cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Transient analysis of dairy filling and packing production lines

In dairy filling and packing lines, due to line unbalance, extra time is required for the upstream filling station with lower production rate to work in advance to build work-in-process so that the downstream packing station can operate at a higher productivity during a shift to achieve the desired production volume. In this paper, we present a study of transient analysis in such lines. We evaluate the system production rate and work-in-process during transients, the necessary extra time of the filling station, the system operating time, and the blockage and starvation of the filling and packing stations, respectively, for different buffer capacities. In addition, we investigate the impacts of filling station efficiency and initial inventory on system performance.
Mariner 9 Ultraviolet Spectrometer Experiment: Scattering Properties of Hellas

A least-squares analysis of 709 Mariner 9 UV spectra obtained over Hellas from Revolution 140 to 214 (Jan. 22, 1972, to Feb. 28, 1972) showed the extinction optical depth of the atmosphere above Hellas to be 0.5 plus or minus 0.2. This is evidence of lingering dust in the Hellas basin. An atmospheric model, combining dust and Rayleigh scattering, was used to make an apparent pressure map of Hellas. Anomalously high pressures are interpreted as clouds developing over the southern part of Hellas near the time of autumnal equinox. The blue ratio (reflectance at 2680 A divided by reflectance at 3050 A) showed a 20% increase from Revolution 40 to Revolution 74, attributed to the decay of the dust storm. Thereafter, the blue ratio remained essentially constant through Revolution 214, which implies that the rate of clearing in Hellas was much slower than that planetwide.
Diagnosis-specific readmission risk prediction using electronic health data: a retrospective cohort study

Readmissions after hospital discharge are a common occurrence and are costly for both hospitals and patients. Previous attempts to create universal risk prediction models for readmission have not met with success. In this study we leveraged a comprehensive electronic health record to create readmission-risk models that were institution- and patient- specific in an attempt to improve our ability to predict readmission. This is a retrospective cohort study performed at a large midwestern tertiary care medical center. All patients with a primary discharge diagnosis of congestive heart failure, acute myocardial infarction or pneumonia over a two-year time period were included in the analysis. The main outcome was 30-day readmission. Demographic, comorbidity, laboratory, and medication data were collected on all patients from a comprehensive information warehouse. Using multivariable analysis with stepwise removal we created three risk disease-specific risk prediction models and a combined model. These models were then validated on separate cohorts. 3572 patients were included in the derivation cohort. Overall there was a 16.2% readmission rate. The acute myocardial infarction and pneumonia readmission-risk models performed well on a random sample validation cohort (AUC range 0.73 to 0.76) but less well on a historical validation cohort (AUC 0.66 for both). The congestive heart failure model performed poorly on both validation cohorts (AUC 0.63 and 0.64). The readmission-risk models for acute myocardial infarction and pneumonia validated well on a contemporary cohort, but not as well on a historical cohort, suggesting that models such as these need to be continuously trained and adjusted to respond to local trends. The poor performance of the congestive heart failure model may suggest that for chronic disease conditions social and behavioral variables are of greater importance and improved documentation of these variables within the electronic health record should be encouraged.
HOLLOW VISCUS INJURY

Abstract Background: Hollow viscus injuries are uncommon and occur in approximately 1% of all blunt trauma patients. Discussion: These injuries are often not suspected and are difficult to diagnosis. Morbidity and mortality are high, and a negative abdominal computed tomography is not sufficient to rule out these injuries in certain clinical scenarios. Conclusion: Using a case-based approach, the epidemiology and diagnostic pathways to manage hollow viscus injuries are reviewed.
SU-GG-T-518: Homogeneity and Conformity Comparison of RapidArc and IMRS Radiosurgery for Multiple Brain Metastases

Purpose: This study reports the dosimetric comparison of RapidArc (RA) and IMRS in treating multiple intracranial metastases. The pros and cons of the RapidArc plans were evaluated. Method and Materials: Twelve patients having 2–12 brain metastases treated by IMRS were re‐planned with RapidArc. The prescribed dose (PD) was 18–20 Gy, normalized to 98% of PTV. The IMRS‐plans used 9–11 IMRT beams. The RapidArc plans adopted a 2‐coplanar arc approach and followed systematic strategies in optimization. An optimal RA‐plan was selected from several trials for each patient. The maximal PTV doses (MD) and the volumes V100 and V50 enclosed by 100% and 50% of PD were investigated. Results: Homogeneity index (MDPD), conformity index (CI), and gradient index (GI) were calculated for all plans. The mean dose to normal brain and the maximal doses to brainstem, chiasm, eyes, and optic nerves were analyzed. It is found that the homogeneity of both plans is comparable, while the conformity and gradient indices are slightly higher in RA as compared to those in IMRS plans. The group averages are: MDPD RA, IMRS =1.15, (range 1.1–1.2); CIRA=1.6 (range 1.1–2.0) and CI IMRS= 1.3 (range 1.1–1.4); GIRA = 2.3 (range 1.4–3.8) and GIIMRS = 2.0 (range 1.3–3.2). For organs at risk (OAR), the RA showed slightly larger doses than those in the IMRS plans. Conclusion: Apart from the benefit of MU reduction, RapidArc produced similar dose homogeneity as IMRS, owing to the same emphasis on PTV dose coverage in the optimization. The slightly higher conformity in RA is due to the difference of V100 in two plans, which was not adjustable in the optimization. The same observation is true for the gradient index. The leakage and transmission from the MLCs may contribute to OAR doses in RA, as larger field sizes are used for multiple brain lesions.
Drought effects on composition and yield for corn stover, mixed grasses, and Miscanthus as bioenergy feedstocks

