cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A minimally fine-tuned supersymmetric standard model

Abstract We construct supersymmetric theories in which the correct scale for electroweak symmetry breaking is obtained without significant fine-tuning. We calculate the fine-tuning parameter for these theories to be at the 20% level, which is significantly better than in conventional supersymmetry breaking scenarios. Supersymmetry breaking occurs at a low scale of order 100 TeV, and is transmitted to the supersymmetric standard-model sector through standard-model gauge interactions. The Higgs sector contains two Higgs doublets and a singlet field, with a superpotential that takes the most general form allowed by gauge invariance. An explicit model is constructed in 5D warped space with supersymmetry broken on the infrared brane. We perform a detailed analysis of electroweak symmetry breaking for this model, and demonstrate that the fine-tuning is in fact reduced. A new candidate for dark matter is also proposed, which arises from the extended Higgs sector of the model. Finally, we discuss a purely 4D theory which may also significantly reduce fine-tuning.
The synthesis and structure of bis{2-[(diphenoxyphosphino)oxy]phenyl-C,P}bis(triphenylphosphite-P)ruthenium, [(C6H5O)2[P(OC6H5)3]2

Abstract The reaction of [(C6H5O)3P]3(C6H5O)2 POC 6 H 4 Ru Cl (I) with phenoxides yields the title compound, II. This represents a new synthesis of compound II. Crystals of II were obtained from hexane/toluene. II crystallizes in the monoclinic P21/c space group with a 15.39(1), b 15.33(1), c 27.16(1) A, β 94.32(5)°, Z = 4, Dx 1.39 g/cm3. The structure was solved at ambient temperature using Mo-Kα radiation with μ 4.1 cm−1 F(000) = 2767.70 and R = 0.0780, (Rw = 0.0718). There were 4991 unique observed reflections. The main feature of the structure is the presence of two orthometallated triphenylphosphite ligands and two conventional triphenylphosphite ligands leading to the presence of cis-aryl linkages about ruthenium. The mechanism of formation of II from I is discussed.
Communication apprehension of elementary and secondary students and teachers

A series of studies are reported that indicate a substantial increase in the average communication apprehension level of children occurs between kindergarten and grade 5 and that a disproportionately greater number of teachers with high communication apprehension teach at the lower elementary school level as compared to the upper levels. Suggestions for needed research are outlined and discussed. The development of two new scales designed to measure the communication orientations of children in grades K‐12, the Personal Report of Communication Fear (PRCF) and the Shyness Scale (SS), is also reported.
Respiration of the cochlea and function.

Brief reversible depression of cochlear respiration was produced in the guinea pig with 0.013 cc of 0.2 mM sodium cyanide perfused into the scala tympani of the basal turn for 80 seconds. Brief reversible depression of cochlear respiration was also produced by systemic hypoxia (respiration with 5% oxygen). When cyanide perfusion was combined with hypoxia, cochlear respiration and function were more severely effected. The effects of cyanide and hypoxia on the terminal cytochrome oxidase of the respiratory chain of enzymes in mitochondria are reviewed.
Changes in health behaviors among older Americans, 1990 to 2000.

Objectives.The authors used a large population-based survey to examine changes from 1990 to 2000 in age distribution by sex and race or ethnicity, to estimate both state-specific and national trend...
“Interest” Is a Verb: Arthur Bentley and the Language of Interest

The hundredth anniversary of Arthur Bentley's The Process of Government is an occasion to recover his distinctive but forgotten view of interest, namely, that an appeal to “interest” is an activity of provoking political identity and agency—an activity exemplified by the “group process” of politics. Bentley's insight has been lost as students of politics, as diversely inclined as David Truman, Bill Connolly, and many others, approach interests instead as a psychological bulwark and expression of sovereign agency. Reading Bentley prompts us to see how the language of “interest” undercuts such a picture, encouraging instead a critical theory of interests—and of politics more generally—that is sensitive to the active provocation of identity at sites of contestation.
The microsurgical anatomy of the suboccipital vertebral artery and its surrounding structures

The suboccipital area contains the anatomic complex of the vertebral artery, its periarterial autonomic neural plexus, its branches, and the adjacent spinal nerves, all of which are cushioned in the venous compartment and covered by 3 layers of muscles. Until more recently, study of the microsurgical anatomy of this area has been neglected. Its thorough understanding provides, however, the foundation for surgical treatment of numerous pathologic entities in this area. Significant advances in understanding of the microsurgical anatomy have resulted in improved outcomes in the treatment of these entities, which now have become a routine. We review the microsurgical anatomy of the suboccipital area with its surgical and certain functional implications.
Analyzing the Catalytic Mechanism of the Fe-Type Nitrile Hydratase from Comamonas testosteroni Ni1

In order to gain insight into the catalytic mechanism of Fe-type nitrile hydratases (NHase), the pH and temperature dependence of the kinetic parameters kcat, Km, and kcat/Km along with the solvent...
Neonatal diethylstilbestrol exposure disrupts female reproductive tract structure/function via both direct and indirect mechanisms in the hamster

