cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An Improved Reductive Methylation Procedure for Quinones

Abstract The reductive methylation of quinones bearing electron donating groups such as hydroxyl or alkoxyl groups proceeds in good yields. The improved conditions greatly extend the scope of this useful reaction.
Soot particle size distribution measurements in a premixed flame using photon correlation spectroscopy

We have measured the first two moments of the soot particle size distribution in premixed methane/oxygen flames using the dynamic light scattering technique, photon correlation spectroscopy. Measurements were performed in a flat flame burner as a function of fuel-oxidizer equivalence ratio and height above burner. We demonstrated the ability of photon correlation spectroscopy to extract two moments, the most probable radius r0, and the geometric width σ of an assumed zeroth-order lognormal distribution. We found that the geometric width σ decreased with increasing height above the burner. Values for number density and total soot volume were also obtained. We discuss benefits of and problems with the measurement technique.
Fabrication of Cylindrical Nanopores and Nanopore Arrays in Silicon-On-Insulator Substrates

Electron-beam lithography and reactive ion etching were used to process silicon-on-insulator substrates for the fabrication of single cylindrical high-aspect-ratio solid-state nanopores and high-packing-density nanopore arrays. Minimum pore diameters of 40 nm were readily achieved with a high yield. The electrolyte concentration dependence of ion transport through single nanopores was measured for pores with diameters ranging from 40 to 140 nm. Measured single-nanopore conductances in high salt concentrations were compared to a simple model using a cylindrical resistance path and bulk solution conductivity. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy was used to study the ac response of the device.
Global color variations on the Martian surface

Spectral reflectance data from the Viking-II Orbiter vidicon cameras have provided a means of mapping and classifying Martian surface materials over about 65% of the planet. The imagery, acquired at three wavelengths, was processed to remove an average Martian photometric function; albedo maps at the three wavelengths were created. Analysis of the imagery showed that the dark region between the equator and about 30 deg S in the Martian highlands consists of ancient ridges, crater rims and rugged plateaus which are very red, and younger intercrater volcanic plains exhibiting mare ridges which are much less red. In addition probable eolian deposits were found in the intermediate and high albedo regions.
Discursive no man's land: Analysing the discourse of the rural in the transitional Czech Republic

Abstract This paper presents an analysis of the expert discourse of the rural in the period of transition in Czechoslovakia and the Czech Republic. Before 1989, the discourse was monopolised by the governing communist regime. With EU accession in 2004, the discourse became standardised to the EU programmes and policies. The period in between these two dates is referred to as “discursive no man's land” in which new meanings, functions and values were assigned to the rural. The paper concentrates on (a) how the rural was established as a public issue to be addressed by experts, (b) how the discourses of the rural changed under the influence of structural, macro-social factors and (c) what were the grounds on which state intervention in favour of the rural was perceived as legitimate. In answering these questions, the analysis identifies agriculture as a key element which provided a “function” for the pre-1989 instrumental understanding of the rural. After the collapse of the regime and the rapid shrinking of the agricultural sector in the country, the discourses of the rural took two paths. First, experts were looking for “new functions” of the rural, which came to be seen in cultural alternatives to urban modernity. Second, the figure of “rural renewal” emerged, aiming to rectify the perceived wrongdoings of the past.
THz detector based on proximity effect of topological insulator

Designing THz detectors that operate at room temperature is highly desirable and challenging for practical applications, such as imaging and quality control. Since the THz photon energy is very close to the thermal excitation, the room temperature operation is very restricted in conventional devices. In contrast, the topological insulators (TIs), e.g. Bi 2 Se 3 , pave a way to a new paradigm in low energy optoelectronics due to unique electronic properties of surface electrons. In this work, we analyze THz photodetectors based on the proximity effect in the hybrid TI- ferromagnetic insulator (FMI) structure (Fig.1). The predicted photocurrent of the unit cell can reach the order of 10−7A·cm/W, which is of practical importance. Moreover, the sensitivity of the proposed devices can be extended beyond the thermal limit, since the output signal can be readily distinguishable from the background thermal excitation for signals in THz/far infrared frequency domain even at room temperature.
Bimolecular QRRK analysis of methyl radical reactions

Reactions which proceed through energized adducts, including radical recombinations, insertions, and addition to unsaturates, frequently exhibit unusual kinetic behavior. The branching ratios among various product channels are often complex functions of both temperature and pressure. Four such reactions involving methyl radicals are analyzed by combining chemical activation distribution functions with QRRK methods to predict rate constants for each channel. These include three oxidation paths, CH3 + O, CH3 + O2, CH3 + OH, and the addition reaction CH3 + C2H2. These predictions are compared to experiments wherever possible; generally, the agreement is quite satisfactory. Analysis of the energetics of the various reaction channels, using parameters which are readily available, provides a convenient framework for prediction. Suggested rate constants for the various channels for the four reactions are given at three pressures, 20, 760, and 7600 Torr, for the temperature range 300–2500 K. The approach used here can easily be applied to other reactions.
Perceived versus objective urban opportunities and the migration of Venezuelan youths

