bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increased neutrophil apoptosis in chronically SIV-infected macaques
Authors: Elbim Carole , Monceaux Valérie , François Stéphanie , Hurtrel Bruno , Gougerot-Pocidalo Marie-Anne , Estaquier Jérome
Published: March 2009

Polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN) from chronically HIV-infected individuals have been reported to be more prone to die. However, although non-human primates models have been extensively used for improving our knowledge on T cell immunity, the impact of SIV-infection on PMN, in relationships with disease severity, has never been assessed. In our study, we demonstrate that PMN from Rhesus macaques (RMs) of Chinese origin chronically infected with the virulent strain SIVmac251 display increased susceptibility to undergo apoptosis as compared to PMN from RMs infected with the non-pathogenic SIVΔnef strain. PMN apoptosis was significantly increased in RMs progressing faster to AIDS as compared to non-progressors RMs. Furthermore, the percentage of apoptotic cells correlated with PMN activation state reflected by increased CD11b expression and reactive oxygen species production. Interestingly, whereas inflammatory cytokines IL-8 and IL-1β prevent in vitro PMN death, the levels of those cytokines were low in RMs progressing towards AIDS. Altogether, increased PMN death during SIV infection is a new pathogenic effect associated with AIDS progression, adding to the long list of markers associated with disruption of defense against infection.
Properties and use of novel replication-competent vectors based on Semliki Forest virus
Authors: Rausalu Kai , Iofik Anna , Ülper Liane , Karo-Astover Liis , Lulla Valeria , Merits Andres
Published: March 2009

Background

Semliki Forest virus (SFV) has a positive strand RNA genome and infects different cells of vertebrates and invertebrates. The 5' two-thirds of the genome encodes non-structural proteins that are required for virus replication and synthesis of subgenomic (SG) mRNA for structural proteins. SG-mRNA is generated by internal initiation at the SG-promoter that is located at the complementary minus-strand template. Different types of expression systems including replication-competent vectors, which represent alphavirus genomes with inserted expression units, have been developed. The replication-competent vectors represent useful tools for studying alphaviruses and have potential therapeutic applications. In both cases, the properties of the vector, such as its genetic stability and expression level of the protein of interest, are important.

Results

We analysed 14 candidates of replication-competent vectors based on the genome of an SFV4 isolate that contained a duplicated SG promoter or an internal ribosomal entry site (IRES)-element controlled marker gene. It was found that the IRES elements and the minimal -21 to +5 SG promoter were non-functional in the context of these vectors. The efficient SG promoters contained at least 26 residues upstream of the start site of SG mRNA. The insertion site of the SG promoter and its length affected the genetic stability of the vectors, which was always higher when the SG promoter was inserted downstream of the coding region for structural proteins. The stability also depended on the conditions used for vector propagation. A procedure based on the in vitro transcription of ligation products was used for generation of replication-competent vector-based expression libraries that contained hundreds of thousands of different genomes, and maintained genetic diversity and the ability to express inserted genes over five passages in cell culture.

Conclusion

The properties of replication-competent vectors of alphaviruses depend on the details of their construction. In the case of SFV4, such vectors should contain the SG promoter with structural characteristics for this isolate. The main factor for instability of SFV4-based replication-competent vectors was the deletion of genes of interest, since the resulting shorter genomes had a growth advantage over the original vector.
Systematic comparison of RNA extraction techniques from frozen and fresh lung tissues: checkpoint towards gene expression studies
Authors: Muyal Jai Prakash , Muyal Vandana , Kaistha Brajesh Pratap , Seifart Carola , Fehrenbach Heinz
Published: March 2009

Background

The reliability of gene expression profiling-based technologies to detect transcriptional differences representative of the original samples is affected by the quality of the extracted RNA. It strictly depends upon the technique that has been employed. Hence, the present study aimed at systematically comparing silica-gel column (SGC) and guanidine isothiocyanate (GTC) techniques of RNA isolation to answer the question which technique is preferable when frozen, long-term stored or fresh lung tissues have to be evaluated for the downstream molecular analysis.

Methods

Frozen lungs (n = 3) were prepared by long-term storage (2.5 yrs) in -80°C while fresh lungs (n = 3) were harvested and processed immediately. The purity and quantification of RNA was determined with a spectrophotometer whereas the total amounted copy numbers of target sequences were determined with iCycler detection system for assessment of RNA intactness (28S and 18S) and fragment sizes, i.e. short (GAPDH-3' UTR), medium (GAPDH), and long (PBGD) with 200 bp, 700 bp, and 1400 bp distance to the 3'ends of mRNA motif, respectively.

Results

Total yield of RNA was higher with GTC than SGC technique in frozen as well as fresh tissues while the purity of RNA remained comparable. The quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction data revealed that higher mean copy numbers of 28S and a longer fragment (1400 bp) were obtained from RNA isolated with SGC than GTC technique using fresh as well as frozen tissues. Additionally, a high mean copy number of 18S and medium fragment (700 bp) were obtained in RNA isolated with SGC technique from fresh tissues, only. For the shorter fragment, no significant differences between both techniques were noticed.