We assessed neonatal diethylstilbestrol (DES)-induced disruption at various endocrine levels in the hamster. In particular, we used organ transplantation into the hamster cheek pouch to determine whether abnormalities observed in the post-pubertal ovary are due to: (a) a direct (early) mechanism or (b) an indirect (late) mechanism that involves altered development and function of the hypothalamus and/or pituitary. Of the various disruption endpoints and attributes assessed: (1) some were consistent with the direct mechanism (altered uterine and cervical dimensions/organization, ovarian polyovular follicles, vaginal hypospadius, endometrial hyperplasia/dysplasia); (2) some were consistent with the indirect mechanism (ovarian/oviductal salpingitis, cystic ovarian follicles); (3) some were consistent with a combination of the direct and indirect mechanisms (altered endocrine status); and (4) the mechanism(s) for one (lack of corpora lutea) was uncertain. This study also generated some surprising observations regarding vaginal estrous assessments as a means to monitor periodicity of ovarian function in the hamster.
Function of subsurface boron on Si(0 0 1)-2 × 1: water adsorption

Abstract Using density functional theory calculations we investigate the function of subsurface boron in determining surface properties of Si(0 0 1). To demonstrate its effect on surface reactivity we compare the behaviors of water adsorption on the clean and B-modified surfaces. We find that subsurface boron brings about a significant change in surface chemical properties by altering charge polarization of Si(0 0 1) locally. As a consequence, water adsorption on the B-modified surface shows a distinctively different feature from that on the clean surface.
Palliative Surgical Management of Patients with Unresectable Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma: Trends and Lessons Learned from a Large, Single Institution Experience

Introduction Routine palliative bypass has been advocated for palliation of patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma who have inoperable disease discovered at the time of surgery. We examined trends in the relative use of palliative bypass over time with an emphasis on identifying changes in surgical indications, type of bypass performed, as well as perioperative outcomes associated with surgical palliation.
THE CREATION AND MAINTENANCE OF GOVERNMENT: A NEGLECTED DIMENSION OF HOBBES'S LEVIATHAN

. Philosophical preoccupation with moral, legal, and hypothetical problems have led us to neglect those practical (or strategic) dimensions of Leviathan in which Hobbes confronts the problems of how order can actually be politically created from disorder and how, once begun, the germ of order can be perpetuated in stable political society. The possibilities of political creation reside in the idea of confederation and, importantly, in men's fundamental manipulability. The consequent maintenance of political order depends, for Hobbes, on creating conditions in which, without excessive or unnecessary resort to force, men can be made to forebear conflict among themselves and resistance to government. Those conditions, as in the case of political creation, depend upon appearances, illusion, and political manipulation.
Control of vascular cell differentiation by homeiobox transcription factors.

Pathological remodeling in the vasculature occurs during the development of restenosis after balloon angioplasty and atherosclerosis, where the migration of proliferating phenotypically modified vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) from the media to the intima is an important contributor to the intimal thickening that narrows the vessel lumen.1 In the normal vessel wall, VSMCs are in the “contractile” state in that they are quiescent, do not migrate, and express smooth muscle–specific isoforms of contractile proteins.2 By contrast, in diseased vessels, VSMCs acquire a “synthetic” state, in which they are proliferative, migratory, and express lower levels of contractile proteins and higher levels of nonmuscle isoforms of myosin and actin. Synthetic VSMCs generally resemble their less-differentiated precursors in fetal blood vessels. Since 1992, investigators have sought to examine what roles homeobox genes may play in controlling the phenotypic modulation of VSMCs.3 First characterized in the study of Drosophila mutations that give rise to homeotic transformations,4 homeobox genes encode transcription factors with a common 60 amino acid DNA-binding motif that is referred to as the homeodomain.5 These homeodomain-containing transcription factors regulate proliferation, differentiation, and migration in multiple cell types and play an important role in organogenesis and pattern formation during embryogenesis.6 These features of homeobox proteins make them promising candidates as regulators of cellular differentiation involved in the final transcriptional control of the genes responsible for the phenotypic changes observed in VSMCs during development and in pathological …
Dynamic Cropping Systems: Increasing Adaptability Amid an Uncertain Future

Future trends in population growth, energy use, climate change, and globalization will challenge agriculturists to develop innovative production systems that are highly productive and environmentally sound. Furthermore, future agricultural production systems must possess an inherent capacity to adapt to change to be sustainable. Given this context, adoption of dynamic cropping systems is proposed to meet multiple agronomic and environmental objectives through the enhancement of management adaptability to externalities. Dynamic cropping systems are a form of agricultural production that relies on an annual strategy to optimize the outcome of (i) production, (ii) economic, and (iii) resource conservation goals using ecologically-based management principles. Dynamic cropping systems are inherently complex, possessing larger crop portfolios and greater crop diversity and sequencing flexibility as compared with monoculture and fixed-sequence cropping systems. Greater crop diversity and sequencing flexibility within dynamic cropping systems may result in reduced weed and disease infestations, greater nutrient- and precipitation-use efficiency, decreased requirements of exogenous inputs, and lower production risk. The multiple interactions among management components of dynamic cropping systems demand greater management intensity than monoculture and fixed-sequence cropping systems. Further development of dynamic cropping systems is important for managing crop production systems in a sustainable manner. These systems can ultimately assist land managers to develop new and improved land-use strategies to the benefit of generations to come.
21st Century Paradigms for Pre-Service Teacher Technology Preparation.

