cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Investigation of the potential release of polychlorinated dioxins and furans from PCP-treated utility poles.

Abstract The United States (US) Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimated that the use of technical grade pentachlorophenol (PCP) between 1970 and 1995 to treat wood was approximately 400 000 metric tons in the US, and that between 4800 and 36 000 g of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo- p -dioxin toxic equivalents (TEQs) were incorporated annually in treated wood. The EPA has been unable, however, to estimate the rate of release of polychlorinated dibenzo -p- dioxins and dibenzofurans (CDD/Fs) from treated utility poles into the environment. There is some evidence that CDD/Fs leach from treated poles into the surrounding soils, but these studies do not allow for the calculation of a rate of release from this mechanism. Another possible release mechanism is the volatilization of dioxins into the atmosphere, but there are no data to demonstrate, much less quantify, this release. While not directly measuring the release of dioxins from treated utility poles into the environment, this study was designed to examine the potential for such release. The general approach taken was to collect PCP-treated poles of varying ages, to remove and analyze multiple samples from each pole cross-section, and to compare the spatial distribution of CDD/F congeners among poles of different ages. Evidence of concentration–depth profile changes over time may provide insight into the potential for dioxins to migrate through and then out of PCP-treated utility poles. It was found that the CDD/F concentrations were consistently higher in the outer portions of the poles than the center. This trend tends to be most marked in older poles and for the lower chlorinated congeners. The trend for dioxins to concentrate in the outer portions of the pole over time suggest migration within the poles, and this migration may result in some environmental release. Other possible explanations were also offered.
A semi-local likelihood regression estimator of the proportion based on group testing data

In this paper, we are concerned with the estimation of a proportion based on group testing data where the prevalence of a disease is observed for groups of individuals. Based on the covariates measured on all individuals in every group, we propose a local likelihood estimator of the prevalence probability as a function of the covariate. We show that the proposed estimator has an asymptotic normal distribution. Finite sample performance of the method is exhibited via some simulated examples and a real data analysis.
A regenerative multiple zone model for HCCI combustion

Abstract A new conserved scalar approach, the so-called regenerative multiple zone (RMZ) model, is introduced to simulate combustion in homogeneous charge compression ignition (HCCI) engines with significant products of combustion. In this approach, two conserved scalars are introduced, the mixture fraction Z and the initial exhaust gas fraction J, to determine uniquely the state of the reactive system as a function of the two conserved scalars and time. For the numerical solution of the HCCI combustion, the conserved scalar plane is divided into different zones, which represent homogeneous reactors with constant initial exhaust gas level. Particularly, the zones are created based on the distribution of the initial exhaust gases and are mixed and regenerated at every time step during combustion in order to account for the history effects which are due to the finite rate chemistry. A proper methodology to create and initialize the new zones during the combustion, the so-called zone creation strategy (ZCS), is also proposed. For validation, the RMZ model is implemented in the 2DRD code, which is a computational fluid dynamics code that solves the governing equations for a two-dimensional reaction–diffusion problem. Initially, the consistency of the new model is validated in a one-dimensional reaction–diffusion (RD) case. Subsequently, the necessity for a proper zone creation strategy is demonstrated by a two-dimensional RD case. Next, a parametric study is performed to investigate the sensitivity of the new model on the maximum number of zones that is used. Finally, the limitations as well as the advantages of the RMZ model are discussed.
EXPLOSIVE (SHOCK-WAVE) FABRICATION OF MONOLITHIC. METAL-MATRIX, SUPERCONDUCTING COMPOSITES

ABSTRACT This paper describes the fabrication of superconducting, bulk prototypes by combining explosive welding and dynamic consolidation concepts to consolidate superconducting powder in conformal channel geometries, and bond these channels to an explosively welded metal matrix which encapsulates the consolidated superconductor. The resulting superconducting monolith represents a novel composite system dominated mechanically by the metal matrix which places the superconductor in an engineering environment. The key to successfully producing a working, bulk superconductor initially depends upon the ability to process high-quality, single-phase powders. We have begun to examine the characterization and quantification of such features in Yba2Cu3O7 using X-ray diffraction. The prospects for fabricating novel, engineered superconducting composites using mixtures of superconducting powders and other powdered materials is examined.
Power spectral analysis in infants with seizures: relationship to development.

