cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Escaping the Cut by Restriction Enzymes Through Single-Strand Self-Annealing of Host-Edited 12-bp and Longer Synthetic Palindromes

Palindromati, the massive host-edited synthetic palindromic contamination found in GenBank, is illustrated and exemplified. Millions of contaminated sequences with portions or tandems of such portions derived from the ZAP adaptor or related linkers are shown (1) by the 12-bp sequence reported elsewhere, exon Xb, 5′ CCCGAATTCGGG 3′, (2) by a 22-bp related sequence 5′ CTCGTGCCGAATTCGGCACGAG 3′, and (3) by a longer 44-bp related sequence: 5′ CTCGTGCCGAATTCGGCACGAGCTCGTGCCGAATTCGGCACGAG 3′. Possible reasons for why those long contaminating sequences continue in the databases are presented here: (1) the recognition site for the plus strand (+) is single-strand self-annealed; (2) the recognition site for the minus strand (−) is not only single-strand self-annealed but also located far away from the single-strand self-annealed plus strand, rendering impossible the formation of the active EcoRI enzyme dimer to cut on 5′ G/AATTC 3′, its target sequence. As a possible solution, it is suggested to rely on at least t...
Gamma Globulin Production and Antibody Synthesis in Chickens bursectomized as Embryos

DEVELOPMENT of the immunoglobulin producing system of cells is controlled by the avian bursa of Fabricius1,2. Elucidation of the role of the bursa in developing immunological potential began with the discovery that surgical removal of this hindgut lymphoid organ in the newly hatched chicken prevents later development of normal antibody response3. Depression of antibody response is greatest when the bursa is removed immediately after hatching. After 8–10 weeks, bursectomy alone no longer has a demonstrable effect on antibody response4. It was discovered later that normal embryonic development of the bursa could be inhibited by testosterone or other androgens5. Chickens which are given testosterone during embryonic life are often even more immunologically deficient than chickens which are subjected to bursal removal at hatching. Chickens which are surgically or hormonally bursectomized have reduced numbers of plasma cells and decreased levels of circulating gamma globulin. Near lethal whole body irradiation of newly hatched chicks in addition to bursectomy completely prevents later development of germinal centres and plasma cells and such chickens are agammaglobulinaemic6,7. Germinal centres, plasma cells and immunoglobulin synthesis can be restored in bursectomized-irradiated chicks by injection of their unirradiated bursal lymphocytes8. These observations suggest that the bursa could be the only source of the germinal centre and plasma cell line but that some radiosensitive bursal cells leave the bursa before hatching.
Current account determination with traded capital goods

Abstract A model of real current account determination in a small open economy with many final goods sectors and traded capital goods is presented. The model emphasizes the ambiguity of investment response and encourages sector-specific empirical methods.
Strain-Hardening and Thermal-Softening Effects on Shear Angle Prediction: New Model Development and Validation

The strain-hardening and thermal-softening effects on shear stress and shear angle in orthogonal machining are discussed in this paper. The temperature effect on strain hardening was quantitatively related to the shear angle using Merchant's upper bound condition to reduce the number of experimentally-obtained coefficients and thus to both reduce cost and increase accuracy in share angle prediction. This quantitative relationship was then integrated with a force based process model and an equal energy type approach in developing a new model. A statistical analysis with experiment data indicated that the new model yielded improved result in accuracy, reliability, insensitivity to nonmodel parameters, and adaptability.
Urchin-like AlOOH nanostructures on Al microspheres grown via in-situ oxide template

Abstract Three dimensional (3D) metal oxide hydroxide nanostructures are highly desirable for numerous applications. Here, we present a simple, scalable method to grow urchin-like AlOOH nanostructures on the surface of Al microspheres. Al nanoparticles with native oxide film were melted in molten salts, forming an immiscible materials system. During ultrasonic processing of the mixture, emulsion of micro Al droplets occurs and Al 2 O 3 nanoparticles form from the native oxide films and self-assemble to form in-situ nanostructured templates on the surfaces of Al microspheres. When the solidified mixture of Al spheres and salt is exposed to water, urchin-like nanostructures spontaneously form on the Al microspheres due to a heterogeneous nucleation and growth of γ-AlOOH on the Al 2 O 3 templates. This work could be readily extended to other metals, providing a novel and scalable method for the fabrication of urchin-like metal oxide hydroxide nanostructures on metal microspheres.
The binding properties and regional ontogeny of receptors for α-bungarotoxin in chick brain

