cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Development and characterization of resistance to o-isopropoxyphenyl methylcarbamate in the mosquito Culex pipiens quinquefasciatus Say.

THE possibility of development of resistance to carbamate insecticides in mosquitoes, and the character of such resistance, are questions of profound importance in the vector control and eradication programmes of public health agencies. With the gradual elimination of organo-chlorine insecticides in many parts of the world due to development of resistance, attention has been directed to substitute insecticides, particularly in the organophos-phorous and carbamate groups1,2. Resistance to certain organophosphorous insecticides has already appeared in strains of Culex and Aedes, especially in areas where these compounds have been used routinely as larvicides1,3. This phenomenon has created even greater urgency for research into the resistance potential of mosquitoes to the carbamate insecticides.
Synthesis and Characterization of a (Dipyridylthiophene)platin Complex of a Pyridyl-Substituted Aminoethylglycine Artificial Dipeptide

We report the solution-phase synthesis and characterization of an artificial pyridyl-substituted dipeptide that is crosslinked by a 2,5-bis(2-pyridyl)thiophene (dpt) platinum complex. The small molecule equivalent for the Pt(dpt)dipyridyl-peptide is synthesized for comparison. These compounds are characterized by two-dimensional and variable-temperature NMR, mass spectrometry, electrochemistry, UV/Vis absorbance and emission spectroscopy, and their photoemission dynamics are compared. The complexes have two reversible, ligand-centered reductions, are luminescent at room temperature, and have two distinct radiative relaxations with nanosecond and microsecond lifetimes. These metallated peptide building blocks are promising for use as stable inorganic complexes to label synthetic peptides with luminescent and redox-active probes.(© Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Note-Multiplicative Interval Variation of Objective Function Coefficients in Linear Programming

Traditional sensitivity analysis of linear programming objective function coefficients concerns itself with variations in single parameters. In a recent book, Gal developed a theoretical framework to determine the effect of multiple variations in the parameters. In this paper, we develop a methodology to implement and extend the theoretical results in the earlier work for interval variations of objective function coefficients. This methodology uses necessary and sufficient conditions to determine all optimal solutions to the linear programming problem for objective function coefficients within given intervals. The resulting procedure has been coded for computer use and tested on various types of test problems. Computational results and an example are presented.
On the carbonate compensation depth in the Pacific Ocean

Abstract Calcium carbonate is shown to be present in Pacific Ocean sediments which underly undersaturated waters and, therefore, the presence or absence of sedimentary carbonates is not simply due to a transition from supersaturated to undersaturated waters, but is controlled by rate-limiting factors.
Colocalized transmembrane determinants for ER degradation and subunit assembly explain the intracellular fate of TCR chains

Abstract The intracellular fate of T cell antigen receptor (TCR) subunits ( αβγδϵξ 2 ) is determined by their assembly in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). To study the structural bases for this tight correlation between assembly and intracellular fate, we sought to define the nature of determinants for both ER degradation and subunit assembly within the TCR-α chain. We found that a 9 amino acid transmembrane sequence of the TCR-α chain, containing 2 critical charged residues, was sufficient to cause ER degradation when placed in the context of the Tac antigen, used here as a reporter protein. CD3-δ assembled with chimeric proteins containing this short transmembrane sequence, and this assembly resulted in abrogation of targeting for ER degradation. Thus, the colocalization of determinants for ER degradation and sites of subunit interactions explains how the fate of some newly synthesized TCR chains can be decided on the basis of their assembly status.
On the use of phase type distributions in reliability modelling of systems with two components

Assuming that the time-to-failure and repair time distributions areof phase type, a variety of reliability models with a small number of components may be studied in terms of finite-state Markov processes. Although the state spaces of these processes are typically large, their infinitesimal generators are highly structured. By utilizing the formalism of PH-distributions, it is possible to construct efficient algorithms to evaluate a large number of quantities of interest. Some new properties of PH-distributions are also established.
1168 THE HEMODYNAMIC RESPONSE TO CONTINUOUS POSITIVE PRESSURE BREATHING (CPPB) IN NEWBORN PIGLETS

The cardiovascular effects of CPPB were examined in 11 anesthetized 1 week old piglets. Mean aortic pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), central venous pressure (CVP), carotid (C), femoral (F) and renal (R) flows (f) and resistances (r), were determined at three levels of positive end expiratory pressures (PEEP) 1.5, 5.0, and 10 cm H2O. The peak airway pressures at each PEEP were selected to maintain constant ventilation. The results are expressed as percent change ± SE between levels of PEEP: (*p ≤.05) These data demonstrate increases in HR, BP, CVP and r with falls in all flows as airway pressure increases. The newborn piglet responds in part to CPPB by vasoconstriction, with resultant dimunition in blood flow in at least three major vessels.
Preliminary Results of Light Transmission under Residential Piers in Lake Washington, King County, Washington: A Comparison between Prisms and Grating

