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4,508,100 | with scarcely any silicate insulation. This body may have formed in a grazing protoplanetary impact. The fractionally crystallized groups, according to Hf–W isotopic systematics, are derived originally from bodies that accreted and melted to form cores early in the history of the solar system, o1Myr after CAI formation. The ungrouped irons likely come from at least 50 distinct parent bodies that formed in analogous ways to the fractionally crystallized groups. Contrary to traditional views about their origin, iron meteorites may have been derived originally from bodies as large as 1000 km or more in size. Most iron meteorites come directly or indirectly from bodies that accreted before the chondrites, possibly at 1–2AU rather than in the asteroid belt. Many of these bodies may have been disrupted by impacts soon after they formed and their fragments were scattered into the asteroid belt by protoplanets. r 2009 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved. | 17209971 |
4,508,101 | “Free Harbours”: Soviet-German Scientific Cooperation in Aircraft and Arctic Regions Research In 1924, the German aeronaut Walter Bruns turned to the Soviet government with a proposal of cooperation in the field of aeronautics. He suggested creating a concession company for the transportation of passengers by airship from Europe to East Asia, granting the bases of airships the right of extraterritoriality, making them “free harbours”. The aim of this study is to present the results of Soviet-German cooperation in the development of aeronautics and the tasks that were planned to be solved with the help of airships in the development of the Arctic territories. Analysis of the sources demonstrates that V. Bruns’ project was seen by the Soviet officials as dubious in terms of recoupment, and they were not ready to allocate funds for its implementation. The authorities were interested, first of all, in obtaining German technologies and localising the construction of airships at Soviet shipyards. In this article, special attention is paid to how Bruns’ project was evaluated by experts, among whom the military played a leading role. They opposed regular flights of airships with foreign crews across Soviet territory, as they considered them a potential threat to the country’s defense. Bruns’ other project on the organisation of an international scientific expedition to study the Arctic was of greater interest to the authorities. The practical result of this project was the flight of Graf Zeppelin, a German airship, in 1931 whose crew included Soviet specialists. However, after that, the cooperation with the Italian aeronaut Umberto Nobile | 245606671 |
4,508,102 | became more significant for the Soviet authorities and he began building airships in the USSR. | 245606671 |
4,508,103 | Uncontrollable Outcomes: Managing Expectations at the Olympics A major dilemma that athletes typically face when preparing for and performing at pinnacle events such as the Olympics is that emphasis inevitably gets weighted towards desired outcomes (e.g., medals, podium, finishing order, comparative standings), particularly during the prolonged preparation periods, with the nation, media, sporting organizations, supporters and athletes themselves getting deeply drawn into this line of thinking. While this can be motivational, it also can lead to heightened anxiety and tension, and even the very best athletes struggle to handle such pressure. This article considers the dynamics involved in such thinking, and outlines practical strategies for managing the challenges it presents. | 144300171 |
4,508,104 | Rotenone-induced apoptosis is mediated by p38 and JNK MAP kinases in human dopaminergic SH-SY5Y cells. Rotenone is a naturally derived pesticide that has recently been shown to evoke the behavioral and pathological symptoms of Parkinson's disease in animal models. Though rotenone is known to be an inhibitor of the mitochondrial complex I electron transport chain, little is known about downstream pathways leading to its toxicity. We used human dopaminergic SH-SY5Y cells to study mechanisms of rotenone-induced neuronal cell death. Our results suggest that rotenone, at nanomolar concentrations, induces apoptosis in SH-SY5Y cells that is caspase-dependent. Furthermore, rotenone treatment induces phosphorylation of c-Jun, the c-Jun N-terminal protein kinase (JNK), and the p38 mitogen activated protein (MAP) kinase, indicative of activation of the p38 and JNK pathways. Importantly, expression of dominant interfering constructs of the JNK or p38 pathways attenuated rotenone-induced apoptosis. These data suggest that rotenone induces apoptosis in the dopaminergic SH-SY5Y cells that requires activation of the JNK and p38 MAP kinases and caspases. These studies provide insights concerning the molecular mechanisms of rotenone-induced apoptosis in neuronal cells. | 1694921 |
4,508,105 | Wave-type barrier coverage for border security in Wireless Sensor Networks Recently, border security systems attract attention as large-scale monitoring system applying Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs). In this paper, we deal with a network construction method of sensor nodes for border security systems. Border security systems generally monitor intruders by using sensor nodes with communication function. Those systems require the detection of some intruders and the long-term operation. Moreover those systems have a serious problem of power consumption. In this paper, we propose an effective method to reduce substantially the power consumption of the system by dynamic sleep scheduling of sensor nodes. This method periodically shifts the sleeping area of sensor nodes such as waves in seashores. We call it Wave-Type Barrier Coverage (WTBC). By computer simulation, we show that WTBC can control substantially power consumption of the system with high reliability and simple architecture. | 18005321 |
4,508,106 | On the Segregation of Genetically Modified, Conventional and Organic Products in European Agriculture: A Multi‐market Equilibrium Analysis Evaluating the possible benefits of the introduction of genetically modified (GM) crops must address the issue of consumer resistance as well as the complex regulation that has ensued. In the European Union (EU), this regulation envisions the co-existence of GM food with conventional and quality-enhanced products, mandates the labelling and traceability of GM products and allows only a stringent adventitious presence of GM content in other products. All these elements are brought together within a partial equilibrium model of the EU agricultural food sector. The model comprises conventional, GM and organic food. Demand is modelled in a novel fashion, whereby organic and conventional products are treated as horizontally differentiated but GM products are vertically differentiated (weakly inferior) relative to conventional ones. Supply accounts explicitly for the land constraint at the sector level and for the need for additional resources to produce organic food. Model calibration and simulation allow insights into the qualitative and quantitative effects of the large-scale introduction of GM products in the EU market. We find that the introduction of GM food reduces overall EU welfare, mostly because of the associated need for costly segregation of non-GM products, but the producers of quality-enhanced products actually benefit. Copyright 2005 Blackwell Publishing Ltd. | 4863521 |
4,508,107 | Anti-proliferative effects of Cuminum cyminum extraction by co-administration of layered double hydroxide (LDH) nanosheets on SW480 colorectal cancer cell line through apoptosis induction Colorectal cancer (CC) is a common cancer in human and one of the major cause of cancer death worldwide. Recently, several therapeutic methods of CC and other malignancies have been developed, but drugs resistance is an important problem in treatment cancer treatment. Therefore, identify and provide novel chemotherapeutic agents is important for treatment of malignancies. In the present study we investigated the anti-cancer activity of Cuminum cyminum extraction in combination of layered double hydroxide (LDH) nanosheets on SW480 CC cell line. The anti-cancer activity of C. cyminum extraction and LDH nanosheets were investigated on SW480 CC cell line by MTT assay. The mRNA expression of apoptosis-related genes (BAX and BCL2) were investigated by Real-Time PCR method. Our results revealed that extraction of C. cyminum significantly decreased proliferation and viability of SW480 CC cell line as a concentration‐time dependent manner. However, anti-proliferation effects of C. cyminum extraction by co-administration of LDH nanosheets was significantly more than its monotherapy. Moreover, expression of BAX and BCL2 genes in the treated SW480 cells was significantly upregulated and downregulated, respectively. In general, present study revealed a significant anti-cancer effects of C. cyminum extraction and LDH nanosheets combination on SW480 CC cells, which may be due to apoptosis induction. | 250376921 |
4,508,108 | Flecainide provocation reveals concealed brugada syndrome in a long QT syndrome family with a novel L1786Q mutation in SCN5A. BACKGROUND Mutations in SCN5A can result in both long QT type 3 (LQT3) and Brugada syndrome (BrS), and a few mutations have been found to have an overlapping phenotype. Long QT syndrome is characterized by prolonged QT interval, and a prerequisite for a BrS diagnosis is ST elevation in the right precordial leads of the electrocardiogram. METHODS AND RESULTS In a Danish family suffering from long QT syndrome, a novel missense mutation in SCN5A, changing a leucine residue into a glutamine residue at position 1786 (L1786Q), was found to be present in heterozygous form co-segregating with prolonged QT interval. The proband presented with an aborted cardiac arrest, and his mother died suddenly and unexpectedly at the age of 65. Flecainide treatment revealed coved ST elevation in all mutation carriers. Electrophysiological investigations of the mutant in HEK293 cells indicated a reduced peak current, a negative shift in inactivation properties and a positive shift in activation properties, compatible with BrS. Furthermore, the sustained (I(Na,late)) tetrodotoxin-sensitive sodium current was found to be drastically increased, explaining the association between the mutation and LQT syndrome. CONCLUSIONS The L1786Q mutation is associated with a combined LQT3 and concealed BrS phenotype explained by gating characteristics of the mutated ion channel protein. Hence, sodium channel blockade should be considered in clinical evaluation of apparent LQT3 patients. | 13925871 |
4,508,109 | Multi-Person Tracking Based on Video Information Fusion In order to solve the problem that human objects in complex environments would be affected by illumination, deformation, moving, etc, a multi-feature information fusion based video tracking approach was proposed. In a particle filter framework, both the face color information and the head contour cue were fused effectively.This method overcomed the instability brought by using a single measurement source, and improved the tracking accuracy and reliability. Experiments on real video sequences demonstrate that in the same case our approach has more reliable performance than trackers utilizing only color or contour information with particle filter. | 58335221 |
4,508,110 | Driving Oxygen Electrochemistry in Lithium-Oxygen Battery by Local Surface Plasmon Resonance. Although the lithium-oxygen (Li-O2) battery brings hope for the improvement of high-energy rechargeable batteries, the sluggish oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) kinetics become the major stumbling block. Herein, the incorporation of a plasmonic silver cathode as an advanced strategy to promote ORR and OER kinetics due to strong local surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) is introduced. Chronoamperometry results revealed that the highly energetic electrons and holes excited by LSPR of silver nanostructure facilitated ORR and OER kinetics ascribe to the emission of hot carriers in femtosecond time scale. Furthermore, a relatively rare discharge voltage 3.1 V is obtained, correspondingly, the charge plateau also decline to 3.3 V, the energy efficiency of Li-O2 battery by a 23% increase in comparison with a commercial 5% Pt/C catalyst (discharge and charge plateau of 2.75 and 3.61 V). Additionally, the improvement in the efficient charge transfer manner result in a reversible spherical Li2O2 which further improve the ORR and OER kinetics. The LSPR strategy represents a critical step toward developing fast kinetics and high energy efficiency Li-O2 batteries. | 235257221 |
4,508,111 | Role of Tumor Necrosis Factor-- stimulated RAW 264 . 7 Cells : The γ Cocultured with Interferon-but not Tumor Promoter-resistant , JB 6 Mouse Epidermal Cells Nitric Oxide Synthase Is Induced in Tumor Promoter-sensitive Expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) has been reported to be involved in certain organs of potential tumorigenesis, including the stomach and colon. The mechanisms for iNOS expression in epithelial cells, however, are not fully understood. In the present study, we investigated the role of macrophages in epithelial iNOS expression by coculturing a stimulated murine macrophage-like cell line, RAW 264.7, with either tumor promoter-sensitive (P1) or promoter-resistant (P2) JB6 murine epidermal cells. After monoculture, treatment of RAW 264.7 cells with IFN-g for 24 h generated a large amount of nitrite (NO 2 ), as reported previously, whereas no increase in NO2 2 concentration was observed in the IFNg-treated P1 or P2 subclones. Interestingly, when IFNg-treated RAW 264.7 cells were cocultured with P1 but not P2 cells, we observed a marked increase in NO2 2 concentration (30.86 3.6 mM), which significantly exceeded (P < 0.01) the sum of the concentrations (20.06 2.3 mM) added from each cell line monoculture. Western blotting analysis revealed that, after coculture, iNOS protein was up-regulated 55-fold more than the control in JB6 P1 but not in P2 cells. IFN-g-treated RAW 264.7 cells secreted proinflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-a and interleukin (IL)-1 b. The addition of IFN-g-treated RAW 264.7 cell-conditioned media to P1 subclones led to a significant enhancement of NO2 2 formation that was diminished | 17261821 |
