cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Temperature adaptation of enzymes: A proposed molecular basis for the different catalytic efficiencies of enzymes from ectotherms and endotherms

Abstract 1. 1. A number of enzymic reactions of ectotherms have lower values for the free energy, the enthalpy and the entropy of activation than the homologous reactions of birds and mammals. 2. 2. Differences in the magnitudes of the activation parameters, which lead to marked differences in the catalytic efficiencies of the homologous enzymes, can be accounted for on the basis of increased weak bond formation during the generation of the activated enzyme-substrate complex in ectothermic systems.
Poly(Methacrylic Acid-g-Ethylene Glycol) Hydrogels as pH Responsive Biomedical Materials

Novel graft copolymeric, pH responsive hydrogels have been synthesized by solution polymerization. Poly(methacrylic acid-g-ethylene glycol) hydrogels exhibit reversible complexation as a function of pH because of hydrogen bonding between the PEG grafts and the PMAA main chains. These gels are being developed as pH responsive membranes for use in biomedical applications. ATR-FTIR results indicate that there is hydrogen bonding occurring in membranes swollen under conditions favorable for complexation. Equilibrium swelling studies have shown that the pH of the surrounding environment has a significant effect on the swelling behavior of these membranes. The swelling behavior has also been shown to respond rapidly to changing pH conditions. P(MAA-g-EG) membranes also show pH sensitive permeability toward solutes as a result of this environmentally sensitive swelling.
Effects of ATP, NADH and aldosterone on citrate synthase from bovine kidney cortex

Abstract 1. 1. Citrate synthase [citrate oxaloacetate-lyase (CoA-acetylating) EC 4.1.3.7] from beef kidney cortex has been partially purified. The K m value for each substrate was determined and both found to be independent of the concentration of the other. 2. 2. ATP was found to be a competitive inhibitor with respect to acetyl-CoA, but with respect to oxaloacetate, ATP inhibition altered both K m and V max indicating mixed inhibition. 3. 3. High concentrations of NADH (1.1–2.2 mM) caused a partial inhibition of this enzyme with respect to low concentrations of both acetyl-CoA (CoASAC) and oxaloacetate. 4. 4. Aldosterone at a concentration of 0.2 μM showed no effect on the affinity of this enzyme for cither substrate. 5. 5. These results indicate that only ATP was significantly inhibitory and thus could be a regulator of kidney citrate synthase activity.
Textbook Stickers: A Reasonable Response to Evolution?

Debates concerning how the issue of human life’s origins should be handled within the confines of American public schools still continue. In order to mitigate the impact that evolution has on students, some school boards and state legislatures have recommended that stickers voicing a disclaimer about evolution be placed in biology textbooks. Even though supporters maintain that textbook stickers promote good science, this kind of approach invariably raises the concern that public education might be unduly intertwined with religion. In this article, it is argued that regardless of whether a textbook sticker can pass constitutional scrutiny, the use of such a sticker is a flawed approach to science education.
Evidence of switching and rectification by a single molecule effected with a scanning tunneling microscope

Organic molecules, designed to have an asymmetrical double-well potential for two protons, were synthesized. The structure allows the switching of the position of the protons by an electric field. A monolayer of these molecules was chemically bound to a surface of gold. A scanning tunneling microscope was modified so that the current-voltage characteristics between the tip and a surface could be obtained rapidly, making it possible to observe the effects of single molecules. Whereas bare Au had usual tunneling characteristics, it was found that the surface with molecules had regions where the I-V was highly asymmetric. For negative voltages there was a switching threshold, beyond which the conductivity was much higher than when the tip was positive. A tentative explanation of the switching and rectification, based on the asymmetry of the molecule, is proposed.
Bulk Microphysical Sensitivities within the MM5 for Orographic Precipitation. Part I: The Sierra 1986 Event

Abstract This paper investigates the microphysical pathways and sensitivities within the Reisner2 bulk microphysical parameterization (BMP) of the fifth-generation Pennsylvania State University–National Center for Atmospheric Research (PSU–NCAR) Mesoscale Model (MM5) for a precipitation event over the central Sierra Nevada on 12 February 1986. Using a single sounding initialization, the MM5 was run two-dimensionally at 2-km horizontal grid spacing, which was needed to realistically simulate the embedded convective cells within the orographic cloud. Unlike previous modeling studies of this event, a microphysical budget over the windward slope was calculated for each experiment, in which the importance of each microphysical process was quantified relative to the water vapor loss (WVL) rate. For the control MM5, the largest microphysical processes that contribute to surface precipitation over the Sierra windward slope are condensation (63% of WVL), snow deposition (33%), riming to form graupel (35%), and mel...
Re-engineering the product development cycle and future enhancements of the computer integrated environment

Abstract This article examines an important aspect of being a world class manufacturer of the future: the product development cycle. It details the future improvements in the product development cycle with technological advances in computer integrated systems. Using a current leading manufacturer as a reference point, this article provides a guideline for current manufacturing enterprises to make innovative improvements to the product development cycle. It also provides an outline for software producers to design computer integrated systems to meet future needs. These enhancements will result in a higher quality product at a lower cost that reaches the market faster.
Two-photon accessed excited state absorption in bis(terpyridyl osmium)-(porphinato)zinc

