cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Indoor production of ornamental seedlings, vegetable transplants, and microgreens

Abstract Growing seedlings and transplants (plugs and liners) in plant factories with electric lighting enables control of environments to produce consistent and uniform plants. In addition, as light emitting diodes (LEDs) become common light sources for sole-source lighting in plant factories, the ability to manipulate the photon spectrum makes it possible to elicit desirable quality attributes of transplants. However, the effects of specific wavelengths on plant traits can depend on other wavelengths, light quantity, photoperiod, species, developmental stage, and other environmental parameters. In addition, there can be trade-offs between crop growth (yield) and quality attributes. Therefore, it is challenging to identify and optimize LED lighting for transplant and seedling production, and likely, there is not a “one-size-fits-all” photon spectrum. In this chapter, we discuss recent research findings on how the quality, quantity, and daily duration of sole-source LED lighting influence growth and development characteristics of floriculture and vegetable transplants produced from seed or stem cuttings, as well as microgreens.
On localization for magnetic induction-based wireless sensor networks in pipeline environments

The wireless sensor networks can enable the real-time monitoring in the pipeline environments, which can facilitate important applications such as structure identification and fault diagnosis. The magnetic induction (MI)-based techniques provide efficient and reliable wireless communications among sensor nodes in such challenging environments. This paper proposes a localization strategy for MI-based wireless sensor network in the complex pipeline environment without requiring any additional infrastructure. The proposed localization strategy analytically captures the unique pipeline system effects, including antenna orientations, absorption of fluid medium, reflections on pipe walls, node's position on the pipe cross section, and the pipe turns and branches. The numerical evaluation shows the proposed strategy can provide high resolution position estimation for small wireless mobile sensor nodes with arbitrary orientation and position inside the pipelines.
Height estimation from foot and shoeprint length.

Foot length displays a biological correlation with height that suggests the latter might be estimated from foot- or shoeprints when such evidence provides an investigator the best or only opportunity to gauge that aspect of a suspect's physical description. Previous utilization of percentages and linear regressions of foot length to make height estimates is reviewed and appraised, as is such use of shoeprints. Newly determined percentages and linear regressions for determining height from foot length for young adult males and females based upon very large U.S. Army anthropometric databases are presented and evaluated. Suggestions are made for the practical employment of shoeprint length, preferably as a direct measurement but also indirectly as a shoe size indicator, for height assessment.
Sensing mechanisms of high temperature silicon carbide devices for exhaust gas applications

We show that SiC based metal-insulator-semiconductor (MIS) sensors above 700 K respond to reducing/oxidizing gases by two independent mechanisms: a chemically induced shift in the metal-insulator barrier height and the passivation/creation of charged states at the SiO/sub 2/-SiC interface. The relative magnitude of the two phenomena is determined by the position of the Fermi energy at the insulator-semiconductor interface, i.e. the capacitor bias. The interface state contribution is much slower than the work function shift. For short response times and high sensor-to-sensor reliability, we find that the optimal operating bias of a gas sensor is near midgap. The combination of photoemission measurements and capacitance measurements can discriminate between the two sensor mechanisms.
Accuracy of Ultrasound for Diagnosis of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in Patients with Bifid Median Nerve (P6.084)

OBJECTIVE: Assess the accuracy of ultrasound (US) for the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) in patients with bifid median nerve (bMN). BACKGROUND: Detecting median nerve cross-sectional area (CSA) enlargement at the wrist by US is an established means of diagnosing CTS. bMN is an anatomic variant frequently identified in patients with CTS. Although combining the CSA of the two branches of a bMN at the wrist has been described, the accuracy of diagnosing CTS by this method is uncertain. DESIGN/METHODS: US data from consecutive patients presenting to our neuromuscular clinic from September 2008 through July 2012 was reviewed retrospectively. CSA of the median nerve was measured at the distal wrist crease in all patients. In cases of bMN, the medial and lateral nerve branch CSAs were summed. Diagnostic accuracy of US compared to electromyography (EMG) was analyzed by creating a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. RESULTS: A total of 333 patients underwent US wrist imaging of which 57 (17%) had bMN. Patients without EMG data were excluded. In those patients with bilateral bMN, only the right wrist data was included. Of 31 patients with bMN, 9 (3 males; 6 females; mean age 51.5 ± 19 years) had EMG-confirmed CTS while 22 (11 males; 11 females; mean age 50.3 ± 16 years) did not meet EMG criteria. US diagnosed CTS with a sensitivity of 77.3% and specificity of 88.9% in patients with bMN using a CSA sum of 12mm² as the cut-off value. The accuracy of US for the diagnosis of CTS in patients with bMN was high based on the area under the ROC curve. CONCLUSIONS: US is an accurate test for the diagnosis of CTS in patients with bMN. While utilizing a lower CSA threshold has been suggested, our study demonstrates reasonable diagnostic accuracy with a cut-off CSA sum of 12mm². Disclosure: Dr. Beary has nothing to disclose. Dr. John has nothing to disclose. Dr. Fan has nothing to disclose. Dr. Shook has nothing to disclose.
Theoretical Study of Electronic Structures of Bi2Te3/Sb2Te3 Superlattices