Abstract During the summers of 2003 and 2004, 11 piers (two public and nine private) were evaluated for their ability to transmit light through the decking to the water surface below. Solid decking produces distinct shading that migrating juvenile Chinook salmon appear to avoid by swimming into deeper water where more potential predators live. Two new types of surface treatments (acrylic prisms and grating) were evaluated and compared to traditionally spaced decking as well as solid decking. Grating (with 37–58% open space) was found to transmit significantly more light to the water surface below (mean = 7.5% of full sunlight) than 23 × 5 cm acrylic prisms (mean = 0.7% of full sunlight). In other words, compared to full sunlight, grating transmits 10 times more light under the pier than acrylic prisms. In addition, light that passes through open grating penetrates the water evenly under the pier. Light transmitted through prisms concentrates beams of light that do not always reach the water surface.
Plus minus: passive education of basic circuitry through DIY product design

Today's children are immersed in technology. Not many children, though, understand or even attempt to understand the different technological components that make up basic electronics in which they use on a daily basis such as lamps, hair dryers, and speakers. DIY Product design, as being tangible objects with many affordances of interaction and room for creativity, has potential to introduce forms of information and instruction regarding the basics of technology. In this capacity, product design can instigate what is termed here as "passive education" or "informal learning." The core idea is to embed passive education and instruction in children's lifestyles outside of school environments -- where children actually spend the majority of their time. [1] This paper describes Plus Minus, a fully functional multipurpose light source that also introduces the basics of circuitry upon construction: a product that informs, an informational tool that is a product. Plus Minus is an engaging, minimal, easy-to-assemble lamp with intuitive affordances of color, form, conductivity, and magnetism that empower children to create, customize, and personalize their own multipurpose light source. Plus Minus enables ages nine and older to design and build their own light source within different environments and contexts. The kit consists of three parts: a head (light source), a tail (power source), and a body (conductive material that connects the head and tail). These parts can be constructed in diverse ways depending on the child's needs. Through the process of construction, children are introduced to the circulation of direct current between a power source (wall adapter) and a light source (LEDs). This paper introduces the latest version of Plus Minus and discusses the directions of future work regarding passive education through product design.
A nodal solution of the multigroup neutron transport equation using spherical harmonics

A nodal method has been developed for solving the neutron transport equation using spherical harmonics in 2-D Cartesian coordinates for rectangular nodes. The first-order differential equations resulting from the expansion of the angular flux into spherical harmonics are reduced to second-order equations by eliminating odd-order moments. Albedo type of boundary conditions analogous to the diffusion equation albedo boundary condition are developed. The resulting system is solved by the least-squares minimization scheme employing Legendre polynomial expansions for the spherical harmonic moments. Some results presented for P1 and P3 approximations compare to the reference solutions favorably.
Optimum human population size

Based on prevailing biophysical and social conditions there is a solid scientific basis for determining the bounds of possibilities for the minimum and maximum viable population sizes for the earth. Above the minimum (perhaps 500 people) and within biophysical constraints determining the maximum depends upon social preferences. A possible criteria for this determination is that optimum population size 1) is not the same as the maximum population possible 2) should be small enough to guarantee the minimal physical ingredients of a decent life to everyone 3) should secure human rights from problems generated by too many people 4) should be large enough to sustain viable population in geographically dispersed parts of the world in order to preserve and foster cultural diversity 5) should be sufficiently large to provide a "critical mass" in each of a variety of densely population areas to stimulate creativity and 6) should be small enough to ensure the preservation of biodiversity. Using energy consumption to determine the upper bound of an optimum we find that current consumption is about 13 terawatts (TW) (70% in the rich countries). If the 1993 population of 5.5 billion stops at 14 billion in the next century and per capital energy use is 7.5 kilowatts (KWs) (two-thirds that in the US in the early 1990s) humanity would need 105 TW and would experience ecological collapse. The use of only 9 TW might be accomplished without environmental degradation. In a 6 TW world with all societies consuming 3 KW per capita the optimum population size would be 2 billion. 1.5 billion people using 4.5 TW of energy would carry an extra margin of safety. In light of the current population of 5.5 billion and growing the policy implications of this exercise are obvious.
3D ACOUSTIC REVERSE-TIME MIGRATION1

Acoustic reverse-time finite-difference migration for zero-offset data is extended from two- to three-dimensional media. The formulation is based on the full three-dimensional acoustic wave equation and so has no dip restrictions and it involves extrapolation in a velocity distribution variable in three dimensions. The algorithm is demonstrated by successful migration of synthetic data sets for three models: a point diffractor, an oblique pinch-out, and a dome overlying a planar reflector.
Effects of Food and Cover on Numbers of Apache and Brown Trout Establishing Residency in Artificial Stream Channels

