cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Art-2 and multiscale art-2 for on-line process fault detection — Validation via industrial case studies and Monte Carlo simulation

Abstract Data from most industrial processes contain contributions at multiple scales in time and frequency. In contrast, most existing methods for fault detection are best for detecting events at only one scale. This paper provides experimental validation and insight into a new method of process fault detection based on the integration of multiscale signal representation and scale-specific clustering-based diagnosis. The multiscale ART-2 (MSART-2) algorithm models normal process operation as clusters of wavelet coefficients at different scales. It detects a process change when one or more wavelet coefficients of test data violate similarity thresholds with respect to clusters of normal data at that scale. Especially in industrial situations where the nature of the abnormal features is not known a priori, MSART provides better average performance due to its ability to adapt to the scale of the features. In contrast to most other multiresolution schemes, this framework exploits clustering behavior of wavelet coefficients of multiple variables for the purpose of scale selection and feature extraction. Detailed performance comparisons, based on rigorous Monte-Carlo simulations as well as industrial data from a large scale petrochemical process, are provided. Our results show that MSART-2 significantly improves the detection performance of the ART-2 detection algorithm over a broad range of process anomalies. Results are compared with single-scale and multiscale versions of PCA for benchmarking purposes.
Synthesis of the carbocyclic nucleoside (-)-neplanocin A

Abstract (−) - Neplanocin A has been prepared in 14 steps from cyclopentadiene (11% overall yield).
The Bolbos technique for the management of uncontrollable intra-caesarean uterine bleeding

We describe a new conservative surgical technique for the management of intra-operative post-caesarean bleeding. This technique involves the application of ligation sutures to the main branches of the right and left uterine arteries at the level of the lower segment transverse uterine incision and a constriction suture to the lower segment of the posterior uterine wall. We have used this method in nine cases and it was effective in controlling the bleeding in eight, thus avoiding the need for a more extensive procedure. If medical management fails to control intra-operative post-caesarean bleeding, conservative surgery or even a caesarean hysterectomy may be required. Our technique is presented as a safe, simple, effective and readily reproducible alternative. Also, its effectiveness can be promptly assessed and if the bleeding persists, another, more complex procedure can be performed.
Inference for step-stress accelerated life tests under arbitrary right-censorship☆

Abstract A step-stress test is an accelerated life test in which the stress on an unfailed item is allowed to increase at a preassigned time. Step-stress testing is considered here from a non-parametric point of view when the observations have been arbitrarily right-censored. Thus, no assumptions are made about the particular form of the underlying distribution of life lengths. An estimator of the underlying life distribution under the use conditions stress is obtained. The estimator is shown to be strongly consistent.
Analysis of plasma membrane Ca2+-ATPase expression in control and SV40-transformed human fibroblasts

It has been long known that neoplastic transformation is accompanied by a lowered requirement for extracellular Ca2+ for growth. The studies presented here demonstrate that human fibroblastic cell lines produce the two commonly found 'housekeeping' isoforms of the plasma membrane Ca(2+)-ATPase (PMCA), PMCA1b and 4b, and at the expression of both is demonstrably lower in cell lines neoplastically transformed by SV40 than in the corresponding parental cell lines. Western blot analyses of lysates from control (GM00037) and SV40-transformed (GM00637) skin fibroblasts revealed a 138 kDa PMCA whose level was significantly lower in the SV40-transformed cells relative to either total cellular protein or alpha-tubulin. Similar analyses of plasma membrane preparations from control WI-38) and SV40-transformed (WI-38VA13) lung fibroblasts revealed 3-4-fold lower levels of PMCA in the SV40-transformed cells. Competitive ELISAs performed on detergent solubilized plasma membrane preparations indicated at least 3-4-fold lower levels of PMCA in the SV40-transformed cell lines compared to controls. Reverse transcriptase coupled-PCR analyses showed that PMCA1b and PMCA4b were the only isoforms expressed in all four cell lines. The PMCA4b mRNA level detected by Northern analysis also was substantially lower in SV40 transformed skin fibroblasts than in non-transformed fibroblasts. Quantitative RT-PCR analyses showed levels of PMCA1b and 4b mRNAs to be 5 and 10-fold lower, respectively, in GM00637 than in GM00037 when the levels of PCR products were normalized to glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (G3PDH) mRNA. These results demonstrate that the expression of these distinct PMCA genes is substantially lower in SV40 transformed human skin and lung fibroblasts and may be coordinately regulated in these cells.
Effects of Microwave Processing on Fiber-matrix Adhesion in Composites

Abstract Experiments have been done using a single mode (TE111, 2.45 GHz) cylindrial microwave cavity with single fiber composite specimens. After obtaining a cure cycle with microwaves to match that achieved with a conventional thermal cure cycle as measured by tensile tests, dynamic mechanical analysis and differential scanning calorimetry, quantitative measurements of interfacial shear strength and physical properties have been carried out and compared with the results from conventional thermally-cured systems. Under the conditions studied for single fiber specimens, the fiber-matrix interfacial shear strength decreases slightly in both glass-epoxy and aramid-epoxy cases as comapared with thermally-cured specimens. Graphite fiber-epoxy adhesion, on the other hand, increases significantly in these single fiber studies in microwave processed specimens as indicated by an increase in the interfacial shear strength. The failure mode changes from interfacial (thermal curing) to matrix failure.
Reproducible vapor-time profiles using solid-phase microextraction with an externally sampled internal standard.