Conclusion

Our data demonstrated that although the GTC technique has yielded a higher amount of RNA, the SGC technique was much more superior with respect to the reliable generation of an intact RNA and effectively amplified longer products in fresh as well as in frozen tissues.
TLE3 as a candidate biomarker of response to taxane therapy
Authors: Kulkarni Swati A , Hicks David G , Watroba Nancy L , Murekeyisoni Christine , Hwang Helena , Khoury Thaer , Beck Rodney A , Ring Brian Z , Estopinal Noel C , Schreeder Marshall T , Seitz Robert S , Ross Douglas T
Published: March 2009

Introduction

The addition of taxanes (Ts) to chemotherapeutic regimens has not demonstrated a consistent benefit in early-stage breast cancer. To date, no clinically relevant biomarkers that predict T response have been identified.

Methods

A dataset of immunohistochemistry stains in 411 patients was mined to identify potential markers of response. TLE3 emerged as a candidate marker for T response. To test the association with T sensitivity, an independent 'triple-negative' (TN) validation cohort was stained with anti-TLE3 antibody.

Results

TLE3 staining was associated with improved 5-year disease-free interval (DFI) in the overall cohort (n = 441, P < 0.004), in patients treated with cyclophosphamide (C), methotrexate, and 5-fluorouracil (n = 72, P < 0.02), and in those treated with regimens containing doxorubicin (A) and a T (n = 65, P < 0.04). However, no association was shown with outcome in untreated patients (n = 203, P = 0.49) or those treated with a regimen containing A only (n = 66, P = 0.97). In the TN cohort, TLE3 staining was significantly associated with improved 5-year DFI in all patients (n = 81, P < 0.015), in patients treated with AC + T (n = 45, P < 0.02), but not in patients treated with AC (n = 17, P = 0.81). TLE3 was independent of tumor size, nodal status, and grade by bivariable analysis in both cohorts.

Conclusions

TLE3 staining is associated with improved DFI in T-treated patients in two independent cohorts. Since the validation study was performed in a TN cohort, TLE3 is not serving as a surrogate for estrogen receptor or HER2 expression. TLE3 should be studied in large clinical trial cohorts to establish its role in T chemotherapy selection.
Risk-Adapted Treatment in Clinical Stage I Nonseminomatous Germ Cell Testicular Cancer: The SWENOTECA Management Program
Authors: Tandstad Torgrim , Dahl Olav , Cohn-Cedermark Gabriella , Cavallin-Stahl Eva , Stierner Ulrika , Solberg Arne , Langberg Carl , Bremnes Roy M. , Laurell Anna , Wijkstrøm Hans , Klepp Olbjørn
Published: March 2009

Purpose

To offer minimized risk-adapted adjuvant treatment on a nationwide basis for patients with clinical stage 1 (CS1) nonseminomatous germ-cell testicular cancer (NSGCT). The aim was to reduce the risk of relapse and thereby reducing the need of later salvage chemotherapy while maintaining a high cure rate.

Patients and Methods

From 1998 to 2005, 745 Norwegian and Swedish patients were included into a prospective, community-based multicenter Swedish and Norwegian Testicular Cancer Project (SWENOTECA) management program. Treatment strategy depended on the presence or absence of vascular tumor invasion (VASC). VASC-positive patients were recommended brief adjuvant chemotherapy (ACT) with bleomycin, etoposide, and cisplatin (BEP), whereas VASC-negative patients could choose between ACT and surveillance.

Results

At a median follow-up of 4.7 years, there have been 51 relapses. On surveillance, 41.7% of VASC+ patients relapsed, compared with 13.2% of VASC− patients. After one course of BEP, 3.2% of VASC+ and 1.3% of VASC− patients relapsed. The toxicity of adjuvant BEP was low. Eight patients have died, none died from progressive disease.

Conclusion

One course of adjuvant BEP reduces the risk of relapse by approximately 90% in both VASC+ and VASC− CS1 NSGCT, and may be a new option as initial treatment for all CS1 NSGCT. One course of adjuvant BEP for VASC+ CS1 reduces the total burden of chemotherapy compared with surveillance or two courses of BEP. SWENOTECA currently recommends one course of BEP as standard treatment of VASC+ CS1 NSGCT, whereas both surveillance and one course of BEP are options for VASC− CS1 NSGCT.
Implications of Familial Colorectal Cancer Risk Profiles and Microsatellite Instability Status
Authors: Lubbe Steven J. , Webb Emily L. , Chandler Ian P. , Houlston Richard S.
Published: March 2009

Purpose

Estimating familial colorectal cancer (CRC) risk is clinically important in being able to discriminate between high- and low-risk groups. To quantify familial CRC risks associated with mismatch repair (MMR) deficient and microsatellite stable (MSS) tumors, we analyzed 2,941 population-based cases of CRC.

Patients and Methods

MMR status in CRCs was established by testing for microsatellite instability (MSI). MUTYH status was assigned by screening for Y165C and G382D variants. Age-specific relative and absolute CRC risks in first-degree relatives (FDRs) were calculated, and the most likely genetic models of familial aggregation were derived.

