cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Multisite bio-stimulating implants magnetoelectrically powered and individually programmed by a single transmitter

Implantable bioelectronics for electrically modulating activities of specific cells have shown great success and exciting potential in treating a wide range of diseases. Some of the most representative therapies are cardiac pacemakers and neuromodulators for motor function restoration, pain relief and neural disorder treatment [1], [2]. While several wireless miniaturized bio-stimulators have been demonstrated [3] –[6], most of them lack the capability of coordinated multisite stimulation, which is shown to be more effective in many scenarios [1], [2]. Equipping an implant with electrode/LED arrays is a straightforward approach to add extra stimulation channels [7] –[9], but the deployment flexibility of stimulating spots is limited due to leads. [10] shows a wired retinal stimulator array to scale up the driving capability and ensure synchronization, but the heavy use of leads severely limits its applications. A two-site heart pacing system [2] is proposed with two independently powered and controlled implants for flexible leadless deployment. Because the implants are inductively powered by two transmitters (TXs) with frequency multiplexing, they face stricter EM exposure constrains for power transmission, more challenging device synchronization, and limited scalability to more implants. To circumvent these problems, this paper presents a hardware platform for coordinated and miniaturized multisite stimulating implants, wirelessly powered and controlled by a single TX. Magnetoelectric (ME) wireless power transfer with high power and efficiency, low body absorption, and less sensitivity to misalignment [4], [5], is co-designed with a robust SoC to enable reliable operation and individual programmability of the implants. The presented system features: (1) robust operation with 2V source amplitude variations, covering up to 40mm distance between TX and implants; (2) individual addressability and programmability of each implant, leveraging PUF IDs; (3) $\gt 90$% chip efficiency for 1.5-to-3.5V stimulation with fully programmable parameters; (4) no extra TX output power required for additional implants; (5) miniaturized implants with 6.2mm3 volume and 30mg mass.
Retention of Sterile Compounding Knowledge Among Pharmacy Technicians.

Background: Patient safety is in jeopardy due to a rise in the preparation of adulterated parenteral products with poor technique identified as a significant contributing factor. Pharmacy technicia...
Quantifying the lateral heterogeneity of distal submarine lobe deposits, Point Loma Formation, California: Implications for subsurface lateral facies prediction

Submarine fan deposits are volumetrically the largest sediment accumulations on Earth and host significant hydrocarbon reserves. Extensive research has documented the bed-scale architecture of sandy, high net-to-gross (N:G), proximal and axial environments, which can have bed thicknesses of several meters; however less well-understood are thin-bedded turbidites, which are typically lower N:G and deposited in more distal environments. Conceptual models assume that lobe-fringe-to-basin plain environments consist of tabular, sheet-like beds that extend out continuously and predictably over long distances—sometimes as far as several kilometers. Extensive lateral continuity, however, is not necessarily reflected in ancient outcrop analogs. This study seeks to apply a quantitative approach to the characterization of thin-bedded turbidites to assess the impact of multi-scale heterogeneity on reservoir predictability. The sea-cliff outcrop exposures of the Upper Cretaceous Point Loma Formation in San Diego, California, exhibit a wide range of bed thicknesses and stratigraphic architecture, which have been used to interpret their relative position (e.g. axis-to-fringe, proximal-to-distal) in a submarine lobe. In this study, we characterize thin-bedded and interpret them to have been deposited in an off-axis-to-fringe environment. The study area spans 700 m of laterally continuous outcrop, across which 10 correlated stratigraphic sections are used to quantify lateral and vertical changes in metrics such as bed thickness, N:G, lithofacies proportions, etc. Results of this study demonstrate that thin sand beds experience both lateral facies changes (e.g. from turbidite to hybrid event bed) and rapid thickness changes (abrupt pinch-and-swell geometries) more frequently than conceptual models would predict. We find that a single measure of lateral heterogeneity (e.g. thinning rate away from the bed axis) does not reflect the true architecture of sandstone beds, and that significant information is lost when beds are correlated over tens-to-hundreds of meters. We also suggest that sands are deposited in irregular (e.g. “finger-like”) planform geometries, the effect of which compounds to the lobe-element scale and influences lateral lithofacies predictability. This study of the Point Loma Formation offers high-resolution bed-to-element scale data, which may be used as inputs for reservoir models and horizontal facies predictions (e.g., for geosteering) in both conventional and unconventional hydrocarbon reservoirs, such as those from the Wilcox (Gulf of Mexico) and the Wolfcamp (Permian Basin).
Bactericidal effects of high-energy visible light on common otitis media pathogens

Aims This study assessed the use of high-energy, visible light on the survival rates of three bacteria commonly found in middle ear infections (i.e., otitis media; Streptococcus pneumoniae, Moraxella catarrhalis, and Haemophilus influenzae). Method and results Bacteria were cultured and then subjected to a single, four-hour treatment of 405 nm wavelength light at two different intensities. All three bacteria species were susceptible to the light at clinically significant rates (>99.9% reduction). Bacteria were susceptible to the HEV light in a dose-dependent manner (lower survival rates with increased intensity and duration of exposure). Conclusions The results suggest that high-energy visible light may provide a non-surgical, non-pharmaceutical approach to the therapeutic treatment of otitis media. Significance and impact of the study Given the growing concerns surrounding antibiotic resistance, this study demonstrates a rapid, alternative method for effective inactivation of bacterial pathogens partly responsible for instances of otitis media.
Quebec's Module D'Enregistrement Des Ventes (MEV): Fighting the Zapper, Phantomware and Tax Fraud with Technology