Summary The subcellular distribution, binding kinetics, pharmacologic properties and regional ontogeny of binding sites for α-[125I]bungarotoxin (α-[125I]BT) were studied in preparations of chick brain. Almost 95% of the specific binding was found in a 20, 000 × g pellet. Two binding components were found, one with high (half-saturation at 1.5 × 10−9 M) and another with low affinity for the toxin. The rate constants of association and dissociation of the toxin for the high-affinity site were found to be 3.5 × 104 M−1 ·sec−1 and 3.8 × 10−5sec−1 (τ1/2 = 5.1h, respectively). These data yielded a Kd value of 1.1 × 10−9 M. Nicotinic, but not muscarinic ligands were potent inhibitors of toxin binding at the high-affinity site. Thus, as in muscle, the binding site for toxin in chick brain appears to have the properties of a nicotinic acetylcholine (ACh) receptor. The ontogeny of the α-BT/ACh receptor was studied using homogenates of both whole brain and of discrete brain regions. In brain stem, optic lobe and cerebellum specific binding reached maximum levels in ovo and then decreased by maturity to values of 10, 22 and 4.5 fmoles/mg protein, respectively. In contrast, whole brain and cerebral hemispheres reached plateau levels in ovo of 17 and 10 fmoles/mg protein, respectively. Major increases in total receptor number per region appeared in ovo between days 12 and 19 in brain stem and cerebellum, days 12 and 15 in optic lobes, and days 15 and 19 in hemispheres. The hemispheres were the only region to show a continued increase in total binding after hatching (3-fold increase by maturity). These findings are interpreted with respect to the development of chick brain and a model is suggested for the relationship between receptor ontogeny and neuronal differentiation and maturation.
Neurologic Causes of Acute Respiratory Dysfunction

Many neurologic diseases can cause acute respiratory decompensation, therefore a familiarity with these diseases is critical for any clinician managing patients with respiratory dysfunction. In this article, we review the anatomy of the respiratory system, focusing on the neurologic control of respiration. We discuss general mechanisms by which diseases of the peripheral and central nervous systems can cause acute respiratory dysfunction, and review the neurologic diseases which can adversely affect respiration. Lastly, we discuss the diagnosis and general management of acute respiratory impairment due to neurologic disease.
Informed consent to undergo treatment for substance abuse: a recommended approach

With more than 3 million persons receiving substance abuse treatment per year in the United States and with increasing interest in treatment outcomes, there is a need for closer attention to all aspects of the treatment process. However, minimal attention has been given to informed consent as a way of enlisting client engagement and active participation in treatment. Although there is some literature on informed consent in substance abuse research, the literature on informed consent to undergo substance abuse treatment is very limited. Incorporating informed consent into substance abuse treatment is recommended as part of motivational interviewing. Standard treatment consent issues include (1) the clinical characteristics of the problem, including diagnosis; (2) treatment recommendations; (3) the risks and benefits of treatment; (4) the financial costs of the intervention; (5) alternative services or interventions should a client refuse the recommended form of care; and (6) freedom to choose or refuse treatment. This article provides a background for informed consent procedures to facilitate client engagement in substance abuse treatment and suggests needs for future research on informed consent to undergo substance abuse treatment.
Numerical analysis of creep crack growth in precavitated polycrystalline copper

Abstract A microstructural model has been developed to predict creep crack growth in precavitated polycrystalline copper. The mechanism of crack growth is assumed to be governed by the growth of quasi-equilibrium cavities controlled by coupled diffusion and plasticity. Some of the parameters needed to describe this mechanism are found using simple creep rupture tests. With a Hutchinson-Rice-Rosengren (HRR) field imposed as an initial and remote boundary condition, and using an assumed stress distribution in the highly damaged process zone near the crack tip, the model predicts crack growth. The predicted results show agreement with experimental results, especially in the early stage when the damage evolution is not severe. Inside the process zone, the stress profile is assumed to take the shape of an ellipse with the stress changing from zero to the HRR field value at the zone boundary. Under conditions of extensive damage, which usually prevail in the later growth stage, the model predictions deviate from the experimental data. Under these conditions a gradual stress distribution based on the cavity size gradient would result in good predictions of experimental data.
A solid/liquid separation process based on cross flow and electrofiltration

The cross flow/electrifiltration process combines migration of particles in the presence of electrical and shear fields to increase filtration rates. A mathematical model and the experimental data are presented for both a kaolin clay suspension and an oil in water chemically stabilized emulsion. When the filter is operated in a regime above the critical voltage, filtration rate-electric field strength dependence becomes linear, and both electroosmosis in the filtration medium and electrophoresis in the liquid film are the controlling mechanisms of transport. Both experimental data and the mathematical model indicate that the fluid circulation rate tangential to the filtration media does not necessarily increase filtration rate depending on the regime of operation. The model is used in conjunction with the experimental data to separate the liquid film resistance adjacent to the filter cake which is determined by fluid shear and electric field from the cake and filter medium resistances which are influenced by electroosmosis.
Differential modulation of retinal ganglion cell light responses by orthosteric and allosteric metabotropic glutamate receptor 8 compounds.