Two-photon absorption properties of a (terpyridyl)osmium-(porphinato)zinc (OsPZnOs) are studied in bulk and waveguides. Integration of OsPZnOs (δ>1300GM) in waveguides showed enhanced nonlinear performance and potential for photonic applications.
The effect of a polyurethane coating incorporating both a thrombin inhibitor and nitric oxide on hemocompatibility in extracorporeal circulation

Nitric oxide (NO) releasing (NORel) materials have been extensively investigated to create localized increases in NO concentration by the proton driven diazeniumdiolate-containing polymer coatings and demonstrated to improve extracorporeal circulation (ECC) hemocompatibility. In this work, the NORel polymeric coating composed of a diazeniumdiolated dibutylhexanediamine (DBHD-N2O2)-containing hydrophobic Elast-eon™ (E2As) polyurethane was combined with a direct thrombin inhibitor, argatroban (AG), and evaluated in a 4 h rabbit thrombogenicity model without systemic anticoagulation. In addition, the immobilizing of argatroban to E2As polymer was achieved by either a polyethylene glycol-containing (PEGDI) or hexane methylene (HMDI) diisocyanate linker. The combined polymer film was coated on the inner walls of ECC circuits to yield significantly reduced ECC thrombus formation compared to argatroban alone ECC control after 4 h blood exposure (0.6 ± 0.1 AG/HMDI/NORel vs 1.7 ± 0.2 cm(2) AG/HMDI control). Platelet count (2.8 ± 0.3 AG/HMDI/NORel vs 1.9 ± 0.1 × 10(8)/ml AG/HMDI control) and plasma fibrinogen levels were preserved after 4 h blood exposure with both the NORel/argatroban combination and the AG/HMDI control group compared to baseline. Platelet function as measured by aggregometry remained near normal in both the AG/HMDI/NORel (63 ± 5%) and AG/HMDI control (58 ± 7%) groups after 3 h compared to baseline (77 ± 1%). Platelet P-selectin mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) as measured by flow cytometry also remained near baseline levels after 4 h on ECC to ex vivo collagen stimulation (16 ± 3 AG/HMDI/NORel vs 11 ± 2 MFI baseline). These results suggest that the combined AG/HMDI/NORel polymer coating preserves platelets in blood exposure to ECCs to a better degree than AG/PEGDI/NORel, NORel alone or AG alone. These combined antithrombin, NO-mediated antiplatelet effects were shown to improve thromboresistance of the AG/HMDI/NORel polymer-coated ECCs and move potential nonthrombogenic polymers closer to mimicking vascular endothelium.
Effect of colloidal silica on the strength and energy absorption of glass fiber/epoxy interphases

Prior research has demonstrated that fiber-sizings can be designed to yield composite materials that simultaneously possess high energy absorption and structural properties. The improved mechanical properties resulted from control of the fiber surface chemistry and nano-scale topological features within the fiber–matrix interphase. The present study further explains the role of sizing chemistry and surface roughness on composite material performance. Model and commercial glass fiber epoxy specimens were fabricated using these fiber sizing systems resulting in interphase regions with varied surface topology and chemical functionality. Micromechanical measurements were performed using the microdroplet adhesion test method to quantify the fiber–matrix interfacial properties. Improvement in energy absorption and interfacial shear strength due to the presence of the nano-scale silica were quantified. Inspection of the failure modes revealed that the existence of colloidal silica promotes crack propagation along a more tortuous path within the interphase that results in progressive failure and contributes to increased energy dissipation.
Education in donation coping strategies encourages individuals to give blood: further evaluation of a donor recruitment brochure.

BACKGROUND: This study extends our prior assessment of a blood donation recruitment brochure by assessing persistence of observed changes in attitudes toward donation as well as the effects that such changes have on the behavior of registering to give blood. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Participants were randomly assigned to read 1) a study brochure addressing common donor concerns and suggesting specific coping strategies, 2) a blood center brochure, or 3) a control brochure on healthy eating and exercise. Measures of blood donation attitudes, donation-related anxiety, confidence in ability to avert vasovagal reactions, and intentions to give blood in the near future were completed before and after reading the brochures and again approximately 1 week later. In addition, participants were given the opportunity to sign up for an upcoming blood drive immediately after reading the brochure. RESULTS: Relative to the control brochure, the study brochure was associated with improvements in donation attitude, anxiety, confidence, and intention, and all of these effects persisted at follow-up. Further, participants who read the study brochure were more likely to volunteer to give blood, an effect that was mediated by enhanced confidence in their ability to avoid vasovagal reactions. CONCLUSIONS: Exposure to a brief educational brochure can enhance prospective donor confidence and increase the likelihood that they will volunteer to give blood.
Logical Probability and Risk Assessment

Abstract A risk assessment is intended to provide a statement of current knowledge which is intended to inform a decision-maker of the current state of knowledge in response to a particular concern. Because answering the concerns of decision-makers often requires inferences to be drawn, doubt often arises over how the inference is to be drawn. In quantitative risk assessment, where a mathematical equation or model is used to draw the inference, this uncertainty is referred to as model uncertainty. A two-step process, which is referred to as logical probability, is proposed as a technique for representing model uncertainty in a risk assessment. The first step involves assigning model weights in which the degree of evidential support for each of the alternative models is considered. The second step involves assigning a unique interval in the range of 0 to 1 for each model which reflects the models' weight, to form a probability distribution. While the second step is straightforward, the first step is not. A...
Prospective exploratory analysis of cardiac biomarkers and electrocardiogram abnormalities in patients receiving thoracic radiation therapy with high-dose heart exposure.

