cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Soil quality impacts of residue removal for bioethanol production

Abstract Global energy demand of 424 EJ year −1 in 2000 is increasing at the rate of 2.2% year −1 . There is a strong need to increase biofuel production because of the rising energy costs and the risks of global warming caused by fossil fuel combustion. Biofuels, being C-neutral and renewable energy sources, are an important alternative to fossil fuels. Therefore, identification of viable sources of biofuel feedstock is a high priority. Harvesting lignocellulosic crop residues, especially of cereal crops, is being considered by industry as one of the sources of biofuel feedstocks. Annual production of lignocellulosic residues of cereals is estimated at 367 million Mg year −1 (75% of the total) for the U.S., and 2800 million Mg year −1 (74.6% of the total) for the world. The energy value of the residue is 16 × 10 6 BTU Mg −1 . However, harvesting crop residues would have strong adverse impact on soil quality. Returning crop residues to soil as amendments is essential to: (a) recycling plant nutrients (20–60 kg of N, P, K, Ca per Mg of crop residues) amounting to 118 million Mg of N, P, K in residues produced annually in the world (83.5% of world's fertilizer consumption), (b) sequestering soil C at the rate of 100–1000 kg C ha −1 year −1 depending on soil type and climate with a total potential of 0.6–1.2 Pg C year −1 in world soils, (c) improving soil structure, water retention and transmission properties, (d) enhancing activity and species diversity of soil fauna, (e) improving water infiltration rate, (f) controlling water runoff and minimizing risks of erosion by water and wind, (g) conserving water in the root zone, and (h) sustaining agronomic productivity by decreasing losses and increasing use efficiency of inputs. Thus, harvesting crop residues as biofuel feedstock would jeopardize soil and water resources which are already under great stress. Biofuel feedstock must be produced through biofuel plantations established on specifically identified soils which do not compete with those dedicated to food crop production. Biofuel plantations, comprising of warm season grasses (e.g., switch grass), short rotation woody perennials (e.g., poplar) and herbaceous species (e.g., miscanthus) must be established on agriculturally surplus/marginal soils or degraded/desertified soils. Plantations established on such soils would restore degraded ecosystems, enhance soil/terrestrial C pool, improve water resources and produce biofuel feedstocks.
Effects of passive smoking on theophylline clearance.

Theophylline disposition was examined in seven passive smokers, defined as nonsmokers with long-term exposure to cigarette smoke, and seven age-matched nonsmokers with minimal smoke exposure. Subjects were given an intravenous infusion of aminophylline (6 mg/kg) and blood samples were drawn before and during the 48-hour postinfusion period. Clearance for passive smokers was 6.01 × 10−2 L/hr · kg and for nonsmokers, clearance was 4.09 × 10−2 L/hr · kg (p < 0.025). Terminal elimination half-life for passive smokers was 6.93 hours versus 8.69 hours for nonsmokers (p < 0.05). The mean residence time for passive smokers was 9.89 hours. For nonsmokers, the mean residence time was 13.11 hours (p < 0.05). These measurements were statistically different, whereas there was no difference in volume of distribution between the groups, suggesting that passive smokers metabolize theophylline more rapidly than nonsmokers. Plasma and urine cotinine and nicotine concentrations were measured in all subjects. There was a significant difference between the subject groups in plasma (p < 0.004) and urine (p < 0.002) cotinine concentrations. Theophylline clearance correlated with both plasma (r = 0.73, p < 0.01) and urine (r = 0.79, p < 0.01) cotinine concentrations. Additional studies should be conducted to further define the pharmacokinetic characteristics of passive smokers and to assess the effects of passive smoking on drugs metabolized by the mixed function oxidase system. Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics (1989) 46, 399–407; doi:10.1038/clpt.1989.158
The Distribution of the Product of Two Correlated t Variates

Abstract Two forms of the distribution function of the product of two correlated t variates are presented. The distribution function is studied as a function of three parameters.
Stimulation of T cells up-regulates expression of Ifi202, an interferon-inducible lupus susceptibility gene, through activation of JNK/c-Jun pathway.

Abstract Studies have revealed that increased expression of interferon (IFN)-inducible Ifi202 gene (encoding p202 protein) in splenic B and T cells from B6.Nba2 congenic (congenic for Nb2 locus derived from NZB mice) female mice is associated with lupus susceptibility. However, signaling pathways that regulate Ifi202 expression in immune cells remain to be elucidated. Here we report that stimulation of T cells up-regulates the Ifi202 expression. We found that steady-state levels of Ifi202 mRNA and protein were detectable in splenic T cells from NZB mice and stimulation of T cells with anti-CD3 and anti-CD28 up-regulated expression of the Ifi202 gene. Similarly, stimulation of cells of a mouse T cell hybridoma cell line (2B4.11) also activated transcription of the Ifi202 gene. Significantly, up-regulation of Ifi202 expression in stimulated T cells was inhibited by treatment of cells with SP600125, a specific inhibitor of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK). Conversely, treatment of cells with anisomycin, a potent activator of the JNK and c-Jun, up-regulated Ifi202 expression. Consistent with the activation of JNK/c-Jun pathway by T cell stimulation, forced expression of c-Jun in 2B4 T cells and in mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) also up-regulated the Ifi202 expression. Furthermore, we found that stimulation of T cells increased association of the activated c-Jun to the 5′-regulatory region of the Ifi202 gene in chromatin immunoprecipitation assays (ChIPs). Together, our observations demonstrate that stimulation of T cells up-regulates the Ifi202 expression in part through the JNK/c-Jun pathway.
Validity of methyl mercury hair analysis: mercury monitoring in human scalp/nude mouse model.

