cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Detection of the G>C SNP and rare mutations in the 28-bp repeat of TYMS using gel-based capillary electrophoresis

Aims: Polymorphisms in the 5’ regulatory region of the thymidylate synthase gene (TYMS) have been shown to modulate thymidylate synthase expression and are associated with resistance to fluoropyrimidine-based therapies. These polymorphisms include a two repeat (2R) or three repeat (3R) of a 28-bp sequence and a G>C SNP in the second repeat of the 3R allele (TSER*3 G>C). Genotyping methods for the TYMS 5’-UTR polymorphisms have typically involved visualizing PCR and RFLP products on agarose gels. This article describes the use of a robust capillary electrophoresis assay for TYMS 5’-UTR genotyping. Materials & methods: As part of pharmacogenetic studies, we performed TYMS genotyping for the 5’-UTR polymorphisms in 314 colorectal cancer patients. A gel-based capillary electrophoresis method, employing a high-resolution gel cartridge on a QIAxcel® system, was developed to detect PCR products and RFLP fragment sizes. Results: The high resolution of the capillary electrophoresis technique allowed identification...
A Computational Model of NBTI and Hot Carrier Injection Time-Exponents for MOSFET Reliability

Theories of interface trap generation in Negative Bias Temperature Instability (NBTI) and Hot Carrier Injection (HCI) mechanisms are unified under the geometric interpretation and computational modeling of Reaction-Diffusion (R-D) theoryframework. Analytical derivations that predict the degradation are shown, simulation methodology is explained and numerical solutions are obtained. Time-exponents and degradation behavior under dynamic bias in agreement with experimental observations are discussed. Implications regarding ultra-scaled surround-gate device structures are presented.
Molecular Dynamics Simulations of Prostaglandin Endoperoxide H Synthase-1. Role of Water and the Mechanism of Compound I Formation from Hydrogen Peroxide

Molecular dynamics (MD) is used to study the resting state and hydrogen peroxide-bound state of Prostaglandin endoperoxide synthase-1 (PGHS-1). A water molecule, initially relatively far from the h...
Synthesis and characterization of amphiphilic polymer networks based on acrylated poly(ϵ-caprolactone) and N-vinylpyrrolidone

New amphiphilic polymer networks were synthesized by the free-radical copolymerization of α,ω-diacryl polycaprolactone (DAPCL) and N-vinylpyrrolidone (NVP), which was initiated by 0.5% azobisisobutyronitrile at 70°C. The chemical structures of the networks were characterized by proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometry. The NVP/DAPCL feed ratio played an important role in the crosslinking process. The synthesized amphiphilic polymer networks exhibited controlled swelling properties in water and organic solvents (ethanol, acetones, and toluene). A porous structure was observed for the amphiphilic polymer networks under a scanning electron microscope. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 2007
Synthesis and Excited-State Photodynamics of Perylene−Porphyrin Dyads. 1. Parallel Energy and Charge Transfer via a Diphenylethyne Linker

The photophysical properties of a perylene−porphyrin dyad have been examined with the aim of using this construct for molecular photonics applications. The dyad consists of a perylene-bis(imide) dye (PDI) connected to a zinc porphyrin (Zn) via a diphenylethyne linker (pep). In both polar and nonpolar solvents, the photoexcited perylene unit (PDI*) decays very rapidly (lifetimes of 2.5 (toluene) and 2.4 ps (acetonitrile)) by energy transfer to the porphyrin, forming PDI−pep−Zn* in high yield (80%, toluene; 70% acetonitrile), and hole transfer to the porphyrin, forming PDI-−pep−Zn+ in lesser yield (20%, toluene; 30% acetonitrile). In both toluene and acetonitrile, the Zn* excited state subsequently decays with a lifetime of 0.4 ns primarily (80%) by electron transfer to the perylene (forming PDI-−pep−Zn+). In the nonpolar solvent (toluene), the PDI-−pep−Zn+ charge-transfer product has a lifetime of >10 ns and decays by charge recombination primarily to the ground state but also by thermal repopulation of th...
Numerical modeling of on-orbit propellant motion resulting from an impulsive acceleration

In-space docking and separation maneuvers of spacecraft that have large fluid mass fractions may cause undesirable spacecraft motion in response to the impulsive-acceleration-induced fluid motion. An example of this potential low gravity fluid management problem arose during the development of the shuttle/Centaur vehicle. Experimentally verified numerical modeling techniques were developed to establish the propellant dynamics, and subsequent vehicle motion, associated with the separation of the Centaur vehicle from the shuttle orbiter cargo bay. Although the shuttle/Centaur development activity was suspended, the numerical modeling techniques are available to predict on-orbit liquid motion resulting from impulsive accelerations for other missions and spacecraft.
Rod outer segments elongate in constant light: darkness is required for normal shedding.

Abstract Shedding of large rod outer segment fragments is greatly reduced when Rana pipiens are maintained under moderate levels of continuous light. This inhibition of shedding results in an increase in outer segment length, since disc addition continues even as shedding stops. Some shedding will occur when constant-light frogs are subjected to a brief period of darkness, suggesting that darkness alone may stimulate shedding. Massive shedding, resulting in a reduction to normal outer segment length, occurs when constant-light animals are maintained for as little as 30 min in darkness and are then returned to constant light. This shedding response will occur even after both optic nerves are severed, and after pinealectomy or hypophysectomy.
Central and peripheral contributions to muscle fatigue in humans during sustained maximal effort.

