cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mineralization of sulfonated azo dyes and sulfanilic acid by Phanerochaete chrysosporium and Streptomyces chromofuscus.

Five 14C-radiolabeled azo dyes and sulfanilic acid were synthesized and used to examine the relationship between dye substitution patterns and biodegradability (mineralization to CO2) by a white-rot fungus and an actinomycete. 4-Amino-[U-14C]benzenesulfonic acid and 4-(3-sulfo-4-aminophenylazo)-[U-14C]benzenesulfonic acid were used as representative compounds having sulfo groups or both sulfo and azo groups. Such compounds are not known to be present in the biosphere as natural products. The introduction of lignin-like fragments into the molecules of 4-amino-[U-14C]benzenesulfonic acid and 4-(3-sulfo-4-aminophenylazo)-[U-14C]benzenesulfonic acid by coupling reactions with guaiacol (2-methoxyphenol) resulted in the formation of the dyes 4-(3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylazo)-[U-14C]benzenesulfonic acid and 4-(2-sulfo-39-methoxy-49-hydroxy-azobenzene-4-azo)-[U-14C]benzenesulf oni c acid, respectively. The synthesis of acid azo dyes 4-(2-hydroxy-1-naphthylazo)-[U-14C]benzenesulfonic acid and 4-(4-hydroxy-1-naphthylazo)-[U-14C]benzenesulfonic acid also allowed the abilities of these microorganisms to mineralize these commercially important compounds to be evaluated. Phanerochaete chrysosporium mineralized all of the sulfonated azo dyes, and the substitution pattern did not significantly influence the susceptibility of the dyes to degradation. In contrast, Streptomyces chromofuscus was unable to mineralize aromatics with sulfo groups and both sulfo and azo groups. However, it mediated the mineralization of modified dyes containing lignin-like substitution patterns. This work showed that lignocellulolytic fungi and bacteria can be used for the biodegradation of anionic azo dyes, which thus far have been considered among the xenobiotic compounds most resistant to biodegradation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
First version of a data flow procedure language

A language for representing computational procedures based on the concept of data flow is presented in terms of a semantic model that permits concurrent execution of noninterfering program parts. Procedures in the language operate on elementary and structured values, and always define functional transformations of values. The language is equivalent in expressive power to a block structured language with internal procedure variables and is a generalization of pure Lisp. The language is being used as a model for study of fundamental semantic constructs for programming, as a target language for evaluating trans-latability of programs expressed at the user-language level, and as a guide for research in advanced computer architecture.
Optimal dispatch control of energy storage systems using forward-backward induction

The integration of distributed energy resources (DERs) into the power grid provides support for a significant share of the total power load and helps reduce transmission power losses. However, these advantages are not always guaranteed since the power profiles of DERs have high variability and the number of DERs is too many to control on an individual basis. In a hybrid energy system, these problems are counteracted through the aggregation and balancing of the variability of each distributed energy resource. This paper discusses optimal dispatch control mechanisms for 200 V, 500 Ah battery energy storage systems that support a 10 MW hybrid energy system, composed of distributed energy sources such as 1 MW solar photovoltaic (PV) generation and a 9 MW wind turbine based generation. The proposed mechanisms focus on the dispatch control of energy storage systems using forward and backward induction. For that purpose, the interdependence of frequency, state of charge (SOC), undercharge and reversible effects in the battery energy systems were used to identify the optimal operating margin for the dispatch of the energy storage systems. The hybrid energy system was implemented using Matlab-Simulink and the dispatch control mechanism was programmed using IBM CPLEX studio. With such setup, the hybrid system was able to maintain 85 % capacity factor per day while the system interruption and unavailability were reduced by 65 %. The results demonstrate that the functionality of DERs increases significantly while being supported by optimally dispatched energy storage systems.
USING PUBLICATIONS COUNTS TO MEASURE AN INSTITUTION'S RESEARCH PRODUCTIVITY

Studies that attempt to evaluate and rank institutions often overlook the research activities of an institution. In this article, we show how readily available data from the Institute of Scientific Inquiry (ISI) may be used to estimate the number of scholarly articles written by an institution's faculty. We show how institutions are ranked according to total publications and the ratio of publications to full-time faculty, how these measures vary by type of institution, and how they are correlated with other selected measures of research resources and institutional quality.
Gatekeepers and Goalposts: The Need for a New Regulatory Paradigm for Whole Genome Sequencing Results

