cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of a disialylated hexasaccharide of type VIII group B Streptococcus capsular polysaccharide.

As part of our program to design, develop and prepare protective vaccines against the bacterial pathogens Group B Streptococcus, we report the synthesis of a disialylated hexasaccharide. This hexasaccharide represents a portion of the serotype-specific capsular polysaccharide of Type VIII that has the tetrasaccharide repeat unit [beta-L-Rhap-(1-->4)-beta-D-Glcp-(1-->4)-[alpha-Neu5Ac-(2--> 3)]-beta-D- Galp-(1-->4)]n. A tetrasaccharide corresponding to this repeat unit has been synthesized by us [E. Eichler, H.J. Jennings, D.M. Whitfield, J. Carbohydr. Chem., 16 (1997) 385-411]. Since the protective epitopes are believed to involve several repeat units, methods to extend this tetrasaccharide were examined. This objective requires a glycosylation of the unreactive OH-4 of the beta-L-Rhap, which was accomplished by coupling a D-Galp glycosyl trichloroacetimidate donor with a beta-L-Rhap-(1-->4)-D-Glcp acceptor. Subsequent coupling of this trisaccharide as a donor to an alpha-Neu5Ac-(2-->3)-D-Galp disaccharide acceptor gave a pentasaccharide. The pentasaccharide was deprotected and enzymatically sialylated using an alpha-(2-->3)-sialyltransferase from Campylobacter jejuni to give the title hexasaccahride alpha-Neu5Ac-(2-->3)- beta-D-Galp-(1-->4)-beta-L-Rhap-(1-->4)-beta-D-Glcp-(1-->4)-[alpha -Neu5Ac- (2-->3)]-beta-D-Galp-(1-->O)-(CH2)3N3.
An adaptive dynamic relaxation method for quasi-static simulations using the peridynamic theory

Abstract The peridynamic theory is advantageous for problems involving damage since the peridynamic equation of motion is valid everywhere, regardless of existing discontinuities, and an external criterion is not necessary for predicting damage initiation and propagation. However, the current solution methods for the equations of peridynamics utilize explicit time integration, which poses difficulties in simulations of most experiments under quasi-static conditions. Thus, there is a need to obtain steady-state solutions in order to validate peridynamic predictions against experimental measurements. This study presents an extension of dynamic relaxation methods for obtaining steady-state solutions of nonlinear peridynamic equations.
Optimized algorithms for displaying 16-bit gray scale images on 8-bit computer graphic systems

Most personal computers contain 8-bit graphic display hardware, whereas most medical gray scale images are stored at 16-bit per pixel integers. To display medical gray scale images on such computers, the 16-bit image data must be remapped into 8-bit gray scale images. This report presents the algorithms and computer code that allow very rapid 16-bit to 8-bit image data transformation. These algorithms are helpful in allowing personal computers with at least the performance of a Macintosh II (Apple Computer, Cupertino, CA) computer to function as low-end picture archiving communication systems or personal workstations.
Estimated near-surface mesoplanktonic bioluminescence in the western North Atlantic during july 1986

Mesoplankton samples (retained by 202#x2010;µm mesh) were collected with oblique net hauls from 150 m to the surface along 62°W from 30°N (Sargasso Sea) to 44°30′N (Nova Scotia shelf) in July 1986. The amount of bioluminescence produced by mechanically stimulating individual bioluminescent organisms (ostracods, copepods, cuphausiids) to exhaustion (TMSL) was measured with a shipboard photometry system. The TMSL values combined with individual organism abundances from the net tows provided an estimate of total near#x2010;surface bioluminescent potential. It was greater (11.4 × 1014 photons m−2) in the Sargasso Sea than in the Slope Water north of the Gulf Stream (3.0 × 1014 photons m−2). In the Sargasso Sea, Pyrocystis noctiluca was the major light producer south of 39°N, but became less important between 39°N and 42°N. In Slope Water, north of 42°N, the copepod Metridia lucens was responsible for 90% of the potential near#x2010;surface bioluminescence produced by mesoplankton.
Constraint logic programming

Constraint logic programming (CLP) is a generalization of logic programming (LP) where unification, the basic operation of LP languages, is replaced by constraint handling in a constraint system. The resulting languages combine the advantages of LP (declarative semantics, nondeterminism, relational form) with the efficiency of constraint-solving algorithms. For some classes of combinatorial search problems, they shorten the development time significantly while preserving most of the efficiency of imperative languages. This paper surveys this new class of programming languages from their underlying theory, to their constraint systems, and to their applications to combinatorial problems.
Analysis of the Role of Traveler Attitudes and Perceptions in Explaining Mode-Choice Behavior:

An analysis was carried out using the 1991 wave of the Puget Sound Transportation Panel data set to determine the role played by attitudinal and preference variables in explaining commuter mode-choice behavior. Different modal market segments were compared to determine the extent to which attitudes and preferences differ across mode choices. A factor analysis was performed on the sample to identify a few distinct factors that would summarize the multitude of attitudinal variables present in the data set. Multinomial logit models of mode choice were estimated using different utility specifications. Three types of models were estimated: one that included only demographic variables, another that included only attitudinal factors, and another that included both demographic and attitudinal variables. Likelihood ratio tests were applied to assess the significance of the contribution of different types of variables in explaining mode-choice behavior. Results show that demographic variables and attitudinal variables are extremely important in explaining mode-choice behavior. More noteworthy, however, is the finding that the contribution of attitudinal factors is greater than that of demographic variables, thus emphasizing the need for greater consideration of attitudinal and preference variables in travel-demand-modeling applications.
Interview with Jeffrey L. Dangl

Jeff Dangl was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA. His family moved to Redding, in the beautiful north of California, when Jeff was aged 5. He grew up fishing in the lakes and streams of the great North State and hunting ducks and geese on the Pacific Flyway. This introduction to field biology spurred Jeff's interest, and he studied Biological Sciences and English, with a specialization in Modern Literature, at Stanford University as an undergraduate, earning dual Bachelor's degrees in 1981. Jeff had the good fortune to find a summer job in 1978, learning how to run and manage the fluorescence-activated cell sorter (FACS) in the lab of its creator, Prof.
Modified Therapeutic Communities and Adherence to Traditional Elements

Abstract Traditional therapeutic communities (TCs) are characterized by confrontational group therapy, treatment phases, a tenure-based resident hierarchy, and long-term residential care. Many TCs have modified the structure and intensity of the traditional model, tailored services for specific client populations, and hired more professionally trained staff. This study examines the extent to which modified TCs are able to retain the underlying core technology of the TC. Using data from a nationally representative sample of 380 self-identified TCs, six traditional TC elements are identified. Results from a structural equation model indicate that offering services for specific populations and professionalization of staff has limited impact on the six TC elements. Modifications to structure and intensity of TC programming evidenced the strongest effect. Specifically, outpatient-only TCs showed significantly lower adherence to five of the six elements. Short-term residential programs showed a similar negative...
Observations on the Intravenous Injection of Gelatin for Nutritional Purposes.

Summary1. A positive nitrogen balance or nitrogen equilibrium may be maintained in protein-depleted dogs with a gelatin solution injected intravenously as practically the sole source of nitrogen.2. Elevation of depressed blood plasma protein levels may obtain from intravenously administered gelatin as practically the sole source of nitrogen. The increase is apparently in the globulin fraction and represents to a large extent circulating gelatin. It was found that most of the gelatin used above in aqueous solution, or if added to plasma in vitro, precipitates with 2176 sodium sulphite (thus behaving like a “globulin”).3. At least a portion of intravenously injected gelatin appears to be metabolized since there is a substantial increase in non-protein nitrogen excretion following injections.
Plasmon Assisted Transparency in Metallodielectric Resonators

We present a theoretical study of light scattering in spherical metallodielectric multi-layered particles and their ordered assemblies. A tunable electromagnetic transparency and possible left-handed optical response are discussed.
Lattice QCD and the Jefferson Lab program

Lattice gauge theory provides our only means of performing ab initio calculations in the nonperturbative regime. It has thus become an increasingly important component of the Jefferson Lab physics program. In this paper, we describe the contributions of lattice QCD to our understanding of hadronic and nuclear physics, focusing on the structure of hadrons, the calculation of the spectrum and properties of resonances, and finally on deriving an understanding of the QCD origin of nuclear forces.
Data Analysis Using SAS

This article discusses SAS as a language and environment for statistical computing. The SAS System has developed over the past 20 years from being primarily a statistical package into providing a diversified system for managing and analyzing data. The part of SAS most appropriate for statistical computing is the interactive matrix language, SAS/IML. IML is used to illustrate tasks such as M-estimation, bootstrapping, and kernel density estimation. An extensive collection of preprogrammed statistical procedures is available in SAS to carry out more standard statistical analyses such as generalized linear models or categorical modeling.
Plasmalogens of the nervous system. I. Deposition in developing rat brain and incorporation of C14 isotope from acetate and palmitate into the α,β-unsaturated ether chain

Abstract The deposition of plasmalogens in the nervous system of the weanling rat indicates that they are associated with the events occuring in myelination. However, plasmalogens are not exclusively confined to cerebral white matter. The incorporation of C 14 isotope derived from C 2 and C 16 fatty acids into both the ether of plasmalogens and fatty acid chains of lipides of the nervous system has been demonstrated. The degree of incorporation suggests that acetate may be a preferable precursor to palmitate although factors of penetration into the brain must be taken into account. The incorporation of palmitate is markedly depressed by simultaneous injection of acetate and linoleate. The conversion of the injected fatty acids to α,β-unsaturated ethers is evidence of a reductive process.
An X-Ray Diffraction Study of Sphingomyelin-Cholesterol Interaction in Oriented Bilayers

Abstract Oriented samples of sphingomyelin (SM), cholesterol (CHOL) and their mixtures in SM : CHOL molar proportions of 4 : 1, 3 : 1, 2 : 1, 1 : 1 and 1 : 2 were studied by x-ray diffraction. These samples were in multilayered form such that a series of discrete series of x-ray reflections were recorded from a well-defined lamellar repeating distance. Samples with SM : CHOL molar ratio of 2 : 1 had a phase different from the SM bilayers alone. Samples with SM : CHOL ratio less than and greater than 2 : 1 appeared to have separate SM and CHOL phases. An x-ray analysis of the diffraction pattern of the 2 : 1 SM : CHOL complex is presented.
A characterization and nearly linear-time equivalence test for μ -branching programs