The purpose of this study was to estimate the relative contributions of central and peripheral factors to the development of human muscle fatigue. Nine healthy subjects [five male, four female; age = 30 (2) years, mean (SE)] sustained a maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVC) of the ankle dorsiflexor muscles for 4 min. Fatigue was quantitated as the fall in MVC. Three measures of central activation and one measure of peripheral activation (compound muscle action potential, CMAP) were made using electromyography (EMG) and electrical stimulation. Measures of intramuscular metabolism were made using magnetic resonance spectroscopy. After exercise, MVC and electrically stimulated tetanic contraction (50 Hz, 500 ms) forces were 22.2 (3.7)% and 37.3 (7.1)% of pre-exercise values, respectively. The measures of central activation suggested some central fatigue during exercise: (1) the central activation ratio [MVC/(MVC + superimposed tetanic force)] fell from 0.94 (0.03) to 0.78 (0.09), (2) the MVC/tetanic force ratio fell from 2.3 (0.7) to 1.3 (0.7), and (3) the integral of the EMG (iEMG) signal decreased to 72.6 (9.1)% of the initial value, while the CMAP amplitude was unchanged. Intramuscular pH was associated by regression with the decline in MVC force (and therefore fatigue) and iEMG. The results indicate that central factors, which were not associated with altered peripheral excitability, contributed approximately 20% to the muscle fatigue developed, with the remainder being attributable to intramuscular (i.e., metabolic) factors. The association between pH and iEMG is consistent with proton concentration as a feedback mechanism for central motor drive during maximal effort.
Nonlinear AR modeling

A major reason for the success of linear autoregressive (AR) modeling is that Kolmogrorov proved that every linear system could be represented by a linear AR model of infinite order. The computation of a finite order AR approximation is, of course, the practical goal. In this paper, we prove that every nonlinear system with a Volterra series expansion can be represented as a nonlinear AR model of infinite order. Our method shows how an approximation to any desired order and degree can be achieved.
Accessibility of Family Planning Services: Impact of Structural and Organizational Factors

Objectives: This study sought to determine whether selected structural and organizational characteristics of publicly available family planning facilities are associated with greater availability. Methods: A survey was sent to 726 publicly available family planning facilities in four states. These included local health departments, federally qualified health centers (FQHC), Planned Parenthood sites, hospital outpatient departments, and freestanding women’s health centers. Usable responses were obtained from 526 sites for a response rate of 72.5%. Availability variables included the provision of primary care services; the contraceptives offered; professional staffing; scheduling, waiting time, and transportation; and cultural congruence and competency. The structural and organizational variables were state, type of organization, and funding source. Results: Some states were more likely to offer emergency contraception while others were more likely to have weekend hours. FQHCs were most likely to provide primary care and Planned Parenthood sites most likely to offer emergency contraception. Title X funding was associated with increased likelihood of providing emergency contraception and staffing by midlevel practitioners and registered nurses. Conclusions: This study found that availability varied by structural and organizational variables, many of which are determined by federal and state policies. Revising some of these policies might increase utilization of family planning facilities.
Transdermal delivery of adipocyte-derived stem cells using a fractional ablative laser.

Background: Chronic wound healing problems can pose a significant clinical challenge. Transdermal delivery of adipose-derived stem cells (ADSC) may be a possible solution to healing these recalcitrant, debilitating wounds. Pretreatment of the skin with a fractionated laser has already been shown to assist transdermal drug delivery both in vitro and in vivo and may be an ideal approach to facilitating delivery of ADSC to the target tissue. Objectives: The authors investigate in a porcine model whether ADSC can be delivered transdermally following pretreatment with a fractional laser. Methods: After ethics approval was obtained, the abdomens of 2 adult female domestic pigs were pretreated with an erbium:YAG fractionated ablative laser. Following laser treatment, 20 × 106 bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU)–labeled ADSC were applied topically to the first animal for 4 hours. The same number of BrdU-labeled ADSC was applied to the second animal for 48 hours. The animals were euthanized at the end of their respective treatment periods, and the BrdU-labeled ADSC were counted after tissue harvest. Results: At 4 hours, an average of 2.40 × 106 cells, or 12.0% of the total cells applied, were found in the tissue. At 48 hours, an average of 1.1 × 106 cells, or 5.5% of the total cells applied, were seen. Conclusions: This pilot study demonstrates that ADSC can be delivered transdermally through skin that has been pretreated with a laser. Potential future applications of this approach might include wound-healing or aesthetic indications. Further studies need to be conducted to determine the optimal number of ADSC to use in this approach, the best methods of application, and the effect of transdermally delivered ADSC on wound healing.
Iron uptake by mammalian cortical neurons

