cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Planning for education in the health services: a multicriterion approach.

Abstract Administrators are often confronted with problems for which there exist several distinct measures of success. Such problems can be expressed in terms of linear programming models with several linear “criterion” functions instead of a single objective function. Although a variety of techniques are available for the solution of multicriterion problems, there exists a need for one which does not assume technical sophistication on the part of the decision maker and which provides valid solutions with minimum effort. “Efficient Manifold Presentation”, the approach used here, is based on the concept that the ideal solution must be a Pareto optimal solution. A method for finding an expression for the finite set of all Pareto optimal solutions to a linear program with multiple linear criteria is presented. Two processes are involved; first, the discovery of all Pareto optimal vertices of the feasible region, and secondly a grouping of these into sets each of which defines a convex polyhedron of Pareto optimal possibilities. Alternate versions of the second process are suggested for use under varying circumstances. An example of the applicability of the method for modeling enrollment and staffing policy in an educational institution is provided.
A flat surface robotic gripper for handling limp material

A prototype flat-surface, single-chambered and multi-chambered gripper, based on the operational principle of suction and pressure differential has been designed, implemented and experimentally tested. The prototype grippers are proven sufficient to pick and place fabric material accurately and reliably without causing any distortion and/or folding of the fabric. Both prototype grippers have been mounted on AdeptOne and AdeptThree robot arms for experimental and reliability analysis. They both meet requirements as set by the US apparel industry, related to pick and place single cut plies of several types of fabric. >
Swords into plowshares: Financing a world economic equalization program

Abstract Using the WEEP simulation model, this research examines the potential impact of a very large-scale foreign development assistance program (a “global Marshall Plan”), financed largely from reallocation of military expenditure, on the future development of the world economy. The benchmark simulation of the model with the program in operation indicates a dramatic reduction in world economic inequality, at the cost of a very minor retardation in the economic growth of the rich nations. Sensitivity analysis demonstrates that with certain key exceptions, the optimistic results are reasonably robust against parametric variation.
Efficient polynomial substitutions of a sparse argument

Methods are presented for taking powers of symbolic polynomials and substituting them into univariate polynomials with scalar coefficients. It is shown that the size of the result is a sharp lower bound on the number of coefficient multiplications required to raise a completely sparse polynomial to a power. Other theoretical results prove the optimality or near-optimality of the methods given, in terms of numbers of coefficient operations, under the condition of complete sparsity of the argument.
Cicer milkvetch forage yield, quality, and acceptability to insects

Cicer milkvetch (Astragalus cicer L.) has shown potential as a forage legume. A study near Ames, IA, was conducted to determine its herbage yield, forage quality, and acceptability to insects in relation to alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) and birdsfoot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus L.). Averaged over 2 yr, cicer milkvetch harvested three times each year (3-cut) had 40 and 18% lower herbage yield than alfalfa and birdsfoot trefoil, respectively. The 2-cut cicer milkvetch had 20% lower yield than 3-cut alfalfa, but had similar yield to that of 3-cut birdsfoot trefoil. Seasonal neutral-detergent fiber (NDF) concentration for 3-cut cicer milkvetch was 31 and 20% lower than for alfalfa and birdsfoot trefoil, respectively. Seasonal acid-detergentlignin (ADL) concentration expressed on an NDF basis for 3-cut cicer milkvetch was 20 and 37% lower than for alfalfa and birdsfoot trefoil, respectively. Seasonal crude protein concentration was greater for 3-cut cicer milkvetch than for the other treatments, and seasonal in vitro digestible dry matter was similar for the three species when harvested similarly. Compared with alfalfa, average host acceptability of cicer milkvetch was 98% lower for alfalfa weevil [Hypera postica (Gyllenhal) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)], 89% lower for potato leafhopper [Empoasca fabae (Harris) (Homoptera: Cicadellidae)], and 84% lower for pea aphid [Acrythosiphon pisum (Harris) (Homoptera: Aphididae)]. Cicer milkvetch has favorable yield and forage quality and should be considered for problem areas prone to these insects. Contribution of the USDA-ARS Iowa Cluster program of the U.S. Dairy Forage Res. Center and Iowa State Univ. Journal Paper no. J-13639 of the Iowa Agric. and Home Econ. Exp. Stn., Ames, IA 50011. Projects no. 2709 and 2580.
Plant Volatiles-based Insect Pest Management in Organic Farming

Organic agriculture is increasing in popularity worldwide due to the rapidly growing market for organic products. In organic production, insects present a major pest challenge that negatively impacts crop health and yield. To successfully manage an organic farmland, an effective insect pest management program is key. In this review, we first describe the approaches currently used for pest management in organic farming. Next, we review natural plant defense mechanisms, especially those based on plant volatile organic compounds. Chemically complex, plant volatiles have multiple ecological roles in plant-insect interactions including attracting pollinators, acting as cues for foraging herbivores as well as functioning as direct defense, indirect defense, or interplant priming. Based on the ecological roles of plant volatiles, we then discuss in-depth how pest management may be improved through a variety of strategies including using resistant cultivars, polyculture, using beneficial microorganisms such as my...
Data Segmentation and Genetic Algorithms for Sparse Data Division in Nome Placer Gold Grade Estimation Using Neural Network and Geostatistics