A multivariate regression model incorporating both objective economic opportunity and objective quality-of-life measures is able to explain 65% of the variation in young adult in-migration rates for thirty Venezuelan cities in 1971. The objective variables mean annual temperature, level of secondary education, and objective income at the destination are largely responsible for this explanation. A second model, incorporating variables which measure perceived economic opportunity and perceived quality-of-life at the urban destination is then formulated. This perceptual model raises the level of explanation to 83%. Moreover, analysis of the regression coefficients for the objective variables in both models indicates that attractive factors are perceived correctly by migrants while repulsive factors are not.
Second-order nonlinear optical crystal susceptibility: computational approach

A computer program has been developed to calculate crystal susceptibility tensor components. In addition to previous considerations where molecular polarization tensors have been treated as 1D or 2D, the present program allows the use of the 3D case that appears necessary for non-planar molecules. Calculation of crystal susceptibility is based on the approximation of relatively weak intermolecular forces in relation to intramolecular ones. Local field corrections have been estimated using simple Lorentz form. To provide molecular second-order polarizability, a semiempirical quantum chemical calculation has been carried out using the finite field method incorporated in the MOPAC program.© (1999) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Photoluminescence characterization of molecular beam epitaxial GaAs grown using cracked AsH3

High purity undoped molecular beam epitaxial GaAs layers grown using cracked AsH3 as the As source have been characterized by low‐temperature (1.7–20 K) photoluminescence measurements. The dominant residual acceptor was found to be either Mg or Be (which cannot be distinguished by this technique), with smaller amounts of C, Si, Ge, Sn, and Mn also present. The incorporation of residual amphoteric impurities depends strongly on the As to Ga flux ratio. The ‘‘defect’’‐related luminescence characteristic of material grown with a solid As source was not detected. A sample grown in the same system using solid As showed only C acceptors but did produce defect luminescence.
Functional networks for cognitive control in a stop signal task: Independent component analysis

Cognitive control is a critical executive function of the human brain. Many studies have combined general linear modeling and the stop signal task (SST) to delineate the component processes of cognitive control. For instance, by contrasting stop success (SS) and stop error (SE) trials in the SST, investigators examined the neural processes underlying stop signal inhibition (SS > SE) and error processing (SE > SS). To complement this parameterized approach, here, we employed a data-driven method--independent component analysis (ICA)--to elucidate neural networks and the relationship between neural networks subserving cognitive control. In 59 adults performing the SST during fMRI, we characterized six independent components with ICA. These functional networks, temporally sorted for go success, SS, and SE trials as the events of interest, included a motor cortical network for motor preparation and execution; a right fronto-parietal network for attentional monitoring; a left fronto-parietal network for response inhibition; a midline cortico-subcortical network for error processing; a cuneus-precuneus network for behavioral engagement; and a "default" network for self-referential processing. Across subjects the event-associated weights of these functional networks showed a distinct pattern of correlation. These results provide new insight into the component processes of cognitive control.
Viability of cells containing chloroplasts with an optically homogeneous or granular structure

1. Homogeneous and granular chloroplasts have been noted in twenty-one different plants. In general, granular chloroplasts were found in plants growing in the shade and in young leaves. Older leaves and plants growing in the sun contained homogeneous chloroplasts. 2. The viability of cells containing both types of chloroplasts was demonstrated as these cells accumulated neutral red; both chloroplasts reduced silver nitrate, elaborated and hydrolysed starch. 3. Very short treatments with fumes of chloroform, toluene, formaldehyde, and pyridine killed the leaves and brought about a cessation of these activities.
Human Health Risk Assessment of 16 Priority Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Soils of Chattanooga, Tennessee, USA

South Chattanooga has been home to foundries, coke furnaces, chemical, wood preserving, tanning and textile plants for over 100 years. Most of the industries were in place before any significant development of residential property in the area. During the 1950s and 1960s, however, the government purchased inexpensive property and constructed public housing projects in South Chattanooga. Many neighborhoods that surround the Chattanooga Creek were previous dumping grounds for industry. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) comprised the largest component of the dumping and airborne industrial emissions. To address the human exposure to these PAHs, a broad study of South Chattanooga soil contaminant concentrations was conducted on 20 sites across the city. Sixteen priority pollutant PAHs were quantified at two depths (0-10cm and 10-20cm) and compared against reference site soils, as well as to soils from industrially-impacted areas in Germany, China, and the US. From these data, the probability that people would encounter levels exceeding EPA Residential Preliminary Remediation Goals (PRG) was calculated. Results indicate that South Chattanooga soils have relatively high concentrations of total PAHs, specifically Benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P). These high concentrations of B[a]P were somewhat ubiquitous in South Chattanooga. Indeed, there is a high probability (88%) of encountering soil in South Chattanooga that exceeds the EPA PRG for B[a]P. However, there is a low probability (15%) of encountering a site with ∑PAHs exceeding EPA PRG guidelines.
Involvement of glycinergic neurons in the diminished surround activity of ganglion cells in the dark-adapted rabbit retina