Although iron accumulates in the brain in a number of pathological conditions, including Hallervorden-Spatz syndrome, Parkinson's disease, and neurosyphilis, studies of brain iron metabolism have been performed only rarely. Neuronal-enriched cultures were prepared from fetal mouse brain. After 18 days the cells were exposed to radiolabeled iron. Total iron uptake and incorporation into ferritin were rapid and linear over four hours. The addition of either methylamine or ammonium chloride, both known blockers of transferrin-iron release through their lysosomotropic properties, inhibited total iron uptake. Methylamine also inhibited the rate of ferritin-iron incorporation, most likely by interfering with transferrin-iron release. The data suggest that neuronal iron transport, much like that in other mammalian tissues, is transferrin mediated and that blockers of transferrin-iron release may be of value in conditions in which there is brain iron overload.
Viscosity of salt-in-polymer solutions near the glass transition temperature by penetrometry, and pseudo-macromolecule behaviour at a critical composition in NaClO4-PPO(4000)

Abstract The first viscosity measurements of pure PPO(4000) and PPO(4000) liquid polymer electrolytes at temperatures in the vicinity of the glass transition temperature are reported. At the lower temperatures, ion pairing effects on the transport coefficients are suppressed, permitting some general trends in the dependence of the Vogel-Tammann-Fulcher (VTF) viscosity equation parameters on the salt concentration to be discerned. These are discussed in terms of ion-polymer interactions. Anomalies are noted at the composition M/O = 1/30, where some previous studies have found phase separations and these are particularly striking in the case of NaClO 4 solutions for which the VTF equation parameters cannot be reconciled with the observed calorimetric glass transition temperature. The existence of a low temperature thermoplastic (rubbery) domain, is identified and a special chain end linking mechanism, which is optimized in the NaClO 4 case, is proposed to account for it.
Ventricular defibrillation in the dog using implanted and partially implanted electrode systems.

Abstract Two totally implanted and two partially implanted electrode systems were studied in 2,100 fibrillation-defibrillation episodes in large anesthetized dogs. In one of the totally implanted systems, two metal disks, 7.6 cm in diameter, were implanted between the pectoralis major muscle and the rib cage, with the right electrode high on the chest and slightly to the right of midline and the left electrode over the apex of the heart. In the other totally implanted system, a unipolar catheter electrode positioned in the right atrium and superior vena cava was used together with a 7.6 cm disk electrode over the apex of the heart. In the partially implanted systems, a unipolar catheter electrode in the right atrium and superior vena cava was used together with either a 7.6 cm disk electrode or a 6.3 by 20.3 cm rectangular sheet electrode placed on the surface of the chest over the apex of the heart. Four types of unidirectional shocks were used in evaluating the twin disk system. Nine types of shocks were used with systems involving the catheter electrode. Derived curves indicate that the 90 percent level of successful defibrillation is achieved with 38 joules on the day of implantation and 54 joules 32 weeks after implantation for the twin disk system, 12 joules on the day of implantation and 19 joules 33 weeks after implantation for the catheter-internal disk system, 15 joules for the catheter-external disk system and 24 joules for the catheter-external sheet system.
Experience-dependent recovery of cognitive functioning in young alcoholics.

Abstract Spontaneous recovery of some cognitive functioning in alcoholics after drinking has ceased has been convincingly demonstrated, but there have been no demonstrations of recovery that occurs primarily due to exposure of the alcoholic to specific environmental events. In the present study two groups of alcoholics began a 3-week series of tests sensitive to alcoholic cognitive dysfunction at different time lags after drinking ceased (1 week vs. at least 3 weeks). Each group received five administrations each of three weeks apart revealed the comparisons between the initial testings administered at least three weeks apart revealed the expected pattern of improvement concommitant with the passage of time. On the Halstead-Reitan Trailmaking Test (Part B), initial test scores were equivalent, showing no time-dependent recovery. Instead, performance improved solely as a function of repeated task administration, thus demonstrating “experience-dependent” recovery. Initial levels of impairment and the extent of recovery were established using two-alcoholic control groups. Since evidence has accrued that alcoholics' treatment outcome may relate to neuropsychological status, experience-dependent rehabilitation of cognitive functioning may improve success rates in alcoholism treatment.
Selected ion monitoring analysis of CP-55,940, a cannabinoid derived analgetic agent

A method is described for the quantification in plasma of CP-55,940, a new non-opiate oral analgetic agent, using capillary gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. After extraction, derivation of the drug and a structural analog internal standard is carried out with trifluoracetyl imidazole. The derivative exhibited excellent gas chrornatographic properties. Electron impact yielded an abundant high mass ion whose monitoring permitted the sensitive and specific determination of CP-55,940 down to 0.5 ng ml−1.
The human ecology of child maltreatment: A conceptual model for research.

