cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Blends and interpenetrating networks of phenolic resins and polyamides

Blends and interpenetrating networks of phenolic resins and polyamides were prepared. Control of miscibility was achieved by modifying nylon 6I through copolymerization and N-alkylation. The phenolic resin was also modified by partial conversion of the hydroxy groups to cinnamyloxy groups. The phase behaviors of these blends and semi-IPNs were investigated.
Formation Planning and Control of UGVs with Trailers

This paper provides a framework for planning and control of formations of multiple unmanned ground vehicles with trailers to traverse between goal points in an idealized, disturbance-free environment. This framework allows on-line planning of the formations using the A* search algorithm based on current sensor data. The formation is allowed to dynamically change in order to avoid obstacles in the environment while minimizing a cost function aimed at obtaining collision-free and deadlock-free paths. Based on a feasible path for a leader of the group and the differential flatness property of a truck-tractor-trailer system, the trajectory planner satisfies the kinematic constraints of the individual vehicles while accounting for inter-vehicle collisions and path constraints. Also, optimization techniques are used to on-line change the path of the truck-tractor-trailer system. Illustrative simulations with simplified models of John Deere vehicles with trailers in formations are presented. Laboratory experiments are also performed on a 2-wheel differential drive mobile vehicle attached with a trailer cart on a flat, smooth floor using overhead cameras for precise references. The concluding section of the paper discusses some of the additional work needed to make the results applicable in a real-world environment.
Cellulose derivatives and intestinal absorption of water and electrolytes: potential role in oral rehydration solutions

The physicochemical and structural characteristics of several types of carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) and of methylcellulose (MC) were examined in relation to their capacity to modify water and sodium absorption in oral rehydration solutions (ORS) at various concentrations, using a jejunal perfusion procedure in rats. Comparison of intrinsic low-viscosity CMC of various degrees of substitution (DS) revealed that net water absorption increased as the DS was augmented. A stimulatory effect on sodium absorption occurred only at a low (2.5 g/l) CMC concentration. With products of medium DS, stimulation of net water and sodium absorption was observed only with low-viscosity CMC at 2.5 g/l, but not at 5.0 g/l. In perfusions with CMC of medium and high DS there was a reduction of water and sodium absorption, ultimately resulting in net sodium secretion with 5.0 g/l high-DS CMC. MC perfused at 5.0 or 10.0 g/l reduced net water absorption and reversed sodium transport from absorptive to secretory status. These results show that while low-viscosity-grade, low-DS CMC in low concentrations may facilitate solute uptake and concurrent water absorption from ORS by the jejunum, high intrinsic viscosity and possible chemical interaction of solutes with the modified celluloses tend to block water uptake and produce fluid stasis and electrolyte secretion. Thus, the data suggest that only certain types of CMC may be proabsorptive when added to ORS, while high-viscosity and high-DS CMC or MC induce electrolyte malabsorption and eventual catharsis.
Rethinking Flexibility: The Case of the Apparel Industry

This paper analyzes new forms of flexibility in the US apparel industry and the consequences of this flexibility for labor market segmentation. Post-Fordist flexible work organization takes place only in those enterprises that occupy privileged positions in newly established hierarchical networks of firms. Subcontracting work to smaller firms results in labor segmentation between rather than within firms. Dominant firms in hierarchical networks gain production efficiencies similar to that attained by a fixed hierarchy within Fordist type enterprises. For most apparel workers, the new production system could best be described as neo-Fordist, since it appears to be predicated on routinization and work intensification.
Chemistry of isoindolines. The synthesis of 1,2,3,5,6,7‐Hexahydrobenzo[1,2‐c: 4,5‐c′]dipyrrole and 1,2,3,4,5,6‐Hexahydrobenzo[1,2‐c: 3,4‐c′]dipyrrole

The preparation and properties of 1,2,3,5,6,7-hexahydrobenzo[1,2-c: 4,5-c′]dipyrrole (I) and its isomer, 1,2,3,4,5,6-hexahydrobenzo[1,2-c:3,4-c′]dipyrrole (II), are described. Contrary to the claims of earlier investigators, compound I and its 2,6-diacetyl and 2,6-dicarboxarnide derivatives VI and IX are easily preparable, readily isolable, stable substances.
Minimizing the quantum-confinement effects on nonlinear optical properties of quantum wires

Quantum-confined systems, such as quantum wires, have attracted attention because their nonlinear optical (NLO) properties are enhanced due to confinement effects. In the present work, we have developed a method to study what other factors may affect the NLO properties of such systems. For this purpose, we develop a model system that eliminates confinement effect contributions to the NLO properties. We test the validity of our model by verifying that the sum rules, which are a direct consequence of quantum mechanics, are obeyed. This allows us to focus on how the NLO response of a quantum wire depends on parameters such as the geometry and topology of quantum loops, which are built from networks of quantum wires.
Kinematic analysis of multiple constraints on a pointing task