Abstract Determination of the dynamic nature of vapor/odor release has application in a wide variety of systems. This study applies automated solid-phase microextraction (SPME) utilizing an externally sampled internal standard (ESIS) to determine the vapor–time profile of odor delivery devices for three classes of explosive compounds. The profiles of delivery systems for target odorants 2,4-dinitrotoluene (2,4-DNT), 2-ethyl-1-hexanol (2-EH), and triacetone triperoxide (TATP) as canine training aids were compared over a period of 70 h. Strategies for evaluating the vapor–time profile of components with widely differing volatility are considered. An approach to quantifying the vapor concentration is described. The differences in the vapor–time profiles are examined and suggestions for selecting the best representative odor delivery technique are outlined.
PIASy-mediated repression of the androgen receptor is independent of sumoylation

PIASy, a member of the protein inhibitor of activated STAT (PIAS) family, represses the transcriptional activity of the androgen receptor (AR). In this report, we investigate the mechanism of PIASy-mediated repression of AR. We show that AR binds to the RING-finger like domain of PIASy. PIASy contains two transcriptional repression domains, RD1 and RD2. RD1, but not RD2, is required for PIASy-mediated repression of AR. We show that the RD1 domain binds HDAC1 and HDAC2 and that HDAC activity is required for PIASy-mediated AR repression. PIAS proteins possess small ubiquitin-related modifier (SUMO) E3 ligase activity. Conjugation of SUMO-1 to AR has been implicated in the regulation of AR activity. We examine if the SUMO ligase activity of PIASy is required for PIASy to repress AR. We show that a mutant PIASy, defective in promoting sumoylation, retains the ability to repress AR transcription. In addition, mutation of all the known sumoylation acceptor sites of AR does not affect the transrepression activity of PIASy on AR. Our results suggest that PIASy may repress AR by recruiting histone deacetylases, independent of its SUMO ligase activity.
The effect of three strains of tobacco mosaic virus on peroxidase and polyphenol oxidase activity in Nicotiana tabacum

Abstract Polyphenol oxidase activity, peroxidase activity and virus titer were determined at 2-day intervals for 22 days in tobacco leaf tissue singly infected by three strains of tobacco mosaic virus (TMV). The aucuba and yellow strains induced large diffuse chlorotic lesions on inoculated leaves. Small necrotic areas occasionally developed on young leaves inoculated with the aucuba strain. The green strain did not induce readily distinguishable symptoms on inoculated leaves. Peroxidase and polyphenol oxidase activity increased significantly in leaves infected by the aucuba strain or yellow strain, but not in leaves infected by the green strain.
Information search in the mutual fund market in the U.S. A.

Sequential decision-making principles are introduced which can be applied to mutual fund investing. Specific attention is given to the nature of the mutual fund market and the expected pay-off from a low-cost information search. Empirical results are based on historical returns and information that is readily available in popular press sources. Substantial variation in historical performance was found and the pay-off from a market search was positive and substantial in many cases.
A Unified Strategy to Integrate Information and Methods Across Multiple Training Environments for Assembly Simulations

Training for assembly simulations can be provided using a wide range of technologies from a simple computer-based training (CBT) approach to a complex virtual reality (VR)-based immersive training (IMT) approach. The CBT approach allows user interactions through traditional keyboard and mouse applications, while the IMT approach immerses the user in a virtual environment for a more realistic experience. Typically, for a particular scenario, tools and applications for each of these approaches are developed independently. Consequently, there is much duplication of data and effort, and a lack of synchronization between them. This paper focuses on an integrated approach with support from ontologies to address this problem. Ontologies provide an opportunity to capture and manage common data and map concepts from one application to another in a logical and measured manner. Methods are developed to enable knowledge in these ontologies to be used and shared in a comprehensive and effective manner between CBT and IMT tools. The key contribution of this work is that the ontologies instantiating concepts and properties for the training domain are used effectively among different training tools to deal with common and disparate characteristics between them.
Studies on protein adsorption in a vortex flow reactor

Abstract The performance of a vortex flow reactor (VFR) with suspended particles for protein adsorption was studied under varying operating conditions, and resin volume fractions. The VFR behaved as an expanded bed in the regimen of laminar vortices flow. Streamline DEAE was used for bovine serum albumin (BSA) adsorption. Expanded bed VFR experiments were performed with varying geometric aspect ratios (14.6, 28.6 and 40.0) and axial superficial velocity (100–300 cm h−1) to investigate their influence on productivity and dynamic capacity. The results are compared with literature data on an expanded bed column (EBC). Adsorption breakthrough curves were fitting to a simple two-parameter model.
Nanomechanics of Peeling Studied Using the Atomic Force Microscope

