cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Observations of the SW Sextantis Star BH Lyncis in a High State

We present time-resolved photometry and medium resolution (2 A) spectroscopy of the SW Sextantis star BH Lyncis obtained during a high state of the system. Previous detailed observations have been obtained only during low and intermediate states. In addition, we present the first International Ultraviolet Explorer low-resolution (6 A) spectrum of BH Lyn. A revised photometric ephemeris, HJD(min) = 2,447,180.3366(2) + 0.15587535(6)E, is derived based on new and previously published eclipse timings. The amplitude of the pre-eclipse hump in light curves of BH Lyn is shown to vary, suggesting that the degree to which the incoming accretion stream impacts the edge of the disk changes over time. We estimate system parameters using the V-band eclipse width and He II λ4686 emission-line radial velocity (i ≈ 79°, q ≈ 0.45, MWD ≈ 0.7 M☉, M2 ≈ 0.3 M☉, R2 ≈ 0.4 R☉, a ≈ 1.2 R☉). Doppler tomograms constructed for the prominent emission lines in BH Lyn show a lack of emission at the expected locations of the bright spot and accretion stream trajectories. The differences between the low and high states of BH Lyn are discussed, along with the possible origin of a significant amount of the emission-line flux in a wind from the disk and/or white dwarf primary star. Finally, a model involving the presence of vertically extended bulges in the accretion disk is introduced to explain the characteristic phase-dependent absorption feature found in emission lines of the SW Sex stars.
Comparative Formation of DNA Adducts of Nitro-Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Mouse and Rat Liver Microsomes and Cytosols

Abstract We have characterized the DNA adducts of a series of nitro-polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (nitro-PAHs) formed under anaerobic conditions in vitro. Although the DNA adducts of nitro-PAHs formed through enzymatic nitroreduction are generally the C8-deoxyguanosyl adducts, nitroreduction of 1-nitrobenzo[a]pyrene (1-nitro-BaP), 3-nitro-BaP, and two derivatives in the presence of calf thymus DNA resulted in the N 2-deoxyguanosyl adducts with the deoxyguanosyl moiety remote from the reaction site. Two DNA adducts of this type were also formed from 1-nitropyrene as minor products. These DNA adducts were formed from anaerobic incubation with rat and mouse liver microsomes and cytosols in the presence of calf thymus DNA. Our results suggest that biological formation of this type of DNA adduct is independent of the enzymatic system, but dependent on the geometric structure and/or electronic features of the nitro-PAH molecules.
A novel method for measurement of the specific radioactivity of γ-32P ATP

Abstract The specific radioactivity of the γ-phosphorus of ATP has been determined by an indirect method. Galactokinase is employed to transfer the terminal phosphate group of [γ-32P] ATP to [1-3H] galactose. The doubly labeled galactose-1-phosphate is purified by ion exchange chromatography on QAE Sephadex. The specific radioactivity of the phosphorus is calculated from the 32 P 3 H ratio. The method is extremely sensitive, requiring only 0.005 μmoles of ATP with a specific radioactivity of 1 μCi/μmole, and the chromatographic isolation of galactose-1-phosphate is simple and reproducible. The method is directly applicable to the determination of the specific radioactivity of [γ-32P] ATP in biological samples.
Effect of diffusion-induced bending on diffusion-induced stress near the end faces of an elastic hollow cylinder

Abstract Diffusion-induced stress plays an important role in determining structural integrity of mechanical structures used in lithium-ion batteries and microelectromechanical devices. Incorporating the diffusion-induced bending in the analysis of the diffusion-induced stress in an elastic hollow cylinder, analytical forms of the diffusion-induced resultant axial stress and hoop stress have been formulated for the traction-free condition and the built-in condition at the end faces of the cylinder. Using these results, the evolution of the diffusion-induced stress at the end faces of a hollow, elastic electrode due to the insertion of lithium is discussed under the potentiostatic operation. The end faces of the electrode experience compressive hoop stress through the thickness in contrast to the stress state in the hollow cylinder far away from the end faces. The magnitude of the resultant hoop stress decreases with increasing the diffusion time for the traction-free end faces; it increases with increasing the diffusion time near the inner surface for the built-in end faces.
Using ecosystem models to assess potential consequences of global climatic change

Predicting ecosystem response to climate change is a dynamic version of the classic problem of understanding vegetation-climate interrelations. Computer models can synthesize current knowledge and are important tools for understanding possible ecosystem dynamics under changed conditions. Models based on individual plant biology and natural history have been tested with respect to their ability to simulate vegetation response to changed climate, and are being applied to assess the potential effects of future climate change.
Objective accommodation measurements in pseudophakic subjects using an autorefractor and an aberrometer