On January 28, 2008 the Quebec Minister of Revenue, Jean-Marc Fournier, announced that by late 2009 the MRQ will begin testing a device, the module d'enregistrement des ventes (MEV) that is projected to substantially reduce tax fraud in the restaurant sector. By 2010 or 2011 MEVs will be mandatory in all Quebec restaurants, where they will assure accuracy and retention of business records within electronic cash registers (ECRs). This paper moves beyond a discussion of the variety of sales suppression programs in use - zappers and phantom-ware. The concern here is on enforcement efforts, particularly the MEV. The intent is to assess the workability and effectiveness of the MEV solution by contrasting it with solutions adopted elsewhere. Two policy orientations guide enforcement actions in this area - one approach is rules-based; the other is principles-based. They are not mutually exclusive - degrees of blending are common. Rules-based jurisdictions adopt comprehensive and mandatory legislation regulating, and/ or certifying cash registers. Jurisdictions taking this approach include Greece and Germany. With the adoption of the MEV, Quebec will also fall within this group. Principles-based jurisdictions rely on compliant taxpayers following the rules. Compliance is enforced with an enhanced audit regime. The Netherlands and the UK fall into this group. After presenting a rough schematic of a how a zapper or phantom-ware facilitates a skimming fraud (absent many of the details considered in earlier papers), this paper will consider three rules-based enforcement approaches: the Greek "fiscal electronic devices" or FEDs, the Quebec MEVs and the German "smart cards." The Dutch principles-based approach which is also favored by the UK will provide a policy contrast. A final section will consider how CSPs in a SSUTA framework could be used to achieve very similar outcomes as is currently realized under either the rules-based or principles-based approaches. CSPs in a SSUTA context blend the rules-based and principles-based approach within a unique (private sector) solution.
279 VASCULAR MORPHOMETRY OF BOVINE PLACENTOMES IN LATE GESTATION FROM EMBRYOS PRODUCED IN VIVO OR IN VITRO

The role of the vascular supply in the development of placentas from embryos produced in vitro is poorly understood. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of in vitro embryo production on morphometry of blood vessels within fetal (cotyledonary) and maternal (caruncular) components of the placentome during late gestation. In vivo-produced embryos were recovered from superovulated Holstein cows on Day 7 after estrus. For in vitro embryo production, oocytes were aspirated from the ovaries of Holstein cows, matured in vitro, and then fertilized. Presumptive zygotes with their cumulus cells were transferred into M-199 with 10% estrus cow serum and cultured for 168 h post-insemination. Semen from the same Holstein sire was used for the production of in vivo and in vitro embryos. Single blastocysts from each production system were transferred into the uteri of heifers. On Day 222 of gestation, fetuses and placentas were recovered in utero (in vivo, n = 12; in vitro, n = 12). Placentomes were collected, fixed and sectioned. Fetal and maternal blood vessels were identified within placentome sections using immunocytochemistry for vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) protein. A total of 4.8 × 105 μm2 of tissue were examined from each placentome. Stereological methods were used to determine the volume densities of fetal and maternal blood vessels. Data were analyzed by GLM procedures. Fetuses were heavier (P = 0.03) in the in vitro group (20.7 ± 1.0 kg, LS mean ± SEM) compared to the in vivo group (17.3 ± 1.0 kg). Placentas were also heavier (P = 0.06) for the in vitro group (2.5 ± 0.2 kg) compared to the in vivo group (2.0 ± 0.2 kg). Placental efficiency, calculated as fetal weight/placental weight, was similar between the two treatment groups (9.0 ± 0.5 and 8.9 ± 0.5 for in vivo and in vitro, respectively). Fetal vascular volume density in placentomes was not different between the two treatment groups (5.4 ± 0.3% and 5.4 ± 0.3% for in vivo and in vitro, respectively). In contrast, maternal vascular volume density was greater (P = 0.02) for placentomes in the in vitro group (5.9 ± 0.3%) compared to in vivo controls (4.9 ± 0.3%). In summary, compared to placentomes from embryos produced in vivo, placentomes from embryos produced in vitro had similar volume density of fetal vessels, but had significantly increased volume density of maternal vessels. Supported by the State of North Carolina.
Cluster aggregate inequality and multi-level hierarchical clustering

We show that (1) in hierarchical clustering, many linkage functions satisfy a cluster aggregate inequality, which allows an exact O(N2) multi-level (using mutual nearest neighbor) implementation of the standard O(N3) agglomerative hierarchical clustering algorithm. (2) a desirable close friends cohesion of clusters can be translated into kNN consistency which is guaranteed by the multi-level algorithm; (3) For similarity-based linkage functions, the multi-level algorithm is naturally implemented as graph contraction. The effectiveness of our algorithms is demonstrated on a number of real life applications.
The influence of ADHD-hyperactivity/impulsivity symptoms on the development of oppositional defiant disorder symptoms in a 2-year longitudinal study