To understand thermoelectric properties of multiplayer Bi2Te3/Sb2Te3 superlattices, especially their charge transport properties, electronic structure calculations were carried out using ab-initio gradient corrected density functional theory. The superlattice structures of (1,1) and (1,2) Bi2Te3/Sb2Te3 multilayers were optimized and their band structures were compared with each other. Different lattice relaxation effects are observed for the two structures. The cross-plane and inplane effective masses for both these systems are found to be comparable, consistent with experimental mobility measurements.
Envelope Sequence Variation, Neutralizing Antibodies, and Primate Lentivirus Persistence

Many of the critical features of the neutralizing antibody response to HIV and SIV infection have yet to be elucidated. It is not known to what extent the primary neutralizing antibody response of the host is directed at linear versus complex epitopes or to V3 versus non-V3 determinants. Neutralization escape mutants appear to arise during the course of infection of single individuals, but the variable regions primarily responsible for this escape have not been defined. Most importantly, we do not know the full impact of the emergence of neutralization-resistant variants on the maintenance of persistent infection and the evolution of the chronic disease course. In this review we summarize the evidence for immune selection of escape mutants among the more primitive ungulate lentiviruses and discuss corresponding information in SIV and HIV primate systems. In doing this, we describe the nature of sequence variation in SI V and HIV envelope and discuss the selective forces which may be driving sequence change in each of the variable domains. Despite gaps in existing knowledge, we conclude that neutralizing antibodies are important in limiting HIV and SIV replication in vivo. Specific selection of sequence variants that are resistant to neutralization argues strongly that neutralizing antibodies do serve to limit HIV and SIV replication during the lengthy asymptomatic stage of infection.
SECRETION OF “INHIBIN” BY RAT GRANULOSA CELLS IN VITRO1

Rat granulosa cells secrete a substance in vitro that acts directly upon cultured rat pituitary cells to preferentially suppress FSH production. It is inferred from these results that the granulosa cell is a source of ovarian “inhibin” and that the pituitary gonadotroph is a site of “inhibin” action.
The L. E. phenomenon and systemic lupus erythematosus.

Abstract 1. 1. Blood and bone marrow L.E. preparations were obtained in 87 patients with S.L.E. 2. 2. There were 72 (62 per cent) positive marrow and 50 (53 per cent) positive peripheral blood L.E. preparations. A significant difference between the frequency of positive marrow and blood preparations was not found. 3. 3. Correlations were higher between groups of abnormal findings and the L.E. test than between single abnormal findings and the L.E. test. 4. 4. Positive L.E. tests were not observed in 9 patients with subacute lupus and 9 patients with chronic discoid lupus. 5. 5. False-positive L.E. tests were not observed in 230 patients with disorders other than S.L.E., including rheumatoid arthritis and various drug reactions. 6. 6. In our experience the L.E. test is specific for the S.L.E. syndrome. 7. 7. The differentiation between non-L.E. nucleophagocytosis and L.E. nucleophagocytosis is discussed.
Impact of feather molt on ectoparasites: looks can be deceiving

Animals possess a variety of well-documented defenses against ectoparasites, including morphological, behavioral, and immune responses. Another possible defense that has received relatively little attention is the shedding of the host's exterior. The conventional wisdom is that ectoparasite abundance is reduced when birds molt their feathers, mammals molt their hair, and reptiles shed their skin. We carried out an experimental test of this hypothesis for birds by manipulating molt in feral pigeons (Columba livia) infested with feather lice (Phthiraptera: Ischnocera). We used two standard methods, visual examination and body washing, to quantify the abundance of lice on the birds. The visual data indicated a significant effect of molt on lice. However, the more robust body washing method showed that molt had no effect on louse abundance. Two factors caused visual examination to underestimate the number of lice on molting birds. First, molt replaces worn feathers with new, lush plumage that obscures lice during visual examination. Second, we discovered that lice actively seek refuge inside the sheath that encases developing feathers, where the lice cannot be seen. The apparent reduction in louse abundance caused by these factors may account for the conventional wisdom that feather molt reduces ectoparasite abundance in birds. In light of our experimental results, we argue that it is necessary to reinterpret the conclusions of previous studies that were based on observational data. Additional experiments are needed to test whether shedding of the host's exterior reduces ectoparasites in other birds, mammals, and reptiles, similar to the impact of facultative leaf drop on herbivorous insects on trees.
Transition State Characterization for the Reversible Binding of Dihydrogen to Bis(2,2'-bipyridine)rhodium(I) from Temperature- and Pressure-Dependent Experimental and Theoretical Studies

