition changes through mixing of water masses and through processes such as evaporation. For instance, the isotope composition in surface water is often different from the isotope composition in precipitation and groundwater. This isotopic variation can be useful in a variety of hydrological, ecological, and climate science studies. Bowen et al. developed a model based on geographic information system data to predict long-term annual average surface water isotope ratios across the United States. They validated their model with data from a water monitoring program and showed that their map reproduced the observed pattern of isotopic variation across the United States.
Rotational friction coefficients of models of tobacco mosaic virus and the size of the virus particle.

MUCH valuable information about the shape of macromolecules in solution can be derived from hydrodynamic studies. Two recent measurements of the rotational friction coefficient of tobacco mosaic virus, by the electro-optical effect1 and by flowbirefringence2, have, however, led to values of the length that were more than 10 per cent greater than the length observed in the electron microscope3. This serious discrepancy, which is well outside the presumed experimental errors, could be explained by changes in the dimensions of the virus particle on drying, or by failure of the available hydrodynamic formulae adequately to describe the actual behaviour of the rod-shaped particle.
Photoelectron emission from an alkyl—silver surface complex

Abstract Light with 3.5 eV ⩽ hv ⩽ 5.9 eV has been used to excite photoelectron emission from 50–200 A thick silver films supported on silica flats. Comparison of the distribution in energy of the electrons emitted before and after interacting the substrate with t -butyl chloride shows an extra electron emission to have resulted. The extra emission was most efficiently excited by light of 260 nm wavelength and is tentatively attributed to a combination of photoresonance and enhancement due to a surface complex formed by oxidative addition between silver and t -butyl chloride.
Slow light using negative metamaterials

A general overview of slow light waveguide structures made of negative metamaterials is presented. We discuss the conditions and the parameter space to achieve zero total energy flow and zero group velocity due to the degeneracy of forward and backward waves in waveguides cladded with single negative metamaterials. Absorptive loss plays a severely limiting role and can prevent achieving the zero group velocity condition. Gain can be introduced either in dielectric or negative metamaterials to restore the zero group velocity condition. This type of slow light waveguide has a large delay bandwidth product and is suitable for use in integrated optoelectronic circuits.
Modeling the macroeconomic impact of air-pollution abatement

A comprehensive model framework is presented for assessing the macroeconomic impact of air-pollution-control regulations. The paper first reviews the capabilities, projections, and biases of previous models. Next, the set of important relationships affecting the economic outcome of environmental regulation is identified. A unifying model framework, flexible enough to incorporate alternative assumptions about impact stimuli, is then presented. A pared-down version of the model is used to illustrate the sensitivity of assessment results to various causal determinants and assumptions in the hope of pointing to fruitful directions of additional modeling efforts and empirical research on the subject. 53 references, 1 figure, 3 tables.
Novel way to confirm successful endovascular repair of a thoracic aortic aneurysm using a remote wireless pressure sensor

Due to the continuous risk of rupture from endoleaks after endoluminal graft repair of thoracic aneurysms, the need for lifelong postoperative surveillance has become necessary. Patients are put at a lifetime risk of radiation exposure and may be at an increased risk of contrast induced nephropathy from routine contrast use during follow-up computed tomography for postoperative surveillance of endoluminal grafts. Measuring aneurysm sac pressures using remote wireless pressure sensor may provide a noninvasive method to detect endoleak, procedural success, and long-term stent graft stability.
Magnetic resonance appearance in a case of lipoblastomatosis

Lipoblastoma-lipoblastomatosis represents a rare, benign tumorous proliferation of adipocytes and their mesenchymal precursor cells. Seen almost exclusively in early childhood, it should be considered in the differential diagnosis of any rapidly expanding soft-tissue mass. We present a case of lipoblastomatosis and its magnetic resonance appearance, which has not been previously described.
Predictions of lightning activity at Neptune

Spacecraft observations of the seven innermost planets suggest that lightning is present on all planets with dense atmospheres. Thus lightning may be expected to occur on Neptune as well. Based on the level of lightning activity observed on Jupiter and on the assumption that the lightning energy dissipation rate is a constant fraction of the dissipation rate of the convective energy, the lightning rate on Neptune is estimated to be 1/19 that observed on Jupiter. It is predicted that approximately 60 events should be recorded by the Voyager imager during its search of the nightside of Neptune.
Residual Prostate Tissue After Radical Prostatectomy: Acceptable Surgical Complication or Treatment Failure?