Drought conditions in 2012 were some of the most severe in recent history. The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of drought on quality, quantity, and theoretical ethanol yield (TEY) of three bioenergy feedstocks, corn stover, mixed grasses from Conservation Reserve Program lands, and Miscanthus × giganteus. To assess drought effects on these feedstocks, samples from 2010 (minimal to no drought) and 2012 (severe drought) were compared from multiple locations in the US. In all feedstocks, drought significantly increased extractives and reduced structural sugars and lignin; subsequently, TEYs were reduced 10–15%. Biomass yields were significantly reduced for M. × giganteus and mixed grasses. When reduction in quality and quantity were combined, TEYs decreased 26–59%. Drought negatively affected biomass quality and quantity that resulted in significant TEY reductions. Such fluctuations in biomass quality and yield may have significant consequences for developing lignocellulosic biorefineries.
Mackinawite (FeS) Reduces Mercury(II) under Sulfidic Conditions

Mercury (Hg) is a toxicant of global concern that accumulates in organisms as methyl Hg. The production of methyl Hg by anaerobic bacteria may be limited in anoxic sediments by the sequestration of divalent Hg [Hg(II)] into a solid phase or by the formation of elemental Hg [Hg(0)]. We tested the hypothesis that nanocrystalline mackinawite (tetragonal FeS), which is abundant in sediments where Hg is methylated, both sorbs and reduces Hg(II). Mackinawite suspensions were equilibrated with dissolved Hg(II) in batch reactors. Examination of the solid phase using Hg LIII-edge extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) spectroscopy showed that Hg(II) was indeed reduced in FeS suspensions. Measurement of purgeable Hg using cold vapor atomic fluorescence spectrometry (CVAFS) from FeS suspensions and control solutions corroborated the production of Hg(0) that was observed spectroscopically. However, a fraction of the Hg(II) initially added to the suspensions remained in the divalent state, likely in the form of β-HgS-like clusters associated with the FeS surface or as a mixture of β-HgS and surface-associated species. Complexation by dissolved S(-II) in anoxic sediments hinders Hg(0) formation, but, by contrast, Hg(II)–S(-II) species are reduced in the presence of mackinawite, producing Hg(0) after only 1 h of reaction time. The results of our work support the idea that Hg(0) accounts for a significant fraction of the total Hg in wetland and estuarine sediments.
New passive tracking algorithms using power information with application to passive sonar

Tracking systems make both detection and position estimation of targets through time association of the received data, performed from the target kinematic models. In passive situations, the bearing information do not permit tracking low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) target. The received signal power can, however, be used for the data association, as it is in the track decision rule. This will be checked with the association test power, especially when the signal power estimate is biased. A track initiation algorithm using a global maximum likelihood estimate (MLE), and a filter derived from the probabilistic data association filter (PDAF), including the signal power and detection probability estimates, are presented. Results are presented in the frame of a Monte Carlo simulation with a track detection criterion. >
Paradox and Promise: MySpace, Facebook, and the Sociopolitics of Social Networking in the Writing Classroom

Abstract This article situates current theoretical, rhetorical, and ethical analyses of the net's most prominent social networking sites, MySpace and Facebook. It also discusses the implications of bringing these web sites into the classroom, comparing how students, teachers, and administrators use (and abuse) these spaces. Both MySpace and Facebook privilege a discourse based on the construction and representation of an identity. Rather than assert unique identities, these sites ask users to label and classify themselves according to many criteria, including age, religion, political leanings, hobbies, and interests. Users can then list others who share these labels or interests and request to “add them as friends.” MySpace and Facebook emphasize categories and aspects of popular culture that teenagers find important. They remediate the traditions of high school for the Web and by doing so greatly extend their reach. Many writing instructors wonder how these sites can be used to teach writing. How users represent themselves online could help students understand postmodern logics of identity construction and political engagement. However, there are dangers for teachers who create their own profiles and add their students as “friends.” Like chat and email, these forums undercut concepts of more conventional rhetorical spaces. They both contribute to and undermine student and faculty ethos, although students may not appreciate that their profiles might have a lasting negative impact. Despite the public nature of most profiles, users often denounce these “invasions” as blatant violations of their privacy. Perhaps teachers and scholars should work to protect the integrity of these spaces.
An acute effect of cigarette smoking on platelet function. A possible link between smoking and arterial thrombosis.