Results

CRC risks in FDRs were strongly associated with MSI status (MSI, standardized incidence ratio [SIR] = 4.28, 95% CI, 3.51 to 5.17; MSS, SIR = 1.91, 95% CI, 1.73 to 2.11), early-onset disease (MSI patient age < 55 years, SIR = 10.96, 95% CI, 8.32 to 14.17; MSS patient age < 55 years, SIR = 2.3, 95% CI, 1.88 to 2.85), and having more than one affected FDR (MSI, SIR = 10.00, 95% CI, 7.74 to 12.72; MSS, SIR = 2.78, 95% CI, 2.18 to 3.48). The familial aggregation of CRC associated with MSI cancer was parsimonious with dominant model conferring a high CRC risk at early ages. Approximately 69% of the excess familial risk in FDRs can be ascribed to MSS CRC, and although the pattern of familial risk supports recessive susceptibility in addition to MUTYH, the absolute risk of CRC is at best modest.

Conclusion

The results from this analysis should enable an individual's risk of CRC to be more accurately estimated, thus maximizing the value of screening programs. Results also have utility in the design of genetic analyses to identify novel disease alleles.
Tailoring RNA modular units on a common scaffold: A modular ribozyme with a catalytic unit for β-nicotinamide mononucleotide-activated RNA ligation
Authors: Fujita Yuki , Furuta Hiroyuki , Ikawa Yoshiya
Published: March 2009

A novel ribozyme that accelerates the ligation of β-nicotinamide mononucleotide (β-NMN)-activated RNA fragments was isolated and characterized. This artificial ligase ribozyme (YFL ribozyme) was isolated by a “design and selection” strategy, in which a modular catalytic unit was generated on a rationally designed modular scaffold RNA. Biochemical analyses of the YFL ribozyme revealed that it catalyzes RNA ligation in a template-dependent manner, and its activity is highly dependent on its architecture, which consists of a modular scaffold and a catalytic unit. As the design and selection strategy was used for generation of DSL ribozyme, isolation of the YFL ribozyme indicated the versatility of this strategy for generation of functional RNAs with modular architectures. The catalytic unit of the YFL ribozyme accepts not only β-NMN but also inorganic pyrophosphate and adenosine monophosphate as leaving groups for RNA ligation. This versatility of the YFL ribozyme provides novel insight into the possible roles of β-NMN (or NADH) in the RNA world.
The activity and selectivity of fission yeast Pop2p are affected by a high affinity for Zn2+ and Mn2+ in the active site
Authors: Andersen Kasper Røjkjær , Jonstrup Anette Thyssen , Van Lan Bich , Brodersen Ditlev Egeskov
Published: March 2009

In eukaryotic organisms, initiation of mRNA turnover is controlled by progressive shortening of the poly-A tail, a process involving the mega-Dalton Ccr4-Not complex and its two associated 3′-5′ exonucleases, Ccr4p and Pop2p (Caf1p). RNA degradation by the 3′-5′ DEDDh exonuclease, Pop2p, is governed by the classical two metal ion mechanism traditionally assumed to be dependent on Mg2+ ions bound in the active site. Here, we show biochemically and structurally that fission yeast (Schizosaccharomyces pombe) Pop2p prefers Mn2+ and Zn2+ over Mg2+ at the concentrations of the ions found inside cells and that the identity of the ions in the active site affects the activity of the enzyme. Ion replacement experiments further suggest that mRNA deadenylation could be subtly regulated by local Zn2+ levels in the cell. Finally, we use site-directed mutagenesis to propose a mechanistic model for the basis of the preference for poly-A sequences exhibited by the Pop2p-type deadenylases as well as their distributive enzymatic behavior.
Distinct functions of elongation factor G in ribosome recycling and translocation
Authors: Savelsbergh Andreas , Rodnina Marina V. , Wintermeyer Wolfgang
Published: March 2009

Elongation factor G (EF-G) promotes the translocation step in bacterial protein synthesis and, together with ribosome recycling factor (RRF), the disassembly of the post-termination ribosome. Unlike translocation, ribosome disassembly strictly requires GTP hydrolysis by EF-G. Here we report that ribosome disassembly is strongly inhibited by vanadate, an analog of inorganic phosphate (Pi), indicating that Pi release is required for ribosome disassembly. In contrast, the function of EF-G in single-round translocation is not affected by vanadate, while the turnover reaction is strongly inhibited. We also show that the antibiotic fusidic acid blocks ribosome disassembly by EF-G/RRF at a 1000-fold lower concentration than required for the inhibition of EF-G turnover in vitro and close to the effective inhibitory concentration in vivo, suggesting that the antimicrobial activity of fusidic acid is primarily due to the direct inhibition of ribosome recycling. Our results indicate that conformational coupling between EF-G and the ribosome is principally different in translocation and ribosome disassembly. Pi release is not required for the mechanochemical function of EF-G in translocation, whereas the interactions between RRF and EF-G introduce tight coupling between the conformational change of EF-G induced by Pi release and ribosome disassembly.
The nature of attentional dysfunctions in adolescents hospitalized for a first episode of psychosis
Authors: Boutin Julie , Gingras Nathalie , Rouleau Nancie
Published: March 2009

Introduction

Dysfunctions of attentional processes have been previously described as a significant characteristic associated with psychotic disorders, but the nature of these deficits are insufficiently understood in adolescents experiencing a first episode of psychosis. This study aimed to exhaustively assess attentional processes in psychotic adolescents and their relationships with clinical symptoms and diagnoses.