This study investigated major course changes in 11 sections of a stand-alone educational technology course redesigned around 21st century skill sets as opposed to technical skill development. Conducted in the fall of 2007 and spring 2008 with a random sample of 100 pre-service teachers, independent and paired sample t tests and correlational analyses were used to examine differences in students’ computer attitude, self-efficacy, and computer skills before and after instruction. Results of the study suggest that, even in a more rigorous course, pre-service teachers became less anxious about computers, their belief in the value of using technology to enhance teaching and learning as well as their self-efficacy toward integrating technology in the classroom significantly improved, and they became more advanced in their technical skills and knowledge of how to apply these skills in the classroom.
Protein intake affects levels of G-protein subunits Gαi2, Gαi3, and Gβ in rat glomerular membranes

Protein intake affects levels of G-protein subunits G αi2 , G αi3 , and G β in rat glomerular membranes. Using toxin-catalyzed ADP-ribosylation and specific immunoblots we examined whether the mass of G-protein subunits, G αs , G αi (includes G αi2 , G αi3 , and G α0 ) and G αβ , in glomerular membranes was altered by dietary protein intake. ADP-ribosylation catalyzed by cholera toxin (CT) or pertussis toxin (PT) detected significant amounts of G αs or G αi in glomerular membranes from rats fed a low (6% casein) or a high (40% casein) protein diet. There was no significant difference in G αs content between glomerular membranes from low or high protein-fed rats. However, the amounts of G αi were significantly lower in glomerular membranes from rats fed a high protein diet when compared to glomerular membranes from rats fed a low protein diet. Two isoforms of immunoreactive G αs , 45 and 52 kDa proteins, were detected in glomerular membranes. The predominant isoform of G αs was a 52 kDa protein. As with ADP-ribosylation, immunoblots snowed no significant difference in G αs content between glomerular membranes obtained from the two diet groups of rats. Also, immunoreactive G αi2 G αi3 and G β were present in glomerular membranes. The mass of G αi2 and G αi3 was significantly lower in glomerular membranes of rats fed a high protein diet than in those of rats fed a low-protein diet. The decreased mass of total G αi , that is G αi2 and G αi3 , was comparable to that seen with PT-catalyzed ADP-ribosylation. By contrast, G β content was significantly greater in glomerular membranes of rats fed a high protein diet than in those of rats fed a low protein diet. G α0 was not immunodetected in glomerular membranes. In addition, any G-protein subunit examined in the present study was not detectable in cytosolic extracts of glomerular membranes. A decrease in G αi2 and G αi3 and an increase in G β may contribute in part to the greater production of eicosanoids by glomeruli of rats fed a high protein diet.
Epstein-Barr Virus Nuclear Antigen 3C Recruits Histone Deacetylase Activity and Associates with the Corepressors mSin3A and NCoR in Human B-Cell Lines

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) nuclear antigen 3C (EBNA3C) is a known regulatory transcription factor that has been shown to interact with histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1) when cotransfected in human cell lines and by in vitro binding experiments. Previous studies have shown that EBNA3C interacts with p300 and prothymosin alpha (ProTα) in EBV-infected cells and may be involved in recruiting acetyltransferases to the chromatin for acetylation of histones and transcriptional activation. EBNA3C has also been shown to function as a repressor of transcription when directed to promoters. In this report, we show that EBNA3C complexed with ProTα can also recruit deacetylase activity and associates in a complex that includes HDAC1 and HDAC2 in human B cells. A complex of EBNA3C and ProTα coimmunoprecipitated with HDAC1 and HDAC2 in cell lines stably expressing EBNA3C. Additionally, this complex associated with the mSin3A and NCoR corepressors in EBNA3C-expressing cell lines and may function in a complex with additional transcription factors known to be repressors of transcription. EBNA3C in complex with ProTα recruited deacetylase activity in cell lines stably expressing EBNA3C, and this activity was shown to be partially sensitive to trichostatin A (TSA). This suggests an association with other deacetylases that are insensitive to the general inhibitory effects of TSA, as the entire activity was not abolished in multiple assays. The association between EBNA3C and the corepressors as well as HDACs is likely to depend on the presence of ProTα in the complex. Immunoprecipitation with anti-ProTα antibody immunoprecipitated EBNA3C and the other repressors, whereas immunoprecipitation with anti-EBNA3C antibody resulted in little or no association with these molecules associated with transcription repression. Clearly, EBNA3C functions as a component of a number of dynamic complexes which function in repression and activation of transcription.
Acne Vulgaris: Pathogenesis, Treatment, and Needs Assessment

Acne vulgaris is a common skin condition with substantial cutaneous and psychologic disease burden. Studies suggest that the emotional impact of acne is comparable to that experienced by patients with systemic diseases, like diabetes and epilepsy. In conjunction with the considerable personal burden experienced by patients with acne, acne vulgaris also accounts for substantial societal and health care burden. The pathogenesis and existing treatment strategies for acne are complex. This article discusses the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and treatment of acne vulgaris. The burden of disease in the United States and future directions in the management of acne are also addressed.
Evaluating the prevention through alternative learning styles program.

