cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
COHESIVE ZONE MODELING OF CRACK NUCLEATION AT BIMATERIAL CORNERS

The prediction of crack nucleation from bimaterial corners that have the same corner angle (and therefore singularity) via stress intensity factors is fairly well established. The objective of this work was to examine crack nucleation from a range of corner angles and see if a more general crack nucleation criterion could be formulated. A series of experiments was conducted using an aluminum-epoxy bimaterial specimen loaded under 4-point bending. In addition to the usual measurements of load and an associated displacement, the displacements near the corner were measured using moire interferometry. Numerical analyses were first conducted assuming a rigid interface. However, the resulting displacements differed from the measured ones, especially near the corner and along the interface. The interface was then modeled as a separate constitutive entity by incorporating a cohesive zone model in the numerical analysis. Following calibration via an interface crack configuration (zero corner angle), the cohesive zone model yielded displacements that were in good agreement with the measured values for all the other corner angles that were considered. The predicted failure loads were also in good agreement with the experimental results. Thus the consistent nucleation criterion was that the area under the traction-separation curve and its maximum traction (the dominant cohesive zone model parameters) remain the same. The numerical solutions indicated that the plastic deformation in the epoxy was small and that failure was predominantly in opening mode. In addition, the critical vectorial crack opening displacement and mode-mix were independent of the corner angle. Finally, a simple design parameter was proposed for predicting the failure load of a bimaterial specimen with an arbitrary corner angle, based on the failure load of a bimaterial specimen with an interface crack.
Gnom(Cmp): a quantitative approach for comparative analysis of closely related genomes of bacterial pathogens.

Comparative genome analysis is a powerful approach to understanding the biology of infectious bacterial pathogens. In this study, a quantitative approach, referred to as GnomCmp, was developed to s...
A convenient cryptomorphic version of recursive function theory

When several axiom schemes can serve equally well in defining a theory, one generally seeks that axiomatic treatment which is most convenient for the intended applications. We present the results of such a study regarding the parallel theories of (partial) recursive functions and Turing machines.
Precipitation in neutron-irradiated ai-base Cu

Abstract Irradiation with neutrons can accelerate precipitation in supersaturated Al-base Cu alloys under certain conditions. A detailed study was carried out on the effects of irradiation (at 40°C) with reactor neutrons on the kinetics of formation of θ′ in Al-1%Cu at 110°Cand 130°C. The observed increased rate of precipitation is attributed to enhanced nucleation at damage centers. There is evidence that the acceleration effect saturates at doses of the order of 1015 nvt (fast) for aging at 130°C. No enhancement of precipitation at 235°C is observed after irradiation of heat-treated 1, 2 and 4% alloys. This negative result is found for doses from about 1014 to 1017 nvt (fast). It is concluded that the damage centers are dissolved at this high aging temperature. High-dose experiments [of the order of 1019 nvt (fast)] show clear acceleration of the formation of θ′ in the Al-4% Cu. Enhanced nucleation results from the bombardment, but the precipitate particles which form in the irradiated alloy are structurally indistinguishable from those which occur in the unirradiated alloy.
Biochemical and mass spectrometric characterization of the human CB2 cannabinoid receptor expressed in Pichia pastoris—Importance of correct processing of the N-terminus

This study was conducted to optimize the expression of human CB2 cannabinoid receptors in methylotrophic yeast Pichia pastoris (P. pastoris). Two major species of expressed CB2 proteins were seen on Western blot, i.e., a 42 kDa band which matches the calculated molecular weight for tagged CB2, and a 52/55 kDa doublet. Treatment of membranes with N-glycosidase F or inclusion of tunicamycin in the culture medium during induction resulted in the disappearance of the 55 kDa, but not the 52 kDa band, suggesting that the 3 kDa extra in the 55 kDa band is due to N-glycosylation, but the 10 kDa extra in the 52 kDa band is not due to N-glycosylation. Anti-FLAG M1 antibody had a much higher preference for the 42 kDa band over the 52/55 kDa doublet, and a 10 kDa fragment recognized by anti-FLAG M2 antibody was generated by CNBr digestion of the 52/55 doublet. These data strongly support the hypothesis that the 10 kDa increase in molecular weight was due to unprocessed alpha-factor sequence. This conclusion was further validated by finding several peptide sequences for alpha-factor fragments at the N-terminal of the CB2 receptor using pepsin/chymotrypsin digestion and LC/MS/MS approaches. Importantly, unprocessed alpha-factor was found to be associated with poor ligand binding. In addition, controlling the level of CB2 protein expression was found to be critical for minimizing the presence of unprocessed alpha-factor sequence. The information gained from this study should aid the proper expression of not only CB2 receptor but also other members of the GPCR family in P. pastoris.
The effect of intravitreal bevacizumab and ranibizumab on cutaneous tensile strength during wound healing

Purpose To investigate the effect of intravitreal bevacizumab and ranibizumab on wound tension and by histopathology during cutaneous wound healing in a rabbit model and to compare this effect to placebo intravitreal saline controls 1 and 2 weeks following intravitreal injection.
Experimental Insertions for the ISA

