cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Seasonal Climatology of Rossby Wave Breaking in the 320–2000-K Layer

Abstract Differential advection in Rossby waves can lead to potential vorticity (PV; P) contours on isentropic surfaces folding over in latitude (Py < 0) in a process called Rossby wave breaking (RWB). Exploring the properties of RWB may shed light on underlying dynamics and enable quantification of irreversible transport. A seasonal climatology of Py and RWB statistics is presented for the 320–850-K layer using NCEP reanalysis data during 1979–2005 and for the 320–2000-K layer using the Met Office (UKMO) data during 1991–2003. A primary goal is to depict the spatial extent and seasonality of RWB maxima. This analysis shows seven distinct RWB regimes: poleward and equatorward of the subtropical westerly jets, poleward and equatorward of the stratospheric polar night jets, flanking the equator in the stratosphere and mesosphere, equatorward of subtropical monsoon anticyclones, and the summertime polar stratosphere. A striking PV gradient maximum exists at the equator throughout the layer 360–2000 K, flanke...
Long-term results of suprapubic bladder neck closure for treatment of the devastated outlet

Abstract Objectives To assess the long-term success of suprapubic bladder neck closure in patients with irreparably damaged bladder outlets. Methods A cohort of 35 patients with intractable urinary incontinence secondary to severe posterior urethral/bladder neck damage underwent suprapubic bladder neck closure. Patients were assessed with regard to the success of procedure, as well as early and late complications. Results With a mean follow-up of 79 months (range 12 to 164), suprapubic bladder neck closure was successful in 29 (83%) of 35 patients. One revision of the bladder neck improved the success rate to 94% (33 of 35). Early and late complications, excluding bladder neck fistula, were reported in 3 (9%) and 5 (14%) of 35 patients, respectively. Conclusions High success and acceptable complication rates can be achieved with suprapubic bladder neck closure for the treatment of severe urinary incontinence secondary to a devastated bladder outlet.
Crystal structure of E47-NeuroD1/beta2 bHLH domain-DNA complex: heterodimer selectivity and DNA recognition.

The ubiquitous class I basic helix−loop−helix (bHLH) factor E47 forms heterodimers with multiple tissue specific class II bHLH proteins to regulate distinct differentiation pathways. In order to define how class I− class II heterodimer partners are selected, we determined the crystal structure of the E47−NeuroD1-bHLH dimer in complex with the insulin promoter E-box sequence. Purification of the bHLH domain of E47−NeuroD1 indicates that E47 heterodimers are stable in solution. The interactions between E47 and NeuroD1 in the heterodimer are comparable to the interactions between E47 monomers in the homodimer, including hydrogen bonding, buried hydrophobic surface, and packing interactions. This is consistent with a model in which E47−NeuroD1 heterodimers are favored due to the instability of NeuroD1 homodimers. Although E47−NeuroD1 is oriented uniquely on the E-box sequence (CATCTG) within the promoter of the insulin gene, no direct contacts are observed with the central base pairs within this E-box sequenc...
Implant site development using ridge splitting techniques.

There are several techniques available to enhance bone volume for implant placement. These procedures include bone grafting, guided bone regeneration, and distraction osteogenesis. Expansion of the existing residual ridge is another method to prepare the atrophic maxilla and mandible for implant insertion and augmentation. This approach has been referred to as ridge splitting, bone spreading, ridge expansion, or the osteotome technique. The choice of treatment depends on numerous variables including clinician training and preference, anatomic region, degree of atrophy, arch relationships, prosthetic goals, esthetic demands, economics, and healing time requirements (Table 1). This article reviews indications, limitations, patient evaluation, surgical approaches, and complications associated with ridge splitting techniques.
Anetoderma: biochemical and ultrastructural demonstration of an elastin defect in the skin of three patients.

Abstract Three patients with localized cutaneous lesions characteristic of anetoderma were studied. Clinically, the onset of the disease was between the ages of 17 and 25, and numerous flaccid, saclike skin lesions developed over several subsequent years. Histologically, the lesions were characterized by paucity and fragmentation of the elastic fibers. Electron microscopy demonstrated that the elastic fibers, both in papillary and deep reticular dermis in the lesional skin, were fragmented and irregular in appearance. The concentration of elastin, determined by a radioimmunoassay of desmosine, an elastin-specific cross-link compound, was markedly reduced in the lesions, as compared with unaffected skin from the same patients or with normal skin from unrelated control subjects. In contrast, the concentrations of hydroxy pro line, an index of collagen, or deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), a measure of cellularity, were not changed in the lesions. Thus, the results indicate that in the three patients studied, the elastic fibers are defective and reduced in quantity. These observations suggest that the deficiency of elastin in the dermis may lead to development of the cutaneous lesions of anetoderma.
Effects of soil fertility on growth, nutrient concentration and mycorrhizal development of Liriodendron tulipifera seedlings inoculated with the vesicular-arbuscular fungus, Glomus fasciculatus

Abstract Seedlings were grown in 3.28-liter containers under greenhouse conditions and were inoculated with the vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus, Glomus fasciculatus (Thaxter) Gerdemann and Trappe. Inoculated and non-inoculated seedlings were treated with 0, 2 or 4 g l −1 nitrogen (N) as 19-6-12 controlled-release fertilizer. Mycorrhizal development increased growth of seedlings infected by G. fasciculatus at both 2 and 4 g l −1 N. Without supplemental fertilizer, there was no growth increase of mycorrhizally infected seedlings.
The association between human papillomavirus deoxyribonucleic acid status and the results of cytologic rescreening tests in young, sexually active women.