Ore reserve estimation, based on sparse drill hole data, was conducted for a placer gold property in Nome, Alaska. A problem with sparse data is that random subdivision of the data into modelling and evaluation subsets (as is commonly done) becomes a problem, as random selection may result in biased/skewed subsets. Therefore, a technique that combined data segmentation with genetic algorithms (GA) was applied to divide the samples into three equivalent subsets: training, validation and testing. Data segmentation was done on the basis of the distribution of gold values. Neural network and a variety of kriging techniques were used to estimate gold grades. A multi-layer feed forward neural network along with “early/quick stop” training was used for neural network modelling. A comparative evaluation of kriging and neural network methods was then performed. The results revealed that neural network was generally superior to the kriging techniques for gold grade estimation in the Nome deposit.
On Carlitz's q-Bernoulli numbers

Abstract Properties of q-extensions of Bernoulli numbers and polynomials which generalize those satisfied by Bk and Bk(x) are used to construct q-extensions of p-adic measures and define a q-extension of p-adic Dirichlet L-series.
Assessment and Evaluation Methods for Access Services

This article serves as a primer for assessment and evaluation design by describing the range of methods commonly employed in library settings. Quantitative methods, such as counting and benchmarking measures, are useful for investigating the internal operations of an access services department in order to identify workflow inefficiencies or comparator data to judge performance against peer institutions. Qualitative methods, such as focus groups and observation studies, are useful for exploring patron behavior and perceptions, especially with regard to space planning and customer service. The strengths and limitations of these methods are also briefly addressed.
Occupation, hobbies, and acute leukemia in adults

Abstract Occupational and industrial exposures have been implicated in the etiology of leukemia, yet uncertainty remains regarding potential high risk occupations. We examined the associations between self-reported occupations and hobbies and acute leukemia risk using data from 811 cases and 637 controls participating in a case–control study in the U.S. and Canada. We found that several occupations may increase the risk of acute leukemia, particularly occupations related to petroleum products, rubber, nuclear energy, munitions, plastics, and electronics manufacturing. Differences were noted according to histological type. Other occupations and hobbies were not clearly associated with risk.
Electron spin resonance as a probe to measure the possible discrete nature of time as a dynamical variable

Abstract The existence of a finite-difference differential equation to replace the Schrodinger equation, when the discreteness of time becomes manifest, is studied with reference to the problem of electron spin resonance. The calculation suggests that if high enough magnetic fields can be attained in the laboratory, a test of such a theory can be implemented by observing the dependence of the resonant frequency on the discrete time interval.
Increased oxidative-modifications of cytosolic proteins in 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, ecstasy)-exposed rat liver.

It is well established that 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, ecstasy) causes acute liver damage in animals and humans. The aim of this study was to identify and characterize oxidative modification and inactivation of cytosolic proteins in MDMA-exposed rats. Markedly increased levels of oxidized and nitrated cytosolic proteins were detected 12 h after the second administration of two consecutive MDMA doses (10 mg/kg each). Comparative 2-DE analysis showed markedly increased levels of biotin-N-methylimide-labeled oxidized cytosolic proteins in MDMA-exposed rats compared to vehicle-treated rats. Proteins in the 22 gel spots of strong intensities were identified using MS/MS. The oxidatively modified proteins identified include anti-oxidant defensive enzymes, a calcium-binding protein, and proteins involved in metabolism of lipids, nitrogen, and carbohydrates (glycolysis). Cytosolic superoxide dismutase was oxidized and its activity significantly inhibited following MDMA exposure. Consistent with the oxidative inactivation of peroxiredoxin, MDMA activated c-Jun N-terminal protein kinase and p38 kinase. Since these protein kinases phosphorylate anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 protein, their activation may promote apoptosis in MDMA-exposed tissues. Our results show for the first time that MDMA induces oxidative-modification of many cytosolic proteins accompanied with increased oxidative stress and apoptosis, contributing to hepatic damage.
Adult diagnosis of pathological demand avoidance – subsequent care planning

Purpose – Many patients in residential and secure settings have no formal diagnosis of Autism but may in fact be on the spectrum. This paper seeks to outline the diagnosis and subsequent treatment and intervention planning for a young woman in a low secure hospital.Design/methodology/approach – This paper summarises the literature in relation to the diagnosis of Pathological Demand Avoidance (an atypical presentation of Autism Spectrum Disorder) in children and describes how this diagnosis may present in adults. This search revealed that whilst there was a growing literature around PDA in Children, there was very little literature available about either the clinical presentation or management guidance in adults. A case study design was adopted.Findings – The paper concludes that the lack of an appropriate diagnosis and inappropriate formulation of the underlying causes of challenging behaviour can lead to patients becoming impossible to manage. Many may benefit from diagnosis and Autism‐specific intervent...
Alemtuzumab in relapsed or refractory chronic lymphocytic leukemia and prolymphocytic leukemia.