We present a characterization ofμ-branching programs and a decomposition tree data structure which results from the characterization. We then show how the data structure can be used to test the equivalence of a pair ofn-nodeμ-branching programs inO(nα(n)) time, whereα(n) is a functional inverse of the Ackermann function. In addition, we show that equivalence testing ofkμ-branching programs fork≥3 is co-NP-complete.
Seeing the Forest and the Trees: Human-Environment Interactions in Forest Ecosystems by Emilio F. Moran and Elinor Ostrom, eds.

Emilio F. Moran and Elinor Ostrom, eds. Cambridge, MA: MIT Press, 2005. xiii and 442 pp., maps, diagrams, plates, glossary, and index. $35.00 paper (ISBN 0-262-63312-4). Seeing the Forest and the T...
Hexamethylene bisacetamide leads to reduced helper virus-free HSV-1 amplicon expression titers via suppression of ICP0.

The herpes simplex virus (HSV)-derived amplicon vector has evolved into a promising gene transfer platform for widespread DNA delivery in gene replacement strategies and vaccine development given its ease of molecular manipulation, large transgene capacity, and transduction efficiencies of numerous cell types in vivo. The recent development of helper virus-free packaging methodologies bodes well for this vector system in its eventual implementation as a clinically viable therapeutic modality. For realization of clinical application, efforts have been made to enhance yields and quality of helper-free amplicon stocks. Hexamethylene bisacetamide (HMBA), a hybrid polar compound that exhibits stimulatory activity of HSV-1 immediate-early gene expression, has been employed as a standard reagent in helper virus-free packaging given its purported mode of action on virus gene expression kinetics. Unexpectedly, we have found that HMBA exhibits no titer-enhancing activity; in contrast, the compound enhances the proportion of amplicon virions that are non-expressive. Omission of HMBA during vector packaging led to a marked reduction in the ratios of vector genome-transducing to transgene-expressing virions. This effect was neither packaging-cell-specific nor amplicon-promoter-dependent. Analysis of resultant vector stocks indicated amplicon genome replication/concatenation was unaffected, but the level of particle-associated ICP0 was reduced in stocks packaged in the presence of HMBA. Inclusion of a co-transfected, ICP0-expressing plasmid into the packaging process led to significant rescue of amplicon expression titers, indicating that regulation of ICP0 concentrations is critical for maintenance of the amplicon genome expressive state. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dmp1 and tumor suppression.

Dmp1 (cyclin D binding myb-like protein 1; also called Dmtf1) is a transcription factor that was isolated in a yeast two-hybrid screen through its binding property to cyclin D2. Although it was initially predicted to be involved in the cyclin D-Rb pathway, overexpression of Dmp1 in primary cells induces cell cycle arrest in an Arf, p53-dependent fashion. Dmp1 is a unique Arf regulator, the promoter of which is activated by oncogenic Ras-Raf signaling. Dmp1 expression is repressed by physiological mitogenic stimuli as well as by overexpressed E2F proteins; thus, it is a novel marker of cells that have exited from the cell cycle. Spontaneous and oncogene-induced tumor formation is accelerated in both Dmp1+/− and Dmp1−/− mice; the Dmp1+/− tumors often retain and express the wild-type allele; thus, Dmp1 is haplo-insufficient for tumor suppression. Tumors from Dmp1+/− and Dmp1−/− mice often retain wild-type Arf and p53, suggesting that Dmp1 is a physiological regulator of the Arf-p53 pathway. The human DMP1 (hDMP1) gene is located on chromosome 7q21, the locus of which is often deleted in myeloid leukemia and also in some types of solid tumors. Post-translational modification of Dmp1 and its role in human malignancy remain to be investigated.
Health-Promotion Practices of Young Black Women at Risk for Diabetes

PURPOSEThe purpose of this study was to assess the health-promoting practices of young black women at risk for type 2 diabetes.METHODSThe sample consisted of 30 black women from an urban area who had a history of gestational diabetes and/or a first-degree relative with diabetes. Participants completed the Health-Promoting Lifestyle Profile II Survey and an interview. Both were used to categorize health-promoting practices, exercise, diet, knowledge of diabetes prevention, and general health.RESULTSDemographic information and interview revealed a propensity towards obesity, despite education and income levels. The results for the Lifestyle II Survey showed a higher average total score for healthy nutrition than physical activity, which were inconsistent with the qualitative data obtained by interview. Fifty percent stated that they exercised as a general health-promoting behavior. Self-reported daily caloric, fiber, and fat intake was high to moderate; 60% reported initiating diet modifications secondary t...
Relative spatial profiles of barium ion and atom in the argon inductively coupled plasma as obtained by laser excited fluorescence

