cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
DETERMINATION OF THE HELIOSPHERIC RADIAL MAGNETIC FIELD FROM THE STANDOFF DISTANCE OF A CME-DRIVEN SHOCK OBSERVED BY THE STEREO SPACECRAFT

We report on the determination of radial magnetic field strength in the heliocentric distance range from 6 to 120 solar radii (R-solar) using data from Coronagraph 2 (COR2) and Heliospheric Imager I (HI1) instruments on board the Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory spacecraft following the standoff-distance method of Gopalswamy & Yashiro. We measured the shock standoff distance of the 2008 April 5 coronal mass ejection (CME) and determined the flux-rope curvature by fitting the three-dimensional shape of the CME using the Graduated Cylindrical Shell model. The radial magnetic field strength is computed from the Alfven speed and the density of the ambient medium. We also compare the derived magnetic field strength with in situ measurements made by the Helios spacecraft, which measured the magnetic field at the heliocentric distance range from 60 to 215 R-solar.We found that the radial magnetic field strength decreases from 28 mG at 6 R-solar to 0.17 mG at 120 R-solar. In addition, we found that the radial profile can be described by a power law.
Initial clinical judgments by internists, family physicians, and psychiatrists in response to patient vignettes: I. Assessment of problems and diagnostic possibilities

A sample of 146 physicians from internal medicine, family medicine, and psychiatry responded to two written clinical vignettes describing patients with combinations of commonly seen somatic and psychologic complaints. The physicians included housestaff of all levels of training, full-time academic faculty, and community-based clinical faculty. Enormous variation was seen in all specialties in the numbers and types of problems and diagnoses suggested by the physicians. Aside from one or two areas, there were few differences among the specialties or by level of training with regard to the numbers or types of problems identified and tentative diagnoses recorded. The variability within specialty groups was greater than among the groups. Physician behavior in response to one vignette was highly correlated with responses to the second vignette.
Employing a novel fiber optic detection system to monitor the dynamics of in situ lux bioreporter activity in porous media: system performance update

One of the major constraints to successful implementation of in situ bioremediation is our lack of understanding of how microbial activity is influenced by the physicochemical conditions in the subsurface environment. Our laboratory has successfully developed a novel fiber optic detection system that employs a lux bioreporter organism to non-invasively monitor real-time, in situ microbial activity in porous media. An evaluation of potential system limitations indicates that the system is not adversely affected by biofilm formation on the optical fiber tips or by bioluminescence attenuation in the porous medium employed. Additionally, the detection system effectively captures the dynamics of in situ bacterial gene expression during naphthalene catabolism under changing physicochemical conditions in saturated porous media. Therefore, this system enables laboratory-based studies of how physicochemical conditions in the subsurface influence microbial activity and will assist in improving: (1) our fundamental understanding of how transformation-related non-ideality, such as non-steady-state microbial activity, affects contaminant transport and fate; and (2) our ability to predict the efficacy of in situ bioremediation in dynamic, heterogeneous subsurface environments.
The influence of involvement and product class quality on consumer choice sets

The study findings suggest that the level of response involvement (high versus low) and the variability of product class quality (high versus moderate versus low) influence the size of the consumer’s choice set. By manipulating product class quality the authors show that as the variability in product class quality increases, consumers reduce the number of brands they will consider purchasing (evoked set) and increase the number of brands they won’t consider (inept set). They also use the response involvement variable a priori to categorize the (sample) population. The results indicate that, as the variability in product class quality increases, the high response involvement groups form smaller evoked sets and larger inept sets than the low response involvement groups.
Elastic constants and internal friction of polycrystalline copper

Using ultrasonic-resonance spectroscopy (URS), we measured the elastic constant C and companion internal friction Q−1 of isotropic polycrystalline copper. The annealed material was 0.9999 pure with equiaxed heavily twinned grains averaging about 75 μm diameter. The URS method offers the principal advantage of point contact or loose coupling, thus there was no contribution from a transducer-specimen bond and only small contributions from transducers and fixture. A second advantage is one measurement for all elastic constants and all associated internal frictions. The C’s agree with established values. The Q−1’s are much lower than pulse-echo-method values. Comparison of measured Q−1 with the Koehler-Granato-Lucke model permits estimating an effective dislocation-loop length. Q−1 (shear) exceeds Q−1 (longitudinal) by a factor of about 1.5.
Mesenteric neurofibromatosis in childhood.

