cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Satellite cereal yellow dwarf virus-RPV (satRPV) RNA requires a douXble hammerhead for self-cleavage and an alternative structure for replication.

The 110 nt hammerhead ribozyme in the satellite RNA of cereal yellow dwarf virus-RPV (satRPV RNA) folds into an alternative conformation that inhibits self-cleavage. This alternative structure comprises a pseudoknot with base-pairing between loop (L1) and a single-stranded bulge (L2a), which are located in hammerhead stems I and II, respectively. Mutations that disrupt this base-pairing, or otherwise cause the ribozyme to more closely resemble a canonical hammerhead, greatly increase self-cleavage. In a more natural multimeric sequence context containing the full-length satRPV RNA and two copies of the hammerhead, wild-type RNA cleaves much more efficiently than in the 110 nt context. Mutations in the upstream hammerhead, including a knock-out in the catalytic core, affect cleavage at the downstream cleavage site, indicating that multimers of satRPV RNA cleave via a double hammerhead. The double hammerhead includes base-pairing between two copies of the L1 sequence which extends stem I. Disruption of L1-L1 base-pairing slows cleavage of the multimer. L1-L2a base-pairing is required for efficient replication of satRPV RNA in oat protoplasts. Mutations that affect self-cleavage of the multimer do not correlate with replication efficiency, indicating that the ability to self-cleave is not a primary determinant of replication. We present a replication model in which multimeric satRPV RNA folds into alternative conformations that cannot form in the monomer. One potential metastable intermediate conformation involves L1-L2a base-pairing that may facilitate formation of the double hammerhead. However, we conclude that L1-L2a also performs some other essential function in the satRPV RNA replication cycle, because the L1-L2a base-pairing is more important than efficient self-cleavage for replication.
Hyaluronidase-producing microorganisms from human saliva.

Abstract 1. 1. A method has been described to test hyaluronidase activity of saliva. 2. 2. Hyaluronidase-producing microorganisms have been isolated from 60 saliva samples. The predominant enzyme producer, an alpha hemolytic streptococcus, occuring in 55 per cent of the cases, was identified as Strepto-coccus mitis. Micrococcus pyogenes var. aureus was isolated from 18 per cent of the samples. Alpha and beta hemolytic streptococci of Lancefield groups A and K occurred in 11 per cent of the cases. 3. 3. Upper respiratory and dental diseases caused a marked increase in salivary hyaluronidase titer.
Neutron diffraction study of the magnetic ordering in BaCuO2+x

Abstract Neutron-diffraction measurements have revealed that BaCuO2 − x orders antiferromagnetically below TN = 15.0 ± 0.5 K with a magnetic propagation vector κ = [111]. The Cu atoms in the Cu6 ring clusters, located at the (¼,¼,¼) positions, order ferromagnetically within these clusters while the clusters order antiferromagnetically. The magnetic moment of each of the ordered Cu atoms is (0.89 ± 0.05)μB at T = 4.2 K. No evidence of long-range magnetic ordering of the Cu atoms in the Cu18 clusters, located at the (0,0,0) and (½,½,½) positions, was found down to a temperature T = 2.5 K.
Miscibility and in vitro osteocompatibility of biodegradable blends of poly[(ethyl alanato) (p-phenyl phenoxy) phosphazene] and poly(lactic acid-glycolic acid)

Previously we demonstrated the ability of ethyl glycinato substituted polyphosphazenes to neutralize the acidic degradation products and control the degradation rate of poly(lactic acid-glycolic acid) (PLAGA) by blending. In this study, blends of high strength poly[(50% ethyl alanato) (50% p-phenyl phenoxy) phosphazene] (PNEA(50)PhPh(50)) and 85:15 PLAGA were prepared using a mutual solvent approach. Three different solvents, methylene chloride (MC), chloroform (CF) and tetrahydrofuran (THF) were studied to investigate solvent effects on blend miscibility. Three different blends were then fabricated at various weight ratios namely 25:75 (BLEND25), 50:50 (BLEND50), and 75:25 (BLEND75) using THF as the mutual solvent. The miscibility of the blends was evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Among these, BLEND25 was miscible while BLEND50 and BLEND75 were partially miscible. Furthermore, BLEND25 formed apatite layers on its surface as evidenced in a biomimetic study performed. These novel blends showed cell adhesion and proliferation comparable to PLAGA. However, the PNEA(50)PhPh(50) component in the blends was able to increase the phenotypic expression and mineralized matrix synthesis of the primary rat osteoblasts (PRO) in vitro. Blends of high strength PNEA(50)PhPh(50) and 85:15 PLAGA are promising biomaterials for a variety of musculoskeletal applications.
Calcium Transduces Plasma Membrane Receptor Signals to Produce Diacylglycerol at Golgi Membranes

