cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Impedance-based solution phase sensing of dichloromethane using thin films of poly(3,4-diphenylpyrrole)

Abstract Changes in the impedance properties of the substituted conducting polymer, poly(3,4-diphenylpyrrole) (poly(3,4-DPP)), were examined. The polymer has been shown to exhibit preferential sorption of small, chlorinated hydrocarbons from aqueous solutions. In the presence of a chlorinated hydrocarbon, the film can be electrochemically switched from an insulating to a conducting state. In the absence of the chlorinated hydrocarbon, the redox switching does not occur in aqueous electrolyte solutions. The sensing capabilities of this polymer for dichloromethane in aqueous solutions were considered. The impedance behavior of these films of poly(3,4-DPP) were found to undergo a dramatic ‘on/off’ response to changes in dichloromethane concentration.
AEROSE 2004 dataset for hyperspectral infrared validation

This work overviews a unique complement of radiometric and in situ Saharan dust observations acquired during the 2004 Aerosol and Ocean Science Expedition (AEROSE) and their potential application for infrared hyperspectral sensor validation.
Dynamic Model of Common Cause Failure Based on Shocks

Most current common cause failure models are static models in which failure rate is assumed constant. The assumption is unrealistic in numerous situations, especially for mechanical systems. Based on the idea of shock models, this paper modifies unreasonable assumptions in conventional models and describes common cause failure process with non-homogeneous Poisson process, power-exponential process. A dynamic model is obtained. The parameters are estimated with neural network. The model presented in this paper, which is based on time-related power-exponential failure rate like bathtub curve, has more advantages and wider application than the model based on constant failure rate. Examples are given to illustrate its feasibility and precision of computation.
Structural effects in the action of antibiotics on the ion permeability of lipid bilayers. I. Tyrocidine B

Abstract 1. 1. As a model for the interaction of proteins and lipids in membranes, the ion-carrying properties of the cationic decapeptide tyrocidine B in phospholipid bilayers were studied. 2. 2. They differ in three principal ways from that of the neutral carriers valinomycin and monactin. 3. 3. The presence of cholesterol (1:1 molar ratio) makes the kinetics bimolecular. 4. 4. The presence of amines in the aqueous phase increases the Na + conductance relative to K + , H + . 5. 5. H + conductance is not rate limited by surface reaction, and is increased by more hydrophobic amines. 6. 6. The results in general indicate that there is interference between ions on the carrier structure which may be allosteric in nature. 7. 7. If the affinity for the single ions is very different, this opens up the possibility of control of ionic conductance by the presence of a smaller quantity of another ion; and further, by a field dissociation (Wien) effect, may explain the switching phenomenon obtained with other more highly associative antibiotics.
Robotic mitral surgery at East Carolina University: a 6 year experience.

Background Robotic mitral valve repair using the da Vinci™ telemanupilation system has become the standard of care at many centres worldwide. We perform the first robotic MV repair in the United States in the year 2000. This article reviews our 6 year experience and current technique of robotic MV repair as well as future trends in the field. Methods Retrospective review of our initial 200 robotic MV repairs. Patient demographics, operative times, type of repairs, morbidities, mortality, success of the repair including need for reoperations were reviewed. Results The average age was 57 ± 0.9 years. Average time for CPB was 156 minutes and for cross clamp 119 minutes. There was one operative death (0.5%) with no device related complications. Postoperative TEE demonstrated no MR in 187 (93.5%) patients, trace MR in 6 (3%) patients, moderate MR in 5 (2.5%) patients, and SAM in 2 (1%) patients. Five (2.5%) patients required reoperation for failed repairs. Conclusions Robotic MV repair operations are safe with excellent early results. Follow-up studies are needed to determine repair longevity. We must continue to improve the current technology in order to develop the next generation of tools that will facilitate robotic MV repairs. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fandom, brandom and the limits of participatory culture:

This article approaches sports team supporters from two lenses: (1) that of branding, which defines supporters as loyal customers and potential commodities; (2) that of fandom, which understands su...
IN VITRO SLOW RELEASE PROFILE OF ENDOTHELIAL CELL GROWTH FACTOR IMMOBILIZED WITHIN CALCIUM ALGINATE MICROBEADS

Although a variety of angiogenic growth factors have been isolated, its appropriate in vivo delivery remains problematic due to nonspecific, uncontrolled delivery by conventional methods. We have investigated calcium alginate microbeads as a vehicle for the controlled slow-release of endothelial cell growth factor (ECGF). Three different microbead compositions, dependent on ECGF amount and alginate percentage were studied. Microbeads were incubated in a 1.5% calcium chloride solution and release of ECGF into solution was measured spectrophotometrically at specific timepoints. Our results show release rate and amount released after the first 2 hours are dependent on initial quick delivery of ECGF in the first 2 hours after which a sustained controlled release occurred for 4-5 days. Beyond this point, release at a slower rate was noted for at least approximately 2 weeks. Calcium alginate microbeads demonstrated a controlled and predictable rate of release and that the amount of ECGF delivered can be varied by varying the initial concentration of ECGF in the microbeads. Based on these observations we conclude that calcium alginate microbeads are a convenient and practical vehicle for sustained ECGF delivery.
The subject in crisis: Han Shaogong's cripple(s)

