cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Optimal Ratio of Heat Removal Rate to Pumping Power for PCM Emulsion Fluids: Low Reynolds Number Limits

There are many applications where high heat transfer removal rate in a limited tight space are required. The applications include mini and micro-scale channels flows in compact heat exchangers. The increase in heat transfer rate often requires the significant increase in fluid velocity and therefore the increase in the pumping power. One option is to utilize Phase Change Materials (PCM). This study contributes to the further understanding of performance enhancement of an improved heat transfer fluid by studying the optimal ratio of heat removal rate to the fluid pumping power. PCMs have the unique characteristics that can increase the thermal capacity of heat transfer fluids by providing latent heat capacity at a temperature different than the melting point of the carrier fluid. The ratio of heat transfer rate (Q) to fluid pumping power (P) is about twice as that for using pure water without PCM particles. The effectiveness factor (compared to water without PCM) is also doubled. It has been observed that as Re decreases the effective factor increases and Q/P ratio increases, which is also true if the concentration of PCM increases. In this experimental study focuses are on the heat transfer enhancement effects for very low Reynolds number (Re < 180 of pure water velocity) and PCM concentration slurry flow of 10% to 20%. Experimental investigations relevant to PCM slurry flows are carried out. Experimental results indicate that PCM slurry's heat transfer coefficient and apparent specific heat are affected significantly by the phase change process and the slurry mass fraction. It is found that the Q/P ratio primarily is a function of Reynolds number.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
A numerical study of MFM response

Abstract Quantitative modelling of the response of a magnetic force microscope to bit transitions in longitudinal media has been made. Integrations of the force gradient acting on thin film pyramidal tips generated by bit transitions in longitudinal media has been performed in the linear, non-interacting limit.
EFFECTS OF SHORT-TERM SUPPRESSION OF OVARIAN HORMONES ON CARDIOVASCULAR AND NEUROENDOCRINE REACTIVITY TO STRESS IN WOMEN

Abstract The present study reduced the levels of ovarian hormones to early postmenopausal levels by a GnRH agonist and evaluated the effects of a temporary suppression of ovarian hormones on premenopausal women’s cardiovascular and neuroendocrine responses to laboratory challenges. The stress responses of 24 healthy young women were evaluated during three tasks during the early follicular phase and then after three monthly injections of Lupron, which suppressed their levels of estradiol, FSH, and LH. Thereafter, half the group resumed menstrual cycles (labeled Cycle), and half continued having Lupron injections in combination with transdermal estradiol (labeled Patch) and all were reevaluated a third time. A third group (labeled Control) of 12 women had four monthly injections of Lupron first and then were evaluated the first time. After their cycles resumed, they were reevaluated twice 3 months apart. Results showed that the magnitude of the blood pressure and catecholamine changes declined over the three evaluations, suggesting that the women’s stress responses habituated. Although the suppression of ovarian hormone levels led to alterations in ovarian hormones for several months, which were accompanied by typical menopausal symptoms, cardiovascular and neuroendocrine responses to stress did not vary. This study did not test the effects of current estrogen exposure or of long term suppression of ovarian hormones upon cardiovascular and neuroendocrine responses. © 1998 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
Surfactant precipitation in aqueous solutions containing mixtures of anionic and nonionic surfactants

The salinity tolerance (precipitation phase boundary) is measured for a mixed anionic/nonionic surfactant system above the CMC. For any total surfactant concentration, the salinity tolerance is shown to increase as the percentage of nonionic surfactant in the system is increased. A model is developed which can predict the phase boundaries for the mixed surfactant system from the pure anionic surfactant phase boundary and information about mixed micelle formation. In the model, precipitation is viewed as a solubility product relationship between the anionic surfactant monomer and the total unassociated counterion. The reason that salinity tolerance (or counterion concentration necessary to cause precipitation) increases with addition of nonionic surfactant is that mixed micelle formation reduces the anionic surfactant monomer concentration. For the experimental studies, sodium dodecyl sulfate is the anionic surfactant, a polyethoxylated nonylphenol is the nonionic surfactant, and sodium chloride is the added salt.
Interleukin-4 and -10 gene polymorphisms and spontaneous preterm birth in multifetal gestations.

Abstract Objective The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between maternal and fetal carriage of different alleles of interleukin-4 and -10 genes and pregnancy outcome in multifetal gestations. Study design Buccal swabs from mother-infant pairs of 73 multifetal gestations were assayed for polymorphisms at position –590 of the interleukin-4 gene and position –1082 of the interleukin-10 gene. Pregnancy outcome data were obtained subsequently. Results Spontaneous preterm birth occurred in 29 of the pregnancies (39.7%). A higher frequency of the interleukin-4 T allele was found among mothers with spontaneous preterm birth compared with mothers without spontaneous preterm birth (36.2% vs 18.2%; P =.02; odds ratio, 2.6; 95% CI, 1.1-5.9). Moreover, 20.7% of mothers who had spontaneous preterm birth were homozygous for the interleukin-4 T allele, as opposed to only 2.3% of mothers who did not have a spontaneous preterm birth ( P =.01; odds ratio, 11.2; 95% CI, 1.2-69.5). Similarly, in 55.2% of the pregnancies that were complicated by spontaneous preterm birth, 2 fetuses carried the interleukin-4 T allele, compared with only 29.5% of the pregnancies that were not complicated by spontaneous preterm birth ( p Conclusion Maternal and fetal carriage of the interleukin-4 T allele is associated with an increased risk of spontaneous preterm birth in multifetal gestations.
Tunneling dynamics of cyclobutadiene