Protein kinase C and protein kinase D are potently activated by agonist-evoked increases in diacylglycerol. Using live cell-imaging probes for kinase activity, we have shown that both kinases are robustly activated at the Golgi following stimulation of Gq-coupled receptor signaling pathways, displaying activation signatures at the Golgi that are distinct from those at the plasma membrane. Here we report that Ca2+ is the mediator that allows signals received at the plasma membrane to activate these two protein kinases at the Golgi. Specifically, using fluorescence resonance energy transfer-based reporters to image diacylglycerol production, we show that Ca2+ is necessary and sufficient to elevate diacylglycerol levels at the Golgi. First, raising intracellular Ca2+ by treating cells with thapsigargin induces diacylglycerol production at the Golgi. Second, chelation of intracellular Ca2+ prevents UTP-stimulated increases in diacylglycerol at the Golgi. Thus, agonist-evoked increases in intracellular Ca2+ cause increases in Golgi diacylglycerol, allowing this intracellular membrane to serve as a platform for signaling by protein kinases C and D.
Induction of hepatic mixed function oxidases by the insecticide, mirex.

Abstract the effect of mirex (dodecachlorooctahydro-1,3,4-metheno-2 H -cyclobuta-[c,d]pentalene) on hepatic cytochrome P-450 and O -demethylase activity has been tested in rats and mice by both injection and feeding studies. Intraperitoneal injection of mirex at a dose rate of 10 mg/kg or higher, increased the hepatic microsomal cytochrome P-450 level in mice. Under the same conditions 25 mg/kg were necessary to elicit the same response in the rat. The O -demethylase activity was also increased. Dietary mirex caused induction of cytochrome P-450 in the rat at all levels tested (1–250 ppm for 14 days). Examination of type I and type II substrate difference spectra indicate that induction at higher levels (100–250 ppm for 14 days) was not only greater but that the cytochrome induced was qualitatively different from that induced at lower levels. Ultrastructural examination of the liver tissue after mirex feeding revealed a proliferation of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum.
Systems Analysis and Design Models Revisited: A Case Study

The development of information systems IS emerges from the need for more expressive designs that could work well in diverse situations. Over the years, several methodologies have been proposed that offer tangible alternatives that capture solutions to the problems in context, and to a limited degree for those that could potentially occur in time. This paper describes the advantages and pitfalls within each of the known approaches and the reasons why no single methodology has gained general acceptance. Efforts to integrate these approaches often requires one to determine the right mix of features Lyytinen, 1987. A case study of a large manufacturing organization from the midwest is presented and a new methodology that attempts to blend in pertinent features of the existing models of IS design is proposed
Introduction: Overview of the Conference and the Field

The field of neuroimmune interactions is a prime example of interdisciplinary research spanning immunology, neurobiology, neuroendocrinology, and behavioral sciences. It also exemplifies research from the molecular to the clinical domain. The greatest challenge of the field, which this conference seeks to stimulate, is research that is at the same time precise, focused, and integrative. Several levels of interdisciplinary overlap will be highlighted. At the molecular level, neuro- and immune mediator molecules or their receptors may be members of the same superfamily or may regulate each other's expression or function. Most extensively studied are cytokine-neuropeptide/neurotransmitter interactions, including expression of cytokines within the central nervous system and production of neuropeptides by immune cells or at inflammatory sites. Advances relating cytokine-neurohormone interactions to mechanisms of apoptosis will ultimately shed light on the role of neuroimmune interactions in neuronal cell death and survival and immune cell selection, processes important in neuronal plasticity and immune specificity. At a systems level, advances have been made in cross-disciplinary application of modes of thinking. Incorporation of neurobiology's appreciation of anatomical organization, endocrinology's temporal dimension of neurohormonal secretion, and immunology's understanding of stimulus specificity all contribute to a more precise definition of how these complex systems interact at multiple levels. More precise understanding of effects of disruptions of these communications on disease susceptibility and expression will clarify how perturbations of one system, such as stimulation of the neuroendocrine stress response, might affect expression of disease in the other, such as autoimmune/inflammatory or infectious diseases.
Test of Secondary Gas Recovery by Coproduction of Gas and Water From Mt. Selman Field, TX

A previously watered-out and abandoned gas reservoir in the Sub-Clarksville formation of the Mt. Selman field in Northeast Texas was reentered and secondary gas recovery initiated by pumping of water. Pumping was done with a sucker rod pump and bottom hole pressures in the producing well and a nearby observation well was measured via gas filled capillary size tube extending into open ended larger tubing downhole. Numerical modeling to match past performance and project possible future production was done before and during the field test to compare theoretical and actual production results. A series of draw-down and build up tests over a three month period were performed to evaluate the reservoir and determine its potential for secondary gas recovery. No residual gas cap of mobile free gas was found. The remaining free gas was apparently trapped as an immobile dispersed phase within the reservoir rock matrix. The amount of gas dissolved in the reservoir brine was about 7 Scf/Stb (1.28 std m/sup 3//m/sup 3/). The produced gas/brine ratio varied from 7 to 25 Scf/Stb (1.28 std m/sup 3//m/sup 3/ - 4.5 std m/sup 3//m/sup 3/) indicating that some immobile gas was mobilized by pumping water to lower the reservoir pressure.more » Gas analysis has shown the trapped free gas to be richer in heavier hydrocarbons than the dissolved gas.« less
No One Has Ever Seen God: The Use of Religious Archives for Nonreligious Purposes