Previous studies have reported that the surround responses of retinal ganglion cells weaken or disappear upon dark adaptation. The mechanism(s) by which this occurs is largely unknown, although changes in activity of retinal dopaminergic neurons have been implicated. In the light-adapted rabbit retina, the surround ON responses of OFF-center ganglion cells have been shown to be markedly reduced or abolished by a dopamine antagonist. This effect of a dopamine antagonist was recently shown to be reversed by the glycine antagonist strychnine and by compounds that elevate intracellular cAMP levels. The present study was conducted to determine whether strychnine and cAMP-elevating compounds could bring out the surround ON responses in OFF-center ganglion cells that are diminished upon dark adaptation. Extracellular recordings of OFF-center brisk ganglion cells were made from isolated, superfused retinal preparations. During the course of dark adaptation, the surround ON responses of many cells decreased markedly. Application of low micromolar concentrations of strychnine to the bathing solution brought out the surround ON responses in both brisk-transient and brisk-sustained OFF-center ganglion cells. The center OFF responses of these cells, on the other hand, were not enhanced by strychnine. Of the cAMP-elevating compounds tested, 8-(4-chlorophenylthio) cyclic AMP was the most effective in bringing out the surround ON responses in dark-adapted OFF-center ganglion cells. The effects of bath application of this cAMP analog were very similar to those of strychnine. The findings from this study suggest that under dark-adapted conditions glycinergic neurons inhibit the surround component of OFF-center ganglion cells. The release of glycine from these neurons is suggested to be regulated by a cAMP-dependent mechanism.
Lack of initiation and promotion potential of deoxynivalenol for skin tumorigenesis in sencar mice

Abstract The mycotoxin deoxynivalenol (DON; vomitoxin) was tested for its potential to initiate or promote skin tumours through a two-stage treatment regimen in female Sencar mice. DON's capability for initiation was tested by applying a single topical dose (200 μ g) followed by multiple treatments of the promoter phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA). The test for promotion involved initiation with the carcinogen 7,12-dimethylbenz[ a ]anthracene (DMBA) followed by multiple DON treatments (50μg). Appropriate control groups were included in the study design. Mice were observed for 26 wk and skin tumours were counted. Results of the study showed that DON was not an initiator or a promoter. When DON was tested as an initiator, there were no statistically significant differences in the number of cumulative tumours or the number of tumour-bearing mice between the DON-initiated/PMA-promoted group and its control, the vehicle-initiated/PMA-promoted group. When DON was administered as a promoter, no tumours were observed. Histopathology of the skin revealed that DON induced a mild diffuse squamous hyperplasia, but there was no progression of the lesion to neoplasia.
Tumor immunotherapy with alternative reading frame peptide antigens

The translation machinery of a eukaryotic cell produces errors in decoding mRNA that may give rise to alternative reading frame (Arf) polypeptides. We predicted these putative aberrant translation products from the cDNA of three tumor-associated antigens (Ag): a transmembrane glycoprotein of the class I receptor tyrosine kinase erbB family HER-2, telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) and prostatic acid phosphatase (PAP). Immunization of mice with Arf peptide-pulsed antigen presenting cells (APC) generated potent in vivo immune protection against tumors expressing respective tumor-associated Ag. CD8+ T cells from mice immunized with HER-2 derived protective Arf peptides specifically recognized HER-2 transfected tumor cells. The strategy described here has potential for designing highly efficient novel vaccines for Ag-specific immunotherapy of human malignancies.
Corrigendum to ``A meta-analysis of the effects of pesticides and fertilizers on survival and growth of amphibians'' [Sci Total Environ 449 (2013) 150-156]

The authors regret that a mistake was made in Figs. 1–3. The asterisks representing significant values did not align properly and may cause confusion. Importantly, the data represented in the figures are correct, it was simply the labelling of significant values that is incorrect. We have provided updated figures, with proper asterisk positions to clarify the figures. The authors would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused.
Comments on “A neurobiological model for near-death experiences”

Article outlining the author's opinions and comments regarding a paper written by Juan C. Saavedra-Aguilar and Juan S. Gomez-Jeria, which approaches near-death experiences from a biological/neurological standpoint rather than a spiritual one.
T-Cell Receptor α and β Chain Gene Expression in Cells Infiltrating Human Cardiac Allografts

Intragraft T-cell receptor (TCR) alpha and beta chain variable region gene expression was analyzed in human cardiac allograft biopsies by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Rearranged TCR alpha and beta chain gene transcripts were detected in all biopsies examined (N = 23), indicating the presence of T cells bearing the alpha/beta TCR even in the absence of microscopically apparent leukocyte infiltration. In this analysis, a broad TCR alpha/beta repertoire in actively rejecting lesions was demonstrated, whereas fewer TCR alpha and beta chain gene families were detected in nonrejecting lesions. The number of expressed TCR V beta chain gene families typically was two- to sixfold higher than that of V alpha chain families in all biopsies tested. This asymmetric relation was present throughout the histologic grading spectrum of the biopsies. Based on these data, the TCR repertoire is heterogenous even in the early stages of mononuclear cell infiltration of the allograft. Also based on the data, the presence of T cells in grafts with minimal cellular infiltrates is not a specific marker of subsequent rejection episode, because T cells were identified in all allograft biopsies.
Sources of variation affecting the difference between morning and evening daily milk production.