Thermodynamic and kinetic parameters for the oxidative addition of H_2 to [Rh^I(bpy)_2]^+ (bpy = 2,2‘-bipyridine) to form [Rh^(III)(H)_2(bpy)_2]^+ were determined from either the UV−vis spectrum of equilibrium mixtures of [Rh^I(bpy)_2]^+ and [Rh^(III)(H)_2(bpy)_2]^+ or from the observed rates of dihydride formation following visible-light irradiation of solutions containing [Rh^(III)(H)_2(bpy)_2]^+ as a function of H_2 concentration, temperature, and pressure in acetone and methanol. The activation enthalpy and entropy in methanol are 10.0 kcal mol^(-1) and −18 cal mol^(-1) K^(-1), respectively. The reaction enthalpy and entropy are −10.3 kcal mol^(-1) and −19 cal mol^(-1) K^(-1), respectively. Similar values were obtained in acetone. Surprisingly, the volumes of activation for dihydride formation (−15 and −16 cm^3 mol^(-1) in methanol and acetone, respectively) are very close to the overall reaction volumes (−15 cm^3 mol^(-1) in both solvents). Thus, the volumes of activation for the reverse reaction, elimination of dihydrogen from the dihydrido complex, are approximately zero. B3LYP hybrid DFT calculations of the transition-state complex in methanol and similar MP2 calculations in the gas phase suggest that the dihydrogen has a short H−H bond (0.823 and 0.810 A, respectively) and forms only a weak Rh−H bond (1.866 and 1.915 A, respectively). Equal partial molar volumes of the dihydrogenrhodium(I) transition state and dihydridorhodium(III) can account for the experimental volume profile found for the overall process.
Reliability modelling based on fatigue crack growth

The primary goal in reliability modelling is the estimation and computation of the cumulative distribution function (cdf) for the lifetime. The purpose of this paper is to illustrate the critical role of the lower tail of the cdf. The lower tail of the cdf is the region from which estimations of high reliability are made. The example is based on a very simple probability model for the fatigue of a component fabricated from steel. The life of the component is assumed, purely for the sake of the illustration, to be determined by the behaviour of a single dominant fatigue crack, the growth rate of which is governed by the standard Paris‐Erdogan power law. It is shown that inferences for component life that are based primarily on the measures of central tendency may yield misleading conclusions whenever high reliability is mandated. Given the intent of the paper, no attempt has been made to correlate the computed results with experimental observations.
Electron and Hole Transfer Induced by Thermal Annealing of Crystalline DNA X-Irradiated at 4 K

Recent models for long range (>2 nm) transfer of electrons and holes through DNA suggest a mechanism that is neither a single long distance tunneling event nor a mechanism strictly due to hopping, ...
Negative-Mass Instability in Nonlinear Plasma Waves

The negative-mass instability, previously found in ion traps, appears as a distinct regime of the sideband instability in nonlinear plasma waves with trapped particles. As the bounce frequency of these particles decreases with the bounce action, bunching can occur if the action distribution is inverted in trapping islands. In contrast to existing theories that also infer instabilities from the anharmonicity of bounce oscillations, spatial periodicity of the islands turns out to be unimportant, and the particle distribution can be unstable even if it is flat at the resonance. An analytical model is proposed that describes both single traps and periodic nonlinear waves and concisely generalizes the conventional description of the sideband instability in plasma waves. The theoretical results are supported by particle-in-cell simulations carried out for a regime accentuating the negative-mass instability.
World bank irrigation experience

Abstract Irrigation is the largest subsector of the agricultural and rural development sector of World Bank* and IDA lending. The very first loan to a developing country, made in March 1948, was to Chile, to the amount of US$13.5 million, for power and irrigation. Since that time, up until June 1982, agricultural lending has amounted to $26.7 billion, of which more than $10 billion was for some 285 irrigation projects. Total project costs have been about 2.5 times the amount of the loans. Irrigation lending represents almost 10 per cent of all past Bank lending and about 38 per cent of agricultural sector lending. It is also worth noting that 90 per cent of all agricultural lending has occurred within the past decade. The experience gained from these activities has been considerable and varied. It is the primary purpose of this paper to discuss briefly several of the important lessons learned from, and issues raised by, this experience and to indicate some of the guidelines and procedures developed to hel...
Hydrodynamically and Thermally Developing Laminar Flow Through Rotating Channels Having Isothermal Walls

ABSTRACT A numerical study is performed on a three-dimensional model of heat transfer and fluid flow in the entrance region ( the flow is hydrodynamically and thermally developing) of radially rotating long channels with steady, laminar throughflow. The channel walls are isothermal. Consideration is given to channels of different geometries, including a square and both narrow and flat rectangles. Both the rotational speed and throughflow rates are varied. The velocity-vorticity method is employed in the formulation, and numerical results are obtained by means of a finite-difference technique. The Nusselt number, friction factor, and temperature and velocity distributions are determined, and the role of the Coriolis forte in the transport phenomena is investigated.
Capture of Screwworm and Secondary Screwworm Flies (Diptera: Calliphoridae) in a Time-Interval Grid Trap and Correlation with Temperature and Humidity