The structural relations among ADHD-inattention (IN), ADHD-hyperactivity/impulsivity (H/I), and oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) factors were examined in a 2-year longitudinal study with 752 children. Structural equation procedures showed that higher scores on the H/I factor in Year 1 were associated with higher scores on ODD factor in Years 2 and 3. Higher scores on the H/I factor in Year 2 were also associated with higher scores on ODD factor in Year 3. The ODD factor did not predict the H/I and IN factors in subsequent years. The IN factor did not predict the ODD and H/I factors in subsequent years and the H/I factor did not predict the IN factor. The ability of the H/I factor to predict the subsequent ODD factor occurred even after taking into account the ability of the ODD, H/I, and IN factors to predict themselves across time. These results suggest that the H/I aspect of ADHD influences the development of ODD behavior.
E3 ubiquitin ligase Cbl-b inhibits NLRP3 inflammasome activation by targeting NLRP3 for ubiquitination (INM6P.405)

NLRP3 inflammasome has been shown to be involved in antiviral and antibacterial innate immunity, as well as in the response to adjuvants critical for adaptive immunity. However, inappropriate activation of NLRP3 contributes to deleterious inflammatory syndromes. Although recent studies show that NLRP3 undergoes ubiquitination, the mechanisms for negatively regulating the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome in response to PAMPs or endogenous DAMPs are largely unknown. In this study, we found that Cbl-b selectively inhibits NLRP3 inflammasome activation, leaving the other key innate response pathways. Further indication of a negative regulation by Cbl-b on NLRP3 inflammasome activity is the finding that LPS injection induces a significant mortality in Cbl-b-/- mice compared to wild-type (WT) controls, and this increased mortality in Cbl-b-/- mice is blocked by an IL-1 receptor antagonist. At the molecular levels, Cbl-b binds to NLRP3 upon LPS priming and ATP stimulation independently of ASC. NLRP3 undergoes ubiquitination in WT macrophages upon NLRP3 inflammasome stimulation, whereas its ubiquitination is impaired in Cbl-b-/- macrophages. Interestingly, NLRP3 inflammasome stimulation also induces Cbl-b tyrosine phosphorylation, which is critical for its ubiquitin ligase activity, thus initiating a negative feedback that controls NLRP3 inflammasome activity. Therefore, we provide a previously-unappreciated function for Cbl-b in regulating NLRP3 inflammasome activation.
Duality, Complementarity, and Polarity in Nonsmooth/Nonconvex Dynamics

This paper presents a brief survey and a unified theory in nonsmooth and nonconvex dynamical systems. The canonical dual/polar transformation methods and the associated bi-duality and triality theories proposed recently in nonconvex variational problems are generalized into fully nonlinear dissipative dynamical systems governed by nonsmooth constitutive laws and boundary conditions. It is shown that by this method, nonsmooth and nonconvex Hamilton systems can be reformulated into certain smooth dual-complementary variational problems. An bi-polarity variational principle is established for 3-D nonsmooth elastodynamical systems, and a potentially powerful complementary variational principle can be used for solving unilateral variational inequality problems governed by nonsmooth boundary conditions. Applications are illustrated by dynamically post-buckling analysis of extended beam model. A very interesting new phenomenon: meta-buckling transition period in chaotic vibration is revealed and a bifurcation criterion for dissipative Duffing system is obtained by the dual analysis. It is shown that the chaotical solutions form an invariant set in canonical dual phase space. This invariant set and the bifurcation criterion play key roles in feedback controlling against chaos.
Vasopressin inhibits type-I collagen and albumin gene expression in primary cultures of adult rat hepatocytes.

The mechanisms that regulate collagen gene expression in hepatic cells are poorly understood. Accelerated Ca2+ fluxes are associated with inhibiting collagen synthesis selectively in human fibroblasts (Flaherty, M., and Chojkier, M. (1986) J. Biol. Chem. 261, 12060-12065). In suspension cultures of isolated hepatocytes, the Ca2+ agonist vasopressin increases cytosolic levels of free Ca2+ (Thomas, A.P., Marks, J.S., Coll, K.E., and Williamson, J. R. (1983) J. Biol. Chem. 258, 5716-5725). However, whether vasopressin's interactions with plasma membrane V1 receptors attenuate hepatic collagen production is unknown. We investigated this problem by studying vasopressin's effects on collagen synthesis and Ca2+ efflux in long-term primary cultures of differentiated and proliferation-competent adult rat hepatocytes. Twelve-day-old quiescent cultures were exposed to test substances and labeled with [5-3H]proline. Determinations of radioactivity in collagenase-sensitive and collagenase-resistant proteins were used to calculate the relative levels of collagen production. Synthetic [8-arg]vasopressin stimulated 45Ca2+ efflux within 1 min and inhibited hepatocyte collagen production within 3 h by 50%; overall rates of protein synthesis were not affected significantly. In cultures labeled with [35S]methionine, vasopressin also decreased the levels of newly synthesized and secreted albumin, but not fibrinogen, detected in specific immunoprecipitates analyzed by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and autoradiography. Northern blot analyses using specific [32P]cDNA probes revealed 70% decreases in hybridizable levels of collagen alpha 1(I) mRNA in hepatocyte cultures treated with either vasopressin or Ca2+ ionophore A23187; hybridizable levels of albumin mRNA also fell approximately 50% following vasopressin treatment. Vasopressin did not affect collagen production in quiescent cultures of mouse Swiss 3T3, human myofibroblast or rat smooth muscle cells; and hepatocyte collagen production was unaffected by treatment with glucagon or dibutyryl cAMP. Thus, accelerated Ca2+ fluxes induced by vasopressin are associated with decreased production of hepatocyte collagen and albumin in primary cultures that simulate quiescent adult rat liver.
Early stages of induction of anterior head ectodermal properties in Xenopus embryos are mediated by transcriptional cofactor ldb1

