cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Protecting the privacy and security of sensitive customer data in the cloud

Abstract The global ubiquity of cloud computing may expose consumers' sensitive personal data to significant privacy and security threats. A critical challenge for the cloud computing industry is to earn consumers' trust by ensuring adequate privacy and security for sensitive consumer data. Regulating consumer privacy and security also challenges government enforcement of data protection laws that were designed with national borders in mind. From an information privacy perspective, this article analyses how well the regulatory frameworks in place in Europe and the United States help protect the privacy and security of sensitive consumer data in the cloud. It makes suggestions for regulatory reform to protect sensitive information in cloud computing environments and to remove regulatory constraints that limit the growth of this vibrant new industry.
Correlation of silica glass properties with the infrared spectra

Abstract Infrared (IR) spectroscopy has been used to interpret structural changes in silica glasses. Specifically, a shift of the Si–O stretching band in IR spectra is used to monitor changes in average Si–O–Si bond angle in the glass structure. A similar structural change is induced by the change of fictive temperature, hydrostatic pressure or compressive stress, with the average Si–O–Si bond angle decreasing with the increase of these parameters. It is anticipated that these similar structural changes would produce a similar change in glass properties. In order to confirm this expectation, HF etch rates of silica glasses were measured as a function of fictive temperature and stress. The experimental results on HF etch rates, together with changes in other glass properties in the literature, were compared with the change in glass structure revealed by IR spectroscopy. It was found that the similar structural change is accompanied by the consistent changes in a variety of glass properties. Monitoring the IR spectra of a silica glass sample, therefore, can be used to deduce changes in glass properties.
An eye on insulin

Diabetic retinopathy, the most frequent complication of diabetes and leading cause of vision loss, involves vascular and neural damage in the retina. Insulin and IGF-1 signaling are now shown to contribute to retinal neovascularization, in part, by modulating the expression of various vascular mediators.
CO2 and H2O diluted oxy-fuel combustion for zero-emission power

Concerns about climate change have encouraged significant interest in concepts for zero-emission power generation systems. These systems are intended to produce power without releasing CO 2 into the atmosphere. One method to achieve this goal is to produce hydrogen from the gasification of fossil or biomass fuels. Using various membrane and reforming technologies, the carbon in the parent fuel can be shifted to CO 2 and removed from the fuel stream, followed by direct CO 2 sequestration. The hydrogen fuel can be used directly in gas turbines fitted with low-NO x combustors. A second approach to producing zero-emission power is to replace the nitrogen diluent that accompanies conventional combustion in air with either CO 2 or H 2 O. In this concept, CO 2 or H 2 O is added to oxygen to control combustion temperatures in oxygen-fuel reactions. In the absence of nitrogen, the primary combustion products for any hydrocarbon under lean conditions are then simply CO 2 and H 2 O. Thus, merely cooling the exhaust stream condenses the water and produces an exhaust of pure CO 2 , ready for sequestration. The dilute oxy-fuel combustion strategy can be incorporated in power cycles that are similar to Brayton or Rankine configurations, using CO 2 or H 2 O as the primary diluent respectively. While the relative merits of the various strategies to zero-emission power are the subject of various technical and economic studies, very little work has focused on defining the combustion issues associated with the dilute oxy-fuel option. In this paper, the expected combustion performance of CO 2 and H 2 O diluted systems are compared. Experimental results from a high-pressure oxy-fuel combustor are also presented.
Inhibition of inosinic acid dehydrogenase of sarcoma 180 ascites cells by nucleotides and their analogs

Abstract IMP dehydrogenase of sarcoma 180 ascites tumor cells is inhibited in a competitive manner by the guanine nucleotide biosynthetic pathway end-product GMP. The effectiveness of IMP as a substrate and of GMP as an inhibitor was mimicked less strongly by dIMP and dGMP, as well as by the corresponding nucleoside di- and triphosphate compounds. 8-Azaguanosine 5'-phosphate, 2-amino-6-chloropurine ribonucleoside 5'-phosphate, 2,6-diaminopurine ribonucleoside 5'-phosphate and AMP, which also may be considered to be derivatives of GMP and IMP, produced inhibition of enzymatic activity. IMP, XMP and GMP behaved similarly in protecting IMP dehydrogenase from inhibition by N -ethylmaleimide. No evidence was found requiring the postulation of an allosteric site in the mammalian enzyme for the feedback inhibitor GMP.
FOLINIC ACID-RESPONSIVE NEONATAL SEIZURES