A child is reported in whom severe malabsorptive symptoms were present from a short time after birth together with increasing pseudo-obstructive episodes. Total neurofibromatous involvement of the smallbowel mesentery was found at laparotomy at the age of 4 1/2 years. The child survived a further 2 1/4 years. The relevant literature is discussed.
Apportionment of sources of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans by a chemical mass balance model

Abstract A chemical mass balance (CMB) model is developed and used to identify sources of polychlorinated dibenzo- p -dioxins (PCDDs) and dibenzofurans (PCDFs) in three sets of sediment samples from the Housatonic River, Connecticut, Lake Huron, and the Baltic Sea. Various combustion sources and manufacturing processes, such as municipal waste incineration, coal and wood burning, and pentachlorophenols (PCPs), were considered possible sources of PCDD/Fs. Source fingerprints were taken from the literature. Our results indicate that air-particulates (SRM 1648), coal-fired power plants, municipal incinerators, and PCPs contribute significantly to the measured concentrations of PCDD/Fs. The relative errors for χ 2 equal to the number of degrees of freedom, and the multiple correlation coefficient R 2 , are used to determine the best fits of the calculated to the measured PCDD/F homolog profiles. The average relative errors are 50.4, 49.8, and 40.6% (d.f. = 7, 8, 7) for the Housatonic River, Lake Huron, and the Baltic Sea, respectively. The average multiple correlation coefficients are 0.740, 0.693, and 0.842 for the Housatonic River, Lake Huron, and the Baltic Sea, respectively. Coal burning was the major source of PCDD/Fs before 1955 in the U.S., and 1970 in Europe, and municipal incinerators thereafter. Atmospheric transport may affect the PCDD/Fs profiles in the sediment. Biodegradation in the sediment is assumed to be negligible due to the long half-lives of these compounds.
Testing relationships between personality, conflict styles and effectiveness

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to test the direct and mediating effects of personality, conflict management style, and leader effectiveness. This was deemed necessary, given the number of studies testing antecedents and outcomes of conflict management – but never within a single research design. Design/methodology/approach – Structural equation modeling was used to test a model linking personality, conflict management, and leader effectiveness for 126 managers and 624 employees from various organizations. Subjects completed the Five-Factor Personality Inventory, Rahim Organizational Conflict Inventory-II, and selected items from the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire that measure leadership effectiveness. Findings – Findings indicate that an integrating conflict management style fully mediates the relationship between neuroticism and leadership effectiveness and partially mediates the relationship between conscientiousness and leadership effectiveness. Conscientiousness was the best predictor of effectiveness among all variables studied in this research, accounting for 10 percent of the variance. Research limitations/implications – Future studies should link both antecedents and outcomes to conflict management in the same design – so as not to miss potential mediating effects. Practical implications – Although the work is preliminary, it appears that conscientious individuals tend to be most effective in organizations. Originality/value – The work represents the first study linking personality, conflict styles, and effectiveness in a single design.
Intercalation as a means to suppress cyclization and promote polymerization of base-pairing oligonucleotides in a prebiotic world

The RNA world hypothesis proposes that nucleic acids were once responsible for both information storage and chemical catalysis, before the advent of coded protein synthesis. However, it is difficult to imagine how nucleic acid polymers first appeared, as the abiotic chemical formation of long nucleic acid polymers from mononucleotides or short oligonucleotides remains elusive, and barriers to achieving this goal are substantial. One specific obstacle to abiotic nucleic acid polymerization is strand cyclization. Chemically activated short oligonucleotides cyclize efficiently, which severely impairs polymer growth. We show that intercalation, which stabilizes and rigidifies nucleic acid duplexes, almost totally eliminates strand cyclization, allowing for chemical ligation of tetranucleotides into duplex polymers of up to 100 base pairs in length. In contrast, when these reactions are performed in the absence of intercalators, almost exclusively cyclic tetra- and octanucleotides are produced. Intercalator-free polymerization is not observed, even at tetranucleotide concentrations > 10,000-fold greater than those at which intercalators enable polymerization. We also demonstrate that intercalation-mediated polymerization is most favored if the size of the intercalator matches that of the base pair; intercalators that bind to Watson–Crick base pairs promote the polymerization of oligonucleotides that form these base pairs. Additionally, we demonstrate that intercalation-mediated polymerization is possible with an alternative, non-Watson–Crick-paired duplex that selectively binds a complementary intercalator. These results support the hypothesis that intercalators (acting as ‘molecular midwives’) could have facilitated the polymerization of the first nucleic acids and possibly helped select the first base pairs, even if only trace amounts of suitable oligomers were available.
D.I.2 Gene by gene sequencing to whole genome analysis: A perspective on neuromuscular disorders

Abstract A comprehensive approach to identifying the causative gene and understanding the underlying mechanism associated with each disease genotype is inevitable to diagnose disease and eventual selection of effective therapeutic strategy. Next generation sequencing technologies have enabled rapid identification of new genes and developing novel diagnostic strategies for known and unknown forms of muscular dystrophies by whole genome and exome sequencing and targeted gene panels. Mutations in a single gene and altered levels of the corresponding protein may further alter the expression pattern of closely related proteins, especially in the case of muscle proteome where several proteins form structural complexes, thereby modifying of the severity the disease phenotype and presenting overlapping features. Therefore, a comprehensive approach and confirmatory studies is essential to delineate the disease subtypes. This presentation will highlight the power of combining next generation technologies with functional assays to identify the new genes causative of muscular dystrophy and its impact on diagnostics.
A stable, neutral diborene containing a B=B double bond.

