cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Multilayering of a pseudo polyelectrolyte (PVPh) with a strong polyelectrolyte (PDMAC) from aqueous media

Abstract The introduction of pseudo polyelectrolytes (pPE) into the field of multilayer thin films has recently been achieved with the successful combination of poly(4-vinylphenol) (PVPh) with the weak polyelectrolyte (WPE), polyallylamine hydrochloride (PAH). This paper examines the stretching of this limit by exploring the extremes of using the pPE with the strong polyelectrolyte (SPE), poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (PDMAC). UV–Vis absorbance and atomic force microscopy (AFM) topography data reveal a linear growth trend in film thickness that depends critically upon the assembly pH. At an assembly pH of 11.0 the multilayer was five times thicker compared to that assembled at pH 12.0. AFM topography images also show that the surface roughness of the films increases as the assembly pH decreases.
The structuring of shared voluntary standards in the U.S. semiconductor industry: Communicating to reach agreement

Although pervasive in modern organizations, standards have been neglected in organizational communications research. Qualitative study of the SEMATECH consortium revealed that an important outcome of the efforts of participants was the reflexive structuring of voluntary, cooperative standards in the U.S. semiconductor industry, which had previously operated on the basis of proprietary, competitive standards. Analysis of extensive interview, archival, and observational data suggested that seven incidents were pivotal in the structuring process. These incidents showed how the increased communication initiated by SEMATECH produced new provinces of meaning, actions, and frameworks that engendered cooperation in relations between the supplier and manufacturing sectors of the industry, which had previously been characterized by mutual distrust and conflict.
Comparison of pig, sheep and chicken SCD5 homologs : Evidence for an early gene duplication event

Stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD) catalyzes the desaturation of saturated fatty acyl-CoA substrates at the delta-9 position. Multiple SCD isoforms are well characterized in rodents, especially in mice, where four isoforms have been described. In humans and cows, two SCD isoforms have been described: SCD1, which is a homolog of murine SCD1, and SCD5, which appears to be a distinct SCD gene rather than an ortholog of any of the four murine isoforms. In this paper, we describe for the first time SCD5 homologs in sheep, pigs and chickens. The SCD5 nucleotide sequences have notably higher GC content than SCD1 sequences, and the predicted protein sequences lack N-terminal PEST sequences typically found in SCD1 proteins. Similar to humans and bovines, the mRNA expression of sheep and pig SCD5 is greatest in the brain, and the mRNA expression of chicken SCD5 is greatest in the pancreas and brain. In contrast, SCD1 expression was found to be highest in adipose tissue in pigs and sheep, and liver in the chicken. This is the first report of an SCD5 homolog in a non-mammalian species, and suggests that SCD5 may be the result of an early gene duplication event that occurred before the divergence of mammals.
Constraining the Statistics of Population III Binaries

We perform a cosmological simulation in order to model the growth and evolution of Population III (Pop III) stellar systems in a range of host minihalo environments. A Pop III multiple system forms in each of the ten minihaloes, and the overall mass function is top-heavy compared to the currently observed initial mass function in the Milky Way. Using a sink particle to represent each growing protostar, we examine the binary characteristics of the multiple systems, resolving orbits on scales as small as 20 AU. We find a binary fraction of approx. 36, with semi-major axes as large as 3000 AU. The distribution of orbital periods is slightly peaked at approx. < 900 yr, while the distribution of mass ratios is relatively flat. Of all sink particles formed within the ten minihaloes, approx. 50 are lost to mergers with larger sinks, and 50 of the remaining sinks are ejected from their star-forming disks. The large binary fraction may have important implications for Pop III evolution and nucleosynthesis, as well as the final fate of the first stars.
Brillouin lasing in integrated liquid-core optical fibers

We report Brillouin lasing in an integrated liquid-core optical fiber (i-LCOF) filled with neat CS 2 . This is the first observation of Brillouin lasing in the liquid state of matter, to the best of our knowledge. The linewidth of the single frequency liquid-based Brillouin laser was estimated to be < 1kHz by beating two similar but independent lasers.
Metatarsalgia Caused by an Increase in Circulating Platelets: A Case Report

A patient with a year-long history of metatarsalgia was found to have an elevated platelet count due to essential thrombocythemia, a benign myeloproliferative disease. Reduction of the platelet count with chemotherapy eliminated the foot pain. The authors recommend that a platelet count be part of the work-up of patients with metatarsalgia when the etiology of the foot pain is unclear.
High order frequency shift of a particle coupled with a set of oscillators

Abstract Frequency shifts and decay constants of a particle (a heavy oscillator) coupled with a set of bath oscillators are calculated to the fourth order of the coupling constant. It is shown that the second-order frequency shift can be either positive or negative, depending on the coupling with small oscillators. When the second-order shift cancels, the fourth-order effect is roughly proportional to the square of the decay constant and is positive (δω∼3Γ 2 /2Ω 0 ) , indicating that the dissipation would drive the particle to oscillate at a higher frequency. This result is verified in numerical simulations.
Using course-long programming projects in CS2