Background: Specific molecules involved in early inductive signaling from anterior neural tissue to the placodal ectoderm to establish a lens-forming bias, as well as their regulatory factors, remain largely unknown. In this study, we sought to identify and characterize these molecules. Results: Using an expression cloning strategy to isolate genes with lens-inducing activity, we identified the transcriptional cofactor ldb1. This, together with evidence for its nuclear dependence, suggests its role as a regulatory factor, not a direct signaling molecule. We propose that ldb1 mediates induction of early lens genes in our functional assay by transcriptional activation of lens-inducing signals. Gain-of-function assays demonstrate that the inductive activity of the anterior neural plate on head ectodermal structures can be augmented by ldb1. Loss-of-function assays show that knockdown of ldb1 leads to decreased expression of early lens and retinal markers and subsequently to defects in eye development. Conclusions: The functional cloning, expression pattern, overexpression, and knockdown data show that an ldb1-regulated mechanism acts as an early signal for Xenopus lens induction. Developmental Dynamics 243:1606–1618, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A low-cost transcervical laryngeal injection trainer.

Objectives/Hypothesis To develop a low-cost, easy-to-construct model for education in transcervical laryngeal injection techniques. To validate the simulator among both fellowship-trained laryngologists and otolaryngology resident learners. Study Design Survey. Methods A transcervical laryngeal injection model was constructed. Fourteen otolaryngology residents used the model to practice vocal fold injection techniques. Survey feedback was obtained from all residents. Results Most learners agreed or strongly agreed that the simulator was easy to use (93%), was a good method to learn transcervical laryngeal injection technique (79%), improved their confidence with the procedure (78%), and could be applied to patients (72%). One hundred percent of the learners agreed or strongly agreed that they would recommend the simulator to other learners. Conclusion Residents can be taught transcervical laryngeal injection techniques with a low-cost, easily constructed simulator prior to treating patients. This allows for a low-stress environment in which the learner can practice injection techniques. Resident feedback about the transcervical laryngeal injection simulator was very positive, including unanimous recommendation for use in other learners. Level of Evidence N/A. Laryngoscope, 2015
C–N–P interactions control climate driven changes in regional patterns of C storage on the North Slope of Alaska

As climate warms, changes in the carbon (C) balance of arctic tundra will play an important role in the global C balance. The C balance of tundra is tightly coupled to the nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) cycles because soil organic matter is the principal source of plant-available nutrients and determines the spatial variation of vegetation biomass across the North Slope of Alaska. Warming will accelerate these nutrient cycles, which should stimulate plant growth. We applied the multiple element limitation model to investigate the spatial distribution of soil organic matter and vegetation on the North Slope of Alaska and examine the effects of changes in N and P cycles on tundra C budgets under climate warming. The spatial variation of vegetation biomass on the North Slope is mainly determined by nutrient mineralization, rather than air temperature. Our simulations show substantial increases in N and P mineralization with climate warming and consequent increases in nutrient availability to plants. There are distinctly different changes in N versus P cycles in response to warming. N is lost from the region because the warming-induced increase in N mineralization is in excess of plant uptake. However, P is more tightly cycled than N and the small loss of P under warming can be compensated by entrainment of recently weathered P into the ecosystem cycle. The increase in nutrient availability results in larger C gains in vegetation than C losses from soils and hence a net accumulation of C in the ecosystems. The ongoing climate warming in Arctic enhances mineralization and leads to a net transfer of nutrient from soil organic matter to vegetation, thereby stimulating tundra plant growth and increased C sequestration in the tundra ecosystems. The C balance of the region is predominantly controlled by the internal nutrient cycles, and the external nutrient supply only exerts a minor effect on C budget.
The role of transient rheology in polymeric sintering

The initial theory of Frenkel and Eshelby for the coalescence of drops in air (or sintering) of Newtonian fluids, which equated the work of surface tension to the work done by viscous stresses while assuming biaxial extensional flow kinematics, was extended to the case of time-dependent material functions using the Upper Convected Maxwell (UCM) model. A numerical scheme was developed to solve the ordinary differential equations (ODE) for the stresses, which are embedded in the ODE based on the mechanical energy balance. Initial conditions required to solve the set of non-linear ODEs were obtained from visualization experiments of the coalescing drops as the theory for elastic contact gave unrealistically high values of the initial neck radius. The transient model predicted that coalescence was accelerated by increasing the relaxation time, the opposite relationship of what was predicted by the steady-state UCM formulation, and was capable of quantitatively predicting the experimental coalescence rates at times when viscoelasticity was important.
Plasma catecholamines: Effects of footshock level and hormonal modulators of memory storage ☆

