cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Phenotypic analysis of bacterial colonies using laser light scatter and pattern-recognition techniques

The formation of bacterial colonies and biofilms requires coordinated gene expression, regulated cell differentiation, autoaggregation, and intercellular communication. Therefore colonies of bacteria have been recognized as multicellular organisms or "superorganisms." It has consequently been postulated that the phenotype of colonies formed by microorganisms can be automatically recognized and classified using optical systems capable of collecting information related to cellular pattern formation and morphology of colonies. Recently we have reported a first practical implementation of such a system, capable of noninvasive, label-free classification and recognition of pathogenic Listeria species. The design employed computer-vision and pattern-recognition techniques to classify scatter patterns produced by bacterial colonies irradiated with laser light. Herein we report our efforts to extend this system to other genera of bacteria such as Salmonella, Vibrio, Staphylococcus, and E. coli. Application of orthogonal moments, as well as texture descriptors for image feature extraction, provides high robustness in the presence of noise. An improved pattern classification scheme based on an SVM algorithm provides better results than the previously employed neural network system. Low error rates determined by cross-validation, reproducibility of the measurements, and overall robustness of the recognition system prove that the proposed technology can be implemented in automated devices for bacterial detection.
Robotic cystectomy and the Internet: separating fact from fiction.

Abstract Introduction Patients commonly use the Internet to acquire health information. While a large amount of health-related information is available, the accuracy is highly variable. We sought to evaluate the current web-based information that exists with regard to robotic cystectomy. Methods Two common search engines (Google and Yahoo) were used to search the term “robotic cystectomy” and obtain the top 50 websites for each. These 100 sites were analyzed with regard to type of site, presence and accuracy of information on bladder cancer, and of information related to robotic cystectomy outcomes (surgical/oncologic, functional, and recovery). In addition, information taken from Intuitive Corp website was identified, as was the presence (or absence) and literature-based references. Results Of the 100 sites, 61 were surgeon/provider sites, 23 links to articles, 8 news stories, 3 patient support sites, 3 meeting program, and 2 were the Intuitive site. Analysis of all 61 provider sites showed that 13% provided factually accurate information, 7% had both factual and erroneous information, and 80% had no information on bladder cancer. With regard to the purported benefits and outcomes of the robotic approach, a significant number of the sites had nonevidence-based claims with regard surgical/oncologic aspects (54%), functional recovery (26%), and surgical recovery (47%). Information taken directly from the Intuitive site was found on 33% sites, with 16% sites having a direct link. Only 4 provider sites (7%) had listed any references. Conclusions These findings suggest that surgeons provide the majority of Internet information but do not often present evidence-based information and often over-state claims and outcomes of the robotic approach. This highlights the need for providers to deliver factual and evidence-based information to the public, and not suggest untrue/unproven claims that seem to presently occur.
Generation Who, What, Y? What You Need to Know About Generation Y

Generation Y wants to know why! Today's youth are curious, they want the facts, they want the hard data, and most of all they want the truth. Advertisements and creative marketing tactics do not easily sway this group. They do their research before they believe most things they hear and see. Purchasing behaviors of Generation Y show that the group is extremely brand conscious as well as brand loyal. Consumers in this group are willing to pay the price for brand name goods as long as they find value and quality in the product. With this unique generation comes an exceptionally fascinating approach to higher education. College is no longer just a place students go to further their knowledge; in fact, it's now fashionable, hip, cool, and quite image-defining. Traditional structured forms of communication do not work well with this generation. They like to experience things themselves and figure out the answers rather than being told. They desire the freedom to choose and do, as they desire. When communicating with Generation Y colleges need to be real, be raw, be relevant, and focus on establishing relationships. The purpose of this paper is to better understand Generation Y, gain a sense of what criteria are important to them in choosing a college, and to determine what implications this has for colleges and universities.
Crypsis, conspicuousness, mimicry and polyphenism as antipredator defences of foraging octopuses on Indo-Pacific coral reefs, with a method of quantifying crypsis from video tapes

We tested the hypothesis that soft-bodied octopuses, which spend most of their lives in dens, remain highly cryptic as their primary defence against predation while they forage. We videotaped foraging octopuses on two widely dispersed Pacific coral reefs and developed a rigorous method to analyse the degree of crypsis from videotapes. Five ranks were assigned (two of «highly cryptic», one of «moderately cryptic», and two of «conspicuous») to assess each octopus's body pattern match to its background, using the criteria of brightness, colour, shape and skin patterning. The data do not support the hypothesis. In Tahiti, octopuses were highly cryptic only 54%, moderately cryptic 24% and conspicuous 22% of the time. In Palau, the respective calculations were 31%, 19% and 50%. A major feature of their behaviour was their remarkable ability to instantly change their body pattern, or phenotype, by direct neural control of the skin. Six chronic and nine acute categories of body patterns were observed. On average, octopuses changed their phenotype 2.95 times/minute, or 177 times per hour, based upon 7.5 hours of videotaped foraging. This rapid neurally controlled polyphenism was used most often to adjust their appearance as they foraged slowly across highly diverse substrates, thus implementing appropriate mechanisms of crypsis over each (e.g. general background resemblance, deceptive resemblance, disruptive coloration). However, when crawling rapidly, or swimming for short distances, octopuses often engaged a second antipredator tactic that was conspicuous: mimicking fishes or showing bold disruptive patterns that rendered them visibly different from an octopus. Nevertheless, sometimes they were simply conspicuous even when moving slowly, particularly in Palau, where the octopuses were larger, there was a high degree of mating, and fewer signs of predation were evident. The results suggest that, while foraging, the overall strategy is to use polyphenism to produce «apparent rarity» of any single phenotype (or search image) through mechanisms of crypsis, conspicuousness and mimicry, all of which are guided by keen vision in this marine invertebrate.
EFFECT OF HYDROSTATIC PRESSURE ON SYNTHESIS OF PROTEIN, RIBONUCLEIC ACID, AND DEOXYRIBONUCLEIC ACID BY THE PSYCHROPHILIC MARINE BACTERIUM, VIBRIO MARINUS1