This article reports on the evaluation of a two-year alcohol, tobacco and other drug (ATOD) intervention, the Prevention through Alternative Learning Styles (PALS) program, targeting both teachers and middle-school students. Teachers are taught to recognize students' unique learning styles in the context of the ATOD curriculum and adapt the ATOD messages to these learning styles. The student curriculum consists of 5 topic areas with two lessons per topic area. Student goals include enhancing students' knowledge of the effects of ATOD, promoting students' use of refusal skills and decreasing students' intentions to use ATOD. The program was implemented in school districts in the greater Dayton Ohio area. Support was found for the intervention's overall effectiveness in both years, with statistically significant improvements demonstrated by the students who participated in the PALS program. Students had an increase in their knowledge of ATOD topic areas and a decrease in their intentions to use ATOD.
A study of the structure of submerged reaction zone in porous ceramic radiant burners

The first measurements of temperature and species distributions within the submerged reaction zone stabilized inside radiant burners made of reticulated ceramic matrices are reported. The radiant burners and the flames stabilized within them are characterized in terms of stability limits, radiation efficiencies, and global pollutant emission indices. In contrast to adiabatic flame behavior, a tendency of the burners to flash back with increasing firing rates was experimentally observed. This is in qualitative agreement with the predictions reported in the literature [8]. However, for the present equivalence ratio, the firing rate at flashback is approximately five times higher than typical estimates given in Ref. 8. The temperature and species profiles show that the reaction zone is very broad, and that the tendency to flashback results from higher preheating of the unburnt mixture. Quenching at the ceramic matrix strand surfaces was observed from local temperature and species data. The NOX emission indices of these burners are extremely low (0.1–0.35 g/kg). The CO and HC emission indices are slightly higher due to the quenching of reactions near the solid surfaces (CO: 0.1–3.6 g/kg, HC: 0.1–1.2 g/kg).
Number of Alleles as a Predictor of the Relative Assignment Accuracy of Short Tandem Repeat (STR) and Single-Nucleotide-Polymorphism (SNP) Baselines for Chum Salmon

Abstract Short tandem repeat (STR) markers, which exhibit many alleles per locus, are commonly used to assign fish to their populations of origin. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), which have many technical advantages over STRs, typically exhibit only two alleles per locus. Simulation studies have indicated that the number of independent alleles is a good predictor of the accuracy of genetic markers for fishery applications. Extant STR baselines for salmon Oncorhynchus spp. contain hundreds of alleles, and it has been estimated that hundreds of SNP markers will need to be developed before the SNP baselines will be comparable to the STR baselines. We compared 15 STRs exhibiting 349 independent alleles with 61 SNPs exhibiting 66 independent alleles for accuracy in assigning individuals to closely related populations of chum salmon O. keta. The SNP baseline yielded slightly higher mean accuracies for proportional assignment and comparable accuracies for individual assignment. Based on the number of ind...
Conflict-free conformance to en route flow rate constraints

Strategies are presented for speed control and path stretching in an en route sector subject to an output flow rate restriction. Control laws are derived to maintain aircraft separation while conforming to a piecewise-constant flow restriction profile. These laws are demonstrated in a simulation using simple models of sector geometry, traffic flow and aircraft dynamics. Controlling aircraft trajectories can only temporarily solve the problem of accommodating a sector input rate larger than the constrained output rate. Hence there is a maximum number of aircraft that can be handled before a control limit is reached and the flow constraint is back propagated to the upstream sector. This maximum number, called sector accommodation, is derived analytically for a uniform input flow.
Integrating advanced mobility services into the future Internet Architecture

This paper discusses the design challenges associated with supporting advanced mobility services in the future Internet. The recent transition of the Internet from the fixed host-server model to one in which mobile platforms are the norm motivates a next-generation protocol architecture which provides integrated and efficient support for advanced mobility services. Key wireless access and mobility usage scenarios are identified including host mobility, multihoming, vehicular access and context addressability, and key protocol support requirements are identified in each case. The MobilityFirst (MF) architecture being developed under the National Science Foundation's future Internet Architecture (FIA) program is proposed as a possible realization that meets the identified requirements. MF protocol specifics are given for each wireless/mobile use case, along with sample evaluation results demonstrating achievable performance benefits.
CORR Insights®: Synthetic Mesh Improves Shoulder Function After Intraarticular Resection and Prosthetic Replacement of Proximal Humerus