This paper seeks to place the phenomenon of child maltreatment in the perspective qf family development. While it is concerned with the problem of neglect, it addresses child abuse most directly. The paper focuses on necessary and sufficient conditions and the research implications of an ecological perspective. Maltreatment as a consequence qf stressful role transition is the major theme explored in the paper. The role of cultural support for the use of physical force against children, and the inadequacy and inadequate use of family support systems are two factors identified as necessary conditions for child maltreatment. The paper thus attempts to explicate a model of child maltreatment as a problem of family asynchrony-i.e., as a mismatch of parent to child and of family to neighborhood and community. The problem of child maltreatment is thus best understood as an issue in the study of the ecology qf family life, the development of the caregiver role and the provision of effective feedback for parents.
Light-Induced Fos Expression in Intrinsically Photosensitive Retinal Ganglion Cells in Melanopsin Knockout (Opn4−/−) Mice

Retinal ganglion cells that express the photopigment melanopsin are intrinsically photosensitive (ipRGCs) and exhibit robust synaptically driven ON-responses to light, yet they will continue to depolarize in response to light when all synaptic input from rod and cone photoreceptors is removed. The light-evoked increase in firing of classical ganglion cells is determined by synaptic input from ON-bipolar cells in the proximal sublamina of the inner plexiform layer. OFF-bipolar cells synapse with ganglion cell dendrites in the distal sublamina of the inner plexiform layer. Of the several types of ipRGC that have been described, M1 ipRGCs send dendrites exclusively into the OFF region of the inner plexiform layer where they stratify near the border of the inner nuclear layer. We tested whether M1 ipRGCs with dendrites restricted to the OFF sublamina of the inner plexiform layer receive synaptic ON-bipolar input by examining light-induced gene expression in vivo using melanopsin knockout mice. Mice in which both copies of the melanopsin gene (opn4) have been replaced with the tau-lacZ gene (homozygous tau-lacZ+/+ knockin mice) are melanopsin knockouts (opn4−/−) but M1 ipRGCs are specifically identified by their expression of β-galactosidase. Approximately 60% of M1 ipRGCs in Opn4−/− mice exposed to 3 hrs of light expressed c-Fos; no β-galactosidase-positive RGCs expressed c-Fos in the dark. Intraocular application of L-AP4, a compound which blocks transmission of visual signals between photoreceptors and ON-bipolar cells significantly reduced light-evoked c-Fos expression in M1 ipRGCs compared to saline injected eyes (66% saline vs 27% L-AP4). The results are the first description of a light-evoked response in an ipRGC lacking melanopsin and provide in vivo confirmation of previous in vitro observations illustrating an unusual circuit in the retina in which ganglion cells sending dendrites to the OFF sublamina of the inner plexiform layer receive excitatory synaptic input from ON-bipolar cells.
Agricultural decision-making under uncertainty: The case of the Shanxi farmers, 1931–1936

Abstract The farmers of Shanxi province in China rapidly adopted cotton as a cash crop in the 1920s, but their material well-being was still considered very poor by observers. Had access to product markets made them worse off by adding another element of risk to that already faced by food producers? Three models of behavior toward risk and net return (maximizing expected utility, safety-first, and acceptable risk) are estimated on annual data for 36 counties in the years 1931–1936 and compared using the Cox-Pesaran-Deaton test. The safety-first model is found to dominate the other two. The implication is that alternative means for risk avoidance were absent in Shanxi province so farmers did not take full advantage of their commercial opportunities.
747-5 Transesophageal Echocardiographic Quantitation of Mitral Leaflet Thickness in Patients with Mitral Valve Prolapse

Mitral leaflets which appear abnormally thick by transthoracicecho predict an adverse prognosis in pts with mitral valve prolapse (MVP). While it is known from pathologic studies that the valve tissue in such pts is both redundant and abnormally thick, the echocardiographic appearance of increased thickness may result from a combination of overlap of redundant tissue and intrinsic increases in leaflet thickness. Transesophagealecho (TEE) affords the opportunity to more precisely characterize the morphology of the mitral leaflets in these patients. Accordingly, twenty-two pts [11 with MVP (defined as superior displacement of the mitral leaflets above the mitral annulus on the parasternal long axis view of the transthoracic echo and increased diastolic width of the anterior mitral leaflet) and 11 controls (CTRL)] prospectively underwent detailed TEE examination to quantify mitral leaflet thickness. Since systolic tensing of the closed mitral leaflets minimizes tissue overlap, systolic leaflet width was used to measure intrinsic tissue thickness. In contrast, the width of the relatively slack mitral leaflets in diastole represents a combination of both leaflet overlap and intrinsic tissue thickness. Blinded TEE measurements of leaflet width demonstrated greater diastolicwidth of both anterior (0.64 ± 0.20 v. 0.30 ± 0.04 em, p l 0.001) and posterior (0.67 ± 0.39 v. 0.31 ± 0.06 em, p l 0.01) leaflets in MVP compared to CTRL. In contrast systolicwidth of the anterior (0,22 ± 0.05 v, 0.20 ± 0.04 em, NS) and posterior (0.25 ± 0.07 v. 0.24 ± 0.05 em, NS) leaflets were similar in MVP and CTRL. Fractional change in leaflet width from diastole to systole (%ΔW = [(diastolic width) - (systolic Width)] × 100/[diastolic width]) was measured as an index of the change in leaflet overlap between diastole and systole, %LΔW was significantly greater for both anterior (62 ± 13 v. 34 ± 16%, p l 0.001) and posterior (54 ± 19 v. 22 ± 21%, p l 0.005) leaflets in MVP compared to CTRL. Conclusions In MVP the echocardiographic appearance of increased diastolic mitral leaflet thickness is largely due to tissue overlap of the redundant leaflets, while they are relatively slack. By contrast under systolic tensioning, which minimizes tissue overlap, the leaflet thickness appears similar in MVP pts and CTRL.
Material flow, material information, and the analytics of integrative enterprise information systems

Enterprise information systems (EIS) process highly abstracted information. They, nevertheless, are concerned with material systems. Information science has become increasingly analytic. This article draws attention back to the deeply embedded motive forces of ‘exchange’ and ‘money-information’ in the empiric systems that attend its analytics. The article further points to a danger that excessive abstraction can disconnect decision information from that in the processes of concern to EIS.
Computer based proofs by induction in graph theory- a house of cards?