The use of religious archives for nonreligious purposes is not a recent trend. A trend that has emerged recently is the extent to which religion-oriented archives and special collections have profoundly affected research and teaching in subject areas having little or nothing to do with religiosity. Not only have religious archives contributed to pedagogy in these areas in a profound way, but recent trends have transformed them from religious family history/genealogy centers and institutional memory repositories into secular teaching and learning centers. The article observes the use of religious archives and other religious materials in recent years. The natural assumption to expect primarily religious research to be occurring in religious archives and to find primarily religious topics in the religious literature is not often the case. Has the potential to research religious subjects in religious archives been exhausted? The use of religious archives and religious materials for nonreligious purposes is c...
Materials Science Cements Containing Syringic Acid Esters- o-Ethoxybenzoic Acid and Zinc Oxide

Fissure caries is reduced when syringic acid is incorporated into a cariogenic diet of rats. It was therefore of interest to synthesize n-hexyl and 2-ethylhexyl syringate and to evaluate the properties of cements with these compounds as ingredients. Liquids containing the esters dissolved in o-ethoxybenzoic acid (EBA) - when mixed with powders made up from zinc oxide, aluminum oxide, and hydrogenated rosin - hardened in from four to nine min. Properties of the cements were determined, when possible, according to ANSI/ADA specification tests. Depending on the powder-liquid ratio employed, we obtained compositions with varying physical properties desirable for different dental applications.The syringate cements, compared with the commonly used ZOE materials, have improved compressive and tensile strength, lower water solubility, do not inhibit polymerization, and are compatible with acrylic monomers. These cements pass, and mostly greatly exceed, the requirements for ZOE-type restorative materials. They als...
The synthesis and structure of 10,11-bistrifluoromethyl-i,o-bicyclo[7.2.2]trideca-10,12-diene. A highly strained inside-outside bicycloalkane derivative.

Abstract 10,11-Bistrifluoromethyl-i,o-bicyclo[7.2.2]trideca-10,12-diene has been prepared by the Diels-Alder addition of hexafluoro-2-butyne to cis, trans-cycloundeca-1,3-diene. Purification was accomplished via formation of an iron tricarbonyl complex whose structure was established via X-ray crystallography.
Sex Differences in Mathematical Errors: An Analysis of Distracter Choices.

Distracter analysis was introduced as a means of investigating sex differences in mathematical performance. The data were responses to an assessment test given each year from 1976 to 1979 to all sixth-grade children enrolled in California public schools. Loglinear models were used to evaluate the consistency of response by each sex over 4 years. A significant interaction between sex and choice of distracter occurred for a large majority of the items. Hypotheses of sex differences based on Radatz's (1979) information-processing classification of errors were evaluated.
Factors affecting reliability of computer solutions with hierarchical single surface constitutive models

Abstract Influence and sensitivity of various material constants in the advanced hierarchical single surface (HISS) plasticity based models on finite element computer solutions are first discussed. Such factors as drift correction and time integration schemes in conjunction with various versions in the HISS approach are considered with respect to their influence on reliability and robustness of computer solutions. Practical examples involving dynamics of piles in porous anisotropically hardening soils and static and dynamic response of concrete experiencing damage and softening are presented.
The Rise and Fall of the Flapper Dress: Nationalism and Anti‐Semitism in Early‐Twentieth‐Century Discourses on German Fashion

L'attitude des Nazis envers la mode feminine n'etait pas homogene, sauf en ce qui concerne les robes des annees 20, unanimement reprouvees en tant que signes de decadence. L'A. replace ce genre de rhetorique dans le contexte de l'Allemagne du debut du siecle, en retrace les origines et l'evolution, en soulignant les elements ideologiques nationalistes et anti-semites, les robes pour jeunes femmes, signe de modernite, etant, dans le stereotype, associees aux couturiers juifs
Development of plastic mechanisms related to learning at identified chemical synaptic connections in Aplysia

Abstract In the marine snail Aplysia californica learned changes in behavior have been traced to alterations in synaptic efficacy. With the ability to raise the animals in the laboratory, we have explored the development of four types of plastic mechanisms at identified synapses: post-tetanic potentiation and pre-synaptic inhibition, which do not as yet have known behavioral functions, and homosynaptic depression, the cellular mechanism of short-term habituation, and heterosynaptic facilitation, the basis of short-term sensitization. Homosynaptic depression and pre-synaptic inhibition are present early in juvenile life. In contrast, post-tetanic potentiation and heterosynaptic facilitation appear only later, after a discrete interval. The step-wise ontogeny of synaptic plastic mechanisms in Aplysia parallels the gradual emergence of behavior in successive developmental stages. Interestingly, sensescence reverses the developmental sequence for habituation and sensitization mechanisms. To pursue further an understanding of the relationship between synapse formation and plasticity underlying learning it will be necessary to extend these studies to dissociated cell culture where mechanisms can be explored on the molecular level. Cell culture may also permit examination of the development of cellular mechanisms underlying classical and operant conditioning which may clarify differences between associative and non-associative mechanisms.
Photodissociation of 1-bromo-2-butene, 4-bromo-1-butene, and cyclopropylmethyl bromide at 234 nm studied using velocity map imaging

