cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Automated safety inspection of grade crossings

A grade crossing is a crossing of a railway line and a motor road. In 2009 alone there were 248 deaths and 682 injuries at grade crossings in the United States. Factors like the elevation profile of a crossing or the environment and foliage around the crossing can render it unsafe. Often, vehicles with low ground clearance bottom out on a crossing with a humped elevation profile. Excessive foliage around the crossing can obstruct the visibility of an approaching train, reducing the time a driver has to stop. Hence ensuring safety requires regular monitoring and timely maintenance of grade crossings across the country. In this paper, we describe our method for automatically inspecting grade crossings. Our work employs principled machine learning methods to detect grade crossings from sensor data and then reconstructs the profile of that rail-road intersection. We then show how traffic simulation on the reconstructed profile can be used to determine whether the crossing is unsafe.
Analysis of propellant stabilizer components via packed and capillary supercritical fluid chromatography/Fourier transform infrared spectrometry

The separation of model mixtures of nitrated diphenylamine and nitrated aniline via supercritical fluid chromatography employing both capillary and packed columns is described. With highly deactivated stationary phases each mixture could be separated with 100% CO2 pressure programmed. Peak identification and peak purity were afforded by on-line Fourier transform infrared spectrometric detection. Nitrosoaniline derivatives were observed via FTIR to have been converted to nitro derivatives on storage.
Ureteral injury due to blunt and penetrating trauma.

Abstract In a period of twenty-seven months, 15 patients with ureteral trauma were encountered, leading us to believe that there is an increasing incidence of these injuries. The injuries were caused by blunt trauma in 3 patients and gunshot wounds in 12. All patients sustained injuries to other organs as well as the ureter. The diagnosis of ureteral injury was frequently delayed beyond the day of presentation (33 %) primarily due to the number and severity of associated injuries. The most accurate methods of diagnosis were surgical exploration and retrograde pyelography. Intravenous pyelography and abdominal computerized tomography scanning were diagnostic in only 33 percent of cases. Hematuria was present in only 63 percent of patients who had no other genitourinary injuries, emphasizing the lack of reliability of this sign in ureteral trauma.
Response Characteristics of the VACM Compass and Vane Follower

Abstract Several simple laboratory experiments have been conducted to study the dynamic behavior of the vector-averaging current meter (VACM) compass and vane follower. They demonstrate that the behavior of the compass and vane follower can be modeled as a damped linear harmonic oscillator for small-amplitude forcing. The combined eddy-current and bearing-friction torque nearly critically damps the free oscillation of the compass and vane follower. This frictional torque is proportional to the angular-velocity difference between the instrument magnet assembly and housing. Dynamic experiments on five compasses indicate a mean (undamped) resonant period of 3–5 s at 41°N. Similar experiments on two vane followers indicate a resonant period of 2–3 s. For the VACM dynamic compass experiments, frictional torque allowed an angular oscillation of the compass housing to drive an oscillation of the compass magnet, and at resonant forcing, the compass magnet oscillates exactly in phase with its housing. For the VACM...
Adsorption of Natural Organic Matter to Air−Water Interfaces during Transport through Unsaturated Porous Media

To better understand how interactions with the air phase influence the movement of natural organic matter (NOM) through the vadose zone, we measured the transport of soil−humic acid (SHA) through laboratory columns packed with partially saturated sand. Our results demonstrate that sorptive reactions at air−water interfaces reduce SHA mobility and that the affinity of SHA for the air phase increases as the porewater pH declines from 8 to 3.9. SHA desorption from air−water interfaces is negligible for conditions of constant pH, but release of bound SHA occurs in response to perturbations in porewater pH. We analyzed the effluent samples collected from our laboratory columns using high-performance size-exclusion chromatography. The results of this analysis demonstrate that the SHA did not fractionate appreciably during transport through the columns, suggesting that the various components of the SHA pool (as distinguished on the basis of molecular weight) express an equal affinity for the air−water interfaces...
Pancreas and islet transplant registry data.

From December 16, 1966, to June 30, 1983, some 337 pancreas transplants in 316 diabetic patients from 305 cadaveric and 32 living related donors were performed at 46 institutions throughout the world. A total of 60 pancreas transplants in 56 patients were performed prior to July 1, 1977, with only 2 functioning for more than 1 year. Therefore, the present era includes 277 pancreas trans-plants performed in 262 patients at 39 institutions. Seventy-four of these were done in 1982, while 72 were performed in the first 6 months of 1983 with 11 new institutions reporting. Of the 262 patients in the present era, 74 (28%) have died with 48 (18%) of these dying within the first 3 months of transplantation. Of the 190 pancreas transplants performed up to December, 1982, and available for evaluation of 1-year graft function, 31 (16%) are currently functioning; another 8 (4%) functioned for 1 year but then failed (7) or the recipient died (1). Of the 72 transplants done in the first 6 months of 1983, there are 26 (37%) still functioning. Results are expressed according to technique of handling the ductal drainage, association with kidney transplantation, and association with the type of immunosuppression. Seventeen non-diabetic patients (13 with chronic pancreatitis, 4 with adenocarcinoma) had autotransplantation of a segment of the pancreas after pancreatectomy. Thirteen were said to function but follow-up data are incomplete. There were 73 islet tissue allografts reported as of June 30, 1980, but none of the patients achieved insulin independence. Since then an additional 86 islet tissue allografts have been reported without any insulin independence achieved to make a total of 159 performed without normoglycemia. A total of 79 pancreatectomized patients have received islet tissue autografts with 50% being reported as insulin independent, but the results are difficult to interpret.
The physical health of women in primary care who were maltreated as children