Introduction Acute effects of incidental cardiac irradiation in patients treated for thoracic cancer are not well characterized. We evaluated longitudinal changes in cardiac biomarkers for patients undergoing conformal radiation therapy (RT) with thoracic malignancies with high-dose cardiac exposure. Methods Twenty-five patients enrolled in a prospective trial (February 2009–December 2012) received more than or equal to 45 Gy to the thorax, with pretreatment estimates of more than or equal to 20 Gy to the heart. Chemotherapy was allowed except for doxorubicin or fluorouracil. Electrocardiographic (ECG), troponin-I (TnI), and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) measurements were obtained before RT, within 24 hours of the first fraction, at the end of RT, and at first follow-up (1–2 months). These biomarkers were quantified at specific times and changes from baseline were evaluated with paired t tests. Results The median heart dose was 25.9 Gy (range 10.1–35.1 Gy). After the first RT fraction, no changes were noted in ECG or median TnI or BNP levels; at the end of RT, two patients had elevated TnI and BNP, but neither difference was statistically significant. At first follow-up, TnI had returned to normal but the median BNP remained elevated ( p = 0.042). BNP did not increase over time in the 18 patients who received only RT. Twelve patients experienced acute ECG changes during RT, which resolved in seven patients by the next measurement. No patients experienced clinically significant RT-related events. Conclusion Increases in BNP and ECG changes were observed during high doses of radiation to the heart. The findings of this pilot study warrant further investigation and validation.
An Outbreak of Pertussis in Rural Texas: An Example of the Resurgence of the Disease in the United States

During 2012, an increase in the number of pertussis cases or outbreaks was reported among most states within the United States. The majority of these cases included previously vaccinated children between the ages of 7–10 years. This underscores the growing concern regarding current immunization practices and vaccine efficacy, especially as it pertains to pertussis prevention within this age group. In the fall of 2012, an outbreak of pertussis occurred within a school district in a rural Texas county that was reflective of this national pattern. Our objective is to describe this outbreak, highlight the similarities with the national trend, and identify strategies for better disease prevention. The cases in this outbreak were interviewed and laboratory testing done. Information regarding exposure and immunization history among cases was obtained. Immunization audits of the affected institutions were also conducted. We performed a descriptive analysis of the collected data using EPI-INFO software v.3.5.3. A total of 34 cases were identified in this outbreak, of which 23 were PCR confirmed and 11 were epidemiologically linked. Ages ranged from 5 months to 12 years, and 62 % were among children aged 7–10 years. All cases were up-to-date on their pertussis vaccinations. Immunization coverage rate was over 90 % within each of the affected institutions. The characteristics of this outbreak bear striking similarities to the current national trend in terms of age groups and immunization status of the affected cases. Increased focus on this vulnerable target group, including heightened scrutiny of vaccine efficacy and delivery, is indicated.
Female-specific mutagenic response of mice to hycanthone.

Abstract Male and female gametogeneses differ markedly in all mammals. While male germ cells are continuously being produced from stem cells throughout the reproductive life span, the number of female germ cells is fixed during prenatal development and, soon after birth, all of the oocytes are arrested in a modified diplotene, or dictyate, stage. Following puberty, dictyate oocytes are hormonally triggered to mature either singly or in groups, resulting in ovulation and the completion of the first meiotic division. It has been hypothesized that female mice are more susceptible to dominant lethal effects of intercalating agents that male mice because oocyte chromosomes, which are arrested in a diffuse state, are generally more accessable to intercalation than are the more condensed chromosomes present within most male germ cell stages. This hypothesis was further tested using the intercalating agent hycanthone methanesulfonate. Effects of hycanthone were studied in maturing and primordial oocytes and in male germ cells throughout spermatogenesis. No induction of dominent lethality was observed for treated males while a significant increase in embryonic death, expressed around the time of implantation, was observed in females that mated within 4.5 days after treatment. These effects were the result of dominant lethal mutations induced in maturing oocytes and not of maternal toxicity as indicated by the presence of chromosomal aberrations observed at first-cleavage metaphase of zygotes obtained from treated females. These results add support to the hypothesis that certain intercalating chemicals, which are not mutagenic to male mice, may be mutagenic to females and point to a need for more in-depth studies of female-specific mutagenesis.
Extracellular matrix containing mutated fibrillin-1 (Fbn1) down regulates Col1a1, Col1a2, Col3a1, Col5a1, and Col5a2 mRNA levels in Tsk/+ and Tsk/Tsk embryonic fibroblasts.

