cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Region of Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 Latency-Associated Transcript Sufficient for Wild-Type Spontaneous Reactivation Promotes Cell Survival in Tissue Culture

The latency-associated transcript (LAT) is the only abundant herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) transcript expressed during latency. In the rabbit eye model, LAT null mutants do not reactivate efficiently from latency. We recently demonstrated that the LAT null mutant dLAT2903 induces increased levels of apoptosis in trigeminal ganglia of infected rabbits compared to LAT+ strains (G.-C. Perng, C. Jones, J. Ciacci-Zarella, M. Stone, G. Henderson, A. Yokht, S. M. Slanina, F. M. Hoffman, H. Ghiasi, A. B. Nesburn, and C. S. Wechsler, Science 287:1500-1503, 2000). The same study also demonstrated that a plasmid expressing LAT nucleotides 301 to 2659 enhanced cell survival of transfected cells after induction of apoptosis. Consequently, we hypothesized that LAT enhances spontaneous reactivation in part, because it promotes survival of infected neurons. Here we report on the ability of plasmids expressing different portions of the 5' end of LAT to promote cell survival after induction of apoptosis. A plasmid expressing the first 1.5 kb of LAT (LAT nucleotides 1 to 1499) promoted cell survival in neuro-2A (mouse neuronal) and CV-1 (monkey fibroblast) cells. A plasmid expressing just the first 811 nucleotides of LAT promoted cell survival less efficiently. Plasmids expressing the first 661 nucleotides or less of LAT did not promote cell survival. We previously showed that a mutant expressing just the first 1.5 kb of LAT has wild-type spontaneous reactivation in rabbits, and a mutant expressing just the first 811 nucleotides of LAT has a reactivation frequency higher than that of dLAT2903 but lower than that of wild-type virus. In addition, mutants reported here for the first time, expressing just the first 661 or 76 nucleotides of LAT, had spontaneous reactivation indistinguishable from that of the LAT null mutant dLAT2903. In summary, these studies provide evidence that there is a functional relationship between the ability of LAT to promote cell survival and its ability to enhance spontaneous reactivation.
A quality management program in intravascular brachytherapy

While simple, intravascular brachytherapy (IVB) presents a considerable potential for harm to the patient. The medical physicist maintains the responsibility to minimize the likelihood of operational problems or dosimetric errors. The principals for safe operation remain the same as with any radiotherapy treatment: to deliver the correct dose, to the correct location, safety. To develop an effective and comprehensive quality management (QM) program for IVB, a physicist should utilize proven risk assessment techniques rather than simply thinking of things to check, and follow guidances such as ISO9001:2000. The proposed QM program includes the following: Procedures designed to assure the safety of the patient. Identification of the patient; tests of the integrity and patency for the delivery catheter, operation of the source train, and patency of the catheter in the treatment position; a check for recovery preparations; and verification of source recovery. Procedures to assure positional accuracy of the treatment: Verification of the positioning the catheter in the artery and of the sources in the catheter. Procedures to assure dosimetry accuracy: Acceptance testing of the device, including verification of the source strength and uniformity, and of the treatment duration tables; verification of the treatment prescription and duration for each patient; and control measures that minimize the likelihood of errors removing the source at the correct time.
The role of heavy drinking in the risk of traffic fatalities.

Recent studies have identified a "hard core" of drinking drivers who do not fit a "social" drinker profile and may require medical intervention. This article builds on these studies by quantifying the role of heavy drinking in motor vehicle fatalities. Data on male alcohol-involved fatally injured drivers (AIFIDs) were obtained from the U.S. Fatal Accident Reporting System (FARS) for the years 1989-1990 (n = 8876). The AIFIDs were grouped into either a "heavy" or "light" drinking category based on drinking behaviors inferred from prior driving records and blood alcohol concentrations (BAC). The majority of male AIFIDs were between the ages of 20-39 (70%). Sixty-five percent had a BAC of 150 mg/dl or greater, and 41% had a BAC in excess of 200 mg/dl. AIFIDs with high BACs were more likely to have histories of DUI convictions and license suspensions than AIFIDs with low BACs. According to the study's criteria, 73% percent of the AIFIDs could be classified as "heavy" drinkers. There were no driving variables that differentiated the heavy and light drinker groups, indicating that heavy drinking per se is the primary factor that distinguishes the groups. Male alcohol-involved fatally injured drivers are comprised mostly of heavy drinkers who may suffer from serious drinking problems or alcoholism. Successful interventions may require medical treatment as well as punitive criminal justice policies.
Interferon Regulatory Factor-1, Interferon-β, and Reovirus-Induced Myocarditis