ABSTRACT Current literature suggests that women with a history of childhood maltreatment are troubled by multiple, varied, and vague physical symptoms. The purpose of this study was to test a causal theoretical model that identifies the relationships among childhood maltreatment, chronic stress, and the health status of women seeking primary care. Survey design was used with a sample of 159 women, ages 18–88, who were seeking primary health care. Subjects completed four measures of childhood trauma and health. Forty-seven percent of the women reported a history of moderate or severe childhood maltreatment. Structural equation modeling was used to examine the hypothesized relationships among the variables. Emotional abuse predicted physical abuse, sexual abuse, and current trauma symptoms. Current trauma symptoms, in turn, were moderately predictive of perceived general health and strongly predictive of perceived mental health and physical symptoms. Subjects who experienced physical neglect or emotional ne...
Rapid determination of complex mixtures by dual-column gas chromatography with a novel stationary phase combination and spectrometric detection

Fast GC separations of a broad range of analytes are demonstrated using a capillary column coated with a novel immobilized ionic liquid (IIL) stationary phase. Both completely cross-linked and partially cross-linked columns were evaluated, yielding ∼1600 and ∼2000 theoretical plates per meter, respectively. Enhanced separation is demonstrated using a dual-column ensemble comprised of an IIL column, a commercially coated Rtx-1 column, and a pneumatic valve connecting the inlet to the junction point between the two columns. Enhanced separation of 20 components, with two sets of co-eluting peaks is shown in ∼150 s, while sacrificing only a length of time equivalent to the sum of the stop flow pulses, or about 15.5 s. A novel application of a band trajectory model that shows band position as a function of analysis time as analytes move through the column ensemble is employed to determine pulse application times. The model predicts component retention times within a few seconds. Another method of selectivity enhancement of the IIL stationary phase-coated columns is demonstrated using a differential mobility spectrometer (DMS) that provides a second dimension separation based on ion mobility in a high-frequency electrical field. The DMS is able to separate all but one set of co-eluting components from the IIL column. The separation of 13 components found in the headspace above U.S. currency is demonstrated using the IIL column in a dual-column ensemble as well as with the DMS.
Optimizing the design of CIGS-based solar cells: a computational approach

Abstract We have used a program called analysis of microelectronic and photonic structures-one dimensional (AMPS-1D) to design two distinct types of CuIn (1− x ) Ga x Se 2 (CIGS)-based solar cells and study their device performance. The first type of design was a single layer CuIn (1− x ) Ga x Se 2 absorber layer. The thickness ( d ) varied from 1.0 to 5 μm and device parameters like fill factor (FF), open-circuit voltage ( V oc ), short-circuit current density ( J sc ) and efficiency ( η ) were studied as a function of the thickness of the absorber layer and the gallium content, x . In the second type of design, the absorber layer was a bi-layered heterojunction with CuGaSe 2 (CGS) as the top layer and CuInSe 2 (CIS) as the bottom layer. Once again the device parameters were studied as a function of the total absorber layer thickness and the relative thicknesses of the absorber layers. In both cases, 30 nm of cadmium sulfide (CdS) and 150 nm of zinc oxide (ZnO) were used as window layer and top contact layer, respectively. The thicknesses of these layers were held constant. The front and the back contacts were assumed to be ohmic. It was found that the efficiency η depends both on the gallium content, x , and the thickness of the absorber layers. For bi-layer cells, it is also a function of the relative thicknesses of the layers. η , for single layered cells, was found to depend both on the absorber layer thickness and the gallium content, x . As the thickness was increased ( x = constant), η increased from ∼16% (1 μm thick absorber layer) to ∼20% (for 5 μm thick absorber layer). Any change of η was minimal for absorber layers containing between 20 and 60% gallium. For bi-layers η dropped sharply when a thin layer of CGS was added as a top layer. η then increased steadily until the CGS thickness was about 90% of the total thickness.
Solution-Based Fabrication of Carbon Nanotube Bumps for Flip-Chip Interconnects

A reliable solution-based process to fabricate thick carbon nanotube (CNT) bumps has been developed and is pre- sented in this paper. In contrast to other work of this nature, the process we have developed is capable of fabricating thick and densely packed CNT structures at room temperature with rel- atively high resolution and controllable film thickness or bump height. CNT structures fabricated using the developed method may find use in sensors or electrical interconnect applications. Raman spectroscopy was used to characterize the fabricated CNT bumps, verifying the CNTs are negligibly affected by the fabrication pro- cess. To study the potential application of these CNT bumps for flip- chip interconnections, we examined the deformation of the CNT bumps after flip-chip bonding and performed electrical characteri- zation. The CNT bump interconnects display linear I-V curve with an average resistance of approximately 484 mΩ for a bump with 200 μm diameter and height of 12 μm. Temperature-dependent measurements indicate that fluctuation-induced tunneling (FIT) is the most likely electrical conduction mechanism in the CNT bumps.
Evaluation of a novel kallikrein inhibitor on hemostatic activation in vitro.