The ability to obtain a person’s whole genome sequence for a cost of one thousand dollars is nearly here. Many clinicians expect that this will usher in an era of personal medicine by allowing the development of individualized disease-risk profiles, preventive medicine strategies, and treatment options. It is not clear, however, that the regulatory strategy that currently controls the approval and availability of more limited genetic tests — typically meant to investigate a one or a small number of disease or other traits — provides a satisfactory framework for whole genome sequence testing. This perspective takes the position that the generation of whole genome sequence information needs to be treated differently than the tests and results associated with more traditional diagnostic assays. First, it considers the current regulatory environment and efforts to reform the oversight of genetic tests, in particular, as they relate to the question of whether lay individuals should be permitted to order whole genome sequence tests without the guidance of a health-care professional. Second, the perspective discusses ways in which whole genome sequence tests differ from conventional genetic tests both in the vastly greater amount of information that is generated and in the ways that the information can be interpreted and reinterpreted for different purposes and at different times. Third, the perspective suggests that rather than concentrating on technical attributes of the whole genome sequence testing process, the approach currently used for standard genetic tests, regulatory approaches be directed to the tools needed to analyze and apply DNA sequence information. Such efforts will safeguard patients from adverse outcomes associated with unreliable disease-risk prediction and, at the same time, improve access to whole genome sequence testing and the benefits it may offer.
Detection and characterization of Shiga toxigenic Escherichia coli by using multiplex PCR assays for stx1, stx2, eaeA, enterohemorrhagic E. coli hlyA, rfbO111, and rfbO157

Shiga toxigenic Escherichia coli (STEC) comprises a diverse group of organisms capable of causing severe gastrointestinal disease in humans. Within the STEC family, certain strains appear to be of greater virulence for humans, for example, those belonging to serogroups O111 and O157 and those with particular combinations of other putative virulence traits. We have developed two multiplex PCR assays for the detection and genetic characterization of STEC in cultures of feces or foodstuffs. Assay 1 utilizes four PCR primer pairs and detects the presence of stx1, stx2 (including variants of stx2), eaeA, and enterohemorrhagic E. coli hlyA, generating amplification products of 180, 255, 384, and 534 bp, respectively. Assay 2 uses two primer pairs specific for portions of the rfb (O-antigen-encoding) regions of E. coli serotypes O157 and O111, generating PCR products of 259 and 406 bp, respectively. The two assays were validated by testing 52 previously characterized STEC strains and observing 100% agreement with previous results. Moreover, assay 2 did not give a false-positive O157 reaction with enteropathogenic E. coli strains belonging to clonally related serogroup O55. Assays 1 and 2 detected STEC of the appropriate genotype in primary fecal cultures from five patients with hemolytic-uremic syndrome and three with bloody diarrhea. Thirty-one other primary fecal cultures from patients without evidence of STEC infection were negative.
Small dense low density lipoprotein has increased affinity for LDL receptor-independent cell surface binding sites: a potential mechanism for increased atherogenicity

Small dense low density lipoprotein (LDL) particles have altered apolipoprotein (apo) B conformation and lowered affinity for the LDL receptor (J. Biol. Chem. 1994. 269: 511-519). Herein, we examine the interaction of small dense LDL with cell LDL receptor-independent binding sites. Compared to normal LDL, at low LDL cell media concentrations ( or =100 microg/ml), LDL binding to normal or LDL receptor-negative fibroblasts was not affected by several anti-apoB monoclonal antibodies or by cell pretreatment with proteases, chondroitinase, or neuraminidase. In contrast, pretreating normal and receptor-negative fibroblasts with heparinase and heparitinase decreased LDL cell binding by 35% and 50%, respectively. Similarly, preincubation of receptor-negative fibroblasts with sodium chlorate, an inhibitor of proteoglycan sulfation, decreased LDL binding by about 45%. We hypothesize that small dense LDL might be more atherogenic than normal size LDL due to decreased hepatic clearance by the LDL receptor, and enhanced anchoring to LDL receptor-independent binding sites in extrahepatic tissues (e.g., the arterial wall), a process mediated, in part, by cell surface proteoglycans.
Genome-wide scans of genetic variants for psychophysiological endophenotypes: A methodological overview

This article provides an introductory overview of the investigative strategy employed to evaluate the genetic basis of 17 endophenotypes examined as part of a 20-year data collection effort from the Minnesota Center for Twin and Family Research. Included are characterization of the study samples, descriptive statistics for key properties of the psychophysiological measures, and rationale behind the steps taken in the molecular genetic study design. The statistical approach included (a) biometric analysis of twin and family data, (b) heritability analysis using 527,829 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), (c) genome-wide association analysis of these SNPs and 17,601 autosomal genes, (d) follow-up analyses of candidate SNPs and genes hypothesized to have an association with each endophenotype, (e) rare variant analysis of nonsynonymous SNPs in the exome, and (f) whole genome sequencing association analysis using 27 million genetic variants. These methods were used in the accompanying empirical articles comprising this special issue, Genome-Wide Scans of Genetic Variants for Psychophysiological Endophenotypes.
On Control Design for a Fluid-Structure Interaction Problem

A dynamic model describing the interaction between the elastic motions of a three-degree of freedom airfoil section with flap and the motions of the surrounding flow is considered. A computational technique based on boundary element discretization is presented to study the effects of flow disturbances on the motions of the airfoil section. Case studies were performed for an NACA 0009 airfoil section. An example to investigate the feasibility of state feedback control, via torque applied at the flap-hinge line, is also included.
Bladder cancer as seen in giant histologic sections

