cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Application of an Evolutionary Programming Process to a Simulation of the ETEX Large-Scale Airborne Dispersion Experiment

AbstractAirborne tracer simulations are typically performed using a dispersion model driven by a high-resolution meteorological model. Besides solving the dynamic equations of momentum, heat, and m...
Uncertainty-Aware optimization for Network Provisioning and Routing

In this paper, we propose a novel approach for the traffic engineering in computer networks with uncertain demand. By utilizing the different flexibility of network reconfiguration and characteristics of traffic demand in different timescales, we solve the network provisioning and routing problems through stochastic optimizations and their second-order cone programming approximations. Numerical illustration shows that our approach can reduce 25% of the network cost compared with the traditional traffic engineering solution.
A Sequential Composition Framework for Coordinating Multi-Robot Behaviors

A number of coordinated behaviors have been proposed for achieving specific tasks for multi-robot systems. However, since most applications require more than one such behavior, one needs to be able to compose together sequences of behaviors while respecting local information flow constraints. Specifically, when the inter-agent communication depends on inter-robot distances, these constraints translate into particular configurations that must be reached in finite time in order for the system to be able to transition between the behaviors. To this end, we develop a distributed framework based on finite-time convergence control barrier functions that enables a team of robots to adjust its configuration in order to meet the communication requirements for the different tasks. In order to demonstrate the significance of the proposed framework, we implemented a full-scale scenario where a team of eight planar robots explore an urban environment in order to localize and rescue a subject.
Imaging Single Nanobubbles of H 2 and O 2 During the Overall Water Electrolysis with Single-Molecule Fluorescence Microscopy

In this work, we describe the preparation and use of a thin metal film modified Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) electrode as a highly conductive, transparent, and electrocatalytically active electrode material for studying nanobubbles generated at the electrode/solution interface. Hydrogen and oxygen nanobubbles were generated from water electrolysis on the surface of a Au/Pd alloy modified ITO electrode. The formation of single H2 and O2 nanobubbles was imaged in real time during a potential scan using single-molecule fluorescence microscopy. Our results show that while O2 nanobubbles can be detected at an early stage in the oxygen evolution reaction (OER), the formation of H2 nanobubbles requires a significant overpotential. Our study shows that thin-film-coated ITO electrodes are simple to make and can be useful electrode substrates for (single molecule) spectroelectrochemistry research.
Cross-Generational THC Exposure Alters Heroin Reinforcement in Adult Male Offspring.

Abstract Background An emerging area of preclinical research has investigated whether drug use in parents prior to conception influences drug responsivity in their offspring. The present work sought to further characterize such effects with cannabis by examining whether a parental THC history modified locomotor sensitization to morphine and self-administration of heroin in adult progeny. Methods Male and female Sprague Dawley rats were exposed to eight injections of 0 or 1.5 mg/kg THC during adolescence and bred with subjects from the same dose group. In Experiment 1, adult male and female offspring (F1-THC and F1-Veh) underwent locomotor sensitization procedures with morphine over five trials followed by a 5-day abstinence period and a final morphine challenge. In Experiment 2, subjects were trained to self-administer heroin and tested under a number of conditions (FR1, FR5, FR10, PR, dose response assessment, extinction, cue- + stress-induced reinstatement). Results Germline THC exposure had no effect on morphine locomotor sensitization. However, F1-THC males displayed a reduced motivation to self-administer heroin relative to F1-Veh males. Conclusions The present data indicate that parental THC exposure alters the reinforcing properties of heroin in a sex-specific manner. As such, mild to moderate cannabis use during adolescence may alter heroin abuse liability for males in the subsequent generation, but have limited effects on females.
Wetting and Chain Packing across Interfacial Zones Affect Distribution of Relaxations in Polymer and Polymer-Grafted Nanocomposites

Polymers exhibit deviations from their bulk physical properties in the vicinity of solid interfaces due to changes in configurations, entanglements, and relaxation dynamics at the interfacial regio...
A Bayesian model for spatial partly interval-censored data

Partly interval-censored data often occur in cancer clinical trials and have been analyzed as right-censored data. Patients’ geographic information sometimes is also available and can be useful in ...
Intra-articular collagenase in the spinal facet joint induces pain, DRG neuron dysregulation and increased MMP-1 absent evidence of joint destruction

Degeneration is a hallmark of painful joint disease and is mediated by many proteases that degrade joint tissues, including collagenases. We hypothesized that purified bacterial collagenase would initiate nociceptive cascades in the joint by degrading the capsular ligament’s matrix and activating innervating pain fibers. Intra-articular collagenase in the rat facet joint was investigated for its effects on behavioral sensitivity, joint degeneration, and nociceptive pathways in the peripheral and central nervous systems. In parallel, a co-culture collagen gel model of the ligament was used to evaluate effects of collagenase on microscale changes to the collagen fibers and embedded neurons. Collagenase induced sensitivity within one day, lasting for 3 weeks (p < 0.001) but did not alter ligament structure, cartilage health, or chondrocyte homeostasis. Yet, nociceptive mediators were increased in the periphery (substance P, pERK, and MMP-1; p ≤ 0.039) and spinal cord (substance P and MMP-1; p ≤ 0.041). The collagen loss (p = 0.008) induced by exposing co-cultures to collagenase was accompanied by altered neuronal activity (p = 0.002) and elevated neuronal MMP-1 (p < 0.001), suggesting microscale collagen degradation mediates sensitivity in vivo. The induction of sustained sensitivity and nociception without joint damage may explain the clinical disconnect in which symptomatic joint pain patients present without radiographic evidence of joint destruction.
Stacked Gate-All-Around Nanosheet pFET with Highly Compressive Strained Si 1-x Ge x Channel