The current experiment suggests that the speed/accuracy tradeoff is composed of two classes of constraints, effector and task. We examined the effects of movement distance, target size, orientation of the movement in the workspace, and C-D gain on the kinematics of discrete pointing movements made with computer mouse. It was found that target size influenced the shape of velocity profiles by elongating the duration of the corrective sub-movement phase, while movement distance scaled the entire velocity curve without affecting its shape. C-D gain and orientation of the movement exhibited two kinds of effects: an overall scaling of the velocity curve and a change in its shape. We conclude that target size is a task constraint and movement distance is an effector constraint, while movement orientation exhibited characteristics of both. C-D gain by itself was not a constraint, but interacted with both task and effector constrains. These results highlight the roles of biomechanical and information processing factors in the speed/accuracy tradeoff.
Hydrothermal time analysis of seed dormancy in true (botanical) potato seeds

As seed dormancy is released within a seed population, both the rate and percentage of germination increase progressively with increasing dose of a dormancy-breaking treatment or condition. Population-based models can account for this behaviour on the basis of shifting response thresholds as dormancy is alleviated. In particular, hydrothermal time analysis of germination sensitivity to water potential (Ψ) and temperature (T) can describe these features of seed behaviour. We used the hydrothermal time model to analyse the effects of dormancy-breaking treatments on germination of dormant true (botanical) potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) seeds (TPS). After-ripening (37°C and 4% seed moisture content) of TPS for 7 or 30 days partially or fully alleviated primary dormancy. The median base water potential required to prevent germination [Ψb(50)] decreased from –0.25 MPa in control seeds to –0.87 MPa and –1.83 MPa after 7 and 30 days of after-ripening, respectively. In contrast, the base temperature for germination (Tb) was relatively unaffected (0–3.3°C). Fluridone (50 μM), an inhibitor of abscisic acid (ABA) biosynthesis, also promoted germination of dormant TPS and lowered Ψb(50), indicating a role for de novo synthesis of ABA during dormancy maintenance. Moist chilling (3 days at 4°C) or gibberellin (100 μM) alleviated secondary dormancy and lowered Ψb(50) values from –0.08 MPa to –0.36 and –0.87 MPa, respectively. The hydrothermal time model allows quantification of dormancy levels and explains why changes in germination speed and percentage are closely correlated during dormancy alleviation.
Upconversion and excited-state absorption in the lower levels of Er:KPb2Cl5

Abstract Polarized excited-state absorption spectra for the 4 I 13/2 → 4 I 9/2 transition in Er:KPb 2 Cl 5 were determined from the measured 4 I 9/2 → 4 I 13/2 emission spectra using the reciprocity relation of [D.E. McCumber, Phys. Rev. 136 (1964) A954]. From these spectra, the microparameters for energy transfer were found to be C DA = 2.6 × 10 −42 cm 6 /s for ( 4 I 13/2 , 4 I 13/2 ) → ( 4 I 15/2 , 4 I 9/2 ) and C DD = 6.9 × 10 −39 cm 6 /s for ( 4 I 13/2 , 4 I 15/2 ) → ( 4 I 15/2 , 4 I 13/2 ). The macroscopic upconversion coefficient was measured by comparing fluorescence intensities from the 4 I 13/2 and 4 I 9/2 levels, and found to be C up = (2.6 ± 0.4) × 10 −20 cm 3 /s, in good agreement with the value calculated from the microparameters C DA and C DD . Energy transfer upconversion between two ions in the 4 I 13/2 level is orders of magnitude weaker than in other typical hosts, and this is predicted to lead to dramatically reduced heat loading in a resonantly pumped 1.5 μm Er laser.
Metabolic correlates of myocardial stunning and the effect of cardiopulmonary bypass.

In order to study the metabolic consequences of myocardial stunning, repeated coronary occlusions were performed in dogs. The production of CO2, adenosine triphosphate (ATP), phosphocreatine (PCr), and inorganic phosphate (Pi) by myocardial cells was assessed, along with extracellular and intracellular pH. Our results indicate that regional coronary artery occlusion reduces the ability of the myocardium to produce H+ and CO2 and to replenish ATP post ischemia. These alterations, then, represent the hallmark of metabolic viability during periods of ischemic insult. Decreases in PCr and Pi were completely eliminated during reperfusion and, therefore, are not reflective of myocardial stunning. When normothermic cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) is instituted and the coronary artery is occluded three times with reperfusion between each occlusion, alterations in myocardial H+ and high energy phosphates are identical to those observed using only repetitive coronary occlusion. Systemic hypothermia during CPB does not protect against myocardial stunning; however, it is anticipated that interventions that prevent the reduction in H+ and ATP levels may overcome the effects of myocardial stunning that occur during cardiac surgery.
The big lift: Federal policy efforts to create Child Development Accounts