Giant sections from cystectomy specimens in 45 cases of bladder cancer were examined microscopically after en bloc fixation and processing. There were 35 transitional cell, seven squamous cell, and three mixed transitional cell and squamous carcinomas. Broad front invasion was associated with papillary and superficial tumors while tentacular invasion was associated with solid tumors and a generally poorer prognosis. Carcinoma in situ merged with the invasive cancer in 33 cases, and neoplasia in these cases tended to be multifocal. In 10 cases there was no carcinoma in situ next to the invasive lesion, and the cancer was unifocal. These findings support the concept that there may be two pathogenetic types of bladder cancer, one arising in an extensive field of abnormal epithelium and one arising in a focal area of abnormality. The findings also underscore the importance in clinical management of selected mucosal biopsies adjacent to the site of any visible bladder tumors.
Decision aids for evaluation and selection: the Kordanz approach

Evaluation of options as a precursor to selection of a preferred option is a desirable means of guiding decisions makers. Work study staff can gain acceptance and ownership of the improvements they design by generating options and guiding colleagues and customers through a participative process. MPI, Weighted Factor and Kordanz methods are described with examples. In this paper we draw on experience gained on project evaluation, site selection, site planning, layout and material handling, job evaluation, work team composition, and compensation plans. As work study officers we can develop options and guide the process for others to make evaluations and selection of a preferred option.
Grobalization: An Analysis of the Wal-Martization of the World

This article analyzes the Wal-Martization of the world by using a theoretical concept called grobalization. Grobalization refers to imperialistic goals, desires, and needs of large corporations, or even entire countries, to impose themselves in various areas of the world so that their power, influence, and profits can grow. As a form of unbounded capitalism and cultural imperialism, grobalization is both a specific and an extreme form of globalization. The rapid global expansion of Wal-Mart, the largest and most successful corporation in the world, exemplifies the reality of grobalization. The Wal-Martization of the world has revealed that local cultures are being overwhelmed by grobalization. As the grobal penetrates the local ever more, less and less of that local will remain uninhibited by grobal influences. As illustrated in the Wal-Martization of Mexico and China, cultures are changing as a result of grobalization.
Quantitation of aspartate aminotransferase isoenzymes after electrophoretic separation

A scheme for the quantitative detection of aspartate aminotransferase isoenzymes and multiple forms after electrophoretic separation is described. Glutamate generated from the aminotransferase reaction is quantitated by using the glutamate dehydrogenase/diaphorase-coupled enzyme system to form a formazan dye. Product inhibition of aspartate aminotransferase by oxaloacetate is prevented by including oxaloacetate decarboxylase in the overlay reagent. Results compare favorably with those of an immunochemical precipitation procedure. The method can also be used to detect quantitatively subforms and atypical forms (genetic variants, immunoglobulin-enzyme complexes) of aspartate aminotransferase.
Assessing model fidelity in two family group decision-making programs: Is this child welfare intervention being implemented as intended?

Abstract As family group decision-making (FGDM) is a relatively new child welfare intervention, research has not adequately explored its implementation in multiple contexts or the degree to which implementation matches the previously defined goals, principles, and structures of the model. This article outlines the key components of FGDM and discusses the findings from a two county study of FGDM. Data collected from multiple sources participating in California's Waiver Demonstration Project provide a multidimensional look at model fidelity. Using bivariate analysis and comparing results from multiple sources suggested that although basic FGDM elements were followed, certain philosophies, including community representation and mobilization of supports, were not consistently implemented. In addition, although everyone shared favorable impressions of the conferences themselves, conference participants were more positive than child welfare workers and caregivers about the conference's effectiveness for helping...
Pioglitazone Blocks Ethanol Induction of Microglial Activation and Immune Responses in the Hippocampus, Cerebellum, and Cerebral Cortex in a Mouse Model of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders

Background Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) result from fetal exposure to alcohol and are the leading cause of mental retardation in the United States. There is currently no effective treatment that targets the causes of these disorders. Thus, novel therapies are critically needed to limit the neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative pathologies associated with FASD.
A framework for expert system implementation

Abstract An important key to the acceptance and use of expert systems in organizations lies in effective implementation. This paper presents a framework that can be used to assess the relative importance of different factors to expert system implementation success. Since not all expert systems are alike, a typology is first presented that can be used to categorize expert systems into one of four types according to primary attributes. The literature is then used to identify a set of key factors and activities previously found to influence implementation success. Each factor is then discussed in relation to the four types of expert systems. Finally, this discussion is used to develop a framework identifying the relative importance of different implementation factors for each expert system category.
Cryogenic behavior of scaled CMOS devices

Performance enchancements of scaled CMOS devices are studied at room and liquid nitrogen temperatures. The extent of propogation delay improvement at low temperature is limited by velocity saturation as device channel lengths are decreased and or the supply voltage is increased. Liquid nitrogen temperature operation increases low field mobility by a factor of 4 while the saturation velocity increases only 30%. An analytical model is developed for device switching speed which includes velocity saturation effects. The model accurately predicts measured propogation delay on scaled CMOS delay chains with channel lengths down to 0.5 µm.
Nucleation-dominated crystallization of forsterite in the Ubehebe Peak contact aureole, California