Stacked Gate-All-Around (GAA) nanosheet pFETs with compressively strained Si 1-x Ge x channel have been fabricated to explore their electrical benefits. The Si 1-x Ge x NS channel structure with high crystalline quality and 1GPa compressive stress has been realized for the first time. Systematic study has been performed to understand the effect of epitaxial Si 1-x Ge x thickness, Ge fraction, and Si cap thickness on the Si 1-x Ge x NS channel device characteristics. It is found that the compressively strained Si 1-x Ge x NS channel provides a 100% uplift in peak hole mobility with a corresponding channel resistance reduction of 40% while maintaining an excellent subthreshold slope of below 70 mV/dec.
COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy Is the New Terrain for Political Division among Americans

Politically conservative Americans are less likely than those who identify as liberal to report a willingness to get a vaccine against coronavirus disease 2019. Using data from the Axios/Ipsos Coro...
The association between state-based provisional attendance periods and adolescent middle school-entry vaccination coverage.

Abstract The rise of vaccine-preventable disease outbreaks calls for a deeper understanding of the impact of policy on school-entry vaccine compliance. Provisional attendance policies vary by state but permit under-vaccinated students a limited period to attend school while receiving their immunizations. The primary objective of this study was to clarify the relationship between annual immunization coverage and state provisional policies for a single-dose of school-entry-required adolescent vaccinations: tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (Tdap), meningococcal conjugate (MCV4), and human papillomavirus (HPV). From June 22, 2020 to August 20, 2020, the Immunization Action Coalition and state-level Department of Health (DOH) webpages were reviewed with email confirmation with a DOH representative to determine provisional period policy. Vaccination coverage for Tdap, MCV4, and HPV were obtained from the Center for Disease Control's National Immunization Survey. Overall, 49 states and D.C. legally mandate exclusion of vaccine noncompliant adolescents, and the majority of jurisdictions assign responsibility for exclusion to local school officials (84%). Complete provisional period data was obtained for 46/51 jurisdictions. The effect of provisional period length categorized as 0 days (18 jurisdictions, 35.3%), 1 to 30 days (18 jurisdictions, 35.3%), 31+ days (10 jurisdictions, 19.6%), and “unclear” (5 jurisdictions with incomplete data, 9.8%) had no significant association with annual adolescent vaccination coverage for Tdap (p = 0.82), MCV4 (p = 0.08), and HPV (p = 0.76). Provisional policies may not increase vaccination coverage as anticipated. Unintended consequences, such as increased nonmedical exemptions and increased demands on clinical providers, are additional factors to consider.
A Glutamate N-Methyl-d-Aspartate (NMDA) Receptor Subunit 2B-Selective Inhibitor of NMDA Receptor Function with Enhanced Potency at Acidic pH and Oral Bioavailability for Clinical Use

We describe a clinical candidate molecule from a new series of glutamate N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor subunit 2B-selective inhibitors that shows enhanced inhibition at extracellular acidic pH values relative to physiologic pH. This property should render these compounds more effective inhibitors of N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors at synapses responding to a high frequency of action potentials, since glutamate-containing vesicles are acidic within their lumen. In addition, acidification of penumbral regions around ischemic tissue should also enhance selective drug action for improved neuroprotection. The aryl piperazine we describe here shows strong neuroprotective actions with minimal side effects in preclinical studies. The clinical candidate molecule NP10679 has high oral bioavailability with good brain penetration and is suitable for both intravenous and oral dosing for therapeutic use in humans. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: This study identifies a new series of glutamate N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor subunit 2B-selective negative allosteric modulators with properties appropriate for clinical advancement. The compounds are more potent at acidic pH, associated with ischemic tissue, and this property should increase the therapeutic safety of this class by improving efficacy in affected tissue while sparing NMDA receptor block in healthy brain.
Interruptions as collaborative grappling with time

Teachers face dilemmas of justice throughout their day that call for ethical decisions. Recent projects have focused on how teachers can be supported in making these decisions. In this paper we dra...
Experimental and Theoretical Analysis of Backscattering Mechanisms in Fiber-Reinforced Composites