Through adaptation of an atomic force microscope, we have developed a peel test at the micro- and nanoscale level that has the capability of investigating how long flexible nanotubes, nanowires, nanofibers, proteins, and DNA adhere to various substrates. This novel atomic force microscopy (AFM) peeling mode extends existing AFM “pushing” and “pulling” force spectroscopies by offering practical knowledge about the complex interplay of nonlinear flexure, friction, and adhesion when one peels a long flexible molecule or nanostructure off a substrate. The static force peeling spectroscopies of straight multiwalled carbon nanotubes suggest that a significant amount of the total peeling energy is channeled into nanotube flexure. Meanwhile dynamic force spectroscopies offer invaluable information about the dissipative physical processes involved in opening and closing a small “crack” between the nanotube and substrate.
Relationship of genotype and degree of chimerism in coat color to sex ratios and gametogenesis in chimeric mice.

Genotype and the degree of chimerism expressed in the coat color of chimeric (allophenic) mice were found to be related to the frequency of multicolored chimeras, the sex ratio, and the production of gametes. The sex ratios of 310 chimeric mice of various combinations of genotypes were studied. The male: female ratios varied from 1:1 to ratios approaching 3:1. Multicolored chimeras in which one genotype predominated (“unbalanced” genotypes) had normal sex ratios of 1:1 (19 ♂ ♂, 21 ♀ ♀ ) suggesting that sex was determined by the predominating component. Multicolored chimeras in which neither component predominated (“balanced” genotypes) had sex ratios approaching 3:1 (70 ♂ ♂, 31 ♀ ♀ ) suggesting that most sex chimeras (XX ⟷ XY) develop as phenotypic males. Regardless of genotype, solid colored chimeras had normal sex ratios. Only two hermaphrodites (0.65%) were observed. A high incidence of gonadal mosaics which produced progeny with both parental genotypes and a relatively low incidence of possible sex chimeras which produced progeny with only one genotype occurred among multicolored females. A very low incidence of gonadal mosaics and a very high incidence of possible sex chimeras was found among males. These observations would be expected if most sex chimeras developed as phenotypic males.
Evidence for the existence of a narrow anti-p n bound state

A method of search for an $\overline{N}N$ bound state is pointed out and evidence is presented for the existence of a $\overline{p}n$ bound state. It is produced in $\overline{p}d$ annihilations at rest and has been observed decaying into four and six pions. The binding energy is 83.3 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 1.4 MeV and the width \ensuremath{\le}8 MeV at the 95% confidence level.
Cingulate gyrus volume and metabolism in the schizophrenia spectrum.

Abstract Background : The cingulate gyrus, which is involved in affect, attention, memory and higher executive functions, has been implicated as a dysfunctional region in schizophrenia. Postmortem studies report cytoarchitectural changes in the anterior cingulate gyrus (ACG) and functioning imaging studies show correlations between the degree of hypometabolism of the anterior cingulate and clinical symptoms in schizophrenia. Methods : Unmedicated patients with schizophrenia ( n =27) and schizotypal personality disorder (SPD) ( n =13), as well as sex- and age-matched control subjects ( n =32), were studied with 18 F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (PET) scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). As a control over mental activity, all subjects performed a verbal working memory task during the PET protocol. The cingulate gyrus was first outlined on the MRI scans and, after coregistration, the coordinates were applied to the PET scans to yield a three-dimensional metabolic map of the cingulate gyrus for each subject. A statistical resampling method was used to analyze the metabolic differences between groups. Results : Compared with controls, patients with schizophrenia had lower relative glucose metabolic rates in the left anterior cingulate and the right posterior cingulate gyrus (PCG) assessed by 3-D significance probability mapping. SPD patients had higher glucose metabolic rates (GMRs) in the left posterior cingulate than did controls. Furthermore, volumetric measurement with MRI showed the left anterior cingulate and Brodmann area 24′ to be smaller in schizophrenic patients than controls. Conclusions : Compared with controls, patients with schizophrenia have metabolic and volumetric reductions in a cingulate gyrus area that is related to higher executive functions. Schizotypal patients rely more on sensory association areas to perform a cognitive task than do controls and seem to be a group that is partially distinct in its physiological and functional characteristics.
Systematic generation of nonlinear discretized dynamic equilibrium equations of spinning cantilevers

General nonlinear discretized governing equations of motion of spinning elastic solids and structures are adjusted for the case of a spinning cantilever with initial geometric imperfections. Consideration is given to second degree nonlinearities in the strain-displacement and velocity-displacement relationships. Parameters of the discretization are developed to include the type and number of the coordinate functions used in the admissible trial solution in order to unify the discretization approaches associated with stationarity principles. The coordinate functions comprise both sets of continuous and piecewise continuous functions employed in the Rayleigh-Ritz and the finite element methods, respectively. Coefficient matrices are provided which contain the energy density expressions and which are adaptable to computer programming.
Room Temperature Magnetic-Semicondcutors in Modified Iron Titanates: Their Properties and Potential Microelectronic Devices

