cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An alternative algebra for deriving equations of motion of flexible manipulators

An alternative means for deriving equations of motion of complex systems is demonstrated. Since the method is energy based, it is useful for elastic systems. Because the method can handle vectors expressed relative to rotating coordinate systems, it does not require the introduction of coordinate transformations and thereby produces equations in a simple form. The article shows that Kane's method for rigid body systems is a special case of this alternative method. Two example problems show how the algebra can be applied to rigid and flexible nonholonomic systems.
The Cytochromes of Prototheca zopfii

The respiratory pigments of Prototheca zopfii include seven cytochromes: two c-type cytochromes, a soluble c(549) and a membrane bound c(551); three b-type cytochromes, b(555), b(559) and b(564); and cytochromes a and a(3). Cytochromes a and a(3) could be resolved spectrally in the alpha-band region by reducing the cells in the presence of methanol and cyanide. Methanol shifted the absorption maximum of cytochrome a from 598 to 603 nanometers and permitted dithionite (or substrate) to reduce the cyanide-cytochrome a(3) complex to give a well defined 595-nanometer absorption band. Methanol did not interfere with CO binding by cytochrome a(3), and CO did not alter the methanol effect on cytochrome a. Azide and cyanide, which partially inhibited exogenous respiration, stimulated endogenous respiration. Frozen steady states of the electron transport chain in the presence of cyanide and azide indicated that the stimulation by these inhibitors was due to an increased autooxidation of one of the b-type cytochromes, possibly b(564).
Extraction of soybeans with four hydrocarbon solvents

Soybean flakes were extracted in glass extraction apparatus with four hydrocarbon solvents: hexane, isohexane, pentane, and isopentane. The amount of extracted oil was determined at 10 min intervals for 60 min. The extraction rates of the solvents increased in the following order: isopentane, pentane, isohexane, and hexane. Quality and fatty acid composition of the oils extracted by the four solvents showed no significant differences.
Comparing urban crises: race, migration, and the transformation of the modern American city

Heather Ann Thompson, Whose Detroit? Politics, Labor, and Race in a Modern American City(2001) (Cornell University Press, Ithaca) viii, 295 pp. Wendell Pritchett, Brownsville, Brooklyn: Blacks, Jew...
Changes in mitochondrial and microsomal lipid peroxidation and fatty acid profiles in adrenal glands, testes, and livers from α-tocopherol-deficient rats

Abstract Studies were done to evaluate the effects of α-tocopherol deficiency in rats on the fatty acid composition and sensitivity to lipid peroxidation (LP) of mitochondria and microsomes from adrenal glands, testes, and livers. In control (α-tocopherol-sufficient) animals, adrenal concentrations of α-tocopherol were approximately 10 times greater than those in livers and testes. Dietary deficiency of α-tocopherol for 8 weeks decreased adrenal and hepatic concentrations by 80–90% and testicular concentrations by approximately 60–70%. Incubation of testicular or hepatic mitochondria and microsomes from control rats with FeSO4 (1.0 mM) caused a time-dependent stimulation of LP as indicated by the formation of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS); the rate of TBARS production increased in preparations from α-tocopherol-deficient animals. TBARS formation was not demonstrable in adrenal mitochondria or microsomes from α-tocopherol sufficient rats, but reached high levels in α-tocopherol-deficient preparations. The fatty acid composition of mitochondria and microsomes was tissue-dependent. In particular, arachidonic acid comprised approximately 40% of the total fatty acids in adrenal membranes, but only 20–25% in testes and livers. α-Tocopherol deficiency increased oleic acid concentrations in adrenal and hepatic mitochondria and microsomes but not in testes. In all three tissues, linoleic acid concentrations decreased by approximately 50%, but arachidonic acid levels were unaffected by α-tocopherol deficiency. The results indicate a close relationship between tissue sensitivity to LP in vitro and α-tocopherol concentrations. Nonetheless, any oxidative stress in vivo caused by α-tocopherol deficiency seems to spare arachidonic acid in mitochondria and microsomes but decreases linoleic acid concentrations. It is possible that because of the important physiological functions of arachidonic acid, metabolic adaptations serve to maintain membrane content during periods of oxidative stress.
The Consequences of Failing to Imitate.

Infants were shown three modeled acts presented in sequence. Imitation of one, two, or three of the modeled acts or failure to imitate was then observed. Distress was assessed prior to and following modeling. Infants who failed to imitate at least one act displayed a high level of distress. As a control, the same infants on another day observed the random manipulation of the stimuli. Distress failed to occur when the infants failed to imitate the scattering procedure. These results are discussed in terms of the child's development of internal standards. That is, during the latter part of the second year of life, infants show considerable distress when they fail to imitate coherent modeled acts. Since distress did not occur when the model simply scattered the stimuli, we assumed that interruption of play was not an incentive for distress. Deferred imitation was noted for older but not the younger cohorts.
Time-lapse gravity monitoring: A systematic 4D approach with application to aquifer storage and recovery