For the purpose of ultrasonic backscatter measurements, a material can be considered homogeneous if the signals received from scattering by microstructure are below the detection sensitivity of the ultrasonic instrumentation. This condition exists when 1) microstructural inhomogeneities in density and/or elastic properties are sufficiently small (weak scattering), or 2) all the characteristic dimensions of the internal structure are sufficiently small (long wavelength scattering). The ultrasonic inspection of homogeneous materials for abnormalities is generally straightforward; if scattering is detected, it may be assumed that a flaw is present. The inspection of structurally inhomogeneous materials such as fiber reinforced composites, however, is complicated by the need to discriminate between scattering from nondefective microstructure, and from defects such as cracks, porosity, inclusion, etc. Thus the development of ultrasonic NDE techniques for fiber reinforced composites requires first a careful examination of the scattering characteristics of the defect-free composite microstructure, followed by an examination of the changes in the defect-free scattering characteristics caused by the introduction of defects.
Synthesis of Macromolecules by Escherichia coli near the Minimal Temperature for Growth

When a culture of Escherichia coli ML30 growing exponentially at 37 C in a glucose minimal medium was shifted abruptly to 10 C, growth decreased for about 4.5 hr. There was no net synthesis of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), ribonucleic acid (RNA), and protein. The cells, however, respired at a rate characteristic of cells growing in the steady state at 10 C and were able to accumulate alpha-methyl-d-glucoside. When growth recommenced at 10 C, protein synthesis started at 4 hr, RNA synthesis, with a burst at 6 hr, and DNA synthesis, with a burst at 7 hr. One synchronous division occurred at about 11 hr after shifting to 10 C. There was no alteration in the steady-state RNA to protein ratio. The results are discussed in relation to other reported effects of shifts in environmental conditions. The lag at 10 C was dependent on prior conditions of growth at 37 C. Growth at 37 C under conditions giving catabolite repression were necessary for the lag to be established on shifting to 10 C.
Shared prosperity : links to growth, inequality and inequality of opportunity

Focusing on the welfare of the less well off as a measure of real societal progress is the fundamental principle underlying the WBG indicator of "shared prosperity" , namely income growth of the bottom 40 percent in every country. This paper uses a database assembled by the World Bank Group to investigate some basic characteristics of shared prosperity, particularly its relationship with overall economic growth and inequality. Initial estimates using this dataset of 79 countries show that median income growth of the bottom 40 percent (circa 2005-2010) was 4.2 percent, a high number in comparison to the 3.1 percent per capita income growth of the overall population. In addition, the low and lower-middle income countries appear to be trailing the upper middle and high income countries in boosting shared prosperity. Establishing conceptual links between income growth of the bottom 40 percent, the overall growth rate and reviewing existing evidence on how these relate to inequality, the paper discusses two main ideas. First, shared prosperity is strongly correlated with overall prosperity implying that the whole host of policies that are important to generate and sustain growth remain relevant. Second, boosting shared prosperity will also require a concerted effort to strengthen the social contract, particularly in the area of promoting equality of opportunity. Growing evidence suggests that improving access for all and reducing inequality of opportunities -- particularly those related to human capital development of children -- are not only about "fairness" and building a "just society" , but also about realizing a society's aspirations of economic prosperity.
Scale-Free Models of Elliptical Galaxies

In this note I will report the general character of all scale-free solutions of the collisionless Boltzmann and Poisson equations for a specific shape. In this case, the density falls as r-2. along any radial ray, the potential is logarithmic with oblate spheroidal level surfaces, and the flattening corresponds to an E5 or E6 density distribution (see Richstone 1980, hereafter Paper I). Schwarzschild’s (1979) method was used. Toomre (1982) has recently discussed the properties of scale free models of this sort with distribution functions dependent on only the two classical isolating integrals. The method used here automatically incorporates the third integral.
General Relativity and Our View of the Physical Universe

The task that I have set myself is to review some of the aspects of my own chosen field of research, general relativity, that attracted me to that theory in the first place, that is to say, its contributions to our general view of the physical universe.
Large esophageal liposarcoma: a case report and review of the literature.

Abstract Liposarcoma is one of the most common neoplasms of adulthood. However, it is exceedingly rare in the gastrointestinal tract. To our knowledge, only 12 cases occurring in the esophagus have been reported in the world literature to date. We report the case of a 42-year-old man with a pleomorphic liposarcoma arising in the esophageal wall. The morphologic, immunophenotypic, and ultrastructural characteristics are presented, as well as the results of literature review.
Genética de la obesidad

Summary Obesity is the excessive deposition of adipose tissue resulting of energy imbalance. The changes in food availability and characteristics, as well as the decrease in physical activity during the last decades have favored the energy imbalance causing that energy intake exceeds energy expenditure. This trend has been observed in all age groups across different countries. The response to environmental changes affecting diet and physical activity is widely diverse and certain subjects and populations seem to be more prone to develop obesity and its related comorbidities. In early onset obesity it is important to differentiate between obesity due to rare genetic abnormalities from the common forms. Numerous genetic abnormalities are characterized by obesity. In some cases, single gene mutations can have a very important effect on body mass index (BMI). The present manuscript addresses the rare and common forms of obesity with special regard to observations in children. It also discusses different methodological approaches currently used for the study of genetic factors influencing common obesity or variation in BMI, including the candidate gene approach, genome scan, genomewide association studies and gene expression studies. Nowadays obesity is considered a complex disease with a polygenic background. Some gene variants have been associated with common obesity and variation in BMI. However, the effects observed seem to be minor and replications in different populations are required to confirm the effect of the identified alleles and to establish the mechanisms that explain their contribution to obesity.
Influence of gestational age and postnatal age on speech sound processing in NICU infants