A time-interval electrocuter grid trap was successfully modified to collect adult screwworms, Cochliomyia hominivorax , and secondary screwworms, C. macellaria , during 14 hourly diurnal periods. Peak captures of screwworms were made in the morning, but collections of secondary screwworms were made in larger and more uniform numbers throughout the day. The total numbers captured and the activity patterns were highly variable day to day. Seasonally, captures peaked around midday during cooler weather, but were more evenly distributed throughout the day during hotter weather. Hourly captures of both species were positively correlated with increasing temperature in the range 20° to 33 °C. Screwworm capture was very low at temperatures below 20 °C, peaked at ca 33 °C, and appeared to decrease when the temperature rose from 33° to 35 °C. Secondary screw worms were detected over a greater temperature range than were screwworms, possibly because secondary screwworms were present at much higher numbers. Captures of secondary screwworms did not decrease between 33° and 35 °C. Additionally, a high degree of variation occurred both in diurnal pattern of fly activity and in numbers captured of both species even between successive days having apparently identical temperature and humidity patterns. Relative humidity did not appear to influence captures, except that captures were zero or extremely low during rains.
Access to specialty care.

Despite complaints that the care provided by specialists is discontinuous and fragmented, Americans have traditionally valued their unrestrained access to care by cardiologists, dermatologists, uro...
Magnetic manipulation and spatial patterning of multi-cellular stem cell aggregates

The controlled assembly and organization of multi-cellular systems to mimic complex tissue structures is critical to the engineering of tissues for therapeutic and diagnostic applications. Recent advances in micro-scale technologies to control multi-cellular aggregate formation typically require chemical modification of the interface between cells and materials and lack multi-scale flexibility. Here we demonstrate that simple physical entrapment of magnetic microparticles within the extracellular space of stem cells spheroids during initial formation enables scaffold-free immobilization, translocation and directed assembly of multi-cellular aggregates across multiple length and time scales, even under dynamic suspension culture conditions. The response of aggregates to externally applied magnetic fields was a direct function of microparticle incorporation, allowing for rapid and transient control of the extracellular environment as well as separation of heterogeneous populations. In addition, spatial patterning of heterogeneous spheroid populations as well as individual multi-cellular aggregates was readily achieved by imposing temporary magnetic fields. Overall, this approach provides novel routes to examine stem cell differentiation and tissue morphogenesis with applications that encompass the creation of new model systems for developmental biology, scaffold-free tissue engineering strategies and scalable bioprocessing technologies.
Structural rigidity in the capsid assembly of cowpea chlorotic mottle virus

The cowpea chlorotic mottle virus (CCMV) has a protein cage, or capsid, which encloses its genetic material. The structure of the capsid consists of 180 copies of a single protein that self-assemble inside a cell to form a complete capsid with icosahedral symmetry. The icosahedral surface can be naturally divided into pentagonal and hexagonal faces, and the formation of either of these faces has been proposed to be the first step in the capsid assembly process. We have used the software FIRST to analyse the rigidity of pentameric and hexameric substructures of the complete capsid to explore the viability of certain capsid assembly pathways. FIRST uses the 3D pebble game to determine structural rigidity, and a brief description of this algorithm, as applied to body–bar networks, is given here. We find that the pentameric substructure, which corresponds to a pentagonal face on the icosahedral surface, provides the best structural properties for nucleating the capsid assembly process, consistent with experimental observations.
Alcohol dehydrogenase and ethanol tolerance at the cellular level in Drosophila melanogaster

Exposure of early third instar larvae of Drosophila melanogaster to a nonlethal dose of ethanol was detrimental to larvae lacking alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) but beneficial to wild-type larvae in terms of surviving a later ethanol tolerance test, indicating that one of the important functions of the ADH system is to supply derivatives of ethanol to larvae that in turn promote ethanol tolerance. High intracellular concentrations of ethanol in ADH-deficient (Adhn2) larvae fed ethanol were accompanied by a decrease in the cell membrane infoldings of fat body cells, suggesting that the capacities to absorb and release molecules were reduced. Marked effects of ethanol on the endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria of ADH-deficient larvae were also evident. The absence of similar changes in wild-type larvae that were fed moderate levels of ethanol showed that the ADH system kept the intracellular level of ethanol at a concentration low enough to avoid cell damage. A cytometric analysis of electron micrographs showed that there were ethanol-induced reductions in glycogen, lipid, and protein stores in the fat body cells of ADH-deficient larvae fed 1.25% ethanol (v/v) compared with null larvae fed an ethanol-free diet. This finding implied that the capacities to synthesize or store these compounds may be limited by high intracellular concentrations of ethanol. The cytometric analysis also revealed that the consumption of diets containing 2.5% and 4.5% ethanol by Canton-S wild-type larvae for 3 days after 4 days of feeding on an ethanol-free diet resulted in decreases in glycogen and protein deposits in fat body cells, but increased the amount of lipid deposits compared to larvae fed an ethanol-free diet. This observation, coupled with the greater weight of wild-type adults that were fed a growth-limiting concentration of ethanol compared with control adults, suggested that a metabolic defense mechanism in larvae is to convert toxic ethanol to nontoxic storage products. Dietary ethanol alone and in combination with isopropanol stimulated an increase in the size of the NAD-pool in larvae, a condition that may favor the activity of ADH. A low dietary level of isopropanol (1%) completely blocked glycogen deposition in wild-type larvae, whereas ethanol did not. Thus ethanol and isopropanol exert some different toxic effects on larval fat bodies.
A modular NFA architecture for regular expression matching