The temperature and hydrostatic pressure maxima for growth of the marine psychrophilic bacterium, Vibrio marinus MP-4, were 20C and 425 atm. The effects of pressures of 200, 400, 500, and 1,000 atm at 15C on synthesis of net protein, RNA, and DNA by growing cells of V. marinus MP-4 were determined. A pressure of 1,000 atm completely inhibited protein and DNA synthesis but allowed RNA synthesis decreased for approximately 60 min and then resumed the 1-atm rates, whereas DNA synthesis was unaffected. Pressures of 400 and 500 atm immediately lowered the rate of protein synthesis, whereas RNA synthesis was unaffected by 400 atm. At 500 atm, RNA synthesis continued at the 1-atm rate for 30 min and then shifted to a lower rate. Synthesis of DNA, at 400 and 500 atm, continued at the 1-atm rate for approximately 60 min after pressurization, then gradually shifted to lower rates. The data suggest that the primary effect of pressures from 400 to 500 atm was to lower the rate of protein synthesis, which in turn may have lowered the rates of RNA and DNA synthesis.
Idoxuridine-Liposome Therapy for Herpes Simplex Keratitis

In the treatment of acute and chronic herpetic keratitis, an idoxuridine-liposome preparation was more effective than a comparable therapeutic regimen of idoxuridine alone. Both antiviral agents were more effective than a control combination of liposome and saline.
Carbon kinetic isotope effect accompanying microbial oxidation of methane in boreal forest soils

Atmospheric methane (CH4) oxidation occurs in soils at sites in the Bonanza Creek L.T.E.R. near Fairbanks, Alaska, USA, at rates ⩽2 mg CH4 m−2 d−1; the maximum CH4 oxidizing activity is located in loess at a depth of ∼15 cm. Methane, carbon dioxide, and stable isotope (δ 13C-CH4, δ 13C-CO2) depth distributions were measured at two sites: South facing Aspen (AS2) and North facing Black Spruce (BS2). The combined effects of diffusion and oxidation are similar at both sites and result in a CH4 concentration decrease (1.8–0.1 ppm) and a δ 13C-CH4 increase (−48% to −43%) from the soil surface to 60–80 cm depth. Isotope flux ratio and diffusion-consumption models were used to estimate the kinetic isotope effect (KIE); these results agree with the observed top-to-bottom difference in δ 13C-CH4, which is the integrated result of isotope fractionation due to diffusion and oxidation. The KIE for CH4 oxidation determined from these measurements is 1.022–1.025, which agrees with previous KIE determinations based on changes in headspace CH4 concentration and δ 13C-CH4 over time. A much lower soil respiration rate in the North facing Black Spruce soils is indicated by fivefold lower Soil CO2 concentrations. The similarity in CH4 oxidation at the two sites and the differences in inferred soil respiration at the two sites suggest that soil CH4 oxidation and soil respiration are independent processes. The soil organic matter responsible for the CO2 flux has a δ 13C estimated to be −27 to −28%.
Transforming growth factor-β in breast cancer: too much, too late

The contribution of transforming growth factor (TGF)β to breast cancer has been studied from a myriad perspectives since seminal studies more than two decades ago. Although the action of TGFβ as a canonical tumor suppressor in breast is without a doubt, there is compelling evidence that TGFβ is frequently subverted in a malignant plexus that drives breast cancer. New knowledge that TGFβ regulates the DNA damage response, which underlies cancer therapy, reveals another facet of TGFβ biology that impedes cancer control. Too much TGFβ, too late in cancer progression is the fundamental motivation for pharmaceutical inhibition.
Structural evidence for a sequential release mechanism for activation of heterotrimeric G proteins.