4,508,112 | by the TNF-aspecific but not IL-1b-specific antibody. When combined with IFN-g, the recombinant TNF-a (1–100 ng/ml) enhanced NO2 2 formation in JB6 P1 cells, whereas IL-1b (1–100 ng/ml) did not. These results led us to conclude that IFN-g-treated RAW 264.7 cells release TNFa to induce iNOS expression in promoter-sensitive JB6 cells. Thus, we propose the hypothesis that macrophages stimulate neoplastic cells with TNFa via a paracrine loop to induce epithelial iNOS protein expression. | 17261821 |
4,508,113 | UTILIZATION OF CORN RESIDUE , WINTER RANGE , OR DRY LOT IN BEEF HEIFER DEVELOPMENT SYSTEMS by Stetson Phil Post-weaning heifer development systems that maximize reproductive efficiency and reduce input costs associated with feed is beneficial for cow/calf producers. Two research experiments were conducted to evaluate the effect of post-weaning development systems in beef heifers. In Exp. 1 heifers were developed on corn residue (CR), or dry lot (DL). Heifers developed in DL had increased BW after winter treatment until breeding. Both heifer groups were similar in percent of heifers cycling, AI conception, AI pregnancy, and final pregnancy diagnosis. A subset of AI pregnant heifers were blocked by weight and stratified by winter development system and individually fed using a Calan Gates System to measure individual feed intake. Heifers developed on CR, although lighter, had similar ADG and feed efficiency compared to DL heifers. Excess pregnant heifers were assigned to graze CR during late gestation based on previous heifer development. Late gestating heifers developed on corn CR had similar ADG compared to heifers developed in DL. Similarly, Exp. 2 evaluated the effect of heifers grazing dormant winter range (WR) or grazing CR during post-weaning development. Heifers developed on CR were similar in ADG and BW throughout winter development and breeding. Reproductive performance indicated a similar percent of heifers cycling and final pregnancy diagnosis between groups. A portion of pregnant heifers was blocked by weight and assigned to graze one of three corn residue fields in late gestation based on previous heifer development. Late gestating heifers developed | 14600071 |
4,508,114 | on CR had similar ADG compared to heifers developed on WR. In summary, these experiments provide evidence to support development of heifers on dormant winter forage systems without sacrificing reproductive performance, feed efficiency, and ADG during late gestation. iii DEDICATION I dedicate this thesis to, my loving wife, Brooke, who has always loved, encouraged, and helped, during grad school and life's many trials and tribulations. iv ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS First, I would like to thank my Father in Heaven who has led me by the hand and help me overcome the challenges I have faced. Second, I would like to thank my wife Brooke, and my three little kids, Rainy, Kason, and Quade, for allowing time to work on my projects, homework, and papers. I cannot express all the appreciation you guys deserve, without having a family, grad school would have been much more difficult for me. Third, I would like to thank my parents, Jeff and Keri Jo, for aiding me in achieving my … | 14600071 |
4,508,115 | Nonprescription antibiotic therapy: cultural models on both sides of the counter and both sides of the border. Antibiotic resistance is a global public health threat exacerbated by medically unwarranted or improper antibiotic use. Pharmacy counters at the U.S.-Mexico border provide an example of where lay decisions to use antibiotics in ways considered "risky" may be initiated and negotiated. We test how cultural and public health knowledge of antibiotics is distributed among pharmacy staff, local Mexican clients, and U.S. medical tourists in the bordertown of Nogales using a cultural consensus tool. We find that shared cultural models across these groups include public health statements; however, other shared statements are likely to reinforce antibiotic sales at pharmacy counters by those on both sides of the purchase as economic, rather than therapeutic, encounters. From a public health perspective, border pharmacy counters are not a location where increased "safe" knowledge about antibiotic use is being transmitted. However, we do find a positive relationship between "safe" knowledge and reductions in risky behavior. | 8443771 |
4,508,116 | Mechanisms, pathophysiology, and diagnostic imaging of left ventricular outflow tract obstruction following mitral valve surgery and transcatheter mitral valve replacement Left ventricular outflow tract obstruction is a serious complication of mitral valve surgery (repair and replacement) and transcatheter mitral valve replacement. An appreciation of the various mechanisms which cause outflow obstruction in these settings is critical to avoiding this complication and to initiating appropriate treatment. This article discusses the mechanisms, pathophysiology, and imaging of left ventricular outflow tract obstruction which can arise following insertion of a variety of mitral valve prosthetics. | 171093271 |
4,508,117 | Data Perturbation and Recovery of Time Series Gene Expression Data Cells, in order to regulate their activities, process transcripts by controlling which genes to transcribe and by what amount. The transcription level of genes often change over time. Rate of change of gene transcription varies between genes. It can even change for the same gene across different members of a population. Thus, for a given gene, it is important to study the transcription level not only at a single time point, but across multiple time points to capture changes in patterns of gene expression which underlies several phenotypic or external factors. In such a dataset perturbation can happen due to which it may have missing transcription values for different samples at different time points. In this paper, we define three data perturbation models that are significant with respect to random deletion. We also define a recovery method that recovers data loss in the perturbed dataset such that the error is minimized. Our experimental results show that the recovery method compensates for the loss made by perturbation models. We show by means of two measures, namely, normalized distance and Pearson’s correlation coefficient that the distance between the original and perturbed dataset is more than the distance between original and recovered dataset. | 231883071 |
4,508,118 | Impact of soluble organic compounds on permeate flux in an aerobic membrane bioreactor Abstract The relative impact of mixed liquor suspended solids and soluble organic compounds on the permeate flux in an aerobic membrane bioreactor (MBR) were investigated during long‐term operation. A statistical correlation analysis performed on data obtained over an approximately 700 day operational period revealed that permeate flux was strongly correlated to soluble organic compounds such as soluble sugars and proteins and was not correlated to total mixed liquor COD. Organic compounds with sizes less than 0.10 μm exhibited the strongest correlation to permeate flux. Specific filtration tests conducted on the MBR showed that the effect of soluble COD was most pronounced in the range of 110–210 mg 1‐1. A critical level of soluble COD was established at 500 mg 1‐1 after which point no correlation was present. The effluent quality remained high throughout the study at below 5 mg 1‐1 total COD, indicating that the membrane was able to retain most organic compounds regardless of mixed liquor soluble COD content. It was concluded that MBR permeate fluxes are enhanced when operating at conditions where bio‐degradation is improved and soluble organic compounds are reduced. | 30827571 |
4,508,119 | Solar twins in M67 Context. The discovery of true solar analogs is fundamental to a better understanding of the Sun and of the solar system. Despite a number of efforts, this search has brought only limited results for field stars. The open cluster M 67 offers a unique opportunity to search for solar analogs, because its chemical composition and age are very similar to those of the Sun. Aims. We analyse FLAMES spectra of a large number of M 67 main sequence stars to identify solar analogs in this cluster. Methods. We first determined cluster members that are not likely binaries, by combining proper motions and radial velocity measurements. We concentrate our analysis on determining stellar effective temperature, using analyses of line-depth ratios and Hα wing and making a direct comparison to the solar spectrum obtained with the same instrument. We also computed the lithium abundance for all the stars. Results. Ten stars have the temperature derived both by line-depth ratios and by the Hα wings within 100 K from the Sun. From these stars we derive, assuming a cluster reddening E(B −V) = 0.041, the solar color (B −V)� = 0.649 ± 0.016 and a cluster distance modulus of 9.63. Five stars are most similar (within 60 K) to the Sun and candidates to be true solar twins. These stars also have a low Li content, comparable to the photospheric abundance of the Sun, likely indicating a similar mixing evolution. Conclusions. We find several candidates for the best solar analogs ever. These stars are amenable | 53454471 |
4,508,120 | to further spectroscopic investigations and planet searches. The solar colors are determined with fairly high accuracy with an independent method, as is the cluster distance modulus. | 53454471 |
4,508,121 | Atypical presentation of molar pregnancy The classic features of molar pregnancy are irregular vaginal bleeding, hyperemesis, enlarged uterus for gestational age and early failed pregnancy. Less common presentations include hyperthyroidism, early onset pre-eclampsia or abdominal distension due to theca lutein cysts. Here, we present a case of molar pregnancy where a woman presented to the emergency department with symptoms of acute abdomen and was treated as ruptured ectopic pregnancy. The woman underwent laparoscopy and evacuation of retained products of conception. Histological examination of uterine curettage confirmed the diagnosis of a complete hydatidiform mole. The woman was discharged home in good general condition with a plan for serial beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (beta-hCG) follow-up. Complete follow-up includes use of contraception and follow-up after beta-hCG is negative for a year. | 52875721 |
4,508,122 | Endosalpingiosis of the Urinary Bladder: A Case of Probable Implantative Origin With Characterization of Benign Fallopian Tube Immunohistochemistry Müllerianosis of the bladder is an infrequently described lesion consisting of multiple Müllerian-type tissues within the urinary bladder. Few previous cases of pure endosalpingiosis have been described. Here we present a 54-year-old post-menopausal female with a history of prior pelvic surgery with traumatic bladder injury, who was found to have a cystic lesion in the posterior wall of the bladder. Routine histology demonstrated cyst epithelium characteristic of endosalpingiosis. Three benign Fallopian tube specimens were obtained and stained with the relevant immunohistochemical markers for comparison. Results showed an identical immunohistochemical profile between the bladder cyst lining and the normal Fallopian tube controls. This case represents a rare instance of pure endosalpingiosis of the urinary bladder, with a likely implantative origin. This form of bladder Müllerianosis should therefore be considered within the differential diagnosis of cystic lesions of the bladder. | 30517521 |
4,508,123 | User Acceptance of the Mobile Internet This paper uses the original Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and its extension models to explain the factors affecting the use of the mobile Internet services in Korea. Based on data collected from a questionnaire survey, we show that social influence and self-efficacy variables significantly affect perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use, respectively. The data also reveal that both perceived usefulness and ease of use explain a significant percentage of the variations in the attitude toward using the mobile Internet, which in turn influences the actual usage frequency. | 16103571 |
4,508,124 | Fatigue properties of acrylic denture base resins. Observations were made of fractured surfaces caused by flexural and tensile fatigue tests made in polymethyl methacrylate denture base resins (PMMA). In addition, the changes in dynamic viscoelastic and tensile properties of the materials along with fatigue propagation were investigated. In the tensile and flexural fatigue tests, both the fractured surfaces, which had striations on their surfaces and cracks near the fractured section, closely resembled each other in appearance. On the other hand, all of the tensile properties, such as elastic modulus, toughness and tensile strength, decreased with the increase of the number of stress cycles in the fatigue test. The storage modulus (E') of the material decreased gradually along with fatigue propagation over the whole range of temperatures tested. The loss modulus (E") and mechanical loss tangent (tan delta) increased slightly. The fatigue limit of four commercial denture base resins varied widely from one product to another. | 27074371 |
4,508,125 | A thermally tunable single-band metamaterials with VO2 disks based on localized surface plasmon resonance A thermal tunability metamaterial absorber with single-band absorption properties is proposed and numerical verification. An absorption peak can be revealed at resonant wavelength 1.54 m at room temperature. The metal parameter condition is optimized in simulation in order to improve the property of this absorber. Simulated results reveal that absorption performances can be modulated based on the refractive index changes. High FOM values are obtained based on water or glucose solution. Moreover, the resonance wavelength and amplitude are modulated based on the ambient temperature changes. Finally, the effect of central metal particle side width or dielectric layer thickness at room temperature on absorption performances are also revealed in simulation. | 242412121 |