Once their initial bewilderment over the idiot protagonist Young Bing in Han Shaogong's novella “Pa Pa Pa” was over, Chinese critics came to recognize in the character yet another representative of the Chinese national character and, therefore a symbol of the defective aspects in the nation's cultural consciousness. This paper, however, examines Young Bing in his own right as a subject. It argues that because of his lack of access to language, Young Bing has become a free‐floating signifier in a world of language to be arbitrarily interpreted. The non‐participation in the production of his own meaning has thus called into question the hero's status as a subject. At the same time, as disturbing as the drastic undermining of the autonomous, self‐knowing subject is Han Shaogong's persistent sense of crisis, which is evidenced not only in the endurance of the crippled subject but also in its relentless reproduction.
MELT|[trade]| Total Nucleic Acid Isolation System: a new technology for hands-free tissue disruption, RNA preservation and total nucleic acid purification

Ambion's multi-enzymatic liquefaction of tissue (MELT™) Total Nucleic Acid Isolation System allows the hands-free disruption of several solid tissues in parallel without tissue grinding or the need for a polytron. Up to 10 mg of fresh or frozen tissue can be lysed at room temperature in 5–15 min using a combination of powerful catabolic enzymes and a potent small-molecule RNase inhibitor. The procedure recovers high-quality total RNA with two- to threefold better yield and 40% less hands-on time than present methods. Moreover, MELT reagents irreversibly inactivate RNases, allowing the storage of liquefied tissue for more than a week at room temperature without an appreciable loss of RNA integrity. RT-PCR and microarray expression profiling studies of MELT RNA reveal an excellent correlation with RNA extracted using popular methods, including those based on single-reagent phenol solutions and glass-filter purification. A simple alteration in the protocol also allows the recovery of genomic DNA.
Effect of propolis on proliferation and apoptosis of periodontal ligament fibroblasts

The most critical factors affecting the prognosis of an avulsed tooth are extraoral dry time and storage media used before replantation. Studies have analyzed different storage media to determine the ideal solution to preserve periodontal ligament (PDL) cell viability. Propolis has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, and has been previously suggested as a storage medium. The purpose of this study was to assess not only cell viability but also physiological health of PDL cells after exposure to propolis. PDL cells were exposed to different concentrations of propolis or Hanks balanced salt solution, and the apoptotic levels were determined using apoptosis assay and flow cytometry. Additional cell viability and proliferation were analyzed by XXT assay in dry and wet conditions. Propolis not only decreased apoptosis but also increased the metabolic activity and proliferation of PDL cells. This study suggests that propolis is a suitable storage medium for avulsed teeth.
A rare and highly oxidized Mo(2)5.5+ unit stabilized by oxo anions and supported by formamidinate bridges

A series of tetranuclear compounds consisting of two {Mo2[(m-CF3C6H4)NC(H)N(m-CF3C6H4)]3}n+ moieties linked by two OH- or two O2- ions has been characterized. Abbreviating the dimolybdenum plus three spectator bridging ligands as [Mo2], the following three compounds have been made-[Mo2](mu-OH)2[Mo2] (1), [Mo2](mu-O)2[Mo2] (2), and {[Mo2](mu-O)2[Mo2]}SbF6 (3). Compound 1, which is diamagnetic and contains quadruply bonded Mo2(4+) units, is converted to diamagnetic 2 by oxidation with O2. Compound 2, which has Mo2(5+) units, is oxidized by NOSbF6 to 3 which has a rare Mo2(5.5+) core and an odd electron delocalized over the two dimolybdenum units.
Menstrual Cycle Dysfunction and Weight Loss Practices Among College-Age Women

Abstract LEARNING OUTCOME: To examine the two effects that dieting for weight loss may have on the patterns of progesterone secretion during the menstrual cycle of normal-weight premenopausal women. Secondary amenorrhea, ovulatory disturbances, and luteal phase deficiency occur in normal weight women with sub-clinical eating disorders. The purpose of this investigation was to examine the influence of Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26) scores, energy intake, and frequency of activity on ovarian hormone status in normal-weight, college-age women. Fourteen female students, ages 19-24, who were attempting weight loss and did not currently meet diagnostic criteria for an eating disorder, served as subjects. Food-intake, dieting behavior, and menstrual cycle function were recorded by subjects during a three month period. Biweekly blood samples were assayed for estradiol and progesterone for one menstrual cycle. Mean age, number of years dieting, and BMI were similar between subjects. Five subjects (36%) had progesterone levels indicative of luteal phase deficiency or anovulation. The EAT-26 score was not associated with menstrual cycle dysfunction. Frequency of exercise and serum progesterone concentration were significantly correlated. Subjects who exercised 7+ hours per week had significantly lower peak progesterone values (p
Coal blending optimization under uncertainty