Abstract Starting and finishing times of daily milkings were recorded on 184,521 records on 19,905 cows of five dairy breeds located in 555 New York Dairy herds. Analysis of variance of am minus pm milk production for 6 milking intervals, 12 months in lactation, 12 levels of herd production, and 5 ages at calving indicated additive correction factors would be necessary to correct AM or PM production in a single-milking testing scheme for each month of lactation-milking interval subclass. There was a significant effect of herd production on AM minus PM production, but for lack of a pattern it was disregarded. Significant age effects showed no pattern except in the Holstein breed. Correction factors are necessary for single-milking testing schemes since a cow producing 20.4 kg of milk per day would be expected to produce 37, 26, 18, 9, 2, and -5% more milk in the AM for milking intervals of > 839, 810 to 839, 780 to 809, 750 to 779, 720 to 749, and
Effect of anticoagulation on blood membrane interactions during hemodialysis

Effect of anticoagulation on blood membrane interactions during hemodialysis. Background Adequate anticoagulation is a precondition to prevent extracorporeal blood clotting and to improve biocompatibility during hemodialysis. In this study, we performed a morphologic analysis by using scanning electron microscopy to compare three modes of anticoagulation—conventional unfractionated heparin (UFH), low molecular weight heparin (LMWH; dalteparin sodium), or sodium citrate during hemodialysis—on membrane-associated coagulation activation. Methods Fifteen patients on regular hemodialysis therapy were investigated. Five patients received UFH, five patients LMWH, and five patients sodium citrate as an anticoagulant during a standardized hemodialysis protocol using a single-use polysulfone capillary dialyzer. Membrane-associated clotting was evaluated using a scanning electron microscope. A dialyzer clotting score was used for quantitative description of coagulation activation on membrane segments. Results Using UFH as an anticoagulant revealed the most pronounced cell adhesion and thrombus formation and the highest dialyzer clotting score (11.5 ± 1.3 of a maximal 20 points). LMWH had a lower dialyzer clotting score than UFH (10.4 ± 1.2 of 20 points). During the use of sodium citrate, a negligible thrombus formation and the lowest dialyzer clotting score (1.6 ± 0.6 of 20 points, P Conclusion The results of this investigation indicate that using sodium citrate as an anticoagulant during hemodialysis induces a lower activation of coagulation than both conventional and fractionated heparin, which might contribute to an improvement of biocompatibility of hemodialysis extracorporeal circulation.
PEGylation of a factor VIII-phosphatidylinositol complex: pharmacokinetics and immunogenicity in hemophilia A mice.

Hemophilia A is an X-linked bleeding disorder caused by the deficiency of factor VIII (FVIII). Exogenous FVIII is administered therapeutically, and due to a short half-life, frequent infusions are often required. Fifteen to thirty-five percent of severe hemophilia A patients develop inhibitory antibodies toward FVIII that complicate clinical management of the disease. Previously, we used phosphatidylinositol (PI) containing lipidic nanoparticles to improve the therapeutic efficacy of recombinant FVIII by reducing immunogenicity and prolonging the circulating half-life. The objective of this study is to investigate further improvements in the FVIII–PI formulation resulting from the addition of polyethylene glycol (PEG) to the particle. PEGylation was achieved by passive transfer of PEG conjugated lipid into the FVIII–PI complex. PEGylated FVIII–PI (FVIII–PI/PEG) was generated with high association efficiency. Reduced activity in vitro and improved retention of activity in the presence of antibodies suggested strong shielding of FVIII by the particle; thus, in vivo studies were conducted in hemophilia A mice. Following intravenous administration, the apparent terminal half-life was improved versus both free FVIII and FVIII–PI, but exposure determined by area under the curve was reduced. The formation of inhibitory antibodies after subcutaneous immunization with FVIII–PI/PEG was lower than free FVIII but resulted in a significant increase in inhibitors following intravenous administration. Passive transfer of PEG onto the FVIII–PI complex does not provide any therapeutic benefit.
The effects of calcium deficiency on the formation of the zonula occludens and blastocoel in the mouse embryo