In a controlled, double blind study, the smoking of a single cigarette has been shown to increase the platelet's response to a standard aggregating stimulus. This phenomenon appears to be specifically related to the inhaling of tobacco smoke; it does not follow the smoking of lettuce leaf filled cigarettes. The platelet effect seems independent of the rise in plasma free fatty acids which follows cigarette smoking. Smoking-induced potentiation of platelet aggregation may help to explain the increased incidence of arterial thrombi and/or atheromatous plaques in cigarette smokers.
SERUM OMEGA-3 FATTY ACID LEVELS IN A LARGE INCIDENT U.S. HEMODIALYSIS POPULATION

Long chain omega-3 (n-3 PUFA) fatty acids may influence clinical outcomes in hemodialysis patients. We therefore performed the largest characterization to date of n-3 PUFA levels in an incident hemodialysis population. Serum n-3 PUFA were measured in samples obtained at baseline in a 400 person subgroup of the ArMORR study, a large representative cohort of U.S. incident hemodialysis patients. n-3 PUFA were measured by gas chromatography, with phospholipid (PL) and triglyceride (TG) fatty acids being separated by solid phase extraction. Signed rank test was used to compare PL and TG fractions. Mean (±SD) age was 66±14 years and body mass index 26±7 kg/m2. 58% were men and 68% white. Cause of ESRD was diabetes and hypertension in 47% and 40% of subjects, respectively. Total serum 20:5n-3 (EPA) (by mean weight %) was 0.09±0.36 (PL vs. TG: 0.09±0.43 vs. 0.07±0.30, p=0.14), and total serum 22:6n-3 (DHA) was 1.46±0.72 (PL vs. TG: 3.03±1.24 vs. 0.21±0.40, p In summary, n-3 PUFA levels in this large U.S. cohort are low relative to published reports of levels in the general population or even in hemodialysis patients outside the U.S., making this a potential target for intervention.1 In addition, future enquiries into n-3 PUFA in hemodialysis cohorts should focus on the phospholipid fraction since we have demonstrated that, similar to the general population, this is where they primarily accumulate.
An introduction to functional data analysis and a principal component approach for testing the equality of mean curves

We give an introduction to functional data analysis, with examples, and provide a brief review of the literature. We explain how principal component analysis (PCA) can be used to transform curves into finite dimensional data. An application of PCA is developed to test for the equality of the means of several populations (functional analysis of variance). Asymptotics are derived under the null hypothesis that the populations have the same mean curves. The selection of the basis for the projections and the power of the test is discussed for simple random samples and stationary time series samples of curves. We review the part of the literature which is needed to establish the validity of the PCA method. Two data sets, magnetogram records and stock returns, are used to illustrate the applicability of our limit results.
UWB microwave imaging array for nondestructive testing applications

This paper presents the design of a switched ultrawideband (UWB) microwave imaging array. The imaging array is designed as an interlaced bi-static transmit and receive array in order to provide optimal coverage of the sample being imaged. The array utilizes wideband Vivaldi antennas as the array elements. The array is designed for optimal spacing between its elements to satisfy the requirements of synthetic aperture imaging. The calibration procedure and utility of this array is presented.
Early antiepileptic drug reduction following anterior temporal lobectomy for medically intractable complex partial epilepsy

Abstract Purpose : To determine the safety, in our practice, of allowing patient preference to influence the timing of antiepileptic drug (AED) reduction, once they became seizure-free after anterior temporal lobectomy (ATL). Methods : Thirty patients underwent anterior temporal lobectomy for medically intractable complex partial epilepsy at Loma Linda University Medical Center between December 1st 1991 and November 30th 2001. Timing of AED reduction in seizure-free patients was based on patient request. A review of patient records noted seizure status, duration from surgery to AED reduction, AED side effects, seizure recurrence and whether control was regained. Results : Twenty-four (80%) of the 30 patients became seizure-free on their preoperative AEDs after initial ATL; three additional patients after a second operation. AEDs were not reduced in the reoperated patients, the three patients who did not become seizure-free, and in two patients who asked to increase AEDs to control auras. Thus, AEDs were reduced in 22 of the 27 seizure-free patients. Patients were followed an average of 3.4±2.7 (mean±standard deviation) years. AED reduction was initiated 4.6±7.2 months (range 0–27 months) after surgery. Polytherapy use decreased from 54% preoperatively to 18% at last follow up. Seizures recurred in six patients (27% of 22); three became seizure-free after AED adjustments. Conclusions : In our practice, using an individualized approach to AED reduction following successful epilepsy surgery resulted in early reduction in AEDs. Our data suggest that early AED reduction can be performed safely and without undue risk of seizure recurrence.
Identification of a monoradical species from the EPR study of its radical pair in irradiated 3-hydroxyxanthine single crystals

Abstract A model for a monoradical species formed in 77-K X-irradiated 3-hydroxyxanthine has been determined from a study of its radical pair EPR spectra. The monoradical and radical pairs were stable at room temperature and were studied at that temperature. The radical was found to be a π-type nitrogen-centered species with hyperfine values of A∥ = 9.7 ± 1 G and A⊥ approximately 1 G and g-tensor principal values of 2.0093, 2.0081., and 2.0029. The spin density on the nitrogen atom was calculated to be between 0.15 and 0.21, and this was compared to theoretical values from Huckel molecular orbital calculations. A radical model that is consistent with these data is hydrogen abstraction from N(1). The average distance between radicals forming the pair is 6.75 A and the crystalline interplane spacing is approximately 3.7 A.
AIDSVAX results: an answer, or just more questions?