Abstract Coal blending is one of several options available for reducing sulfur emissions from coal-fired power plants. However, decisions about coal blending must deal with uncertainty and variability in coal properties, and with the effect of off-design coal characteristics on power plant performance and cost. To deal with these issues, a multi-objective chance-constrained optimization model is developed for an illustrative coal blending problem. Sulfur content, ash content and heating value are treated as normally distributed random variables. The objectives of the model include minimizing the: 1) expected (mean) costs of coal bending; 2) standard deviation of coal blending costs; 3) expected sulfur emissions; and 4) standard deviation in sulfur emissions. The cost objective function includes coal purchasing cost, ash disposal cost, sulfur removal cost, and fuel switching costs. Chance constraints include several risk measures, such as the probability of exceeding the sulfur emission standard. Several results are presented to illustrate the model.
Glutamatergic and GABAnergic control in the tentacle effector systems of Hydra vulgaris

In addition to their role in orchestrating body and tentacle contractions, hydra’s nerves control the behavior of nematocysts; precisely how is still a work in progress. There are strong indications that the classical neurotransmitters, glutamate and GABA (γ-amino-butyric acid), play an essential role in effecting stenotele and desmoneme discharge. In experiments on isolated tentacles of Hydra vulgaris, in which cnidocils were mechanically deflected with a piezo-electrically-driven glass micropipette, stenoteles and desmonemes respond to differences in applied force in a dose-dependent manner. GABA, working through its metabotropic receptor, appears to be involved with the recruitment of desmonemes. Desmonemes in distant battery cells or in another part of a given battery cell were discharged by stimulating a desmoneme cnidocil in the presence of bath-applied GABA or its metabotropic agonist, baclofen. The effect was blocked by phaclofen, its metabotropic antagonist. Neither GABA nor baclofen affected stenotele discharge. GABAA agonists had no effect on nematocyst discharge. Glutamate caused a significant increase in number of stenoteles responding to direct mechanical stimuli, but did not effect desmoneme discharge. The effect was mimicked by NMDA (n-methyl-d-aspartate) together with kainate, or by NMDA plus AMPA (amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-isoxazole-4-propionic acid), but not with any ionotropic agonist alone. The effect was blocked by D-AP 5 (d- (−)–2-amino–5-phosphopentanoic acid), a specific NMDA antagonist, or CNQX (6-cyano-7-nitroquinoxaline-2,3-dione), a specific kainate/AMPA antagonist. A glutamatergic mechanism working through ionotropic glutamate receptors appears to lower the firing threshold of stenoteles, perhaps␣by permitting the entry of Ca2+ into the cell through the early evolved NMDA/kainite/AMPA mechanism.
Organizational Justice and Black Applicants' Reactions to Affirmative Action.

Using organizational justice as a guiding framework, the authors studied perceptions of affirmative action programs by presumed beneficiaries. Three conceptual issues were addressed: (a) the content of different affirmative action plans; (b) the 3-way interaction among distributive, procedural, and interactional justice; and (c) the distinction between outcome favorability and distributive justice. These ideas were tested with a sample of Black engineering students who responded to 1 of 6 plans. Participants distinguished among the various plans, with some policies being viewed as more fair than others. In addition, a 3-way interaction among the 3 types of organizational justice was observed. Specifically, the 2-way interaction between distributive and interactional fairness was only significant when procedural justice was low. Implications for organizational justice and for the design of affirmative action programs are discussed.
An Interactionist Perspective on Newcomer Socialization Rates

A symbolic interactionist perspective on the genesis of meaning and identity is used as a general theoretical framework to explain the specifics of newcomer socialization processes in organizations. This framework suggests that interactions with insiders in the setting may be an important, but largely overlooked, influence on the rate at which newcomers negotiate the first (encounter) stage of the socialization process. The role of interactions between newcomers and insiders is emphasized as the primary vehicle through which initial socialization occurs. A model of the interactionist perspective is presented and directions for future research are discussed.
Dosimetry of a W-188/Re-188 beta line source for endovascular brachytherapy.

Purpose: The objective was to determine the dosimetry of a potential endovascular brachytherapysource consisting of a coiled tungsten wire mounted on the distal end of a drive wire and neutron-activated to contain the parent–daughter nuclides tungsten-188 ( 188 W ) and rhenium-188 ( 188 Re ). Methods: A coiled tungsten wire 40 mm in length was neutron-activated by double-neutron capture for 78 hours at 1.9×10 15 h/cm 2 /s to contain 925 MBq (25 mCi) of 188 W / 188 Re in equilibrium. The dose-fall off from this source was determined using three independent methods: (a) Thermoluminescencedosimetry with small LiF-100 rods, (b) Gafchromic film dosimetry, and (c) Bang geldosimetry. In addition, a Monte Carlo simulation was performed to compute the beta-dose. Results: Each of the three measurement methods recorded similar values for the dose fall-off within the distances useful for endovascular brachytherapy. The Monte Carlo calculations closely approximated the measured results in the treatment range between 1 and 3 mm and may thus be useful for evaluating changing geometries in the development of catheters and source setups. A 2 min restenosis treatment delivering 20 Gy at a radius of 2 mm would require a source of 1384.8 MBq/cm (37.4 mCi/cm). Conclusions: The dose distribution from a 188 W / 188 Re source is similar to that of a 90 Y -source. An added advantage of the 188 W / 188 Re source is that it can be used for at least two months and still provides fast treatment times because of the parent isotope’s half-life of 69 days. The additional gamma emission from the source is too small to impose a serious radiological hazard. The high atomic number and density of the sourcematerial allows direct fluoroscopic imaging without additional markers.
Temperature-dependent dephasing of delocalized dimer states of pentacene in p-terphenyl: picosecond photon echo experiments