Twenty-three adult patients with relapsed or refractory chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) or prolymphocytic leukemia (PLL) were treated for up to 12 weeks with the anti-CD52 monoclonal antibody alemtuzumab. Patients were a median of six years from diagnosis and had been treated with a median of four chemotherapy regimens (median of 24 total cycles) prior to enrollment. Fourteen patients (61%) had received prior monoclonal antibody therapy with rituximab. Adverse symptoms were primarily mild to moderate fever, rigor/chills, nausea/vomiting, or fatigue/malaise in up to 86% of patients. Patients with low blood counts at the initiation of alemtuzumab tolerated therapy well. A total of 17 patients were evaluable for disease response. Nine patients (53%) responded with complete remissions in the peripheral blood. Of these nine, five were evaluated by bone marrow biopsy with four complete responses (CR) and one partial response. Six of the nine presented with nodal disease at the start of alemtuzumab therapy wi...
Finitely generated nilpotent hc groups are free abelian

Abstract A group G is hc if and only if every finite index subgroup of G is isomorphic to G. If G is finitely generated, nilpotent, and hc, then G is free abelian with rank equal to the minimal number of generators of G. A topological corollary is stated.
Using sit-stand workstations to decrease sedentary time in office workers: a randomized crossover trial.

Objective: This study was conducted to determine whether installation of sit-stand desks (SSDs) could lead to decreased sitting time during the workday among sedentary office workers. Methods: A randomized cross-over trial was conducted from January to April, 2012 at a business in Minneapolis. 28 (nine men, 26 full-time) sedentary office workers took part in a 4 week intervention period which included the use of SSDs to gradually replace 50% of sitting time with standing during the workday. Physical activity was the primary outcome. Mood, energy level, fatigue, appetite, dietary intake, and productivity were explored as secondary outcomes. Results: The intervention reduced sitting time at work by 21% (95% CI 18%–25%) and sedentary time by 4.8 min/work-hr (95% CI 4.1–5.4 min/work-hr). For a 40 h work-week, this translates into replacement of 8 h of sitting time with standing and sedentary time being reduced by 3.2 h. Activity level during non-work hours did not change. The intervention also increased overall sense of well-being, energy, decreased fatigue, had no impact on productivity, and reduced appetite and dietary intake. The workstations were popular with the participants. Conclusion: The SSD intervention was successful in increasing work-time activity level, without changing activity level during non-work hours.
An empirical analysis of microblogging behavior in the enterprise

Popular social networking sites have revolutionized the way people interact on the Web. Researchers have studied social networks from numerous perspectives, mostly focusing on publicly available online social networks and microblogging sites, where interactions are in general informal. Enterprises, however, have recently being adopting and utilizing microblogging services as part of their day to day operations. Within an enterprise, microblogging behavior is bounded by main business and work culture, work practices, and everyday problems. Thus, content is formal (although exchanged in an informal setting), less noisy than in online social networks, and emphasizes on the business perspective. The goal of this paper is to study the topological properties of a corporate microblogging service, its dynamics and characteristics, and the interplay between its social and topical components. Through an extensive analysis of enterprise microblogging data, we provide insights on the structural properties of the extracted network of directed messages sent between users of a corporate microblogging service, as well as the lexical and topical alignment of users. We study homophily, finding a substantial level of alignment with respect to the network structure and users activity, as well as latent topical similarity and link probability. Our analysis suggests that users with strong local topical alignment tend to participate in focused interactions, whereas users with disperse interests contribute to multiple discussions, broadening the diversity of participants. We compare our results to traditional, general purpose, online social networks and discuss the implications of our findings.
Revised spectra for the inactivation of Haemophilus influenzae transforming DNA by monochromatic ultraviolet light: effect of histidine.

—It was reported previously that histidine sensitizes the genetic activity of Haemophilus influenzae transforming DNA to pure 334 nm ultraviolet light, Further measurements show that this apparent 334 nm sensitization was probably erroneous and that in fact, histidine protects DNA against inactivation by 334 nm light. This is now consistent with all previous observations that transforming DNA is protected by histidine against all near-UV wavelengths (above 320 nm) investigated. A modified spectrum for the protection of H. influenza transforming DNA by histidine against ultraviolet light is described.
Familial hypertriglyceridemia in children: dietary management.