We report three cases of folinic acid-responsive intractable neonatal seizures. All patients were born at term following normal gestation and delivery. In the first infant, seizures began on the 5th day of life and were unresponsive to phenobarbital, pyridoxine, and valproate, but stopped within 24 hours of initiation of folinic acid treatment at the age of 6 months. Her sibling had died at age 6 months with intractable seizures. In the second infant, seizures began in the 2nd hour of life. These were initially controlled with phenobarbital; however, at 3 months of age she developed status epilepticus refractory to anticonvulsants, steroids, and pyridoxine and she required repeated induction of pentobarbital coma. Seizures stopped within 24 hours of starting folinic acid. Seizures and encephalopathy were noted in the third infant on the 2nd day of life. These were controlled with phenobarbital, but at 8 weeks of age seizures recurred and were difficult to control despite the addition of phenytoin. Immediately after folinic acid was initiated the seizures stopped. Breakthrough seizures in all patients have responded to increases in folinic acid; two of the three remain on standard anticonvulsants. All patients have global developmental delay. Cranial magnetic resonance imaging in the second patient shows diffuse atrophy, and in the third patient shows increased signal on T2 images in the white matter of the frontal and parietal lobes. Analysis of cerebrospinal fluid from these patients using high-performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection has consistently revealed an as-yet unidentified compound, which can be used as a marker for this condition. We suggest that cerebrospinal fluid be analyzed for the presence of this compound and a trial of folinic acid be considered in neonates with unexplained early onset intractable seizures.
Neuropeptide Y influences acute food intake and energy status affects NPY immunoreactivity in the female musk shrew (Suncus murinus).

Neuropeptide Y (NPY) stimulates feeding, depresses sexual behavior, and its expression in the brain is modulated by energetic status. We examined the role of NPY in female musk shrews, a species with high energetic and reproductive demands; they store little fat, and small changes in energy can rapidly diminish or enhance sexual receptivity. Intracerebroventricular infusion of NPY enhanced acute food intake in shrews, however, NPY had little affect on sexual receptivity. The distribution of NPY immunoreactivity in the female musk shrew brain was unremarkable, but energy status differentially affected NPY immunoreactivity in several regions. Similar to what has been noted in other species, NPY immunoreactivity was less dense in brains of ad libitum shrews and greater in shrews subjected to food restriction. In two midbrain regions, both of which contain high levels of gonadotropin releasing hormone II (GnRH II) which has anorexigenic actions in shrews, NPY immunoreactivity was more sensitive to changes in food intake. In these regions, acute refeeding (90–180 minutes) after food restriction reduced NPY immunoreactivity to levels noted in ad libitum shrews. We hypothesize that interactions between NPY and GnRH II maintain energy homeostasis and reproduction in the musk shrew.
Buprenorphine for Cancer Pain: Is It Ready for Prime Time?

Buprenorphine (BUP) is a semisynthetic derivative of the opium alkaloid thebaine found in the poppy Papaver somniferum. Its chemical structure contains the morphine structure but differs by having a cyclopropylmethyl group. Buprenorphine is a potent µ opioid agonist. Buprenorphine undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism in the liver and gut. The development of a transdermal BUP formulation in 2001 led to its evaluation in cancer pain. This article provides the practitioner with an update on the current role of BUP in cancer care. It highlights data suggesting effectiveness in various types of cancer pain. The article reviews pharmacology, routes of administration, adverse effects, drug interactions, and cost considerations.
The relationship of nystagmus to lateral vestibular nucleus stimulation.

Abstract Electrical stimulation of the lateral vestibular nucleus was employed to elicit nystagmus in twenty-one acute cat preparations. Low intensity (2 v; 0.05 mamp) of 5-sec duration produced nystagmus with the fast component toward the side of stimulation; frequencies between 200 and 400 cycle/sec were most effective. Medium strength stimuli (9 v; 0.5 mamp) produced ocular tremor during stimulation and an afternystagmus in the same direction. Intense stimuli (15 v; 0.8 mamp) produced a reversal of afternystagmus, following the same response elicited with medium strength stimuli. Prolonging low-intensity stimulation time above 5 sec could simulate stimulations at higher intensities. The nystagmus response elicited by medium strength stimuli remained reproducible and constant over several hours.
Optimization of thermal energy storage in packed columns

Abstract We propose a method for optimizing the net economic income for thermal energy storage in a cylindrical column packed with solid spheres. The economic value of stored heat is maximized relative to equipment and operating costs for air-based solar energy storage systems packed with either rock or steel spheres. Variables optimized separately are bed length and diameter, air flow rate, spherical particle diameter and collection time. Simultaneous optimization of a subset of these variables is illustrated. The mathematical model for the transient temperature profile in the bed includes intraparticle heat conduction, axial dispersion and heat losses to the surroundings, as described in earlier papers.
Radiation therapy for neovascular age-related macular degeneration

In the enormity of the public health burden imposed by age-related macular degeneration (ARMD), much effort has been directed toward identifying effective and efficient treatments. Currently, anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) injections have demonstrated considerably efficacy in treating neovascular ARMD, but patients require frequent treatment to fully benefit. Here, we review the rationale and evidence for radiation therapy of ARMD. The results of early photon external beam radiation therapy are included to provide a framework for the sequential discussion of evidence for the usage of stereotactic radiation therapy, proton therapy, and brachytherapy. The evidence suggests that these 3 modern modalities can provide a dose-dependent benefit in the treatment of ARMD. Most importantly, preliminary data suggest that all 3 can be used in conjunction with anti-VEGF therapeutics, thereby reducing the frequency of anti-VEGF injections required to maintain visual acuity.
The Kinematics and Excitation of Molecular Hydrogen Emission in the Planetary Nebula BD +30?3639