The morphology and number of forsterite crystals in the Ubehebe Peak, California, contact aureole vary systematically as a function of metamorphic grade. From their first appearance to as close as ∼150 m from the intrusive contact, forsterite crystals are large (5–20 mm) and have a tabular habit ( a ≈ c ≫ b ). In contrast, forsterite near the contact is equigranular and much smaller (<1 mm in diameter). The number of crystals per mole of forsterite increases from 3.5 × 104 at the forsterite-in isograd to more than 1.5 × 108 near the contact. This trend is interpreted to result from an increase in the ratio of nucleation rates with respect to growth rates with proximity to the intrusion. The change in morphology from tabular to equigranular is explained by kinetic surface roughening. The nucleation and growth information gained from this study highlights the important role of nucleation kinetics in the crystallization of forsterite at the Ubehebe Peak aureole.
Segmental lumbar rotation in patients with discogenic low back pain during functional weight-bearing activities.

Background: Little information is available on vertebral motion in patients with discogenic low back pain under physiological conditions. We previously validated a combined dual fluoroscopic and magnetic resonance imaging system to investigate in vivo lumbar kinematics. The purpose of the present study was to characterize mechanical dysfunction among patients with confirmed discogenic low back pain, relative to asymptomatic controls without degenerative disc disease, by quantifying abnormal vertebral motion. Methods: Ten subjects were recruited for the present study. All patients had discogenic low back pain confirmed clinically and radiographically at L4-L5 and L5-S1. Motions were reproduced with use of the combined imaging technique during flexion-extension, left-to-right bending, and left-to-right twisting movements. From local coordinate systems at the end plates, relative motions of the cephalad vertebrae with respect to caudad vertebrae were calculated at each of the segments from L2 to S1. Range of motion of the primary rotations and coupled translations and rotations were determined. Results: During all three movements, the greatest range of motion was observed at L3-L4. L3-L4 had significantly greater motion than L2-L3 with left-right bending and left-right twisting movements (p < 0.05). The least motion occurred at L5-S1 for all movements; the motion at this level was significantly smaller than that at L3-L4 (p < 0.05). Range of motion during left-right bending and left-right twisting at L3-L4 was significantly larger in the degenerative disc disease group than in the normal group. The range of motion at L4-L5 was significantly larger in the degenerative group than in the normal group during flexion; however, the ranges of motion in both groups were similar during left-to-right bending and left-to-right twisting. Conclusions: The greatest range of motion in patients with discogenic back pain was observed at L3-L4; this motion was greater than that in normal subjects, suggesting that superior adjacent levels developed segmental hypermobility prior to undergoing fusion. L5-S1 had the least motion, suggesting that segmental hypomobility ensues at this level in patients with discogenic low back pain. Clinical Relevance: These data may be used to study the effects of spinal arthrodesis and to further define the mechanical component of adjacent-segment degeneration.
Robust Rate-Adaptive Wireless Communication Using ACK/NAK-Feedback

To combat the detrimental effects of the variability in wireless channels, we consider cross-layer rate adaptation based on limited feedback. In particular, based on limited feedback in the form of link-layer acknowledgements (ACK) and negative acknowledgements (NAK), we maximize the physical-layer transmission rate subject to an upper bound on the expected packet error rate. We take a robust approach in that we do not assume any particular prior distribution on the channel state. We first analyze the fundamental limitations of such systems and derive an upper bound on the achievable rate for signaling schemes based on uncoded QAM and random Gaussian ensembles. We show that, for channel estimation based on binary ACK/NAK feedback, it may be preferable to use a separate training sequence at high error rates, rather than to exploit low-error-rate data packets themselves. We also develop an adaptive recursive estimator, which is provably asymptotically optimal and asymptotically efficient.
Earth Day is Every Day: Spreading the news about invasive species

A special session at the 2009 ICAIS meeting offered participants a chance to experience an outstanding "free choice learning" center: the Montreal Biodome. The setting sparked an engaging discussion of AIS outreach opportunities with partners including members of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and other educational institutions.
Synthesis and Properties of Phenylethynyl-Terminated, Star-Branched, Phenylquinoxaline Oligomers