Abstract The mechanism of fluid transport in the developing preimplantation mouse embryo has been studiedin vitro by inhibiting zonular tight junction formation. Compaction, the morphogenetic process permitting zonular blastomere adhesions at the 8-cell stage, was suppressed by lowering extracellular calcium (Ca). The Ca threshold required for compaction is 0.04–0.06 mM, and in concentrations above the threshold, the rate of compaction is concentration dependent, whereas the rate of blastocyst formation is not and proceeds normally. At 0.02 mM Ca, both compaction and blastocyst development are completely prevented. Although focal tight and gap junctions are present, zonular tight junctions do not develop. We conclude that Ca is required for the maximization of cell-cell contact, but not for focal tight junction and gap junction formation. When early morulae are cultured in 0.02 mM Ca, small trophoblastic vesicles develop frequently with intracellular fluid vacuoles. If early 8-cell embryos are similarly cultured, cell division continues and many blastomeres acquire small intracellular membrane-bounded vaculoes. These coalesce, the cell volume increases, and the nucleus becomes eccentrically positioned, resulting in a giant vacuolated blastomere reminiscent of a miniaturized blastocyst. We propose that (1) vacuole formation may be an exaggeration of an intermediate intracellular step in fluid transport and (2) normal cell polarity established by zonular tight junctions is required for transcellular fluid transport.
Organizational Implications of Gossip and Rumor

Abstract The challenge in designing organizational interventions lies in making explicit and available what is usually implicit. Accordingly, a contribution to the understanding of complex and implicit practices such as gossip and rumor, the conditions responsible for their origin, as well as the relation they sustain to the outcome of group survival, particularly in organizational settings are the topics of this paper. Our analysis draws upon a number of perspectives: anthropological, sociological, social psychological and behavior analytic. These distinctions are followed by further elaboration on the functions rumor and gossip may serve in ambiguous circumstances since environmental ambiguity seems to be one of the primary factors that participate in the development and maintenance of gossip and rumor. Finally, we address the significance of the analysis of gossip and rumor in organizations and conclude with a discussion of the contribution that behavior analysis can make with regard to the analysis of...
Percutaneous rotational thrombectomy reduces acute reocclusion in an animal model of acute coronary thrombosis

This study was designed to compare acute reocclusion rates after treatment of acute coronary thrombosis with a percutaneous thrombectomy device or standard balloon angioplasty. Our group has previously reported on the rationale and development of a mechanical device for the treatment of intra-arterial thrombosis. This device removes fibrin from thrombus, allowing for dissolution of the cellular elements of the thrombus. Theoretically, thrombus removal (as opposed to displacement) might result in a lower rate of acute rethrombosis. The present study utilizes the device percutaneously in the coronary arteries of closed chest swine and compares recanalization and reocclusion rates with standard balloon angioplasty. Twenty-six animals with total thrombotic coronary occlusions were treated; 13 with each device. Reocclusion rates with the thrombectomy device were significantly reduced at 60 min and 120 min after recanalization (p < 0.02), and the mean time to reocclusion was prolonged by 45 min (p = 0.07). Technical problems included poor handling characteristics in early prototypes and stress fractures secondary to improper use. Changes in catheter design and operator protocols have largely eliminated these problems. We conclude that this study demonstrates the feasibility of percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy in the coronary arteries and that reocclusion rates after recanalization of thrombotic occlusions compare favorably to standard angioplasty. © 1993 Wiiey-Liss, Inc.
THE OLDEST ANTS ARE CRETACEOUS, NOT EOCENE: COMMENT

The recent paper by Poinar et al. (1999), entitled “New amber deposit provides evidence of early paleogene extinctions, paleoclimates, and past distributions,” reports a new deposit of fossiliferous amber from the Eocene of British Columbia. This report of a significant discovery by one of the co-authors (Bruce Archibald) is compromised by unexplained statements that ants in this amber are the “earliest unequivocal ants.” They cited unpublished cladograms by Cesare Baroni Urbani as the source of information that showed that previous reports of ants in Cretaceous amber were not really ants.
Isolation of a cell line for rapid and sensitive histochemical assay for the detection of herpes simplex virus

A cell line which can be used in a simple, sensitive, and rapid histochemical assay was isolated for detection of herpes simplex virus (HSV). The cell line was derived by selection of G418 resistant colonies following co-transfection of baby hamster kidney cells with a plasmid which contains a G418 antibiotic resistance marker and a plasmid which contains the Escherichia coli LacZ gene placed behind an inducible HSV promoter. The promoter is from HSV-1UL39 which encodes ICP6, the large subunit of ribonucleotide reductase (RR1). This promoter has a number of features which make it ideal for the detection of HSV. First, there is no constitutive expression from this promoter in uninfected cells. Second, activation of the promoter appears to be specific for HSV. Third, expression from this promoter occurs within hours after infection. Fourth, this promoter is strongly transactivated by the virion associated trans-activator protein VP16. As early as six hours after infection HSV-infected cells can be detected by histochemical staining for beta-galactosidase activity. Infected cells stain intensely blue whereas uninfected cells show no staining, and a single infected cell can easily be recognized in a microscopic field of uninfected cells. Both HSV-1 and HSV-2 are detected with this cell line, but after infection with human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), varicella zoster virus (VZV), adenovirus, and sindbis virus no blue cells were detected. Quantitation of HSV-1 stocks on this cell line by counting blue cell forming units (BFU) reveals that the number of BFU/ml closely approximates the number of plaque forming units (PFU)/ml as determined by plaque assays on the parent cell line. This cell line should provide a useful adjunct in the diagnostic virology laboratory for the rapid detection of HSV in clinical specimens.
Thermal expansivity and thermal conductivity of amorphous thermoplastic polyimide and polymer liquid crystal blends