Abstract To investigate the role of mGluR8 in modulating the synaptic responses of retinal ganglion cells, we used a recently identified positive allosteric modulator of mGluR8, AZ12216052 (AZ) and the mGluR8-specific orthosteric agonist (S)-3,4-dicarboxyphenylglycine (DCPG). These agents were applied to whole-cell voltage-clamped ganglion cells from an isolated, superfused mouse retina preparation. DCPG reduced OFF-ganglion cell excitatory currents, whereas AZ enhanced the peak excitatory currents in ON-, OFF-, and ON–OFF-ganglion cells. The effects on ganglion cell inhibitory currents were more varied. The effects of the allosteric modulator were stronger for bright stimuli than for dim stimuli, consistent with receptor stimulation by endogenous glutamate being stronger during bright light stimulation and with mGluR8 receptors mainly being localized away from glutamate release sites, immuno-labeled with VGLUT1. The differential sensitivity of ganglion cell light responses to DCPG and AZ supports multiple sites where mGluR8 modulates the light responses of ganglion cells.
Laboratory Evaluation of TH 6040 Against the Pink Bollworm

First-instars and adults of Pectinophora gossypiella (Saunders) were exposed to Thompson-Hayward TH 6040 [Dimilin®; N -(4-chlorophenyl)-N'-(2,6-difluorobenzoyl)-urea] in either diet or on treated surfaces. One ppm in larval diet reduced the emergence ca. 64% from control levels, and greater doses greatly reduced larval development. However, exposure of 1st instars for 24 h to a bait formulation containing 10,000 ppm of TH 6040 on cotton leaves reduced the number of larvae surviving to the 5th stage by 25%. Continuous exposure of adults to TH 6040 either in diet or on treated surfaces caused a gradual loss of fertility during a 4-, to 6-day period. Larvae from treated parents developed normally.
The effect of diazepam administration during pregnancy or labor on the heart rate variability of the newborn infant

Maternal diazepam medication during labor reduces beat-to-beat variability of the fetal heart rate. In this study, the prolongation of the effect was examined in the newborn. The mother received diazepam: (A) during labor as a tranquilizer, (B) daily in low doses at the end of pregnancy, or (C) in high doses i.v. for (pre-)eclampsia. A control group had no analgesic or sedative during pregnancy or labor. The electrocardiogram (ECG) was recorded daily from each newborn during the first 6 days after birth. After preprocessing of the ECG, the median R-R interval, the long-term irregularity index (LTI index) and the interval difference index (ID index) were calculated. A cubic spline interpolation method was applied to compare the various groups with respect to these heart rate parameters. The median R-R interval showed no particular differences in trend for all groups. The LTI index was decreased in the first days after birth in the chronic diazepam (B), and in the diazepam infusion groups (C), but statistical significance was not reached. The ID index was significantly decreased in the first 1-2 days in the newborns of the acute and chronic diazepam group. In the diazepam infusion group, an even longer lasting effect was observed. Maternal diazepam medication affects the beat-to-beat variability in the newborn. The duration of the effect is dependent on dosage and route of administration.
Definitive radiotherapy for squamous carcinoma of the larynx.

Cancers of the larynx affect about 12,000 persons annually in the United States and have the highest incidence among the cancers of the head and neck region. Radiotherapy has a long history of use in treating laryngeal carcinoma, either alone (definitive radiotherapy) or in combination with surgery. In general, early-stage cancers can be managed by single-modality therapy, whereas late-stage disease often requires a combined approach. The most important factors in choosing an optimal treatment for a particular patient are the stage and site of disease. Other factors, such as age, social and economical status, coexisting disease, functional outcome, and treatment-induced side effects, should also be considered.
In vivo semiquantification of hypothalamic growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) output in humans : Evidence for relative GHRH deficiency in aging

GH secretion declines with aging. The neuroendocrine mechanisms of somatopause are uncertain. To semiquantify endogenous hypothalamic GHRH output, we measured the suppressibility of spontaneous and GHRH-stimulated GH secretion by graded doses of a specific competitive GHRH receptor antagonist (N-Ac-Tyr1,D-Arg2)GHRH-(1-29) in healthy young and elderly men. Nocturnal GH was about 30% lower in the elderly than in the young. Graded boluses of GHRH elicited dose-dependent GH responses, with no difference between the two age groups. Graded infusions of GHRH antagonist suppressed GH responses to GHRH in a dose-dependent manner, but with similar potency in both groups. The degree of inhibition depended on the magnitude of GHRH bolus: the dose-inhibition curves for the low GHRH boluses were shifted to the left compared to those with the high GHRH bolus (P = 0.01). Similarly, the dose-inhibition curve for spontaneous GH secretion was shifted to the left for the elderly compared to the young men (P = 0.01). Thus, the model of graded infusions of GHRH antagonist differentiates between different amounts of GHRH presented to the pituitary, permitting semiquantification of the endogenous hypothalamic GHRH output in vivo. Our data suggest that there is an age-dependent decrease in the endogenous hypothalamic GHRH output contributing to the age-associated GH decline.
Induction of Differential Heat Shock Gene Expression in Heart, Lung, Liver, Brain and Kidney by a Sympathomimetic Drug, Amphetamine

Amphetamine, a sympathomimetic drug, can elevate the body temperature by causing enhancement of endogenous lipolysis. This study was designed to examine whether this drug could induce the expression of the genes of heat shock proteins (HSP) in different tissues. Subcutaneous administration of amphetamine (10 mg/kg wt) to the rats increased the rectal temperature of the rats to 42 degrees C within 60 min. After 3 hr rats were sacrificed; and heart, lung, liver, kidney and brain tissue were removed to examine the induction of mRNAs for HSPs by Northern blot analysis using cDNA probes of 27 kDa, 70 kDa and 89 kDa HSPs. The results of this study indicate striking regional and cell type differences in the pattern of induction of the HSP mRNAs by amphetamine suggesting that different organs and cell types respond differently to amphetamine.
Yield of stool cultures, ova and parasite tests, and Clostridium difficiledeterminations in nosocomial diarrheas