Abstract There is increasing evidence that there is a strong relationship between brain oscillations and neurocognitive function. We used EEG power spectral analysis to determine if frequency and power provide an independent measure of developmental impairment in infants. We examined the spectral power of EEGs in 200 infants between 6 and 24 months of age who were evaluated for seizures. Infants were stratified into three age groups 6–12, 12–18, and 18–24 months, and development assessments were coded as normal, moderately delayed, and severely delayed. Compared with the normal infants, children with developmental delay had lower mean frequencies and greater delta and less theta and alpha power. Delta/theta and theta/alpha ratios were highly significant indicators of developmental status. This study demonstrates that frequency and power of brain oscillations during wakefulness is a strong predictor of development in infants. The findings support the concept that normal oscillatory activity is critical for normal cognitive function during development.
Ultra–High-Field MRI of Knee Joint at 7.0T: Preliminary Experience

Rationale and Objectives To measure signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), contrast, and relaxation times (T1 and T2) in human knee joint at 7.0T whole-body scanner. Materials and Methods MRI experiments were performed on a 7.0T Siemens whole-body scanner using an 18-cm diameter transmit/receive knee coil. Normalized SNR and relaxation times (T1 and T2) were computed on all volunteers (healthy, n = 5) for femoral, tibial, and patellar cartilage. Results Average T1 values of femoral, tibial, and patellar cartilages were found as 1.55, 1.76, and 1.62 seconds, respectively. Average T2 values of femoral, tibial, and patellar cartilages were found as 51.3, 43.9, and 39.7 milliseconds, respectively. No statistically significant differences were observed between T1 and T2 values of different cartilage tissues (P > .08 for all comparisons). Compared with previously reported relaxation times of cartilage tissue at 3.0T, an ∼35% increase was observed in T1 values, whereas no significant change was observed in T2. Regional analysis was also performed to investigate the change in relaxation parameters for weight-bearing vs. non–weight-bearing areas. A statistically significant difference was observed in T2 of tibial cartilage (P = .009). The rest of the comparisons yielded insignificant differences (P > .32). Conclusion Our preliminary results demonstrate the feasibility of acquiring high resolution three-dimensional images of knee joint (with and without fat suppression) at 7.0T whole-body scanner.
Complete nucleotide and deduced amino acid sequence of genome segment 5 encoding the outer capsid protein, VP5, of a U.S. isolate of bluetongue virus serotype 11.

Abstract The complete nucleotide sequence of the RNA genome segment coding for the outer capsid protein, VP5, of the United States prototypic strain of bluetongue virus (BTV) serotype 11 was determined from two overlapping cDNA clones. The genome segment was found to be 1638 nucleotides in length with a single open reading frame coding for a 526 amino acid protein of MW 59,278 and having a net charge of −4.0 at neutral pH. Comparisons of the predicted amino acid sequence of VP5 of BTV 11 with those of the United States serotypes 2, 10, and 13 and two isolates of BTV 1 from Australia and South Africa confirmed earlier reports that VP5 is a conserved protein with no clear regions of variability. A computer generated consensus sequence suggested VP5 of BTV 2 to be representative of the average VP5 sequences reported thus far.
Flame-ionization and electron-capture GLC determination of 1-(2,6-dimethylphenoxy)-2-aminopropane in plasma.

A sensitive flame-ionization GLC method is described for the determination of the new anticonvulsant, 1-(2,6-dimethylphenoxy)-2-aminopropane, in plasma. The method is compared with a simultaneously developed electron-capture technique, which was found to give no advantage applicable to the analysis. Relative standard deviations of replicate samples extracted for analysis by the flame-ionization method are less than 7%. The lower limit of detection of this method is 7 ng/ml.
Central states communication association: History since 1981 and 50 years of communication studies

This essay presents an overview of events affecting the Central States Communication Association since 7987 and an examination of the development of Communication Studies in its first 49 volumes. The Association's decline in the early 7980s and its revival through efforts of its officers, members, and the then Speech Communication Association are traced. The Central States Speech Journal and the developments that resulted in changing its name to Communication Studies are discussed in ten volume segments. A total of 7 254 articles were published in the first 49 volumes. Early volumes contained many non‐research articles. Later volumes emphasized public address or other critical research. Interpersonal Communication was the focus more often than any other subject or research type in the 1990s.
Equipment Funding Opportunities and Strategies for Success (Part 1)

I think most of you probably know me. I tend to be rather vocal about things, whether it be on the Microscopy Listserver or through the years on problems of facility management, so I'm going to very briefly go over some of my experiences. I direct a core facility that has independent users, has a service component, is basically life sciences, but we do imaging for everybody. They can be from civil engineering, vet school, aeronautics, chemistry…who knows what will come in the door. So, some of the challenge has been to obtain major instrumentation that is versatile enough to handle a broad, broad range of users, but is initially justified based on a critical core research group. This is integral for obtaining any type of federal funding. So, we need new instrumentation for numerous reasons.
A Project-Based Approach to Teaching Numerical Methods