Abstract The importance of food and cover in controlling the abundance of Apache trout Oncorhynchus apache (formerly Salmo apache) and brown trout Salmo trutta was tested in indoor artificial stream channels that permitted emigration. Under different levels of food and cover, Apache trout, 7.0–21.5 cm standard length (SL), and brown trout, 6.3–21.1 cm SL, were placed in separate but identical channels from which they could emigrate at will. After 4–7 d, when emigration had ceased for 24 h, the fish remaining in the channels were counted. Apache trout of all sizes tested and brown trout at least 17 cm in length required overhead cover, in the form of concrete blocks providing a dark area, to maintain residency. Object cover, in the form of concrete blocks providing only visual screening, slightly increased numbers of 6.3–21.1-cm brown trout remaining in the channels but did not affect the numbers of Apache trout. The emigration of both species in response to a lack of food was relatively slow for the small...
Constructing the narrative of the sustainability fix: Sustainability, social justice and representation in Austin, TX

In recent years Austin, Texas has gained popular recognition as a ‘sustainable city’ while experiencing robust economic growth. Austin’s ability to resolve many of the political tensions between development and environmental protection have made it a favoured case study for North American policymakers who seek to mimic the ‘Austin model’. However, despite recognised environmental achievements, the popular storyline of Austin’s move toward sustainability overlooks key aspects of sustainable development, including equitable political representation, affordability, displacement of vulnerable populations and other social justice issues. Using While et al.’s ‘sustainability fix’ as a conceptual framework, this paper explores the historical development, ideological construction and strategic implementation of Austin’s sustainability agenda. In doing so, this paper moves beyond a lateral understanding of sustainability rhetoric toward a more nuanced and critical analysis of the selective promotion and implementa...
Effects of Soil Type on Bermudagrass Response to Broiler Litter Application

A greenhouse study was conducted to determine the effects of soil type on the response of 'Russell' bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.] to broiler litter applications. Soils included Leeper day loam (fine, smectitic, nonacid, thermic Vertic Epiaquept), Marietta silt loam (fine-silty, mixed, active, thermic Oxyaquic Fraglossudalf), and Ruston sandy loam (fine-loamy, siliceous, semiactive, thermic Typic Paleudult). The experimental design was a randomized complete block with a split plot arrangement of treatments replicated three times. Soil was used as main plot factor and broiler litter rates of 0, 4.6, 9.2, and 13.8 Mg ha -1 equivalent to approximately 0, 175, 350, and 525 kg total N ha -1 yr -1 were considered as subplot. The changes in dry matter yield (DMY) decreased in the order of Ruston > Leeper > Marietta. Regardless of soil type, broiler litter rates > 350 kg total N ha -1 did not increase DMY yield and nutrient uptake. Bermudagrass N concentration increased as broiler litter rate increased and the greatest value was recorded for Marietta soil, 24.2 g kg -1 . The large DMY observed in Ruston soil diluted plant N concentration to about 23.7 g kg -1 despite high percentage N recovery. Bermudagrass P concentration was not affected by either broiler litter rate or soil type. Bermudagrass K concentration increased as broiler litter rate increased and was greatest on Ruston soil (23.5 g kg -1 ). Recovery efficiency for N and K was approximately 60% greater in Ruston than in Marietta and Leeper soils and was reflected in residual soil NO 3 -N and P concentrations that decreased in the order of Marietta > Leeper > Ruston. Application of broiler litter to bermudagrass grown on the Ruston soil appears to be more sustainable.
FACTORS AFFECTING THE COMPOSITION OF DATES

It is of interest to know whether the composition of the more important commercially grown varieties of dates is affected by the variety and locality where grown and what important changes occur during the ripening process. In some localities, as in Mesopotamia and North Africa, dates mature completely on the trees ; in others, because of lack of sufficient heat units during the ripening season, artificial ripening or "processing" is required. Some varieties if allowed to ripen completely on the tree " mummify " and are best if picked slightly unripe and artificially ripened after removal from the tree.
Molecular and crystal structure of the nonlinear optical material: 2‐(N‐prolinol)‐5‐nitropyridine (PNP)

The structure [C10H13N3O3,Mr=223.23, monoclinic, P21, a=5.182(1) A, b=14.964(4) A, c=7.045(1) A, β=106.76(1)°, V=523.1 A3, Z=2, Dx=1.42 Mg mm−3, μ=9.0 cm−1, F(000)=236, 23±1 °C, R=(Σ‖‖F0‖−‖Fc‖‖/Σ‖F0‖) =0.047 based on 930 reflections with F20>3.0σ(F20)] of this compound reveals it to optimally satisfy many of the structural and symmetry restrictions required for optical second harmonic generation (SHG). The molecules are extraordinarily well aligned to optimize noncritically phase matched SHG with the amino nitrogen to nitro nitrogen charge transfer axis making an angle of 59.6° with the unique axis (b). The mean aromatic plane sits nearly perfectly in the (101) crystallographic plane which may be a natural cleavage surface through which normal propagation may produce noncritically phase matched SHG. Powder optical second harmonic generation measurements (λ=1.06μ; Nd‐YAG laser) yield a value of 140.0x relative to powdered urea. Molecules related by a screw operation and the translation [0,0,1] are intermol...
Oceanography in Japan