We studied time-lapse gravity surveys applied to the monitoring of an artificial aquifer storage and recovery (ASR) system in Leyden, Colorado. An abandoned underground coal mine has been developed into a subsurface water reservoir. Water from surface sources is injected into the artificial aquifer during winter for retrieval and use in summer. As a key component in the geophysical monitoring of the artificial ASR system, three microgravity surveys were conducted over the course of ten months during the initial water-injection stage. The time-lapse microgravity surveys successfully detected the distribution of injected water as well as its general movement. Quantitative interpretation based on 3D inversions produced hydrologically meaningful density-contrast models and imaged major zones of water distribution. The site formed an ideal natural laboratory for investigating various aspects of time-lapse gravity methodology. Through this application, we have studied systematically all steps of the method, including survey design, data acquisition, processing, and quantitative interpretation.
Experimental Toxoplasma gondii infection in mice: the role of the fifth component of complement.

SummaryExperiments performed to determine the influence of the C5 component of complement in experimental Toxoplasma infection revealed that mice deficient in C5 had reduced mortality due to acute toxo-plasmosis. Similar results were noted when inbred congenic mice of known complement type, as well as random-bred mice selected for complement type, were used. In both, mice with high complement activity were less resistant to Toxoplasma than were mice deficient in C5. However, many factors must interact in susceptibility to infection with T. gondii. Thus, lower resistance to Toxoplasma was noted in C5-deficient DBA/2J mice, whereas a high degree of resistance was noted in DBA/1J mice, which are not related to DBA/2J mice and which possess a normal sequence of complement. This accentuates the importance of using both random-bred and where possible cogenic lines in assessing the importance of individual factors in infectious immunity.
A flow microcalorimetric investigation of the acidity of chromium dioxide and γ-iron oxide

Abstract Investigations have been carried out to compare the acidity of surface sites on chromium dioxide and γ-iron oxide magnetic particles. Measured heats of adsorption and adsorption densities of pyridine show that surface sites on CrO 2 , are more heterogeneous and more acidic than surface sites on γ-Fe 2 O 3 . Experimental results indicate that monolayer coverage of pyridine, approximately 5.0 μmol m −2 , is attained on CrO 2 at a solution concentration of approximately 35 m M . Application of the Freundlich isotherm to experimental results is discussed.
Juvenile Probation Officers: Safe and Sound?

Juvenile probation officers have expressed concerns about their safety, particularly while conducting field visits in probationers’ homes and communities. Few studies have been completed regarding juvenile probation officer safety. Sixty-six juvenile probation officers were surveyed to determine their victimization, concerns about their safety, beliefs about carrying firearms, and their philosophy about their role as a juvenile probation officer. Officers’ were more frequently verbally threatened rather than physically injured and more incidents occurred in the office versus the field. Implications regarding modifications to organizational culture, policies, and practice as well as future research are discussed.
A Model of Self-Propelled Particles Coordinating Under External Leadership

In this paper, we investigate the emergence of organization patterns in a group of self-propelled particles in the presence of a mobile external leader particle. Particle-to-particle interactions and particle-to-leader interactions are described through biologically-relevant pairwise potentials. Simulation results in two dimensions reveal the existence of a variety of long run particle aggregation states, including highly polarized tracking of the leader and coherent milling about it. Transition between aggregation states is triggered by the interplay of particle energy, group size, interaction strength, and leader mobility. These findings provide insights in the structure and organization of biological groups under the influence of external aggregation devices, environmental stimuli, or trained individuals taking the lead.© 2011 ASME
‘My house shall be a house of prayer’: Regarding the Temple as a Place of Prayer in Acts within the Context of Luke’s Apologetical Objective

The prominent role of prayer, as well as the temple, in Luke’s double work has often been highlighted by scholars who are concerned with Luke–Acts as a literary and theological project. However, the problems related to the temple as a place of prayer have rarely been raised in this context. The present article seeks to address this issue within the context of Luke’s story-world and overall agenda. The thesis of this article is that Acts’ narrative presentation of the temple as a place of prayer is a part of the general apologetical strategy of Luke–Acts; it is a part of Luke’s attempt to define the Christian church vis-a-vis Judaism, which involves stressing both continuity and discontinuity.
The Secondary Permeability of Impervious Cover

Impervious cover signifies buildings, roads, sidewalks, and parking lots of low permeability (assumed nearly zero), and it is a consideration in estimating aquifer recharge in urbanized areas. It is commonly assumed that increasing impervious cover decreases direct recharge from precipitation, but observations of most roads, sidewalks, or parking lots reveal abundant fractures that may permit infiltration. We estimate the secondary permeability of pavements using a double-ring infiltrometer. Linear extrapolation determines the infiltration rate as the water depth approaches zero, which is used as a hydraulic conductivity proxy. Data were collected on pavements in Austin, Texas, at fractures or expansion joints intersected along sixteen 30-meter scan lines. By dividing the sum of the discharges for each fracture by the scan-line area, we determined an equivalent-porous-media hydraulic conductivity. For discrete fractures, these ranged over three orders of magnitude from >10 −2 to −5 cm/s; scan-line hydraulic conductivities ranged from >10 −4 to 10 −6 cm/s; permeability along the scan lines tended to be dominated by a few highly conductive fractures; and hydraulic conductivity of the entire paved surface was approximately 5.9 × 10 −5 cm/s. By multiplying the paved surface hydraulic conductivity by the time the surface was saturated, we estimate that 21 percent of mean annual rainfall (170 mm) is available as potential recharge. Coupled with enhanced subsurface permeability structure from the installation of utilities and reduction of vegetation and, consequently, evapotranspiration, the net effect of impervious cover on recharge is uncertain, but, in many cases, there is likely either little effect or an increase in recharge from precipitation.
Effect of developmental quotient on symptoms of inattention and impulsivity among toddlers with Autism Spectrum Disorders.

