cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Midgut glycosidases of Rhodnius prolixus

Abstract Through the use of p- nitrophenylglycosides the presence of α- and β-glucosidase, α- and β-galactosidase, α- and β-manosidase, α-fucosidase, β-N- acetylglucosaminidase , α- and β-N- acetylgalactosaminidase activities were detected in the crop and intestine of the blood sucking bug Rhodnius prolixus. All activities have an acidic pH optimum ranging from 3.5 to 5. Time course experiments show that all activities increase following a blood meal in fifth instar nymphs, some reaching a first peak 10–14 days after feeding and a second peak after 18–21 days, whereas others show only the first or only the second peak of activity. Crop and intestine extracts were also shown to contain lysozyme activity. This activity remained low in the crop until the third week after a blood meal in fifth instar nymphs, when high levels of the activity were found. In the intestine, however, high activity was already found on the fifth day after the meal. It is suggested that these enzymes may be important in the digestion of blood as well as Nocardia rhodinii derived polysaccharides.
Subunit interactions of nerve growth factor: Sedimentation analysis of the dissociation of the 7 S oligomer promoted by salt and ethylenediaminetetraacetate☆

Abstract The dissociation of the 7 S oligomer of nerve growth factor prepared from mouse submaxillary gland has been studied by sedimentation velocity as a function of added NaCl and/or EDTA at pH 6.8 in phosphate buffer. Dilution with or without EDTA results in a symmetrical dissociation to the 4.5 S protomer, in agreement with previous work. In the presence of increasing NaCl concentration the 7 S nerve growth factor oligomer undergoes limited dissociation which is characterized by complex boundary formation and the presence of a stable intermediate (weight-average s20, w for the system of 4. 1 S at 2 n NaCl). The dissociation mode is probably asymmetrical in NaCl with the system resulting in an equilibrium mixture of γ and α2β complex (s20,w about 4.7 S). The removal of zinc ion by EDTA causes only a small change in the native equilibrium but destabilizes the complex with respect to salt-mediated dissociation, leading to complete dissociation to subunits at relatively low concentrations of NaCl. Zinc ion also promotes reassociation of mixtures of isolated α + β or β + γ subunits. Thus, a structural role of zinc ion in stabilizing subunit interactions, probably α − β or β − γ, is proposed. The specificity of the interactions with zinc ion and the specificity of the ionic interactions stabilizing the oligomer are further evidence for a biological specificity, if not function, of the oligomer.
On using large-eddy simulation for the prediction of noise from cold and heated turbulent jets

The results of a series of large-eddy simulations of heated and unheated jets using approximately 106 grid points are presented. The computations were performed on jets at operating conditions originally investigated by Tanna in the late 1970s [H. K. Tanna, “An experimental study of jet noise Part I: Turbulent mixing noise,” J. Sound Vib., 50, 405 (1977)]. Three acoustic Mach numbers are investigated (Uj∕a∞=0.5, 0.9, and 1.5) at cold (constant stagnation temperature) and heated conditions (Tj∕T∞=1.8, 2.7, and 2.3, respectively). The jets’ initial annular shear layers are thick relative to experimental jets and are quasi-laminar with superimposed disturbances from linear instability theory. It is observed that qualitative changes in the jets’ mean- and turbulent field structure with Uj and Tj are consistent with previous experimental data. However, the jets exhibit a faster centerline mean velocity decay rate relative to the existing data, with a corresponding 3–4 % over-prediction of the peak root-mean-square level. The acoustic pressure fluctuations in the far field are analyzed in detail. The accuracy of the overall sound pressure level predictions is found to be a strong function of the jet Mach number, with the lowest speed jets being the least accurate. At all conditions the peak acoustic frequency occurs at approximately St=fDj∕Uj=0.25. The limited resolution of the computations is shown to impact the radiated sound by yielding effectively low-pass filtered versions of the experimental spectra, with a maximum frequency of St≈1.2.
Objectives in Teaching Foreign Languages to the Fascist Youth

W E OFTEN are told that the knowledge of foreign languages diminishes the danger of war in creating a deeper understanding for other nations. The European example is a clear proof of the fact that the mere knowledge of one or two or more foreign languages did not at all contribute to the achievement of our common purpose and common hope: the creation of a peaceful atmosphere between the different nations. I am speaking here about the language situation in those countries with which I am most familiar, namely about Germany and Italy, and it may be said parenthetically that the situation in France, Belgium, Spain, and Greece is not so much different.1 In high school at least one modern language was offered, in most of the schools two, and even in the classical schools which laid greatest emphasis upon Latin and Greek, French was taught for seven years and the opportunity of studying English for four years was given. On the other hand it is a well known fact that high schools in the United States do not stress a thorough study of modern foreign languages, a fact frankly admitted by those who are critical of the present language situation in this country. Even if we allege for a moment that not a single American knows no single word of a foreign language, we could legitimately not contend that the mind of this "one language nation" is less peaceful than that of the Europeans. The political events of the last thirty years offer sufficient proof for this fact. However, it is evident that nobody who is interested in Europe and its future would venture to draw the opposite conclusion, that, on account of the unsatisfying results in Europe, the teaching of foreign languages should be abolished. On the contrary, if we believe in the possibility of creating a better world, if we believe in reconstruction, foreign languages shall contribute to this goal and shall serve as an efficient instrument to create a basis on which the different nations may live and work and compete peacefully together. The allied and the friendly nations in Europe will in a comparatively short time rebuild their educational systems. The disastrous influence of the German and the Italian oppressor on their educational systems will soon disappear, and these nations will enjoy a real renaissance and their common endeavor will bring their traditional culture and civilization to a new height. The question arises, what shall happen with the dictatorial
Serum lipoprotein distribution, flotation rates and protein analysis.