Abstract Optical dephasing of pentacene dimers in p -terphenyl is studied. Dimer statesR 3 and R 4 exhibit an exponential temperature activation of T′ 2 which is inconsistent with a mechanism involving scattering between delocalized dimer states. Other dephasing mechanisms are discussed. An upper limit is placed on the relaxation rate from the upper dimer state, R 1 , to R 3
NLP and text analysis at the University of Massachusetts

Our group is investigating a variety of techniques centered around the use of text corpora to support natural language processing applications. We are interested in information extraction from text, text classification, and knowledge acquisition from text corpora. Our goal is to develop technologies that can be readily ported across domains and scaled up with a minimal amount of manual engineering. In particular, we are experimenting with various kinds of statistical profiles and case based reasoning systems in order to facilitate:• semantically-oriented dictionary construction• the analysis of complex sentence structures• complex domain discriminations• specific aspects of discourse analysis
Mid-infrared spectroscopy of erbium doped chloride laser crystals.

We report on a spectroscopic analysis of ErCl3 and 1% Er3+:YCl3 to determine their potential as possible laser sources at 3.5 and 4.5 μm. Concentration quenching of the low lying excited states is reported to be surprisingly very weak in this system. Although some shortening of the lifetimes is measured in the fully concentrated system, they retain lifetimes that are of order several milliseconds or more. A Judd-Ofelt analysis is performed and the projected gains for the 3.5 and 4.5 μm transitions are calculated. Successful growth techniques of erbium doped chlorides are also described.
Study of cation tracer diffusion in NaF

Abstract Cation tracer diffusion coefficients were measured in pure NaF crystals in the intrinsic ionic conductivity range (876–970 °C). The results can be rationalized satisfactorily in terms of contributions to the observed Na tracer diffusivities arising from both free vacancies and neutral vacancy pairs, the latter contribution amounting to about 53 per cent of the total Na diffusion at the highest measuring temperature. The best-fit defect parameters derived in an earlier conductivity study [21] from this laboratory on similar NaF crystals give for the free vacancy contribution Dv*(Na) = 4·25 exp (−2·21 eV/kT) cm2s−1. A combination of these Dv*(Na) values with the present diffusion data yields for the vacancy-pair contribution Dp*(Na) = 1·15 × 108exp (−4·04 eV/kT) cm2s−1. Comparison of the present findings with published values of the anion tracer diffusion coefficient in NaF showed that Dp* (F) is 2·3 to 4·4 times larger than Dp*(Na) over the temperature range of our observations, the difference between the two contributions increasing with decreasing temperature. When approximate account is taken of the temperature-dependence of the two pair correlation factors, this last result indicates that the anion jumps into the vacancy pair occur with a higher frequency, and increasingly so at lower temperatures, than do those involving the cations.
A Spitzer/IRAC characterization of Galactic AGB and RSG stars

We present new Spitzer/IRAC observations of 55 dusty Long Period Variables (LPVs, 48 AGB and 6 RSG stars) in the Galaxy that have different chemistry, variability type, and mass-loss rate. O-rich AGB stars (including intrinsic S-type) tend to have redder [3.6] [8.0] colors than carbon stars for a given [3.6] [4.5] color due to silicate features increasing the flux in the 8.0 µm IRAC band. For colors including the 5.8 µm band, carbon stars separate into two distinct sequences, likely due to a variable photospheric C3 feature that is only visible in relatively unobscured, low mass-loss rate sources. Semiregular variables tend to have smaller IR excess in [3.6] [8.0] color than Miras, consistent with the hypothesis that semiregular variables lose mass discontinuously. Miras have redder colors for longer periods while semiregular variables do not. Galactic AGB stars follow the period-luminosity sequences found for the Magellanic Clouds. Mira variables fall along the fundamental pulsation sequence, while semiregular variables are mostly on overtone sequences. We also derive a relationship between mass-loss rate and [3.6] [8.0] color. The fits are similar in shape to those found by other authors for AGBs in the LMC, but discrepant in overall normalization, likely due to different assumptions in the models used to derive mass-loss rates. We find that IR colors are not unique discriminators of chemical type, suggesting caution when using color selection techniques to infer the chemical composition of AGB dust returned to the ISM.
Low-loss Transmission Lines for High-power Terahertz Radiation

Applications of high-power Terahertz (THz) sources require low-loss transmission lines to minimize loss, prevent overheating and preserve the purity of the transmission mode. Concepts for THz transmission lines are reviewed with special emphasis on overmoded, metallic, corrugated transmission lines. Using the fundamental HE11 mode, these transmission lines have been successfully implemented with very low-loss at high average power levels on plasma heating experiments and THz dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) experiments. Loss in these lines occurs directly, due to ohmic loss in the fundamental mode, and indirectly, due to mode conversion into high order modes whose ohmic loss increases as the square of the mode index. An analytic expression is derived for ohmic loss in the modes of a corrugated, metallic waveguide, including loss on both the waveguide inner surfaces and grooves. Simulations of loss with the numerical code HFSS are in good agreement with the analytic expression. Experimental tests were conducted to determine the loss of the HE11 mode in a 19 mm diameter, helically-tapped, three meter long brass waveguide with a design frequency of 330 GHz. The measured loss at 250 GHz was 0.029 ± 0.009 dB/m using a vector network analyzer approach and 0.047 ± 0.01 dB/m using a radiometer. The experimental results are in reasonable agreement with theory. These values of loss, amounting to about 1% or less per meter, are acceptable for the DNP NMR application. Loss in a practical transmission line may be much higher than the loss calculated for the HE11 mode due to mode conversion to higher order modes caused by waveguide imperfections or miter bends.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Helicobacter pylori.