Purpose To compare objective measures of accommodation with the WR-5100K autorefractor and iTrace aberrometer to subjective push-down and defocus tests in normal phakic subjects and pseudophakic subjects with standard monofocal intraocular lenses (IOLs). Setting University of Houston, College of Optometry, Houston, Texas, USA. Methods The push-down test and defocus curves were used to stimulate and measure accommodation subjectively in pseudophakic subjects. For objective testing, a near target was pushed up and refraction measured objectively. For comparison, the same objective measurements were performed in phakic subjects. Calibration tests were performed with soft contact lenses in phakic subjects with varying refractive error and in pseudophakic subjects. Results Fifteen phakic subjects (mean age 28.9 years ± 5.52 [SD]) and 10 pseudophakic subjects (mean age 66.2 ± 11.23 years) participated. Subjectively measured accommodative amplitude in the pseudophakic group was 3.28 ± 1.11 diopters (D) in the right eye and 3.64 ± 1.38 D in the left eye. Defocus curves in the pseudophakic group had a range of 2.00 D for distance-corrected visual acuity of 20/40 or better. Objective measurements in the pseudophakic group were 0.11 ± 0.50 D with the autorefractor and 0.10 ± 0.47 D with the aberrometer. Contact lens calibrations showed good agreement with the 1:1 line. Conclusions The subjective tests overestimated accommodative amplitude relative to the objective measures. The autorefractor and aberrometer were accurate, reliable, and appropriate for objective accommodation measurements in pseudophakes. Objective accommodation measurements such as these can be used to evaluate the performance of accommodating IOLs.
Efficacy and safety of infliximab in 221 Crohn's disease patients

Purpose: Previously, we reported our clinical experience with 100 CD patients treated with infliximab. We now update our experience to 222 patients(including the original 100) with IBD focusing on efficacy, adverse effects, ability to taper steroids, and the effect of immunomodulators on infliximab efficacy and safety.
Structure of a Planning Support System for Urban Development

The idea of a planning support system, if not the label, has been with us for at least twenty-five years. Many components have been developed but we lack an underlying structure with which to integrate these components. GIS provide useful tools but the map concepts on which they are built are insufficient for a planning support system. The structure proposed here builds on elements of geographic modeling and of planning. It works with actors, flows, investments, facilities, regulations, and rights, as well as elements familiar in GIS. It includes views and tools for sketch planning, model building, scenario building, evaluation, lineage tracking, and plan-based action.
Between literature and subculture: Kanehara Hitomi, media commodification and the desire for agency in post-bubble Japan

Abstract Kanehara Hitomi won the 2004 Akutagawa Prize to a tremendous fanfare. The media spectacle served to commodify both the violence and the sex in Snakes and earrings (Hebi ni piasu, 2004), as well as the unconventional lifestyle of this 20-year-old middle-school dropout. Kanehara's work earned the distinction of high culture via this prestigious literary prize, but she is simultaneously seen as representative of a problematic youth subculture. UK/US cultural studies theory suggests a reading of text and author as an expression of subcultural resistance to the commodification process and to mainstream Japanese society. But questions remain as to how this resistance translates into political expression in an era of conservative politics and so-called apolitical youth. Ultimately, resistance is not found in the subcultural self-identification of the young protagonist Lui. Rather, working from within the media spectacle, Kanehara utilizes a literary legacy of the body in order to make her writing releva...
The control of rapid limb movement in the cat. I. Response latency.

A versatile tracking task has been developed to assess the competence of feline subjects in using sensory information to initiate and guide limb movement. In the present study we investigated the response latency and the factors which affect it in order to define temporal constraints on the underlying processing of information. The paradigm makes use of an electromechanical display of the difference between the output of transducers in a manipulandum (controlled by the cat) and a target level (controlled by the experimenter). Because of inertia and friction, a step change in target level required 230 msec to fully shift the display. The animals were trained to match the position of the manipulandum (or the force they applied to it isometrically) to the target level for a food reward.
Hypolimnetic aerators: Predicting oxygen transfer and hydrodynamics

A simple model that predicts oxygen transfer in hypolimnetic aerators is described. The model accounts for cocurrent flow of air and water, variation of the saturated aqueous oxygen concentration with depth, and depletion of oxygen in the gas-phase. A correlation for water flow rate is developed from literature data, while existing correlation equations are used to estimate the mass transfer coefficient. Published experimental data for water flow rate and oxygen transfer are used for model validation with most of the observed data being predicted to within ±30%. Equations are provided for estimating the extent of the oxygenated zone-of-influence for an aerator operating in relatively stagnant water or a uniform underflow current. The potential deterioration in aerator performance due to short-circuiting of oxygenated water is briefly discussed. The model represents a substantial improvement in understanding of oxygen transfer in hypolimnetic aerators. It should be useful in the preliminary design and economic optimization of hypolimnetic aeration systems, and in determining spacing requirements for aerators in a lake or reservoir when more than one aerator is installed.
Whole Genome Association Studies of Residual Feed Intake and Related Traits in the Pig

