cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fabrication and Characterization of Carbon Nanotube Nanocomposites Into 2024-T3 Al Substrates Via Friction Stir Welding Process

Carbon nanotube (CNT)-aluminum (Al) nanocomposites were prepared using friction stir welding (FSW) processing, and then the mechanical properties of these nanostructured materials were determined using the universal MTS machine. The fabrication of the CNT-metal composite consisted of the following steps: (a) homogenizing the CNTs and Al powder at three different ratios: 0/100, 25/75, and 50/50, (b) compacting the mixtures into grooves that were initially machined into the substrate (2024-T3) for the three cases, (c) incorporating CNTs in a substrate by the FSW process, and (d) validating the dispersion of the CNTs into the Al substrates after the characterization steps. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis and other physical characterization tests (e.g., mechanical, metallography, and fracture surfaces) were conducted on the prepared substrates. Test results showed that CNTs were dispersed and aligned uniquely in the different locations of the metal structures depending on the FSW zones: advancing, retreating, transverse, and stir zone regions. The mechanical properties of each zone were also compared to the distribution of CNTs. The advancing side had the highest amount of CNTs mixed into the aluminum substrate while retaining the yield strength (YS); however, the elongation was reduced. The retreating side had little to no CNTs distributed into the substrate and the mechanical properties were not significantly affected. The stir zone YS had little influence of the CNTs at the lower CNT/Al powder ratio (25/50), but a significant effect was noticed at the higher ratio of 50/50. The elongation to failure was significantly affected for both cases. The transverse zone YS and elongation to failure was significantly reduced by the powder mixtures. These results may open up new possibilities in the aircraft and other manufacturing industries for future development in the field.
Structure and Mode of Emplacement of Caribou Mountain Pluton, Klamath Mountains, California

The Caribou Mountain trondhjemitic pluton is one of several Jurassic-Cretaceous granitic intrusions in the central metamorphic belt of the southern Klamath Mountains, California. This pluton, emplaced wholly within metacherts of the pre-Cretaceous Stuart Fork Formation, is elongated in a north-south direction and has an area of about 7 square miles. Both eastern and western contacts dip eastward at steep to moderate angles parallel to metamorphic foliation in the country rock. Foliation is markedly deflected around the intrusion except at the pluton9s southern end where foliation is crosscut. Contacts are sharp, and chilled zones are absent. Hornfelses (hornblende-hornfels facies) border the pluton in an aureole as wide as 1500 feet. The intrusion is characterized by a conspicuous primary igneous foliation defined principally by subparallel alignment of biotite flakes. Magmatic foliation and arcuate, fine-grained, trondhjemitic sheets parallel to foliation define a dome, the core of which is located asymmetrically in the northwestern corner of the intrusion. Mesozonal emplacement of this pluton and the adjacent Middle Fork and Canyon Creek plutons was primarily effected by pronounced forceful shouldering aside of country rock. Orientation of primary magmatic foliation in the Caribou Mountain intrusion indicates upward and outward expansion to the northwest of the dome during emplacement, resulting from addition of crystal-charged magma at depth and accompanied by attenuation of flow layers along the flanks of the intrusion. A well-developed system of primary cross joints and aplite-pegmatite dikes oriented radially about the core of the dome indicates that expansion of the pluton continued during late stages of consolidation. Rocks within the pluton are slightly more alkalic and silicic toward the core; this chemical variation is represented by a lithologic variation from calcic trondhjemite to trondhjemite. A trend toward trondhjemitic rocks is generally characteristic of Jurassic-Cretaceous plutons in the Klamath Mountains and Sierran Foothills and contrasts with the calc-alkaline variation of Late Cretaceous granitic rocks of the Sierra Nevada and Southern California batholiths. Petrological differences in Californian granitic rocks may be related to temporal controls rather than to the spatial controls suggested by Moore (1959).
Insurer Ambiguity and Market Failure

A series of studies investigate the decision processes of actuaries, underwriters, and reinsurers in setting premiums for ambiguous and uncertain risks. Survey data on prices reveal that all three types of these insurance decision makers are risk averse and ambiguity averse. In addition, groups appear to be influenced in their premium-setting decisions by specific reference points such as expected loss and the concern with insolvency. This behavior is consistent with a growing analytical and empirical literature in economics and decision processes that investigates the role that uncertainty plays on managerial choices. Improved risk-assessment procedures and government involvement in providing protection against catastrophic losses may induce insurers to reduce premiums and broaden available coverage.
Cloning and chromosomal location of the murine keratinocyte lipid-binding protein gene.

