cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cobalt 1,3-Diisopropyl-1H-imidazol-2-ylidene Complexes: Synthesis, Solid-State Structures, and Quantum Chemistry Calculations

The reaction of (η5-C5H5)Co(PPh3)2 (1) with 1,3-bis(isopropyl)imidazol-2-ylidene (ImiPr2, 17) leads to the formation of (η5-C5H5)Co(PPh3)(ImiPr2) (5) in 69% yield. N-Heterocyclic carbene 17 also undergoes reaction with (η5-C5H5)Co(CO)2 (9) to give (η5-C5H5)Co(ImiPr2)(CO) (6) in 30% yield. The barrier to rotation about the Co−Ccarbene bond in 6 has been determined by variable-temperature 1H NMR spectroscopy (13.6 kcal/mol) and by computation (13.3 kcal/mol). Complex 5 undergoes reaction with PhSSPh to give the paramagnetic thiolato complex (η5-C5H5)Co(ImiPr2)(SPh) (7), which is oxidized to the metallosulfone complex (η5-C5H5)Co(ImiPr2)(SO2Ph) (8). The solid-state structures of 5−8 were determined by X-ray crystallography. The structural and dynamic properties of 6, (η5-C5H5)Co(ImMe2)(CO) (ImMe2 = 1,3-dimethylimidazol-2-ylidene), and (η5-C5H5)Co(ImAr2)(CO) (ImAr2 = 1,3-dimesityl-2-ylidene) were examined by quantum chemistry calculations.
Strategic Planning for Production Capacity

Capacity is generally considered only in one sense – to provide the means for producing a product or service. Defines capacity as serving two functions – to provide the means for producing a long‐run, stable level of a good or service, and to provide the means to adapt to fluctuations in demand over the short run and intermediate runs. Given this definition, develops the implications for strategic capacity planning and offers a model for firms to carry out this planning. Presents examples of where this model has been followed and discusses the implications.
Time-Limited Certification

Since its inception, the Chapter Forum has passed a number of resolutions regarding time-limited certification. In 1986, the Forum instructed the Academy to develop other than cognitive examinations to evaluate pediatric competency. In 1985 and 1986, you complimented PREP and asked that the American Academy of Pediatrics work to have as much influence on the recertification process as possible. Much progress has been made. The Executive Boards of the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Board of Pediatrics meet together two times per year. A significant number of practicing pediatricians, as well as active members of the Chapter Forum, serve on the committees that will establish the recertification exams.
Design of chiral N-triflyl phosphoramide as a strong chiral Brønsted acid and its application to asymmetric Diels-Alder reaction.

A highly reactive and acidic chiral Bronsted acid catalyst, chiral N-triflyl phosphoramide, was developed. Highly enantioselective Diels-Alder reaction of alpha,beta-unsaturated ketone with silyloxydiene was demonstrated using this chiral Bronsted acid catalyst.
Coherence of the Reflected X-Rays from Crystals

ON Jauncey's theory (Phys. Rev., 25; 314; 1925) of the unmodified line in the Compton effect, an unmodified X-ray is scattered when the energy of the impulse imparted to an electron is insufficient to eject the electron from the parent atom. In this case the impulse is presumably imparted to the atom itself. The change of wave-length of the unmodified ray should thus be of the order of [(mass of the electron)/(mass of the atom)] × (change of wave-length of the modified line). It is generally assumed that no coherence occurs for modified scattering on account of the change of wave-length. In the case of unmodified scattering, however, it is assumed that coherence does occur, as, for example, in regular crystal reflection (see papers by Williams, Phil. Mag., 2, 657; 1926; and Jauncey, Phys. Rev., 29, 757; 1927). But how can coherence occur in unmodified scattering if there is a change of wave-length, however small? Perhaps there is no change of wave-length at all in unmodified scattering.
Metabolic endocrine factors involved in spawning recovery and rematuration of iteroparous female rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss).

Abstract To determine how energy balance affects metabolic hormones hypothesized to play a role in the onset of a new reproductive cycle in iteroparous salmonids, food availability after spawning was restricted in female rainbow trout. These fish were compared with a control group that was fed a standard brood stock ration. Bodyweight, length, and muscle lipid content were determined, and blood was collected from fish at regular intervals; a subset of fish from each group was sacrificed at each sampling time for the collection of liver and ovary tissue, and to calculate hepatosomatic index (HSI) and gonadosomatic index (GSI). Plasma hormone levels were quantified by radioimmunoassay, and tissue gene expression levels were analyzed using q-RT-PCR. The experiment was conducted twice, using two-year-old and three-year-old post-spawned fish. Food-restriction arrested ovarian growth and development within 15–20 weeks, as evidenced by lower GSI in restricted-ration fish. Food restriction also reduced Fulton’s condition factor, muscle lipid content, and specific growth rate from one month onward, and reduced HSI after 3 months. In the liver, insulin-like growth factor ( igf1 and igf2 ) gene expression was reduced in three-year-old food-restricted fish within 2 months; however, no effect of ration on igf1 or igf2 expression was detected in two-year-old fish. In both years, IGF binding protein-1 ( igfbp1 ) gene expression decreased over time in both treatment groups. Liver leptin ( slepA1 ) gene expression was lower in two-year-old food-restricted fish at 4 months. These results show that this feed restriction regime arrested reproductive development and affected factors associated with energy balance purported to play a role in initiating reproductive development within 2–4 months after spawning.
Relationship Between Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Atherosclerotic Disease Burden Measured by Intravascular Ultrasound