Abstract Children's accounts have been proposed as a means for creating an inclusive and accessible system for asset building throughout the life course. The idea gained traction in multiple settings, leading to a series of policies and demonstration projects across the globe. In the United Kingdom, the policy was adopted in the form of the Child Trust Fund program which began in 2005. A privately-funded project called the SEED Demonstration was launched in the United States in 2003. During this period a number of different children's savings account policy proposals have been made at the federal level in the United States. The details of these proposals differ but as a group reflect the recognition by select policymakers of the promise of this intervention. In particular, it has the potential to seed the savings process, facilitate financial education, increase economic opportunity, promote social development, and begin a lifelong process of asset accumulation. The introduction and evolution of this policy idea over the past five years has been instructive. It has indicated the types of policy design choices that will have to be addressed if this policy is to be implemented on a large-scale. The big lift will not just be getting this idea further into policy discussions, but will entail the consideration of a wide range of complex implementation issues including how the system would be funded and administered. This paper describes, the policy development process to date, analyzes the policy design choices and tradeoffs, reviews policy insights from demonstration projects, and assesses how the shifting political landscape may influence future policy deliberations and create implementation opportunities in the U.S.
Secular Trend in Extreme Rainfalls

Abstract Increasing attention has recently been given to many facets of climate change. This study focuses on a possible trend in extreme rainfalls in the past two decades based on the records of 135 National Weather Service stations in the eastern United States. The standard used to compare the recent data is Weather Bureau Technical Paper No. 40. The two frequencies examined are the 2- and 100-year 24 h return periods. No trend is discernible.
A theoretical model for the tunneling-gap anisotropy observed in layered copper-oxide high-temperature superconductors

Abstract A two-band model, in which the pair constituents in one band are linked via double intermediate boson (IB) exchange with a third fermion in the other band, is invoked to understand the tunneling-gap anisotropy observed in Bi 2 Sr 2 CaCu 2 O 8 single crystals. The coordinates of the two IBs and of the third fermion are integrated out, leading to effective pair correlations. The theory is presently in agreement with the data and subject to further experimental test via more precise measurements. Within the model, present data imply that the IB cut-off ω > 0.3 eV. The observed broad i.r. excitation centered at ≈ 3000 cm −1 is taken as a candidate for the (possibly composite) IB. Experimental implications are discussed in a general context.
Which Came First? Toxic Facilities, Minority Move-In, and Environmental Justice

Previous research suggests that minority residential areas have a disproportionate likelihood of hosting various environmental hazards. Some critics have responded that the contemporary correlation of race and hazards may reflect post-siting minority move-in, perhaps because of a risk effect on housing costs, rather than discrimination in siting. This article examines the disproportionate siting and minority move-in hypotheses in Los Angeles County by reconciling tract geography and data over three decades with firm-level information on the initial siting dates for toxic storage and disposal facilities. Using simple t-tests, logit analysis, and a novel simultaneous model, we find that disproportionate siting matters more than disproportionate minority move-in in the sample area. Racial transition is also an important predictor of siting, suggesting a role for multiracial organizing in resisting new facilities.
Past trends and future scenarios for environmental conditions favoring the accumulation of paralytic shellfish toxins in Puget Sound shellfish

Abstract The risk of harmful algal blooms (HABs) of the dinoflagellate Alexandrium catenella in Puget Sound, Washington State, can be assessed by identifying and predicting climate and environmental conditions that are favorable for bloom development and the accumulation of paralytic shellfish toxins (PSTs) in shellfish. When these favorable conditions occur in combination, a harmful algal bloom window of opportunity (HAB-WOO) exists for A. catenella . The original HAB-WOO was identified by Moore et al. (2009) for the time period 1993–2007. In general, it showed that warm air and water temperatures, low streamflow, low winds, and small tidal variability precede PST events. Here, we use the HAB-WOO model to examine (i) changes in the annual HAB-WOO duration over the period from 1967 to 2006, and (ii) the potential effect of future climate change on HAB risk through the late 21st century. The annual HAB-WOO duration increased between 1978 and 2006, as did the frequency and geographic extent of PST events. Two step-like changes occurred in 1978 and 1992 with higher annual values attained by the HAB-WOO compared to previous years. The 1978 step change may be related to the 1977 reversal of the Pacific Decadal Oscillation from cool to warm phase. Climate change projections from global climate models and regionally downscaled climate models for the Pacific Northwest are used to evaluate scenarios for the future HAB-WOO. Under a moderate greenhouse gas emissions scenario (i.e., A1B), the annual HAB-WOO for A. catenella in Puget Sound is projected to increase by an average of 13 days by the end of the 21st century. Furthermore, the annual HAB-WOO may begin up to 2 months earlier in the year and persist for up to 1 month later in the year compared to the present day. This research provides managers, health authorities, and shellfish growers in Washington State with critical information for anticipating climate impacts on toxic HABs in the Pacific Northwest now and in a future warmer climate.
Targeted modulation of reactive oxygen species in the vascular endothelium