The syntheses and molecular structures of four compounds are reported: 1 (RBBr3), 2 (R(H)2B−B(H)2R), 3 (R(H)BB(H)R), and 4 (RBH3) (R = :C{N(2,6-Pri2C6H3)CH}2). These compounds were characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, 1H and 11B NMR, and elemental analyses. Compounds 2 and 3 were prepared by the KC8 reduction of 1 in Et2O. Compound 3 is the first structurally characterized neutral diborene (mean BB: 1.560(18) A). The nature of the BB double bond in 3 was delineated by DFT computations.
Do a Little Dance: The Impact on Students when Librarians Get Involved in Extracurricular Activities

One hundred fifty-two undergraduate students at Mansfield University of Pennsylvania were surveyed to determine if the involvement of their liaison librarian in theater productions and orchestra had an effect on their relationship with the library. The study shows positive and statistically significant results for students who participated in theater extracurricular activities.
Determining the Gaussian curvature modulus of lipid membranes in simulations.

The Gaussian curvature modulus κ¯ of lipid bilayers likely contributes more than 100 kcal/mol to every cellular fission or fusion event. This huge impact on membrane remodeling energetics might be a factor that codetermines the complex lipid composition of biomembranes through tuning of κ¯. Yet, its value has been measured only for a handful of simple lipids, and no simulation has so far determined it better than a factor of two, rendering a systematic investigation of such enticing speculations impossible. Here we propose a highly accurate method to determine κ¯ in computer simulations. It relies on the interplay between curvature stress and edge tension of partially curved axisymmetric membrane disks and requires determining their closing probability. For a simplified lipid model we obtain κ¯ and its relation to the normal bending modulus κ for membranes differing both in stiffness and spontaneous lipid curvature. The elastic ratio κ¯/κ can be determined with a few percent statistical accuracy. Its value agrees with the scarce experimental data, and its change with spontaneous lipid curvature is compatible with theoretical expectations, thereby granting additional information on monolayer properties. We also show that an alternative determination of these elastic parameters based on moments of the lateral stress profile gives markedly different and unphysical values.
Intracardiac temperature monitoring in infants after cardiac surgery.

Background Hyperthermia after cerebral ischemia is associated with worse neurologic outcome. Our goals were 3-fold: (1) to describe the postoperative temperature course in infants after cardiac surgery, (2) to compare intracardiac temperature monitoring with traditional monitoring in infants, and (3) to determine variables that influence the patients' temperatures. Methods Longitudinal temperature data were collected for 100 infants undergoing cardiac surgery. Intra-atrial, nasopharyngeal, esophageal, rectal, and axillary temperatures were recorded in all patients. Results The mean age at the time of operation was 128 ± 166 days, and the mean weight was 5.1 ± 2.4 kg. Circulatory arrest was used for 54 patients. In the operating room, the maximum intra-atrial temperature (37.5°C ± 0.6°C) was significantly greater than both the simultaneous esophageal temperature (36.9°C ± 1.9°C, P = .03) and nasopharyngeal temperature (36.3°C ± 2.5°C, P Conclusions In patients less than 2 years of age undergoing cardiac surgery requiring cardiopulmonary bypass, intra-atrial temperature peaked 4 to 6 hours after leaving the operating room. Traditional methods of temperature monitoring significantly underestimate core temperature after cardiac surgery in infants. Use of intracardiac temperature monitoring might result in avoidance of cerebral hyperthermia.
On the invariants of the nonlinear Schrödinger equation

Abstract Using the infinitesimal tranformation of Lie theory, the invariants of the nonlinear Schrodinger (NLS) equation ψxx + iψt + K|ψ|2ψ = 0 are studied. The permissible groups are constructed and the associated group invariants (similar variables) are obtained.
Comparison of Fourier and Bayesian analysis of nmr signals. I. Well-separated resonances (the single-frequency case)

Abstract Analysis of nuclear magnetic resonance data requires an estimation of the parameters (e.g., frequencies and amplitudes) that characterize the NMR free-induction-decay data. Bayesian probability theory provides a rigorous formalism for optimal parameter estimation and use of prior information. Although specific algorithms for time-efficient implementation of Bayesian methods have been presented (G. L. Bretthorst, J. Magn. Reson. 88, 533, 552, 571, 1990; G. L. Bretthorst, J. Magn. Reson., in press), acceptance of such methods requires demonstration of substantial improvements in the accuracy of parameter estimates. Toward this end, we report a comparison between the discrete Fourier transform (DFT) method and Bayesian analysis for estimating the signal frequency and amplitude of a single-frequency NMR resonance as a function of the signal-to-noise ( S N ) ratio of the FID data. The results and methods are also applicable to data composed of multiple, well-separated frequency components. Parameter estimates are made both with and without prior knowledge of the decay rate and/or phase of the NMR signal. Under conditions where prior information about the signal phase and decay rate constant is not available, Bayesian analysis provides more precise estimates of the signal frequency and continues to do so considerably after the DFT method fails due to poor S N levels. In accordance with theory, the Bayesian and DFT methods yield identical frequency estimates when the DFT estimates are obtained from a zero-padded absorption spectrum when prior information about both the decay rate constant (i.e., matched exponential filter) and the signal phase is available. In all cases, Bayesian analysis is substantially more precise than the DFT method for estimating signal amplitudes. Reasons for the differences observed between the two analysis techniques are discussed in detail. At this level of validation, Bayesian analysis offers distinct advantages over DFT procedures for NMR parameter estimation.
The Measure Algebra of the Heisenberg Group