Objective. The grafting of human scalp hair was used as a new application of this method to explore methyl mercury incorporation into human hair and to validate this model for mercury monitoring in hair. Methods. Human scalp grafts were transplanted to athymic BALB/c nude mice. The animals were exposed to methyl mercury either as a single dose i.p. or continuously for 4 months, using ALZET osmotic pumps. The mercury concentration in hair was determined using x-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometry by segmental (2 mm) analysis of a single strand, and tissue concentrations were measured by cold vapor atomic absorption analysis. Results. Human scalp hair grown in nude mice showed long-term persistence of human features including the expression of histocompatibility antigens (KAB 3, W 6/32, SF 1-1.1.1) and normal hair morphometry. The disposition of methyl mercury in nude mice followed a one-compartment model with a whole body elimination half-life of 6.7 days (elimination constant, k = 0.1/day). Autoradiographic studies revealed that methyl mercury was rapidly incorporated into areas of the hair follicle undergoing active keratinization. Methyl mercury concentrations in human hair transplanted onto nude mice were two orders of magnitude higher than in blood and attained a mean hair: blood ratio of 217 : 1, similar to ratios reported only in human studies. Conclusions. This study demonstrated that human hair grown on nude mice can record the level of exposure to methyl mercury and can serve as a valuable research tool to study mercury incorporation into human hair. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A novel thermogelling matrix for microchannel DNA sequencing based on poly-N-alkoxyalkylacrylamide copolymers.

We have developed a novel class of thermogelling polymer networks based on poly-N-alkoxyalkylacrylamides, and demonstrated their use as DNA sequencing matrices for high-throughput microchannel electrophoresis in capillary arrays. Polymers and copolymers of N-ethoxyethylacrylamide (NEEA) and N-methoxyethylacrylamide (NMEA) were synthesized by aqueous-phase free-radical polymerization and characterized by tandem gel permeation chromatography-multi-angle laser light scattering. These copolymer matrices exhibit “re-entrant”-type volume phase transitions, forming entangled networks with high shear viscosity at low ( 35°C) temperatures, and undergoing a “coil-to-globular”, lower critical solution temperature (LCST)-like phase transition over an intermediate temperature range (20–35°C). Hence, matrix viscosity is relatively low at room temperature (25°C), and increases rapidly above 35°C. The material properties and phase behavior of these thermogelling polymer networks were studied by steady-shear rheometry. These matrices are easily loaded into capillary arrays at room temperature while existing as viscous fluids, but thermogel above 35°C to form transparent hydrogels via a thermo-associative phase transition. The extent of the intermediate viscosity drop and the final viscosity increase depends on the composition of the copolymers. DNA sequencing by capillary array electrophoresis with four-color laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) detection shows that these thermogelling networks provide enhanced resolution of both small and large DNA sequencing fragments and longer sequencing read lengths, in comparison to appropriate control (closely related, nonthermogelling) polymer networks. In particular, a copolymer comprised of 90% w/w NMEA and 10% w/w NEEA, with a molecular mass of ∼ 2 MDa, delivers around 600 bases at 98.5% base-calling accuracy in 100 min of electrophoresis.
Optical control and tuning of thermal-piezoresistive self-sustained oscillators

The ability to frequency tune and provide on/off control of electrically driven thermal-piezoresistive self-sustained oscillators through the application of HeNe (632 nm wavelength) laser illumination to devices is reported in this work. Photoexcitation of charge carriers is presented as the physical mechanism to control the piezoresistive coefficient and electrical resistivity enabling these abilities. The results are significant in that they offer a novel means to directly control the electronic output of RF oscillators through photonics.
Characteristics of step-graded In x Ga 1−x As and InGaP y Sb 1−y metamorphic buffer layers on GaAs substrates

Step-graded InGaP y Sb 1−y and In x Ga 1−x As metamorphic buffer layer (MBL) structures are grown on GaAs substrates by metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD). AFM analysis indicates that graded group V InGaP y Sb 1−y MBLs exhibit significantly lower surface roughness (∼4.7nm) compared with more conventional graded group III In x Ga 1−x As MBLs, which typically have rms surface roughness in the range of 7–14nm. To reduce the surface roughness of the In x Ga 1−x As MBL, a post growth Chemical-Mechanical Polishing (CMP) procedure is implemented. AFM image analysis indicates the CMP process is effective in reducing the step-graded In x Ga 1−x As MBL surface roughness from ∼7.3 nm (as-grown) to 2.3 nm post CMP. Preliminary studies indicate that bulk InGaAs layers regrown on top of the MBL subjected to CMP exhibit improved static and transient PL characteristics compared with those deposited on as-grown MBLs.
Testing the non-locality of quantum theory in two-kaon systems☆