Some time within the next few weeks, VaxGen is expected to announce results of the Phase III trials of its first vaccine candidate based on a bivalent HIV envelope gp120, AIDSVAX B/B. Interpretatio...
Developing innovative interventions for people with dual diagnosis.

This issue of the Journal features seven articles that cohere meaningfully. We paint this picture by highlighting in italics critical findings from each article:Caton, Xie, Drake, and McHugo studie...
Physical Organic Chemistry of Transition Metal Carbene Complexes. 22.1 Substituent Effects on the Reversible Cyclization of Fischer Carbene Complexes (CO)5WC(SCH2CH2OH)C6H4Z in Aqueous Acetonitrile

A kinetic study of the reversible cyclization of (((2-hydroxyethyl)thio)arylcarbene)pentacarbonyltungsten(0) complexes, 2-SR(Z), in 50% MeCN−50% water (v/v) at 25 °C is reported. The results are co...
An investigation of the interface between graphite and beta/beta″ alumina

Abstract The anodic degradation of beta/beta″ alumina of different compositions was investigated by voltammetric techniques in cells of the type Cu/Rodar alloy/carbon fibers/graphite layer/solid electrolyte/NaNO3/Pt/Cu at 350°C. The possibility was evaluated if the voltammetric results are useful as a diagnostic tool for the prediction of the failure of beta/beta″ alumina electrolytes in sodium sulfur cells. Single voltage sweeps were applied into the anodic and also the cathodic direction at relatively low sweep rates (0.1-100mV s−1), starting at the open circuirt voltage and extending to different voltages of reversal. The anodic current-voltage curves display a continuous rise of current with voltage up to 4.5 V, vs a Na reference electrode, followed by a gradual decrease afterwards. The anodic current is mainly attributed to the formation of sodium carbonate and carbon monoxide. The oxygen is supplied by the degradation of the solid electrolyte. The cathodic current-voltage curves reveal the intercalation of sodium into the graphite Structural studies of specimens from the solid electrolyte were carried out by electron microscopy before and after the electrochemical runs. They yielded information on how the anodic degradation proceeds with time.
Phalaropes feeding at a coastal front in Santa Monica Bay, California

The spinning behavior often exhibited by phalaropes when feeding at freshwater sites is rarely observed at sea. Instead, phalaropes are typically observed slowly swimming forward while foraging on marine neuston concentrated in surface convergence zones. Small-scale coastal ocean fronts, eddies and internal waves capable of generating such convergences are extremely common, albeit ephemeral, features in the Southern California Bight. This region is marked by a complex flow regime, resultant in part from its variable coastal morphology. We used satellite data (AVHRR) and in situ measurements (CTD, surface drifters) to describe and track a coastal front in Santa Monica Bay, California, centrally located in the Southern California Bight. A high number of Red-necked Phalaropes (Phalaropus lobatus) were associated with this feature over the course of several days. Neuston tows and gut content analyses revealed these phalaropes were primarily feeding on fish eggs and assorted debris that were abundant at the sea surface in this front. No phalaropes were observed spinning anywhere in the vicinity. Previously unpublished metabolic activity rates for phalaropes indicate that spinning is much more energetically expensive than is swimming at a comparable speed. Convergences associated with fronts (or eddies, internal waves, etc.) in the Southern California Bight apparently provide phalaropes with a rich, easily accessible and steady supply of food without having to resort to the energetically costly behavior of spinning.
Simple Mean-Field Approach to Phase Separation in Liquid-Metal Alloys

A mean-field theory of phase separation in liquid-metal alloys is described. The method satisfactorily accounts for the variation of critical concentration in alloys of simple metals, and also gives critical temperatures in reasonably good agreement with experiment. It predicts that under pressure the critical temperature should rise proportionally to the ionic number density. The theory leads to typical mean-field divergences in the x-ray scattering intensity, specific heat, and temperature derivative of the resistivity. The relation between the instability that causes such divergences and the "freezing instability" described by Schneider et al. is discussed.
A mathematical model for secondary structure in proteins

We propose a new mathematical model for secondary structure in proteins. Our model is inspired by percolation theory on binary strings. What sets us apart from similar work on the subject is our attempt to deviate from a data mining approach (which is mostly the trend is science these days). Therefore, in predicting secondary structures, we make it our challenge to adhere to sequence information alone, in a non ad-hoc way, with only minimal information extracted from databases of known structures. Initial results show that our model captures some essential aspects of structure formation, notably a de novo discovery of hydrophobicity from an optimization perspective. A comparison of our prediction algorithm to similar methods shows improved performance. In addition, some evolutionary algorithms using our model exhibit convergences that are consistent with information obtained from structural biology.
Analytical solution of the steady-state molecular-motor-assisted transport equations governing distribution of intracellular particles within a cell dendrite