Background Residual feed intake (RFI), a measure of feed efficiency, is the difference between observed feed intake and the expected feed requirement predicted from growth and maintenance. Pigs with low RFI have reduced feed costs without compromising their growth. Identification of genes or genetic markers associated with RFI will be useful for marker-assisted selection at an early age of animals with improved feed efficiency. Methodology/Principal findings Whole genome association studies (WGAS) for RFI, average daily feed intake (ADFI), average daily gain (ADG), back fat (BF) and loin muscle area (LMA) were performed on 1,400 pigs from the divergently selected ISU-RFI lines, using the Illumina PorcineSNP60 BeadChip. Various statistical methods were applied to find SNPs and genomic regions associated with the traits, including a Bayesian approach using GenSel software, and frequentist approaches such as allele frequency differences between lines, single SNP and haplotype analyses using PLINK software. Single SNP and haplotype analyses showed no significant associations (except for LMA) after genomic control and FDR. Bayesian analyses found at least 2 associations for each trait at a false positive probability of 0.5. At generation 8, the RFI selection lines mainly differed in allele frequencies for SNPs near (<0.05 Mb) genes that regulate insulin release and leptin functions. The Bayesian approach identified associations of genomic regions containing insulin release genes (e.g., GLP1R, CDKAL, SGMS1) with RFI and ADFI, of regions with energy homeostasis (e.g., MC4R, PGM1, GPR81) and muscle growth related genes (e.g., TGFB1) with ADG, and of fat metabolism genes (e.g., ACOXL, AEBP1) with BF. Specifically, a very highly significantly associated QTL for LMA on SSC7 with skeletal myogenesis genes (e.g., KLHL31) was identified for subsequent fine mapping. Conclusions/significance Important genomic regions associated with RFI related traits were identified for future validation studies prior to their incorporation in marker-assisted selection programs.
Preparation of branched structures with long DNA duplex arms

Branched structures with long DNA duplex arms have been constructed through biotin-streptavidin binding and characterized by gel electrophoresis and atomic force microscopy (AFM) imaging.
Reductive displacement of allylic acetates by hydride transfer via catalytic activation by palladium(0) complexes

Abstract Allylic acetates are reduced to alkenes by reductive displacement by hydride reagents via catalytic activation with Pd(0) complexes. In the absence of hydrides, allylic acetates afford conjugated dienes in DMSO solvent.
Academic Degree Programs And Living-Learning Communities

Living-learning communities can be effective in enhancing academic programs at universities and the undergraduate student experience. Information on a successful program focused on teacher education will be shared.
Record and Transplay: Partial Checkpointing for Replay Debugging

Software bugs that occur in production are often difficult to reproduce in the lab due to subtle differences in the application environment and nondeterminism. Toward addressing this problem, we present Transplay, a system that captures application software bugs as they occur in production and deterministically reproduces them in a completely different environment, potentially running a different operating system, where the application, its binaries and other support data do not exist. Transplay introduces partial checkpointing, a new mechanism that provides two key properties. It efficiently captures the minimal state necessary to reexecute just the last few moments of the application before it encountered a failure. The recorded state, which typically consists of a few megabytes of data, is used to replay the application without requiring the specific application binaries or the original execution environment. Transplay integrates with existing debuggers to provide facilities such as breakpoints and single-stepping to allow the user to examine the contents of variables and other program state at each source line of the application’s replayed execution. We have implemented a Transplay prototype that can record unmodified Linux applications and replay them on different versions of Linux as well as Windows. Experiments with server applications such as the Apache web server show that Transplay can be used in production with modest recording overhead.
A two-tier Wireless Sensor Network infrastructure for large-scale real-time groundwater monitoring

In this paper, we describe the design, implementation and deployment details of a two-tier real-time environmental monitoring network in Nebraska. Our state-wide sensor network infrastructure uses typical Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) structure at tier-two to conduct dynamic sensing tasks with high resolution and flexibility. The satellite communication technology is used at tier-one to provide reliable and low-cost long-haul connectivity between each local WSN and the central base station. By the end of 2009, the entire tier-one infrastructure has been designed and deployed to provide state-wide wireless connectivity for 54 monitoring sites equipped with 1–4 water level transducers. A data and network management framework has also been developed to enable the remote network retasking and network performance analysis from a central base station. The network web portal offers integrated real-time and historical groundwater data to worldwide users. The deployed infrastructure will serve as the prototype network to expedite the commercial adoption of large-scale WSN design for long-term environmental monitoring applications.
The Past, Present, and Future of General Simulation Languages

The widespread use of simulation in the design and analysis of complex systems has received a great impetus in the past few years with the advent of various general simulation languages. Simulation models of a wide variety of physical situations can now be developed with these languages. This paper summarizes and compares various characteristics of five major general simulation languages. The historical background from which these languages developed is discussed first. Predictions are also made on the future development of general simulation languages.
Determining 3-D hand motion

This paper presents a glove-free method for tracking hand movements using a set of 3-D models. In this approach, the hand is represented by five cylindrical models which are fit to the third phalangeal segments of the fingers. Six 3-D motion parameters for each model are calculated that correspond to the movement of the fingertips in the image plane. Trajectories of the moving models are then established to show the 3-D nature of hand motion. >
Sequencing robot-assisted extended pelvic lymph node dissection prior to radical prostatectomy: a step-by-step guide to exposure and efficiency.

