cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Winning with quality at IBM

Based on a submission for the European Best Practice Benchmarking Award of 1995, in which IBM UK Ltd won the second prize. Discusses how IBM UK Ltd has benchmarked aspects of customer service and satisfaction within its National Call Management Centre. Describes how, by focusing on model companies and areas of best practice, many processes and practices were modified in order to boost performance standards and achieve higher levels of customer satisfaction.
Microbial bioremediation products

An annotated selection of world wide websites relevant to the topics in environmental microbiology
Nickel‐Based Superalloys for Blade Application: Production, Performance and Application

The continuing drive for improvements in the performance, operating temperatures, and emissions in advanced aircraft engines has driven the development of nickel-based superalloys for decades. Nickel base superalloys are an unusual class of metallic materials with an exceptional combination of high temperature strength, toughness, and resistance to degradation in corrosive or oxidizing environments. Their performance in severe combustion and chemical environments materials has led to their widespread use in aircraft and power generation turbines, rocket engines, nuclear power plant components, marine engines, and a variety of chemical processing operations. Intensive alloy and process development activities over the past few decades have resulted in single crystal Ni-based superalloys that can tolerate average temperatures of 1050°C with occasional excursions (or local hot spots near airfoil tips) to temperatures as high as 1200°C which is ∼90% of the melting point of the material. The fundamental aspects of the composition and structure that result in these exceptional properties are briefly reviewed. Single crystal Ni-superalloys that are utilized in gas turbine engines and the advanced manufacturing processes used for their production are outlined along with characteristic mechanical and physical properties. Keywords: single crystal superalloys; airfoil; directional solidification
Quality and quantity of pikeperch (Sander lucioperca) spermatozoa after varying cold water treatments

Summary Three groups of seven pond-cultured pikeperch males, held under controlled conditions of low water temperature and for a varying photoperiod were injected with 500 IU kg−1 human chorionic gonadotropin. Following a latent period of 72 h, sperm was collected. Stripping was on 26 March (Group A), 21 April (Group B), and 13 June (Group C). Spermatozoa was obtained from 85% fish in group B and from 42% of fish in group C. Mean volume of stripped semen for Group A was 0.64 ml, for Group B 1.07 ml, and for Group C 1.80 ml, while the mean concentration of spermatozoa was similar in all groups (15.73 ± 2.68–19.34 ± 3.87 109 ml−1). Group A spermatozoa showed the longest motile period (89.93 ± 10.20 s) and Group B the shortest (55.18 ± 10.46 s). The highest velocity at 15 s post-activation was recorded in group A (220 ± 22.3 μm s−1) and the lowest in Group B (159 ± 35 μm s−1). Group C showed velocity of 187 μm s−1. The results of our study showed that the length of the cold water period had no influence on spermatozoa quality, but did have an influence on the ability of males to produce sperm.
Hypermethylation of the Pendred Syndrome Gene SLC26A4 Is an Early Event in Thyroid Tumorigenesis

Expression of the recently cloned Pendred syndrome gene SLC26A4 or PDS has been found to be decreased or even absent in various thyroid tumors. To explore the underlying mechanism, we conducted DNA sequencing and methylation-specific PCR studies in 64 primary thyroid tumors and 6 thyroid cell lines. We found aberrant hypermethylation of the SLC26A4 gene in 44% of histologically benign adenomas, 46% of follicular thyroid cancers, 71% of papillary thyroid cancers, 71% of anaplastic thyroid cancers, and 100% of cell lines. A reciprocal relationship between methylation and expression of the gene was confirmed in cell lines and thyroid tissues. We have thus demonstrated epigenetic changes as a new mechanism in altering the SLC26A4 gene function, in addition to genetic mutation in Pendred syndrome. SLC26A4 gene methylation in benign adenomas and the relatively well-differentiated WRO cell line suggest that this alteration is an early event in thyroid tumorigenesis.
Suicide and the Internet: the case of Amanda Todd

In a previous article in this journal, Gunn, Lester and McSwain provided evidence that the ten warnings signs for suicide proposed by the American Association for Suicidology are valid for predicting suicidal ideation and behavior A video posted on YouTube by a 15-year-old girl scored 8-9 out of 10 for these signs. Thirty-nine days after positing the video, the girl killed herself.
Employment Testers Revisited

This paper was prepared for the 62nd NYU Annual Conference on Labor, which focused on labor and employment law initiatives in the Obama administration. The paper discusses the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission’s recent announcement that it will consider whether and how to integrate “matched-pair” testing into its enforcement regime. The paper summarizes the history of the EEOC’s consideration of the use of testers and the use of testers by public and private groups to both enforce Title VII and measure the incidence of discrimination in particular labor markets. The paper concludes with a discussion of some of the issues that will face the EEOC this time around: 1. What are the justifications for using testers to supplement the existing enforcement regime? 2. Does the EEOC have the authority to implement its own enforcement-based testers program? 3. How can the EEOC design a program that will produce results that are sufficiently reliable to justify imposing liability on employers for disparate treatment of testers?
Four-layered coplanar waveguide with double side conductor backings