Abstract A steady-state analytical solution is obtained for a one-dimensional problem describing transport of intracellular organelles in a cell arm (a dendrite or axon). The model of intracellular trafficking of organelles (intracellular particles) is based on molecular-motor-assisted transport equations suggested by Smith and Simmons [D.A. Smith, R.M. Simmons, Models of motor-assisted transport of intracellular particles, Biophysical Journal 80 (2001) 45–68.]. According to this model, a fraction of intracellular space is occupied by filaments (microtubules); the remaining space allows for diffusion of unbound particles. Depending on the direction of particle transport provided by molecular motors running along these microtubules, the microtubules are divided into inward and outward microtubules. Unbound (free) organelles may bind to microtubules; organelles attached to microtubules may detach from them; the binding/detachment kinetic processes are specified by the first rate constants.
Generation of cell-based systems to visualize chromosome damage and translocations in living cells

Traditional methods for the generation of DNA damage are not well suited for the observation of spatiotemporal aspects of damaged chromosomal loci. We describe a protocol for the derivation of a cellular system to induce and to visualize chromosome damage at specific sites of the mammalian genome in living cells. The system is based on the stable integration of endonuclease I-SceI recognition sites flanked by bacterial LacO/TetO operator arrays, coupled with retroviral-mediated integration of their fluorescent repressors (LacR/TetR) to visualize the LacO/TetO sites. Expression of the I-SceI endonuclease induces double-strand breaks (DSBs) specifically at the sites of integration, and it permits the dynamics of damaged chromatin to be followed by time-lapse microscopy. Sequential LacO-I-SceI/TetO-I-SceI integrations in multiple chromosomes permit the generation of a system to visualize the formation of chromosome translocations in living cells. This protocol requires intermediate cell culture and molecular biology skills, and it is adaptable to the efficient derivation of any integrated clonal reporter system of interest in ≈ 3-5 months.
Zero modes of non-abelian vortices

Abstract We investigate the bosonic zero modes of cosmic strings formed in the breaking of a gauge group G → H, and find exact charge-carrying zero mode solutions. For the case of G = U (1) × U (1) we find that it is necessary to modify Witten's superconducting zero mode ansatz. In the case of non-abelian G, zero modes are generically present. Further, in the presence of a non-abelian string the embedding of H in G is angle dependent, with only a subgroup H being globally single valued. This subgroup is determined by the Wilson loop integral around the string, and depends on detailed dynamics. We find that gauge bosons associated with multivalued generators Aharonov-Bohm scatter off the string. The Alice string ( H = O (2), H = Z 2 ) has novel electrodynamics: it attracts charges, scatters the SO(2) “photon”, and a two-string system has zero modes with unlocalizable (“Cheshire”) charge. We extend this analysis to generalized Alice strings and end by considering the bosonic zero modes of domain walls.
An alternative route to 4-benzoyl-2-azetidinones

Abstract Cyclodehydrohalogenation by terminal N 1 -C 4 bond formation affords N-aryl-4-benzoyl-2-azetindinones from 3-benzoyl-3-bromopropionanilides in an unequivocal annelation process.
A Mixed Integer Programming Model for Regional Planning of a Hospital Inpatient Service

This paper describes a quantitative model to aid in planning an efficient and effective hospital inpatient service among hospitals in a region. The planning is to be done by a regional health systems planning agency, which sets or enforces standards of accessibility and acceptability to be achieved through a modification of the current system, particularly the allocation of beds to the population-at-risk. The allocation is defined in terms of matching beds to demand, where demand is classified by geographical areas and by level of care required. The allocation is to be done such that the planning goals, expressed in constraints on accessibility and acceptability of the inpatient service, are satisfied. In particular, the population within the region should have access to an adequate supply of beds, and the inpatient service should be of appropriate level and quality to meet the demand of the population. The planning problem is formulated as a mixed integer mathematical programming model in which changes to the system are described in terms of the location, number, conformance, and level of beds. There are two types of input to the model-estimates of demand by geographic area and level, and a description of the current state of the hospital service in the region. The current state of the hospital service is described by the location, size, level, and conformance of the service at existing hospitals and the location of possible new sites. The solution to the model is the lowest cost modification to the system that satisfies the constraints, where "cost" is a measure of the resources needed to change the system. Results from applying the model to the medical-surgical service in a region with 15 hospitals are discussed.
REPAIR OF PYRIMIDINE DIMERS IN ULTRAVIOLET‐IRRADIATED CHLAM YDOMONAS

— A UV-specific endonuclease was used to monitor the presence of UV-induced pyrimidine dimers in the DNA of Chlamydomonas reinhardi. All of the dimers induced by 50 J/m2 of 254 nm light are removed by a 2 h exposure to photoreactivating light. Nearly all of the dimers are removed by the wild-type strain of Chlamydomonas upon incubation for 24h in the dark. Two UV-sensitive mutants, UVS 1 and UVS 6, are deficient in removal of dimers in the dark. These results are interpreted to mean that Chlamydomonas has an excision-repair pathway for coping with UV-induced damage.
Teaching Whole Science