The phenomenal growths of information technology and related fields have warranted the development of new class of materials. Multifunctional oxides, magnetic-semiconductors, multiferroics and smart materials are just a few examples of such materials. They are needed for the development of novel technologies such as spintronics, magneto-electronics, radhard electronics, and advanced microelectronics. For these technologies, of particular interest are some solid solutions of ilmenite-hematite (IH) represented by (1-x) FeTiO3.xFe2O3 where x varies from 0 to 1; Mn-doped ilmenite (Mn+3-FeTiO3) and Mn-doped pseudobrookite, Mn+3-Fe2TiO5 (PsB). These multifunctional oxides are ferromagnetic with the magnetic Curie points well above the room temperature as well as wide bandgap semiconductors with band gap Eg > 2.5 eV. This paper outlines: (a) processing of device quality samples for structural, electrical and magnetic characterization, (b) fabrication and evaluation of an integrated structure for controlled magnetic switching, and (c) the response of the two terminal non-linear current-voltage (I-V) characteristics when biased by a dc voltage. Subsequently, we will identify a few microelectronic applications based on this class of oxides.
Characterization of biocompatible polyelectrolyte complex multilayer of hyaluronic acid and poly-l-lysine

A biocompatible polyelectrolyte complex multilayer (PECML) film consisting of poly-L-lysine (PLL) as a polycation and hyaluronic acid (HA) as a polyanion was developed to test its use for surface modification to prevent cell attachment and protein drug delivery. The formation of PECML through the electrostatic interaction of HA and PLL was confirmed by contact angle measurement, ESCA analysis, and HA content analysis. HA content increased rapidly up to 8 cycles for HA/PLL deposition and then slightly increased with an increasing number of deposition cycle.In vitro release of PLL in the PECML continued up to 4 days andca. 25% of HA remained on the chitosan-coated cover glass afterin vitro release test for 7 days. From the results, PECML of HA and PLL appeared to be stable for about 4 days. The surface modification of the chitosan-coated cover glass with PECML resulted in drastically reduced peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) attachment. Concerned with its use for protein drug delivery, we confirmed that bovine serum albumin (BSA) as a model protein could be incorporated into the PECML and its release might be triggered by the degradation of HA with hyaluronidase.
Serving English Language Learners in Public School Settings: A National Survey.

Purpose: In 1990, 1,145 public school speech-language pathologists (SLPs) across the United States were surveyed regarding service delivery to English language learner (ELL) students (C. A. Roseber...
Application of a He3Ne infrared laser source for detection of geometrical dimensions of cracks and scratches on finished surfaces of metals

Abstract In this study, the authors addressed a new method of measurement for microscratches and cracks on finished metallic surfaces. The technology proposed here can be used in aviation, automobile, machine-tools, bearings, electrical and thermal devices (detection of electrical and thermal contact resistance), and many other industrial fields where finished surfaces have to be inspected for quality before use. The technology is based on the application of He3Ne laser optics. This measurement method allows for the inspection of geometrical parameters such as depth and width of scratches and cracks and consists of a low-energy He3Ne red laser beam (wavelength 633 nm) with a cross-section of 0.48 mm, beam expander with special designed slit, multi-axis stage with sample holder and CCD (charge-coupled device) visual detection system. Using experimental data, a mathematical algorithm was created in order to calculate the depths and widths of the scratches and cracks where the method of center of gravity (centroid) of the imaged area was used. The results showed a good correlation between the experimental and calculated values of the dimensions of the scratches. Future work will deal with the determination of the geometrical dimensions of microcracks.
Isolation and physical characterization of random insertions in Staphylococcal nuclease.

Using genetic engineering techniques we generated randomly located internal tandem duplications of random size within Staphylococcal nuclease. Those insertions, possessing greater than 0.1% of normal activity, were sequenced and characterized physically. Insertions were found to begin and end in regions possessing secondary structure as well as in regions without secondary structure. All proteins remained folded and monomeric, although one mutant appeared, by both circular dichroism and size exclusion chromatography, to be partially unfolded. The stability of the insertions as assayed by guanidine hydrochloride denaturation ranged from nearly normal to destabilized by almost 4 kcal per mol. The activities of the insertion mutants ranged from 1/30 to 1/2000 of the parental nuclease.
Internal organization of the zymogen granule: formation of reticular structures in vitro.