'Endothelial cells lining vascular luminal surface represent an important site of signaling and injurious effects of reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced by other cells and endothelium itself in ischemia, inflammation and other pathological conditions. Targeted delivery of ROS modulating enzymes conjugated with antibodies to endothelial surface molecules (vascular immunotargeting) provides site-specific interventions in the endothelial ROS, unattainable by other formulations including PEG-modified enzymes. Targeting of ROS generating enzymes (e.g., glucose oxidase) provides ROS- and site-specific models of endothelial oxidative stress, whereas targeting of antioxidant enzymes SOD and catalase offers site-specific quenching of superoxide anion and H(2)O(2). These targeted antioxidant interventions help to clarify specific role of endothelial ROS in vascular and pulmonary pathologies and provide basis for design of targeted therapeutics for treatment of these pathologies. In particular, antibody/catalase conjugates alleviate acute lung ischemia/reperfusion injury, whereas antibody/SOD conjugates inhibit ROS-mediated vasoconstriction and inflammatory endothelial signaling. Encapsulation in protease-resistant, ROS-permeable carriers targeted to endothelium prolongs protective effects of antioxidant enzymes, further diversifying the means for targeted modulation of endothelial ROS.
A high-resolution integrated hydrology-hydrodynamic model of the Barataria Basin system

An attempt was made to build a model that can simulate salinity variations in Barataria Basin, and can ultimately be used for managing day-to-day operation of freshwater diversion aimed to rebuild coastal wetland in the surrounding area near the Mississippi River delta. A high-resolution (O (100m)) integrated hydrology-hydrodynamic model of the Barataria Basin has been developed to simulate the local hydrological cycle over the surrounding drainage basin and hydrodynamics within the basin. A hydrological model of local runoff from the surrounding drainage basin is coupled to a two-dimensional depth-integrated hydrodynamic model of the basin. The integrated model is forced by observed tides coming from the Gulf of Mexico, local wind, rainfall and evaporation over the model domain. The model can be used to simulate salinity changes in response to a variety of climactic conditions including drought and flood. For management purposes, the integrated model can be useful in simulating salinity alterations associated with the introduction of freshwater diversions.
Impact of the “physician factor” on pregnancy rates in a large assisted reproductive technology program: do too many cooks spoil the broth?

Abstract Objective: To determine whether in one program with unified treatment protocols, patients can expect varying treatment outcomes with different physicians. Design: Retrospective data analysis. Setting: University-affiliated infertility center with 14 physicians. Patient(s): One thousand eight hundred fifty IVF cycles performed consecutively between August 1995 and June 1997. Intervention(s): The pregnancy rate and implantation rate per ET were evaluated for individual physicians between August 1995 and June 1996 (phase I). Physicians with lower success rates underwent strict supervision from July 1996 to June 1997 (phase II). Main Outcome Measure(s): Variations in success rates between physicians. Result(s): The pregnancy rate varied among the physicians from 13.2%–37.4%, and the implantation rate varied from 4.4%–14%. Some physicians' outcomes improved between phase I and phase II of the study, whereas others' did not. The pregnancy and implantation rates varied significantly for some physicians, depending on whether they were responsible for the choice of stimulation protocol, supervision of cycle monitoring, or ET in their own or other physicians' patients. Conclusion(s): Outcomes of IVF vary depending on the treating physician. Lower than expected pregnancy and implantation rates usually are not caused by poor ET techniques alone, but appear to be disproportionately the consequences of poor cycle stimulation.
Febrile Convulsions in Infant Rats, and Later Behavior

At 3 days of age, rats were (i) subjected to a febrile convulsion, or (ii) were handled, or (iii) were not handled. Evaluation at 30 days of age revealed that animals in the first group were heaviest and most resistant to audiogenic seizure stimuli. No differerences were found in maze-learning ability or activity level.
Mechanisms of hypoosmotic volume regulation in glioma cells

Abstract Rat C6 glioma cells undergo regulatory volume decrease (RVD) following hypoosmotic exposure. RVD was inhibited by the K + channel blockers barium (10 mM) and quinine (1 mM). The mechanism of activation of the volume regulatory process was studied. Volume regulation was not observed following incubation of cells in Ca 2+ -free medium. Fluorescent measurement of intracellular free Ca 2+ revealed no change following hypoosmotic exposure. Okadaic acid, an inhibitor of protein phosphatase type 1 and 2A inhibited VRD in C6 glioma cells. These results suggest that hypoosmotic RVD in C6 glioma cells involves a loss of K + (and anion) from the cell. The activation of K + loss is dependent on the presence of extracellular calcium (but not an increase in intracellular free calcium); and on protein dephosphorylation, either of a transport protein or another protein in the signalling pathway.
A risk-based approach to optimize autologous hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) collection with the use of plerixafor

Autologous hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) transplant is an effective treatment for patients with hematological malignancies. Unfortunately, 15-30% of patients fail to mobilize a sufficient number of HSCs for the transplant. Plerixafor is now used as a salvage mobilization regimen, with good success. We describe here a risk-based approach for the use of plerixafor, based on the circulating CD34(+) cell count and the CD34(+) cell dose collected after 4 days of G-CSF, that identifies potential poor HSC mobilizers upfront. A total of 159 patients underwent HSC collections using this approach. Of these, 55 (35%) were identified as high risk owing to low CD34(+) cell number or low yield on day 1 of collection, and received plerixafor on the subsequent days of collection. Of the 159 patients, 151 (95%) were able to provide adequate collections with the first mobilization attempt in a median of 1.7 days using this approach. Of the eight who failed initial mobilization, 5 successfully underwent re-mobilization with plerixafor and G-CSF and 3 (1.9%) were mobilization failures. This approach helped to control the overall cost of HSC collections for our BMT program by decreasing the need for remobilization, reducing the number of collection days and avoiding the use of plerixafor in all patients.
Measuring the effect of glutamate receptor agonists on extracellular D-serine concentrations in the rat striatum using online microdialysis-capillary electrophoresis.