Etude par la methode MINDO/3 de l'automerisation du cyclobutadiene et de ses derives tetradeuteries et tetra- 13 C
Mid-IR volumetric Bragg grating based on LiF color center crystal

We have demonstrated volumetric Bragg gratings (VBGs) for mid-IR spectral range based on LiF color center (LiF:CC) crystals. γ-irradiated LiF:CC crystals feature strong absorption bands in the visible and near-IR spectral range, where selective color center photo-bleaching allows for the LiF refractive index modification. The absence of active absorption in LiF:CC crystals at wavelengths longer than 1.3 μm results in a VBG that is stable under mid-IR irradiation. Our calculations predict a ~60% diffraction efficiency over 1-6 μm spectral range, which could be realized in a ~1 cm long VBG. To verify this, we fabricated periodic structures in LiF:CC crystals using an amplified femtosecond Ti:sapphire laser. Diffraction at 1.56 μm is demonstration of a phase grating in LiF and is a proof of the feasibility of LiF:CC crystals for mid-IR VBG applications.
Induction of Cellular Follicle‐Stimulating Hormone in the Hamster Adenohypophysis Requires Intermittent Stimulation by Luteinizing Hormone Releasing Hormone

We investigated the effectiveness of continuous vs intermittent LHRH stimulation of the neonatal female anterior pituitary gland on inducing cellular FSH immunoreactivity in the Golden Syrian hamster. Neonatal female pituitary glands were grafted beneath the right renal capsules of hypophysectomized-ovariectomized adult hosts with a catheter implanted in the external jugular vein. In experiment 1, vehicle or LHRH (6 ng/h) was infused continuously or LHRH was pulsed at 1 h (6 ng) or 12 h (72 ng) intervals through the catheters for 8 days. Hamsters were decapitated for collection of trunk blood shortly after the end of treatment, and grafts were prepared for immunocytochemical staining for LH and FSH. Anterior pituitary glands removed from neonatal (day 1) and day 9 female pups also were stained for LH and FSH. The mean percentage of adenohypophysial cells staining for LH increased from 11% in neonatal pups to mean percentages (24-28%) that were similar in day 9 pups and in all groups with grafts. The mean percentage of adenohypophysial cells staining for FSH increased from 1% in neonatal pups to percentages (16-21%) that were similar in day 9 pups and in grafts in hosts administered 6 or 72 ng LHRH pulses. By contrast, the mean percentage of FSH cells did not increase in grafts in hosts administered vehicle or LHRH by continuous infusion. Serum LH concentration was low in hosts given vehicle or LHRH by continuous infusion but elevated in hosts given 72 ng LHRH pulses and in all but one host given 6 ng LHRH pulses.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
The dynamic epitranscriptome: N6-methyladenosine and gene expression control

N(6)-methyladenosine (m(6)A) is a modified base that has long been known to be present in non-coding RNAs, ribosomal RNA, polyadenylated RNA and at least one mammalian mRNA. However, our understanding of the prevalence of this modification has been fundamentally redefined by transcriptome-wide m(6)A mapping studies, which have shown that m(6)A is present in a large subset of the transcriptome in specific regions of mRNA. This suggests that mRNA may undergo post-transcriptional methylation to regulate its fate and function, which is analogous to methyl modifications in DNA. Thus, the pattern of methylation constitutes an mRNA 'epitranscriptome'. The identification of adenosine methyltransferases ('writers'), m(6)A demethylating enzymes ('erasers') and m(6)A-binding proteins ('readers') is helping to define cellular pathways for the post-transcriptional regulation of mRNAs.
The politics of evaluation in developing countries

Abstract The political context of and approaches to program evaluation in the United States and in developing countries are compared. A framework for discussing the political context of evaluation in developing countries is proposed. This framework includes who funds, uses, controls, and conducts the evaluations; what kinds of evaluations are used by major stakeholders; and how and why evaluations are used. Some of the emerging issues are discussed. Although the political nature of evaluation is accepted as a fact of life by American evaluators, there has been very little systematic discussion of these issues with respect to evaluation in developing countries. Probably the single most important difference between the context for program evaluation in the United States and that in developing countries is the major role that international donor agencies play in the selection, financing, design, and use of monitoring and evaluation systems in developing countries. Another important issue is that in many developing countries monitoring and evaluation systems are often highly centralized, with priority given to the information needs of central finance and planning agencies. Consequently, evaluation in developing countries is used less as a project management tool than in the United States. Also in contrast to the United States, where the need for stakeholder analysis is widely acknowledged, project beneficiaries in developing countries frequently receive very limited attention from both donors and governments and have no voice in the design, implementation, or use of the evaluations.
Transition-Metal-Mediated Exo-Selective Diels−Alder Reactions for the Preparation of Octalones with Unusual Stereochemistries. Reactions of 2-Cobaloxime-Substituted 1,3-Dienes with Cyclohexenones in Thermal and Lewis Acid-Catalyzed [4 + 2] Cycloadditions