Objectives The goal of this study was to determine the relationship between established cardiovascular risk factors and the extent of coronary atherosclerotic plaque. Background Few data exist correlating cardiovascular risk factors with volumetric measurements of coronary atheroma burden in patients with coronary artery disease. Methods Clinical characteristics, quantitative coronary angiography, and intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) were evaluated in subjects enrolled in a study comparing atorvastatin and pravastatin. Plaque areas were measured at 1-mm intervals to compute atheroma volume. The percent of cross sections with an abnormal intimal thickness (>0.5 mm) was determined. Data on cardiovascular risk factors were collected. Results In 654 subjects, atheroma volume averaged 174.5 mm3and percent atheroma volume 38.9%. Atherosclerosis was present in 81.2% of 25,897 cross sections. In univariate analysis, there was a strong association between diabetes, male gender, and a history of either prior revascularization or stroke with percent atheroma volume. Hypertension or prior myocardial infarction was also predictive of more severe disease. Low-density lipoprotein and C-reactive protein were not significant predictors of greater disease burden. In multivariate analysis, diabetes, male gender, and a history of a prior interventional procedure remained strong predictors of increased atheroma volume. History of stroke, non-Caucasian race, and smoking status remained significant. Although multiple measures of IVUS disease burden were worse in subjects with diabetes, angiographic stenosis severity was not different. Conclusions Male gender, diabetes, and a history of prior revascularization are strong independent predictors of atherosclerotic burden in coronary disease patients. Many risk factors did not predict angiographic disease severity, suggesting different mechanisms drive stenosis development and atheroma accumulation.
Increased knowledge about sharks increases public concern about their conservation

Abstract Gaining support for shark conservation has been extremely difficult due to the negative preconceived notions the general public holds toward sharks. In order to achieve public support for conservation initiatives the factors that will change an individual’s attitude and behavior toward sharks must first be determined. Using structured questionnaire interviews ( n =186), indices were created that rated an individual’s knowledge, attitude, and potential behavior toward sharks and shark conservation. Generally public knowledge levels about sharks were low. However, people with more knowledge pertaining specifically about sharks had potential behaviors more supportive of their conservation. Therefore, it would seem that increases in public knowledge on sharks would help gain support for shark conservation. Males, members of environmental groups, and viewers of shark documentaries and “Shark Week” all showed significantly higher levels of knowledge about sharks. The media (such as “Shark Week” ) can play a significant role in promoting conservation, but unfortunately media coverage of sharks has been controversial recently with the airing of several non-factual, fake documentaries. To promote shark conservation the media’s message has to be unbiased, non-sensationalized, and accurate to ensure people are receiving the information necessary to build strong pro-shark conservation behaviors.
Vortex dynamics of clapping plates

Vortex formation and force generation of clapping plates with various aspect ratios (AR) and stroke angles were investigated. Experiments were performed with a pair of hinged rectangular plates that were rotated symmetrically in a static fluid, and defocusing digital particle image velocimetry was employed to measure the three-dimensional flow field. Single-plate cases were also studied to compare with clapping plate cases. As AR decreases, both circulation of the tip vortex and area enclosed by the vortex loop increase inversely. An empirical power-law relationship with a negative exponent is found between total impulse and AR for a given stroke angle. The sensitivity of the force generated by the plates to the change of AR is larger at the smaller stroke angle because of faster acceleration and deceleration. The increase in impulse per plate from the single-plate case to the clapping double-plate case is larger for lower AR. These results reveal that low AR wings are more efficient in propulsive force generation in some specific modes of unsteady flapping flight. The evolution of the wake structures is found to depend on AR and stroke angle.
Life Regrets and Death Attitudes in College Students

The relationship between death attitudes and life regret was examined in college students. Two types of regret, past-related regret and future-related regret, were defined and measured. The results confirmed the hypothesis, based on a comprehensive model of death anxiety, that both types of regret independently predict fear and avoidance of death. Other background and self variables may affect death anxiety, usually indirectly, by influencing the two types of regret. Death acceptance, on the other hand, was found to be influenced directly by intrinsic religious motivation and indirectly by other background and self variables.
J/ψ suppression in the QGP

We examine the case for J/ψ suppression as a signature for the quark–gluon plasma. The theoretical foundations are covered from the standpoint of the original proposal by Matsui and Satz, including Debye screening in the medium and the competing dilepton backgrounds. Also, more recent developments in both theory and experiment are summarized.
Preparation and Purification of Glucanase and Chitinase from Bean Leaves