Abstract Plasma levels of norepinephrine (NE) and epinephrine (EPI) were measured in male Sprague-Dawley rats before and at several times after training injections of agents known to enhance or to impair later retention performance for a one-trial inhibitory (passive) avoidance task. Two days before testing, each animal was surgically prepared with a chronic tail artery catheter that allows for repeated blood sampling in unhandled rats. Exposure to a single, intense training footshock (3.0 mA, 2.0 sec duration) resulted in an immediate but transient increase in plasma levels of EPI and to a lesser extent NE. Plasma levels of both catecholamines did not differ between unshocked controls and animals that received a weak training footshock (0.6 mA, 0.5 sec duration). An injection of EPI at a dose that enhances retention performance (0.1 mg/kg, sc) resulted in increments in plasma EPI levels of 0.8-1.9 ng/ml from 5 to 40 min after injection. An injection of EPI (0.5 mg/kg, sc) at a dose that produces retrograde amnesia resulted in increments in plasma EPI ranging from 3.7 to 4.5 ng/ml during the 40 min after injection. Plasma NE levels were not significantly altered following an EPI injection. A single injection of adrenocorticotropin (ACTH, 0.3 or 3.0 IU per rat) did not alter the plasma catecholamine responses to training with a weak footshock. Similarly, the synthetic ACTH analog, Organon 2766 (125 or 250 mg/Kg) did not affect plasma catecholamines in untrained (unshocked) rats. These results demonstrate that significant increments in plasma levels of NE and EPI occur shortly after inhibitory avoidance training. Furthermore, an injection of EPI that enhances retention of an inhibitory avoidance task mimics the magnitude, though not the temporal characteristics, of the endogenous adrenal medullary response to a training footshock. Other hormonal treatments (ACTH and Organon 2766) which enhance memory storage do not affect plasma levels of NE and EPI.
Coelomycetes in Dominican and Mexican amber

Three species of fossil epiphyllous coelomycetes are described from Dominican and Mexican amber in the new genera, Asteromites gen. nov., Leptostromites gen. nov. and Leptothyrites gen. nov. Characters of the pycnidia and spores most closely resemble members of their extant respective genera, Leptostroma, Asteromella and Leptothyrium respectively. A. mexicanus sp. nov. occurs on a petal (possibly from a caesalpinoid legume such as Peltogyne) in Mexican amber. Leptostromites ellipticus sp. nov. occurs on a dicot leaf in Dominican amber, and Leptothyrites dominicanus sp. nov. on a monocot (grass?) leaf in Dominican amber.
Uptake and metabolism of lead and cadmium in coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch).

Abstract 1. Coho salmon exposed to water-borne lead and cadmium accumulated relatively high concentrations of each metal in gills, liver and kidney (primarily the posterior segment). 2. Cadmium concentrations in kidney increased for at least a month after termination of exposure; however, concentrations of lead remained about the same. 3. Highest concentrations of cadmium in kidney and liver were in cytosolic fractions, where substantial proportions were bound to proteins of 8900 molecular weight. Gills sequestered cadmium in the form of this readily-inducible metal-binding protein. 4. No specific lead-binding protein was identified in cytosolic fractions. This metal was primarily associated with proteins exceeding 55000 mol.wt.
In search of community: An analysis of community psychology research from 1984–1988

Analyzed empirical articles (N = 235) in the American Journal of Community Psychology and the Journal of Community Psychology for their methodological structure and contextual influences from 1984-1988. The study focused upon types of research designs, sampling procedures, designs for measurement, dependent variables, characteristics of research participants, author characteristics, and topic areas among other indicators. Analyses were similar to Lounsbury et al. (1980) so that changes over time couM be examined. Findings relative to Lounsbury et al. (1980) include greater numbers of field studies, more correlational approaches, a shift away from research topics on mental health services and programs in favor of studies focused on specific problem areas, and populations drawn increasingly from community settings. Results suggest changes in social context and methodological paradigms influence the conduct of empirical research. Additionally, changes in our research base may reflect changes in the field's understanding of the kinds of research it shouM be pursuing.
Troponin phosphorylation and myofilament Ca2+-sensitivity in heart failure: increased or decreased?