The primary objective of this work was to prepare readily melt and solution processable phenylquinoxaline (PQ) oligomers that could be thermally crosslinked to solvent-resistant resins. Thus, a mixture of 2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-3-phenyl-6-fluoroquinoxaline and 3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-2-phenyl-6-fluoroquinoxaline (HPFQ) was used to prepare star-branched PQ oligomers end-capped with 4-fluoro-4-phenylethynylbenzophenone (FPEB). 1,1,1-Tris(4-hydroxyphenyl)ethane (THPE) was used as the branching unit. The oligomer number-average molecular weights (M (bar) (sub n) S) as determined by size exclusion chromatography (SEC) were close to the calculated values of 2922, 4698, 6474, and 13,578 g/mol, and their intrinsic viscosities ranged from 0.16 to 0.57 dl/g (m-cresol at 30 C). The oligomers, which were quite soluble in common organic solvents, had glass transition temperatures (T (sub g) S) that ranged from 181 to 233 C (DSC, DELTA T = 20 C/min). They also underwent an exothermic cure with maxima from 377 to 443 C. The T (sub g) S of the cured oligomers ranged from 259 to 284 C depending on the oligomer M (bar) (sub n) and the curing conditions. The oligomers had low melt viscosities, e.g. an oligomer (SPQ-46) with an M (bar) (sub n) of 4816 g/mol (SEC) had a melt viscosity of 150 Pa s at 348 C. A cured thin film of SPQ-46, which was insoluble in common organic solvents, had a room temperature (RT) tensile strength of 100 MPa, a RT modulus of 2358 MPa, and a RT elongation of 5.9%. A cured sample of SPQ-46 displayed a RT titanium-titanium lap shear tensile strength of 35.2 MPa. SPQ-46/carbon fiber(IM-7) composites, were prepared that displayed a RT flexural strength of 1902 MPa, a RT modulus of 1.38 GPa and a RT open hole compressive strength of 433 MPa.
Serological survey for toxoplasmosis in Tripoli, S.P.L.A.J. Libya.

Abstract Toxoplasma antibodies were found at a titre of 1:16 or above in 51·6% of 2000 adult males, in 43·4% of 300 adult females, and in 43·7% of 1980 schoolchildren (7–18 years of age) from the area of Tripoli (Libya). However, 69·4% of a group of 1921 female patients with a history of abortion and clinically suspected of being infected with T. gondii had Toxoplasma antibodies, and 18·6% of them exhibited serological evidence of recent infection (4-fold or greater increase in antibody titre over 2–3 weeks).
Accidental Self-Inflicted Nail Gun Injury to the Heart

Pneumatic nail guns have been used by the construction industry for nearly 45 years and since their inception there have been numerous reports of injuries sustained as a direct result of nail gun use. Most injuries are not life threatening and result in isolated puncture wounds to the hand or fingers. However, even these presumed minor injuries are associated with significant social and economic effects since the majority of these injuries result in significant amount of lost work. Currently it is estimated that pneumatic nail gun injuries occur at a rate of 0.26 cases per 200,000 work hours and account for 3.9% of workers' compensation claims. Nail guns are divided into low-velocity and high-velocity tools. High-velocity nail guns are characterized by a speed greater than 150 m/s and require an explosive cartridge to propel the nail. Low-velocity nail guns are characterized by a speed less than 150 m/s and rely on compressed air or a cartridge to fire a piston resulting in the firing of the nail. The energy delivered from these devices varies greatly, but ranges between 100 and 1000 J. Due to the poor stabilization of the tool, tumbling of the nail projectile is common. As a result of these many different factors, pneumatic nail gun injuries present in a variety of ways. Many reported cases are accidental, but there are reports of self-inflicted purposeful injuries. Due to the potential devastation associated with these injuries, most nail guns now have safety features that prevent misfiring. Although this penetrating cardiac injury is associated with a projectile similar to a gunshot wound, the relatively low mortality rate is more characteristic of the mortality rate of stab wounds compared to gunshot wounds. This is most likely due to the nail projectile's limited kinetic energy and relatively small impact force resulting in little diffusion of energy. Although most of these injuries do not result in death, tool safety and prevention remains important in the work place. In the last several years, significant improvements in the safety features of pneumatic nail guns have been made. Currently, pneumatic nail guns require that a pressure gradient be applied to a surface of greater than 100 Newstons prior to firing. It is thought that this particular safety feature is associated with a significant reduction in the number of accidental injuries resulting in a reduction in the inadvertent non contact firing of a nail projectile. However, this feature alone, as demonstrated in the case presented, does not complete remove the risk of accidental injury.
Nitrogen Accumulation, Productivity and Stability of Reed Stands (Phragmites australis (CAV.) TRIN. ex STEUDEL) at Different Lakes and Sites of the Lake Districts of Uckermark and Mark Brandenburg (Germany)

The extent of decline of reed belts (Phragmites australis) during last decades has been established by using aerial photographs of the mesotrophic lake Parsteiner See and the eutrophic lake Muggelsee. Final standing crop and nitrogen accumulation within the above-ground plant biomass of 15 different sites of 8 lakes correlate with nitrogen availability indicated by both dissolved nutrient content of the sediment and nitrogen content of biomass during the main growth period. Reed stands well supplied with nitrogen show high shoot loss and compensatory tiller growth till late in the season. Some results demonstrate a delayed switching from the vegetative phase to the generative one and lowered allocation of reserve material to the rhizome as at least one of the factors responsible for lowering stability of the reed beds.
Calculation of temperature‐dependent multimode resonance Raman line shapes for harmonic potential surfacesa)

An exact form for the time dependent resonance Raman kernel at finite temperature is derived under the assumption that the ground and excited state potential surfaces of the system are harmonic. The resultant expression can be evaluated by matrix algebra and Fourier transformed numerically to recover Raman scattering and excitation profiles.
Dynamic frequency-dependent dielectric response of three aqueous biomolecular solutions