4,508,126 | Physico-chemical and biological investigations of River Umshyrpi at Shillong, Meghalaya. River Umshyrpi is the major river in Shillong that passes across the city. Domestic waste, solid waste, agricultural run off from surrounding areas are entering into the river bodies through different drains. Water samples from various sites were collected and analysed for physico-chemical and biological parameters to assess the quality of the river system. The study reveals that physico-chemical parameters are within the permissible limit whereas the biological parameters are found to exceed the permissible limit which indicate unpotability of water for drinking purposes. | 27148471 |
4,508,127 | We Don't Need The Same Things! Recognizing Differential Expectations of Instructor Communication Behavior for Nontraditional and Traditional Students E very day college instructors step into their class rooms, take a look around at the eager and, per haps, anxious faces of their students, and begin teaching. Do they assume all their students are the same? Are they all typical, traditional college students? According to the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics' (NCES) 2002 report, over 42% of all undergraduate students in 1999-2000 were above the age of 24, and 12% were 40 or older. With this influx of older ' nontraditional students, should teachers ask themselves whether the 55-year-old woman in the front row wants the same classroom communication as the 19-year-old seated next to her? Does it matter? Communication scholar Daly recently stated, "Without doubt, we want to have an impact not simply on students' classroom satisfaction, but also on their lives" (2002, p. 379) . While it may be impracti cal to consider the needs and desires of every individual student, instructors often reveal a strong desire to take on this challenge. The communication literature is replete with suggestions for how instructors can best communicate to meet student needs. However, most of the literature is based on studies of traditional students. This study addresses that gap in the literature by investigating whether traditional and nontraditional students have differing expectations for instructor communication. Background Literatu re | 144959321 |
4,508,128 | Coupled cluster calculations of the ground state potential and interaction induced electric properties of the mixed dimers of helium, neon and argon Using augmented polarized correlation consistent basis sets extended with midbond functions, we evaluate the ground state interaction potential and the induced electric dipole polarizabilities and first and second hyperpolarizabilities of the He–Ar, Ne–Ar and He–Ne van der Waals complexes. For the calculation of the potential we resort to the coupled cluster singles and doubles (CCSD) model corrected for triple excitations, CCSD(T), whereas properties are evaluated with CCSD response theory. As a check of the quality of the potential, the rovibrational spectrum and the gas second virial coefficients are evaluated. The rovibrational spectra improve previously available theoretical results, although the dissociation energies are probably still slightly underestimated. For the gas second virial coefficients the agreement with experiment is satisfactory. The frequency dependence of the interaction (hyper)polarizabilities is analysed and a comparison with previous results on the mixed dimers and the pure gases is made. | 97454621 |
4,508,129 | Authentic peer support work: challenges and opportunities for an evolving occupation Abstract Background: The peer support worker (PSW) belongs to the fastest growing occupation in the mental health sector, yet it is often under-valued and poorly understood. Despite an emerging evidence base, and strong support from mental health service users, the PSW remains on the periphery of mainstream services in northeastern Ontario. Aims: To examine the role of the PSW, along with the challenges and benefits, and to understand why the PSW is not more integrated within mainstream services. Methods: A sequential, exploratory, mixed-methods design was used to collect data on 52 survey and 33 focus group participants. Qualitative data were analyzed thematically. Results: Peer support work was described by participants as being authentic when PSWs can draw upon lived experience, engage in mutually beneficial discussions, and be a role model. Authentic peer support was noted to be important to the recovery of mental health service users; yet, participants revealed that many positions continue to reflect more generic duties. Challenges to further integration include acceptance, training and credentialing, self-care, and voluntarism. Conclusions: Future development and mainstream integration of peer support work must reconcile current tensions between standardization and loss of authenticity. Training in communicating the lived experience, setting boundaries and self-care are important steps forward. | 21480421 |
4,508,130 | Modeling Anuran Detection and Site Occupancy on North American Amphibian Monitoring Program (NAAMP) Routes in Maryland Abstract One of the most fundamental problems in monitoring animal populations is that of imperfect detection. Although imperfect detection can be modeled, studies examining patterns in occurrence often ignore detection and thus fail to properly partition variation in detection from that of occurrence. In this study, we used anuran calling survey data collected on North American Amphibian Monitoring Program routes in eastern Maryland to investigate factors that influence detection probability and site occupancy for 10 anuran species. In 2002, 17 calling survey routes in eastern Maryland were surveyed to collect environmental and species data nine or more times. To analyze these data, we developed models incorporating detection probability and site occupancy. The results suggest that, for more than half of the 10 species, detection probabilities vary most with season (i.e., day-of-year), air temperature, time, and moon illumination, whereas site occupancy may vary by the amount of palustrine forested wetland habitat. Our results suggest anuran calling surveys should document air temperature, time of night, moon illumination, observer skill, and habitat change over time, as these factors can be important to model-adjusted estimates of site occupancy. Our study represents the first formal modeling effort aimed at developing an analytic assessment framework for NAAMP calling survey data. | 41134971 |
4,508,131 | A Semantic Analysis of the Learner's Disorientation Learning systems are dedicated for learning about a particular area organized through non-linear documents. Therefore, it is always useful to recognize the state of knowledge and the navigation behaviour of a learner in order to evaluate customize and adapt the learning process. In this paper, we aim to make a semantic analysis of the learner’s navigation during his apprenticeship in hypermedia content. The main reason of this analysis is to identify the browsing behaviour of a learner with the current course. We assume that if the semantic distance between the domain concepts of the documents (or pages) that follow each other in the navigation of a learner is great, then this reflects the unstructured navigation behaviour and interprets that the learner is disoriented. This type of behaviour could be due to the poor organization of the content and the bad structuring of the course. Indeed, this analysis will allow to the tutor, to identify the disoriented learners and help them, and to the course author, to specify the causes to restructure and to deepen the analysis of the existing content and the navigation links between the parts of the course. | 29523871 |
4,508,132 | Otitis media, milk allergy, and folk medicine. In his recent article, "Otitis Media in the First Six Weeks of Life." Dr. Bland suggested that middle ear infection occurred predominately in bottle-fed babies because breast-fed babies perhaps enjoyed the advantage of IgA in breast milk. An alternative explanation would be an allergy to cow's milk with resultant inflammation and blockage of the eustachian tubes leading to middle ear infection. I would suggest that a baby with a history of recurrent otitis media in the first year of life be given a three-month trial on a strict cow's milk elimination diet. | 27498721 |
4,508,133 | The GOD of Hematopoietic Stem Cells: A Clonal Diversity Model of the Stem Cell Compartment Hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) show heterogeneous behavior even when isolated asphenotypically homogeneous populations. The cellular and molecular mechanisms that controlthe generation of diversity (GOD) in the HSC compartment are not well understood, but havebeen the focus of much debate. There is increasing evidence that the most important HSCfunctions, self-renewal and differentiation, are epigenetically preprogrammed and thereforepredictable. Indeed, recent data show that the adult HSC compartment consists of a limitednumber of functionally distinct subsets of HSC. This contradicts older models of HSC behavior,which postulated a single type of HSC that can be continuously molded into different subtypes ofHSC. We propose a clonal diversity model where the adult HSC compartment consists of a fixednumber of different types of HSC, each with epigenetically preprogrammed behavior. Aging ordisease may change the overall function of the HSC population. The model predicts that thesechanges reflect the relative composition of the HSC subsets, rather than changes in individualHSC. This view has implications for using HSC in experimental and clinical settings. Selectionfor the appropriate subsets of HSC, rather than attempts to force HSC to adjust, should improvetheir utility in transplantation and gene transfer applications. | 39159221 |
4,508,134 | Biweekly ultrasound assessment of cervical shortening in triplet pregnancies and the effect of cerclage placement Preterm delivery is a major cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality that especially affects multiple gestations. This potentially devastating complication can often be predicted from sonographic evidence of shortened cervical length. However, the data remain limited and no guidelines exist on the optimal timing and frequency of sonographic surveillance in triplet pregnancies. Preterm delivery in triplets has been found to be associated with shortened cervical length diagnosed by transvaginal ultrasound at various gestational ages: between 12 and 20 weeks1, between 16 and 20 weeks2, between 15 and 24 weeks3, or at 23 weeks’ gestation4. Furthermore, once cervical shortening has been diagnosed the clinical question becomes whether to perform a cervical cerclage or manage the pregnancy expectantly. Most evidence for multiple gestations is derived from studies of twins5, where ultrasound-indicated cerclage does not appear to prolong gestation or improve outcome. In triplets, routine prophylactic cerclage placement has not been found to be associated with significant pregnancy prolongation6. We have previously presented our preliminary data on 24 triplet pregnancies that were followed with biweekly transvaginal ultrasonography7. We demonstrated that patients diagnosed with cervical shortening following biweekly sonographic surveillance were at greater risk of delivering earlier and having babies that weighed less than patients without a shortened cervix. However, within the subset of patients with a short cervix, the placement of cervical cerclage did not appear to affect gestational age at delivery or neonatal outcome. We have since recruited more patients and completed our | 85473321 |
4,508,135 | data analysis, and we present here our final results. We analyzed a total of 50 triplet gestations that underwent biweekly transvaginal ultrasound assessment of cervical length at between 11 + 1 and 28 + 3 weeks’ gestation. Of these, 24 (48.0%) were diagnosed with a short cervix, defined as a shortest cervical length of ≤ 25 mm. These patients went on to deliver 24 days earlier (P = 0.001), have babies that weighed 451 g less (P < 0.001) and had lower 1-min (P < 0.001) and 5min (P = 0.006) Apgar scores, compared with patients without cervical shortening. Once diagnosed with a shortened cervix and following appropriate counseling, 11 of the 24 patients (45.8%) underwent cervical cerclage placement at an average gestational age of 20 + 4 weeks, whereas the remaining patients were managed expectantly. When comparing the two groups (Table 1), cervical cerclage did not appear to affect gestational age at delivery, birth weight, 1or 5-min Apgar scores or fetal demise (all, P > 0.05). Statistical analysis was performed using the Student’s t-test for continuous Gaussian variables and chi-square test for categorical variables (Stata v.11, StataCorp LP, College Station, TX, USA). We can thus conclude that, in triplet pregnancies, transvaginal ultrasound ascertainment of a shortened cervix at between 11 + 1 and 28 + 3 weeks’ gestation is associated with an increased risk of preterm delivery and poorer neonatal outcome. However, once identified, these patients do not benefit from ultrasound-indicated cervical cerclage placement and can instead be safely managed expectantly. | 85473321 |
4,508,136 | Duration of the seasonal anestrus in sheep selected for fertility in a fall-lambing system. Crossbred ewes (1/2 Dorset, 1/4 Rambouillet, and 1/4 Finnsheep) from a flock being selected for spring fertility, defined as ability to lamb following ram exposure in May and June in Virginia (37 degrees N latitude), were used to study the duration of the seasonal anestrus. In the first 3 yr of the study (1992, 1993, and 1995), mature ewes were divergently selected based on EBV for fertility, and the duration of anestrus was measured by continuously exposing the ewes to vasectomized rams equipped with marking harnesses from mid-January until approximately August 1. Only ewes that had lambed in the previous fall were used to ensure that ewes were in a comparable physiological state, and the same rams remained with the ewes in each year to avoid induction of estrus by introduction of novel rams. The duration of anestrus in high-fertility ewes (n = 26; mean fertility EBV of 12.6%) was 28.4 d, which was significantly less than the 70.2 d of anestrus observed for low-fertility ewes (n = 15; mean fertility EBV of .3%). Five high-fertility ewes did not exhibit a period of anestrus. The regression of number of days of anestrus on fertility EBV was -2.15 +/- .72 d/%. In yr 4 (1997), 11 high-fertility and two low-fertility ewes were evaluated. None of these ewes exhibited a clear seasonal anestrus; six unequivocally cycled continuously. Between January 23 and July 31, the mean duration of anestrus for these ewes was only approximately | 20391121 |