Abstract Heart failure is characterised by depressed myocyte contractility and is considered to involve a complex malfunction of adrenergic regulation, Ca 2+ -handling and the contractile apparatus. Most studies on the contractile apparatus have focussed on troponin, the Ca 2+ -dependent regulator of myofibrillar activity. Importantly, phosphorylation of troponin I secondary to beta-adrenergic receptor activation is known to induce reduced myofilament Ca 2+ sensitivity. In muscle samples from explanted failing human hearts, troponin I phosphorylation levels are very low and Ca 2+ -sensitivity is high. In contrast, some animal models used to study the mechanisms of heart failure give the opposite result-high levels of troponin I phosphorylation and low Ca 2+ -sensitivity. Which is right?
An investigation of Coulomb scattering amplitudes in the complex angular momentum plane

An approach suggested by Regge to study scattering amplitudes analytically continued as functions of complex angular momentum is applied to the Schrodinger, KleinGordon, and Dirac equations with Coulomb potentials. It is found that the energy and angular momentum eigenvalues of bound states are given by the equation for the poles of the scattering amplitude at negative energies. There are no Regge pole resonances, i.e., there are no poles in the first quadrant of the l plane for positive energies. Sommerfeld-Watson integral representations are given in all three cases. In the relativistic cases a branch cut appears in the l plane. The physical interpretation for this is discussed. (auth)
Mathematics Assessment for Students with Mild Disabilities: An Exploration of Content Validity

This article examines the content validity of selected standardized tests of mathematics achievement as it pertains to students with disabilities. Psychometricians have traditionally focused their ...
Microwave scattering and emission from a half‐space anisotropic random medium

This paper is a sequel to our earlier paper (Lee and Mudaliar, 1988) where the backscattering coefficients of a half-space anisotropic random medium were obtained. Here we calculate bistatic scattering coefficients by solving the modified radiative transfer equations under a first-order approximation. The effects of multiple scattering on the results are observed. We also calculate emissivities and compare them with those obtained using the Born approximation (single scattering). Several interesting properties of our model are brought to notice using numerical examples. Finally, as an application, we use our theory to interpret the passive remote sensing data of multiyear sea ice in the microwave frequency range. We observe a quite close agreement between our theoretical prediction and the measured data.
Explicit solutions for the running coupling constant and the separatrix of quantum field theories

Abstract Starting with 't Hooft's definition of a renormalized coupling constant, we give an explicit solution for the running coupling constant. We also give an exact expression for the “separatrix” of a quantum field theory, i.e., the line that separates the asymptotically free region of the g-plane from the nonasymptotically free one. Our results hold for all four dimensional renormalizable theories such as QCD, QED, and φ44. The implication of the results is discussed.
Age Differences in Self-Ratings of Confidence.

A test was made of the hypothesis that elderly adults are less self-confident than young adults, at least as seen in self-ratings in questionnaire contexts. Elderly and young adult Ss were asked to rate their levels of confidence in the correctness of their responses in two types of situations: one in which no knowledge or information was required (D-scale of the MMPI) and the other, in which information was involved but not ordinarily available and not essential for response (Estimation Questionnaire, EQ; Wallach & Kogan, 1965, pp. 112-115 ) . Ss were men and women in each of two age groups. The older group, aged 61 to 80 yr., resided in Durham, N. C. and came to our laboratory at Duke University for the study. They were paid to serve as Ss. All had 12 to 15 yr. of formal schooling. The younger group, aged 18 to 21 yr., was composed of Duke University undergraduate students. There were 20 younger Ss of each sex, 10 elderly women Ss and 8 elderly men given the EQ, and 9 Ss in each of the four
Enhanced HSPF Model Structure for Chesapeake Bay Watershed Simulation

AbstractFor more than two decades, an HSPF-based watershed model has been used to simulate nutrient and sediment load delivery to the Chesapeake Bay. Over time, the watershed model has increased in complexity commensurate with the management challenges in Chesapeake Bay restoration. The increased complexity poses challenges to the standard application of HSPF for efficient operation of the model in a large-scale watershed, as well as difficulties in incorporating changes in best management practices (BMPs) and land uses over time. In response, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Chesapeake Bay Program Office developed a software solution that enhances the existing HSPF model structure. The software system, consisting of preprocessors, an external transfer module, and postprocessors, was devised to conveniently generate and update parameter files essential to operations of a large and complex watershed-modeling system and to implement land-use and non-point-source-pollution management changes on any...
Cognitive aids in teaching and treating

Abstract Cognitive aids that support the communication of information and enhance the ease and stability of information processing are reviewed through 1983. These techniques have mainly been scattered among diverse pedagogic and treatment studies, but appear to share common categorical features across their literatures of origin. Thus, we propose: aids to introduce new information, message enhancers, processing guidance and mnemonic devices as provisional major groupings. Within each, several subtypes are distinguished and research bearing on their use is examined. Task, subject and format variables to refine applications and to stimulate more systematic research are discussed.
Ion Current Calculations Based on Three Dimensional Poisson−Nernst−Planck Theory for a Cyclic Peptide Nanotube