The effect of developmental quotient on symptoms of inattention and impulsivity was examined among 198 toddlers with Autism Spectrum Disorders. There were two levels of developmental quotient: (1) low (less than or equal to 70; n = 80), and (2) typical (greater than 70; n = 118). Symptoms of inattention and impulsivity were assessed using 14 items that comprise the BISCIUT-Part 2 inattention/impulsivity subscale. There was no significant effect of developmental quotient on these items representing inattention and impulsivity when severity of Autism Spectrum Disorder symptoms was controlled for. However, the covariate, severity of Autism Spectrum Disorder symptoms, was significantly related to 12 of the 14 items. Percent endorsement of impairment of symptoms relating to inattention and impulsivity for the low and typical developmental quotient groups is also listed. Implications of the results are also discussed.
Effect of Temperature Feedback and Hydrostatic Adjustment in a Stratospheric Model

Abstract Calculated perturbations to stratospheric ozone are generally thought to be reduced when temperature feedback is included in the model. We find that when self-consistent hydrostatic adjustment is included with temperature feedback, there can be significant differences in the computed change in local ozone concentration. We present results in two frames of reference (changes in ozone at constant altitude and changes at constant pressure) to illustrate the importance of the frame of reference. Including hydrostatic adjustment is particularly important for calculations of the change in local ozone at constant altitude due to CFM, CO2 and H2O perturbations because large changes in the temperature structure are predicted. Only small differences are computed for increases in N2O. Air density adjustment in a constant pressure frame of reference is important when local temperature changes are large.
A new approach for predicting the enhancement in the effective conductivity of perfused muscle tissue due to hyperthermia

This study attempts to measure the hyperthermic response of individual microvessels in skeletal muscle tissue subject to local heating and then to predict the enhancement in thermal conductivity that results from the observed changes in vascular diameter and flow. In contrast to existing studies, which have tried to relate changes in tissue thermal conductivity to local blood perfusion using thermal clearance and self-heated thermistor techniques, we have developed a two-dimensional muscle tissue preparation in which the hyperemic response has been quantified by measuring thein vivo changes in diameter and blood flow of 1A to 4A generation vessels of rat cremaster muscle when the temperature was raised in 2° increments from 34 to 42°C. Only 3A and 4A vessels showed vasodilation when subject to hyperthermia, indicating that the measured increase in flow in the 1A and 2A vessels was the result of a decrease in downstream resistance. Our cremaster muscle preparations have also been used to obtain the first detailed anatomic measurements of the number density and length of countercurrent vessel pairs between 50–200 μm diameter. These combined measurements have been used to establish the limits of validity of the Weinbaum-Jiji theory. Our experimental data indicate that the Weinbaum-Jiji expression forKeff is valid in cremaster muscle and cat mesentery tissue for both normal and hyperthermic conditions provided the largest vessels are <200 μm in diameter. The theory predicts that significant enhancements inkeff start to occur for vessels that are 70 μm in diameter or larger, that a 2.5-fold increase inkeff can be achieved for a maximally dilated 200 μm diameter 1A vessel pair in cremaster muscle of larger rats, and a 6-fold increase is predicted for maximally dilated 200 μm diameter vessels in the cat mesentery. The experiments also show that maximally dilated 1A to 4A vessels in the microcirculation closely satisfy the conditionQ(flow)/(2a)3=constant, which is consistent with the hypothesis that there is an adaptive regulation of vessel diameter which keeps the wall shear stress nearly constant during temporal changes in flow.
Amphetamine Effects in Man: Paradoxical Drowsiness and Lowered Electrical Brain Activity (CNV)

Thirteen of 20 normal adults given 10 milligrams of dextroamphetamine exhibited paradoxical drowsiness accompanied by lowered electrical brain activity (contingent negative variation, or CNV) in the first hour post-drug. During this period, seven subjects showed behavioral alertness and increased CNV amplitude. Both groups of subjects showed heightened alertness 2 and 3 hours post-drug. Amphetamine is not a simple stimulant of the central nervous system but can also act as a depressant.
Structure and Activity of Y-class DNA Polymerase DPO4 from Sulfolobus solfataricus with Templates Containing the Hydrophobic Thymine Analog 2,4-Difluorotoluene