Abstract Irreducible representations of the convolution algebraM( H n) of bounded regular complex Borel measures on the Heisenberg group H nare analyzed. For the Segal–Bargmann representationρ, theC*-algebra generated byρ[M( H n)] is just theC*-algebra generated by Berezin–Toeplitz operators with positive-definite “symbols.” This algebra is a deformation of the sup norm algebra generated by positive-definite functions on complexn-space C n.
Spinels in Mid-Atlantic Ridge basalts: Chemistry and occurrence

Abstract Three groups of spinels have been identified in dredged basalts from the Mid-Atlantic Ridge in the Azores region (30–40°N): (1) magnesiochromites with 0.4–0.5 Cr/(Cr + Al) are most common and characteristic of olivine tholeiites of the region; (2) titaniferous magnesiochromites are found in an olivine basalt with alkali affinities, of local occurrence and evolved in relatively high fugacity of oxygen; (3) chromian spinels with 0.23 Cr/(Cr + Al) occur in unusual high-Al picrites of local occurrence and possible high-pressure origin. Spinels are restricted in occurrence to the least fractionated lavas, with FeO * /FeO * + MgO ratio less than 0.575 and with Cr content greater than 350 ppm. A close relationship between Al content of liquidus spinel and Al content of magma has been observed for basaltic types. High-Al spinels deviating from this relationship, such as those found in picritic lavas from the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, may have crystallized at high pressure. The use of spinels as geobarometers in magmas of a restricted compositional range seems a promising prospect. There is no evidence of systematic variation in spinel chemistry of occurrence along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, such as could be related to different mantle sources of the basalts, plume versus non-plume or binary mantle mixing.
New Nickel−Antimony Carbonyl Clusters: Stereochemical Analyses of the [Ni10(SbR)2(CO)18]2- Dianions (R = Me, Et, iPr, tBu, p-FC6H4) Containing Empty 1,12-Ni10Sb2 Icosahedral Cages and of the Unprecedented Stibinido-Bridged 34-Electron Ni2(CO)4(μ2-SbtBu2)2 Dimer1

Reactions of [Ni6(CO)12]2- (1) with R2SbBr (R = Me, Et, iPr) and R2SbCl (R = tBu, p-FC6H4) have given rise to the new [Ni10(SbR)2(CO)18]2- complexes (R = Me (3), Et (4), iPr (5), tBu (6), p-FC6H4 (7)) as the only major Ni−Sb product in each reaction (30−55% yields isolated as [NMe4]+ salts). These dianions, each of which has a crystallographically imposed inversion center, possess a common noncentered 1,12-Ni10Sb2 icosahedral cage that is surrounded by a 20-vertex ligand polyhedron composed of 10 terminal, 4 doubly bridging, and 4 triply bridging COs and the two Sb-attached R substituents. The formulation of each dianion was unambiguously established from X-ray crystallographic and infrared studies. An elemental analysis of [NMe4]2[3] substantiated its stoichiometry; magnetic susceptibility measurements conclusively showed this salt to be diamagnetic at room temperature. Cyclic voltammetric measurements of 3 and 5 in acetonitrile solutions similarly displayed only irreversible oxidation waves at ca. +0.60...
Cromolyn therapy for severe asthma in children.

Cromolyn sodium is a new antiasthmatic drug which exerts its action by interfering with the release of the mediators of immediate hypersensitivity reactions from the sensitized mast cells lining the bronchial tree. In a double-blind crossover trial, 36 children with chronic intractable asthma, 23 of whom were corticosteroid dependent, inhaled cromolyn sodium or a placebo four times per day for two 4 week periods. Although clinical improvement with cromolyn therapy was not statistically superior to the placebo, 36 patients noted subjective improvement from the cromolyn sodium and entered a 12 month open-end clinical trial. Twenty-six patients completed this second study; 19 of them showed clinical improvement. Of the 18 steroid-dependent patients who completed 12 months of cromolyn sodium therapy, 7 discontinued corticosteroids, 10 decreased their dosage, and one patient increased his corticosteroid requirement. Even though cromolyn sodium is not always clinically efficacious, it should be considered in the management of intractable asthma in children.
Vibrational frequencies and structural determinations of tetraisocyanatosilane

Abstract The normal mode frequencies and corresponding vibrational assignments of Si(NCO)4 are examined theoretically using the gaussian 98 set of quantum chemistry codes. Each of the vibrational modes was assigned to one of six types of motion predicted by a group theoretical analysis (SiN stretch, NCO symmetric stretch, NCO asymmetric stretch, NCO bend, SiNC bend, and NSiN bend) utilizing the Td symmetry of the molecule. Uniform scaling factors were derived for each type of motion. Predicted infrared and Raman intensities are reported.
Experimental determination of the activity-composition relations and phase equilibria of H2O-CO2-NaCl fluids at 500°C, 500 bars