Abstract The keratinocyte lipid-binding protein (KLBP) is a member of a large multigene family of intracellular fatty-acid-binding proteins. It is expressed in skin and tongue epithelia, adipose, lung and mammary tissue and has been found upregulated in several skin cell carcinomas and papillomas ( Krieg et al., 1993 ). In order to study the regulation of KLBP expression, the murine gene has been cloned. Southern analysis using an exon 2 specific cDNA probe indicated the presence of multiple copies of the gene in the murine genome. Based on the highly conserved structure of the fatty-acid-binding protein genes, the third intron of the KLBP gene was PCR-amplified utilizing murine genomic DNA. Southern analysis with the intron 3 probe identified one unique gene in the murine genome. A full-length genomic clone of KLBP was obtained from a P1 library, and the structural gene was sequenced. Similar to the other FABP genes, the functional KLBP gene contains four exons separated by three introns and maintains the conservation of size and placement of each exon. A functional minimal promoter was demonstrated by transient transfections of 5′ upstream KLBP-luciferase reporter constructs into line 308 keratinocyte cells as well as in primary adipocytes. RT-PCR on primary adipocyte RNA demonstrated expression of this KLBP gene by amplification of intron 3 from the primary transcript. Fluorescence in-situ hybridization identified the murine KLBP gene as the fourth FABP gene on chromosome 3, along with myelin P2, ALBP, and intestinal FABP. These studies provide a framework for analysis of KLBP expression in normal and pathophysiological conditions.
Modeling and measurement of the spontaneous mutation rate in mammalian cells.

The study of spontaneous mutation rates in mammalian cells has been hampered by the lack of an alternative to the cumbersome Luria and Delbruck fluctuation test. A brief review of mathematical treatments of spontaneous mutagenesis, along with some of the limitations of the fluctuation test, is presented. A new experimental method and a simple mathematical model for deriving the spontaneous mutation rate are described. Data from the transgenic Chinese hamster G12 cell line growing at two different rates is analyzed according to this model. The results support the concept that, at least for growing cells, the spontaneous mutation rate is independent of the growth rate, and the mutant fraction increases in a linear fashion with the number of generations.
Reactive Compensation and Harmonic Suppression for Industrial Power Systems Using Thyristor Converters

This paper discusses the problems and solutions of applying reactive compensation, either static or dynamic, to industrial power systems supplying large blocks of dc power from diode or thyristor converters. The resonance between power capacitors and system reactance can produce high harmonic voltages caused by the harmonic currents generated by converters. The interaction between these harmonic voltages and regulating systems can be minimized by the use of suitable filters. The design of these filters should eliminate the interaction between power system and load and reduce harmonic current flow. Different methods of reactive power control are also discussed.
Prevention and treatment of postsurgical head and neck infections

Postoperative wound infection is an important cause of postsurgical morbidity. Efforts to reduce the incidence of wound infection are enhanced through appropriate preoperative preparation, adherence to excellent surgical technique, and the provision of outstanding postoperative care. Many head and neck surgical procedures are undertaken in an environment contaminated by saliva containing a large inoculum of potentially pathogenic bacteria. Prospective randomized clinical trials have demonstrated that perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis reduces the risk for postoperative wound infection. Effective antibiotic prophylaxis requires that the antibiotic be effective against normal oral flora. Antibiotics should be administered before wound contamination. The dose of the antibiotic should exceed the minimal inhibitory concentration needed for the normal flora. The antibiotic administration can cease within 24 hours of surgery.
Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy Combined With Spatial Confinement of Plasmas and Laser-Induced Fluoresence for Trace-Materials Detection

Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) with spatial confinement effects and LIBS combined with laser-induced fluorescence (LIBS-LIF) have been investigated to improve the detection sensitivity and element-selectivity of LIBS. An obvious enhancement in the emission intensity of aluminum (Al) atomic lines was observed when a cylindrical wall was placed to spatially confine the plasma plumes. The maximum enhance factor for the emission intensity of Al atomic lines was measured to be around 10. Assuming local thermodynamic equilibrium conditions, the plasma temperatures are estimated to be in a range from 4,000 to 5,800 K. It shows that the plasma temperature increased by around 1,000 K when the cylindrical confinement was applied. Fast images of the laser-induced Al plasmas show that the plasmas were compressed into a smaller volume with a pipe presented. LIBS-LIF has been investigated to overcome the matrix effects of LIBS for the detection of trace uranium (U) in solids. An optical parametric oscillator wavelength-tunable laser was used to resonantly excite the uranium atoms and ions within the plasma plumes generated by a Q-switched Nd:YAG laser. Both atomic and ionic lines can be selected to detect their fluorescence lines. A U concentration of 462 ppm in a glass sample can be detected using this technique at an excitation wavelength of 385.96 nm for resonant excitation of U II and a fluorescence line wavelength of 409.01 nm from U II. The mechanism of spatial confinement effects and the influence of relevant operational parameters of LIBS-LIF are discussed. In this work, detection in open air of trace phosphorus (P) in steels using LIBS-LIF has also been investigated. The optical parametric oscillator laser was used to resonantly excite the P atoms within plasma plumes generated by the Q-switched Nd:YAG laser. A set of steel samples with P concentrations from 3.9 to 720 ppm were analyzed using LIBS-LIF at wavelengths of 253.40 and 253.56 nm for resonant excitation of P atoms and fluorescence lines at wavelengths of 213.55 and 213.62 nm. The calibration curves were measured to determine the limit of detection for P in steels, which is estimated to be around 0.7 ppm.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Sorption of carbon tetrachloride, ethylene dibromide, and trichloroethylene on soil and clay.