Flotation rates of the major Sf 0–12 lowdensity lipoprotein component in human serum may be calculated from ultracentrifuge data utilizing two computer programs. One program calculates a classical moving boundary uncorrected flotation rate by a best fit straight line for the points (1n xi, ω2ti). The other program permits correction for concentration dependence and correction to standard reference conditions. Preliminary application of these methods indicates significantly greater flotation rates in normal human females than in males for the 35–49 year age group.
Selected phenotypic induction of null lymphocytes from mice with thymic and nonthymic agents

Abstract Induction of phenotypic membrane markers upon null lymphocytes with five thymic and four nonthymic preparations was compared using two different bioassays. The thymic extracts thymosin fraction V and Leucotrofina and thymic peptides α 1 -thymosin and thymopoietin induced Thy 1.2 antigen even in the presence of dl -propranolol, but did not induce surface membrane Ig. A synthetic analog of facteur thymique serique, isoproterenol, poly(A:U), and ubiquitin induced both T- and B-cell markers; this induction was blocked with dl -propranolol. Induction with cyclic AMP was also partially blocked with dl -propranolol. The spleen was as rich in inducible lymphocyte precursors as was bone marrow. None of the nine agents were effective at inducing T-cell antigen on null cells from aged mice. Induction with all nine agents probably involved prostaglandin synthesis, since this effect was inhibited with 1 μg/ml indomethacin.
Partial escape of HIV-1 from cytotoxic T lymphocytes during chronic infection.

ABSTRACT Viral mutational escape from CD8 + cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) is typically considered to be a dichotomous process and uncommon during chronic HIV-1 infection. Ex vivo passaging of HIV-1 from persons with chronic infection, however, revealed the evolution of many fixed substitutions within and around CTL-targeted regions, with an associated increase in replicative capacity. This indicates an evolution of mutations during chronic HIV-1 infection that trade replicative fitness for incomplete evasion of CTLs, or “partial escape.”
Phonological rules and phonetic explanation

Over the last several years there has been increased interest in and reliance on the role of phonetics in explaining various aspects of phonology. Such notions as ‘natural rule’ and ‘phonetically explainable’ are commonly equated and are incorporated into arguments over the appropriateness of some given rule formulation or over the range of analyses permitted under alternative theoretical approaches. Those who have made the strongest, most explicit appeal to phonetics in this regard include Stampe (1969, 1973), Ohala (1971, 1972, 1974a, 1974b, 1975, 1978), Schane (1972), Harms (1973), and Hooper (1976). The common thread in these various appeals is the claim that some or all defensible phonological rules are phonetically explainable.
Hyperquenching and cold equilibration strategies for the study of liquid--liquid and protein folding transitions.

In this paper we consider the extension of the recent quantitative studies of hyperquenched glassformers to include (1) systems that exhibit first order liquid–liquid phase transitions, and (2) systems that contain molecules, which, during normal cooling, undergo internal structural changes above the glass temperature. The general aim of these studies is to trap-in a high enthalpy, high entropy, state of the system and then observe it evolving in time at low temperatures during a controlled annealing procedure. In this manner events that normally occur during change of temperature may be observed occurring during passage of time, at much lower temperatures. At such low temperatures the smearing effects of vibrations are greatly reduced. While the case of most interest in the second class is the refolding of thermally denatured protein molecules, any reconstructive molecular or chemical exchange process is a potential subject for investigation. Processes that occur in stages can be studied in greater detail, and any stage of interest can be frozen when desired, by drop of temperature, for more detailed spectroscopic examination. We review an electrospray method for hyperquenching liquids at approximately 10 Kys, and discuss some results of such 5
The Availability of Amino Acids from Soybean Meal for the Growing Chick

Abstract SOYBEAN meal has been used by the nutritionist as the principal source of supplementary protein in poultry feeds for many years. It has generally been assumed that the amino acids were highly available. However, Evans and McGinnis (1947) showed that the availability of cystine and methionine from soybean meal could be modified by method of processing. Gutteridge et al. (1961) obtained evidence that a certain amount of heat was required for maximum availability of methionine and cystine, and suggested that the availability of the amino acids in the processed meal was higher than that of the raw product. Smith (1968) reviewed data obtained by several workers who attempted to evaluate the amino acid content and availability of soybean meal using chick growth trials. In most of the cases where chick growth trials were used to assay the product, a basal diet which was deficient in one amino acid was supplemented…
Hyperventilation versus cerebral perfusion pressure management: time to change the question.