Viral myocarditis is an important human disease, and reovirus-induced myocarditis in mice provides an excellent model to study direct viral damage to the heart. Previously, we showed that reovirus induction of and sensitivity to interferon-beta (IFN-beta) is an important determinant of viral pathogenicity in the heart and that the transcription factor interferon regulatory factor-3 (IRF-3) is required for reovirus induction of IFN-beta in primary cardiac myocyte cultures. Given several lines of evidence suggesting a possible distinctive environment for IRFs in the heart, we have now focused on IRF-1. Previous studies demonstrated that viruses, double-stranded-RNA (dsRNA), and IFN-alpha/beta can each induce IRF-1 and that IRF-1 plays a role in dsRNA, but perhaps not viral, induction of IFN-alpha/beta. Importantly, none of these studies used a virus with a dsRNA genome (such as reovirus), none of them used a highly differentiated nonlymphoid cell type, and none of them addressed whether viral induction of IRF-1 is direct or is mediated through viral induction of IFN-beta. Indeed, as recently as this year it has been assumed that viral induction of IRF-1 is direct. Here, we found that reovirus induced IRF-1 in primary cardiac myocyte cultures, but that IRF-1 was not required for reovirus induction of IFN-beta. Surprisingly, we found that reovirus failed to induce IRF-1 in the absence of the IFN-alpha/beta response. This provides the first evidence that viruses may not induce IRF-1 directly. Finally, nonmyocarditic reovirus strains induced more cardiac lesions in mice deficient for IRF-1 than they did in wildtype mice, directly demonstrating a protective role for IRF-1. Together, the results indicate that while IRF-1 is downstream of the IFN-beta response, it plays an important protective role against viral myocarditis.
Artificial photosynthesis – an example of membrane mimetic chemistry

The goal of constructing artificial photosynthetic assemblies is to use sunlight for the generation of hydrogen from water; the hydrogen obtained should be an ideal energy source. The use of surfactant vesicle entrapped-catalyst coated colloidal semiconductors and sacrificial electron donors for photosensitized water reduction illustrates how chemists mimic photosynthesis.
Benefits and costs of supported employment from three perspectives

Administrators, consumers, and policy makers are increasingly interested in supported employment as a way of helping persons with severe mental illness get and keep competitive jobs. However, in an atmosphere of increased expectations for performance and declining public financing, administrators want to know the costs and benefits of different approaches before they reallocate scarce treatment or rehabilitative dollars. This article discusses the net benefits of two approaches to supported employment that were compared in a randomized trial: Individual Placement and Support (IPS) and Group Skills Training (GST). The authors analyze costs and benefits from societal, government, and consumer perspectives. Although a previous analysis showed that IPS participants were significantly more likely to find work, worked more hours, and had higher earnings, net benefits of the two programs were not significantly different. The authors also discuss some of the strengths and weaknesses of cost-benefit analysis in mental health care and suggest future directions for policy and research.
STRAIN-CONTROLLED CREEP RUPTURE IN AN INTERNALLY-NOTCHED PRESSURIZED TUBE BY THE FINITE ELEMENT TECHNIQUE

Abstract A creep rupture analysis of an internally notched thick-walled tube, subjected to a constant internal pressure, is carried out in detail based on the local continuum damage mechanics approach using the finite element technique. A strain-controlled creep damage law, which is derived from a more complex strain-dependent creep damage law, is employed to evaluate the damage due to creep. Because of the presence of the notch and hence the associated extremely non-uniform damage field, a localized “crack”, which is defined as the region of ruptured zones, initiates at the notch tip and then propagates through the notched section. While the crack advances with a monotonically but slowly increasing rate during most of the rupture life, it propagates through more than half of the notched section in essentially zero time. This behavior of the crack propagation is a consequence of the creep ductility as well as the loss of load-carrying material at the notched section.
Tensile, fracture and impact behavior of transparent Interpenetrating Polymer Networks with polyurethane-poly(methyl methacrylate)

Abstract Transparent Interpenetrating Polymer Networks (IPNs) with poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) as the stiff phase and polyurethane (PU) as the ductile phase with varying PMMA:PU ratios in the range of 90:10 to 70:30 were formulated. Static tensile and fracture tests indicate significant failure strain and crack initiation toughness enhancements with a loss of stiffness relative to PMMA. Dynamic fracture tests were conducted using a long-bar impact loading apparatus in conjunction with an optical method and high-speed photography. Low-velocity impact tests were also performed using a drop-tower. Dynamic fracture and low-velocity impact responses show that an optimum range of PMMA:PU ratios in the IPNs can produce enhanced fracture toughness and impact energy absorption capability when compared to PMMA. Fractographic examination supports macro-measurements by showing a distinct change in surface morphology associated with improved macroscale fracture toughness.
Divergence of the bulk resistance at criticality in disordered media

Consider the electrical resistancern(p) of a hypercubic bond lattice [O,n]d inZd, where the bonds have resistance 1Ω with probabilityp or ∞ with probability 1-p. Letpn(p)=n2-drn(p) andp(p)=limn→∞pn(p). It is well known thatp(p) pc andp(p)=∞ ifp<pc, wherepc is the percolation threshold. Here we show thatp(pc)=∞, and\(\lim _{p \downarrow p_c } \rho (p) = \rho (p_c ) = \infty \).
An FPGA architecture for low density parity check codes

Low density parity check (LDPC) codes are a family of linear block codes that can approach the Shannon limit to within less than a hundredth of a decibel, and along with Turbo codes are the codes of choice for all next- generation high-noise, high-rate communication systems. A generalized architecture is cost-prohibitive, and code- specific ASICs are not flexible enough for channels with dynamic noise parameters. In this paper we describe a field programmable gate array (FPGA) architecture for LDPC coding that allows for code-specific architectures while providing dynamic code selection. Gate and LUT counts in the encoder are examined for various codes, and size and timing results for different decoder parameters are compared.
On the Subdivision of the Genus Drosophila.