We examined the utility of cytologic rescreening tests in women who had positive test results for human papillomavirus deoxyribonucleic acid but who were diagnosed as having benign conditions at cytologic testing. One hundred twenty-five Papanicolaou smears from women who were screened for human papillomavirus deoxyribonucleic acid were sent routinely to a private laboratory for diagnoses. These slides were then reviewed independently by two pathologists who were blinded to the human papillomavirus deoxyribonucleic acid results. The effects of cytologic rescreening in cases of both positive and negative human papillomavirus deoxyribonucleic acid were assessed by calculating z scores. Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia was diagnosed in 40% by pathologist A and in 20% by pathologist B of the human papillomavirus-positive subjects compared with none diagnosed by the private cytology laboratory (z = 3.09, p &#x003C; 0.005 and z = 1.98, p
Adaptive significance of habitat selection by molting adult blue crabs, Callinectes sapidus (Rathbun) within a subestuary of central Chesapeake Bay

Abstract In the Rhode River subestuary, higher proportions of molting male blue crabs occupy a tidal creek, while molting and mating pubertal females are more common in the adjacent river basin. Predation pressure, mate availability, and physiological costs or benefits (competency to molt, survive ecdysis, and postmolt size increment) were estimated for these two habitats using a combination of caging and tethering techniques. Predation on molting crabs was less in the tidal creek, however, cannibalism may not explain these site-specific predation differences. There were no site-specific differences in survival, postmolt size increment, or competency for premolt crabs to molt when protected from predators. The results suggest that by molting in the creek males avoid higher predation in the river. Habitat selection by pubertal females may depend more on mate availability. Females may actively select the river or simply molt in the habitat in which they encounter a mate. Further experiments are needed to resolve the selection pressures eliciting the observed distribution of pubertal females.
Bone, Fat, and Body Composition: Evolving Concepts in the Pathogenesis of Osteoporosis

Disorders of body composition, including obesity and osteoporosis, have reached record proportions. Coincidentally, our understanding of the mechanisms controlling body mass also has greatly improved. Shared regulation at the hypothalamus and the bone marrow highlight major bone-fat interactions. The hypothalamus modulates fat and bone via the sympathetic nervous system by regulating appetite, insulin sensitivity, energy use, and skeletal remodeling. In the bone marrow, fat and bone cells arise from the same stem cells. Insights from disorders such as anorexia nervosa provide a new rationale for examining the mechanisms that link bone to fat. This article explores these relationships in the context of a new paradigm with implications for obesity and osteoporosis.
Military genomic testing: proportionality, expected benefits, and the connection between genotypes and phenotypes

Mehlman and Li offer a framework for approaching the bioethical issues raised by the military use of genomics that is compellingly grounded in both the contemporary civilian and military ethics of medical research, arguing that military commanders must be bound by the two principles of paternalism and proportionality. I agree fully. But I argue here that this is a much higher bar than we may fully realize. Just as the principle of proportionality relies upon a thorough assessment of harms caused and military advantage gained, the use of genomic research, on Mehlman and Li’s view, will require an accurate understanding of the connection between genotypes and phenotypes – accurate enough to ameliorate the risk undertaken by our armed forces in being subject to such research. Recent conceptual work in evolutionary theory and the philosophy of biology, however, renders it doubtful that such knowledge is forthcoming. The complexity of the relationship between genotypic factors and realized traits (the so-called ‘G→ Pm ap’) makes the estimation of potential military advantage, as well as potential harm to our troops, incredibly challenging. Such fundamental conceptual challenges call into question our ability to ever satisfactorily satisfy the demands of a sufficiently rigorous ethical standard.
A Sensitive and Biodegradable Pressure Sensor Array for Cardiovascular Monitoring

An array of highly sensitive pressure sensors entirely made of biodegradable materials is presented, designed as a single-use flexible patch for application in cardiovascular monitoring. The high sensitivity in combination with fast response time is unprecedented when compared to recent reports on biodegradable pressure sensors (sensitivity three orders of magnitude higher), as illustrated by pulse wave velocity measurements, toward hypertension detection.
Tropical lakes, copropel, and oil shale