We present photofragment imaging experiments to characterize potential photolytic precursors of three C4H7 radical isomers: 1-methylallyl, cyclopropylmethyl, and 3-buten-1-yl radicals. The experiments use 2+1 resonance enhanced multiphoton ionization (REMPI) with velocity map imaging to state-selectively detect the Br(2P(3/2)) and Br(2P(1/2)) atoms as a function of their recoil velocity imparted upon photodissociation of 1-bromo-2-butene, cyclopropylmethyl bromide, and 4-bromo-1-butene at 234 nm as well as the angular distributions of the photofragments. Energy and momentum conservation allows the internal energy distribution of the nascent momentum-matched radicals to be derived. The radicals are detected with single photon photoionization at 157 nm. In the case of the 1-methylallyl radical the photoionization cross section is expected to be independent of internal energy in the range of 7-30 kcal/mol. Thus, comparison of the product recoil kinetic energy distribution derived from the measurement of the 1-methylallyl velocity distribution, detecting the radicals with 157 nm photoionization, with a linear combination of the Br atom recoil kinetic energy distributions allows us to derive reliable REMPI line strength ratios for the detection of Br atoms and to test the assumption that the photoionization cross section does not strongly depend on the internal energy of the radical. This line strength ratio is then used to determine the branching to the Br(2P(3/2)) and Br(2P(1/2)) product channels for the other two photolytic systems and to determine the internal energy distribution of their momentum-matched radicals. (We also revisit earlier work on the photodissociation of cyclobutyl bromide which detected the Br atoms and momentum-matched cyclobutyl radicals.) This allows us to test whether the 157 nm photoionization of these radicals is insensitive to internal energy for the distribution of total internal (vibrational+rotational) energy produced. We find that 157 nm photoionization of cyclopropylmethyl radicals is relatively insensitive to internal energy, while 3-buten-1-yl radicals show a photoionization cross section that is markedly dependent on internal energy with the lowest internal energy radicals not efficiently detected by photoionization at 157 nm. We present electronic structure calculations of the radicals and their cations to understand the experimental results.
An algorithm for solving the perturbed gas dynamic equations

The present application of a compact, higher-order central-difference approximation to the linearized Euler equations illustrates the multimodal character of these equations by means of computations for acoustic, vortical, and entropy waves. Such dissipationless central-difference methods are shown to propagate waves exhibiting excellent phase and amplitude resolution on the basis of relatively large time-steps; they can be applied to wave problems governed by systems of first-order partial differential equations.
A critical appraisal of a randomized controlled trial: Willson et al: Effect of exogenous surfactant (calfactant) in pediatric acute lung injury (JAMA 2005, 293: 470-476).

Objective To evaluate the use of exogenous surfactant in pediatric acute lung injury (ALI) and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in decreasing the duration of respiratory failure. Design A critical appraisal of a randomized controlled trial. Findings This was a multiple-center, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial evaluating the effect of calfactant via endotracheal tube in pediatric ALI/ARDS. The primary outcome was duration of respiratory failure measured by ventilator-free days at 28 days. Secondary outcomes included hospital course, adverse events, and failure of conventional mechanical ventilation (use of high-frequency oscillatory ventilation, inhaled nitric oxide, or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation). One hundred and fifty-two patients were enrolled and randomized with strict inclusion and exclusion criteria. Aside from the experimental interventions, the treatment and placebo groups were similar at baseline. Ventilator management guidelines were defined a priori. No significant difference in ventilator-free days was found, although the treatment group had a greater improvement in oxygenation. Mortality rate was significantly greater in the placebo group (relative risk, 1.9; 95% confidence interval, 1.1-3.2). However, when controlled for immunocompromised status, the statistical significance is lost. Subgroup analysis of infants showed a greater effect on mortality (relative risk, 3.3; 95% confidence interval, 1.1-10.5) and a significant difference in ventilator-free days (15.2 days vs. 7.0 days, p = .01) for the placebo group. No other differences in measured outcomes were seen. The treatment group had an increased rate of hypotension and transient hypoxia but not of airleaks or nosocomial pneumonias. Conclusions This is a well-designed study with an appropriate intention-to-treat analysis, but it is underpowered, making it difficult to identify which patients with pediatric ALI/ARDS might benefit from calfactant. Given the uncertainty of the benefits, calfactant cannot be routinely recommended in pediatric ALI/ARDS.
On the Switching Activity and Static Test Compaction of Multicycle Scan-Based Tests