2-Cobaloxime−(E)-1,3-pentadienyl complexes (cobaloxime = pyridine(dimethylglyoxime)2cobalt(III)) react with a variety of cyclohexenones in [4 + 2] cycloaddition reactions. These cycloaddition reactions produce octalones with cis ring junctions through exo transition states. The octalones are removed from the cobalt via demetalation reactions that replace the cobalt with a hydrogen and provide pyr(dmg)2CoMe, which can be recycled into the synthesis of the starting dienyl complex.
Gelling Temperatures of Gellan Solutions as Affected by Citrate Buffers

Effects of citrate buffers at pH 3.5 and 5.0 on gelling temperatures of gellan solutions with 0.4-1.8% gellan and 1.5-60 mM Ca 2+ were studied. Partial dissociation of the carboxyl groups in gellan polymer in pH 3.5 solutions resulted in weakened gels. The pH 3.5 buffer exhibited weak chelating ability for Ca 2+ . The gelling temperature of gellan solutions at pH 3.5 was quantitatively related to polymer and cation concentrations using a similar model to that for gellan water solutions. The pH 5.0 buffer exhibited strong chelating ability. Gelling temperatures at pH 5.0 were generally lower than those at pH 3.5, except at low calcium concentrations.
Chandra Multiwavelength Project. II. First Results of X-Ray Source Properties

The Chandra Multiwavelength Project (ChaMP) is a wide-area (~14 deg2) survey of serendipitous Chandra X-ray sources, aiming to establish fair statistical samples covering a wide range of characteristics (such as absorbed active galactic nuclei [AGNs] and high-z clusters of galaxies) at flux levels (fX ~ 10-15 to 10-14 ergs s-1 cm-2) intermediate between the Chandra Deep Field surveys and previous missions. We present the first results of X-ray source properties obtained from the initial sample of 62 observations. The data have been uniformly reduced and analyzed with techniques specifically developed for the ChaMP and then validated by visual examination. Utilizing only near-on-axis X-ray-bright sources (to avoid problems caused by incompleteness and the Eddington bias), we derive the log N- log S relation in soft (0.5-2 keV) and hard (2-8 keV) energy bands. The ChaMP data are consistent with previous results of ROSAT, ASCA, and Chandra Deep Field surveys. In particular, our data nicely fill in the flux gap in the hard band between the Chandra Deep Field data and the previous ASCA data. We check whether there is any systematic difference in the source density between cluster and noncluster fields and also search for field-to-field variation, both of which have been previously reported. We found no significant field-to-field cosmic variation in either test within the statistics (~1 σ) across the flux levels included in our sample. In the X-ray color-color plot, most sources fall in the location characterized by photon index = 1.5-2 and NH = a few × 1020 cm2, suggesting that they are typical broadline AGNs. There also exist a considerable number of sources with peculiar X-ray colors (e.g., highly absorbed, very hard, very soft). We confirm a trend that on average the X-ray color hardens as the count rate decreases. Since the hardening is confined to the softest energy band (0.3-0.9 keV), we conclude that it is most likely due to absorption. We cross-correlate the X-ray sources with other catalogs and describe their properties in terms of optical color, X-ray-to-optical luminosity ratio, and X-ray colors.
A New Look at Reliability of Asphalt-Mica Insulation in Large Conventionally Cooled Turbine Generators

Service data on girth cracks in asphalt-mica stator winding insulation have been studied statistically. Probabilistic application of the results can lead to better plans for maintaining high reliability and availability in large generators with this type of insulation.
A review of fluorescence spectroscopic methods for oil spill source identification

Abstract A review and evaluation of analytical techniques and methods for oil spill source identification by fluorescence spectroscopy is presented. The subject is discussed within the context of a three dimensional system which permits the reader to readily visualize and comprehend the many diverse approaches incorporated into the reviewed methods. The three dimensional system utilizes the three interdependent variables inherent to fluorescence spectroscopy, i.e., excitation wavelength, emission wavelength and fluorescence intensity, and portrays the fluorescence characteristics of petroleum oils as “total fluorescence spectra”; that are analogous to topographic maps of mountainous regions. Spectral information, derived by each of the methods, is discussed in terms of appropriate portions of such total spectra.
An accurate procedure for the determination of the rare earths by neutron activation

The principal steps in a well-tested procedure for analysis of the rare earths in rocks and minerals are: irradiation of powdered rock samples along with a standard solution mixture of rare-earth nitrates; dissolution of the rock powder in the presence of carrier, using Na2O2 fusion; separation of the rare-earth group from the silicate residue by a sequence of hydroxide and oxalate precipitations; separation of the individual rare earths in samples and irradiated standards by ion exchange; chemical yield determination by EDTA titration; radioassay by beta or gamma counting. The average precision for duplicate analyses by different analysts was found to be better than ±4 percent mean deviation for a shale with a total rare-earth content of 200 ppm.
Hydrodynamic fluctuations, long-time tails, and supersymmetry