Abstract An understanding of the activity-composition (a-X) relations and phase equilibria of halite-bearing, mixed-species supercritical fluids is critically important in many geological and industrial applications. We have performed experiments on H2O-CO2-NaCl fluids at 500°C, 500 bar, to obtain accurate and precise data on their a-X relations and phase equilibria. Two kinds of experiments were performed. First, H2O-CO2-NaCl samples were reacted at fixed activities of H2O = 0.078, 0.350, 0.425, 0.448, 0.553, 0.560, 0.606, 0.678, 0.798, 0.841, and 0.935 to define the tie lines of known H2O activity in the halite-vapor and vapor-brine fields. Results indicate that fluids with all but the last of these H2O activities lie in the vapor-halite two-phase region and that a fluid with aH2O = 0.841 has a composition close to the three-phase (vapor + brine + halite) field. A second set of experiments was performed to determine the solubility of NaCl in parts of the system in equilibrium with halite. Data from these experiments suggest that the vapor corner of the three-phase field lies at H2O contents above XH2O = 0.58 and XNaCl = 0.06, and below XH2O = 0.75 and XNaCl = 0.06, which is a significantly more H2O-rich composition than indicated by existing thermodynamic models.
Failure of mice to demonstrate spatial memory in the radial maze

The radial maze performances CD-1 mice and S-1 (Berkeley strain) rats were compared. Rats readily learned to solve the maze. In contrast, mice gave no indication of improved performance beyond that exhibited during the first days of training. Several interpretations of this finding are discussed. These data provide evidence against the hypothesis that rodents readily solve this maze because the reinforcement contingencies are consonant with those that naturally occur when foraging for food. It was concluded that one cannot be certain that radial maze performance necessarily reflects specific innate foot-search behaviors of animals until more investigations are carried out on food-search behaviors in the field, variables that affect search behaviors, and how these factors directly influence radial maze performance.
Stimulation of tarsal receptors of the blowfly by aliphatic aldehydes and ketones.

Rejection of eight aldehydes, eight ketones, five secondary alcohols, and 3-pentanol has been studied in the blowfly Phormia regina Meigen. The data agree with results previously reported for normal alcohols and several series of glycols in showing a logarithmic increase in stimulating effect with increasing chain length. The order of increasing effectiveness among the different species of compounds thus far investigated is the following: polyglycols, diols, secondary alcohols, iso-alcohols, normal alcohols, ketones, iso-aldehydes, normal aldehydes. Curves relating the logarithms of threshold concentration to the logarithms of chain length for diols, alcohols, aldehydes, and ketones show inflections in the 3 to 6 carbon range. Above and below the region of inflection the curves are nearly rectilinear. The slopes for the upper limbs (smaller molecules) are of the order of –2; for the lower limbs, about –10. Comparisons of the threshold data with numerical values for molecular weights, molecular areas and volumes, oil-water distribution coefficients, activity coefficients, standard free energies, vapor pressures, boiling points, melting points, dipole moments, dielectric constants, and degree of association are discussed briefly, and it is concluded that none of the comparisons serves to bring the data from the several series and from the two portions of each series into a single homogeneous system. A qualitative comparison with water solubilities shows fewer discrepancies. It is suggested that the existence of a combination of aqueous and lipoid phases at the receptor surface would fit best with what is presently known about the relationship between chemical structure and stimulating effect in contact chemoreception. In this hypothesis the smaller and more highly water-soluble compounds are envisaged as gaining access to the receptors partly through the aqueous phase, the larger molecules predominantly through the lipoid phase.
The determination of the derivatives in Brown's lunar theory

The fundamental matrix solutionT for the variational equations of a Hamiltonian system is symplectic. We use this fact to completeT when it is only partially known. We discuss three cases. The last one gives an easy proof for the method invented by Brown in his lunar theory.
Developmental regulation of spine and filopodial motility in primary visual cortex: Reduced effects of activity and sensory deprivation

Dendritic protrusions are highly motile during postnatal development. Although spine morphological plasticity could be associated with synaptic plasticity, the function of rapid spine/filopodial motility is still unknown. To investigate the role of spine motility in the development of the visual cortex and its relation with critical periods, we used two-photon imaging of neurons from layers receiving visual input in developing mouse primary visual cortex and compared motility between control and visually deprived animals. Spine and filopodia motility was prominent during early synaptogenesis (P11-P13) but greatly decreased after P15. This "switch" was coincident with a 2.5-fold increase in protrusion density and spine formation. Spine motility was not regulated during the critical period for monocular deprivation (P19-P34). Moreover, delaying the critical period by dark rearing did not delay the normal developmental decrease of spine motility, but caused a modest further reduction in motility at P28-P35. Dark rearing and enucleation also mildly reduced spine motility before eye opening and dark rearing reduced the proportion of filopodia. We conclude that (1) rapid spine motility is not related to critical period plasticity, but is likely to play a role in early synaptogenesis, and (2) neuronal activity stimulates spine motility during synaptogenesis and promotes the appearance of dendritic filopodia.
Instrumentation for interrogating many-element fiber Bragg grating arrays

