cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Amperometric titration of copper in brass

Abstract A direct amperometric titration of copper is described; o -( p -tolylsulfonamido) aniline serves as titrant. The optimum conditions are discussed and the method is applied to the analysis of copper in brass alloys. t001 . IV. Analysis of various samples in which copper was determined (Values given as percentages) Constituents Thorn Smith # 30 Thorn Smith # 54 NBS # 37E NBS # 63C Cu present 59.30 84.04 69.61 80.48 Zn 37.81 1.452 27.85 0.093 Pb 0.1 8.590 1.00 9.35 Sn Trace 5.737 1.00 9.03 Sb 0.52 Ni Trace 0.53 0.32 P 0.145 S 0.060 As 0.023 Fe 1.22 0.004 0.0013 Al 1.15 Mn 0.35 Cu found 59.09 83.64 69.68 a 80.54 a a Average of 3 determinations.
Transfer, methylation and spontaneous mutation frequency of ΦX174am3cs70 sequences in medaka (Oryzias latipes) and mummichog (Fundulus heteroclitus): Implications for gene transfer and environmental mutagenesis in aquatic species

Abstract This study describes the production of transgenic medaka ( Oryzias latipes ) and mummichog ( Fundulus heteroclitus ) containing multiple copies of the bacteriophage ΦX174 am3cs70 . This work is an initial approach for measuring mutations in aquatic species using the same gene target sequence in ish and laboratory mammals. The ΦX174 sequence is unique in that there is no detectable homology with chromosomal DNA of medaka, mummichog or mice. The authors have compared cytoplasmic injection of 1–2 cell embryos with linear single copy and catenated constructs of the phage DNA. The catenated construct results in greater efficiency of gene transfer for both species in terms of copies per cell. Analyses of DNA from founder transgenic fish with methylation sensitive (HpaII) and methylation insensitive (MspI) restriction enzyme isoschizmers indicates CpG methylation of the integrated ΦX174 sequence. This study also demonstrates the efficient rescue of live phage from the chromosomal DNA of founder fish in sufficient numbers to determine a spontaneous mutation frequency for reversion of am3 . A pooled sample of 20 μg DNA from four fish yielded 1.09 × 10 7 progeny phage with a spontaneous mutation frequency of 1.83 × 10 −7 . This spontaneous mutation frequency is similar to the spontaneous frequency for the same gene indictor recovered from transgenic mice. These results demonstrate that fish containing multiple copies of ΦX174 can be produced with no obvious detrimental effects and that the overall approach may be useful in basic and applied studies of environmental mutagenesis.
Multiexcitonic two-state lasing in a CdSe nanocrystal laser

We report simultaneous amplified spontaneous emission from two different multiexcitonic transitions −1Se–1S3∕2 and 1Pe–1P3∕2− of colloidal CdSe nanocrystals (NCs) stabilized in high volume fraction in titania matrices. Two-state lasing from both multiexcitonic transitions is achieved in a surface-emitting distributed feedback CdSe NC laser. Variable stripe length measurements show that the gain from the 1Pe–1P3∕2 transition is approximately twice that of the −1Se–1S3∕2 transition for 4.2nm radius CdSe∕ZnS core-shell NCs.
Biosequence Similarity Search on the Mercury System

Biosequence similarity search is an important application in modern molecular biology. Search algorithms aim to identify sets of sequences whose extensional similarity suggests a common evolutionary origin or function. The most widely used similarity search tool for biosequences is BLAST, a program designed to compare query sequences to a database. Here, we present the design of BLASTN, the version of BLAST that searches DNA sequences, on the Mercury system, an architecture that supports high-volume, high-throughput data movement off a data store and into reconfigurable hardware. An important component of application deployment on the Mercury system is the functional decomposition of the application onto both the reconfigurable hardware and the traditional processor. Both the Mercury BLASTN application design and its performance analysis are described.
Field penetration and band bending near semiconductor surfaces in high electric fields

Abstract The existing theory of band bending in the surface space charge region of semiconductors is adapted to problems in field emission, field ionization and field evaporation. The surface field in the space charge layers of semiconductors appropriate for these phenomena ranges from ~10−2 V/A to a few 10−1 V/A, similar to those encountered in many interface phenomena involving semiconductors. We found that the surface potential resulting from band bending may amount to a few eV. The field penetrates ~10 A into the semiconductor surface for intrinsic cases, and ~200A for an n-type semiconductor in a positive field, or for a p-type semiconductor in a negative field. Both the surface potential and the field penetration will affect significantly the electronic properties of the near surface layers. In particular, the photon adsorption edge will be shifted toward the red by the field penetration effect.
Dysregulation of lymphokine production in the neonate and its impact on neonatal cell mediated immunity