The general design features of experimental insertions for the ISA storage accelerators are presented. Various insertions which satisfy the requirements for specific high energy particle experiments are discussed. Some consideration is given to a) the distribution of the insertions in the lattice; b) the separation of experimental areas from those used for injection and protective extraction; c) the subject of beam crossing; d) the implications of high s, high quadrupole gradient conditions required in the insertions; and e) general characteristics, including luminosity and beam momentum spread.
Changing Identities in a Changing Workplace: Identification, Identity Enactment, Self-Verification, and Telecommuting

We review literature on three important aspects of identity--namely, identification, identity enactment, and self-verification--to develop an identity-based framework for understanding organizational issues. We then analyze three major dimensions through which telecommuting alters the social context of work and interaction (location of work, time spent telecommuting, and voluntary nature) and discuss the implications of telecommuting within the identity-based framework. Finally, we explore the implications that telecommuting has for identity-related theories.
The structure of the low temperature phase of lithium metal

Lithium metal undergoes a structural phase transformation from the body centered cubic form to a new hexagonal phase at temperatures below 80 K. Using neutron powder diffraction, the crystal structure of the low temperature phase is shown to be the 9R, as suggested by Overhauser, where the hexagonal layers are arranged in a 9 layer repeat with the stacking ... ABCBCACAB... as in Samarium metal. We find the lattice parameters of the new phase at T⩽20K to be a = 3.0978(5) and c = 22.734(5). This phase shows evidence of stacking faults and the results of a new method for calculating the effect of these defects on diffraction patterns are used to estimate the deformation fault density.
Television and the Black Audience: Cultivating Moderate Perspectives on Racial Integration

Television's influence seems “most evident in isolating pockets of black dissidence among young and better-educated Afro-Americans” and may conceal existing inequalities and injustices in the relations between blacks and whites.
Bromine and iodine excitation-function measurements with protons and deuterons at 3--17 MeV

We report nuclear excitation functions for the reactions [sup 79]Br[([ital p],[ital n])+([ital d],2[ital n])][sup 79]Kr, [sup 81]Br[([ital p],[ital n])+ ([ital d],2[ital n])][sup 81]Br, [sup 81]Br([ital d],[ital p])[sup 82]Br, and [sup 127]I[([ital p],[ital n])+([ital d],2[ital n])][sup 127]Xe. The measurements were made from reaction threshold to 17 MeV with the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory's Tandem Van de Graaff accelerator using the stacked-foil method. The [sup 79]Br([ital d],2[ital n])[sup 79]Kr and the [sup 81]Br excitation functions are the first reported. The targets consisted of the halides dispersed in the plastic Kapton. The activated targets were assayed using [gamma] counting and mass spectrometry. We found that we had to remeasure the gamma intensities for the [sup 79]Kr decay. The excitation functions were modeled using the Hauser-Feshbach statistical-model code STAPRE, using the exciton preequilibrium model. We found a preference for the back-shifted (BS) level density prescription over the use of the Gilbert-Cameron prescription. For BS, the constant [ital K], governing the transition to equilibrium, was taken as 500 to 700 MeV[sup 3]. These values gave preequilibrium fractions consistent with those we obtained from ion-recoil range studies of light ion reactions. In general the modeling agreed well with experiment. For the deuteron induced reactions, we hadmore » to allow for deuteron breakup using a microscopic breakup fusion approach developed by Udagawa and Tamura. Our analysis of the stripping reaction, [sup 81]Br([ital d],[ital p])[sup 82]Br, by this procedure is especially noteworthy.« less
Research Article: The intrinsic dynamics of Cse1p and Xpot elucidated by coarse-grained models

Cse1p and Xpot are two karyopherin proteins that transport the corresponding cargos during the nucleocytoplasmic transport. We utilized Elastic Network Model (ENM) and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to study their conformational dynamics. These dynamics were interpreted by their intrinsic modes that played key roles in the flexibility of karyopherins, which further affected the binding affinities. The findings included that it was the karyopherin's versatile conformations composed of the same superhelices of HEAT repeats that produced different degrees of functional flexibilities. We presented evidence that these coarse-grained methods could help to elucidate the biological function behind the structures of the two karyopherins.
Large-signal FET model with multiple time scale dynamics from nonlinear vector network analyzer data

A non-quasi static large-signal FET model is presented incorporating self-heating and other multiple timescale dynamics necessary to describe the large-signal behavior of III–V FET technologies including GaAs and GaN. The model is unique in that it incorporates electro-thermal and trapping dynamics (gate lag and drain lag) into both the model current source and the model nonlinear output charge source, for the first time. The model is developed from large-signal waveform data obtained from a modern nonlinear vector network analyzer (NVNA), working in concert with an output tuner and bias supplies. The dependences of I d and Q d on temperature, two trap states, and instantaneous terminal voltages are identified directly from NVNA data. Artificial neural networks are used to represent these constitutive relations for a compiled implementation into a commercial nonlinear circuit simulator (Agilent ADS). Detailed comparisons to large-signal measured data are presented.
Shear rate thickening flow behavior of semisolid slurries