Abstract Online microdialysis-capillary electrophoresis (CE) was used to measure the changes in extracellular d -serine concentration in response to the application of glutamate agonists and antagonists in the rat striatum. The microdialysis-CE assay was capable of measuring concentration changes as small as 8% with a sampling rate of 12–15 s. Kainic acid (KA) induced increases in d - and l -serine concentrations. Application of the non-NMDA receptor antagonist CNQX did not affect the increases observed for d - or l -serine, suggesting a nonspecific effect. NMDA also induced increases in d -serine, l -serine, glutamate and GABA concentrations. These increases were attenuated by the NMDA receptor antagonist MK-801.
Issues of Education for Dairy Foods Scientists: Food Science vs. Dairy Science

Abstract The issues are considered under the headings of 1) quantity of graduates needed at the three degree levels, 2) quantities of students available for the educational programs, 3) content of the curricula at participating universities, 4) methods of teaching, 5) application of electronic technology to both teaching and industrial practice, 6) influence of the changing industry, and 7) factors affecting locations of dairy industry facilities and of educational institutions involved in specialized discovery, education and service.
Dynamic analysis used to complete the design of a mechanism

Abstract The design process is briefly discussed under seven headings. This is followed by methods to analyze a linkage mechanism on a static and dynamic basis. A dynamic motion analysis is performed, and pin forces are calculated for the actual conditions of velocity and acceleration. The methods are illustrated throughout by a design example. It is shown that the usual assumption of constant speed at some reference link does not give accurate values of the pin forces. The concept of the transmission angle, used as a criterion to assess a linkage based on the geometry, is supplemented by a new factor which allows the dynamic performance to be appraised. A spring is used to improve the design based on fluctuation of speed and pin forces. A process of optimisation is discussed to synthesize further, or tune the mechanism.
Exacerbated corneal inflammation and neovascularization in the HO-2 null mice is ameliorated by biliverdin

Heme oxygenase (HO-1 and HO-2) represents an intrinsic cytoprotective and anti-inflammatory system based on its ability to modulate leukocyte migration and to inhibit expression of inflammatory cytokines and proteins. HO-2 deletion leads to unresolved corneal inflammation and chronic inflammatory complications including ulceration, perforation and neovascularization. We examined the consequences of HO-2 deletion on hemangiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis in the model of suture-induced inflammatory neovascularization. An 8.0 silk suture was placed at the corneal apex of wild type and HO-2 null mice. Neovascularization was assessed by vital microscopy and quantified by image analysis. Hemangiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis were determined by immunofluorescence staining using antiCD31 and anti-LYVE-1 antibodies, respectively. Inflammation was quantified by histology and myelo-peroxidase activity. The levels of HO-1 expression and inflammatory cytokines were determined by real time PCR and ELISA, respectively. Corneal sutures produced a consistent inflammatory response and a time-dependent neovascularization. The response in HO-2 null mice was associated with a greater increase compared to the wild type in the number of leukocytes (827,600 ± 129,000 vs. 294,500 ± 57,510; p < 0.05), neovessels measured by vital microscopy (21.91 ± 1.05 vs. 12.77 ± 1.55 mm; p < 0.001) 4 days after suture placement. Hemangiogenesis but not lymphangiogenesis was more pronounced in HO-2 null mice compared to wild type mice. Induction of HO-1 in sutured corneas was greatly attenuated in HO-2 null corneas and treatment with biliverdin diminished the exaggerated inflammatory and neovascular response in HO-2 null mice. The demonstration that the inflammatory responses, including expression of proinflammatory proteins, inflammatory cell influx and hemangiogenesis are exaggerated in HO-2 knockout mice strongly supports the notion that the HO system is critical for controlling the inflammatory and neovascular response in the cornea. Hence, pharmacological amplification of this system may constitute a novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of corneal disorders associated with excessive inflammation and neovascularization.
Enumeration of carbohydrate hydroxyl groups by silylation and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry

A method for enumerating hydroxyl groups in analytes is described and applied to various carbohydrates. The analytes were derivatized in solution by using trimethylsilylimidazole (TMSI) and the products were analyzed without chromatography by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS). The mass spectra revealed consecutive product ion peaks that are separated by 72 m/z units. This 72 m/z unit separation is a result of displacement of a hydroxyl hydrogen atom by a trimethylsilyl group. The number of the observed ions was used to confirm the number of hydroxyl groups in each analyte. This method was utilized in the analysis of single and multi-component analytes. Published in 2007 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characteristics of Visual, Minicolumn and TLC Methods in Detecting Aflatoxin Contaminated Loads of Farmers Stock Peanuts