Abstract Heptahelical G-protein (heterotrimeric guanine nucleotide-binding protein)-coupled receptors couple to heterotrimeric G proteins to relay extracellular signals to intracellular signaling networks, but the molecular mechanism underlying guanosine 5′-diphosphate (GDP) release by the G protein α-subunit is not well understood. Amino acid substitutions in the conserved α5 helix of Gi, which extends from the C-terminal region to the nucleotide-binding pocket, cause dramatic increases in basal (receptor-independent) GDP release rates. For example, mutant Gαi1-T329A shows an 18-fold increase in basal GDP release rate and, when expressed in culture, it causes a significant decrease in forskolin-stimulated cAMP accumulation. The crystal structure of Gαi1-T329A·GDP shows substantial conformational rearrangement of the switch I region and additional striking alterations of side chains lining the catalytic pocket that disrupt the Mg+2 coordination sphere and dislodge bound Mg+2. We propose a “sequential release” mechanism whereby a transient conformational change in the α5 helix alters switch I to induce GDP release. Interestingly, this mechanistic model for heterotrimeric G protein activation is similar to that suggested for the activation of the plant small G protein Rop4 by RopGEF8.
Chemopreventive properties of chlorophyllin: inhibition of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1)-DNA binding in vivo and anti-mutagenic activity against AFB1 and two heterocyclic amines in the Salmonella mutagenicity assay.

Chlorophyllin (CHL), a sodium/copper derivative of chlorophyll, has been used to treat a number of human conditions with no toxic effects being reported. Recent studies have described the anti-mutagenic activity of CHL in several short-term genotoxicity assays; however, this compound has not been reported to inhibit carcinogen--DNA binding in vivo, and it has yet to be evaluated as an anti-carcinogen in any species. The chemopreventive properties of CHL were studied in trout using inhibition of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1)--DNA binding as an end-point. Chlorophyllin and AFB1 were coadministered in the diet, and carcinogen--DNA binding levels were determined in liver after 1, 3, 5 and 7 days. Linear increases in AFB1--DNA binding occurred with time of treatment at each CHL dose level (0, 500, 1000 and 2000 p.p.m.). Each increase in CHL dose produced a concomitant decrease in AFB1--DNA binding, resulting in a series of curves of decreasing slope. At the highest CHL dose level of 2000 p.p.m., AFB1--DNA binding was inhibited by 70%. These results suggest that CHL should be a potent inhibitor of AFB1-induced hepatocarcinogenesis in this model. In the Salmonella assay, CHL exhibited potent anti-mutagenic activity against AFB1 and two heterocyclic amines when incubated in the presence of trout liver activation systems. CHL also inhibited the mutagenic activity of AFB1-8,9-epoxide in the absence of a metabolic activation system. Dietary CHL substantially inhibited liver AFB1-DNA binding in vivo, even when AFB1 was given by i.p. injection to avoid direct AFB1--CHL interaction in the diet or gut. Collectively, these studies support a CHL inhibitory mechanism involving complex formation with the carcinogen in the gut coupled with electrophile scavenging or further complexing in the target organ.
NEW RESULTS FOR A CLASS OF UNIVARIATE DISTRIBUTIONS

Several new results are presented for a class of univariate distributions for which the maximum likelihood estimate of the population mean is the sample mean. It is shown that the convolution of any two such distributions also belongs to this class of functions. It is also shown that the marginal distribution for the sample mean captures all of the Fisher information for the population mean contained in the full distribution. Parameters orthogonal to the mean are found for special cases of these distributions. If the distribution is conditioned on the sample mean, the conditional distribution depends on the parameters only through parameters orthogonal to the mean.
A shear deformable theory of laminated composite shallow shell-type panels and their response analysis I: Free vibration and buckling

This paper deals with the substantiation of a shear deformable theory of cross-ply laminated composite shallow shells. While the developed theory preserves all the advantages of the first order transverse shear deformation theory it succeeds in eliminating some of its basic shortcomings. The theory is further employed in the analysis of the eigenvibration and static buckling problems of doubly curved shallow panels. In this context, the state space concept is used in conjunction with the Levy method, allowing one to analyze these problems in a unified manner, for a variety of boundary conditions. Numerical results are presented and some pertinent conclusions are formulated.
Fluorescence Correlation Spectroscopy of Phosphatidylinositol-specific Phospholipase C Monitors the Interplay of Substrate and Activator Lipid Binding

Phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C (PI-PLC) enzymes simultaneously interact with the substrate, PI, and with non-substrate lipids such as phosphatidylcholine (PC). For Bacillus thuringiensis PI-PLC these interactions are synergistic with maximal catalytic activity observed at low to moderate mole fractions of PC (XPC) and maximal binding occurring at low mole fractions of anionic lipids. It has been proposed that residues in α helix B help modulate membrane binding and that dimerization on the membrane surface both increases affinity for PC and activates PI-PLC yielding the observed PI/PC synergy. Vesicle binding and activity measurements using a variety of PI-PLC mutants support many aspects of this model and reveal that while single mutations can disrupt anionic lipid binding and the anionic lipid/PC synergy, the residues important for PC binding are less localized. Interestingly, at high XPC mutations can both decrease membrane affinity and increase activity, supporting a model where reductions in wildtype activity at XPC>0.6 results from both dilution of the substrate and tight membrane binding of PI-PLC limiting enzyme hopping or scooting to the next substrate molecule. These results provide a direct analysis of vesicle binding and catalytic activity and shed light on how occupation of the activator site enhances enzymatic activity.
Verification of structure and direction of biosynthesis of long-chain methyl-branched alcohols and very long-chain methyl-branched alcohols in pupae of the tobacco hornworm, Manduca sexta