The study examined the effect of gestational (GA) and postnatal (PNA) age on speech sound perception in infants. Auditory ERPs were recorded in response to speech sounds (CV syllables) in 50 infant NICU patients (born at 24–40 weeks gestation) prior to discharge. Efficiency of speech perception was quantified as absolute difference in mean amplitudes of ERPs in response to vowel (/a/–/u/) and consonant (/b/–/g/, /d/–/g/) contrasts within 150–250, 250–400, 400–700 ms after stimulus onset. Results indicated that both GA and PNA affected speech sound processing. These effects were more pronounced for consonant than vowel contrasts. Increasing PNA was associated with greater sound discrimination in infants born at or after 30 weeks GA, while minimal PNA-related changes were observed for infants with GA less than 30 weeks. Our findings suggest that a certain level of brain maturity at birth is necessary to benefit from postnatal experience in the first 4 months of life, and both gestational and postnatal ages need to be considered when evaluating infant brain responses.
Ascorbate Modulates 5-[3H]Hydroxytryptamine Binding to Central 5-HT3 Sites in Bovine Frontal Cortex

: Ascorbate is present in millimolar concentrations in mammalian brain and can be released from cellular stores by membrane depolarization. We report here that physiologically relevant concentrations of ascorbate modulate 5-[3H]hydroxytryptamine ([3H]5-HT) binding to bovine frontal cortex membranes. Under conditions where [3H]5-HT binding is reversible and saturable, ascorbate causes a concentration-dependent increase in the affinity of [3H]5-HT for central 5-HT3 binding sites. At pH 7.4, increasing ascorbate from 0 to 5.7 mM changes the equilibrium affinity constant (KD) of binding to 5-HT3 sites from 125 nM to 30 nM, without affecting binding site number. These ascorbate-induced effects are pH dependent. At pH 7.1 binding to central 5-HT3 sites is essentially eliminated in the presence of ascorbate. These studies suggest that ascorbate and hydrogen ion concentration interactions may modulate serotonergic function.
More evidence for the universality of a contempt expression

Since its publication in 1986, Ekman and Friesen's (1986) discovery of a universal facial expression unique to contempt has received considerable attention (e.g., see Ekman & Friesen, 1988; Ekman & Heider, 1988; Ekman, O'Sullivan, & Matsumoto, 1991a, 1991b; Izard & Haynes, 1988; Russell, 1991a, 1991b; Ricci Bitti, Brighetti, Garotti, Boggi-Cavallo, 1989). Actually, much of this argument began before there was adequate sampling of contempt photographs across many cultures. In order to address this concern, this study reports judgment data on all 12 photos used in previous studies depicting the contempt expression from four non-American cultures. The data provide a strong replication of Ekman and Friesen's (1986) and Ekman and Heider's (1988) findings for a universal expression of contempt.
Bubble characteristics in three-phase systems used for pulp and paper processing

Experiments are conducted to study the hydrodynamic behavior of three-phase pulp slurry systems at consistencies ranging from 0.1 to 1.0% (weight percent pulp). The pulp phase is a low-density fibrous material which swells to several times its original volume in water. The overall hydrodynamic behavior, including the regime transitions, of a multi-bubble, three-phase pulp slurry is studied by measuring the overall gas holdup and by using a light transmittance probe to determine the bubble characteristics. The results demonstrate that the hydrodynamic behavior of a three-phase pulp slurry varies from the behavior of a gas-liquid system. The deviation in the behavior becomes more pronounced as the pulp consistency increases. The bubble characteristics of bubbles injected through a single bubble injector are studied in a small rectangular column through the use of flow visualization and a particle image velocimetry technique. The measured change in the behavior of single bubbles injected into the pulp slurry through a single injector, is the basis for a proposed mechanism for the increased bubble coalescence in a multi-bubble system.
Modeling Respect by Teaching About Race and Ethnic Identity in the Social Studies

Abstract “Respecting students means affirming who they are—including their race and ethnicity. To ignore the race and ethnicity of students is to disrespect them.” This is the position of the social studies teacher in the case study reported here. She demonstrates respect for her students by facilitating their ethnic identity development through the social studies curriculum. Ethnic identity development is a critical process with which students wrestle in school and requires assistance from teachers. I conducted this study to investigate 1) teachers' conceptions of their role as facilitator of students' ethnic identity development, and 2) how teachers were facilitating or might facilitate the ethnic identity development of their students. This study revealed that when social studies teachers see connections between social studies and race and ethnic identity, they are more likely to facilitate students' ethnic identity development through curriculum. This case shows social educators how they might prepare...
Toothcomb homology and toothcomb function in extant strepsirhines