During a long-continued study of the lacustrine beds of the Eocene Green River Formation, an attempt was made to interpret past events from observation of present-day processes. After a search of some 40 years, four lakes have been found that are producing a kind of organic ooze judged to be a modern analogue of the precursors of rich oil shale. Two of the lakes are in central Africa and two are in Florida. All four are shallow. The ooze in all four is predominantly algal, entirely in the form of minute fecal pellets, and does not decay in warm, wet, oxidizing environments. Several of the most unusual, mummified microorganisms found in the oil shale of the Green River are illustrated as testament to the inference that the organic oozes also were resistant to decay. Studies to determine why these algal oozes do not decay are in progress, but as yet no satisfactory explanation is available.
Short Paper: A Signal Fingerprinting Paradigm for General Physical Layer and Sensor Network Security and Assurance

In this paper, we present a new paradigm for security in conventional networks that has dramatic implications for improving their physical layer network security. We call this paradigm, Detecting Intrusions at Layer ONe (DILON). DILONs enabling hypothesis is that the inherent variability in the construction of digital devices leads to significant variability in their analog signaling. This is true not only for different device models but even for nearly identical devices of the same manufacturing lot. The idea is that by oversampling digital signals to make analog measurements that constitute voiceprints of network devices. These form a profile that can be used for detecting MAC address spoofing, reconfiguration of network topologies, and in the long term possibly predict the failure of network devices. This paper discusses historic references and how digital networks enable new approaches as well as a number of applications.
Validation of the first and second components of the Heath-Carter modified somatotype method.

An attempt was made to validate the contention that the first and second components of the Heath-Carter somatotype system reflect relative fatness-leanness and lean body weight respectively. Heath-Carter somatotypes and underwater weighing determinations of percentage body fat and lean body weight were performed on 128 young women and 133 young men. The analysis of the resulting data indicated only a moderate relationship between the first component and percentage body fat and practically no relationship between the second component and lean body weight. Also, a fairly high correlation was found between the second and third somatotype components indicating a possible lack of discrimination between the two.
Outcomes by rescue shock number during the metabolic phase of porcine ventricular fibrillation resuscitation

Abstract Background Optimal resuscitation duration before the first rescue shock (RS) to maximize the probability of success after prolonged ventricular fibrillation (VF) cardiac arrest remains unknown. The purpose of this study was to determine the occurrence of return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) and survival by RS attempt after 12 minutes of untreated VF. Methods This was a secondary analysis of prospectively collected data from an institutional animal care and use committee-approved protocol. Fifty-three swine (30-35 kg) were instrumented under anesthesia. Ventricular fibrillation was electrically induced. After 12 minutes of untreated VF, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) was initiated (and continued as necessary (prn)) and a standard dose of epinephrine (0.01 mg/kg) was given (and repeated every 3 (q3) minutes prn). The first RS was delivered after 3 minutes of CPR (and q3 minutes thereafter prn). Each failed RS was followed (in series) by vasopressin (0.57 mg/kg), amiodarone (4.3 mg/kg), and sodium bicarbonate (1 mEq/kg) prn. Resuscitation continued until ROSC or 20-minute elapsed time. The primary outcomes were ROSC and 20-minute survival. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results After 3 minutes of resuscitation, 1 animal (1.9% [95% confidence interval {CI, 0.3-10.0]) achieved ROSC on RS 1 and survived. After 6 minutes of resuscitation, 17 animals (32.1% [95% CI, 21.1-45.5]) achieved ROSC on RS 2 and 15 (28.3% [95% CI, 18.0-41.6]) survived. Twelve additional animals had ROSC and survival with continued resuscitation. In 23 animals, ROSC was never achieved and efforts were terminated per protocol. Conclusion Our data suggest that during the metabolic phase of VF, 3 minutes of CPR and 1 standard dose of epinephrine may be insufficient to achieve ROSC on the first RS attempt. A longer duration of CPR and/or additional vasopressors may increase the likelihood of successful defibrillation.
Optical energy transfer in Quinizarin-doped solgel glasses

Optical energy transfer in solgel glasses doped with Quinizarin (1,4-dihydroxy-9,10-anthraquinone) is investigated by time-resolved fluorescence depolarization measurements. We observe nanosecond optical energy transfer and analyze these results in terms of the spatial distribution of chromophores in doped silicate and aluminosilicate porous xerogel glasses.
Use of heat release and an internal RNA standard control in reverse transcription-PCR detection of Norwalk virus from stool samples

Norwalk virus (NV) and the Norwalk-like viruses are important human pathogens that cause epidemic acute viral gastroenteritis. Current techniques used to recover NV from clinical samples involve multistep viral extraction and elution procedures with subsequent viral detection by reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR). In this study, a simple method using heat to recover viral RNA from 45 stool samples was compared to a conventional viral RNA extraction technique, with subsequent analysis by RT-PCR. In addition, we used an internal RNA standard for the detection of inhibitors present in processed samples. Our results indicate that the use of heat to recover NV RNA from stool samples has a sensitivity for the detection of NV RNA that is similar to the more labor-intensive, time-consuming, conventional RNA extraction technique. The use of an RNA internal standard permits the detection of inhibitors present in processed samples, allowing the identification of false negatives. The standard we developed has the advantage of allowing differential detection between wild-type viral RNA and standard using internal oligoprobe hybridization.
DRAMA IN SECOND LANGUAGE LEARNING FROM A PSYCHOLINGUISTIC PERSPECTIVE