Abstract Background: DX-88 is a potent kallikrein inhibitor that is being studied for the treatment of hereditary angioedema (HAE) and represents a potential alternative to aprotinin in cardiac surgical patients. The current study was designed to evaluate in vitro effects of DX-88 on coagulation in comparison with aprotinin. Methods: Blood samples were obtained from consented 12 healthy volunteers. DX-88 or aprotinin was added to blood at 200 and 800 kallikrein inhibitory units (KIU) per milliliter for aprotinin, and at 1.1, 2.2, or 8.8 μg/ml for DX-88. Thromboelastography (TEG®) was performed using celite, kaolin, or tissue factor (TF) activation. Kaolin-based activated clotting times (ACTs) were measured at different heparin levels. The whole blood prothrombin time (PT)/PTT values were also measured. The endogenous thrombin generation was assessed with a fluorogenic assay using platelet-poor plasma (PPP). Results: With celite and kaolin activation of TEG, the reaction time was prolonged with DX-88 and aprotinin. With tissue factor activation, TEG parameters were not affected. DX-88 caused dose-dependent kaolin-ACT prolongation that was augmented by increasing doses of heparin. DX-88 or aprotinin had no significant effects on the PT values, but PTT values were dose-dependently prolonged. Both agents delayed the onset of thrombin generation when PTT reagent was used as a trigger, whereas no change was observed when tissue factor was used. Conclusion; We found that DX-88 delayed contact activator induced coagulation without affecting tissue factor mediated coagulation. For evaluation of coagulation during DX-88 therapy, the use of PT or tissue factor-activated TEG may be preferable.
Rehabilitation of extensor tendoninjuries

Hand specialists commonly see extensor tendon injuries. These injuries pose a difficult rehabilitation challenge. In the past, postoperative repair was followed by prolonged immobilization before motion was initiated. In the last decade there has been a shift in rehabilitation strategies to begin motion early in the postoperative period. This article reviews rehabilitation strategies for commonly seen extensor tendon injuries.
CO2 laser scribe of chemically strengthened glass with high surface compressive stress

Chemically strengthened glass is finding increasing use in handheld, IT and TV cover glass applications. Chemically strengthened glass, particularly with high (>600MPa) compressive stress (CS) and deeper depth of layer (DOL), enable to retain higher strength after damage than non-strengthened glass when its surface is abraded. Corning Gorilla® Glass has particularly proven to be advantageous over competition in this attribute. However, due to high compressive stress (CS) and Central Tension (CT) cutting ion-exchanged glass is extremely difficult and often unmanageable where ever the applications require dicing the chemically strengthened mother glass into smaller parts. We at Corning have developed a CO 2 laser scribe and break method (LSB) to separate a single chemically strengthened glass sheet into plurality of devices. Furthermore, CO 2 laser scribe and break method enables debris-free separation of glass with high edge strength due to its mirror-like edge finish. We have investigated laser scribe and break of chemically strengthened glass with surface compressive stress greater than 600 MPa. In this paper we present the results of CO 2 scribe and break method and underlying laser scribing mechanisms. We demonstrated cross-scribe repetitively on GEN 2 size chemically strengthened glass substrates. Specimens for edge strength measurements of different thickness and CS/DOL glass were prepared using the laser scribe and break technique. The specimens were tested using the standard 4-point bend method and the results are presented.
A Further Look at Nonmetropolitan Population Growth since 1970

The fact that the trend of population growth in the United States had turned toward rural and small town areas began to become public knowledge late in 1973. It took a while for the information to be widely distributed and to be accepted, for it went against the grain of much that economists and others in research or policy positions believed probable. By now it has been widely reported in the news media and seems to be part of the public's general stock of information. The purpose of this presentation is to give an updated assessment of the trend and of the circumstances that are associated with it. (For an earlier and fuller discussion of the subject, see Beale 1975.) The simplest way to show the trend is to compare growth and migration rates for metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas. From April 1970 to July 1974, the nonmetropolitan counties of the United States increased in population by 5.6%, while metropolitan counties grew by 3.4% (table 1). Neither of these rates is especially high, for the birth rate has been low almost everywhere. But with the possible exception of a brief period during the heart of the Great Depression, we do not appear in the modern history of our country ever to have had a previous time when nonmetropolitan population growth rates exceeded metropolitan rates. From 1970 to 1974, a net of 1.6 million people moved into nonmetropolitan counties. By contrast, 3.0 million net outmigration took place from these counties in the 1960s, and an even larger number in the 1950s. County population estimates for 1975 are available for thirty-two states at the time of writing and show a continuation of the 1970-74 pattern (U.S. Dep. Commerce 1975a). I expect the net movement nationally into nonmetropolitan areas to be about 1.9 million for 1970-75.
Expression of human immunodeficiency virus long terminal repeat-coupled genes in early cleaving embryos