Summary: This study was designed to evaluate prospectively the continuing effects of dietary management in 44 children with familial hypertriglyceridemia. For obese children, weight reduction programs were instituted by metabolic dietitians. For nonobese children, for obese children with successful weight reduction (or for those who could not lose weight but would follow an altered diet), a modification of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) type IV diet was provided. Adherence to the diet program was monitored by monthly reassessment for 6 months in the outpatient clinic. In 43 children whose average age was 13 years at the time of diagnosis, mean ± SE plasma triglycerides were reduced after 6 months of weight reduction-NIH type IV diet from 253 ± 33 to 116 ± 8 mg/dl, P < 0.01. After 6 months on diet, the group mean decrement in weight (1 ± 1 kg) was not significant, and decrements in weight failed to correlate with decrements in plasma triglycerides, r = 0.131. Despite this failure to reduce weight appreciably, after 6 months on diet plasma triglyceride levels were reduced to normal (< 140 mg/dl) in 32 of the 43 children. At 8 months' follow-up in 13 children, mean plasma triglyceride was 170 ± 31 mg/dl, having been 290 ± 86 at time of diagnosis, P < 0.01. Plasma triglyceride levels at 8 months were normal in 5 of the 13 children. Plasma triglycerides were normal in 4 of 5 children with evaluation at 1 year, in 3 of 7 at 18 months, and in 4 of 14 at 22–26 months. When weight gain was proportionately greater than accretion of height, and where no attention to either caloric intake or composition was given, triglycerides remained elevated, whereas dietary adherence was generally accompanied by reduced or normal triglycerides. Amelioration of familial hypertriglyceridemia on the NIH type IV diet is a realizable goal in children, but requires persistent, repetitive reexamination and reinstruction. Speculation: Dietary management of pediatric familial hypertriglyceridemia may be important as a primary, longitudinal approach to reduction of the increased atherosclerotic risk attendant to familial hypertriglyceridemia.
Chlorimuron dissipation in water and soil at 5 and 25 °C

Chlorimuron, 2-[[[[(4-chloro-6-methoxy-2-pyrimidinyl)amino]carbonyl]amino]sulfonyl]benzoic acid ethyl ester, was added to water (pH 7.5, hardness = 110 mg of CaCO 3 /L) and soil (sandy loam, pH 5.2) to determine the rates of dissipation at 5 and 25 °C. Radioactivity of both pyrimidine- and phenyl- 14 C-labeled chlorimuron was quantitatively recovered from water after incubation for 112 days. Greater than 85% of the radioactivity was recovered from the soil treatments after 56 days of incubation. Extractable radioactivity in the soil decreased with time. The rate of degradation of chlorimuron in water followed zero-order kinetics (R 2 > 0.95). Less than 7% of the chlorimuron degraded at 5 °C, and the slope of the zero-order constant did not differ from zero. Half-life for chlorimuron in water at 25 °C ranged from 388 to 725 days, depending upon treatment. Dissipation of chlorimuron appeared to be greater in light than dark treatments. In soil, chlorimuron dissipation was described by first-order kinetics and half-life ranged from 17 to 22 days. Probable degradation products (saccharin, ethyl benzoate sulfonamide, and pyrimidine amine) in soil and water were identified in the methanol eluate by thin layer chromatography. Ethyl benzoate sulfonamide and pyrimidine amine are hydrolysis products of chlorimuron. Less than 1% of the radioactivity from water was evolved as carbon dioxide. Three to 5% of the radioactivity was evolved as carbon dioxide from the nonsterile soil treatment. Temperature appears to be a significant factor affecting chlorimuron dissipation in soil and water. Light may also enhance chlorimuron dissipation in water.
The effect of metabolic inhibitors on the response of the perfused rat heart to epinephrine

Abstract The effects of epinephrine on contractility and metabolism were measured in the isolated, perfused rat heart. Epinephrine produced an initial increase in force of contraction followed by a lowering of tension and finally a sustained increase in contractility. When fluoroacetate or iodoacetate was present in the perfusion fluid, the mechanical response to epinephrine was markedly altered. The initial response to epinephrine was depressed in the presence of either inhibitor and the final increase in force of contraction was poorly maintained during metabolic blockade. When the perfusion fluid contained both pyruvate and iodoacetate, the mechanical response of the heart to epinephrine was restored. Results of determinations of metabolites in the myocardium demonstrated that stimulation of glycogenolysis is not essential for the contractile response to epinephrine when adequate substrate is provided for the reactions of the tricarboxylic acid cycle.
Probe‐dependent and nonexponential relaxation kinetics: Unreliable signatures of downhill protein folding

The theoretical suggestion that some proteins may encounter no significant free energy barriers during their folding raises an important question: What experimental signature does this downhill folding produce? Several authors have argued that nonexponential (and especially stretched exponential) or probe-dependent kinetics represent useful experimental signatures of a downhill free energy surface. Here we examine more closely the connection between unusual kinetics and downhill energy surfaces. Simulation of diffusive relaxation dynamics on a variety of generically downhill, two-dimensional free energy surfaces shows that these surfaces do not necessarily produce either probe-dependent or significantly nonexponential kinetics. Conversely, we find that two-dimensional surfaces with significant (>3 k(B) T) energy barriers can readily give rise to nonexponential and probe-dependent kinetics. These results show that downhill folding does not constitute a necessary or sufficient condition for nonexponential and/or probe-dependent folding kinetics. One cannot easily prove or disprove that a protein folds downhill simply by studying its relaxation kinetics.
Phosphatidylinositol 3-Phosphate-dependent and -independent Functions of p40phox in Activation of the Neutrophil NADPH Oxidase