This paper describes a numerical methods course that introduces and reinforces mathematical concepts by relating them to a term-long design project. The project, involving the design of a robotic workcell, allows the students to develop and apply techniques for root finding, curve fitting, numerical differentiation, numerical integration, and optimization within the context of a team design effort. Weekly assignments require the student design team to build computational submodules to analyse pieces of the robotic system; these submodules are integrated into a large complex simulation module, which is used for design optimization. Student design teams report their design methodology and results through formal design reports and design presentations. Student feedback indicates that the teaching of numerical methods against the backdrop of a tangible design problem allows for enhanced understanding and enthusiasm for the course material.
Synthesis of operating procedures for complete chemical plants—I. Hierarchical, structured modelling for nonlinear planning

Abstract Modelling issues associated with the synthesis of process operations on a plant-wide scale are discussed, and a hierarchical, distributed, object-oriented modelling framework described. The modelling approach is generic, and is demonstrated to be suitable for computer-automation of the synthesis of operating procedures. In Part II, provably correct and complete nonlinear planning algorithms based on these models are presented. It is shown that domain-independent planning methodologies using the functional operators required for the synthesis of operating procedures are computationally intractable. Consequently, domain-specific knowledge is exploited within the modelling structure presented in this paper in order to define a tractable methodology for nonlinear planning of process operations. In this paper, we have discussed some of the issues involved in automating the synthesis of plant-wide operating procedures for continuous chemical process. In particular, we have focussed on the question of how to effectively model, on the computer, knowledge about the operation of chemical plants. Previous attempts at modelling have either relied on the restrictive operator- based modelling paradigm, or have employed extremely simplified or situation-specific models. A modelling technique based on a functional operator structure was also considered. This representation accounted for the fact that the outcome of applying an operator is dependent upon the state of the system before execution, and was shown to reduce to the conditional action scheme investigated by researchers in artificial intelligence. Planning with conditional operators involves a plan generation step which is NP-hard, and is therefore considered to be computationally intractable. This justifies the adoption of a domain-specific approach to the planning of process operations, and explains why no algorithmic solution has yet been developed. Realizing the limitations of the operator model, a hierarchical, distributed, object-oriented modelling structure was described. The models are expressive enough to allow for automatic generation of interunit constraints, which is accomplished through propagation of known values through a network of relations representing the physical laws governing the behavior of a chemical plant and constraints induced by practical engineering considerations. The modelling framework is sufficiently general so as to allow the use of both quantitative information as well as qualitative knowledge, such as order-of-magnitude estimates. Examples of the construction and use of the hierarchical modelling structure were presented, and implementational issues discussed. The nonlinear planning methodology that makes use of the modelling structures described here is presented in Part II of this series.
Inductive specificity of mineralized bone matrix in ectopic osteoclast differentiation

The present report describes the first in a series of studies designed to identify the factor or factors responsible for eliciting osteoclast differentiation. Particles of mineralized and demineralized bone, hydroxyapatite (HA), and eggshell were grafted onto the chorioallantoic membranes (CAMs) of chick embryos. After 3 or 6 days, portions of CAMs with associated grafts were harvested, processed for light and electron microscopy, and examined for the presence of multinucleated giant cells with the morphological characteristics of osteoclasts. Light microscopic examination revealed that, within only 3 days, many particles of mineralized materials had become surrounded or engulfed by multinucleated giant cells. Ultrastructurally, all such cells possessed a vacuolated and mitochondriaenriched cytoplasm, but they differed in the nature of the contacts formed at the cell-particle interface. With eggshell, the cells developed filopodia but lacked clear zones and ruffled membranes. With HA, clear zones were evident but cytoplasmic extensions and membrane ruffling were absent. Implants of mineralized bone, however, elicited the formation of giant cells with prominent clear zones and ruffling of the plasma membrane like that observed in bonafide osteoclasts. In contrast, grafts of demineralized bone did not evoke giant cell formation but rather recruited two cell types morphologically akin to either fibroblasts or macrophages. We conclude that the factor(s) responsible for osteoclast differentiation resides specifically within bone matrix and is intimately associated with the mineral phase. Further, in response to such a factor(s), osteoclast differentiation can occur ectopically, outside of the developing vertebrate body.
Minimum-cost associative processor for piecewise-hyperspherical classification

A new algorithm is presented for generating a neural associative processor with piecewise-hyperspherical decision boundaries for difficult multiclass classification. Two important characteristics of the algorithm are that it represents each class with a near-minimum number of hyperspheres and has proven convergence properties. The algorithm generates hyperspheres sequentially for each class, with the first hyperspheres classifying more training vectors of that class than the later hyperspheres. If a limited number of hyperspheres (neurons) are desired, one can thus select those that correctly classify the largest number of training vectors. Classification results are presented for a three-class 3-dimensional distortion-invariant case study (invariant to changes in position, scale, and in-plane and out-of-plane rotation). For the case study, the new method is shown to give better recall accuracy with fewer weights than other neural network and conventional pattern recognition methods tested.
The excimer laser: gross, light microscopic and ultrastructural analysis of potential advantages for use in laser therapy of cardiovascular disease.