The sorption of carbon tetrachloride, ethylene dibromide, and trichloroethylene in two silty clay loam soils and aluminium (Al3+) or calcium (Ca2+) saturated montmorillonite clay was studied. When the adsorbents were exposed to environmental levels of these chemicals (10 to 1000 ppb in water) the amounts of each of the chemicals sorbed were 6% or less of that available except for a 17% sorption of trichloroethylene by Al-saturated clay. In the case of the Ca-saturated clay, there was no apparent sorption of carbon tetrachloride or trichloroethylene. When soil sorption was normalized based on the soil organic carbon content (Koc) a correlation was found between the Koc, water solubility, and octanol/water partitioning coefficients of the chemicals. However, carbon tetrachloride did not behave according to with the predicted relationships.
Basic Problems for Electromigration in VLSI Applications

The increasing electromigration requirements for interconnecting lines in VLSi technology have been assessed according to the trend in device scaling. Problems introduced by the decreasing line dimension and increasing current density are classified to be material-related or geometry-related. The nature of these problems are briefly discussed and their impact on device reliability is indicated.
Compact and Robust Refilling and Connectorization of Hollow Core Photonic Crystal Fiber Gas Reference Cells

A simple method for evacuating, refilling and connectorizing hollow-core photonic crystal fiber for use as gas reference cell is proposed and demonstrated. It relies on torch-sealing a quartz filling tube connected to a mechanical splice between regular and hollow-core fibers.
Technical aspects and early results of robotic esophagectomy with chest anastomosis.

Objectives Minimally invasive esophagectomy with a chest anastomosis has advantages. We present technical lessons learned and early results. Methods A retrospective review was conducted of minimally invasive laparoscopic and robotic Ivor Lewis esophagectomy. Results Over 10 months, 22 patients (19 men) underwent laparoscopic gastric mobilization, with robotic esophagectomy. All had the thoracic portion completed robotically and 21 had the stomach mobilized laproscopically. All had esophageal cancer and 20 received neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy. All had R0 resection with a median of 18 lymph nodes removed and a blood loss of 40 mL. The first 6 patients underwent a stapled posterior and hand-sewn anterior anastomosis; five of these patients experienced a major morbidity, including 1 anastomotic leak and 1 leak from the gastric staple line. The last 16 patients had a 2-layered completely hand-sewn anastomosis, and there were no anastomotic leaks or major morbidities. There were no 30- or 90-day mortalities. Technical improvements included placing a loop around the esophagus in the abdomen for third arm retraction, advancing the gastric conduit into the chest using nonrobotic instruments, using 10-cm nonabsorbable interrupted sutures for the outer layer, and a running 22-cm long absorbable suture for the inner layer. Conclusions Robotic thoracic esophagectomy using ports only is feasible, safe, and affords R0 resection with thorough thoracic lymph node dissection. It also allows the sewing of a 2-layered chest anastomosis with good early results.
Variation in k0 neutron flux parameters after replacement of the beryllium reflector and graphite wedge at the University of Missouri Research Reactor

In January 2006 the beryllium reflector and graphite wedge that contained the k0 INAA irradiation position were replaced at the University of Missouri Research Reactor. Prior to replacement the average values of the flux ratio, f, and the epithermal non-ideality factor, α, were 57.4 ± 4.5 and 0.039 ± 0.012. The values of f and α immediately after the beryllium and graphite wedge replacement were 39.4 ± 0.6 and 0.021 ± 0.002. Subsequent measurements indicate that the neutron spectrum hardened with time, possibly due to the buildup of the 6Li atom density to saturation.
Theory for decoupling in high-Tc superconductors from an analysis of the layered XY model with frustration

The nature of decoupling in the mixed phase of extremely type-II layered superconductors is studied theoretically through a duality transformation of the layered XY model with frustration. In the limit of weak coupling, we generally find that the Josephson effect is absent if and only if the phase correlations within isolated layers are short range. In the case specific to uniform frustration, we notably identify a decoupled pancake vortex liquid phase that is bounded by first-order and second-order decoupling lines in the magnetic field vs. temperature plane. These transitions potentially account for the flux lattice melting and for the flux lattice depinning that is observed in clean high-temperature superconductors.
Determinants of Catch-Up Growth in International Adoptees from Eastern Europe