Methods

A total of 24 adolescents hospitalized for a first episode of psychosis and their individually matched controls were assessed using theory‐driven attentional tasks.

Results

No significant differences were found on sustained and selective attention tasks. Patients performed more poorly than controls in a dual‐task paradigm, suggesting a divided attention impairment. Significant deficits were also obtained on tasks requiring inhibition and flexibility capacities. No differences were found between schizophrenic and affective subgroups of patients. The intensity of the symptoms of psychosis did not seem to be associated with attentional performances.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that adolescents with a first episode of psychosis show specific rather than global attentional impairments. Sustained and selective attention seems to be preserved, whereas divided attention and attentional control are impaired when compared to controls. The attentional profile seems to be unrelated to either the clinical symptomatology or the diagnosis underlying psychosis. A partial independence between cognition and clinical symptomatology could be hypothesized from these data but remains to be directly assessed in future studies.
Intersections Between In-Court Procedures and the Production of Guilty Pleas
Authors: Anleu Sharyn Roach , Mack Kathy
Published: March 2009

In Australia (as elsewhere) most criminal defendants plead guilty and do not contest the charges at trial. Our research suggests that guilty pleas can result from an intersectional process, in which in-court events interact with out-of-court activities and discussions. This article draws on an observational study of criminal matters in Australian lower courts. It examines the early stages of in-court proceedings, in particular the ways in which the judicial officer's — here the magistrate — decisions about adjournments, contribute to and are driven by the guilty plea production process.While Australian magistrates and judges have no direct role in or even knowledge of the substance of plea or charge bargaining, they can influence the circumstances for a prompt guilty plea.
Quenching Homogeneity and Intensity Improvement in Batch Mode High Pressure Gas Quenching
Authors: Schmidt Ralf-R. , Fritsching Udo
Published: March 2009

Modern high pressure gas quenching processes are favorable for certain cases compared to conventional liquid media quenching, because of their advantages like, e.g., pure convective heat transfer and a lower impact of the process on the environment. But, typical gas quenching facilities may exhibit inhomogeneous flow conditions through the quench load and the parts, resulting in a scattering of the quenching result. The upstream gas flow profile of the load has been identified as one key factor that determines the local flow conditions and the heat transfer distribution from the specimen. This incoming gas velocity distribution results from the interaction between upstream placed entities, as global flow guidance, baffles, and heat exchangers. The global intensity of the quenching process is determined on one side by the pressure drop that results from the flow resistance of the quench load inside the chamber and the total volumetric flow rate in the system. On the other side, a significant part of the gas flow goes in the gap between the load and the chamber walls and does not contribute to the quenching process of the load. The first part of the investigation addresses the modeling and simulation of the flow structure inside a commercial high pressure gas quenching chamber. A multi-scale simulation model on different detailed levels is performed leading to fast convergence of the simulation. For validation of the simulation, the second part describes an experimental analysis of the gas flow inside a model quenching chamber. Here, gas velocity measurements and flow visualizations are performed. Finally, a quenching run with cylindrical parts in a double-chamber vacuum furnace is described in order to confirm the model results. Different upstream velocity profiles to the load are adjusted to demonstrate their influence on the quenching result.
Long-Term Properties of Airfoam-Treated Lightweight Soil Made from Dredged Clay
Authors: Watabe Yoichi , Tanaka Masanori , Saegusa Hiroyuki , Shinsha Hiroshi , Tsuchida Takashi
Published: March 2009

Airfoam-treated soil is lightweight and provides for the early age development of shear strength and effective utilization of dredged soils. This paper summarizes a 10-year follow-up study of the lightweight soils that were placed as backfill at the seawall in Kobe Port Island and Tokyo International Airport. These two sites are the early case examples of construction undertaken in 1996 including the recovery project after the Kobe earthquake disaster and the offshore expansion project of the Tokyo International Airport. Sampling and laboratory testing were carried out in order to investigate the physical and mechanical properties to compare the initial material condition. The depth profiles of the soil parameters such as bulk density, water content, pH, Ca content, shear strength, and needle penetration resistance were examined. Consequently, it was confirmed that the physical and mechanical properties of the airfoam-treated lightweight soil satisfied their required performances, indicating that the lightweight soil has sufficient durability for use as geomaterial for construction in coastal areas.
Nonwoven Fabrics and Synthetic Fiber Papers: Technology and End Uses
Authors: Taylor JT , McLaughlin PJ
Published: March 2009