T he proximal humerus is a common anatomic location for the occurrence of sarcomas. Although various reconstruction options are available after intraarticular resection, surgeons most commonly use endoprosthetic implantation. The glenohumeral articulation is extremely complex, composed of several musculotendinous units that all function synergistically to produce the most mobile joint in the body. This complexity is extremely difficult to reproduce after endoprosthetic reconstruction. As a result, two problematic issues tend to arise—instability and poor active ROM. Both of these conspire to produce a lifetime of poor function postoperatively in a frequently young and active patient population. Several solutions to these issues have been proposed. Use of allograft-prosthetic composites, which facilitate repair of the rotator cuff to the allograft, provides a theoretical advantage of biological healing [1]. Suture of the rotator cuff tendons directly to various synthetic mesh materials, which are wrapped around the endoprosthesis, as has been reported in the current study, provides a solid and stable platform for which to repair the transected tendons [3]. In both of these situations, instability continues to be a problem in a subset of patients and functional ROM is rarely, if ever, obtained. A more recent development is the reverse shoulder prosthesis, which relies on the retained deltoid to allow for a more functional ROM. Despite some evidence that active ROM is improved, the evidence must be weighed against the risk of prosthetic loosening and subsequent need for revision [2]. It remains evident that a satisfactory solution still eludes us.
Involvement of PI3K/Akt signaling in PTTH-stimulated ecdysteroidogenesis by prothoracic glands of the silkworm, Bombyx mori.

Abstract The prothoracicotropic hormone (PTTH) stimulates ecdysteroidogenesis by prothoracic gland in larval insects. Previous studies showed that Ca 2+ , cAMP, extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), and tyrosine kinase are involved in PTTH-stimulated ecdysteroidogenesis by the prothoracic glands of both Bombyx mori and Manduca sexta . In the present study, the involvement of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling in PTTH-stimulated ecdysteroidogenesis by B. mori prothoracic glands was further investigated. The results showed that PTTH-stimulated ecdysteroidogenesis was partially blocked by LY294002 and wortmannin, indicating that PI3K is involved in PTTH-stimulated ecdysteroidogenesis. Akt phosphorylation in the prothoracic glands appeared to be moderately stimulated by PTTH in vitro. PTTH-stimulated Akt phosphorylation was inhibited by LY294002. An in vivo PTTH injection into day 6 last instar larvae also increased Akt phosphorylation of the prothoracic glands. In addition, PTTH-stimulated ERK phosphorylation of the prothoracic glands was not inhibited by either LY294002 or wortmannin, indicating that PI3K is not involved in PTTH-stimulated ERK signaling. A23187 and thapsigargin, which stimulated B. mori prothoracic gland ERK phosphorylation and ecdysteroidogenesis, could not activate Akt phosphorylation. PTTH-stimulated ecdysteroidogenesis was not further activated by insulin, indicating the absence of an additive action of insulin and PTTH on the prothoracic glands. The present study, together with the previous demonstration that insulin stimulates B. mori ecdysteroidogenesis through PI3K/Akt signaling, suggests that crosstalk exists in B. mori prothoracic glands between insulin and PTTH signaling, which may play a critical role in precisely regulated ecdysteroidogenesis during development.
Para-Hisian Pacing A New Method for Differentiating Retrograde Conduction Over an Accessory AV Pathway From Conduction Over the AV Node

The accurate diagnosis of supraventricular tachycardias (SVTs) is crucial for the successful catheter ablation. To differentiate these SVTs, several pacing maneuvers are useful in the invasive electrophysiological (EP) study.
Calorimeter for laser energy measurements

A calorimeter enclosed in a constant temperature environment has been constructed to measure the output energy of a conventional mode ruby or neodymium laser. The calorimeter was designed according to the measurement theory and has an estimated uncertainty of ±2% in the range 5 J to 100 J. The time–temperature curves were analyzed according to the theory with the aid of a computer program.
Steps counts among middle school students vary with aerobic fitness level

The purpose of this study was to examine if steps/day taken by middle school students varied based on aerobic fitness classification. Middle school students (N = 223; 112 girls, 111 boys) were assigned to three aerobic fitness categories (HIGH, MOD, LOW) based on results of the FITNESSGRAM PACER test. Four weekdays of pedometer monitoring determined activity levels (steps/day). Boys accumulated significantly more steps/day than girls, 11,589 ± 3,270 and 10,232 ± 2,517 steps/day, respectively; F(1, 219) = 16.0, p < .001, η2 = .055. There were no differences in steps/day between grades. HIGH fit participants accumulated significantly more steps/day, F(2, 217) = 12.2, p < .001, η2 = .101, than moderately fit and low fit participants (≈ 1,491 and ≈ 2,867 steps/day, respectively). Middle school students who participated in sports in addition to physical education (PE) accumulated significantly more steps/day (≈ 980 steps/day) than those participating in PE only, F(1, 219) = 10.0, p < .01, η2 = .044. Although t...
Assessing impacts of off-nadir observation on remote sensing of vegetation - Use of the Suits model

The use of Suits' (1972a, b) digital radiative transfer model to simulate the effect of nonLambertian canopy reflectance on off-nadir observations of vegetation is discussed. Canopy reflectances of cord grass are calculated using the radiative transfer model, field radiometric measurements, and airborne multispectral scanner data. The effects of varying view angles on canopy reflectance are analyzed and compared. The comparison reveals that the model is effective in simulating the sense and magnitude of reflectance change due to variable angles of observations; however, the model does not reproduce the observed dependence of nadir canopy reflectance on solar zenith angle. It is concluded that the radiative transfer model is applicable for predicting the variation in canopy reflectance due to changing view zenith angles.
Silica Coated Single Walled Carbon Nanotubes

Single walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) have been coated with silica by the addition of a silica/H2SiF6 solution to a surfactant-stabilized solution of SWNTs. The thickness of the coating is control...
Transfer of preventive health programs to physicians' practices through medical organizations.