This study lays the theoretical groundwork for a psycholinguistic understanding of drama in second language (L2) learning. That dramatic activities help L2 learners improve communicative competence was assumed for this study. An investigation into the use of drama in language education, psychotherapy, and speech therapy was then undertaken with the goal of discovering commonly shared assumptions which would provide insight into the psychological processes behind its use in L2 learning. The investigation led to the hypothesis that drama encourages the operation of certain psychological factors in the participant which facilitate communication: heightened self-esteem, motivation, and spontaneity; increased capacity for empathy; and lowered sensitivity to rejection. An exploratory study was undertaken on an informal basis. It consisted of administering a questionnaire to 24 nonnative English speakers enrolled in three ESL classes at UCLA who had participated in the same dramatic activities, and administering open-ended questions about the use of drama from the teacher's perspective to the instructors of these classes. The results of the exploratory study supported the hypothesis.
Conjugative co-transfer of penicillin tolerance and high-level resistance to kanamycin in group A streptococci

To understand further the association between high-level resistance to kanamycin and penicillin tolerance in group A streptococci, high-level resistance to kanamycin was transferred from a penicillin-tolerant group A streptococcal strain possessing a high-level resistance to kanamycin to a penicillin non-tolerant, kanamycin-susceptible group A streptococcal strain and transconjugants were examined for penicillin tolerance. Transfer of high-level resistance to kanamycin occurred at a frequency of 10−6. Transconjugants carrying high-level resistance to kanamycin exhibited characteristics of penicillin tolerance. These findings suggest that the genetic basis for penicillin tolerance is related to that for high-level resistance to kanamycin in group A streptococci. Further studies are needed to characterize the transferable genetic element(s).
Role of climate forecasts and initial conditions in developing streamflow and soil moisture forecasts in a rainfall–runoff regime

Skillful seasonal streamflow forecasts obtained from climate and land surface conditions could significantly improve water and energy management. Since climate fore- casts are updated on a monthly basis, we evaluate the po- tential in developing operational monthly streamflow fore- casts on a continuous basis throughout the year. Further, basins in the rainfall-runoff regime critically depend on the forecasted precipitation in the upcoming months as opposed to snowmelt regimes where initial hydrological conditions (IHC) play a critical role. The goal of this study is to quan- tify the role of updated monthly precipitation forecasts and IHC in forecasting 6-month lead monthly streamflow and soil moisture for a rainfall-runoff mechanism dominated basin - Apalachicola River at Chattahoochee, FL. The Vari- able Infiltration Capacity (VIC) land surface model is imple- mented with two forcings: (a) updated monthly precipitation forecasts from ECHAM4.5 Atmospheric General Circulation Model (AGCM) forced with sea surface temperature fore- casts and (b) daily climatological ensembles. The difference in skill between the above two quantifies the improvements that could be attainable using the AGCM forecasts. Monthly retrospective streamflow forecasts are developed from 1981 to 2010 and streamflow forecasts estimated from the VIC model are also compared with those predicted by using the principal component regression (PCR) model. The mean square error (MSE) in predicting monthly streamflows, using the VIC model, are compared with the MSE of streamflow climatology under ENSO (El Ni˜ no Southern Oscilation) con- ditions as well as under normal years. Results indicate that VIC forecasts obtained using ECHAM4.5 are significantly better than VIC forecasts obtained using climatological en- sembles and PCR models over 2-6 month lead time during winter and spring seasons in capturing streamflow variability and reduced mean square errors. However, at 1-month lead time, streamflow utilizing the climatological forcing scheme outperformed ECHAM4.5 based streamflow forecasts during winter and spring, indicating a dominant role of IHCs up to a 1-month lead time. During ENSO years, streamflow fore- casts exhibit better skill even up to a six-month lead time. Comparisons of the seasonal soil moisture forecasts, devel- oped using ECHAM4.5 forcings, with seasonal streamflows also show significant skill, up to a 6-month lead time, in the four seasons.
Drift controlled scalable wavelet based video coding in the overcomplete discrete wavelet transform domain

Traditional video coders use the previous frame to perform motion estimation and compensation. Though they are less complex and have minimum coding delays, these coders lose their efficiency when subjected to scalability requirements. Recent 3D wavelet coders using lifting schemes offer high compression efficiency and scalability without significant loss in performance. The main drawback of 3D coders is that they process several frames at a time. This introduces additional delay, which makes them less suitable for real time applications. In this work, we propose a novel scheme to minimize drift in scalable wavelet based video coding, which gives a balanced performance between compression efficiency and reconstructed quality with less drift. Our drift control mechanism maintains two frame buffers in the encoder and decoder; one that is based on the base layer and one that is based on the base plus enhancement layers. Drift control is achieved by switching between these two buffers for motion estimation and compensation. Our prediction is initially based on the base plus enhancement layers buffer, which inherently introduces drift in the system if a part of the enhancement layer is not available at the receiver. A measure of drift is computed based on the channel information and a threshold is set. When the measure exceeds the threshold, i.e., when drift becomes significant, we switch the prediction to be based on the base layer buffer, which is always available to the receiver. We also developed an adaptive scheme with additional computation overhead at the encoder to decide the switching instance. The performance of the threshold case that needs fewer computations is comparable with the adaptive scheme. Our coder offers high compression efficiency and sustained video quality for variable bit rate wireless channels. This proves that we need not completely eliminate drift and decrease compression efficiency to get better received video quality.
Analysis of tumor control and toxicity in patients who have survived at least one year after radiosurgery for brain metastases.