Abstract Relative ionic and atomic fluorescence profiles for barium have been obtained in an argon inductively coupled plasma by exciting different transitions with a nitrogen-laser pumped tunable dye laser and measuring the resulting fluorescence pulses with a boxcar averager. Spatially resolved profiles are directly obtained without the need of an Abel inversion procedure, with a volume resolution of approximately 0.2 mm3. The profiles are given along the excitation axis as well as along the observation axis, for different heights above the coil and different input powers. At low heights, the ion profile resembles a hollow pencil with a typical double-peaked, asymmetric distribution, while the atom profile seems to be complementary to the ion profile. Some scatter from water is also evident at low heights.
Enhanced Förster Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) on Single Metal Particle

We examined the effect of a metallic silver particle on Forster resonance energy transfer (FRET) between a nearby donor-acceptor pair. A donor- labeled oligonucleotide was chemically bound to a single silver particle and then an acceptor- labeled complementary oligonucleotide was conjugated by hybridization. The photophysical behavior of FRET between the donor-acceptor pair on the metal particle was investigated using both ensemble emission spectra and single- molecule fluorescence detections. Both the emission intensities and lifetimes indicated an enhanced FRET efficiency due to the metal particle. This interaction led to an increase in the Forster distance for energy transfer from 8.3 to 13 nm. The rate constant of FRET near the silver particle was 21-fold faster than that of unbound donor-acceptor pair. These results suggest the use of metal-enhanced FRET for measuring proximity of large biomolecules or for energy transfer based assays.
Atmospheric deposition to a low-elevation spruce-fir forest, Maine, USA

A spruce-fir forest in central-Maine, USA, has been the site of dry and wet atmospheric deposition measurements since 1988. Precipitation flux of hydrogen ions (H + ) and sulfate (SO 4 2- ) decreased by 24 and 42%, respectively, during the study period, but no temporal trends occurred for precipitation H + or SO 4 2- concentrations. Decreased precipitation fluxes were likely due to a 33% decrease in precipitation amounts during the latter years of the study. Both H + and SO 4 2- concentrations and fluxes in throughfall decreased, corresponding to decreases in dry deposition of those constituents. No nitrate (NO 3 - ) concentration or flux trends occurred in precipitation, throughfall, or dry deposition. Hydrogen, NO 3 - , and NH 4 + had a negative net canopy exchange (NCE) attributable to N deficiency at this site and acid neutralization in the canopy. Sulfate and magnesium (Mg 2+ ) were conservative and had no NCE. Calcium (Ca 2+ ) and potassium (K + ) had a positive NCE due to canopy leaching. A comparison of bulk and wet-only precipitation collectors showed that SO 4 2- , Ca 2+ , and K + concentrations were greater in solutions from a bulk collector compared with a wet-only collector. The differences were partially attributable to dry deposition. Throughfall H + , Ca 2+ , and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) concentrations were higher in weekly wet-only collections composited monthly, compared with weekly bulk collections composited either weekly or monthly. Nitrate concentration, however, was lowest in the wet-only throughfall collections. Differences likely resulted from spatial variability. Ongoing research is attempting to further define trends apparent to date, and to determine the mechanisms controlling these. characteristics.
Diagnostic and therapeutic considerations in silent myocardial ischemia

Attempts at diagnosis and treatment of silent myocardial ischemia appear to be justified in patients with known or suspected coronary artery disease. A positive exercise test result or ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring showing ST-segment deviation is an appropriate indication for adjustment of anti-ischemic therapy. With the documentation of more severe ischemia, angiography should be considered to determine the extent of coronary artery disease. Medical therapy, antianginal agents and risk reduction may improve survival. When ischemic involvement is severe, as in 3-vessel disease, interventional surgery may be required, whether or not ischemia is accompanied by angina. Selected clinical practice cases are presented to illustrate these diagnostic and therapeutic considerations, and are followed by group discussion.
Improved Preparation of Cyclohexylidene Derivatives of MYO-Imositol

Abstract Condensation of myo-inositol with 1,1-dimethoxy-cyclohexane in the presence of Nafion-H affords directly 1,2-O-cyclohexylidene-myo-inositol in 45 - 50% yield, along with 1,2:3,4-, 1,2:4,5- and 1, 2 : 5,6-di-O-cyclohexylidene-myo-inositols in lesser amounts.
Red Tattoo Reactions: Treatment with the Carbon Dioxide Laser

Cutaneous reactions to red tattoo pigment occurred in two patients who developed erythema, swelling, and severe pruritus in the area of red coloration within their tattoos. Carbon dioxide (CO2) laser vaporization of the red portions of the tattoos led to complete resolution of symptoms with an excellent cosmetic result and preservation of the tattoo design. A step-by-step guide to the use of the CO2 laser for this treatment is described.
Evidence of large Cainozoic crustal shortening of Asia