4,508,137 | 11 d. The duration of anestrus for high-fertility ewes seems to be the shortest reported for temperate sheep breeds. | 20391121 |
4,508,138 | Global temporal lobe asymmetry as a semi-quantitative imaging biomarker for temporal lobe epilepsy lateralization: A machine learning classification study. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to evaluate the utility of global semi-quantitative analysis via fluorine-18-flurodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (18F-FDG PET) at lateralizing seizure foci and diagnosing patients with unilateral temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). METHODS Seventeen patients with unilateral TLE (11 right TLE and 6 left TLE) were retrospectively selected for semi-quantitative 18F-FDG PET analysis. Twenty-three control subjects with a Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) score of 29 or greater were selected for comparison. Globally averaged standardized uptake value (gSUVmean) was computed for each temporal lobe. Lateralization indices (LI) and the absolute value of lateralization indices (|LI|) were calculated to assess the degree of asymmetry in each subject. Logistic regression analyses were performed at a probability cutoff of 0.5 to classify TLE patients as left or right TLE and to discriminate patients from control subjects. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were generated to evaluate the utility of LI and |LI| as classification predictors. The Bland Altman test was used to evaluate the reproducibility of the measurements. RESULTS There was a statistically significant difference in gSUVmean computed LI between left and right TLE patients (P<0.01). There was no statistically significant difference in |LI| between the patient and control groups (P=0.22). Logistic regression revealed that 82% of TLE patients were lateralized correctly using LI as the sole predictor. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) was 0.80. Logistic regression using |LI| on the combined patient/control population showed a | 51624521 |
4,508,139 | diagnostic accuracy of 65% and an AUC of 0.44. Bland Altman analysis revealed an intra-observer reproducibility of 96% and an inter-observer reproducibility of 96% and 91% on successive trials. CONCLUSION We conclude that gSUVmean computed LI is a reliable and reproducible measure for predicting seizure lateralization in unilateral TLE patients. However, gSUVmean computed |LI| does not appear to be particularly effective at diagnosing TLE patients from control subjects. Further studies with more patients should investigate other machine learning techniques that combine gSUVmean with other diagnostic predictors. | 51624521 |
4,508,140 | Monosynaptic EPSPs in cat lumbosacral motoneurones from group Ia afferents and fibres descending in the spinal cord. 1. Excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) were elicited in lumbosacral motoneurones of pentobarbitone‐anaesthetized cats by stimulating the ventral quadrants (VQ) of the thoracic spinal cord. These EPSPs were compared with monosynaptic EPSPs from small numbers of group Ia afferents, obtained by stimulating hindlimb muscle nerves with most of the dorsal roots severed. 2. EPSPs with average peak amplitude less than 1 mV were selected for fluctuation analysis. Three out of fourteen (21%) VQ EPSPs with peak voltage less than 150 mu V fluctuated in amplitude from trial to trial no more than could be accounted for by the background intracellular noise. Similarly, nine out of thirty‐nine (23%) Ia EPSPs smaller than 150 mu V fluctuated to a comparable extent as the noise. These results are consistent with the view that there is little variation in the postsynaptic signal produced by an individual transmitter release event. 3. Of the EPSPs which did fluctuate more than the background noise, maximum likelihood estimates were obtained for the fluctuation patterns of ten VQ and fourteen Ia EPSPs. This was achieved by assuming that synaptic signals sum linearly with noise, but without constraining the results to conform to a statistical description of transmitter release. The fluctuation of both VQ and Ia EPSPs was made up of discrete amplitudes separated by roughly equal increments, in accordance with the quantal hypothesis of synaptic transmission. 4. Fluctuation patterns were obtained simultaneously for VQ and Ia EPSPs in seven | 36837321 |
4,508,141 | motoneurones. The amplitudes of the quanta, defined as the mean increments between discrete amplitudes, were correlated (r = 0.90), suggesting common postsynaptic mechanisms. 5. For most EPSPs the time course of the voltage transient could be used to estimate the electrical distance from the soma at which the synaptic current was injected. There was a comparable distribution for VQ and Ia EPSPs. For those in which a quantal analysis was performed (nine VQ and eleven Ia), quantal size measured at the soma appeared to be independent of the deduced site of origin. 6. The results indicate no qualitative or quantitative differences in the behaviour of VQ and Ia EPSPs. | 36837321 |
4,508,142 | Circularly Polarized Wearable Antenna Based on NinjaFlex-Embedded Conductive Fabric A circularly polarized (CP) wearable antenna based on the FDM (fused deposition modeling) technology is proposed. Conductive fabric is used to realize conductive parts of the patch antenna on the NinjaFlex substrate. The antenna is encapsulated with additional layers of NinjaFlex. Modified patch ensures the CP character at 2.45 GHz. Bending and washing tests are conducted to check the performance stability, and good agreement between simulated and measured results is observed. The experimental results illustrate that the antenna holds 11% 10 dB S11 bandwidth and around 70 MHz 3 dB axial ratio bandwidth. In addition, surface current analysis is also given to understand the operating mechanism of CP wave. | 203122071 |
4,508,143 | Membrane-bound interleukin (IL)-15 on renal tumor cells rescues natural killer cells from IL-2 starvation-induced apoptosis. Renal cell carcinoma primary tumors and lung metastases are infiltrated by activated natural killer (NK) cells. Interleukin (IL)-15, a major cytokine involved in cross-talk between accessory cells (dendritic cells and macrophages) and NK cells, is produced by epithelial renal cells. We show that renal cell carcinoma cells and normal renal cells express IL-15 mRNA and membrane-bound IL-15 (MbIL-15). These cells also express IL-15 receptor alpha (IL-15Ralpha). Silencing of IL-15Ralpha by specific small interfering RNA in renal cell carcinoma had no effect on MbIL-15 production, indicating that the cytokine is not cross-presented by IL-15Ralpha in renal cell carcinoma cells but anchored to the membrane. Furthermore, we show that MbIL-15 from renal cell carcinoma cells is functional and involved in rapid nuclear translocation of phosphorylated signal transducers and activators of transcription 3 in IL-2-starved NK cells. MbIL-15 on the target did not interfere with resting NK cell activation and target cell cytolysis but rescued NK cells from IL-2 starvation-induced apoptosis through contact-dependent interaction. Masking of MbIL-15 with soluble IL-15Ralpha molecules restored NK cell apoptosis. These findings suggest that IL-15 produced by renal tumor cells is involved in the maintenance of active NK cells at the tumor site. | 1043371 |
4,508,144 | Prices, loans or ambiguity? Factors influencing groundwater irrigation adoption in Ethiopia Agriculture in sub-Saharan Africa is dominated by rain-fed cultivation, with only 4-6% of the cultivated area under irrigation (Wiggins and Lankford 2019). This makes farming households particularly vulnerable to climate change. Some estimates suggest that without the expansion of irrigated areas, the number of people affected by hunger due to climate change will rise by 5% by 2030 and 12% by 2050 (Malabo Montpellier Panel 2018). Irrigation can reduce these risks by expanding cultivation during the dry season, enabling multi-cropping and reducing production losses caused by droughts (see, e.g., Burney and Naylor 2012; Buisson and Balasubramanya 2019). | 245028371 |
4,508,145 | SOLIDIFIED SHAPES BY SHORT GEL TIME GROUTS IN SANDY GROUND AND THE GOVERNING CONDITION In order to elucidate the mechanism of permeation by short gel time grouts, we investigated the effects of injection pressure P', injection rate q, injection time 1, and gel time G l on the solidified shapes. Through a lot of injection tests using the large injection apparatus, we obtained the following conclusions. 1) Permeation without fracturing is possible as long as p' is increasing during injection. 2) If the permeability of sand is large enough, the succesive grout can permeat spherically by perforation in the pore gel at the solidified part. | 111530171 |
4,508,146 | 1,25‐Dihydroxyvitamin D3 and Rat Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Growth Recent studies from several laboratories have shown perturbations of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1,25(OH)2D3] metabolism in hypertension. While these perturbations may exert their effect on blood pressure via their actions on calcium metabolism, it is possible that this vitamin D metabolite may have direct effects on vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) physiology. To examine this, we studied the effect of 1,25(OH)2D3 on VSMC growth and found that this substance suppressed VSMC [3H]thymidine uptake; furthermore, this vitamin D metabolite also suppressed the stimulatory effect of epidermal growth factor (EGF) on VSMC proliferation. The concomitant presence of this substance appeared to be required for its action on VSMC growth since cells pretreated with the vitamin D metabolite for up to 72 hours and then washed of the substance grew normally and responded to EGF. Studies were also done to determine if 1,25(OH)2D3 had any effect on the function of EGF receptors on VSMC. Experiments using Iodine-125-labeled EGF showed no differences in the binding of this ligand to VSMC, either untreated or treated with 1,25(OH)2D3, which indicates the effect of the vitamin D metabolite on VSMC growth (when exposed to EGF) was not mediated by an alteration of EGF receptor function. The results of these studies have implications for the pathogenesis of vascular diseases such as hypertension and atherosclerosis. | 12967921 |
4,508,147 | Decrease in RNA folding cooperativity by deliberate population of intermediates in RNA G-quadruplexes. Keeping a broad (RNA) perspective: conventional biochemical detection systems only have a 100-fold linear response range. The range of potassium concentrations detected by an RNA G-quadruplex sequence can be broadened by intentionally populating multiple intermediate folding states. The folding of the RNA G-quadruplexes was monitored by both circular dichroism and intrinsic fluorescence spectroscopy. | 29701861 |
4,508,148 | Absorption and bioavailability of pentaerithrityl-tetranitrate (PETN, Dilcoran 80). The effects of 80 mg pentaerithrityl-tetranitrate (PETN) as suspension or formulated as tablets were compared to placebo in a single blind, randomized, crossover study in 18 healthy subjects (study A), and the bioequivalence of two tablet formulations (marketed Dilcoran 80 vs a new formulation) was studied in 24 healthy subjects after administration of single oral doses of 80 mg PETN according to a placebo controlled, randomized, double blind, two-way crossover study design (study B). The perfusion of the right middle finger was measured by rheography (altitude A of the changes of resistance and of the incisure D) before and 24 h post-dose, and blood pressure and heart rate were measured in supine position at the same time. The values of area under curve (AUC) of the ratio A/D were calculated by the trapezoidal rule. In study A the mean A/D-values were reduced from about 2.0 to about 1.3 after intake of PETN (solution or tablet) with a minimum 60 to 90 min postdose (solution) and 2 h postdose (tablet). A significant reduction in this ratio was seen up to 8 (solution) or 12 h (tablet) post dose. Changes in blood pressure were not observed while the heart rate decreased in the subjects of all three groups 1 to 2 h postdose followed by an increase by 6 to 10 beats per min. After subtraction of the AUC values of placebo from the PETN-derived AUC values, mean values of 6.61 (SD 1.52, solution) and 7.25 (SD 1.48, A/D*h, tablet) | 22164111 |
4,508,149 | were calculated (p > 0.1, study A).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) | 22164111 |
4,508,150 | Refugees, the asylum system and mental healthcare in Ireland The number of people seeking refugee status in Ireland is increasing year on year and the burden of mental illness experienced by refugees and asylum seekers is high. The College of Psychiatrists of Ireland has recommended the establishment of a number of specialist refugee mental health teams. In this paper we discuss the Irish asylum system, the Irish evidence regarding mental illness in this population, and current health service policy regarding refugee mental health. We propose a model of specialist refugee mental healthcare delivery. | 34623061 |