Glucanase (endo-beta-1, 3-glucan 3-glucanohydrolase, EC 3.2.1.6, laminarinase, callase) and chitinase (poly-beta-1, 4-[2-acetamido-2-deoxy] -d-glucoside glycanohydrolase, EC 3.2.1.14) were extracted from ethylene-treated bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L. cv. Red Kidney) leaves and purified on hydroxyapatite and carboxymethyl Sephadex columns. The glucanase prepared was homogeneous as judged by analytical centrifugation data, electrophoresis, and antibody-antigen reactions. On the basis of gel filtration, antibody-antigen reactions, and amino acid analysis, the molecular weight was estimated to be between 11,500 and 12,500. However, ultracentrifugation gave a higher estimate of 34,000. The glucanase had an isoelectric point near pH 11 and was specific for beta-1, 3-linkages. The chitinase was only partially purified as judged by electrophoretic behavior.
Investigations into the Mechanisms of Molecular Recognition with Imprinted Polymers

The nature of molecular recognition in an imprinted polymer that is formed by the self-assembly of binding monomer and imprint through noncovalent interactions is investigated. The system studied uses ethylene glycol dimethacrylate, methacrylic acid, and l-phenylalanine anilide as the cross-linking monomer, binding monomer, and imprint, respectively, to assemble the imprinted polymer. A proposal for the self-assembly mechanism between the binding monomer and imprint that occurs during polymer synthesis is derived from a single-crystal X-ray structure of a crystal containing binding monomer and imprint and from 1H NMR and FTIR spectroscopy of solutions of these components. These studies show the presence of a salt-bridge interaction that leads to a 1:1 molecular complex between methacrylic acid and l-phenylalanine anilide and provide no evidence for the formation of higher-order molecular complexes of these species. Furthermore, macroscopic phase separation is observed between the imprint and binding monom...
Effect of the Conjugation of Peg to the PLL on the Micro- and Mesoscopic Properties of a POPC Bilayer

Recent studies have demonstrated that the conjugation of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) to poly(L-lysine) (PLL) allows these copolymers to be adsorbed to the surfaces of pancreatic islets with minimal toxicity. The molecular mechanism for the effect of the conjugation of PEG to PLL on attenuation of cytotoxicity remains unknown. This knowledge is important for the design of optimized PLL-g-PEG copolymers for the design of nanoscale immunoisolation barriers. In this study, we investigated the conformational and electrostatic changes of PLL by the grafting of PEG chains, and the interaction changes of the PLL-g-PEG copolymer with a POPC bilayer compared to that of the PLL polymer with molecular dynamics simulations. The results showed that the grafting of PEG chains to PLL resulted in a change in the conformation of PLL from a randomly coiled structure to a structurally more stable globular conformation, and a significant change in electrostatics distribution. The interactions of PLL and PLL-g-PEG copolymers with a POPC bilayer showed that conformational and electrostatic changes resultant from the conjugation of PEG to PLL further affected the interaction of the polymer with the lipid bilayer. In addition to resulting in a structural change of the lipid bilayer, the permeability, compressibility, and bending modulus of the lipid bilayer are also affected by PEG grafting to PLL. The results will provide molecular insight for the experimental observation about the effect of the conjugation of PEG to PLL on the reduced cototoxicity.Keywords: PEG; PLL; conjugation; conformation; electrostatics; lipid bilayer; micro-mesoscopic properties.
Simulation of polyester melt spinning with axial quench for increasing productivity

Production of polyester filament involves melt spinning into partially oriented yarn (POY), followed by drawing to enhance the bulk and mechanical properties. The industrial demand of increasing productivity is generally met by increasing POY melt spinning speeds, which is limited by increasing polymer chain orientation (and reducing residual drawability) in the POY produced at higher spinning speeds. Modification of the quench geometry during melt spinning is claimed to allow reduction of air drag and polymer chain orientation, permitting an increase in productivity during melt spinning into POY. We present a simple way for modeling the quenching of molten filaments under the modified (axial) air flow. Numerical simulations of the melt spinning are developed to demonstrate the influence of the quench geometry modification as we compare the process with the conventional cross-flow quench and the modified axial quench. We find that increasing quench air flow reduces the polymer chain orientation, in contrast to the well known effect in cross-flow quench. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Computerized hierarchical production control in steel manufacture

Effective production scheduling is a major need of all large industrial plants. Hierarchical computer control offers a unique opportunity to develop such a facility since it is the one method by which present plant status of all production units can be correlated with sales needs in real-time.
Lack of photoprotection against UVB-induced erythema by immediate pigmentation induced by 382 nm radiation.