Abstract Early studies suggested that exogenous retroviral genes are not expressed by mouse embryos infected at early cleavage stages. The general view has therefore been that, since human eggs are non-dividing cells, they could not be infected with HIV before fertilization, nor would HIV be expressed if infection occurred during early cleavage stages following fertilization. In contrast with this view, more recent work has shown that genes coupled to the long terminal repeat (LTR) promotor elements in Rous Sarcoma Virus are readily expressed in early cleaving mouse embryos; in addition, pHIV-LTR, a plasmid construct with HIV-LTR coupled to the reporter gene, lac Z (which encodes β -galactosidase), is expressed when transfected into a human embryonic carcinoma cell line. To determine if HIV LTR coupled genes would be expressed in early cleaving embryos, one nucleus of mouse zygotes were microinjected with ≈5000 copies of the pHIV-LTR plasmid. Following microinjection, zygotes were cultured for 48 h to the four cell stage and stained for expression of β -galactosidase. A plasmid construct containing lac Z without HIV LTR was microinjected as control. A total of 25 of the 111 mouse zygotes microinjected with pHIV-LTR stained positively for β -galactosidase activity. Blastomeres within individual embryos were not uniformly stained, suggesting a mosaic pattern of distribution of the microinjected plasmids among the cleaving blastomeres. None of the 22 mouse zygotes microinjected with control plasmid stained positively. A total of six polypronuclear human eggs were obtained as discarded by-products of a human IVF program. All four human eggs microinjected with ≈6000 copies of HIV-LTR reporter gene construct and cultured for 48 h stained highly positive for β -galactasidase. Staining intensity varied among blastomeres, suggesting a mosaic pattern similar to the mouse embryos. The two human eggs microinjected with control plasmid were negative for β -galactosidase activity. These results suggest that HIV-LTR is active in both early cleaving mouse embryos and in early cleaving polypronuclear human eggs. These findings indicate that human eggs infected at the time of fertilization with HIV could express viral proteins during early embryonic development.
Caries inhibition in vital teeth using 9.6-μm CO2-laser irradiation

The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that in a short-term clinical pilot trial short-pulsed 9.6 μm CO2-laser irradiation significantly inhibits demineralization in vivo. Twenty-four subjects scheduled for extraction of bicuspids for orthodontic reasons (age 14.9 ± 2.2 years) were recruited. Orthodontic brackets were placed on bicuspids (Transbond XT, 3M). An area next to the bracket was irradiated with a CO2-laser (Pulse System Inc, Los Alamos, New Mexico), wavelength 9.6 μm, pulse duration 20 μs, pulse repetition rate 20 Hz, beam diameter 1100 μm, average fluence 4.1 ± 0.3J/cm2, 20 laser pulses per spot. An adjacent nonirradiated area served as control. Bicuspids were extracted after four and twelve weeks, respectively, for a quantitative assessment of demineralization by cross-sectional microhardness testing. For the 4-week arm the mean relative mineral loss ΔZ (vol% × μm) for the laser treated enamel was 402 ± 85 (mean ± SE), while the control showed significantly higher mineral loss (ΔZ 738 ± 131; P = 0.04, t-test). The difference was even larger after twelve weeks (laser arm ΔZ 135 ± 98; control 1067 ± 254; P = 0.002). The laser treatment produced 46% demineralization inhibition for the 4-week and a marked 87% inhibition for the 12-week arm. This study shows, for the first time in vivo, that the short-pulsed 9.6 μm CO2-laser irradiation successfully inhibits demineralization of tooth enamel in humans.
A Strongly Coupled Time-Marching Method for Solving the Navier—Stokes andk-ω Turbulence Model Equations with Multigrid

Many researchers use a time-lagged or loosely coupled approach in solving the Navier?Stokes equations and two-equation turbulence model equations in a time-marching method. The Navier?Stokes equations and the turbulence model equations are solved separately and often with different methods. In this paper a strongly coupled method is presented for such calculations. The Navier?Stokes equations and two-equation turbulence model equations, in particular, thek-? equations, are considered as one single set of strongly coupled equations and solved with the same explicit time-marching algorithm without time-lagging. A multigrid method, together with other acceleration techniques such as local time steps and implicit residual smoothing, is applied to both the Navier?Stokes and the turbulence model equations. Time step limits due to the source terms in thek-? equations are relieved by treating the appropriate source terms implicitly. The equations are also strongly coupled in space through the use of staggered control volumes. The method is applied to the calculation of flows through cascades as well as over isolated airfoils. Convergence rate is greatly improved by the use of the multigrid method with the strongly coupled time-marching scheme.
Isoenzymes of lipolytic acyl hydrolase and esterase in potato tuber