A typical CS2 course has two goals that often work at cross-purposes. One goal is to teach students how to apply a variety of software engineering skills to create solutions to real-world problems. A second goal is to teach students the theory and practice behind classical algorithms and data structures. The use of small, short-term programming assignments, however, tends to sacrifice the first goal in favor of the second. We successfully experimented with solving this problem by organizing a CS2 course around a programming project that spanned an entire term. This paper describes the project, our experiences in using it, and the reactions of the students.
An Objective Analysis of the Boundary-Layer Thermodynamic Structure During GATE. Part I: Method

Abstract A method for the analysis and objective classification of meteorological data is presented and illustrated. The first step in this approach is the application of an efficient method to describe the data both qualitatively and quantitatively. This approach, based on the singular decomposition theorem, extracts the important features from the data and is similar to principal component or empirical orthogonal function analysis. The extracted features are then combined in the classification step to form new features, each of which describes a subset of the data. The mathematical details are given and computational considerations are discussed. The method is illustrated with a set of boundary-layer potential temperature profiles derived from structure sonde data taken during the GARP Atlantic Tropical Experiment (GATE). This set of profiles, taken at 3 h intervals over a 20-day period, was objectively classified into two distinct groups. Time, series of surface divergence and radar-estimated precipita...
A novel subset of memory B cells is enriched in autoreactivity and correlates with adverse outcomes in SLE

We previously reported that some systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients have a population of circulating memory B cells with >2-fold higher levels of CD19. We show here that the presence of CD19(hi) B cells correlates with long-term adverse outcomes. These B cells do not appear anergic, as they exhibit high basal levels of phosphorylated Syk and ERK1/2, signal transduce in response to BCR crosslinking, and can become plasma cells (PCs) in vitro. Autoreactive anti-Smith (Sm) B cells are enriched in this population and the degree of enrichment correlates with the log of the serum anti-Sm titer, arguing that they undergo clonal expansion before PC differentiation. PC differentiation may occur at sites of inflammation, as CD19(hi) B cells have elevated CXCR3 levels and chemotax in response to its ligand CXCL9. Thus, CD19(hi) B cells are precursors to anti-self PCs, and identify an SLE patient subset likely to experience poor clinical outcomes.
Keynote I: Parallelism, heterogeneity, communication: Emerging challenges for performance analysis

The quick evolution in computing platforms represents an ongoing cat-and-mouse game with the techniques we can build to measure and analyze them. Where performance used to be the dominant metric to measure, current tools and techniques must also accurately estimate power, error resiliency, and other attributes. Furthermore, the trajectory towards extensive, dynamic, and heterogeneous parallelism make such estimates both more important and more difficult to achieve. This talk will discuss measurement trends and opportunities in two particular domains—for mobile computing, and for heterogeneous parallelism—as examples of the broadening challenges and opportunities for the field overall.
Integrating computer science into middle school mathematics (abstract only)

Our project is part of the Adventures in Alice Programming project at Duke University. In particular, our project is integrating computer science into middle school math using Alice. We show several ways for students to improve their math skills while engaging their interest in programming. First, we have created Alice worlds for students to interact with to practice math concepts. Second, we have created tutorials to guide students on building such worlds. Third, we have created short challenge problems for students to focus on the math and the programming statements to complete a mostly built world. To encourage the use of Alice with projects we have developed many sample math projects. To encourage teachers to use Alice with math and computer science, we have been mapping our free curriculum materials to both the Commmon Core Math standards and the CSTA CS standards. Our curriculum materials are available at www.cs.duke.edu/csed/alice/aliceInSchools
Catalysis of α-naphthyl acetate hydrolysis by o-iodosobenzoic acid in micellar solutions of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide

Abstract Hydrolysis of α-naphthyl acetate proceeds at a very slow rate in solutions near neutral pH. This reaction was found to be accelerated when carried out in surfactant solutions of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide which also contained o -iodosobenzoic acid, a strong nucleophile. The reaction followed pseudo-first-order kinetics and the rate constant versus surfactant concentration profile exhibited the maximum typical of bimolecular reactions conducted in micellar solutions. The calculated entropy of activation for the reaction supported a bimolecular mechanism of hydrolysis. The binding constant of α-naphthyl acetate for the micelle and the rate constant in the micellar pseudophase were determined from kinetic data using the pseudophase model. The influences of added salt concentration, solution pH and nucleophile concentration were evaluated.
Genetic Information, Privacy and Insolvency

Biobanks hold out the prospect of significant public and private benefit, as genetic information contained in tissue samples is mined for information. However, the storing of human tissue samples and genetic information for research and/or therapeutic purposes raises a number of serious privacy and autonomy concerns. These concerns are compounded when one considers the possibility that a biobank or its owner might go bankrupt. Insolvency impairs the ability of enforcement regimes, and liability-based regimes in particular, to enforce legal norms. The goal of this essay is to develop guideposts for thinking about private and public enforcement of privacy imposed by donors on tissue samples and/or genetic information when a biobank becomes insolvent.
Impact of a preventive medicine and nutrition curriculum for medical students