Helicobacter pylori infection remains a ubiquitous infection, especially in populations with poor socioeconomic conditions. Severe clinical outcomes of chronic infection include peptic ulcer disease and gastric cancer. Consensus meetings have developed guidelines for diagnosis, treatment, and management of H. pylori infection and related disorders in various populations. Clear benefits are obtained for H. pylori eradication in peptic ulcer disease and gastric mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma. Most authorities agree that first-degree relatives of gastric cancer patients should undergo testing for H. pylori infection. H. pylori eradication in dyspepsia remains controversial. Global investigations continue to identify specific host and bacterial factors that are responsible for H. pylori-related inflammatory processes and development of clinical disease. Effective eradication regimens have been identified. The proton pump inhibitor (PPI)-based triple therapies are considered first-line therapy because of high patient compliance and good eradication rates. “Quadruple therapy” with bismuth-metronidazoletetracycline plus a PPI is another first-line therapy with a similar eradication rate. This therapy is preferred in patients with penicillin allergy or prior exposure to clarithromycin. Rescue regimens are being developed because of rising antimicrobial resistance to metronidazole and clarithromycin in H. pylori strains. Emerging rescue combination therapies include furazolidone, rifabutin, and quinolones. These combination regimens are still preliminary and should be reserved for patients who have failed first-line therapies. Vaccine development remains elusive.
Non-equilibrium Green’s function (NEGF) simulation of metallic carbon nanotubes including vacancy defects

The electronic behavior of metallic carbon nanotubes under the influence of externally applied electric fields is investigated using the Non-Equilibrium Green’s function method self consistently coupled with three-dimensional (3D) electrostatics. A nearest neighbor tight binding model based on a single pz orbital for constructing the device Hamiltonian is used. The 3D Poisson equation is solved using the Finite Element Method. Carbon nanotubes exhibit a very weak metallic behavior, and external electric fields can alter the electrostatic potential of the tubes significantly. A single vacancy defect in the channel of a metallic carbon nanotube can decrease its conductance by a factor of two. More than one vacancy can further decrease the conductance.
Brightness induction by local contrast and the spatial dependence of assimilation.

Abstract Two mechanisms of brightness perception (1) brightness induction by local contrast and (2) assimilation, were examined for a variety of visual stimuli. Local contrast is the primary determinant of brightness perception, making objects appear brighter on a background of lower luminance and darker on a background of greater luminance. Assimilation is the opposite effect, whereby objects on a brighter (but not necessarily more luminant) background appear brighter or on a dark background appear darker. We have compared the relative strength of the two effects using stimuli which permit them to be studied separately. Brightness induction by local contrast is quantitatively stronger in all situations. Further, the strength of assimilation is strongly dependent on spatial parameters in the visual scene. These results are shown to be true both for simple visual stimuli as well as for complicated Mondrian-like patterns. The Retinex theory of brightness perception predicts that the two effects are equal. Our results show a range of relative strengths (assimilation vs brightness induction due to contrast) from 0.59 to 0.63 at 5′ down to 0.34 at 43′.
Determining the extent of labeling for tetramethylrhodamine protein conjugates.

Abstract A new, relatively simple, spectrophotometric technique has been developed which is useful for accurately determining the extent of chromophore labeling of proteins. Often the absorbance spectra and extinction coefficients of dye/protein conjugates are strongly affected by changes in the chromophore microenvironment that may occur at high dye/protein ratios. In the method being presented, the microenvironment effects have been significantly reduced by denaturing the dye/protein complex in 6 M guanidine hydrochloride prior to making the necessary spectrophotometric measurements. With this approach, extinction coefficients were obtained under native and denatured conditions for tetramethylrhodamine isothiocyanate (TRITC) when bound to a model protein receptor, the sugar binding protein concanavalin A (ConA). The extinction coefficients used for TRITC/ConA conjugates under native and denaturing conditions were 6.52 × 10 4 M −1 cm −1 and 6.96 × 10 4 M −1 cm −1 , respectively. These values were obtained from a model dye complex formed between TRITC and ϵ -amino- n -caproic acid which closely resembles the sidechain of lysine residues. Additional dye/ConA conjugates were prepared with tetramethylrhodamine succinimidyl ester (RHS) and eosin isothiocyanate (EITC), and the effects of microenvironment changes on these conjugates were examined. Extinction coefficients for these dyes in native and denaturing conditions, as a function of the degree of labeling, were not appreciably different indicating that changes in the microenvironment did not have a significant affect on the spectral properties of these two dyes. In summary, with this new approach it is quite easy to accurately determine the dye/protein ratio for TRITC conjugates. Also, it is expected that RHS would be a better dye than TRITC for protein conjugation because more accurate values for dye/protein ratios can be obtained under native conditions.
Resistance to, and Accumulation of, Uranium by Bacteria from a Uranium-Contaminated Site