Stool cultures for bacterial pathogens, ova and parasites, and Clostridium difficile are usually ordered for patients with nosocomial diarrhea. In the interest of cost containment we undertook an 18-month retrospective study to assess the cost/benefit of performing each of these three tests. During the study period nosocomial diarrhea developed in 118 patients. Of 452 bacterial stool cultures ordered, only one was positive for Campylobacter jejuni and none for ova and parasites. However, of 126 cultures examined for C. difficile , 47 showed positive results. We conclude that bacterial stool culture and ova and parasite identification are not indicated for patients with nosocomial diarrhea. Elimination of these unnecessary stool tests (bacterial/ova and parasite) would have saved the hospital approximately $7530 in the 18-month study period.
U.S. accelerator-driven transmutation of waste (ATW) program objectives, and technology development efforts☆

The U.S. Program to evaluate accelerator-driven systems for transmuting problematic, long-lived nuclear waste stream components was initiated during fiscal year 2000, based largely on the Accelerator-driven Transmutation of Waste (ATW) Technology Development Road Map developed during 1999. The Road Map (DOE/RW-0519) effort provided a long-range plan, involving technology development, demonstration, and deployment, as well as a recommended initial effort to evaluate the technology options for five or six years. This paper summarizes the ATW Research and Development Plan currently in draft form. Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs), which are based in part on a system used by the U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration in determining levels of flight readiness, was developed for use in assessing and advancing technologies relevant to waste transmutation. Based on TRLs and other considerations, the Program is screening technology options and prioritizing the long-term research and development effort. A top-level schedule illustrates the efforts planned to advance the important technology options in preparation for integrated system tests.
Actin genes with unusual organization in the parasitic angiosperm Striga asiatica L. (Kuntze)

Abstract In order to better understand the regulation of cellular differentiation during haustorial development in parasitic angiosperms, we have begun to examine the structure and expression characteristics of genes encoding various components of the plant cytoskeleton in Striga asiatica L. (Kuntze). We describe here the cloning and characterization of three actin genes from Striga with significant similarity at the nucleotide level and encoding proteins having greater than 98% identity. However, the three genes (designated SAAc-1 , SAAc-2 and SAAc-3 ) differ from each other in their organization and SAAc-2 contains an unusual exon-intron arrangement relative to genes encoding actins described in other higher plants. The significance of these observations concerning the evolutionary origins and potential roles of Striga actin genes is discussed.
Surgical Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea

SUMMARYIn summary, there are several possible surgeriesthat may be performed on patients with OSA(Table 2 summarizes the maxillomandibularadvancement, tracheostomy and uvulopalato-phayrngoplasty results). However, the most effec-tive surgeries in adults are maxillomandibularadvancement surgeries and tracheostomies, withsuccess rates of 86% and 73%, respectively. Tra-cheostomies have a higher rate of patient dissatis-faction than maxillomandibular advancement.Surgical success in children is currently 83%when adenotonsillectomy is performed. Improvedsurgical success is obtained with careful preoper-ative planning and assessment for areas ofobstruction as demonstrated by surgical successof uvulopalatopharyngoplasty in 52% of patientswith retropalatal obstruction only, compared withsurgical success rate of only 5% in those withany component of retrolingual obstruction. 47 Sleep surgery failures should be evaluated withmodalities that allow for assessment of the spe-cific area of obstruction. A multidisciplinary teamis necessary and should include an experiencedsurgeon as well as a sleep-trained orthodontistto maximize short- and long-term surgicalsuccess.
Early mortality rate of morbidly obese patients after tracheotomy.

Objectives: To 1) determine the early mortality rate (within 30 days) of morbidly obese patients after tracheotomy; 2) determine the difference between the mortality rate after tracheotomy of morbidly obese patients and patients who are not morbidly obese; and 3) determine the difference between the mortality rate after tracheotomy adjusted for case mix index (CMI) of morbidly obese patients and patients who are not morbidly obese. Study Design: Retrospective cohort study of 278 patients who had undergone a tracheotomy by the otolaryngology head and neck surgery department from 2004 to 2006. The patients were subdivided into two groups: 1) body mass index (BMI) <35 (n = 229) and 2) BMI ≥35 (morbidly obese) (n = 49). Methods: Charts reviewed for age, sex, weight, height, BMI, indication for tracheotomy, date of tracheotomy, type of tracheotomy, date of discharge, date of death, length of hospital stay, and CMI. Results: There is a trend toward significance (P = .09) between the mortality rate after tracheotomy of morbidly obese patients (29%) and patients who are not morbidly obese (18%). There is less significance between the adjusted mortality rate based on CMI after tracheotomy when the patient population is divided into morbidly obese patients and patients who are not morbidly obese (P = .12). Conclusion: The mortality rate after tracheotomy of morbidly obese patients is greater than patients who are not morbidly obese.
Italian history and gli italiani nel mondo, Part II