Abstract Purpose To better evaluate tumor control and toxicity from radiosurgery for brain metastases, we analyzed these outcomes in patients who had survived at least 1 year after radiosurgery. Methods and materials We evaluated the results of gamma knife stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for 208 brain metastases in 137 patients who were followed for a median of 18 months (range 12–122) after radiosurgery. The median patient age was 53 years (range 3–83). Ninety-nine patients had solitary metastases. Thirty-eight had multiple tumors. Sixty-nine patients underwent initial SRS with whole brain radiotherapy (WBRT), 39 had initial SRS alone, and 27 patients had failed prior WBRT. The median treatment volume was 1.9 cm 3 (range 0.05–21.2). The median marginal tumor dose was 16 Gy (range 12–25). The most common histologic types included non–small-cell lung cancer, breast cancer, melanoma, and renal cell carcinoma, which comprised 37.0%, 22.6%, 13.0%, and 9.13% of the lesions, respectively. Forty-five tumors were associated with extensive edema. Results At 1 and 5 years, the local tumor control rate was 89.6% ± 2.1% and 62.8% ± 6.9%, distal intracranial relapse occurred in 23% ± 3.6% and 67.1% ± 8.7%, and postradiosurgical sequelae developed in 2.8% ± 1.2% and 11.4% ± 3.5% of patients, respectively. Multivariate analysis found that local control decreased with tumor volume ( p = 0.0002), SRS without WBRT ( p = 0.008), and extensive edema ( p = 0.024); distal intracranial recurrence correlated with younger patient age ( p = 0.0018); and postradiosurgical sequelae increased with increasing tumor volume ( p = 0.0085). Conclusion Long-term control of brain metastases and complication rates in this selective series of patients surviving ≥1 year after radiosurgery were similar to previously reported actuarial estimates. Large metastases and metastases associated with extensive edema can be difficult to control by radiosurgery, particularly without WBRT.
Laser detection of radiation enhanced electron transport in ultra-thin oxides

Electron transport in a variable-thickness ultra-thin SiO2-on-Si structure (1.0–6.5 nm) is observed to be enhanced substantially by X-ray radiation-induced damage as detected by a novel fast-pulsed laser technique. This method involves optically stimulated electron injection into the oxide followed by detection of transport, trapping and recombination rates using time-dependent electric-field induced second-harmonic generation (EFISH) arising from charge separation at the interface. This detection technique provides a contactless, noninvasive alternative to electrical characterization.
Mixing and matching: Methods and models

To extend the conversation on mixing methods, we must look less at formal paradigms and more at the crude mental models and cases of evaluation practice.
3D human body model acquisition from multiple views

We present a novel motion-based approach for the part determination and shape estimation of a human's body parts. The novelty of the technique is that neither a prior model of the human body is employed nor prior body part segmentation is assumed. We present a human body part identification strategy (HBPIS) that recovers all the body parts of a moving human based on the spatiotemporal analysis of its deforming silhouette. We formalize the process of simultaneous part determination and 2D shape estimation by employing the supervisory control theory of discrete event systems. In addition, in order to acquire the 3D shape of the body parts, we present a new algorithm which selectively integrates the (segmented by the HBPIS) apparent contours, from three mutually orthogonal views. The effectiveness of the approach is demonstrated through a series of experiments, where a subject performs a set of movements according to a protocol that reveals the structure of the human body. >
The Vid Vesicle to Vacuole Trafficking Event Requires Components of the SNARE Membrane Fusion Machinery

The key gluconeogenic enzyme fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase (FBPase) is targeted to Vid vesicles when glucose-starved cells are replenished with glucose. Vid vesicles then deliver FBPase to the vacuole for degradation. A modified alkaline phosphatase assay was developed to study the trafficking of Vid vesicles to the vacuole. For this assay, FBPase was fused with a truncated form of alkaline phosphatase. Under in vivo conditions, FBPase-Δ60Pho8p was targeted to the vacuole via Vid vesicles, and it exhibited Pep4p- and Vid24p-dependent alkaline phosphatase activation. Vid vesicle-vacuole targeting was reconstituted using Vid vesicles that contained FBPase-Δ60Pho8p. These vesicles were incubated with vacuoles in the presence of cytosol and an ATP-regenerating system. Under in vitro conditions, alkaline phosphatase was also activated in a Pep4p- and Vid24p-dependent manner. The GTPase Ypt7p was identified as an essential component in Vid vesicle-vacuole trafficking. Likewise, a number of v-SNAREs (Ykt6p, Nyv1p, Vti1p) and homotypic fusion vacuole protein sorting complex family members (Vps39p and Vps41p) were required for the proper function of Vid vesicles. In contrast, the t-SNARE Vam3p was a necessary vacuolar component. Vid vesicle-vacuole trafficking exhibits characteristics similar to heterotypic membrane fusion events.
Flexural and Torsional Stiffness in Multi-Jointed Biological Beams