Fiber Bragg grating (FBG) arrays have provided the Smart Structures community with a powerful means for real-time and absolute point measurements of strain throughout extended structures. The mechanical properties of these optical fiber sensors uniquely suit them for unobtrusive and reliable incorporation into composite materials, while wavelength encoding of the measurand enables independent interrogation of many devices distributed along a single fiber. In view of recent progress towards practical and economical FBG array fabrication via the computer-controlled in-line writing process during fiber draw, there is a complementary need for economical instrumentation which makes efficient use of the reflected signals. This is an important issue, especially since the reflectivity of narrow-line, type I gratings produced during fiber draw is typically less than 5%.
Human papillomavirus-like particles mediate functional delivery of plasmid DNA to antigen presenting cells in vivo

Because recombinant empty viral capsids are potentially attractive vectors for gene therapy, here we examined the ability of human papillomavirus (HPV) virus-like particles (VLPs) to mediate delivery and expression of DNA plasmids in vitro and in vivo. VLP-mediated delivery and expression of a GFP reporter construct in vitro was found to be highly dependent upon the presence of full-length L2 protein within the VLPs. Similarly, expression of GFP and luciferase reporter plasmids in vivo was strongly enhanced by co-administration of L1/L2 VLPs. Interestingly, in these experiments we routinely observed GFP expression in migrating antigen presenting cells (APC) recovered from mice inoculated with GFP plasmid in combination with VLPs, but not in APC recovered from mice inoculated with the plasmid alone. Additional evidence to support this concept was generated in experiments in which co-administration of VLPs with a plasmid designed to express HPV16 E6 oncoprotein was associated with significant enhancement of plasmid-encoded E6-specific cellular immune responses. These findings have implications for the design of vaccines for combined prophylaxis and therapy of HPV-associated diseases, and for other vaccines that rely on the administration of DNA-based immunogens, adjuvants, and/or other factors.
A DECISION MODEL FOR SELECTING ALTERNATIVE HYPOTHESES

One important aspect of experimental design is the decision whether to use a one- or two-tailed hypothesis test. Assuming that the sample size and the level of significance have been specified, the selection of an alternative hypothesis can materially affect the conclusion drawn from the experiment. In the past, this selection was made on a subjective basis or for pragmatic reasons which can bias the experiment. This paper suggests an expected value approach, maximizing the expected power of the test, to place the selection of alternative hypotheses in an objective and reliable decision framework.
Detection of the hypothiocyanite (OSCN−) ion in human parotid saliva and the effect of pH on OSCN− generation in the salivary peroxidase antimicrobial system

Human whole saliva contains the hypothiocyanite ion (OSCN-) which is the principal antimicrobial product of the salivary peroxidase system. The peroxidase system requires a source of peroxide in order to produce OSCN- and in the human mouth this source has been assumed to be primarily the peroxidogenic oral bacteria. However, we report here studies which show that samples of stimulated human parotid saliva collected directly from Stenson's duct have concentrations of OSCN- which are similar to those found in human whole saliva. Thus, the peroxidogenic bacteria are not an absolute requirement for the generation of significant levels of OSCN- in the human mouth. Supplementation of human whole saliva with components [thiocyanite (SCN-), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)] of the peroxidase system produces a 10-fold or greater increase in OSCN- concentration. However, the magnitude of this increase is critically dependent upon pH and upon the relative and absolute concentrations of SCN- and H2O2. The pH dependence of OSCN- generation is similar for human whole saliva and for the lactoperoxidase/SCN-/H2O2 system. The optimum is in the range 6.5-7.0. Samples of parotid saliva adjusted to pH 6.5 and supplemented with appropriate amounts of SCN- and H2O2 show increases in OSCN- concentrations which are similar to those observed with whole saliva. The results show that there is a significant source of H2O2 within the parotid gland, that the OSCN- generating potential of parotid saliva is similar to that of whole saliva and that the enhancement of OSCN- levels in saliva by addition of SCN- and H2O2 is critically dependent upon pH and upon the relative and absolute concentrations of H2O2 and SCN-.
Developing control rules for an AGV using Markov decision processes

An Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV) system is modeled using Markov Decision Processes. Generalized control rules for scheduling AGVs are extracted from the optimal control policies. The job throughput (deliveries per time) using the control rules is compared to the optimal policy and to current control rules used in industry today.
Relationship between family religiosity and drug use among youth

We evaluated the relationship between several dimensions of parental and family religiosity with adolescent drug use behavior. Analysis was based on self-reported responses to a questionnaire administered to 1,036 undergraduate college students at Brigham Young University, of which 99.1% are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS). About 86% reported having never used drugs. The most commonly reported reasons for abstention from drugs were that drug use violates the participants’ religious beliefs and their personal moral code. In contrast, concern about legal consequences, harming family reputation, and avoiding dishonest behavior were among the least common reasons for abstaining from drugs. Children of parents who were neutral, versus critical, about religion – or who considered religion of minor importance – were more likely to have a history of drug use. Protective factors against drug behavior included also parental positions of responsibility in the church and frequent family discussions involving religion and Christian conduct. The mother’s view of religion was a stronger indicator of previous drug use behavior than either the father’s view of religion, positions of church responsibility held by the parents, or arguments about religious teachings with parents. Discussion on topics of Christian conduct was a stronger indicator of previous drug use behavior than were either church attendance or discussions on topics of religious doctrine.
The centralizing theorem for left normal groups of units in compact monoids