Abstract Deuterium labeling and chloride derivatization, followed by CGC-MS, demonstrated a difference between the long-chain methyl-branched alcohols (LMA, C 25 C 32 ; minor components) and the very long-chain methyl-branched alcohols (VLMA, C 38 >C 44 ; major components) in the positions of the methyl branches relative to the primary hydroxyl group, which indicated a difference in their biosynthesis. The substitution of the hydroxyl group by chloride is a new approach to determining the structure of methyl-branched alcohols. The chloride derivatives gave unequivocal mass spectra showing the position of the methyl branch(es) with respect to the chloride. Assuming that the primary hydroxyl group represented the terminal end of the alkyl chain during biosynthesis, the methyl branches in the VLMA were incorporated early during chain elongation. Conversely, the methyl branches in the LMA were incorporated late in chain elongation. Thus, previously reported structures of the LMA were mis-named because the methyl branch positions were determined by counting from the wrong end of the molecule; i.e. an alcohol previously designated as 15,19-dimethyloctacosan-1-ol was in fact 10,14-dimethyloctacosan-1-ol. Both the LMA and VLMA appear to be synthesized using acetate as a primer. [1- 13 C]Propionate was incorporated early in chain elongation of the VLMA, but was incorporated late in chain elongation of the LMA, confirming the conclusions reached from the analysis of the mass spectra of the deuteride and chloride derivatives. The labeled carboxyl carbon of [1- 13 C]propionate was located between the methyl branch methine and the primary hydroxyl group, confirming that the primary hydroxyl group was located on the terminal (elongating) end of the alkyl chain.
Infrared activities in poly(2,5-thienylene vinylene)

Abstract We present a detailed study of the infrared activities of poly(2,5-thienylene vinylene) (PTV) including photoinduced absorption in the energy range from 400 to 4500 cm−1. Upon photoexcitation, we observed the production of infrared active vibrational (IRAV) modes and self-localized electronic states in the π-π ∗ gap. We present a detailed analysis of the IRAV modes which provide a structural fingerprint of the lowest energy charged excitations of PTV. We also present an in-situ infrared study of the conversion of PTV from its polyelectrolyte precursor and an analysis of the infrared modes of PTV.
Oxidation kinetics of natural organic matter by sonolysis and ozone

An advanced oxidation process that combines ultrasound and ozone was studied in terms of its potential to oxidize natural organic matter and to determine whether the approach could extend the application of sonolysis to refractory electrolytes. Sonochemical enhancement of ozone decomposition rates has previously been attributed to ozone pyrolysis in the cavitation bubble or at the bubble interface. In this study, evidence from radical scavenging and dosimetry experiments confirms that ozone decomposition does not significantly occur in bulk solution during sonication. Under conditions of constant ultrasonic irradiation and continuous ozone gas application, total organic carbon (TOC) removal rates were enhanced by ultrasound. After 60 min of ozone and ultrasonic irradiation (55 W, 20 kHz), 91% of the TOC in a 10 mg/l fulvic acid solution was removed and 87% of the original carbon was removed as CO2(g). With ozone alone, 40% of the TOC was removed and only 28% of the original carbon was mineralized. Direct combustion of volatile intermediates in the cavitation bubble may partially explain the improved mineralization efficiency that was obtained with sonolysis. Hydroxyl radical scavengers, such as carbonate, were found to inhibit TOC removal rates. When the process was applied to a high-color groundwater sample, containing 2.8 mg l−1 TOC and 35 mg l−1 bicarbonate, TOC removal was completely inhibited. After pretreatment of the groundwater sample to remove carbonate species, however, 90% of the TOC was removed in 40 min.
Development of the University of Wisconsin Donation After Cardiac Death Evaluation Tool

Background—Donation after cardiac death is a method by which severely neurologically injured patients not fulfilling brain-death criteria can donate organs.Objective—To develop an evaluation tool that can be used to predict if a patient is a suitable candidate for donation after cardiac death.Methods—The University of Wisconsin Donation After Cardiac Death Evaluation Tool assigns numeric values to observable clinical parameters to yield an overall predictive score of suitability for donation after cardiac death. This evaluation tool is typically utilized in a critical care unit to evaluate patients with a severe neurological injury, who do not meet brain-death criteria, and for whom the physician and family have chosen to terminally withdraw life support. Each patient is disconnected from a ventilator and observed for up to 10 minutes. Observations are then scored to yield a prediction of suitability for donation after cardiac death.Results—Using the University of Wisconsin Donation After Cardiac Death Ev...
Provision of Psychological Services for Deaf Children in the United States

A review of school psychological services for deaf children in the United States is presented in the context of the historical relationship between deaf education and psychological services. Questions concerning what constitutes a full range of psychological services for deaf children and what steps might be taken to increase the range of services available to deaf children are addressed in relation to a proposed model of psychological services for deaf children.
Bound-Phonon Quasiparticle in CdS