Abstract Italian historians have not yet seriously confronted the emigration of 27 million Italians as an interpretative theme. Part II of this two‐part article studies Italian migrants’ experiences in France, South America, Switzerland and Germany, comparing ‘Latin’ and ‘Germanic’ receiving areas to the English‐speaking world discussed in Part I. A focus on these other sections of the Italian diaspora challenges some fundamental interpretations of historians of Italy about emigration: Italian migrations to these areas were neither limited to the late nineteenth century, sparked by the economic crises of those yean, nor a product of the ‘problem of the Mezzogiomo’. Italian historians have special opportunities to study return migration to Italy, and to interpret Italy's own evolution into a multicultural receiving country, by comparing it to the models of multi‐ethnic nations where Italian migrants once settled around the world.
Percutaneous transendocardial delivery of self-complementary adeno-associated virus 6 achieves global cardiac gene transfer in canines.

Achieving efficient cardiac gene transfer in a large animal model has proven to be technically challenging. Previous strategies have used cardiopulmonary bypass or dual catheterization with the aid of vasodilators to deliver vectors, such as adenovirus, adeno-associated virus (AAV), or plasmid DNA. Although single-stranded AAV (ssAAV) vectors have shown the greatest promise, they suffer from delayed expression, which might be circumvented using self-complementary vectors. We sought to optimize cardiac gene transfer using a percutaneous transendocardial injection catheter to deliver adeno-associated viral vectors to the canine myocardium. Four vectors were evaluated—ssAAV9, self-complementary AAV9 (scAAV9), scAAV8, scAAV6—so that comparison could be made between single-stranded and self-complementary vectors as well as among serotypes 9, 8, and 6. We demonstrate that scAAV is superior to ssAAV and that AAV 6 is superior to the other serotypes evaluated. Biodistribution studies revealed that vector genome copies were 15–4,000 times more abundant in the heart than in any other organ for scAAV6. Percutaneous transendocardial injection of scAAV6 is a safe, effective method to achieve efficient cardiac gene transfer.
Smad6 functions as an intracellular antagonist of some TGF-β family members during Xenopus embryogenesis

Background: Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) transmit signals via the intracellular protein Smad1, which is phosphorylated by ligand bound receptors, translocates to the nucleus, and functions to activate BMP target genes. Recently, a subclass of Smad proteins has been shown to inhibit, rather than transduce, BMP signalling, either by binding to the intracellular domain of BMP receptors, thereby preventing phosphorylation-mediated activation of Smad1, or by binding directly to Smad1, thereby inhibiting its ability to activate gene transcription. Results: We have identified a Xenopus Smad (Smad6) that is 52% identical to mammalian Smad6, an inhibitory Smad. The spatial pattern of expression of Smad6 changes dynamically during embryogenesis and is similar to that of BMP-4 at the tailbud stage. Overexpression of Smad6 in Xenopus embryos phenocopies the effect of blocking BMP-4 signalling, leading to dorsalization of mesoderm and neuralization of ectoderm. Xenopus Smad6 completely blocks the activity of exogenous BMP-4, and, unlike human Smad6, partially blocks the activity of activin, in a mesoderm induction assay. We also find that Smad6 protein accumulates at the membrane in some cells but is partially or completely restricted to nuclei of most overexpressing cells. Conclusions: We have identified an inhibitory Xenopus Smad, Smad6, that functions as an intracellular antagonist of activin and BMP-4 signalling. Our finding that Smad6 protein is partially or completely restricted to nuclei of most overexpressing cells suggests that it may employ a novel or additional mechanism of action to antagonize TGF-β family signalling other than that reported for other inhibitory Smads.
Online rate control in digital cameras for near-constant distortion based on minimum/maximum criterion

We address the problem of online rate control in digital cameras, where the goal is to achieve near-constant distortion for each image. Digital cameras usually have a pre-determined number of images that can be stored for the given memory size and require limited time delay and constant quality for each image. Due to time delay restrictions, each image should be stored before the next image is received. Therefore, we need to define an online rate control that is based on the amount of memory used by previously stored images, the current image, and the estimated rate of future images. In this paper, we propose an algorithm for online rate control, in which an adaptive reference, a 'buffer-like' constraint, and a minimax criterion (as a distortion metric to achieve near-constant quality) are used. The adaptive reference is used to estimate future images and the 'buffer-like' constraint is required to keep enough memory for future images. We show that using our algorithm to select online bit allocation for each image in a randomly given set of images provides near constant quality. Also, we show that our result is near optimal when a minimax criterion is used, i.e., it achieves a performance close to that obtained by applying an off-line rate control that assumes exact knowledge of the images. Suboptimal behavior is only observed in situations where the distribution of images is not truly random (e.g., if most of the 'complex' images are captured at the end of the sequence.) Finally, we propose a T- step delay rate control algorithm and using the result of 1- step delay rate control algorithm, we show that this algorithm removes the suboptimal behavior.© (2000) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Fishing for holes in transporters: How protons breach the Na/K pump security gates