Objective To describe a novel, step-by-step approach to robot-assisted extended pelvic lymph node dissection (ePLND) at the time of robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) for intermediate–high risk prostate cancer. Patient and Methods The sequence of ePLND is at the beginning of the operation to take advantage of greater visibility of the deeper hypogastric planes. The urachus is left intact for an exposure/retraction point. The anatomy is described in terms of lymph nodes (LNs) that are easily retrieved vs those that require additional manipulation of the anatomy, and a determined surgeon. A representative cohort of 167 RARPs was queried for representative metrics that distinguish the ePLND: 146 primary cases and 21 with neoadjuvant systemic therapy. Results The median (interquartile range, IQR) LN yield was 22 (16–28) for primary surgeries and 21 (16–23) for neoadjuvant cases. The percentage of cases with positive LNs (pN1) was 16.4% for primary and 29% for neoadjuvant. The hypogastric LNs were involved in 75% of pN1 primary cases and uniquely positive in 33%. Each side of ePLND took the attending surgeon a median (IQR) of 16 (13–20) min and trainees 25 (24–38) min. Conclusions Robot-assisted ePLND before RARP provides an anatomical approach to surgical extirpation mimicking the open approach. We think this sequence offers efficiency and efficacy advantages in high-risk and select intermediate-risk patients with prostate cancer undergoing RARP.
The essential Escherichia coli msbA gene, a multicopy suppressor of null mutations in the htrB gene, is related to the universally conserved family of ATP-dependent translocators

We report the characterization of the msbA gene, isolated as a multicopy suppressor of the HtrB temperature-sensitive phenotype. The msbA gene maps to 20.5 min on the Escherichia coli genetic map and encodes a protein with an estimated molecular mass of 64,460 Da, with the properties of an integral membrane protein. The amino acid sequence of MsbA is very similar to those of the family of ATP-dependent translocators, which includes the haemolysin B protein of E. coli and the mammalian multidrug resistance (MDR) proteins. Mutational analysis of msbA indicates that it may form an operon with a downstream gene, orfE, and that both of these genes are essential for bacterial viability under all growth conditions tested.
A curriculum model of a foundation for educating the global citizens of the future

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to introduce a model for preparing young people to live in a global society.Design/methodology/approach – This paper discusses the need for a new approach to education that transcends subject disciplines and institutional boundaries by taking a global perspective; it provides a background of previous curriculum ideas, presents a multi‐dimensional model of educating for the future, and opens a dialogue on the implications for educators and policy makers.Findings – The curriculum model for educating future citizens starts with a foundation of academics (contextual math and science), vocational skills and technological literacy, and process skills, which include system thinking and problem solving. The second level of the model consists of the study of world history and geography, and the language and culture of other countries. The third layer of the curriculum is altruism for people, the planet, and the future. The rationale for each component and specific teaching st...
GIDEON: a genetic algorithm system for vehicle routing with time windows

Addresses the vehicle routing problem with time windows (VRPTW). The VRPTW involves routing a fleet of vehicles, of limited capacity and travel time, from a central depot to a set of geographically dispersed customers with known demands within specified time windows. The authors describe GIDEON, a genetic algorithm system to heuristically solve the VRPTW. GIDEON consists of two distinct modules: a global clustering module that assigns customers to vehicles by a process called genetic sectoring (GENSECT) and a local route optimization module (SWITCH-OPT). On a standard set of 56 VRPTW problems obtained from the literature, GIDEON did better than the alternate methods on 41 of them, with an average reduction of 3.9% in fleet size and 4.4% in distance traveled for the 56 problems. GIDEON took an average of 127 CPU seconds to solve a problem on the Solbourne 5/802 computer. >
Work in progress - creating an active learning environment for a computer networking class: expert systems construction

In a freshman computer networking class, students are asked to build a home network. Instead of teaching them directly about concepts and rules of building such a system, they are required to construct an expert system that integrates those needed concepts and rules. The premise of this paper is that the process of creating expert systems engages students' higher-order thinking skills, such as analytical reasoning, synthesis of knowledge, meta-cognitive awareness and self-regulation, thus improves their problem-solving abilities. In the article, a model of creating an expert system for a home network is presented. This model consists of six development stages: (1) identifying a problem; (2) defining the problem domain; (3) specifying problem attributes and values; (4) specifying solutions; (5) generating rules and examples; and (6) selecting the right tool
Plate motion on Europa and nonrigid behavior of the icy lithosphere : The Castalia Macula Region