The wave propagation characteristics are analyzed by the modified spectral domain approach (SDA). The new proposed multilayered waveguide has certain advantages over traditional two-layered waveguide and is suitable for the application of multilayered packaging structure.
Accuracy of pressure-flow estimates of velopharyngeal orifice size in an analog model and human subjects

This study examined the accuracy of pressure-flow estimates of velopharyngeal (V-P) orifice size as applied to an analog model and two human subjects. Accuracy was assessed under differing conditions of degree of nasal resistance and type of instrumental interface. Known V-P orifice openings were introduced in the model through use of cover plates and in the humans through use of modified nasopharyngeal obturators. Nasal resistances were altered with perforated nasal plugs. Instrumental interfaces differed principally in the method used to detect nasal cavity pressure. Measures were applied to the hydrokinetic equation to estimate V-P area values. Data from the analog model and the human subjects were comparable in many respects. In low nasal resistance, area estimates were reasonably accurate regardless of the interface utilized. In high nasal resistance error typically increased, although not equally across interface types. Potential sources of error are identified and discussed.
Cholate-induced dimerization of detergent- or phospholipid-solubilized bovine cytochrome C oxidase.

Bovine heart cytochrome c oxidase (CcO), solubilized by either nonionic detergents or phospholipids, completely dimerizes upon the addition of bile salts, e.g., sodium cholate, sodium deoxycholate, or CHAPS. Bile salt induced dimerization occurs whether dodecyl maltoside, decyl maltoside, or Triton X-100 is the primary solubilizing detergent or the enzyme is dispersed in phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, or mixtures thereof. In each case, complete CcO dimerization can be verified by sedimentation velocity and sedimentation equilibrium after correction for bound detergent and/or phospholipid. The relative concentration of the bile salt is critical for production of homogeneous, dimeric CcO. For example, enzyme solubilized by 2 mM detergent requires an equal molar concentration of sodium cholate. Similarly, enzyme dispersed in 20 mM phospholipid requires 50 mM sodium cholate, concentrations that are commonly used to reconstitute CcO into small unilamellar vesicles. Bile salts do more than just stabilize dimeric CcO and prevent detergent-induced dissociation into monomers. They are able to completely reverse detergent-induced monomerization and cause completely monomeric CcO to reassociate. Dimeric CcO so generated is no more stable than the original complex and easily dissociates into monomers if the bile salt is removed. The dimerization process is dependent upon a full complement of subunits; e.g., if subunits VIa and VIb are removed, the resulting monomeric CcO will not reassociate upon the addition of sodium cholate. These results support four important consequences: (1) dissociation of dimeric CcO into monomers is reversible; (2) stable dimers can be produced under solution conditions; (3) dimers can be stabilized even at relatively high pH and low enzyme concentration; and (4) subunits VIa and VIb are required for dimerization.
Looking beyond the obvious: Unraveling the Toyota production system

Abstract In contrast to prior research on the Toyota Production System (TPS) that has tended to focus on the micro issues or structural issues, we take an integrated approach of TPS to include the rules or principles underlying TPS. Consistent with recent work by Spear and Bowen (1999) and Spear (2004) , we suggest that the systematic method in combination with lean practices typify the TPS. We expand upon this body of work by empirically examining our suggestions on a large sample data comprising manufacturing plants in several industries. Several main effects of TPS practices on performance were found. Similarly, TPS rules were found to be positively related to manufacturing performance. Finally, we found a positive interaction effect between the TPS practice of preventive maintenance and the TPS rule of decentralized decision making on all performance measures in this study, i.e. manufacturing cycle time, quality, cost, and delivery speed. Implications for theory building and for practitioners are offered.
Regulation of soil moisture dynamics in agricultural fields using strips of native prairie vegetation

Abstract There is a growing interest in the use of native prairie vegetation to restore the hydrologic balance in agricultural watersheds. The objectives of this study were to investigate the effects of establishing strips of native prairie vegetation (SNPV) in agricultural fields (CROP) on soil water dynamics and assess the potential value of SNPV as an agricultural conservation practice to regulate soil water dynamics. Soil water storage (SWS) was monitored biweekly at four soil depth intervals (0–30, 30–60, 0–60, 0–100) during the growing seasons of 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010 at the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge, Prairie City, Iowa. The influence of land cover (SNPV, CROP), topographic position (summit, sideslope footslope), season, and precipitation on SWS was analyzed. Results indicated that SWS was higher under prairie vegetation than CROP the year the SNPV was established (2007), while a reverse pattern was observed for the following three post-treatment years. More pronounced differences among land covers were observed in the first 30 cm of soil. Overall, June–July had the highest SWS and August–September the lowest, but the trend varied within years. In 2009 and 2010, years of low and high precipitation, respectively, the differences in SWS among land covers were minimal and no statistical differences were observed. Overall, results indicate that the introduction of SNPV can contribute to the regulation of the water balance in agricultural watersheds by increasing water holding capacity, and hence, reducing runoff during high rainfall events.
A convenient procedure for purification of thymidylate synthase from L1210 cells