Abstract A simple two-component Debye-Lorentz model is presented for the frequency dependence of the dielectric permittivity ϵ(ω) of aqueous solutions of three biomolecules, Glycine, Myoglobin, and Hemoglobin. A local response function for this model is given for the use of workers in wave propagation and biophysical studies. It is necessary to treat the full inertia tensor of the water, I1 ≠ I2 ≠ I3 ≠ I1 to obtain good qualitative agreement with the experimental values of the three biomolecular solutions given. The Hemoglobin solution is shown to exhibit dielectric hysteresis, whereas this effect is absent in Glycine and Myoglobin. The Hemoglobin is found to need a prolate inertial tensor to agree with experiment.
Lectin-receptor interactions in liposomes

Abstract The major sialoglycoprotein of mammalian erythrocytes has been incorporated into phosphatidylcholine membranes to generate a model system, glycoprotein-liposomes. Electron microscopic examination revealed these structures to be vesicles, approximately 300 A in diameter. An aqueous compartment inside the glycoprotein-liposomes has been identified by trapped volume studies with [14C]sucrose. These glycoprotein-liposomes were found to interact with the lectins, wheat germ agglutinin, and phytohemagglutinin, to form aggregates of mainly unfused vesicles. The aggregation process has been studied by electron microscopy, 90° light scattering, and differential ultracentrifugation analysis. Hapten inhibitors of the lectins were found to inhibit the lectin-induced aggregation of the glycoprotein-liposomes. Binding of 125I-labeled wheat germ agglutinin to glycoprotein-liposomes was studied by differential ultracentrifugation. Hapten inhibitors of wheat germ agglutinin were also found to inhibit the binding of 125I-labeled wheat germ agglutinin to the glycoprotein-liposomes. The characteristics of the lectin interactions with glycoprotein-liposomes appeared to be phenomenologically similar to lectin-cell interactions.
Synthesis-Spectroscopy Roadmap Problems: Discovering Organic Chemistry

Organic chemistry problems that interrelate and integrate synthesis with spectroscopy are presented. These synthesis–spectroscopy roadmap (SSR) problems uniquely engage second-year undergraduate organic chemistry students in the personal discovery of organic chemistry. SSR problems counter the memorize-or-bust strategy that many students tend to employ in the study of organic chemistry with an instructional strategy that fosters “seeing” connections, “hearing” what a problem has to say, and “feeling” the exhilaration that comes with discovery.
Development and pilot test of hearing conservation training for construction workers.

Background Hearing conservation efforts in construction frequently rely on use of hearing protection devices (HPDs): however, training on HPDs is often not provided, and usage rates remain low. In this study, a hearing conservation training program was developed and pilot tested. Methods A theoretical model was selected as the basis for the program, and program contents and delivery methods were selected to optimize the effectiveness and flexibility of the training. Two evaluation measures were selected to assess training-related changes in self-reported HPD use. The first was a validated method using concurrent work-shift noise dosimetry, and the second was a survey concerning workers beliefs and attitudes towards HPDs and HPD use. Results The training program was pilot tested on a single construction site. Complete assessment data were available for 23 workers. The percent of time when hearing protection was used during noise levels above 85 dBA nearly doubled post-training, and the change was statistically significant. Conclusions Pre- and post-training data from participating workers demonstrated that HPD use can be increased significantly with basic model-based training, even in industries with complex noise exposures such as construction. Am. J. Ind. Med. 51:120–129, 2008. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Evaluation of a stochastic model of particle dispersion in a turbulent round jet

A stochastic model of particle dispersion by turbulence, proposed by Gosman and Ioannides (1981), is evaluated. The method employs a k-epsilon model to estimate turbulence properties. Dispersion is determined by computing particle motion, with random sampling to obtain instantaneous flow properties for a statistically significant number of particle trajectories. The stochastic model yields good results particularly when eddy lifetimes are evaluated. The method allows the effects of large relative velocities between the particles and the flow, drag properties at Reynolds numbers greater than the Stokes flow regime, and the variations of local turbulence properties to be readily handled, at least for boundary layer flows.
You Get What You Pay for? Archival Access to Electronic Journals

An increasing number of libraries are canceling their print journal subscriptions and subscribing to journals in purely electronic format. With the print version of a journal, when the subscription is cancelled, the library retains all the earlier issues of the journal to which it subscribed. With the online version, this may not be the case. A library canceling an online subscription may lose all access to the journal, including issues for which access had previously been paid. The author describes the policies and practices of selected e-journal vendors and libraries in relation to archival access.
The effect of neonatal thymectomy in the induction of experimental autoimmune thyroiditis in the rat.