Linear thermal expansivities αL and thermal conductivities of polyimide (TPI) and polymer liquid crystal (PLC) blends were studied. The glass transition temperatures Tg of our amorphous TPI and the PLC are, respectively, 240 and 220°C. The addition of the PLC induces orientation through the channeling process, as predicted by an extension of the Flory statistical-mechanical theory of PLCs (27). Channeling was observed at PLC concentrations as low as 5 wt%. Thermal conductivity decreases with the addition of the PLC to the TPI. The anisotropic expansivity of the blends shows a strong dependence on PLC concentration and orientation direction. The pure PLC shows a maximum on the along-the-flow expansivity vs. temperature curves and also negative αL values. TPI addition moves the expansivities to positive values, but the maximum persists, even for 5% PLC only.
What's a better category?: shavers or father's day gifts?

Consumer websites such as Amazon.com categorize products both according to themes (i.e. Christmas Gifts) as well as according to taxonomies (i.e. Electronics). With thousands of items to choose from, categorization potentially plays a role in reducing the effects of "choice overload". Utilizing the environment of a university course catalog to test taxonomic (i.e. Computer Science) against thematic categorization (i.e. Choosing a Career). I found that thematic categorization has both immediate and delayed effects: Thematic (vs. taxonomic) categorizing created a more difficult and frustrating process of choosing, however, thematic categories kept individuals browsing longer on secondary pages.
Effectiveness of Entoptic Perimetry for Locating Peripheral Scotomas Caused by Cytomegalovirus Retinitis

Objective: To determine the the effectiveness of random particle motion, presented on a computer monitor, as a noninvasive test for detecting cytomegalovirus retinitis. Design: A prospective masked study in which patients were asked to trace out any disturbances on a transparency placed over a computer monitor that displayed continuous random particle motion, while the patient fixated on a central spot (entoptic perimetry). Setting: The Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Ocular Research Unit at the University of California, San Diego, in La Jolla. Patients: Twenty-two men with cytomegalovirus retinitis who were positive for human immunodeficiency virus, 11 men without cytomegalovirus retinitis who were positive for human immunodeficiency virus, and eight men who were negative for human immunodeficiency virus. Intervention: None. Measurements: Sensitivities and specificities were used to compare the results of entoptic perimetry with fundus photographs. Results: Entoptic perimetry demonstrated a 95% sensitivity and a 95% specificity in detection of cytomegalovirus retinitis. Conclusion: Entoptic perimetry may be an effective and inexpensive screening test for cytomegalovirus retinitis in hospitals and community clinics.
Functionally distinct double-stranded RNA-binding domains associated with alternative splice site variants of the interferon-inducible double-stranded RNA-specific adenosine deaminase.

The double-stranded RNA-specific adenosine deaminase (ADAR) is an interferon-inducible RNA-editing enzyme implicated in the site-selective deamination of adenosine to inosine in viral RNAs and cellular pre-mRNAs. We have isolated and characterized human genomic clones of the ADAR gene and cDNA clones encoding splice site variants of the ADAR protein. Southern blot and sequence analyses revealed that the gene spans about 30 kilobase pairs and consists of 15 exons. The codon phasing of the splice site junctions of exons 3, 5, and 7 that encode the three copies of the highly conserved RNA-binding R-motif (RI, RII, and RIII) was exactly conserved and identical to those R-motif exons of the interferon-inducible RNA-dependent protein kinase. Alternative splice site variants of the 1226-amino acid ADAR-a protein, designated b and c, were identified that differed in exons 6 and 7. ADAR-b was a 5′-splice site variant that possessed a 26-amino acid deletion within exon 7; ADAR-c was a 3′-splice site variant that possessed an additional 19-amino acid deletion within exon 6. The wild-type ADAR-a, -b, and -c proteins all possessed comparable double-stranded RNA-specific adenosine deaminase activity. However, mutational analysis of the R-motifs revealed that the exon 6 and 7 deletions of ADAR-b and -c variants altered the functional importance of each of the three R-motifs.
The induction phenomenon and catalytic deactivation of thiolate-stabilized raspberry-like polymer composites coated with gold nanoparticles