Recent advances in textile and paper technology have made possible products from these two industries whose end uses are closely parallel or substantially identical. The nonwoven fabrics produced by the textile industry in many cases resemble paper structures, and the use of synthetic and semisynthetic fibers with conventional papermaking equipment gives rise to products effective in applications where paper has not normally been used in the past. Particularly, in the areas of end use which overlap, it is difficult and perhaps unnecessary to differentiate synthetic fiber papers from nonwoven fabrics. After all, in the broadest sense, ordinary paper may be thought of as a “nonwoven fabric.”
New Developments in the Internal Bonding of Paper
Authors: Britt KW , Eastes JW
Published: March 2009

The ability of the natural cellulose fibers to bond to each other is responsible for the original existence of paper and has played a major role in papermaking down to the present time. Tensile strength and numerous other durability and stress resistance properties are directly dependent upon bonding. Such other properties as density, stiffness, porosity, and absorbency have a close relationship to bonding. It is inevitable, therefore, that the nature of this bonding should receive much attention from paper technologists.
Tests of Cantilevered Wood Mullions Fixed in Diagonally Sheathed and Plywood Panels
Authors: Peterson C
Published: March 2009

The current practice of providing unobstructed uniform natural lighting in our public schools has led to the extensive use of long continuous glass areas sometimes extending the full length of the classrooms. This leaves very little if any wall area remaining to provide the necessary strength and rigidity to the building along its longitudinal axis.
Report on U. S. Forest Products Laboratory Tests of Full-Size Structural Diaphragms
Authors: Johnson RPA
Published: March 2009

Surveys of damage resulting from earthquakes and hurricanes showed that wood structures performed well. As a result, engineers and architects have shown increased interest in wood structures. A demand was created for more data on the behavior of wood diaphragms so that wood structures could be better engineered. Twenty-five years ago tests of diaphragms were started to meet that demand (1). Those tests were made on models of timber walls. Later, other tests were made on 15 one-fourth scale models of 20 by 60-ft panels by the Oregon Forest Products Laboratory (2). Tests of models, however, did not furnish adequate information, primarily because there is no satisfactory method for correlating the results with fullscale structures. The fastenings at joints cannot be accurately scaled down and, therefore, are not comparable to those made with members fastened with fullsize nails or other fastenings.
Symposium on Developments in Glued-Laminated and Other Wood Constructions: Introduction
Authors: Markwardt LJ
Published: March 2009

The ready availability and ease of fabrication of wood set the pattern for extensive use by early craftsmen, and there had accumulated over the years a large background of empirical information on its physical properties, characteristics, and methods of application. While wood is thus among the oldest structural materials, it significantly maintains an important place in our modern economy, as a result of the extensive engineering research and development since the turn of the century.
Factors Affecting Strength and Design Principles of Glued Laminated Construction
Authors: Freas AD
Published: March 2009

Man's use of wood for structural purposes goes back untold centuries. From the fallen-tree bridge, the rude hut, and the hollow-log canoe, we have traveled a long road to the timber structures of the present day. With this progress has come also a change in conditions. When timber supplies seemed limitless, there was little reason for concern about the species, size, or quality of the timber to be used. Consequently, much timber construction was characterized by over-size members, frequently of very high grade.
Rigidity and Strength of Houses Built of Plywood Stressed-Cover Panels
Authors: Luxford RF , Erickson ECO
Published: March 2009

Some years ago the U. S. Forest Products Laboratory pioneered in the use of stressed-cover panels for walls, roofs, and floors of prefabricated houses. Basically, a stressed-cover panel consists of an inner structural framework with a facing glued to each side to form what is virtually a box girder.
Full-Scale Testing of Prefabricated Military Buildings
Authors: Bartelmes RF
Published: March 2009

The Engineer Research and Development Laboratories (ERDL), Corps of Engineers, Dept. of the Army, have been engaged in the design, testing, and evaluation of prefabricated buildings since late 1949. This paper deals with the full scale testing of these structures, primarily the tests of their structural frames.
Full-Scale Tests of Pre-Cast Multi-Story Flat Construction
Authors: Francis AJ , Brown WP , Aroni S
Published: March 2009

Full-scalc tests were carried out as part of an investigation into the possibility of extending a precast, two-story flat construction to three and more stories. The load-bearing walls, lightly bolted together, had no positive connection to the floor slabs, and the main object of the tests was to observe the behavior of the structure under lateral loading.

The three-story unit tested, with additional dead load to simulate a further 11/2 stories, was subjected to a horizontal uniformly distributed load, applied at the top of the third story walls. This was designed to represent a wind load of 75 mph on a five-story flat; the maximum horizontal load applied being equivalent to a 90 mph wind.

Appropriate measurements werc taken to record the lateral deflection of the building and the movement of the walls relative to the floor slabs. These measurements, together with the observed cracks, indicated a distortion of the unit, with tilting and sliding of the walls.