The paper by Dr. Cruz [1] represents another salvo in what has become a vociferous, and occasionally vitriolic, interchange between two preeminent groups in head injury management: the cerebral perfusion pressure camp and the optimized hyperventilation camp. The polarity and pedantic natures of the
Comparative measurements of multicomponent phospholipid mixtures by electrospray mass spectroscopy: relating ion intensity to concentration.

Abstract Electrospray mass spectrometry allows direct identification and sensitive detection of multiple phospholipids in non-derivatized cell extracts. However, quantitative analyses are not straightforward, and are confounded by analyte and mass discrimination effects, and non-linear dependence of the ion intensity on concentration. This non-linearity is particularly severe in the negative mode and precludes even comparative measurements of anion concentrations. Herein, we report a general method for relating negative electrospray ion intensity to concentration when analyzing multicomponent phospholipid samples. In this method, the intensity of individual ions is measured at several different concentrations of the total mixture and the slope (nE) of the double log plot of sample concentration vs. intensity for each analyte is determined. The nE is then used to map intensity data to a quantity proportional to concentration for each analyte. The method allows facile and accurate comparison of negative spectra of complex mixtures containing structurally different anions.
Giant leaps and minimal branes in multidimensional flux landscapes

There is a standard story about decay in multidimensional flux landscapes: that from any state, the fastest decay is to take a small step, discharging one flux unit at a time; that fluxes with the same coupling constant are interchangeable; and that states with $N$ units of a given flux have the same decay rate as those with -$N$. We show that this standard story is false. The fastest decay is a giant leap that discharges many different fluxes in unison; this decay is mediated by a ``minimal'' brane that wraps the internal manifold and exhibits behavior not visible in the effective theory. We discuss the implications for the cosmological constant problem.
Research with rats germane to medication for alcoholism: consequences of noncompliance.

Abstract Results of prior work indicate that (a) rats take stable, toxic levels of ethanol when they receive a daily regimen of limited opportunities to take both water and sweetened ethanol solution and (b) the combination of isradipine plus naltrexone persistently reduces those intakes. What are the effects of periodically missing doses of isradipine, naltrexone, or both? That is, what are the effects of differing levels of compliance? To get relevant information, rats were placed on a daily regimen, leading them to take, by choice, large amounts of ethanol (>2.0 g of ethanol per kilogram of body weight during 2 h a day). After being on this regimen for more than 60 days and after 28 days of no opportunity to take ethanol, 55 rats were divided into five groups. The opportunity to drink was then reinstated. One group received placebos, and another group received the combination of isradipine plus naltrexone daily. The other three groups received doses periodically, thereby conforming to good, moderate, and poor compliance. After abstinence, the intakes for rats receiving placebos rapidly returned to high levels. Intakes for rats receiving daily isradipine plus naltrexone did not return to high levels. The intakes for the other three groups were intermediate to intakes of the reference groups, corresponding to frequency of medication. When medication was not given, intakes approached placebo control levels, but the combination of isradipine plus naltrexone was effective when given subsequently. Daily dosing clearly is effective in reducing intakes, and suspension of dosing leads to higher intakes. A missed day of dosing, however, has limited consequences, provided that administration of medication is resumed.
Cycles of Conflict A Computational Modeling Alternative to Collins’s Theory of Conflict Escalation

In a new theory of conflict escalation, Randall Collins engages critical issues of violent conflict and presents a compellingly plausible theoretical description based on his extensive empirical research. He also sets a new challenge for sociology: explaining the time dynamics of social interaction. However, despite heavy reliance on the quantitative concept of positive feedback loops in his theory, Collins presents no mathematical specification of the dynamic relationships among his variables. This article seeks to fill that gap by offering a computational model that can parsimoniously account for many features of Collins’s theory. My model uses perceptual control theory to create an agent-based computational model of the time dynamics of conflict. With greater conceptual clarity and more wide-ranging generalizability, my alternative model opens the door to further advances in theory development by revealing dynamic aspects of conflict escalation not found in Collins’s model.
Phosphate transport in mitochondria: past accomplishments, present problems, and future challenges.