Children raised in orphanages frequently experience growth suppression due to multiple risk factors. Placing such children in more nurturing environments through adoption leads to significant catch-up growth (CUG), the determinants of which are not entirely understood. The goal of this study was to perform an auxological evaluation and examine the degree and correlates of CUG in international adoptees. Children adopted from Eastern Europe, ( , 71 males), 7 to 59 months of age, were recruited within 3 weeks of their arrival to the US. At baseline, mean height SDS was and 22% were +0.5 in height SDS, was seen in 62% of adoptees at 6 months after adoption; 7% of children remained <−2 SDS for height (two had growth hormone deficiency). Growth factors improved in the majority of children. Younger age, greater degree of initial growth failure, and higher caloric intake were significantly associated with improved linear growth in multiple regression models. In summary, most adoptees demonstrate excellent CUG within six months after adoption. If growth failure persists after 6 months of appropriate caloric intake, nutrition-independent causes should be considered.
Dynamic penetration of graphite/epoxy laminates impacted by a blunt-ended projectile

Abstract The dynamic penetration of graphite/epoxy laminates as a result of impact by a blunt-ended projectile is investigated in the present study. The ballistic limit is determined by a series of high-velocity impact tests. A dynamic finite element analysis is performed to simulate the penetration process in composite laminates. A previously developed static penetration model is incorporated into the analysis to predict the ballistic limit. The ballistic characteristics are represented by the relationship between the striking and residual velocities of the projectile. Good agreement between experimental data and computational results implies that the ballistic limit of graphite/epoxy laminates can be predicted by the present analysis without performing dynamic impact tests.
Evaluation of factors associated with prolonged hospital stay and outcome of febrile neutropenic patients receiving chemotherapy: 70 cases (1997-2010).

Febrile neutropenia (FN) is an important sequela in veterinary patients receiving chemotherapy. The purpose of this study was to identify factors associated with prolonged hospital stay and outcome in canine patients developing FN secondary to chemotherapy administration. Medical records of 70 dogs treated for FN at the University of Pennsylvania from 1997 to 2010 were retrospectively evaluated. The mean interval between chemotherapy and hospitalization was 7 days. Two-thirds of treated patients had lymphoma. The majority of patients (70%) received vincristine or doxorubicin prior to the development of FN. Tachycardia at admission, complicating medical issues, G-CSF use and decreasing neutrophil count after admission were associated with prolonged hospital stay. Hypotension and G-CSF use were significantly associated with death in-hospital. Mortality was 8.5%. Identification of factors associated with prolonged hospital stay and mortality in patients with FN may enable the development of risk-adapted treatment guidelines to minimize chemotherapy-associated morbidity and mortality.
Care redesign--a path forward for providers.

To control health care costs, only a redesign of care offers a real alternative to cutting reimbursement or limiting access. A promising approach for providers involves understanding outcomes that matter to patients and forming teams to define, measure, and improve value.
The flavonoids of tetragonotheca (compositae)

Abstract Fifteen flavonols, five aglycones and ten glucosides were isolated from the four species of Tetragonotheca, T. repanda, T. helianthoides, T. texana and T. ludoviciana. Included among the isolated flavonols are four previously unreported 7-O-glucosides, 6-hydroxykaempferol 7-O-glucoside, 6-hydroxykaempferol 6-methyl ether 7-O-glucoside, quercetagetin 6,3′-dimethyl ether 7-O-glucoside and quercetagetin 3,6-dimethyl ether 7-O-glucoside.
Particle simulation model of the Lorentz collision operator in guiding-center plasmas

Abstract A simulation model of the Lorentz collision operator has been developed for guiding-center electron plasmas. In this model both the energy and the magnetic moment of the magnetized electrons are conserved. We implemented a two-and-one-half-dimensional (2 1 2 -D) guiding-center particle code with this model to study low-frequency electrostatic resistive interchange modes in sheared slab geometry. The growth rates and linear eigenmode widths obtained from the particle simulation and from linear kinetic theory agree very well.
Linear versus non-linear gastrointestinal foreign bodies in 499 dogs: clinical presentation, management and short-term outcome

OBJECTIVES To compare clinical signs, clinicopathological abnormalities, imaging findings and outcome of dogs with linear and non-linear foreign bodies in the gastrointestinal tract. METHODS Retrospective review of case records of dogs with a confirmed diagnosis of gastrointestinal foreign body. Signalment, history, clinical signs, clinicopathological data, diagnostic imaging studies, surgical and endoscopic procedures, hospital stay, costs and outcome were compared between groups. RESULTS A total of 176 dogs had linear and 323 had non-linear foreign bodies. Dogs with a linear foreign body were more likely to have a history of vomiting, anorexia, lethargy and pain on abdominal palpation. They were also more likely to have the foreign body anchored in the stomach and continuing into the small intestine, experience intestinal necrosis, perforation and peritonitis, and require intestinal resection and anastamosis. The duration of hospitalisation was longer for dogs with linear foreign body (3 versus 2 days), and the cost of treatment was 10% higher. However, in both groups, 96% of dogs survived to hospital discharge. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE Dogs with a linear foreign body had more severe clinical signs and gastrointestinal pathology, and an increased duration of hospitalisation and cost of care. However, overall survival rates were not different in dogs with linear and non-linear foreign bodies.
Parallel techniques in supervision and treatment.