Heterotrophic bacteria were isolated from an acidic uranium-contaminated site. Five isolates and one reference strain, Deinococcus radiodurans, were studied for uranium accumulation and resistance to uranium. Cells were incubated in a pH 4 solution containing 80 ppm of U(VI) in the form of (UO2)2+ for 1 hr. Three isolates closely related to high G+C gram-positive bacteria were resistant to (UO2)2 +. One of the high G+C Gram-positive isolates, closely related to Arthrobacter ilicis, accumulated uranium intracellularly as precipitates closely associated with polyphosphate granules. It is interpreted that sequestration of uranium into polyphosphate is a detoxification mechanism. Deinococcus radiodurans, the most radiation resistant organism known, was vulnerable to chemical toxicity of (UO2)2+. D. radiodurans precipitated nanocrystals of a uranyl phosphate mineral extracellularly, probably as the result of phosphate release during cell lysis. It is possible that Arthrobacter spp. play important roles in natu...
Homogeneous gas‐phase pyrolyses with a wall‐less reactor. III. The oxygen–ethane reaction. A double reversal in oxygen and surface effects

The impact of surface and oxygen on the oxidative pyrolysis of ethane at temperatures above 590°C was studied using a wall-less reactor. At very low conversions under homogeneous conditions, ethene formation begins at the same temperature regardless of whether oxygen is present or absent. Between 0.00 and 0.13% conversion (592–632°C), the rate with oxygen is actually less than the rate in the absence of oxygen. A reversal occurs at about 633°C above which oxygen has a promoting effect. It is concluded that under homogeneous conditions the initiation step in the oxygen-promoted pyrolysis is the same as in the oxygen-free pyrolysis; therefore, initiation by direct attack of oxygen on ethane does not make an important contribution. The decrease in rate observed upon addition of oxygen implies the formation of the relatively unreactive HO2 · radical. As conversion of the HO2 · radical to the more reactive HO · radical becomes significant, the reaction is highly accelerated. If a stainless steel surface is added, the reaction is inhibited at higher conversions in the presence of oxygen. Again at low conversions, a second reversal occurs, and the stainless steel surface acts as a promoter below 649°C. The rate of surfacecatalyzed ethene formation at 590°C equals the rate of homogeneous ethene formation at 630°C.
Behavioral effects of alpha 2 adrenoceptor antagonists and their interactions with ethanol in tests of locomotion, exploration and anxiety in mice.

The behavioral effects of two highly selective alpha2-adrenoceptor antagonists, atipamezole and idazoxan, were investigated in mice using the plusmaze test of anxiety and the holeboard test of directed exploration and locomotor activity. No anxiogenic effect, as assessed by the tendency to enter the closed as opposed to open arms of the plusmaze, was noted for either drug at any dose tested. Neither were there any significant effects on locomotor activity or directed exploration (head-dipping) in the holeboard, or total plusmaze arm entries at any dose of either drug. The co-administration of either atipamezole or idazoxan had no effect on either the anxiolytic effect of ethanol (2 g/kg) or its locomotor stimulant effect in the holeboard. Atipamezole (1.0 and 3.0 mg/kg) significantly reversed the ethanol-induced reduction in exploratory head-dipping; a similar trend was seen for idazoxan. There was also a significant potentiation of the ethanol-induced increase in the number of total arm entries made on the plusmaze caused by 1.0 mg/kg (but not 3.0 mg/kg) atipamezole and both 0.3 and 1.0 mg/kg idazoxan. The results suggest that some of the behavioral effects of ethanol can be reversed by alpha2-adrenoceptor antagonists whilst others are unchanged.
Mechanical strength increase of abraded silica glass by high pressure water vapor treatment

Abstract The mechanical strength of abraded silica glass was increased by more than 200% by a saturated water vapor treatment at 250°C for 4 days. Fatigue resistance of the glass also improved with the treatment. The apparent flaw size estimated by optical microscopy remained unchanged. These features can be explained in terms of the crack tip blunting caused by dissolution and re-precipitation of silica glass assisted by capillary condensation of water near the crack tip, or by viscous flow of the glass containing water.
Irradiation Induced Precipitation in Tungsten Based, W-Re Alloys

Tungsten-base alloys containing 5, 11, and 25 pct Re were irradiated in the EBR-II reactor. Irradiation temperatures ranged from 600 to 1500 °C. All compositions were irradiated to fluences in the range 4.3 to 6.1 X 1025 n/m2 (E > 0.1 MeV), and three 25 pct Re samples were also irradiated to 3.7 X 1026 n/m2 at temperatures 700 to 900 °C. Postirradiation examination included measurement of electrical resistivity at room temperature and lower temperatures, X-ray diffraction, optical metallography, microprobe analysis, and transmission electron microscopy. Irradiation induced resistivitydecreases observed in most of the samples suggested second-phase precipitation. Complete results confirmed the precipitate formation in all samples, in disagreement with existing phase diagrams for the W-Re system. Electron diffraction showed the precipitates to be consistent with the cubic, Re-richX-phase and inconsistent with the σ-phase. Large variations in precipitate morphology and distribution were observed between the different compositions and irradiation conditions. For the 5 and 11 pct Re-alloys, spherically symmetric strain fields surrounded the equiaxed precipitate particles, and were observed even where no particles were visible. These strain fields are believed to arise from local Re enrichment. Thermoelectric data show that the precipitation can lead to decalibration of W/Re thermocouples.
Pleistocene δ18O records from Ontong-Java Plateau: Effects of winnowing and dissolution