Bound optical phonons associated with the phonon-assisted ${I}_{1}$ (4888 \AA{}) transition in CdS have been observed. These states arise from the bonding of an LO phonon to a neutral acceptor, which provides an attractive interaction for the phonon. The interaction is with LO phonons of small wave vector (near $\stackrel{\ensuremath{\rightarrow}}{k}=0$). Both the ${\ensuremath{\Gamma}}_{1}$ and ${\ensuremath{\Gamma}}_{5}$ LO phonons, which result from a splitting due to anisotropic short-range interatomic forces, are observed in the bound states. The optical transitions described in this paper are similar to those described by Dean et al., which involved optical phonons bound to neutral donors in GaP. The observed bound states were identified as $2S$, $2P$, and $3D$ states with measured binding energies of 26.4, 21.6, and 11.6 ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$, respectively.
The Effects of Real vs. Hypothetical Risk on Group Choice-Shifts

The effect of real vs. hypothetical risk on choice-shifts was examined. Two studies were conducted, each using a different decision task and both employing both real and hypothetical risk conditions. The results indicated that the degree of task reality did not significantly influence the direction or magnitude of the group-induced choice shifts.
The relationship between subjective reports of fatigue and executive control in multiple sclerosis.

Previous studies failed to show a relationship between fatigue and cognitive performance. We used a theory-based Delayed Item Recognition (DIR) paradigm to examine the hypothesis that subjective reports of fatigue and executive control processes were related in MS. Participants were 20 individuals diagnosed with definite diagnosis of MS with Relapsing-Remitting course and 20 controls case matched for age, sex, education and IQ. The DIR paradigm manipulated executive demands in three conditions: Alone, Partial Interference (PI), and Complete Interference (CI). Fatigue was assessed using the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS). Results: ANOVA Repeated measures analyses showed that DIR performance was slower and less accurate as a function of MS and increased executive demands across the three task conditions. Separate linear regressions revealed that fatigue was related to DIR reaction time and accuracy performance only in the CI condition where executive demands are maximized, and only in the MS group. The present study provided first behavioral evidence that fatigue and executive control are uniquely related in MS.
Security Through Collaboration and Trust in MANETs

It is well understood that Mobile Ad Hoc Networks (MANETs) are extremely susceptible to a variety of attacks, and traditional security mechanisms do not work well. Many security schemes have been proposed that depend on cooperation amongst the nodes in a MANET for identifying nodes that are exhibiting malicious behaviors such as packet dropping, packet modification, and packet misrouting. We argue that in general, this problem can be viewed as an instance of detecting nodes whose behavior is an outlier when compared to others. In this paper, we propose a collaborative and trust-based outlier detection algorithm that factors in a node's reputation for MANETs. The algorithm leads to a common outlier view amongst distributed nodes with a limited communication overhead. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm is efficient and accurate.
Informal screencasting: results of a customer‐satisfaction survey with a convenience sample

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to define and describe informal screencasting (i.e. capturing your actions on a computer screen with the goal of showing others how to accomplish tasks on a website or in a given software environment). Customer‐satisfaction survey results from 103 faculty, staff, and students are presented.Design/methodology/approach – An online survey revealing customer satisfaction with informal screencasts was made available in Spring 2010 to faculty, staff, and students of a mid‐sized public university in Arlington, Texas, USA. Results are compiled, analyzed, and presented here.Findings – Most participants' reactions to the librarian's informal screencasts were positive or quite positive, but many participants still noted that they would prefer to receive e‐mail instructions in answer to their questions.Research limitations/implications – The survey was not distributed to a representative sample of the population; instead, the author solicited participants via e‐mail, so the part...
Slow strain rate testing and stress corrosion cracking of ultra-fine grained and conventional Al–Mg alloy

Abstract Stress corrosion cracking susceptibility was investigated for an ultra-fine grained (UFG) Al–7.5Mg alloy and a conventional 5083 H111 alloy in natural seawater using slow strain rate testing (SSRT) at very slow strain rates between 1E−5 s−1, 1E−6 s−1 and 1E−7 s−1. The UFG Al–7.5Mg alloy was produced by cryomilling, while the 5083 H111 alloy is considered as a wrought manufactured product. The response of tensile properties to strain rate was analyzed and compared. Negative strain rate sensitivity was observed for both materials in terms of the elongation to failure. However, the UFG alloy displayed strain rate sensitivity in relation to strength while the conventional alloy was relatively strain rate insensitive. The mechanical behavior of the conventional 5083 alloy was attributed to dynamic strain aging (DSA) and delayed pit propagation while the performance of the UFG alloy was related to a diffusion-mediated stress relaxation mechanism that successfully delayed crack initiation events, counteracted by exfoliation and pitting which enhanced crack initiation.
Ab Initio Studies of ClOx Reactions. 2. Unimolecular Decomposition of s-ClO3 and the Bimolecular O + OClO Reaction