Abstract Several laboratories have described procedures for purification of thymidylate synthase (TMP synthase) that utilize folates or folate analogs covalently attached to a matrix. The principle of separation is the formation of a ternary complex between dUMP, TMP synthase, and the bound ligand and the subsequent elution of the enzyme with buffers that do not contain dUMP. We have successfully used 10-formylfolic acid as the bound ligand for the purification of TMP synthase. As compared to other ligands that have been used, 10-formylfolic acid has the advantages that it can be easily synthesized, it is stable, and the enzyme is eluted as a sharp peak. Application of this procedure to L1210 leukemia cells gave 1765-fold purification of TMP synthase with a recovery of 39%. The native enzyme had a molecular weight of 78,000, which is about the same as that reported.
High precision thick target PIXE analyses of carbonaceous meteorites

High precision proton-induced X-ray (PIXE) thick target spectra of carbonaceous meteorites have been deconvoluted using previously described programs. Even in cases of totally overlapping peaks excellent fits to spectra were obtained. Concentrations for 15 elements in the mass range 56–100, as well as Pb, agree well in most cases with previous literature values. The total concentration range studied was over 105, with the lowest concentrations precisely analyzed being around 1 ppm.
Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections andexanthems

A review of the medical literature and two case reports of M. pneumoniae infections with exanthems are presented. Erythematous maculopapular and vesicular exanthems were most common. The duration of rash was more than seven days in the majority of instances, and most patients had associated pneumonia. A striking difference in prevalence and clinical symptomatology by sex was noted; 16 of 20 patients analyzed were males, and they frequently had severe mucocutaneous syndromes. In contrast, severe conjunctivitis, generalized ulcerative stomatitis, and vesicular or bullous exanthems were not seen in females. Clinicians should suspect infection with M. pneumoniae in patients with exanthem and pneumonia, although other etiologic possibilities should also be considered.
Obesity- and sex-related alterations in growth hormone messenger RNA levels

The secretion of growth hormone (GH) is abnormal in genetically obese Zucker rats. Measurements of pulsatile GH release and circulating GH levels in lean (Fa/?) and obese (fa/fa) rats have shown that both are reduced in the latter. We have studied pituitary GH gene expression in order to understand the role of GH synthesis in this abnormality. Obese animals have lower pituitary GH mRNA levels than lean controls. Within each genotype a sex difference was observed with the female animals having lower GH mRNA levels than the males. It is unlikely that the GH abnormality is due to a generalized pituitary defect because prolactin mRNA levels were the same in all four groups of rats.
Role of electron–electron interactions in magnetoresistance oscillations in high-mobility 2D electron systems

Abstract We studied the temperature dependence of nonlinear magnetoresistivity oscillations in high-mobility two-dimensional electron systems using a current-sweep method in a temperature range from 1.5 to 4.0 K. Consistent with previous studies we found that the primary source of the oscillation decay with increasing temperature is the modification of the quantum scattering rate entering the Dingle factor. These results provide further evidence that the high temperature decay of magnetoresistance oscillations appearing in the second order of the Dingle factor originates primarily from the electron–electron interaction effects.
Reporting of atypical squamous cells, cannot exclude a high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (ASC-H) on cervical samples: is it significant?

"Atypical squamous cells, cannot exclude a high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (ASC-H)" is a new diagnostic category in the 2001 Bethesda nomenclature system for cervical cytology. The purpose of this 7-mo retrospective study (March 1, 2002-September 30, 2002) was to evaluate the significance of ASC-H on cervical Thin Prep Pap Tests. During this period, 25 (0.27%) of 9,214 Pap Tests were diagnosed as ASC-H, 22 of which resulted in either follow-up cervical biopsies and/or cervical cones, and which formed the basis of this study. Tissue specimens (22 cases) were negative in 5 cases (23%) and positive in 17 cases (77%). Of the positive specimens, there were 2 (12%) low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (LSIL) and 15 (88%) high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL). Of the 22 cases, ASC-H diagnoses included immature/atypical squamous metaplasia vs. a squamous intraepithelial lesion (SIL) in 19 (86%) cases, and tight clusters of small cells with a high nuclear to cytoplasmic ratio in 3 (14%) cases. The results of this study indicate that the reporting of ASC-H on cervical samples does lead to the detection of HSILs in a significant number of cases (68% in this study). Therefore, further evaluation of the patient is warranted.
Effects of acetaldehyde on glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity and mRNA levels in primary rat hepatocytes in culture