The constitutive flow behavior of semisolid slurries is a strong function of temperature and prior processing history. The history dependence of this constitutive behavior lends itself to modelingvia an internal variable framework that separates the evolution of structure from the flow behavior at a constant structure. We have assembled a computer-controlled, high-temperature Couette rheometer and have characterized the constant structure constitutive behavior of a tin-15 pct lead system from 0.3 to 0.45 fractions solid. The flow behavior at a given material structure is shear rate thickening and not shear rate thinning, as is commonly assumed.
CXCR-4: homing in on Flt3

These findings potentially explain why some AML specimens engraft better than others in NOD/SCID mice, and they suggest a possible role for CXCR-4 in the pathogenesis of relapsed AML. Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a disease resulting from the neoplastic transformation of a stem cell, probably in
A strategy for efficient characterization of macromolecular heteroassociations via measurement of sedimentation equilibrium

A method is proposed for the selection of experimental conditions for sedimentation equilibrium experiments that will provide maximal information about the values of equilibrium association constants within a given scheme for heteroassociation of two solute components. A discriminator function is proposed that indicates the sensitivity of the experimentally observed gradient or gradients to alterations in the underlying association constants. The value of this function is plotted or tabulated as a function of the concentrations of the two components, over a broad range of solution compositions. It is suggested that experiments performed with loading compositions corresponding to large absolute values of the discriminator function will yield the most information with respect to determination of the underlying association constants. This method was tested by predicting optimal conditions for three different types of sedimentation equilibrium experiments: (i) measurement of total (natural) solute absorbance; (ii) measurement of individual component gradients via measurement of tracer absorbance; and (iii) global analysis of multiple experiments. Experimental data resulting from sedimentation equilibrium experiments carried out under the specified conditions were simulated by addition of realistic levels of random error to calculated equilibrium gradients. The simulated data were then analyzed exactly as real experimental data, i.e., without prior knowledge of the underlying association constants. It was found that the highest accuracy and precision in determination of heteroassociation constants are obtained by global analysis of multiple experiments performed using significantly different loading compositions, each of which is selected from 'sensitive' regions of the discriminator map.
Governmental regulation and nongovernmental certification of forests in the tropics: Policy, execution, uptake, and overlap in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Nicaragua

We analyzed how and why governmental forest regulation and nongovernmental forest certification in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Nicaragua and their execution lead to, or fail to produce desired changes in forest owner and user behavior toward the enhanced sustainability of tropical forests. The findings confirmed not only that sufficient resources and capacity for forest policy execution are crucial for attaining policy objectives, but also that innovative arrangements for promoting, verifying, and enforcing policy compliance can compensate for limited resources and processes. Such arrangements incorporate a mixture of policy tools and actors that go beyond the traditional command-and-control approach, including the establishment of positive fiscal incentives for sustainable forest management, provision of technical assistance, participation of private-sector forest stewards, and support from nongovernmental organizations. The results also shed light on the mitigating effects of local-level inducements and constraints to governmental and nongovernmental forest policy adoption and compliance, such as forest size and composition, available resources, technical capacity, and attitudes toward forest policy and implementers.
B2 1141 + 37 - A giant radio galaxy with remarkable radio and optical properties

Observations of the giant radio galaxy B2 1141+37, which has a widely separated two-component radio structure and is optically identified with a tight chain of galaxies, are reported. The source was observed at 4900 MHz with the VLA at an effective integration time of 17 min. The map obtained shows two radio lobes with maxima coinciding with those in a previous 1415 MHz map and intensities about 1.5 times smaller than those obtained by extrapolating the spectrum defined by the flux density at 408 and 1415 MHz. Measurements of the redshifts of the two brightest galaxies identified with the radio source with an image intensified dissector scanner result in values of 0.1145 and 0.1155, which imply, with a Hubble constant of 50 km/sec per Mpc, a distance of 687 Mpc to the radio source and a separation of 1.0 Mpc between the lobes making it one of the largest radio sources known.
A Patient With an Epignathus: Management of a Large Oropharyngeal Teratoma in a Newborn

An epignathus is an oropharyngeal teratoma composed of cells from ectodermal, mesodermal, and endodermal layers. Epignathi that arise from the palate or pharynx and protrude from the mouth result in life-threatening airway obstruction and usually cause asphyxiation shortly after birth. In our reported case, an antenatal ultrasound diagnosis allowed for preparation of an ex utero intrapartum treatment (EXIT) procedure. A tracheostomy was performed at birth with maternal-fetal blood flow still intact through the umbilical cord. Debulking of the large extraoral portion of the tumor, followed by complete intraoral resection, was performed. Masseteric function and swallowing slowly improved over several weeks. Cleft palate repair is planned at 10 months of age. In the following report, the histology, classification, and pathogenesis of these "parasitic" tumors are reviewed.
Equimolar interaction between calmodulin and the Ca2+ ATPase from human erythrocyte membranes.