There is now in progress in several laboratories a comparative study of the genetics of the species of Drosophila. Several authors have pointed out possible deductions concerning the history of the group that may be derived from such studies (e.g., Donald 1936, Sturtevant and Tan 1936, Serebrovsky 1938). If such deductions are to be of value, it is desirable that there be available a satisfactory arrangement of the species into some scheme of classification that can be taken as indicating their degree of genetic relationship. It is the purpose of this note to present the results of an attempt to derive a classification by a method as free of personal equation as it can be made.
Differential regulation of human alveolar macrophage-derived interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor-α by iron

Human lungs accumulate iron with the aging process. In some circumstances associated with lung injury (eg, smoking), this acquisition of iron in lung tissue and alveolar macrophages (AMs) is escalated. We hypothesized that excess cellular iron interfered with the production of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and interleukin-1-beta (IL-1-beta) by AMs. To examine this hypothesis, we acquired AMs from smokers and nonsmokers by bronchoalveolar lavage. AMs were stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), with and without deferoxamine (DFA), a chelator of iron. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and Northern analysis were used to quantitate cytokine concentrations and mRNA. The addition of DFA increased the release of IL-1-beta, but not TNF-alpha, from AMs from smokers and nonsmokers. The DFA augmentation of LPS-induced IL-1-beta was more pronounced in smokers' AMs than in those from non-smokers (4.5-fold vs 2.6-fold increase). The addition of FeCl3 to DFA diminished the augmenting effect on the release of IL-1-beta, suggesting that the mechanism of action involved iron chelation. Conversely, as the intensity of iron chelation increased, the release of IL-1-beta and TNF-alpha decreased, as was also shown with hydroxyl radical scavenging by dimethylthiourea. This inhibition, however, occurred at very different thresholds for each cytokine. These data support a relationship between excess alveolar iron and the generation of inflammation within the lung.
Induction heating steel with 60 cycles

A NEW field for the application of induction heating has developed. High-frequency heating of metal is already accepted as an indispensable tool of industry for surface heating and for through-heating small pieces. The steel industry is now turning its attention to lower frequencies for heating large sections to forging temperatures, approximately 2200 degrees Fahrenheit (F). The heating of steel for forming is a large part of steel manufacture. The methods used over the years have gone through an evolution. With the development of high-speed rolling and forming techniques, a need for faster heating methods has arisen. Low-frequency induction heating seems to provide a good answer to this need.
Method for Assessment of Prolonged and Intermittent Storage on Reliability of Leadfree Electronics Using Leading Indicators

Electronic systems may be subjected to prolonged and intermittent periods of storage prior to deployment or usage. Prior studies have shown that leadfree solder interconnects show measurable degradation in the mechanical properties even after brief exposures to high temperature. In this paper, a method has been developed for the determining equivalent storage time to produce identical damage at a different temperature. Electronics subjected to accelerated tests often have a well-defined thermal profile for a specified period of time. Quantification of the thermal profile in field deployed electronics may be often difficult because of variance in the environment conditions and usage profile. There is need for tools and techniques to quantify damage in deployed systems in absence of macro-indicators of damage without knowledge of prior stress history. Approach for mapping damage in leadfree second-level interconnects under between thermal conditions is new. High reliability applications such as avionics and missile systems may be often exposed to long periods of storage prior to deployment. Effect of storage at different temperature conditions can be mapped using the presented approach. A framework has been developed to investigate the system state and estimate the remaining useful life of solder ball subjected to a variety of isothermal aging conditions including 60°C, 75°C and 125°C for periods of time between 1-week and 4-week. Data on damage precursors has been collected and analyzed to derive physics based damage mapping relationships for aging. Mathematical relationships have been derived for the damage mapping to various thermal storage environments to facilitate determining appropriate time-temperature combination to reach a particular level of damage state. Activation energy for the leading indicators of failure is also computed. Specific damage proxies examined include the phase-growth indicator and the intermetallic thickness. The viability of the approach has been demonstrated for leadfree test assemblies subjected to multiple thermal aging at 60° C, 75°C and 125°C. Damage mapping relationships are derived from data based on the two separate leading indicators.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
Intraluminal release of serotonin, substance P, and gastrin in the canine small intestine.