An idea for testing the non-local character of quantum theory in systems made of two neutral kaons is suggested. Such tests require detecting two long-lived or two short-lived neutral kaons in coincidence, when copper slabs are either interposed on or removed from their paths. They may be performed at an asymmetric Φ0−factory. They could answer some questions raised by the EPR paradox and Bell's inequalities. If such tests are performed and if predictions of quantum mechanics and standard theory of kaon regeneration are verified experimentally, all descriptions of the relevant phenomena in terms of local interactions will be ruled out in principle with the exception of very peculiar ones, which imply the existence of hidden variables, of different kinds of kaons corresponding to different values of the hidden variables, and, for some of these kaons, of regeneration probabilities enhanced by a factor of the order of 400 or more over the average. Of course, the experiment may also reveal a break down of quantum theory.
Metal-containing DNA hairpins as hybridization probes

A RuII–based emission, while almost entirely quenched in a RuII/OsII heterodimetallated DNA hairpin, is dramatically restored upon hybridization to a complementary oligonucleotide, while hybridization to an oligonucleotide that contains a single mismatch results in significantly lower emission intensity.
Anyon spectra and the third virial coefficient

Abstract The third virial coefficient of a gas of anyons in a harmonic potential is studied using two different approximations to obtain the three-anyon spectrum. A semiclassical (weak-coupling) approximation which provides us with the overall behavior of the spectrum leads to a divergent third virial coefficient. As a second approximation the low-lying three-anyon spectrum at the fermion point is constructed up to second order in the statistical parameter. The analogue spectrum at the boson point follows by symmetry. In this case the results are consistent with a finite third virial coefficient. The semiclassical approximation is also applied to the four-anyon spectrum and can be readily generalized to many anyons. Within their range of validity, both types of approximate spectra are in complete agreement with previously obtained exact numerical spectra.
Spaces of maximal points

This paper shows that it is precisely the complete metrizable separable metric spaces that can be realized as the set of maximal points of an ω-continuous dcpo, where the set of maximal points is topologized with the relative Scott topology.
Color Doppler ultrasound criteria to diagnose varicoceles: correlation of a new scoring system with physical examination.

Abstract Objectives Color Doppler ultrasound (CDU) diagnostic criteria for varicoceles are poorly defined, and the role of CDU in diagnosing varicoceles is controversial. The purpose of this study is to assess the diagnostic accuracy of CDU for varicoceles compared to physical examination. Methods We prospectively studied 64 patients with CDU and collected the following data: maximum diameter of scrotal veins, the presence of a venous plexus, sum of the diameter of up to six veins of the plexus, and the duration and amplitude of flow change on Valsalva maneuver. To avoid interphysician variation, all patients were examined by one designated senior urologist with the sonographer remaining unaware of the findings. Results CDU parameters of 127 testis units in 64 patients were analyzed and compared to the physical findings. Fifty-nine testis units were positive and 57 units were negative for varicocele on physical examination. In 11 testis units, results of physical examination were inconclusive regarding the presence of varicocele. The commonly accepted CDU criterion for varicocele (maximal vein diameter of 3 mm or greater) had a sensitivity of 53% and specificity of 91% compared to physical examination. We developed a new scoring system incorporating the maximal venous diameter (score 0 to 3), the presence of a venous plexus and the sum of the diameters of veins in the plexus (score 0 to 3), and the change of flow on Valsalva maneuver (score 0 to 3). Using a total score of 4 or more to define the presence of CDU-positive varicocele, we observed a sensitivity of 93% and a specificity of 85% when compared to physical examination. All moderate to large varicoceles found on physical examination were positive by CDU diagnosis using the scoring system, but the same group had only a 68% positive rate by traditional CDU diagnostic criteria. Conclusions Using the proposed new scoring system, CDU has been shown to be a reliable and accurate method of diagnosis for varicoceles compared to the current reference standard physical examination. CDU has the advantages of being able to objectively examine venous plexus and measure blood flow parameters and to be less observer-dependent than physical examination. UROLOGY 50: 953-956, 1997.
High-grade metamorphism and possible overturning of the Tugela Rand layered intrusion in southeast Africa

The Tugela Rand layered intrusion is a metamorphosed, stratiform body located within the Nappe Zone of the mid-Proterozoic Natal mobile belt, South Africa. The intrusion comprises three macrorhythmic units (zones I, II, III), each consisting of the sequence dunite-websterite-gabbronorite. Possible overturning is evidenced by a downward decrease in the proportion of ultramafic to mafic rocks from zone I to zone III, a downward trend of iron enrichment from En 87 to En 76 , and inverted erosion scours within the cumulates. The intrusion has undergone both granulite- and amphibolite-facies metamorphism. The former is attributed to recrystallization in the presence of residual magmatic heat and the latter to regional metamorphism after or during further cooling of the intrusion. Overturning of the intrusion may have occurred during late-stage horizontal tectonics, when the Nappe Zone was transported northward over the southern boundary of the Kaapvaal craton. Overturned sequences have not previously been identified within the Nappe Zone.
Direct isolation, culture and transplant of mouse skeletal muscle derived endothelial cells with angiogenic potential.