Ion current calculations based on Poisson-Nernst-Planck (PNP) theory are performed for a synthetic cyclic peptide nanotube that consists of eight or ten cyclo[(-L-Trp-D-Leu-)4] embedded in a lipid bilayer membrane to investigate the ion transport properties of the nanotube. To explore systems with arbitrary geometries, three-dimensional PNP theory is implemented using a finite difference method. The influence of dipolar lipid molecules on the ion currents is also examined by turning on or off the charges of the lipid dipoles in dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC). Comparisons between the calculated and experimentally measured ion currents show that the PNP approach agrees well with the measurements at low ion concentrations but overestimates the currents at higher concentrations. Concentration profiles reveal the selectivity of the peptide nanotube to cations, which is attributed to the negatively charged carbonyl oxygens inside the nanotube. The dominant cation and the minimum anion concentrations inside the cyclic peptide nanotube suggest that these cyclic peptide nanotubes can be employed as ion sensors. In the case of the polar DPPC bilayer, smaller currents are obtained in the calculation. The variation of current with polarity of the lipids implies that both polar and nonpolar lipid bilayer membranes can be utilized to regulate ion currents in the peptide nanotube and other ion channels. Strengths and limitations of the PNP theory are also discussed.
Demonstration of a Quantile System for Compression of Data from Deep Space Probes

This paper describes the theory and design of an advanced engineering prototype of a quantile system of data compression for space telemetry. The basic idea is to transmit a few quantiles (or percentage points, as they are sometimes called) of a histogram of experimental values formed aboard a spacecraft. Only these quantiles are transmitted to Earth, and yet a large part of the information that was contained in the original histogram can be reconstructed on Earth. Compression ratios on the order of 100 to 1 are obtainable at 100 percent efficiency (in the sense of variances of estimates) with a simple device that performs no on-board arithmetic operations. After summarizing the theoretical background governing the use of quantiles, we then consider what the design considerations of such a system should be. Data compression ratios are computed for a typical application of the quantile system. The detail description of the advanced engineering quantile system that has been built at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory is discussed; in addition, a block diagram is given and analyzed. An important feature of the quantile system is its self-adaptive feature. Examples are given whereby quantile systems for compressing telemetry data can find application in non-military and non-space technology. Finally, experimental results using the constructed system are given.
ON-SCENE COORDINATOR AREA RESPONSE SYSTEM

ABSTRACT The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region VI utilizes a field deployable geographic information system (GIS) known as OSCARS (on-scene coordinator area response system) to improve its spill management capabilities. The following fields are found in OSCARS: sensitive ecosystems, watersheds, population centers, response organizations, disposal facilities, operational/logistical support functions, facilities/pipelines information, and ortho-digital photography. The system is deployed on a laptop computer with expandable hard drives.
Taking on the Creationists

Science and Creationism. Edited by Ashley Montagu. Oxford University Press: 1984. Pp.415. Hbk £22; pbk $9.95.
Influential Factors of Caregiver Behavior at Mealtime: A Study of 24 Child-Care Programs

Abstract Objective To measure the nutrition knowledge and attitudes of caregivers in child-care programs and to observe the behaviors of caregivers as they interact with children at mealtime. Design A nonexperimental research design. Nutrition knowledge and attitudes toward nutrition were measured using survey methodology designed for this study. Observers measured caregiver behavior by means of observation and quantified it using a behavior checklist. Interrater reliability was 98%. Instruments were piloted and content validity was established. Using Cronbach's α, reliability was 0.69 and 0.67, respectively. Subjects/setting Participants were 113 caregivers in 24 licensed child-care programs in three counties in Illinois. Statistical analyses performed The independent variables (caregiver nutrition knowledge, caregiver nutrition attitudes, years of teaching, prior nutrition training, and education level) were correlated to the dependent variable (caregiver behavior), using the Pearson product moment correlation. The combination of variance from all independent variables was analyzed using the general linear regression model. Results Although caregivers held beliefs that should have a positive influence on children's eating behaviors, they demonstrated low knowledge of nutrition and displayed behaviors at mealtimes that were inconsistent with their beliefs and expert recommendations. Positive correlations were found between nutrition knowledge and behavior at mealtime, nutrition knowledge and attitudes, and attitudes and caregiver behavior. Applications These instruments can be used to assess and teach nutrition practices through self-assessment, training, and coursework. Results also begin to define the role of the caregiver in children's nutrition practices. Results demonstrate that caregiver behavior can be enhanced by addressing nutrition knowledge and attitudes.
Photothermal detection of gold nanoparticles using phase-sensitive optical coherence tomography.

The detection of a gold nanoparticle contrast agent is demonstrated using a photothermal modulation technique and phase sensitive optical coherence tomography (OCT). A focused beam from a laser diode at 808 nm is modulated at frequencies of 500 Hz–60 kHz while irradiating a solution containing nanoshells. Because the nanoshells are designed to have a high absorption coefficient at 808 nm, the laser beam induces small-scale localized temperature oscillations at the modulation frequency. These temperature oscillations result in optical path length changes that are detected by a phase-sensitive, swept source OCT system. The OCT system uses a double-buffered Fourier domain mode locked (FDML) laser operating at a center wavelength of 1315 nm and a sweep rate of 240 kHz. High contrast is observed between phantoms containing nanoshells and phantoms without nanoshells. This technique represents a new method for detecting gold nanoparticle contrast agents with excellent signal-to-noise performance at high speeds using OCT.
Unexpected steric effects of remote alkyl groups on the rate of conjugate additions to alkyl α/β-ethylenic sulfones, sulfoxides, and esters