It is known that the extracellular matrix (ECM) is able to signal to cells and thereby direct or modulate the transcription of certain mRNAs. This signaling plays an important role in tumor invasion and metastasis, wound healing, remodeling of the ECM and cell differentiation. There are several mechanisms whereby the ECM signals cells to change their metabolism: (1) receptor molecules binding to specific domains in the ECM, (2) direct phagocytosis of the ECM molecules or domains into the cell, (3) structural changes of the ECM domains. We report the effect of an ECM containing either mutant or normal Fbn1 on the transcription levels of several collagen mRNAs. Tsk/Tsk, Tsk/+ and +/+ mouse embryonic fibroblast cell lines were used. Tsk/Tsk cells produce only mutated fibrillin-1 which arises from mRNA containing an in-frame duplication of exons 17–40. To test the effect of the ECM containing mutant Fbn1, cells of the Tsk/Tsk, Tsk/+ and the wild-type (+/+) genotype were each grown on an ECM produced by either Tsk/Tsk, Tsk/+ cells or by wild-type cells (+/+). The embryonic cells were genotyped by Northern analyses for Fbn1 and grown to confluence. The cultures were then harvested and the cells removed, leaving the matrix in the flasks. Matrices produced from Tsk/Tsk, Tsk/+ and from +/+ cells were reseeded with Tsk/Tsk cells, Tsk/+ cells or +/+ cells. The cells were plated at a confluent concentration and incubated on the matrices for 48 h, after which total RNA was harvested and cDNA generated. Real-time PCR using cDNA or Northern analyses using RNA were performed for Fbn1 and Types I, III and V collagens. The PCR and Northern results were normalized using β-actin and GAPDH, respectively. The Northern analyses showed that the steady state levels of mRNA for Col1a1 were depressed in both Tsk/Tsk and +/+ cells when grown on the matrix produced by Tsk/Tsk cells. Real-time PCR was then performed with primers specific for Col1a2, Col3a1, Col5a1 and Col5a2. The results showed that cells with the Tsk/Tsk, Tsk/+, and +/+ genotype all had lower steady-state levels of the above 4 collagen mRNAs when grown on the matrix produced by homozygous Tsk/Tsk cells or the matrix produced by heterozygous Tsk/+ cells compared with those grown on a matrix produced by +/+ cells. We hypothesize that the mutated Fbn1 molecules with many additional EGF-calcium binding regions and TGF-β binding domains may (1) change the homeostasis of the ECM by binding additional growth factors and/or (2) present a radically different ECM 3-dimensional architecture. Either or both of these changes could signal the cell to produce less collagen.
Wind Tunnel Testing and the Sector-by-Sector Approach to Wind Directionality Effects

We examine the sector-by-sector approach used by some wind tunnel operators to specify extreme wind effects. According to this approach the design of a structural member subjected to wind loads is adequate if the stresses induced by the largest sectorial wind speed with a 50 year mean recurrence interval does not exceed the maximum allowable wind-induced stress for that member, sectorial wind speeds with a 50 year mean recurrence interval being estimated separately for each of the eight 45° (or the 16 22.5°) azimuthal sectors. We show that this approach leads to estimates of wind effects that are unconservative (i.e., on the unsafe side), owing to their failure to consider the overall effects of winds blowing from all sectors.
Anti-toxic action of methylprednisolone in hemorrhagic shock.

Abstract The potential beneficial effects of the synthetic glucocorticoid, methylprednisolone, in shock were assessed in cats subjected to hemorrhagic shock. A threefold increase in survival time was obtained using methylprednisolone (20 mg/kg) which correlated with low plasma levels of a myocardial depressant factor (MDF) and of the lysosomal enzymes, β-glucuronidase and plasma cathepsin-like activity (PCLA). These data suggest that methylprednisolone exerts a protective effect in hemorrhagic shock by preventing the release of lysosomal enzymes which may be responsible for the formation of MDF, a peptide implicated in the reduction of myocardial contractility during postoligemic shock.
Reconstituted U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein complex restores 5' splice site cleavage activity.

Functional reconstitution of U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particle (U1 snRNP) was performed using in vitro transcribed U1 snRNA. Hela cell nuclear extract was depleted of its constituent snRNPs by centrifugation at 100,000 × g. The supernatant was devoid of snRNAs and lacked cleavage activity in splicing reactions using in vitro transcribed β-globin pre-mRNA as substrate. The resulting pellet which contained the snRNAs, retained 5′ splice site cleavage activity in a similar splicing reaction. Supplementation of the inactive supernatant fraction with in vitro transcribed U1 snRNA, partially restored 5′ splice site cleavage activity thereby demonstrating the specific requirement of U1 snRNP in the initial stage of pre-mRNA splicing.
OH Vibrational Thermally-Assisted Laser Induced Fluorescence Temperature Measurements in Flames