A group G of units in a monoid S is called left normal if sG ⊆ Gs for all s e S. The centralizer Z of G in S is the set of all s e S with sg=gs for all g e G. Always l e Z, and if S has a zero 0, then 0 e Z. We show that in a compact connected monoid S with zero the centralizer Z of any left normal (closed) group G of units is connected.
Biochemical sudies on a low molecular weight antiplasmin of human blood

Abstract We previously reported a low molecular weight antiplasmin present in human platelets and plasma. This material as isolated by ultrafiltration was heterogeneous. The fraction showing maximum inhibition has been further purified by countercurrent distribution. The N-terminal residue of this purified inhibitor is alanine. Amino acid analysis showed glycine to be the predominant residue, and no basic amino acid was detected. Kinetic studies suggested a competitive inhibition of plasmin via enzyme-inhibitor complex formation. Carbohydrate and phosphate could not be detected. These data were similar for both platelet antiplasmin and serum antiplasmin. The relationship between the platelet and the serum inhibitor remains unclear. This low molecular weight antiplasmin may contribute to the consolidation of the thrombus.
Model estimation of energy flow in North American grassland bird communities.

The energy demands and general food consumption rates of bird populations breeding in North American grasslands are estimated using a simulation model which employs information on population natural history and individual metabolism gathered from several study locations. The total breeding season energy demand of the grassland/shrub-steppe avifaunas ranged from 0.89 kcal m-2 season-1 in arid shrub-steppe to 2.92 kcal m-2 season-1 in a mesic tallgrass prairie. There was substantial variation between years and between census plots, however, and in general the average avian community energy demands did not differ significantly over the range of locations. Production accounted for 0.9 to 1.5% of the total seasonal energy demand. Roughly 11 to 18% of the seasonal energy flow was required in the production of eggs and maintenance and growth of nestlings and fledglings.On the average, between 209 and 386 kg dry wt km-2 of prey were consumed by the bird communities breeding in the grassland locations. Seeds contributed more to the total biomass consumed at the drier plots, but in general, animal prey types comprised roughly 80% of the total biomass eaten. Phytophagous insects were the major component of the animal prey.These low magnitudes of energy flow and biomass consumption attest to the relatively minor role of birds in the processing of energy and biomass in grassland ecosystems. If these populations do play an 'importnat' role in the functioning of grassland ecosystems, it must be quite subtle and indirect.
Technical note: A model to estimate individual feed intake of swine in group feeding

In most animal growth experiments, groups of animals are housed within a pen. Occasionally, an individual animal shows a very different growth rate than its pen mates or dies during the experiment. When this happens, if pen feed intake (PFI) cannot be reestimated for the calculation of ADFI and feed efficiency, an observation will be lost from the data set. Therefore, we propose a model to estimate individual feed intake (IFI) of pigs in group feeding, with subsequent validation of the model using group feeding simulation studies. In the proposed model, the feed intake (FI) of each affected pen is partitioned into FI for maintenance (FI(m)) and FI for growth (FI(g)) for each animal within that pen. First, individual pig FI(m) for the period is calculated using the 1998 National Research Council estimation of ME for maintenance. Then, FI(m) for all pigs in the pen is summed. The difference between the summed FI(m) and the total PFI is that which supported growth in the pen. Next, FI(g) is calculated by apportioning the remaining feed equally to each unit of gain within the pen. Finally, the estimated IFI for the pig being removed from the pen is the sum of FI(m) and FI(g) for that pig; this FI estimate is subtracted from the original PFI to leave the new PFI for the remaining pigs. The validity of the estimated IFI is dependent on the accuracy of the maintenance energy equation and the energy analysis of the feedstuffs. In simulation studies, we compared the accuracy of the proposed method with 2 other methods. In simulation study 1, the proposed model showed better accuracy than at least one of the other methods during all tested periods (P < 0.001). In simulation study 2, the greater accuracy of the proposed method compared with 2 other methods was demonstrated again. Because calculation of IFI is relatively cumbersome, we developed a feed intake correction spreadsheet (FICS), an Excel spreadsheet containing macros for FI correction. All of the calculation procedures in the proposed model are included within the feed intake correction spreadsheet. The Excel file and instructions are being made available via a Web site.
The Availability, Prospects, and Fiscal Potential of On-Campus Housing at Rural Community Colleges

Many rural community colleges have long provided on-campus housing. This article profiles the availability of housing at rural community colleges in 2001—2002 and 2005—2006, examines the factors that will continue to make on-campus housing an important service at rural institutions, and draws on 2005—2006 data from the Institutional Characteristics survey of the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System to analyze the potential importance of housing as a source of revenues for rural community colleges.
Religiousness/Spirituality and Health: A Meaning Systems Perspective

The existence of links between religion and spirituality (R/S) and health appear to be firmly established, but much less is known about how these various aspects of R/S are translated into health outcomes. Within a meaning systems framework, this article reviews and integrates findings regarding the many pathways through which R/S may influence physical health and well-being. In particular, evidence for the pathways of body sanctification, meaning in life, social support, health locus of control, health behaviors, positive and negative affect and stress moderation, treatment adherence, and coping is examined. The article concludes with suggestions for future research.
Origin, migration and fate of newly generated neurons in the adult rodent piriform cortex