In response to bacterial infection, the neutrophil NADPH oxidase assembles on phagolysosomes to catalyze the transfer of electrons from NADPH to oxygen, forming superoxide and downstream reactive oxygen species (ROS). The active oxidase is composed of a membrane-bound cytochrome together with three cytosolic phox proteins, p40(phox), p47(phox), and p67(phox), and the small GTPase Rac2, and is regulated through a process involving protein kinase C, MAPK, and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase. The role of p40(phox) remains less well defined than those of p47(phox) and p67(phox). We investigated the biological role of p40(phox) in differentiated PLB-985 neutrophils, and we show that depletion of endogenous p40(phox) using lentiviral short hairpin RNA reduces ROS production and impairs bacterial killing under conditions where p67(phox) levels remain constant. Biochemical studies using a cytosol-reconstituted permeabilized human neutrophil cores system that recapitulates intracellular oxidase activation revealed that depletion of p40(phox) reduces both the maximal rate and total amount of ROS produced without altering the K(M) value of the oxidase for NADPH. Using a series of mutants, p47PX-p40(phox) chimeras, and deletion constructs, we found that the p40(phox) PX domain has phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate (PtdIns(3)P)-dependent and -independent functions. Translocation of p67(phox) requires the PX domain but not 3-phosphoinositide binding. Activation of the oxidase by p40(phox), however, requires both PtdIns(3)P binding and an Src homology 3 (SH3) domain competent to bind to poly-Pro ligands. Mutations that disrupt the closed auto-inhibited form of full-length p40(phox) can increase oxidase activity approximately 2.5-fold above that of wild-type p40(phox) but maintain the requirement for PX and SH3 domain function. We present a model where p40(phox) translocates p67(phox) to the region of the cytochrome and subsequently switches the oxidase to an activated state dependent upon PtdIns(3)P and SH3 domain engagement.
Assessing the Effects of Industrial Relations Systems and Efforts to Improve the Quality of Working Life on Organizational Effectiveness

This study assesses the relationships among characteristics of industrial relations systems, efforts to improve the quality of working life, and selected measures of organizational effectiveness in 25 manufacturing plants belonging to one company. On the basis of both research from organizational behavior and industrial relations, the paper offers the proposition that industrial relations systems affect organizational effectiveness through two channels. The empirical results show (1) strong evidence of an association between measures of the performance of industrial relations systems and economic performance, and (2) evidence that efforts to improve quality of working life have little impact on economic performance.
Regulation of CS1 fibronectin expression and function by IL-1 in endothelial cells.

VLA-4 is a critical adhesion molecule that regulates mononuclear cell trafficking to sites of inflammation. VCAM-1 is a primary ligand of VLA-4, although alternatively spliced fibronectin (FN) containing the CS1 region (CS1 FN) also binds to VLA-4. CS1 FN is expressed by rheumatoid arthritis (RA) synovial endothelial cells, but the factors that regulate CS1 FN expression are not known. We incubated human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) with IL-1 (0.1–10 ng/ml) for 8–48 h and determined total FN and CS1 FN mRNA by Northern blot analysis. Both were constitutively expressed by HUVEC, and IL-1 increased total FN mRNA and the CS1-containing isoform (P < 0.05). IL-1 also increased CS1 FN protein expression on HUVEC as determined by Western blot analysis. An adhesion assay using 51Cr-labeled Jurkat cells and IL-1-stimulated HUVEC was used to determine if IL-1-induced CS1 FN mediates cell binding. Cyclic CS1 peptide (10 μg/ml) blocked 49 ± 5% of IL-1-induced Jurkat cell adhesion to HUVEC (P < 0.01), whereas anti-VCAM-1 antibody inhibited binding by only 35 ± 5% (P < 0.01). CS1 peptide and anti-VCAM antibody treatment were not additive (50 ± 7% inhibition), and 38 ± 6% of new VLA-4-mediated adhesion to IL-1-treated HUVEC was due to an increase in CS1 FN. These data show that IL-1 increases CS1 FN expression by HUVEC and increases CS1-mediated cell adhesion. CS1 mimetics might have therapeutic efficacy by blocking recruitment of VLA-4-bearing cells.
Strand Displacement by DNA Polymerase III Occurs through a τ-ψ-χ Link to Single-stranded DNA-binding Protein Coating the Lagging Strand Template

In addition to the well characterized processive replication reaction catalyzed by the DNA polymerase III holoenzyme on single-stranded DNA templates, the enzyme possesses an intrinsic strand displacement activity on flapped templates. The strand displacement activity is distinguished from the single-stranded DNA-templated reaction by a high dependence upon single-stranded DNA binding protein and an inability of γ-complex to support the reaction in the absence of τ. However, if γ-complex is present to load β2, a truncated τ protein containing only domains III–V will suffice. This truncated protein is sufficient to bind both the α subunit of DNA polymerase (Pol) III and χψ. This is reminiscent of the minimal requirements for Pol III to replicate short single-stranded DNA-binding protein (SSB)-coated templates where τ is only required to serve as a scaffold to hold Pol III and χ in the same complex (Glover, B., and McHenry, C. (1998) J. Biol. Chem. 273, 23476–23484). We propose a model in which strand displacement by DNA polymerase III holoenzyme depends upon a Pol III-τ-ψ-χ-SSB binding network, where SSB is bound to the displaced strand, stabilizing the Pol III-template interaction. The same interaction network is probably important for stabilizing the leading strand polymerase interactions with authentic replication forks. The specificity constant (kcat/Km) for the strand displacement reaction is ∼300-fold less favorable than reactions on single-stranded templates and proceeds with a slower rate (150 nucleotides/s) and only moderate processivity (∼300 nucleotides). PriA, the initiator of replication restart on collapsed or misassembled replication forks, blocks the strand displacement reaction, even if added to an ongoing reaction.
Expulsion of bovine serum albumin from the air/water interface by a sparingly soluble lecithin lipid