The requirement of inorganic phosphate (Pi) for oxidative phosphorylation in eukaryotic cells is fulfilled through specific Pi transport systems. The mitochondrial proton/phosphate symporter (Pic) is a membrane-embedded protein which translocates Pi from the cytosol into the mitochondrial matrix. Pic is responsible for the very rapid transport of most of the Pi used in ATP synthesis. During the past five years there have been advances on several fronts. Genomic and cDNA clones for yeast, bovine, rat, and human Pic have been isolated and sequenced. Functional expression of yeast Pic in yeast strains deficient in Pi transport and expression inEscherichia coli of a chimera protein involving Pic and ATP synthase α subunit have been accomplished. Pic, in contrast to other members of the family of transporters involved in energy metabolism, was demonstrated to have a presequence, which optimizes the import of the precursor protein into mitochondria. Six transmembrane segments appear to be a structural feature shared between Pic and other mitochondrial anion carriers, and recent-site directed mutagenesis studies implicate structure-functional relationships to bacteriorhodopsin. These recent advances on Pic will be assessed in light of a more global interpretation of transport mechanism across the inner mitochondrial membrane.
Evidence for acetyl coenzyme A and cinnamoyl coenzyme A in the anaerobic toluene mineralization pathway in Azoarcus tolulyticus Tol-4

A toluene-degrading denitrifier, Azoarcus tolulyticus Tol-4, was one of eight similar strains isolated from three petroleum-contaminated aquifer sediments. When the strain was grown anaerobically on toluene, 68% of the carbon from toluene was found as CO2 and 30% was found as biomass. Strain Tol-4 had a doubling time of 4.3 h, a Vmax of 50 micromol x min-1 x g of protein-1, and a cellular yield of 49.6 g x mol of toluene-1. Benzoate appeared to be an intermediate, since F-benzoates accumulated from F-toluenes and [14C]benzoate was produced from [14C]toluene in the presence of excess benzoate. Two metabolites, E-phenylitaconic acid (1 to 2%) and benzylsuccinic acid (<1%), accumulated from anaerobic toluene metabolism. These same products were also produced when cells were grown on hydrocinnamic acid and trans-cinnamic acid but were not produced from benzylalcohol, benzaldehyde, benzoate, p-cresol, or their hydroxylated analogs. The evidence supports an anaerobic toluene degradation pathway involving an initial acetyl coenzyme A (acetyl-CoA) attack in strain Tol-4, as proposed by Evans and coworkers (P. J. Evans, W. Ling, B. Goldschmidt, E. R. Ritter, and L. Y. Young, Appl. Environ. Microbiol. 58:496-501, 1992) for another toluene-degrading denitrifier, strain T1. Our findings support a modification of the proposed pathway in which cinnamoyl-CoA follows the oxidation of hydrocinnamoyl-CoA, analogous to the presumed oxidation of benzylsuccinic acid to form E-phenylitaconic acid. Cinnamic acid was detected in Tol-4 cultures growing in the presence of toluene and [14C]acetate. We further propose a second acetyl-CoA addition to cinnamoyl-CoA as the source of benzylsuccinic acid and E-phenylitaconic acid. This pathway is supported by the finding that monofluoroacetate added to toluene-growing cultures resulted in a significant increase in production of benzylsuccinic acid and E-phenylitaconic acid and by the finding that [14C]benzylsuccinic acid was detected after incubation of cells with toluene, [14C]acetate, and cinnamic acid. Evidence for anaerobic toluene metabolism by methyl group oxidation was not found, since benzylsuccinic acid and E-phenylitaconic acid were not detected after incubation with benzylalcohol and benzaldehyde, nor were benzylalcohol and benzaldehyde detected even in 14C trapping experiments.
Experimental and numerical simulation of solute transport in heterogeneous porous media

The effect of heterogeneity on solute transport in porous media is examined by means of physical experiments and controlled numerical simulations. The special cases of layered, clogged and aggregated porous media are particularly investigated. The breakthrough curves (BTCs) obtained from some sections of the physical models are extremely distorted with extended concentration tails. These tailings are caused by different trajectories of the tracer through fine (millimeter and centimeter) scale spatial heterogeneities. On the other hand, BTCs in sections of the physical models having no heterogeneous nature, showed classical 'S'-shape. A computer simulation based on an improved capacitance model' was used to match the experimental data. The BTCs can be represented adequately by the model. However, it seems necessary to determine the fitting parameters experimentally in order to relate them to actual physical phenomena.
A study of mass transfer kinetics in an enantiomeric separation system using a polymeric imprinted stationary phase.

Chromatographic data pertaining to the enantioseparation of L- and D-phenylalanine anilide (PA) on a polymeric stationary phase imprinted with L-PA were studied from the viewpoints of phase equilibrium, mass transfer kinetics, and the thermodynamic properties of this enantiomeric separation system. The concentration dependence of the lumped mass transfer rate coefficient (k m,L ) previously published was analyzed to obtain new information concerning the mass transfer characteristics in this chiral separation system. It was shown that intraparticle diffusion contributed much more to k m.L than adsorption/desorption. The positive concentration dependence of k m,L seemed to be interpreted by considering that of the surface diffusion coefficient, itself explained by the heterogeneous surface model. The characteristic features of the phase equilibrium, the mass transfer kinetics, and the thermodynamics of the enantiomeric separation system probably result from the adsorption energy distribution on the surface of the imprinted phase having an exponential decay.
Infinite-Medium Solutions of the Transport Equation, SN Discretization Schemes, and the Diffusion Approximation