This paper describes the particular parallels in treatment and its supervision that are most specific to behavioral, psychoanalytic, brief, and family therapy. The supervision of each modality employs teaching methods that are based upon, but also provide a model of the treating methods which distinguish that modality. The consequences of this parallel are discussed.
Is there a place for esophageal manometry in the care of patients with injured lungs

as someone who trained in an era in which respiratory physiology occupied center stage in the education of budding pulmonologists, I recall, not so fondly I might add, being locked in a body plethysmograph, chewing on a mouth piece, and, with every swallow, feeling the tuck of the esophageal balloon
Modeling of semiconducting piezoelectric nanowires for mechanical energy harvesting and mechanical sensing

Abstract ZnO and GaN semiconducting piezoelectric nanowires (NWs) have attracted much attention because of their improved mechanical and piezoelectric properties compared to bulk materials. They have been integrated into different devices ranging from sensors to energy harvesting devices. In this review article we focalize on the modeling of these nanostructures and devices: First, we synthesize the modeling studies at an individual level including the different approaches developed. Then we consider NW arrays integrated into devices for mechanical energy harvesting applications and the different modeling techniques, including finite element methods, analytical methods and equivalent circuit models, to estimate the performance and the optimization guidelines of such devices. Finally, composite materials integrating piezoelectric NWs and a dielectric matrix are also considered as a route for improved performance compared to piezoelectric thin films.
Only connect: The working alliance in computer-based cognitive behavioral therapy

Abstract The limited role of therapists in some technology-based interventions raises questions as to whether clients may develop a ‘working alliance’ with the program, and the impact on relationships with a therapist and/or treatment outcomes. In this study, the Working Alliance Inventory (WAI), and an adapted version for technology-based interventions (WAI-Tech), were administered within a subsample ( n = 66) of cocaine-dependent individuals participating in a randomized trial evaluating the efficacy of Computer-Based Training for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT4CBT) as an adjunct to treatment as usual (TAU). Results suggest the WAI-Tech has relatively similar psychometric characteristics as the standard WAI; however the ‘bond’ subscale scores were lower on the WAI-Tech [ F (1,52) = 5.78, p r = .43, p
Roles of the A and C sites in the manganese-specific activation of MntR.

The manganese transport regulator (MntR) represses the expression of genes involved in manganese uptake in Bacillus subtilis. It selectively responds to Mn2+ and Cd2+ over other divalent metal cations, including Fe2+, Co2+, and Zn2+. Previous work has shown that MntR forms binuclear complexes with Mn2+ or Cd2+ at two binding sites, labeled A and C, that are separated by 4.4 A. Zinc activates MntR poorly and binds only to the A site, forming a mononuclear complex. The difference in metal binding stoichiometry suggested a mechanism for selectivity in MntR. Larger metal cations are strongly activating because they can form the binuclear complex, while smaller metal ions cannot bind with the geometry needed to fully occupy both metal binding sites. To investigate this hypothesis, structures of MntR in complex with two other noncognate metal ions, Fe2+ and Co2+, have been determined. Each metal forms a mononuclear complex with MntR with the metal ion bound in the A site, supporting the conclusions drawn from t...
The Water Poverty Index in rural Cambodia and Viet Nam: A holistic snapshot to improve water management planning

For developing countries, adequate domestic water supply is conventionally assessed at international and national levels as the proportion of households that are “covered” by improved water sources. However, this measure has been acknowledged to be insufficient to account for the complex factors, including socio-economic, governance and environmental issues that can limit water use and access in developing countries. Because of this, there is concern that safe water access and use is not being measured accurately, leading to a poor understanding of domestic water and poor water planning and management choices. The Water Poverty Index (WPI) is a holistic tool that aims to address some of these wider issues. The WPI comprises five components that together provide a snapshot of how water poor a household is. This research undertakes concurrent conventional and WPI assessments of domestic water in five rural villages across Cambodia and Viet Nam. It is concluded that conventional measures had a relatively limited connection to how water was used by many respondents and that in the study villages, conventional measures did not predictably determine whether adequate quantities of safe water were used by individual households. It is argued that local, holistic water assessments at selected sites may support and triangulate conventional measurements of domestic water and improve water management planning and policy in rural developing areas.
Visualizing wood anatomy in three dimensions with high-resolution X-ray micro-tomography (μCT) – A review

High-resolution X-ray micro-tomography (μCT) has emerged as one of the most promising new tools available to wood anatomists to study the three-dimensional organization of xylem networks. This non-destructive method faithfully reproduces the spatial relationships between the different cell types and allows the user to explore wood anatomy in new and innovative ways. With μCT imaging, the sample can be visualized in any plane and is not limited to a single section or exposed plane. Conventional CT software aids in the visualization of wood structures, and newly developed custom software can be used to rapidly automate the data extraction process, thereby accelerating the rate at which samples can be analyzed for research. In this review the origins of xylem reconstructions using traditional methods are discussed, as well as the current applications of μCT in plant biology and an overview of pertinent technical considerations associated with this technique. μCT imaging offers a new perspective on wood anatomy and highlights the importance of the relationships between wood structure and function.
Interactions of the Escherichia coli primosomal PriB protein with the single-stranded DNA. Stoichiometries, intrinsic affinities, cooperativities, and base specificities.