Alkylthiolate ligands play dual roles in metal nanoparticles-coated polymer composite catalysts: stabilizer and deactivator. Herein, individual raspberry-like polymer composite spheres coated with gold nanoparticles were separated from each other in the presence of 6-mercaptohexanoic acid or 3-mercaptopropionic acid ligands. Effects of thiolate ligands on the induction time and the catalytic activity of such non-aggregated polymer composites were investigated experimentally and theoretically in the 4-nitrophenol/NaBH4 model reaction from the following aspects: ligand surface coverage, chain order and chain length. With the increase in alkylthiolate surface coverage and chain order on composite particles, the induction time increases first and then decreases, which can be explained based on spontaneous dynamic surface restructuring and electron injection from borohydride ions to the gold nanoparticle surface. The catalytic activity is compromised with the existence of thiolate ligands, but is enhanced with increasing alkylthiolate ligand coverage, which can be ascribed to sulfur-induced electronic charge depletion of the gold nanoparticles. The increment of CH2 in alkylthiolate chains results in the increase of induction time and the decrease of the catalytic activity, which can be attributed to the steric hindrance effect. The reactant addition sequence was also found to affect the induction time and the catalytic activity, which can be partially credited to NaBH4 reductant-induced desorption of thiolate ligands.
Gene Associated with Seizures, Autism, and Hepatomegaly in an Amish Girl

A genetic defect causing autism and epilepsy involving the contactin associated protein-like 2 gene (CNTNAP2) has been discovered in a selected cohort of Amish children. These children were found to have focal seizures and autistic regression. Surgical biopsy of the anterior temporal lobe of two such children revealed cortical dysplasia and a single nucleotide polymorphism mutation of this gene. The present case is that of a related but geographically distant proband with a similar phenotype but a single-base-pair deletion in the CNTNAP2 gene. This patient exhibited the additional features of periventricular leukomalacia and hepatomegaly.
On Matrix-Valued Monge–Kantorovich Optimal Mass Transport

We present a particular formulation of optimal transport for matrix-valued density functions. Our aim is to devise a geometry which is suitable for comparing power spectral densities of multivariable time series. More specifically, the value of a power spectral density at a given frequency, which in the matricial case encodes power as well as directionality, is thought of as a proxy for a “matrix-valued mass density.” Optimal transport aims at establishing a natural metric in the space of such matrix-valued densities which takes into account differences between power across frequencies as well as misalignment of the corresponding principle axes. Thus, our transportation cost includes a cost of transference of power between frequencies together with a cost of rotating the principle directions of matrix densities. The two end-point matrix-valued densities can be thought of as marginals of a joint matrix-valued density on a tensor product space. This joint density, very much as in the classical Monge–Kantorovich setting, can be thought to specify the transportation plan. Contrary to the classical setting, the optimal transport plan for matrices is no longer supported on a thin zero-measure set.
Asymmetry of Price Competition in the Lodging Market

Although competition in the lodging market is often highlighted by researchers and practitioners, there has been little discussion of price competition among hotels and the related strategic implications. Meanwhile, literature suggests that when products are differentiated by quality, the outcome of simultaneous price discounts may not be symmetric. Hotels are clearly differentiated in terms of quality and their room rates are likely to be dependent on neighbors’ room rates. Suspecting that hotels may engage in asymmetric price competition, the current study utilizes a spatial econometric model to test for such asymmetry in competition among hotels. Result of the analysis shows significant spatial cross-dependence among the hotels’ room rates regardless of seasonality. More importantly, the findings indicate that lower-quality hotels are forced to discount deeper in the low season, conforming to the preceding literature on price competition.
On a resequencing model for high speed networks

The authors analyze the effect of fixed delay in conjunction with queueing and resequencing delay on the optimal distribution of traffic on multiple disjoint paths. They study a system of two hosts or end nodes, connected by a high speed network communicating on two virtual channels which follow disjoint physical paths. The paths have a different number of hops and/or physical length which leads to a different amount of constant delay for each of them. The variable delay on each path is modelled by a queue with exponential service. Furthermore the destination node delivers packets an the order they arrived at the source node, which entails additional resequencing delay. They find the optimal split of traffic, so as to minimize the total average system time (including the resequencing delay). The results show that the optimal splitting probability may be heavily dependant on the difference in the fixed delays on the two paths. Numerical examples are presented to illustrate the effect of fixed delay on the fraction of traffic routed to different paths. Performance can be further improved when they do a deterministic split of the traffic. >
Advances in Seed Protein Research: A Perspective on Seed Allergens

For various reasons, a considerable majority of the global population must rely on plant proteins obtained from cereals, legumes (including oilseeds), fruits, vegetables, and nuts to satisfy dietary protein needs and requirements. Edible seeds are a significant source of proteins in livestock production and in the manufacture of pet foods. In addition, edible seeds are important sources of carbohydrates (including dietary fiber), minerals, and certain vitamins in human and animal food supply. For various reasons, edible seeds are underutilized as human food. To fully exploit this renewable natural resource to its full potential, focused research efforts are warranted. With increased number of seed proteins being identified as food allergens, renewed interest in seed proteins is evident. In this article, a brief overview of seed proteins with special reference to their allergenicity is provided. An attempt is made to identify areas needing further research.
Unemployment trends in some American cities with living wage ordinances