PALAEOMAGNETIC studies of late Cretaceous–early Tertiary red beds in southern Tibet indicate that they were magnetised at about 8°N and, therefore, that they subsequently moved north about 22° (ref. 1). Xiangyuan et al.1 collected 12 samples across the thickness of red beds which overlies an early late-Cretaceous stratum (Tsu mulong group) in Linzhou. Fossils of late Cretaceous marine fauna were found within the red bed itself, and Foraminifera (Lockhatia sp.) of early Tertiary age were found near an outcrop of the volcanic assembly that unconformably overlies the red beds. Three of their samples were tested for stability using alternating field demagnetisation with an applied field of 50–300 oersted. No obvious secondary magnetisation was found. These red beds are north of the Indus–Tsangpo suture2. Xiangyuan et al.1 compared the virtual geomagnetic pole from Tibet with those from rocks of the same age in India to show that this portion of Tibet was indeed not part of India in the late Cretaceous–early Tertiary. We show here that these new palaeomagnetic data also require about 2,500–3,500 km of north–south shortening in Asia since its collision with India.
Attempts to intensify the thyroxin surge in coho and king salmon by chemical stimulation

Hatchery-reared salmon raised in raceways supplied with reservoir or well water apparently lack the necessary physicochemical stimuli for proper secretory response of their thyroid glands to the lunar-phased thyroxin surge cue. Addition of sea-salt or of sea water and amino acids was used at Iron Gate Hatchery and Bodega Marine Laboratory, respectively, in an attempt to accentuate and synchronize the thyroxin surge. Salt treatments caused plasma thyroxin levels to rise significantly at Iron Gate Hatchery, and seawater treatments at Bodega Laboratory caused an appreciable rise of thyroxin on new moon dates compared with control levels. Independent observations that serve to explain this phenomenon are discussed. In addition, a live-cage study was conducted to ascertain possible differences in the water from three sources: an undisturbed creek (Bogus Creek), a 70-foot (21-m) deep reservoir intake, and a reservoir surface. The fish in creek water showed multiple thyroxin surges, each surge more synchronized and of higher level than the preceding one. Fish in reservoir depth water (raceway) had a poorly synchronized new moon-phased thyroxin surge; the fish in reservoir surface water (Klamath River) showed responses intermediate to those of the other two groups. On the new moon in December 1983 the thyroxin values peaked at a level significantly higher (P < 0.05) than in November.
Supplier price concessions: A longitudinal empirical study

The competitive nature of today’s business-to-business markets requires companies to continually look for ways to reduce costs; one of the easiest of which is to demand price reductions from suppliers. In this research, price reduction demands and the corresponding concessions given by 238 suppliers to the six major North American Automotive original equipment manufacturers during 2001–2007 are analyzed utilizing a simultaneous equation model. The three stage least squares estimates indicate that suppliers are willing to give higher price concessions when buyers align specific interfacing characteristics and processes with their suppliers so that the suppliers perceive greater opportunities for future business and profit. These results provide, for the first time, an understanding of the dynamic nature of the impact of buyer–supplier relational components on supplier price concessions.
Cerebral aneurysms associated with neurofibromatosis

An uncommonly recognized complication of neurofibromatosis (NF) is an angiopathy of the intracranial and extracranial arteries. Most of the previously reported cases have presented as an occlusive process similar to Moyamoya disease. We present our experience over the past 3 years involving three patients with five cerebral aneurysms and associated NF. Four of the aneurysms were intracranial, two being fusiform in nature. Treatment was surgical occlusion and included Selverstone clamping, balloon occlusion, and direct clipping. There appears to be an association between the development of cerebral artery aneurysms and NF, but the pathophysiology of these vascular changes is not fully understood.
Is Shock a key element in the pathology of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)

From our work in an animal model we have found that rat pups die from a combination of infectious insults, during a critical time of development. This is exacerbated by perinatal nicotine exposure, a condition shown to alter the autonomic response in exposed offspring. We are proposing that shock and cardiovascular collapse is a key element that links these theories.
The dependence of reaction center and antenna triplets on the redox state of Photosystem I

The formation of chlorophyll triplet states during illumination of Photosystem I reaction center samples depends upon the redox state of P-700, X and ferredoxin Centers A and B. When the reaction centers are in the states P-700+A1XFdBFd−A and P-700 A1XFd−BFd−A prior to illumination, we observe electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectra from a triplet species which has zero-field splitting parameters (|D| and |E|) larger than those of either the chlorophyll a or chlorophyll b monomer triplet, and a polarization which results from population of the triplet spin sublevels by an intersystem crossing mechanism. We interpret this triplet as arising from photoexcited chlorophyll antenna species associated with reaction centers in the states P-700+Fd−A and P-700+X−, respectively, which undergo de-excitation via intersystem crossing. When the reaction centers are in the states P-700A1XFd−BFd−A and P-700A1X−Fd−BFd−A prior to illumination, we observe a triplet EPR signal with a polarization which results from population of the triplet spin sublevels by radical pair recombination, and which has a |D| value similar to that of chlorophyll a monomer. We interpret this triplet (the radical pair-polarized triplet) as arising from 3P-700 which has been populated by the process P-700+A−1 → 3P-700A1. We observe both the radical pair-polarized triplet and the chlorophyll antenna triplet when the reaction centers are in the state P-700 A1XFd−BFd−A, presumably because the processes P-700+A−1X → P-700+A1X− and P-700+A−1X → 3P-700 A1X have similar rate constants when Centers A and B are reduced, i.e., the forward electron transfer time from A−1 to X is apparently much slower in the redox state P-700 A1XFd−BFd−A than it is in state P-700 A1XFdBFdA. The amplitude of the radical pair-polarized triplet EPR signal does not decrease in the presence of a 13.5-G-wide EPR signal centered at g 2.0 which was recorded in the dark prior to triplet measurements in samples previously frozen under intense illumination. This g 2.0 signal, which has been attributed to phototrapped A−1 (Heathcote, P., Timofeev, K.N. and Evans, M.C.W. (1979) FEBS Lett. 101, 105–109), corresponds to as many as 12 spins per P-700 and can be photogenerated during freezing without causing any apparent attenuation of the radical pair-polarized triplet amplitude. We conclude that species other than A−1 contribute to the g 2.0 signal.
Wide range laser beam diameter measurement using a periodic exponential grating