Abstract Thermally-assisted laser induced fluorescence temperature measurements using upward vibrational transfer from υ' = 0 to υ' = I in A2 Σ+ OH have been demonstrated in premixed nitrogen diluted flames of acetylene, ethylene, and methane over a wide range of equivalence ratios. Detection of the (0-0) and (1-0) vibrational bands was used to determine the relative populations of υ' =0 and I from which temperature was calculated assuming a simple Iwo level model incorporating the effects of vibrational energy transfer and quenching. It was found that collisional effects that are a source of systematic error can be accounted for through a calibration procedure for each fuel type. The resulting accuracy of the measurement is better than I00K as determined through comparison with sodium line reversal temperature measurements in flames that ranged in temperature from 1700 K to 2700 K. Similar results using detection of the (0-1) and (1-0) vibrational bands in order to minimize self-absorption effects were a...
93 WEIGHT REDUCTION AND PHYSICAL FITNESS IN OVERWEIGHT CHILDREN

This study investigated the effectiveness of an exercise-dietbehavior management program on wt reduction and physical fitness in 6 overweight children ranging in age from 7-17 yrs. (at least 20% over ideal wt for ht based on age). The program consisted of the following: 1) Exercise: a) physical fitness assessment, aerobic capacity, EKG, BP, skinfold measurements, anthropometric fractionation of body wt, pulmonary function studies; b) daily exercise with an energy expenditure of at least 200cal/day; and c) group exercise at a local YMCA twice weekly for 8 wks. 2)Dietary regimen: a nutritionally-balanced deficit diet consisting of 1000cal/day using a food exchange system. 3) Behavior management: weekly group sessions with parents attending for 6 wks to establish situational control over eating, appropriate eating sytles, appropriate shopping and food preparation habits, and appropriate cognitions regarding eating behavior. Results at 1 mo follow-up showed an average wt loss of 6.5±1.3 lbs (M±SEM), with an average of 91±4.8 of this wt loss accounted for by body fat; an average decrease in systolic BP of 13±1.7mm; an average increase in lung capacity of 300±100ml; and an average increase in aerobic capacity of 34.5±5.1%. Additional measurements will be obtained at 6 & 12 mos follow-ups. These preliminary results suggest that an integrated program on physical exercise, dietary control, and behavior management can be an effective means of achieving wt reduction and improved physical fitness in overweight children.
A neurotic lawyer: AIDS or Oedipus?

After an exploration of some of the issues that might make psychodiagnosticians hesitant to present test material, a Rorschach case of a young lawyer who sought psychotherapy to deal with a catastrophic fear of acquiring AIDS in his sexual relations with women is presented and analyzed. The patient's anxiety about AIDS served to obscure his oedipal conflicts, which resulted in a split image of women as either mothers or whores. Supplementing the atheoretical Comprehensive System, psychoanalytic developmental theory is used to explicate the differential and structural diagnosis of the neurotic level of personality organization. If drive-based (focal) misapprehension of and conflict between inner need and outer reality within the context on an intact identity is the hallmark of neurosis, the Rorschach clinician must not allow ideological pressure to produce distortion and avoidance, promoting unnecessary conflict between atheoretical, nomothetic and theory-saturated, idiographic and developmentally based pe...
Renal hamartoma Arteriographic findings suggesting hypernephroma

Abstract Renal hamartoma (angiomyolipoma) is a rare, benign lesion which may occur in association with tuberous sclerosis or as an independent clinical entity. Characteristic angiographic features of renal hamartoma have been described; but in patients who do not have tuberous sclerosis, they are rarely present. Rather the lesion may present angiographic findings characteristic of hypernephroma. A case is described.
A rule analysis of judgments of covariation between events

Several strategies are proposed as bases for judgments of covariation between events. Covariation problems were structured in such a way that patterns of correct and incorrect judgments would index the judgment rule being used by a given subject. In two experiments, 10th-grade or college subjects viewed a set of covariation problems, each of which consisted of a set of observations in which each of two events was defined as present or absent. Subjects were asked to identify the relationship between the events. Subjects’ response patterns suggested that the modal strategy was to compare frequency of confirming and disconfirming events in defining the relationship. Response accuracy was influenced by pretraining on the concept of covariation and by response format. Instructions to sort the observations did not influence judgment accuracy.
A dislocation theory approach to wear

Abstract The Bilby-Cottrell-Swinden model of a crack with a yielded region or plastic zone at its tip was adapted to the analysis of delamination wear. In contrast with linear-elastic models this analysis includes an explicit dependence on flow strength consistent with the well-known influence of hardness on wear rate. It also predicts step changes in wear rate at a critical load under certain conditions; this has occasionally been observed.
A Revision of Brodiaea coronaria (Asparagaceae: Brodiaeoideae): Morphometric Analysis and Recognition of New and Emended Taxa