Since 1929 oceanography has received more widespread attention in Japan than in any other nation, and virtually all has been financed directly or indirectly by the Government. The number of vessels (95) utilized by the Japanese Hydrographic Department alone for whole or part-time surveys during this period probably exceeded those of all other nations combined. Open ocean investigations were carried on almost entirely by the Navy or under Navy control. Vessels pressed into the service of the Hydrographic Department included, in audition to 12 naval ships, seven survey vessels of other central government agencies, 30 prefectural station vessels, and 46 commercial craft. Of the latter, 22 were coastal fishing craft, 22 were killer ships of the whaling fleet, and two were merchant ships.
High-speed programmable digitizer for real-time video compression experiments

A flexible digital video simulator has been constructed so that the effects of image coding and compression can be observed and evaluated in real time. This paper describes the design of the simulator's digitizer which includes the analog-to-digital (A/D) converter, the digital-to-analog (D/A) converter, and the programmable clock synthesizer. Although this system is presently being used for processing National Television Systems Committee (NTSC) composite video signals, it can be reconfigured for processing other image transmission formats. Examples include red, green, and blue (RGB) component signals, luminance and chrominance (YIQ) signals, and enhanced-definition television (EDTV) signals.
Towards a Byzantine ecocriticism: witches and nature control in the medieval Greek romance

Since its rise in the mid-1990s, ecocriticism, the study of the depiction of the built and natural environments in literature, has been deeply engaged with contemporary political and social issues surrounding anthropogenic ecological degradation and climate change. Such an ideological outlook, however, limits the application of the discourse in the case of medieval literature, which lacks such contemporary resonance. Ecocritical and ecofeminist analyses of the three witches with power over the environment in the Byzantine romances and their western analogues will nevertheless demonstrate the connection between nature control, femininity and patriarchal oppression and, as importantly, offer a theoretical framework for the application of an apolitical ecocriticism to Byzantine (and medieval) literature.
Haplotypes within genes of β-chemokines in 17q11 are associated with multiple sclerosis: a second phase study

We previously defined haplotypes of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) with possible relevance to multiple sclerosis (MS) in 2 CC chemokine ligand (CCL) clusters in chromosome 17q11. The 17q11 region was also identified as a susceptibility locus by a meta-analysis of linkage studies. To confirm and refine the previous finding in a second, high resolution SNP scan in a new set of families. We genotyped 232 SNPs in 1369 individuals in 361 MS families. Transmission of marker alleles and haplotypes from unaffected parents to affected offspring was tested by using the pedigree disequilibrium test, the TRANSMIT 2.5 program, and the family and haplotype based association tests. Distribution of linkage disequilibrium (LD) was assessed by ldmax. In consensus with observations in the first scan, the present study identified haplotypes within CCL3 and CCL15 in the telomeric CCL cluster. There was also an overlap in the findings in the centromeric CCL cluster. Strong and extensive LD was detected both within the centromeric and telomeric CCL gene clusters. The present study replicates our previous findings and further suggests the existence of MS associated haplotypes within genes of CCL3 and CCL15. Haplotypes of interest are also present within the centromeric gene cluster (including CCL2, CCL7, CCL11, CCL8, and CCL13), but extensive LD prevents further refinement of these haplotypes by using the methods applied. Sequencing of the identified chromosomal segments and their flanking regions will be necessary to define specific variants with direct relevance to MS pathogenesis.
HgCdTe infrared focal plane arrays for imaging spectrometer applications

It is pointed out that the development of two-dimensional infrared focal plane arrays (FPAs) offers new alternatives in imaging and remote sensing. Attention is given to an imaging spectrometer which represents a new concept exploiting two-dimensional arrays. This instrument is to be used for the remote sensing of the earth on the basis of a utilization of reflected sunlight in both the visible (VIS) and short wavelength infrared (SWIR). The imaging spectrometer concept is to make it possible to obtain contiguous spectral coverage at high resolution without having to use increasingly complex scanners. The concept utilizes a prism spectrometer to disperse the image of the slit across the area arrays in the focal plane. The focal plane consists of silicon CCDs for the VIS and near infrared portions of the spectrum and HgCdTe hybrid arrays for the SWIR.
Help-seeking behavior among foreign-born and native-born Mexican Americans

For many aspects of help-seeking behavior, generalizations about ethnic minorities obscure important intraethnic variations. This paper examines the distinction between foreign-born and native-born Mexican Americans and its impact on correlated traits which are significant in the help-seeking process: socioeconomic status, level of acculturation, intensity of religious affiliation, the presence of an extensive social support system, and familiarity with public agencies. Two case studies are presented to illustrate differences in the search for help for emotional problems. Intraethnic diversity is demonstrated with regard to attitude toward and availability of potential sources of help, selection of helping agents in times of emotional need, frequency of consultation, and the relationship between ethnicity and mental health.
Imaging of stem cells using MRI