Excimer lasers are pulsed gas lasers that use a mixture of a rare gas and halogen as the active medium to generate pulses of short wavelength, high energy ultraviolet light. A krypton-fluoride gas mixture was used to achieve an excimer emission at a wavelength of 248 nm. A total of 30 atherosclerotic coronary artery segments were irradiated over a range of pulse energies (250 to 750 mJ), repetition rates (2 to 25 Hz), average powers (1.9 to 18.8 watts) and cumulative exposures (3 to 12 seconds). In no case was there gross, light microscopic or ultrastructural evidence of the pathologic injury typically associated with continuous wave laser irradiation of coronary artery segments. Similar results were achieved after excimer laser irradiation of 30 samples of myocardium. Excimer irradiation of calcified aortic valve leaflets accomplished focal debridement without pathologic tissue injury; when total debridement was attempted, however, gross charring was observed. The paucity of pathologic alterations observed after excimer irradiation of cardiovascular tissue may prove beneficial in precisely controlling laser ablation of pathologic tissue without injury to the surrounding normal tissue. Clinical application of excimer laser irradiation requires resolution of several issues, including the development of suitable fiberoptics and laser coupling, evaluation of potential ultraviolet toxicity, and demonstration that ultraviolet light can be transmitted through a blood-filled system.
Molecular and electronic structure of TiH2

Ab initio electronic structure calculations using correlated wave functions have been performed to investigate the structure and energetics of TiH2 in its low‐lying electronic states. Several triplet states have been found to lie very close to each other in energy (within 5 kcal/mol) and nearly 1 eV below the lowest singlet state. The lowest quintet states appear to be considerably higher in energy. The ground state of TiH2 is found to be bent 3B1 in C2v symmetry, with the 3A1 state lying only 1 kcal/mol higher in energy. The lowest singlet state, 1A1, is found to be slightly bent, but with a very flat potential energy surface. The Ti–H bond in all TiH2 electronic states is predicted to be strongly polarized Ti+H−. The use of state‐averaged multiconfigurational self‐consistent field wave functions is essential to obtain a consistent picture of all electronic states of interest.
Saturated RISE Feedback Control for a Class of Second-Order Nonlinear Systems

A saturated controller is developed for a class of uncertain, second-order, nonlinear systems which includes time-varying and nonlinearly parameterized functions with bounded disturbances using a continuous control law with smooth saturation functions. Based on the robust integral of the sign of the error (RISE) control methodology, the developed controller is able to utilize the benefits of high gain control strategies while guaranteeing saturation limits are not surpassed. The bounds on the control are known a priori and can be adjusted by changing the feedback gains. The saturated controller yields asymptotic tracking despite model uncertainty and added disturbances in the dynamics. Experimental results using a two-link robot manipulator demonstrate the performance of the developed controller.
Evaluation of different organic phases for water-in-oil xanthan fermentation.

Water-in-oil (W/O) fermentation technology has the potential for overcoming the problems related with high broth viscosity in xanthan fermentations. By dispersing the aqueous broth in a continuous organic phase, the broth-thickening mechanisms are confined within the aqueous droplets without significantly increasing the overall viscosity. In this study, xanthan fermentations were made with perfluorocarbon (PFC) or vegetable oil as the organic phase. The results were compared with those obtained previously using n-hexadecane as the organic phase, to evaluate the effects of various properties. PFC provided easy phase separation at the end of fermentation but required higher power input for agitation, a direct result of its high density. The aqueous droplets formed were large (400–450 μm), limiting the cell concentration employable due to the occurrence of oxygen starvation in the inner core. One main advantage of using vegetable oil was its low cost. In addition, vegetable oil provided much finer droplets ( 100 g l−1). However, complete phase separation for product recovery was difficult to achieve. Fermentations in both organic phases were terminated by the occurrence of phase inversion to highly viscous O/W dispersions at aqueous-phase volume fractions of 0.53–0.56. The initial fraction was 0.3 but changed due to base addition for pH adjustment and nutrient addition for prolonged production.
Military psychology in the age of managed care: The Wilford Hall model

Abstract Military medicine is currently being overhauled through Tricare, a comprehensive, managed care program designed to reduce costs and increase clients' access to health care. This article presents reforms initiated by the psychologists at Wilford Hall Medical Center, the largest military hospital in the world, in response to Tricare. These reforms have resulted in adult, outpatient services that are immediately accessible, effective, and cost efficient. The Wilford Hall approach to psychological services is offered as model that can be used in other outpatient settings. Additionally, potential limitations of this approach to psychological care are presented.
A New Old Yellow Enzyme of Saccharomyces cerevisiae