High spatial and spectral resolution spectra of the near-infrared H2 emission from the planetary nebula BD +30°3639 are presented. A 7'' × 13'' portion of the nebula was mapped at a resolution of 6000 in the v = 1-0 S(1) emission line of molecular hydrogen, revealing the morphology and kinematics of the H2 emission. These spectra show large velocity shifts in the H2 line across the nebula. Comparison with single-dish CO observations show significant velocity differences between the peaks of H2 emission and CO emission. Such differences are unexpected for a photodissociation region (PDR), since PDRs are supposed to form in the surface of the cold gas (as is the case for NGC 7027). A single long-slit spectrum which includes the peak of the H2 emission and covers the entire K band at a resolution of 1000 is analyzed. Fourteen molecular hydrogen emission lines are detected in a 2'' × 05 region covering the bright northeastern H2 lobe. The line ratios indicate that the H2 emission is radiatively excited, but that the gas density is large enough (n 104.5-105 cm-3) for collisions to thermalize the lowest vibrational states. The measured ratio of ortho-hydrogen to para-hydrogen is 2.51 ± 0.22, slightly smaller than the equilibrium value of 3. Spatial variations of the v = 2-1 vibrational temperature and the v = 1 ortho/para ratio are consistent with a decrease in the relative proportion of collisional excitation as distance from the central star increases.
The association between biliary tract cancers and cancers of other sites.

Abstract OBJECTIVE: Cancers of the biliary tract, including cancers of the gallbladder and bile duct, generally carry a very poor prognosis. Little is known about their etiology. The pattern of co-occurrence of two cancers may give clues to shared etiological risk factors. We therefore investigated the association of biliary tract cancer with other cancers, especially with estrogen- and tobacco-related cancers. METHODS: We used data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program of the National Cancer Institute. Associations between biliary tract cancer and other cancers were evaluated using the standardized incidence ratio as an estimate of the relative risk of a second primary malignancy. RESULTS: Estrogen-related cancers of the breast and uterine corpus and smoking-related upper aerodigestive tract cancers were not associated with biliary tract cancer. The risk of gallbladder cancer was inversely related to the risk of prostate cancer in men, but positively related to the risk of cervical cancer in women. CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that smoking and estrogen exposure have minimal roles in the pathogenesis of biliary tract cancer. Our finding of an inverse relationship between prostate cancer and gallbladder cancer requires confirmation by further studies.
How U.S. state tourism offices use online newsrooms and social media in media relations

This study examined the use of online newsrooms on U.S. state tourism websites. A content analysis of 50 state tourism websites was conducted to investigate the availability of online newsrooms as well as their contents and overall usability. The social media availability on the state tourism websites was also analyzed. The results revealed that most state tourism websites provide online newsrooms to media but many of them do not meet the needs of journalists in terms of usability, content availability, and information distribution. All of the websites integrated at least one type of social media; the most commonly used were Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Flickr. The detailed results by state and implications are discussed.
Noise-tolerant inverse analysis models for nondestructive evaluation of transportation infrastructure systems using neural networks

The need to rapidly and cost-effectively evaluate the present condition of pavement infrastructure is a critical issue concerning the deterioration of ageing transportation infrastructure all around the world. Nondestructive testing (NDT) and evaluation methods are well-suited for characterising materials and determining structural integrity of pavement systems. The falling weight deflectometer (FWD) is a NDT equipment used to assess the structural condition of highway and airfield pavement systems and to determine the moduli of pavement layers. This involves static or dynamic inverse analysis (referred to as backcalculation) of FWD deflection profiles in the pavement surface under a simulated truck load. The main objective of this study was to employ biologically inspired computational systems to develop robust pavement layer moduli backcalculation algorithms that can tolerate noise or inaccuracies in the FWD deflection data collected in the field. Artificial neural systems, also known as artificial neur...
Dissecting the proline effect: dissociations of proline radicals formed by electron transfer to protonated Pro-Gly and Gly-Pro dipeptides in the gas phase.

We report a combined experimental and computational study of the proline effect in model dipeptides Pro-Gly and Gly-Pro. Gas-phase protonated peptide ions were discharged by glancing collisions with potassium or cesium atoms at 3 keV collision energies, and the peptide radical intermediates and their dissociation products were analyzed following collisional ionization to anions. The charge reversal (+CR-) mass spectra of (Pro-Gly + H)+ (1a+) and (Gly-Pro + H)+ (2a+) showed dramatic differences and thus provided a sensitive probe of ion structure. Whereas 1a+ completely dissociated upon charge inversion, 2a+ gave a nondissociated anion as the most abundant product. Ab initio and density functional theory calculations provided structures and vertical recombination energies (REvert) for 1a+ and 2a+. The recombination energies, REvert = 3.07 and 3.36 eV for 1a+ and 2a+, respectively, were lower than the alkali metal ionization energies and indicated that the collisional electron transfer to the peptide ions w...
ACL2-certified AVL trees