Abstract Results from two 1980 experiments were used to compare the performance of the visual, minicolumn and thin-layer chromatography (TLC) methods in detecting loads of farmers stock peanuts with aflatoxin. The first experiment was conducted to establish variability of the methods under ideal conditions. The second experiment was conducted to evaluate the performance of the three methods under commercial conditions. In this paper, data and empirical models were used to explore potential improvements in detecting low-level contaminated lots. The minicolumn and TLC methods were very sensitive and provided consistent measurements. Operation characteristic (OC) curves developed by using empirical models (Logistic and Gompertz) were compared to statistical distribution functions used by Whitaker and coworkers. Assuming a desired probability of acceptance of 15%, both the minicolumn and TLC methods would accept lots with 60 ppb aflatoxin, while the visual methods would accept lots with 150 ppb aflatoxin. In ...
Microrobotics using composite materials: the micromechanical flying insect thorax

The use of high performance composite materials provides a substantial performance improvement for microrobotics. Such materials have great benefits over common MEMs materials such as better fracture toughness and fatigue properties than semiconductors, and higher stiffness to weight ratios than most metals. Composite structures yield remarkable improvements in microrobotic links and joints, as well as greater performance actuators while allowing complicated microrobotic mechanisms to be easily rapid prototyped. The use of such materials in the construction of the 4DOF, 26 joint Micromechanical Flying Insect has reduced the thorax inertia by a factor of 3 and given a 20% increase in resonant frequency over previous designs while cutting construction time from weeks to days.
An econometric analysis of trends in fertility rates

Some regression models are used to test the hypothesis that changes in fertility rates have been caused by changes in socioeconomic conditions. The model is applied to four groups of countries and the conclusion is that no simple relationship exists between fertility changes and environmental changes. This conclusion is at variance with results derived from cross‐section studies and suggests not that there is no relationship between socioeconomic and fertility changes, but only that the relationship may be more complex than that considered in previous models.
Fundamentals of deductive program synthesis

An informal tutorial for program synthesis is presented, with an emphasis on deductive methods. According to this approach, to construct a program meeting a given specification, the authors prove the existence of an object meeting the specified conditions. The proof is restricted to be sufficiently constructive, in the sense that, in establishing the existence of the desired output, the proof is forced to indicate a computational method for finding it. That method becomes the basis for a program that can be extracted from the proof. The exposition is based on the deductive-tableau system, a theorem-proving framework particularly suitable for program synthesis. The system includes a nonclausal resolution rule, facilities for reasoning about equality, and a well-founded induction rule. >
ExsA Recruits RNA Polymerase to an Extended −10 Promoter by Contacting Region 4.2 of Sigma-70

ExsA is a member of the AraC family of transcriptional activators and is required for expression of the Pseudomonas aeruginosa type III secretion system (T3SS). ExsA-dependent promoters consist of two binding sites for monomeric ExsA located approximately 50 bp upstream of the transcription start sites. Binding to both sites is required for recruitment of sigma(70)-RNA polymerase (RNAP) to the promoter. ExsA-dependent promoters also contain putative -35 hexamers that closely match the sigma(70) consensus but are atypically spaced 21 or 22 bp from the -10 hexamer. Because several nucleotides located within the putative -35 region are required for ExsA binding, it is unclear whether the putative -35 region makes an additional contribution to transcription initiation. In the present study we demonstrate that the putative -35 hexamer is dispensable for ExsA-independent transcription from the P(exsC) promoter and that deletion of sigma(70) region 4.2, which contacts the -35 hexamer, has no effect on ExsA-independent transcription from P(exsC). Region 4.2 of sigma(70), however, is required for ExsA-dependent activation of the P(exsC) and P(exsD) promoters. Genetic data suggest that ExsA directly contacts region 4.2 of sigma(70), and several amino acids were found to contribute to the interaction. In vitro transcription assays demonstrate that an extended -10 element located in the P(exsC) promoter is important for overall promoter activity. Our collective data suggest a model in which ExsA compensates for the lack of a -35 hexamer by interacting with region 4.2 of sigma(70) to recruit RNAP to the promoter.
EFFECTS OF STORAGE AND POLYPHOSPHATES ON THE FLAVOR VOLATILES OF CANNED POULTRY MEAT

The effects of storage and polyphosphates on the volatile components of canned broiler meat were investigated. The concentrations of hydrogen sulfide, methyl mercaptan, saturated and total carbonyls of both control and polyphosphate-treated broiler meat increased slightly upon storage. A greater increase in unsaturated carbonyls was observed for the controls than for the polyphosphate-treated samples. During storage, the general trend of increasing thiobarbituric acid (TBA) values was not affected by the presence of polyphosphates; however, the control samples had the highest TBA values throughout the observation period. All canned samples exhibited a continued increase in free ammonia content as the storage time advanced. Polyphosphates also retarded the formation of free ammonia of canned broiler meat during storage as compared to controls.
Environmental and Economic Impacts of Agricultural Policy Reform: An Interregional Comparison