In 1993, the first gene of Old Yellow Enzyme (OYE) of Saccharomyces cerevisiae was cloned (Stott, K., Saito, K., Thiele, D. J., and Massey, V.(1993) J. Biol. Chem. 268, 6097-6106) and named OYE2 to distinguish it from the first OYE gene cloned from Saccharomyces carlsbergenesis (Saito, K., Thiele, D. J., Davio, M., Lockridge, O., and Massey, V.(1991) J. Biol. Chem. 266, 20720-20724). The analysis of an OYE2 deletion mutant suggested that S. cerevisiae had at least two OYE genes. In the present study, we cloned a new OYE species named OYE3 and analyzed the OYE3 protein expressed in Escherichia coli. OYE3 consists of 400 amino acid residues and its molecular mass calculated by electrospray mass spectrometry is 44,788 daltons, in good agreement with the value of 44,920 daltons predicted from the amino acid sequence derived from the DNA sequence. In the downstream region of the OYE3 gene, the cytochrome oxidase (COX10) gene exists with a 426-base pair intermediate sequence. Some of the physicochemical and kinetic properties of OYE2 and OYE3 have been determined. Although the two enzymes are clearly closely related, they show differences in ligand binding properties and in their catalytic activities with oxygen and cyclohexen-2-one as acceptors.
Surveying bat communities: a comparison between mist nets and the Anabat II bat detector system

A survey of bat communities was conducted in Missouri during the summer of 1998 using both mist nets and Anabat. Mist nets provide valuable information about population demographics and species diversity within bat communities. However, they can yield biased samples of bat community activity and may cause undue stress to captured bats. The use of ultrasonic bat detectors like Anabat can ameliorate some of these problems. Bat detectors are relatively easy to set up, require no direct contact with bats and can sample a wider variety of habitats. To test the relative merits of these two methods, we sampled a variety of habitats including ponds, streams, and flyways using Anabat and mist nets in a paired design. This allowed for the simultaneous sampling of bat community activity necessary for direct comparison. Echolocation calls recorded by the Anabat were identified using a discriminate function analysis model based upon a library of known call sequences. Overall, values for species richness were significantly higher for Anabat II than for mist nets. Species richness was consistently higher for Anabat for all habitats and seven individual species and one species group was detected more frequently with Anabat than with mist nets.
The prevalence of bcl-2, p53, and ki-67 immunoreactivity in transitional cell bladder carcinomas and their clinicopathologic correlates

The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of bcl-2, p53 oncoproteins, and Ki-67 antigen in a series of transitional cell bladder carcinomas and its relation to the traditional prognostic indicators and patient's survival. One hundred six cases with transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) were examined for detection of bcl-2, p53 proteins, and Ki-67 antigen (MIB1 antibody). Bcl-2 immunohistochemical positivity was observed in 52% of TCCs and in 57% of low-grade and 44% of high-grade TCCs. Bcl-2 was also detected in normal urothelium and dysplastic lesions with basal cell expression, and negative staining was observed in carcinomas in situ. Tumor stage showed a significant inverse correlation with overall bcl-2 positivity. The loss of bcl-2 protein expression in higher-stage TCCs was statistically significant (Pt = .01). p53 protein was overexpressed in 50% of TCCs and more frequently in invasive and in carcinomas in situ than in superficial TCCs (Pt = .03). In contrast, detection of p53 was not observed in normal and dysplastic urothelium. p53 positivity was related to the degree of differentiation and to the stage of the disease (Pf = .01 and Pt = .03, respectively). Concerning Ki-67 antigen, its expression was found in 57.5% of TCCs. There was a strong overall correlation of Ki-67 with tumor stage (Pt = .002) and grade (Pf = .002). Univariate statistical analysis showed that the expression of p53 and Ki-67 was significantly correlated to poor prognosis (P = .02, P = .02, respectively). On multivariate analysis, none of these markers but only stage and grade were significantly correlated to prognosis (P = .02, P = .02, respectively). These findings suggest that overexpression of bcl-2 protein may be an early event in tumorigenesis. Tumors with loss of bcl-2 positivity and overexpression of p53 and Ki-67 had an unfavorable prognosis; however, in multivariate analysis, they had no independent prognostic value.
Peers, schools, and adolescent cigarette smoking

Abstract Purpose: To investigate the effects of popularity, best friend smoking, and cigarette smoking within the peer networks on current smoking of seventh- through 12th-grade students. These factors were examined for adolescents attending schools with varying rates of student cigarette smoking. Methods: This study used data from the saturated school sample of National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (Add Health), a nationally representative school-based sample. The sample for the present study was 2525 adolescents in Grades 7–12 who completed an in-school questionnaire and an in-home interview. Information from the in-school questionnaire was used to construct measures of school smoking prevalence and popularity. Using peer nominations from the in-home interview, best friend smoking, and peer network smoking exposure were constructed using the peers' own reports of their cigarette smoking. Multiple regression techniques were used to estimate the risk of current cigarette smoking as a function of popularity, best friend smoking, peer network smoking, and school smoking prevalence, and all first-order interactions between measures of peer and school smoking prevalence. Results: Adjusting for age, gender, race/ethnicity, parent education, school, and availability of cigarettes in the home, the risk of current smoking was significantly associated with peer networks in which at least half of the members smoked [odds ratio (OR) = 1.91], one or two best friends smoked (OR = 2.00), and with increasing rates of school smoking prevalence (OR = 1.73). In addition, there was a significant interaction of popularity and school smoking prevalence such that risk of current smoking was somewhat greater among popular students in schools with high smoking prevalence than among popular students in schools with low smoking prevalence. Conclusion: Findings suggest that school environments are important contexts for understanding peer group influences on adolescent cigarette smoking.
A Listeria monocytogenes Pentapeptide Is Presented to Cytolytic T Lymphocytes by the H2-M3 MHC Class Ib Molecule