Several gastrointestinal hormones have been found in the intestinal lumen, but as yet their physiologic role is not yet clear. We have previously shown in anesthesized animals that electrical vagal stimulation provokes simultaneous intraluminal release of serotonin (5-HT) and substance P (SP). The aim of this study was to investigate if a physiologic stimulus, a meal, releases 5-HT, SP, and gastrin (G) into the canine jejunum. In 10 dogs, chronic jejunal Thiry-Vella loops were perfused with saline (37°C) before and after: (1) a test meal; (2) atropine, 0.2 mg/kg intravenously before the meal; (3) atropine alone at the same dose; (4) propanolol, 0.5 mg/kg intravenously before the meal; and (5) propanolol alone at the same dose. Effluent perfusates and peripheral blood samples were assayed by radioimmunoassay for concentrations of 5-HT, SP, and G. Large amounts of all three humoral agents were found intraluminally during the interdigestive period. The meal resulted in increased circulating levels of 5-HT, SP, and G, while intraluminal concentrations of 5-HT and SP but not G increased following the meal. Both atropine and propanolol pretreatment significantly reduced this response, while alone, these drugs did not affect basal values. We postulate that 5-HT and SP released into the intestinal lumen in response to a meal act as local neurocrine/paracrine modulators. Their release mechanisms appear to be under both cholinergic and adrenergic control.
Ionospheric acoustic and gravity waves associated with midlatitude thunderstorms

Acoustic waves with periods of 2–4 min and gravity waves with periods of 6–16 min have been detected at ionospheric heights (250–350 km) using GPS total electron content measurements. The area disturbed by these waves and the wave amplitudes have been associated with underlying thunderstorm activity. A statistical study comparing Next Generation Weather Radar thunderstorm measurements with ionospheric acoustic and gravity waves in the midlatitude U.S. Great Plains region was performed for the time period of May–July 2005. An increase of ionospheric acoustic wave disturbed area and amplitude is primarily associated with large thunderstorms (mesoscale convective systems). Ionospheric gravity wave disturbed area and amplitude scale with thunderstorm activity, with even small storms (i.e., individual storm cells) producing an increase of gravity waves.
A search for viruses and mycoplasmas in connective tissue diseases

Taking advantage of the distinctive buoyant densities of viral and mycoplasmal nucleic acids, methods were developed for detecting a noncytolytic virus or mycoplasma in synovial cell cultures. No evidence of viral or mycoplasmal infection was found in the study of 20 cell strains derived from 13 patients with rheumatoid arthritis, 3 patients with noninflammatory joint disease, and one patient each with Reiter's syndrome, Behcet's syndrome, vasculitis with hepatitis 6 antigenemia, and ankylosing spondylitis with peripheral arthritis. Further, neither the treatment of synovial-VERO cocultured cells with 5-iodo-2'-deoxyuridine in dimethyl sulfoxide nor radiolabeling at the time of explanation permitted the detection of a virus or mycoplasma.
Theological Trace in Qoheleth

The presence of theology in Qoholeth (Ecclesiastes) has long been disputed. The book's frequent use of hebel (“vanity” or “vapor”) has discouraged theological analysis. Attention to hebel's basic atmospheric sense, “vapor” allows a theological trace to emerge. This essay argues for a theology of reverence in Qoholeth that includes both the troublesome refrain and omission of the divine name.
Magnetic and optical disk control: parallels and contrasts

The control of hard disks and the control of optical disks share many of the same features. However, these problems also have some fundamental differences which yield a very different set of problems for each. Recent efforts in each type of system can be seen in the context of trying to add in the best elements of the other. With this in mind, it is useful to examine these parallel problems in a tutorial fashion to understand what links and separates them and thus, when elements of one can be applied to the other.
Landing ground reaction forces in figure skaters and non-skaters

AbstractResearchers and clinicians have suggested that overuse injuries to the lower back and lower extremities of figure skaters may be associated with the repeated high impact forces sustained during jump landings. Our primary aim was to compare the vertical ground reaction forces (GRFs) in freestyle figure skaters (n = 26) and non-skaters (n = 18) for the same barefoot single leg landing on a force plate from a 20 cm platform. Compared with non-skaters, skaters exhibited a significantly greater normalised peak GRF (3.50 ± 0.47 × body weight for skaters vs. 3.13 ± 0.45 × body weight for non-skaters), significantly shorter time to peak GRF (81.21 ± 14.01 ms for skaters vs. 93.81 ± 16.49 ms for non-skaters), and significantly longer time to stabilisation (TTS) of the GRF (2.38 ± 0.07 s for skaters vs. 2.22 ± 0.07 s for non-skaters). Skaters also confined their centre of pressure (CoP) to a significantly smaller mediolateral (M–L) (25%) and anterior–posterior (A–P) (40%) range during the landing phase, wit...
Chemical state of magnesium in plasma.

Abstract All the magnesium in ovine and bovine plasma behaves as a low molecular weight cationic complex. No plasma magnesium is associated with protein.
Temperature preferences of hardhead Mylopharodon conocephalus and rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss in an annular chamber