We propose a non-deterministic finite automata (NFA) based architecture for regexp scanners on FPGA, called CES: the Character Class with Constraint Repetition (CCR) based regExp Scanner. CES is designed to realize a new MIN-MAX counting algorithm, which can solve both the character class ambiguity problem and the overlapped matching problem. CES also supports non-regular Perl grammars such as zero-width pattern and back-reference. We propose a CCR-syntax tree and its parsing scheme to map a Perl or POSIX regexp rule to a CES topology. The interconnection patterns, and operational parameters of CCR modules (CCRM), which are the building blocks of CES, can be easily configured by regular memory writes when regexp rules change, without re-synthesis of low-level logic.For implementation, character classes of CCRs are stored in Block RAMs. The MIN-MAX algorithm uses two counters MIN and MAX to resolve the character class ambiguity problem. Two checkpoint counters are employed to implement overlapped matching detection. CES topologies optimized for different types of rules can run in different Partial Reconfigurable Regions (PRR), and can be swapped on the fly by a PRR controller. We developed a tool chain to automate the CES implementation to a Virtex 5 LX110T device. This device can host up to 3000 CCRMs, and run at an estimated throughput of 1.996 Gbps in simulation, and 863 Mbps between a PC and the Virtex 5 board in real tests. The Snort and SpamAssassin rule sets can be parsed and mapped in milliseconds. Once a base CES architecture is synthesized, the physical reconfiguration of a CES on the Virtex 5 LX110T chip can be done in less than a second.
Antibody-based Therapeutics for the Treatment of Human B cell Malignancies

The dynamic expression of various phenotypic markers during B cell development not only defines the particular stage in ontogeny but also provides the necessary growth, differentiation, maturation and survival signals. When a B cell at any given stage becomes cancerous, these cell surface molecules, intracellular signaling molecules, and the over-expressed gene products become favorite targets for potential therapeutic intervention. Various adaptive and adoptive immunotherapeutic approaches induce T cell and antibody responses against cancer cells, and successful remission leading to minimal residual disease has been obtained. Nonetheless, subsequent relapse and development of resistant clones prompted further development and several novel strategies are evolving. Engineered monoclonal antibodies with high affinity and specificity to target antigens have been developed and used either alone or in combination with chemotherapeutic drugs. They are also used as vehicles to deliver cytotoxic drugs, toxins, or radionuclides that are either directly conjugated or encapsulated in liposomal vesicles. Likewise, genetically engineered T cells bearing chimeric antigen receptors are used to redirect cytotoxicity to antigen-positive target cells. This review describes recent advancements in some of these adoptive immunotherapeutic strategies targeting B cell malignancies.
Finite Element Stress Analysis of Composite Sucker Rods

Analysis of polymer-matrix composite sucker rod systems using finite element methods is performed. Composite sucker rods used in oil production fail mainly due to fatigue loading. In majority of cases, the failure is in the region of the joint where the composite rod and the steel endfitting meet. 2D and 3D Finite Element Analysis and experimental tests are carried out in order to observe the stress distribution and to find the regions of stress concentrations inside the endfitting. The causes of failure of the composite sucker rods are identified as high transverse compressive stress caused by overloading that results in the crushing of the rod, and high stress concentrations present at the grooves of the endfitting that initiate premature cracks. Based on the result of this study, enhanced design of the composite sucker rod system can be accomplished.
Population history, biogeography, and taxonomy of orangutans (Genus: Pongo) based on a population genetic meta-analysis of multiple loci.

Abstract This paper examines orangutan population history and evolution through a meta-analysis of seven loci collected from both Sumatran and Bornean orangutans. Within orangutans, most loci show that the Sumatran population is about twice as diverse as the Bornean population. Orangutans are more diverse than African apes and humans. Sumatran and Bornean populations show significant genetic differentiation from one another and their history does not differ significantly from an ‘island model’ (population splitting without gene flow). Two different methods support a divergence of Bornean and Sumatran orangutans at 2.7 - 5 million years ago. This suggests that Pleistocene events, such as the cyclical exposure of the Sunda shelf and the Toba volcanic eruption, did not have a major impact on the divergence of Bornean and Sumatran orangutans. Pairwise mismatch analyses, however, suggest that Bornean orangutans have undergone a recent population expansion (beginning 39,000 – 64,000 years ago), while Sumatran orangutan populations were stable. Pleistocene events may have contributed to these aspects of orangutan population history. These conclusions are applied to the debate on orangutan taxonomy.
Combustion of fat and vegetable oil derived fuels in diesel engines