Climategate. Erroneous links between the measles vaccine and autism. Revised mammogram recommendations. Suspect communication with coma patients. Ideally, science education prepares students to interpret such cases in the news. These cases, in particular, underscore the role of understanding nature of science (NOS), in contrast to just content. And they reflect a need for broad skills in analyzing the diverse features of reliability in scientific claims. One needs to teach Whole Science, not a pre-processed School Science, lacking in essential conceptual nutrients ( Sacred Bovines , last issue). But how? One could, of course, assemble a textbook on nature of science. Describe the various features and illustrate them with examples (McComas, 2008). Then test students on their ability to identify and explain the various principles (Lederman et al., 2002). It is a familiar pattern. Conventional and comfortable. But join me in questioning this sacred bovine: that one teaches most effectively –– and respects students most –– by simply feeding students the answers. Or voluminous class notes and review sheets. The most valuable NOS lessons may be a series of well-posed problems. Recent research has identified several key strategies for teaching nature of science, often reflecting general principles of effective learning. First, be explicit. For example, truly investigative activities –– not cookbook labs –– may introduce important concepts about the process of science: say, about sample size, sources of experimental error, or controls. But students generally miss the latent lessons. So, too, for hearing stories about famous biologists or episodes of discovery or science in the news. One needs to highlight the NOS themes. Without clearly articulating the ideas, students do not integrate them into their existing mental frameworks. Second, guide student reflection (Scharmann et al., 2005). Common constructivist approaches encourage first bringing prior conceptions to mind and then engaging them with discrepant …
Potential of Tenebrio molitor (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) as a bioassay probe for Metarhizium brunneum (Hypocreales: Clavicipitaceae) activity against Ixodes scapularis (Acari: Ixodidae).

ABSTRACT The yellow mealworm, Tenebrio molitor L., has been used to indicate qualitatively the presence of entomopathogenic fungi in the soil or as a model for evaluating stress and other factors on fungal activity. Although this beetle appears highly susceptible to many of these fungi, little quantitative information is available on the sensitivity of T. molitor to a specific fungus and, therefore, fungal presence or as an indicator for pathogenicity to other species. The purpose of this study was to establish the suitability of T. molitor larvae as a bioassay probe for Metarhizium brunneum for comparison against the blacklegged tick, Ixodes scapularis. Nine concentrations of M. brunneum strain F52 ranging from 1.0 × 101 to 8.4 × 108 conidia/ml were simultaneously tested against T. molitor larvae and I. scapularis adults. Larvae of yellow mealworm were less sensitive to M. brunneum than I. scapularis adults (LC50's 4.4 × 107 and 1.7 × 105 conidia/ml, respectively, 4-wk post-treatment). The greater sensit...
All solutions of a system of recursion equations in infinite trees and other contraction theories

Abstract A system Σ of recursion equations is a finite set of equations ϕi = ti i = 1,…, n, where the expressions ti denote terms built from individual variables, “function constants,” and the “function variables” ϕ1,…,ϕn. An interpretation of such a system assigns a meaning to each function constant and a possible meaning to each individual and function variable. Standard interpretations have imposed an ordering on the class of possible “solutions” of Σ and only the least (or greatest) solution is found. In this paper contraction theories are defined and used as interpretations for Σ. Several known kinds of interpretations are shown to be contraction theories, including the collection of rooted labeled trees. No ordering is imposed on solutions in a contraction theory, but a metric is involved. All solutions of Σ in any contraction theory are described.
Regional cell shape changes control form and function of Kupffer's vesicle in the zebrafish embryo

Cilia-generated fluid flow in an ‘organ of asymmetry’ is critical for establishing the left–right body axis in several vertebrate embryos. However, the cell biology underlying how motile cilia produce coordinated flow and asymmetric signals is not well defined. In the zebrafish organ of asymmetry—called Kupffer's vesicle (KV)—ciliated cells are asymmetrically positioned along the anterior–posterior axis such that more cilia are placed in the anterior region. We previously demonstrated that Rho kinase 2b (Rock2b) is required for anteroposterior asymmetry and fluid flow in KV, but it remained unclear how the distribution of ciliated cells becomes asymmetric during KV development. Here, we identify a morphogenetic process we refer to as ‘KV remodeling’ that transforms initial symmetry in KV architecture into anteroposterior asymmetry. Live imaging of KV cells revealed region-specific cell shape changes that mediate tight packing of ciliated cells into the anterior pole. Mathematical modeling indicated that different interfacial tensions in anterior and posterior KV cells are involved in KV remodeling. Interfering with non-muscle myosin II (referred to as Myosin II) activity, which modulates cellular interfacial tensions and is regulated by Rock proteins, disrupted KV cell shape changes and the anteroposterior distribution of KV cilia. Similar defects were observed in Rock2b depleted embryos. Furthermore, inhibiting Myosin II at specific stages of KV development perturbed asymmetric flow and left–right asymmetry. These results indicate that regional cell shape changes control the development of anteroposterior asymmetry in KV, which is necessary to generate coordinated asymmetric fluid flow and left–right patterning of the embryo.
The effect of verapamil on experimental myocardial ischaemia with a particular reference to regional myocardial blood flow and metabolism.