Previous studies on the chemical and physical properties of isolated zymogen granules have shown that their contents, including some 10 to 20 different digestive enzymes, exist as an ordered solid-state array. In the present ultrastructural study, we have looked for related morphologic organization by examining (1) zymogen granules partially or fully depleted of their contents as a result of dilution in large suspension volumes; (2) previously released granule contents reaggregated with granule membrane; and (3) granules suspended in a detergent. In all of these circumstances, a reticular meshwork was observed that was comprised of electron-dense strands of variable thickness. In granular form, the reticulum outlines spherical and polygonal spaces and is attached at discrete points to the internal surface of the granule membrane. In reaggregated material, the strands form an open reticulum attached to membrane fragments. As a result of dilution, reticulated granules were observed ranging from almost filled to virtually empty (frequently containing a residual filamentous reticulum). The reticular spaces produced in granules by increasing the suspension volume were formed throughout the granule and not simply from the surface inward. The maintenance of the reticular structure did not appear to depend upon either enclosure by the granule membrane or the presence of intragranular hydrophobic bonding since Triton X treatment left a membraneless, electron-dense, reticulated structure. Reticular structures similar to those reported here have been observed by others in zymogen granules in situ.
Synthesis, crystal structure and properties of novel isostructural two-dimensional lanthanide-based coordination polymers with 2,3,5,6-tetrafluoro-1,4-benzenedicarboxylic acid

Abstract Five new isostructural two-dimensional lanthanide-based coordination polymers with the formula Ln 2 (F 4 BDC) 3 (DEF) 2 (EtOH) 2 -2(DEF) (Ln = Tb, 1 ; Gd, 2 ; Eu, 3 ; La, 4 ; Nd, 5 ; F 4 BDC 2− = 2,3,5,6-tetrafluoro-1,4-benzenedicarboxylate ligands; DEF = N,N′-diethylformamide), have been synthesized by reaction of Ln(NO 3 ) 3 and F 4 BDC in a DEF/EtOH solvent mixture. The compounds were characterized by single-crystal and powder X-ray diffraction. In all cases, the metal ion is coordinated by nine oxygen atoms from two bidentate μ 2 -F 4 BDC 2− ligands, two bridging μ 2 -F 4 BDC 2− ligands, one μ 3 -F 4 BDC 2− ligand, one DEF molecule and one EtOH molecule forming a tri-capped trigonal prism. The Ln(1) metal ion is linked to an adjacent Ln(1) metal ion through the oxygen atoms of two bridging μ 2 -F 4 BDC 2− ligands and two μ 3 -F 4 BDC 2− bridging ligands to form a Ln 2 O 18 dimer. The Ln 2 O 18 polyhedra building units are linked to each other through four F 4 BDC 2− ligands to form 2D sheets that are held together by hydrogen bonding to form a 3D framework. Compounds 1–5 were further characterized using thermogravimetric analysis and infrared spectroscopy. Studies of the photoluminescence properties of compounds 1 and 3 , as well as the catalytic activity of compounds 3 – 5 in the Biginelli reaction, are presented.
Hardness as a basis of fruit choice in two sympatric primates

Fruit color and size are significant determinants of food choice in mammals and birds, but hardness, an important physical property of fruit and seeds, has generally been overlooked as a determinant of food choice in studies of mammalian foraging behavior. Two methods were used to determine fruit hardness during a field study of two sympatric primates, the black spider monkey (Ateles paniscus) and the bearded saki monkey (Chiropotes satanas) in Surinam. We measured both puncture resistance of fruit pericarp and crushing resistance of seeds. Puncture resistance of the pericarp of some fruit opened by Chiropotes was as much as 15 times greater than that of all fruit successfully opened by Ateles. In contrast, crushing resistance of species of seeds masticated by Chiropotes was significantly lower than that of seeds swallowed by Ateles. These data demonstrate that hardness of both fruit pericarp and seed may play a significant role in food choice among sympatric vertebrates. Measurements of both puncture resistance of the pericarp and crushing resistance of the seed are necessary for understanding the significance of fruit hardness in these primates.
Synergistic effects of ethanol and cocaine on brain stimulation reward

The effects of two widely abused drugs, ethanol and cocaine, were examined alone and in combination on intracranial reward processes. In agreement with previous research, higher doses of both cocaine and ethanol alone produced facilitation of behavior maintained by brain stimulation reward. Low intraperitoneal doses of ethanol and cocaine, which alone did not affect performance, were found to reduce stimulation reward threshold and modestly increase response rate. The enhancement of brain stimulation reward by the combination of ethanol and cocaine suggests that both drugs may produce their rewarding effects through common neuronal substrates and that they may potentiate the abuse of each other.
Comparison of Rigid and Flexible Simple Point Charge Water Models at Supercritical Conditions

This study investigates the differences between the predictions of various properties of rigid and flexible simple point charge water models at supercritical conditions. Molecular dynamics simulations were conducted for supercritical water in a temperature range of 773-1073 K and densities in the range 115-659 kg/m3. We present thermodynamic data, pair correlation functions, selfdiffusivity, power spectra, dielectric constants, and variaous measures of hydrogen bonding at different state conditions. The flexible water model performs better in predicting the pressures along the supercritical isotherms simulated. Agreement between experimental and calculated dielectric constants is superior for the flexible water model, particularly at high densities. The flexible model exhibits a greater degree of hydrogen bonding and more persistent hydrogen bonds than does the rigid model. The structural features of supercritical water at high densities are identical for the two water models. At low densities, however, the flexible potential exhibits pair correlation functions with enhanced peaks. Inclusion of flexibility in the potential model does not result in a significant shift in the position of the rotational/librational peak in the power spectrum. The self-diffusivities obtained from the simulations are within the accuracy of the experimental values for both the rigid and flexible models. On balance the inclusion of flexibility improves agreement with the properties of real supercritical water while incurring little or no additional
Alloy Effects on the Gas Nitriding Process