Contrary to some recent assertions, there are no persuasive ways for determining the homologies of indriid toothcomb teeth and the resulting dental formulas. Most of the presumably distinctive features of procumbent “canines” are also seen in incisors, and vice versa. Thus, there are at least three plausible dental formulas for indriid deciduous teeth and two for the permanent dentition. All formulas are compatible with the distribution of teeth in fossil strepsirhines. Similar arguments apply to strepsirhine toothcombs as a whole, but the absence of three-incisored ancestors in the fossil record strongly supports the conclusion that the dental formula of nonindriids is 2.1.3.3. for the lower dentition. There are also alternative interpretations of the original function of the toothcomb. Recent arguments which purport to demonstrate that the toothcomb evolved originally as a sap-feeding adaptation fail that purpose. The ontogeny of infant lemur behavior suggests that the original function involved grooming rather than feeding if the data are interpreted in a Haeckelian context.
Composition of a soybean oil of abnormally low iodine number

Oil from Dunfield soybeans (Columbia, Mo., 1936) having a very low iodine value, has been examined. Comparison of the constants of this abnormal oil with normal soybean oils indicates no significant differences except in iodine value and refractive index. Based on the calculated composition of the unsaturated acids, the abnormal oil appears to contain a higher percentage of oleic acid, and a lower percentage of linoleic and linolenic acids, than do normal oils. The lowered iodine value does not appear to be correlated with any increase in the stability of the hydrogenated product. The abnormality is attributed to an accumulation of unfavorable varietal, climatic, and pedological factors.
Old Age Support: Expectations and Experiences in a South Indian Village

Future expectations of support in old age and current conditions of living among the elderly are analysed in the context of changing socio-economic structures in a South Indian village. Evidence shows that the traditional means of support – sons – are becoming less reliable. The experience of the elderly, on the other hand, shows that the elderly are in a worse economic situation than would be expected from the Indian cultural ideal. In particular, the poor and women are most affected in terms of old-age support. The evidence about the link between fertility and old-age support suggests a middle position in the Cain-Vlassoff debate. While existing living conditions make children the main source of support in old age, they are becoming less reliable as a result of recent economic and social changes.
The possible biological rôle of an isoxanthopterin-binding protein isolated from Oncopeltus embryos

Abstract A specific isoxanthopterin-binding protein varies in amount during embryogenesis in Oncopeltus in a manner consistent with its functioning as a regulator of RNA synthesis. The complex also appears to facilitate the binding of isoxanthopterin to DNA, and it causes an inhibition of Form I RNA polymerase activity assayed in intact nuclei. It is suggested that this protein complex exercises a regulatory function in RNA synthesis in Oncopeltus embryos.
Protein metabolism in the extremely low-birth weight infant.

Abstract Although extensive data are available on the impact of nutrient and protein administration on growth, plasma amino acids, and nitrogen balance in the newborn and growing infants, relatively few studies have carefully examined the dynamic aspects of protein metabolism in vivo and particularly in the micropremie or ELBW infant. These studies show that the very preterm infants, either because of immaturity or because of the intercurrent illness, have high rates of protein turnover and protein breakdown. This high rate of proteolysis is not as responsive to nutrient administration. Intervention strategies aimed at promoting nitrogen accretion, such as insulin, human growth hormone, or glutamine, have not thus far resulted in enhanced protein accretion and growth. This may be, in part, due to limitations in delivery of adequate calorie and nitrogen.
Stem cell therapy and curcumin synergistically enhance recovery from spinal cord injury.

Acute traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) is marked by the enhanced production of local cytokines and pro-inflammatory substances that induce gliosis and prevent reinnervation. The transplantation of stem cells is a promising treatment strategy for SCI. In order to facilitate functional recovery, we employed stem cell therapy alone or in combination with curcumin, a naturally-occurring anti-inflammatory component of turmeric (Curcuma longa), which potently inhibits NF-κB. Spinal cord contusion following laminectomy (T9–10) was performed using a weight drop apparatus (10 g over a 12.5 or 25 mm distance, representing moderate or severe SCI, respectively) in Sprague-Dawley rats. Neural stem cells (NSC) were isolated from subventricular zone (SVZ) and transplanted at the site of injury with or without curcumin treatment. Functional recovery was assessed by BBB score and body weight gain measured up to 6 weeks following SCI. At the conclusion of the study, the mass of soleus muscle was correlated with BBB score and body weight. Stem cell therapy improved recovery from moderate SCI, however, it had a limited effect on recovery after severe SCI. Curcumin stimulated NSC proliferation in vitro, and in combination with stem cell therapy, induced profound recovery from severe SCI as evidenced by improved functional locomotor recovery, increased body weight, and soleus muscle mass. These findings demonstrate that curcumin in conjunction with stem cell therapy synergistically improves recovery from severe SCI. Furthermore, our results indicate that the effect of curcumin extends beyond its known anti-inflammatory properties to the regulation of stem cell proliferation.
Spectrum splitting photovoltaics: Polyhedral specular reflector design for ultra-high efficiency modules