In this issue of the JGP , [Vedovato and Gadsby][1] show us that the native Na/K pumps of Xenopus laevis oocytes are even more complex machines than we realized. Readers of the JGP will be aware that Na/K pumps extrude three Na ions and import two K ions into cells with each pump cycle at the
A PMU-based monitoring scheme for rotor angle stability

Rotor angle instability, if not corrected in time, may cause cascaded load and generator tripping events which will lead to a major blackout. In recent years, the Phasor Measurement Units (PMUs) have been undergoing fast deployment toward a hierarchical Wide-Area Measurement System (WAMS). Wide-area early warning systems for rotor angle instability are being developed. This paper proposes an online monitoring scheme for rotor angle stability based on PMU data. A loss of synchronism is predicted by Lyapunov Exponents. The relationship between rotor angle stability and the Maximal Lyapunov Exponent (MLE) is established. A computationally efficient algorithm for MLE calculation is developed for on-line applications. Simulation results on a 200-bus model are used to validate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
The lectionary as a guide to thinking about poverty

If a church uses a lectionary as its guide for worship and preaching, how likely is it to address the problem of poverty? If it does address this question, toward what answers does the lectionary g...
Metal-Foam-Enhanced PCM Storage System: The Cylindrical Shell Geometry

Phase-change systems remain to be widely used for storage of thermal energy such as the energy harnessed by solar collectors. The major disadvantage of phase change materials (PCMs) is their low thermal conductivities, which drastically slows the phase change process and causes wide temperature variations within PCMs, while requiring heat transfer area. Metal foams are one class of porous media that possess thermal conductivities that are an order of magnitude higher than PCMs. When embedded in PCMs, the random internal structure and high porosity of metal foam enhance and accelerate the phase change process without significantly reducing PCMs’ heat storage capacity. Unlike traditional PCM systems, the distribution of the foam ligaments in PCMs makes the melting and solidification processes uniform and less dependent on location inside PCMs. This also leads to shorter charging and discharging times. The design, fabrication and characterization of a small PCM-metal-foam thermal storage system are described in this paper. The core of the system is a cylindrical shell composed of 90%-porous open-cell aluminum foam filled with Paraffin-based PCM. The foam occupies only 10% of the total volume. The shell walls were fabricated from copper. The system was tested in an open loop wind tunnel. Results for the convection heat transfer coefficient and the effect of volumetric flow rate on the system’s performance were obtained. The heat transfer rate from the system was computed and discussed.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Draft Genome Sequence of Staphylococcus chromogenes Strain MU 970, Isolated from a Case of Chronic Bovine Mastitis.

ABSTRACT Coagulase-negative staphylococcal species are a common cause of subclinical bovine mastitis, with Staphylococcus chromogenes being one of the most frequently identified species in these cases. The draft genome sequence of an S. chromogenes isolate (MU 970) recovered from the milk of a cow with a chronic intramammary infection is reported here.
Knowledge and skills transfer between MBA and workplace

Purpose – This paper aims to use goal-setting theory to explain the transfer of knowledge and skills between master of business administration (MBA) and the workplace. Design/methodology/approach – Data were obtained by an online survey of MBA students enrolled in at four US graduate business schools. These were a public and private institution in the Northeast region, a private sectarian institution in the Midwest region and a private institution in the Pacific region. All students worked while attending the university. The sampling frame consisted of each school’s MBA enrollees. Questionnaires were distributed to a random cross-section of part-time students at each graduate school of business representative of returned by 144 students. The profiles of responders were consistent with parameters for the entire MBA student population. Findings – The research shows that multiple goals of reciprocal knowledge and skills transfer may be in harmony and mutually reinforcing. In principle, each goal is more like...
Immunofluorescence Determination of the Pathogenesis of Infection with Influenza Virus in Mice Following Exposure to Aerosolized Virus

The pathogenesis of infection with influenza A virus in mice was studied by exposure of specific pathogen-free mice to aerosols of influenza virus and by monitoring of mortality, viral titers in lung homogenates, and presence of viral antigens in respiratory cells as determined by immunofluorescence. In two experiments with different death rates (100% and 43%), viral antigen accumulated in the epithelial cells lining the airways, in alveolar macrophages, in alveolar cells, and in visceral pleura. By enumeration of the number of airways, alveolar macrophages, and alveolar cells containing influenza viral antigens at different intervals after exposure to the viral aerosol, it was determined that viral replication occurred initially in the epithelial cells lining the airways and later extended to the alveolar macrophages and alveolar cells. This semiquantitative survey of the dynamics of influenza viral infection by aerosol indicated that the viral infection in mice was a descending process.
The (symmetric) Hessian for geometrically nonlinear models in solid mechanics: intrinsic definition and geometric interpretation