The role of computer generated data as an essential component of a mathematical proof is discussed. Some examples are given of graph theorems whose proofs share certain unusual features. These theorems are proven by induction on the order n of the graph with the inductive step frequently being easy. However, the theorems are not true for small values of n so that the base for the induction argument is established by large scale computation. We suggest that such computer based proofs will become commonplace and raise the question of what supporting evidence of correctness should be presented along with the computer generated data.
A Preliminary Comparison Study of Online and Face-to-Face Counseling: Client Perceptions of Three Factors

This preliminary study examined the similarities and differences between online and face-to-face counseling with regard to general mental health, working alliance, and social presence. Participants included 50 current counseling clients (37 face-to-face, 13 online) who all were recruited through online mediums. Results indicated that online counseling clients perceived a significantly stronger working alliance on the total Working Alliance Inventory-Short Form as well as the Goal subscale than did those who received face-to-face only counseling. No significant differences existed between the groups on general mental health or social presence. These results suggest that a more controlled study with a larger sample might find that a strong working alliance can be developed through online counseling.
Mechanics of undulatory swimming in a frictional fluid.

The sandfish lizard (Scincus scincus) swims within granular media (sand) using axial body undulations to propel itself without the use of limbs. In previous work we predicted average swimming speed by developing a numerical simulation that incorporated experimentally measured biological kinematics into a multibody sandfish model. The model was coupled to an experimentally validated soft sphere discrete element method simulation of the granular medium. In this paper, we use the simulation to study the detailed mechanics of undulatory swimming in a “granular frictional fluid” and compare the predictions to our previously developed resistive force theory (RFT) which models sand-swimming using empirically determined granular drag laws. The simulation reveals that the forward speed of the center of mass (CoM) oscillates about its average speed in antiphase with head drag. The coupling between overall body motion and body deformation results in a non-trivial pattern in the magnitude of lateral displacement of the segments along the body. The actuator torque and segment power are maximal near the center of the body and decrease to zero toward the head and the tail. Approximately 30% of the net swimming power is dissipated in head drag. The power consumption is proportional to the frequency in the biologically relevant range, which confirms that frictional forces dominate during sand-swimming by the sandfish. Comparison of the segmental forces measured in simulation with the force on a laterally oscillating rod reveals that a granular hysteresis effect causes the overestimation of the body thrust forces in the RFT. Our models provide detailed testable predictions for biological locomotion in a granular environment.
Roth's Contribution to the Narrativization of Illness

In her article "Roth's Contribution to the Narrativization of Illness" Miriam Jaffe-Foger argues that Philipp Roth's fiction represents him as an empath, a writer who prescribes for modern medicine a dose of humanity in listening to the pain of others. Using Roth's The Anatomy Lesson, The Dying Animal, and Exit Ghost as primary source material in combination with theories from medical anthropology, Jaffe-Foger suggests that Roth is an inspiration for the field of narrative medicine. JaffeFoger examines the art in organizing narratives to tell these stories. Jaffe-Foger also argues against misogynist views of Roth as he represents woman's bodies, offering a modern reading of the relationship between illness and sexuality. Miriam Jaffe-Foger, "Roth's Contribution to the Narrativization of Illness"page 2 of 9 CLCWeb: Comparative Literature and Culture 16.2 (2014): Thematic Issue History, Memory, and the Making of Character in Roth's Fiction. Ed. Gustavo Sanchez-Canales and Victoria Aarons
Alignment of resonant optical cavities

When an input Gaussian beam is improperly aligned and mode-matched to a stable optical resonator, the electric field in the resonator couples to off-axis spatial eigenmodes. We show that a translation of the input axis or a mismatch of the beam waist to the resonator waist size causes a coupling of off-axis modes which is inphase with the input field. On the other hand, a tilt of the input beam or a mismatch of the beam waist position to cavity waist position couples to these modes in quadrature phase. We also propose a method to measure these coupling coefficients and thereby provide a means to align and mode-match a resonant optical cavity in real time.
Galileiite: A new meteoritic phosphate minera

— A new mineral named galileiite, NaFe4(PO4)3, has been found within troilite nodules in iron meteorites of the IIIA and IIIB groups. the mineral is optically positive (ω = 1.72, ω = 1.75), colorless in transmitted light and pale amber in reflected light. Grains of galileiite are very small, generally 10 μm or less; rarely, grains are up to 30 μm. It is associated with Ca-free graftonite (or Ca-free sarcopside), chromite and, occasionally, schreibersite. Johnsomervilleite may occur within troilite nodules in the same meteorite as galileiite, but they have never been observed together in the same troilite nodule. Because of the small sample size, single crystal x-ray work was not successful; however, Gandolfi diffraction measurements were made. The three strongest diffraction peaks are 2.71 A, 3.01 A and 4.13 A. On the basis of its composition and similar diffraction pattern, it is considered to be related to johnsomervilleite, fillowite and chladniite, all of which are rhombohedral and isostructural. Galileiite may also be rhombohedral, but that is yet to be demonstrated.
Mathematical models in nonlinear statistical mechanics third international conference