Hydrodynamic fluctuations at a nonzero temperature can cause slow relaxation toward equilibrium even in observables which are not locally conserved. A classic example is the stress-stress correlator in a normal fluid, which, at zero wave number, behaves at large times as ${t}^{\ensuremath{-}3/2}.$ A novel feature of the effective theory of hydrodynamic fluctuations in supersymmetric theories is the presence of Grassmann-valued classical fields describing macroscopic supercharge density fluctuations. We show that hydrodynamic fluctuations in supersymmetric theories generate essentially the same long-time power-law tails in real-time correlation functions that are known in simple fluids. In particular, a ${t}^{\ensuremath{-}3/2}$ long-time tail must exist in the stress-stress correlator of $\mathcal{N}=4$ supersymmetric Yang-Mills theory at non-zero temperature, regardless of the value of the coupling. Consequently, this feature of finite-temperature dynamics can provide an interesting test of the AdS/CFT correspondence. However, the coefficient of this long-time tail is suppressed by a factor of ${1/N}_{\mathrm{c}}^{2}.$ On the gravitational side, this implies that these long-time tails are not present in the classical supergravity limit; they must instead be produced by one-loop gravitational fluctuations.
Designing and engineering through collaboration and negotiation

The development of complex engineering systems requires collaboration and negotiation. It is to make correct decisions based on customer needs, Functional Requirements, Design Parameters, and Process Variables. There are two basic elements: the system and the process used for collaboration and negotiation. The system is to assure that the project has the best information and knowledge. Systems and processes are needed to minimise the cost of development, to execute the project on schedule, and to deliver a highly robust, efficient and reliable product. This paper proposes heuristic rules for collaboration and negotiation based on axiomatic design theory and complexity theory.
Posterior fusion for an unstable axial fracture dislocation.

BACKGROUND Management of avulsion fractures in the upper cervical spine remains the subject of debate. Currently, most experts favor nonoperative management of an isolated injury. However, these injuries can be complicated by soft-tissue trauma, which may require a different clinical approach to management. Accurate diagnosis of soft-tissue injuries depends on the choice of imaging modality and consideration of unique patient-specific factors. CASE DESCRIPTION A morbidly obese 34-year-old woman was involved in a low-velocity motor vehicle collision that caused a forceful extension of the cervical spine. Initial computed tomographic imaging demonstrated a displaced avulsion fracture of the C2 body and widening of the C2-C3 facet. However, subsequent imaging using magnetic resonance demonstrated more extensive injuries. Because bracing was not feasible due to cervical instability, the injury was treated with posterior C2-4 fusion and bone grafting. CONCLUSIONS Even in low-velocity collisions and limited injury on imaging, patient-specific factors should be considered in management decisions. Magnetic resonance imaging showed significant ligamentous compromise and marked cervical instability, revealing potential damage to vulnerable neural structures. Magnetic resonance imaging should be considered in the initial approach to any patient with these injuries.
Assessing the significance of along-strike variations of middle to late Miocene prograding clinoformal sequence geometries beneath the New Jersey continental shelf

Seismic mapping of high-resolution multichannel seismic profiles along the New Jersey margin illustrates how characteristics of middle–late Miocene clinoformal sequence boundaries (SBs) change markedly along strike in presumed response to local depositional and erosional processes. Most SBs converge from SW to NE, in part as a result of the influence of underlying basin morphology on accommodation space, but also in response to differential subsidence and presumed along-strike variations in sediment supply from the adjacent margin. The curvature of clinoform breaks, historically viewed as marking palaeo-shelf edges, is variable and such breaks are rarely sharp. Gently curved palaeo-shelf/slope transitions cannot be assigned precise palaeobathymetric significance and probably instead reflect post-depositional sediment reworking. The amount of erosional truncation landward of clinoform breaks varies significantly. Documented along-strike variability in SB morphology occurs, even though middle–late Miocene palaeo-shelf edges are nearly linear in plan view. Therefore, such linearity cannot be a product of uniform sedimentary processes and/or accumulation along strike, but instead reflects elongation of depocentres of originally variable cross-sectional geometry, possibly with the assistance of along-strike currents. The observed lateral geometric heterogeneity of Neogene sequences can exert profound and unwanted influences on the outcome of scientific drilling intended to calibrate seismic stratigraphic interpretations in the absence of sufficient three-dimensional (3D) seismic control.
METAL ION EXTRACTION BY SILYL-SUBSTITUTED DIPHOSPHONIC ACIDS. I. P,P′-DI-[3-(TRIMETHYLSILYL)-1-PROPYLENE] METHYLENE- AND ETHYLENEDIPHOSPHONIC ACIDS