The 2,4-difluorotoluene (DFT) analog of thymine has been used extensively to probe the relative importance of shape and hydrogen bonding for correct nucleotide insertion by DNA polymerases. As far as high fidelity (A-class) polymerases are concerned, shape is considered by some as key to incorporation of A(T) opposite T(A) and G(C) opposite C(G). We have carried out a detailed kinetic analysis of in vitro primer extension opposite DFT-containing templates by the trans-lesion (Y-class) DNA polymerase Dpo4 from Sulfolobus solfataricus. Although full-length product formation was observed, steady-state kinetic data show that dATP insertion opposite DFT is greatly inhibited relative to insertion opposite T (approximately 5,000-fold). No products were observed in the pre-steady-state. Furthermore, it is noteworthy that Dpo4 strongly prefers dATP opposite DFT over dGTP (approximately 200-fold) and that the polymerase is able to extend an A:DFT but not a G:DFT pair. We present crystal structures of Dpo4 in complex with DNA duplexes containing the DFT analog, the first for any DNA polymerase. In the structures, template-DFT is either positioned opposite primer-A or -G at the -1 site or is unopposed by a primer base and followed by a dGTP:A mismatch pair at the active site, representative of a -1 frameshift. The three structures provide insight into the discrimination by Dpo4 between dATP and dGTP opposite DFT and its inability to extend beyond a G:DFT pair. Although hydrogen bonding is clearly important for error-free replication by this Y-class DNA polymerase, our work demonstrates that Dpo4 also relies on shape and electrostatics to distinguish between correct and incorrect incoming nucleotide.
Liquid droplet dynamics and complex morphologies in vapor–liquid–solid nanowire growth

The morphology of semiconducting nanowires, including kinked and branched wires, must be controlled in order to produce functional devices. Here, we describe some of the experimental and theoretical work involving complex morphologies of Au-catalyzed Si nanowires grown using the vapor–liquid–solid technique. Although there is a broad parameter space to explore, experiments have highlighted the importance of the precursor and impurity partial pressures on kinking behavior. Theoretical and modeling work has indicated that the stability of and transitions in droplet configuration are important for growth direction changes that can lead to complex morphologies. We describe recent phase-field simulations of nanowire growth that address the dynamics of liquid droplets during vapor–liquid–solid growth, as well as the implications of these results for the formation of wires with complex morphology.
Complications of a Gastrostomy Tube Used for Decompression of an Inoperable Bowel Obstruction in a Patient with Advanced Cancer

Percutaneous gastrostomy tubes (G-tubes) are used to decompress symptomatic patients with inoperable malignant bowel obstruction. Complications of G-tubes have rarely been reported in the palliative care literature. Nonetheless, complications are not uncommon and could interfere with the quality of life of patients, as illustrated by our case report. Given the increased use of percutaneous G-tubes, more attention needs to be paid to the prevention, early detection, and treatment of potential adverse events. Patients and their caregivers must receive appropriate education about complications of G-tubes and be made aware of the early signs and symptoms that must be brought to the attention of health care providers. Management of complications requires the use of health care resources that often can be found only in an acute care setting, and often requires referral to an interventional radiologist or endoscopist. Routine referral for G-tube placement before medical management has been maximized may not minimize suffering in patients with life-limiting illnesses.
Interatomic potentials for monoatomic metals from experimental data and ab initio calculations

We demonstrate an approach to the development of many-body interatomic potentials for monoatomic metals with improved accuracy and reliability. The functional form of the potentials is that of the embedded-atom method, but the interesting features are as follows: (1) The database used for the development of a potential includes both experimental data and a large set of energies of different alternative crystalline structures of the material generated by ab initio calculations. We introduce a rescaling of interatomic distances in an attempt to improve the compatibility between experimental and ab initio data. (2) The optimum parametrization of the potential for the given database is obtained by alternating the fitting and testing steps. The testing step includes a comparison between the ab initio structural energies and those predicted by the potential. This strategy allows us to achieve the best accuracy of fitting within the intrinsic limitations of the potential model. Using this approach we develop reliable interatomic potentials for Al and Ni. The potentials accurately reproduce basic equilibrium properties of these metals, the elastic constants, the phonon-dispersion curves, the vacancy formation and migration energies, the stacking fault energies, and the surface energies. They also predict the right relative stability of different alternative structures with coordination numbers ranging from 12 to 4. The potentials are expected to be easily transferable to different local environments encountered in atomistic simulations of lattice defects.
Raman signature of the non-hydrogen-bonded tryptophan side chain in proteins: experimental and ab initio spectra of 3-methylindole in the gas phase