To optimize habitat characteristics when managing resident and migratory stream fish populations in regulated systems, it is important to know a species’ preferred temperatures. However, temperature-preference devices used in many laboratory studies often have design limitations (e.g., confounding variables such as differential light intensities or water depths, or perceived cover) limiting their usefulness. To overcome these design limitations, we constructed a 3-m-diameter, annular preference apparatus made of clear, acrylic plastic capable of presenting uniform light intensities, constant water depths and velocities, and stable vertical and horizontal temperature gradients for experimental fish. We determined preferred temperatures of hardhead Mylopharodon conocephalus (mean TL: 36.2 cm) and rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss (mean TL: 35.4 cm) acclimated to 12, 15, and 18 °C and tested, individually, in the 12–24 °C annular gradient. All hardhead acclimation groups avoided waters 19 °C, and 18 °C acclimated trout avoided water temperatures 20 °C. Including all acclimation temperature groups, mean hardhead preferred water temperatures ranged from 19.6 °C to 21.0 °C (mean modal preferences were 20.2–21.5 °C), whereas trout preferred significantly cooler average water temperatures ranging from 16.0 °C to 18.4 °C (mean modal preferences were 15.8–18.5 °C). These temperature preference data can be used to guide regulation of stream systems for key fish species.
Mid-term results after bidirectional cavopulmonary shunts

Abstract Despite the increasing use of the bidirectional cavopulmonary shunt, little is known about the late results, the duration of palliation, and the frequency with which this procedure allows later successful conversion to a Fontan type of procedure. We reviewed our experience (1984 to 1992) in 38 consecutive children, ages 4 months to 16 years (mean, 4.0 years), who underwent a bidirectional cavopulmonary shunt procedure. All had a single functional ventricle and represented high risks for the performance of a Fontan procedure based on anatomic and hemodynamic criteria. The oxygen saturation in these patients improved from a preoperative value of 75% ± 7% to 82% ± 7% ( p < 0.05) at late cardiac catheterization by a mean of 24 months after operation. The actuarial survival, including early deaths and that associated with all secondary procedures, was 86% at 1 year and 81% at 6 years. Early deaths occurred in 5.3% ( 2 / 38 ) and late deaths in 11% ( 4 / 36 ). Late follow-up ranged from 5 to 90 months (mean, 37 months). Conversion to a Fontan or fenestrated Fontan procedure was accomplished in 21 early survivors ( 21 / 36 ; 58%) by a mean of 26 months after the bidirectional cavopulmonary shunt procedure, with one operative and no late deaths ( 1 / 21 ; 4.8%). Three additional patients have undergone late reoperation, including 2 requiring cardiac transplantation and 1 undergoing the late creation of an axillary artery-to-vein fistula for the treatment of cyanosis. The midterm survival after a bidirectional cavopulmonary shunt procedure appears to be excellent, and it serves as a good staging procedure for patients who represent high risks for a Fontan procedure. In some patients, the bidirectional cavopulmonary shunt appears to provide excellait palliation with good intermediate-term results.
Shh, HoxD, Bmp‐2, and Fgf‐4 gene expression during development of the polydactylous talpid2, diplopodia1, and diplopodia4 mutant chick limb buds

Several polydactylous mutants affect the pattern of asymmetry along the anteroposterior axis of the vertebrate limb. In talpid2, diplopodia1, and diplopodia4 chick limb mutants, there is a preaxial extension that results in broader limb buds. Talpid2 shows reduction of the long bones and 9-10 syndactylous digits, none of which are specifically recognizable as members of the normal digit complement. In diplopodia1 and diplopodia4 extra digits are present preaxially in addition to the normal digits. This phenotype resembles the duplications obtained by grafting a polarizing region to the anterior margin of the limb bud. The abnormal skeletal pattern along the anteroposterior limb axis in both mutants suggests alterations in the signaling pathways that mediate growth and patterning of the limb. In situ hybridization studies reveal that whereas shh transcripts are restricted to the posterior limb margins, HoxD, Bmp-2, and Fgf-4 genes are ectopically expressed in the anterior region of the talpid2, diplopodia1, and diplopodia4 limb buds. The results obtained give insights into the molecular basis of talpid2 and diplopodia mutations and also into the possible roles of shh, Bmp-2, HoxD, and Fgf-4 genes in vertebrate limb morphogenesis.
Spatial interpolation schemes of daily precipitation for hydrologic modeling

Distributed hydrologic models typically require spatial estimates of precipitation interpolated from sparsely located observational points to the specific grid points. We compare and contrast the performance of regression-based statistical methods for the spatial estimation of precipitation in two hydrologically different basins and confirmed that widely used regression-based estimation schemes fail to describe the realistic spatial variability of daily precipitation field. The methods assessed are: (1) inverse distance weighted average; (2) multiple linear regression (MLR); (3) climatological MLR; and (4) locally weighted polynomial regression (LWP). In order to improve the performance of the interpolations, the authors propose a two-step regression technique for effective daily precipitation estimation. In this simple two-step estimation process, precipitation occurrence is first generated via a logistic regression model before estimate the amount of precipitation separately on wet days. This process generated the precipitation occurrence, amount, and spatial correlation effectively. A distributed hydrologic model (PRMS) was used for the impact analysis in daily time step simulation. Multiple simulations suggested noticeable differences between the input alternatives generated by three different interpolation schemes. Differences are shown in overall simulation error against the observations, degree of explained variability, and seasonal volumes. Simulated streamflows also showed different characteristics in mean, maximum, minimum, and peak flows. Given the same parameter optimization technique, LWP input showed least streamflow error in Alapaha basin and CMLR input showed least error (still very close to LWP) in Animas basin. All of the two-step interpolation inputs resulted in lower streamflow error compared to the directly interpolated inputs.
Diesel lubricant monitoring with new‐concept shipboard test equipment