Alloy elements, such as Al, Cr, V, and Mo, have been used to improve the nitriding performance of steels. In the present work, plain carbon steel AISI 1045 and alloy steel AISI 4140 were selected to compare the nitriding effects of the alloying elements in AISI 4140. Fundamental analysis is carried out by using the “Lehrer-like” diagrams (alloy specific Lehrer diagram and nitriding potential versus nitrogen concentration diagram) and the compound layer growth model to simulate the gas nitriding process. With this method, the fundamental understanding for the alloy effect based on the thermodynamics and kinetics becomes possible. This new method paves the way for the development of new alloy for nitriding.
Purification and characterization of the Schizosaccharomyces pombe origin recognition complex: interaction with origin DNA and Cdc18 protein.

The origin recognition complex (ORC) plays a central role in the initiation of DNA replication in eukaryotic cells. It interacts with origins of DNA replication in chromosomal DNA and recruits additional replication proteins to form functional initiation complexes. These processes have not been well characterized at the biochemical level except in the case of Saccharomyces cerevisiae ORC. We report here the expression, purification, and initial characterization of Schizosaccharomyces pombeORC (SpORC) containing six recombinant subunits. Purified SpORC binds efficiently to the ars1 origin of DNA replication via the essential Nterminal domain of the SpOrc4 subunit which contains nine AT-hook motifs. Competition binding experiments demonstrated that SpORC binds preferentially to DNA molecules rich in AT-tracts, but does not otherwise exhibit a high degree of sequence specificity. The complex is capable of binding to multiple sites within the ars1 origin of DNA replication with similar affinities, indicating that the sequence requirements for origin recognition in S. pombe are significantly less stringent than in S. cerevisiae. We have also demonstrated that SpORC interacts directly with Cdc18p, an essential fission yeast initiation protein, and recruits it to the ars1 origin in vitro. Recruitment of Cdc18p to chromosomal origins is a likely early step in the initiation of DNA replication in vivo. These data indicate that the purified recombinant SpORC retains at least two of its primary biological functions and that it will be useful for the eventual reconstitution of the initiation reaction with purified proteins.
Effect of admixtures in concrete on the corrosion resistance of steel reinforced concrete

Abstract The effect of admixtures, namely silica fume, latex, methylcellulose and short carbon fibers (in various combinations), in concrete on the corrosion resistance of steel reinforced concrete was assessed by measuring the corrosion potential and corrosion current density during immersion in Ca(OH) 2 and NaCl solutions. Silica fume (15% by weight of cement) was most effective for improving the corrosion resistance, due to decrease of water absorptivity, and not so much due to increase in electrical resistivity. Latex (20% by weight of cement) improved the corrosion resistance because it decreased the water absorptivity and increased the electrical resistivity. Methylcellulose (0.4% by weight of cement) improved corrosion resistance only slightly. Carbon fibers (0.5% by weight of cement) decreased the corrosion resistance due to decrease in electrical resistivity. However, the negative effect could be compensated by adding either silica fume or latex, which reduced the water absorptivity.
Biochemical Changes Occurring During Aging of Poultry and Their Significance in Post-mortem Tenderization ☆

Abstract Tests made to study protein changes related to post-mortem tenderization of meat, using 3 to 12 month old chickens aged at 0°C under aseptic conditions showed that buffer extractable nitrogen decreased rapidly during the onset of rigor, and then increased gradually to a maximum value during post-rigor aging. Changes in extractable nitrogen occurred mainly as a result of changes in the extractability of actomyosin. The amino acid and peptide content of the meat increased slightly but continuously during post rigor aging. The water-holding capacity of stromamyofibrillar proteins isolated as a single fraction was substantially less during rigor than post rigor. Differences in the rate of post-mortem tenderization between breast and leg muscle, as well as between birds of different ages, appear to be related to differences in stroma protein content of muscle. Specific proteolysis seems to weaken or break the bonds which are formed between actin and the matrix of the muscle during the onset of rigor, causing an increase in the extractability of actomyosin and water-holding capacity of the myofibrillar proteins.
Hydrogen atom transfer reactions of C2-, C4-, and C6-: bond dissociation energies of linear H-C2n- and H-C2n (n = 1, 2, 3).