Abstract Background United States public health goals call for increased physician counseling about diet and exercise, but many medical schools lack adequate curriculum on these topics. At Harvard Medical School, second-year students take a preventive medicine and nutrition (PMN) course. This study evaluated the impact of this innovative curriculum on students' confidence about addressing patients' diet and exercise patterns and on their own health habits. Methods Students enrolled in the 2003 PMN course (N =137) completed a confidential 43-item written survey before and after the course. Surveys were completed by 134 students (98%) and 118 students (86%), respectively. The survey assessed students' diet and exercise habits and students' confidence in their ability to address diet and exercise with patients and family members. Results Students' confidence in their ability to assess and counsel about diet and exercise significantly improved after the course (all p p =0.002) and trans fatty acids ( p Conclusions An innovative PMN course improved medical students' confidence in diet and exercise counseling and perceived dietary habits. Improving these mediators of physician counseling in medical students may translate into changes in their practice patterns.
The development of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma following therapy for Hodgkin's disease

Three patients developed non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) 3 to 6 years after treatment for Hodgkin's disease (HD). In no instance was there evidence of recurrence of HD following the initial chemotherapy or radiotherapy. None of these patients had received both radiation therapy and chemotherapy. All patients responded well to conventional chemotherapy for NHL and are alive at 23 +, 37 +, and 65+ months after that secondary diagnosis. This report, when coupled with at least ten other such reported patients, suggests that NHL may be a relatively uncommon but significant complication of therapy for HD and must be distinguished for recurrence of HD.
Simulation of electrokinetic flow in microfluidic channels

Electrokinetic phenomena become an increasingly efficient fluid transport mechanism in micro- and nano-fluidic fields. These phenomena have also been applied successfully in microfluidic devices to achieve particle separation, pre-concentration and mixing. Electrokinetic is the flow produced by the action of an electric field on a fluid with a net charge, where the charged ions of fluid are able to drag the whole solution through the channels in the microfluidic device from one analyzing point to the other. We will present the simulation results of electrokinetic transports of fluid in various typical micro-channel geometries such as T-channel, Y-channel, cross channel and straight channel. In practice, high-speed micro-PIV technique is used to measure transient fluidic phenomena in a microfluidic channel. Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) systems provide two- or three-dimensional velocity maps in flows using whole field techniques based on imaging the light scattered by small particles in the flow illuminated by a laser light sheet. The system generally consists of an epifluorescent microscope, CW laser and a high-speed CMOS of CCD camera. The flow of a liquid, (water for example), containing fluorescent particle is then analyzed in a counter microchannel by the highly accurate PIV method. One can then compare the simulated and experimental microfluidic flow due to electroosmotic effect.
Data Exploration for Multidisciplinary Research

The metadata oriented query assistant (MOQuA) is a web application for exploring complex collections of data via a highly interactive and intuitive interface. MOQuA development has been motivated by the evolution of climate and ecosystem studies towards highly interdisciplinary research programs that depend on data drawn from a variety of sources. Present generations of earth science data systems are not structured to support exploration through a data space that is simultaneously rich in measured parameters, yet sparse in geographic and temporal coverage. We have implemented MOQuA for the Autonomous Ocean Sampling Network 2003 field program data set, which includes observations from a diverse collection of platforms such as drifters, autonomous underwater vehicles and ships, fixed measurement assets (such as moorings and radar), and remote measurements from satellites and aircraft. It also includes output from three oceanographic models. Measured and derived data are stored in several formats, residing within numerous data management systems.
Penile Venous Drainage in Erectile Dysfunction. Anatomical, Radiological and Functional Considerations

Summary— To elucidate further the penile venous anatomy and its role in the haemodynamics of erection, we performed pharmacological cavernometry and cavernography in 95 patients with venogenic impotence and in 12 patients with psychogenic impotence. The findings were correlated with those of dissection in 10 adult male cadavers. Cavernography confirmed that the main venous drainage of the corpora cavernosa is via the cavernous veins, with additional drainage through the crural, circumflex and deep dorsal veins and demonstrated that, in patients with venogenic impotence, the cavernous veins are the common site of leakage. Cavernometry provided valuable parameters for the quantification of the degree of venous leakage. Detailed knowledge of the penile venous system and cavernometry and cavernography are essential for the proper diagnosis and treatment of patients with venogenic impotence.
‘Faced with death, even a mouse bites’: Social and religious motivations behind terrorism in Chechnya