Multicycle (multipattern) scan-based tests contain multiple clock cycles between scan operations. Each such clock cycle defines a pattern of the test. Multipattern tests require fewer clock cycles for test application compared with single-pattern or two-pattern tests for the same target faults. In addition, this paper demonstrates that patterns appearing later in a test typically have lower switching activity than patterns appearing earlier in the test. Based on these observations, the paper presents a static test compaction procedure for multipattern tests that targets a reduction in switching activity while reducing the number of clock cycles required for test application. The procedure is based on an operation called test merging. Merging of a test pair causes the patterns from both tests to appear in a single test. By placing the patterns from a test with a high switching activity at the end of a merged test, their switching activity can be reduced. The proposed procedure combines the test merging procedure with a procedure that modifies a test set so as to reduce its switching activity. Through this procedure it takes advantage of the opportunities created by test merging to reduce the switching activity of patterns that appear later in a test.
Baculovirus mediated high level expression of human placental aromatase (CYP19A1).

Abstract An efficient expression system for a cDNA clone of human placental aromatase has been developed using the baculovirus expression system in TN5 ( Tricoplusia ni ) cells. The protein was expressed at high levels, with specific aromatase activity and specific P450 content comparable to that found in human placental microsomes. To achieve these high levels of activity, hemin had to be added to the cultures of infected cells and NADPH-cytochrome P450 reductase had to be included in the assay buffer. The spectral properties of ligand bound forms of the baculovirus expressed aromatase were very similar to those exhibited by the same ligand bound forms of the enzyme purified from placental microsomes. This expression system appears to be a suitable source for the purification of milligram quantifies of recombinant aromatase.
Isolation of a putative laminin binding protein from Streptococcus anginosus

Viridans streptococci, including Streptococcus anginosus, are a common cause of infective endocarditis in humans. Adherence mechanisms involved in colonization of non-diseased native valves (present in 40% of native valve endocarditis) are unknown. We have previously shown that an endocarditis isolate of S. anginosus adheres to exposed basement membrane of human and porcine valve tissue in a laminin dependent manner. We now describe the partial purification of an 80 kDa putative laminin binding protein (PLBP) by biochemical methods. Amino acid sequence of PLBP peptides is similar to substrate binding proteins of ABC transporters in other Gram-positive cocci.
Ifosfamide nephrotoxicity in paediatric cancer patients.

Ifosfamide is an alkylating agent which has been incorporated into frontline therapy for a number of malignant paediatric tumours. Recent data appears to suggest that tubular dysfunction may result from incorporation of this drug into chemotherapy schedules and that toxicity may be dose related. A detailed investigation of renal function was performed in a group of patients, ranging in age from 8 months to 15.9 years (median 8.6 years) with rhabdomyosarcoma (n=11) and Ewing's sarcoma (n=9) who were currently receiving (n=4) or had completed ifosfamide (n=16) therapy a mean of 16 months at the time of study. All but one patient demonstrated some degree of renal dysfunction and toxicity did not necessarily appear to be dose related. Implications for incorporation of this agent into future schedules for childhood sarcomas, which can expect to cure more than 60% of such children, must be addressed. The importance of ongoing monitoring is emphasised.
Characterization of uterine NK cells in women with infertility or recurrent pregnancy loss and associated endometriosis.

PROBLEM Uterine natural killer cells (uNK) have been thought to play a key role in endometriosis and infertility. We investigated the expression of CD56, CD16, and NKp46 in endometrial tissues from 61 women with unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss (uRPL) or infertility (UI) and correlated this with the presence or absence of endometriosis. The results from the patients with subfertility were compared with those from 10 fertile patients. METHOD OF STUDY Mid-secretory phase endometrial biopsies were obtained, and the endometrial expression of CD56, CD16, or NKp46 was identified by immunohistochemistry and quantified (ImageJ Software). RESULTS The percentage of CD16(+) cells was higher in women with uRPL (7.9 ± 3.2) and UI (9.0 ± 5.5), even when these conditions were associated with endometriosis (8.9 ± 5.3), compared with fertile patients (5.6 ± 2.4, P < 0.05). Likewise, the ratio of NKp46(+) :CD56(+) cells was higher in women with uRPL (0.28 ± 0.25) and UI (0.21 ± 0.2), even when these conditions were associated with endometriosis (0.19 ± 0.14), compared with fertile patients (0.1 ± 0.1, P < 0.05). No differences were observed when comparing CD56. CONCLUSIONS Women, with or without endometriosis, who have larger populations of cytotoxic CD16(+) uNK cells and/or higher populations of NKp46(+) CD56(+) cells may be at greater risk of infertility disorders resulting from an inflammatory environment occurring during implantation or later during decidualization.
Design and operation of an adapter for the measurement of platelet aggregation with a spectrophotometer

Abstract The design and use of a special cell carriage for the turbidimetric measurement of platelet aggregation with a Cary 14 spectrophotometer are described. The resulting apparatus is far more versatile than commercially available aggregometers.
The quasi-static propagation of a plane strain crack in a power-law inhomogeneous linearly viscoelastic body