AVL trees supply operations for information storage and retrieval in time proportional to the logarithm of the number of items stored and in a space increment, beyond the space needed for the information itself, that increases linearly with the number of items. The public operations of insertion, deletion, and retrieval are supported internally by rotations to maintain order and balance properties that make it possible to meet logarithmic performance requirements. This report describes an AVL implementation in ACL2. It focuses on verifying correctness issues of order, balance, and conservation of keys.
Theory of a steady-state nonisothermal positive column in a magnetic field

The steady state of a nonisothermal cylindrical discharge in a longitudinal magnetic field is described by three moment equations in the plasma approximation for electrons and ions. Volume generation of electron‐ion pairs by single‐stage ionization, the presence of axial current, and collisions with neutrals are considered. The theory yields radial profiles of the charged particle velocities, density, potential, electron and ion temperatures, and demonstrates similarity laws for the positive column. The results are compared with two‐moment theories and with experimental data on helium, argon, and mercury vapor found in the literature for a wide range of pressures.
A two-component geodesic equation on a space of constant positive curvature

Abstract We propose a new two-component geodesic equation with the unusual property that the underlying space has constant positive curvature. In the special case of one space dimension, the equation reduces to the two-component Hunter–Saxton equation.
AN ISOLATE OF FUSARIUM ROSEUM FROM HUMAN BURNS

A five-year-old boy, severely burned in a gasoline fire, was brought into the University of Missouri Hospital in August, 1957. Although the prognosis for the patient was poor, he not only survived but recovered to the point where initial skin grafting could be performed considerably sooner than is usually the case. The explanation of this statement concerns the fungus discussed in this paper.
New compounds in the Mn-X-Bi system where X = Ni, Cu, Rh or Pd

Abstract A new class of magnetic compounds has been discovered in the temary system Mn-X-Bi where X is Ni, Cu, Rh or Pd. The approximate compositions of these compounds are Mn5Ni2Bi4, Mn3Cu4Bi4, Mn5Rh2Bi4, and Mn5Pd2Bi4. The Bravais lattice is face-centered cubic, and the lattice constants are 12.16 A (X = Ni), 12.18 A (X = Cu), 12.31 A (X = Rh) and 12.44 A (X = Pd). These compounds are probably ferromagnetic and have Curie temperatures in the range -7°C to 183°C. A crystal structure is proposed for these compounds which contains 88 atoms/unit cell.
Id Family of Transcription Factors and Vascular Lesion Formation

Vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) modulation to a de-differentiated phenotype and proliferation are key components of vascular lesion formation. Understanding how these processes are regulated is essential to understanding the progression of vascular diseases such as atherosclerosis and in-stent restenosis. The Id family of helix-loop-helix (HLH) transcription factors has emerged as important regulators of cellular growth and differentiation. Recent published findings have implicated the Id proteins as important regulators of growth and phenotypic modulation in VSMC and in the vascular response to injury. In this review, we summarize what is known regarding how the Id proteins function to control cellular growth and differentiation and their role in vascular lesion formation.
Antimuscle and antiacetylcholine receptor antibodies in myasthenia gravis.

The sera of 134 patients were examined for antimuscle antibodies by immunofluorescence (IF). These derived from 77 myasthenics, 30 myasthenics with thymoma, 6 patients with thymoma and no clinical evidence of myasthenia, and 21 patients with other autoimmune or neuromuscular diseases. Three separate patterns of antimuscle antibodies could be identified in the myasthenic sera by examination of the relaxed glycerinated myofibrils by both IF and phase-contrast optics: A-band (9 with thymoma, 1 without), I-band (11 with thymoma, 17 without), and a mixed A plus I pattern (5 with thymoma, 3 without). Seventy-seven myasthenic serum samples (24 with thymoma, 53 without) were available for evaluation of antibodies to acetylcholine receptor (antiAChR) by radioimmunoassay. Ninety-one percent reacted with crude human receptor extract and 80% with receptor extracted from denervated rat muscle. There was no correlation between the titers of anti-AChR and the presence or staining patterns of antimuscle antibodies, but patients without anti-AChR did not have antimuscle antibodies. Myasthenics with thymoma had the highest prevalence of anti-AChR (237sol;24) and of antimuscle antibodies (257sol;30), and 15 of the 20 positives stained A-bands alone or with I-band, as compared to 4 of 21 positive reactions in those without tumor. Immunoabsorption, which removed or significantly reduced anti-AChR, did not alter antimuscle reactivity. The discrepancies between anti-AChR levels and the presence and types of antimuscle antibodies suggest that these are independent autoantibodies. Current theories of immunopathogenesis implicate altered thymic antigens or a major breakdown in immune regulation, either of which could explain their production.
Synthesis and characterization of a tetraphosphine macrocyclic ligand and its manganese(II) complexes