Abstract 3-Methylindole (3MI), which serves as a structural model for the tryptophan side chain in proteins, has been investigated using vapor phase Raman spectroscopy. The vapor phase spectrum of 3MI identifies the Raman signature of the indolyl moiety free of intermolecular interaction and extends previously reported solution Raman studies of 3MI and related tryptophan derivatives. The Raman spectrum of 3MI vapor is also complemented here with newly obtained vapor phase infrared data and ab initio calculations to refine and extend previous vibrational assignments. The present results provide an improved basis for assessing the dependence of the indolyl Raman signature on the local environment of the tryptophan side chain of proteins. The principal conclusions of this work are the following. (i) The vapor phase 3MI molecule exhibits Raman bands at 3506, 1585, 1409, 1349/1341 (Fermi doublet) and 881 cm −1 , which differ greatly from their counterparts in the Raman spectrum of 3MI liquid and thus serve as spectral markers of the indolyl ring environment. (ii) The Fermi doublet relative intensity ratio ( I 1 / I 2 , where I 1 and I 2 are, respectively, the Raman intensities of the higher and lower wavenumber components of the doublet) is highly sensitive to the state of 3MI condensation, consistent with the previously reported sensitivity of I 1 / I 2 to solvent polarity. The maximum value of the intensity ratio ( I 1 / I 2 =3.0) is observed for 3MI vapor, while the minimum value ( I 1 / I 2 =0.43) is observed for 3MI in CHCl 3 solution. Implications of the present results for Raman analysis of hydrogen bonding states, hydrophilic interactions and hydrophobic interactions of tryptophan residues in proteins are considered.
Physiological and psychophysical assessments of the dynamic range of vowel representations in the auditory periphery

This review summarizes our work on the neural encoding of steady-state vowels. As in previous studies from our laboratory, the speech code is described in terms of average discharge rates for populations of neurons in the auditory nerve and ventral cochlear nucleus of barbiturate anesthetized cats. Our current analyses extend these population measures with new statistical models and signal detection methods to facilitate quantitative comparisons of the effects of stimulus level on vowel formant representations. These measures are applied to low and high spontaneous rate auditory-nerve fibers, and four of the principal response types of the ventral cochlear nucleus. The perceptual significance of the speech code is examined by relating neural response patterns to the behavioral performance of cats in vowel formant discrimination tasks. In combination, these physiological and psychophysical assessments suggest that vowel-coding mechanisms based on discharge rates in the auditory periphery are sufficient to support the dynamic range of speech perception.
Growth and ripening of silica polymers in aqueous solutions

Abstract The molecular weights and number densities of polymers formed in neutral solutions of silicicacid, at the low concentrations that are typical of hydrothermal waters, were determined by gel filtration chromatography. The polymers exhibit Ostwald ripening that is characteristic of growth limited by a first order reaction of monomer at the surfaces of growing particles. Three divalent inorganic salts at 0.1 M are more effective at promoting polymer growth than is sodium chloride at the same concentration. The results support a recent theoretical model of the silica polymerization reaction but also identify ways in which the model might be improved.
Confronting the Problem of Increasing Partisan Politics in the District Assemblies System in Ghana

This article examines calls for the introduction of partisan politics into the District Assemblies system, which is the core institution in Ghana’s democratic decentralization program. I argue that...
Regulation of Smad Activities

TGF-beta (Transforming Growth Factor-beta) cytokines employ Smad proteins as the intracellular mediator of signaling. Upon TGF-beta stimulation, the cytoplasmic Smads become phosphorylated and consequently accumulate in the nucleus to regulate target gene expression. The cytoplasm-to-nucleus redistribution of Smads, as well as the ability of Smads to activate or repress gene transcription, is under multiple layers of regulation by factors not limited to TGF-beta. With recent advance in the knowledge of regulatory factors impinged on Smads, we are beginning to understand the complexity in cellular responses to TGF-beta.
Ovarian ecdysteroids and their secretion in late-pharate adults of Galleria mellonella

Abstract Approximately two-thirds of the total amount of ecdysteroids in late—pharate adults of the wax moth, Galleria mellonella , were found in the ovaries and one-third in the ovariectomized body. Chemical analysis of these ecdysteroids by thin-layer and high-pressure liquid chromatography, coupled with an ecdysteroid radioimmunoassay, revealed the presence of 2-deoxyecdysone, ecdysone and 20-hydroxyecdysone, as well as high and low polarity unknowns. The predominant identifiable ecdysteroid in both the ovaries and ovariectomized body was 2-deoxyecdysone, followed by lesser amounts of ecdysone and 20-hydroxyecdysone, respectively. Incubation of late-pharate adult ovaries in culture medium revealed that they synthesize and secrete ecdysteroids in vitro . The in vitro distribution of ecdysteroids between ovaries and incubation medium was similar to that observed between ovaries and ovariectomized bodies in situ and the predominant identifiable moiety both retained and released by the ovaries in vitro was 2-deoxyecdysone, followed by lesser amounts of ecdysone and 20-hydroxyecdysone. Collectively, these results support the idea that the ecdysteroids synthesized by the ovaries of late-pharate adult Galleria are both stored and secreted and that the quantity of a specifically secreted ecdysteroid is precisely controlled. This apparent regulation of the distribution of ovarian ecdysteroids raises the possibility that the stored and secreted forms have distinct functions in the reproductive physiology of this insect.
On the Beneficial Effects of Anti-Squat in Rear Suspension Design of a Drag Racing Motorcycle