Abstract Polymorphism of MHC class Ia molecules severely constrains vaccine development against intracellular pathogens. Antigen presentation by MHC class Ib molecules, which are generally conserved between different individuals, may circumvent this obstacle. Herein, we use tandem mass spectrometry to identify a Listeria monocytogenes pentapeptide antigen that is presented to T lymphocytes by the H2-M3 MHC class Ib molecule. The peptide contains N-formyl methionine at the N terminus and exclusively hydrophobic amino acids. Mice of the H-2 d , H-2 b , and H-2 k haplotypes respond to this peptide upon infection with Listeria monocytogenes. Identification of antigens presented by MHC class Ib molecules is feasible and may provide opportunities for relatively unrestricted vaccine development.
Cobalamin speciation using reversed-phase micro-high-performance liquid chromatography interfaced to inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry

Abstract Micro-high-performance liquid chromatography interfaced to inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry was optimized for the determination and separation of a mixture of cobalt containing species. Four cobalamin species (cyanocobalamin, hydroxocobalamin, methylcobalamin, and 5′-deoxyadenosylcobalamin) representing the various forms of vitamin B12 as well as the harmful corrinoid analogue cobinamide dicyanide were separated using reversed-phase microcapillary chromatography with columns containing C18 packing material with a 2-μm particle size. Selection of organic solvents for the separation took into consideration compatibility with the inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer being used for element specific detection. Optimized method conditions included use of a methanol gradient and make-up solution for the nebulizer. Some issues associated with dead volume were overcome by the extension of the gradient program. The total analysis time was 52 min. The column-to-column variability was evaluated and was found to be very reasonable (9% RSD on average), confirming that this method is rugged and that the technology should be easily transferred to other laboratories.
Taking the con out of conservation program evaluation

Abstract A crucial step in determining the cost-effectiveness of a utility conservation program is to measure the energy savings that can be directly attributed to the program. A number of alternative methods have been proposed to measure this energy savings. The alternative methods differ in terms of their complexity, implementation cost and their ability to address important methodological issues arising during program evaluation. The important methodological issues include the need to control for factors influencing energy conservation other than program participation and the need to test for self-selection bias, a problem inherent in the evaluation of most voluntary programs. This paper focuses on three methods: (1) the simple comparison of the average conservation levels of program participants and non-participants; (2) more advanced regression techniques that differentiate between participants and non-participants through the use of dummy variables; and (3) the most advanced techniques, self-selection models, which explicitly analyze the interrelated decisions to participate in a program and to consequently reduce energy consumption. These three methods are described and critiqued at the theoretical level. In order to assess their empirical implications, the methods are then applied to the residential-conservation programs offered by a particular utility, Portland General Electric Company.
ENERGY TRANSFER AND ENERGY LOSSES IN BILAYER MEMBRANE VESICLES (LIPOSOMES)

Abstract. The efficiency of singlet-singlet energy transfer was studied in bilayer lipid membrane vesicles (liposomes) for the following donor-acceptor systems: (1) p-terphenyl (TP) and diphenyloctatetraene (DPO); (2) DPO and chlorophyll a (Chl a); and (3) β-carotene and Chl a. The energy transfer efficiency φDA was measured by sensitized fluorescence of the acceptor. Fractional quenching of the donor φQ was found from the donor fluorescence in absence and presence of the acceptor. For TP-DPO and for DPO-Chl a, the transfer efficiency increased with increasing acceptor concentration but was essentially independent of the donor concentration. No energy transfer from β-carotene to Chl a could be detected. In liposomes, φDA differed only slightly from φQ at all donor and acceptor concentrations, thus demonstrating the absence of any appreciable energy losses. For solutions of the same donor-acceptor pairs in cyclohexane φQ was considerably larger than φDA. The difference represents energy lost, principally by internal conversion, due to collisional quenching. The principal function of the lipid membrane appears to be the suppression of such losses. In addition, the rate of energy transfer in lipid membranes is about double that in solutions (at the same intermolecular distance) due to more favorable orientation.
Complex Repair of Pectus Excavatum Recurrence and Massive Chest Wall Defect and Lung Herniation After Prior Open Repair