In conjunction with efforts to develop novel actinide extractants that exhibit solubility in supercritical carbon dioxide (SCCO2), the effect of adding silicon-based functionalities to diphosphonic acids on their aggregation and solvent extraction chemistry was investigated. Two silyl-derivatized diphosphonic acids, P,P′-di[3-(trimethylsilyl)-1-propylene] methylenediphosphonic acid (H2DTMSP[MDP]) and P,P′-di[3-(trimethylsilyl)-1-propylene] ethylenediphosphonic acid (H2DTMSP[EDP]), were prepared and their aggregation and metal ion extraction properties compared to those of the previously studied P,P′-di(2-ethylhexyl) alkylenediphosphonic acids. Vapor pressure osmometry of H2DTMSP[MDP] and H2DTMSP[EDP] in toluene (25°C) indicates that, as is the case for the 2-ethylhexyl-substituted alkylenediphosphonic acid analogs, the compounds are dimeric and (primarily) hexameric, respectively, in the concentration range investigated. Distribution ratio measurements for the alkaline earth cations Ca2+, Sr2+, Ba2+, and ...
Properties of alpha-1-adrenergic receptors in the rat prostate: Effect of experimental diabetes

We studied the effects of 8 weeks of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes on the density and the pharmacological properties of α1-adrenoceptors in the rat prostate using receptor-binding e
Genomic sequencing and methylation analysis by ligation mediated PCR

Genomic sequencing permits studies of in vivo DNA methylation and protein-DNA interactions, but its use has been limited because of the complexity of the mammalian genome. A newly developed genomic sequencing procedure in which a ligation mediated polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is used generates high quality, reproducible sequence ladders starting with only 1 microgram of uncloned mammalian DNA per reaction. Different sequence ladders can be created simultaneously by inclusion of multiple primers and visualized separately by rehybridization. Relatively little radioactivity is needed for hybridization and exposure times are short. Methylation patterns in genomic DNA are readily detectable; for example, 17 CpG dinucleotides in the 5' region of human X-linked PGK-1 (phosphoglycerate kinase 1) were found to be methylated on an inactive human X chromosome, but unmethylated on an active X chromosome.
The Pedagogy of Whatever.

Abstract Where most pedagogical uses of hypertext either attempt to account for race, gender, and sexuality or completely disregard them, my approach to hypertextual writing both accounts for and disregards identity. In this article, by trying to capture this hybrid or rhizomatic scheme, I consider what Giorgio Agamben refers to as the Whatever . I am interested in appropriating Agamben’s concept not only to ground students in identity formation and ideological awareness, but also to conceive of an excess or what exists after all cultural and ideological determinations. This excess is exemplarity or singularity, the Whatever. I regard the Whatever as a return to the promise of happiness by way of artistic or hypertextual endeavor.
Mammalian feeding and primate evolution: An overview

Most of the papers included in this volume are derived from presentations in a symposium on Mammalian Feeding at the 65th Annual Meetings of the American Association of Physical Anthropologists in North Carolina in 1996. The aims of this symposium were to gather together the preeminent researchers on mammalian mastication and document the state of research in that field. The symposium emphasized in vivo studies of mammalian feeding because of a paucity of recent reviews of this field, but included morphometric and modeling papers as well. Subsequently the papers were revised, and were submitted in spring 1998 for publication, pending the outcome of peer review.
The restriction-modification system of Pasteurella haemolytica is a member of a new family of type I enzymes.

Abstract Genes encoding the type I restriction-modification (R-M) system of the bovine pathogen, Pasteurella haemolytica , have been identified immediately downstream of a locus that encodes a transcriptional activator of P. haemolytica leukotoxin expression. Type I enzymes are encoded by three genes called hsdM, hsdS and hsdR , and have fallen into three groups, called Ia, Ib and Ic. HsdS provides a sequence recognition function which in concert with HsdM forms an active methyltransferase (MTase). Inclusion of the HsdR subunit in the complex creates an active restriction endonuclease (ENase) capable of cleaving unmethylated target DNA. The P. haemolytica hsdMSR genes were mapped using transposon TnlOd-Cam insertions, and bacteriophage restriction and modification assays in Escherichia coli . We determined the nucleotide sequences of hsdM, hsdS and hsdR , and observed that the deduced amino acid (aa) sequences were very similar to predicted R-M subunits in the respiratory pathogen, Haemophilus infiuenzae . Phylogenetic comparisons of all known Hsd aa sequences placed the P. haemolytica and H. influenzae proteins into a new group which we labeled the Type Id R-M family. Expression of the P. haemolytica R-M genes in E. coli was inefficient and is likely to be a consequence of the unusual codon usage in P. haemolytica genes.
Applications of the magnetocaloric effect in single-stage, multi-stage and continuous adiabatic demagnetization refrigerators

Abstract Adiabatic demagnetization refrigerators (ADR), based on the magnetocaloric effect, are solid-state coolers that were the first to achieve cooling well into the sub-kelvin regime. Although supplanted by more powerful dilution refrigerators in the 1960s, ADRs have experienced a revival due to the needs of the space community for cooling astronomical instruments and detectors to temperatures below 100 mK. The earliest of these were single-stage refrigerators using superfluid helium as a heat sink. Their modest cooling power ( [1] ) was sufficient for the small (6 × 6) detector arrays [2] , but recent advances in arraying and multiplexing technologies [3] are generating a need for higher cooling power (5–10 μW), and lower temperature (
A bacteriophage infectivity assay to probe particle transport through mucus and biofilm matrices