Accurate diesel lubricating oil testing, formerly relegated only to oil laboratories, can now be performed routinely aboard ship using a series of first-generation, new-concept, oil analysis meters. The modern design equipment yields reliable oil test data whose quality approaches that derived from traditional, but often difficult to perform, oil laboratory testing. This equipment contains operating concepts that were jointly codeveloped for fleet use by contractors with direct technical input from NSWCCD-SSES engineering personnel. The oil testers available are compact, affordable, streamlined, microprocessor-based devices, containing simplified hardware and menu-driven software. Further, these devices were designed with extensive onboard oil-test data storage capabilities. Engine test data obtained is stored so that it can be offloaded to a printer or a computer for operational trending, characteristics that are useful for long-term tracking of engine conditions, commensurate with condition-based machinery maintenance concepts. Design ideas employed in the equipment were aimed at making it essentially equivalent to laboratory testing, yet operator-friendly and easy to use. Evaluation of the testers was completed in about three years from initial conception until commercial products were realised. Included in the evaluaton studies were statistical data comparisons with established testing procedures, along with long-term fleet testing. The equipment includes kinematic viscosity, fuel dilution (FD), and total base number (TBN) meters. Additional work is continuing on the development of similar equipment for assessing moisture, solids contamination, wear/particle analysis, and total acid number (TAN) evaluations in other oils, so that the US fleet may increase real-time analysis and diagnostics capabilities.
How Supplemental Instruction (Si) Generates Revenue for Colleges and Universities

Many colleges and universities still do not understand how an SI program can retain tuition revenue ordinarily lost to attrition. The purpose of this article is to increase awareness of the ability of SI to generate retained tuition revenue far beyond the costs of an SI program. Furthermore, formulas are presented to help prospective and existing SI programs determine the amount of retained revenue SI can generate for individual institutions.
Comparison of time-frequency-based techniques for estimating instantaneous frequency parameters of nonstationary processes

The aim of this work is to contrast techniques used to estimate two instantaneous frequency parameters of the surface electromyographic (EMG) signal, the instantaneous median frequency and the instantaneous mean frequency, based on their estimation error. Three methods are compared: Cohen class and Cohen-Posch class time- frequency representations are used to compute both the above- mentioned instantaneous frequency parameters, and a cross-time- frequency based technique is adopted to derive the instantaneous mean frequency. The results demonstrate that the algorithm based on Cohen-Posch class transformations leads to a standard deviation of the instantaneous frequency parameters that is smaller than that obtained using Cohen class representations. However, the cross- time-frequency estimation procedure for instantaneous mean frequency produced the smallest standard deviation compared to the other techniques. The algorithms based on Cohen class and Cohen- Posch class transformations often provided a lower bias than the cross-time-frequency based technique. This advantage was particularly evident when the instantaneous mean frequency varies non-linearly within the epochs used to derive the cross-time- frequency representation of the surface EMG signal.© (1999) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
The epitope stability of Group 1 and Group 2 allergens in mite extracts

Background Commercial mite allergenic extracts sold in the U S are prepared with whole body mites in buffer solutions containing 50% glycerol. Mite extracts were reported to contain large numbers of proteolytic enzymes and their structural integrity in aqueous solutions have not been evaluated. Objective To evaluate the epitope stabilities of Group 1 and 2 allergens in two commercial mite extracts used by Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER) as reference extracts, E5-Dp ( Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus ) and E5-Df (D. farinae) . Methods Epitope stability was determined by using monoclonal antibodies in a Sandwich ELISA. Samples were stored at four different temperatures and the amounts of Der p 1, Der p 2, Der f 1, and Der f 2 were determined at different time intervals. The overall stability of mite extracts was evaluated by immunoblot and competition ELISA. Results The epitope stability of these allergens varies: Der f 1 was stable for at least 3 years and Der f 2 for 1 year when stored at 4 degrees C; Der p 1 and 2 were less stable. None of the Group 1 and 2 allergens remained intact when stored at 50 degrees C. Immunoblot and competition ELISA data also showed a similar trend of degradation as compared with extracts stored at 4 degrees C for the same length of time. Conclusion With the exception of Der f 1, the amount of detectable epitopes in Group 1 and 2 allergens reduce rapidly after 1 year, especially at elevated temperatures. The changes in allergen composition were also observed by immunoblotting and in relative potency by ELISA competition assay. These findings are highly relavent to the users of CBER's mite extracts as standards.
Sr, Nd, and Pb isotopic character of Tertiary basalts from southwest Poland

Abstract Tertiary basaltic volcanics from southwest Poland which form the eastern part of the Central European Volcanic Province (CEVP) have been studied for Sr, Nd, and Pb isotopic compositions. 87 Sr 86 Sr ratios range from 0.70317 to 0.70369, 143 Nd 144 Nd ratios range from 0.51285 to 0.51302 and Pb isotopic compositions range from 19.42 to 19.94 for 206 Pb 204 Pb . These data indicate the influence of three end-member mantle components DMM, HIMU and EM. An analysis of all isotopic results from the CEVP leads to the conclusion that basalts from SW Poland have the most depleted character. We propose a model whereby the depleted source mantle for the CEVP interacted with enriched components (EM). The western part of the CEVP was enriched on a larger scale than the eastern part, probably due to the influence of the Rhine Graben rift.
Suppression of Insulin Production and Secretion by a Decretin Hormone