Positive surgical margins after radical prostatectomy are associated with an increased risk of cancer recurrence. Depending on the patient's clinical presentation and the amount of residual prostatic tissue, this could be described as a surgical complication or as treatment failure. Endorectal magnetic resonance (MR) imaging provides useful information regarding the presence and extent of benign and/or malignant residual prostate tissue. The clinical features and MR images from a 55-year-old man who underwent prostatectomy for prostate cancer and was found to have a considerable amount of residual prostatic tissue postoperatively on MR imaging are presented in the article.
Formation of acrolein from various amino-acids and polyamines under degradation at 100°C☆

Abstract The formation of acrolein from several new sources under common and widely used physico-chemical conditions is quantitatively reported. Methionine, homoserine, homocysteine, and cystathionine in decreasing order, generated significant amounts of acrolein in aerobic interactions at neutral pH and 100°C with compounds capable of producing the Strecker degradation of α-amino acids. Such decarboxylation and oxidative deamination of the above amino acids would result in 3-substituted propanals, structures which according to previous studies readily decompose with the formation of acrolein. Interactions of spermine and related polyamines with these agents, H 2 O 2 , or with photoactivated riboflavin, also resulted in the formation of acrolein. Hydrogen peroxide, for example, the most effective single degrading agent tested, produced 2.5 and 4.1 μmole of acrolein (50 and 82%) yield), in 1 hour or less, from 5 μmole of methionine and spermine, respectively. In all of these reactions, the presence of oxygen was essential. Methional, the 3-substituted propanal derived from methionine, however, easily decomposed with formation of acrolein both in the presence and in the absence of oxygen. The formation of acrolein in significant amounts in these reactions, together with its highly toxic properties appears to indicate that this aldehyde may play a more important role as an environmental contaminant than has heretofore been suspected.
Economies with observable types

Article history: We study economies of asymmetric information with observable types. Trade takes place in lotteries. Individuals face a standard budget constraint, while the incentive compatibility constraints are imposed on the production set of the intermediaries. This formalization encompasses moral hazard, as in Jerez (2003, 2005), and private information economies. Equilibrium allocations are constrained efficient, but, contrary to what stated for example in Jerez (2005), the set of equilibrium allocations may be empty and the Second Welfare Theorem may fail. This happens for two reasons. First, constrained efficient allocations may violate the necessary and sufficient conditions of price supportability for the individuals. Second, even when constrained efficient allocation are price supportable, they may fail to be a profit maximizing choice of the firm at the individual supporting prices. To restore existence of an equilibrium the firm has to be restricted to supply allocations with support in the set of incentive compatible contracts.
Strong interaction effect measurements in Sigma hyperonic atoms of W and Pb

Strong-interaction effects have been observed in the x-ray spectra of atoms formed with ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\Sigma}}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}}$ hyperons in W and Pb. The spectra were analyzed for energy shifts and broadenings and for yield reductions of the final x-ray transitions before absorption of the ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\Sigma}}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}}$ by the nucleus. The results for the 10l\ensuremath{\rightarrow}9k transitions of ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\Sigma}}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}}$ hyperonic atoms averaged over fine structure components are $^{184}\mathrm{W}$: \ensuremath{\varepsilon}(9k)=214\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}60 eV, \ensuremath{\Gamma}(9k)=18\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}149 eV, \ensuremath{\Gamma}(10l)=2\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}2 eV; $^{208}\mathrm{Pb}$: \ensuremath{\varepsilon}(9k)=422\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}56 eV, \ensuremath{\Gamma}(9k)=428\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}158 eV, \ensuremath{\Gamma}(10l)=17\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}3 eV, where the strong interaction shift \ensuremath{\varepsilon}=${\mathit{E}}_{\mathit{m}}$-${\mathit{E}}_{\mathit{c}}$, ${\mathit{E}}_{\mathit{m}}$ is the measured transition energy, and ${\mathit{E}}_{\mathit{c}}$ is the transition energy calculated assuming no strong interaction and \ensuremath{\Gamma} is the Lorentzian broadening. A four-parameter optical potential representing an effective spin-independent ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\Sigma}}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}}$-nuclear hadronic interaction was fitted by these results in combination with previous data from lower-Z nuclei.
Relativistic nucleon-nucleon interactions

Abstract One-boson-exchange interactions are derived for pseudoscalar (P), vector (V), scalar (S), axial vector (A) and anti-symmetric tensor (T) mesons. The Schrodinger-Pauli limit is obtained for a general combination of such Diracian OBE interactions. Besides the static terms, the reduced interactions contain relativistic central, spin-spin, tensor, spin-orbit and velocity-dependent terms as well as velocity-dependent, tensor operators. We pursue in detail the relativistic interactions V p and V V + V S . Singularity difficulties are dealt with by using “regularized” fields. The phase shifts for N-N scattering are calculated for a purely relativistic model with two adjustable constants and a “broken” model with eight. The fits to the experimental phase shifts are presented.
Applications of Monsoon Research: Opportunities to Inform Decision Making and Reduce Regional Vulnerability