As a result of the information obtained from the tests, positive connection between walls and floor slabs, for multi-story construction, was recommended. The need for further research is briefly discussed.
Industrial Waste Problems in Southern California
Authors: Wilson TC
Published: March 2009

Waste disposal in Southern California is beset by most of the difficulties common to the rest of the country and in addition is complicated by problems unique to this area.
Water Pollution Control in the Los Angeles Area
Authors: Johnston CB
Published: March 2009

When we realize that rain seldom falls on Los Angeles between April and November, the real importance of water to Southern California is easily appreciated. In fact, there is little question that water is the Number One issue in California today.
The Use of Organic Flocculants and Flocculating Aids in the Treatment of Industrial Water and Industrial Waste Water
Authors: Rice JK
Published: March 2009

A study of a number of water or waste treating operations using the new organic flocculants and flocculation aids shows that these new materials are capable of increasing by as much as 100 per cent the capacity of water or waste treating equipment. In many instances the quality of the treated effluent can also be improved. Under some circumstances the use of these materials will allow a tenfold reduction in the total amount of treating chemicals to be fed. It is certain that as more operating experience is obtained using these polymers new equipment will be designed to take maximum advantage of the desirable properties they impart to the dispersed matter in water.
Application of Electroformed Precision Micromesh Sieves to the Determination of Particle Size Distribution
Authors: Daeschner HW , Seibert EE , Peters ED
Published: March 2009

Woven-wire sieves present a variety of problems to the petroleum refiner who tries to use them for the determination of particle size distribution of cracking catalysts. Not only are the sieves limited in the lower range to 44 μ, but they are inherently not sufficiently reliable for the measurements of these catalysts. The strongly entrenched popularity of the sieving procedure, due to its simplicity, prompted an investigation of a new product made by electro-forming nickel in meshes of precise square openings ranging from 15 to 105 μ. A satisfactory sieve has been developed and details of procedures for use established. These micromesh sieves are recommended as a primary standard for testing size distribution of cracking catalysts because of their highly precise openings, which can be reliably measured with a microscope, and because they are available in the range of interest.
Measurement of Physical Properties of Cracking Catalysts: A Review of the Work of API Committee on Analytical Research
Authors: Mittelman L
Published: March 2009

The Subcommittee on Measurement of Physical Properties of Cracking Catalysts, of the American Petroleum Institute Committee on Analytical Research, has been engaged for the past six years on a study of methods of measurement of physical properties. A progress report is now in the draft stage and will present recommended terminology, methods of measurement of density and pore volume, and tentative methods of measurement of particle size by sieving, liquid sedimentation, and air elutriation procedures. Studies are continuing on methods of measurement of surface area, refinement and correlation of particle size procedures, applicability of the various methods to fluid hydroforming catalysts, and measurement of hardness and attrition of pelleted catalysts.
Recent Developments in the Hydrometer Method as Applied to Soils
Authors: Bauer EE
Published: March 2009

The method of test for grain-size analysis of soils, ASTM Tentative Method D 422, was extensively revised in 1954. The technique was originally developed by the Bureau of Public Roads (1) following the suggested use of an hydrometer by George Bouyoucos in 1927 (2). The ASTM first published a tentative method of test covering this procedure in 1935. Following some changes in 1938 the method was adopted as ASTM standard in 1939. Two revisions that were more or less editorial in nature were included in the standard in 1951. It is the purpose of this paper to discuss the changes that were made in 1954.
Sedimentation Procedures for Determining Particle Size Distribution
Authors: Sullivan WF , Jacobsen AE
Published: March 2009

The theory underlying the application of sedimentation procedures for particle size distribution is presented. Modifications of the theory to satisfy the several types of sedimentation techniques are described. Consideration is given to the various experimental techniques, particularly to the advantages and disadvantages of each. Experimental results are presented for the entire subsieve range.
A Photoelectric Sedimentation Method for Particle Size Determination in the Subsieve Range
Authors: Harner HR , Musgrave JR
Published: March 2009

The method consists essentially of measuring the light absorbed by a suspension of the particles in a liquid medium; increments of light absorption are measured as the particles settle in the medium. A photoelectric cell is used to measure the light absorption.

The apparatus is simple and comprises a stable light system, a cell (for containing the suspension), a photoelectric cell, and a microammeter.

Calculations are based on Stokes' law, with modifications to compensate for variations with very fine particles. Comparison with other methods shows good agreement.

While not absolute, the method is reasonably accurate and reproducible; it has the distinct advantage of speed and simplicity and gives a complete size distribution. The elapsed time required for a determination is approximately 1hr.