In the drag racing environment, maximizing tractive effort is essential to competitive performance. Anti-squat is a transient vehicle suspension parameter which can dramatically affect tractive effort available at the motorcycle drive tire. This paper addresses the design of a four-link rear suspension for a drag racing motorcycle to provide anti-squat, which increases rear tire traction, thereby improving vehicle acceleration performance. Utilizing PC based CAD, finite element analysis and dynamic system analysis software, a motorcycle rear suspension system was designed, built and tested under actual racing conditions. Parametric studies using dynamic theoretical models were conducted for both unsuspended and four-link equipped versions of the same vehicle. Based on the results, it is shown that the four-link suspension, when applied to a drag racing motorcycle, does provide opportunity for improving tractive effort at the beginning of a race which will improve overall drag racing performance.
On the evolution of isolated, nonlinear vortices

Abstract The evolution of an isolated, axially symmetric vortex is calculated with a quasi-geostrophic, adiabatic, hydrostatic. β-plane, two vertical mode model. The circumstances of greatest interest are those of weak friction and large vortex amplitude (strong nonlinearity). Systematic studies are made of the consequences of varying the frictional coefficient, the vortex amplitude, the vortex radius (relative to the deformation radius), the degree of nonlinear coupling between the two vertical modes and the initial vertical structure of the vortex. Results of note include the following. Within the approximation of a single vertical mode model (i.e., in the absence of modal coupling), a baroclinic vortex has an increased westward and a finite meridional propagation speed when its amplitude is greater than infinitesimal. Both of these speeds, however, are limited by the wave speeds (as determined from infinitesimal amplitude theory) of the weak dispersion field outside the vortex. The vortex amplitude dec...
The structure of the reproductive mesenteries of the sea anemone Ceriantheopsis americanus

Summary The burrowing hermaphroditic anemone, Ceriantheopsis americanus, lives in a mucus-lined tube in sandy bottomed grass-flat areas of Tampa Bay. In this hermaphroditic species ova and sperm cysts are interspersed throughout the coupled mesenteries. The gonads occur in every other coupled mesentery beginning with the third couple. A mesentery consists of two layers of flagellated gastrodermis separated by a layer of mesoglea. The mature sperm is arrow-shaped and resembles those of other ceriantids. Ceriantheopsis americanus appears capable of self-fertilization as eggs fertilized by sperm from the same individual have produced viable embryos which have undergone cleavage.
Protein and amino acid turnover during differentiation in the slime mold. I. Utilization of endogenous amino acids and proteins.

Abstract During starvation and multicellular differentiation, the slime mold sequentially utilizes endogenous amino acids, ethanol soluble and ethanol insoluble protein. The amino acid pool drops to approximately 30% of its initial value, the ethanol soluble protein to 60% and the ethanol insoluble protein to about 80% of its initial value during the course of differentiation.
Impulsivity and Paced Tapping

The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that impulsivity is positively related to both the intraindividual variability and the rate of performance of a paced tapping task. Selected experimental conditions which have been demonstrated to influence paced tapping were included in the experimental design of the tapping task. The independent variables in the tapping task were: feedback vs. no feedback; tempo; concurrent cognitive task (counting) vs. no concurrent cognitive task. Three measures of tapping performance were computed: absolute or total error of tapping, tapping rate, and the intraindividual variability of tapping. The results confirm the hypothesis that impulsivity is positively related to rate of paced tapping, although the degree of relationship varied under different experimental conditions within the paced tapping task. Intraindividual variability of tapping was not significantly related to impulsivity, but the results were suggestive of a positive relationship.
Effects of E-Tailer and Product Type on Risk Handling in Online Shopping

Abstract Franchising is emerging as a highly effective strategy for growth, job creation, and economic development and is spreading rapidly around the globe. However, the pursuit of global markets by franchisors has traditionally relied on employing just three generic franchising options (i.e., direct franchising, master franchising, area development). This paper presents a more expansive view of strategic choice for franchisors by presenting first-mover, platform, and conversion strategies as additional strategic approaches that may be utilized to meet the challenge of expanding into international markets. Propositions are advanced to first suggest which strategic approaches aremost appropriate under varied foreign market conditions and then how these approaches should be linked to the three generic licensing options to create combination strategies based on franchisor experience/capabilities and similar/dissimilar markets. A contingency model of global franchising is presented, which depicts the above r...
Dose-response effects of glucose, insulin, and glucagon on mouse pre-embryo development.

The diabetic state, as well as elevated culture media glucose level (950 mg D-glucose/dL) per se, significantly retards in vitro development of mouse pre-implantation embryos from a two-cell stage to blastocyst stage; maternal insulin therapy to diabetic mice reverses this impairment. This study was undertaken to assess (1) whether less extreme elevation of the media glucose concentration would also impair development, and (2) whether elevated culture media insulin or glucagon levels would alter development. Two-cell pre-embryos were recovered from B6C3F1 mice that had been stimulated with pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hGG), mated, and killed 48 hours later. Pre-embryos were observed in culture at 24-hour intervals for a total of 72 hours at four glucose levels: 110 (n = 108), 220 (n = 101), 440 (n = 65), and 950 (n = 106) mg D-glucose/dL. Impairment in progression of development was noted at each time period; compared with development in 110 mg glucose/dL, the distribution of development was significantly different at 24 hours (chi 2 = 60.1, P less than .001), at 48 hours (chi 2 = 36.7, P less than .001), and at 72 hours (chi 2 = 45.1, P less than .001). Rate of development as assessed by ANOVA was also significantly reduced at increasing glucose levels (P less than .0001), with Duncan Multiple Range test demonstrating differences between development at higher glucose levels in the comparison of development in 110 mg/dL versus 440 mg/dL and 950 mg/dL, and at 220 mg/dL versus 950 mg/dL.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Ramp compression of diamond to five terapascals