This article analyzes the motivations behind individuals who chose to adopt terrorist methods in the Chechen conflicts of the late 1990s and early 2000s. While the seemingly obvious motivation in joining in a ‘religious’ war of jihad would be a strong belief in that religion, the reality is more complicated. The motivations behind these individuals were not only religious, but cultural, social, and political. This indicates that while the methods and ideological rhetoric adopted by Chechen terrorists prove similar to methods adopted by terrorists across the world, the fundamental causes and drive behind these terrorists are actually quite distinct and unique from others.
SO(A 3Π ← X 3Σ−) saturation by narrow and broadband KrF excitation

Abstract We have investigated the saturation of SO(A–X) excitation and the photodissociation of SOCl 2 with both narrow and broadband KrF laser emission. The measured SO(A–X) absorption saturation fluences determine the efficiency of SO(A) excitation, with possible applications to an ultraviolet energy storage laser. We see no evidence of excited state absorption at the KrF laser pump wavelength.
Brief Constrained linear state estimation-a moving horizon approach

This article considers moving horizon strategies for constrained linear state estimation. Additional information for estimating state variables from output measurements is often available in the form of inequality constraints on states, noise, and other variables. Formulating a linear state estimation problem with inequality constraints, however, prevents recursive solutions such as Kalman filtering, and, consequently, the estimation problem grows with time as more measurements become available. To bound the problem size, we explore moving horizon strategies for constrained linear state estimation. In this work we discuss some practical and theoretical properties of moving horizon estimation. We derive sufficient conditions for the stability of moving horizon state estimation with linear models subject to constraints on the estimate. We also discuss smoothing strategies for moving horizon estimation. Our framework is solely deterministic.
Time scale matching of dynamically operated devices using composite thermal capacitors

A new thermal management solution is proposed to maximize the performance of electronics devices with dynamically managed power profiles. To mitigate the non-uniformities in chip temperature profiles resulting from the dynamic power maps, solid-liquid phase change materials (PCMs) with an embedded heat spreader network are strategically positioned near localized hotspots, resulting in a large increase in the local thermal capacitance in these problematic areas. The resulting device, called composite thermal capacitor (CTC), can theoretically produce an up-to-twenty-fold increase in the time that a thermally constrained high heat flux device can operate before a power gating or core migration event is required. A prototype CTC that monolithically integrates micro heaters, PCMs and a spreader matrix into a Si test chip was fabricated and experimentally tested to validate the efficacy of the concept and to gain an insight into phase change heat transfer in a spatially-confined environment on the microscale. As the most significant result, an increase in allowable device operating times by over 7x has been experimentally demonstrated, while operating a device at heat fluxes approaching 400W/cm^2.
Gender, educational, and occupational digital gaps 1983-2002

Using representative national surveys, this study tracks education, occupation, and gender access and use of digital technology among adults between 1983 and 2002. Although greater parity has occurred, substantial divisions remain. For individuals who owned a home computer, gender, education, and labor force gaps in home Internet access had largely disappeared by 2002, although better educated males still most often used home e-mail. Male college graduates most often had work web access or e-mail. Gender gaps in online time rose from 1995 to 2002; men and very well educated adults increased their hours the most. Occupational variables were critical: many gender differences in information technology (IT) access and use lessened when labor force participation or occupational type were controlled. Although disparities have diminished, digital gaps across gender and educational level and among those with different labor force experiences continue.
Gastric remnant carcinoma: Just another proximal gastric cancer or a unique entity?

Background Gastric cancer that occurs 5 or more years after distal gastric resection for benign disease is defined as gastric remnant carcinoma (GRC). The purpose of this study was to determine whether postresection outcome differs between GRC and primary proximal gastric cancer (PPGC). Methods Twenty-five patients with GRC who underwent resection between August 1985 and July 1994 were compared with 79 PPGC patients who underwent resection during the same time period. Results Overall actuarial 5-year disease-specific survival was 63% for curatively resected GRC patients and 37% for the curatively resected PPGC patients (P = 0.1, log rank). No significant differences in survival were seen between the two groups when stratified for stage. On multi-variate analysis of significant predictors of outcome for the 104 patients as a group, only the ability to do a curative resection was significant. Conclusion The outcome following resection of GRC is no different from that of other primary proximal gastric cancers of the same stage. Every effort should be made to perform a curative resection, as this is a significant predictor of outcome.
OR PRACTICE—Optimization of Vacation Timeshare Scheduling

This paper reports on an application of network-flow integer programming to a vacation timeshare exchange problem. A typical timeshare owner has purchased yearly access to a specific week at a specific resort. The resulting lack of vacation variety is mitigated by systems that allow owners to exchange owned weeks for different weeks at different resorts according to their preferences, the assessed value of what they are exchanging, their contractual priority, and resort availability. The timeshare exchange problem is similar to other preference-based assignment problems such as labor scheduling, preferential bidding, and traditional timetabling, but different in the formulation of the objective function. This paper demonstrates how the effectiveness of timeshare exchange processes can be improved through mathematical optimization, as measured by increased satisfaction of participant preferences. Optimization also presents exchange managers with the opportunity to more precisely manage preference and prior...
Synthesis of benzo[4,5]phenaleno[1,9‐bc]thiophene and benzo[4,5]phenaleno[9,1–6c]thiophene

Two pentacyclic thiophenes, benzo[4,5]phenaleno[1,9–6c]thiophene (1) and benzo[4,5]phenaleno[9,1-bc]-thiophene (2) were synthesized via the corresponding 3-methylphenanthro[2,1-b]thiophene (7) and 1-methylanthra[2,1–6]thiphene (19).
Proteolipid involvement in human erythrocyte membrane function.