We have developed a generalized quantitative technique for determining the finite pole of rotation between two rigid plates and use it to critically examine differing reconstructions of a region surrounding a prominent dark spot on Europa, Castalia Macula. This region is located near the equator of Europa's trailing hemisphere and has been suggested as a site where crustal convergence may have occurred. Previous reconstructions of the region have indicated that a ridge set and/or a band-like complex that define a collection of tectonic plates in the region accommodated surface contraction. However, a critical examination of the differences between these reconstructions has been complicated by the lack of a finite pole of rotation for the plates involved in either reconstruction. We have applied our modeling technique, coupled with a detailed examination of the morphology and cross-cutting relationships involving this ridge set and band-like complex, to determine if a unique reconstruction exists for several tectonic plates in this region. The cross-cutting relationships involving the ridge set also allow us to test the general assumption that plates behave rigidly on Europa. Assuming rigid behavior, our results suggest that a unique reconstruction does exist, indicating the ridge set accommodated surface contraction. However, analysis performed to test the assumption of plate rigidity indicates that one or more of the plates in the region did not behave rigidly. This does not rule out surface contraction along the ridge set but does indicate that a component of nonrigid behavior must be considered.
L-arginine improves endothelial vasoreactivity and reduces thrombogenicity after thrombolysis in experimental deep venous thrombosis

Abstract Purpose Nitric oxide (NO) is important in regulation of platelet aggregation, endothelial function, and intravascular thrombosis. The purposes of this study were to assess the effect of thrombolysis on endothelial function in a porcine model of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and to evaluate the effect of NO precursor l-arginine on endothelial function after thrombolytic therapy. Methods DVT was created in bilateral iliac veins by deploying a self-expanding stent-graft that incorporated an intraluminal stenosis, from a groin approach. Five pigs underwent sham operation. After 7 days of DVT, animals were randomized to three groups: saline pulse-spray (saline group, n=5), thrombolytic pulse-spray with tissue plasminogen activator (alteplase, 8 mg; t-PA group, n=5), and thrombolytic pulse-spray plus intravenous l-arginine (20 mmol/L; arginine group, n=5). At 2 weeks iliac vein patency was evaluated at venography and intravascular ultrasound scanning. NO level was determined with a chemiluminescent assay of the nitrite and nitrate metabolites (NO x ). Thrombogenicity was evaluated with radiolabeled platelet and fibrin deposition. Veins were harvested and evaluated with light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Endothelial function was evaluated with organ chamber analysis. Results All iliac veins remained patent at 2 weeks. The luminal areas in the sham, saline, t-PA, and arginine groups were 53 ± 23 mm 2 , 14 ± 11 mm 2 , 34 ± 19 mm 2 , and 42 ± 21 mm 2 , respectively. No difference in endothelial cell structure was observed between the three treatment groups at light microscopy or scanning electron microscopy. Although no difference in fibrin deposition was noted among the three treatment groups, decreased platelet deposition occurred in the arginine group compared with the saline or t-PA groups ( P P x level in the arginine group was correspondingly higher compared with the saline or t-PA groups (1.8 ± 0.3 μmol/L vs 0.3 ± 0.05 μmol/L and 0.2 ± 0.04 μmol/L; P Conclusions NO precursor l-arginine supplementation enhances NO production at sites of venous thrombosis. Moreover, l-arginine preserves endothelial vasoreactivity and reduces platelet deposition after thrombolysis in iliac DVT. These data suggest that l-arginine may preserve endothelial function after thrombolysis and may reduce the likelihood of postthrombotic syndrome.
LOSCAR: Long-term Ocean-atmosphere-Sediment CArbon cycle Reservoir Model v2.0.4

Abstract. The LOSCAR model is designed to efficiently compute the partitioning of carbon between ocean, atmosphere, and sediments on time scales ranging from centuries to millions of years. While a variety of computationally inexpensive carbon cycle models are already available, many are missing a critical sediment component, which is indispensable for long-term integrations. One of LOSCAR's strengths is the coupling of ocean-atmosphere routines to a computationally efficient sediment module. This allows, for instance, adequate computation of CaCO3 dissolution, calcite compensation, and long-term carbon cycle fluxes, including weathering of carbonate and silicate rocks. The ocean component includes various biogeochemical tracers such as total carbon, alkalinity, phosphate, oxygen, and stable carbon isotopes. LOSCAR's configuration of ocean geometry is flexible and allows for easy switching between modern and paleo-versions. We have previously published applications of the model tackling future projections of ocean chemistry and weathering, pCO2 sensitivity to carbon cycle perturbations throughout the Cenozoic, and carbon/calcium cycling during the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum. The focus of the present contribution is the detailed description of the model including numerical architecture, processes and parameterizations, tuning, and examples of input and output. Typical CPU integration times of LOSCAR are of order seconds for several thousand model years on current standard desktop machines. The LOSCAR source code in C can be obtained from the author by sending a request to loscar.model@gmail.com.
Rapid analysis of inflammatory cytokines in cerebrospinal fluid using chip‐based immunoaffinity electrophoresis