Abstract The interaction between calmodulin and the pure, solubilized Ca 2+ ATPase from human erythrocyte membranes was examined by kinetic titration. The data indicated that the two proteins interacted in a molar ratio of 1:1 with a K d of 4.2 n m . The dependence of enzyme activity on calmodulin concentration agreed quantitatively with that predicted by kinetic theory.
The isolation and characterization of a water extract of konjac flour gum.

Abstract An aqueous extract from konjac flour was dried, milled and redispersed in water, prior to its characterization by viscometry and rheometry. The rate of change of relative viscosity with reciprocal absolute temperature was of a magnitude less than that of some other polar polysaccharides by a factor approximating 2. The volume-concentration relationship was non-linear in water, but linear in 0·04 m tartaric acid. The hydrophilicity of this extract in 0·04 m tartaric acid was only 0·68 g g −1 solute/100 g dispersion, much less than that of many of the commonly used polysaccharides. The intrinsic viscosity was 1320 ml g −1 , among the highest of the polysaccharides. Considering the relatively low water affinity, the high viscosity of the konjac extract was attributed mostly to solute-solute interaction, rather than to hydration, at functional use-levels. The dried, redispersed extract was characterized in both steady and dynamic shear by the Carreau and Cross equations, and by the Cox-Merz rule. Deviation from the Cox-Merz rule was attributed to molecular associations of time scales longer than non-specific physical entanglements.
IL-10 delivery by AAV5 vector attenuates inflammation in mice with pseudomonas pneumonia

Lung infections with Pseudomonas aeruginosa and other pathogens in cystic fibrosis (CF) cause progressive airway obstruction and tissue damage, the predominant cause of morbidity and mortality in CF. We investigated whether a recombinant adeno-associated virus type 5 (AAV5) vector expressing murine interleukin (IL)-10 (AAV5.Cbeta-mIL-10), a regulatory/anti-inflammatory cytokine, could decrease airway inflammation in IL-10 knockout mice chronically infected with mucoid P. aeruginosa. Mice that received AAV5.Cbeta-mIL10 through intratracheal inoculation produced IL-10 at an average of 25 000 pg/ml in the epithelial lining fluid (ELF) and 12 000 pg/g-lung tissue 6 weeks post-vector delivery, significantly higher levels than in placebo-treated mice. At 3 days post-infection, proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1beta, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, macrophage inhibitory protein (MIP)-1alpha and (KC) in the ELF and lung homogenate were decreased (1-9 folds) in the AAV5.Cbeta-mIL10-treated mice accompanied by less pronounced and more localized neutrophil infiltration in lung sections, when compared with placebo-treated mice. These results suggest that AAV5.Cbeta-mIL10 induces IL-10 levels in the lungs mediating a significant anti-inflammatory response and making AAV-IL-10 gene transfer a potentially useful therapy in the treatment of CF lung disease.
Theory of Adsorption by Activated Carbon. I. Microscopic Aspects

Abstract The adsorption of solutes by activated carbon is modeled at the microscopic level by means of the equations of continuity and mass balance. Two competing solutes are assumed present. The effects of the following parameters are considered: pore depth, radius, and variability of radius; solute diffusion constants; solute Langmuir isotherm parameters; and the rate constants for solute chemisorption. The results of this approach are then compared with a much simpler lumped parameter model for activated carbon adsorption of two competing solutes. Quite good agreement is obtained, which validates the utility of the simpler model.
“A Story and a Ring”: Audience Judgments about Engagement Proposals

Previous research found that engagement proposals are constructed using a traditional proposal script because it sends a message about the strength of the relationship. This paper examined whether others do indeed evaluate relationship strength on the basis of a proposal’s conformity to a traditional script. We asked 2,174 U.S. Midwestern university students to evaluate the relationship strength of a hypothetical couple on the basis of traditional and non-traditional proposal elements. We also examined whether sex, age, and religiosity affected these evaluations. In general, relationships were evaluated as stronger when they conformed to a traditional proposal script. Sex and age did not affect ratings of the relationship. Although religiosity affected some ratings of relationship strength, the overall pattern was inconclusive.
Synthesis of new carbon-11-labeled carboxamide derivatives as potential PET dopamine D3 receptor radioligands.

Abstract Carbon-11-labeled carboxamide derivatives, ( E )-4-fluoro- N -(4-(4-(2-[ 11 C]methoxyphenyl)piperazin-1-yl)butyl)cinnamoylamide, ([ 11 C] 3a ), ( E )-4-chloro- N -(4-(4-(2-[ 11 C]methoxyphenyl)piperazin-1-yl)butyl)cinnamoylamide ([ 11 C] 3b ), ( E )-4-bromo- N -(4-(4-(2-[ 11 C]methoxyphenyl)piperazin-1-yl)butyl)cinnamoylamide, ([ 11 C] 3c ), ( E )-4-methoxy- N -(4-(4-(2-[ 11 C]methoxyphenyl)piperazin-1-yl)butyl)cinnamoylamide ([ 11 C] 3d ), N -(4-(4-(2-[ 11 C]methoxyphenyl)piperazin-1-yl)butyl)naphthyl-2-carboxamide ([ 11 C]BP897, [ 11 C] 3e ), and N -(4-(4-(2-[ 11 C]methoxyphenyl)piperazin-1-yl)butyl)biphenyl-4-carboxamide ([ 11 C] 3f ), have been synthesized as new potential PET radioligands for imaging of dopamine D 3 receptors. The target tracers were prepared by O -[ 11 C]methylation of their corresponding precursors using [ 11 C]CH 3 OTf and isolated by a simplified solid-phase extraction (SPE) purification procedure in 50–65% radiochemical yields decay corrected to end of bombardment (EOB), 20 min overall synthesis time, and 111–148 GBq/μmol specific activity at end of synthesis (EOS).
Velocity dispersion and upscaling in a laboratory‐simulated VSP