Abstract In the beginning of this article, we construct a family of infinite-medium solutions of the linear transport equation. This family consists of angular fluxes that (i) vary linearly (or quadratically) in space and angle and (ii) are driven by isotropic sources that vary linearly (or quadratically) in space. Each angular flux in this family satisfies Fick's Law; thus, the corresponding scalar flux satisfies the familiar diffusion equation. Then, we show that (i) only certain discretization schemes for the transport equation preserve the “linear” infinite-medium solutions, and (ii) these schemes are more accurate in diffusive problems. More precisely, we show that the “quadratic” solutions of these discrete schemes are much more accurate for problems in which the cell width is not optically thin. The overall goal of this article is to demonstrate why it is advantageous for discretization schemes to preserve the “linear” (as well as the “flat”) infinite-medium solutions of the transport equation.
Raqs Gothique: Decolonizing Belly Dance

Goth belly dance—or "raqs gothique"—fuses the already Westernized interpretative dance style of the Middle East with Goth subculture. Goth belly dancers want to reject or transcend the obvious roots of belly dancing in Orientalism, but how successful are they?
Prediction of Embankment Settlement from PCPT Measurements: A Case Study at Courtableau Bridge

An accurate prediction of embankment settlement on saturated fine-grained soils is crucial to the proper design of approach slabs for bridges and to the mitigation of the bump problem. The traditional method based on laboratory test, i.e. Odometer test generally tends to miss-estimate both the magnitude and time rate of consolidation settlement. Piezocone penetration test (PCPT) has the merit of providing continuous profile of soil properties and gained wide popularity. The Louisiana Transportation Research Center (LTRC) investigated the use of PCPT and dissipation tests to predict magnitude and time-rate of embankment settlement. In this study, the data obtained at Courtableau Bridge site were used to evaluate the validity of the proposed settlement prediction methods. The predicted settlement using laboratory data, Sanglerat method, and the proposed method was compared with field measurements using horizontal inclinometers.
Afferent connections of the habenular nuclei in the rat. A horseradish peroxidase study, with a note on the fiber‐of‐passage problem

The afferent connections of the habenular complex in the rat were examined by injecting horseradish peroxidase (HRP) into discrete portions of the habenular nuclei by microelectrophoresis.
Serological Evidence of Infection by Pichinde Virus Among Laboratory Workers

A total of 44 laboratory workers were examined for serological evidence of infection by Pichinde virus. Complement-fixing antibodies were detected in the sera of 6 of 13 (46%) persons working with the virus but not among 31 persons not working with the virus. Serological evidence of infection was greatest among those workers exposed to concentrated virus. No distinct illness could be associated with the infection.
Distribution of nonapeptide systems in the forebrain of an African cichlid fish, Astatotilapia burtoni

Nonapeptides and their receptors have important functions in mediating social behavior across vertebrates. Where these nonapeptides are synthesized in the brain has been studied extensively in most vertebrate lineages, yet we know relatively little about the neural distribution of nonapeptide receptors outside of mammals. As nonapeptides play influential roles in behavioral regulation in all vertebrates, including teleost fish, we mapped the distributions of the receptors for arginine vasotocin (AVT; homolog of arginine vasopressin) and isotocin (IST; homolog of oxytocin/mesotocin) throughout the forebrain of Astatotilapia burtoni, an African cichlid fish with behavioral phenotypes that are plastic and reversible based on the immediate social environment. We characterized the distribution of the AVT V1a2 receptor (V1aR) and the IST receptor (ITR) using both immunohistochemistry for protein detection and in situ hybridization for mRNA detection, as well as AVT and IST using immunohistochemistry. Expression of the neuropeptide receptors was widely distributed throughout the fore- and midbrain, including the proposed teleost homologs of the mammalian amygdala complex, striatum, hypothalamus, and ventral tegmental area. We conclude that although the location of nonapeptide synthesis is restricted compared to tetrapod vertebrates, the distribution of nonapeptide receptors is highly conserved across taxa. Our results significantly extend our knowledge of where nonapeptides act in the brains of teleosts to mediate social transitions and behavior.
The friction factor–Reynolds number relation for the steady flow of pseudoplastic fluids through rectangular ducts. Part II. Experimental results

The friction factor and Reynolds number were measured for sodium carboxymethylcellulose (cmc) flowing through a rectangular duct. Measured values were compared with values calculated in Part I of this paper. Both a pipe viscometer and a Couette viscometer were used to evaluate the rheological parameters for the fluids. Calculations were based on a power law model. The agreement between theoretical and experimental values was excellent.
Good Enough Governance: Poverty Reduction and Reform in Developing Countries