Abstract 1. 1. The incorporation of [γ-32P]ATP into the phospholipids and protein of “resealed” and “leaky” human erythrocyte membranes was measured. Leaky membranes incorporated more radioactivity into polyphosphoinositides and phosphatidic acid than did intact membranes. There was no difference in the radioactivity incorporated into serine phosphate isolated from an acid hydrolysis of lipid-free protein from resealed and leaky membranes. 2. 2. The radioactive membranes from leaky and resealed erythrocytes were fractionated into four major protein fractions. Most of the increment in radioactivity due to “opening” the membrane resided in a fraction which was soluble in chloroform-methanol. A proteolipid was extracted from this fraction by either column chromatography in Sephadex LH-20 or bydialysis of this fraction against chloroform-methanol. 3. 3. The isolated proteolipid contained all of the phospholipid radioactivity, less than 10% of the total membrane phospholipid and 42–48% of the protein soluble in the organic phase. The proteolipid was composed of protein and the following phospholipids: phosphatidylserine and phosphatidylinositol (68%), phosphatidylethanolamine (25%), an unidentified lipid (7%) and trace amounts of the polyphosphoinositides which contained all of the phospholipid radioactivity. 4. 4. The evidence that this proteolipid is involved in the opening and closing of pores in the erythrocyte membrane, is discussed.
Cardiac Segmental Analysis in Left Ventricular Noncompaction: Experience in a Pediatric Population

Background Echocardiography has been used to diagnose and describe left ventricular noncompaction (LVNC). No other study has investigated LVNC using the 16-segment model described by the American Heart Association and the American Society of Echocardiography in children, some of whom have congenital heart disease. Using the ratio of noncompaction to compaction, the authors analyzed the 16 segments and determined if severity was correlated with poor outcomes in a pediatric population. Methods The 16-segment noncompaction/compaction ratio, shortening, and ejection fractions were measured retrospectively in all children with LVNC at a single institution from January 1, 2000, to June 30, 2008. Results Forty-four patients had LVNC, an incidence of 0.3% of laboratory admissions. Twenty-eight patients (64%) who remained alive were assigned to group 1, and 16 patients (36%) who either died or were transplanted constituted group 2. Group 2 had more patients with significant associated congenital heart disease than group 1 (50% vs 18%, P P P P P r = −0.63, P Conclusions In younger patients with noncompaction, poor outcomes such as low ejection fractions, death, and transplantation are related to the number of left ventricular segments involved. There is more associated congenital heart disease in the pediatric population, which carries a poorer prognosis than the disease reported in adult populations.
A mathematical approach to the analysis of diversity in antibody gene families.

In this article, we develop a mathematical approach for the analysis of diversity in antibody gene families. This approach is arrived at by examining two general questions about protein populations: (1) What is a relative measure of the diversity exhibited by one protein family when compared with a second? (2) What is the probability that two protein populations were derived from a single common population? These quantitative approaches permit a variety of precise evolutionary, genetic, and developmental questions to be asked of antibody gene families. Using this methodology, we demonstrate that the diversity in mouse κ-immunoglobulin chains is considerably greater than in their human κ counterparts. We also show that the variable (VL) regions of light chains associated with IgG and IgA immunoglobulins in the mouse appear to have been derived from a common population of VL genes. This approach also can be used to analyse sequence data from other informational multigene families.
The Density of Uranine Particles Produced by a Spinning Disc Aerosol Generator

Abstract The densities of 3- to 15-micron-diameter uranine particles prepared with a spinning disc aerosol generator were determined to be from 1.25 to 1.5 gm/cm3, somewhat less than the 1.53 gm/cm3 measured for the theoretical density of the uranine. The densities of the particles were determined from the mass median diameter and total mass of particles collected on a membrane filter.
Molecular Framework for the Activation of RNA-dependent Protein Kinase

The RNA-dependent protein kinase (PKR) plays an integral role in the antiviral response to cellular infection. PKR contains three distinct domains consisting of two conserved N-terminal double-stranded RNA (dsRNA)-binding domains, a C-terminal Ser-Thr kinase domain, and a central 80-residue linker. Despite rich structural and biochemical data, a detailed mechanistic explanation of PKR activation remains unclear. Here we provide a framework for understanding dsRNA-dependent activation of PKR using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, gel filtration, and autophosphorylation kinetics. In the latent state, PKR exists as an extended monomer, with an increase in self-affinity upon dsRNA association. Subsequent phosphorylation leads to efficient release of dsRNA followed by a greater increase in self-affinity. Activated PKR displays extensive conformational perturbations within the kinase domain. We propose an updated model for PKR activation in which the communication between RNA binding, central linker, and kinase domains is critical in the propagation of the activation signal and for PKR dimerization.
Fiber Optics and Fibonacci