Abstract A novel exponential grating is proposed for Gaussian laser beam diameter measurement. The grating provides accurate measurement of submicron to millimetre diameter laser beams.
ANALYZING NEGOTIATION TACTICS: DEVELOPMENT OF A NEGOTIATION INTERACT SYSTEM

This research has three main objectives: to formulate a set of negotiation tactics based on a qualitative examination of bargaining interaction and prior research, to develop an interact system to code negotiation interaction based on these tactics, and to test the extent to which relative tactical use could be used to determine winners and losers in the negotiation. Three types of tactics were developed: attacking, defending, and regressing. The tactics were further divided into those that cued or constrained the next utterance, and those that responded to the prior utterance. Thus, each utterance was coded twice—as a response and as a cue. The structure of relative tactical use significantly predicted the outcome of experimental negotiations. In addition, it was demonstrated that when the structure of relative tactical use was displayed visually, the researcher could gain a clear picture of the exchange process in the negotiation.
Stochastic simulation based approach for statistical analysis and characterization of composites manufacturing processes

Composite manufacturing processes have more part-to-part variations compared with metal manufacturing processes due to larger raw material and processing variations. To improve part quality consistency, understanding and characterizing the stochastic behavior of composite manufacturing processes is critical. This paper introduces a methodology for statistical analysis and characterization of resin transfer molding (RTM) processes using a stochastic simulation method.The paper analyzes the sources of the uncertainties, quantifies the magnitudes of the uncertainties by error propagation theory, and characterizes the statistical properties of the permeability values. The paper further proposes a stochastic simulation procedure for RTM processes. Normal distribution and Weibull distribution were utilized as the statistical models for representing the measured fiber preform main region permeability values for one-dimensional flow and two-dimensional flow experiments. Based on the statistical properties of the permeability, a Monte Carlo simulation based RTM flow simulation approach was suggested.
Metabolic syndrome? A critical look from the viewpoints of causal diagrams and statistics.

The debate on the metabolic syndrome has attracted great interest among physicians and researchers. This article sheds new light on the term by using a tool called causal diagrams (also known as causal directed acyclic graphs). Formal analysis according to causal and statistical principles reveals l
Two-stage magnetic refrigerator for astronomical applications with reservoir temperatures above 4 K

We propose a novel adiabatic demagnetization refrigerator (ADR) to produce temperatures as low as 100 mK starting from a high temperature reservoir between 4 and 8 K. The high temperature reservoir for the ADR can be provided by a mechanical cooler or an unpumped liquid helium bath. This refrigerator can be used to cool bolometric infrared detectors for low background astronomy from mountain tops, balloons or satellites as well as to cool cryogenic x-ray detectors. The two-stage ADR consists of a single magnet with a paramagnetic chromic-cesium-alum (CCA) salt pill to produce the low temperature and paramagnetic gadolinium-gallium-garnet (GGG) as the first stage to intercept heat from the high temperature reservoir. Thermal contact between the paramagnets and the reservoir during magnetization is made with a mechanical heat switch. The ADR is suspended with Kevlar chords under tension for high mechanical stiffness and low parasitic heat leak. In a single cycle, the ADR maintains a temperature of 100 mK for 10 to 100 hours. This time depends strongly on the magnetic field and reservoir temperature but not on the volume of the paramagnetic material as long as the heat leak is dominated by the suspension.
Individual-level space-time analyses of emergency department data using generalized additive modeling.

Although daily emergency department (ED) data is a source of information that often includes residence, its potential for space-time analyses at the individual level has not been fully explored. We propose that ED data collected for surveillance purposes can also be used to inform spatial and temporal patterns of disease using generalized additive models (GAMs). This paper describes the methods for adapting GAMs so they can be applied to ED data.
Adverse lighting condition effects on the assessment of capillary refill

Abstract In 1989, Champion et al1 recommended revising the Trauma Score to exclude capillary refill because it is “difficult to assess at night…” However, a literature search produced no studies evaluating the effect of lighting conditions on the assessment of capillary refill. This study was undertaken to determine if any such effect exists. Three hundred nine participants at an emergency medical services (EMS) seminar were asked to assess each others' capillary refill in both light and dark environments. The participants were nurses, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), and paramedics who had been instructed in the assessment of capillary refill. In daylight conditions (partly cloudy day, lux meter = 15 to 16), capillary refill was reported as normal in 94.2% of the participants, delayed in 1.9% of the participants, and undetected in 3.9% of the participants. In dark conditions (moonlight or street lamp, lux meter = 4 to 6), capillary refill was reported as normal in 31.7% of the participants, delayed in 1.6% of the participants, and undetected in 66.7% of the participants. χ2 analysis demonstrated a statistically significant difference between capillary refill assessment in light versus dark environments (P
Raman Emission in Silicon Waveguides