Summary: The effects of verapamil on epicardial ST segment elevation, regional myocardial metabolism and collateral blood flow were studied in open-chest anesthetized dogs following left anterior descending coronary artery occlusion. Collateral blood flow was measured by radioactive microspheres (15 ± 5 μ diameter) and regional metabolism was studied by measuring lactate concentration in venous blood draining the infarcting myocardium. Verapamil (0–2 mg/kg intravenously) produced a significant reduction (50–60%) in the epicardial ST elevation when it was given before coronary occlusion; when administered 15 minutes after coronary occlusion and infusion continued for two hours, it minimized (30–40%) ST segment elevation, and prevented the fall in cardiac index and rise in systemic resistance found in the untreated animals in which the ST segment remained persistently elevated. Changes in epicardial ST segment occurred without alterations in the QRS duration. Verapamil had no effect on either the total collateral blood flow or the relative distribution of flow to the endocardial and epicardial halves of the ischemic ventricular myocardium. No significant differences were found between the levels of lactate in blood sampled from small epicardial veins at the center of the infarct when the control animals were compared with those treated with verapamil.
Bifurcation and stability analysis of laminar isothermal counterflowing jets

We present a numerical study of the structure and stability of laminar isothermal flows formed by two counterflowing jets of an incompressible Newtonian fluid. We demonstrate that symmetric counterflowing jets with identical mass flow rates exhibit multiple steady states and, in certain cases, time-dependent (periodic) steady states. Two geometric configurations were studied based on the inlet jet shapes: planar and axisymmetric. Stagnation flows formed by planar counterflowing jets exhibit both steady-state multiplicity and time-dependent behaviour, while axisymmetric jets exhibit only a steady-state multiplicity. A linearized bifurcation and stability analysis based on the continuity and Navier-Stokes equations revealed transitions between a single (symmetric) steady state and multiple steady states or periodic steady states. The dimensionless quantities forming the parameter space of this system are the inlet Reynolds number (Re) and a geometric aspect ratio (a), equal to the jet inlet characteristic length (used for calculating Re) divided by the jet separation. The boundaries separating different flow regimes have been identified in the (Re, a) parameter space. The resulting flow maps are useful for the design and operation of counterflow jet reactors.
Electromigration Resistant Power Delivery Systems

It is well known that electromigration (EM) time-to-failure for ac is several orders of magnitude larger than for dc. We propose a novel technique that reverses current direction in the power delivery system of a microprocessor every time it is rebooted. This improves EM time-to-failure of solder bumps and on-chip global interconnects and vias in the power delivery system.
41.3: Simulations of Temperature and Stress Distributions of Lamps for Projection Systems

Lamp cooling is a critical problem for thermal design in a projection system. In the present study, numerical simulations of temperature and stress of a HID lamp are performed under real situation in a projector. The velocity fields of cooling air and temperature distribution of reflector and quartz tube were calculated first. After that, the temperature distribution was mapped to a finite element mesh with the same geometrical model. And then, the stress field was calculated.
Security by Checklist

We've all seen the checklists with suggestions for how to secure your system. Many of us have even written them. (I have.) The problem is that security is more complicated than that, and checklists—especially if followed slavishly or enforced without thought—can make matters worse.
Do users of regularly prescribed opioids have higher rates of substance use problems than nonusers

Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA ABSTRACT Objective. To determine whether individuals who use prescribed opioids for chronic noncancer pain have higher rates of any opioid misuse, any problem opioid misuse, nonopioid illicit drug use, nonopioid problem drug use, or any problem alcohol use, compared with those who do not use prescribed opioids. Methods. Respondents were from a nationally representative survey (N = 9,279), which contained measures of regular use of prescribed opioids, substance use problems, mental health disorders, physical health, pain, and sociodemographics. Results. In unadjusted models, compared with nonusers of prescription opioids, users of prescription opioids had significantly higher rates of any opioid misuse (odds ratio (OR) = 5.48, P < 0.001), problem opioid misuse (OR = 14.76, P < 0.001), nonopioid illicit drug use (OR = 1.73, P < 0.01), nonopioid problem drug use (OR = 4.48, P < 0.001), and problem alcohol use (OR = 1.89, P = 0.04). In adjusted models, users of prescribed opioids had significantly higher rates of any opioid misuse (OR = 3.07, P < 0.001) and problem opioid misuse (OR = 6.11, P < 0.001) but did not have signif- icantly higher rates of the other outcomes. Conclusions. Users of prescribed opioids had higher rates of opioid and nonopioid abuse problems compared with nonusers of prescribed opioids, but these higher rates appear to be partially mediated by depressive and anxiety disorders. It is not possible to assign causal priority based on our cross- sectional data, but our findings are more compatible with mental disorders leading to substance abuse among prescription opioid users than prescription opioids themselves prompting substance abuse iatrogenically. In patients receiving prescribed opioids, clinicians need to be alert to drug abuse problems and potentially mediating mental health disorders.
Experimental results of 6 neuron VLSI circuit of lamprey unit pattern generator