A chip-based capillary electrophoresis system has been designed for rapidly measuring the concentrations of inflammatory cytokines in the cerebrospinal fluid of patients with head trauma. Isolation of the reactive cytokines was achieved by immunoaffinity capture using a panel of six immobilized antibodies, directly attached to the injection port of the chip. The captured cytokines were labeled in situ with a red light-emitting laser dye and electroeluted into the separation channel. Separation of the isolated cytokines was achieved by electrophoresis in under 2 min with quantification of the resolved peaks being achieved by on-line laser-induced fluorescence and integration of each peak area. Comparison of the results to commercially available high-sensitivity immunoassays demonstrates that the chip-based assay provides a fast, accurate procedure for studying the concentrations of these analytes in complex biological materials. The degree of accuracy and precision achieved by the chip-based CE is comparable to conventional immunoassays, the system being able to analyze between 10-12 samples per hour. With the ever-expanding array of antibodies that are commercially available, this chip-based system can be applied to a wide variety of different analyses.
CONVERSION TO ISLAM: MILITARY RECRUITMENT AND GENERATIONAL CONFLICT IN A SEREER-SAFÈN VILLAGE (BANDIA), 1920–38

The Sereer-Safen are a minority population in a predominantly Wolof and Muslim region. During the colonial period the Safen were ruled by Wolof chiefs, who treated them as a conquered population. Until the First World War, Safen resistance was based on preserving a separate religious and ethnic identity, symbolized by the village shrine and matrilineal descent. Conversion to Islam had its roots in the crisis created by military recruitment. When the Safen were forced to give soldiers to the French, ‘maternal uncles’ used their authority over their ‘nephews’ to recruit soldiers. Today this act is remembered as a ‘betrayal’ that called into question the legitimacy of the matrilineal system of labor and inheritance. Conversion to Islam has been studied by focusing on long-term Islamization rather than the moment of conversion. Oral testimony from converts emphasizes changes in behavior, funeral rites, inheritance and patterns of labor and power in the village community.
TH‐C‐202‐01: Positron Emission Tomography Imaging: Basic Nuclear Imaging Physics

The purpose of this presentation is to familiarize persons in other areas medical physics with the basic physics of imaging with PET. In this discussion three areas in PETimaging are examined: The creation and propagation of the signal the corrections to the data and the reconstruction of the images from the data. Within these areas computational tools such as Monte Carlo and simple image reconstruction programs are used to provide more a more intuitive understanding of the basic physics and the performance of PETcameras. Learning Objectives: 1. Understand the physical phenomena involved in PETimaging. 2. Understand how data corrections are used to improve the accuracy of imaging the tracer distribution. 3. Understand how PETimages are generated.
Expression, Abundance, and RNA Polymerase Binding Properties of the δ Factor of Bacillus subtilis

The delta protein is a dispensable subunit of Bacillus subtilis RNA polymerase (RNAP) that has major effects on the biochemical properties of the purified enzyme. In the presence of delta, RNAP displays an increased specificity of transcription, a decreased affinity for nucleic acids, and an increased efficiency of RNA synthesis because of enhanced recycling. Despite these profound effects, a strain containing a deletion of the delta gene (rpoE) is viable and shows no major alterations in gene expression. Quantitative immunoblotting experiments demonstrate that delta is present in molar excess relative to RNAP in both vegetative cells and spores. Expression of rpoE initiates from a single, sigmaA-dependent promoter and is maximal in transition phase. A rpoE mutant strain has an altered morphology and is delayed in the exit from stationary phase. For biochemical analyses we have created derivatives of delta and sigmaA that can be radiolabeled with protein kinase A. Using electrophoretic mobility shift assays, we demonstrate that delta binds core RNAP with an apparent affinity of 2.5 x 10(6) M-1, but we are unable to demonstrate the formation of a ternary complex containing core enzyme, delta, and sigmaA.
Age Trends in Estradiol and Estrone Levels Measured Using Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry in Community-Dwelling Men of the Framingham Heart Study

THE estrogens have been linked to the pathophysiology of gynecomastia, osteoporosis, inflammation, and cardiovascular disease (CVD), but the precise biologic role of the circulating estrone and estradiol in men remains poorly understood (1,2). The function of estrone, which is at least as abundant in the circulation as estradiol but is less potent than estradiol in some bioassays (3), has been even less well studied as compared with estradiol. In men, circulating estradiol is derived partly from direct testicular secretion and partly from peripheral aromatization of testosterone, whereas circulating estrone is derived predominantly from peripheral conversion of delta 4-androstenedione (3–10). A decline in testosterone and androstenedione levels with aging would, therefore, be expected to result in lower estradiol and estrone levels, respectively, in older men as compared with younger men. However, the data on age-related changes in estradiol levels are conflicting. Although some studies have reported lower estradiol levels in older men than in young men (11–15), others have noted stable (16,17) or even rising estradiol levels with age (18). Very few studies have investigated the age trends in estrone levels (14,15). Additionally, few studies have interpreted age trends in estrone and estradiol levels in the context of age-related changes in lifestyle and health-related factors. The estradiol levels were measured in most studies using direct immunoassays, whose accuracy in the low range prevalent in men has been questioned (19–21). Using cross-sectional data from the Framingham Heart Study (FHS), we examined the age distribution of estradiol and estrone concentrations and the relationship of these hormones to body mass index (BMI), total testosterone, sex hormone–binding globulin (SHBG), diabetes mellitus, C-reactive protein, and lifestyle factors such as smoking and alcohol consumption in a sample of community-dwelling men. We also determined how comorbid conditions, lifestyle factors, inflammation, testosterone, and SHBG levels influence the age trends in estrone and estradiol levels. We adjusted the analyses for SHBG, the major binding protein for circulating estradiol that has been associated with metabolic disorders, which may indirectly affect estrogen levels. We measured estrone and estradiol levels using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), widely accepted as the method with the highest accuracy and sensitivity (19–21).
Stress recovery during exposure to natural and urban environments