Abstract Five varieties of potato ( Solanum tuberosum ) were shown by gel- and free-flow-electrophoresis to exhibit multiple forms of lipolytic acyl hydrolase (LAH) and esterase enzymes. The electrophoretic patterns of LAH and esterase activities and protein differed with the variety and were characteristic for a given variety. In the variety (Golden Wonder) with the highest LAH activity ( p -nitrophenylpalmitate as substrate), this was 200-fold greater than the esterase activity ( p -nitrophenylacetate as substrate) and isoenzyme patterns for both enzymes were the most complex. In the variety with a very low LAH activity (Desiree), the LAH and esterase activities were similar and more simple isoenzyme patterns for these enzymes were observed.
Gaseous ion transport coefficients

Abstract Numerical techniques are discussed that allow both the mobility and diffusion coefficients of gaseous ions to be calculated efficiently and to a predetermined level of accuracy from knowledge of the atomic ion-atom interaction potential at a discrete set of separations. These techniques are applied to the case of Li + ions in He gas.
The Impact of Dynamic Data Assimilation on the Numerical Simulations of the QE II Cyclone and an Analysis of the Jet Streak Influencing the Precyclogenetic Environment

A mesoscale numerical model is combined with a dynamic data assimilation via Newtonian relaxation, or 'nudging', to provide initial conditions for subsequent simulations of the QE II cyclone. Both the nudging technique and the inclusion of supplementary data are shown to have a large positive impact on the simulation of the QE II cyclone during the initial phase of rapid cyclone development. Within the initial development period (from 1200 to 1800 UTC 9 September 1978), the dynamic assimilation of operational and bogus data yields a coherent two-layer divergence pattern that is not well defined in the model run using only the operational data and static initialization. Diagnostic analysis based on the simulations show that the initial development of the QE II storm between 0000 UTC 9 September and 0000 UTC 10 September was embedded within an indirect circulation of an intense 300-hPa jet streak, was related to baroclinic processes extending throughout a deep portion of the troposphere, and was associated with a classic two-layer mass-divergence profile expected for an extratropical cyclone.
Translational research to improve the treatment of severe extremity injuries

Objectives Severe extremity injuries are the most significant injury sustained in combat wounds. Despite optimal clinical management, non-union and infection remain common complications. In a concerted effort to dovetail research efforts, there has been a collaboration between the UK and USA, with British military surgeons conducting translational studies under the auspices of the US Institute of Surgical Research. This paper describes 3 years of work. Methods A variety of studies were conducted using, and developing, a previously validated rat femur critical-sized defect model. Timing of surgical debridement and irrigation, different types of irrigants and different means of delivery of antibiotic and growth factors for infection control and to promote bone healing were investigated. Results Early debridement and irrigation were independently shown to reduce infection. Normal saline was the most optimal irrigant, superior to disinfectant solutions. A biodegradable gel demonstrated superior antibiotic delivery capabilities than standard polymethylmethacrylate beads. A polyurethane scaffold was shown to have the ability to deliver both antibiotics and growth factors. Discussion The importance of early transit times to Role 3 capabilities for definitive surgical care has been underlined. Novel and superior methods of antibiotic and growth factor delivery, compared with current clinical standards of care, have been shown. There is the potential for translation to clinical studies to promote infection control and bone healing in these devastating injuries.
Synthesis of transition metal alkyls and σbonded metal compounds by the cocondensation of metal vapor and free radicals: A general synthetic technique

Abstract The study of σbonded metal compounds has received much attention in the past several years. A problem which has hindered this study has been the unsuccessful preparation of some metal alkyls. Reaction conditions are often such that a slightly stable metal alkyl compound is decomposed by the reaction conditions or the reactants themselves. An idea which shows promise for such syntheses is the cocondensation of metal vapor with radical species on cryogenic surfaces: Using this technique, novel electron deficient metal akyls of marginal thermal stability such as Cd(CF3)2, Pd(CF3)2, Ni(CF3)2, Co(SiF3)2, Pd(SiF3)2, and Ni(SiF3)2 have been prepared. Complexation of these unstable compounds with phosphine or with arenes gives stable, albeit reactive species such as Ni(CF3)2(PMe3)2, Pd(CF3)2(PMe3)2, (n6-toluene)Ni(SiF3)2, and (n6-mesitylene)Co(SiF3)2. The radicals, such as ·CF3 and ·SiF3 are produced in a low temperature glow discharge of a symmetrical gas having a weak central bond (i.e., C2F6 and Si2F6). We have found that many radicals can be cleanly generated in this manner such as ·CH3, ·NF2, ·PF2, ·SH3, ·SCF3, ·OCF3, and ·C(CF3)3. Characterization of the products and future applications of this technique will be discussed.
SELF-COMPATIBILITY IN DISTYLOUS CRYPTANTHA FLAVA (BORAGINACEAE)

Summary The seed production of hand pollinated flowers indicates that distylous Cryptantha flava (A. Nels.) Payson is both intramorph and self-compatible. In addition, there is no inhibition of pollen tube growth following either intramorph or self-pollinations. Despite the potential for crosses between individuals of the same style length and thus the production of unequal morph ratios, pins and thrums occur in equal numbers in natural populations.
Influence of equal-channel angular extrusion on impact toughness of aluminum and brass at room and low temperatures