The unimolecular decomposition of symmetric ClO 3 has been investigated at the G2M(CC2)//PW91PW91/ 6-311+G(3df) level of theory. The results show that the main dissociation products are 3 O + OClO instead of the commonly assumed ClO + O 2 . The rate constants at high- and low-pressure limits were predicted to be k 2 ∞ = 1.5 x 10 2 0 T - 1 , 1 exp(-18360/T) s - 1 and k 2 0 = 3.76 x 10 2 5 T - 3 , 2 8 exp(-13890/T) cm 3 mol - 1 s - 1 in the temperature range 500-2500 K. For the bimolecular processes, the sum of the predicted abstraction (k 3 ) and association (k - 2 ) values can reasonably explain the experimental nonzero intercepts of the strong pressure-dependent rate constants, with the predicted total rate constants agreeing closely with the experimental values. The association and abstraction rate constants in the temperature range 200-500 K can be represented respectively by k - 2 = 40.1T - 6 . 1 6 exp(-403/T) for 1 Torr He and k 3 = 1.0 x 10 - 1 6 T 1 . 4 4 exp(-469/T) cm 3 molecule-' s - 1 . The abstraction rate constant for 500-2500 K can be expressed by k 3 = 8.69 × 10 - 1 7 T 1 . 4 5 exp(-441/T) cm 3 molecule - 1 s - 1 .
Ozone case studies at high elevation in the eastern United States

Abstract A network of five high elevation sites (≳ 1000 m, MSL) in the eastern U.S. measured ozone, NOx, and meteorological parameters as part of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Mountain Cloud Chemistry Program (MCCP) from May through October in 1986, 1987, and 1988. Analysis of the data showed that high ozone episodes (≥ 70 ppbv) at the MCCP sites occurred frequently during June and July, and were strongly correlated to synoptic scale meteorological features. A comprehensive statistical analysis was performed on the data set to investigate the relationship between ozone and meteorology. Two major ozone episodes in 1988, each lasting greater than 3 days were examined in detail. The maximum one hour average ozone concentration was ∼ 160 ppbv recorded at a southern site, Whitetop Mountain. Back trajectory analysis, at 850 mb, indicated that most MCCP sites were influenced by upwind urban and industrial source areas during high ozone episodes. Other meteorological parameters, such as temperature, and relative humidity also affect the ozone formation during the two episodes. The concentrations of NOx were higher during the ozone episodes, reflecting the photochemical production of ozone in the regional scale.
Multiple-Bit Upset in 130 nm CMOS Technology

The probability of proton-induced multiple-bit upset (MBU) has increased in highly-scaled technologies because device dimensions are small relative to particle event track size. Both proton-induced single event upset (SEU) and MBU responses have been shown to vary with angle and energy for certain technologies. This work analyzes SEU and MBU in a 130 nm CMOS SRAM in which the single-event response shows a strong dependence on the angle of proton incidence. Current proton testing methods do not account for device orientation relative to the proton beam and, subsequently, error rate prediction assumes no angular dependencies. Proton-induced MBU is expected to increase as integrated circuits continue to scale into the deep sub-micron regime. Consequently, the application of current testing methods will lead to an incorrect prediction of error rates
Trends in SSBs and snack consumption among children by age, body weight, and race/ethnicity.

Objective To describe national trends in discretionary calories from sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) and snacks by age-specific body weight categories and by age- and weight-specific race/ethnicity groups. Examining these subpopulations is important as population averages may mask important differences. Methods 24-hour dietary recall data obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2003-2010 among children aged 2 to 19 (N = 14,092) were used. Logistic and linear regression methods were used to adjust for multiple covariates and survey design. Results The number of calories from SSBs declined significantly for nearly all age-specific body weight groups. Among children with overweight or obesity, significant declines in the number of calories from SSBs were observed among Hispanic children aged 2 to 5 (117 vs. 174 kcal) and white adolescents aged 12 to 19 (299 vs. 365 kcal). Significant declines in the number of calories from salty snacks were observed among white children aged 2 to 5 (192 vs. 134 kcal) and 6 to 11 (273 vs. 200 kcal). Conclusions The decrease in SSB consumption and increase in snack consumption observed in prior research are not uniform when children are examined within subgroups accounting for age, weight, and race/ethnicity.
Isolating plant genes

The genetic transformation of most agriculturally important plant species is now possible. However, the application of this technology to rational plant-improvement is currently limited by a shortage of cloned genes for important traits. Recent technological advances in plant-gene isolation and identification, such as map-based cloning, insertional mutagenesis and large-scale cDNA sequencing, have accelerated the rate of gene isolation and significantly expanded the opportunities for genetic engineering of crop plants.
Economic Calculation: The Austrian Contribution to Political Economy

The author argues that economic calculation is the most important contribution of the Austrian school.
Tracking postural stability of young concussion patients using dual-task interference

OBJECTIVES: This study examined the diagnostic benefit of using dual-task interference balance testing in young concussion patients and the longitudinal changes in postural stability that occur relative to other standard clinical assessments of concussion injury. DESIGN: Longitudinal, case-control. METHODS: Eighteen patients (16.6 (1.6)y) diagnosed with a concussion provided 22 separate ratings to characterize the severity of their current concussion-related symptoms and were evaluated for postural stability at each of four clinical visits. Twenty-six injury-free adolescents (17 (2.8)y) performed balance testing on two occasions, separated by ∼1 week. RESULTS: There was a progressive decrease in self-reported symptoms from visit 1 to visit 4 (P CONCLUSIONS: Improvements in postural stability coincide with reductions in reported symptoms, though apparent recovery of these selected measures of postural stability seemingly occurs sooner. Because of the distinguishing time course of recovery indicated by dual-task interference balance testing, this type of balance testing assessment may be particularly valuable in evaluating integrated functional impairment and recovery in young concussion patients. Language: en
Community evolution in forest habitats