A design for ultra-high efficiency solar modules (>50%) using spectrum splitting is proposed. In the polyhedral specular reflector design, seven subcells are arranged around a solid parallelepiped. Incident light enters the parallelepiped and is directed via specular reflection onto each subcell in order from highest to lowest bandgap. We analyze optical losses due to external concentration and parasitic absorption and optimize the design for >50% module efficiency. We find that moderate concentration designs (90-170x) with a high index parallelepiped and perfect shortpass filters meet target efficiencies and demonstrate an initial design.
Remodeling Dendritic Spines of Dentate Granule Cells in Temporal Lobe Epilepsy Patients and the Rat Pilocarpine Model

Purpose: To study when dendritic alteration can occur in the epileptic hippocampus and how it is influenced by epileptic axonal reorganization. Methods: Human specimens and the rat pilocarpine model were used. Dentate granule cells (DGCs) were visualized by intracellular biocytin injection for spine count. Results: In the rat pilocarpine model, dendrites of DGCs revealed a generalized spine loss immediately after the acute status epilepticus induced by pilocarpine. However, this generalized damage was transient and was followed by recovery and plastic changes in spine shape and density, which occurred 15 to 35 days after the initial acute status, i.e., during the period of establishing a chronic phase of this model with the induction of spontaneous seizures. In human epileptic hippocampi, spine density was significantly higher when DGCs generated aberrant mossy fiber collaterals. This was particularly so in the proximal dendrite of DGCs, where the aberrant collaterals were densely localized. These findings suggest that initial acute seizures do not cause permanent damage in dendrites and spines of DGCs and that dendritic spines of epileptic neurons can respond to changes in the local cellular environment, including newly formed afferents, in a plastic manner. Conclusion: Dendritic spines are dynamically maintained in chronic epilepsy during the course of establishment and maintenance of spontaneous seizures. Local dendritic spine alteration, detected later in the chronic phase of epilepsy, must have a separate cause from initial acute insults.
Fast structural dynamics in reduced and oxidized cytochrome c

The sub-nanosecond structural dynamics of reduced and oxidized cytochrome c were characterized. Dynamic properties of the protein backbone measured by amide 15N relaxation and side chains measured by the deuterium relaxation of methyl groups change little upon change in the redox state. These results imply that the solvent reorganization energy associated with electron transfer is small, consistent with previous theoretical analyses. The relative rigidity of both redox states also implies that dynamic relief of destructive electron transfer pathway interference is not operational in free cytochrome c.
Diffraction microcomputed tomography of an Al-matrix SiC-monofilament composite

The structure of an SiC-monofilament-reinforced Al-matrix composite was reconstructed using diffraction rings from these two phases. A 65 keV X-ray beam with 15 µm width (horizontal) and 150 µm length (vertical) was scanned across the specimen in 15 µm steps. A 2° rotation about the vertical rotation axis was used between projections, and filtered back projection reconstructions were created with 15 × 15 µm in-plane and 150 µm out-of-plane volume elements (voxels). The integrated intensities of the 11.0, 10.1 and 10.2 SiC and the 111, 200 and 220 Al diffraction rings were used to produce six independent reconstructions. The transmitted-intensity reconstruction agreed with that of higher resolution, absorption-contrast synchrotron microcomputed tomography. The Al reconstructions showed the effect of large grains, and the SiC reconstructions revealed the two microstructural zones in the fibers.
TWO-PHASE MODEL FOR BINARY SOLID-LIQUID PHASE CHANGE, PART I: GOVERNING EQUATIONS

The purpose of this two-part paper is to outline a complete two-phase flow methodology for analyzing solid— liquid phase change in binary materials. The distinctive features of the two-phase model are (1) the equations for conservation of mass, momentum, species, and energy are solved for each phase in conjunction with suitable interfacial exchange terms; (2) the local solidification rate is determined via the requirement of simultaneous heat and mass balance at the interface; and (3) there is a provision for actually computing the motion of the solid phase. These features provide the two-phase methodology with a much greater modeling capability as compared to a single-phase mixture model. Here, in part I of the paper, the basic equations of the two-phase model and the general formulation of the interfacial exchange terms are provided. Also, a general solution scheme for the interfacial equations is outlined. In part II of the paper, some applications of the model are illustrated.
Chemistry of Oceanic Particulate Matter and Sediments: Implications for Bottom Sediment Resuspension

Analyses of suspended particulate matter from the eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean have defined a 400-meter-thick benthic nepheloid layer enriched in aluminum, silicon, iron, and manganese relative to the overlying waters. Chemical mass-balance calculations suggest that the concentration increases in the benthic nepheloid layer are due to resuspension from the fraction of the local bottom sediments in the size range ≥1 micrometer.
The nurse practitioner's role in helping patients achieve lipid goals with statin therapy.