Immediate pigment darkening (IPD) was induced on the backs of 11 human volunteers of skin types III and IV by exposing the skin to UVA radiation (382 nm). The minimum erythema dose (MED) of UVB radiation was also determined by exposing sites to graduated doses of 304 nm radiation. The order of exposure of distinct anatomic areas was as follow: (1) UVB followed by IPD induction; (2) IPD induction followed by UVB; (3) IPD induction followed 3 h later by UVB; and (4) UVB only. Erythema responses induced by UVB were graded by inspection 24 h later and the MEDs in the 4 areas were compared. The induction of IPD before UVB exposure caused no significant change in the MED compared to sites receiving UVB only, or receiving UVA radiation after UVB, confirming that the IPD reaction does not protect against UVB-induced erythema. There was also no evidence of photorecovery, i.e., an increase in the MED of UVB resulting from exposure to longer wavelength, UV or visible radiation following UVB exposure.
Project Planning for Construction under Uncertainty with Limited Resources

Much of the project scheduling literature treats task durations as deterministic. In reality, however, task durations are subject to considerable uncertainty, and that uncertainty can be influenced by the resources assigned. The purpose of this paper is to provide the means for contractors to optimally allocate their skilled workers among individual tasks for a single project. Instead of the traditional use of schedules, we develop control policies in the form of planned resource allocation to tasks that capture the uncertainty associated with task durations and the impact of resource allocation on those durations. We develop a solution procedure for the model and illustrate the ideas in an example. The data for the example is collected from a real project.
Effects of Organizational Change in the Medical Intensive Care Unit of a Teaching Hospital: A Comparison of 'Open' and 'Closed' Formats

Objective. —To compare the effects of change from an open to a closed intensive care unit (ICU) format on clinical outcomes, resource utilization, teaching, and perceptions regarding quality of care. Design. —Prospective cohort study; prospective economic evaluation. Setting. —Medical ICU at a university-based tertiary care center. For the open ICU, primary admitting physicians direct care of patients with input from critical care specialists via consultation. For the closed ICU, critical care specialists direct patient care. Patients. —Consecutive samples of 124 patients admitted under an open ICU format and 121 patients admitted after changing to a closed ICU format. Readmissions were excluded. Main Outcome Measures. —Comparison of hospital mortality with mortality predicted by the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) system; duration of mechanical ventilation; length of stay; patient charges for radiology, laboratory, and pharmacy departments; vascular catheter use; number of interruptions of formal teaching rounds; and perceptions of patients, families, physicians, and nurses regarding quality of care and ICU function. Results. —Mean±SD APACHE II scores were 15.4±8.3 in the open ICU and 20.6±8.6 in the closed ICU (P=.001). In the closed ICU, the ratio of actual mortality (31.4%) to predicted mortality (40.1%) was 0.78. In the open ICU, the ratio of actual mortality (22.6%) to predicted mortality (25.2%) was 0.90. Mean length of stay for survivors in the open ICU was 3.9 days, and mean length of stay for survivors in the closed ICU was 3.7 days (P=.79). There were no significant differences between periods in patient charges for radiology, laboratory, or pharmacy resources. Nurses were more likely to say that they were very confident in the clinical judgment of the physician primarily responsible for patient care in the closed ICU compared with the open ICU (41% vs 7%;P Conclusions. —Based on comparison of actual to predicted mortality, changing from an open to a closed ICU format improved clinical outcome. Although patients in the closed ICU had greater severity of illness, resource utilization did not increase.
Calcium sulfate solubility in brackish water concentrates and applications to reverse osmosis processes; polyphosphate additives

Abstract The solubility of calcium sulfate dihydrate, which by precipitation can impede reverse osmosis (RO) processes, was determined at 25°C in three typical brackish water compositions and their concentrates. These waters corresponded to those used in U.S. Office of Saline Water (OSW) RO plants at Gillette, Wyoming, and Webster, South Dakota, and that of a post-irrigation water from the Wellton-Mohawk Canal in Arizona. Sodium hexametaphosphate was shown, when added in small amounts, to produce an apparent increase in the saturation concentration of CaSO 4 . Later, this concentration decreased to the solubility in the absence of the additive. Calculations of maximum water recoveries and other parameters of direct application to RO processes are presented.
Effects of Hypoglycemia on Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Response to Median Nerve Stimulation in the Rat Brain

The authors studied the effects of a standardized mild-moderate hypoglycemic stimulus (glucose clamp) on brain functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) responses to median nerve stimulation in anesthetized rats. In the baseline period (plasma glucose 6.6 ± 0.3 mmol/L), the MR signal changes induced by median nerve activation were determined within a fixed region of the somatosensory cortex from preinfusion activation maps. Subsequently, insulin and a variable glucose infusion were administered to decrease plasma glucose. The goal was to produce a stable hypoglycemic plateau (2.8 ± 0.2 mmol/L) for 30 minutes. Thereafter, plasma glucose was restored to euglycemic levels (6.0 ± 0.3 mmol/L). In the early phase of insulin infusion (15 to 30 minutes), before hypoglycemia was reached (4.7 ± 0.3 mmol/L), the activation signal was unchanged. However, once the hypoglycemic plateau was achieved, the activation signal was significantly decreased to 57 ± 6% of the preinfusion value. Control regions in the brain that were not activated showed no significant changes in MR signal intensity. Upon return to euglycemia, the activation signal change increased to within 10% of the original level. No significant activation changes were noted during euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp experiments. The authors concluded that fMRI can detect alterations in cerebral function because of insulin-induced hypoglycemia. The signal changes observed in fMRI activation experiments were sensitive to blood glucose levels and might reflect increases in brain metabolism that are limited by substrate deprivation during hypoglycemia.
Design and implementation of low cost remote-operated unmanned ground vehicle (UGV)