Background Although diseases associated with microvascular endothelial dysfunction are among the most prevalent illnesses to date, currently no method exists to isolate pure endothelial cells (EC) from skeletal muscle for in vivo or in vitro study. Methodology By utilizing multicolor fluorescent-activated cell sorting (FACS), we have isolated a distinct population of Sca-1+, CD31+, CD34dim and CD45− cells from skeletal muscles of C57BL6 mice. Characterization of this population revealed these cells are functional EC that can be expanded several times in culture without losing their phenotype or capabilities to uptake acetylated low-density lipoprotein (ac-LDL), produce nitric oxide (NO) and form vascular tubes. When transplanted subcutaneously or intramuscularly into the tibialis anterior muscle, EC formed microvessels and integrated with existing vasculature. Conclusion This method, which is highly reproducible, can be used to study the biology and role of EC in diseases such as peripheral vascular disease. In addition this method allows us to isolate large quantities of skeletal muscle derived EC with potential for therapeutic angiogenic applications.
Interactions between dissolved petroleum hydrocarbons and pure and humic acid-coated mineral surfaces in artificial seawater

The adsorption of total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPHs) on suspended particles in the marine environment is an important process affecting the fate of oils spilled in the ocean. Adsorption kinetics and adsorption isotherms of the water-soluble fraction of Fuel Oil No. 6 were performed on pure and humic acid-modified montmorillonite, alumina and kaolinite. The rates of adsorption on all sorbents are very fast and a pseudo-equilibrium is reached within 0.5 h. Linear adsorption isotherms were obtained for TPH and individual aromatic hydrocarbons on all sorbents. Higher sorption coefficients (Kd) were obtained for the humic acid-coated clays compared to the pure clays. However, a great contribution of mineral surface to overall adsorption was found on humic acid-modified particles in this study. A linear relationship between the log K and log Kow was also found for individual compounds on both pure alumina (log Km) and humic acid-coated alumina (log Koc).
From continental drift to plate tectonics

Twenty-five years ago, on 7 September 1963, a paper by F.J. Vine and D.H. Matthews, "Magnetic Anomalies Over Oceanic Ridges", appeared in Nature. It attracted little immediate interest. But the paper turned out to be one of the seminal contributions to a sea-change in the Earth sciences that brewed through the 1950s and early 1960s and culminated in the theory of plate tectonics. Here, Henry Frankel describes the genesis and influence of the work of Vine and the contributions of some of the many Earth scientists who participated in the transformation of their discipline. In the following Review Article (p. 131), Peter Molnar picks up the story and reviews the progress made in applying plate tectonics to the thorny question of continental deformation.
Hypervalent iodine oxidation of trimethylsilyl enol ethers of ketones: A direct synthesis of α-keto triflates

Abstract α-Trifluoromethanesulfonoxy ketones (α-keto triflates) have been synthesized under very mild conditions by the reaction of silyl enol ethers of ketones and trimethylsily trifluormethanesulfonate/iodosobenzene in dichloromethane.
TEXTURAL QUALITIES AND MOLECULAR STRUCTURE OF STARCH PRODUCTS

This review deals with the physical properties of starch important in foods and with some of the factors which influence those properties. The major topics discussed are the molecular structure of the starch grain, the interaction of starch with water and with other compounds, the rheology of starch and starch products, and textural problems of starch in some representative foods.
The isoscalar giant dipole resonance: A status report

Abstract The current status of the experimental work on the Isoscalar Giant Dipole Resonance (ISGDR) is reviewed. Results are presented from recent measurements at RCNP, Osaka, using small-angle inelastic scattering of 400 MeV α particles, and the implications of these results on the determination of nuclear incompressibility are discussed.
Design of arbitrary projection patterns for object recognition

We have developed a system which confirms the identity of an object based on its three-dimensional surface shape. The system's two key elements are a computer routine which manipulates a desired two-dimensional output pattern and a light projector which illuminates test objects with this pattern. The operation of the system is based on prior knowledge of the surface shape for the object of interest, as determined by a previously developed machine vision system. A projection pattern is chosen to be the identifying cue to the observer for that object. For example, a set of parallel lines, a circle, or the word "pass" could all be used to signify that a particular object is being examined. This pattern is then distorted by the computer in a way which is determined by the surface shape data and projection and viewing angles for the system. This new pattern is, in a sense, an encrypted form of the original pattern. Only the original object holds the key to "undistorting" this projection pattern so that it may take on its original form. Any other object placed into the system to be examined only further distorts the pattern. Thus, by examining the projected patterns on objects being inspected, an object of interest can be distinguished from others. The simplicity of this system gives it potential for inspection and security applications in which the key issue may not be the actual surface shape, but rather a quick verification of an object's or person's identity.
Fabrication and characterization of solid state conducting polymer actuators