Abstract Ethanol has been shown to induce the activity of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH). To clarify the mechanism behind this induction, we examined the role of acetaldehyde (AA), the first product of ethanol metabolism. In primary adult rat hepatocytes maintained in chemically defined medium, we examined the effect of AA on G6PDH activity, mRNA levels and lipid synthesis. We observe a 40% increase in G6PDH activity and a similar increase in mRNA levels, following exposure to 100 μM AA. The increase in activity was found to be maximal at 24 h while mRNA levels increased over controls as early as 3 h. The induction in G6PDH by AA was found to occur at lower concentrations and earlier time points than those reported using ethanol. The role of insulin, a known inducer of G6PDH activity was studied alone and in combination with AA on both G6PDH activity and mRNA levels as well as lipid biosynthesis. Insulin (300 ng/ml) was found to increase G6PDH activity, mRNA levels and [ 14 C]-acetate incorporation into lipid. It was also shown to have an additive effect with AA on G6PDH activity, suggesting their actions are mediated via different mechanistic pathways. No change in [ 14 C]-acetate incorporation into lipid, however, was observed with acetaldehyde alone.
Iododestannylation. Position-specific synthesis of iodotamoxifen

Abstract A procedure has been developed for the synthesis of iodotamoxifen 3 from tamoxifen ( 1 ), an anti-estrogenic agent currently employed in the treatment of breast cancer. Ortho-directed metalation of tamoxifen with sec -butyllithium at −78°C followed by addition of tri- n -butyltin chloride gave the stannyl derivative 2 in 98% isolated yield. Iododestannylation of 2 at 0°C with iodine afforded the desired iodotamoxifen 3 in quantitative yield. The dimethylaminoethoxy group appears to be more strongly activating for ortho metalation than methoxy.
Putting Content First: Evaluating the Relevancy of a Professional Association's Web Site

Professional associations are important for the continuing education, networking, and development of many librarians, yet there has been little research investigating the value of associations’ Web sites and how they support members’ needs. Just as a library must understand the purpose of its Web site, professional associations must clearly define a Web site's purpose in order to determine if the site is meeting the needs of its intended audience. This study presents how three volunteer Web managers began the process of identifying the purpose of one professional library association's Web site and how they determined if the site was relevant to the membership using data gathered in a Web analytics tool and a survey of association members. By understanding membership needs and user preferences, the Web managers were able to determine the relevancy of the site and develop strategic plans for future site improvements. This process offers a model that other association volunteers can use to assess and improve...
Far-red light effect on ultraviolet light induced chromatid aberrations in pollen tubes of Tradescantia

A total dose of 7·65 × 10 5 erg cm −2 of far-red light (730 nm) was administered immediately after a total dose of 10 6 erg cm −2 of ultraviolet light (253 nm) treatment to mature dry pollen of Tradescantia paludosa . Three control groups were maintained: UV alone (UV), far-red alone (FR), and dark control (DC), in order to determine the effect of far-red light on UVinduced chromatid aberrations (UV+FR). Chromatid aberrations, including exchanges, chromatid and isochromatid breaks, were scored from metaphase figures of 18 hr old pollen tube culture grown on lactose agar medium supplemented with 0·02% colchicine. The average results of duplicated experiments indicated that the UV + FR group had about 46 per cent lower aberration rate than the UV group, while the FR and DC groups yielded similar background aberration rates. The lower rate of aberration in UV+FR group was postulated to be either the result of mitotic cessation for UV+FR induced aberrant cells which therefore failed to reach metaphase stage to be scored for aberrations, or far-red light enhanced reparation of UV-induced breakage.
Novel Visible Light Emitting Optical Fibers Using Up-Conversion

Optical fibers are described that emit visible light along their length when particulate up-converters in the cladding are excited by light from semiconductor light sources propagating in the core and leaking into the cladding. These eye-catching fibers can be made in almost any color. They can enhance the display of safety gear, enliven novelty clothing displays, make more spectacular theatrical costumes and find use in a wide range of specialty fabrics for other novel display applications.
Divalent cation-dependent ATPase activities in ciliary membranes and other surface structures in Paramecium tetraurelia: Comparative in vitro studies

Cilia membrane preparations from axenically grown Paramecium contain ATPase activities with distinct electrophoretic mobilities on Triton-polyacrylamide gels [M. J. Doughty and E. S. Kaneshiro (1983) J. Protozool.30, 569–575]. Such gel analyses also show additional ATPase activity bands associated with ciliary axonemes (dyneins), cell pellicles, exocytotic trichocysts, and the external cell surface (ectoenzyme). In the present report, the in vitro properties of these activities in various cell fractions were compared. The activity in ciliary membranes was stimulated by Ca2+ > Mg2+, in pellicles by Ca2+ > Mg2+, and in trichocysts by Ca2+ = Mg2+. The ecto-ATPase was strictly Ca2+ dependent. Determination of the affinities for various phosphate-containing substrates showed that the activities in all fractions were nucleoside triphosphate phosphohydrolases. Unlike the axonemal dynein ATPases, all other fractions were vanadate- and p-chloromercuribenzoate-insensitive. Activities in all cell fractions were sensitive to ruthenium red, the ciliary membrane being the most sensitive (Ki = 4 μm). The ciliary membrane Ca2+ ATPase activity exhibited an apparent affinity for CaATP2− of 9 μm and was inhibited by other divalent cations, La3+, and phosphate, but not by ADP or AMP. The kinetic properties of the ciliary membrane Ca2+ ATPase activity in wild type and several behavioral mutants were similar except for those in the pawn mutant, d495, and the paranoiac mutant, d490, both of which had lower specific activities. These studies support the finding that the ciliary membrane ATPase activity of Paramecium is a specific Ca2+-dependent ATPase distinct from other divalent cation-dependent ATPase activities found in either the cilia or other cell surface structures.
Carbohydrate-derived amphiphilic macromolecules: a biophysical structural characterization and analysis of binding behaviors to model membranes.