Haematopoiesis and immune functions in cord blood (CB) are developmentally immature when compared with adult peripheral blood (APB). The defects in CB immune function and cytokine production may both contribute to the immaturity of CB immunity. We have studied the mechanisms associated with the dysregulation of myeloid lineage cytokines, GM-CSF and M-CSF, and lymphokines, IL-12, and IL-15 in activated CB when compared with APB MNC. Furthermore, we have studied the effects of IL-12 and IL-15 on induction of IFN-γ and TNF-α production, NK, and LAK activities in CB and APB. GM-CSF, M-CSF, IL-12 and IL-15 protein and mRNA are decreased in activated CB MNC. These discrepancies are secondary, at least in part, to the altered post-transcriptional regulation. The impaired ability of CB to produce IL-12 and IL-15 in response to stimulation may contribute to the decrease in IFN-γ, TNF-α production, NK and LAK activities. Furthermore, combination of low dose IL-12 and IL-15 may augment cytotoxic activities and minimize toxicity. These findings suggest that reduced cytokine expression from activated CB may contribute to the impaired CB cellular immunity and exogenous lymphokines may compensate for the immaturity in CB.
Investigation of readily processable thermoplastic-toughened thermosets. V. Epoxy resin toughened with hyperbranched polyester

This is the fourth article in a series describing efforts to produce tough, high-performance thermosets from very low viscosity prepolymers which are autoclave processable. Hydroxy-terminated hyperbranched polyester (HBP) with a systematically increased molar mass was used to toughen bismaleimide (BMI). HBP was dissolved in the allyl phenol component, B, of a two-part BMI, to yield homogeneous solutions. The BMI monomer, A, was dissolved in the solution of HBP in B to give homogeneous prepolymers. The fracture toughness (KIc) of neat resin plaques was measured by compact tension, while the Tg and storage moduli (E′, at 55 and 200°C) were determined by DMA. At 9% loading, the KIc of the BMI increased steadily with HBP molecular weight up to 138% over the control with G5 HBP (Mn ∼ 14,000 g/mol); however, significant decreases in both the Tg and E′ resulted, indicating incomplete phase separation of the thermoplastic. A linear hydroxy-terminated polyester (Mn ∼ 5400 g/mol) with a repeat unit structure which was similar to the HBP's was prepared and used as a control. The linear polyester (LPE) toughened the BMI nearly as effectively as did the HBP and caused a smaller decrease in the Tg and E′. The viscosity of solutions of HBP and LPE in B were essentially the same at lower loadings in B, but at higher loadings, the HBP viscosity increased faster than did that of the LPE. The viscosity increase was end group-dependent. Preliminary morphological results are presented to show the effect of the thermoplastic architecture, loading, and end group on the cured thermoset. © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 71: 1809–1817, 1999
Context-aware unified communication

Enabling people-to-people interaction across heterogeneous communication end-points enhances user experience and fosters people collaboration. This paper presents the design and implementation of a unified communication system, dubbed Mercury, that allows a user to interact with others using the most convenient device at the time. Mercury supports both two-way conversation and one-way messaging. It leverages the Session Initiation Protocol to manage communication sessions and exploits dynamic user context to proactively route and migrate calls. It allows for subscription to other users' unified reachability status and provides a soft ring feature via universal notification. Mercury has an extensible architecture that allows new device types to be easily incorporated into the system. Our prototype implementation integrates a variety of devices: telephones, Sametime instant messaging clients, email, and pagers.
Jurors' Assessment of Criminal Responsibility

deal with jurors' reactions to alternative legal criteria of responsibility in a sequence of experimental cases involving a plea of insanity. The present discussion will be limited to comments and impressions relevant to jurors' assessment of responsibility in the first of these jury experiments. The problem as we have approached it may be divided into three sections: the legal and historical background, the research design, and the data.
Size Heterogeneity of Immunoreactive Prolactin in Stored Semen and Seminal Plasma

The difference between semen and seminal plasma immunoreactive human prolactin (iPRL) correlates with sperm count. Seminal plasma separated from sperm before freezing (SPB), after freezing (SPA), and serum were fractionated by G100 Sephadex chromatography. SPA contained four different molecular weight fractions of iPRL. Each fraction contained approximately 25% of the total iPRL measured. SPB and serum each had three molecular weight fractions and most of the iPRL coeluted with monomeric 125I-hPRL.
A new technique for robust control of servo systems

The robust controller has very simple structures and can be divided into two separate parts: a servo controller and an auxiliary controller. The two controllers are designed independently. The function of the auxiliary controller is to cancel out the plant uncertainties directly without the use of the high loop gain principle. Interpretation of robot controller as a signal-synthesis adaptive controller is given. Practical implementation issues of the auxiliary controller are discussed. Simulations of a design example with large parameter uncertainty, nonlinearity, and external disturbance are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the design technique. This technique is further tested with success in an experimental study of joint position control of a PUMA 560 robot arm. >
Modeling of particle flow due to ultrasonic drilling