Les rats Sprague-Dawley ont developpe une thyroidite autoimmune caracterisee par l'infiltration de cellules lymphoides dans la thyroide, qui fait suite a l'injection de thyroglobuline bovine, d'adjuvant complet de Freund et deBordetella pertussis. Les rats nouveau-nes thymectomises revelerent une tendance nettement moindre a developper la thyroidite.
Strain Difference and Initial Quality Relationships to Rate of Interior Egg Quality Decline

Abstract JOHNSON and Merritt (1955) suggested that, to be economically sound, selection for improved egg quality should have no adverse effects on the egg producing ability of the strain. The reverse is likewise true; yet these two criteria have received major emphasis in both the breeding and advertising of commerical strains of hens. It has been well confirmed that negative genetic correlations exist between albumen quality and egg production (Goodman and Godfrey, 1955; Johnson and Merritt, 1955; and King et al., 1961). This appears to be verified in the industry as it is accepted that there are strain differences in rate of production and in egg quality. A strain that is lower than average in one criterion tends to be higher than average in the other. A recent important area of research is that of the relationship of initial interior quality to the rate of quality decline during storage. Also important…
Theoretical compton profile anisotropics in molecules and solids. VIII. Vibrational, rotational, and temperature‐dependent diatomic alkali halide anisotropics

A procedure, based on Rayleigh-Schrodinger perturbation theory, for obtaining vibrational, rotational, and temperature-dependent Compton profiles and profile anisotropies is presented and applied to H2 to test its validity. The computed vibrational-rotational dependence is found to agree well with the results of Smith et al. who obtained vibrational-rotational profiles for H2 by numerically integrating the Schrodinger equation for nuclear motion. The procedure is used to obtain vibrational, rotational, and temperature-dependent profiles and anisotropies for some alkali halide molecules. It is found that the vibrational and temperature dependence of the parallel-perpendicular anisotropies in these molecules is substantial.
A painful periurethral mass.

A 17-year-old female presents with vaginal ‘‘pain and a bump.’’ Her last menstrual period ended 1 day earlier. She denied vaginal bleeding, discharge, abdominal pain, fevers, hematuria, dysuria, post-void dribbling, incontinence, history of sexual transmitted infections, or change in hygiene products. She is currently finishing a course of nitrofurantoin for a urinary tract infection (UTI). She admits to sexual activity without use of barrier contraception. Recent gonorrhea and chlamydia testing were negative. On examination, she is afebrile with normal vital signs, and her abdomen is nontender. External genitalia demonstrated a small, somewhat firm irritated-appearing 1-cm midline mass anterior to the vaginal introitus just posterior to the urethra (Fig. 1). Compression yielded no urine or purulent discharge.
LOW INCIDENCE AND SEVERITY OF COMPLICATIONS WITH LOW MEAN AIRWAY PRESSURE IN PREMATURE INFANTS. † 2088

LOW INCIDENCE AND SEVERITY OF COMPLICATIONS WITH LOW MEAN AIRWAY PRESSURE IN PREMATURE INFANTS. † 2088
Measurements of the total cross-section difference and the parameter CLL in pp scattering with longitudinally-polarized beam and target

Abstract We have measured the difference between the pp total cross-sections for parallel and anti-parallel longitudinal spin states at beam momenta of 3 and 6 GeV/ c . These results, combined with our previous measurements, at lower momenta, are useful in clarifying a striking structure appearing at around 1.5 GeV/ c . We have also measured for the first time, the spin-spin correlation parameter C LL ( t ) in pp elastic scattering at 6 GeV/ c . We observe evidence for an exchange with A 1 -like quantum-numbers.
Non-intrusive non-destructive method to detect fissile material

The detection of fissile materials is of great interest to the National Homeland Security effort. Significant advantages of a technique using nuclear acoustic resonance (NAR) over the traditional detection methods are that it will not rely on nuclear radiation signatures, will be non-intrusive, and has the potential to identify individual components of composite substances including fractional isotope composition of the material under investigation. Technique uses the unique nuclear acoustic resonance signatures generated when materials are driven by high intensity resonant acoustic waves in the presence of a constant magnetic field. This would cause shifts in the nuclear and electronic spin energy levels of the material. Nuclear energy level shifts induce changes in the unique nuclear magnetic properties of the material which can then be quantified using sensitive instruments. This paper will discuss in detail, the physics and detection principles of NAR and also provide some preliminary results.
The Relationship Between Curriculum and Learner: Music Composition and Learning Style:

Effective learning experiences are believed to involve the various functions of learning, teaching, and curriculum. Furthermore, the content or substance of what is taught has inherent characteristics that can affect both student and teacher. Success in learning would thus depend in part on an individual's ability to adapt to demands and constraints made by these curricular characteristics. The focus of this study was the relationship of music composition (as one aspect of a music curriculum) with specific learning styles. A major emphasis concerned the development of a research model in which music composition was viewed as involving intuitive and rational musical abilities. Learning style was interpreted as the collective constructs of mediation ability (concrete and abstract perception paired with sequential and random processing) and perceptual modality (visual, aural, and kinesthetic sensory modes). Sixty-four high school instrumental music students in grades 11 and 12 participated in this research b...
Modeling and automation of sequencing-based characterization of RNA structure