Different conceptual perspectives converge to predict that if individuals are stressed, an encounter with most unthreatening natural environments will have a stress reducing or restorative influence, whereas many urban environments will hamper recuperation. Hypotheses regarding emotional, attentional and physiological aspects of stress reducing influences of nature are derived from a psycho-evolutionary theory. To investigate these hypotheses, 120 subjects first viewed a stressful movie, and then were exposed to color/sound videotapes of one of six different natural and urban settings. Data concerning stress recovery during the environmental presentations were obtained from self-ratings of affective states and a battery of physiological measures: heart period, muscle tension, skin conductance and pulse transit time, a non-invasive measure that correlates with systolic blood pressure. Findings from the physiological and verbal measures converged to indicate that recovery was faster and more complete when subjects were exposed to natural rather than urban environments. The pattern of physiological findings raised the possibility that responses to nature had a salient parasympathetic nervous system component; however, there was no evidence of pronounced parasympathetic involvement in responses to the urban settings. There were directional differences in cardiac responses to the natural vs urban settings, suggesting that attention/intake was higher during the natural exposures. However, both the stressor film and the nature settings elicited high levels of involuntary or automatic attention, which contradicts the notion that restorative influences of nature stem from involuntary attention or fascination. Findings were consistent with the predictions of the psycho-evolutionary theory that restorative influences of nature involve a shift towards a more positively-toned emotional state, positive changes in physiological activity levels, and that these changes are accompanied by sustained attention/intake. Content differences in terms of natural vs human-made properties appeared decisive in accounting for the differences in recuperation and perceptual intake.
Effects of carotid compression on cerebral metabolism and electroencephalogram.

Abstract Blood pressure, respiration and cerebral metabolic changes (arterial and jugular PO2, SO2, PCO2, pH, Na, Na+K) were recorded in man during digital carotid compression. Factors which influenced changes in the EEG were analyzed. It was concluded that: 1. 1. The appearance of EEG slowing during carotid compression is due to cerebral anoxia as shown by the measurements of jugular PO2. 2. 2. When JPO2 fell below a certain level (PO2 threshold), EEG slowing appeared. The thresholds at which EEG slowing appeared during carotid compression were higher and more variable than those found for anoxic anoxia and hyperventilation. The reason for this is that carotid compression generally produces regional cerebral hypoxia while the other maneuvres produce diffuse cerebral hypoxia. 3. 3. If hyperventilation, and to a lesser degree hypotension, occur during carotid compression, they may contribute to some extent to the cerebral hypoxia. 4. 4. The capacity of the cerebral collateral circulation appears to decrease with advancing age and cerebrovascular disease.
Singularity in a Unicell: Can Pulses of Protein Synthesis Inhibitors Stop the Biological Clock?

The unicellular marine dinoflagellate Gonyaulax polyedra exhibits a pronounced circadian rhythm in its bioluminescence (for reference see (1)). This rhythm can be phase-shifted by light pulses as well as by biochemical agents. Extremely effective are the inhibitors of protein synthesis on 80s ribosomes.
Cost effective V&V for guidance systems using Enhanced Ground Testing (EGT)

Strategic missile systems perform an important role in safe guarding our national security. These systems use inertial guidance systems to navigate and control the missile to its intended target. As military budgets shrink, maintaining schedule and cost for the development and sustainment of these complex systems is paramount. Early prototyping combined with ongoing requirements verification in the system development cycle is critical to reduce schedule and cost risks. Verification and Validation programs must verify requirements and instill confidence that the system will perform as intended with minimal flight testing. The Enhanced Ground Testing (EGT) program was developed at Draper Laboratory to address these risks. EGT tests the guidance system in tactically representative environments as a part of system verification and validation. Multiple test cells are used to simulate the missile environments the guidance system will encounter during flight. For Navy MK6 MOD 1 EGT, these test cells consist of an Aircraft F-15E Pod, Centrifuge, and Dynamic Shaker. The test cells support profiles for environmental thermal, vibration / shock, and linear acceleration and provide test data for reliability and accuracy assessments. An EGT program provides design confidence, enables predictive methods for accuracy and reliability degradation, and is a cost effective way to complement flight test programs.
Indirect Modification of Chemical Carcinogenesis by Nutritional Factors Through Regulation of the Mixed-Function Oxidase System