The administration of exogenous stem cells offers promise to regenerate many damaged organs. However, failures of these cellular therapies could be related to many issues, such as the type of stem cell, the dose of cellular therapeutic, dosing regime, and mode of delivery. The recent ability to directly label stem cells with magnetic resonance (MR) contrast agents provides a simple, straight-forward manner to monitor accurate cell delivery and track stem cells non-invasively in a serial manner. Provided here is an overview of the currently available MR-labeling methods, including direct non-specific labeling with contrast agents, indirect specific labeling with contrast agents, labeling with MRI reporter genes, and fluorine hot spot labeling. Several of these approaches have now been applied successfully in preclinical animal models of cardiovascular disease. Once properly implemented, future clinical trials may benefit greatly from imaging stem cells with MRI.
Novel Nd2Fe14B nanoflakes and nanoparticles for the development of high energy nanocomposite magnets

High energy ball milling has been shown to be a promising method for large-scale fabrication of rare earth–transition metal nanoparticles. In this work, magnetically hard Nd–Fe–B nanopowders with a coercivity in the range of 1.2–4 kOe have been produced by surfactant-assisted ball milling of nanocrystalline precursor alloys. The nanopowders consisted of Nd2Fe14B flakes with a thickness below 100 nm and an aspect ratio as high as 102–103 and anisotropic square nanoparticles with a size of 11 nm. Both the nanoparticles and nanoflakes showed a strong [001] out-of-plane texture. The nanoparticles showed a spin reorientation temperature which is lower (117 K) than the bulk value (135 K). The successful fabrication of Nd–Fe–B nano-thin flakes and anisotropic nanoparticles provides hope for the development of nanocomposite permanent magnets with an enhanced energy product.
Electron cyclotron emission as a density fluctuation diagnostic

A new technique for measuring density fluctuations using a high-resolution heterodyne electron cyclotron emission (ECE) radiometer has been developed. Although ECE radiometry is typically used for electron temperature measurements, the unique viewing geometry of this system’s quasioptical antenna has been found to make the detected emission extremely sensitive to refractive effects under certain conditions. This sensitivity gives the diagnostic the ability to measure very low levels of density fluctuations in the core of Alcator C-Mod tokamak. The refractive effects have been modeled using ray-tracing methods, allowing estimates of the density fluctuation magnitude and spatial localization.
German export performance

The Federal Republic of Germany's exports in 1980 represented approximately 23% of GNP. Germany's share of total world exports, however, declined throughout the seventies. What are the factors influencing German export performance? What is the outlook for the future?
Single-channel, macroscopic, and gating currents from sodium channels in the squid giant axon.

Single-channel, macroscopic ionic, and macroscopic gating currents were recorded from the voltage-dependent sodium channel using patch-clamp techniques on the cut-open squid giant axon. To obtain a complete set of physiological measurements of sodium channel gating under identical conditions, and to facilitate comparison with previous work, comparison was made between currents recorded in the absence of extracellular divalent cations and in the presence of physiological concentrations of extracellular Ca2+ (10 mM) and Mg2+ (50 mM). The single-channel currents were well resolved when divalent cations were not included in the extracellular solution, but were decreased in amplitude in the presence of Ca2+ and Mg2+ ions. The instantaneous current-voltage relationship obtained from macroscopic tail current measurements similarly was depressed by divalents, and showed a negative slope-conductance region for inward current at negative potentials. Voltage dependent parameters of channel gating were shifted 9–13 mV towards depolarized potentials by external divalent cations, including the peak fraction of channels open versus voltage, the time constant of tail current decline, the prepulse inactivation versus voltage relationship, and the charge-voltage relationship for gating currents. The effects of divalent cations are consistent with open channel block by Ca2+ and Mg2+ together with divalent screening of membrane charges.
The stereochemical course of reactions leading to formation of mono-ligated (phenylacetyl)manganese tetracarbonyl compounds

Abstract The stereochemistry of LMn(CO) 4 COCH 2 Ph (L = phosphines, phosphites) is dependent on the mode of preparation. Thus preparation and stereochemistry of the title compound according to reactions of phenylacetylmanganese pentacarbonyl with L, of benzylmanganese pentacarbonyl with L, of Na[LMn(CO) 4 ] with phenylacetyl chloride, and of [Mn(CO) 5 L][PF 6 ] with benzylmagnesium chloride are reported.
Distinct targeting and fusion functions of the PX and SNARE domains of yeast vacuolar Vam7p.

Abstract Regulated membrane fusion requires organelle tethering, enrichment of selected proteins and lipids at the fusion site, bilayer distortion, and lipid rearrangement. Yeast vacuole homotypic fusion requires regulatory lipids (ergosterol, diacylglycerol, and phosphoinositides), the Rab family GTPase Ypt7p, the multisubunit Ypt7p-effector complex HOPS (homotypic fusion and vacuole protein sorting), and four SNAREs. One SNARE, Vam7p, has an N-terminal PX domain which binds to phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate (PI(3)P) and to HOPS and a C-terminal SNARE domain but no apolar membrane anchor. We have exploited an in vitro reaction of vacuole fusion to analyze the functions of each domain, removing the PX domain or mutating it to abolish its PI(3)P affinity. Lowering the PI(3)P affinity of the PX domain, or even deleting the PX domain, affects the fusion Km for Vam7p but not the maximal fusion rate. Fusion driven by the SNARE domain alone is strikingly enhanced by the PLC inhibitor U73122 through enhanced binding of Vam7p SNARE domain to vacuoles, and the further addition of Plc1p blocks this U73122 effect. The PX domain, through its affinities for phosphoinositides and HOPS, is thus exclusively required for enhancing the targeting of Vam7p rather than for execution of the Vam7p functions in HOPS·SNARE complex assembly and fusion.
SiOx-C coating: A composite-to-metal bonding mechanism