Abstract Quantitative analysis of the interactions of the Escherichia coli primosomal PriB protein with a single-stranded DNA was done using quantitative fluorescence titration, photocrosslinking, and analytical ultracentrifugation techniques. Stoichiometry studies were done with a series of etheno-derivatives of single-stranded (ss) DNA oligomers. Interactions with the unmodified nucleic acids were studied, using the macromolecular competition titration (MCT) method. The total site-size of the PriB dimer–ssDNA complex, i.e. the maximum number of nucleotides occluded by the PriB dimer in the complex, is 12 ± 1 nt. The protein has a single DNA-binding site, which is located centrally within the dimer and has a functionally homogeneous structure. The stoichiometry and photocrosslinking data show that only a single monomer of the PriB dimer engages in interactions with the nucleic acid. The analysis of the PriB binding to long oligomers was done using a statistical thermodynamic model that takes into account the overlap of potential binding sites and cooperative interactions. The PriB dimer binds the ssDNA with strong positive cooperativity. Both the intrinsic affinity and cooperative interactions are accompanied by a net ion release, with anions participating in the ion exchange process. The intrinsic binding process is an entropy-driven reaction, suggesting strongly that the DNA association induces a large conformational change in the protein. The PriB protein shows a dramatically strong preference for the homo-pyrimidine oligomers with an intrinsic affinity higher by about three orders of magnitude, as compared to the homo-purine oligomers. The significance of these results for PriB protein activity is discussed.
Actual and Recalled Test Anxiety and Flexibility, Rigidity, and Self-Control.

Recalled and actual test anxiety were compared, and the interrelationship of anxiety and certain personality variables was examined. Sex differences in the variables and in the correlations among variables were studied. The A-State scale of the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory was administered to a sample of college students (N = 71) under different conditions and instructions. Scales that measure trait anxiety, dependency, flexibility, and self-control also were administered. Recalled test anxiety was significantly higher than actual TA. No significant sex differences were found in the means or correlations of the variables. A strong, positive relationship between A-Trait and dependency was found.
Absolute solar transmittance interferometer for ground-based measurements.

The absolute solar transmittance interferometer measures absolute solar radiance at the Earth’s surface. The instrument is based on a Fourier-transform spectrometer that utilizes a liquid-nitrogen-cooled InSb detector and appropriate optical bandpass filters. The recorded solar spectra are calibrated against National Institute of Standards and Technology traceable lamps and a blackbody source. The spectral range addressed by this instrument is from 1950 to 10100 cm-1 at a resolution of 2 cm-1. The optical design of the instrument and the experimental methods are discussed. A discussion of the uncertainties involving the instrument and the calibration sources is presented. Initial measurements from several sites are compared with atmospheric model calculations.
Laboratory tests of pulse shape discrimination techniques for correcting the effects of radiation damage in germanium coaxial detectors

Abstract A reverse-electrode closed-end germanium coaxial detector was irradiated with 183-MeV neutrons to evaluate the value of Pulse Shape Discrimination (PSD) techniques in restoring the energy resolution and line shape of the radiation damaged detector. Two consecutive irradiations were performed for total fluences of 5.0×10 8 and 10.4×10 8 n / cm 2 , with PSD tests performed after each irradiation. These irradiations degraded the energy resolution and line shapes; however, PSD corrections significantly restored the performance, even after severe damage. These PSD techniques delay and potentially eliminate, in some experimental situations, the need to anneal germanium detectors in damaging radiation environments.
Video in the College Classroom: An Exploratory Study

The effect of a counselor working directly with college teachers on a specific student learning problem—oral nonparticipation in discussion classes—was explored. Seven college history instructors viewed with a counselor videotaped excerpts of their own classroom discussion sessions. During playback sessions the counselor modeled and verbally and nonverbally reinforced certain instructor behaviors seen on video. Four instructors viewed tapes individually (IT) with the counselor; three instructors viewed tapes in a group (GT) with the counselor. Results: (1) Instructors reported video-playback counseling was very helpful in changing their behavior in the classroom; (2) Instructors became more aware of how verbal and nonverbal cues influence student behaviors; (3) Small group playbacks seemed as effective as individual playback procedure.
Renal findings on radiological followup of patients with Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome.