Abstract A 16-membered tert-phosphino-containing macrocycle has been synthesized by combining tribenzylphosphine and ethylene dibromide to give the salt [(PhCH 2 ) 3 P + CH 2 CH 2 p + (CH 2 Ph) 3 ] 2 Br − , which on treatment with lithium aluminum hydride gives the diphosphine, (PhCH 2 ) 2 PCH 2 CH 2 P(CH 2 Ph) 2 . Successive reactions with cis -1,4-dichloro-2-butene and LiAlH 4 give in turn the macrocyclic tetraphosphonium salt and then the 16-membered tert-phosphino-containing macrocyclic ligand. A series of new manganese complexes MnLX 2 (X  Cl, Br, I and NCS; L = 16-membered tert-phosphino-containing macrocycle) has been prepared and characterized.
More on the influence of zoo visitors on the behaviour of captive primates

Abstract A study done at the Chester Zoo, in the north of England, was replicated at the Sacramento Zoo. Data were collected for four behavioural measures (number of interactions with the audience, number of interactions with cage-mates, levels of locomotory activity, and spatial dispersion in the cage) in 11 different species of primates under five audience conditions (no audience, small active groups, large active groups, small passive groups and large passive groups) in an attempt to quantify the relationships between size and activity of audiences and the behaviour of primates kept in zoos. Most animals directed at least some behaviours toward the audiences in all audience conditions, but significantly more behaviours were directed at active, than at passive audiences especially if the audience was large. There were no relationships between size and activity of the audience and frequency of interactions between primates in the same group. However, locomotory activity was significantly higher in primates when both large and small active audiences were present than when there was no audience. There was also a relationship between audience presence, especially an active audience, and the primates being more often observed at the front of the enclosure. The behaviours of zoo primates and the size and activity of visitor groups are, indeed, related.
Healthy menu promotions: a match between dining value and temporal distance.

Abstract This study intended to identify a persuasive communication strategy in the context of healthy menu promotions in restaurants by adopting construal level theory (CLT) and considering temporal distance. The study proposed that customers’ psychological states, in terms of hedonic versus utilitarian dining values, can qualitatively evoke different types of thinking (abstract versus concrete) with respect to the level of construal. The study demonstrated that a focus on hedonic value tends to lead people to think at a more abstract level of construal and have greater positive attitudes and purchasing intentions toward a healthy menu when the advertising message is framed in terms of the long-term benefits of a healthy diet. Conversely, a focus on utilitarian value tends to lead people to think at a more concrete level of construal and have greater positive attitudes and purchasing intentions toward a healthy menu when the advertising message is framed in terms of the immediate benefits of a healthy diet. Finally, the study also determined that gender plays a moderating role in the relationship between dining values and temporal frames. The results enhance the existing literature by identifying an antecedent influencing CLT and provide practical implications for effective marketing communication in the context of healthy menu item promotion in restaurants.
Rights as alternative game forms

The paper analyzes the problem of modeling rights using extensive game forms with perfect information. Three dimensions of rights – protocol, autonomy and power – are identified and it is shown, that under a certain condition, the effectivity function captures completely all rights relevant aspects of a game form. The condition under which this is possible is interpretable both as a particular formulation of individual liberty and as a rejection of consequentialism.
High temperature alteration of Abyssal ultramafics from the Islas Orcadas Fracture Zone, South Atlantic

Ultramafic rocks dredged from the Islas Orcadas Fracture Zone, along the SW Indian Ocean Ridge (6° E and 54° S), show evidence of progressive hydration beginning at temperatures greater than 600° C (and perhaps as high as 900° C) and continuing to less than 50° C. There are two principal types of alteration present in the ultramafic rocks, both of which are the result of hydration reactions. The first type of alteration involves hydration of original clinopyroxene, orthopyroxene and olivine to amphibole, talc, secondary olivine, and serpentine. The second is a vein type of alteration and results in the formation of veins of amphibole, chlorite, talc and serpentine. — The alteration appears to be episodic. The sequence of events suggested by the petrography is: 1) clinopyroxene altering to amphibole; 2) orthopyroxene altering to talc, or talc + olivine; 3) supersolvus hornblende veining; 4) coexisting actinolite + hornblende veining; 5) chlorite, chlorite + actinolite, or chlorite + secondary clinopyroxene veining; 6) talc veining; 7) serpentine veining; and 8) pervasive serpentinization. — The alteration fluid is most likely seawater. It is suggested that the high temperature alterations may reflect seawater circulation into the upper mantle.
Hot compaction of poly(methyl methacrylate) composites based on fiber shrinkage results

Uniaxial self-reinforced composite poly(methyl methacrylate) (SRC-PMMA) is being investigated as a pre-coat material for the femoral component of total hip replacements. Hot compaction of self-reinforced composites is largely an empirical process which varies the processing parameters of time, temperature and pressure until the desired properties are obtained. Previous work has shown that PMMA fibers have unique thermal relaxation properties dependent upon the retained molecular orientation in them. This work processed composites at times and temperatures that span the relaxation process for a single fiber. It was found that molecular orientation, as measured by birefringence, was lost in composites processed at times greater than relaxation times for single fibers. Flexural properties were also found to vary with processing conditions, with the highest values of 165 +/- 15 MPa and 168 +/- 3 MPa found at high and low processing times, respectively. These are significantly stronger than unreinforced PMMA which has a flexural strength of 127 +/- 14 MPa. It is hypothesized that diffusion between fibers occurs much more quickly than the loss of molecular orientation and it was seen that SRC-PMMA processing conditions can be predicted from the relaxation times and temperatures from single fibers.
Fingerprinting human oral streptococci by bacteriocin production and sensitivity