The good governance agenda is unrealistically long and growing longer over time. Among the multitude of governance reforms that “must be done” to encourage development and reduce poverty, there is little guidance about what's essential and what's not, what should come first and what should follow, what can be achieved in the short term and what can only be achieved over the longer term, what is feasible and what is not. If more attention is given to sorting out these questions, “good enough governance” may become a more realistic goal for many countries faced with the goal of reducing poverty. Working toward good enough governance means accepting a more nuanced understanding of the evolution of institutions and government capabilities; being explicit about trade-offs and priorities in a world in which all good things cannot be pursued at once; learning about what's working rather than focusing solely on governance gaps; taking the role of government in poverty alleviation seriously; and grounding action in the contextual realities of each country.
Effects of positional and geometrical isomerism on the biological activity of some novel oxazolidinones

Some novel oxazolidinone derivatives with benzotriazole as pendant have been synthesized and tested for antibacterial activity. Linearly attached benzotriazole derivative showed more potency compared to angular one in vitro. Out of E/Z-isomers of angularly attached derivatives E-isomer was found to be more potent than Z-isomer. Either less active or inactive molecules were obtained, when benzotriazole was replaced with benzimidazole, benzthiazole, or benzoxazole. Finally, thioacetamide analogue of linear compound gave a lead having activity similar to linezolid in vitro.
Physical co–location versus video conferencing in new product development projects

This study investigates the substitutability of video conferencing for physical co–location in new product development projects. The findings indicate that video conferencing is a suitable substitute for physical co–location as far as schedule performance and budget performance are concerned. Surprisingly, the use of video conferencing instead of physical co–location was found to be associated with better final product quality. Future research directions are presented.
Interspecific interactions between wild felids vary across scales and levels of urbanization

Ongoing global landscape change resulting from urbanization is increasingly linked to changes in species distributions and community interactions. However, relatively little is known about how urbanization influences competitive interactions among mammalian carnivores, particularly related to wild felids. We evaluated interspecific interactions between medium- and large-sized carnivores across a gradient of urbanization and multiple scales. Specifically, we investigated spatial and temporal interactions of bobcats and pumas by evaluating circadian activity patterns, broad-scale seasonal interactions, and fine-scale daily interactions in wildland-urban interface (WUI), exurban residential development, and wildland habitats. Across levels of urbanization, interspecific interactions were evaluated using two-species and single-species occupancy models with data from motion-activated cameras. As predicted, urbanization increased the opportunity for interspecific interactions between wild felids. Although pumas did not exclude bobcats from areas at broad spatial or temporal scales, bobcats responded behaviorally to the presence of pumas at finer scales, but patterns varied across levels of urbanization. In wildland habitat, bobcats avoided using areas for short temporal periods after a puma visited an area. In contrast, bobcats did not appear to avoid areas that pumas recently visited in landscapes influenced by urbanization (exurban development and WUI habitat). In addition, overlap in circadian activity patterns between bobcats and pumas increased in exurban development compared to wildland habitat. Across study areas, bobcats used sites less frequently as the number of puma photographs increased at a site. Overall, bobcats appear to shape their behavior at fine spatial and temporal scales to reduce encounters with pumas, but residential development can potentially alter these strategies and increase interaction opportunities. We explore three hypotheses to explain our results of how urbanization affected interspecific interactions that consider activity patterns, landscape configuration, and animal scent marking. Altered competitive interactions between animals in urbanized landscapes could potentially increase aggressive encounters and the frequency of disease transmission.
Flipping the Classroom: Embedding Self-Regulated Learning Prompts in Videos

This study examined the effectiveness of embedding self-regulated learning (SRL) prompts in a video designed for the flipped class model. The sample included 32 undergraduate participants who were randomly assigned to one of two conditions: control (video) or experimental (video + SRL prompts). Prior knowledge was measured with a pre-test, SRL was measured with a concurrent think-aloud, and learning outcomes were measured with a posttest. Results indicated that monitoring of understanding was significantly related to pausing and restarting the video during the learning task. Additionally, participants who receive the embedded prompts in the video engaged in more SRL processes (e.g., activating prior knowledge, monitoring understanding and controlling the video). Furthermore, the embedded prompts enhanced instructional efficiency, as evidenced by the significant difference in learning outcomes and non-significant difference in mental effort.
Is There a Color Line in Death

Although the goals of end-of-life care and hospice are to mitigate suffering and improve quality of life for patients with terminal illnesses, they remain underutilized by a significant number of African Americans. While sociocultural issues play a role in the underutilization of these resources among African Americans, other confounding factors affect the ability of African Americans to adequately access quality care at the end of life. Here, the authors examine the various barriers preventing increased use of hospice care and palliative therapy among African Americans. A particular focus of this examination will revolve around suggestions for increasing the use of end-of-life care among African Americans in the future.
Effects of Blur and Noise on Digital Imagery Interpretability