A laboratory and numerical study was conducted to investigate the impact of scale-dependent seismic wave propagation in randomly layered media, as applied to sonic logs, surface seismic, and vertical seismic profiles (VSPs). Analysis of the laboratory results (1) confirmed the wavelength dependence of velocities inferred from traveltimes, (2) indicated that scale effects can introduce traveltime errors when upscaling from logs to surface seismic and VSPs, and (3) illustrated that erroneous VSP interval velocities can result when layer thicknesses are smaller than about one-tenth of the wavelength. A simple approximate recipe is presented for estimating these traveltimes by successively filtering the medium using a running Backus average and ray theory. The scale-dependent dispersion was also predicted well using a more rigorous invariant imbedding formulation. The predicted traveltimes, using the approximate recipe, compare well with the times observed in the laboratory stack of steel and plastic layers and in numerical studies of stratified media. The dispersion curves predicted by the approximate method also show the overall behavior computed with the more rigorous invariant imbedding formulation.
Reactive oxygen inducing vasoconstriction in the isolated perfused rat liver

Abstract The effect of reactive oxygen generation on intact livers was studied. Production of reactive oxygen species in perfused livers isolated from normal and endotoxin-treated rats was measured using chemically enhanced chemiluminescence. The resting state chemiluminescence of the livers increased on endotoxin administration and was maximal about 6 h after treatment. Chemiluminescence from the livers was further stimulated severalfold by inclusion of phorbol myristate acetate in the perfusion medium, reaching maximum intensity 3 h after endotoxin treatment. Oxygen consmption by the endotoxin-treated liver showed a transient increase followed by a significant decrease on phorbol myristate acetate stimulation, which was inhibited by dexamethasone. These results are consistent with the occurence of a respiratory burst followed by oxygen-radical-species-induced vasoconstriction in the intact perfused liver. The evaluation of reactive oxygen species by resident and accumulated macropharges in the intact liver is made possible by these studies, and related effects on the liver could be conveniently and quantitatively followed using this model.
Obesity and alcoholic liver disease

Obesity potentiates the severity of alcohol-induced liver damage. Ethanol influences adipose tissue production of hormones and cytokines. The mechanisms by which adiposity and ethanol interact to produce hepatic steatosis and steatohepatitis are beginning to be studied. Exacerbation of the proinflammatory state that induces tumor necrosis factor activity and hepatic insulin resistance seems to be involved. However, the precise cellular signals that culminate in hepatocyte dysfunction and death remain controversial. Both hepatocyte apoptosis and necrosis are likely, but further study is needed to develop optimal hepatoprotective strategies. It is currently unclear whether the hepatotoxic consequences of obesity and ethanol ingestion are additive or synergistic. This information has important prognostic implications and might be useful to formulate body mass index-based guidelines for "safe" alcohol consumption. Findings of studies in experimental animals also raise questions about the relation between steatohepatitis and cirrhosis. Despite overwhelming evidence that obesity promotes alcohol-induced steatosis and steatohepatitis, most obese human beings (and mice) who drink alcohol do not become cirrhotic. Moreover, at least in mice, even severe steatohepatitis leads to cirrhosis relatively infrequently. Thus, it is conceivable that, although steatohepatitis is a permissive factor for cirrhosis, it is neither necessary nor sufficient for cirrhosis to occur. The quest to identify the proximal mediators of hepatic fibrosis should probably include an investigation of how various adipokines, neurotransmitters, and cytokines interact to regulate hepatic stellate cells. Armed with such knowledge, further modifying actions of ethanol on these mechanisms can be explored by investigators.
A promising CpG adjuvant-loaded nanoparticle-based vaccine for treatment of dust mite allergies

“The development of such a vaccine is important because in the USA, 84% of homes have measurable levels of house dust mite allergens and a quarter of these houses have greater levels of allergens than the proposed limit for asthma.”
Creating an Application to Predict Operational Characteristics and Efficiency of Continuous Cross-Flow Corn Drying