Purpose To discuss the merits of statins in achieving lipid goals and the role of nurse practitioners (NPs) in improving adherence to medical regimens with the goals of improving patient outcomes, reducing cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk within the population at large, and enhancing patients’ ability to reach their individual goals. Data sources Original research articles, journal articles, professional association practice guidelines. Conclusions Despite extensive research clearly documenting the relation between lowering low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and decreasing rates of cardiovascular events and deaths, lipid-lowering therapy is not being aggressively managed to achieve optimal lipid levels and CVDs remain the leading cause of death among adults in the United States. Contributing factors include lack of patient adherence with prescribed therapy, absence of dose titration when needed, and suboptimal follow-up. Two pathways to improving compliance are the following: first, use of a starting dose of a more efficacious statin to allow more patients to reach their LDL-C goal and, second, more effective primary care programs with NPs as team leaders who can assess and diagnose patients, then develop individual treatment plans and follow-up with patients to ensure that their lipid goals are met. Implications for practice NPs are well suited to manage patients with hypercholesterolemia. The NP can bridge all aspects of care for the patient by overseeing assessment and treatment of cardiovascular risk factors, including elevated levels of LDL-C, initiating pharmacotherapy when needed, and establishing for each patient an individualized program that features education, support, and follow-up.
Ten weeks of rapid ventricular pacing creates a long-term model of left ventricular dysfunction☆

Abstract Objective: Rapid ventricular pacing produces a reliable model of heart failure. Cessation after 4 weeks of rapid ventricular pacing results in rapid normalization of left ventricular function, but the left ventricle remains persistently dilated. We present novel data that show that prolonged rapid ventricular pacing (10 weeks) creates a model of chronic left ventricular dysfunction. Methods: In 9 dogs undergoing 10 weeks of rapid ventricular pacing, left ventricular function and volumes were serially assessed by using 2-dimensional echocardiography and pressure-volume analysis for 12 weeks after cessation of pacing. Results: Increased end-diastolic volume and decreased systolic and diastolic function were seen at the end of pacing. By 2 weeks of recovery from rapid ventricular pacing, end-diastolic volume and ejection fraction were partially recovered but did not improve further thereafter. Load-independent and load-sensitive indices of function obtained by pressure-volume analysis at 8 and 12 weeks of recovery confirmed a persistence of both systolic and diastolic dysfunction. In addition, left ventricular mass increased with pacing and remained elevated at 8 and 12 weeks of recovery. Four of these dogs studied at 6 months of recovery showed similar left ventricular abnormalities. Conclusion: Ten weeks of rapid ventricular pacing creates a long-term model of left ventricular dysfunction. (J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2000;119:834-41)
Superrigidity, ratner’s theorem, and fundamental groups

We discuss the implications of superrigidity and Ratner’s theorem on invariant measures on homogeneous spaces for understanding the fundamental group of manifolds with an action of a semisimple Lie group.
Thermal plasma materials processing—Applications and opportunities

Thermal plasma processing of materials is a rapidly growing area of research. The commercialization of these processes, however, has been limited by the lack of fundamental understanding of how the various processes work. Research has historically focused on developing models of fluid flow and heat transfer to particles injected into either DC arc or RF plasma jets. These models in the past have simplified boundary conditions to meet computational limitations. Recent advances in models have now been made, allowing evaluations of more of the plasma process variables. Supersonic flow modeling in a DC jet and modeling of the effects of particle loading (particulate feed rate) have been accomplished and are reviewed here. Materials processing using thermal plasmas has been separated into the categories of synthesis, melting, and deposition, and is discussed in view of the processing effects on the resultant material structures. Process modeling leading to process understanding is reviewed with an emphasis on process control and optimization. Commercialization of plasma processes requires controls and process transducers which result from experimentation and process models. Approaches to develop process controls from the current technical base are presented.
Forage Production and Nutritive Value of Three Lespedeza Cultivars Intercropped into Continuous No-Till Winter Wheat

Annual lespedezas [Kummerowia stipulacea (Maxim) Makino] have the potential to produce high quality forage during late summer when warm season forages are low in production and quality. A field study was conducted from 1992 through 1994 to determine DM, N, and digestible dry matter (DDM) production of three annual lespedeza cultivars (Korean, Kobe, and Marion). These cultivars were intercropped into two different continuous winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) production systems. Wheat was established in the fall under low tillage procedures in a 24-arce field, and grazed by steers from mid-November to mid-March at a stocking rate of I steer/acre. Before the wheat had reached the jointing stage, small plots were identified within the 24-acre wheat field. Inoculated lespedeza seeds were sown into the standing winter wheat in these plots, but grazing was continued on the plots and the field. At jointing, grazing was terminated on half of the plots (UNGRAZED), while the other half of the plots were grazed (GRAZED) until early May. Samples of lespedeza were collected at 18 to 20 d intervals beginning in late-June and ending in late-September, in time for the next wheat crop to be planted. All treatments were fixed in space and repeated on the same plots each year. Data were analyzed within year as a randomized complete block with cultivar as the main effect. In 1993 and 1994 Kobe produced DM, N, and DDM more (P < 0.05) under the UNGRAZED than the GRAZED management system. Management system had no effect on DM, N or DDM yield of Korean. When precipitation was above normal, Marion yielded more (P < 0.05) DM in the UNGRAZED plots than in the GRAZED plots, but Marion yield was inferior to that of Kobe and Korean under dry conditions. These results suggest that lespedeza can be intercropped in winter wheat to produce high quality forage during the summer. The availability of high quality forage, especially in late summer, can add sustainability to the livestock component of integrated livestock and winter wheat production systems in the southern Great Plains (SGP).
Transport Considerations in the Plasma-Assisted Oxidation of Copper Films