Mucosal surfaces of the gastrointestinal, respiratory, and reproductive tracts provide lubrication and protection to the wet epithelium of these systems. Infections often involve the mucosal barrier, since it is the first point of contact with invading pathogens and the body interior. At times, bacteria can colonize and establish biofilms within mucus, resulting in chronic illnesses that respond poorly to traditional therapeutic approaches. Biocompatible nanoparticle based therapies, such as bacteriophage drug carriers, have been considered for treatment of biofilm associated infections. However, limited information is available regarding the ability of bacteriophage to penetrate the mucosal barrier and the biofilm matrix to effectively deliver therapeutics. Here, we describe a preliminary study to investigate the role of the mucus barrier surrounding bacterial biofilms when attempting to target matrix embedded cells with the filamentous bacteriophage M13. This work sets the stage for more in depth synthetic biology based engineering of bacteriophage that can effectively penetrate both complex barriers.
Predictive value of quantitative PCR-based viral burden analysis for eight human herpesviruses in pediatric solid organ transplant patients

Human herpesviruses can cause significant morbidity and mortality in pediatric solid organ transplant recipients. It was hypothesized that viral burden quantification by polymerase chain reaction using an internal calibration standard could aid in distinguishing between viral disease and latency. Here we report the results of a 2-year prospective study of 27 pediatric solid organ (liver, kidney, or heart) transplant recipients in which multiple samples were analyzed for levels of all eight human herpesviruses by internal calibration standard-polymerase chain reaction. Herpes simplex viruses 1 and 2, varicella-zoster virus, and Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus were not detected in any of these samples. Human herpesvirus types 6 and 7 were detected in half of the patients, but were present at low levels, similar to those found in reference populations. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and cytomegalovirus (CMV) were detected in 89% and 56% of the patients, respectively. Viral burden analysis suggested distinct patient populations for CMV, with a natural cutoff of 10,000 viral targets/ml blood strongly associated with disease. In some cases, a dramatic increase in CMV levels preceded clinical evidence of disease by several weeks. EBV viral burden was relatively high in the only patient presenting with an EBV syndrome. However, two other patients without evidence of EBV disease had single samples with high EBV burden. Rapid reduction in both EBV and CMV burden occurred with antiviral treatment. These data suggest that viral burden analysis using internal calibration standard-polymerase chain reaction for CMV, and possibly other herpesviruses, is an effective method for monitoring pediatric transplant patients for significant herpesvirus infection and response to therapy.
Azide inhibits human cytochrome P -4502E1, 1A2, and 3A4.

Background: Recently, we showed that, in addition to cytochrome P-4502E1 (CYP2E1), CYP1A2 and CYP3A4 also contribute to the microsomal ethanol oxidizing system (MEOS). When MEOS activity is measured, sodium azide commonly is used to block the contaminating catalase. However, although CYP2E1 is considered insensitive to azide, its effect on the other P-450s is unknown. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to determine the effect of azide on human recombinant and hepatic CYP2E1, CYP1A2, and CYP3A4. Methods and Results: Concentrations of sodium azide as low as 0.1 mM markedly inhibited the specific ethanol oxidation (mean ± SEM) by recombinant CYP1A2 and CYP3A4 expressed in HepG2 cells (to 16 ± 1% and 22 ± 2% of control without azide, respectively; p < 0.01). By contrast, the specific activity of CYP2E1 was only slightly (and not significantly) inhibited at this azide concentration (to 79 ± 12% of control). Similarly, in human liver microsomes (n = 6), 0.1 mM azide strongly inhibited CYP1A2-dependent (to 25 ± 2%) and CYP3A4-dependent (to 15 ± 2%) ethanol oxidation, whereas CYP2E1 was inhibited only at 10 mM azide (to 60 ± 10%). Azide also strongly affected the apparent kinetic values of all three isoenzymes. Furthermore, azide inhibited the specific monooxygenase activities, both by recombinant and microsomal P-450s. CYP2E1-specific p-nitrophenol hydroxylation was the most sensitive to azide, whereas CYP1A2-dependent 7-methoxyresorufin O-dealkylation was only slightly inhibited. Judging from its effect on p-nitrophenol hydroxylation by human liver microsomes, the inhibition of azide was competitive (K i 0.09 mM). Conclusions: Sodium azide at a concentration as low as 0.1 mM inhibited ethanol oxidation by CYP1A2 and CYP3A4. With CYP2E1, although oxidation of 50 mM ethanol was not inhibited by 0.1 mM azide, higher azide concentrations were inhibitory and 0.1 mM azide seemed to affect the kinetics of ethanol oxidation by CYP2E1, Therefore, azide should be avoided when measuring the MEOS activity because it may lead to underestimation, especially of CYP1A2- and CYP3A4-dependent ethanol oxidation.
Splitting dynamics of a two-species Bose-Einstein condensate in two translating traps