Abstract The Third International Conference on Mathematical Models of Nonlinear Excitation, Transport, Dynamics and Control in Condensed Systems and Other Media convened in Tver, Russia, on June 30, 1998. This five day conference had its genesis in a three day Workshop which met in Tver during the summer of 1994, and a subsequent five day meeting in summer 1996 which was entitled Second International conference. A report on that meeting appeared in llansport Theory and Statistical Physics 26, 379–382 (1997). Obviously, the unusually lengthy title of the Conference invites some controversy. Your reporter believes a more appropriate name would be “International Conference on Mathematical Models in Nonlinear Statistical Mechanics”, and hopes the Conference organizers will consider such a relabeling.
Chaos and aesthetics

Abstract We set down a few mathematically aesthetic principles which we have developed over a period of time. The aim is to study the consequence of such a set of principles. In the past, we have emphasized lattice solutions with the purpose of trying to shed light on certain basic physical concepts which are present even when the system is simple. In this paper, we do not use lattice systems as a base, but consider more general (although not completely general) origin point data. We found a solution that does not have a regular appearance. We call such a solution a “chaotic” solution. The numerical calculation done in connection with this system is the most extensive and uses the most accurate grids in our work up to date. Results are checked by using different size grids. We also study an interesting three-dimensional space-time system not based on any (obvious) lattice system. We found that trajectories cannot be followed in time, since maxima (minima) appear and disappear. In the past, we only obtained this effect when we used data that led to a lattice system (the lattice system was obtained when a path was specified).
Scalar particle creation in an anisotropic universe

The problem of quantized scalar field creation in an anisotropic spatially homogeneous background universe is reexamined from a Schr\"odinger-picture point of view. For each mode a complete set of orthonormal wave functions, ${\ensuremath{\psi}}_{N}$, is obtained using the method of Salusti and Zirilli. These wave functions are valid at all times even if there is an initial cosmological singularity and depend only on the solution of the classical equation of motion. The wave functions are fixed completely by requiring the classical solution to have positive-frequency WKB form when the universe reaches the stage of adiabatic expansion. These wave functions are eigenfunctions of a conserved number operator which has the usual particle interpretation in the adiabatic regime. An intitial state near the singularity is chosen as a superposition of the wave functions, ${\ensuremath{\psi}}_{N}$, and the particle number in the adiabatic regime is calculated. For plane-wave initial states, which follow the classical behavior near the singularity, the final particle number depends only on the parameters of the initial wave packet. For an initial state which instantaneously diagonalizes the Hamiltonian, an (arbitrary) initial time must be chosen. If the mode in question is in the adiabatic regime at that time almost no particle creation occurs. If it is not adiabatic, creation occurs and becomes infinite if the initial time is taken to be that of the singularity. This creation is a consequence of the failure of particle number to be well defined in this regime. Comparisons with other particle-creation studies are made.
Open‐celled microcellular thermoplastic foam

A theoretical model of the production of open-cell microcellular foam is presented. This model allows the prediction of the conditions necessary to produce these materials. Experiments verify the model quite well. The results of the batch processing experiments indicate the processing parameters that promote the development of open-celled microcellular polystyrene foam. A saturation pressure of 17.2 MPa (2500 psig) provides the nucleation density necessary to form an impinged structure with microcellular bubble density. A foaming temperature of 200°C promotes the formation of both internal and surface porosity. A scaled time between 1 and 2.7 seconds develops a foam structure that intrudes a large volume. Samples foamed at 200°C for 1 and 2 seconds possess pores less than 1 μm in diameter. These samples represent scaled times of 1 and 2 seconds. Therefore, to produce open-celled microcellular polystyrene foam with batch processing, samples should be saturated at approximately 17.2 MPa (2500 psig) and foamed for a scaled time between 1 and 2 seconds.
Succinylation of Cottonseed Flour: Effect on the Functional Properties of Protein Isolates Prepared from Modified Flour

Succinylated cottonseed protein isolates (40% and 54% modification of amino groups of control isolate) were prepared under pilot scale processing conditions. Partial succinylation of cottonseed flour increased the yield of protein isolate in isoelectric precipitation (pH 4.5). The succinylated isolates were more water soluble, less heat-coagulable in water, and lighter in color as compared to conventional isolates. They also showed improved functional properties including higher oil absorption, emulsion capacity, gel strength, water hydration, water retention, and viscosity. Bulk density was decreased and resulted in fluffy isolates.
First-order theory for charge exchange with correct boundary conditions: General results for hydrogenlike and multielectron target atoms.