The reactions of C2-, C4-, and C6- with D2O and ND3 and of C4- with CH3OH, CH4, and C2H6 have been investigated using guided ion beam tandem mass spectrometry. Hydrogen (or deuterium) atom transfer is the major product channel for each of the reactions. The reaction threshold energies for collisional activation are reported. Several of the reactions exhibit threshold energies in excess of the reaction endothermicity. Potential energy calculations using density functional theory show energy barriers for some of the reactions. Dynamic restrictions related to multiple wells along the reaction path may also contribute to elevated threshold energies. The results indicate that the reactions with D2O have the smallest excess threshold energies, which may therefore be used to derive lower limits on the C−H bond dissociation energies of the C2nH- and C2nH (n = 1−3) linear species. The experimental lower limits for the bond dissociation energies of the neutral radicals to linear products are D0(C2−H) ≥ 460 ± 15 kJ/...
Prevalence of erectile disorder among men with diabetes mellitus: Comprehensive review, methodological critique, and suggestions for future research

We provide a comprehensive review of the empirical literature regarding the prevalence of erectile disorder among men with diabetes mellitus. Estimates have varied from 7–85%, depending on sample c...
The Perceived Fairness of the Human Organ Allocation Process in the United States

ABSTRACT In 1998, there were over 60,000 patients on transplant lists awaiting a donated organ. In the United States a disproportionately higher need for organs, primarily kidneys, exists among members of the African-American community; but there is also a disproportionately lower presence on transplant lists and on donor roles of this same group. This paper presents the results of an empirical study of 354 consumers to determine if there are disparate perceptions in attitude toward donation and in the perceived fairness of the organ allocation process. Two multi-item scales are used in the study: DONATT (attitude toward organ donation and transplantation) and FAIRNESS (perceived fairness in the allocation system). The findings of this study indicate that there is disparity between blacks and whites in both the attitude toward donation and the perceived fairness of the allocation process. Specifically, whites have a more favorable attitude than blacks toward organ donation and transplantation. Whites also...
Could Risk Assessment for Non-albicans Candida Improve Empiric Treatment for Invasive Candidiasis?

The changing epidemiology of invasive candidiasis, along with concerns for the emergence of drug resistance, necessitates the identification of patients at increased risk of non-albicans Candida (NAC) to optimize selection of antifungal therapy. The major findings of a study regarding the demographic characteristics, costs, and outcomes of nonneutropenic patients with candidemia due to NAC are discussed. Given available treatment options, such risk assessment is most relevant to initial empiric therapy in stable patients without neutropenia who might be candidates for initial therapy with an azole (eg, fluconazole). The study's investigators reinforce the need for timely antifungal therapy for patients with candidemia.
Analysis of students' self-efficacy, interest, and effort beliefs in general chemistry

Research in academic motivation has highlighted a number of salient constructs that are predictive of positive learning strategies and academic success. Most of this research has centered on college-level social sciences or secondary school student populations. The main purpose of this study was to adapt existing measures of personal interest and effort beliefs to a college chemistry context. In addition, a chemistry-specific measure of self-efficacy was evaluated in a modified form. This set of scales was initially administered at two time points in a first-semester general chemistry course to a sample of undergraduates (n1 = 373, n2 = 294). Confirmatory factor analyses (CFA) were conducted to determine whether the scales were functional in a chemistry context. Following revision of the scales, all CFA models demonstrated acceptable fit to the data. Cross-validation of the revised scales was performed using two different populations (n = 432, n = 728), with both studies producing similar model fits. Furthermore, our data shows that chemistry majors reported higher self-efficacy and interest than non-science majors. Cronbach's alpha estimates ranged from 0.75 to 0.92 for the revised scales across all studies. This set of scales could provide useful tools for assessing general chemistry students' motivation and the motivational impacts of various teaching practices.
Evaluation of the stereoisomers of deprenyl for amphetamine-like discriminative stimulus effects in rats.

The antiparkinsonian agent l-deprenyl, a selective monoamine oxidase (MAO)-B inhibitor, is a phenylalkylamine derivative which is metabolized in part to l-methamphetamine and l-amphetamine. As the clinical use of amphetamine-like psychostimulants is limited by their potential for abuse, we evaluated l-deprenyl for amphetamine-like discriminative stimulus effects over a range of experimental conditions. Male Fisher rats were trained under a 5-response, fixed-ratio schedule of stimulus-shock termination or a 10-response, fixed-ratio schedule of food-presentation to discriminate between d-amphetamine (1.0 mg/kg i.p.) and saline in a two-lever, operant conditioning procedure. Full generalization was obtained to l-amphetamine (1.0-2.0 mg/kg), d-deprenyl (10.0-17.0 mg/kg) and l-deprenyl (17.0 and 30.0 mg/kg) under both the food-presentation and stimulus-shock termination schedules, and increases in responding on the lever appropriate to d-amphetamine were dose-dependent. The dose-effect functions for l-amphetamine, l-deprenyl and d-deprenyl were shifted slightly to the left under the stimulus-shock termination schedule compared to the food-presentation schedule. When l-deprenyl (3.0 or 5.6 mg/kg i.p.) was given 30 min before d-amphetamine it produced a small shift to the left in the dose-effect function for d-amphetamine under the food-presentation schedule. l-Deprenyl produced clear generalization to the d-amphetamine stimulus only at very high doses of 17.0 to 30.0 mg/kg, doses about 10-fold higher than those that have a selective action on MAO-B vs. MAO-A and which start to have marked rate decreasing actions on food-reinforced responding.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Developing sustainable agricultural systems for small farmers in Latin America