The oxidation of copper films in a helical resonator oxygen discharge was performed over the temperature range of 150 to 300°C. Significant increases in the oxidation rate relative to thermal oxidation are observed. Oxidation rates followed a parabolic rate expression, with a rate constant of 6.74 × 10 3 nm 2 /min at 250°C, and an effective activation energy over the temperature range studied of 0.58 eV. Marker experiments using either gold or molybdenum as the marker layer indicated that both oxygen and copper species transported during oxidation. The location of the copper/copper-oxide interface relative to the marker position demonstrated that copper is the primary transporting species responsible for oxidation, analogous to results reported for the thermal oxidation of copper at higher temperatures.
On the involvement of a glucose 6-phosphate transport system in the function of microsomal glucose 6-phosphatase.

A model for microsomal glucose 6-phosphatase (EC 3.1.3.9) is presented. Glucose 6-phosphatase is postulated to be resultant of the coupling of two components of the microsomal membrane: 1) a glucose 6-phosphate — specific transport system which functions to shuttle the sugar phosphate from the cytoplasm to the lumen of the endoplasmic reticulum; and 2) a catalytic component, glucose-6-P phosphohydrolase, bound to the luminal surface of the membrane. A large body of existing data was shown to be consistent with this hypothesis. In particular, the model reconciles well-documented differences in the kinetic properties of the enzyme of untreated and modified microsomal preparations. Characteristic responses of the enzyme to changes in nutritional and hormonal states may be attributed to adaptations which alter the relative capacities of the transport and catalytic components.
An In Vitro Study of Nano-fiber Polymers for Guided Vascular Regeneration

Biomaterials that successfully integrate into surrounding tissue should match not only the tissue’s mechanical properties, but also the dimensions of the associated nano-structured extra-cellular matrix (ECM) components. The goal of this research was to use these ideals to develop a synthetic, nano-structured, polymeric biomaterial that has cytocompatible and mechanical behaviors similar to that of natural vascular tissue. In a novel manner, poly-lactic acid/polyglycolic acid (PLGA) (50/50 wt.% mix) and polyurethane were separately synthesized to possess a range of fiber dimensions in the micron and nanometer regime. Preliminary results indicated that decreasing fiber diameter on both PLGA and PU enhanced arterial smooth muscle cell adhesion; specifically, arterial smooth muscle cell adhesion increased 23% when PLGA fiber dimensions decreased from 500 to 50 nm and increased 76% on nano-structured, compared to conventional structured, polyurethane. However, nano-structured PLGA decreased endothelial cell adhesion by 52%, whereas adhesion of these same cells was increased by 50% on polyurethane. For these reasons, the presentin vitro study provides the first evidence that polymer fiber dimensions can be used to selectively control cell functions for vascular prosthesis.
Origin and Tectonic Significance of High Fluid Pressures, Central Valley and Coast Range, California: ABSTRACT

Abnormally high fluid pressures exist within the Cretaceous sediments of the Sacramento Valley and probably exist within similar sediments of the San Joaquin Valley. The existing fluid potential distribution and chemistry of the pore waters strongly suggest that the abnormally high fluid potentials result from tectonic compaction stemming from continuous uplift of the California Coast Range, at least from late Tertiary into Recent time. This uplift has squeezed, as in a closing vice, the prism of Mesozoic sediments within and between the rising Coast Range and the relatively stable Sierran basement. The distribution of these high fluid potentials, laterally and with depth, suggests that the great majority of the Mesozoic sediments occupying the Coast Range has fluid press res which approximate those exerted by the lithostatic load. Low-angle thrusting may be an important future structural event of this region as a result thereof. The production of such high fluid potentials by regional tectonic compaction may be a normal occurrence during the regional uplift of a geosynclinal system. End_of_Article - Last_Page 335------------
Free modeling with Rosetta in CASP6

We describe Rosetta predictions in the Sixth Community-Wide Experiment on the Critical Assessment of Techniques for Protein Structure Prediction (CASP), focusing on the free modeling category. Methods developed since CASP5 are described, and their application to selected targets is discussed. Highlights include improved performance on larger proteins (100–200 residues) and the prediction of a 70-residue alpha–beta protein to near-atomic resolution. Proteins 2005;Suppl 7:128–134. © 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Part I. The Delivery of Information Services within a Changing Information Environment. The Changing Information Environment.

The changing information environment has dramatically affected the nature of work. In this article we outline how current divisions in the information infrastructure produce an impact on the ability of knowledge workers to integrate information across media and sources of information