The first Born approximation of Belkic-acute-accent, Gayet, and Salin (Phys. Rep. 56, 279 (1979)) with correct boundary conditions for charge exchange is thoroughly investigated. Functional analysis is used to derive general result T/sub n//sub l//sub m//sub ;//sub n//sub '//sub l//sub '//sub m//sub '//sup (1)/ of the transition amplitude for electron capture from hydrogenlike and multielectron atoms by bare nuclei. The basic matrix element is a two-center Dalitz integral with the logarithmic Coulomb phase factors, which has a broad spectrum of applications in both atomic and molecular physics. Multielectron target atoms are treated within an independent-particle model which goes beyond the customary procedure for scaled hydrogenlike wave functions. An accurate and efficient algorithm is encoded for both hydrogenic and Roothaan-Hartree-Fock orbitals into a single program for charge exchange between completely stripped ions and arbitrary atoms. An exemplary computation of the total cross sections is presently carried out for electron capture from all shells of Li by ..cap alpha.. particles in the energy range from 250 to 2500 keV. Good agreement is found with recent experimental data of McCullough et al. (J. Phys. B 15, 111 (1982)) and Sasao et al. (J. Phys. Soc. Jpn. 55, 102 (1986)).
On obtaining the coefficients of the output transfer function from a state-space model and an output model of a linear constant coefficient system

A compact procedure for the calculation of the coefficients of the output transfer function of a system is presented. The coefficients of the plant characteristic polynomial are obtained as an explicit byproduct of this approach. Some additional insight into the consequence of the system's state being unobservable by the output is gained. If the state is fully observable via the output, the characteristic polynomial of the system state transfer matrix is determined.
The determinants of yields on financial leasing contracts

Abstract This study tests hypotheses about the valuation of leasing contracts. We examine the determinants of the yields of a relatively large, reasonably heterogeneous, and nationally representative sample of financial leases. We find lease yields to be significantly related to treasury bond yields and our proxies for the systematic risk of the leased asset's residual value and the transaction and information costs associated with the lease. There is also some evidence of a relationship between lease yields and the default-risk of the lessee.
Oriented movement of blue-green algae on a stretched gel.

TROPISTIC and tactic responses to stresses in an elastic substrate have been described for several kinds of biological material. The true bacterium Kurthia zopfii, when grown in gelatin subjected to mechanical tension, reflects precisely in its pattern of growth the pattern of stresses in the substrate1–3 ; a similar response is shown by nerve fibres cultivated on stretched coagulated plasma4. Jacobsen1 proposed the name 'elasticotropism' for this type of behaviour. A few years ago, the corresponding tactic response was demonstrated in myxobacteria on stretched agar gels5. The effect of elasticotaxis in these organisms is particularly striking through its secondary influence on the fruiting process ; the rigidly oriented movement of the vegetative cells causes marked abnormalities in the shape and distributional pattern of the fruiting bodies.
Collisions and spectroscopy of cold, highly charged high-Z ions in RETRAP

Abstract Recent experimental results from the RETRAP apparatus, including electron capture measurements on highly charged high-Z ions and laser cooling of a mixed cloud of Be+ and Be2+ ions, are briefly described. These results are used as a basis for discussion of planned spectroscopy measurements on hydrogen-like and beryllium-like high-Z highly charged ions. Experimental parameters for potential measurements of the ground state hyperfine structure of a hydrogen-like high-Z ion, and the g-factor of the electron bound in that ion, are emphasized.
ETIOLOGY OF OROYA FEVER : IV. THE EFFECT OF INOCULATION OF ANTHROPOID APES WITH BARTONELLA BACILLIFORMIS.

The inoculation of a chimpanzee with cultures and a passage strain of Bartonella bacilliformis induced local reactions which, while definite and characteristic, progressed less rapidly and were much less striking than those in the control rhesus monkey. Bartonella bacilliformis was demonstrated in the blood corpuscles with difficulty, and the fever was slight compared with the high and persistent fever of the rhesus monkey. In both the swelling of the lymph glands was an early symptom and constantly present. Definite anemia developed in the chimpanzee only after accidental infection with Rocky Mountain spotted fever and may have been due to either one or both infections, though it disappeared when the blood had become negative by culture for Bartonella bacilliformis and the local lesions had disappeared. Incidentally, the chimpanzee was found in this one instance to be less susceptible to the spotted fever than Macacus rhesus and guinea pigs. In the ourang-utan, also, Bartonella bacilliformis induced a mild systemic and local infection. A rise of temperature occurred 10 days after inoculation) and fever continued for a week, though it was decidedly less severe than that in the control rhesus. The lesions induced by scarification were less definite than those which arose at the sites of intradermal inoculation. Bartonella bacilliformis was recovered from the blood on the 9th and on the 16th days after inoculation and from nodules excised on the 33rd and 53rd days. A few erythrocytes containing the organism were demonstrated in stained smears, but prolonged search was required to find them. The symptoms and lesions observed in the chimpanzee and ourangutan as a result of infection with Bartonella bacilliformis are far milder than those of rhesus monkeys and show less resemblance to human Oroya fever or verruga.
Voltage-mode defuzzification circuits

The defuzzification interface is an important building block of a fuzzy logic controller (FLC). In this paper we describe two major methods for defuzzification and suitable analogue implementations for voltage-mode operation. A full rail-to-rail voliage range can be obiained using a fixed gain amplifier. SPICE simulations are presenied for each circuit.
Analysis of Stress Concentrations in 2 2 Braided Composites