We extend our previous work of splitting a single-species Bose-Einstein condensate in two translating traps to a two-species condensate. Different from the single species case where interaction is considered as a damping mechanism to the motion of the condensate, we find that, in the two species case, the damping effect is much less obvious and the splitting dynamics exhibit different behaviors. The distribution of each component are not damped towards 50:50 for large interaction strength in the two wells. Our conclusions are supported by investigating the dependence of the splitting on both the translation speed and the interspecies scattering length.
Pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic evaluation of the efficacy and safety of daptomycin against Staphylococcus aureus

Daptomycin is a novel lipopeptide exhibiting concentration-dependent bactericidal activity against multidrug-resistant Gram-positive pathogens, including MRSA. Approval of daptomycin is granted at 4-6 mg/kg once daily, however off-label use of doses up to 12 mg/kg daily has been utilised without evidence of significant toxicity. Our aim was to optimise daptomycin regimens by assessing the probability of bacteriological efficacy (pTA) and toxicity (pTOX) at various MICs using Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) techniques. Population pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic and toxicodynamic models were developed based on current literature. MCS was performed for 10000 patients, who were assigned true weight and creatinine clearances, and were infected with four Staphylococcus aureus strains at each MIC. Bacteriostatic and bactericidal %pTA was calculated following administration of 6, 8, 10 and 12 mg/kg daptomycin; activity was deemed adequate at %pTA ≥ 90%. Considerable pharmacodynamic variability was observed in derived AUC/MIC targets between strains. Bacteriostatic targets were adequately attained against all strains at MIC ≤ 1 mg/L with daptomycin > 6 mg/kg. However, bactericidal target attainment was only achieved against all strains at the lowest MIC of 0.5 mg/L with daptomycin > 8 mg/kg. At MIC = 2 mg/kg, bactericidal target attainment was extremely poor even at the highest dose of 12 mg/kg. pTOX increased from 3.31% to 17.7% following exposure to 6 mg/kg to 12 mg/kg daily, respectively. Formal benefit:risk analyses favoured doses of 10 mg/kg against infections with MIC < 2 mg/L, whilst modest improvements in activity at 12 mg/kg could not justify the marked increase in pTOX.
The effect of a topical tricyclic antihistamine on the response of the nasal mucosa to challenge with cold, dry air and histamine

We have previously demonstrated that azatadine, a tricyclic antihistamine, known also to inhibit mediator release from mast cells and basophils in vitro, inhibits the early release of histamine and other mediators after nasal challenge with antigen. In this article, we studied the effect of azatadine on preventing the release of histamine after nasal challenge with cold, dry air (CDA) and its effect on antagonizing nasal challenge with histamine. With histamine challenge, azatadine inhibited symptoms (sneezing, nasal congestion, and rhinorrhea) and the increase in the level of albumin in nasal secretions (p less than 0.01 all). With challenge with CDA, the drug had no effect on either symptoms or histamine and N-tosyl-L-arginine methyl ester-esterase release. Although the patterns of mediator release after CDA and after the early reaction to antigen are similar, the pharmacologic control differs, suggesting different mechanisms of induction of histamine release from mast cells.
Hybrid dual-cure polymer networks via sequential thiol–ene photopolymerization and thermal ring-opening polymerization of benzoxazines

Abstract Dual-cure hybrid polymer networks were prepared by sequential thiol–ene photopolymerization followed by thermal ring-opening polymerization of benzoxazines with the aim of increasing the glass transition temperature range of thiol–ene based materials and improving the processibility of polybenzoxazines. The hybrid networks are derived from a multifunctional, dually-polymerizable monomer possessing both bis-“ene” and bis-benzoxazine moieties enabling the formation of two networks through a common constituent monomer when combined with a multifunctional thiol. The photopolymerization kinetics of the thiol–ene reaction were investigated by real-time infrared spectroscopy. Sequential thermal ring-opening polymerization of the benzoxazine moieties incorporated into the thiol–ene network was characterized by FTIR and differential scanning calorimetry. The glass transition of the hybrid material was observed at 150 °C; however, competing thiol–ene (radical-mediated) and thiol–benzoxazine (nucleophilic ring-opening) reactions during the UV cure yield a heterogeneous network structure.
Optimizing and Evaluating Retail Assortments for Infrequently Purchased Products

Abstract This article develops a methodology for choosing optimal retail assortments for infrequently purchased products and assessing the robustness of such assortments with regard to shifts in customer preferences. The approach incorporates heterogeneous consumer preferences and uses integer programming to determine optimal retail assortments. The robustness of the resulting assortments is examined using alternative consumer choice assumptions and ranges of parameter values. The methodology is illustrated using adaptive conjoint data collected via the Internet and is assessed against the sales results from an assortment offered by a national retail chain.
The Busch Center: An Organization Designed to Insure Quality Academic Research on Real World Problems

Recently Interfaces has published numerous discussions about the readability and relevance of the articles typically published in Management Science. Since members of the academic community are responsible for the vast majority of the Management Science publication, there is a more fundamental question raised by the content of these articles: are universities doing the appropriate types of research in the management sciences? If universities are not addressing the right problems, then the long term growth of the entire profession is seriously threatened. I believe the answer to the problem lies in a redesign of academic programs to insure a real world context in research efforts. I base this belief on the experience of two management science-oriented programs in the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School, where a real-world focus to research has always been an explicit part of both programs. The programs, Operations Research and Social Systems Science, were designed by Russell Ackoff and reflect the applications-oriented philosophy he has maintained throughout his association with the management science profession.
Polycytidylate polymerase from Ehrlich ascites cells.