This paper proceeds with first presenting a review on unmanned ground vehicles (UGV); discussing some design approaches for implementation of a UGV according to the application perspectives. The main purpose of this paper is to design and develop a low cost remote operated ground vehicle. Various sensors such as Camera, Global Positioning System (GPS), ultrasonic range finder, digital compass, motion sensor, infrared sensor are installed on UGV for the operator to understand the environment and behavior of UGV. The data is presented on a graphical user interface (GUI) for the operator who controls the UGV from some remote location. XBEE modules are used to implement the wireless communication which are low cost, offers a reliable communication and widely used in research projects nowadays. The platform is suitable for many applications like surveillance and for military exploration purposes.
Never Quite Good Enough: The Paradox of Sticky Developmental Relationships for Elite University Graduates.

Drawing on the mentoring, education, and social psychology literatures, this longitudinal study examines how the persistence of developmental relationships from an elite graduate school influences subjective career outcomes during early career. Participants (n = 136) were surveyed about their developmental networks—a group of individuals who take an active interest in and action to advance a focal individual’s career—and subjective career outcomes over the 10 years (1996–2006) post graduation. Results show that although receiving mentoring from one’s entire developmental network was positively related to career-related self-efficacy and perceptions of career success, this was not the case for ties retained from graduate school. Continuing to receive mentoring support from developers from graduate school and further, from peers from graduate school, was negatively related to perceptions of career success. These findings offer insight into the dynamics and potentially negative consequences of developmental networks and highlight the significance of social comparison during early career.
Honeylocust Clonal Effects on Developmental Biology of Mimosa Webworm (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae)

Mimosa webworm, Homadaula anisocentra Meyrick, larvae were reared in the laboratory on five honey locust clones: ‘Imperial,’ ‘Moraine,’ ‘Shademaster,’ ‘Skyline,’ and ‘Sunburst.’ Larvae fed ‘Moraine’ had significantly smaller head capsule widths and pupal weights, longer larval development times, and lower adult fecundity. Fecundity was most affected by the cultivar used for rearing. Adult females reared on ‘Moraine’ foliage produced approximately 44% fewer eggs than did females reared on the other four cultivars. Such reduced fecundity theoretically could affect webworm infestation levels of isolated ‘Moraine’ trees in urban areas. Larval and pupal mortality were unaffected by cultivar. Although we observed statistically significant detrimental effects from feeding on ‘Moraine’ foliage, differences were small and may not be biologically significant.
Evaluation of herd sampling for Salmonella isolation on midwest and northeast US dairy farms.

Epidemiologic investigations of Salmonella infections in dairy cattle often rely on testing fecal samples from individual animals or samples from other farm sources to determine herd infection status. The objectives of this project were to evaluate the effect of sampling frequency on Salmonella isolation and to compare Salmonella isolation and serogroup classification among sample sources on 12 US dairy farms sampled weekly for 7–8 weeks. Three herds per state were enrolled from Michigan, Minnesota, New York and Wisconsin based upon predefined herd-size criteria. Weekly samples were obtained from cattle, bulk tank milk, milk filters, water and feed sources and environmental sites. Samples were submitted to a central laboratory for isolation of Salmonella using standard laboratory procedures. The herd average number of cattle fecal samples collected ranged from 26 to 58 per week. Salmonella was isolated from 9.3% of 4049 fecal samples collected from cattle and 12.9% of 811 samples from other sources. Serogroup C1 was found in more than half of the samples and multiple serogroups were identified among isolates from the same samples and farms. The percentage of herd visits with at least one Salmonella isolate from cattle fecal samples increased with overall herd prevalence of fecal shedding. Only the three herds with an average fecal shedding prevalence of more than 15% had over 85% of weekly visits with at least one positive fecal sample. The prevalence of fecal shedding from different groups of cattle varied widely among herds showing that herds with infected cattle may be classified incorrectly if only one age group is tested. Testing environmental sample sources was more efficient for identifying infected premises than using individual cattle fecal samples.
An Unusual Presentation of Sjogren's Syndrome

A 44-year-old woman presented with a long history of nausea and vomiting and was found to have hypokalemic metabolic acidosis with elevation of the urine bicarbonate level consistent with the new onset of renal tubular acidosis, type I. Her laboratory findings and histologic picture of a buccal biopsy sample of two minor salivary glands were consistent with Sjogren's syndrome. Treatment with steroids markedly improved her symptoms.
Cytomegalovirus Immunoglobulin G Antibody Is Associated With Subclinical Carotid Artery Disease Among HIV-Infected Women