AbstractPurpose: The Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome is most commonly characterized by macroglossia and abdominal wall defect(s), and it carries a predisposition to embryonal tumors, including Wilms tumor. We report our experience with the character and incidence of renal disease in patients with the Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome, and discuss the role of radiological followup.Materials and Methods: We reviewed the medical records of all patients diagnosed with the Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome who were treated at our institution between March 1979 and February 1998. Radiological followup consisted of renal ultrasound at approximately 3 to 6-month intervals with the addition of computerized tomography or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in patients with an indeterminate lesion(s) or nephrogenic rest(s).Results: A total of 29 patients were identified. Of these cases renal ultrasound showed normal kidneys bilaterally in 19 (70%), simple cysts in 5 (19%), indeterminate lesion(s) in 2 (7%) and nephrocalcinosis in 1 (4...
Diabetes: Insulin pumps in children with T1DM—we told you so

Despite >30 years of experience with, and marked improvements in, insulin pumps for treatment of type 1 diabetes mellitus, use of these devices in paediatrics has remained controversial. However, a recent report provides convincing new evidence of the long-term benefits of pump therapy in children and adolescents.
The private practice of rheumatology. the first 1,000 patients

Although this report of the first 1,000 patients in a rheumatologic consultative private practice cannot necessarily reflect the general experience of rheumatology, certain conclusions may be valid and may help to guide the rheumatologist-in-training. Approximately 70% of our patients were categorized as having "inflammatory" or "connective tissue' disorders, rather than degenerative disorders. Internists and general practitioners were the principal referral sources. Over 80% of referrals came from a relatively small geographic radius of 10-15 miles. A population base of perhaps 200,000 people, therefore, may be necessary to support a purely rheumatologic practice. A relatively steady flow of 2 new patients per day was not significantly influenced by subsequent additional rheumatologists moving into the area. However, the pattern of referrals clearly changed to include more patient-to-patient referrals (nearly 30%), perhaps reflecting both loss of physician referral sources and the increasing number of referrals from satisfied patients over a period of time.
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Etiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a disease characterized by primary hypertrophy of the left (and sometimes right) ventricle. The clinical manifestations of the disease are dyspnea, angina, and a continuum encompassing lightheadedness, presyncope, syncope, and sudden death. Although HCM is often caused by an identifiable mutation in a gene coding for a sarcomeric protein and inherited in an autosomal-dominant pattern, many patients do not have any relatives in whom the disease is manifest. The prevalence of HCM is estimated to be 0.2%, with nearly 600,000 Americans affected. This limited exposure of clinicians to HCM understandably accounts for the uncertainty that prevails regarding this disease and its management.
Mapping of induced polarization using natural fields

The observed electromagnetic response of a finite body is caused by induction and polarization currents in the body and by the distortion of the induction currents in the surrounding medium. At a sufficiently low frequency, there is negligible induction and the measured response is that of the body distorting the background currents just as it would distort a direct current (dc). Because this dc response is not inherently frequency dependent, any observed change in response of the body for frequencies low enough to be in this dc limit must result from frequency‐dependent conductivity. Profiles of low‐frequency natural electric (telluric) fields have spatial anomalies over finite bodies of fixed conductivity that are independent of frequency and have no associated phase anomaly. If the body is polarizable, the electric field profile over the body becomes frequency dependent and phase shifted with respect to a reference field. The technique was tested on data acquired in a standard continuous profiling magn...
Parylene-C as a piezoelectric material

This work reports the first study of preparing Parylene-C (i.e., PA-C) as a piezoelectric material. The poling of the Parylene-C film was performed with an electric field up to 40 MV/m up to 250°C. This work also applied a charge integration method to measure the longitudinal piezoelectric coefficient (i.e., d33) using step-wise pneumatic pressure changes over the piezoelectric PA-C film samples in a sealed chamber. The (d33) is measured to be −0.01 to −2.00pC/N depending on poling conditions.
Alcohol, coronary disease, and hypertension

Disparities in the relationships between alcohol consumption and various cardiovascular conditions are now evident, with complex interrelationships between conditions. An inverse relationship of alcohol use to coronary heart disease is supported by many population studies. Interpretation of these data as a protective effect of alcohol against coronary disease is strengthened by plausible mechanisms. Although some experimental data suggest the hypothesis that wine, in particular, has additional protective benefit, prospective studies show no consensus on this point. Strong, consistent epidemiologic data support a relationship of heavier drinking to hypertension. Intervention studies show a pressor effect of alcohol, which appears and regresses within several days, but a mechanism has not yet been established. As with most aspects of alcohol and health effects, the data do not suggest monotonic relationships of alcohol with these conditions. Thus, amount of alcohol taken is a crucial consideration. Advice to concerned persons needs to take into account individual factors in drinkers or potential drinkers.
Interaction of the AMPA receptor subunit GluR2/3 with PDZ domains regulates hippocampal long-term depression