Abstract The patterns of sensitivity to and production of bacteriocins were found to be highly specific for individual strains of streptococci. A method of “fingerprinting” streptococcal isolates for epidemiological and ecological studies was developed, based on their bacteriocin production and sensitivity, and examination of the method indicated that differentiation between oral streptococcal strains could be established with a high degree of confidence. In epidemiological studies 2 babies, less than 18 hr old, and 3 infants, 3,5, and 7 weeks old, were found to harbour types of Streptococcus salivarius identical to those harboured by their mothers, suggesting a transfer of this species from mother to child. Ecological studies of the tongue indicated that the population of Strep. salivarius on a given site of the tongue was rather complex, comprising 1–8 types per 10 isolates. Similarly, studies on the ecology of dental plaque indicated that normally minute areas of the tooth surface can harbour several types of Strep. mutans (4–9 types per 10 isolates) and Strep. sanguis (4–8 types per 10 isolates), all in high proportions. However, in plaque from carious lesions only a single type of Strep. mutans was found, suggesting a more homogeneous population in this situation.
Determination of lubricating oil and unburned fuel in diesel particulates

A method for determining the contribution of lubricating oil and fuel to particulates emitted from diesel engines is described. Methylene chloride extracts of the particulates were separated by silica gel fractionation using hexane, methylene chloride, acetone and methanol. The molecular weight distribution of each fraction was determined using size exclusion chromatography. The speciation of diesel particles into unoxidized oil, oxidized oil, unoxidized fuel and oxidized fuel was determined systematically for a diesel engine modified over a period of more than a year. These modifications significantly affected the total extractable material (12.6-72.3%) and distribution of oil and fuel components. Engine oil was consistently found to be the major contributor to the extractable material, varying from 10 to 60% of the total particulates emitted.
Pediatric emergency department thoracotomy: a large case series and systematic review.

Abstract Background/purpose The emergency department thoracotomy (EDT) is rarely utilized in children, and is thus difficult to identify survival factors. We reviewed our experience and performed a systematic review of reports of EDT in pediatric patients. Methods Patients age ≤18years who received an EDT from 1991 to 2012 at our institution and all published case series were reviewed. Data analyzed include age, sex, mechanism of injury (MOI), injury patterns, presence of vital signs (VS) or signs of life (SOL) in the field/ED, return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC), and survival. Results A total of 252 patients were analyzed. 84% were male. 51% sustained penetrating injuries, and median age was 15years. Upon arrival, 17% had VS, and 35% had SOL. After EDT, 30% experienced ROSC. The survival rate was 1.6% for blunt trauma, 10.2% for penetrating injuries, and 6.0% overall. Conclusion Survival of pediatric patients following EDT is comparable to recent analyses in adults. Children who sustain blunt injury and are without SOL have been uniformly unsalvageable. Children who sustain penetrating trauma and have SOL or are without SOL for a short time prior to arrival have been salvageable. There are no reported EDT survivors less than 14years of age following blunt injury.
The Pigment (hemozoin) and Proteins of the Avian Malaria Parasite Plasmodium lophurae.

SYNOPSIS. The use of saponin hemolysis, buffer washings and deoxyribonuclease yields quantities of erythrocyte-free plasmodia sufficiently pure for physico-chemical studies. The pigment produced by Plasmodium lophurae, unlike the pigments of the simian and human malarias, is of such low solubility in buffer solutions that urea is necessary as an additive to the buffer for adequate solubilization. On the basis of spectral and electrophoretic qualities, the pigment is a protein-porphyrin complex closely resembling methemoglobin but clearly distinct from hematin. Extraction of the pigment in solvents which degrade hemoglobin, e.g. phenol, 0.1 N NaOH, cannot be used to ascertain the properties of hemozoin, for the pigment in such solvents shows a spectrum identical to hemoglobin. The soluble parasite proteins which constitute approximately 55% of the totaI volume of the parasite as revealed by electrophoretic and ultracentrifugal analysis appear to be homogeneous. They show a marked similarity to the host hemoglobin, but differ sufficiently to verify their integrity and individuality.
Initiator Addition to Methyl Methacrylate Studied in Liquid and Supercritical Carbon Dioxide

The photochemistry and radical chemistry of two widely used photoinitiators have been studied in liquid and supercritical carbon dioxide solutions and compared to conventional solvents such as acetonitrile and toluene. A specially modified time-resolved electron paramagnetic resonance (TREPR) apparatus was used to detect free radicals produced from the triplet states of dimethoxyphenylacetophenone (DMPA, 1) and trimethylbenzoyldiphenylphosphine oxide (TMDPO, 2) after excitation of the parent compounds using a 308 nm excimer laser. The photochemistry and photophysics of these molecules in CO2 are similar to those observed in conventional solvents. In the presence of methyl methacrylate (MMA) monomer, both benzoyl (1a) and dimethoxybenzyl (1b) radicals from DMPA react to form adduct radicals 1c and 1d, which are indistinguishable by TREPR. The MMA concentration dependence and time dependence of these spectra are simulated and discussed. From 2, the trimethylbenzoyl radical 2a is much less reactive than the ...
Preliminary study of mycoflora and mycotoxins in grain dust from New Orleans area grain elevators.