Equal-channel angular extrusion is a severe plastic deformation process that can be used for grain refinement to improve material properties of bulk metals. In this paper, the effect of equal-channel angular extrusion on the impact toughness of aluminum 1100 and brass C26000 was investigated. Brass and aluminum materials were extruded in two and four passes using two equal-channel angular extrusion processing routes. Specimens were tested for hardness and Charpy impact toughness. Microstructure and fractography were examined. The results showed the hardness remained almost constant after two passes for both brass and aluminum. Impact energy of brass after two passes decreased due to increase in dislocation density whereas for aluminum it remained almost constant after four passes due to the formation of ultrafine grains in addition to deformation/dislocation structures. Impact energies of specimens tested at room temperature and low temperature (−70°C) were almost the same due to their face-centered crystal structure. It was also found that the impact toughness of a specimen with a non-distorted notch surface is higher than that of a specimen with a distorted notch surface. It is evident from the present study that the number of passes determines the extent of ultrafine grain structure that is known to increase impact toughness of equal-channel angular extrusion processed materials. All of these observed characteristics can influence material and process selections in practical design applications.
Production and characterization of an intracellular bioflocculant by Chryseobacterium daeguense W6 cultured in low nutrition medium

A novel intracellular bioflocculant (named MBF-W6) produced by Chryseobacterium daeguense W6 cultured in low nutrition medium was investigated in this study. The effects of carbon source, nitrogen source, C/N ratio, initial pH, inoculum size, culture temperature and shaking speed on MBF-W6 production were studied. Chemical analysis showed that the purified MBF-W6 was mainly composed of 32.4% protein, 13.1% polysaccharide and 6.8% nucleic acid. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy indicated the presence of carboxyl, hydroxyl, and methoxyl groups. The elemental analysis of purified MBF-W6 revealed that the mass proportion of C, H, O, N and S was 40.92:6.53:44.01:8.53:1.01 (w/w) correspondingly. MBF-W6 had good flocculating rate in Kaolin suspension without any cation addition. The highest flocculating rate of 96.9% was achieved under the optimal conditions (bioflocculant dosage 1.2 mg l(-1), pH 5.6 and temperature 15 degrees C).
Decreases in plasma membrane Ca2+‐ATPase in brain synaptic membrane rafts from aged rats

Precise regulation of free intracellular Ca2+ concentrations [Ca2+]i is critical for normal neuronal function, and alterations in Ca2+ homeostasis are associated with brain aging and neurodegenerative diseases. One of the most important proteins controlling [Ca2+]i is the plasma membrane Ca2+-ATPase (PMCA), the high-affinity transporter that fine tunes the cytosolic nanomolar levels of Ca2+. We previously found that PMCA protein in synaptic plasma membranes (SPMs) is decreased with advancing age and the decrease in enzyme activity is much greater than that in protein levels. In this study, we isolated raft and non-raft fractions from rat brain SPMs and used quantitative mass spectrometry to show that the specialized lipid microdomains in SPMs, the rafts, contain 60% of total PMCA, comprised all four isoforms. The raft PMCA pool had the highest specific activity and this decreased progressively with age. The reduction in PMCA protein could not account for the dramatic activity loss. Addition of excess calmodulin to the assay did not restore PMCA activity to that in young brains. Analysis of the major raft lipids revealed a slight age-related increase in cholesterol levels and such increases might enhance membrane lipid order and prevent further loss of PMCA activity.
“Reagentless” Flow Analysis Determination of Hydrogen Peroxide by Electrocatalyzed Luminol Chemiluminescence

Flow analysis methodology is presented for the determination of micromolar levels of aqueous hydrogen peroxide by luminol chemiluminescence. Adjustment of the pH to alkaline conditions and addition of the luminophore are implemented using in-line flow-through beds containing crystalline media. The requirement for a homogeneous catalyst is eliminated by electrochemical initiation of luminescence. Traditional laboratory reagents are replaced by packed beds containing solid phase basification media, and crystalline luminol. The methodology is suitable for application in both continuous flow and flow injection analysis configurations.
CAN SHORT PHYSIOLOGICAL DESATURATIONS BE VALIDATED IN THE NEONATE

gender, or race between those who developed hyponatremia and those that remained normonatremic. Hyponatremic children were more likely to be intubated than normonatremic children (OR 16.7; 95% CI 4.1-68.5); however, hyponatremia rarely developed before intubation (2%). Thirtyeight of the forty-three children (88%) who were intubated for bronchiolitis developed hyponatremia. These intubated children had a lower mean serum sodium concentration (132.8 vs. 137.3, p 0.0001) than non-intubated children. Hyponatremic children also had a longer ICU length of stay than those who remained normonatremic (9.5 5.2 days vs. 3.8 3.6 days, p0.0002). CONCLUSION: Hyponatremia was a common comorbidity in children admitted to the ICU with bronchiolitis. Intubated children with bronchiolitis developed hyponatremia more often than non-intubated counterparts, and their mean serum sodium concentrations were lower. Hyponatremia may have contributed to the severity of illness or may have been an effect of the severity of illness. Regardless, this study supports our hypothesis that hyponatremia is a marker of illness severity in bronchiolitis. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Hyponatremia was associated with a more complex clinical course in critically ill children with bronchiolitis. Prospective trials are necessary to determine the etiologies and clinical significance of hyponatremia in this population, and whether control of hyponatremia will improve outcomes. DISCLOSURE: Michael Seifert, No Financial Disclosure Information; No Product/Research Disclosure Information
Efficacy of Polycaprolactone in Maintenance of Bone Defects in Ulnar Osteotomies