Abstract The tangent stiffness matrix (i.e., the Hessian) for nonlinear structural models in computational solid mechanics is typically computed by linearization of the weak form of the equilibrium equations via the directional derivative formula. Depending on the specific mechanical model, away from equilibrium this procedure will in general yield a nonsymmetric tangent stiffness matrix. By contrast, if the directional (Gateaux) derivative is replaced by the covariant derivative (relative to a certain Riemannian metric) an intrinsic definition of the Hessian is obtained which is always symmetric away from equilibrium. It is shown that by endowing the rotation group with the standard bi-invariant metric, the resulting (symmetric) Hessian is simply the symmetrization of the usual expression obtained via the Gateaux derivative. In a finite element context, this property provides a rigorous justification for the common practice of symmetrizing the ‘seemingly nonsymmetric tangent’ away from equilibrium. This apparently ad hoc symmetrization procedure yields, in fact, the actual Hessian.
Playground Safety: Using Research to Guide Community Policy

Abstract Each year over 200,000 children in the United States require emergency medical treatment for playground-related injuries, costing an estimated $1.2 billion. Thus, the issue of playground safety is a topic of concern for many health care professionals. However, without a reasonable understanding of the scope and magnitude of the problem, any attempts to develop an injury prevention program will be limited. Therefore, this article reviews the data-based playground research so that suggestions can be made concerning the development of a comprehensive playground injury prevention program.
Linewidth control effects on MOSFET ESD robustness

This paper advances state-of-the-art design layout considerations for deep sub-micron (0.25 μm) advanced single and stacked MOSFETs by addressing linewidth control effects on MOSFET ESD robustness. Advanced failure analysis tools are used to demonstrate linewidth bias. ESD robustness as a function of gate-to-gate spacings is addressed for the first time.
Gravitational attraction of local crustal masses in spherical coordinates

The gravitational attractions of terrestrial masses and condensed terrestrial masses were modeled in local regions of gravity stations in different ways. These differences in the models included the type of coordinate frame (Cartesian versus spherical), grid spacing (30 vs 3 arcseconds), and the shape of the terrain (“flat-topped” vs “sloped-topped” prisms). The effect of each of these variables is quantified for its overall impact on Helmert gravity anomalies. The combined effect of removing the masses and restoring the condensed masses is also compared to classical terrain corrections for suitability in computing Helmert anomalies. Some detailed conclusions are drawn from these test computations. The effect of the Earth's curvature has both a near-field effect (due to the differences in volume and shape between rectangular and spherical prisms) and a far-field effect (due to physical location of masses below the horizon). The near-field effect can achieve 0.4 mGal in the Rocky mountains, and affect the geoid by up to 7.5 cm. Additionally, the approximation of the terrain by flat-topped prisms (even at fine spacings such as 3 arcseconds) is inappropriate for terrain near the station, where errors of 20 mGal have been computed using 30-arcsecond data. It is concluded that when 30-arcsecond terrain is allowed to have a more curved (bilinear) prism top, its gravitational attraction is a significantly closer approximation of 3-arcsecond terrain, even for the prism surrounding the station, as compared to the case of 30-arcsecond flat-topped prisms. It is suggested that classical terrain corrections, for many reasons, should not be used to compute Helmert anomalies. Considering only the accuracy, and not the speed, of the computations, the following conclusions are drawn: terrain effects computed inside a local “cap” should be done exclusively in spherical coordinates with a 3-arcsecond Digital Elevation Model (DEM) out to 0.2∘ radius, and then a 30-arcsecond DEM from 0.2 out to 3.5∘. In all cases, bilinearly shaped prism tops should be used.
Polymer brushes as active nanolayers for tunable bacteria adhesion

Abstract Bacterial biofilm formation on implant surfaces is a frequent reason for the failure of many biomedical devices. Polymer brushes, thin nanolayers constituted of densely grafted macromolecules, are promising candidates to use in many biomedical applications to control attachment of bacteria to a surface. In this work five different polymer brushes were synthesized and tested with respect to their ability to regulate Staphylococcus aureus adhesion. Namely, two mixed brushes [consisting of poly(ethylene glycol) and a positively charged polymers, poly(2-vynil pyridine) or quartenized poly(2-vynil pyridine)] are investigated along with one-component brushes of the respective polymers. Bacterial adhesion was regulated over two orders of magnitude via altering the polymer brush composition.
EXTENSIVE MODIFICATION OF PROTEIN AMINO GROUPS BY REDUCTIVE ADDITION OF DIFFERENT SIZED SUBSTITUENTS

The amino groups of ovomucoid, lysozyme and ovotransferrin have been extensively alkylated by reacting the proteins with various carbonyl reagents in the presence of sodim borohydride. The extent of modification ranged from 40 to 100%. Essentially monosubstitution was obtained with acetone, cyclopentanone, cyclohexanone and benzaldehyde, while 20--50% disubstitution was obtained with N-butanal and nearby 100% disubstitution was obtained with formaldehyde. Both the methylated and isopropylated derivatives of all three proteins were soluble and retained almost full biochemical activities, but introduction of the larger substituents caused precipitation with lysozyme and ovotransferrin.
A 2.2 Gb/s DQPSK Baseband Receiver in 90-nm CMOS for 60 GHz Wireless Links