Decretins, hormones induced by fasting that suppress insulin production and secretion, have been postulated from classical human metabolic studies. From genetic screens, we identified Drosophila Limostatin (Lst), a peptide hormone that suppresses insulin secretion. Lst is induced by nutrient restriction in gut-associated endocrine cells. limostatin deficiency led to hyperinsulinemia, hypoglycemia, and excess adiposity. A conserved 15-residue polypeptide encoded by limostatin suppressed secretion by insulin-producing cells. Targeted knockdown of CG9918, a Drosophila ortholog of Neuromedin U receptors (NMURs), in insulin-producing cells phenocopied limostatin deficiency and attenuated insulin suppression by purified Lst, suggesting CG9918 encodes an Lst receptor. NMUR1 is expressed in islet β cells, and purified NMU suppresses insulin secretion from human islets. A human mutant NMU variant that co-segregates with familial early-onset obesity and hyperinsulinemia fails to suppress insulin secretion. We propose Lst as an index member of an ancient hormone class called decretins, which suppress insulin output.
An economic investigation of sensory manipulators in assembly lines

Abstract This paper presents a method for economic analysis of the use of manipulators with sensory units in an assembly line. The sensory unit includes a vision system which uses a laser beam for searching and accurately tracking any defective parts. Use of a universal gripper is proposed in order to eliminate gripper change time while maitaining the ability to accomodate any production change, hence reducing assembly cost. Manipulators with two arms and universal grippers are discussed. Models for mean production time and the assembly cost are developed for a robot with a universal gripper and sensory unit.
Morphology and microhabitat preferences of benthic foraminifera from the northwest Atlantic Ocean.

The distribution of Rose Bengal stained calcareous benthic foraminifera was determined in six ☐ cores raised from water depths between 200 and 3000 m on the Nova Scotian continental margin and Gulf of Maine. The taxa can be separated into four microhabitats within the surficial sediments. Epifaunal taxa are generally found in the top cm, intermediate infaunal taxa are found from about 1 to 4 cm and deep infaunal taxa are found at > 4 cm sediment depth in at least one ☐ core. A fourth group, shallow infaunal taxa, is found in the top 2 cm and is inferred to be infaunal based on wall porosity characteristics and test shapes similar to infaunal taxa. The epifaunal, shallow infaunal and intermediate infaunal taxa maintain their positions within the sediments from core to core, whereas the deep infaunal taxa are found at progressively shallower sediment depths in cores within increasing organic carbon contents from shallower water depths. Each microhabitat category has distinct morphological characteristics. Epifaunal taxa have plano-covex or biconvex cross sections, trochospiral coiling and large pores absent or found on only one side. Shallow infaunal taxa have uniserial, triserial, or planispiral coiling, with surface ornamentation present on a number of taxa. The intermediate infaunal taxa have rounded peripheries, pores over the entire test and planispiral coiling, with the exception ofCibicidoides bradyi which has trochospiral coiling. The deep infaunal taxa have, in general, planispiral or triserial coiling with cylindrical or ovate shaped tests.
Synthesis of fluorophore-tagged xylosides that prime glycosaminoglycan chains.

Biosynthesis and functions of glycosaminoglycan (GAG) chains are complex and remain elusive. To better understand the factors that regulate the biosynthesis and functions, fluorophore-tagged xylosides carrying two different linkages between fluorophore and xylose residue were synthesized and evaluated for their ability to prime GAG chains such as heparan sulfate (HS), chondroitin sulfate (CS), and dermatan sulfate (DS) in various cell lines. These in vitro studies resulted in the identification of fluorophore-tagged xylosides that prime high molecular weight GAG chains. Primed GAG chains carrying a fluorophore group has several advantages for studying the factors that regulate the biosynthesis, analyzing intact fine structures at low detection limits, and setting the stage for studying structure–function relations of GAG chains of cellular origin.
Dart Impact Testing of Polyethylene Film: Mechanical Interpretation and Model

A physical model of dart impact tests of film manufactured from semi-crystalline polyethylene resins is developed. The models treat the dart impact tests as a special case of the standard high-speed stress/strain measurement performed on a polymer sample with a linearly changing cross section. They describe the dart impact strength as a complex function of the parameters that characterize the stress-strain curve of the resin: stresses and strains at the yield, necking and breaking points. The models correctly predict the range of the dart impact strength (ASTM D1709, ISO 7765) and are suitable for semi-quantitative characterization and ranking of linear low density polyethylene resins for film applications.
Microsomal Oxidase and Glutathione Transferase as Factors Influencing the Effects of Pulegone in Southern and Fall Armyworm Larvae