We report here the fabrication and characterization of solid-state conducting polymer actuators. The electrochemical activity of polyaniline (PANI) thin film coated with solid-state polyelectrolyte is very similar to the polyaniline thin film in an aqueous solution. The solid-state actuator is adhered to a lever arm of a force transducer and the force generation is measured in real time. The force generated by the actuator is found to be length dependent. However, the overall torque generated by the actuators with different lengths remains essentially the same. The effect of stimulation signals such as voltage, and current, on the bending angle and displacement is also studied using square wave potential.
Introduction of a fifth carboxylate ligand heightens the affinity of the oncomodulin CD and EF sites for Ca2

The acid-pair hypothesis, proposed by Reid and Hodges [(1980) J. Theor. Biol. 84, 401−444], suggests that the affinity of an EF-hand motif for Ca2+ will be maximal with four acidic ligands, paired along the +x,−x and +z,−z axes. Addition of a fifth anionic ligand is predicted to reduce Ca2+-binding affinity, as a consequence of increased electrostatic repulsion. Interestingly, for oncomodulin, we observe that introduction of a fifth carboxylate residue at the +z position in the CD coordination sphere or at the −x position in the EF coordination sphere significantly increases the affinity of those sites for Ca2+. The variants resulting from replacement of serine-55 by aspartate (S55D), glycine-98 by aspartate (G98D), and the combined mutations (55/98) have been examined in Ca2+- and Mg2+-binding studies, titration calorimetry, and differential scanning calorimetry. The KCa for the CD site is reduced from 800 to 67 nM by the S55D mutation, while KCa for the EF site is reduced from 45 to 4 nM by the G98D mut...
Continuously distributed dislocation model for shear‐bands in softening materials

The classical concept of slip-surfaces in soil mechanics is assigned a physical significance based on frequent observations of rupture in overconsolidated soils and rock masses; propagation of a narrow shear-band (i.e. slip-surface) is commonly the mechanism of failure. Effectively, relative sliding occurs between adjacent material points on the surface, a concept familiar in rack mechanics; just as failure by crack propagation can occur in metals well below net section yielding, so can progressive failure by band propagation cause slope failure at nominal stresses well below the peak strength of the material. The relative sliding is simulated here, for a material response which is linear outside the band, by superposing continuously distributed dislocations; use is made of influence functions, for dislocation and point-force singularities in a variety of materials and geometries. The method has further application in rock mechanics and metallurgy. A stress-displacement constitutive relation is imposed on the line of the band and the resulting non-linear singular integral equations necessitate numerical solutions; the routines are prefected on two problems for which answers are otherwise available. Extension to previously intractable plane-strain problems is then described and results are given for a surface-parallel shear-band corresponding to a flake slide on a long slope.
Detection of Vaccinia Virus DNA, but not Infectious Virus, in the Blood of Smallpox Vaccine Recipients

The authors of a recent study suggested that the duration of deferral for blood donations by smallpox vaccinees should be extended, based on detection of vaccinia virus DNA in 5 blood samples by PCR and the potential for viremia. We found that 4 of 202 blood specimens (from 3 of 27 smallpox vaccinees) were positive for vaccinia virus DNA by PCR; none were positive for virus by culture. Throat swabs were negative by PCR and culture. Thus, while some blood specimens contained vaccinia virus DNA, infectious virus was not detected. Current guidelines for deferral of blood donation in vaccinees seem appropriate.
Inhibition of host and viral protein syntheses during infection at the nonpermissive temperature with ts mutants of reovirus 3

During infection of cells with temperature-sensitive mutants of reovirus 3 at the nonpermissive temperature, increase in newly synthesized viral cores began at 6 hr and the maximal level was attained at 9 hr. There appeared late in mutant viral infection at the nonpermissive temperature an inhibition in the continued synthesis of progeny viral cores concomitantly with an inhibition of protein synthesis, both host and viral. At the time of cessation of protein synthesis, viral messenger RN As were found associated with polyribosomes and monoribosomes, but their subsequent translation was inhibited. These results are representative of all 14 ts mutant viruses isolated in this laboratory.
Cavernous Hemangioma of the External Ear Canal

Objective: To document the occurrence of a cavernous hemangioma of the external ear canal and to review the relevant literature. Study Design: Case report and literature review. Methods: Review of a patient chart, imaging studies, operative report, and histologic findings. Results: A cavernous hemangioma of the external ear canal not involving the tympanic membrane was surgically excised without complication. This is the third documented cavernous hemangioma of the external ear canal without tympanic membrane involvement in the English literature. Computed tomography scan is invaluable to narrow the differential diagnosis. Complete removal is curative. Conclusions: Cavernous hemangioma of the external ear canal with or without tympanic membrane involvement is a rare otologic entity amenable to surgical treatment. Temporal bone computed tomography scan imaging is an important preoperative diagnostic tool.
Dense point-cloud representation of a scene using monocular vision