Abstract Dynamic surface tensiometry, ellipsometry, and infrared reflection–absorption spectroscopy (IRRAS) were used to study the dynamic adsorption and surface tensions of dilauroylphosphatidylcholine (DLPC) in the presence of bovine serum albumin (BSA). Results show that the equilibrium adsorbed layers consist mostly of DLPC, which can produce dynamic surface tensions (1 mN/m) as low as the more successful lung surfactant replacement formulations. When the aqueous surface expands and contracts sinusoidally, BSA can coadsorb and lead to slightly higher dynamic surface tensions than when DLPC is alone. Similar results were obtained with BSA and sodium myristate [McClellan and Franses, Colloids Surf. B 30 (2003) 1]. Expulsion of the BSA in the layer by DLPC can take from 5 to 15 min, depending on relative concentrations and history of solute addition. This is shown by tensiometry measurements on mixtures, and also by injecting aqueous DLPC underneath adsorbed BSA layers and probing the surface layer with ellipsometry and IRRAS. Albumin layers from buffer solutions aged up to 30 h can be expelled by DLPC. In pure water, there is an initial enhancement in protein adsorption after the DLPC is injected. This can be explained by the hypothesis that DLPC molecules bind with BSA molecules to form a hydrophobic lipoprotein complex, which is more hydrophobic than the protein itself. Since DLPC produces lower surface energy than BSA and—being slightly soluble—adsorbs to the surface by a molecular mechanism, it fulfills the thermodynamic and dynamic requirements for expelling the BSA from the surface. The results have implications for minimizing lung surfactant inhibition by serum proteins, as it occurs in the cases of adult or acute respiratory distress syndrome.
Evolution of networks to meet the explosion of cloud services

Cloud is driving traffic growth, causing Service Providers to increase capacity and network efficiency. Towards these ends a new type of network is emerging — Data Center Interconnect. Differences between DCI and traditional networks are discussed.
The 250 nm absorption spectrum of benzene: Vibronic analysis☆

Abstract The supporting details for assignment of band maxima (see paper I) in the one-photon 1 B 2u ← 1 A 1g absorption spectra of benzene vapor are given. By the criteria of band separations and Franck-Condon intensities, maxima are first sorted into ν1 progressions (Table II). The progressions are then assigned by systematic search for allowed first-, second-, and third-order Herzberg-Teller transitions as set forth in Table II of Paper II. Much attention is given to vibrational angular momentum as it affects band contours and component splittings. Over 90% of the intensity is assigned and a consistent pattern of Herzberg-Teller activity is found. Both the list of modes observed to be active in vibronically inducing the transition (ν4, ν5, ν6, ν7, ν9, ν10, ν11, ν16, ν17) and the relative intensities of various types of transitions found in absorption match well that seen in SVL fluorescence. Third-order transitions are comparatively few in number, but are equivalent in intensity to many second-order transitions. Variation in the separation between progression members suggests that small (and unidentified) perturbations of upper state vibronic levels are ubiquitous. Revised or new values of nine fundamentals in the 1B2u state and two in the 1A1g state are given (Table IV). Some of the excited and ground state anharmonic constants xi0, xi,i0, xi,j0, gi,i, and gi,j are deduced for ν5, ν6, ν10, ν11, ν16, and ν17 (Table V).
Review Article Remote sensing and image processing requirements for Eulerian flow field estimations

Abstract Reported in this article are research results pertaining to an assessment of remote sensing and image processing technology for supplying useful information to numerical models which derive estimates of a hydrodynamic surface flow field. The role of remote sensing and image processing in this research is to provide time-sequential tracer distribution information over a water surface which is used as input to the flow estimating numerical model. Technical and scientific considerations concerning remote sensing tracers, platforms and sensors, as well as image processing procedures involving atmospheric corrections, geometric/radiometric processing and spatial aggregation are discussed. Results from the remote sensing/image processing component of this multidisciplinary exploratory research are encouraging, suggesting that remote sensing methods are at this time technologically (if not operationally) appropriate for supplying hydrodynamic tracer data useful for estimating spatially contiguous surfac...
Elastic contact mechanics-based contact and flash temperature analysis of impact-induced head disk interface damage

Shock-induced impulsive slider-disk contact during operation poses a major challenge for modern hard disk drives (HDD). The high contact pressure and surface temperature that are usually associated with such impact could lead to the loss of data or even catastrophic failure of the head-disk interface, rendering the HDD inoperable. In this work, an elastic contact mechanics-based analysis was performed to investigate the impact between a slider corner and a disk surface. First, the analysis uses a homogeneous, smooth contact based on Hertzian impact theory, and trends of critical contact parameters were discussed for various combinations of impact velocities and slider corner radii. From these results, disk plastic failure was identified based on the mean contact pressure. Then, a similar approach was adopted to extend the impact analysis to consider the effects of mechanical properties and thickness of various layers, adhesion, and roughness on the severity of slider-disk impact. Lastly, flash temperatures during the impact were calculated for various conditions, and it was found that thermal erasure could occur under current head-disk impact conditions.
Diffractive microscopy in dermatopathology