The recent discovery of more than a thousand planets outside our Solar System, together with the significant push to achieve inertially confined fusion in the laboratory, has prompted a renewed interest in how dense matter behaves at millions to billions of atmospheres of pressure. The theoretical description of such electron-degenerate matter has matured since the early quantum statistical model of Thomas and Fermi, and now suggests that new complexities can emerge at pressures where core electrons (not only valence electrons) influence the structure and bonding of matter. Recent developments in shock-free dynamic (ramp) compression now allow laboratory access to this dense matter regime. Here we describe ramp-compression measurements for diamond, achieving 3.7-fold compression at a peak pressure of 5 terapascals (equivalent to 50 million atmospheres). These equation-of-state data can now be compared to first-principles density functional calculations and theories long used to describe matter present in the interiors of giant planets, in stars, and in inertial-confinement fusion experiments. Our data also provide new constraints on mass-radius relationships for carbon-rich planets.
Ultraviolet Spectral Classification of O and B Stars in the Large Magellanic Cloud

In this extension of our previous ultraviolet classification study of Small Magellanic Cloud stars, we construct an ultraviolet classification system for stars of the Large Magellanic Cloud, a galaxy with a metallicity intermediate to those of the Milky Way and the SMC. Employing the same method as was used for the SMC, we compile a set of LMC spectra drawn from the International Ultraviolet Explorer archives and use these spectra to construct a framework of reliable UV spectral classification criteria. We classify 143 LMC IUE spectra and identify the LMC standard stars that define our UV classification system. Representative spectra are presented to illustrate the patterns that the UV spectral classification features exhibit. The LMC and SMC UV classification systems are intended to be applicable to UV spectra of stars in external galaxies for which no MK standards have been defined. Such UV spectra are expected to be collected from spaceborne instruments such as the Space Telescope Imaging Spectrograph, aboard the Hubble Space Telescope.
BK virus colonic ulcerations.

The papovavirus is categorized into 2 subgroups, the papilloma and the polyoma. Members of the papilloma subgroup include the human papilloma virus, whereas those of the polyoma subgroup include the BK virus (BKV), JC virus (JCV), and Simian virus 40 (SV 40). The BKV is approximately 40 nm in diameter with a nonenveloped, icosahedral virus containing doublestranded DNA. BKV is being increasingly recognized as a cause of renal allograft dysfunction and failure. Although BKV has been reported in association with cystitis, 1,2 nephritis, ureteral stenosis, 3–5 encephalitis, 6 interstitial pneumonia, 7 hepatic dysfunction, 8 central nervous system neoplasm, 9,10 and pancreatic islet tumors, 9 to date, BKV has not been reported as a cause of gastrointestinal disease. We report a patient with cadaveric renal transplant who presented with abdominal pain and diarrhea. Colonoscopic examination showed colonic ulcers caused by BKV. To our knowledge, this is the first case reported of BKV-induced colonic ulcers in an immunocompromised host.
Univariate and multirater ordinal cumulative link regression with covariate specific cutpoints

The author considers a reparameterized version of the Bayesian ordinal cumulative link regression model as a tool for exploring relationships between covariates and “cutpoint” parameters. The use of this parameterization allows one to fit models using the leapfrog hybrid Monte Carlo method, and to bypass latent variable data augmentation and the slow convergence of the cutpoints which it usually entails. The proposed Gibbs sampler is not model specific and can be easily modified to handle different link functions. The approach is illustrated by considering data from a pediatric radiology study. RESUME L'auteur propose une nouvelle parame'trisation du modele de regression ordinale bayesien a lien cumu-latif dont il se sert pour explorer la relation entre des covariables et des “points de coupure.” Cette reparametrisation permet d'ajuster les modeles par une methode de Monte-Carlo a saute-mouton modifiee, evitant ainsi le besoin d'augmentation de donnees de la variable latente et la lenteur de convergence des points de coupure qui en decoule souvent. L'echantillonneur de Gibbs qui est propose n'est pas specifique au modele et peut ětre adapte facilement a d'autres fonctions de lien. La methode est illustree au moyen d'une etude de radiologie pediatrique
Optical biopsy needle for optical coherence tomography

Summary form only given.Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a recently developed imaging technology, which performs cross sectional imaging in materials and biological tissues by measuring the echo delay and magnitude of backscattered light. The advantages of OCT compared with other existing imaging modalities include its high resolution (1-15 /spl mu/m), fast data acquisition speed, small size and portability and can be combined with birefringence, Doppler, and spectroscopic detection.
Transport of ferrous iron and lactate production in Bifidobacterium bifidum var. pennsylvanicus.