Abstract This article presents ongoing efforts to understand interactions between the North American monsoon and society in order to develop applications for monsoon research in a highly complex, multicultural, and binational region. The North American monsoon is an annual precipitation regime that begins in early June in Mexico and progresses northward to the southwestern United States. The region includes stakeholders in large urban complexes, productive agricultural areas, and sparsely populated arid and semiarid ecosystems. The political, cultural, and socioeconomic divisions between the United States and Mexico create a broad range of sensitivities to climate variability as well as capacities to use forecasts and other information to cope with climate. This paper highlights methodologies to link climate science with society and to analyze opportunities for monsoon science to benefit society in four sectors: natural hazards management, agriculture, public health, and water management. A list of stakeh...
INHIBITORY EFFECT OF SEROTONIN ANTAGONISTS ON GROWTH HORMONE RELEASE IN ACROMEGALIC PATIENTS

SUMMARY We evaluated the effect of the serotonin antagonists cyproheptadine (Cypro) and methysergide (Methy) on growth hormone secretion in six patients with acromegaly. Two days administration of Cypro deceased the plasma GH concentration during oral glucose tolerance tests in four of the six patients evaluated; 2 days administration of Methy reduced the plasma GH levels of only one of the four patients evaluated. The one patient whose palsma GH concentration was lowered by Methy, did not have a decerase in plasma GH concentration after Cypro administration. Acromegalic patients have normal serum serotonin concentration and normal 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid excretion. If Cypro lowers plasma GH by antagonizing serotonin, our data would suggest that serotoninergic neruonal pathways are important in the regulation of pituitary GH secretion in some patients with acromegaly.
Late Results of Conventional Versus All-Arterial Revascularization Based on Internal Thoracic and Radial Artery Grafting

Background Use of one or more arterial grafts to revascularize two-vessel and three-vessel coronary artery disease has been shown to improve coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG) survival. Yet, the presumed long-term survival benefits of all-arterial CABG have not been quantified. Methods We compared propensity-adjusted 12-year survival in two contemporaneous multivessel primary CABG cohorts with all patients receiving 2 or more grafts: (1) all-arterial cohort (n = 612; 297 three-vessel disease [49%]); and (2) single internal thoracic artery (ITA) plus saphenous vein (SV) cohort (n = 4,131; 3,187 three-vessel disease [77%]). Results Early (30-day) deaths were similar for the all-arterial and ITA/SV cohorts (8 [1.30%] versus 69 [1.67%]) whereas late mortality was substantially greater for the ITA/SV cohort (85 [13.9%] versus 1,216 [29.4%]; p Conclusions All-arterial revascularization is associated with significantly better 12-year survival compared with the standard single ITA with saphenous vein CABG operation, in particular for triple-vessel disease patients. The completeness of revascularization of the underlying coronary disease is critical for maximizing the long-term benefits of arterial-only grafting.
9.6.1 Developing Expertise in Systems Engineering: Lessons from Other Disciplines

Much has been written about what systems engineering is, what systems engineers do, what defines competency, and how to teach systems engineering. There has been significant research in other fields about how expertise is developed. This paper reviews key elements of that research and looks at its applicability to systems engineering and how it could be applied to improve the development of expertise in systems engineering. In particular, the role of deliberate practice is investigated and compared to the reliance on experience for development of systems engineers.
ABSTRACT OBJECTS: A CASE STUDY

Not a whole lot is essential to me: my identity, my kind, my origins, consequences of these, and that is pretty much it. Of my intrinsic properties, it seems arguable that none are essential, or at least none specific enough to distinguish me from other humans. And, without getting into the question of whether existence is a property, it is certainly not part of my essence to exist.
The effect of phase noise and spurs on coherent communications performance

The effect of the stochastic properties of oscillator and frequency synthesizer (frequency source) phase noise and spurious frequencies (spectral purity) on coherent communications performance is measured and compared to the theoretical work. The stochastic properties are investigated; flicker-of-phase (1/f) and flicker-of-frequency (1/f/sup 3/) are non-Gaussian, while white phase (1/f/sup 0/) and white frequency (1/f/sup 2/) are Gaussian. Spurious frequencies (spurs) are Gaussian only if the conditions of the central limit theorem (CLT) apply, as is any summation of spurs and phase noise. A well-calibrated BER measurement on an otherwise-ideal BPSK link was repeated for two non-Gaussian sources, a 1/f/sup 3/ phase noise and a single-spur, low phase noise source, both with a /spl sigma//sub /spl phi// high enough to induce noticable implementation loss. Compared to five different theoretical probability-of-error (P/sub e/) equations all presuming Gaussian spectral purity, the measured BER for both sources were in the middle and close to each other.