Diffraction is the process by which a beam of light is spread out as a result of passing through a narrow aperture or across an edge. Light diffraction can be produced by closing the aperture diaphragm beyond the recommended setting, by flipping the condenser cone down, or by using an opaque object such as the microscopist's hand to block the column of light and force it to bend around the edge. Any of these techniques results in greater refractility of objects in the path of the light. We studied 77 biopsy specimens from a variety of conditions selected to compare the value of diffractive microscopy, and found that it worked best in the evaluation of alopecia, tumor stroma, hemosiderin, argyria and imipramine pigmentation. In amyloidosis stained with Congo red and silica granuloma, polarized microscopy was superior to diffraction microscopy, and neither diffractive microscopy nor polarized microscopy was superior to routine light microscopy in the evaluation of melanin, chrysiasis or ochronosis.
An In-Depth Look at Leydig Cell Tumor of the Testis

Leydig cell tumor (LCT) is a rare tumor of the male testicular interstitium. This article provides an overview of the major pathologic manifestations of LCT of the testis; patient characteristics; clinical, radiologic, and laboratory features; prognosis; and management. LCTs of the testis are frequently hormonally active, leading to either feminizing or virilizing syndromes. The tumor is usually benign, but malignant variants can occur. The pathologic diagnosis of LCT is usually made based on morphologic characteristics of the tumor cells. The significance of Reinke crystals in the diagnosis of LCT both cytologically and histologically is underscored. Pathologists have to be familiar with the diagnostic histopathologic features, immunohistochemical panel of this tumor, and its principal differential diagnoses to prevent tumor misdiagnosis.
With Friends Like These

Peter Busch , All the Way With JFK? Britain, the U.S., and the Vietnam War . Oxford : Oxford University Press , 2003 . xiv + 240 pp. Notes, index.
Ontogeny of cholinergic neurons in the mouse forebrain

The development of cholinergic neurons in the mouse forebrain was studied by immunocytochemistry with a monoclonal antibody to choline acetyl-transferase (ChAT), the rate-limiting enzyme for acetylcholine synthesis. Since this antibody stained dividing cells in ventricular germinal zones as well as differentiating neurons, likely routes of migration could be inferred on the basis of the location of immunoreactive (IR) cells at different gestational ages. Germinal zones for cholinergic cells were observed in all ventricular zones of the forebrain with the ventral zones generating the earliest cells by gestational day 13.5 (GD13.5). On GD14, ChAT IR cells were visible in the germinal zones of the eye, olfactory ventricle, anterior horn, and dorsolateral aspect of the lateral ventricle, lateral ganglionic eminence, ventro- and dorsolateral third ventricle, and in the pineal anlage (epiphysis). ChAT IR neurons continued to develop in these and additional germinal zones on GD15, including the medial, dorsal, and dorsomedial walls of the lateral ventricle, and the medial and dorsal ganglionic eminence. On GD16, ChAT IR neurons were located in the prelimbic, pyriform, and parietal cortices and the lamina terminalis, and a cluster of IR cells was observed in the ventricular zone of the caudatopallial angle. On GD17–18, neurons in the anterior olfactory nucleus, olfactory tubercle, horizontal and vertical nucleus of the diagonal band, and medial septal nucleus stained more darkly and were multipolar, whereas immature bipolar neurons appeared to continue their migration into the hippocampus and along major fiber tracts, such as the corpus callosum, external capsule, fornix and anterior commissure. This study provides a comprehensive view of the zones of origin, probable routes of migration, and final destination of cholinergic neurons in the mouse forebrain.
Perceived Barriers to Career Development in the Context of Social Cognitive Career Theory.

Social cognitive career theory (SCCT) is a complex and extensively researched theory of career choice and performance. Relationships among several key variables of SCCT, including self-efficacy, outcome expectations, and perceived barriers, and their relationships to career choice were investigated. Contrary to prediction, outcome expectations for careers in several Holland themes were positively related to perceived career and educational barriers for women. Self-efficacy for careers in various Holland themes was more strongly associated with beliefs about coping with barriers for men than for women. In support of one of the major predictions of SCCT, high rates of correspondence were found between participants’ career choices and their highest self-efficacy and outcome expectation scores. Explanations for unexpected findings and suggestions for future research are discussed.
Darstellung der freien Dodekawolframatoaluminiumsäure H5[AlO4W12O36] · 6 H2O mittels Gefriertrocknung