Abstract The synthesis of a homopolymer of cytidylate is specifically catalyzed by an enzyme isolated from Ehrlich ascites cells. The enzyme requires the presence of CTP, Mg 2+ and ATP, although ATP is not incorporated into product. The enzyme, as isolated, contains a polynucleotide primer.
“Suppose a grammar uses invention”: Gertrude Stein's Theory of Rhetorical Grammar

This article elucidates Gertrude Stein's theory of rhetorical grammar by locating it in her studies at Harvard University/Radcliffe College in the mid-1890s and by demonstrating how for Stein the study of grammar correlates with rhetoric's first canon, invention. In her experimental primer, How to Write (1931), a book about the craft of composition, Stein devotes chapters to vocabulary, sentences, paragraphs, grammar, and forensics, but refuses to reduce writing to mechanical correctness. For Stein, a grammar that supposes invention as both discovering and creating does something much more than offer pre-existing rules for writers to follow. Placing Gertrude Stein's writing practices in the rhetorical traditions of the nineteenth century reveals a Gertrude Stein who is not necessarily or not only a literary figure, but rather a twentieth-century rhetorician who refigures past traditions to teach a new century how to write.
Membrane “fluidity” as detected by diphenylhexatriene probes

Abstract This article reviews the properties and uses of one class of popular membrane “fluidity probe”, namely molecules containing the fluorophore 1,6-diphenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene (DPH). In the first two sections, necessary concepts and basic principles of fluorescence polarization and the meaning of membrane “fluidity” are discussed. The primary purpose has been to evaluate the usefulness of different probes through a consideration of probe motion and location within the bilayer, probe photophysical properties, probe partitioning between bilayers or bilayer domains, and probe perturbation of bilayer structure. Finally, the review concludes with a description of the different types of information about membrane order that are provided by DPH and its two common derivatives, DPHpPC and TMA-DPH.
Cooling to the Ground State of Axial Motion for One Atom Strongly Coupled to an Optical Cavity

Localization to the ground state of axial motion is demonstrated for a single, trapped atom strongly coupled to the field of a high finesse optical resonator. The axial atomic motion is cooled by way of coherent Raman transitions on the red vibrational sideband. An efficient state detection scheme enabled by strong coupling in cavity QED is used to record the Raman spectrum, from which the state of atomic motion is inferred. We find that the lowest vibrational level of the axial potential with zero-point energy [h-bar]omegaa/2kB=13 µK is occupied with probability P0~=0.95.
TQM practices in service organizations: an exploratory study into the implementation, outcome and effectiveness

The literature clearly indicates that service organizations are lagging behind their manufacturing counterparts in terms of the effective deployment of total quality management (TQM) practices aimed at achieving operational and strategic objectives. The objective of this study is to shed some light on the current TQM practices of service organizations. In general, the results of this study appear to confirm the reported literature findings concerning outcomes and benefits of effective TQM implementation. More importantly, the results underscore the differences in TQM implementation practices and benefits due to some industry‐specific factors. The lack of commitment to TQM implementation on the part of high percentage of the surveyed service organizations in this study is alarming.
Natural zinc enrichment in peatlands: Biogeochemistry of ZnS formation

Abstract Peatlands effectively retain heavy metals and prevent stream and watershed contamination. Sulfate reduction is considered the most significant process of metal immobilization in natural wetlands and microbial sulfate reduction is the presumed mechanism that results in the precipitation of metal sulfides. In this study, we examined the biogeochemical mechanisms involved in zinc retention and accumulation in a metalliferous peatland of western New York. In the reducing conditions of these peatlands zinc sulfides occurred as framboidal aggregates of sphalerite and polytypic wurtzite (2nH, n ⩾ 2) nanocrystallites associated with bacterial cells and organic matter. Bacterial cells were co-located with ZnS inside peat particles where the microenvironment remained anoxic. The peat zinc sulfide was depleted in 34S isotopes relative to the sulfate supplied to the peatland by 18–34 per mill, implicating its biological formation. Extraction of microbial community DNA from peat samples yielded diverse PCR amplicons from dissimilatory sulfite reductase (dsrAB) genes, indicating varied bacterial taxa capable of reducing forms of oxidized sulfur. Nanocrystals with distinct structural features were observed in samples containing contrasting dsrAB sequences. The results of this investigation provide clear evidence that microorganisms can influence the chemical forms of heavy metals in peatland environments. Our findings also provide insight into the conditions necessary to promote the immobilization of chalcophile elements in engineered systems for the treatment of acid mine drainage and wastewater effluents.