T he use of resin-bonded retainers has been reported in the literature since 1973, when Rochette’ advocated the use of perforated retainers for periodontal splinting. The attachment mechanism of resin-bonded retainers consists of three strength components, (1) the enamel-to-resin bond, (2) the cohesive strength of the composite, and (3) the resin-to-framework bond. Rochette’s design has two primary disadvantages; (1) the retention is limited to the region around the funnelshaped perforations, and (2) the resin is left exposed to the wearing effects of occlusion and toothbrush abrasion. Thompson et al2 refined the framework by electrolytically etching base metal castings to provide mechanical retention. The etching of retainers affords the advantage of increased retention of the prosthesis because retention is gained over the whole surface of the metal and is not limited to the perforations. In addition, no resin is exposed to wear and abrasion. Livaditis and Thompson3 reported the tensile strength of the resin bond to castings to be two to three times stronger than the bond of resin to etched enamel. Even though they have become widely used, the etched retainers have some disadvantages, as follows: 1. The etching procedure is technique sensitive. It is difficult to accurately measure the surface area of a clinical retainer and determine the optimum etching conditions. 2. The only alloys for ceramometal restorations that etch predictably are those containing Ni-Cr. Therefore this procedure cannot be used for patients with a known sensitivity to nickel. Nickel has lately come under increasing scrutiny as an allergen and possible carcinogen.&’ 3. Not all porcelains used for ceramometal pontics are compatible with base metal alloys. In light of these advantages, it would be highly desirable to develop an alternative system that consistently bonds resins and allows the use of a large variety of metal alloys. Recently, a new technique for bonding resin to metals was introduced (Silicoater, Kulzer,
Large-scale variations in the stoichiometry of marine organic matter respiration

The elemental composition of marine organic matter varies systematically at large scales. Simulations of the ocean circulation and observations of ocean chemistry reveal close links between light and nutrient availability and stoichiometry.
Regional production, information–communication technology, and the developmental state: the rise of Singapore as a global container hub

Abstract The production strategies of transnational corporations (TNCs) have revolutionized the structure of global port and container shipping industries as both have adopted information and communication technology (ICT) to better articulate the spatial movement of goods between producing and consuming regions. This research first explores the structural synergies between TNC production, ICT and container transport. With in the context of “developmental state” policies, the bulk of the paper examines the rise of Singapore as an ICT-based global container hub to serve the simultaneous processes of spatial agglomeration and dispersion associated with regional TNC production strategies. The aggressive adoption of ICT by the Singapore Port Authority (PSA) enabled the city-state to territorially embed and competitively manage trade flows through a complex, but spatially flexible hub and spoke geometry of container movements. Through the process of “glocalization”, the PSA has itself become a TNC by operating container terminals around the world.
The desalination choice: Planned water and power security or decisions by calamity?

Abstract The desalination choice in water resources management should not be solely based on apparent water budget deficits but also on perspectives of emergency needs to mitigate water shortages as a result of pollution or droughts. Consequently, desalination should be planned as an integral component of energy and water resources management strategy. The document highlights the realities in desalination needs for a country or a region and cautions that they be viewed within the context of optimal choice among alternatives in integrated water resources and energy planning. Acceptability of “additional” water production at higher cost is intuitive when rational policies are formulated to address priority issues in water resources and energy management. Energy-rich countries which devoted substantive resources to advancing the technology in water and power production have intuitively justified their decision on the basis of low cost available energy and their realistic objective to achieve water security. Such choices did not preclude rigorous analysis of integrated energy and water resources systems to ensure sustainable power and fresh water for enhanced welfare of their people over time. Management decisions concerning the choice of a desalination project relate, among other rules, to dynamics of the water balance, absolute minimum requirements of fresh water for all uses, uncertainties in energy prices and costs of emergency response requirements without such facilities over a 50–100 year time horizon. The paper focuses on natural fresh water supply mix in a country which is characterized by a wide range of uncertainties in availability and shifting marginal costs with drought severity. Inclusion of desalination as a deterministic water production option provides the means for reduction of uncertainties and associated high-cost emergency response needs. The justification for such choice is discussed. The decision is whether to build an integrated wastewater treatment/desalination plant if the risk of drought severities or fresh water scarcity will have an impact on the economy and health of people in a country or to continue piecemeal developments of marginal reserves in response to calamities. Economic and social costs of errors are taken into account. The presented methodology proposes alternative cost-effective integrated wastewater/desalination management schemes to avert environmental and economic catastrophes. The methodology is non-conventional, realistic and imposes requirements on management for deploying means and methodologies at the cutting edge of technology.
Microdialysis assessment of drug delivery systems for vitreoretinal targets