Abstract The circumscription of Brodiaea coronaria has remained in a state of flux over the past 200 yr. That species name historically was applied to a morphologically-diverse assemblage of populations ranging from southern California to coastal southern British Columbia. Recent floristic works recognized two subspecies, B. coronaria subsp. coronaria, which ranges from northern California to British Columbia, and B. coronaria subsp. rosea (currently = B. rosea), considered to be a serpentine endemic of northwestern California. A morphometric analysis was done to better refine the circumscription of both taxa. Ten floral characters and the length of the longest pedicel in the inflorescence of 10–50 were measured in plants from 63 populations of B. coronaria and five populations of B. rosea. Principal components analysis and cluster analysis were employed to determine whether discrete population groups could be recognized, and a discriminant analysis was done to further test these groups and to identify di...
Using Workflow Technology to Create Scenario-based Workflows for Information Security Education: Scenario-based Workflows (Abstract Only)

Teaching information security courses is technically challenging. In an information security course, students and instructors often end up struggling in low-level and complicated software installation, system setup, service configuration, command operations, and data manipulation while losing concentration in learning the important information security principles. To help students in information security courses learn information security principles more effectively and efficiently, we used the workflow technology to create scenario-based workflows in order to improve the effectiveness of teaching and learning of several key information security principles and techniques. Two case studies simulating real-life scenarios, including one for an online banking system and one for an online grading system, are recreated within a laboratory setting using workflow technology and are then presented in information security classes. Our educational practice shows that the benefits of using workflow technology in information security education have been well received by students.
Molecular dissection of a cosmid from a gene-rich region in 17q21 and characterization of a candidate gene for α-N-acetylglucosaminidase with two cDNA isoforms

A cosmid mapped to human Chromosome (Chr) 17q21, c140c10, was found to contain a CpG island. We completed the sequence analysis of cl40cl0 because of two considerations: the cosmid contained an STS from the 17-β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase gene (17-HSD), which was believed to be a neighbor of the breast cancer susceptibility gene, BRCA1; CpG islands are usually associated downstream and/or upstream of human genes. Computer-based exon trapping of the cosmid sequence revealed putative additional exons. With two of those exons used as a probe to screen human placental cDNA libraries, two cDNA isoforms for a novel gene, designated as ufHSD, were isolated. The amino acid sequence of the open reading frames of the cDNA showed no significant homology to any protein in the data base. However, it is possible that our cDNAs are from the gene for α-acetylglucosaminidase, which has recently been localized to the same region. Northern analyses show that the major isoform is expressed in all tissues tested, with the highest expression in blood leukocytes and lowest in brain. Finally, our study has shown that the 46.7-kb cosmid c140c10 encompasses loci for five genes and pseudo-genes: ΨTP4A, ufHSD, 17-HSDI, 17-HSDII, and 22A1. Correspondence to: Z. Zhao at
A reassignment of (-)-mycothiazole and the isolation of a related diol.

A reinvestigation of the thiazole constituents from Cacospongia mycofijiensis, collected in Vanuatu, yielded known mycothiazole (3) plus a new derivative, mycothiazole-4,19-diol (6). The E stereochemistry at Δ14,15 of 3 has been revised to Z and the structural features of 6 are elucidated. These compounds, which presumably arise by the action of a polyketide−nonribosomal peptide synthetase (PKS/NRPS) hybrid, possess cytotoxic properties that need further exploration.
Ratatouille: An Animated Account of Cooking, Taste, and Human Evolution

This paper analyzes the immensely popular animated film Ratatouille as a social and cultural document. It begins with a recapitulation of the movie's story line – a saga of an astute, ambitious and talented rat, who becomes transformed into an accomplished haute cuisine chef. The film illustrates recent anthropological writings on the central role of cooking in human evolution. It also shows how varieties of cooking and table manners provide key indications of the civilizing process. Ultimately, Ratatouille explores distinctions and similarities between “man and beast”. It communicates the idea that all living creatures share more in terms of aptitude and feeling than divides them.
The 3 d → 4 p transitions of Cu + in LiCl and of transition-metal ions in crystals

An intense absorption band due to ${\mathrm{Cu}}^{+}$ in alkali halides has been observed. In LiCl:${\mathrm{Cu}}^{+}$ it occurs at 57 300 ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$. Its three-dimensional oscillator strength is $f=0.070$. It is shown that this band is primarily a ${d}^{10}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{d}^{9}p$ transition. The $d\ensuremath{\rightarrow}p$ transition energy in the crystal is substantially lower than in the free ion, although the $d\ensuremath{\rightarrow}s$ transition energy is higher. The near-uv bands are discussed in the light of this new observation. We believe that the present assignment opens the way for $3d\ensuremath{\rightarrow}4p$ band assignments in other ions in crystals, and several have been suggested.
Comparison of acoustic and net sampling systems to determine patterns in zooplankton distribution