The great majority of farmers in Latin America are peasants who still farm small plots of land, usually in marginal environments utilizing traditional and subsistence methods. The contribution of the 16 million peasant units to regional food security is however substantial. Research has shown that peasant systems, which mostly rely on local resources and complex cropping patterns, are reasonably productive despite their small land endowments and low use of external inputs. Moreover analysis of NGO-led agroecological initiatives show that traditional crop and animal systems can be adapted to increase productivity by biologically re-structuring peasant farms which in turn leads to optimization of key agroecosystem processes (nutrient cycling, organic matter accumulation, biological pest regulation, etc.) and efficient use of labour and local resources. Examples of such grassroots projects are herein described to show that agroecological approaches can offer opportunities to substantially increase food production while preserving the natural resource base and empowering rural communities.
A macaque model of HIV-1 infection

The lack of a primate model that utilizes HIV-1 as the challenge virus is an impediment to AIDS research; existing models generally employ simian viruses that are divergent from HIV-1, reducing their usefulness in preclinical investigations. Based on an understanding of species-specific variation in primate TRIM5 and APOBEC3 antiretroviral genes, we constructed simian-tropic (st)HIV-1 strains that differ from HIV-1 only in the vif gene. We demonstrate that such minimally modified stHIV-1 strains are capable of high levels of replication in vitro in pig-tailed macaque (Macaca nemestrina) lymphocytes. Importantly, infection of pig-tailed macaques with stHIV-1 results in acute viremia, approaching the levels observed in HIV-1-infected humans, and an ensuing persistent infection for several months. stHIV-1 replication was controlled thereafter, at least in part, by CD8+ T cells. We demonstrate the potential utility of this HIV-1-based animal model in a chemoprophylaxis experiment, by showing that a commonly used HIV-1 therapeutic regimen can provide apparently sterilizing protection from infection following a rigorous high-dose stHIV-1 challenge.
Classroom Interaction and Discourse Options.

This article takes a social-theoretical view of the reality created by a foreign language in the classroom. It examines the interaction of teacher and learners in their various activities along a continuum that extends from instructional to natural discourse and is determined by the way participants present themselves to one another and negotiate turns-at-talk, topics, and repairs. Suggestions are made for broadening and diversifying the discourse options in the classroom to enrich the social context of the language learning experience.
Volumetric-modulated arc radiotherapy for pancreatic malignancies: dosimetric comparison with sliding-window intensity-modulated radiotherapy and 3-dimensional conformal radiotherapy.

Volumetric-modulated arc radiotherapy (VMAT) is an iteration of intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), both of which deliver highly conformal dose distributions. Studies have shown the superiority of VMAT and IMRT in comparison with 3-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3D-CRT) in planning target volume (PTV) coverage and organs-at-risk (OARs) sparing. This is the first study examining the benefits of VMAT in pancreatic cancer for doses more than 55.8 Gy. A planning study comparing 3D-CRT, IMRT, and VMAT was performed in 20 patients with pancreatic cancer. Treatments were planned for a 25fraction delivery of 45 Gy to a large field followed by a reduced-volume 8-fraction external beam boost to 59.4 Gy in total. OARs and PTV doses, conformality index (CI) deviations from 1.0, monitor units (MUs) delivered, and isodose volumes were compared. IMRT and VMAT CI deviations from 1.0 for the large-field and the boost plans were equivalent (large field: 0.032 and 0.046, respectively; boost: 0.042 and 0.037, respectively; p 4 0.05 for all comparisons). Both IMRT and VMAT CI deviations from 1.0 were statistically superior to 3D-CRT (large field: 0.217, boost: 0.177; p o 0.05 for all comparisons). VMAT showed reduction of the mean dose to the boost PTV (VMAT: 61.4 Gy, IMRT: 62.4 Gy, and 3D-CRT: 62.3 Gy; p o 0.05). The mean number of MUs per fraction was significantly lower for VMAT for both the large-field and the boost plans. VMAT delivery time was less than 3 minutes compared with 8 minutes for IMRT. Although no statistically significant dose reduction to the OARs was identified when comparing VMAT with IMRT, VMAT showed a reduction in the volumes of the 100% isodose line for the large-field plans. Dose escalation to 59.4 Gy in pancreatic cancer is dosimetrically feasible with shorter treatment times, fewer MUs delivered, and comparable CIs for VMAT when compared with IMRT. & 2014 American Association of Medical Dosimetrists.
Diffusion and Spatial Correlations in Suspensions of Swimming Particles

Populations of swimming micro-organisms produce fluid motions that lead to dramatically enhanced diffusion of tracer particles. Using simulations of suspensions of swimming particles in a periodic domain, we capture this effect and show that it depends qualitatively on the mode of swimming: swimmers "pushed" from behind by their flagella show greater enhancement than swimmers that are "pulled" from the front. The difference is manifested by an increase, that only occurs for pushers, of the diffusivity of passive tracers and the velocity correlation length with the size of the periodic domain. A physical argument supported by a mean field theory sheds light on the origin of these effects.