Dust particles arising from disintegration of grain during handling and shipping may be inhaled by exposed barge and elevator workers. Since the normal grain mycoflora usually contain mycotoxin-producing fungi, these toxins could be natural contaminants of grain dust. Known mycoflora of commercial grain include species of Penicillium, Aspergillus, and Fusarium-fungi that may produce ochratoxins, aflatoxins and zearalenone. A procedure was developed to extract simultaneously these toxins from grain dust. Initial extraction with methylene chloride and water was followed by specific cleanup procedures for each toxin and then by thin layer chromatographic quantitation. In 50-g samples the lowest level of detection for zearalenone was 50 ng of zearalenonesg of dust, for ochratoxin, 10 ngsg and for aflatoxin, 5 ngsg. Dust samples were collected at various locations in two grain elevators and their associated transfer facilities in the New Orleans area. Large amounts of dust that had settled upon flo...
Failure Behavior of Unidirectional AS4/3501-6 Carbon/Epoxy Laminates

The work is aimed at improved understanding of deformation and failure mechanisms of unidirectional carbon fiber reinforced plastics. Monotonic tension and compression experiments are conducted on ...
Setting the Stage for Teaching and Learning in American Higher Education: Making the Case for Faculty Development

This chapter identifies five major shifts in American higher education that are reshaping the necessity of effective, ongoing professional development of the faculty.
VEGF–integrin interplay controls tumor growth and vascularization

Cross-talk between the major angiogenic growth factor, VEGF, and integrin cell adhesion receptors has emerged recently as a critical factor in the regulation of angiogenesis and tumor development. However, the molecular mechanisms and consequences of this intercommunication remain unclear. Here, we define a mechanism whereby integrin αvβ3, through activation, clustering, and signaling by means of p66 Shc (Src homology 2 domain containing), regulates the production of VEGF in tumor cells expressing this integrin. Tumors with “activatable” but not “inactive” β3 integrin secrete high levels of VEGF, which in turn promotes extensive neovascularization and augments tumor growth in vivo. This stimulation of VEGF expression depends upon the ability of αvβ3 integrin to cluster and promote phosphorylation of p66 Shc. These observations identify a link between β3 integrins and VEGF in tumor growth and angiogenesis and, therefore, may influence anti-integrin as well as anti-VEGF therapeutic strategies.
The politics of the Asian financial crisis in Malaysia and South Korea

This article seeks to answer the following research questions: Why did Malaysia and South Korea choose different economic policies to cope with the 1997 financial crisis? What caused or constrained them? Did they choose different policies, and under what contexts? For this, I examine structural determinants that led to the different policy choices including the nature of the economic crisis, regime types and political leadership. Meanwhile, many scholars have been less concerned with political factors in terms of the cause of the Asian financial crisis and its overcoming process. From the findings, this article argues that their different policy choices resulted from the interaction between economic and political factors. In particular, I argue that political leaders' leadership was the most crucial factor in the different policy choices of the two countries.
Indigenous double-stranded RNA from pepper (Capsicum annuum)

Abstract A unique 12 kb linear double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) was detected in the chloroplast fraction of tissue extracts from pepper ( Capsicum annuum ). This dsRNA was detected in 10 out of 14 pepper cultivars tested. Molecular hybridization using cDNA to this dsRNA indicated that the 12 kb dsRNAs found in these pepper cultivars had nucleotide sequence similarity. This dsRNA did not hybridize to dsRNAs of similar size detected in bean and melon, nor to other dsRNAs found in non-virus inoculated plants. No evidence was obtained for a virus-like particle associated with this dsRNA.
Luther's Conception of Government

The center from which Luther's utterances on social and political issues must be understood is the idea of the two kingdoms or “regimes.” In this area of his thought, even more than in others, it will not do to draw conclusions from fragmentary quotations occasioned by historical situations in which he felt called upon to take sides. By the exclusive use of carefully selected passages, one can prove that Luther regarded secular rulers as instruments of the devil and the adversaries of his cause; and one can prove that he regarded them as instruments of God who could do no wrong. In his defence against the frequent charges that he encouraged sedition and rebellion, he frequently appears servile in his relation to the authorities of civil and political life. It was not his nature to balance alternative courses of action against one another and say everything that could be said for both sides in the same treatise. He did his thinking in the midst of controversy and his writings are almost always directed toward or in behalf of the participants. When he wrote against the peasants he gave them “both barrels.” When he attacked the rulers of church or state he did the same. This does not mean, however, that there is no coherence in his thought. If one observes carefully the content of his criticisms, he will soon discover that they proceed from a firm and unchanging conviction regarding the origin of government and its function in the world.
Single-layer guided-mode resonance polarizer

Optical characteristics of an e-beam patterned guided-mode resonance polarizer are presented. Parameters of the fabricated device are confirmed by AFM. Experimental spectral response of the polarizer agrees qualitatively with theory.
Statins use and risk for brain metastasis from lung cancer.