Abstract The mint monoterpene pulegone and one of its oxidation products, menthofuran, are 3.5–4 times more toxic, acutely, to southern armyworm, Spodoptera eridania (Cramer) than to fall armyworm, S. frugiperda (J. E. Smith) larvae. When the insects are exposed to these compounds in the diet, over an extended period of time, the reverse is true. The southern armyworm larvae have higher cytochrome P -450 content and activities in midgut and fatbody tissues than the fall armyworm larvae. Glutathione transferase activities are comparable in midgut tissues of the two species, but higher in fatbodies of the fall armyworm than of the southern. Pulegone induces cytochrome P -450 activities in both species including its own oxidation as indicated by pulegone-dependent NADPH oxidation. When the insects are stressed with pulegone or menthofuran as in the present study, the observed differences in metabolic activities in the two species may be factors influencing the observed acute and chronic toxicities in each case.
What predicts enduring intractability in children who appear medically intractable in the first 2 years after diagnosis

Summary Purpose In a population-based retrospective cohort of children with newly diagnosed epilepsy, to determine (1) what proportion meet criteria for early medical intractability, and (2) predictors of enduring intractability. Methods Children with newly diagnosed epilepsy between 1980 and 2009 while resident in Olmsted County, MN, and followed >36 months, were stratified into groups based on both early medical intractability (“apparent” medical intractability in the first 2 years) and enduring intractability (persisting intractability at final follow-up or having undergone surgery for intractable epilepsy), and variables predicting these outcomes were evaluated. Key Findings Three hundred eighty-one children were included, representing 81% of our cohort with newly diagnosed epilepsy. Seventy five (19.7%) had early medical intractability, and predictors of this outcome on multivariable analysis were neuroimaging abnormality (risk ratio, 2.70; p = 0.0004), abnormal neurologic examination at diagnosis (risk ratio, 1.87; p = 0.015), and mode of onset (association was significant for focal vs. generalized onset [risk ratio, 0.25; p < 0.0001] but not unknown vs. generalized onset [p = 0.065]). After a median follow-up of 11.7 years, 49% remained intractable, 8% had rare seizures (≤ every 6 months), and the remainder were seizure-free. The only factor predicting enduring intractability on multivariable analysis was neuroimaging abnormality (risk ratio, 7.0; p = 0.0006). Significance Although a significant minority of children with early medical intractability ultimately achieved seizure control without surgery, those with an abnormal imaging study did poorly. For this subgroup, early surgical intervention is strongly advised to limit comorbidities of ongoing, intractable seizures. Conversely, a cautious approach is suggested for those with normal imaging, as most will remit with time.
Business intelligence methods — How ethical

In recent years, we have experienced some revival of society's concerns with the ethics of business practices as a result of several scandals. However, severe competitive pressures seem to continue to force executives to resort to marginally ethical ways that would provide knowledge about competitors' operations. Therefore, an empirical study was conducted during Spring and Summer of 1991 about information gathering methods by businesses regarding operations of competitors. Respondents were employed in a variety of different industries. A convenience sample was administered in two adjoining states, with one group residing in an urban city and the other in smaller predominantly rural communities.
Impact of Wheat Grain Selenium Content Variation on Milling and Bread Baking

ABSTRACT Selenium (Se) is an essential micronutrient in animals. High levels of Se can accumulate in wheat grain, but it is not clear how high Se affects milling or baking. Low and high Se grain from the same hard red winter wheat cultivar was milled and used for breadbaking studies and Se analysis. Mill stream yields from the low and high Se wheat were comparable, as were flour yields. The amount of total grain Se retained in the flour mill streams was 71.2 and 66.4% for the low and high Se wheat, respectively. Proportionally, Se content in the bran, shorts, and the first reduction flour stream in high Se wheat was higher by 13–20% compared to the low Se wheat. Flour quality parameters including protein content, ash content, and farinograph traits were similar in low and high Se flours, although high Se flour mill streams exhibited lower farinograph stability. Breadbaking evaluations indicated that high Se had a deleterious effect on loaf volume. There was no evidence of significant Se loss after breadba...
En route to a motorized nanocar.

With the eventual goal of demonstrating a motorized nanocar, the key structure has been synthesized which bears a light-activated unidirectional molecular motor and an oligo(phenylene ethynylene) chassis and axle system with four carboranes to serve as the wheels. Kinetics studies in solution show that the motor indeed rotates upon irradiation with 365 nm light, and the fullerene-free carborane wheel system is an essential design feature for motor operation.
Hydrogen and hot electron defect creation at the Si(100)/SiO2interface of metal-oxide-semiconductor field effect transistors

Abstract We explore the hydrogen-related microstructures involved in hot electron defect creation at the Si(100)– SiO 2 interface of metal-oxide-semiconductor field effect transistors. With ab initio density functional calculations, the energetics and defect levels have been calculated for hydrogen in bulk silicon, bulk silicon dioxide and at their interface. We relate these calculations to several experiments and suggest a microscopic model for hydrogen-related hot electron degradation.
Age-Related Histologic Changes in Human Nasal Cartilage

ImportanceUnderstanding age-related changes is important when considering cartilage-based implants or grafts during rhinoplasty and nasal reconstructive surgery. ObjectiveTo characterize the cellul...