Abstract Hominoid primates have had a mainly tropical forest distribution throughout their history. At present, the forest habitats occupied by apes include a variety of vegetation types, for example lowland evergreen tropical forest, montane evergreen forests, medium altitude semi-deciduous forests, and even deciduous forest-scrub. A similar spectrum of vegetation types appears to have been occupied by Eocene and Oligocene primates, as well as at least some of the Miocene apes in Africa. The nature of these habitats is investigated both by reviewing the adaptations of the mammals in relation to the floral composition and by investigating the community structure of the mammalian faunas. Community structure is measured by body size spectra, dietary guilds, trophic patterns and diversity indices, both analysed separately and in combination using multivariate techniques. Comparisons are made between the Eocene and Present in order to document the changes in community structure which occurred during this time, with special attention being given to primates. Taxonomic shifts that have occurred in the East African mammalian faunas between Miocene and Present have produced little change in the community structure, indicating that Miocene forest habitats were structurally similar to those of today, whereas the differences observed in the Eocene faunas represent both a taxonomic and an ecologic change. Between the late Eocene and early Miocene there was a reorganization of mammalian community structure for which an explanation must be sought, either in changes in the relationships between mammals and plants between the Eocene and Present or in ecological changes in forest habitats during this time.
Improved Approximation Ratios for Traveling Salesperson Tours and Paths in Directed Graphs

In metric asymmetric traveling salesperson problems the input is a complete directed graph in which edge weights satisfy the triangle inequality, and one is required to find a minimum weight walk that visits all vertices. In the asymmetric traveling salesperson problem (ATSP) the walk is required to be cyclic. In asymmetric traveling salesperson path problem (ATSPP), the walk is required to start at vertex sand to end at vertex t. We improve the approximation ratio for ATSP from $\frac{4}{3}\log_3 n \simeq 0.84\log_2 n$ to $\frac{2}{3}\log_2 n$. This improvement is based on a modification of the algorithm of Kaplan et al [JACM 05] that achieved the previous best approximation ratio. We also show a reduction from ATSPP to ATSP that loses a factor of at most 2 + i¾?in the approximation ratio, where i¾?> 0 can be chosen to be arbitrarily small, and the running time of the reduction is polynomial for every fixed i¾?. Combined with our improved approximation ratio for ATSP, this establishes an approximation ratio of $(\frac{4}{3} + \epsilon)\log_2 n$ for ATSPP, improving over the previous best ratio of 4log e ni¾? 2.76log 2 nof Chekuri and Pal [Approx 2006].
Characterization of laser scanners and algorithms for detecting flatness defects on concrete surfaces

In many construction and infrastructure management projects, it is important to ensure the flatness of concrete surfaces. Inspectors assess the quality of flat surface construction by checking whether a surface deviates from perfectly flat by more than a specified tolerance. Current flatness assessment methods, such as using a straightedge or shape profiler, are limited in the speed or density of their measurements. Laser scanners are general-purpose instruments for densely and accurately measuring three-dimensional shapes. In this paper, we show how laser scanners can be effectively used to assess surface flatness. Specifically, we formalize, implement, and validate three algorithms for processing laser-scanned data to detect surface flatness deviations. Since different scanners and algorithms can perform differently, we define an evaluation framework for objectively evaluating the performance of different algorithms and scanners. Using this framework, we analyze and compare the performance of the three algorithms using data from three laser scanners. The results show that it is possible to detect surface flatness defects as small as 3 cm across and 1 mm thick from a distance of 20 m.
Problem-Oriented Policing and Open-Air Drug Markets: Examining the Rockford Pulling Levers Deterrence Strategy

Problem-oriented policing strategies have been regarded as promising approaches for disrupting open-air drug markets in vulnerable communities. Pulling levers deterrence interventions, which are consistent with the problem-oriented framework, have shown potential as an effective mechanism for reducing and preventing youth, gun, and gang violence. This study examines the effect of a strategic, pulling levers intervention that was implemented by law enforcement officials in Rockford, Illinois, to address drug markets in a high crime neighborhood. The initiative builds on a similar effort developed in High Point, North Carolina, and represents an extension of pulling levers that was originally developed in Boston. The impact evaluation uses a mixed method of quantitative hierarchical growth curve models and qualitative interviews with residents. Study findings suggest that the Rockford strategy was associated with a statistically significant and substantive reduction in crime, drug, and nuisance offenses in ...
What’s New in Urology