A wide variety of materials has been successfully analyzed by this method.
Electronic Size Analysis of Subsieve Particles by Flowing through a Small Liquid Resistor
Authors: Berg RH
Published: March 2009

This paper describes basically a new principle of particle content and size analysis and reviews the principal theoretical points. The method is applicable to sizes ranging from below 0.6 μ. to over 200 μ. A suspension of particles in conductive liquid flows through an aperture with simultaneous flow ofelectrical current, resulting in a series of electrical pulses, each pulse being proportional in magnitude to the volume of the particle causing it. The pulses are amplified, scaled, and counted to provide direct data for plotting cumulative particle frequency against particle size. Potentials and limitations are discussed, and methods of calibration, sample preparation, and data reduction are emphasized.
Progress Report on Dislocation Behavior in Lithium Fluoride Crystals During Cyclic Loading
Authors: Keith RE , Gilman JJ
Published: March 2009

It has been shown by many investigators (for example, 1,2) that in cyclic, as in monotonic, loading, plastic deformation is not homogeneous. Most of it takes place in well-defined glide bands. The amount of strain that takes place within these glide bands is often large compared to the strain per band after monotonic loading. Furthermore, since plastic flow is due to the motion of discrete flow units—dislocations—the strain within a glide band is inhomogeneous. Thus macroscopic measurements of displacements or strains are incapable of revealing the microscopic processes that occur during cyclic loading.
Investigation of Banded Sediments Along St. Lawrence North Shore in Quebec
Authors: Pryer RWJ , Woods KB
Published: March 2009

The lower portion of the Quebec North Shore and Labrador Railway, constructed between 1950 and 1954, is located on side-hill, cut-and-fill sectionsin water-deposited, banded sediments which now occupy terrace-like positions along the Moisie River.

These sediments have a natural water content above the liquid limit and are therefore sensitive to remolding. They are generally stiff and fissured but soft strata and sand partings are not uncommon. Stratification is not always horizontal and slope stability is often impaired by the presence of perched water tables in overlying deposits of sand and gravel.

Failures have occurred in cut and embankment slopes both during and after construction and prompted the large-scale program of exploration and testing which was initiated in 1955 and continued in 1956.

This paper presents a summary of the exploration programs which involved a total of 11,000 ft of boring and sampling at 126 locations. The results of the program of sampling and testing have been of importance in establishing priorities for the completion of corrective measures to improve the stability of cut slopes in the most vulnerable locations and in suggesting future programs of exploration and research.
Modern Liquid Fuels
Authors: Lyman AL
Published: March 2009

As major suppliers of energy for our national economy, the petroleum industry has a continuing challenge to anticipate the types and volumes of liquid fuels that will be required in the future. The ability to meet the demand as it arises is dependent upon the state of technology of manufacture and use of the fuels that can be obtained from crude petroleum.

Examples are presented to illustrate recent problems regarding quality or availability of selected fuels. The solutions of these problems are indicative of the approach which will be used to meet future situations.
Recent Developments in Glass Research
Authors: Shaver WW
Published: March 2009

Glass in the form of a window, a mirror, or a container has been known and used for centuries. Defined as “a hard, brittle, transparent material,” it was long regarded as mechanically unreliable. Slowly through the course of the past fifty years a new concept has evolved—a concept of glass as a new class of engineering materials with an amazing range of physical properties. Engineering materials in the plural sense is used advisedly for there are literally thousands of possible glass compositions, of which some five hundred are being regularly melted and worked into thousands of commercial product types. All this has come about through the application of research principles to this hard, transparent, brittle substance. It is our purpose to review one area of recent development in the field of glass as an illustration of modern research application. This area deals with methods and results of nucleation and crystal growth, with the creation of so-called photosensitive glasses and Pyroceram glass-ceramics.
Predictive Type Tests for Storage Stability and Compatibility of Diesel Fuels
Authors: MacDonald JW , Jones RT
Published: March 2009

The Navy's interest in predictive stability tests arises from the desire to broaden the supply of diesel fuels by permitting the use of cracked components in the fuel blends. The exclusion of cracked materials, plus other quality assurance provisions in the current Marine Diesel Fuel specification, has allowed the Navy to procure superior quality diesel fuels for fleet use and logistic storage. Stability and compatibility have not been problems and, except for occasional troubles which appeared to be attributable to contamination, these fuels have given satisfactory service in the fleet for several years. Since fuels for Navy use will be stored for periods up to three years, adequate storage stability, compatibility, and performance in engines must be assured before this change can be made. This paper covers the U. S. Naval Engineering Experiment Station experiences and evaluations of the wide variety of stability tests considered for this purpose and gives a brief summary of our future plans to arrive at a suitable specification-type test.
A Review of the Distillate Fuel Stability Problem
Authors: Elmquist EA
Published: March 2009

History of Distillate Fuels A review of the developments leading up to the use of catalytically cracked distillates shows that fears for the future of the distillate fuel market reached a point near panic toward the end of World War II. Work carried out by the oil and oil burner industries helped to allay these fears, however, and as early as 1945 information had been published showing that satisfactory performance could be obtained with heating oils containing up to 100 per cent catalytically cracked distillates (1). The oil companies have since that time cooperated with burner manufacturers in improving burner design, either directly or through organizations such as the Oil Heat Inst., and manufacturers are now supplying burners which give good performance on modern fuels. The use of catalytically cracked distillates in diesel fuel has undergone considerable study also, and substantial benefits have been realized for both the producer and the consumer.
How Distillate Fuel Stability is Measured and Controlled
Authors: Clinkenbeard WL
Published: March 2009