In-situ sampling and analysis is one of the major tasks in future NASA exploration missions. It is essential that the samples acquired on other planets including Mars are free of contaminations from the earth. Recently, a novel drilling technology that is actuated by a piezoelectric drive mechanism was developed and it is called Ultrasonic/Sonic Driller/Corer (USDC). This drill has an inherent capability to extract the formed drilling powder and thus addresses the critical issue of contamination. A modification of this USDC in the form of an Ultrasonic Rock Abrasion Tool (URAT) allows for the formation of pristine rock surface for analysis. An algorithm is being proposed for the reduction of the contamination that may be generated during the acquisition of the samples. The algorithm could be used to control the flow of particles using programmed vibration characteristics and thus allows for smart flow of particles. The hypothesis is that the probability of a contamination left on the ground surface is exponentially inverse-proportional to the volume of the core ground into dusts. To support this hypothesis, we need to understand the flow pattern of the particles. A model proposed by Savage [1988] is used to develop a computer program using finite difference method. Some preliminary results have been derived.
Origin and chemical evolution of the 1360 Ma San Isabel batholith, Wet Mountains, Colorado: A mid-crustal granite of anorogenic affinities

The 1360 Ma San Isabel batholith is a weakly foliated hornblende-biotite-sphene monzogranite consisting predominantly of two variants: a coarse-grained facies and a medium-grained equigranular facies. It is a deeper-seated portion (mid-crustal; 5-7 kbar) of the extensive rhyolite and upper-crustal granite terrane that occurs in parts of Missouri, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Texas. Mafic minerals are abundant, variable in amount (to as high as 35%) and segregated into mafic-enriched zones. The San Isabel magma probably formed in an anorogenic setting, as suggested by (1) high total alkali and high FeO/(FeO + MgO) ratios, (2) relatively dry nature, (3) trace-element plots in tectonic discrimination diagrams, (4) similar composition of its leucogranite differentiates to shallower A-type granites, and (5) contemporaneity with other A-type granites. Compared to many granitic plutons, the batholith contains small, negative Eu anomalies, low SiO 2 (56.1-72.0 wt%), moderate Sr, and high Fe, Ti, K, Mn, Ba, Sc, REE9s, and FeO/(FeO + MgO). There are large and fairly linear ranges in the abundances of elements concentrated in mafic minerals (for example, Fe, Ti, Mg, and Ca) and smaller ranges (more scatter) in elements concentrated in the felsic minerals (for example, Eu anomaly size and Ba). The San Isabel magma is thus distinctly mafic in comparison with shallow A-type magmas. The San Isabel magma could have formed by >20% aggregate melting of a tonalite/andesite or by
The concept of power unit zone in power system reliability evaluation including protection system failures

This paper describes modeling of power system reliability including protection failures from a new perspective. For a specific component, called focus-component, the undesired-tripping mode failure of its protection has no interaction with other components and the influence on itself can be represented by a two-state process. The fail-to-operate mode of its protection is represented by its unreadiness probability, which does not effect its own up and down states. However, the unreadiness probabilities of protection devices of the adjacent faulted components can cause external undesired-tripping mode failures of the focus-component, given its protection is providing backup protection to those adjacent faulted ones. After decoupling complex interactions among related components, these impacts on the component under focus can be represented by parallel independent two-state processes according to sources of impact. Finally, the complete Markov model of focus-component is derived and a new concept named power unit zone is proposed.
Genetic Variants Affecting the Structure and Function of the Human Red Cell Membrane

Investigators interested in the plasma membrane have long appreciated the red cell as an object of study. Red cells can be obtained in abundance and easily freed of contamination by other cell types. Mammalian red cells have no membranes other than the plasmalemma, which is easily isolated and purified. The “extracellular space” problem that plagues studies of cell solute and water content is virtually nonexistent. The techniques of making “resealed ghosts” and “inside-out vesicles” have provided ingenious approaches to problems that involve asymmetrical membrane properties. Our understanding of the ultrastructure and organization of lipids and proteins in biological membranes derives largely from the study of human erythrocytes. Much of what we know about the state of water and solutes in cytoplasm, the Na+,K + pump, the Ca2+ pump, and some coupled, passive transport systems is based on work in red cell preparations.
The Power of Positive Sanctions

Political science has made valuable contributions to the progressive clarification of the concept of power since World War II. In view of the attention political scientists have traditionally lavished on the concept of power, it seems fitting that they should help clarify it. Thanks to the efforts of such men as Harold Lasswell and Robert Dahl, many political scientists today are keenly aware of the need to define power in relational terms, to distinguish power relations from power resources, to specify scope, weight, domain, and so on. There is, however, one distinction that is rarely considered by political scientists—that between positive and negative sanctions. The purpose of this paper is to clarify this distinction and show how and why it matters.
A consensus linkage map identifies genomic regions controlling fruit maturity and beta-carotene-associated flesh color in melon (Cucumis melo L.)