Polycaprolactone (PCL), a synthetic polyester, was investigated as an interpositional material to delay bone healing following partial ulnar osteotomies. Bone healing did not occur in 6 of 10 osteotomy sites 8 to 24 weeks following surgery in which a PCL cap was placed over the proximal cut end of the ulna, or in four of six ostectomy sites filled with melted PCL that hardened into a plug. Bone healing occurred in ulnectomy sites in which technical problems in positioning and stabilizing the polymer implants occurred. The PCL was well tolerated by the dogs and was an effective mechanical barrier to tissue bridging when adequately stabilized.
Testa imposed dormancy in Vallisneria americana seeds from the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

Abstract In response to hurricane and oil-spill environmental impacts along the northern Gulf of Mexico, coastal and marine habitat restoration has become a priority. In particular, restoration of submerged aquatic plants is vital for ecosystem health. To facilitate restoration, developing propagation protocols for Gulf coast plants is necessary, but challenging due to the lack of information on many species. Previous seed germination research of Vallisneria americana, a submerged aquatic species with declining abundance in coastal habitats, from northern latitudinal populations reported germination percentages between 80–90%. Germination experiments using Mississippi Gulf coast plants revealed unexpected outcomes. Less than 8% germination occurred when seeds were germinated in a 16 hr photoperiod or 24 hr dark period at 10, 20, 30 or 40 °C. To enhance germination, cold stratification and gibberellic acid soak treatments were conducted, but germination was below 10%. A subsequent seed scarification experi...
Metamodelling a Just‐in‐time Kanban System

Studies the feasibility of using the metamodelling technique for the performance analysis of a just‐in‐time manufacturing system. The data for the analysis are generated by a Siman simulation model. Develops a regression metamodel following an R‐IV fractional factorial design. Results show that, of the 15 variables considered, only assembly time, kanban capacity, and the interaction effect between demand and kanban capacity are statistically significant. Performs cross‐validation. Finds the results of the metamodel developed to supplement the simulation model to be accurate.
False‐negative β‐d‐glucuronidase reactions in membrane lactose glucuronide agar medium used for the simultaneous detection of coliforms and Escherichia coli from water

Aims: Testing for b-d-glucuronidase activity has become the basis of many methods for the detection of Escherichia coli in both food and water. Used in combination with tests for the presence of b-d-glucuronidase, these tests offer a simple method for simultaneously detecting coliforms and E. coli. The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of several different procedures in detecting b-d-glucuronidase activity and hence in detecting E. coli. Methods and Results: The ability of membrane lactose glucuronide agar
Structural Basis for Amide Hydrolysis Catalyzed by the 43C9 Antibody

Among catalytic antibodies, the well-characterized antibody 43C9 is unique in its ability to catalyze the difficult, but desirable, reaction of selective amide hydrolysis. The crystallographic structures that we present here for the single-chain variable fragment of the 43C9 antibody, both with and without the bound product p-nitrophenol, strongly support and extend the structural and mechanistic information previously provided by a three-dimensional computational model, together with extensive biochemical, kinetics, and mutagenesis results. The structures reveal an unexpected extended β-sheet conformation of the third complementarity determining region of the heavy chain, which may be coupled to the novel indole ring orientation of the adjacent Trp H103. This unusual conformation creates an antigen-binding site that is significantly deeper than predicted in the computational model, with a hydrophobic pocket that encloses the p-nitrophenol product. Despite these differences, the previously proposed roles for Arg L96 in transition-state stabilization and for His L91 as the nucleophile that forms a covalent acyl-antibody intermediate are fully supported by the crystallographic structures. His L91 is now centered at the bottom of the antigen-binding site with the imidazole ring poised for nucleophilic attack. His L91, Arg L96, and the bound p-nitrophenol are linked into a hydrogen-bonding network by two well-ordered water molecules. These water molecules may mimic the positions of the phosphonamidate oxygen atoms of the antigen, which in turn mimic the transition state of the reaction. This network also contains His H35, suggesting that this residue may also stabilize the transition-states. A possible proton-transfer pathway from His L91 through two tyrosine residues may assist nucleophilic attack. Although transition-state stabilization is commonly observed in esterolytic antibodies, nucleophilic attack appears to be unique to 43C9 and accounts for the unusually high catalytic activity of this antibody.
Biometric technology: the future of identity assurance and authentication in the lodging industry.