Ten medium scale (1:2700 to 1:4400) aerial photographs typical of the imagery viewed by Air Force photointerpreters, were digitized to 4096 x 4096 files (20-Mm aperture by 11 bits intensity) on a scanning microdensitometer. The image files were then multiplied by two Gaussian filter functions (Fourier domain) to yield two blurred and one “ground truth” level of each image and transformed to eight bits of intensity for output. One of four weightings of a 4096 x 4096 Gaussian noise file was added to each image file, yielding 3 Blur x 5 Noise x 10 Image combinations (150 images, total). Positive transparencies then served as the data base for an information extract task.Fifteen photointerpreters (PIs) from the 548th Reconnaisance Technical Group, Hickman AFB, Hawaii, served as subjects. Blur was a between-subjects variable with five PIs at each of three noise levels. Noise was a with in-subject variable (five levels). The nose main effect was significant (p < .01). The Blur main effect and the Blur x Noise i...
Design of Multiple Channels of Professional MP3 Player Based on ARM

Because of the disadvantages of current MP3 player, a new design method of multiple channels of MP3 player based on ARM processor is presented in this paper. The developing process of the system is clarified by involving functional analysis, structure design, hardware design and software design. The experiment proves systematic function is good through debugging.
Preload does not affect relaxation rate in normal, hypoxic, or hypertrophic myocardium.

To determine whether isolated changes in preload (end-diastolic force) can influence myocardial relaxation rate in normal or abnormal (hypoxic or hypertrophic) hearts, isolated LV papillary muscles from normal Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) and spontaneously hypertensive (SHR) rats were studied using physiologically sequenced contractions. While total (systolic) load and late (lengthening) load were held constant, maximum isometric force decline (peak -dT/dt) and maximum isotonic lengthening rate (peak +dL/dt) were measured at seven levels of preload that varied from 115 to 55% of the resting tension at maximum length-tension curves (Lmax). Muscles from normal rats were studied in the oxygenated state (95% O2-5% CO2) and in the hypoxic state (95% N2-5% CO2). Preload did not effect peak -dT/dt or peak +dL/dt in either oxygenated or hypoxic muscles. During hypoxia, peak -dT/dt and peak +dL/dt were 9.5 +/- 1.0 g.mm-2.s-1 and 0.3 +/- 0.1 muscle length/s, respectively, at a preload of 115% compared with 9.0 +/- 1.2 g.mm-2.s-1 and 0.2 +/- 0.1 at a preload of 55%. In separate experiments, the effect of preload on relaxation rate was studied in WKY and SHR rats. In neither group did preload have an independent effect on relaxation rate. In the SHRs, peak -dT/dt and peak +dL/dt were 24.3 +/- 5.3 g.mm-2.s-1 and 0.7 +/- 0.1 muscle length/s, respectively, at a preload of 115% compared with 24.7 +/- 6.6 and 0.8 +/- 0.1 at a preload of 55%. Thus, in hypoxic and hypertrophic myocardium, as in normal muscle, an acute isolated change in preload did not influence the rate of force decline or muscle lengthening.
Perceptual Content, Process and Categorial Ontologies

In this chapter, I consider how the exploration of perceptual processes associated with abstract art requires a representational framework for perceptual content. I propose the need for a meaningful structured ontology/mereology to depict the general process of perception and specifically perception of abstract fine art. Facet theory and the mapping sentence (Canter, 1985, Hackett, 2014a, Shye, 1978) have been used to form structural ontologies for a variety of human behaviour activities and I provide an overview of traditional quantitative facet theory whilst focusing on innovative qualitative facet theory. I forward an appreciation of facet research and how this is embodied within the mapping sentence and how this makes it applicable to investigating a perception, including perception of art.
Foundations for the Vectorial Case

In this chapter we continue to investigate the regularity for weak solutions, but now we address the case of vector-valued solutions where we encounter fundamentally new phenomena when compared to the scalar case. In order to concentrate on the central concepts and ideas, we here restrict ourselves to the model case of quasilinear systems that are linear in the gradient variable. We first give two examples of elliptic systems, which admit a discontinuous or even unbounded weak solution. Then we investigate the optimal regularity of weak solutions in dependency of the “degree” of nonlinearity of the governing vector field. In this regard, we start by discussing the linear theory and establish full regularity estimates. This is quite peculiar and a consequence of the particular structure of the coefficients, since for more general systems, as in the counterexamples, one merely expects partial regularity results, that is, regularity outside of negligible sets. Secondly, we present three different strategies for proving partial \(C^{0,\alpha }\)-regularity results for such systems, where the coefficients may depend also explicitly on the weak solution. More precisely, we explain the main ideas for the blow-up technique, the method of \(\mathcal{A}\)-harmonic approximation, and the indirect approach.
The D∅ Detector Upgrade at Fermilab

The D∅ detector at the Fermilab Tevatron is undergoing a major upgrade to prepare for data taking in the Main Injector era with luminosities reaching 2x1032 cm-2 s-1. The upgrade includes a new central tracking array, new muon detector components, and electronic upgrades to many subsystems. The D∅ upgraded detector will be operational for Run II in early 2000.
Treatment of Nausea and Vomiting in Pregnancy: Factors Associated with ED Revisits.