We present a three-dimensional (3-D) reconstruction system designed to support various autonomous navigation applications. The system presented focuses on the 3-D reconstruction of a scene using only a single moving camera. Utilizing video frames captured at different points in time allows us to determine the depths of a scene. In this way, the system can be used to construct a point-cloud model of its unknown surroundings. We present the step-by-step methodology and analysis used in developing the 3-D reconstruction technique. We present a reconstruction framework that generates a primitive point cloud, which is computed based on feature matching and depth triangulation analysis. To populate the reconstruction, we utilized optical flow features to create an extremely dense representation model. With the third algorithmic modification, we introduce the addition of the preprocessing step of nonlinear single-image super resolution. With this addition, the depth accuracy of the point cloud, which relies on precise disparity measurement, has significantly increased. Our final contribution is an additional postprocessing step designed to filter noise points and mismatched features unveiling the complete dense point-cloud representation (DPR) technique. We measure the success of DPR by evaluating the visual appeal, density, accuracy, and computational expense and compare with two state-of-the-art techniques.
MEMS-based high-frequency vibration sensors

We present the development of two vibration sensors, one designed for out-of-plane sensing and one designed for in-plane sensing. Both sensors, fabricated on a 5 mm square MEMS (microelectromechanical system) chip, are variable capacitors with one electrode of the capacitor suspended by springs and the other electrode fixed to the chip. When a bias voltage is placed across the capacitor and the sensor is excited, the spring-suspended structure vibrates with respect to the fixed structure and induces a time-varying signal. Both sensors have resonant frequencies near 200 kHz. The out-of-plane sensor employs an open grill design rather than square etch holes to reduce the effects of squeeze film damping and increase sensitivity. The in-plane sensor uses a finger-type design which attempts to take advantage of the relatively high damping effect of air in the out-of-plane direction in order to suppress unwanted out-of-plane motion. Finite element simulations estimating the resonant frequency are presented and compared to characterization measurements of the resonant frequency. Characterization measurements of the sensitivity of each device are also presented. In addition, we report on a laboratory experiment in which we measure the response of each sensor to steady-state excitation.
Neomycin-Neomycin Dimer: An All Carbohydrate Scaffold with High Affinity for AT Rich DNA Duplexes

A dimeric neomycin−neomycin conjugate 3 with a flexible linker, 2,2′-(ethylenedioxy)bis(ethylamine), has been synthesized and characterized. Dimer 3 can selectively bind to AT-rich DNA duplexes with high affinity. Biophysical studies have been performed between 3 and different nucleic acids with varying base composition and conformation by using ITC (isothermal calorimetry), CD (circular dichroism), FID (fluorescent intercalator displacement), and UV (ultraviolet) thermal denaturation experiments. A few conclusions can be drawn from this study: (1) FID assay with 3 and polynucleotides demonstrates the preference of 3 toward AT-rich sequences over GC-rich sequences. (2) FID assay and UV thermal denaturation experiments show that 3 has a higher affinity for the poly(dA)·poly(dT) DNA duplex than for the poly(dA)·2poly(dT) DNA triplex. Contrary to neomycin, 3 destabilizes poly(dA)·2poly(dT) triplex but stabilizes poly(dA)·poly(dT) duplex, suggesting the major groove as the binding site. (3) UV thermal denatur...
Transmetallation of n-(trialkylstannyl)methylimines. A new method for the generation and cycloaddition of 2-azaallyl anions.

Abstract Transmetallation of imines 1 at −78° with RLi provided 2-azaallyl anions 2, which readily undergo cycloaddition with olefinic anionophiles, providing pyrrolidines. Of particular note is the generation of unstabilized 2-azaallyl anions for the first time (Table 1, entries 1–3).
Regeneration of rabbit olfactory epithelium.

Epithelial regeneration was determined with light and electron microscopy after preferential chemical destruction of olfactory epithelium in rabbits. Regeneration of either olfactory epithelium, ciliated columnar epithelium or a mixture of the two occurred. Previously observed interspecies variation in olfactory regenerative capability is therefore also an intraspecies variable. The ducts or glands of Bowman appeared to furnish the cells for either type of epithelial regeneration. Well differentiated olfactory cells re-appeared as early as eight days after destruction with olfactory regeneration being essentially completed 30 days after destruction.
Ag, a novel protein secreted from Aplysia glia

We have isolated a cDNA (ag for Aplysia glial) corresponding to an mRNA specific to the nervous system of Aplysia californica. In this study, we characterized the ag cDNA sequence and the distribution of ag mRNA and protein in the Aplysia nervous system. The ag cDNA contains an open reading frame that encodes a novel 29 kD protein. In situ hybridizations demonstrate that ag mRNA is conspicuously absent from the cell bodies of the large neurons constituting the external layer of the ganglia. Instead, it is largely confined to a subset of small, apparently non-neuronal cells surrounding the neurons at the border of the neuropil, is sparsely scattered within the neuropil, and is widespread within the connective nerves, a pattern consistent with glial localization. Polyclonal anti-ag antiserum recognizes a protein between 27 and 29 kD that is more broadly distributed, especially within the neuropil. The distributions of ag mRNA and protein, together with the presence of a putative signal peptide, suggest that ag protein is secreted. Two findings support this hypothesis: first, ag protein is detectable by western blot in Aplysia hemolymph. Second, full length ag protein expressed in COS cells is secreted, but ag lacking the putative signal peptide is not. Secretion from glia raises the possibility that this abundant protein may affect neighboring neurons. © 1996 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
ReCycle: pipeline adaptation to tolerate process variation