[1] An analysis was conducted of the strengths and limitations of acoustic methods to determine biomass and taxonomic distribution patterns over the Oregon continental shelf. Measurements of volume backscatter from two different acoustic instruments were compared with each other and with predicted volume backscatter calculated from a coincident net tow. Spatially and temporally coincident data were collected from a six-frequency bioacoustic system (Tracor Acoustic Profiling System (TAPS)) and from a 1 m2 Multiple Opening Closing Net and Environmental Sensing System (MOCNESS). The combined net/acoustic tows were conducted over the Oregon continental shelf in August 2001, during both day and night. The TAPS was mounted on the upper frame of the MOCNESS and ensonified a volume of water directly in front of the net mouth. A four-frequency echosounder (Hydroacoustic Technologies Inc. (HTI)) with downward looking transducers was towed off the port side of the ship during the MOCNESS/TAPS tows. Fine-scale vertical distributions of zooplankton that were resolved acoustically were not apparent within the integrated depth strata of the individual MOCNESS net samples. The taxonomic and size composition of the zooplankton community had strong effects on volume backscatter (SV), although the magnitude of SV was not linearly related to zooplankton biomass. Predicted SV calculated from scattering models and the contents of the MOCNESS nets agreed best (sometimes within 5 dB) with measured SV from the TAPS at 420 and 700 kHz and measured SV at 420 kHz from the HTI.
On Sacred or Secular Ground? Callicott and Environmental Ethics

In Earth's Insights Baird Callicott develops a science-based but religiously influenced global environmental ethics that attempts to resolve the relationships between science, religion, and morality. He proposes to privilege science and relegate religion to a supportive and corrective role in environmental ethics. I argue, on the contrary, that a rationally compelling environmental ethics is dependent on religion and that, ironically, the only way to resolve conundrums regarding science, religion, and morality, is to stand environmental ethics on sacred ground.
Investigation of crystalline 2-pyridone using terahertz spectroscopy and solid-state density functional theory

Abstract Crystalline 2-pyridone has been investigated using terahertz vibrational spectroscopy in the range of 10–90 cm −1 (0.3–2.7 THz). Solid-state density functional theory (B3LYP, BP, and PW91 with the 6-311G(d,p) basis set) was used to simulate and assign both observed terahertz spectral features and a previously published far-infrared spectrum up to 400 cm −1 . The PW91 functional was found to provide the best combination of crystal structure and vibrational frequency reproduction. Observed spectral features below 150 cm −1 are assigned to intermolecular movements of the 2-pyridone chains within the unit cell. The use of independent intramolecular and intermolecular frequency scalars is proposed.
Event-by-event fluctuations of magnetic and electric fields in heavy ion collisions

Abstract We show that fluctuating proton positions in the colliding nuclei generate, on the event-by-event basis, very strong magnetic and electric fields in the direction both parallel and perpendicular to the reaction plane. The magnitude of E and B fields in each event is of the order of m π 2 ≈ 10 18 Gauss. Implications on the observation of electric dipole in heavy ion collisions is discussed, and the possibility of measuring the electric conductivity of the hot medium is pointed out.
Parallel Population Based Incremental Learning With GPU Acceleration for Nonlinear Optimization

This paper presents a GPU-based parallel Population Based Incremental Learning (PBIL) algorithm with a local search on bound constrained optimization problems. The genotype of an entire population is evolved in PBIL, which was derived from Genetic Algorithms. Graphics Processing Units (GPU) is an emerging technology for desktop parallel computing. In this research, the classical PBIL is adapted in the data-parallel GPU computing platform. The global optimal search of the PBIL is enhanced by a local Pattern Search method. The hybrid PBIL method is implemented in the GPU environment, and compared to a similar implementation in the common computing environment with a Central Processing Unit (CPU). Computational results indicate that GPU-accelerated PBIL method is effective and faster than the corresponding CPU implementation.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Dosimetric characteristics of the InterSource103 palladium brachytherapy source

103 Pd brachytherapy sources are being used for interstitial implants in tumor sites such as the prostate. Recently, the InterSource 103 palladium source has been introduced, which has a design different from that of other sources presently on the market. Dosimetric characteristics (i.e., dose rate constant, radial dose function, and anisotropy function) of this source were experimentally and theoretically determined following the AAPM Task Group 43 (TG-43) recommendations and were related to the 1999 NIST calibration assigned to this source [S k , 99std]. Measurements were performed in a solid water phantom using LiF thermoluminescent dosimeters. The measured data was compared with Monte Carlo simulations performed in solid water using the PTRAN code. The calculations were then performed in liquid water to obtain the dosimetric information for clinical applications as per TG-43 recommendation. The results indicated that the dose rate constant, Λ, of the InterSource 103 palladium source was 0.664±5% cGy/h/U using TLD measurements and 0.660±3% cGy/h/U using Monte Carlo simulations in solid water. The calculated value in liquid water was found to be 0.696±3% cGy/h/U . The radial dose function, g(r), of the new 103 Pd source was measured at distances ranging from 0.5 to 10 cm using LiF TLD in solid water phantom material. The Monte Carlo simulations were performed at distances ranging from 0.1 to 10 cm from the source center in solid water and liquid water. The anisotropy function, F(r,θ), was measured at distances of 2, 3, 5, and 7 cm from the source center and calculated at distances of 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 5, and 7 cm from the source center. Complete dosimetric data are described in this paper. Per TG-43, the values reported in water should be used for clinical treatment planning systems.
Interdiffusion and the solubility limits of Cr2O3 in the rutile phase of TiO2