Flexibility, the ability to deform in response to loads, is a common property of biological beams. This paper investigates the mechanical behavior of multi-jointed beams, which are characterized by a linear series of morphologically similar joints. Flexural stiffness and torsional stiffness were measured in two structurally distinct beams, crinoid arms (Echinodermata, Comatulida) and crustacean antennae (Arthropoda, Decapoda). Morphological data from these beams were used to determine the relative contributions of beam diameter and joint density (number of joints per millimeter of beam length) to the flexural and torsional stiffness of these two structures. As predicted by beam theory, beam diameter influenced stiffness in both crinoid arms and crustacean antennae. In crinoid arms, increases in joint density were associated with decreases in stiffness, but joint density had no significant influence on stiffness in crustacean antennae. In both crinoid arms and crustacean antennae, the magnitudes of flexural and torsional stiffness, as well as the ratio of these two variables, were similar to previously reported values for non-jointed biological beams. These results suggest that the structural design of a biological beam is not a limiting factor determining its mechanical properties.
Self-Esteem Accessibility as Attitude Strength: On the Durability and Impactfulness of Accessible Self-Esteem:

The present research examines the accessibility of one’s self-esteem as a predictor of the “strength” (durability and impactfulness) of that self-esteem. Based on attitude accessibility research, the authors predicted that accessibility of self-esteem (i.e., a self-attitude) would be positively related to self-esteem’s ability to resist change and guide information processing. In Study 1, accessibility of self-esteem was positively related to resistance to change in a paradigm where participants listed either positive or negative self-attributes. Self-esteem was also associated with biases in judgments of ambiguous personality feedback (Study 2) and in explanatory style and future event predictions (Study 3), but did so to a greater extent as self-esteem accessibility increased. In addition, these patterns were obtained after controlling for other variables, including general reaction time, evaluative extremity, self-concept clarity, and self-esteem certainty. Results are discussed in relation to past lit...
Elucidating the pulsed-dye laser treatment of sebaceous hyperplasia in vivo with real-time confocal scanning laser microscopy.

Abstract Background: Several case reports document successful treatment of sebaceous hyperplasia with the pulsed-dye laser. Moreover, noninvasive real-time confocal laser scanning microscopy elucidates the vascular nature of these lesions and their pathophysiologic response to treatment mediated by vessel coagulation. Methods: Ten patients with 29 lesions of sebaceous hyperplasia were treated with 3 stacked 5-mm pulses of the 585-nm pulsed-dye laser at fluences of 7 or 7.5 J/cm 2 . Confocal imaging was performed before and immediately after treatment, as well as at 2, 4, and 8 weeks of follow-up. Results: The great majority of lesions responded to one treatment, with complete disappearance in 28%, decrease in diameter in 66%, and flattening in 93%. Although 28% recrudesced after initial involution, only 7% recurred completely. Three lesions became eroded or crusted, and 7 experienced cutaneous depressions before complete healing, but no scarring or pigmentary side effects were noted. Confocal imaging revealed a prominent "crown" of blood vessels surrounding the sebaceous duct and coagulation of these vessels with pulsed-dye laser treatment. However, the vessels reappeared during follow-up, and no noticeable morphologic changes in the sebaceous duct were noted. Conclusion: Vascular targeting of sebaceous hyperplasia can be monitored with real-time reflectance confocal microscopy. Most sebaceous hyperplasia regresses after one treatment with 3 stacked pulses of the 585-nm pulsed-dye laser. Whether this response is due to temporary ischemia induced by selective vessel destruction or nonspecific thermal diffusion beyond the vessels from pulse stacking has not been determined. (J Am Acad Dermatol 2000;43:49-53.)
Play analysis and leading-edge oil-reservoir development methods in the Permian basin: Increased recovery through advanced technologies