The lamprey, an eel-like fish, has 100 segments in the spinal cord. Each segment, called the unit Pattern Generator (uPG), is capable of generating self-sustained oscillations for locomotion, i.e. swimming. The authors have designed, built, and tested an electronic circuit model of the uPG using analog VLSI CMOS circuits. Their neuromorphic single-segment model utilizes 6 neurons, 4 excitatory synapses, 8 inhibitory synapses, and 6 tonic synapses with simplified biophysical properties. In this paper, the authors present the experimental results of the chip and compare to the simulated chip behavior. They present the operation under varying conductances, then consider the entrainment of the segment to an external signal with varying frequency and magnitude.
Global weds local : The reception of Hum Aapke Hain Koun

Globalization is frequently understood in terms of social, political, economic, and cultural processes, but there is, given the epistemological critiques raised by postcolonial theory, a need to ad...
Micro-patterning of nanosensor elements using layer-by-layer self-assembly, avidin-biotin chemistry, and photolithography

The miniaturization of biosensors has resulted in the need to develop new techniques to pattern various sensor elements with high resolution and fast response time. This paper describes the selective deposition of various sensor elements on glass as well as on silicon substrate by combining layer-by-layer electrostatic self-assembly, photolithography and avidin-biotin chemistry. Two methods have been developed for this selective patterning. The first method includes selective UV radiation of a coated photobiotin on glass substrate and covalent bonding of avidin-layered fluorescent nanoparticles to the irradiated areas. The second method involves lithography and self-assembly in a modified lift-off process. In both cases, the epifluorescence microscope images show high spatial resolution of patterned areas and excellent surface coverage. These patterns will be further developed for monitoring cell growth in tissue scaffolds.
Getting Started with Medical Apps: Apps You Should Know About

The rise of mobile technology has brought exponential growth of software for use by physicians, patients, and others in face-to-face and remote interactions. Although most librarians are aware of t...
Polarization combining scheme for radio direction finding with multipath

For NASA's Mars sample return (MSR) program, there is a strong need to enhance the received signal strength for the radio direction finding (RDF) application. We consider the possibility of linearly combining the outputs from two orthogonal, polarized antennas to prevent polarization loss. The problem is complicated due to the dynamics of the beacon transmitter. In particular, it is assumed that the transmitter is rotating and that it radiates a linearly polarized wave. Initial results are based on the assumption of perpendicular incidence. It is also extended for arbitrary incidence, in which case there are gain and phase differences between the orthogonally polarized antenna pair outputs. An innovative algorithm for polarization combining is proposed and performance data in a multipath environment are presented with simulation results. The SNR improvement using this algorithm translates into a more favorable channel condition for the overall RDF system design.
Connectivity management in mobile robot teams

We develop a framework for controlling a team of robots to maintain and improve a communication bridge between a stationary robot and an independently exploring robot in a walled environment. We make use of two metrics for characterizing the communication: the Fiedler value of the weighted Laplacian describing the communication interactions of all the robots in the system, and the k-connectivity matrix that expresses which robots can interact through k or less intermediary robots. At each step, we move in such a way as to improve the Fiedler value as much as possible while keeping the number of intermediary robots between the two robots of interest below a desired value. We demonstrate the use of this framework in a scenario where the hop-count constraint cannot be satisfied, but show that communication quality is maintained anyways.
MITOCHONDRIA IN LIVING CELLS: AN ANALYSIS OF MOVEMENTS

Time-lapse cinephotomicrography of mouse embryonic fibroblasts before and shortly after perfusion of tissue cultures reveals that the elongation of mitochondria caused by coenzyme A results from the terminal association of many shorter rods into a smaller number of long filaments. These are not permanent associations, but they reflect an exaggeration of the cohesive tendency of mitochondria, which in untreated cells is counterbalanced by frequent disjoinings and breakings of the anastomotic network. Our own observations and a survey of the literature suggest that elongate mitochondria with rapid movement and high metabolic activity tend to accompany proliferation in tissue cultures, and that mitotic inhibition of cultured cells may go together with short, slow mitochondria of low metabolic activity. The movement of mitochondria may be both active, reflecting metabolic exchanges with the cytoplasm, and passive, the result of hyaloplasmic currents.
U.S. Agricultural Producer Perceptions of Climate Change

This study examines U.S. crop producers' perceptions of climate change, its effects on crop agriculture, and likely ways farmers would adapt to weather extremes. Based on a survey of crop producers in four states, we find that a significant proportion of farmers do not perceive that climate change has been scientifically proven and do not believe that it will adversely affect average crop yields and yield variability. Farmers are likely to diversify crops, buy crop insurance, modify lease arrangements, and exit farming in response to extreme weather caused by climate change.
Male swordtails court with an audience in mind

Females are usually considered to be the target of male courtship behaviour. In nature, however, social interactions rarely occur without other observers; thus, it is conceivable that some male cou...