A recent problem in fiber optic networks led to a surprising answer. NASA Mission Control Center wanted a design for a fiber optic network that had extremely high reliability. A fiber optic network consists of a number of stations connected by fiber optic links. Stations send and receive messages, and also pass on messages intended for other stations. One common configuration for fiber optic networks is called a token ring. In a single ring configuration, the stations are arranged in a circle, with each station connected to the next by a single, one way fiber optic link (FIGURE 1). A more robust dual ring network has two links between each pair of adjacent stations, so that communications can flow in either direction (FIGURE 2). In this configuration, each station is connected to exactly two neighboring stations, and can transmit or pass on information to either of them. The advantage of a dual ring network is that a single failed station does not break the ring. Any number of consecutive stations in the ring can fail, and every working station can still communicate with every other working station.
LSM–YSZ interactions and anode delamination in solid oxide electrolysis cells

Abstract Symmetric cells of the configuration air/LSM//YSZ//LSM/air have been fabricated and electrically tested under impressed voltage conditions to understand the anode delamination behavior commonly observed during the operation of solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOEC). Electrical performance degradation has been measured with time at various applied voltages ranging from 0 to 0.8 V with respect to OCV, and cell component microstructural and chemical changes have been examined. Post-test observations indicate the development of a weak anode–electrolyte interface leading to the delamination of the anode from the electrolyte surface. Microstructural analysis of the anode–electrolyte interface revealed extensive morphological and chemical changes including the formation of lanthanum zirconate, an uneven porous interface, and localized grain boundary porosity in the electrolyte. An anode delamination mechanism based on morphological change and compound formation at the anode–electrolyte interface is proposed.
Training speech pathologists through microtherapy

Abstract Two microtraining models were evaluated for training speech pathologists in the acquisition of skills utilized in treating misarticulations. Fifteen subjects in an introductory class in speech pathology were randomly placed in two groups (modeling, video replay, and counseling versus video replay and counseling). The training included reading a manual about the skills and a sequence of three teach sessions. The control group did not view the video model. According to the results, the model group made a greater gain score ( M = 8.38) than the nonmodel group ( M = 3.88). Significant gains were made for both experimental groups between teach sessions one and two, but no significant gains were made between the second and third teach sessions.
Moving beyond traditional UV-visible absorption detection: cavity ring-down spectroscopy for HPLC.

We describe the use of liquid-phase continuous-wave cavity ring-down spectroscopy for the detection of an HPLC separation. This technique builds on earlier work by Snyder and Zare using pulsed laser sources and improves upon commercially available UV−visible detectors by a factor of up to 50. The system employs a compact doubled-diode single-mode continuous-wave laser operating at 488 nm and a previously described Brewster's-angle flow cell. Ring-down time constants as long as 5.8 μs were observed with liquid samples in a 0.3-mm path length cell. The baseline noise during an HPLC separation was only 2 × 10-7 absorbance units (AU) peak to peak, as compared to 1 × 10-5 AU for a state-of-the-art commercial UV−visible detector.
Evaluating the constraints of temperature, activity and consumption on growth of largemouth bass

We present a bioenergetics model for largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) which simulates growth as a function of body size, temperature, activity and consumption level. We apply the model to investigate seasonal changes in condition factor exhibited by bass in Par Pond, South Carolina, a reservoir receiving heated effluent. Previous authors have suggested that these changes occur due to bioenergetic constraints, primarily the effects of heated effluent on metabolic rate. Model simulations were used to evaluate the hypotheses that seasonal changes in condition factor were caused by the heated effluent, seasonally variable activity, seasonally variable consumption, or reproductive costs.
Evaluation of a Direct 1H NMR Method for Determining log K and ΔH Values for Crown Ether—Alkylammonium Cation Complexation