By early 2003, more than 90 American cities and counties have passed laws, called Living Wage Ordinances, which require companies that have contracts with these municipalities and/or receive tax subsidies to pay their workers a wage above the federal minimum rate. The levels of these wages and the types of workers who are affected by these living wage ordinances are reviewed. Also examined are the major arguments for and against these laws. This study looks at the trends in unemployment rates in 40 cities that have enacted Living Wage Ordinances. Each city’s unemployment rate is compared to that in its metropolitan area, its state, and the nation. The study reveals that experiences are mixed. Some cities with living wage ordinances have experienced an improvement in their relative employment situation. Other cities have experienced just the opposite.
Automated transmission line fault analysis using synchronized sampling at two ends

This paper introduces a new approach to power system fault analysis using synchronized sampling. A digital fault recorder with a Global Positioning System (GPS) satellite receiver is the source of data for this approach. Fault analysis functions, such as fault detection, classification and location are implemented for a power transmission line using synchronized samples from two ends of a line. This technique can be extremely fast, selective and accurate, providing fault analysis performance that can not easily be matched by other known techniques.
Quantum string integrability and AdS/CFT

Abstract Recent explorations of the AdS/CFT correspondence have unveiled integrable structures underlying both planar N = 4 super-Yang–Mills theory and type IIB string theory on AdS 5 × S 5 . Integrability in the gauge theory emerges from the fact that the dilatation generator can be identified with the Hamiltonian of an integrable quantum spin chain, and the classical string theory has been shown to contain infinite towers of hidden currents, a typical signature of integrability. Efforts to match the integrable structures of various classical string configurations to those of corresponding gauge theory quantum spin chains have been largely successful. By studying a semiclassical expansion about a class of point-like solitonic solutions to the classical string equations of motion on AdS 5 × S 5 , we take a step toward demonstrating that integrability in the string theory survives quantum corrections beyond tree level. Quantum fluctuations are chosen to align with background curvature corrections to the pp-wave limit of AdS 5 × S 5 , and we present evidence for an infinite tower of local bosonic charges that are conserved by the quantum theory to quartic order in the expansion. We explicitly compute several higher charges based on a Lax representation of the worldsheet sigma model and provide a prescription for matching the eigenvalue spectra of these charges with corresponding quantities descending from the integrable structure of the gauge theory.
A team-based capstone civil engineering design course

The Civil Engineering Design Seminar course at Ohio Northern University is intended to provide the opportunity for students to participate in a creative engineering capstone design experience. The objective of this class is to allow students the chance to experience a real-life example of the engineering design process. This process starts with the formation of design teams, the search for engineering problems, the preparation of proposals, and concludes with the award of projects to successful biddings design teams. This course represents an attempt to simulate the professional engineering environment through a syllabus that will allow the students to gain the experience and the exposure that they need to be prepared for a bright future in their professional endeavors.
Central Hypoventilation Syndromes.

Conditions causing central alveolar hypoventilation are uncommon in children, but have a profound impact on the lives of those affected. As research continues to elucidate the underlying mechanisms behind these conditions, the goal will be better identification and treatment of respiratory and nonrespiratory manifestations. Current therapy for central hypoventilation focuses on achieving normal gas exchange, primarily through mechanical ventilation. Early identification of central hypoventilation and initiation of appropriate ventilation strategies can help to improve outcomes associated with chronic hypoxemia. As with all complex pediatric medical conditions, the difficulties of different modes of mechanical ventilation must always be weighed against the child's overall quality of life to determine the most appropriate therapy. Many children, particularly those with CCHS, are able to lead fulfilling lives with appropriate management.
The DOE High Energy Physics SBIR/STTR Superconductivity Program

The U.S. Department of Energy has over a 35-year history in the support of superconducting devices. Superconductivity is an enabling technology for its major installed particle accelerators as well as planned projects. The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program has played a most significant role in the industrial development of advanced superconducting materials and devices. This paper will give a short history of the program as well as its accomplishments in the field of superconductivity. Current development needs of the Department in High Energy Physics will be explored. Suggestions for participation in this program will be discussed.
Enhanced field emission properties from carbon nanotube emitters grown on NiCr alloy surfaces with grain boundary effect

In this paper, we demonstrate enhanced field emission properties from MWNT emitters grown directly on the 80/20 NiCr alloy surface due to the grain boundary effect. The elemental segregation was clearly demonstrated by AES elemental mapping, where Cr and O surface segregation inhibited MWNT growth. The potential for this simple process is that it may be employed for fabricating CNT emitters without requiring any metal deposition step nor microlithography 3. process in order to minimize the field screening effect.