For more than 50 years, surgeons used traditional open surgical methods to correct pectus excavatum deformities. These techniques have undergone multiple modifications but involve resection of costal cartilages and mobilization of the sternum to an anterior position. Long-term postoperative complications are rarely published. Recurrence with lung herniation presents unique challenges. We report a technique to repair this condition in a patient with massive chest wall defect and residual excavatum deformity after open repair of his excavatum deformity.
Development of Oxygen Transport Membranes for Coal-Based Power Generation

Abstract Praxair is developing an Advanced Zero Emission Coal Fired Power Plant (Advanced Power Cycle) that enables carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) at a “levelized” cost of electricity below the U.S. Department of Energy’s target for CO 2 capture from coal fired power plants. The power cycle utilizes a gasifier, partial oxidation units, power recovery turbines and an oxygen fired boiler to yield a process that meets the DOE’s goal of
Modal Freight Transport Required for Production of US Goods and Services

Abstract In this paper we develop a model which approximates the upstream supply chains for embodied transportation in products. The sector with the largest embodied freight transportation in consumption is petroleum products followed by government services, construction, and food products. Overall, pipeline contributes 7% to the total embodied freight movement per sector, air transport is generally under 1%, water is 5%, and rail and truck transportation are the most dominant modes (14% each) for domestic freight transportation for the average sector. International water is the largest mode (60%) even compared to domestic modes, and international air contributes less than 1%.
Vesta and extensively melted asteroids: Why HED meteorites are probably not from Vesta

Abstract Most researchers hold that the HED clan of differentiated meteorites originated on Vesta largely based on the assumption that nearly all V-type asteroids with basaltic reflection spectra are fragments spalled off Vesta. Although it is a reasonable working hypothesis that most of the V-type asteroids in the Vesta family originated on Vesta, the spectra are not unique enough to confirm this; a sizable fraction may have been produced during the destruction of a differentiated asteroid in the same large region of dynamic space. Observations of asteroids in the inner Asteroid Belt show that more than half of the V-type asteroids do not belong to the Vesta dynamic family. Iron-meteorite evidence shows that at least 26 asteroids experienced extensive melting and would have generated basalts and other differentiated stony meteorites. Most iron meteorites show high degrees of elemental fractionations that lead to the conclusion that they experienced fractional crystallization; it is probable that all these bodies generated basalts. There are 9 of these “magmatic” iron-meteorite groups and test criteria mainly based on extreme fractionations indicate that an additional 17 disrupted asteroids hosted fractionally crystallized cores and thus that ⩾26 asteroids experienced extensive melting; this estimate is much lower than previous estimates that included nonmagmatic irons. Within expected planetary heterogeneities the O-isotopic composition of HEDs is the same as that in oxides from IIIAB irons, the largest magmatic group of iron meteorites. e Cr 54 values are also very similar in IIIABs and HEDs. The O- and Cr-isotopic ties are much stronger than the spectral tie thus the working hypothesis should be that HEDs are from the IIIAB parent asteroid. Remote elemental analysis could confirm that HEDs are not from Vesta. If future remote analysis measures K contents ⩾0.6 mg/g this will indicate that HEDs did not originate on Vesta.
Non‐target effects of entomopathogenic nematodes on the soil nematode community

Summary 1 There is growing awareness that biological control carries risks as well as benefits, but there are few data on below-ground effects of inundative insect pathogens. We addressed this issue using entomopathogenic nematodes and the soil nematode community in a turfgrass ecosystem as a model. 2 Application of Heterorhabditis bacteriophora strain GPS11, Heterorhabditis bacteriophora strain HP88 and Heterorhabditis indica strain LN2 significantly reduced the abundance, species richness, diversity and maturity of the nematode community by reducing the number of genera and abundance of plant-parasitic, but not free-living, nematodes. 3 Our results are the first to indicate selective suppression of plant-parasitic nematodes by entomopathogenic nematodes, H . bacteriophora and H. indica , with no adverse effect on free-living nematodes. 4 In contrast to the entomopathogenic nematode treatments, trichlorfon (a commonly used insecticide in turfgrass) reduced the number of genera, abundance and diversity of the nematode community by adversely affecting both plant-parasitic and free-living nematodes. 5 The reduction in abundance and diversity of plant-parasitic nematodes without any adverse effect on free-living nematodes that play a role in nutrient cycling, can be considered as a beneficial non-target effect of entomopathogenic nematodes. The mechanisms causing such an effect need to be elucidated in future studies.
Quantum tunnelling in DNA