A direct 1H NMR method for determining log K and ΔH values for crown ether-ammonium cation complexation using milligrams of sample was tested and evaluated for accuracy and precision by comparing the results with those obtained using a titration calorimetric method. Log K values for the interactions of a non-chiral crown ether, diketopyridino-18-crown-6 (K2P18C6), with α-phenylethylammonium (PhEt+) perchlorate in 50%-50% and 90%-10% (v/v) mixtures of deuterated methanol (CD30D) and deuterated chloroform (CDCI3) at four temperatures and, with α-(I-naphthyl) ethylammonium (NapEt+) perchlorate in SO%CD3OD-50%CDCI3 (v/v) at 25°C were determined by a direct 1H NMR method. Values of ΔH for the interactions of KzPI8C6 with PhEt+ in the two solvents were calculated from the temperature dependence of log K. Log K values for the interactions of a chiral crown ether, dimethyldiketopyridino-18-crown-6 (M2K2P18C6), with (R) and (S) enantiomers of NapEt+ in pure CD30D at 2S.0°C were also determined by the NMR method. The results were compared with those determined by a calorimetric method at 2S.0°C in SO% - SO% and 90% -10% (v/v) mixtures of plain methanol and chloroform, in 100% plain methanol, and in a 50%-50% mixture of partially deuterated methanol (with deuterium substitution on the methanol OH group, CH30D) and deuterated chloroform. The log K values determined by both methods were found to be in good agreement, but the standard deviations associated with the NMR log K values were two to three times greater. The agreement of the ΔH values determined by the two methods was poor, differing by approximately 10 kJ/mol with the NMR method giving more negative values. The standard deviations associated with the NMR ΔH values were approximately ten times greater than those for the calorimetric values. Ion-pairing was observed for the interaction of perchlorate ion with both free and bound PhEt+ in SO%methanol-50%chloroform mixture. It is concluded that the NMR procedure is satisfactory for the determination of log K, but not ΔH values.
The 7SL RNA homologue of Trypanosoma brucei is closely related to mammalian 7SL RNA

In eukaryotes, protein translocation across the endoplasmic reticulum is mediated by a signal recognition particle, a small ribonucleoprotein (RNP) containing 7SL RNA. We have cloned and sequenced the gene coding for the Trypanosoma brucei 7SL RNA homologue and found that its sequence shows the highest degree of similarity to the human 7SL RNA sequence. In keeping with the prototype secondary structure of eukaryotic 7SL RNA, the trypanosome 7SL RNA secondary structure can be folded into four domains. The 7SL RNP, which sediments at approximately 11S on sucrose density gradients, was partially purified using column chromatography. A particle containing a 76-nucleotide-long RNA co-purified with the 7SL RNP; however, these particles did not co-fractionate by non-denaturing polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis.
Regional integration in the emerging global economy: The case of NAFTA

Abstract The rationale for international trade is that nations should specialize in production and trade to take advantage of their different resource bases. The emerging global economy differs from the international economy in that resources are becoming more mobile and intra-industry trade is becoming more important. Evidence is presented that these developments require compatibility and harmonization of technical and policy standards. It is easier to harmonize standards on a regional level than globally; thus the rise of regional integration movements. However, because the standards to protect workers, the environment and intellectual property rights are so different between Mexico on one hand, and Canada and the United States on the other, it is very difficult to develop compatibility in the case of NAFTA. Negotiations over these standards will be difficult in the NAFTA region without institutional development.
A traceability system incorporating 2D barcode and RFID technology for wheat flour mills

Wheat flour undergoes several processing steps in its transformation from raw wheat in the mill, which differentiates wheat flour from other farm products. At each step, various wheat sources are combined into one batch of wheat flour. This study primarily aimed to develop a Wheat Flour Milling Traceability System (WFMTS), incorporating 2D barcode and radio frequency identification (RFID) technology, and to validate the system in a wheat flour mill in China. We designed the encoding rules for the raw material, processing and traceability batches. Labels with a Quick Response Code (QR Code) were attached to small packages of wheat flour to link them to their processing information, and RFID tags were affixed to the storage bins to record logistics information. A traceability system was developed based on batch identification and record keeping. The system was applied and supported in a wheat flour mill for one year. The WFMTS management and traceability capacity was evaluated using a contrast experiment. The experiment was divided into five parts, including raw material data recording, processing data recording, package data recording, logistics data recording and traceability query. The results show that although time consumption using WFMTS in package data recording was more than that with paper recording, WFMTS was dominant in its total time consumption: five parts were reduced by 113%, and the mean accuracy of the five parts increased by 8%. The QR Code and RFID recognition accuracy was evaluated using experiments with different reading distances. The cost and income variations in application WFMTS were analyzed based on the survey. The results show that the total cost increased by 17.2% to apply the system. Compared to the cost, the sales income increase was obvious, and it reached 32.5%. Considering the good evaluation results, the system has good application potential in medium or large wheat mill enterprises.
Factors Predicting Erythropoietin Resistance among Maintenance Hemodialysis Patients

Background: Erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA) resistance remains incompletely understood among hemodialysis (HD) patients. Method: A retrospective, multicent
Effects of Exogenous LH or FSH on Endogenous FSH, Progesterone and Estradiol Secretion