Abstract Sedimentation processes on Ontong-Java Plateau in the western equatorial Pacific are reflected in oxygen isotope, grain size and carbonate records. Processes recorded are dissolution of carbonate particles, winnowing of fines, and to some degree the gradient of productivity away from the equator. Carbonate dissolution begins to affect sediments significantly at about 3 km water depth. Winnowing is important on the top of the plateau and down the flanks to about 2.5 km water depth. Winnowing appears to have been greatly intensified during the ice age intervals.
Living fibroblast cells in the oviductal masses of mares

Summary The object of this experiment was to estimate the number and type of living cells in oviductal masses of mares. Oviducts of abattoir mares were dissected, divided into 3 sections, and flushed individually. Oviductal masses were recovered from 220 of 250 mares and from 389 of 500 oviducts. A greater number of masses was recovered from the left than the right oviducts. A higher percentage of masses was recovered from the ampullary-isthmic junction than from the ampulla or isthmus. The number of masses increased slightly with increasing mare age and was weakly correlated with the number of unfertilised oocytes recovered per oviduct Prepubertal mares had fewer recovered masses than anovulatory, early luteal phase, late luteal phase, or pregnant mares. Oviductal masses were classified morphologically as being branched, compact, or cumulus. Living cells were identified with a carboxy fluorescein diacetate stain and dead cells were identified with a propidium iodide fluorescent stain. In branched masses, the proportion of the surface area covered with total cells (live and dead) was 33.7 ± 14.3%, and with only live cells was 6.2 ± 7.3%. In compact masses, the proportion of the surface area covered with total cells was 42.4 ± 21.2%, and with only live cells was 10.7 ± 13.1%. The detection of living cells was confirmed by isolating and culturing cells. Cells cultured from cumulus masses were viable in 57.1% of wells, whereas cells from branched and compact masses were viable in only 18.1% and 17.7% of wells, respectively. In addition, more of the surface area of wells containing cells from cumulus masses were covered with cells, compared to wells containing cells from either branched or compact masses. Most cells appeared to be fibroblasts because 90–95% of cells from branched and compact masses were stained with a fibroblast cell marker.
Rapid patterning of ‘tunable’ hydrophobic valves on disposable microchips by laser printer lithography

We recently defined a method for fabricating multilayer microdevices using poly(ethylene terephthalate) transparency film and printer toner, and showed these could be successfully applied to DNA extraction and amplification (Duarte et al., Anal. Chem. 2011, 83, 5182–5189). Here, we advance the functionality of these microdevices with flow control enabled by hydrophobic valves patterned using laser printer lithography. Laser printer patterning of toner within the microchannel induces a dramatic change in surface hydrophobicity (change in contact angle of DI water from 51° to 111°) with good reproducibility. Moreover, the hydrophobicity of the surface can be controlled by altering the density of the patterned toner via varying the gray-scale setting on the laser printer, which consequently tunes the valve's burst pressure. Toner density provided a larger burst pressure bandwidth (158 ± 18 Pa to 573 ± 16 Pa) than could be achieved by varying channel geometry (492 ± 18 Pa to 573 ± 16 Pa). Finally, we used a series of tuned toner valves (with varied gray-scale) for passive valve-based fluidic transfer in a predictable manner through the architecture of a rotating PeT microdevice. While an elementary demonstration, this presents the possibility for simplistic and cost-effective microdevices with valved fluid flow control to be fabricated using nothing more than a laser printer, a laser cutter and a laminator.
Weak D antigen testing using the groupamatic system.

. Reliable detection of the weak D (Du) antigen has been a problem for the Groupamatic typing equipment. Using several anti-D sera of known concentration and Du red cells, dose-response curves produced by the Groupamatic revealed variation in the ability to detect the Du antigen by commercial anti-D reagents. Variation in the reactivity of the Du antigen among Du-positive donors was noted. Studies were conducted to determine optimal conditions for the Groupamatic to detect the weakest Du cells. When these conditions were applied to the retesting, 28 cell samples previously found falsely negative by a number of blood centers were accurately detected.
Semiparametric Transformation Models for Point Processes

In this article, we propose a family of semiparametric transformation models for point processes with positive jumps of arbitrary sizes. These models offer great flexibilities in formulating the effects of covariates on the mean function of the point process while leaving the stochastic structure completely unspecified. We develop a class of estimating equations for the baseline mean function and the vector-valued regression parameter based on censored point processes and covariate data. These equations can be solved easily by the standard Newton–Raphson algorithm. The resultant estimator of the regression parameter is consistent and asymptotically normal with a covariance matrix that can be estimated consistently. Furthermore, the estimator of the baseline mean function is uniformly consistent and, upon proper normalization, converges weakly to a zero-mean Gaussian process with an easily estimated covariance function. We demonstrate through extensive simulation studies that the proposed inference procedu...
On the origin of species of fibronectin.