Distillate fuels are oftentimes stored in the field for many months before they are burned. If unstable they form degradation products which can harm burner performance. So the refiner has the responsibility of not only making a high-quality fuel initially, but also of imparting characteristics to the fuel that will render it stable during field storage. The methods necessary to make a heating oil which performs properly when fresh are quite well understood, and there are very few problems in this area. However, the science of rendering that oil stable is not so well established. It requires constant attention by the manufacturer.
Distillate Fuel Oil Gel
Authors: Dunn FR , Sauer RW
Published: March 2009

Gel formation in domestic burners can easily become a troublesome problem unless preventive measures are taken by refiners. These gels in No. 2 distillate fuel oil are usually the result of the reaction of mercaptans with brass parts of burner systems. The resultant copper and zinc mercaptide gels may cause blockages or malfunctioning of burners, necessitating service calls to restore them to operating condition. A concerted effort by refiners appears to have eliminated the gel problem. The tools used to solve the problem have included effective treating methods and the use of additives. In order to evaluate oils, a relatively rapid method of determining the potential gel-forming tendencies of a distillate fuel was developed. In the test, 1 liter of fuel oil is slowly filtered through a bed of granulated brass contained in a glass column. Gel is recovered from the brass by washing with hydrochloric acid and isooctane. The gel potential is determined by measuring the micrograms of mercaptan sulfur present in the isooctane extract. Determinations of gel potential are readily completed in one day. The test will not evaluate the effectiveness of additives.
Automatic Tank Gage Performance
Authors: Sims HE
Published: March 2009

A series of tests have been conducted by the Committee on Measurement Procedures of Esso Standard Oil Co. to evaluate the sustained accuracy, mechanical design, and maintenance requirements of certain automatic tank gages under field operating conditions. This paper summarizes the test program and its results.
Filtration Methods for Evaluation of Aerosol Contaminants
Authors: Katz M , Sanderson HP
Published: March 2009

Instruments employed for the continuous evaluation of air-borne particulate contaminants in the atmosphere by filtration through paper or other fibrous media are of two main classes. In one class a large measured volume of air is passed through a fibrous filter and the aerosols deposited over a definite time period, usually 24 hr, are collected in sufficient quantity for the determination of mass concentration and for subsequent chemical or spectrographic analysis. In the second class, the air sample is filtered through a paper tape over a time cycle of 1 hr or longer. The aerosols are deposited on the paper in a series of circular spots of constant area, and the degree of darkening or soiling of the surface is evaluated by light transmission or reflectance.

A review is presented of recent developments in this field, including a discussion of various theories which relate the absorbance of the deposit to the mass equivalent per unit volume of air. Attempts have been made to relate the absorbance to mass concentration, carbon content of the deposit, or to number and size distribution of the collected particles.
An Atmospheric Fluoride Recorder
Authors: Thomas MD , St. John GA , Chaikin SW
Published: March 2009

Analysis of the atmosphere for fluorine compounds in parts per billion concentration is necessary near fluoride-emitting industries due to the great toxicity of fluorides to vegetation and, indirectly, to livestock.
Sliding Plate Microviscometer for Rapid Measurement of Asphalt Viscosity in Absolute Units
Authors: Griffin RL , Miles TK , Penther CJ , Simpson WC
Published: March 2009

A sliding plate microviscometer for determining the viscosity of asphalt in absolute units is described which utilizes the same constant temperature water baths normally found in control and materials testing laboratories. The instrument is sufficiently accurate and simple to permit bringing the measurement of viscosity in fundamental units into the control laboratory and eventually into asphalt specifications.

The sliding plate microviscometer is suitable for routine measurement of viscosity-temperature relationships and viscosity-shear rate dependence. It is compact, rugged, and simple to operate and has a working range of 100 to 100 billion poises. This range permits overlapping with a capillary viscometer in the low viscosity region and allows measurement of the viscosity of the hardest paving grade asphalt at 32 F.

Methods for expressing the viscosity-temperature relationship of asphalt are reviewed. Two equations which give straight-line relationships between asphalt viscosity and temperature are discussed. Data obtained with the microviscometer are presented to illustrate these relationships.
Detection of Protein–Protein Interactions Through Vesicle Targeting
Authors: Boysen Jacob H , Fanning Saranna , Newberg Justin , Murphy Robert F , Mitchell Aaron P
Published: March 2009

The detection of protein–protein interactions through two-hybrid assays has revolutionized our understanding of biology. The remarkable impact of two-hybrid assay platforms derives from their speed, simplicity, and broad applicability. Yet for many organisms, the need to express test proteins in Saccharomyces cerevisiae or Escherichia coli presents a substantial barrier because variations in codon specificity or bias may result in aberrant protein expression. In particular, nonstandard genetic codes are characteristic of several eukaryotic pathogens, for which there are currently no genetically based systems for detection of protein–protein interactions. We have developed a protein–protein interaction assay that is carried out in native host cells by using GFP as the only foreign protein moiety, thus circumventing these problems. We show that interaction can be detected between two protein pairs in both the model yeast S. cerevisiae and the fungal pathogen Candida albicans. We use computational analysis of microscopic images to provide a quantitative and automated assessment of confidence.