In one set of experiments, an ovulatory dose of ovine LH or FSH was injected, on the afternoon of proestrus, into rats which had received pentobarbital (PB). Serum FSH was elevated over noninjected controls at 1000 h estrus. The adrenal glands were not necessary for this response. Ovariectomy, performed shortly before the gonadotrophin injection, caused an elevation in serum FSH the following morning, which was not further increased by the injection of LH or FSH. Serum LH was not elevated nor was pituitary LH content decreased at 1000 h estrus in any treatment group. In a second set of experiments, the time course of LU, FSH, estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) was investigated, between proestrous afternoon (1630 h) and estrous morning (1000 h), in 3 treatment groups: a) saline controls (no PB), b) PB controls (no LH), c) PB + LH (8 Mg IV at 1530 h). a) Saline controls showed a maximum LU and FSU primary surge at 1830 h; LH returned to baseline by 2300 h, while FSH fell slowly through the night. P4 was elevated at 1830 hand 2300 h, then fell to baseline; E2 fell abruptly between 1630 h and 1830 h. b) In PB controls, serum LU and P were continuously low, but a small rise in FSH occurred at 2300 h and 0400 h (estrus). E2 fell significantly also, but not as low as in the saline controls. c) LH, superimposed on PB, raised LH at 1630 h, but no further rises occurred, while FSH rose gradually to peak at 0400 h and then fell part way to saline control levels by 1000 h estrus. Thus, FSH appeared to be released independently of LU. The injected LU also induced a rise in P4 at 1630 h and 1830 h, with E2 falling, as in saline controls, between 1630 h and 1830 h. In a third experiment, P4 injection was tested, superimposed on PB blockade. P4 failed to increase LH or FSH (in a manner resembling LH injection), but did cause E2 to fall. It is concluded that the primary LH (and/or FSH) surge, as well as exogenous LH or FSH superimposed on PB blockade, can induce a release of FSH independently of changes in measured steroids (serum P4, E2) and in the absence of concomitant LH release. The induction of FSH release could not be detected in the absence of the ovary, but ovariectomy by itself increased FSH release without LU release. The data suggest that gonadotrophins, as well as ovariectomy, may induce FSH release by altering a nonsteroidal feedback from the ovaries.
Chameleon: a system for solving the data-translation problem

A comprehensive data translation system is described with the following characteristics: (1) it is derived from a formal model of the translation task; (2) it supports the building of translation tools; (3) it supports the use of translation tools; and (4) it is accessible to its targeted end users. A software architecture to achieve the translation capability is fully implemented. Translators have been generated using the architecture, both by the original software developers and by industrial associates who have installed the architecture at their own sites. >
Mammalian reproductive tract mucins

Mucin glycoproteins are major constituents of the glycocalyx that covers mucosal epithelium. Two broad classes of mucins exist: membrane-associated and secretory. Of the secreted mucins, those with cysteine-rich regions are thought to polymerize through disulphide bonds. Among these gel-forming mucins are MUC2, MUC5AC, MUC5B and possibly MUC6. MUC7 lacks cysteine-rich domains and is thought to be secreted as a soluble monomer. Incomplete sequence information prevents classification of other mucins. Tandem repeats of amino acids rich in serine, threonine and proline are a common element in mucin core proteins, giving rise to relatively rigid, linear molecules with great potential for glycosylation. Ten distinct mucin genes have been identified in humans so far. Patterns of expression vary greatly. While MUC9, or oviductin, appears to be restricted to oviduct, the transmembrane mucin MUC1 is widely expressed. Proven functions for the different mucins are largely unknown, although potential functions are addressed in this review. Genetic and protein sequence information and expression profiles are also summarized, followed by a description of mucin assembly. Special attention is given to mucin expression in male and female reproductive tracts.
Effects of Scouring with Enzymes, Organic Solvents, and Caustic Soda on the Properties of Hydrogen Peroxide Bleached Cotton Yarn

Three different scouring methods are applied to open-end and ring spun yarns prior to hydrogen peroxide bleaching with and without metal ions present. The scouring procedures include a penetrating ...
Mechanisms of along-valley winds and heat exchange over mountainous terrain

Abstract The physical mechanisms leading to the formation of diurnal along-valley winds are investigated over idealized three-dimensional topography. The topography used in this study consists of a valley with a horizontal floor enclosed by two isolated mountain ridges on a horizontal plain. A diagnostic equation for the along-valley pressure gradient is developed and used in combination with numerical model simulations to clarify the relative role of various forcing mechanisms such as the valley volume effect, subsidence heating, and surface sensible heat flux effects. The full diurnal cycle is simulated using comprehensive model physics including radiation transfer, land surface processes, and dynamic surface–atmosphere interactions. The authors find that the basic assumption of the valley volume argument of no heat exchange with the free atmosphere seldom holds. Typically, advective and turbulent heat transport reduce the heating of the valley during the day and the cooling of the valley during the nig...
Case study: Interactive visualization for Internet security

Internet connectivity is defined by a set of routing protocols which let the routers that comprise the Internet backbone choose the best route for a packet to reach its destination. One way to improve the security and performance of Internet is to routinely examine the routing data. In this case study, we show how interactive visualization of Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) data helps characterize routing behavior, identify weaknesses in connectivity which could potentially cripple the Internet, as well as detect and explain actual anomalous events.