An analysis is presented of the steady-state propagation of a semi-infinite mode I crack for an infinite inhomogeneous, linearly viscoelastic body. The shear modulus is assumed to have a power-law dependence on depth from the plane of the crack. Moreover, both a general and a power-law behavior in time for the shear modulus are considered. A simple closed form expression for the normal component of stress in front of the propagating crack is derived which exhibits explicitly the form of the stress singularity and its material dependency. The crack profile is examined and its dependence on the spatial and time behavior of the shear modulus is determined.
Modeling and Analysis of Time-Periodic Gearbox Vibration

In a modern wind turbine, the gearbox is an expensive and fault-prone subsystem. Currently, condition monitoring, based on comparison of data of healthy baseline measurement and online measurement, followed by feature analysis and decision making, is the main approach of diagnosis and prognosis. Although having been employed in many practical implementations, such methods have limitations. For example, a huge database is needed when operating conditions change and normal variations are significant. Traditionally, first-principle-based modeling of gearboxes is considered very challenging, primarily due to their dynamic characteristics that exhibit time-periodicity and encompass a very wide frequency range. In this research, aiming at achieving the predictive modeling capability, a lumped-parameter model of a two-stage laboratory gearbox testbed is constructed based on the assumed mode method. This model can characterize the gearbox dynamic effects including the time-varying mesh stiffness and backlash. The Floquet theory and harmonic balance method are then applied to analytically investigate the system dynamics, where the eigenvalues of the time-periodic gearbox are extracted and correlated to the spectral analysis results of the time-domain response prediction. This modeling approach and the associated analysis lay down a foundation for establishing hybrid dynamic model of complex gearbox systems which will further be utilized in model-based diagnosis and prognosis.Copyright © 2014 by ASME
Improving integrated marketing communications practices: A comparison of objectives and results

Marketing managers face increasing demands for effectiveness measurement including more rigorous assessment of the match between marketing communication objectives and results. This study provides an analysis of current objective-setting practices and a comparison with past industry practices by applying a traditional communication task model to marketing communications award competition entries. The results indicate that there is still room for improvement in communication objective-setting practices. Suggestions for improving these practices include (1) making a commitment to assessment, (2) offering actionable objective-setting education, (3) increasing attention to the impact of new media, and (4) expanding the role of agencies. The authors conclude that the study of the objectives and results aspect of marketing communication management will create new opportunities for integrated marketing communications scholars and practitioners to increase the effectiveness of promotional activities.
Radioimmunoassay of pancreatic polypeptide in mammalian and submammalian vertebrates using a carboxyl-terminal hexapeptide antiserum

Abstract Pancreatic polypeptide (PP) immunoreactivity in acid-ethanol extracts of the pancreas of representative species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish was studied by a radioimmunoassay (RIA) that utilizes an antiserum which cross-reacts exclusively with the COOH-terminal hexapeptide of PP (CTPP). PP immunoreactivity in acid-ethanol extracts of rat nonpancreas tissues (stomach, duodenum, skeletal muscle, brain) was also examined. Significant concentrations of PP immunoreactivity were detected in the pancreatic extracts of all species, except fish. Appreciable quantities of PP immunoreactivity were also found in the stomach and duodenum of rats. In all cases, tissue extracts showed parallelism with reference PP (bovine) in the RIA. Gel chromatography (Sephadex G-50sf) of tissue extracts (rat, turtle) demonstrated a major peak of PP immunoreactivity, which eluted in the region of the reference PP. Salamander PP immunoreactivity eluted after bovine PP. In addition, the CTPP RIA can be applied to measure plasma levels of PP in rats, dogs, and humans. By using this PP RIA, we observed that plasma PP levels increase significantly in dogs (P
Low-power design under variation using error prevention and error tolerance (invited paper)

This paper presents error tolerance and error prevention methodologies to reduce power dissipation in digital circuits under process variations. For logic circuits, timing error prevention using time-borrowing and clock stretching is discussed as a feasible approach to reduce power dissipation for a target throughput. The natural error tolerance in image processing applications is exploited to reduce power dissipations in Static Random Access Memory (SRAM).
Metal price and supply effects of electric vehicle commercialization

Abstract Important issues regarding the commercialization of electric vehicles (EVs) powered by nickel-zinc and lead-acid batteries are the future effects on the prices, and sources of supply for nickel, lead, zinc, and cobalt. This study examines these effects for different EV commercialization scenarios. A spatial price equilibrium model is formulated as a quadratic program and solved to estimate the effects on prices and flows. Results indicate that at EV production rates of more than 1 million per year, non-traditional and unstable suppliers, including Africa and the U.S.S.R., increase sales of nickel to the U.S., but prices do not increase significantly. Lead and zinc prices do not rise significantly because of EV commercialization, and the U.S. and Canada supply most of the ore demanded. Under competitive market assumptions, Africa increases its output of cobalt with little increase in the metal's real price. The most significant parameter affecting metal prices and supply sources is the annual EV production rate.
Trout intestinal alkaline phosphatases I. Some physical‐chemical characteristics