Author(s): Sharp, MD, Brian R.; Sharp, MD, Kristen M.; Patterson, MD, Brian; Dooley-Hash, MD, Suzanne | Abstract: Introduction: Nausea and vomiting in pregnancy (NVP) is a condition that commonly affects women in thefirst trimester of pregnancy. Despite frequently leading to emergency department (ED) visits, little evidenceexists to characterize the nature of ED visits or to guide its treatment in the ED. Our objectives were toevaluate the treatment of NVP in the ED and to identify factors that predict return visits to the ED for NVP.Methods: We conducted a retrospective database analysis using the electronic medical record from asingle, large academic hospital. Demographic and treatment variables were collected using a chart reviewof 113 ED patient visits with a billing diagnosis of “nausea and vomiting in pregnancy” or “hyperemesisgravidarum.” Logistic regression analysis was used with a primary outcome of return visit to the ED for thesame diagnoses.Results: There was wide treatment variability of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy patients in the ED.Of the 113 patient visits, 38 (33.6%) had a return ED visit for NVP. High gravidity (OR 1.31, 95% CI [1.06-1.61]), high parity (OR 1.50 95% CI [1.12-2.00]), and early gestational age (OR 0.74 95% CI [0.60-0.90])were associated with an increase in return ED visits in univariate logistic regression models, while onlyearly gestational age (OR 0.74 95% CI [0.59-0.91]) was associated with increased return ED visits in amultiple regression model. Admission to the hospital was found to decrease the likelihood of return ED visits(p=0.002).Conclusion: NVP can be difficult to manage and has a high ED return visit rate. Optimizing care with aggressive,standardized treatment in the ED and upon discharge, particularly if factors predictive of return EDvisits are present, may improve quality of care and reduce ED utilization for this condition. [West J EmergMed. 2016;17(5)585-590.]
First in Violence, Deepest in Dirt: Homicide in Chicago 1875–1920

Adler provides use with wonderfully detailed demographic summary of homicides in Chicago during the period of 1875–1920. The book is rich in the details of life in Chicago during this period; thus,...
LNTgate: The ideological history of cancer risk assessment

This commentary summarizes a spate of recent papers that provide historical evidence that the 1956 recommendation of the US National Academy of Sciences Biological Effects of Atomic Radiation I Gen...
High-temperature material characterization for multispectral window

A microwave cylindrical cavity combined with a laser has been investigated to characterize the temperature dependence of widow materials in the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL). This paper discusses the requirements of high temperature RF material characterizations for transparent ceramic materials, such as ALON, that can potentially be used for multispectral windows. The RF cylindrical resonator was designed and the numerical model was studied to characterize the dielectric constant of materials. The dielectric constant can be extracted from the resonant frequency shift based on the cavity perturbation method (CPM), which is sensitive to the sample size and shape. Laser heating was applied to the material under test (MUT), which could easily be heated above 1000°C by the laser irradiation, in order to conduct CPM at high temperature. The temperature distribution in a material was also analyzed to investigate the impact of the thermal properties and the sample shape.
Query-constraint-based association rule mining from diverse clinical datasets in the national sleep research resource

Secondary use of biomedical data has gained much attention recently to facilitate rapid knowledge discovery in biomedicine. Association Rule Mining (ARM) has been a popular technique for biomedical researchers to perform exploratory data analysis and discover potential relationships among variables in biomedical datasets. However, ARM of a high-dimensional biomedical dataset may produce a large number of rules that may not be interesting. In this paper, we introduce a query-constraint-based ARM (QARM) approach for exploratory analysis of diverse clinical datasets integrated in the National Sleep Research Resource (NSRR), which enables the rule mining on a subset of data containing items of interest based on a query constraint. In addition, biomedical datasets always contain semantically similar variables, thus we performed similar-variable-merging so that rules with simlar variables are not obtained. Applying QARM on five datasets from NSRR obtained a total of 6,921 rules with a minimum confidence of 60% (using top 50 rules for each query constraint).
Sparse unmixing with adaptive background

We propose a new hyperspectral sparse unmixing method under the assumption of the availability of a spectral library. Hyperspectral signals inevitably possess non-linearity or distortion caused by the presence of endmembers outside of the collection, inaccurate measurement of atmosphere, and endmember mismatches. Since the spectral signals in the library are usually extremely coherent to each other, even a small distortion is problematic for sparse unmixing based on a linear model. To overcome this difficulty, we propose a new sparse unmixing method that simultaneously models a “background” that represents the contribution of these non-linearity and distortion. Experimental results show that our method not only improves the performance in mineral detection but also significantly promotes the sparsity of the solution without losing the quality of fit to observed spectral curves.