Abstract Multiple different subunits of fibronectin are known to occur and their origin has been unclear. Recent results showing that a single fibronectin gene can give rise to several different mRNAs by alternative splicing suggested an explanation for some of this diversity of fibronectin subunits. Because the alternative splicing events occur within the coding region, the mRNAs differ in coding potential. We have prepared recombinant phage containing a rat fibronectin cDNA segment that is present in some fibronectin mRNAs and not in others. This segment was inserted in the beta-galatosidase gene of lambda gt11, and fusion protein produced by lysogens of the recombinant phage was purified and used as immunogen. The resulting antisera recognized some subunits of rat and hamster fibronectins but not others, indicating that inclusion or removal of this segment gives rise to mRNAs that encode different fibronectin subunits. In particular, presence or absence of a 95 amino acid segment appears to account for differences in size among the subunits of plasma fibronectin, whose origin is therefore explained by alternative patterns of RNA splicing.
A GUI-based simulation platform for energy and comfort management in Zero-Energy Buildings

Zero-Energy Buildings (ZEBs) have recently become a trend for future constructions. It remains challenging to design control systems for such buildings that require energy-efficiency and employ renewable energy. In this paper, we describe a simulation platform that can be used to energy management and comfort improvement in buildings. This platform provides a method to users to manage buildings through Graphical User Interface (GUI). A multi-agent control system is applied to building operation to manage various comfort demands. Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) is used to optimize the control system to improve users' comfort and save energy.
USE OF THE ALVEOLAR DEAD SPACE FRACTION (VD/VT) AND PLASMA D-DIMERS TO EXCLUDE ACUTE PULMONARY EMBOLISM IN AMBULATORY PATIENTS

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the utility of a modified calculation of the alveolar dead space fraction (Vd/Vt), combined with plasma D-dimers, to aid in the exclusion of acute pulmonary embolism (PE). METHODS A prospective comparison of screening modalities was performed in a metropolitan teaching ED. Ambulatory patients evaluated for PE underwent simultaneous end-tidal CO2 and arterial blood gas determinations, as well as venous latex-agglutination D-dimer quantification. The modified Bohr equation was used to calculate Vd/Vt as an index of alveolar dead space. Acute PE was diagnosed or excluded using appropriate combinations of clinical suspicion, ventilation-perfusion lung scanning, lower-extremity venous Doppler ultrasonography, pulmonary angiography, and comprehensive follow-up. RESULTS Of 170 subjects studied, PE was confirmed (PE+) in 26 (15%) and excluded (PE-) in 144 (85%). In the PE+ group, Vd/Vt was 0.31 +/- 0.13 (mean +/- SD), and in the PE- group, Vd/Vt was 0.06 +/- 0.10 (p < 0.05, t-test). Regarding false-negative rates, Vd/Vt was normal (i.e., < 0.2) in 3/26 PE+ patients and D-dimer concentrations were normal (< 0.5 microgram/L) in 4/26 patients in the PE+ group. The combination of a normal Vd/Vt and D-dimer concentration was 100% sensitive (95% CI = 88-100%) in excluding PE. False-positive testing (either test positive) occurred in 49/144 subjects (specificity 65%, 95% CI = 52-73%). The age-adjusted alveolar-arterial O2 gradient was 33 +/- 38 torr in the PE+ group vs 13 +/- 37 torr in the PE- group (p = 0.11). CONCLUSIONS In ambulatory patients, the finding of Vd/Vt < 0.2 and D-dimers < 0.5 microgram/L lowers the probability of acute PE.
Radiated noise control via structural vibration control

Interior noise control in a cabin enclosure using active vibration control of the walls of the enclosure with discrete piezoelectric actuators and sensors is addressed. A hybrid approach using finite element formulation for the radiating walls of the enclosure. We use an exact 3D formulation without making the usual approximations for the electric field in the piezoelectric devices. The electrical boundary conditions and the charge on the electrodes are treated correctly. Computational time is optimized by using plate elements for the structure and 3D element for the devices with transition elements to connect them. A PD-controlled is used to relate the voltage output of the sensor in an open circuit conditions to the charge input to the actuator via appropriate gains to control vibrations. The acoustic part of the problem is modeled via a modal approach. The modal representation of the pressure is used as a mechanical force term on the structure which can be written in terms of a virtual mass. The driving team for the acoustic field is in turn the displacements on the surface of the radiating walls which is computed from the structural equations. This accounts for the acoustic field-structure interaction and the equations are solved simultaneously. By adjusting the feedback gain, significant noise reduction is achieved globally within the cavity for the dominant vibrational modes of the radiating panel.
Characterization Of Scattering From Diamond-Turned Surfaces

Methods of characterizing t roughness of and scattering from plane single-point diamond-turned surfaces include Nomarski mlcroscopy, microscopic double-beam and multiple-beam interferometry, mechanical profilometry, normalized scatter, and BRDF measurements. Size and curvature parameters limit the usefulness of some of these techniques in the study of nonflat, real-life hardware. A nartial solution to the problems of characterizing curved surfaces is t use replication methods. Polishing reduces the surface roughness and scattering from nonflat single-point diamond-turned surfaces.© (1981) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.