Newly generated neurons are continuously added to the olfactory epithelium and olfactory bulbs of adult mammals. Studies also report newly generated neurons in the piriform cortex, the primary cortical projection site of the olfactory bulbs. The current study used BrdU-injection paradigms, and in vivo and in vitro DiI tracing methods to address three fundamental issues of these cells: their origin, migratory route and fate. The results show that 1 day after a BrdU-injection, BrdU/DCX double-labeled cells appear deep to the ventricular subependyma, within the white matter. Such cells appear further ventral and caudal in the ensuing days, first appearing in the rostral piriform cortex of mice at 2 days after the BrdU-injection, and at 4 days in the rat. In the caudal piriform cortex, BrdU/DCX labeled cells first appear at 4 days after the injection in mice and 7 days in rats. The time it takes for these cells to appear in the piriform cortex and the temporal distribution pattern suggest that they migrate from outside this region. DiI tracing methods confirmed a migratory route to the piriform cortex from the ventricular subependyma. The presence of BrdU/NeuN labeled cells as early as 7 days after a BrdU injection in mice and 10 days in the rat and lasting as long as 41 days indicates that some of these cells have extended survival durations in the adult piriform cortex.
Thoracoscopic versus open resection for congenital cystic adenomatoid malformations of the lung

Abstract Purpose This study evaluated the potential advantages of thoracoscopy compared to thoracotomy for resection of congenital cystic adenomatoid malformations (CCAM). Methods We conducted a retrospective chart review of consecutive cases of CCAM resection at University of California San Francisco Children's Hospital from January 1996 to December 2006. Results Thirty-six cases of postnatal CCAM resections were done over the past 10 years; 12 patients had thoracoscopic resections, whereas 24 patients had open resections. Patients in the thoracoscopic group had significantly longer operative time (mean difference of 61.3 minutes; 95% confidence interval [CI], 30.5-92.1) but shorter postoperative hospital stay (mean difference of 5.7 days; 95% CI, 0.9-10.4) and duration of tube thoracostomy (mean difference of 2.6 days; 95% CI, 0.7-4.5) and lower odds of postoperative complications (odds ratio of 9.0 × 10 −4 ; 95% CI, 8.0 × 10 −6 -0.1). In the subgroup analysis of only asymptomatic patients, the thoracoscopy group still had a significantly shorter hospital stay (mean difference of 2.8 days; 95% CI, 0.7-4.8). There was also a pattern for reduced complications in the thoracoscopy group (OR, 0.13; 95% CI, 0.02-1.0; P = .05). The average hospital costs were similar in both groups. With a conversion rate of 33% (6/18), patients with a history of preoperative respiratory symptoms had a higher incidence of conversion than those who were asymptomatic (66.7% vs 0%, P = .005). These four patients had a history of pneumonia. Conclusion Minimally invasive resection of CCAM results in longer operative time but shorter hospital stay, potentially reduced complications, and no additional hospital costs. Thoracoscopic lobectomy in patients with a history of pneumonia is challenging and a risk factor for conversion to thoracotomy.
Biologic and epigenetic impact of commuting to work by car or using public transportation: a case-control study.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Commuting by public transportation (PT) entails more physical activity and energy expenditure than by cars, but its biologic consequences are unknown. METHODS: In 2009-2010, we randomly sampled New York adults, usually commuting either by car (n=79) or PT (n=101). Measures comprised diet and physical activity questionnaires, weight and height, white blood cell (WBC) count, C reactive protein, (CRP) gene-specific methylation (IL-6), and global genomic DNA methylation (LINE-1 methylation). RESULTS: Compared to the 101 PT commuters, the 79 car drivers were about 9years older, 2kg/m(2) heavier, more often non-Hispanic whites, and ate more fruits and more meats. The 2005 guidelines for physical activity were met by more car drivers than PT users (78.5% vs. 65.0%). There were no differences in median levels of CRP (car vs. PT: 0.6 vs. 0.5mg/dl), mean levels of WBC (car vs. PT: 6.7 vs. 6.5cells/mm(3)), LINE-1 methylation (car vs. PT: 78.0% vs. 78.3%), and promoter methylation of IL-6 (car vs. PT: 56.1% vs. 58.0%). CONCLUSIONS: PT users were younger and lighter than car drivers, but their commute mode did not translate into a lower inflammatory response or a higher DNA methylation, maybe because, overall, car drivers were more physically active. Language: en
Passive neutron detection for interdiction of nuclear material at borders

Abstract Radiation portal monitor systems based upon polyvinyl toluene scintillator gamma-ray detectors and pressurized 3He-based neutron detector tubes have been deployed to detect illicit trafficking in radioactive materials at international border crossings. This paper reviews the neutron detection requirements and capabilities of passive, as opposed to active interrogation, detection systems used for screening of high-volume commerce for illicit sources of radiation at international border crossings. Computational results are given for the impact of cargo materials on neutron spectra, for the response of various detector geometries, the effects of backgrounds including “ship effect” neutrons, and for simulation of a large neutron detection array.