Abstract The interdiffusion of Cr2O3 and TiO2 has been studied between 990 and 1520°C in the range of concentrations for which the solid phase is a rutile solid solution. The concentration limits of this phase have been determined. At low concentrations the interdiffusion coefficient varies approximately as chromium concentration but decreases again at higher concentration. The ratio of the diffusion coefficients parallel and perpendicular to the rutile c-axis decreases from 4.0 at 990°C to 1.75 at 1520°C. Attention is drawn to some features of the problem of evaluation of interdiffusion coefficients in systems of variable molar volume.
Three positive solutions to a discrete focal boundary value problem

Abstract We are concerned with the discrete focal boundary value problem Δ3x(t − k) = f(x(t)), x(a) = Δx(t2) = Δ2x(b + 1) = 0. Under various assumptions on f and the integers a, t2, and b we prove the existence of three positive solutions of this boundary value problem. To prove our results we use fixed point theorems concerning cones in a Banach space.
Characteristics of Spermatozoan Midpiece Length and Its Relationship with Economically Important Traits in Cattle

Abstract Statistical properties, inheritance of spermatozoan midpiece length, and its association with bull reproductive traits and daughters' dairy traits were examined in a sample of 39 Holstein bulls. Variation for midpiece length of individual cells was small within bulls (coefficient of variation ⋍ 4.5%), but midpiece length did vary among bulls. Average midpiece length did not differ in ampules of semen collected from the same ejaculate but did differ between ampules of semen from the same bull collected at least 6 mo apart. Two methods of estimation yielded heritabilities of midpiece length greater than one. Both were imprecise but consistent with additive genetic variation for the trait. Moderate correlations between a sire's midpiece length and his Predicted Difference for dairy production traits were negative. Correlations between midpiece length and semen quality and fertility were close to zero. Results suggest that midpiece length is heritable and that it might be correlated with economically important dairy production traits.
Health characteristics by longest held occupation and industry of employment: United States, 1980.

Occupational and industrial hazards are unevenly distributed in the workplace. National estimates for selected health indices of persons aged 17 years and over in the civilian noninstitutionalized population are presented for categories of longest held occupation and industry of employment. These estimates were based on data collected by the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) in the 1980 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) and the Occupational Supplement, the first survey to collect data on longest held, in addition to current, occupation and industry of employment. Data on length of longest held job, limitation of activity, disability days, incidence of acute conditions, persons injured, hospitalizations, and utilization of medical and dental services are presented. © 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Resistance gene evolution

Plant resistance genes are highly polymorphic and have diverse recognition specificities. These genes often occur as members of clustered gene families that have evolved through duplication and diversification. Regions of nucleotides conserved between family members and flanking sequences facilitate equal or unequal recombination events. Transposition contributes to allelic diversity. Resistance gene clusters appear to evolve more rapidly than other regions of the genome, and domains responsible for recognitional specificity, such as the leucine-rich repeat domain, are subject to adaptive selection.
A modern framework for achieving enterprise excellence

Purpose – This paper aims to present a quality and business improvement framework based on Six Sigma/design, measure, analyze, improve, and control (DMAIC); design for Six Sigma (DFSS); and Lean principles. An historical perspective on these methods is also provided.Design/methodology/approach – Through a discussion of the fundamental components of Six Sigma, DFSS and Lean a deployment strategy is developed. This approach is consistent with Deming's philosophy of quality improvement and is based on his system of profound knowledge.Findings – A quality/process improvement effort that utilizes Six Sigma and DMAIC, DFSS, and Lean can form two of the three basic building blocks of a company‐wide quality management system.Research limitations/implications – Some implications for education of future business leaders in a variety of disciplines including engineering, statistics and business administration are discussed. More widespread education about DMAIC and the associated problem‐solving tools is needed.Orig...
The species-dependent metabolism of efavirenz produces a nephrotoxic glutathione conjugate in rats.

Efavirenz, a potent nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor widely prescribed for the treatment of HIV infection, produces renal tubular epithelial cell necrosis in rats but not in cynomolgus monkeys or humans. This species selectivity in nephrotoxicity could result from differences in the production or processing of reactive metabolites, or both. A detailed comparison of the metabolites produced by rats, monkeys, and humans revealed that rats produce a unique glutathione adduct. The mechanism of formation and role of this glutathione adduct in the renal toxicity were investigated using both chemical and biochemical probes. Efavirenz was labeled at the methine position on the cyclopropyl ring with the stable isotope deuterium, effectively reducing the formation of the cyclopropanol metabolite, an obligate precursor to the glutathione adduct. This substitution markedly reduced both the incidence and severity of nephrotoxicity as measured histologically. Further processing of this glutathione adduct was also important in producing the lesion and was demonstrated by inhibiting γ-glutamyltranspeptidase with acivicin pretreatment (10 mg/kg, IV) prior to dosing with efavirenz. Again, both the incidence and severity of the nephrotoxicity were reduced, such that four of nine rats given acivicin were without detectable lesions. These studies provide compelling evidence that a species-specific formation of glutathione conjugate(s) from efavirenz is involved in producing nephrotoxicity in rats. Mechanisms are proposed for the formation of reactive metabolites that could be responsible for the renal toxicity observed in rats.