The design and synthesis of enhanced membrane-intercalating biomaterials for drug delivery or vascular membrane targeting is currently challenged by the lack of screening and prediction tools. The present work demonstrates the generation of a Quantitative Structural Activity Relationship model (QSAR) to make a priori predictions. Amphiphilic macromolecules (AMs) “stealth lipids” built on aldaric and uronic acids frameworks attached to poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) polymer tails were developed to form self-assembling micelles. In the present study, a defined set of novel AM structures were investigated in terms of their binding to lipid membrane bilayers using Quartz Crystal Microbalance with Dissipation (QCM-D) experiments coupled with computational coarse-grained molecular dynamics (CG MD) and all-atom MD (AA MD) simulations. The CG MD simulations capture the insertion dynamics of the AM lipophilic backbones into the lipid bilayer with the PEGylated tail directed into bulk water. QCM-D measurements with Voigt viscoelastic model analysis enabled the quantitation of the mass gain and rate of interaction between the AM and the lipid bilayer surface. Thus, this study yielded insights about variations in the functional activity of AM materials with minute compositional or stereochemical differences based on membrane binding, which has translational potential for transplanting these materials in vivo. More broadly, it demonstrates an integrated computational-experimental approach, which can offer a promising strategy for the in silico design and screening of therapeutic candidate materials.
Insufficient conjugate glucuronidation activity: A possible factor in polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) toxicity

Considerable evidence indicates that phenolic and biphenolic compounds are detoxified and excreted primarily via conjugate glucuronidation in man. Since fetuses, neonates and certain enzyme deficient adults have significant functional deficiencies in their capacities to excrete toxic compounds via conjugate glucuronidation, it is predicted that these groups of individuals are biochemically predisposed to accumulate polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB's), a widely distributed and highly toxic environmental contaminant.
Analysis of the Forced Vibration of Two Bolted Half‐Pipes with Extended Friction Contacts

The present paper deals with the forced vibration analysis of a test structure. The test structure consists of two parts, an upper and a lower half pipe, joint in two bolted flanges which represent the extended friction contacts. Depending on the clamping loads different normal pressure distributions can be established in the contact interfaces. Since the test structure is loaded with a harmonic external force relative displacements occur in the contact interface. This leads to microslip effects affecting the dynamic behaviour. The experimental validation of the calculation method accounting for these effects is shown by comparing measured and calculated frequency response functions (FRF). (© 2005 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
94 An obligate(?) heterokont biflagellate parasite in codium fragile

Specimens of Codium fragile (Suringar) Hariot ssp. tomentosoides were collected from 9 sites in New England, and Long Island, New York at intervals throughout the years 1999-2003. Segments were removed from the thalli and chopped into fine fragments, mostly individual utricles and medullary filaments. Fragments were incubated in enriched seawater in dim light at 15C, 12:12 LD. Within 2–3 days, in almost all cases (more than 300) motile cells formed in many of the utricles and filaments. These were 10–15 micrometer elongated biflagellate heterokont cells. They appeared to consume the chloroplasts, and within 24 hours were reduced to colorless cells, about 5 micrometers long. These cells are unable to grow in Codium chloroplast suspensions. They appear to be always associated with Codium thalli, despite attempts to clean the thalli, and were never seen in utricles or filaments of intact plants. Their ultrastructure is under investigation and will be reported on here.
Synchrotron experimental results on an unribbed sagittally focussing crystal monochromator

Abstract Results are reported on the performance of a novel sagittally focussing crystal monochromator design that minimizes the anticlastic bending without the use of ribs. With a demagnification factor of 3.57, 2.2 mrad of the radiation from an NSLS bending magnet are focussed to a spot size with a FWHM of 363 μm which is 12% larger than the ideal focus size with a beam intensity 2.0×10 9 photons s −1 mA −1 at 8 keV. The beam intensity changes by 5% when changing the sagittal bend radius from 1.81 to 4.09 m thereby demonstrating that the anticlastic curvature effect is negligible.
Application of computational fluid dynamics to sonic boom near- and mid-field prediction

A technique combining a quasilinear extrapolation theory and a three-dimensional parabolized Navier-Stokes (PNS) code has been used to calculate the supersonic overpressure from three different geometries at near- and mid-fields. Wind-tunnel data is used for code validation. Comparison of the computed results with different grid refinements, and different extrapolation distances, are shown in this article. It is observed that a large number of grid points is needed to resolve the tail shock/expansion fan interaction. Therefore, an adaptive grid approach is employed to calculate the flowfield. The effects of a thin, attached boundary layer and the sting of the wind-tunnel model to the sonic boom have also been studied in this article. The agreement between the results and the wind-tunnel data confirms that this technique can be applied to the problem of sonic-boom prediction.
Life Spectacles: Media, Business Synergy, and Affective Work in Neoliberal China