The purpose of this study is to create a computer simulation which numerically predicts the drying conditions within a continuous cross-flow grain drying system. The model is based on a system of four partial differential equations using energy and mass balances for the air, grain, and moisture within the column. This simulation includes: (1) a graphical user interface for varying the operating conditions, (2) a numerical scheme for solving the system of equations based on a backwards finite difference scheme, and (3) graphical and tabular output data. The output includes graphs of moisture content, air temperature, and grain temperature inside the column, as well as the predicted energy consumption of the system. Using this program, the grain drying model is analyzed in order to gain insight towards the optimal operating conditions for the grain dryer. The study also makes adjustments to the model in order to improve accuracy and ease of use. In particular, the Page equation for single-kernel drying is implemented. Model assumptions are also analyzed for validity, and the solutions are verified using experimental data collected in a previous study. The overall goal of this research is to improve grain dryer design and optimize operating conditions in order to reduce energy costs, improve grain quality, and increase the understanding of deep bed grain drying models.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
Effect of the peritoneal fluid of the guinea pig on strains of enteric bacilli.

ALTHOUGH the complement-dependent bactericidal system of normal mammalian serum has been actively studied since the early descriptions of Nuttall1 and Buchner2, its role in native immunity is a matter of disagreement3. Recent reports indicate that strains of Gram-negative enteric bacilli isolated from patients' blood or from burns are ordinarily resistant to this system4,5. When equal numbers of a strain of E. coli resistant to this bactericidal effect and of one sensitive to it are injected into a rabbit, both strains ordinarily can be cultured from the blood stream 24 hr. following injection; but organisms from the resistant strain are 10–20 times more numerous6. There have been reports that strains of enteric bacilli resistant to the action of the complement-dependent system are more virulent for the mouse than are sensitive strains7,8. Such observations lead to the belief that bacterial strains sensitive to the action of this system are less likely to cause or maintain an infection than are resistant strains.
Intermittent radiographic changes of rickets without defective trabecular bone mineralization in a case of spondylometaphyseal dysplasia.

Abstract Although a variety of metaphyseal and spondylometaphyseal dysplasias have been identified, the natural course of the skeletal defects in these disorders has not been well characterized. We describe an 8-year-old girl with spondylometaphyseal dysplasia, most closely resembling the Kozlowski type, in whom rachitic metaphyseal involvement underwent dramatic radiographic healing when she wore leg braces; discontinuation of the braces was followed by recurrence of the growth plate abnormalities. A generalized disturbance in mineral metabolism or skeletal remodeling to explain these radiographic changes was excluded by extensive biocheḿical studies and histologic examination of an undecalcified iliac crest specimen. Our observations suggest that the defect in endochondral bone formation in the Spondylometaphyseal dysplasias may be responsive to mechanical factors and that interventions that alter stress and strain on the skeleton, such as immobilization or use of orthopedic braces, may considerably modify the radiographic appearance of the growth plate disturbance.
When Hate Comes to Town: Community Response to Violence Against Immigrants

During the 1990s, many recently arrived immigrants and refugees in search of secure and stable places to raise their families moved to smaller, mostly homogenous American cities and towns. In these smaller communities, a lack of experience with ethnic and racial minorities along with the fear-provoking impact of 9/11 gave racial supremacists an opportunity to expand their membership base by promoting racial hatred and fears across these communities. This research examines response to hate provocation in one small New England city and shows how a community can successfully organize against racial hostilities and prevent violence. The results of the research suggest that racial violence is more likely to erupt if there is no community-wide response to racial provocations and also that the media can play an important role in countering hate messages by presenting truthful information and covering issues fairly.
Designing Personalized Learning Products for Middle School Mathematics: The Case for Networked Learning Games:

Middle school mathematics education is subject to ongoing reform based on advances in digital instructional technologies, especially learning games, leading to recent calls for investment in person...
Use of pharmacogenetics for predicting cancer prognosis and treatment exposure, response and toxicity

Cancer treatment is complicated because of a multitude of treatment options and little patient-specific information to help clinicians choose appropriate therapy. There are two genomes relevant in cancer treatment: the tumor (somatic) and the patient (germline). Together, these two genomes dictate treatment outcome through four processes: the somatic genome primarily determines tumor prognosis and response while the germline genome modulates treatment exposure and toxicity. In this review, we describe the influence of these genomes on treatment outcomes by highlighting examples of genetic variation that are predictors of each of these four factors, prognosis, response, toxicity and exposure, and discuss the translation and clinical implementation of each. Use of pre-treatment pharmacogenetic testing will someday enable clinicians to make individualized therapy decisions about aggressiveness, drug selection and dose, improving treatment outcomes for cancer patients.
Novel bile duct repair for bleeding biliary anastomotic varices: case report and literature review

An unusual case of variceal bleeding at the site of a biliary enteric anastomosis is presented. This entity can occur when a high-to-low pressure gradient forms in a variceal field. In this case the anastomotic site was the location of the pressure gradient from the high-pressure small bowel varices to the low-pressure biliary tract. This was successfully treated by disconnection of the anastomosis. The resulting biliary defect was patched with small intestinal submucosa, which functioned successfully as a scaffold for biliary epithelial ingrowth.
Environmental pH and the recovery of H-1 parvovirus during single cycle infection.