The Permian basin of west Texas and southeast New Mexico remains an important oil-producing province, accounting for 17% of United States production (327 million bbl) in 2002. With a resource base of such size, increased understanding of reservoir geology and improved use of enhanced-recovery practices in the basin can have a substantial impact on United States oil production. Thirty-two oil plays covering both the Texas and New Mexico portions of the Permian basin were defined on the basis of reservoir stratigraphy, lithology, depositional environment, and structural and tectonic setting. One thousand three hundred and thirty-nine significant-sized reservoirs (cumulative production of 1 million bbl [1.59 105 m3] of oil through 2000) were assigned to a geologic play. Cumulative production from these reservoirs was 28.9 billion bbl (4.59 109 m3), or 95% of the basin's total. Examples of successful reservoir-development practices are listed by play because methods demonstrated to work well in one reservoir should be applicable to other reservoirs in the play. The Permian basin is dominantly a carbonate province. Carbonate reservoirs account for 75% of total oil production; clastics, 14%; mixed clastics and carbonates, 8%; and chert, 3%. The plays having the largest cumulative production are the Northwest shelf San Andres platform carbonate play (4.0 billion bbl; 6.31 108 m3), the Leonard restricted platform carbonate play (3.3 billion bbl; 5.25 108 m3), the Pennsylvanian and Lower Permian Horseshoe atoll carbonate play (2.7 billion bbl; 4.29 108 m3), and the San Andres platform carbonate play (2.2 billion bbl; 3.42 108 m3). The Permian system dominates production, accounting for 73% of cumulative production, followed by the Pennsylvanian (13%) and the Ordovician (6%). The estimated remaining reserves from that component of the resource base that is already discovered and producing is 3.25 billion bbl (5.17 108 m3).
Quality-adjusted life years lost to arthritis: effects of gender, race,and social class.

Objective. To estimate the public health impact of self-reported arthritis in terms of Quality-Adjusted Life Years. Method. The Quality of Well-Being Scale (QWB) is a general measure of health-related quality of life that scores levels of wellness on a continuum between death (0.0) and optimum functioning (1.0). Values for the QWB were imputed for the National Health Interview Survey. These estimates were adjusted for mortality based on the life tables. Age-specific estimates were obtained for those reporting arthritis and compared to estimators for the population not reporting arthritis. These estimates were broken down by race (white versus nonwhite), gender, and socioeconomic status. Results. The expected life years lost because of arthritis were 1.86 (95% confidence interval 1.40–2.32 years). Arthritis was reported more often among those of lower income, those living in rural areas, those of lower educational attainment, and older respondents. Men and women did not differ in rates of reporting arthritis, but men with arthritis had lower QWB scores than women with arthritis. Conclusion. Arthritis has a significant public health impact.
Measuring Expectations About College Adjustment

Research on an instrument designed to measure matriculating students' expectations or level of confidence regarding their capacity for adjusting to college shows the instrument to be reliable and predictably related to a variety of pre- and postmatriculation self-report data and real-life behaviors. Uses of the instrument in high school as well as college are considered.
Structural Analysis of the Bacterial Ribonuclease P RNA

Ribonuclease P is the endoribonuclease that specifically cleaves precursor sequences from the 5’-ends of pre-tRNAs, to produce the 5’-termini of mature tRNAs. The enzyme is present and essential in all cells and organelles that produce tRNA. RNase P is remarkable because of its composition: it is composed of RNA and protein subunits. The RNA moiety forms the catalytic center, so RNase P is intrinsically a ribozyme. The enzyme from a broad diversity of organisms has been investigated, including representatives of all the phylogenetic domains: Archaea (formerly archaebacteria), Bacteria (formerly eubacteria) and Eucarya (eucaryotes). The properties of RNase P and its reaction have been extensively and recently reviewed (Pace and Smith 1990; Darr et al. 1992; Altman et al. 1993; Pace and Brown 1995). The purpose of this chapter is to provide an overview of the development of our current understanding of the structure of the RNase P RNA. An important key to understanding the function and specificity of this interesting enzyme is to gain perspective on its structure. A detailed secondary structure model of the bacterial RNA has been derived through phylogenetic comparative analysis, and comparative and cross-linking studies are revealing the packing of the secondary structural elements, the global tertiary structure. The resolution of the current tertiary structure model is sufficient to encourage molecular modeling for much of the RNA, based on known atomic-level structures.
Tastee Snax Cookie Company (a)

A regional producer of baked goods faces the challenge of developing and bringing to market as quickly as possible a new nonfat cookie. The project manager decides to use CPM (critical path method) to coordinate the product's introduction. The case provides the necessary planning data to create and schedule the project network diagram. The case is designed to be used with the note "Network Planning/Scheduling Techniques for Project Management," (UVA-OM-0294) or similar reading.
CHIP: Facilitating Interprofessional and Culturally Competent Patient Care Through Experiential Learning in China

Health care professionals have advocated for educating culturally competent practitioners. Immersion in international experiences has an impact on student cultural competency and interprofessional development. The China Honors Interprofessional Program (CHIP) at a university in the Midwest is designed to increase students' cultural competency and interprofessional development. From 2009 to 2013, a total of 25 professional students including twelve occupational therapy students, ten physical therapy students and three nursing students were enrolled in the programme. Using a one group pre and posttest research design, this study evaluated the impact of CHIP on the participating students. Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected in the study. Findings of the study revealed that CHIP has impact on students' cultural competency and professional development including gaining appreciation and understanding of the contributions of other healthcare professionals and knowledge and skills in team work. The findings of the study suggested that international immersion experience such as CHIP is an important way to increase students' cultural competency and interprofessional knowledge and skills. Limitations of the study included the small sample in the study, indirect outcome measures and the possible celling effect of the instruments of the study. Future research studies should include a larger and more representative sample, direct outcome measures such as behaviour observation and more rigorous design such as prospective experimental comparison group design. Future research should also examine the long-term effects of international experience on the professional development of occupational therapy students. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Structure, dynamics and stability of water/scCO2/mineral interfaces from ab initio molecular dynamics simulations