Abstract Background: Transferring new information to practicing physicians is a complex and often faulty process. Effective transfer is a challenging goal that requires a strategy for reaching large numbers of physicians throughout the country in a short time. However, methods for disseminating preventive health techniques such as smoking cessation have not been well organized. Smoking is the single most important preventable cause of premature mortality, so dissemination of research-based smoking-cessation techniques to physicians' practices is a priority for the National Cancer Institute (NCI). Methods: NCI recruited national, professional medical organizations to collaborate in disseminating smoking-cessation techniques. The goal was to co-sponsor 50 Train-the-Trainer (TT) seminars that would prepare 2,000 professionals as volunteers to instruct their colleagues in smoking-cessation techniques. NCI provided all materials, faculty (nine professionals), advance logistics, CME credits, and follow-up. The co-sponsor organizations helped develop the training plan, promoted training among their members, enrolled professionals to be trained, and made logistical arrangements for the training sites. Results: During the 4 years of the program, NCI recruited 11 national organizations as co-sponsors; conducted 53 TT seminars in 22 states and Washington, DC; and trained 2,098 professionals as smoking-cessation trainers, who practice nationwide. The many lessons learned provide the basis for recommendations that can assist others who want to work with professional organizations. Conclusion: The National Cancer Institute demonstrated that national organizations of medical professionals can help to disseminate effectively a research-based smoking-cessation program. Twelve recommendations are presented to help others disseminate preventive health techniques nationwide.
Harvesting equipment to reduce particulate matter emissions from almond harvest.

Almond harvest accounts for an estimated 12 Gg of PM10 emissions in California each harvest season. Emissions from three new, “low-dust” almond harvesters (Exact Harvest Systems E4000; Flory Industries 8550; Weiss-McNair 9800 California Special) and one exhaust abatement device (Joe DiAnna, Clean Air Concept) were compared to those from a conventional harvester operating in the same orchard. Emissions of TSP and PM10 trended lower for all new harvesters and were significantly lower for most harvesters (α < 0.10). Significant reductions in PM2.5 emissions were observed from two harvesters as well. Fractionation analysis was not conducted on nut samples collected in the second year of the project, but differences observed in the composition of material that would be delivered to the huller between the Exact E4000 and conventional harvesters were functionally insignificant. The results of these tests imply that new harvest technologies are able to reduce PM10 emissions from one of the largest sources in the ...
Evaluation of likelihood functions

An expression is obtained for the likelihood function for the detection of a stochastic signal (diffusion process) in white noise. A stochastic differential equation is then obtained for the evolution of the likelihood function and the coefficients of this differential equation are related to a corresponding nonlinear filtering problem. Some extensions are noted to diffusion process signals in correlated noise and to more general stochastic signals.
X-ray crystal structures of [(Me3SiCH2)2InCl]2 and [(Me3SiCH2)InCl2]∞

Abstract The solid-state structures of ((Me3SiCH2)2InCl (I) and (Me3SiCH2)InCl2 (II) have been determined by single-crystal X-ray analysis. Compound I crystallizes as a centrosymmetric dimer, [(Me3SiCh2)2InCl]2, whilst compound II crystallizes as an infinite polymer, [(Me3SiCH2)InCl2]∞. The geometry about each indium atom in II is trigonalbipyramidal.
What Went Wrong with the Mars Landing

Speculation regarding the failure of the Mars Polar Lander mission has not included the possibility of a fragile and thermally unstable soil at the landing site [see related News of the Week articles “Yet another loss to the martian gremlin” by Richard Kerr (10 Dec., p. [2051][1]) and “Changes
Stability Evaluation of Oil-in-Water Emulsions by Gold Sol

A simple, rapid, and inexpensive titration method with gold sol was developed which measured the fraction of hydrophilic gum arabic that was free in the aqueous (continuous) phase and thus indirectly, the fraction of the gum which coated the oil droplets, thereby fulfilling its intended stabilizing function. For a series of gum arabic-stabilized emulsions of varying particle sizes, the gold number measured for fresh emulsions related directly to the long term storage stability of these emulsions at high dilution.
Piezoelectric T-Beam Microactuators

This paper introduces a novel T-beam actuator fabricated by a piezoelectric MEMS fabrication process. ICP-RIE etching from the front and back of a bulk PZT chip is used to produce stair stepped structures through the thickness with complex inplane shapes. Masked electrode deposition creates active and passive regions in the PZT structure. With a T-shaped crosssection, and bottom and top flange and web electrodes, a cantilevered beam can bend in-plane and out-of-plane with bimorph actuation in both directions. One of these T-beam actuators is fabricated and experimentally tested. An experimentally validated model predicts that the cross-section geometry can be optimized to produce higher displacement and blocking force.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
Divalent cations modulate the activity of metabotropic glutamate receptors.

Metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) and calcium receptors (CaR) are closely related G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). The similar structural and functional properties of mGluRs and CaRs include conserved amino acid residues involved in glutamate binding in mGluRs and Ca 2 + binding in the CaR. Furthermore, recent findings have demonstrated that mGluRs can respond to high extracellular Ca 2 + (Ca 2 + o) whereas CaR activity is potentiated by L-amino acids. We show that both mGluR1 and mGluR2 are activated by Ca 2 + o in the absence of glutamate in the extracellular media. This activation by Ca 2 + o is antagonized by Mg 2 + o. Unlike the CaR, in which the intracellular carboxyl tail has been reported to be involved in Ca 2 + o-dependent activity, the carboxyl tail of mGluRs does not seem to play a role in mediating Ca 2 + o actions. On the other hand, we find that preservation of disulfide bonds in the N-terminal extracellular domain of mGluRs is essential for stimulation by Ca 2 + o as well as glutamate. Because the mGluR1 EC 5 0 for Ca 2 + o is within the physiologic range of Ca 2 + in the synaptic cleft, mGluR function is likely regulated by changes in divalent cations caused by synaptic activity under normal or pathologic conditions.
Response to resistive loading in the newborn piglet.

ABSTRACT: The diaphragmatic force generation and electromyographic response to long-term (1 h) inspiratory resistive loading was examined in the newborn piglet during the 3rd postnatal wk of life. Minute ventilation decreased to approximately 50% of baseline level within 5 min of imposition of a severe resistive load and remained at this level for the duration of loading. The decrease in ventilation was secondary to a fall in tidal volume at a constant frequency. There was a significant increase in central nervous system output to the diaphragm as manifested by integrated diaphragmatic electromyogram. Progressive augmentation of this index of central drive continued throughout the period of loading. Functional residual capacity fell significantly by 60 min of inspiratory resistive loading. This strategy should allow greater force generation by placing the diaphragm at a more optimal length-tension relationship. However, the force generating capability of the diaphragm was compromised as assessed by force frequency curve analysis. These results suggest that the diaphragm of the neonatal piglet fatigues during prolonged inspiratory resistive loading.
Photoaffinity Labeling the Agonist Binding Sites of nAChRs with [3H]Epibatidine

Neuronal nAChR subtype-selective agonists have potential therapeutic uses in many neurological disorders. Determination of structural aspects unique to individual nAChR agonist binding sites (ABS) is important to the development of nAChR subtype-selective agonists/ligands. To this end, we photolabeled Torpedo, α4β2 and α4β4 nAChRs with [3H]Epibatidine. [3H]Epibatidine binds to α4β2 and α4β4 nAChRs with high affinity (10-200 pM) and binds with similar affinity at the α1-γ and α1-δ ABS of the Torpedo nAChR (∼11 nM). At the subunit level, [3H]Epibatidine photoincorporated into the principal component of the ABS (α1 and α4 subunits) and the complementary component of the ABS in γ and β4 subunits but not in the δ or β2 subunits. Since little is known about the photochemistry of [3H]Epibatidine and the stability of UV-induced [3H]Epibatidine-amino acid adducts under Edman degradation conditions, we first established the merit of [3H]Epibatidine as a photoaffinity probe by determining sites of [3H]Epibatidine labeling in the Torpedo nAChR. The principal sites of labeling were αTyr198 within Loop C and γLeu109 and γTyr117 within Loop E of ABS (see figure). Studies are currently underway to identify the sites of labeling within the α4 and β4 subunits.View Large Image | View Hi-Res Image | Download PowerPoint Slide
Aligned Sintered Compacts of RBa2Cu3O7−x (R=Dy, Er, Eu, Gd, Ho, Y)

Sintered compacts of magnetically aligned single-crystal particles have been studied by x-ray, microscopy, and magnetic measurements. Though significant alignment and very anisotropie magnetic hysteresis were obtained, the magnitude of the hysteresis indicates, through the critical state model, that the bulk critical current density remains low.
Marcasite precipitation from hydrothermal solutions

Pyrite and marcasite were precipitated by both slow addition of aqueous Fe2+ and SiO32− to an H2S solution and by mixing aqueous Fe2+ and Na2S4 solutions at 75°C. H2S2 or HS2− and H2S4 or HS4− were formed in the S2O32− and Na2S4 experiments, respectively. Marcasite formed at pH < pK1 of the polysulfide species present (for H2S2, pK1 = 5.0; for H2S4, pK1 = 3.8 at 25°C). Marcasite forms when the neutral sulfane is the dominant polysulfide, whereas pyrite forms when mono-or divalent polysulfides are dominant. In natural solutions where H2S2 and HS2 are likely to be the dominant polysulfides, marcasite will form only below pH 5 at all temperatures. The pH-dependent precipitation of pyrite and marcasite may be caused by electrostatic interactions between polysulfide species and pyrite or marcasite growth surfaces: the protonated ends of H2S2 and HS2 are repelled from pyrite growth sites but not from marcasite growth sites. The negative ions HS2 and S22− are strongly attracted to the positive pyrite growth sites. Masking of 1πg* electrons in the S2 group by the protons makes HS2 and H2S2 isoelectronic with AsS2− and As22−, respectively (Tossellet al., 1981). Thus, the loellingitederivative structure (marcasite) results when both ends of the polysulfide are protonated. Marcasite occurs abundantly only for conditions below pH 5 and where H2S2 was formed near the site of deposition by either partial oxidation of aqueous H2S by O2 or by the reaction of higher oxidation state sulfur species that are reactive with H2S at the conditions of formation e.g., S2O32− but not SO42−. The temperature of formation of natural marcasite may be as high as 240°C (Hannington and Scott, 1985), but preservation on a multimillion-year scale seems to require post-depositional temperatures of below about 160°C (Rising, 1973; McKibben and Elders, 1985).
Organic electro-optic modulator using transparent conducting oxides as electrodes