Sequence census methods reduce molecular measurements such as transcript abundance and protein-nucleic acid interactions to counting problems via DNA sequencing. We focus on a novel assay utilizing this approach, called selective 2′-hydroxyl acylation analyzed by primer extension sequencing (SHAPE-Seq), that can be used to characterize RNA secondary and tertiary structure. We describe a fully automated data analysis pipeline for SHAPE-Seq analysis that includes read processing, mapping, and structural inference based on a model of the experiment. Our methods rely on the solution of a series of convex optimization problems for which we develop efficient and effective numerical algorithms. Our results can be easily extended to other chemical probes of RNA structure, and also generalized to modeling polymerase drop-off in other sequence census-based experiments.
A Survey of Magnetic and Other Solid-State Devices for the Manipulation of Information

A review is made of the art of manipulating digital information by means of magnetic devices. Also included are some remarks on other solid-state devices. There is a brief introductory discussion of semiconductor diodes and of the unique properties of the transistor. The storage and switching capabilities of magnetic cores made of square hysteresis loop materials are discussed with some detail. This discussion includes: random access memories made of individual cores or ferrite apertured plates, various types of decoding and encoding switches, shift registers, current and voltage driven circuits, the principle of current steering, transistor coupled circuits, the principle of the transfluxor, the application of the transfluxor to nondestructive read-out memories and channel commutators, the principle of transfluxor current steering, and some examples of multiapertured transfluxors. The potentialities of some phenomena as yet not widely exploited are discussed: ferroelectric, electro-optical and magnetoresistive effects.
Elevation of adenylate cyclase activity during leukemic cell differentiation

Exposure of the various human myeloid leukemic cell lines (HL60 and RDFD) to various compounds results in marked differentiation of the cells. This differentiation is associated with a marked increase in both basal and NaF-stimulated adenylate cyclase (AC) activity. The increase in AC activity occurs regardless of the differentiation inducer one has utilized (retinoic acid (RA), dimethyl formamide (DMF), hypoxanthine (HPX) or actinomycin D (actD) and is correlated with this process, as a variant of the HL60 cell (HL60-Blast) that does not differentiate upon exposure to the various inducers does not demonstrate this increase in AC activity. In addition, the differentiation process is associated with a rapid increase in intracellular cAMP within hours of adding the inducer, followed by a gradual decrease.
Fluorescent signal amplification of carbocyanine dyes using engineered viral nanoparticles.

We report enhancement in the fluorescent signal of the carbocyanine dye Cy5 by using an engineered virus as a scaffold to attach >40 Cy5 reporter molecules at fixed locations on the viral capsid. Although cyanine dye loading is often accompanied by fluorescence quenching, our results demonstrate that organized spatial distribution of Cy5 reporter molecules on the capsid obviates this commonly encountered problem. In addition, we observe energy transfer from the virus to adducted dye molecules, resulting in a highly fluorescent viral nanoparticle. We have used this enhanced fluorescence for the detection of DNA−DNA hybridization. When compared with the most often used detection methods in a microarray-based genotyping assay for Vibrio cholerae O139, these viral nanoparticles markedly increased assay sensitivity, thus demonstrating their applicability for existing DNA microarray protocols.
Architecture Billings as a Leading Indicator of Construction

Due to the size and cyclicality of construction, a premium is placed on accurately predicting nonresidential construction trends, particularly at turning points in the construction cycle. Given that construction decisions are made by hundreds of thousands of businesses, nonprofit institutions, and government organizations, it is extremely difficult to get comprehensive information on building plans. However, since architects design the overwhelming majority of nonresidential construction projects, gathering information on billings at architecture firms provides leading information on future construction trends. Statistical analysis demonstrates that information provided by architecture firms on trends in their billings is highly correlated with the eventual nonresidential construction activity, with leads of up to one year.
The fuel use and air emission consequences of shipping Great Lakes coal through the Soo Locks

Fuel use and air emission consequences of using the Soo Locks for Great Lakes coal shipping are considered. By including all major origin/destination route-specific characteristics, it is seen, in contrast to many industry and government publications, that a switch primarily to rail would reduce fuel use and air emissions. The consequences of the extra pollutants are calculated based on existing offset/permit prices and marginal damage estimations. It is likely that emission costs are well below the purported economies of scale savings from vessel shipping.
The effects of stress and temperature gradients on fatigue life

Abstract A method is developed that establishes a lower bound on fatigue life due to non-uniform multiaxial stress (strain) and temperature distributions. The method allows prediction of fatigue crack initiation at notches, where stress (strain) gradients are always present, from isothermal uniaxial fatigue tests. In addition, the method enables prediction of fatigue life due to multiaxial, non-uniform thermal stresses (strains) associated with temperature gradients. By considering the strain energy density distribution associated with the non-uniform stress (strain) field, it is shown that if the actual distribution is replaced by a series of thin strips, each at an average temperature with a chordwise linear strain energy density distribution, then the actual strain energy is always less than that associated with the chordwise approximation. The concept of “specific damage” (per cycle) is then introduced as linearly proportional to strain energy. Specific damage is then related to fatigue life through the life fraction rule, which leads to a lower bound on actual fatigue life.