Background. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection has been implicated in immune activation and accelerated progression of immunodeficiency from human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) coinfection. We hypothesized that CMV is associated with vascular disease in HIV-infected adults. Methods. In the Women’s Interagency HIV Study, we studied 601 HIV-infected and 90 HIV-uninfected participants. We assessed the association of CMV immunoglobulin G (IgG) level with carotid artery intima-media thickness, carotid artery distensibility, Young’s elastic modulus, and blood pressures. Multivariable models adjusted for age, race/ethnicity, smoking, diabetes, and body mass index. Results. Mean CMV IgG levels were higher in HIV-infected women compared with HIV-uninfected women (P< .01). Among HIV-infected women, higher CMV IgG level was associated with decreased carotid artery distensibility (P< .01) and increased Young’s modulus (P= .02). Higher CMV IgG antibody level was associated with increased prevalence of carotid artery lesions among HIV-infected women who achieved HIV suppression on antiretroviral therapy, but not among viremic or untreated HIV-infected women. Adjustment for Epstein–Barr virus antibody levels and C-reactive protein levels had no effect on the associations between CMV IgG levels and vascular parameters. Conclusions. Cytomegalovirus antibody titers are increased in HIV-infected women and associated with subclinical cardiovascular disease. Host responses to CMV may be abnormal in HIV infection and associated with clinical disease.
Higher aliphatic aldehyde polymers, 8. Poly(undecanal)

Crystalline poly(undecanal) (2) was prepared by anionic polymerization of undecanal (1) with lithium tert-butanolate in methylcyclohexane. As the aliphatic side chain length of the monomeric aldehyde increases, the polymerization becomes increasingly difficult and 2 could only be obtained if the temperature profile during the polymerization was carefully controlled. 2 of reasonable molecular weight was obtained in nearly 50% yield and was identified by IR and NMR spectroscopy. X-ray diffraction measurements showed the polymer to be highly crystalline. The paraffinic side chains of 2 were found to be primarily responsible for the polymer crystallization and the polymer side chain transitions were found between 40 and 60°C. Normally, more than one endothermic peak was found by DSC in this region. 2 could be extended through an orifice to a coherent filament whose x-ray diffraction pattern showed negligible orientation. In contrast, other aldehyde polymers with shorter side chains gave good fiber patterns on extrusion.
Rate Parameters for Methyl tert-Butyl Ether Biodegradation via a Radial Diffusion Model

A dimensionless radial diffusion model was employed to determine the first-order biodegradation rate of methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) by indigenous microorganisms at a laboratory scale in natural soils at different temperatures and oxygen concentrations. Variations in the biodegradation rate in response to different temperatures and oxygen concentrations were modeled by adjusting only the reaction-diffusion Thiele modulus to match the observed concentrations of the bulk fluid. The model can provide estimates for other unmeasured transport parameters such as intra-particle diffusion coefficient and mass-transfer coefficient at porous soil particle surfaces. Experimental data suggested that MTBE biodegradation follows first-order kinetics for different temperatures and oxygen concentrations. The biodegradation rate of MTBE by the microorganisms under different oxygen treatments (0–100%) ranged from 0.0015 to 0.0165 h−1. Similarly, the biodegradation rate of MTBE at different temperatures (288–303 K) ranged...
Uncultivated: An Evolutionary Drama in the Urban Environment

This chapter will describe Uncultivated, a multifaceted public art project documenting wild plants in urban landscapes consisting of georeferenced photographs, commercial public displays (billboards, transit posters, etc.), a website, and community events. Commonly known as “weeds,” the project encourages an empathetic view of these reviled plants and the natural environment we share in common while reflecting upon the changing biodiversity of urban landscapes due to the ongoing effects of global climate change. The project uses QR codes along with a dedicated website to provide contextual information on all the plants appearing in the photographs. The public displays are designed to deepen awareness of the immediate surroundings of the viewer by displaying a photograph taken in close proximity to the billboard or shelter. Started in Baltimore, MD, in late 2010, the project is designed to grow each time it is exhibited in a new city.
An on-line stator winding resistance estimation technique for temperature monitoring of line-connected induction machines

A new technique for stator resistance (R/sub s/)-based thermal monitoring of small line-connected induction machines is proposed in this paper. A simple device is developed for injecting a small DC signal into line-connected induction machines for estimation of R/sub s/. The proposed DC injection device is capable of intermittently injecting a controllable DC bias into the motor with very low power dissipation. Experimental results under motor startup, load variation, and abnormal cooling conditions verify that the proposed technique provides an accurate estimate of R/sub s/ that is capable of responding to the changes in the motor thermal characteristics, resulting in reliable thermal protection. The proposed technique is a very practical method for thermal protection of small line-connected induction machines that can be implemented with low cost in a motor condition monitoring system.
Species differences in crown structure and growth performance of juvenile loblolly and slash pine

Abstract Few comparative studies exist with southern pines that examine species variation in crown structure in relation to growth performance for a range of silvicultural treatments and site types. Establishing these relationships at the interspecific level is essential for improving our understanding of growth strategies, development of crop ideotypes and species-site deployment decisions. In north-central Florida, USA, crown structure and tree growth were compared among three pine taxa—genetically improved loblolly pine (PTI; Pinus taeda L.), genetically improved slash pine (PEI; P. elliottii Engelm. var. elliottii) and unimproved slash pine (PEU)—that were planted in two replicated field experiments and each managed under two silvicultural treatment regimes (low intensity—no fertilizer additions or weed control; high intensity—sustained weed control and fertilizer additions). In comparison to slash pine, PTI consistently accumulated more crown biomass (5.3 kg per tree versus 3.3 kg per tree) and total leaf area (year 3>35 m2 per tree, year 4>50 m2 per tree versus year 3 4.0 versus 2.0 m versus 2.5 kg per tree) than either slash pine taxa (
Transient acid exposure increases sevelamer HCl phosphate binding