Abstract A calculation of the energy levels for the DNA base units A-T and G-C, along with the forms G-T, G-C excited and G-C anion, was made. The lifetime of the proton on each of the levels and tunnelling time through the barrier at each level was then determined. Finally, the distribution and tunnelling of the protons on the levels for various densities of radiation was considered. Graphs were plotted which showed that considerable tunnelling could take place for radiation in resonance with the levels.
Usability testing in a library web site redesign project

An intuitive library information gateway is critical to meeting the information needs of library users in the digital age. This article describes the process involved in redesigning a library Web site. In addition to first determining the goals and requirements for the library Web site, a user and task analysis was conducted for defining the library’s user base and the types of tasks which users might be performing at the site. Usability testing methods, such as observational interviews, provided fresh insights about how users are interacting with the library Web interface as they approach various information seeking tasks. These usability studies uncovered problems related to unclear terminology, proper use of color, size, and location for navigational links, and the need for context sensitive help, built‐in redundancy, and clear and consistent navigation.
Identifying Tightly Regulated and Variably Expressed Networks by Differential Rank Conservation (DIRAC)

A powerful way to separate signal from noise in biology is to convert the molecular data from individual genes or proteins into an analysis of comparative biological network behaviors. One of the limitations of previous network analyses is that they do not take into account the combinatorial nature of gene interactions within the network. We report here a new technique, Differential Rank Conservation (DIRAC), which permits one to assess these combinatorial interactions to quantify various biological pathways or networks in a comparative sense, and to determine how they change in different individuals experiencing the same disease process. This approach is based on the relative expression values of participating genes—i.e., the ordering of expression within network profiles. DIRAC provides quantitative measures of how network rankings differ either among networks for a selected phenotype or among phenotypes for a selected network. We examined disease phenotypes including cancer subtypes and neurological disorders and identified networks that are tightly regulated, as defined by high conservation of transcript ordering. Interestingly, we observed a strong trend to looser network regulation in more malignant phenotypes and later stages of disease. At a sample level, DIRAC can detect a change in ranking between phenotypes for any selected network. Variably expressed networks represent statistically robust differences between disease states and serve as signatures for accurate molecular classification, validating the information about expression patterns captured by DIRAC. Importantly, DIRAC can be applied not only to transcriptomic data, but to any ordinal data type.
Use of Points System for Menu Management of Eating Disorders

Abstract With psychiatric treatment options decreasing, more patients with Anorexia Nervosa are being admitted to the acute care setting for medical management. Menu planning is stressful for both the patient who struggles to maintain control over the calorie content of the meals and the Healthcare Team who strive to ensure nutritional needs are met. In order to reduce the focus on calories and provide an interdisciplinary mechanism to monitor and adjust intake, a points menu system was implemented. All foods on a special menu were assigned a calorie point value using a ratio of 1 point: 60 ± 20kcals. Good protein sources (5gms of protein per serving or greater) were identified on the menu by stars. Diet orders were prescribed as "points" and "number of protein sources" based on assessment and treatment goals. Menu choices were monitored to ensure overall calorie and nutrient intake was achieved. Analysis of the menu choices showed the points to be consistently within 20calories of the patient's original calorie target. Time spent in menu management by the dietitian was reduced by 80% by increasing the ability of patients to make menu choices independently. Defined menu guidelines enhanced trayline and production performance through improved menu readability and standard menu /tally items. This ultimately reduced nursing time spent in menu and food management issues on the unit. This system provided an alternative to meal management for patients admitted to acute care settings when existing meal systems and food options must be used. It also allowed for all team members to work together in providing a consistent and unified approach regarding the nutritional management of the patient.
Cloning and characterization of an olfactory cyclic nucleotide-gated channel expressed in mouse heart.

Abstract Regulation of ionic currents in the heart is partly achieved by signaling cascades which alter intracellular levels of cyclic nucleotides. Changes in cyclic nucleotide levels can regulate channels either directly, like the direct binding of cAMP to the ifchannel in pacemaker tissues, or indirectly through phosphorylation of channels by cAMP-dependent, or cGMP-dependent protein kinases. These types of regulation generally alter the voltage sensitivities of channels. A class of voltage-insensitive channels, first discovered in retinal rods and olfactory neurons, were recently identified in the heart. These channels are opened by the direct binding of cyclic nucleotides, providing a means of regulating ionic currents outside the influence of membrane voltage. Since different isoforms have different affinities for cAMP and cGMP, it is important to determine which isoforms are expressed in heart in order to predict their roles in heart function. We have cloned the olfactory channel from mouse heart, and find that although the message is very rare, Western blot analysis indicates the olfactory channel protein is stable in heart sarcolemma. Our data also suggest the olfactory channel protein forms homomeric channels in the heart since other isoforms or splice variants were not detected either by PCR amplification or by RNase protection. In addition, we have isolated and sequenced the mouse olfactory cyclic nucleotide-gated channel gene, and show the genomic organization is remarkably similar to that found in the human retinal channel gene. Part of this work was presented in abstract form.