Laboratory data suggest an association between statins and risk of brain metastasis (BM) in patients diagnosed with lung cancer. Our retrospective cohort included 252 patients diagnosed with lung cancer and 55 (22%) patients subsequently developed BM. The risk of BM was significantly higher in younger patients (p < .0007). The multivariable Cox model did not show a significant association between statin use and BM from lung cancer (Hazard-Ratio (HR) = 1.20, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.68–2.13). Future studies should focus on late stage NSCLC and examine the incidence of BM among statin users at the time of death.
Protein Dynamics in Enzymatic Catalysis: Exploration of Dihydrofolate Reductase

The overall motions and atomic fluctuations of DHFR are calculated using molecular dynamics simulations to explore potential links between catalysis and dynamics in this enzyme system. Calculations of 10 ns duration were performed on three ternary complexes from the DHFR catalytic cycle: DHFR/DHF/NADPH (DH), DHFR/THF/NADP+ (TP), and DHFR/THF/NADPH (TH). The protein maintains a core structure very similar to the initial X-ray model, while several flexible loops undergo conformational changes. Comparison of the dynamics of the protein in the different complexes demonstrates that the ligands affect the behavior of the protein even though the ligands only differ by one to two hydrogen atoms. In particular, strong-coupled motions that appear in the reactive complex DH disappear in the product complexes, indicating that these motions may be linked to catalysis. Furthermore, mutants, which have been observed to be debilitating to particular chemical steps in catalysis, occur with high correlation in the regions...
The Naive Misuse of Power: Nonconscious Sources of Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment is considered from the perspective of power abuse in general. Recent research on sexually aggressive men has underscored the importance of power and dominance as a motivator of their behavior toward women. One striking feature of both sexual harassment and the misuse of power is the lack of awareness offenders often show regarding the inappropriateness of their actions. This lack of awareness is similar to automatic or nonconscious effects demonstrated in social perception and judgment research, such as the unintentional influence of one's stereotypes informing impressions of others. The possibility that having power within a situation automatically and nonconsciously triggers a sexuality schema, just as racial or gender features automatically trigger stereotypes of that group, is discussed and supporting research is described. It is shown, for example, that for men likely to sexually harass, merely activating the concept of power without their knowledge causes them to find the same woman more attractive. The possible origins of the automatic power → sex link, and its implications for preventing sexual harassment behavior, are discussed.
Discharge diagnoses versus medical record review in the identification of community-acquired sepsis

We evaluated the accuracy of hospital discharge diagnoses in the identification of community-acquired sepsis and severe sepsis. We reviewed 379 serious infection hospitalizations from 2003 to 2012 from the national population-based reasons for geographic and racial differences in stroke (REGARDS) cohort. Through manual review of medical records, we defined criterion-standard community-acquired sepsis events as the presence of a serious infection on hospital presentation with ≥2 systemic inflammatory response syndrome criteria. We also defined criterion-standard community-acquired severe sepsis events as sepsis with >1 sequential organ failure assessment organ dysfunction. For the same hospitalizations, we identified sepsis and severe sepsis events indicated by Martin et al. and Angus et al. International Classifications of Diseases 9th edition discharge diagnoses. We evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of the Martin and Angus criteria for detecting criterion-standard community-acquired sepsis and severe sepsis events. Among the 379 hospitalizations, there were 156 community-acquired sepsis and 122 community-acquired severe sepsis events. Discharge diagnoses identified 55 Martin-sepsis and 89 Angus-severe sepsis events. The accuracy of Martin-sepsis criteria for detecting community-acquired sepsis were: sensitivity 27.6%; specificity 94.6%; positive predictive value (PPV) 78.2%; negative predictive value (NPV) 65.1%. The accuracy of the Angus-severe sepsis criteria for detecting community-acquired severe sepsis were: sensitivity 42.6%; specificity 86.0%; PPV 58.4%; NPV 75.9%. Mortality was higher for Martin-sepsis than community-acquired sepsis (25.5% versus 10.3%, P = 0.006), as well as for Angus-severe sepsis than community-acquired severe sepsis (25.5 versus 11.5%, P = 0.002). Other baseline characteristics were similar between sepsis groups. Hospital discharge diagnoses show good specificity but poor sensitivity for detecting community-acquired sepsis and severe sepsis. While sharing similar baseline subject characteristics as cases identified by hospital record review, discharge diagnoses selected for higher mortality sepsis and severe sepsis cohorts. The epidemiology of a sepsis population may vary with the methods used for sepsis event identification.