The nutritional value and yield potential of US Western Shipping melon (USWS; Cucumis melo L.) could be improved through the introgression of genes for early fruit maturity (FM) and the enhancement of the quantity of β-carotene (QβC) in fruit mesocarp (i.e., flesh color). Therefore, a set of 116 F3 families derived from the monoecious, early FM Chinese line ‘Q 3-2-2’ (no β-carotene, white mesocarp) and the andromonoecious, late FM USWS line ‘Top Mark’ (possessing β-carotene, orange mesocarp) were examined during 2 years in Wisconsin, USA to identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with FM and QβC. A 171-point F2–3 based map was constructed and used for QTL analysis. Three QTL associated with QβC were detected, which explained a significant portion of the observed phenotypic variation (flesh color; R 2 = 4.0–50.0%). The map position of one QTL (β-carM.E.9.1) was uniformly aligned with one carotenoid-related gene (Orange gene), suggesting its likely role in QβC in this melon population and putative relationship with the melon white flesh (wf) gene. Two major (FM.6.1 and FM.11.1; R 2 ≥ 20%) and one minor QTL (FM.2.1; R 2 = 8%) were found to be associated with FM. This map was then merged with a previous recombinant inbred line (RIL)-based map used to identify seven QTL associated with QβC in melon fruit. This consensus map [300 molecular markers (187 co-dominant melon and 14 interspecific; 10 LG)] provides a framework for the further dissection and cloning of published QTL, which will consequently lead to more effective trait introgression in melon.
Light propagation in dual-periodic 1D photonic crystal

We consider 1D photonic lattice with short- and long-range refractive index modulations. We demonstrate that these structures allow easy control of light propagation within photonic bands. Slow-light applications and their experimental realization will be discussed.
Raising Standards for Tomorrow's Principals: Negotiating State Requirements, Faculty Interests, District Needs, and Best Practices.

Many states are mandating reforms in university-sponsored principal preparation programs, but faculty and school system personnel often have concerns about the prescriptive nature of state mandates related to these reforms. Auburn University served as one of four pilot principal preparation program redesigns in Alabama, a process that took over two years. Redesign efforts involved negotiating state requirements, faculty needs and research interests, school district needs and interests, best practices, and common sense. The re-design was developed and is being implemented in partnership with seven school districts. In this article we interrogate the issues, challenges, and successes faced throughout one university's principal preparation program redesign process, offering reflections, insights, and lessons learned for others currently engaged or soon to be negotiating competing agendas for how they should prepare principals.
Towards a three-dimensional microfluidic liver platform for predicting drug efficacy and toxicity in humans

Although the process of drug development requires efficacy and toxicity testing in animals prior to human testing, animal models have limited ability to accurately predict human responses to xenobiotics and other insults. Societal pressures are also focusing on reduction of and, ultimately, replacement of animal testing. However, a variety of in vitro models, explored over the last decade, have not been powerful enough to replace animal models. New initiatives sponsored by several US federal agencies seek to address this problem by funding the development of physiologically relevant human organ models on microscopic chips. The eventual goal is to simulate a human-on-a-chip, by interconnecting the organ models, thereby replacing animal testing in drug discovery and development. As part of this initiative, we aim to build a three-dimensional human liver chip that mimics the acinus, the smallest functional unit of the liver, including its oxygen gradient. Our liver-on-a-chip platform will deliver a microfluidic three-dimensional co-culture environment with stable synthetic and enzymatic function for at least 4 weeks. Sentinel cells that contain fluorescent biosensors will be integrated into the chip to provide multiplexed, real-time readouts of key liver functions and pathology. We are also developing a database to manage experimental data and harness external information to interpret the multimodal data and create a predictive platform.
Large-Plaque Mutants of Sindbis Virus Show Reduced Binding to Heparan Sulfate, Heightened Viremia, and Slower Clearance from the Circulation

Laboratory strains of Sindbis virus must bind to the negatively charged glycosaminoglycan heparan sulfate in order to efficiently infect cultured cells. During infection of mice, however, we have frequently observed the development of large-plaque viral mutants with a reduced ability to bind to heparan sulfate. Sequencing of these mutants revealed changes of positively charged amino acids in putative heparin-binding domains of the E2 glycoprotein. Recombinant viruses were constructed with these changes as single amino acid substitutions in a strain Toto 1101 background. All exhibited decreased binding to heparan sulfate and had larger plaques than Toto 1101. When injected subcutaneously into neonatal mice, large-plaque viruses produced higher-titer viremia and often caused higher mortality. Because circulating heparin-binding proteins are known to be rapidly sequestered by tissue heparan sulfate, we measured the kinetics of viral clearance following intravenous injection. Much of the parental small-plaque Toto 1101 strain of Sindbis virus was cleared from the circulation by the liver within minutes, in contrast to recombinant large-plaque viruses, which had longer circulating half-lives. These findings indicate that a decreased ability to bind to heparan sulfate allows more efficient viral production in vivo, which may in turn lead to increased mortality. Because Sindbis virus is only one of a growing number of viruses from many families which have been shown to bind to heparan sulfate, these results may be generally applicable to the pathogenesis of such viruses.
A logical specification for usage control

Recently presented usage control (UCON) has been considered as the next generation access control model with distinguishing properties of decision continuity and attribute mutability. Ausage control decision is determined by combining authorizations, obligations, and conditions, presented as UCONABC core models by Park and Sandhu. Based on these core aspects, we develop afirst-order logic specification of UCON with Lamport's temporallogic of actions (TLA). The building blocks of this model include:(1) a sequence of states expressed by attributes of subjects, objects, and the system, (2) state predicates on subject andobject attributes, (3) pre-defined authorization actions performed by the security system and subjects, (4) obligation actions, and(5) condition predicates on system attributes. For a UCON model we define a set of temporal logic formulas that hold as usage control policies. We show the flexibility and expressive capability of this logic model by specifying the new features and core models of UCON.
Design and performance of a ruggedized large-area CZT detector module for hard X-ray astronomy