Posterior segment drug delivery challenges inherent in the treatment of many sight-threatening diseases have become increasingly apparent. Therapeutic interventions for ocular diseases such as neovascular retinopathies, inflammatory and/or infectious diseases may involve drug delivery to vitreoretinal targets. An important part of successful therapeutic strategies for such diseases involves verification that efficacious concentrations of the pharmacological agent are achieved within relevant intraocular regions. Microdialysis has been effectively employed for characterizing intraocular disposition in both anterior and posterior segments, providing important documentation of successful drug delivery to desired targets. Recent papers that showcase the maturation in the model development of microdialysis approaches for estimating posterior segment pharmacokinetics and further validation of the methodology are described in this review. Special problems examined include anterior and posterior ocular clearance mechanisms, intraocular metabolism and active transport of drugs.
The recombination mechanism of CO and O in the upper atmospheres of Venus and Mars.

Abstract The recombination mechanism between CO and O produced by the photodissociation of CO2 in the upper atmospheres of Venus and Mars is discussed in detail. It is concluded that the rapid recombination of CO and O(1D) through CO2 formation may be excluded.
Resistance of Echinochloa crus-galli Populations to Acetolactate Synthase-Inhibiting Herbicides

Three Echinochloa crus-galli (barnyardgrass) populations from rice fields in Arkansas (AR1 and AR2) and Mississippi (MS1), USA, were recently confirmed to be resistant to imazethapyr. Experiments were conducted to characterize cross-resistance to acetolactate synthase- (ALS-) inhibiting herbicides and determine if malathion, a known cytochrome P450 monooxygenase (CYP) inhibitor, would overcome resistance. The AR1 and MS1 populations were cross-resistant to bispyribac-sodium; however, AR2 was sensitive to bispyribac-sodium. The AR1, AR2, and MS1 populations were >94, >94, and 3.3 times, respectively, more resistant to imazamox; >94, 30, and 9.4 times, respectively, more resistant to penoxsulam; and 15, 0.9, and 7.2 times, respectively, more resistant to bispyribac-sodium compared to a susceptible population. Addition of malathion to penoxsulam reduced dry weight of all populations and increased mortality of AR2 and MS1 populations compared to penoxsulam alone. Addition of malathion to imazethapyr and bispyribac-sodium increased the mortality of MS1 population in mixture with imazethapyr and AR1 population in mixture with bispyribac-sodium compared to treatments with imazethapyr and bispyribac-sodium applied alone. Synergism of ALS-inhibiting herbicides with malathion indicates increased herbicide degradation by CYP as partial mechanism of resistance to penoxsulam in all resistant populations and probably to imazethapyr in MS1 and bispyribac-sodium in AR1 populations.
Treatment of HER2 Positive Breast Carcinomatous Meningitis with Intrathecal Administration of α-Particle Emitting 211At-labeled Trastuzumab

Abstract Introduction Carcinomatous meningitis (CM) is a devastating disease characterized by the dissemination of malignant tumor cells into the subarachnoid space along the brain and spine. Systemic treatment with monoclonal antibody (mAb) trastuzumab can be effective against HER2-positive systemic breast carcinoma but, like other therapies, is ineffective against CM. The goal of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic effect of α-particle emitting 211 At-labeled trastuzumab following intrathecal administration in a rat model of breast carcinoma CM. Methods Athymic rats were injected intrathecally with MCF-7/HER2-18 breast carcinoma cells through a surgically implanted indwelling intrathecal catheter. In Experiment 1, animals received 33 or 66 μCi 211 At-labeled trastuzumab, cold trastuzumab or saline. In Experiment 2, animals were inoculated with a lower tumor burden and received 46 or 92 μCi 211 At-labeled trastuzumab or saline. In Experiment 3, animals received 28 μCi 211 At-labeled trastuzumab, 30 μCi 211 At-labeled TPS3.2 control mAb or saline. Histopathological analysis of the neuroaxis was performed at the end of the study. Results In Experiment 1, median survival increased from 21 days for the saline and cold trastuzumab groups to 45 and 48 days for 33 and 66 μCi 211 At-labeled trastuzumab, respectively. In Experiment 2, median survival increased from 23 days for saline controls to 68 and 92 days for 46 and 92 μCi 211 At-labeled trastuzumab, respectively. In Experiment 3, median survival increased from 20 days to 29 and 36 days for animals treated with 211 At-labeled TPS3.2 and 211 At-labeled trastuzumab, respectively. Long-term survivors were observed exclusively in the 211 At-trastuzumab-treated groups. Conclusion Intrathecal 211 At-labeled trastuzumab shows promise as a treatment for patients with HER2-positive breast CM.
Effects of sampling artifacts on occupational samples of diesel particulate matter.