Process variation affects processor pipelines by making some stages slower and others faster, therefore exacerbating pipeline unbalance. This reduces the frequency attainable by the pipeline. To improve performance, this paper proposes ReCycle, an architectural framework that comprehensively applies cycle time stealing to the pipeline - transferring the time slack of the faster stages to the slow ones by skewing clock arrival times to latching elements after fabrication. As a result, the pipeline can be clocked with a period equal to the average stage delay rather than the longest one. In addition, ReCycle's frequency gains are enhanced with Donor stages, which are empty stages added to "donate" slack to the slow stages. Finally, ReCycle can also convert slack into power reductions.For a 17FO4 pipeline, ReCycle increases the frequency by 12% and the application performance by 9% on average. Combining ReCycle and donor stages delivers improvements of 36% in frequency and 15% in performance onaverage, completely reclaiming the performance losses due to variation.
Evaluation of Genotyping Large Numbers of Escherichia coli Isolates by Enterobacterial Repetitive Intergenic Consensus-PCR

We analyzed a large collection of Escherichia coli isolates typed by enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus (ERIC)-PCR with BioNumerics gel analysis software. However, the interexperimental variation of ERIC-PCR caused the computer software to classify repeated isolates as different. ERIC-PCR should not be used as the sole determinant of genetic similarity when typing large numbers of bacterial isolates via computer software.
2007 North Central Sociological Association Presidential Address: Teaching and Learning and the Culture of the Regional Association in American Sociology

Abstract In this essay, I examine the role of teaching and learning in the culture of the regional association in American sociology. I analyze the programs of (1) the 2007 joint meeting of the North Central Sociological Association (NCSA) and the Midwest Sociological Society (MSS); (2) the 2007 annual meeting preliminary programs of the Eastern Sociological Society (ESS), the Pacific Sociological Association (PSA), and the Southern Sociological Society (SSS) along with the 2006 annual meeting programs of the MSS and NCSA, as well as the American Sociological Association (ASA); and (3) the 1991 NCSA and 1992 ASA annual meeting programs. I identify program trends with regard to teaching, professional development, undergraduate students, graduate students, and research on higher education. I conclude by identifying regional association annual meeting best practices regarding each of these areas.
USE OF ARTHROBACTER TERREGENS FOR BIOASSAY OF MYCOBACTIN

Reich, Claude V. (Johns Hopkins-Leonard Wood Memorial Leprosy Research Laboratory, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Md.), and John H. Hanks. Use of Arthrobacter terregens for bioassay of mycobactin. J. Bacteriol. 87:1317–1320. 1964.—Arthrobacter terregens was used to assay mycobactin, a growth factor for Mycobacterium paratuberculosis. Within 7 days, A. terregens gave a linear photometric growth response to mycobactin in the range of 0.05 to 0.2 μg/ml. Preparations found to be active (or inactive) by this assay produced corresponding effects on the growth of M. paratuberculosis after 6 weeks to 4 months. Mycobactin was produced routinely from pellicles of M. phlei on a peptone-glycerol-beef heart infusion medium, and was extracted from both cells and medium by organic solvents. The mycobactin content per cell rose rapidly after the third day and attained a maximum at 4 to 6 days. The decline to less than one-half this value by the tenth day was associated with excretion into the medium. Production on synthetic media occurred after increasing the usual levels of asparagine. The demonstrated effects of crude mycobactin on the donor strain were (i) to catalyze the onset of growth and (ii) to reverse the effect of conditions which cause the formation of abnormal cells.
Pituitary tumorigenesis in aging female C57BL/6J mice: A light and electron microscopic study

Spontaneous pituitary tumors have been studied by light and electron microscopy in female C57BL/6J mice at 2 1/2, 11, 15, 22, 23, 24 and 30 months. Tumors were evident macroscopically in greater than 50% of mice 22 months or older, and greater than 80% on microscopic evaluation. Active and hypertrophied mammotrophs were the predominant cell type within the tumors at 22-30 months, often totally filling large portions of the tumor mass. Exocytosis of secretory granules was extensive from the mammotrophs, but much less abundant from other parenchymal cells. Somatotrophs and gonadotrophs were also present, and appeared active and often strikingly hypertrophied. The tumors were characterized by disruptions of parenchymal and capillary integrity which resulted in the formation of large vascular lakes lined solely by tumor cells, generally mammotrophs. Apparent metastasis of tumor cells into the vascular lakes was also observed. In 11- and 15-month mice small tumors or pretumor foci were evident in some mice on microscopic evaluation, although they were not visible macroscopically. Their degree of development was somewhat variable, but they had essentially the same features as more advanced tumors in older mice. pretumor foci were characterized by more moderate disruptions of parenchymal cell and capillary integrity; cellular hypertrophy, particularly of somatotrophs and gonadotrophs; and the presence of small vascular lakes. In 2 1/2-month mice tumors could not be localized macroscopically or microscopically, and the pituitary was composed of well-defined cell cords and an intact capillary bed. However, small focal zones of capillary and tissue disruption were apparent occasionally in 2 1/2-month mice. These findings indicate that the process of pituitary tumorigenesis in female C57BL/6J mice is initiated by midlife, with subsequent progressive development into large, mammotroph-dominated tumors.
Complete manufacturing control using a contract net: a simulation study