As part of the High Energy X-ray Imaging Spectrometer (HEMS) development program, we have designed, fabricated and tested a ruggedized CZT detector module for spaceflight applications. The module consists of four 32/spl times/32/spl times/2 mm/sup 3/ CZT detector wafers from eV Products with cross strip readout of 0.5 mm pitch, four readout boards each containing two Nova R&D, Inc RENA ASICs containing 32 channel inputs each, a support electronics board and a controller board. The entire electronics packaging fits beneath the four detectors for efficient tiling of the modules to produce large area arrays for coded mask imagers. The module has been vibrated to NASA specifications of 14 g RMS in a random shake. The novel design and results of the testing program will be presented.
70-GHz relaxation oscillation in a vertical cavity surface emitting laser

Summary form only given. Very-high-frequency relaxation oscillations were measured in an electrically pumped vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL). The measurements were performed over a range of drive currents, and a 71-GHz relaxation oscillation was observed when current injection was maximum. The lasers used for the measurements consisted of an active region of 3 In/sub 0.2/Ga/sub 0.8/As quantum wells. CW (continuous-wave) measurements showed a very high resonance frequency-square root of power coefficient of 7 GHz/ square root mW. The maximum resonance frequency was limited to 7 GHz by heating. The larger signal pulse responses also showed a linear dependence of relaxation oscillation frequency on square root of current above threshold, with a maximum of 71 GHz for a peak drive voltage on the order of 15 V. >
Inferring user knowledge level from eye movement patterns

The acquisition of information and the search interaction process is influenced strongly by a person's use of their knowledge of the domain and the task. In this paper we show that a user's level of domain knowledge can be inferred from their interactive search behaviors without considering the content of queries or documents. A technique is presented to model a user's information acquisition process during search using only measurements of eye movement patterns. In a user study (n=40) of search in the domain of genomics, a representation of the participant's domain knowledge was constructed using self-ratings of knowledge of genomics-related terms (n=409). Cognitive effort features associated with reading eye movement patterns were calculated for each reading instance during the search tasks. The results show correlations between the cognitive effort due to reading and an individual's level of domain knowledge. We construct exploratory regression models that suggest it is possible to build models that can make predictions of the user's level of knowledge based on real-time measurements of eye movement patterns during a task session.
Shedding Patterns in Flow-structure Interactions

We use direct numerical simulation (DNS) based on spectral methods and the parallel code NekTar to simulate incompressible and compressible flow past flexible structures. Specifically, we consider incompressible turbulent flow past flexible cylinders subject to vortex-induced vibrations (VIV), and compressible flow past a three-dimensional flexible wing subject to insect-like motion. We present several shedding patterns that reveal new oblique shedding modes resembling modulated traveling and standing wave response waves for flexible cylinders as well as strong three-dimensional interactions for flexible wings.
The QDREC web server: determining dose-response characteristics of complex macroparasites in phenotypic drug screens.

Summary: Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) caused by helminths constitute some of the most common infections of the world’s poorest people. The etiological agents are complex and recalcitrant to standard techniques of molecular biology. Drug screening against helminths has often been phenotypic and typically involves manual description of drug effect and efficacy. A key challenge is to develop automated, quantitative approaches to drug screening against helminth diseases. The quantal dose–response calculator (QDREC) constitutes a significant step in this direction. It can be used to automatically determine quantitative dose–response characteristics and half-maximal effective concentration (EC50) values using image-based readouts from phenotypic screens, thereby allowing rigorous comparisons of the efficacies of drug compounds. QDREC has been developed and validated in the context of drug screening for schistosomiasis, one of the most important NTDs. However, it is equally applicable to general phenotypic screening involving helminths and other complex parasites. Availability and implementation: QDREC is publically available at: http://haddock4.sfsu.edu/qdrec2/. Source code and datasets are at: http://tintin.sfsu.edu/projects/phenotypicAssays.html. Contact: ude.usfs@luhar. Supplementary information: Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Thermodynamically Stable, Size Selective Solubilization of Carbon Nanotubes in Aqueous Media by Self-assembly with Amphiphilic Block Copolymers

Two molecular modes of amphiphilic block copolymer-carbon nanotube interactions have been suggested in the literature, involving the adsorption of either individual block copolymer molecules or of multimolecular, spherical block copolymer micelles on the carbon nanotube. In both cases, the nature of stability imparted to the dispersion of nanotubes is kinetic, controlled by the steric barrier imposed by the adsorbed individual molecules or micelles. In this study we propose an alternate mode of molecular interaction, wherein the block copolymer molecules self-assemble around the nanotube to generate a thermodynamically stable aqueous nanocolloidal solution. The possibility of such micellar solubilization of nanotubes is examined by constructing a phenomenological theory of nanotube solubilization. Illustrative calculations performed for polyethylene oxide- polypropylene oxide – polyethylene oxide (PEO-PPO-PEO) triblock copolymers show that they are capable of solubilizing carbon nanotubes in aqueous solutions. While the block copolymer molecules that spontaneously form cylindrical micelles are most likely to solubilize the nanotubes, other copolymers whose natural curvature is spherical or lamellar also are capable of forming cylindrical micelles around the nanotubes. Most interestingly, the solubilization is found to be size (diameter) specific suggesting that this can be developed into a practical method to fractionate carbon nanotubes by size or chirality. These general conclusions can be applied to other diblock and triblock amphiphilic copolymers and also to both single wall and multiwall carbon nanotubes.
Energy Cost, Exercise Intensity, and Gait Efficiency of Standard Versus Rocker-Bottom Axillary Crutch Walking