M I D t o M t t i w d a NDROLOGY AND INFERTILITY urgical treatments for infertile men lthough intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) has hanged the field of infertility substantially, there is still very important role for other surgical methods in the reatment of infertile men. Varicocelectomy continues o be a mainstay for correction of abnormal semen paameters in men with a clinical varicocele, but the opertion is not 100% successful. Grober and colleagues eviewed the question of whether reoperation in those en with recurrent or persistent varicoceles is a worthhile approach. Of the 1,400 varicocelectomies perormed over 10 years, 54 men returned with persistent r recurrent varicoceles. Using a subinguinal, microsurical approach, the authors noted an improvement in emen parameters, serum testosterone levels, and testiclar volume without considerable complications. The uthors concluded that retreatment of recurrent or peristent varicoceles is worth undertaking. Another perplexing problem during vasectomy reveral is what to do when whole sperm are not seen intraperatively. Sigman examined this question, comparing utcomes after reversal to intravasal sperm quality and ound an overall patency rate after reversal of 98%. Lowst patency rates were in the group with heads of sperm s the only component seen and these rates were 95%. atency rates when whole sperm were seen were 100%. r Sigman concluded that vasectomy reversal should be erformed if any sperm parts are noted intraoperatively nd excellent patency rates should be expected.
Energy limits for unclamped inductive switching in high-voltage planar and SuperJunction power MOSFETs

In this work the maximum UIS energy capability (E as ) for High-Voltage (600V-900V) Planar and SuperJunction (SJ) power MOSFETs is analyzed through experiment, TCAD simulation and analytical modeling. A new theoretical approach considering a buried heat source is presented to accurately predict E as values in a wide range of voltage capability and load inductor values.
Effect of nebulized albuterol on blood glucose in patients with diabetes mellitus with and without cystic fibrosis

Over 90% of cystic fibrosis (CF) patients are treated with bronchodilators, and 6% have diabetes. Some with asthma also have diabetes, and most are treated with bronchodilators. Systemic administration of adrenergic agents can cause increases in blood glucose, but the effect of inhaled agents is unclear. A double-blind study was performed on 10 patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM) without CF (3 male, 7 female, mean age 25.5 years) and 9 patients with insulin-dependent CF-related diabetes (CFRD) (8 male, 1 female, mean age 21.9 years). On 2 separate days before 9 AM fasting and the morning dose of insulin, 2.5 mg of albuterol or nebulized placebo were given. Blood glucose was measured by finger stick with a glucose reflectance meter before and 15, 30, 45, and 60 min after treatment. No significant changes from baseline or differences between placebo and albuterol occurred in either group. The mean maximum increase from baseline in DM was 20 mg/dl on placebo, and 38 mg/dl on albuterol; in the CFRD, the respective changes were 7 and 7 mg/dl. Two DM patients had a > 50 mg/dl increase on albuterol vs. placebo; no CFRD patients had differences of such magnitude. DM patients had greater increases from baseline than CFRD patients on placebo and albuterol. Differences reached statistical significance at 30 and 45 min on placebo, and 45 min on albuterol. Albuterol 2.5 mg by nebulizer causes no clinically significant increases in blood glucose in DM or CFRD patients. Diabetes patients without CF have a significantly greater increase of glucose with time (placebo or albuterol) than CFRD patients.
A student-enacted simulation approach to software engineering education

In some cases, real-world application of software engineering concepts does not effectively map with current undergraduate curriculums. Typically, a student's first "hands-on" experience working on large-scale software development projects is via an intern position or his/her first full-time position. However, prior exposure to the corporate project environment would greatly improve a student's performance in industry. In order to develop students for successful careers in software engineering, specifically for software development, they must be immersed not only in the software development lifecycle and paradigms, but also in the workings of large project teams. Currently, most undergraduate software engineering courses are taught by presenting the concepts and methodologies and assigning fragmented three-to-four person group projects. In the Department of Computer Science, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, a two-course approach to undergraduate software engineering education has been developed that incorporates the practical application of coursework in a large team setting. The first course presents a firm software design basis, while the second course demonstrates corporate-level software engineering concepts with a semester-long software development simulation where the entire class is the development team. This paper presents the experiences from offering this software engineering simulation approach.
A note on the term “Bantu” as first used by W. H. I. Bleek

(1968). A note on the term “Bantu” as first used by W. H. I. Bleek. African Studies: Vol. 27, No. 4, pp. 211-212.
GIANT MEGACOLON IN THE INSANE; FURTHER OBSERVATIONS ON PATIENTS TREATED BY SUBTOTAL COLECTOMY.

Summary 1.Six cases of functional megacolon in psychotic patients have been treated by subtotal colectomy and ileoproctostomy without mortality and have been followed from 1 to 6 years. 2.Although "colonization" of the ileum has occurred with rather marked dilatation of the distal ileum in most cases, transit time of the gastrointestinal tract has remained essentially normal. 3.Lasting clinical improvement seems to have been achieved. No significant diarrhea has developed, no nutritional disturbances have appeared, and no further hospitalization for obstipation has been necessary. 4.The use of subtotal colectomy in the management of these cases is recommended.
Bioengineering mint crop improvement

Essential oils, synthesized and stored in leaf glandular trichomes, of the Mentha species are valuated commercially as additives for food products, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. Mint production and oil yield is attenuated by both biotic and abiotic stresses. Consequently, there is need for development of cultivars with pest resistance and stable oil quality. Most mint cultivars are natural hybrids vegetatively propagated. Their sterility impairs the success of conventional breeding and to date, the application of irradiation mutation techniques have not resulted in the release of new commercially acceptable cultivars for widespread use. The paper summarizes the state of mint biotechnology by discussing advancements related to in vitro culture and genetic transformation, generation of herbicide resistant plants, and strategies for enhancing disease resistance and essential oil biosynthesis.