The patient-to-patient variability in the dosing of sevelamer HCl for phosphate control led us to test whether the binder's transient exposure to acidic environments (such as the stomach) might alter the compound so as to change its subsequent binding capacity in the more alkaline small intestine. We hypothesized that an acid milieu could either increase the reactive sites (protonated amine groups) or make the polymer more hydrophilic (hydration and swelling allowing more phosphate to reach those sites). Eight hundred milligrams of Renagel tablets were exposed to pHs 1, 2.3, and 7 (n = 7 each acidity level) for 1 h. NaCl was added to keep ionic strength the same. Measured by atomic emission phosphate uptake after 3 h at pH 7 was, respectively, 3.13 +/- 0.21, 2.72 +/- 0.35, and 1.85 +/- 0.46 mequiv./g (p = 0.0006, pH 1 vs. pH 7). Semi-automated computerized image analysis was then performed to measure swelling of the particles. We constructed a glass continuous-flow cell that allowed stationary particles and real-time photography. Using digitized optical measurements there was no difference (p > 0.8) between the swelling after 1 h of pH 1 or 7 solutions (60.2 +/- 14.8% vs. 59.5 +/- 9.8% increase in diameter). Our findings support the importance of transient acid exposure in enhancing phosphate binding, due to increased protonated sites rather than by more swelling. Patients with acquired or pharmacologic achlorhydria would not benefit from this unexpected in vivo reaction. Possibly manufacturing sevelamer with a higher degree of protonation or administering it with appropriately acidic vehicles or beverages remains to be investigated.
The Zygote Argument remixed

John and Mary have fully consensual sex, but they do not want to have a child, so they use contraception with the intention of avoiding pregnancy. Unfortunately, although they used the (generally reliable) contraception in the way in which it is supposed to be used, Mary has become pregnant. The couple decides to have the baby, whom they name ‘Ernie’. Now we fill in the story a bit. The universe is (we suppose) causally deterministic, and 30 years later Ernie performs some action A and thereby brings about event E. We also stipulate that Ernie meets plausible compatibilist conditions for acting freely (in performing A). That is, we suppose that there are no uncontroversially freedomand responsibility-undermining conditions present in the context in which Ernie performs A, and, further, that Ernie meets plausible compatibilist conditions for acting freely. Let us say, for example, that one adopts the theory according to which the freedom-relevant condition on moral responsibility is that the agent exhibits ‘guidance control’ of his action (Fischer 1994) and (Fischer and Ravizza 1998). On this approach, one acts freely (and thus meets the freedomrelevant condition for moral responsibility) in so far as one acts from one’s own, suitably reasons-responsive mechanism. We can then simply stipulate that, in the relevant context, Ernie acts from his own, suitably reasonsresponsive mechanism (in performing A and thereby bringing about E). If one prefers a different set of compatiblist-friendly conditions for acting freely, one can simply stipulate that Ernie meets them; indeed, the plausible compatibilist-friendly conditions seem to be compatible with each other, and thus Ernie could presumably meet all of them in the relevant context. In such a case, and given that the epistemic condition on acting freely and moral responsibility is met, I am inclined to say that Ernie acts freely in performing A and is morally responsible for performing A (and bringing about E). Of course, this is simply my inclination; I recognize that my view about such a case is contentious. Obviously, one would need an argument for the compatibility of causal determinism and acting freely (and moral responsibility), in order to defend the view to which I am inclined here. But it does seem very clear to me that the precise circumstances of Ernie’s conception some 30 years earlier have nothing to do with whether he acts freely and is morally responsible in the context in question (30 years later). More specifically, it certainly is irrelevant to Ernie’s moral responsibility that John and Mary did not intend to have a baby and that they used contraception in an effort to prevent a pregnancy! And surely it would not change things at all, with respect to Ernie’s moral responsibility, if we modified the
Kinetic basicities of aqueous binary mixtures: a surprisingly good linear correlation with the gas phase basicity of the organic cosolvent

A remarkably good correlation between the rate of proton transfer from excited protonated 1-aminopyrene and the gas phase basicities of the organic component in water: organic solvent binary mixtures has been found. We suggest that use of anilinium acids minimizes the effect of anion solvation and Coulomb interactions and enables the influence of the organic cosolvent on the proton transfer to be clearly observed. The model proposed is one in which the proton is always transferred to a water molecule and a concerted proton transfer to a water molecule solvated by the organic cosolvent also occurs. The cosolvent influence is then on this latter species via hydrogen bond interactions. The correlation holds in pure water but not in pure organic solvents where, clearly, the proton must be transferred to the organic molecule.
Relation between Ascorbic Acid Intake and Periodontal Disease in the United States

The possible association between deficiency of ascorbic acid and periodontal disease is scrutinized by the results of the data from the NHANES I survey.
Further characterization of the neurofunctional effects of the calcium ionophore A23187.