Mathematical programming results revealed that moving toward more flexible agricultural policies would generate substantial economic and environmental gains in a North Carolina diversified cropping region, But in a Washington-Idaho dry land grains region, only the use of relatively new and sometimes problematic alternative cropping systems permitted environmental and economic gains under policy reform. In both regions, a recoupling policy, which links government payments to resource-conserving farming practices, was needed to protect environmental quality when market prices for program crops were high.
SpyCon: Emulating User Activities to Detect Evasive Spyware

The success of any spyware is determined by its ability to evade detection. Although traditional detection methodologies employing signature and anomaly based systems have had reasonable success, new class of spyware programs emerge which blend in with user activities to avoid detection. One of the latest anti-spyware technologies consists of a local agent that generates honeytokens of known parameters (e.g., network access requests) and tricks spyware into assuming it to be legitimate activity. In this paper, as a first step, we address the deficiencies of static honeytoken generation and present an attack that circumvents such detection techniques. We synthesize the attack by means of data mining algorithms like associative rule mining. Next, we present a randomized honeytoken generation mechanism to address this new class of spyware. Experimental results show that (i) static honeytokens are detected with near 100% accuracy, thereby defeating the state-of-the-art anti-spyware technique, (ii) randomized honeytoken generation mechanism is an effective anti-spyware solution.
Embryonic stem cell-derived astrocytes expressing drug-inducible transgenes: differentiation and transplantion into the mouse brain.

Object. Embryonic stem cell (ESC)‐derived astrocytes have many theoretical and practical advantages as vectors for delivery of gene therapy to the central nervous system (CNS). The aim of this study was to generate highly pure populations of ESC-derived astrocytes expressing drug-inducible transgenes, while minimizing contamination by undifferentiated ESCs Methods. Embryonic stem cells carrying a doxycycline-inducible green fluorescent protein (GFP) transgene were induced to differentiate into astrocytes by using feeder cell‐free conditions that are completely defined. More than 95% of these cells expressed the astrocyte markers glial fibrillary acidic protein and GLT-1 glutamate transporter, and the morphological characteristics of these cells were typical of astrocytes. The expression of additional astrocyte markers was detected using reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction. Undifferentiated ESCs comprised fewer than 0.1% of the cells after 10 days in this culture. Positive and negative selection techniques based on fluorescence-activated cell sorting were successfully used to decrease further the numbers of undifferentiated ESCs. Fully differentiated astrocytes expressed a GFP transgene under the tight control of a doxycycline-responsive promoter, and maintained their astrocytic phenotype 24 hours after transplantation into the mouse brain. Conclusions. This study shows that transgenic ESCs can be induced to differentiate into highly pure populations of astrocytes. The astrocytes continue to express the transgene under the tight control of a drug-inducible promoter and are suitable for transplantation into the mouse brain. The number of potentially hazardous ESCs can be minimized using cell-sorting techniques. This strategy may be used to generate cellular vectors for delivering gene therapy to the CNS.
Two Faces of Power

The concept of power remains elusive despite the recent and prolific outpourings of case studies on community power. Its elusiveness is dramatically demonstrated by the regularity of disagreement as to the locus of community power between the sociologists and the political scientists. Sociologically oriented researchers have consistently found that power is highly centralized, while scholars trained in political science have just as regularly concluded that in “their” communities power is widely diffused. Presumably, this explains why the latter group styles itself “pluralist,” its counterpart “elitist.”There seems no room for doubt that the sharply divergent findings of the two groups are the product, not of sheer coincidence, but of fundamental differences in both their underlying assumptions and research methodology. The political scientists have contended that these differences in findings can be explained by the faulty approach and presuppositions of the sociologists. We contend in this paper that the pluralists themselves have not grasped the whole truth of the matter; that while their criticisms of the elitists are sound, they, like the elitists, utilize an approach and assumptions which predetermine their conclusions. Our argument is cast within the frame of our central thesis: that there are two faces of power, neither of which the sociologists see and only one of which the political scientists see.
Standing on the Shoulders of Ancients: Consumer Research, Persuasion, and Figurative Language

Ours is an age of consumerism, and the study of persuasion is a central topic of consumer research. Over time our knowledge of most persuasive topics has grown, but on a few topics knowledge has been lost. One lost topic is the persuasion effect of using figurative language (tropes, rhetorical figures) in communications, which had been a popular issue in earlier ages of persuasion but in our own era has been largely ignored. This neglect can be corrected by our “standing on the shoulders of ancients” and exploiting the progress made during earlier rhetorical ages in identifying and classifying tropes and hypothesizing how inclusion of such rhetorical figures affects perceptions and impacts of communications. A program of research on the effects of figurative language is described as an example of how giving greater consideration to ancient wisdom can enhance our understanding of persuasive communication and consumer behavior, especially in the creative hypothesis‐generating phase of research.
Will cosmic strings be discovered using the Space Telescope

Cosmic strings are topologically stable defects in the vacuum of space which may be produced by a phase transition in the early universe. Here, it is suggested that observations of very distant galaxies are a more useful means of discovering strings than quasar observations. It is argued that if there is only one string out to redshift z - about 1 the probability that it crosses a random image obtained using the Wide Field Camera (WFC) of the Space Telescope is about 0.0001. In order to discover a cosmic string the Space Telescope WFC will be required to operate almost continuously in primary and serendipity modes, and a cosmic string, if it exists, may be discovered within the first few years of operation.
The Hunting Apes: Meat Eating and the Origins of Human Behavior

The Hunting Apes: Meat Eating and the Origins of Human Behavior. Craig B. Stanford. Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press. 1999. 254 pp.
Antibody in cerebrospinal fluid in non-meningitic coccidioidomycosis.