The boundary layer at solid-liquid interfaces is a unique reaction environment that poses significant scientific challenges to characterize and understand by experimentation alone. Using ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) methods, we report on the structure and dynamics of boundary layer formation, cation mobilization and carbonation under geologic carbon sequestration scenarios (T = 323 K and P = 90 bar) on a prototypical anorthite (001) surface. At low coverage, water film formation is enthalpically favored, but entropically hindered. Simulated adsorption isotherms show that a water monolayer will form even at the low water concentrations of water-saturated scCO2. Carbonation reactions readily occur at electron-rich terminal Oxygen sites adjacent to cation vacancies that readily form in the presence of a water monolayer. These results point to a carbonation mechanism that does not require prior carbonic acid formation in the bulk liquid. This work also highlights the modern capabilities of theoretical methods to address structure and reactivity at interfaces of high chemical complexity.
The Microtubule-Microfilament System in Beta-Cell Secretion

This chapter discusses the histochemical properties of microtubule–microfilament system in beta-cell secretion. Glucose is the major physiologic stimulus for beta cell secretion resulting in the rapid release of insulin as well as the initiation of insulin synthesis. The mechanism of insulin release was studied initially by electron microscopic examination of the islets following acute stimulation of insulin secretion by either glucose or tolbutamide administered in vivo . With improved methods of fixation for electron microscopy, microtubules have been demonstrated in a wide variety of mammalian, plant cells, and in fungi. Microfilaments can be destroyed by cytochalasin B which is an antimitotic agent that apparently acts only on the microfilaments and does not destroy microtubules. Thus, it would appear that the microtubular–microfilament system may be a very primitive, intracellular structure that has been modified through cellular differentiation and specialization to serve a functional role either as an internal cytoskeleton or as a means of providing rhythmic movement to cytoplasmic projections or to provide an intracellular transport system for the movement of particles and secretory granules.
Careful Considerations: Planning and Managing Digitization Projects

Libraries attempting to undertake large-scale start-up digitization projects with grant funding face a number of technical and planning issues from the outset. The Temple University Libraries, having recently completed the first year of such a project, gained valuable insights and experience regarding the implementation and management of such projects. Among the key issues identified in this article are defining the scope and limitations of a project, developing production standards for image format and resolution, constructing file-naming conventions, creating and selecting when to use visible watermarks, and deciding the type and amount of specialized equipment to purchase. Issues concerning environment and staffing are also presented, especially strategies for developing reliable and productive workers out of part-time student staff. The issue of quality control is also a major concern that contains many individual aspects, such as standardized documentation, process tracking and statistics, and the need for a project management layer to oversee day-to-day operations. This article suggests that project planners should also consider presentations and open meetings as a way to present their project to faculty and other interested parties. In addition, planners are encouraged to design strategies for measuring outcomes as a project evaluation method to be included in reports to the granting institution.
Ab Initio Quantum Approaches to the IR Spectroscopy of Water and Hydrates

This Perspective highlights progress in ab initio quantum approaches to IR spectroscopy of water and hydrates. Here, "ab initio" refers to many-body potentials and dipole moment surfaces for flexible water and hydrates. Specifically, these are mathematical representations of two-body and three-body interactions based on permutationally invariant fitting of tens of thousands of ab initio electronic energies, a spectroscopically accurate one-body monomer potential, and four- and higher-body interactions described by the long-range interactions incorporated into, for example, the TTM3-F family of potentials. There are currently two such potentials of this type, denoted WHBB and MB-pol, which are being used in expanding applications. Here, the focus is on infrared spectroscopy, using the WHBB potential and dipole moment surface, with an embedded, local monomer quantum method to obtain vibrational energies and dipole transition moments. Comparisons are also made with the popular q-TIP4P/F potential. Brief mention is made of an application to small HCl-H2O clusters.
Challenges of the government-nonprofit relationship after the recession

The recent recession has had profound effects on state governments and their partners in human services. This paper begins with a conundrum: while nonprofit human service producers have turned to s...
Synthesis of 7,7'-dihydroxy-8,8'-biquinolyl (azaBINOL) via Pd-catalyzed directed double C-H functionalization of 8,8'-biquinolyl: emergence of an atropos from a tropos state.

7,7′-Dihydroxy-8,8′-biquinolyl (azaBINOL) was prepared from 2-chloroaniline in four steps: (1) the Skraup reaction, (2) Ni-catalyzed reductive coupling of 8-chloroquinoline, (3) Pd(II)-catalyzed double C–H functionalization of 8,8′-biquinolyl mediated by PhI(OAc)2, and (4) saponification. During the third step, an axially chiral (atropos type) biaryl molecule was directly generated from an essentially achiral (tropos type) biaryl starting material.