Four electrophoretic zones of trout intestinal alkaline phosphatase are described on the basis of charge and molecular weight heterogeneity. Qualitative and quantitative differences in the intestinal phosphatase complement suggest three basic phenotypes, which are exemplified by the isozyme patterns of wild brook trout, hatchery brook trout, and lake trout. The partially purified and separated trout phosphatase zones have been characterized physically and chemically. The data presented clearly place these enzymes in the category of the non-specific alkaline phosphomonoesterases. In common with this group of enzymes, trout phosphatases catalyze the hydrolysis of a wide variety of phosphomonoesters and pyrophosphates, as well as transphosphorylation reactions.
The effects of chronotype, sleep schedule and light/dark pattern exposures on circadian phase.

Abstract Background Chronotype characterizes individual differences in sleep/wake rhythm timing, which can also impact light exposure patterns. The present study investigated whether early and late chronotypes respond differently to controlled advancing and delaying light exposure patterns while on a fixed, advanced sleep/wake schedule. Methods In a mixed design, 23 participants (11 late chronotypes and 12 early chronotypes) completed a 2-week, advanced sleep/wake protocol twice, once with an advancing light exposure pattern and once with a delaying light exposure pattern. In the advancing light exposure pattern, the participants received short-wavelength light in the morning and short-wavelength-restricting orange-tinted glasses in the evening. In the delaying light exposure pattern, participants received short-wavelength-restricting orange-tinted glasses in the morning and short-wavelength light in the evening. Light/dark exposures were measured with the Daysimeter. Salivary dim light melatonin onset (DLMO) was also measured. Results Compared to the baseline week, DLMO was significantly delayed after the delaying light intervention and significantly advanced after the advancing light intervention in both groups. There was no significant difference in how the two chronotype groups responded to the light intervention. Conclusions The present results demonstrate that circadian phase changes resulting from light interventions are consistent with those predicted by previously published phase response curves (PRCs) for both early and late chronotypes.
Query2Question: Translating Visualization Interaction into Natural Language

Richly interactive visualization tools are increasingly popular for data exploration and analysis in a wide variety of domains. Existing systems and techniques for recording provenance of interaction focus either on comprehensive automated recording of low-level interaction events or on idiosyncratic manual transcription of high-level analysis activities. In this paper, we present the architecture and translation design of a query-to-question (Q2Q) system that automatically records user interactions and presents them semantically using natural language (written English). Q2Q takes advantage of domain knowledge and uses natural language generation (NLG) techniques to translate and transcribe a progression of interactive visualization states into a visual log of styled text that complements and effectively extends the functionality of visualization tools. We present Q2Q as a means to support a cross-examination process in which questions rather than interactions are the focus of analytic reasoning and action. We describe the architecture and implementation of the Q2Q system, discuss key design factors and variations that effect question generation, and present several visualizations that incorporate Q2Q for analysis in a variety of knowledge domains.
Loop) quantum gravity and the inflationary scenario

Abstract Quantum gravity, as a fundamental theory of space-time, is expected to reveal how the universe may have started, perhaps during or before an inflationary epoch. It may then leave a potentially observable (but probably miniscule) trace in cosmic large-scale structures that seem to match well with predictions of inflation models. A systematic quest to derive such tiny effects using one approach, loop quantum gravity, has, however, led to unexpected obstacles. Such models remain incomplete, and it is not clear whether loop quantum gravity can be consistent as a full theory. But some surprising effects appear to be generic and would drastically alter our understanding of space-time at large density. These new high-curvature phenomena are a consequence of a widening gap between quantum gravity and ordinary quantum-field theory on a background.
Contraceptive sterilization in four Latin American countries.

The use of sterilization as a method of contraception is increasing rapidly throughout the world. This paper reports on sterilization rates for women in Colombia, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic and Panama in relation to demographic characteristics. Comparisons are made with non-sterilized women using other efficient contraceptive methods. The sterilization rates range from 0·161 in Colombia to 0·552 in Panama; births averted are calculated as one-quarter in Colombia, one-half in Costa Rica and one in the Dominican Republic and Panama.
High Pressure NMR Studies of Chemical and Biochemical Systems

Nuclear magnetic measurements at high pressure provide unique information about the microscopic behavior of chemical and biochemical systems. In view of the high information content of advanced high resolution NMR techniques including 2D and 3D NMR, the ability of performing these experiments at high pressure opens a very promising direction in high pressure research.
RELIGION, GUILT, AND ETHICAL STANDARDS.