4,508,151 | Treatment of systemic sclerosis–associated interstitial lung disease: Lessons from clinical trials Systemic sclerosis–associated interstitial lung disease remains a leading cause of mortality. Despite decades of clinical trials, the treatment effects of disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs continue to be modest and there remains a great need for therapies that attenuate and hopefully ameliorate parenchymal lung disease. In this review, we highlight the key clinical trials that have shaped the management strategies employed by the authors, providing their strength of recommendation based on level of evidence. We also review lessons learned in more recent years, suggesting a benefit in targeting patients with subclinical interstitial lung disease with high risk for progression early in the disease course, as well as the benefit seen in a large clinical trial leading to the first Food and Drug Administration–approved treatment for systemic sclerosis–associated interstitial lung disease. These lessons come in a context of heterogeneity of patient populations and response to therapy, as well as the inherent constraints of time-limited studies to detect meaningful outcomes for patients. | 212619861 |
4,508,152 | Transforming growth factor beta-induced cell cycle arrest of human hematopoietic cells requires p57KIP2 up-regulation. Transforming growth factor beta (TGFbeta) is one of few known negative regulators of hematopoiesis, yet the mechanisms by which it affects cell cycle arrest and stem cell quiescence are poorly understood. Induction of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors, p15INK4b (p15) and p21WAF1 (p21) is important for TGFbeta-mediated cytostasis in epithelial cells but not in hematopoietic cells. Using primary human hematopoietic cells and microarray analysis, we identified p57KIP2 (p57) as the only cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor induced by TGFbeta. Up-regulation of p57 mRNA and protein occurs before TGFbeta-induced G1 cell cycle arrest, requires transcription, and is mediated via a highly conserved region of the proximal p57 promoter. The up-regulation of p57 is essential for TGFbeta-induced cell cycle arrest in these cells, because two different small interfering RNAs that prevent p57 up-regulation block the cytostatic effects of TGFbeta on human hematopoietic cells. Reduction of basal p57 expression by this approach also allows hematopoietic cells to proliferate more readily in the absence of TGFbeta. p57 is a putative tumor suppressor gene whose expression is frequently silenced by promoter hypermethylation in hematologic malignancies. Our studies identify a molecular pathway by which TGFbeta mediates its cytostatic effects on human hematopoietic cells and suggests an explanation for the frequent silencing of p57 expression. | 43746111 |
4,508,153 | The HPLC determination of total thiamin (Vitamin B1) in foods Abstract A high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method for the routine determination of total thiamin in foods is described. After acid and enzymatic hydrolysis, thiamin was oxidized to thiochrome, and the oxidized fraction was purified and concentrated with solid-phase extraction (SPE). Several commercially available SPE columns were tested. Thiochrome was analyzed with a C 18 HPLC column, using a mixture of methanol and 50 m M phosphate buffer (pH 7.0) (30:70) as the mobile phase. Fluorescence detection (ex 366 nm, em 436 nm) was used. The method was verified using the 14 C technique. Labeled thiamin, [ thiazole -2- 14 C]thiamin hydrochloride, was added to four different food matrices (cheese, pork, potato, and wheat flour), and the distribution of 14 C activity was measured at several stages of the analytical procedure. On the average, 14% of the labeled thiamin was lost in the thiochrome oxidation and in the SPE procedure. About 70% of the residual activity was located in the major peak of the reversed-phase thiochrome chromatogram. The total recovery of the added 14 C activity was estimated at 60% in both samples and standards. The distribution of activity was found to be similar in the four food matrices and the standards. | 85814961 |
4,508,154 | Protein identification at the low femtomole level from silver-stained gels using a new fritless electrospray interface for liquid chromatography-microspray and nanospray mass spectrometry. Conventional capillary liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) typically employs low microl/min flow rates with gas/liquid sheath to enhance spray stability. Over the past several years a number of reports have demonstrated success with electrospray (ES) interface designs optimized for submicroliter/min flows which have clear advantages in terms of enhancement of detection limit, lower sample consumption, and ability to accommodate a wider range of buffer conditions. We report here a fritless electrospray interface (FESI) design that is inexpensive and robust and can be operated and adapted to accommodate a variety of applications for submicroliter/min flow rates. The novelty of this interface revolves around the use of a fritless microcapillary column and precolumn application of electrospray voltage at a microtee junction to achieve stable microspray and nanospray flow rates. This sheathless FESI device eliminates postcolumn dead volume since small particles (</= 10 micron) are packed directly into laser-pulled fused silica capillary needles from which a spray originates. For analysis of proteins/peptides in solution, low femtomole sensitivity has been achieved (attomoles for selected-ion monitoring), while low nanogram sensitivity was attained for proteins derived from in-gel-digested silver-stained bands from 1-D and 2-D gels. Several applications for tandem MS protein/peptide identification using LC-microspray, LC-nanospray, or infusion nanospray are presented. | 20911311 |
4,508,155 | Coaxial line configuration for microwave power transmission study of YBa/sub 2/Cu/sub 3/O/sub 7- delta / thin films Microwave transmission measurements through YBa/sub 2/Cu/sub 3/O/sub 7- delta / (YBCO) high-transition-temperature superconducting thin films on lanthanum aluminate (LaAlO/sub 3/) have been performed in a coaxial line at 10 GHz. LaAlO/sub 3/ substrates were ultrasonically machined into washer-shaped discs, polished, and coated with laser-ablated YBCO. These samples were mounted in a 50- Omega coaxial air line to form a short circuit. The power transmitted through the films as a function of temperature was used to calculate the normal state conductivity and the magnetic penetration depth for the films.<<ETX>> | 30072411 |
4,508,156 | A quantitative approach for evaluating the effectiveness of refactoring in software development process Software development is a mentally complicated task. Different software development methodologies and quality assurance methods are used in order to attain high quality, reliable, and bug free software. eXtreme Programming (XP) is a software development discipline in the family of agile methodologies that contributes towards quality improvement using dozen practices. One of the important practices in XP is Refactoring. Refactoring which can be defined as “a change made to the internal structure of software to make it easier to understand and cheaper to modify without changing its observable behavior”. Although there has been a large amount of research investigations for this concept, but there has been little work done in quantitative approach. The main objective of the research is to develop a software development model using Refactoring practices. The software development model proposed in such a way that refactoring activity accompanies all the phases of software development. This work also shows the evaluation of effectiveness of the proposed software development model. | 2322361 |
4,508,157 | A model for stimulus generalization in Pavlovian conditioning. A selective review of experiments that can be said to demonstrate the effects of generalization decrement in Pavlovian condition is presented, and it is argued that an adequate theoretical explanation for them is currently not available. This article then develops a theoretical account for the processes of generalization and generalization decrement in Pavlovian conditioning. It assumes that animals represent their environment by a stimulus array in a buffer and that this array in its entirety constitutes the conditioned stimulus. Generalization is then held to occur whenever at least some of the stimuli represented in the array on a test trial are the same as at least some of those represented in the array during training. Specifically, the magnitude of generalization is determined by the proportion of the array occupied by these common stimuli during training compared to the proportion of the array they occupy during testing. By adding to this principle rules concerning excitatory and inhibitory learning, it is proposed, the model can explain all the results that were difficult for its predecessors to account for. A fundamental property of conditioned responding is that it may occur in circumstances that differ from those prevailing during acquisition. This phenomenon is referred to as generalization, and the term generalization decrement is used when this transfer is less than complete. These effects have been revealed with both Pavlovian and instrumental conditioning, using a variety of species and a wide range of conditioned stimuli (CS) and unconditioned stimuli (US). As iar as | 46263661 |
4,508,158 | instrumental conditioning is concerned, a considerable number of studies have been directed at examining the factors that influence the magnitude of generalization from one situation to another (for reviews see Honig & Urcuioli, 1981; Mackintosh, 1974). These results also have been the focus of considerable theoretical analysis. In contrast, much less attention has been paid to the role of generalization in Pavlovian conditioning. Only a few studies have been concerned specifically with demonstrating the generalization decrement of a Pavlovian conditioned response (CR) as a result of modifying the properties of the CS (Hofiman & Fleshier, 1961; Hovland, 1937; Moore, 1972; Pavlov, 1927; Siegel, Hearst, George, & O'Neal, 1968). Furthermore, only a few theorists have been specifically concerned with the analysis of these and related effects (Hull, 1943; Pavlov, 1927). An alternative approach has been to show how a particular theoretical analysis of the Pavlovian learning process can be extended to account for generalization and generalization decrement (cf. Rescorla, 1976). The argument presented in this article is based on the premise that an adequate account for the effects of generalization must lie at the core of | 46263661 |
4,508,159 | C5 nerve root palsy following decompression of the cervical spine: a systematic evaluation of the literature. C5 nerve root palsy is a rare and potentially debilitating complication of cervical spine surgery. Currently, however, there are no guidelines to help surgeons to prevent or treat this complication. We carried out a systematic review of the literature to identify the causes of this complication and options for its prevention and treatment. Searches of PubMed, Embase and Medline yielded 60 articles for inclusion, most of which addressed C5 palsy as a complication of surgery. Although many possible causes were given, most authors supported posterior migration of the spinal cord with tethering of the nerve root as being the most likely. Early detection and prevention of a C5 nerve root palsy using neurophysiological monitoring and variations in surgical technique show promise by allowing surgeons to minimise or prevent the incidence of C5 palsy. Conservative treatment is the current treatment of choice; most patients make a full recovery within two years. | 618061 |
4,508,160 | Macroprudential Policy and Financial Stability: The Turkish Case This study aims to analyse the relationship between financial stability and macroprudential policies in Turkey and investigate the effectiveness of macroprudential policies on the financial stability by using the vector error correction model (VECM). Estimates are realized for the 2010-2017 period by using the monthly data. For this purpose, a composite financial stability indicator (FSI) is formed and an estimation model is developed. Banking sector credit concentration, net position of interbank money market, leverage ratio, capital buffers, reserve requirements and foreign currency loan limits are used as macroprudential policy indicators. According the results obtained from VECM model, the ratios which represent concentration of credit and capital buffer provide a favourable contribution to financial stability while the variables representing the leverage ratio and the net position of banking system in interbank money market negatively affect the financial stability. The study concludes that monetary policy should be supported by macroprudential policy instrument to achieve financial stability. | 67785111 |
4,508,161 | Differential Effects on Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 Replication by α-Defensins with Comparable Bactericidal Activities ABSTRACT In addition to their antibacterial activities, certain antimicrobial peptides inactivate enveloped viruses, including the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). To determine whether peptide bactericidal activities are predictive of antiviral activity, the anti-HIV properties of recombinant human α-defensin 5, mouse α-defensins, cryptdins (Crp) 3 and 4, and rhesus macaque myeloid α-defensins (RMADs) 3 and 4 were determined in vitro. The peptides, purified to homogeneity, had equivalent bactericidal activities that were similar to those of the native molecules. Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy showed RMAD-4 and Crp3 had characteristic α-defensin tridisulfide arrays. Of the peptides analyzed, only RMAD-4 inhibited HIV infectivity at 150 μg/ml, and Crp3 unexpectedly increased HIV replication. Quantitative real-time PCRs for minus-strand strong stop DNA and complete viral cDNA synthesis were used to distinguish between preentry and postentry anti-HIV effects by RMAD-4. Viral exposure to RMAD-4 for 1 h prior to infection reduced HIV minus-strand strong stop DNA and HIV cDNA by 4- to 20-fold during the first round of replication, showing that RMAD-4-exposed virions were not entering cells during the first 24 h. On the other hand, when RMAD-4 was added coincident with HIV inoculation, no anti-HIV activity was detected. Viral exposure to Crp3 resulted in a threefold increase in both HIV minus-strand strong stop DNA and HIV cDNA over the first round of replication. Therefore, two α-defensins, RMAD-4 and Crp3, inhibit or augment HIV replication, respectively, by mechanisms that precede reverse transcription. | 25724661 |