The way in which Chinese media communicates the meanings of everyday life has been significantly reconfigured since the late 1970s. ‘Folk television’ or ‘life television’ has been developed as a popular television genre that focuses on ordinary people and their lived experiences. This phenomenon reflects the neoliberal development of China’s cultural institutions in general and the privatization of television production and distribution in particular. Meanwhile, cultural enterprises also shape the way in which Chinese citizens conduct themselves. In such domains as leisure and consumption, operators of theme built environments such as theme parks, theme shopping malls, and even residential communities deploy spatial planning and engineering techniques to subtly train their users to behave in a particular way to become proper citizens. This type of business through real estate development, a dominant sector of the Chinese economy, contributes to the national project of managing social risks in China’s neoliberal process. To illustrate how media and leisure companies engage in cultural production appropriate to China’s neoliberal development, this paper examines both a television production of news about ‘ordinary people’ and a theme park operation of ethnic festival by focusing on the relationship between media convergence, business synergy, and affective work.
Thermal Behavior Modeling of Interior Refractory Lining of Torpedo-Ladle by Finite Element Method

Torpedo-ladle was widely used in hot metal transportation. As its insulation properties had deep influence on the quality of iron and steel during the metallurgy process, the method to improve the insulation properties of torpedo-ladle was concerned widely. The results of this paper showed that either using lower thermal conductivity or increasing the thickness of insulation lining could effectively improve torpedo thermal insulation properties by solving the 3-D model with ANSYS.
Decentralized self-balancing systems

The transition to Nano-scale devices is expected to open the way for highly complex parallel systems. However, decreased reliability and strict interconnect limitations are two important challenges that the devices need to overcome. To do so, such systems have to adapt to the changing workload and faults, employing decentralized protocols to coordinate among the many components. In this paper, we investigate algorithms for evenly distributing resources among locally connected components, so that the system can dynamically self-balance as the availability of resources changes. We propose two efficient Decentralized Protocols that achieve near-optimal resource distributions. The protocols are scalable and guarantee the desired fair distribution regardless of the interconnect topology.
Cognitive processes, strain, and stress: Gender differences in stress propensity indicators

This study examined a model of stress response that includes a stress propensity construct, a subjective stress construct, and a strain construct. Using structural equation models (SEM) analysis, this model provided a good fit with the data. SEM analysis of gender differences indicated that the path coefficients for the relationships between the stress propensity construct with subjective stress were higher for women than for men. Factor loadings for two of the six indicators of the stress propensity construct also differed between genders. The implications of these findings for understanding stress-related constructs and gender differences are discussed.
Synthesis of dimethyl carbonate and dimethoxy methane over Cu-ZSM-5

Abstract An investigation was carried out of the oxidative carbonylation of methanol to dimethyl carbonate over Cu-ZSM-5. The catalyst was prepared by solid-state ion exchange of H-ZSM-5 with CuCl and then characterized by X-ray absorption spectra (XAS). The XANES portion of the XAS data showed that all of the copper is present as Cu + cations, and analysis of the EXAFS portion of the data shows the Cu + cations have a Cu-O coordination number of ∼2.7, suggesting that the cations are doubly and triply coordinated. Under DMC synthesis conditions, cuprous cations can be identified by two sorts of sites, one site covered by methanol only and a second on which CO and methanol co-absorb. In the absence of CO, DMM is the primary product formed, but when CO is present DMC becomes the primary products. DMM and MF are presumed to form via the coupling of formaldehyde and formic acid, respectively, with methanol. Consistent with this reasoning, the rates of DMM and MF formation increase with oxygen partial pressure. DMC is formed by carbonylation of methanol, and the rate of its formation increases with CO partial pressure. Increasing methanol partial pressure has an equivalent effect on the rates of DMM and DMC formation, suggesting that both products are formed from a common precursor derived from methanol, for example a methoxide group.
Constituição e relações internacionais

O presente artigo discute os principios constitucionais que regem as relacoes internacionais do Brasil. Depois de tracar um panorama historico dessas normas e de discutir a influencia do processo de redemocratizacao sobre a materia, o estudo debate a interpretacao dos incisos do art. 4o da Constituicao de 1988, bem como o papel institucional do Poder Executivo na conducao das relacoes internacionais do Pais.
Effect of Source Decay in Bioluminescence Tomography: A Phantom Study

Recent studies in bioluminescence tomography have been mainly focusing on the ill-posedness and non-uniqueness nature of the problem. In this paper, we demonstrate the significance of the effect of bioluminescence source decay on the reconstruction results with both simulations and phantom studies. Time variation of the bioluminescence source can cause artifacts in the tomographic images. The results show that source dynamic information is pivotal for accurate reconstruction when the decay half-life is comparable to the duration of the data acquisition.
Control of analyte electrolysis in electrospray ionization mass spectrometry using repetitively pulsed high voltage