In this article, the status of fat and oil derived diesel fuels with respect to fuel properties, engine performance, and emissions is reviewed. The fuels considered are primarily the methyl esters of fatty acids derived from a variety of vegetable oils and animal fats, and referred to as biodiesel. The major obstacle to widespread use of biodiesel is the high cost relative to petroleum. Economics of biodiesel production are discussed, and it is concluded that the price of the feedstock fat or oil is the major factor determining biodiesel price.Biodiesel is completely miscible with petroleum diesel fuel, and is generally tested as a blend. The use of biodiesel in neat or blended form has no effect on the energy based engine fuel economy. The lubricity of these fuels is superior to conventional diesel, and this property is imparted to blends at levels above 20 vol%. Emissions of PM can be reduced dramatically through use of biodiesel in engines that are not high lube oil emitters. Emissions of NOx increase significantly for both neat and blended fuels in both two- and four-stroke engines. The increase may be lower in newer, lower NOx emitting four-strokes, but additional data are needed to confirm this conclusion. A discussion of available data on unregulated air toxins is presented, and it is concluded that definitive studies have yet to be performed in this area. A detailed discussion of important biodiesel properties and recommendations for future research is presented. Among the most important recommendations is the need for all future studies to employ biodiesel of well-known composition and purity, and to report detailed analyses. The purity levels necessary for achieving adequate engine endurance, compatibility with coatings and elastomers, cold flow properties, stability, and emissions performance must be better defined.
Interactions between real and subjective contours in the Bourdon illusion.

The Bourdon illusion is a contour-attraction effect in which two colinear test edges of a plane figure appear displaced toward a bent induction edge located nearby. This illusion and related effects are stronger in subjective contours than in real contours. In Bourdon figures combining both varieties of contours, real induction contours produced a strong illusion in subjective test contours, but subjective induction contours produced no illusion in real test contours. Thus, interactions between real and subjective contours were asymmetrical. Luminance contrast between real and subjective contours weakened the Bourdon illusion.
American Exceptionalism in a Democratic Idiom: Transacting the Mythos of Change in the 2008 Presidential Campaign

The mythos of the 2008 presidential campaign rhetoric is examined for the potential it reveals to transform political culture from within, specifically to articulate a synergic relationship between American exceptionalism and democracy that depolarizes political discourse and promotes interdependency in the form of collaborative and complementary relations. Barack Obama's campaign mantra of change was ritually resisted and reinforced by the symbolic act of John McCain's heroic last stand, which dramatized an attitudinal shift away from national chauvinism and toward a more democratic ethos. This shift was expressed by Obama in a prophetic discourse of restoration and renewal that would turn the myth of exceptionalism into a certification of democratic aspirations and democracy into a vehicle for pursuing the American dream.
Perceived value and strategic importance of supply chain options: multi-firm case study

Manufacturing management traditionally has focused on orderfulfillment activities, ignoring the many tools available for efficient transfer of information, supplier partnering, and effective processes involved in getting a product to market and enhancing customer satisfaction activities via supply chain management. A discussion of integral and modular manufacturing enhanced with supply chain design elements was attempted via a case study of five northeastern Ohio manufacturing companies with global presence. The following paper highlighted the significant differences in supply chain design and management, firm structure and operations, the type of products manufactured and business level strategies it utilized in SCM activities.
Theory of Ground-Water Recharge for a Strip Basin

Formulation and solution of one-dimensional analytical and computational models, linear as well as nonlinear, pertaining to a typical ground-water recharge pattern are presented. The objective of this investigation is to direct attention toward an evaluation and correlation of the various theoretical models based on the Dupuit-Forchheimer (D-F) approximations for the unsteady hydrodynamic behavior of the proposed recharge system under saturated flow conditions. Comparisons with the pertinent experimental data, presented in the form of dimensionless graphs, indicate that the linear D-F theory is valid for relatively small water-table rises but for large rises it predicts substantially greater rises than actually occur, particularly beneath and in the vicinity of the recharge basin. The range of validity is considerably improved between theory and experiments for relatively large rises using the nonlinear theory.
Predicting germination response of four cool-season range grasses to field-variable temperature regimes

Abstract Germination of non-dormant seeds under variable-temperature conditions can be predicted from constant-temperature germination data if it is assumed that instantaneous germination rate is independent of thermal history. Thermal-response models of this type have not been validated under simulated field-variable temperature conditions that vary in diurnal pattern, diurnal range and longer-term trends in mean–daily temperature. The purpose of this experiment was to evaluate germination response of thickspike wheatgrass (Elymus lanceolatus), bluebunch wheatgrass (Pseudoroegneria spicata), Sandberg bluegrass (Poa sandbergii) and bottlebrush squirreltail (Elymus elymoides) under both constant and field-variable temperature regimes in the laboratory. It was hypothesized that the thermal history assumption was valid and that constant-temperature data could be used to accurately estimate field-variable temperature response. Seeds were germinated at seven constant temperatures between 5 and 35°C, and under 18 variable-temperature regimes simulating six planting dates at three field sites. Predictions of germination time under variable-temperature conditions were accurate to within a fraction of 1 day up to a cumulative germination percentage of 70% for thickspike wheatgrass, 60% for bluebunch wheatgrass, 55% for Sandberg bluegrass and 70% for bottlebrush squirreltail. It was concluded that, for the variable-temperature regimes tested in this experiment, the thermal-history assumption was valid for earlier-germinating subpopulations.
In Quest of Freedom: Towards Critical Pedagogy in the Education of Bilingual Youth.