Examination of conjugated ethylenic sulfones, sulfoxides, and esters in Michael-type addition reactions reveals, for the first time, that the size of the heteroatom-attached alkyl group affects the rate of conjugate addition. Molecular modeling strongly suggests that what are generally considered to be "remote" alkyl groups in -CbetaH=CalphaHS(O)n-alkyl systems and -CH2CbetaH=CalphaHCOO-alkyl systems are actually not remote from the beta-carbon atom of the Michael accepting unit. Molecular modeling clearly shows that the alkyl groups in these Michael acceptors shield the beta-carbons in the following order: Et i-Pr>t-Bu.
Risk Variable Clustering in the Insulin Resistance Syndrome: The Framingham Offspring Study

Insulin resistance has been hypothesized to unify the clustering of hypertension, glucose intolerance, hyperinsulinemia, increased levels of triglyceride and decreased HDL cholesterol, and central and overall obesity. We tested this hypothesis with factor analysis, a statistical technique that should identify one factor if a single process underlies the clustering of these risk variables. From 2,458 nondiabetic subjects of the Framingham Offspring Study, we collected clinical data, fasting and 2-h postchallenge glucose and insulin levels, and fasting lipid levels. We performed factor analyses separately for men and women in the entire population and among subgroups with features of the insulin resistance syndrome. Subjects ranged in age from 26 to 82 years (mean age 54); 53% were women, 13.4% had impaired glucose tolerance, 27.6% had hypertension, 40% were obese, and 11.6% were hyperinsulinemic, defined by elevated fasting insulin levels. Underlying the clustering of these risk variables were three factors. Fasting and 2-h postchallenge insulin levels, fasting triglyceride and HDL cholesterol levels, BMI, and waist-to-hip ratio were associated with one factor. Fasting and 2-h levels of glucose and insulin were associated with a second factor. Systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and BMI were associated with a third factor. Results were similar for men and women and for all subgroups. These results were consistent with more than one independent physiological process underlying risk variable clustering: a central metabolic syndrome (characterized by hyperinsulinemia, dyslipidemia, and obesity), glucose intolerance, and hypertension. Glucose intolerance and hypertension were linked to the central syndrome through shared correlations with insulin levels and obesity. Insulin resistance (reflected by hyperinsulinemia) alone did not appear to underlie all features of the insulin resistance syndrome.
Treatment of Refractory, Nonmalignant Hydrothorax With a Pleurovenous Shunt

We present a case of long-term successful application of pleurovenous shunting for the management of pleural effusion. Intractable symptomatic hydrothorax developed as a result of transdiaphragmatic migration of hepatic ascites. After failure of traditional treatment by mechanical pleurodesis, a pleurovenous shunt was inserted. After 1 year of follow-up, the effusion is well controlled, and the shunt remains patent.
Characterization of the Haemophilus influenzae topA locus: DNA topoisomerase I is required for genetic competence.

Abstract A gene essential for the development of genetic competence in Haemophilus influenzae (Hi) was identified as a homolog of the Escherichia coli (Ec) topA gene, which encodes DNA topoisomerase I (TopI). The Hi topA locus was initially identified by mini-TnlOkan mutagenesis. Three independent insertion events within 500 bp of each other resulted in mutant strains that shared a similar phenotype. Each was deficient in competence-induced DNA binding, showed increased sensitivity to UV irradiation, and had an increased doubling time as compared to the wild-type (wt) strain. The nucleotide sequence of a 6.6-kb fragment containing the wt allele was determined. The sequence contained an open reading frame (ORF) of 868 amino acids (aa) that was interrupted by each of the mini-Tn10kan mutations. The deduced aa sequence had a molecular mass of 98 155 Da, a pI of 8.59 and showed strong similarity to Ec TopI. Examination of the topoisomer distribution of a test plasmid in an Hi mutant carrying an insertion in this ORF showed an increase in the level of supercoiling, indicating that TopI is necessary to relax supercoiled DNA in Hi. Complementation studies and insertional inactivation of genes downstream from topA indicated that TopI and not some downstream gene product was essential for competence. Four other ORFs were identified and two of these had homology to known genes. ORF1, which was truncated at one end of the sequenced region, shared strong sequence similarity to the C-terminal end of Ec pyridine nucleotide transhydrogenase β subunit. ORF4, which was also truncated, showed strong sequence similarity to the N-terminal end of Ec threonyl-tRNA synthetase.
From "directed differentiation" to "neuronal induction": modeling neuropsychiatric disease.

Aberrant behavior and function of neurons are believed to be the primary causes of most neurological diseases and psychiatric disorders. Human postmortem samples have limited availability and, while they provide clues to the state of the brain after a prolonged illness, they offer limited insight into the factors contributing to disease onset. Conversely, animal models cannot recapitulate the polygenic origins of neuropsychiatric disease. Novel methods, such as somatic cell reprogramming, deliver nearly limitless numbers of pathogenic human neurons for the study of the mechanism of neuropsychiatric disease initiation and progression. First, this article reviews the advent of human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) technology and introduces two major methods, “directed differentiation” and “neuronal induction,” by which it is now possible to generate neurons for modeling neuropsychiatric disease. Second, it discusses the recent applications, and the limitations, of these technologies to in vitro studies of psychiatric disorders.