Initial rates of ferrous iron transport intoBifidobacterium bifidum var.pennsylvanicus were measured at low and high iron concentrations. The low affinity system (LAFIUS) had an apparent Km of 167 μM, the high affinity system (HAFIUS) had a Km of 50 μM.
Cell response to hyperbaric oxygen treatment

Wound healing involves matrix deposition, angiogenesis, and new tissue growth. Cellular activity during healing is related to tissue oxygen levels. Since wound healing requires oxygen, the purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) on cells involved in wound healing. Cultured endothelial cells and fibroblasts were exposed to HBO. The effect of varied partial pressure, oxygen saturation, and duration and frequency of exposure to HBO on cell proliferation was determined by 3H-labeled thymidine incorporation. HBO causes an increase in the partial pressure of oxygen in the medium of cultured cells, leading to increased endothelial cell and fibroblast proliferation. Increased endothelial cell proliferation occurred after 15 min of HBO. Fibroblasts required 120 min of HBO to produce a response. A second exposure to HBO on the same day produced no additional increase in cell proliferation. A 120-min HBO exposure stimulated fibroblast proliferation for 72 h after the exposure. An increase in pressure from 2.4 to 4.0 atmospheres absolute did not enhance the proliferative response. These studies begin to elucidate the effects of HBO on cells involved in wound healing and establish a scientific foundation upon which to develop more efficacious and cost-effective HBO therapeutic protocols.
Do nearby forest fires cause a reduction in residential property values

Abstract Linear and semi-log hedonic property models identified a statistically significant decrease in property values in a town that was 2 miles from a major wildfire that burned 12,000 acres, and destroyed 10 houses. The house price drop in the unburned community is about 15%. This suggests that home buyers and sellers appear to revise upward their perceptions of fire risk after a major fire as well possibly reflecting some loss in forest amenity value in the broader geographic area surrounding the unburned town. These factors combine to reduce the desirability of living in the forest, reducing house prices.
Long-term survival of individuals with myelomeningocele.

The objectives of this study were to extend survival analysis into adulthood for patients with myelomeningocele (MM) and to compare survival curves for patients born with varying defect severity befor
NMR Study of Dendrimer Structures Using Paramagnetic Cobalt(II) as a Probe.

Cobalt(II) has been utilized as an external paramagnetic 1H NMR probe for the study of the structure of dendrimers that possess specifically located metal recognition sites. The isotropically shifted 1H NMR signals of the Co(II) complexes of two 2,6-diamidopyridine-containing dendrimers have been fully assigned by means of 1D and 2D NMR techniques, including NOE difference, EXSY, COSY, and TOCSY. T1 values of the isotropically shifted signals were used to calculate metal−proton distances to build a molecular model of the internal structure of the dendrimers. The presence of sizable cavities within the dendrimers was observed, including a loosely packed conformation for the 2,6-diamidopyridine moiety to bind to potential guest molecules.
Parametric aeroelastic stability analysis of a generic X-wing aircraft

This paper discusses the dynamic aeroelastic stability of a generic X-wing aircraft configuration. The analysis model includes rigid-body degrees of freedom and unsteady aerodynamic forces generated using the doublet lattice method. Design parameters are varied to evaluate the trends in dynamic aeroelastic stability. X-wing rotor blade sweep angle, ratio of blade mass to total vehicle mass, blade structural stiffness cross coupling, and vehicle center of gravity location were parameters considered. The typical instability encountered is "body-freedom" flutter involving a low-frequency interaction of the first elastic mode and the aircraft short period mode. In most parametric cases, those cases having the least static longitudinal stability demonstrated the highest flutter dynamic pressures. As mass ratio was increased, the flutter boundary decreased. The decrease was emphasized as center of gravity location was moved forward. As sweep angle varied, it was observed that the resulting increase in forward-swept blade bending amplitude relative to aft blade bending amplitude in the first elastic mode had a stabilizing effect on the flutter. b [B,] [C'\ [C] El [F] GJ [7] ^ [K] [Kf] L Lb [M'] mb nif mr [M] q
Electrospun Nanofibers with Associative Polymer−Surfactant Systems

Associative polymers are unique in their structure with pendant hydrophobes attached to their hydrophilic backbone, enabling associations between the hydrophobes and forming junctions in aqueous solutions. In this study, we examine efforts to produce electrospun nanofibers of associative polymers in conjunction with a readily spinnable polymer. Scanning electron micrograph (SEM) images reveal that the solution rheology sets an upper limit to the concentration of associative polymer that can be successfully electrospun. However, addition of nonionic surfactants to the precursor solution results in significant improvement in nanofiber morphology as evinced from reduced beading. Through judicious use of nonionic surfactants to modulate solution viscoelastic properties, we are able to obtain defect-free nanofiber morphology and gain new insights into the fundamentals of the electrospinning process. In particular, we find that solution viscoelasticity as measured in terms of the relaxation time, rather than viscosity as typically hypothesized, controls the nanofiber formation process.