This paper seeks to build on the growing body of literature demonstrating the value of a dialogical process in second language learning, especially in work with students who are not part of the dominant cultural or linguistic group. It identifies and describes the ways in which bilingual secondary students engaged in dialogical processes begin to challenge the power relationships within their schools and communities, and explores the role of dialogic pedagogy in transforming the work of teachers. Three principle research questions are addressed: (1) In what ways can a critical, dialogic process come into being in the lives of students and teachers, and how does this affect their lives in and out of school? (2) What can be the role of a university teacher education program in fostering such a dialogic process? (3) What part can a critical, dialogic pedagogy play in supporting the academic achievement of bilingual students, particularly those at the secondary level? It is concluded that dialogic pedagogy in which students' linguistic and cultural understandings are sources of knowledge and bridges to the curriculum will benefit bilingual students academically and socially. Bilingual students become more interested in the academic content of school and more motivated to master the linguistic tools that will allow them a full participation in society. (Contains 56 references and 4 appendices.) (KFT) Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made from the original document. In Quest of Freedom: Towards Critical Pedagogy in the Education of Bilingual Youth U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION Office of Educational Research and Improvement EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES INFORMATION CENTER (ERIC) ElThis document has been reproduced as received from the person or organization originating it. Minor changes have been made to improve reproduction quality. Points of view or opinions stated in this document do not necessarily represent official OERI position or policy. Donald F. Hones University of Wisconsin Oshkosh COEHS 800 Algoma Blvd Oshkosh, WI 54901 920/424-7209 hones@uwosh.edu BEST COPY AVAILABLE 1 PERMISSION TO REPRODUCE AND DISSEMINATE THIS MATERIAL HAS BEEN GRANTED BY
Cloning of a cDNA complementary to rat preputial gland β-glucuronidase mRNA

Messenger RNA was isolated from rat preputial glands by guanidine HCl extraction, ethanol and salt precipitation, followed by chromatography on oligo(dT) cellulose. Double-stranded cDNA was synthesized from the mRNA and inserted into the Pst 1 site of the plasmid pBR322 by the poly(dG).poly(dC) tailing and annealing procedure. The hybrid plasmids were used to transform E. coli HBlOl. Recombinant clones were screened for those containing cDNA inserts complementary
Adaptive memory management and optimism control in time warp

It is widely believed that the Time Warp protocol for parallel discrete event simulation is prone to two potential problems: an excessive amount of wasted, rolled back computation resulting from “rollback thrashing” behaviors, and inefficient use of memory, leading to poor performance of virtual memory and/or multiprocessor cache systems. An adaptive mechanism is proposed based on the Cancelback memory management protocol for shared-memory multiprocessors that dynamically controls the amount of memory used in the simulation in order to maximize performance. The proposed mechanism is adaptive in the sense that it monitors the execution of the Time Warp program, and using simple models, automatically adjusts the amount of memory used to reduce Time Warp overheads (fossil collection, Cancelback, the amount of rolled back computation, etc.) to a manageable level. We describe an implementation of this mechanism on a shared memory, Kendall Square Research KSR-1, multiprocessor and demonstrate its effectiveness in automatically maximizing performance while minimizing memory utilzation, for several synthetic and benchmark discrete event simulation applications. We also demonstrate the adaptive ability of the mechanism by showing that it “tracks” the time-varying nature of a communication network simulation.
Enabling HPC E-Science via Integrated Grid Infrastructure

High Performance Computing E-Science has numerous requirements well in excess of the normal environment sufficient for routine computations. The data requirements in particular may be in the multiterabyte regime, with transfer rates in the several Gb/s or more range. Such data capabilities may only be available at a single location. On the other hand, understanding the data, via data-mining and visualization may require completely different facilities, while the actual data production may be only possible at yet a third location. The use of Global File System with multi-Gb/s speeds and hundreds of TeraBytes capacity can help the scientific researchers, but the simultaneous utilization of several systems also requires a reasonably sophisticated co-scheduling capability. In this paper, we show how the TeraGrid is combining massive computational clusters, a Global File System, very powerful visualization systems, and a co-scheduler to enable massive E-Science in a very coordinated and usable manner.
The effect of tissue compression on circular stapler line failure

Anastomotic leak after gastrointestinal anastomosis is a well-known and serious complication, yet there is no standardized approach to reliably create an anastomosis with sufficient mechanical properties to consistently avoid an anastomotic leak. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationships among combined tissue thickness, tissue compression, closed staple limb length, and mechanical strength of an anastomosis created with a circular stapler, as measured by maximum intraluminal pressure obtained at the time of leakage. Using 27 porcine stomachs and 27 porcine small-intestine segments, we measured tissue thickness and assessed the tissue compression at three different anvil closure distances created by a circular stapling device. Maximum intraluminal pressure was determined by infusing colored water into the porcine materials and increasing the pressure until leakage from the anastomosis occurred. Tissue compression increased as the closure distance narrowed between the anvil and circular stapler (p < .0001). A tissue compression of ≥6 PSI correlated strongly with a maximum intraluminal pressure of ≥18 mmHg (43% for <6 PSI vs. 90% for ≥6 PSI; p = .02); tissue compression ≥12 PSI was necessary to obtain an acute maximum intraluminal pressure of ≥22 mmHg in 13 of 15 of our samples (p = .04). Maximum intraluminal pressure of an anastomosis in this porcine model correlated most strongly with the compression of the tissue involved in the anastomosis. This experimental model provides a framework for constructing a systematic approach to creating an anastomosis with sufficient mechanical strength. However, this study was not intended to establish the upper range of tissue compression beyond which a permanent tissue injury may occur.
EFFECT OF INJECTED THYROTROPIC HORMONE ON THE IN VITRO UPTAKE AND METABOLISM OF 131-I BY THYROID GLANDS OF FETAL AND NEWBORN RATS.