The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of 19 patients with non-meningeal coccidioidomycosis was found to contain coccidioidal antibodies. The complement fixation test was negative with these specimens but antibodies could be demonstrated after concentrating the CSF and testing by immunodiffusion. The serum complement fixation titer of these patients was generally 1:16 or higher. Five additional patients with non-meningeal coccidioidomycosis had no detectable coccidioidal antibody in their CSF by complement fixation or immunodiffusion. It is suggested that with sufficiently high serum IgG antibody titers, antibody may pass into the CSF in the absence of CNS involvement.
Plastics and Health Risks

By 2010, the worldwide annual production of plastics will surpass 300 million tons. Plastics are indispensable materials in modern society, and many products manufactured from plastics are a boon to public health (e.g., disposable syringes, intravenous bags). However, plastics also pose health risks. Of principal concern are endocrine-disrupting properties, as triggered for example by bisphenol A and di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP). Opinions on the safety of plastics vary widely, and despite more than five decades of research, scientific consensus on product safety is still elusive. This literature review summarizes information from more than 120 peer-reviewed publications on health effects of plastics and plasticizers in lab animals and humans. It examines problematic exposures of susceptible populations and also briefly summarizes adverse environmental impacts from plastic pollution. Ongoing efforts to steer human society toward resource conservation and sustainable consumption are discussed, includi...
AN ATYPICAL FAMILIAL ENDOCRINOPATHY IN MALES WITH A SYNDROME OF OTHER DEFECTS

Two cases of an atypical familial endocrinopathy are presented, which were observed over a period of four years and when first seen were thought to be instances of hypothyroidism. Further observation revealed optic neuritis, limited joint extension, skeletal defects and normal mentality, which were not consistent with hypothyroidism. The autopsy on the older brother (W. W.) did show evidence of hypothyroidism and hypopituitarism. Very few cases resembling those being reported have been found in a search of the literature. Charles Hunter (1) of England in 1917, in an article entitled “A Rare Disease in Two Brothers,” described two cases almost identical with those of the author. In 1934, David and Currier (2) in this country, and Ellis (3) in England, reported cases in brothers which very closely resembled Hunter’s and the author’s case. David and Currier diagnosed their cases as “Morquio’s Disease” and Ellis thought his cases represented the Helmholz-Harrington syndrome. An autopsy of one of Ellis’ cases ...
The Growth and Extinction of Expectancies in Chance Controlled and Skilled Tasks

(1961). The Growth and Extinction of Expectancies in Chance Controlled and Skilled Tasks. The Journal of Psychology: Vol. 52, No. 1, pp. 161-177.
C2-Domain Proteins Involved in Membrane Traffic

C2-domains are the second-most abundant Ca2+-binding modules in nature. Their most common activity is Ca2+-dependent phospholipid binding, but other types of interactions have been observed for these versatile protein modules. A variety of proteins involved in membrane traffic contain multiple C2-domains, which often appear as two tandem C2-domains as in the case of synaptotagmins and rabphilin. The structures of the C2-domains of these proteins consist of a conserved β-sandwich, formed by two four-stranded β-sheets, with variable loops at the top and the bottom that sometimes contain α-helices. Multiple Ca2+-ions bind in a tight cluster at the top loops, usually without inducing substantial conformational changes. Instead, electrostatic changes caused by Ca2+ binding induce the Ca2+-dependent interactions of C2-domains, which can also be aided by hydrophobic interactions and partial coordination of Ca2+ by the target molecules. Extensive analysis of the structure and Ca2+-binding properties of the two synaptotagmin 1 C2-domains has helped design genetic experiments that have strongly supported the notion that this protein acts as the major Ca2+ sensor in neurotransmitter release. These studies have also suggested that Ca2+-dependent phospholipid binding underlies the function of synaptotagmin 1 in triggering release. 3D Structure Keywords: C2-domain; calcium binding; phospholipid binding; synaptotagmin; rabphilin; neurotransmitter release; membrane traffic
Posture, microclimate, and thermoregulation in yellow baboons

This report describes thermoregulatory behavior of free-ranging yellow baboons (Papio cynocephalus) in Amboseli, Kenya. While resting in trees during early morning hours, baboons are directly exposed to thermal effects of wind and sun. We hypothesized that these animals would respond to microclimatic changes by altering their posture and body orientatio so as to minimize thermal stress. The results of this study indicate that air temperature, solar radiation, and wind velocity interact in their effect on behavior as predicted by this hypothesis. Specifically, the most salient cue for trunk orientation choice is wind direction, while posture is primarily influenced by air temperature. In sum, our results clearly demonstrate that when baboons are unable to minimize thermal stress by selecting a more favorable microenvironment, they do so by altering their posture.