Abstract Analyte electrolysis using a repetitively pulsed high voltage ion source was investigated and compared to that using a regular, continuously operating direct current high voltage ion source in electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. The extent of analyte electrolysis was explored as a function of the length and frequency of the high voltage pulse using the model compound reserpine in positive ion mode. Using +5 kV as the maximum high voltage amplitude, reserpine was oxidized to its 2, 4, 6 and 8-electron oxidation products when direct current high voltage was employed. In contrast, when using a pulsed high voltage, oxidation of reserpine was eliminated by employing the appropriate high voltage pulse length and frequency. This effect was caused by inefficient mass transport of the analyte to the electrode surface during the duration of the high voltage pulse and the subsequent relaxation of the emitter electrode/electrolyte interface during the time period when the high voltage was turned off. This mode of ESI source operation allows for analyte electrolysis to be quickly and simply switched on or off electronically via a change in voltage pulse variables.
Surgical simulator for diagnostic and operative hysteroscopy

Abstract Computer-based surgical simulation promises to provide a broader scope of clinical training through the introduction of anatomic variation, simulation of untoward events, and collection of performance data. We present a haptically enabled surgical simulator for the most common techniques in diagnostic and operative hysteroscopy–cervical dilation, endometrial resection and ablation, and lesion excision. Engineering tradeoffs in developing a real-time, haptic-rate simulator are discussed.
Technology and its impact in the classroom

Recent findings have shown that at-risk students in grades k-12 are being deprived of challenges and of the chance to use complex thinking skills. The purpose of this study is to determine the effect that the level of computer technology use in the classroom has on at-risk students' grades and attendance. A teacher technology survey is used to measure teacher use, student use and overall use of technology in the classrooms. The sample for this study consists of teachers from a Northwest Ohio high school. Results of the study indicate that teachers' technology use, students' technology use, and overall technology use have no significant positive effect on the grades and attendance of at-risk students. In addition the study finds that technology use is low among the teachers in the sample. These results suggest that for technology to be effective and make changes in at-risk students' grades and attendance, schools must be prepared for technology use in the classroom. Leaders need to develop a model that would include a shared vision, entire school community involvement, specific training for staff and time for the training, a full time technology director and time for the staff to communicate and share among peers for technology to be an effective tool in the classroom curriculum.
Pobreza por subtração: A festa, de Ivan Ângelo

Em "Nacional por subtracao" (1987), Roberto Schwarz analisa a exclusao das classes marginalizadas do debate sobre o carater nacional brasileiro. Ao incorporar o argumento de Schwarz, bem como os cinco discursos sobre pobreza de Engbersen (1999), o presente ensaio contextualiza o tema da pobreza e sua discussao na historia literaria brasileira para posteriormente argumentar que A festa (1976), de Ivan Ângelo, constitui um exemplo de literatura de pobreza por subtracao. Embora Ângelo exclua a voz do pobre do romance, ele o faz precisamente para salientar a maneira problematica por meio da qual tanto a literatura como a midia professam representar os socialmente excluidos.
The effect of delayed injections of tricarboxylic acid cycle inhibitors and reticuloendothelial "blocking" agents on Salmonella typhimurium infection in mice.

A series of injections of tricarboxylic acid cycle inhibitors or intermediates given immediately after infection reduces survival time of mice (Berry and Mitchell, 1953a and b), rats (Berry and Derbyshire, 1956), guinea pigs (Berry and Beuzeville), and chickens (Gilnllan, Holtman, and Ross, 1956) infected with certain bacterial pathogens. Without apparent exception, at least one of the substances employed accelerates the course of the disease when different dis-
MER-25 does not inhibit the activation of aggression by testosterone in adult Rockland—Swiss mice

Abstract The effect of ethamoxytriphetol (MER-25), an antiestrogen, on testosterone or estrogen induced aggression was evaluated in mice. In accord with previous data, both hormones activated fighting in gonadectomized males and TP induced aggression in ovariectomized females. Concurrent antiestrogen treatment, while significantly suppressing the ability of EB to promote aggression, did not block the capacity of TP to induce fighting in gonadectomized males or females. These data suggest that the aromatization of androgens within the central nervous system may not be essential for the promotion of aggression by testosterone in adult Rockland—Swiss mice.
Performance matters in heart failure.

The toll of heart failure, in terms of hospital admissions, clinical events, and spiraling health care costs, continues unabated in the United States. Recent trends affirm that the number of patients hospitalized with heart failure has grown steadily over the past 30 years, and with aging of the U.S
An in situ study of metal complexation by an immobilized synthetic biopolymer using tapping mode liquid cell atomic force microscopy.