Intact thyroid gland lobes of fetal, newborn and adult rats, and slices prepared from glands of adult rats, all of which had been injected with identical doses of TSH in relation to body weight, were incubated in a Ringer-bicarbonate medium containing 131I, and their incorporation of the labeled iodine into iodoamino acids was compared. A distinct difference between the 131I metabolism of the intact lobe and slices of the adult rat thyroid gland was observed. This consisted of a greater uptake of the added 131I and its incorporation into DIT by the lobes. The finding that early after a TSH injection the 131I uptake by the incubated intact thyroid lobe of adult rat is diminished is confirmed. This was not observed in the experiments with slices. Under identical hormone treatments, the incubated thyroid glands of fetuses and newborn rats were much more responsive to injected TSH than were those of adult rats. A dual action of TSH on 131I metabolism by the incubated thyroid lobe of fetuses and newborn rats w...
Evidence for a critical role of progesterone in the regulation of the midcycle gonadotropin surge and ovulation

Serum concentrations of progesterone begin to rise just before the midcycle gonadotropin surge that leads to ovulation. To examine the role of progesterone in the regulation of these events, we evaluated the effects of a low dose (1 mg/day, orally) of the antiprogesterone RU 486 on the timing of the gonadotropin surge and ovulation in normally cycling women. The drug or a placebo was given for 5 or 15 days, starting when the dominant follicle reached 14-16 mm. RU 486 consistently delayed the timing of the midcycle gonadotropin surge and the subsequent collapse of the dominant follicle, despite rising estradiol concentrations and normal follicular development. Unexpectedly, RU 486 also delayed the emergence of the periovulatory progesterone rise. The addition of progesterone (5-10 mg/day, im, for 2 days) to a 5-day course of RU 486 after the emergence of a mature follicle readily induced LH and FSH surges and completely reversed the effects of RU 486 at midcycle. Our results suggest that RU 486 delays the midcycle gonadotropin surge and ovulation by suppressing or antagonizing an ovarian progestational signal. Progesterone may, thus, represent the ultimate ovarian signal to the estrogen-primed hypothalamic-pituitary unit to trigger the gonadotropin surge that leads to ovulation.
Infrainguinal arterial reconstructions in patients with aortoiliac occlusive disease: The influence of iliac stenting

Abstract Objective: Iliac artery angioplasty (IAA) is an effective adjunct when combined with infrainguinal arterial reconstructions (IARs) in appropriate patients with multilevel occlusive disease. However, the effect of iliac artery stenting (IAS) on the outcome of patients undergoing distal bypass procedures is not defined. The purpose of this study was to estimate the influence of previous IAS for iliac occlusive disease on the outcome of IARs, compared with those after IAA alone or aortofemoral bypass grafting procedures (AFBs). Methods: During a 5-year period (1995-2000), 105 patients with previous intervention for iliac occlusive disease underwent 120 IARs. The criteria prepared by the Ad Hoc Committee on Reporting Standards (Society for Vascular Surgery/International Society for Cardiovascular Surgery) were followed to define the variables. The TransAtlantic Inter-Society Consensus classification was used to characterize the type of iliac lesions. Univariate (Kaplan-Meier) and multivariate analyses (Cox proportional hazards model) were used to determine the association between preoperative variables and cumulative primary patency. Results: Forty-five IARs were performed in patients with an earlier IAS repair, 33 in patients with an earlier IAA repair, and 42 in patients with an earlier AFB repair. There were not significant differences between patients in the IAS and IAA groups, except for a more frequent use of polytetrafluoroethylene grafts for IARs in the IAS group (40% vs 15%; χ 2 test, P =.03). The 5-year primary patency rate for IARs was 68% in the IAS group, 46% in the IAA group, and 61% in the AFB group. Univariate analyses revealed that primary patency rates for IARs in patients with previous IAS were significantly higher than those in the IAA group (Kaplan-Meier, log-rank test, P =.02). Previous IAA repair was associated with a two-fold increased risk of IAR graft failure (relative risk, 2.2; 95% CI, 1.1-4.8; P =.04). Conclusions: IARs in patients with previous IAS have significantly improved graft patency, compared with those in patients with previous IAA alone. Such graft patency for IAR after IAS is similar to that obtained after AFB repair. (J Vasc Surg 2001;34:971-8.)