The nutritional status of the host may significantly affect chemical carcinogenesis through modification of its microsomal mixed-function oxidase (MFO) system in the target tissue(s). The MFO system, a multifunction monooxygenase enzyme system—consisting of cytochrome P-450 (as the terminal oxidase) and cytochrome P-450 reductase—is the key enzyme system involved in the activation and/or detoxification of most, if not all, chemical carcinogens. The overall effect of nutritional modification of chemical carcinogenesis via MFO is dependent on: (i) the type of nutritional factor, (ii) the metabolic activation/detoxification profile of the chemical carcinogen, (iii) the specific enzymic form of cytochrome P-450 affected, and (iv) the specific target tissue involved.
Density-functional Monte-Carlo simulation of CuZn order-disorder transition

We perform a Wang-Landau Monte-Carlo simulation of a ${\mathrm{Cu}}_{0.5}{\mathrm{Zn}}_{0.5}$ order-disorder transition using 250 atoms and pairwise atom swaps inside a $5\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}5\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}5$ body-centered-cubic supercell. Each time step uses energies calculated from density-functional theory via the all-electron Korringa-Kohn-Rostoker method and self-consistent potentials. Here we find that CuZn undergoes a transition from a disordered A2 to an ordered B2 structure, as observed in experiment. Our calculated transition temperature is near 870 K, comparing favorably to the known experimental peak at 750 K. We also plot the entropy, temperature, specific heat, and short-range order as a function of internal energy.
Impediments to Journalistic Ethics: How Taiwan’s Media Market Obstructs News Professional Practice

Journalistic ethics becomes an elusive concept in Taiwan’s overcrowded and highly competitive media environment, even though its press system has been regarded as one of the freest in Asia. To explore the lived experiences of media professionals in the island nation, in-depth interviews with 20 current and former media professionals were conducted. Study findings indicate that external, internal, and market forces obstruct the ethical practice expected of journalists. This study examines the alienation and powerlessness of individual reporters facing the structural and systemic impediments, and also impediments to Taiwan journalistic standards.
A Cultural Study of Certain Anaerobic Butyric-Acid-Forming Bacteria

The anaerobic butyric-acid-forming bacteria constitute a large and complex group. Perhaps the production of butyric acid is their salient characteristic, although it is not a distinguishing characteristic for there are aerobic and facultative organisms which also produce butyric acid. Only the obligate anaerobes produce it in significant quantities, however; they may form the acid in any of the following ways : by fermentation of carbohydrates, polyhydric alcohols, and glucosides; by fermentation of calcium lactate or other lactates ; or by degradation of proteins and derived compounds. Pasteur23 in 1862 discovered an anaerobic organism in a spontaneous fermentation of calcium lactate. He found butyric acid among the fermentation products and suggested that in the .butyric fermentation, lactic acid might be intermediate between the 6-carbon sugar and the 4-carbon butyric acid. This scheme of the mechanism of fermentation is now in disrepute and is of historical interest only. It is noteworthy, however, that several of the cultures described in the early work on butyric fermentation were said to ferment calcium lactate; e. g., Vibrion butyriqueof Pasteur, Granulobacter lactobutyricus of Beijerinck,2 certain of Bredemann's6 strains, and one organism of Schattenfroh and Grassberger.28 Production of butyric acid from protein and its split-products can never be very extensive ; it may account for the acid produced by certain pathogenic anaerobes in carbohydrate poor medium. Certain of these organisms like B. putrificus of Bienstock6 are reported to be so specialized as to ferment no carbohydrates and to require complex protein medium. B. tetani is another typically non-fermentative organism producing small amounts of butyric acid among its metabolic products (Chudiakow9). The fermentation of carbohydrates then is the most important means of producing butyric acid. Many of the butyric organisms obtain their energy and oxygen by this anaerobic decomposition of carbohydrates alone. Others which ordinarily are carbohydrate-fermenting may live in carbohydrate-free medium by attacking proteins and protein split-products. If the discussion be limited to the strictly anaerobic butyric acid-producing organisms, the definition of the group might be anaerobic, motile, spore-forming organisms of the genus Clostridium, producing butyric acid by any of the above mentioned means. This definition would include certain pathogenic anaerobes? CI. welchii, CI. tetani, even CI. botulinum. These are not the type of butyrics associated with fermentation. Therefore, the butyric anaerobes of fermentation
Understanding For-Profit College and Community College Choice through Rational Choice:

Background/ContextScarce research has been conducted examining why students choose to attend higher priced for-profit institutions over community colleges. The authors suggest that increased nation...
A planning theory of self-governance: reply to Franklin

Before considering Christopher Evan Franklin’s essay in Philosophical Explorations, “Bratman on Identity over Time and Identification at a Time” (2016), let me set the stage.1 My question is: what ...