The interaction of PDZ domain-containing proteins with the C termini of alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazolepropionate (AMPA) receptors has been suggested to be important in the regulation of receptor targeting to excitatory synapses. Recent studies have shown that the rapid internalization of AMPA receptors at synapses may mediate, at least in part, the expression of long-term depression (LTD). We have previously shown that phosphorylation of Ser-880 on the AMPA receptor GluR2 subunit differentially regulated the interaction of GluR2 with the PDZ domain-containing proteins GRIP1 and PICK1. Here, we show that induction of LTD in hippocampal slices increases phosphorylation of Ser-880 within the GluR2 C-terminal PDZ ligand, suggesting that the modulation of GluR2 interaction with GRIP1 and PICK1 may regulate AMPA receptor internalization during LTD. Moreover, postsynaptic intracellular perfusion of GluR2 C-terminal peptides that disrupt GluR2 interaction with PICK1 inhibit the expression of hippocampal LTD. These results suggest that the interaction of GluR2 with PICK1 may play a regulatory role in the expression of LTD in the hippocampus.
A model curriculum for CAD

A model for a computer-aided design course is discussed for teaching undergraduate- and masters-level students in mechanical engineering. The discussions are presented from the point of view of a mechanical engineer. The author's view is that a CAD-based curriculum should include computer graphics/drafting finite-element methods, and design of machine components. Because computers can perform calculations rapidly, their power should be utilized in evaluating alternatives and obtaining optimal solutions whenever possible. It is recommended, therefore, that optimization techniques should also be included in a CAD curriculum. On the basis of these feelings a brief summary is given of eight topics for inclusion in such a curriculum. The topics are: numerical techniques: computer graphics; design databases; design optimization; fundamentals of the finite-element method; linear elastic analysis using finite-element methods; linkage synthesis; and the design of machine components. >
Tailoring the process of informed consent in genetic and genomic research

Genomic science and associated technologies are facilitating an unprecedented rate of discovery of novel insights into the relationship between human genetic variation and health. The willingness of large numbers of individuals from different ethnic and cultural backgrounds to donate biological samples is one of the major factors behind the success of the ongoing genomic revolution. Although current informed consent documents and processes demonstrate a commitment to ensuring that study participants are well informed of the risks and benefits of participating in genomic studies, there continues to be a need to develop effective new approaches for adequately informing participants of the changing complexities of the scientific and ethical issues that arise in the conduct of genomics research. Examples of these complexities in genomic research include more widespread use of whole-genome sequencing technologies, broad sharing of individual-level data, evolving information technology, the growing demand for the return of genetic results to participants, and changing attitudes about privacy and the expansion of genomics studies to global populations representing diverse cultural, linguistic and socio-economic backgrounds. We highlight and briefly discuss the importance of ten core scientific, cultural and social factors that are particularly relevant to tailoring informed consent in genomic research, and we draw attention to the need for the informed consent document and process to be responsive to the evolving nature of genomic research.
Integration of scheduling and control for batch processes using multi‐parametric model predictive control

Integration of scheduling and control results in Mixed Integer Nonlinear Programming (MINLP) which is computationally expensive. The online implementation of integrated scheduling and control requires repetitively solving the resulting MINLP at each time interval. (Zhuge and Ierapetritou, Ind Eng Chem Res. 2012;51:8550–8565) To address the online computation burden, we incorporare multi-parametric Model Predictive Control (mp-MPC) in the integration of scheduling and control. The proposed methodology involves the development of an integrated model using continuous-time event-point formulation for the scheduling level and the derived constraints from explicit MPC for the control level. Results of case studies of batch processes prove that the proposed approach guarantees efficient computation and thus facilitates the online implementation. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 60: 3169–3183, 2014
Shear rheological properties of acrylic copolymers and terpolymers suitable for potentially melt processable carbon fiber precursors

In an effort to generate melt processable polyacrylonitrile (PAN) precursor fibers suitable for conversion to carbon fibers, an acrylonitrile/methyl acrylate (AN/MA) copolymer and two acrylonitrile/methyl acrylate/acryloyl benzophenone (AN/MA/ABP) terpolymers were synthesized at molar ratios of 85/15 and 85/14/1, respectively. The termonomer (ABP) was incorporated to accelerate crosslinking via UV irradiation, which serves to prevent relaxation of orientation and flow as the temperature of the fiber is raised during thermooxidative stabilization. Two molecular weights of the terpolymer and one molecular weight of the copolymer were studied to determine the effect of the termonomer, and the effect of molecular weight (MW), on the steady shear viscosity (η) and magnitude of the complex viscosity (η*). A higher rate of increase of η as a function of time was observed for the high MW terpolymer relative to that of the copolymer over the temperature range used. Using a temperature sweep and monitoring levels of η*, a minimum was observed at lower temperatures for both terpolymers. These results suggest that copolymerization with ABP significantly increased the thermally induced kinetics of crosslinking. Comparison of the η and η* data for the low and high MW terpolymers suggested that molecular weight also significantly reduced the melt stability (increased the kinetics of crosslinking). A chemorhelogical correlation was then used to quantify the effects of the termonomer and of molecular weight on the kinetics of crosslinking of the AN terpolymers. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 93: 2856–2865, 2004