Mit Hilfe der erstmalig zur Darstellung von freien Heteropolysauren angewandten Methode der Gefriertrocknung wurde die Titelverbindung aus ihrer wasrigen Losung in fester Form isoliert und durch die chemische Analyse, rontgenographisch, thermoanalytisch sowie UV- und IR-spektroskopisch charakterisiert. Mittels hochauflosender 27Al-NMR-Messungen (MAS-Technik) konnte die tetraedrische Koordination fur die Ausgangsverbindung und die oktaedrische Koordination fur die sich bei 400°C bildende legierte Phase 1/2 Al2O3 · 12 WO3 (I) bestimmt werden. I ist bei Raumtemperatur stabil, besitzt eine kubisch primitive Struktur mit a = 378 pm (600°C) und stellt die erste kubische WO3-Modifikation dar. Bei 600°C beginnt die weitere thermische Zersetzung von I unter Bildung von Al2(WO4)3. Oberhalb 830°C sind nur noch tetragonales WO3 und Al2(WO4)3 existent. Preparation of the Free 12-Tungstoaluminium Acid H5[AlO4W12O36] · 6 H2O by Means of the Cryogenic Method The title compound was first prepared in solid state from its aqueous solution by means of the cryogenic method and characterized by chemical and thermal analyses, IR and UV spectroscopy. From X-ray heating patterns the formation of a new cubic phase 1/2 Al2O3 · 12 WO3 (I) at 400°C was found, being stable till 830°C: a = 378 pm (600°C). High-resolution 27Al NMR (MAS-technique) was used to determine the tetrahedral coordination of aluminium in the title compound and the octahedral coordination in I. The degradation of the doped WO3-phase I into Al2(WO4)3 begins at 600°C. Above 830°C tetragonal WO3 and Al2(WO4)3 coexist.
Convergent Molecular Evolution of Genomic Cores in Salmonella Enterica and Escherichia coli.

One of the strongest signals of adaptive molecular evolution of proteins is the occurrence of convergent hot spot mutations: repeated changes in the same amino acid positions. We performed a comparative genome-wide analysis of mutation-driven evolution of core (omnipresent) genes in 17 strains of Salmonella enterica subspecies I and 22 strains of Escherichia coli. More than 20% of core genes in both Salmonella and E. coli accumulated hot spot mutations, with a predominance of identical changes having recent evolutionary origin. There is a significant overlap in the functional categories of the adaptively evolving genes in both species, although mostly via separate molecular mechanisms. As a strong evidence of the link between adaptive mutations and virulence in Salmonella, two human-restricted serovars, Typhi and Paratyphi A, shared the highest number of genes with serovar-specific hot spot mutations. Many of the core genes affected by Typhi/Paratyphi A-specific mutations have known virulence functions. For each species, a list of nonrecombinant core genes (and the hot spot mutations therein) under positive selection is provided.
Microphone arrays and speaker identification

Hands-free operation of speech processing equipment is sometimes desired so that the user is unencumbered by hand-held or body-worn microphones. This paper explores the use of array microphones to capture speech under adverse acoustic conditions, and provide input to a system for automatic speaker identification. The system is evaluated using reverberated speech signals, generated by a computer model of room acoustics and transduced by different simulated microphone-arrays. For comparison, the system is also evaluated using close-talking microphone input. It is found that 2-D matched-filter microphone arrays are capable of producing high speaker identification scores in a hostile acoustic environment, such as multipath distortion and competing noise sources. The paper also explores the influence of vector quantization techniques, codebook size, and order of cepstrum coefficients on the performance of the speaker identification system. >
Pervasive rightward asymmetry shifts of functional networks in autism spectrum disorder.

Importance Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a brain-based pervasive developmental disorder, which—by growing consensus—is associated with abnormal organization of functional networks. Several previous studies of ASD have indicated atypical hemispheric asymmetries for language. Objective To examine the asymmetry of functional networks using a data-driven approach for a comprehensive investigation of hemispheric asymmetry in ASD. Design, Setting, and Participants This cross-sectional study involved 24 children with ASD and 26 matched typically developing children at San Diego State University and the University of California, San Diego. Data from 10 children had to be excluded for excessive motion, resulting in final samples of 20 participants per group. Main Outcomes and Measures Asymmetry indices of functional networks identified from independent component analysis of resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging data. Results Temporal concatenation independent component analysis, performed separately in each group, showed significant group differences in asymmetry indices for 10 out of 17 functional networks. Without exception, these networks (visual, auditory, motor, executive, language, and attentional) showed atypical rightward asymmetry shifts in the ASD group. Conclusions and Relevance Atypical rightward asymmetry may be a pervasive feature of functional brain organization in ASD, affecting sensorimotor, as well as higher cognitive, domains.
Improving the linearity of the AD8361 “Tru-Pwr” RF detector IC

The AD8361 is a wideband linear RMS radio-frequency (RF) detector IC widely used in the RF industry. This paper presents a method to extend the dynamic range of the detector to nearly 40 decibels, over a range from less than −30dBm to +8dBm with absolute accuracy typically +0.5/−1dB. In addition, most samples can be made to track to a very high degree over an even wider range. The increase in accuracy and tracking allows improved power calibration, real-time power regulation, and calculation of VSWR (voltage standing wave ratio) for the multimegawatt RF transmitters used to heat plasmas on NSTX at PPPL. The method presented here is simpler and lower cost than the dual-detector-amplifier technique presented by its manufacturer. Test results and distributions are presented for approximately 20 samples of a dual-detector module built by PPPL.