Abstract The effects of environmental pH on the production and release of H-1 parvovirus were examined in a one-cycle infection of synchronized NB cells (SV40 transformed newborn human kidney cells). Using standard hemagglutination and plaque assay methods the total amount of virus detected in cultures incubated at different pH's was found to increase with decreasing proton concentration from pH 7.0 to 8.0, by 2000 times for HA and 22-fold for infectious virus. However, when the pH's of the infected cell lysates were all adjusted to pH 8.0 before assay the differences were reduced or eliminated. Reconstruction experiments using cell sonicates treated with DNAse or nonionic detergents showed that the adsorption and release of virus from membranous material in the cell homogenates was strongly pH dependent. Electron microscopic studies indicated an extensive H-1 virus adsorption to cell membranes at relatively low environmental pH. The apparent effects of pH on H-1 replication were thus attributable to the potentiation or inhibition of release of virus from cell receptors rather than to the influencing of the intermediate steps of virus production.
Finite function spaces and measures on hypergraphs

Abstract The work in this paper divides naturally into five sections. After an introductory section, Section 2 treats the basic concepts of finite linear function spaces. In section 3 morphisms on such spaces are considered. The results of Sections 2 and 3 are applied to the study of measures on hypergraphs in Section 4. In particular, various measure morphisms are characterized. Section 5 treats the dimension of the space of measures on a hypergraph.
Identification and Measurement of Diacetyl Substitutes in Dry Bakery Mix Production

In 2008, a company using multiple buttermilk flavorings in the production of dry bakery mixes replaced one liquid flavoring containing 15–20% diacetyl with a proprietary substitute meant to lower occupational risk for diacetyl-related bronchiolitis obliterans. Subsequently, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) evaluated buttermilk flavoring-related exposures at this company's facility, with a focus on measuring ketones by several methods. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were evaluated in the headspaces of six bulk flavorings samples, including the substitute buttermilk flavoring. Ketones were evaluated in workplace air via area and personal samples collected during batch preparation of the substitute buttermilk flavoring and production of a bakery mix containing the same flavoring. Air samples were evaluated using five different methods: NIOSH 2549, Modified OSHA PV2118, OSHA 1013, NIOSH Draft Procedure SMP2, and evacuated canisters. Of five buttermilk flavorings from five d...
Finite bias tunneling anomaly in paramagnetically limited Be films

Abstract We report measurements of the finite bias anomaly in the tunneling density of states of homogeneously disordered superconducting Be films above the paramagnetic limit. To date the anomaly has only been reported in granular Al films and is believed to be a manifestation of a non-perturbative BCS fluctuation mechanism that forms a pseudo-gap near the Zeeman energy. We show that the magnetic field dependence of the anomaly energy in Be films is in good agreement with the recent theory of Aleiner and Altshuler provided the proper normal state Lande g-factor is used.
Launch Vehicle Concept with Tandem Staging and Air Collection

A launch vehicle concept was studied for Earth-to-orbit  ight using airbreathing propulsion in the booster. The orbiter is arranged forward of the booster, in a tandem arrangement, for improved aerodynamics, packaging, and staging. The booster has air collection and enrichment hardware to collect oxidizer for the orbiter during  ight. The results have shown some advantages of the tandem arrangement and air collection.
Stroke: The vacuum cleaner for stroke

A new device, comprising a catheter and wire combination that aspirates clot from an occluded vessel, has received FDA approval for the treatment of stroke. Although the device accomplishes the removal of clot at a higher rate than usual, improvement in patient outcomes remains elusive.
Changes in the acrosome of the guinea pig spermatozoa during passage through the epididymis.

Electron microscopic observations have been made on the structure of guinea-pig spermatozoa in successive segments of the epididymal duct. Marked changes are observed in the shape and internal structure of the acrosome as the sperm move through the epididymis. The morphological basis for this continuing differentiation of the sperm is traced back to certain unusual features of acrosome formation in the early spermatids of this species. The possible relation of the progressive development of the acrosome to the known increase in fertilizing capacity of the spermatozoa during their passage through the epididymis is discussed.
Resveratrol and Calcium Signaling: Molecular Mechanisms and Clinical Relevance

Resveratrol is a naturally occurring compound contributing to cellular defense mechanisms in plants. Its use as a nutritional component and/or supplement in a number of diseases, disorders, and syndromes such as chronic diseases of the central nervous system, cancer, inflammatory diseases, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases has prompted great interest in the underlying molecular mechanisms of action. The present review focuses on resveratrol, specifically its isomer trans-resveratrol, and its effects on intracellular calcium signaling mechanisms. As resveratrol's mechanisms of action are likely pleiotropic, its effects and interactions with key signaling proteins controlling cellular calcium homeostasis are reviewed and discussed. The clinical relevance of resveratrol's actions on excitable cells, transformed or cancer cells, immune cells and retinal pigment epithelial cells are contrasted with a review of the molecular mechanisms affecting calcium signaling proteins on the plasma membrane, cytoplasm, endoplasmic reticulum, and mitochondria. The present review emphasizes the correlation between molecular mechanisms of action that have recently been identified for resveratrol and their clinical implications.
Energy-efficient specialization of functional units in a coarse-grained reconfigurable array