4,508,162 | Mycobacterium ulcerans infections cause progressive muscle atrophy and dysfunction, and mycolactone impairs satellite cell proliferation. Clinical observations from Buruli ulcer (BU) patients in West Africa suggest that severe Mycobacterium ulcerans infections can cause skeletal muscle contracture and atrophy leading to significant impairment in function. In the present study, male mice C57BL/6 were subcutaneously injected with M. ulcerans in proximity to the right biceps muscle, avoiding direct physical contact between the infectious agent and the skeletal muscle. The histological, morphological, and functional properties of the muscles were assessed at different times after the injection. On day 42 postinjection, the isometric tetanic force and the cross-sectional area of the myofibers were reduced by 31% and 29%, respectively, in the proximate-infected muscles relative to the control muscles. The necrotic areas of the proximate-infected muscles had spread to 7% of the total area by day 42 postinjection. However, the number of central nucleated fibers and myogenic regulatory factors (MyoD and myogenin) remained stable and low. Furthermore, Pax-7 expression did not increase significantly in mycolactone-injected muscles, indicating that the satellite cell proliferation is abrogated by the toxin. In addition, the fibrotic area increased progressively during the infection. Lastly, muscle-specific RING finger protein 1 (MuRF-1) and atrogin-1/muscle atrophy F-box protein (atrogin-1/MAFbx), two muscle-specific E3 ubiquitin ligases, were upregulated in the presence of M. ulcerans. These findings confirmed that skeletal muscle is affected in our model of subcutaneous infection with M. ulcerans and that a better understanding of muscle contractures and weakness is essential to develop a therapy to minimize loss of function | 300611 |
4,508,163 | and promote the autonomy of BU patients. | 300611 |
4,508,164 | Diffuse Interface Method for Nucleate Boiling Simulations Extended Abstract Boiling is an efficient mechanism for heat transfer in several industrial applications due to its excellent heat transfer coefficient. The non-equilibrium thermodynamics, raised by the complex coupling of the heat and mass transfer in phase-change and surface processes, makes these systems difficult to describe accurately. However, relevant developments have been made in computational methods enabling a detailed study of nucleate boiling phenomena with high performance parallelised numerical simulations based on different numerical methods. We are developing a direct numerical simulation framework using our in-house TPLS solver [1] applying the diffuse interface method [2] which solves the Cahn-Hilliard equation to describe evolution of the liquid-vapour interface. This method removes the stress singularity at three-phase contact line and consequently enables to prescribe the surface wettability via contact-angle boundary conditions [3]. We are thus able to analyse the role of surface wettability on nucleate boiling heat transfer coefficient, bubble growth and departure. The growth rates and departure of nucleating single bubbles have been obtained through simulations as a function of substrate wettability. The modelling framework has also been extended to simulate multiple bubbles to analyse the bubble interaction, the superheat and bubble size for different wettabilities. Our simulation results show the importance of surface tension on the departure conditions, suggesting a better heat | 248459361 |
4,508,165 | Performance analysis of MIMO FSO systems with radial array beams and finite sized detectors Multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems are employed in free space optical (FSO) links to mitigate the degrading effects of atmospheric turbulence. In this paper, we consider a MIMO FSO system with practical transmitter and receiver configurations that consists of a radial laser array with Gaussian beams and finite sized detectors. We formulate the average received intensity and the power scinitillation as a function of the receiver coordinates in the presence of weak atmospheric turbulence by using the extended Huygens-Fresnel principle. Then, integrations over the finite sized multiple detectors are performed and the effect of the receiver aperture averaging is quantified. We further derive an outage probability expression of this MIMO system in the presence of turbulence-induced fading channels. Using the derived expressions, we demonstrate the effect of several practical system parameters such as the ring radius, the number of array beamlets, the source size, the link length, structure constant and the receiver aperture radius on the system performance. | 121171061 |
4,508,166 | Unsupervised learning algorithm for signal separation We present a neural network capable of separating inputs in an unsupervised manner. Oja's rule and Self-Organizing map principles are used to construct the network. The network is tested using 1) straight lines 2)MNIST database. The results demonstrate that the network can operate as a general clustering algorithm, with neighboring neurons responding to geometrically similar inputs. | 16259861 |
4,508,167 | Femoral Artery Pseudoaneurysm and Sudden Death Abstract: Pseudoaneurysm formation may be a late complication of vascular grafting. A case of sudden death in an 83‐year‐old woman with a previous aortobifemoral bypass graft is reported that was due to spontaneous hemorrhage from a pseudoaneurysm of the graft site that had eroded through the overlying skin and subcutaneous tissues. Pseudoaneuryms do not have to be of a particularly large size for rupture to occur. Social isolation and age‐related cognitive impairment may delay treatment in older individuals resulting in a lethal outcome. The elderly are also more vulnerable to serious morbidity and death under these circumstances owing to significant underlying cardiovascular and respiratory disease and/or anticoagulant medication. Rarer conditions that may cause pseudoaneurysms include tumors and vasculidites. The possibility of an infectious contribution to the pseudoaneurysm should be considered and microbiological sampling undertaken. | 21331111 |
4,508,168 | Whose Culture is it Anyway? Anthropological Perspectives on Identity and Representation in the Context of Ethnic and Heritage Tourism This collection of articles explores anthropological studies of identity – past and present – and the contrasting representations of these identities put forth by different groups and stakeholders in the context of ethnic and heritage tourism. Following a dramatic increase in travel and tourism both in the number of travellers and money spent, ethnic and heritage tourism has grown in popularity in recent years. In a number of cases, tourism has become one of the main sources of national income for many countries, especially developing ones. Thus, in the context of the proliferation of a globalised tourism industry, it is critical to understand how identity claims are developed, negotiated, and experienced by different stakeholders involved in this process. In this edition, we explore how different groups formulate their own ideas of identity and heritage, and how these are translated into (mis) representations by local communities, tourist operators, governments, institutions, and the actual tourists. The results of these multifarious (mis) representations may be problematic and often come into conflict. The politics of representation put forth by governments and institutions can often clash with those of the people being represented. Institutionalised representations that agree with national and international agendas of tourism promotion and as well as the conservation and preservation of cultural patrimony may stand in sharp contrast to those representations held by the people living close to heritage sites or the groups showcased as the object of ethnic | 144169161 |
4,508,169 | tourism. In some cases, a culturally dominant group can exploit and manipulate heritage and living ethnic groups’ identities, often without their consent, to package cultural identity in a more consumer friendly format for the tourist market. In other instances, culturally dominant groups can push their heritage and identity claims to the fore while marginalising minority groups’ representations. Moreover, the diverse public audiences will experience and perceive these identity and heritage claims through their own individual and sociocultural lenses, thereby increasing the fragmentation of representations. Tourism gained credibility as a topic of academic inquiry in the late 1970s with the publication of several pioneering works, including Smith’s (1977) edited volume Hosts and Guests and Dean MacCannell’s (1976) book The Tourist: A New Theory of the Leisure Class. In the last three decades, scholars have explored such topics as tourists’ search for the ‘Other’ (e.g. Desmond, | 144169161 |
4,508,170 | Effect of Land Use Types on the Spatial Prediction of Soil Nitrogen Mapping the spatial distribution of soil nutrient contents from sample data has received much attention in the recent decade. Accurately mapping soil nutrients purely based on sample data, however, is difficult due to the sparsity and high cost of samples. Land use types usually influence the contents of soil nutrients at the local level and it is desirable to integrate such information into predictive mapping. The area-and-point kriging (AAPK) method, which was proposed recently, may provide an interpolation technique for such purposes. This study mapped the soil total nitrogen (TN) distribution of Hanchuan County, China, using AAPK with sample data (consisting of 402 points) and land use information. Ordinary kriging (OK) and residual kriging (RK) were compared to evaluate the performance of AAPK. Results showed that: (1) land use types had important impacts on the spatial distribution of soil TN; (2) measured data at 135 validation locations had stronger correlation with the data predicted by AAPK than by RK and OK, and the mean error and root mean square error with AAPK were lower than with RK and OK; and (3) AAPK generated smaller error variances than RK and OK did. This suggests that AAPK represents an effective method for increasing the interpolation accuracy of soil TN. It should be pointed out that some of the land use polygons used in this study are very large and complex, which might impact the effectiveness of AAPK in improving the prediction accuracy. Segmenting them into simple | 54076311 |
4,508,171 | smaller areas might be helpful. | 54076311 |
4,508,172 | The Third Annual Test of OCR Accuracy ISRI has conducted its third annual test of the accuracy of OCR systems. Vendors submitted their latest technology for recognizing machine-printed English text from page images. This year’s test re-used the 460-page sample from U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) documents that was used a year ago [Rice 93a]. In addition, a new 200-page sample, randomly selected from popular magazines, was utilized. Eleven vendors elected to participate and submitted a version by the deadline, January 18, 1994. One of these, TRW, provided a voting system which took part, along with the ISRI Voting Machine, in a special evaluation presented in Section 7. Of the other ten systems, four possessed de£ciencies that made it necessary to exclude them from the test. The six systems that were tested are listed in Table 1. All were “pre-releases” or “beta” versions at the time of submission. | 59839611 |
4,508,173 | Asymmetry of critical closing pressure following head injury Objective: Critical closing pressure (CCP) is the arterial pressure below which the vessels collapse. Hypothetically it is the sum of intracranial pressure (ICP) and vessel wall tension in the cerebral circulation. This study investigated transhemispherical asymmetry of CCP by studying its correlation with radiological findings on computed tomography (CT) scans in head injury patients. Method: ICP, arterial blood pressure, and middle cerebral artery blood flow velocity were recorded daily in 119 ventilated patients. Waveforms were processed to calculate CCP. CT scans were analysed according to a system based on the Marshall classification. Results: Left–right differences in CCP correlated with midline shift on the CT scan (r = 0.48; p<0.02). Asymmetry of CCP also corresponded with the side of the head lesion (p<0.007) and the side of the craniotomy where it was performed (p<0.006). Absolute CCP weakly correlated with brain swelling (r = −0.23; p<0.03) and arterial pressure (r = 0.21; p<0.02) but did not correlate with ICP. Cerebral perfusion pressure calculated as the difference between mean arterial pressure and CCP did not correlate with outcome, but “traditional” cerebral perfusion pressure (mean arterial pressure minus intracranial pressure) did. Conclusions: Critical closing pressure is disturbed by localised brain lesions. Its asymmetry corresponds to asymmetrical findings on CT scans. CCP seems to describe vascular resistance better than ICP. | 20857461 |
4,508,174 | Research Predicting Assembly Dimenions With Funcational Build When using the functional build approach to manufacturing validation during new product development, manufacturers use pre-production assemblies to evaluate whether components within an assembly may build dimensionally correct products. This approach allows some individual component characteristics to not meet their original design specifications, provided the resultant assembly meets its requirements. In applying this functional build methodology, manufacturers assume that the pre-production assemblies provide data representative of what the manufacturer will encounter in the regular production process. This paper evaluates the predictive validity of the functional build approach by utilizing a design of experiment to examine the effect of two factors-build fixture and method of attachment-in constructing functional build pre-production assemblies of stamped sheet metal components. The results confirm the importance of using assembly fixtures that closely resemble regular production processing. | 11580911 |