ABSTRACTCalimycin (A23187), a divalent cationic lonophore which increases intraneuronal concentrations of calcium, has been shown to produce neurofunctional changes associated with depression of brain excitability. The present report describes further characterization of the neurofunctional effects of acute parenteral exposure to A23187. Adult male rats were tested for the effects of A23187 on operant performance and general motor activity. In order to gain some insight into the neuronal systems which may be affected by A23187, brain levels of norepinephrine (NE), dopamine, serotonin, and their metabolites were determined. In addition, provocative pharmacologic challenges were employed to assess the interaction between A23187 and the centrally active drugs amphetamine (AMPH), scopolamine (SCOP), or chlorpromazlne (CPZ). A23187 was found to effectively suppress fixed ratio-15 operant performance (p<0.001) at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg. This effect was temporary in nature inasmuch as performance was normalized by ...
Peripheral Nervous System Tumors

Tumors of the peripheral nervous system arise from Schwann cells and include neurofibromas, schwannomas, and malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs). Individuals with the inherited tumor predisposition syndromes, neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1) and neurofibromatosis 2 (NF2), develop neurofibromas and schwannomas, respectively, suggesting that the NF1 and NF2 tumor suppressor genes are critical regulators of Schwann cell growth. Mouse models of these tumors have focused on the Nf1 and Nf2 genes, while MPNSTs in mice and humans require additional cooperating genetic alterations. Keywords: peripheral nervous system tumors; molecular genetics; mouse models; MPNST models; schwannomas; cellular environment
Alternative Strategies for Creating “Relational” Family Data

A major problem facing family clinicians and researchers is creating data that will reflect the family as a unit. To address this problem, we present a framework for family assessment based on three measurement strategies: individual family member assessment, relational family assessment, and transactional family assessment. Within this context, we present several categories of methods for combining individual family member data into "relational" scores that reflect the couple or family as a unit. The problems and benefits of each method are presented, and it is suggested that the choice of method is dependent upon the content of the assessment, the theory underlying the content, and the statistical properties of the individual family member scores.
Exploring Agency Theory Implications With Franchising

The franchiser-franchisee relationship (FFR) can be examined from two theoretical perspectives, Agency Theory and Exchange Theory. Strategic management of demands that the leadership makes decisions on what the company should do and what the company should not do. This type of decision-making is called making trade-offs and has much to do with Agency Theory’s applications to FFR. One reason that operational effectiveness is the preferred way is that it has inherently little risks during the short term. Managers would be willing to make decisions if the risks were not so high on the long term. From the Agency Theory viewpoint, dual distribution can be analyzed in a cost versus cost trade-off schema. The approach argues that both franchising and company ownership have costs associated with them. Dual distribution is considered an internal solution to the cost tradeoff. Some of the costs in question are inefficiency of client risk sharing, franchisees that are free riding and the legal costs of terminating a franchise. Under dual distribution the mix of company ownership and franchising minimizes the sum of these total costs. When looking at market demand and the impact strategic decisions may influence it several factors come into play, including point of sale service. The components include the impact of outlet level services provided to the consumer enhancing value via the shopping experience, the franchiser’s level of effort to streamline the supply chain to all retail outlets, which enhances the image and reputation of the brand with the customer. Aspects of Agency Theory can be extended to include credible communication of franchise brand equity.
ORIGEN-S Gamma Decay Spectra Characterization and Benchmarking

This works describes validation studies recently performed for the updated version the revised ORIGEN-S master photon library released with SCALE 5.0. Validation was performed by comparing predicted gamma spectra from ORIGENS against experiment. The photon library released with previous versions of the SCALE package contained data for 418, mostly longer-lived, nuclides. The data library was developed in the late 1970’s from the Evaluated Nuclear Data Structure File (ENSDF) and left relatively unchanged for nearly 25 years. The library has been shown to be adequate to calculate gamma emission and gamma heating at times longer than several hours, which was sufficient for ORIGEN-S’s major function in SCALE; the analysis of shipping casks for spent nuclear fuel. Improvements in nuclear data evaluations motivated an update of the existing photon library with many additional nuclides and more comprehensive photon data. The revised master photon library (MAPH) released with SCALE 5 dramatically increased the number of nuclides, from 418 to 2101, as well as the number of discrete photon lines, from 12,000 to 115,000. The majority of the new isotopes are shortlived and the level of detail in the photon libraries has been increased throughout the library. In order to quantify the accuracy of the new photon database, a benchmarking exercise was performed using experiments were performed at Oak Ridge National Laboratory circa 1979. [1]. Measured gamma-ray spectra were available for small, nearly pure, samples of U, Pu, and Pu following irradiation in a thermal flux. The spectra were then measured for times between 2.7 and 14000 seconds after fission has ceased. These experiments were simulated using ORIGEN-S using both the new and old photon libraries. For comparison, the libraries are referenced here by the package that they were released with, i.e. the old MAPH is labeled SCALE 4.4 and the new MAPH is labeled SCALE 5.