The stress distribution in braided composites is complex even for simple uniaxial loading. The interlacing of the tows creates a complex load path that results in full three-dimensional (3D) stress distribution. The location and magnitude of peak stresses depend on the particular stress component and vary with various braid architecture parameters such as braid angle and degree of waviness. Finite element analyzes for different braids were performed and it was seen that the peak stresses in the tow mainly occur at the undulating region and along the edges of the tow. Stress distribution in braids was compared with those in ‘equivalent laminates’. A considerable volume of the tow (10-45% for the considered range of parameters) had stresses larger than an ‘equivalent lamina’. The severity of stresses in a braid as compared to those in an equivalent lamina depends upon braid geometric parameters. Braid angle changes the stress distribution in the tow considerably. However, most of that effect is due to the o...
Increased Catalytic Activity and Altered Fidelity of Human DNA Polymerase ι in the Presence of Manganese

Abstract All DNA polymerases require a divalent cation for catalytic activity. It is generally assumed that Mg2+ is the physiological cofactor for replicative DNA polymerases in vivo. However, recent studies suggest that certain repair polymerases, such as pol λ, may preferentially utilize Mn2+in vitro. Here we report on the effects of Mn2+ and Mg2+ on the enzymatic properties of human DNA polymerase ι (pol ι). pol ι exhibited the greatest activity in the presence of low levels of Mn2+ (0.05–0.25 mm). Peak activity in the presence of Mg2+ was observed in the range of 0.1–0.5 mm and was significantly reduced at concentrations >2 mm. Steady-state kinetic analyses revealed that Mn2+ increases the catalytic activity of pol ι by ∼30–60,000-fold through a dramatic decrease in the Km value for nucleotide incorporation. Interestingly, whereas pol ι preferentially misinserts G opposite T by a factor of ∼1.4–2.5-fold over the correct base A in the presence of 0.25 and 5 mm Mg2+, respectively, the correct insertion of A is actually favored 2-fold over the misincorporation of G in the presence of 0.075 mm Mn2+. Low levels of Mn2+ also dramatically increased the ability of pol ι to traverse a variety of DNA lesions in vitro. Titration experiments revealed a strong preference of pol ι for Mn2+ even when Mg2+ is present in a >10-fold excess. Our observations therefore raise the intriguing possibility that the cation utilized by pol ι in vivo may actually be Mn2+ rather than Mg2+, as tacitly assumed.
Subgroups of Physically Abusive Parents Based on Cluster Analysis of Parenting Behavior and Affect

Cluster analysis of observed parenting and self-reported discipline was used to categorize 83 abusive parents into subgroups. A 2-cluster solution received support for validity. Cluster 1 parents were relatively warm, positive, sensitive, and engaged during interactions with their children, whereas Cluster 2 parents were relatively negative, disengaged or intrusive, and insensitive. Further, clusters differed in emotional health, parenting stress, perceptions of children, and problem solving. Children of parents in the 2 clusters differed on several indexes of social adjustment. Cluster 1 parents were similar to nonabusive parents (n = 66) on parenting and related constructs, but Cluster 2 parents differed from nonabusive parents on all clustering variables and many validation variables. Results highlight clinically relevant diversity in parenting practices and functioning among abusive parents.
Number of pedometer-assessed steps taken per day by adults: a descriptive meta-analysis

Background and Purpose: Although a criterion reference of 10,000 steps per day is recommended for health benefits, a literature search yielded no normative standard for daily steps. Therefore, a meta-analysis was used to estimate the number of pedometer-documented steps that adults take daily. Methods: Studies were retrieved using electronic databases and cross-referencing from retrieved studies. A random-effects model and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used for all analyses of daily step data. Results: Seventy-one outcomes, representing 6,199 subjects from 42 studies, met the inclusion criteria. Excluding Amish subjects, the daily step count averaged 9,448 (95% CI=8,899–9,996) and was greater in subjects younger than 65 years of age (mean=9,797, 95% CI=9,216–10,377) compared with subjects 65 years of age or older (mean=6,565, 95% CI=4,897–8,233). Discussion and Conclusion: This study provides an estimate of the number of daily steps taken by adults. The number is less than the recommended 10,000 steps per day and is especially low in adults 65 years of age or older.
A new theoretical approach to model sorption-induced coal shrinkage or swelling

The shrinkage or swelling of coal as a result of gas desorption or adsorption is a well-accepted phenomenon. Its impact on permeability changes has also been recognized for two decades. Its importance has increased significantly because of the potential of coals that are not likely to be mined and depleted or nearly depleted coalbed methane reservoirs to serve as CO2 repositories. This article proposes a new theoretical technique to model the volumetric changes in the coal matrix during gas desorption or adsorption using the elastic properties, sorption parameters, and physical properties of coal. The proposed model is based on the theory of changes in surface energy as a result of sorption. The results show that the proposed model is in excellent agreement with the laboratory volumetric strain data presented in the literature during the last 50 yr. Furthermore, the proposed model can be extended to describe mixed-gas sorption behavior, which can be applied to enhanced coalbed methane and CO2 sequestration operations.