Purpose – The purpose of the paper is to provoke thought and perhaps response to a new form of identity assurance and security in the lodging industry. For a fact, biometric technology is quickly becoming a principal method of identification in today's fast‐paced networked and security‐conscious society. Increasingly, more and more organizations are adopting this form of technology to enhance security, improve business processes and increase productivity. The paper highlights the fundamentals of biometric technology, and its application in the lodging industry. The paper also addresses factors that should be considered to ensure successful deployment in the lodging industry.Design/methodology/approach – This paper reviews the fundamentals of biometric technology at the discursive level and provides insights on its practical applications in the lodging industry.Findings – Biometric technology offers the lodging industry new possibilities in the areas of identity assurance and authentication. These relative...
Embedded Leadless Chip Carrier

Recently there have been several developments in the areas of small form factor and high-density lead frame based IC packages. These packages have the benefits of occupying smaller PC board area, lower assembly material consumption due to their smaller volume package construction, and good thermal dissipation properties. Details of benefits of the relevant assembly processes would be covered including actual comparison. Another area of recent development in packaging integration is system in package SIP. A SIP package can integrate various ICs in a package. For example; CPU, logic, analog, digital, discrete and passive components can be integrated in a single package. SIP provides a high level of integration capability of several functional chips. It provides good miniaturization capability for hand held portable electronic communication devices. High-density capability and flexibility in design using a substrate like chip carrier will be covered. However there are several challenges faced by the end user in assembly of these packages. This paper will cover the benefits of a newly developed leadless chip carrier and the challenges faced and addressed in the assembly downstream processes.
Regulation of transcription in the neuronal nicotinic receptor subunit gene cluster by a neuron-selective enhancer and ETS domain factors.

Abstract Expression of neurotransmitter receptors encoded by the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAchR) subunit gene cluster depends on coexpression of the β4, α3, and α5 subunits in certain kinds of neurons. One way in which coexpression might be achieved is through the regulation of promoters in the cluster by neuron-selective enhancers. The β43′ enhancer is located between the β4 and α3 promoters and it directs cell type-specific expression in cell lines. It is not known, however, whether β43′ is active in neurons. Therefore, we assayed β43′ in dissociated rat sympathetic ganglia cultures, which contain nAchR-positive neurons as well as nAchR-negative non-neuronal cells. Reporters controlled by the α3 promoter and β43′ were expressed in a neuron-selective manner; greater than 90% and up to 100% of luciferase expression was detected in neurons. Neuron selectivity was maintained when β43′ was placed next to ubiquitously active viral promoters. In contrast, replacing β43′ with the SV40 enhancer eliminated neuron selectivity. The enhancer is composed of at least two separate but functionally interdependent elements, each of which interacts with a different type of ETS domain factor. These findings support a model in which β43′ controls neuronal expression of one or more genes in the cluster through interactions with a combination of ETS factors.
Influences of Lattice Sinks and Defect Interactions on Solutes in Compounds

A thermodynamic model for the site preference of dilute solutes in ordered compounds was developed recently. The model is extended here in two ways to help interpret experimental results from this laboratory. (1) A preference for solutes to occupy sites in ‘sinks’ such as grain boundaries rather than regular lattice sites is included using a simple model. A wide range of site preference behavior is found; for example, a solute may switch between substitutional and sink sites with changing composition. (2) The effect of an attractive interaction between solute and defect on the site preference is examined. Conditions are established under which a solute can be stabilized by association with a defect on a site where the solute would otherwise not be found.
Wireless scheduling with heterogeneously delayed network-state information

We study the problem of distributed scheduling in wireless networks, where each node makes individual scheduling decisions based on heterogeneously delayed network state information (NSI). This leads to inconsistency in the views of the network across nodes, which, coupled with interference, makes it challenging to schedule for high throughputs. We characterize the network throughput region for this setup, and develop optimal scheduling policies to achieve the same. Our scheduling policies have a threshold-based structure and, moreover, require the nodes to use only the “smallest critical subset” of the available delayed NSI to make decisions. In addition, using Markov Chain mixing techniques, we quantify the impact of delayed NSI on the throughput region. This not only highlights the value of extra NSI for scheduling, but also characterizes the loss in throughput incurred by lower complexity scheduling policies which use homogeneously delayed NSI.
Genetics of Diabetes and Its Complications

Diabetes constitutes a major public health problem. Although substantial progress has been made in defining the genetic risk for specific subtypes of diabetes ( e.g. , maturity-onset diabetes of the young), the majority of genetic risk of diabetes (for type 1 and type 2) remain unresolved. This
Conflict of Interest in Clinical Practice

Conflicts of interest, ubiquitous in medicine, occur when the interests of clinicians do not align with the interests of their patients. When systemic and institutionalized, such conflicts become particularly problematic, not only creating risks for individual patients but also undermining the integrity of the medical profession. Financial conflicts of interest arise when the reimbursement of clinicians appears to encourage decisions and actions that are unlikely to be in the best interest of individual patients. More insidiously, the influence of the pharmaceutical and medical device industry on clinicians, whether through gift giving, support of continuing medical education, or guideline development, creates conflicts of interest that may go unrecognized. Recognition and acknowledgment are the first steps in ameliorating conflicts of interest, which can then be disclosed and potentially eliminated.