Contract nets, which use a bidding mechanism to solve problems, were first proposed as artificial intelligence constructs for distributed problem solving. They have recently been applied to distributed manufacturing control. The contract net presented, called a complete contract net, is intended to implement both high- and low-level control. The complete contract net incorporates mechanisms for just-in-time manufacturing, dynamic lot sizing, and bids based on known costs rather than surrogate costs. Also presented is AdaBuy, a simulator for complete contract nets, and the results obtained using it. >
MANAGING THE EXPLOITATION OF PACIFIC WALRUSES: A TRAGEDY OF DELAYED RESPONSE AND POOR COMMUNICATION1

The Pacific walrus population has been depleted and subsequently allowed to recover three times in the past 150 yr. As we see it, the population has been made to fluctuate like an r-selected species, rather than being maintained at a high, stable level, as befits a K-selected species. The latest depletion began in the 1930s but was not recognized until 25 yr later, by which time the population had been reduced by at least half. Without benefit of communication, the U.S.S.R. and the State of Alaska put similar protective measures into place by 1960, and in the next two decades the walrus population recovered again, at least doubling in size. By 1980, it already was showing density-dependent signs of having approached or reached the carrying capacity of its environment. As productivity and calf survival declined sharply in the late 1970s and early 1980s the catches more than doubled. We believe that the combined effects of natural curtailment and human intervention may be bringing the population down again rather rapidly. With the present, crude monitoring methods, delayed management responses, and poor international communications, however, the downward trend may not be acknowledged for at least another decade, by which time the unilateral Soviet and American corrective measures are likely to be too much, too late. Walrus management needs to be based less on response to immediate crisis and more on long term prediction than it has been in the past. Because the U.S.A. and U.S.S.R. are trying to manage the same walrus population, without sufficient communication or consensus and sometimes to opposite ends, an international joint management program needs to be implemented.
Micro-receiver guided transcranial beam steering

A new method for focusing ultrasound energy in brain tissue through the skull is investigated. The procedure is designed for use with a therapeutic transducer array and a small catheter-inserted hydrophone receiver placed in the brain to guide the array's focus. When performed at high-intensity, a focal intensity on the order of several hundred watts per centimeter-squared is achieved, and cells within a target volume are destroyed. The present study tests the feasibility and range of the method using an ex vivo human skull. Acoustic phase information is obtained from the stationary receiver and used to electrically shift the beam to new locations as well as correct for aberrations due to the skull. The method is applied to a 104-element 1.1 MHz array and a 120-element 0.81 MHz array. Using these array configurations, it is determined that the method can reconstruct and steer a focus over a distance of 50 mm. Application of this minimally invasive technique for ultrasound brain therapy and surgery also is investigated in vitro with a 64-element 0.664 MHz hemisphere array designed for transskull surgery. Tissue is placed inside of a skull and a catheter-inserted receiver is inserted into the tissue. A focus intense enough to coagulate the tissue is achieved at a predetermined location 10 mm from the receiver, the maximum distance that this large element array can electronically steer the focus.
Using computer games for hybrid systems controller synthesis

We propose a formal method for feedback controller synthesis using interactive computer programs with graphical interface (in short, computer games). The main theoretical tool used in this method is the concept of trajectory robustness, which is established using the theory of approximate bisimulation. Approximate bisimulation has been used to establish robustness (in l ∞ sense) of execution trajectories of dynamical systems and hybrid systems, resulting in trajectory-based safety verification procedures. We define control autobisimulation function (CAF), which is the analog of control Lyapunov function for approximate bisimulation. CAF is used to characterize the family of all feedback control laws, called admissible control laws, that result in a close loop system with an autobisimulation function. A computer game can then be used to construct safe and correct execution trajectory for a nominal initial state, and use the trajectory-robustness property to guarantee that the control law is also safe for other initial states in a neighborhood of the nominal initial state. As a result, a safe and correct feedback control law for a compact noncountable set of initial states can be obtained by playing finitely many games.
Appraisal of the Diabetic Patient

Most nurses are now using the skills of physical assessment as an in tegral part of their practice. Delores Schumann, well known for her workshops and papers on diabetes assessment, has written this series of articles especially for THE DIA BETES EDUCATOR.Starting with general appearance, each system is addressed pointing out only the features that are peculiar to diabetes. The first article of the ser ies — general appearance, skin, eyes, mouth — is presented in this is sue. Ed.
EFFECT OF PARTICLE SIZE ON THE QUALITY OF PEANUT PASTES

A spread made from light colored, bland peanut paste flavored with cheese, meat, fruit or chocolate would enhance the probability of increased utilization of peanuts. The effect of particle size on quality of pastes prepared from whole peanut kernels subjected to water extraction (WE) and chopping was determined. Results indicated that the paste prepared from coarsely or moderately chopped peanuts was found to be light in color and have the lowest flavor intensity scores. Paste prepared from finely chopped peanuts had the darkest color among all treatments.