This paper presents a CMOS DQPSK direct-conversion baseband receiver that can deliver 2.2 Gb/s data rate to support 1920times1080 interlaced HDTV wireless transmission in the unlicensed 60 GHz band. The receiver system architecture and major circuit blocks are described. Implemented in the 90 nm CMOS process, the receiver achieves a maximum data rate of 2.4 Gb/s with measured BER of 10-9. It is operated under IV DC supply voltage with 85 mW of total power consumption.
Optical data storage by electromagnetically induced transparency and nondegenerate four-wave mixing in a spectral hole-burning solid

Summary form only given. We demonstrated two bits of optical data storage by a novel technique of electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT)-excited spin echoes. This experiment demonstrates the potential of high-density and fast optical data memory at high temperature. We show its first application to optical data storage using spin photon echo excited by two-photon resonance.
New Vacuum Swing Adsorption Cycles for Air Purification with the Feasibility of Complete Cleanup

Simple equilibrium theory-based formulations were derived and used to investigate the feasibility of complete cleanup in and compare the performances of pressure swing adsorption (PSA) and vacuum swing adsorption (VSA) air purification processes. Three representative contaminants were investigated (dimethyl methylphosphonate, benzene, and butane), all on activated carbon. For these systems, complete cleanup during every cycle was always possible in a VSA process; and it was also possible in a PSA process, but only for the two less strongly adsorbed systems and only when their feed mole fractions were less than some specific value. Otherwise, a subatmospheric purge pressure was required by PSA no matter how high the feed pressure. The pressure ratio required for complete cleanup by PSA was generally several times higher than that required by VSA for the same feed mole fraction, except for the two less strongly adsorbed systems at very low feed mole fractions. For VSA and PSA processes with incomplete cleanup, VSA processed more feed than PSA; this advantage became more pronounced with stronger adsorbates and higher feed concentrations. The superiority of VSA over PSA also became more pronounced with higher pressure ratios and lower purge-to-feed ratios.
Test-Retest Variability in Glaucoma Patients Tested with C-20-1 Screening-Mode Frequency Doubling Technology Perimetry

Purpose:To investigate test-retest variability in glaucoma patients tested with C-20-1 (screening) Frequency Doubling Technology (FDT) perimetry.Methods:Thirty-one glaucoma patients with a range of visual field defects (17 with mild, 11 with moderate, and 3 with severe defects by AGIS classification
Cavity Growth Mechanisms In UCG With Side Wall Burn Gasification

A preliminary 2-dimensional model for in situ underground coal gasification is presented for discussion. The model describes cavity formation from the injection well end and link zone burn up, where the initial link zone geometry is assumed at this time. Cavity growth is predicted via an integral boundary layer analysis with boundary conditions determined by oxygen mass transfer to the wall for forced and natural convection. Preliminary results are based on carbon oxidation, the reduction of CO/sub 2/, and the water-gas reaction, but exclude reaction rate effects. The effect of water influx is discussed. A comparison between eastern (Pricetown) and western (Hanna) coals is presented, as well as dimensionless plots which indicate similarity solutions for various blast flow rates. (22 refs.)
Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas winter temperatures and rainfall, and summer occurrence ofPuccinia graminis tritici in Kansas, Dakotas, Nebraska, and Minnesota

Temperature and rainfall data for the winter months December through March in Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas were related to subsequent summer wheat stem rust severity in Kansas, Nebraska, the Dakotas and Minnesota for the period 1904–1960.Kansas winter temperatures and rainfall data were not related to rust severity in the states northward.Although precise weather rules for rust epiphytotics were not found,these preliminary analyses indicated that there might be a causal relation between March precipitation in Texas and Oklahoma and subsequent wheat stem rust outbreaks in May in Kansas and June and July in Nebraska, the Dakotas and Minnesota.
Modern tidal rhythmites deposited in a deep-water estuary

The sedimentary record in Muir Inlet, a macrotidal fjord in Alaska, is dominated by cyclic silt–mud rhythmites. Couplet thicknesses vary systematically in a vertical sequence and reflect a semidiurnal tidal regime. Semimonthly, monthly, bimonthly, and annual cycles can be identified both visually in cores and by spectral frequency analysis. An average annual sedimentation of 22.5 cmyr-1 occurs over a four-month meltwater season and is confirmed by 210Pb dating. These modern deep-water tidal rhythmites can be used to verify interpretations made on ancient rhythmites in the stratigraphic record, and they also provide a dating tool to interpret high latitude successions for high-resolution climate change.
Distillation Studies in a High-Gravity Contactor

A high-gravity vapor−liquid contactor (“Higee”) was studied under distillation conditions using a semiworks scale system. The cyclohexane/n-heptane test mixture was used at operating pressures of 166 and 414 kPa and under total reflux conditions. Rotational speeds ranged from 400 to 1200 rpm. Data were collected on mass transfer efficiency, pressure drop, and hydraulic capacity. As many as six transfer units were achieved in a bed depth of 21 cm, with efficiency being directly proportional to speed of rotation. Models were developed for mass transfer and pressure drop, and the earlier packed bed flooding model of Sherwood, which includes a gravity term, was found to represent the vapor capacity of the contactor. Sufficient information is given to enable the preliminary design of a system containing a high-gravity vapor−liquid contactor. Because the test mixture has been widely used for conventional contactor studies, means for comparing high-gravity contacting with other methods are now available.