Near-field scanning optical microscopy and tapping mode, liquid cell atomic force microscopy were used to study the conformational changes in simple short-chain silica-immobilized biopolymer, poly(l-cysteine) (PLCys), as the polymer was exposed to reducing, metal-rich, and acidic environments, respectively, to simulate on-line metal preconcentration. In a reducing environment (0.01 M dithiothreitol in pH 7.0 ammonium acetate buffer), the PLCys features resembled islands on the surface of the glass, 36 ± 7 nm in height and 251 ± 60 nm in diameter. Upon exposure to metal (Cd2+ buffered at pH 7.0), the PLCys islands broke up into smaller metal binding clusters whose features were lower in height, 22 ± 5 nm, and diameter, 213 ± 53 nm. Exposure to 0.01 M HCl used for metal stripping resulted in protonation of the polymer chains and further reduction in the polymer height to 12 ± 5 nm. These changes in molecular structure have given new insight into the mechanisms involved to achieve strong binding as well as r...
Becoming a Taxi-Dancer: The Significance of Neutralization in a Semi-Deviant Occupation

Previous studies of deviant and semi-deviant occupations have reported that workers in these occupations frequently use justifications to explain or defend their occupational behaviors. The present...
Semiclassical integrable matrix elements.

A semiclassical expression for matrix elements of an arbitrary operator with respect to the eigenstates of an integrable Hamiltonian is derived. This is essentially the Heisenberg correspondence principle, and it is shown via the Weyl correspondence that the approximation is valid through the lowest two orders in \ensuremath{\Elzxh}. The result is used to prove that an asymptotic form of the Clebsch-Gordan coefficients for two large and one small angular momenta is valid through two orders. \textcopyright{} 1996 The American Physical Society.
Inflammation and Atherosclerosis: Disease Modulating Therapies

Advances in the mechanistic understanding of atheroma initiation, repair, progression, and rupture have solidified the pivotal role played by the immune system in the pathophysiology of atherosclerotic vascular disease. These mechanistic findings have been extended into humans, with a strong evidence basis for the independent association between elevated blood markers of inflammation and future cardiovascular (CV) events. Investigations with statins as well as more conventional anti-inflammatory medications provide indirect evidence to support the concept that modifying immune responses can improve CV outcomes; however, robust evidence to support the use of anti-inflammatory treatment strategies to manage atherosclerotic vascular disease is still lacking. Such evidence may emerge from a new wave of clinical trials directly exploring the effects of targeted immune modulation on CV risk. These trials will provide key additional insights into atherosclerosis and will help determine the fate of immune modulation as a new treatment strategy in atherosclerotic vascular disease.
Rheumatoid arthritis, amyloidosis, and chylous effusions.

A patient with rheumatoid arthritis and secondary amyloidosis is described. The initial clinical expression of the amyloidosis was bilateral chylous pleural effusions due to intrinsic amyloid obstruction of the lymphatics. This is an unusual initial manifestation of secondary amyloidosis.
Creep behaviour of NiCr alloys with trace additions of cerium

Abstract Creep rates and activation energies have been measured in Ni20Cr alloys containing 0, 20, 63 and 119 at. ppm cerium. At high stresses the creep stress exponent is similar for all alloys with a value of n = 5.2. At low stresses, cerium-containing alloys show an increase in stress exponent. This transition occurs at a strain rate of about 10−5 s−1 for a test temperature of 700°C. Within the high stress region, the apparent creep activation energy increases from 280 to 350 kJ mol−1 for cerium-containing alloys leading to higher creep-resistant alloys.
Ethics in a global world: an oxymoron?

Abstract This article will explore ethical issues facing those undertaking evaluation in for-profit multi-national organizations. It will begin by examining arguments concerning the moral obligations of corporations as a backdrop for the discussion. It will then turn to statements of professional ethics, such as the Program Evaluation Standards (Joint Committee on Standards for Educational Evaluation), the Guiding Principles (American Evaluation Association), and the Standards on Ethics and Integrity (Academy of Human Resource Development). The examination will identify certain standards that prove difficult to implement within for-profit, multi-national organizations because of differing personal interests and cultural values. For example, the issue of confidentiality may be problematic for an evaluator to ensure, particularly when information is demanded by senior management within cultures having high-power distance. Suggestions for resolving such dilemmas will be provided.
Transient magnetic effects in a scale model of the earth's core.

Abstract Scale model experiments are described in which the contribution to the dipole magnetic field of a conducting sphere (simulating the earth's core) by initially closed, internal flux loops is measured. A magnetic loop is maintained by constant current in a toroidal coil, in a mercury sphere. The circuit is then opened, which allows the magnetic loop to diffuse and dissipate. The time development of the magnetic effects outside the sphere is recorded, especially the contribution in the dipole mode of the sphere. In a sample application of the result, a doughnut-shaped flux loop, of major and minor radii 0.17 and 0.053 Rc (Rc = earth's core radius) and centered at 0.68 Rc, of field strength 100 gauss, in optimal orientation and in a core of conductivity 3 × 10-6 emu is assumed. If one such flux loop is set free on the average of every 40 years, the earth's dipole field is maintained. The relative intensity of the short-lived nondipole component that would accompany the process in the simplified example is estimated from the data and found not to be inconsistent with that observed in the real earth. Only the basic process of the feeding of a poloidal field by initially closed free flux loops in a static conducting sphere is investigated. The requirement that, in a real situation, the loops would have to be set free in a preferred orientation is discussed, and an existing model of a system that in some degree answers the requirement is cited.