4,508,175 | [Irritative bladder symptoms after vaginal delivery or c-section]. OBJECTIVE This study intended to investigate the frequency of irritative bladder symptoms three years after delivery in women previously interviewed in the third trimester of pregnancy and its correlation to mode of delivery, parity, maternal age, birth weight, episiotomy and forceps. METHODS From 340 women previously evaluated at the third trimester of pregnancy, 120 were interviewed three years after delivery, between June and October 2006. Correlation of postpartum irritative bladder symptoms and mode of delivery (exclusively vaginal or c-section), parity, maternal age, birth weight, episiotomy and forceps was analyzed. Associations between irritative bladder symptoms and obstetric parameters were assessed by the Fisher's exact test and Chi-square (p< 0.05). RESULTS The study group consisted of 37.5% primiparous and 62.5% multiparous women. Mode of delivery was exclusively vaginal in 53 women and exclusively c-section in 42. No statistical difference was found between irritative bladder symptoms and mode of delivery and parity. No statistical difference was found between irritative symptoms and maternal age (> 35), birth weight (>or= 4000 g), episiotomy and forceps. CONCLUSION After childbirth, dysfunction of the lower urinary tract, characterized by irritative bladder symptoms, was not associated with mode of delivery, parity, maternal age, birth weight, episiotomy and forceps. | 22713911 |
4,508,176 | Onset of secondary flow in the modulated Taylor-Couette system. The critical Reynolds number for the linear instability of primary flow is calculated for a Taylor-Couette system in which the rotation rate of either cylinder is modulated sinusoidally in time. The method used is based on that of Hall (J. Fluid Mech. 67, 29 (1975)) and is restricted to small amplitudes of modulation but allows for a finite gap. For the case of outer-cylinder modulation, we find that the critical Reynolds number is larger than that for the unmodulated system, while, if the inner cylinder is modulated, it is smaller. | 37350011 |
4,508,177 | Technical efficiency of Portuguese public hospitals: A comparative analysis across the five regions of Portugal The present study aims to analyse the efficiency scores of hospital units, with reference to the five Portuguese health administrative regions (North, Centre, Lisbon and Tagus Valley, Alentejo, and Algarve). This paper contextualizes the process of decentralization of health in Portugal (started 1993) as well as the hospitals' corporatization and merging reforms (started 2002). These reforms aimed to meet health care needs by optimizing costs, improving efficiency, and broadening both access and quality in health services. Data envelopment analysis was used to quantify and compare the efficiencies of 27 hospitals heterogeneously distributed by five administrative regions. The results show a large average performance across the country. However, there are regions with scores larger than the national average and others with inferior results. This interregional diversity points towards disparities that deserve special attention from the policymakers and hospital managers. | 52178661 |
4,508,178 | Audit, Control and Monitoring Design Patterns (ACMDP) for Autonomous Robust Systems (ARS) This paper proposes the Audit, Control and Monitoring Design Patterns (ACMDP) for building Autonomous and Robust Systems (ARS) such as Mobile Robot Systems (MRS). These patterns are also applicable to other Mission Critical and Complex Systems (MCCS). This paper presents a proposal which will help ARS project managers and engineers design, build and estimate the probability that an ARS will succeed or fail. Furthermore, this proposal offers the possibility to ARS problems with the help of audit, monitoring and controlling components, adjust the project management pathways, and define the problem sources as well as their possible solutions, in order to deliver an ARS or an MRS. | 40349661 |
4,508,179 | Pressure-induced phase transitions of ZnSe under different pressure environments The structural, vibrational and electronic properties of ZnSe under different pressure environments up to ∼40.0 GPa were investigated using a diamond anvil cell in conjunction with ac impedance spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy and high–resolution transmission electron microscopy. Under the non–hydrostatic condition, ZnSe exhibited a structural phase transition from a zinc–blende to a cinnabar structure at ∼4.9 GPa, indicated by the obvious splitting of the transverse optical mode in the Raman spectra and a noticeable variation in the slope of the electrical conductivity. With increasing pressure, metallization appeared at ∼12.5 GPa, which was characterized by the high–pressure Raman spectroscopy and temperature–dependent electrical conductivity results. When the pressure was increased up to ∼30.0 GPa, another phase transition was identified by the appearance of a new peak in the Raman spectra. Compared to the non–hydrostatic condition, a roughly 2.0 GPa delay of transition pressure for ZnSe was observed at the hydrostatic condition. However, the structural phase transformation was found to be irreversible only under the non–hydrostatic condition. The unique properties displayed by ZnSe under different pressure environments may be attributed to the constrained interlayer interaction owing to the presence of the pressure medium.The structural, vibrational and electronic properties of ZnSe under different pressure environments up to ∼40.0 GPa were investigated using a diamond anvil cell in conjunction with ac impedance spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy and high–resolution transmission electron microscopy. Under the non–hydrostatic condition, ZnSe exhibited a structural phase transition from a zinc–blende to a cinnabar structure at ∼4.9 GPa, indicated by the | 104360761 |
4,508,180 | obvious splitting of the transverse optical mode in the Raman spectra and a noticeable variation in the slope of the electrical conductivity. With increasing pressure, metallization appeared at ∼12.5 GPa, which was characterized by the high–pressure Raman spectroscopy and temperature–dependent electrical conductivity results. When the pressure was increased up to ∼30.0 GPa, another phase transition was identified by the appearance of a new peak in the Raman spectra. Compared to the non–hydrostatic condition, a roughly 2.0 GPa delay of transition pressure for ZnSe was observed a... | 104360761 |
4,508,181 | News from Three Worlds in Prestige U.S. Newspapers The press in the United States has been criticized for providing so little international news,! expecially in comparison with the proportion of international news appearing in the newspapers of other countries.2 The empirical studies which have been conducted to determine if this criticism is valid, conclude that somewhere between 5% and 78% of news coverage is concerned with international news. This wide range can be attributed to the methods used to define and measure | 145592711 |
4,508,182 | Exploiting Ultrashort α,β-Peptides in the Colloidal Stabilization of Gold Nanoparticles. Colloidal gold nanoparticles (GNPs) have found wide-ranging applications in nanomedicine due to their unique optical properties, ease of preparation, and functionalization. To avoid the formation of GNP aggregates in the physiological environment, molecules such as lipids, polysaccharides, or polymers are employed as GNP coatings. Here, we present the colloidal stabilization of GNPs using ultrashort α,β-peptides containing the repeating unit of a diaryl β2,3-amino acid and characterized by an extended conformation. Differently functionalized GNPs have been characterized by ultraviolet, dynamic light scattering, and transmission electron microscopy analysis, allowing us to define the best candidate that inhibits the aggregation of GNPs not only in water but also in mouse serum. In particular, a short tripeptide was found to be able to stabilize GNPs in physiological media over 3 months. This new system has been further capped with albumin, obtaining a material with even more colloidal stability and ability to prevent the formation of a thick protein corona in physiological media. | 237556111 |
4,508,183 | Repetition improves memory by strengthening existing traces: Evidence from paired-associate learning under midazolam Here, we examined how repetition under midazolam, a benzodiazepine that prevents the storage of novel associations, affects cued-recall performance of paired-associates. We contrasted word pairs that were initially studied and tested repeatedly without any successful recall prior to the midazolam injection, with other pairs that were studied for the first time after the injection of midazolam. According to our SAC (Source of Activation Confusion) memory model, repetition leads to strengthening existing memory traces rather than creating multiple traces for each repetition. As such, it predicts that repetition under midazolam should benefit only pairs that were originally studied prior to the midazolam injection. This prediction was confirmed. The results suggest that memory traces for pairs studied prior to the midazolam injection were strengthened under midazolam. However, word pairs that had not been studied prior to the injection were not bound in long-term memory because midazolam prevents the formation of new associations. | 40057811 |
4,508,184 | Discovery of the parnafungins, antifungal metabolites that inhibit mRNA polyadenylation, from the Fusarium larvarum complex and other Hypocrealean fungi Evaluation of fungal fermentation extracts with whole cell Candida albicans activity resulted in the identification of a novel class of isoxazolidinone-containing metabolites named parnafungins. Chemical-genetic profiling with the C. albicans fitness test identified the biochemical target as inhibition of poly-adenosine polymerase, a component of the mRNA cleavage and polyadenylation complex. Parnafungins were discovered from fermentation extracts of fungi resembling F. larvarum isolated from plants, plant litter and lichens. Furthermore authentic strains of F. larvarum var. larvarum and F. larvarum var. rubrum could be induced to produce parnafungins and their degradation products in low titers. Relationships among strains of the F. larvarum complex (FLC), including parnafungin-producing strains, were examined by cladistic analyses of rDNA, mitochondrial rDNA, and two protein-coding genes, comparisons of antifungal activity and antifungal metabolite profiles, and morphological phenotypes. Integrated analyses of these data led to the conclusion that the diversity within the FLC exceeded the one-to-one correspondence between F. larvarum and its teleomorph Cosmospora aurantiicola. Based on multiple gene sequence analyses, strains of the FLC formed a monophyletic clade inclusive of the parnafungin-producing strains. The FLC, including newly discovered parnafungin-producing strains, could be resolved into at least six different lineages, possibly representing cryptic species, of which one was not fully resolved from F. larvarum var. rubrum. Fusarium larvarum var. rubrum represents a species distinct from var. larvarum. Finally we report that two other species from the Hypocreales, Trichonectria rectipila and Cladobotryum pinarense, are able to | 21509961 |
4,508,185 | produce parnafungins and their open-ring forms. | 21509961 |
4,508,186 | Influence Of O and K Antigens On The Surface Properties Of Escherichia Coli In Relation To Phagocytosis Strains of Escherichia coli with different O and K antigens were investigated with respect to physicochemical surface characteristics and liability to phagocytosis. Using two‐phase partitioning analysis for the surface characterization, three main groups of strains emerged: Group I (O1:K1, O2:K1, O3:K2ab) showing both smooth hydrophilic O antigens and negatively‐charged K antigen which rendered the strains maximally resistant to phagocytosis. Group II (O55:K59, O111:K58) showed no acidic K antigen but only smooth hydrophilic O antigen properties. However, these strains were as resistant to phagocytosis as the strains in group I. A third group (O14:K7, O24:K +) contained strains with rough, hydrophobic O antigen and negatively‐charged K antigen. When the K antigen was removed by heat treatment these strains became more sensitive to phagocytosis. Certain other strains (O28:K‐, O56:K + and O118:K‐) did not fit into the three groups. These experiments show that the physicochemical surface effects and biological significance of the K antigen must be evaluated in relation to the properties conveyed by the corresponding O antigens. | 32663761 |
4,508,187 | A DNA sequence for positioning chromatosomes. We have analysed the sequences of 280 chromatosomal DNA molecules. In approximately half the clones, a short DNA sequence of the preferred form NGGR is located at one, but not both, of the termini of the cloned DNA. We show that the clones lacking this signal possess a substantially stronger rotational positioning signal than those that contain it. These results indicate that the sequence organisation of chromatosomal DNA is asymmetric with respect to the midpoint and imply that the sequence NGGR may play a direct role in positioning chromatosomes in condensed chromatin. | 11174811 |
4,508,188 | Formalizing and Securing Relationships on Public Networks Smart contracts combine protocols with user interfaces to formalize and secure relationships over computer networks. Objectives and principles for the design of these systems are derived from legal principles, economic theory, and theories of reliable and secure protocols. Similarities and differences between smart contracts and traditional business procedures based on written contracts, controls, and static forms are discussed. By using cryptographic and other security mechanisms, we can secure many algorithmically specifiable relationships from breach by principals, and from eavesdropping or malicious interference by third parties, up to considerations of time, user interface, and completeness of the algorithmic specification. This article discusses protocols with application in important contracting areas, including credit, content rights management, payment systems, and contracts with bearer. | 33773111 |