The strong optical confinement in Si/SiO2 structures creates an opportunity for observing and exploiting 3rd-order nonlinear optical phenomena in silicon. This paper describes Raman emission in silicon-on-insulator waveguides and explores the prospect for silicon optical amplifiers.
The role of polar head structure in dye solubilization by cationic surfactants

Abstract The solubilization of the dye Orange-OT in solutions 0.5 molal in NaBr and containing decylammonium bromide or one of 13 other related surfactants has been investigated. The results suggest that for small, spherical micelles composed of surfactant ions having a given hydrocarbon tail, the solubilization efficiency (moles of solubilized dye per mole of micellized surfactant) is proportional to the aggregation number. Unless the polar head can serve as a site for solubilization, it influences solubilization efficiency primarily through its effect on micelle size.
The use of Nafion-coated thin mercury film electrodes for the determination of the dissolved copper speciation in estuarine water

Differential pulse anodic stripping voltammetry (DPASV) using a Nafion-coated thin mercury film electrode (NCTMFE) was implemented to determine the dissolved copper speciation in saline estuarine waters containing high concentrations of dissolved organic matter (DOM). The study used model ligands and estuarine water from San Francisco Bay, California, USA to demonstrate that the NCTMFE is more effective at distinguishing between electrochemically inert and labile copper species when compared to the conventional thin mercury film electrode (TMFE). Copper titration results verify that the NCTMFE better deals with high concentrations of DOM by creating a size-exclusion barrier that prevents DOM from interacting with the mercury electrode when performing copper speciation measurements. Pseudovoltammograms were used to illustrate that copper complexes found in natural waters were more apt to be electrochemically inert at the NCTMFE relative to the TMFE when subjected to high negative overpotentials. Copper speciation results using the NCTMFE from samples collected in San Francisco Bay estimated that >99.9% of all copper was bound to strong copper-binding ligands. These L1-class ligands exceeded the concentration of total dissolved copper in all samples tested and control the equilibrium of ambient [Cu2+] in the San Francisco Bay estuary.
Nutritional Methods to Decrease N Losses from Open-Dirt Feedlots in Nebraska

Nitrogen (N) losses from cattle feedlots are of concern due to loss of valuable N and enrichment of the atmospheric N pool. Nutritional methods to decrease such losses would have economic and environmental benefits. One method to decrease N losses is by increasing carbon (C) on the pen surface. The most cost effective method of decreasing N losses with C may be feeding diets lower in digestibility compared to adding C directly to pens. Therefore, three experiments evaluated feeding corn bran (which is less digestible than corn) as either 0, 15, or 30% of the diet. The 15- and 30%-bran diets increase organic matter (OM) excretion by approximately 0.5 and 1.0 kg per steer per day, respectively. Compared with no bran, feeding 15 and 30% decreased feed efficiency by 7.8 and 10.4%, respectively. Nutrient balance was assessed in two trials from October through May and in one trial from June to September. During the trials from October to May, N losses were decreased by 14.5 and 20.7% for the 15- and 30%-bran diets compared with no bran. Feeding 15 or 30% bran did not influence N losses in the experiment from June to September. Increasing the C:N ratio of manure prior to cleaning open-dirt feedlots had variable results depending on time of year.
Reduction in hospital admission rates due to post-prostate biopsy infections after augmenting standard antibiotic prophylaxis.

Purpose: We evaluated the incidence of infectious complications requiring hospitalization after transrectal ultrasound guided prostate biopsy, comparing an augmented regimen of antibiotic prophylaxis to the standard regimen, and established cost-effectiveness at our center.Materials and Methods: Our standard antibiotic prophylaxis regimen consisted of 3 days of ciprofloxacin or Bactrim™ DS in the perioperative period. An increase in hospital admissions related to infection after transrectal ultrasound guided biopsy from January 2010 through December 2010 led us to initiate an augmented regimen of 3 days of ciprofloxacin or Bactrim DS in addition to 1 dose of intramuscular gentamicin before biopsy from January 2011 to December 2011. Urine and blood cultures along with bacterial susceptibilities were obtained at admission and compared between the 2 groups. Cost analysis was done to determine the cost-effectiveness of standard and augmented regimens.Results: The rate of hospitalization due to post-biopsy inf...
The Heidelberg Catechism in America: A Snapshot from the History of Its Reception:

Three types of Calvinism are distinguished: evangelical, revivalistic, and rationalistic. John Williamson Nevin represents the first type, Charles Finney the second, and Charles Hodge the third. Nevin appealed to the Heidelberg Catechism in his respective controversies with both Finney and Hodge. For Nevin the Heidelberg Catechism was a moderating influence that could serve as a bulwark against the more extreme Calvinistic tendencies that he set out to combat. By focusing on Nevin, the essay offers a snapshot of how the Heidelberg Catechism functioned in Reformed immigrant communities in America.
Light scattering from water droplets in the geometrical optics approximation