(1964). Religion, Guilt, and Ethical Standards. The Journal of Social Psychology: Vol. 63, No. 1, pp. 145-159.
Parallel implementation of analytic data fusion

A description is given of an uncertainty and parallel data fusion approach that has been developed and tested. This fusion algorithm is based on the interaction of two constraints: the principle of knowledge source corroboration, which tends to maximize the final belief in a given proposition (often modeled by a probability density function or fuzzy membership distribution) if either of the knowledge sources supports the occurrence of the proposition; and the principle of belief enhancement/withdrawal which adjusts the belief of one knowledge source according to the belief of a second knowledge source by maximizing the similarity between the two source outputs. These two principles are combined by maximizing a positive linear combination of these two constraints related by a fusion function, to be determined. The implementation of this method was performed on an NCUBE hypercube parallel computer. >
THE SELECTIVE VALUE OF ALLELES UNDERLYING POLYGENIC TRAITS

To define the genetic and ecological circumstances that are conductive to evolution via genetic drift at the allelic level, the selection coefficient for a constituent allele of arbitrary effect is derived for a polygenic character exposed to stabilizing selection. Under virtually all possible conditions, alleles within the class for which the absolute value of the average effect is <10-2 phenotypic standard deviations are neutral with respect to each other. In addition, when the mean phenotype is at the optimum and the genetic variance is in selection-drift-mutation equilibrium, a considerable amount of neutral evolution is expected in the class of alleles with intermediate effects on the phenotype. These results help clarify how molecular evolution via genetic drift may occur at a locus despite intense selection and provide a potential mechanistic explanation for the neutral theory of molecular evolution.
The decline in arctic sea-ice thickness: Separating the spatial, annual, and interannual variability in a quarter century of submarine data

[1] Naval submarines have collected operational data of sea-ice draft (93% of thickness) in the Arctic Ocean since 1958. Data from 34 U.S. cruises are publicly archived. They span the years 1975 to 2000, are equally distributed in spring and autumn, and cover roughly half the Arctic Ocean. The data set is strong: we use 2203 values of mean draft, each value averaged over a nominal length of 50 km. These values range from 0 to 6 m with a standard deviation of 0.99 m. Multiple regression is used to separate the interannual change, the annual cycle, and the spatial field. The solution gives a climatology for ice draft as a function of space and time. The residuals of the regression have a standard deviation of 0.46 m, slightly more than the observational error standard deviation of 0.38 m. The overall mean of the solution is 2.97 m. Annual mean ice draft declined from a peak of 3.42 m in 1980 to a minimum of 2.29 m in 2000, a decrease of 1.13 m (1.25 m in thickness). The steepest rate of decrease is −0.08 meters per year (m/a) in 1990. The rate slows to −0.007 m/a at the end of the record. The annual cycle has a maximum on 30 April and a peak-to-trough amplitude of 1.06 m (1.12 m in thickness). The spatial contour map of the temporal mean draft varies from a minimum draft of 2.2 m near Alaska to a maximum just over 4 m at the edge of the data release area 200 miles north of Ellesmere Island.
Lights, camera…citizen science: assessing the effectiveness of smartphone-based video training in invasive plant identification.

The rapid growth and increasing popularity of smartphone technology is putting sophisticated data-collection tools in the hands of more and more citizens. This has exciting implications for the expanding field of citizen science. With smartphone-based applications (apps), it is now increasingly practical to remotely acquire high quality citizen-submitted data at a fraction of the cost of a traditional study. Yet, one impediment to citizen science projects is the question of how to train participants. The traditional “in-person” training model, while effective, can be cost prohibitive as the spatial scale of a project increases. To explore possible solutions, we analyze three training models: 1) in-person, 2) app-based video, and 3) app-based text/images in the context of invasive plant identification in Massachusetts. Encouragingly, we find that participants who received video training were as successful at invasive plant identification as those trained in-person, while those receiving just text/images were less successful. This finding has implications for a variety of citizen science projects that need alternative methods to effectively train participants when in-person training is impractical.
Data Access Tools - Filling the Usability Gap in Cryosphere Data

The National Snow and Ice Data Center (NSIDC) houses the NASA-sponsored Snow and Ice Distributed Active Archive Center (DAAC), providing data and information services to the cryospheric research community. By far the most popular data served by the NSIDC DAAC are derived from Earth-observing remote sensing instruments aboard polar orbiting satellites. These instruments include Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR), Scanning Multichannel Microwave Radiometer (SMMR), Special Sensor Microwave/ Imager (SSM/I), Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS), Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer - Earth Observing System (AMSR-E), and Geoscience Laser Altimeter System (GLAS). Observations made by these Earth-observing sensors are a valuable resource for polar researchers. However, the Earth science community, and in particular the polar research community, often have problems accessing data that are suitable for a specific study. These difficulties range from accessing data from large-volume archives to effectively using the data upon delivery. NSIDC's responsibility is to facilitate the user's data acquisition experience by reducing the inefficiencies in data discovery and by providing data users with software utilities that assist the scientist with using the delivered data. NSIDC and a group of collaborators have proposed to create an advanced multi-faceted web service for data access, browse, overlay, manipulation, and delivery that integrates several important data sets for cryospheric analysis. The services we propose will directly address the several data access issues that impede progress in our under.standing of climate change in the Polar Regions.