The purpose of this study was to investigate differences in selected biomechanical and physiological measurements and subjective preferences for ambulation with the standard single-tip axillary crutch versus the rocker-bottom-type axillary crutch. Self-selected walking velocities (S-SWVs) and stride length for each crutch type were determined for a two-point, non-weight-bearing, swing-through gait in 24 healthy volunteers. Relative exercise intensity, oxygen uptake (VO2), and gait efficiency were assessed for each crutch type at both S-SWVs. Subjects negotiated two architectural barriers (stairs and ramp) and completed a subjective questionnaire concerning crutch preferences. Walking with either crutch type resulted in slower S-SWVs, greater VO2, higher relative exercise intensity, and reduced gait efficiency compared with values for normal unassisted ambulation. An analysis of variance for these variables revealed nonsignificant between-crutch differences. Based on the subjective data, a preference for the standard single-tip crutch was evident. Within the scope of the study, the results supported no apparent advantage relative to energy expenditure to using the rocker-bottom crutch.
How the brain represents other minds

How does the brain represent the world? Sensory neuroscience has given us a detailed window into how the brain represents physical objects in our environment: For instance, the shape, color, and direction of motion of visual stimuli are represented in an orderly fashion in higher order visual cortices. But we also represent social objects: other people and their thoughts, beliefs, and feelings. How is that kind of knowledge represented in the brain? In an ambitious new study in PNAS, Tamir et al. (1) used functional MRI (fMRI) to argue that our brains represent other minds along three broad dimensions: social impact, rationality, and valence.
A Nurse’s Guide to Supporting Physiologic Birth

Physiologic birth promotes the practice of normal labor and birth, in which a woman's innate power is supported and unnecessary interventions are avoided. Nurses are in a unique position to support physiologic birth because they attend almost all births. Several resources are available to assist nurses in promoting physiologic birth, including BirthTOOLS.org, a new online resource developed by the American College of Nurse-Midwives in collaboration with other organizations. By using resources such as BirthTOOLS.org and others, nurses can become familiar with the evidence surrounding physiologic birth and can contribute to improved patient safety and quality of care by supporting physiologic birth. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.nwh.2015.12.009.
Inhibition of Leukocyte Rolling in Venules by Protamine and Sulfated Polysaccharides

Intravital video microscopy was used to investigate leukocyte margination in 80 mesenteric venules (19 to 54 microns) of 50 anesthetized rabbits. After intravenous (IV) bolus injection, sulfated polysaccharides reduced in a reversible and dose-dependent way the number of leukocytes rolling slowly along the venular wall. The presence of sulfate groups is essential because other negatively charged or neutral polysaccharides had no effect. It was not caused by an increase in RBC velocity or chelation of divalent cations. Inhibition by sulfated dextrans (n = 7) was independent of molecular weight (mol wt 13,000 to 500,000) but was influenced by the average number of sulfate groups per monosaccharide. With substitution 0.13, the 90%-inhibition dose was 104 mg/kg, with 0.7 it was 56 mg/kg, and between substitution 1 and 2 it ranged from 20 to 23 mg/kg. At 100 mg/kg, plasma concentration was 0.6 to 0.7 mg/mL. Xylan sulfate (mol wt 6,000, substitution 1.8) gave 90% inhibition at 11 mg/kg, and heparin gave 90% inhibition at 97 mg/kg. Duration of inhibition (0.5 to 2 hours) depended on mol wt and appeared to be related to plasma clearance. Because protamine also inhibited rolling (12 mg/kg; less than 10 minutes), we propose that repetitive formation and breakup of ionic bonds between sulfate groups and positively charged amino acids is involved in leukocyte rolling. During inhibition of rolling, systemic lymphocyte/monocyte levels appeared to increase. Granulocyte counts did not change, indicating that rolling is not the main mechanism responsible for the marginal granulocyte pool.
Designs and Applications of Hyperspectral Light Sources

A time-division multiplexed source that cycles through 19 wavelengths every 15μs will be described. Sensing results using this and similar sources will follow, including gas thermometry at 100kHz with a precision of 4K at 2000K.
Effects of Prolonged Fasting on Insulin Secretion