Total carbon (TC) is sometimes used to measure or characterize diesel particulate matter (DPM) in occupational settings such as underground mines. DPM samples are collected on quartz fiber filters....
The Rice Yellow Mottle Virus situation in West Africa

The incidence and severity of the Rice Yellow Mottle Virus (RYMV) was monitored in various rice environments in West Africa. Its presence or absence being determinded through symptomatology and serological tests. RYMV was found in all the rice growing environments at different levels of incidence and severity which appear to be dependent on the type of variety planted, the rice environment and the climatic factors under which the rice is cropped. RYMV has been shown to cause losses ranging from 19.5% to 95.5%. Graminaceous weeds including some wild rices have been confirmed as alternate hosts for RYMV. Twenty five rice cultivars consisting of local and locally developed cultivars showed tolerant reactions to RYMV. Most of these varieties showed stable resistance to rice blast in an earlier study. The manifestation of RYMV symptoms on the uninoculated test rice varieties indicated the possibility of the virus being transmitted either through the virus vector or might be seedborne.
Evolving risk for thromboembolism in spinal cord injury (SPIRATE Study).

Objective: To compare the frequency of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients examined during 1992-1995 with those examined during 1999-2003. Design: A comprehensive review of the charts of all patients admitted betweenlate 1999 and early 2003 for rehabilitation after spinal cord injury. Only records, including evidence for objective testing for VTE (ultrasound, venography, lung scanning) were included, and patients having inferior vena cava filter placement or previous VTE were excluded. Analysis variables included type and location of spinal cord injury, American Spinal Injury Association classification, concomitant injuries, surgical procedures, complications, preexisting illnesses, and use of antithrombotic prophylaxis. Using univariate optimal discriminant analysis, data from the current group of patients were compared with a previous study of 243 subjects examined between 1992 and 1995. Results: The current sample consisted of 76 persons with acute spinal cord injury, of whom six had VTE (7.9%). As compared with the frequency of VTE in the previous patient sample (21%), this represented a significant decrease (P < 0.01). The major differences between the current and previous patient samples were a decrease in the use of unfractionated heparin (15.8% vs. 56.8%, P < 0.0001) and an increase in the use of low molecular weight heparin (81.6% vs. 59.7%, P < 0.0001). Conclusions: VTE has been a common and occasionally lethal complication in persons with spinal cord injury. The recent switch from unfractionated heparin to low molecular weight heparin for the prevention of VTE has coincided with a decrease in the frequency of this complication in patients with spinal cord injury.
Observable fractional electric charge in broken quantum chromodynamics

Quantum chromodynamics may be broken to S${\mathrm{O}(3)}^{\mathrm{g}}$ with S${\mathrm{U}(3)}^{\mathrm{c}}$ triplets becoming S${\mathrm{O}(3)}^{\mathrm{g}}$ triplets. If so, there could exist low-mass, fractionally charged diquark states that are not strongly bound to nuclei, but are rarely produced at present accelerator facilities. The breaking of quantum chromodynamics can be done with a ${27}^{\mathrm{c}}$, in which case this strong interaction theory is easily embedded in unified models such as those based on SU(5), SO(10), or E(6). Possible relevance of diquarks for fusion catalysis is described.
First National Survey Of ACOs Finds That Physicians Are Playing Strong Leadership And Ownership Roles

The extent to which physicians lead, own, and govern accountable care organizations (ACOs) is unknown. However, physicians’ involvement in ACOs will influence how clinicians and patients perceive the ACO model, how effective these organizations are at improving quality and costs, and how future ACOs will be organized. From October 2012 to May 2013 we fielded the National Survey of Accountable Care Organizations, the first such survey of public and private ACOs. We found that 51 percent of ACOs were physician-led, with another 33 percent jointly led by physicians and hospitals. In 78 percent of ACOs, physicians constituted a majority of the governing board, and physicians owned 40 percent of ACOs. The broad reach of physician leadership has important implications for the future evolution of ACOs. It seems likely that the challenge of fundamentally changing care delivery as the country moves away from fee-for-service payment will not be accomplished without strong, effective leadership from physicians.
What are the relationships between four notions of stage change

There have been a number of models for transition between stages, including Piaget’s dialectical model, Dawson’s use of Rasch score values, and the newest, the systematization resulting from micro-genetic research. This paper discusses four different accounts of stage transition, each delineating how to obtain data on stage transition for each method. It also discusses how the methods might be interrelated. First, the paper elaborates the original Piagetian model by systematizing the transition substeps using choice theory and signal detection. An examination of stage transition included scoring interviews or other participant responses for statements that reflect each of these steps. Secondly, the paper examines micro-developmental approaches. These approaches identify what may be potential subtask and subsubtask actions that may occur during transition to the next stage. Then, the paper describes and illustrates the use of Rasch analysis to quantify the extent to which a participant’s performance on an instrument is transitional. This approach might numerically pinpoint where in the transition an individual is but it did not measure the difficulty of the specific task subtask actions (strategies). A method for combining stage scores, subtask action scores, and the sub-subtask action scores was introduced. Finally, the paper presents a methodology for creating tasks and methods of support that directly measure transition. The purpose of this approach was twofold. First was to empirically test for the transition subtask and subsubtask actions extracted originally from the interview process. Second was to figure out how high in transition an action would get with support.