The geometrical optics approach is used to derive i(1)(theta) = |S(1)(theta)|(2) and i(2)(theta) = |S(2)(theta)|(2), the angular intensity functions for light scattered by a spherical water droplet of a radius comparable with or larger than the wavelength of light. In contrast to previously published results, these functions are obtained in closed form and as functions of the scattering angle theta, which greatly enhance their usefulness in numerical work and in the reduction of large sphere scattering data. The range of validity of these expressions is investigated by graphical comparison of calculated angular intensity patterns with those obtained from rigorous Mie theory. Our main objective is to study the feasibility of using the geometrical optics expressions as a basis for practical laser water droplet sizing work. A criterion is established for the range of applicability of the relationship I(theta,R) = K(theta)R(2), which relates the scattering intensity at a particular angle theta to the radius R of the droplet. Accuracy of the laser water droplet sizing technique is thus quantitatively established.
Disease associations with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance: a population-based study of 17,398 patients.

OBJECTIVE To systematically study the association of monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) with all diseases in a population-based cohort of 17,398 patients, all of whom were uniformly tested for the presence or absence of MGUS. PATIENTS AND METHODS Serum samples were obtained from 77% (21,463) of the 28,038 enumerated residents in Olmsted County, Minnesota. Informed consent was obtained from patients to study 17,398 samples. Among 17,398 samples tested, 605 cases of MGUS and 16,793 negative controls were identified. The computerized Mayo Medical Index was used to obtain information on all diagnoses entered between January 1, 1975, and May 31, 2006, for a total of 422,663 person-years of observations. To identify and confirm previously reported associations, these diagnostic codes were analyzed using stratified Poisson regression, adjusting for age, sex, and total person-years of observation. RESULTS We confirmed a significant association in 14 (19%) of 75 previously reported disease associations with MGUS, including vertebral and hip fractures and osteoporosis. Systematic analysis of all 16,062 diagnostic disease codes found additional previously unreported associations, including mycobacterium infection and superficial thrombophlebitis. CONCLUSION These results have major implications both for confirmed associations and for 61 diseases in which the association with MGUS is likely coincidental.
11,12,15-Trihydroxyeicosatrienoic acid mediates ACh-induced relaxations in rabbit aorta.

Rabbit aortic endothelium metabolizes arachidonic acid (AA) by the 15-lipoxygenase pathway to vasodilatory eicosanoids, hydroxyepoxyeicosatrienoic acids (HEETAs), and trihydroxyeicosatrienoic acids...
Sea shipment of japanese plutonium under international law

Abstract The Japanese government's shipment of plutonium from France to Japan raises a number of significant questions under international law. The first shipment, which began in November 1992 on the Akatsuki Maru, violated international law in several respects. This article analyzes the international law that governs these shipments, focusing on the rules that govern navigation on the high seas and exclusive economic zones, territorial seas, and international straits, and also addresses the question of liability for damage.
Bird odour predicts reproductive success

Although the importance of chemical communication in birds has long been overlooked or doubted, volatile compounds in avian preen secretions have been shown to covary with traits including species, sex and breeding condition, and thus may be useful mate recognition cues. Here we demonstrate for the first time that these compounds may reliably predict reproductive success in a North American songbird, the dark-eyed junco, Junco hyemalis. Several compounds associated with sex differences in this species varied with reproductive success, such that females with a more ‘female-like’ volatile profile and males with a more ‘male-like’ profile produced more genetic offspring. A male's preen oil volatile compounds also predicted his success in rearing offspring in his home nest: males with a higher abundance of ‘male-like’ compounds had more surviving nestlings, including offspring sired by extrapair males. Finally, males with a higher abundance of ‘female-like’ compounds had more extrapair offspring in their home nests. Our results suggest that odours correlate with reproductive success and thus have qualities that could allow them to serve as reliable mate assessment cues in birds.
The First Open-Heart Repairs Using Extracorporeal Circulation by Cross-Circulation: A 53-Year Follow-Up

Between March 26, 1954 and July 19, 1955, C. Walton Lillehei and colleagues operated upon 45 infants and children with previously uncorrectable cardiac anomalies using cross-circulation with a human donor. Late follow-up was obtained in all of the 28 patients discharged after the operation. All of the 20 currently living patients were personally interviewed with regard to their cardiac status. Eight early survivors have died. Three died after repair of a residual cardiac anomaly. Another died 4 months postoperatively from heart failure. The other 4 died 13 to 47 years later: 2 of unknown causes, 1 of pneumonia, and 1 was an accident. Eleven late cardiac operations were performed. Seven were done to correct a residual anomaly. More than 40 years later, 2 patients underwent procedures to correct tricuspid regurgitation. One had a mitral valve procedure, and another underwent coronary artery bypass grafting. Of the current 20 survivors, none is limited from cardiac causes. Considering that these 45 patients represent "the dawn of open-heart surgery," the long-term results are quite remarkable.