A novel organic electro-optic (EO) modulator using transparent conducting oxides (ZnO and In2O3) as electrodes is demonstrated for the first time. The modulator employs the poled guest-host chromophore/polymer material AJL8/APC having r33=35pm/V and is able to achieve a low Vπ=2.8 V switching voltage for an 8mm-long device at a wavelength of 1.31μm. This corresponds to a Vπ=1.1 V switching voltage for a 1cm-long device in a push-pull configuration. The push-pull VπL figure of merit normalized for the EO coefficient is thus 1.1V-cm/(35 pm/V), which is 3–4x lower than that can be achieved with a convetional modulator structure. The bottom electrode is ZnO grown by Metal-Organic Vapor Deposition (MOCVD) and top electrode In2O3 deposited using ion-beam assisted deposition. The top electrode is directly deposited on the guest-host organic material. The design and fabrication considerations for the modulator are also discussed.
Strictly positive real admittances for coupled stability

Abstract This paper builds upon recent work that has addressed the stability of a feedback- controlled robot coupled to a passive, dynamic environment. A new definition of a “strictly positive real” function is presented, and is used to provide necessary and sufficient conditions for the exponential stability of a coupled system comprising a 1-port robot with a strictly positive real admittance, and a 1-port environment with a positive real (but otherwise arbitrary) impedance. The distinction between the new definition and conventional definitions of a strictly positive real function is founded in physical systems theory; the new definition relies upon distinct roles for efforts and flows, and upon the concept of an excess state. This definition will provide a useful design constraint for the development of robust robot controllers.
Seedling Establishment and Survival on Restored Campsites in Subalpine Forest

This study experimented with common restoration techniques (scarification, soil amendments, mulch, and seeding) on six closed wilderness campsites in subalpine forests in Oregon. Effectiveness in encouraging seedling establishment, growth, and survival was assessed every year for the first 7 years following treatment. Closure and restoration of the campsites increased the density of plants established from seed. Despite an original density of virtually zero, mean density of perennial plants was 55 plants/m 2 7 years after closure. All the treatments, with the exception of the biodegradable mulch mat, increased plant density. Seven years after treatment, seeding had increased plant density 5-fold, whereas scarification and soil amendments (organic matter, compost, and soil inoculum) had each increased density 3-fold. The organic and compost amendments also had the positive benefit of increasing growth rates and shortening the time-to-reproductive maturity. Results suggest that restoration of the herbaceous cover on these campsites can occur rapidly using the techniques employed. All but one of the species we seeded established in substantial quantities and survived at densities exceeding their density in the naturally sparse herbaceous cover on these sites. Thirty-six perennial species volunteered on these sites. The remaining challenge is reestablishment of the shrub species that comprise much of the ground cover in these forests. These species seldom establish from seed.
A New Control Method That Estimates the Backflow in a Centrifugal Pump

The rotary blood pump will be widely used in the near future as an implantable left ventricular assist device (LVAD). However, one obstacle for the centrifugal pump is a control method that can maintain an optimum flow rate in a physiological condition. Thus, the object of this study is to develop this optimum control system for the centrifugal pump. If the heart function and pump efficiency are stable, the ratio of the systole current to the the diastole current (S/D) will be a fixed value. However, if the heart function and pump efficiency are unstable, S/D will not be a fixed value. This control system was investigated with a calf that was subjected to an ex vivo LVAD study. The LVAD was a Gyro C1E3 centrifugal pump. The pump flow rate was changed to 1.5, 3.5, 5.2, and 6.2 L/min. According to the changes of the pump flow rates, the S/D values were 1.01 +/- 0.01, 1.06 +/- 0.05, 1.03 +/- 0.01, and 1.03 +/- 0.01, respectively. There was no statistical difference among the 3 groups. In a separate experiment, the backflow condition S/D was 1.88 +/- 0.6, and the normal condition S/D was 1.35 +/- 0.5. There was a statistical difference between the 2 groups. The results of this study suggest that S/D is not influenced by the pump flow rate. However, the S/D was changed when the pump was in a backflow condition. This method will be useful in controlling a centrifugal pump requiring only electrical current information.
iPad Apps in Early Intervention and School-Based Practice

The use of iPads as a therapeutic tool in occupation al therapy practice has become increasingly prominent in helping children with disabilities (Amerih, 2013). The iPad, along with various applica...