The effects of total starvation upon response to glucose and tolbutamide were studied in obese nondiabetic and in obese diabetic individuals. Response was determined by serial measurement of plasma insulin, glucose, NEFA, and beta-hydroxybutyrate levels. In confirmation of other reports, obese diabetics had significantly greater plasma insulin responses to glucose and tolbutamide prefasting. Following a prolonged fast, obese nondiabetics developed increased insulin resistance manifested by impaired glucose tolerance without significant change in plasma insulin response. In contrast, obese diabetics had little further deterioration in glucose tolerance or increase in insulin resistance. In both groups studied, the response of blood glucose and plasma insulin levels to tolbutamide was unaltered by caloric deprivation. Carbohydrate intolerance of fasting appeared best explained by increased contra-insulin factors and decreased islet cell responsiveness to glucose. Fasting, for at least seven days, failed to reproduce in the nondiabetic obese individuals the patterns of response to glucose and tolbutamide seen in obese diabetic subjects.
Atomic layer etching of Al2O3 using sequential, self-limiting thermal reactions with Sn(acac)2 and hydrogen fluoride.

The atomic layer etching (ALE) of Al2O3 was demonstrated using sequential, self-limiting thermal reactions with tin(II) acetylacetonate (Sn(acac)2) and hydrogen fluoride (HF) as the reactants. The Al2O3 samples were Al2O3 atomic layer deposition (ALD) films grown using trimethylaluminum and H2O. The HF source was HF-pyridine. Al2O3 was etched linearly with atomic level precision versus number of reactant cycles. The Al2O3 ALE was monitored at temperatures from 150 to 250 °C. Quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) studies revealed that the sequential Sn(acac)2 and HF reactions were self-limiting versus reactant exposure. QCM measurements also determined that the mass change per cycle (MCPC) increased with temperature from −4.1 ng/(cm2 cycle) at 150 °C to −18.3 ng/(cm2 cycle) at 250 °C. These MCPC values correspond to etch rates from 0.14 A/cycle at 150 °C to 0.61 A/cycle at 250 °C based on the Al2O3 ALD film density of 3.0 g/cm3. X-ray reflectivity (XRR) analysis confirmed the linear removal of Al2O3 and measur...
Analysis of the Deformation of the Nucleus as a Result of Alterations of the Cell Adhesion Area

The area of cell spreading has been proven to be critical to a cell’s fate, and direct physical connections between integrins, cytoskeleton, and the nucleus have been found [1]. We investigate the cell adhesion-cytoskeleton-nucleus mechanical pathway using experimental and theoretical tools. We measured changes in adhesion area and corresponding elliptical projected nuclear stretches caused by disruption of cell adhesions with trypsin. For our analysis, we treated the nucleus as an incompressible, neo-Hookean material. Using our measurements of the two-dimensional nuclear stretches, we calculated the stretch in the normal direction. We then estimated the strains of the nuclear deformation, and used these to estimate the cytosolic/cytoskeletal pressure and tangential forces that act upon the nucleus. Comparing our estimates of the internal forces acting on the nucleus to measurements of cell surface traction force in the literature, both are on the same order of magnitude.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
Teacher-student relationship in online classes

Considering the unique nature of online environments, which limit some aspects of nonverbal communication, fostering robust and lasting teacher-student relationships in online classes may be challenging. Moreover, the structural features of online settings may create a learning environment where students have minimal knowledge about the instructor. The role of teacher self-disclosure (SD) in e-learning settings rarely has been tested, although decades of instructional communication research demonstrate its significance. Structural Equation Model analysis results suggest that teacher self-disclosure and students' emotional responses toward teacher SD enhance teacher-student relationship satisfaction, which in turn increases perceived knowledge gain and class satisfaction. Further, the current study compares teacher SD and its impacts in online and FtF classes by conducting a multiple group comparison analysis. Findings suggest that the effect of teacher SD upon teacher-student relationship satisfaction is stronger online compared to FtF classes. The study explores the role of teacher self-disclosure (SD) in online classes.The study focuses on teacher-student relationship (TSR) in online classes.The effect of teacher SD on TSR is stronger online compared to FtF classes.TSR mediates the relationship between teacher SD and learning experiences.
To evaluate cognitive function and the relationship between the quality of life and cognition disorders in patients with obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome

Objective To asscess cognitive changes of patients with obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome and the relationship between the quality of life and cognition disorders.Methods The data of 90 patients with OSAHS in Xuanwu hospital were investigated in our study.All patients were divided into three groups,according to apnea-hypopnea index(AHI): mild group,moderate group and severe group.The cognitive function was evaluated by MMSE.The quality of life was assessed by the short-form(SF-36).The excessive daytime sleepiness was assessed by the epworth sleepiness scale(ESS).Results 1.There was no significant difference in age,sex,BMI and education degree in the three groups(P0.05).2.The parameters,including AHI,longest apnea time(LAT) and percentage of time spend when oxygen saturation lower than 0.9(SLT90%) were significantly higher in the severe OSAHS group than those in the mild and moderate groups(P0.01).Minima satuation of blood oxygen(SaO2 min) in the severe OSAHS group was significantly lower than that in the mild and moderate groups(P0.01).3.The total score of MMSE and subtest scores of MMSE in leaning,memory,calculation and constructive function were significantly lower in the severe OSAHS group than those in the mild and moderate groups(P0.05).4.The score of ESS in the severe OSAHS group was significantly higher than that in the mild and moderate groups(P0.01),and also the score was higher in the moderate OSAHS group than that in the mild OSAHS group(P0.01).The score of SF-36 in the severe OSAHS group was significantly lower than that in the mild and moderate groups(P0.01).There was no significant difference in score of SF-36 between the mild and moderate OSAHS groups(P0.05).5.In patients with OSAHS,the score of MMSE was positively correlated with the SaO2 min(P0.01) and was negatively correlated with AHI,LAT,SLT90% and ESS(P0.01).The total score of MMSE was positively correlated with the score of SF-36(P0.05).Conclusion 1.There is an obvious decrease in cognitive function in patients with severe OSAHS,especially in leaning,memory,calculation and constructive function.2.There is the excessive daytime sleepiness in patients with OSAHS.The severity of OSAHS and the level of excessive daytime sleepiness are markedly correlated with the cognitive dysfunction.3.The changes of quality of life are influenced by their cognitive dysfunction.
Isolation and Structural Characterization of Drosophila TDVDHVFLRFamide and FMRFamide-Containing Neural Peptides

An extract of adult Drosophila melanogaster was separated by gel exclusion, ion exchange, and re-versed-phase chromatography. Four peptides, each with an -ArgPheNH2C-terminal sequence, were identified by radioimmunoassay. The primary sequences were determined by Edman degradation and confirmed by mass spectrometry and sequence-specific radioimmunoassay. Three of the peptides are encoded by Drosophila pro-FMRFamide: AspProLysGlnAspPheMetArgPheNH2 (DPKQDFMRFamide), ThrProAlaGluAspPheMetArg-PheNH2 (TPAEDFMRFamide), and SerAspAsn-PheMetArgPheNH2 (SDNFMRFamide). A novel Drosophila peptide ThrAspValAspHisValPheLeuArgPheNH2 (TDVDHVFLRFamide) was also isolated. TDVDHV-FLRFamide is structurally related to peptides isolated from chicken, cockroach, locust, and snail; the cockroach, fruitfly, and locust peptides differ only by the N-terminal amino acid residue. Two Drosophila neural genes, dsk and FMRFamide, are known to encode -Arg-PheNH2-containing peptides; however, neither encodes TDVDHVFLRFamide,- indicating that Drosophila contains another precursor encoding -ArgPheNH2 peptides.
Iran: An Estranged Friend

Pakistan-Iran relations during the pre-Iranian Islamic Revolution days were extremely close marked by the convergence of their strategic interests and cooperation in various fields. Ironically, the advent of the Iranian Islamic Revolution in 1979 had a negative impact on Pakistan-Iran relations due to a variety of factors, the most important being their differences in dealing with Afghanistan in the 1990s and Iran’s growing enmity with the USA. The post-2014 Afghanistan and the conclusion of the deal on the Iranian nuclear program offer the two countries an opportunity to rebuild their vitally important relationship. Besides strengthening Pakistan-Iran cooperation in various fields, they should coordinate their Afghanistan policies. It remains to be seen, however, whether they will be able to rise to the challenge.
Docetaxel in Advanced and Castration Resistant Prostate Cancer

In 2004, two randomized trials demonstrated that docetaxel based therapy had superior survival in castrate resistant metastatic disease when compared to the then standard of care, mitoxantrone combined with corticosteroids. Today, docetaxel, along with fellow taxane cabazitaxel, remain the primary chemotherapeutic agents in metastatic castrate resistant prostate cancer. This chapter will summarize the mechanisms of docetaxel efficacy and resistance in prostate cancer, review the data for docetaxel use in metastatic castrate resistant disease including data on docetaxel in combination with other agents, and highlight the emerging role for docetaxel in hormone sensitive metastatic and local disease.
Associations Among Friendship Jealousy, Peer Status, and Relational Aggression in Early Adolescence:

This study investigated the associations among peer status, friendship jealousy, and relational aggression in early adolescence, with a focus on peer status as a moderator of the association betwee...
Marketing for Special and Academic Libraries: A Planning and Best Practices Sourcebook.

Kudos to Valerie St. Pierre Gordon, AHIP, and Patricia E. Higginbottom for writing such a fabulous book on marketing for special and academic libraries. This title is based on their research and practical experience working at the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s Lister Hill Library of the Health Sciences. The book’s premise is simple: libraries need to demonstrate their value to administration to justify expenditures on resources. Libraries also need to communicate their value to their customers to encourage them to utilize these resources. This is a daunting task for librarians who already have too much to do and have received little to no training in marketing.
Effective Knowledge Management Using Wikis

This paper presents a discussion and in-depth exploration of using Wikis for providing support to, and for the effective maintenance of, knowledge management systems. Specific issues, considerations, and relevant areas for which Wikis can be most effective are addressed. This includes identifying both strengths and weaknesses of Wikis as they apply to the various types of knowledge management requirements, including information capture, retention, dissemination, updating, and security concerns. A conceptual and research framework of the major impacts, challenges, and issues is also presented, as well as areas for future research.