4,508,189 | Effect of Electrical Double Layer on the Performance of Nanometer Interdigitated Electrodes To investigate the effect of electrical double layer (EDL) on the electrical current response of interdigitated electrodes (IDEs), we performed a finite element based computational simulation of the electrochemical kinetics and mass transport occurring at nano-scale IDEs. Results show the presence of the EDL affects the voltammetric response of nano-IDEs. This effect varies with the gap spacing in the IDEs, the charge valence of the reactant, and the concentration of supporting electrolyte due to the overlap of diffuse and diffusion layers as well as the overlap of the diffuse layers of the generator and collector. | 29545361 |
4,508,190 | Electrodeposition of Y2O3–Au composite coatings for SOFC interconnects: in situ monitoring of film growth by surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy Abstract In this paper, the authors report in situ surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) experiments carried out during the electrochemical deposition of Y2O3/Au from chloride salts dissolved in hydroalcoholic solutions containing chitosan as a binder. This composite was recently proposed by the authors as an electronically conducting coating able to protect AISI 430 interconnects from hot corrosion in SOFC cathodic environment. Dynamic SERS spectra were obtained during galvanostatic electrodeposition, showing peaks in the typical Raman shift range of M–O stretching and bending vibrations that have been tentatively assigned on the basis of quantum-chemical computations. The time dependence of the spectral features can be followed with a simple kinetic model accounting for the pH transient occurring in the catholyte. | 96185361 |
4,508,191 | Mechanisms of rejection induced by tumor cell-targeted gene transfer of interleukin 2, interleukin 4, interleukin 7, tumor necrosis factor, or interferon gamma. Interleukin (IL)-2, IL-4, IL-7, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), or interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) has been shown to be able to induce tumor rejection if produced locally by the tumor cells after gene transfer. To analyze whether the cellular rejection mechanisms are different or redundant we have expressed the cytokines in the same tumor cell line (J558L). Cell depletion experiments revealed that all cytokines required CD8+ T cells for complete long-term tumor eradication, although effective but transient host-dependent tumor suppression was also observed in the complete absence of CD8+ T cells. The transient tumor suppression induced by IL-2, IL-4, TNF, or IFN-gamma was also operative in nude and severe combined immunodeficient mice, whereas only tumor suppression induced by IL-7 was dependent on the presence of CD4+ T cells and was not evident in nude mice. The T-cell-independent effector arm of IL-2 and IFN-gamma but not IL-4 and TNF was mediated in part by natural killer cells. The transience of tumor suppression in the absence of T cells reflected loss of cytokine production in the case of TNF, IL-2, and IL-4 but not IFN-gamma. Immunohistologic analysis revealed all cytokine-producing tumors to be heavily infiltrated by macrophages. IL-4 and IL-7 tumors additionally contained eosinophils. The infiltration by T cells did not necessarily reflect their contribution to tumor rejection. Thus, the different cytokines activate heterogeneous transient tumor-suppressive mechanisms but always require CD8+ T cells for complete tumor rejection. | 9936011 |
4,508,192 | Preservation of Right Ventricular Contractility After Transient Phenylephrine‐Induced Pressure Overload in Swine We have previously demonstrated that a transient phenylephrine (PE)‐induced rise in systemic arterial blood pressure leads to reversible left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction in the absence of ischemia (i.e., “stretch‐induced stunning”). However, the extent to which this phenomenon occurs in the right ventricle (RV) is unclear. Accordingly, the present study was designed to assess changes in pulmonary artery (PA) pressure and RV function during and after systemic administration of PE in swine. | 248641561 |
4,508,193 | Power loss analysis of photovoltaic dc distributed generation systems with grid-connection This paper presents power loss analysis for PV dc-distributed systems based on the loss factors of double line-frequency voltage ripple (DLFVR), fast irradiance variation + DLFVR, fast dc load variation + DLFVR, limited operating voltage range + DLFVR, and overall loss factor combination. These loss factors will result in power deviation from the maximum power points. In the paper, both single-stage and two-stage grid-connected PV systems are considered. All of the effects on a two-stage system are insignificant due to an additional maximum power point tracker, but the tracker will reduce the system efficiency typically about 2.5 %. The power loss caused by these loss factors in a single-stage grid-connected PV system is also around 2.5 %; that is, a single-stage system has the merits of saving components and reducing cost, while does not penalize overall system efficiency in dc-distribution applications. Simulation results with the MATLAB software package and experimental results have confirmed the analysis. | 24895361 |
4,508,194 | Starplasty: a new technique of pediatric tracheotomy. OBJECTIVE To report a new technique of pediatric tracheotomy that reduces the problems of pneumothorax and recannulation after accidental decannulation in a recently performed tracheotomy. DESIGN Retrospective chart review for 1990-1997. PATIENTS Sixty-eight children aged between 2 days and 14 years. METHOD The starplasty procedure is based on the geometry of a 3-dimensional Z-plasty. The technique of the procedure is described and illustrated in detail. RESULTS There were 27 short-term complications, including 4 accidental decannulations. There were no instances of pneumothorax or tracheotomy-related deaths. There were 25 long-term minor complications. There were no instances of tracheotomy-related death, suprastomal collapse, or tracheal stenosis. Thirty-eight children remain tracheotomy tube dependent, 17 underwent decannulation, 7 died of primary disease, and 6 were lost to follow-up. All 17 children who underwent decannulation have a persistent tracheocutaneous fistula. CONCLUSIONS I conclude that starplasty reduces the incidence of major complications and death. Its only drawback seems to be persistent tracheocutaneous fistula. | 46232011 |
4,508,195 | Modification of cytosolic calcium signaling by subplasmalemmal microdomains. To investigate the hypothesis that Na(+) concentration in subplasmalemmal microdomains regulates Ca(2+) concentrations in cellular microdomains ([Ca](md)), the cytosol ([Ca](cyt)), and sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR; [Ca](sr)), we modeled transport events in those compartments. Inputs to the model were obtained from published measurements in descending vasa recta pericytes and other smooth muscle cells. The model accounts for major classes of ion channels, Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchange (NCX), and the distributions of Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase alpha(1)- and alpha(2)-isoforms in the plasma membrane. Ca(2+) release from SR stores is assumed to occur via ryanodine (RyR) and inositol trisphosphate (IP(3)R) receptors. The model shows that the requisite existence of a significant Na(+) concentration difference between the cytosol ([Na](cyt)) and microdomains ([Na](md)) necessitates restriction of intercompartmental diffusion. Accepting the latter, the model predicts resting ion concentrations that are compatible with experimental measurements and temporal changes in [Ca](cyt) similar to those observed on NCX inhibition. An important role for NCX in the regulation of Ca(2+) signaling is verified. In the resting state, NCX operates in "forward mode," with Na(+) entry and Ca(2+) extrusion from the cell. Inhibition of NCX respectively raises and reduces [Ca](cyt) and [Na](cyt) by 40 and 30%. NCX translates variations in Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase activity into changes in [Ca](md), [Ca](sr), and [Ca](cyt). Taken together, the model simulations verify the feasibility of the central hypothesis that modulation of [Na](md) can influence both the loading of Ca(2+) into SR stores and [Ca(2+)](cyt) variation. | 682011 |
4,508,196 | A combined experimental and DFT investigation on the structure and CO-releasing properties of mono and binuclear fac-ReI(CO)3 complexes with 5-pyridin-2-ylmethylene-amino uracils. The synthesis, structure and CO-releasing properties of a number of new tricarbonyl rhenium(i) complexes with 5-substituted-6-amino-1,3-dimethyluracils are reported and their structural features discussed on the basis of both spectral and X-ray crystallographic analyses. The 5-substituent library includes -N[double bond, length as m-dash]CH-2py (DAAUPic) and -CH[double bond, length as m-dash]N-N[double bond, length as m-dash]CH-2py (FDUHzPic) as additional metal binding components and chloride, acetonitrile or pyridine acting as ancillary ligands. The compounds have been identified by elemental analysis, NMR, MS and IR spectroscopy. In addition, [ReCl(CO)3(DAAUPic)], [Re(CO)3(FDUHzPic)py]ClO4, [Re(CO)3(FDUHzPic)py]PF6, [Re2Cl2(CO)6(FDUHzPic)] and [Re2Cl(CO)6(FDUHzPicH-1)(H2O)] structures have been solved by X-ray diffraction methods. These studies have clearly shown that the preferred coordination mode to rhenium takes place through the (N1F,N52)-pyridin-2-yl-methyleneamine moiety, the uracil coordinative availability (O4-N51 or N6-N51) being used only to bind the second metal center. The CO-releasing ability of these rhenium compounds has been investigated by the reaction with myoglobin; the corresponding studies have revealed that two of the mononuclear complexes and their related binuclear analogues are able to release CO to a moderate extent. This ability has also been theoretically assessed through a QTAIM analysis. The results, although non-conclusive, may explain somehow possible different preferences in CO releasing power after a comparison between the nature of Re-CO links in mononuclear and binuclear compounds. | 26609011 |
4,508,197 | Effect of availability, access and utilization of agricultural extension technologies on the food security situation of smallholder farmers in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya Despite the importance of the agriculture sector to the economy, limited access to agricultural extension information has resulted in poor decisions on agricultural production and related activities thus, affecting achievement of food security. This study through a survey of 397 households sought to examine how availability, access and utilization of agricultural extension services affect smallholder farming household’s food security in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya. Data was collected using questionnaires and interview schedules and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Pearson Correlation was used to measure the strength of association while Ordinal regression was used to predict the behaviour of variables and the parameters of the regression model. The results revealed a significant positive relationship between the availability and access to extension services and food security (rho=0.200, 0.108 and 0.623 respectively, p-value>0.05. The ordinal analysis reveals an insignificant (0.812 and 0.369, p-values>0.05) and positive relationships between respondent households’ access and utilization of agricultural extension services and food insecurity respectively. The study recommends more outreach to smallholder farmers by extension services through creation of community-based extension services. For greater buy-in of the extension packages, smallholder farmers should be involved in the identification and delivery of the extension packages. | 219401251 |
4,508,198 | Growth of Buffer Layers on Si Substrate for High-Tc Superconducting Thin Films We have investigated the crystalline properties and surface morphology of the buffer layers of Y2O3, ZrO2 and Y2O3/ZrO2 on a Si(100) substrate for a superconducting thin film. The results of RHEED and X-ray diffraction indicate the hetero-epitaxial growth of buffer layers on Si(100) substrates. Epitaxial planes of the buffer layers on the Si(100) surface are (110), (100) and (100)/(100) for Y2O3, ZrO2 and Y2O3/ZrO2, respectively. YBa2Cu3O7-x thin films have been grown on Si with each buffer layer. The highest critical temperature obtained was 88 K on the Si with the Y2O3/ZrO2 buffer layer. | 120136451 |
4,508,199 | Synthesis of Self-Gravity Settling Faceted-Anatase TiO2 with Dominant {010} Facets for the Photocatalytic Degradation of Acetaminophen and Study of the Type of Generated Oxygen Vacancy in Faceted-TiO2 In this study, faceted TiO2, predominately exposed with {010} facets (T-{010}), was synthesized with a two-step hydrothermal reaction and used for the degradation of acetaminophen (ACE) in an aqueous solution. T-{010} showed considerable photocatalytic reactivity, and its easy-settling (gravity-settling, ~97% of T-{010} settled after 30 min) property demonstrated acceptable reusability. A solid-state chemical reduction approach (NaBH4) at a mild temperature (300 °C) was used for generation of an oxygen vacancy in T-{010} and P25 (commercial TiO2). The oxygen vacancy concentrations of the samples were investigated by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR). It was also found that NaBH4 reduction induced the generation of both surface and subsurface Ti3+ on colored P25, but only surface Ti3+ species were formed on colored T-{010}. The prepared colored TiO2 samples were successfully used for photocatalytic degradation of ACE in an aqueous solution under visible light illumination. | 105852101 |
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