Functional units provide the backbone of any spatial accelerator by providing the computing resources. The desire for having rich and expensive functional units is in tension with producing a regular and energy-efficient computing fabric. This paper explores the design trade-off between complex, universal functional units and simpler, limited functional units.We show that a modest amount of specialization reduces the area-delay-energy product of an optimized architecture to 0.86× a baseline architecture. Furthermore, we provide a design guideline that allows an architect to customize the contents of the computing fabric just by examining the profile of benchmarks within the application domains.
The synthesis of tricyclic naphtho[b] fused frameworks via isoquinolinium salts

Abstract The cycloaddition of the enol ethers of cyclic ketones with isoquinolinium salts is the key step in a general preparation of interesting tricyclic naphthalene derivatives.
An analysis of USAID assistance to basic education in the developing world, 1990–2005

Abstract What was accomplished and what was learned from United States Agency for International Development’s (USAID) investment of over $733 million aimed at strengthening basic education systems in the developing world? These questions were addressed through an analysis of 286 documents drawn from 33 projects sponsored by the USAID between 1990 and 2005. Findings indicated that USAID projects during this time made important contributions to improving student access, retention, and learning. However, more attention was given to tracking the extent that clients were satisfied and system-level inputs were delivered than in assessing projects accomplishments against stated goals. Some projects were over-promised at the design stage and results were overstated in subsequent evaluations. Based on data from USAID and similar World Bank projects, the authors suggest levels of improvement in student achievement and retention that might serve as reasonable benchmarks in planning future basic education projects.
Quantitative evaluation of opsonin-independent phagocytosis by alveolar macrophages in monolayer using polystyrene microspheres

Macrophages can bind and engulf a variety of particles in the absence of specific opsonins. Polystyrene-type microspheres are often employed to quantitate opsonin-independent phagocytic activities of macrophages in vitro. Reliable measurement of this cell function, however, requires the ability of the investigator to distinguish between particles that are merely attached to the cell surface and those that are actually internalized. We have developed a simple, rapid, and reproducible method for quantitating phagocytosis using polystyrene microspheres and adherent alveolar macrophages. Basically, particles associated with macrophages after a given incubation time are microscopically quantitated on a cell-by-cell basis before and after toluene dissolution of external particles. Particle/macrophage values obtained after toluene treatment exclusively index phagocytosis.
Synthesis and Self-Assembly of Films Containing FeCoPt Nanoparticles

Fe49Co7Pt44 and Fe40Co17Pt43nanoparticles were synthesized by simultaneous chemical reduction of platinum acetylacetonate and cobalt acetylacetonate and thermal decomposition of iron pentacarbonyl. As-prepared the particles had a disordered face-centered cubic lattice with an average diameter of 3.2 nm and were superparamagnetic. These particles were well dispersed in a 50/50 mixture of hexane and octane. The particles self-assembled into ordered superlattices when deposited onto carbon coated Cu TEM grids or onto single crystal Si (100) substrates. After vacuum annealing (from 500°C to 700 °C), the particles transformed to the tetragonal phase. The coercivity of the film strongly depended on the composition and annealing temperature. For the Fe49Co7Pt44film, coercivity of 8700 Oe and a squareness of 0.75 after annealing at 700 °C for 30 minutes. XPS shows existance of oxidized iron and cobalt on the surface of film.
The Stimulation and Inhibition of Milk Secretion in Goats With Diethylstilbestrol

Summary The relation between lactation-stimulating and lactation-inhibiting dosages of diethylstilbestrol in dairy goats was established in these experiments. A daily dose of 0.25 mg. of diethylstilbestrol constitutes a lactation-stimulating dosage in nonparous goats while dosages varying from 1 to 4 mg. per day were progressively lactation-inhibiting in lactating goats. As judged by the lactation-inhibiting effect, diethylstilbestrol orally administered is only about 1 per cent as effective as when administered subcutaneously. The lactation-stimulating effects of small dosages of diethylstilbestrol are due to its ability to stimulate the secretion of the lactogenic hormone by the anterior pituitary gland while the lactation-inhibiting effects are believed to be correlated with increased adrenal-cortical activity resulting in an increased rate of deaminization of the nitrogenous precursors of milk protein. It is suggested that the hormones of the adrenal cortex play a role in regulating the course of the rising segment of the lactation curve.
Seismic Determination of Fracture Orientation

A seismic method for identifying localized intensely fractured zones in reservoirs is proposed. The reservoir is characterized as an azimuthally anisotropic medium. For vertical incidence the polarization in the reflected wave is rotated with respect to the polarization in the incident wave. The amount of the rotation, 4, depends on the angle which the polarization in the incident shear wave makes with the fracture direction and the shear impedances pp ( in the overlying isotropic medium ), p’p_ and p’p,j. For p’pl < pp < p*pi the polarization vector is rotated through angles up to 190’. Situations are discussed in which both the fracture orientation and a measure of t,he anisotropy can be deduced from polarization measurements.