cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Occurrence of S-Methyl Thioesters in Urines of Humans After They Have Eaten Asparagus

Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry was used to determine the odor-causing agent (or agents) present in the urines of humans after they have eaten asparagus. S-Methyl thioacrylate and S-methyl 3-(methylthio)thiopropionate were identified from methylene chloride extracts of such urines and appear to be the odor-causing compounds. Methanethiol, the previously reported odor-causing agent, was not detected in these methylene chloride extracts.
Pentylenetetrazol causes polysynaptic responses to appear in the dentate gyrus

In a particular brain region specific changes in inhibition or excitation may be the basis of seizure initiation. Alternatively, changes in the balance of excitation and inhibition in the circuit, which may be detectable as polysynaptic responses may be more important indicators of epileptogenesis. That the appearance of polysynaptic responses precedes the initiation and, therefore, may be necessary for the onset of epileptiform activity in the hippocampal-parahippocampal circuit was tested using the chemical convulsant pentylenetetrazol. Excitation and paired-pulse inhibition were measured in CA1 and the dentate gyrus of the urethane-anaesthetized rat before and after administration of pentylenetetrazol. In addition, three polysynaptic responses were monitored. In both CA1 and the dentate gyrus, pentylenetetrazol, 100 mg/kg, caused a trend towards increased excitability and caused a relatively mild loss of inhibition. Two polysynaptic responses appeared in the dentate gyrus after the administration of pentylenetratrazol, both apparently mediated through the entorhinal cortex. A polysynaptic response of the CA1 pyramidal neurons to contralateral angular bundle stimulation was not observed. These experiments demonstrate that pentylenetetrazol will facilitate only the appearance of polysynaptic responses mediated through the entorhinal cortex. These results support the hypothesis that pentylenetetrazol has a specific action within the entorhinal cortex that may facilitate the synchronization and spread of epileptiform activity. These results are also consistent with the hypothesis that the appearance of polysynaptic responses may be necessary for the onset of epileptogenesis in the hippocampal-parahippocampal circuit.
Nerve growth factor infusions combined with fetal hippocampal grafts enhance reconstruction of the lesioned septohippocampal projection.

Abstract A combination of intracerebral grafting and intraventricular infusion of nerve growth factor was used to attempt to reconstruct the cholinergic component of the septohippocampal pathway following fimbria-fornix lesions in the rat. Four groups were tested: lesion only, lesion plus fetal hippocampal graft, lesion plus nerve growth factor, and lesion plus graft plus nerve growth factor. Choline acetyltransferase immunoreactivity, acetylcholinesterase fiber staining and behavior-dependent theta activity on electro-encephalogram were used to assess the extent of pathway reconstruction. Nerve growth factor was infused for the first two weeks following the fimbria-fornix lesion, while electrophysiological measurements and histological analysis were conducted six to eight months later. The lesion plus graft plus nerve growth factor infusion group had long-term savings of choline acetyltransferase-immunoreactive cells as compared to the lesion only or lesion plus graft groups. In addition the lesion plus graft plus nerve growth factor infusion group had more extensive reinnervation of the hippocampus compared to all other groups. Behavioral-dependent theta activity on electroencephalogram was observed in some animals of both lesion plus graft and lesion plus graft plus nerve growth factor infusion groups, but not in other groups; however, unlike intact animals, the restored theta could be blocked completely by scopalamine. These results demonstrate that a combination of short-term intraventricular nerve growth factor infusion and fetal hippocampal grafts enhances reconstruction of the damaged septohippocampal circuit.
Noise-immune universal computation using Manakov soliton collision cycles

We show that bistable collision cycles of Manakov solitons are capable of universal, all-optical computation with state restoration. NAND gates and FANOUT are realized by soliton collisions in a homogeneous nonlinear medium.
William Rowan Hamilton and George Boole

William Rowan Hamilton (1805–65) and George Boole (1815–64) never had any significant interaction with each other even though they shared many of the same mathematical interests and simultaneously corresponded with Augustus de Morgan. They also had much in common beyond mathematics, in particular in their philosophical views, and in certain personality traits that contributed significantly to their success.
Progestin Levels after Inhibition of Postpartum Ovulation in Rats

Progesterone levels were studied during lactation in rats after postpartum inhibition of ovulation. Ovulation was inhibited by the administration of antisera against luteinizing hormone-release hormone (A-LHRH) beginning on the 20th day of pregnancy. Progesterone levels remained low in A-LHRH treated animals after parturition and ovarian weights were less than in control animals (p less than .01). Progesterone secretion was 270 times greater in control animals that treated groups though concentrations of 20alpha-OH-P blood flow and uterine weight were similar in both groups (p less than .05). All A-LHRH treated animals showed a synchronous return to ovulation as indicated by a preovulatory progesterone rise at 60 hours and the presence of tubal ova at 72 postweaning. These events occurred in only 3 of 11 control rats. The results indicate that the corpora lutea are the major contributor to 20alpha-OH-P secretion during midlactation and that the return to ovulatory cycles is synchronized in animals without active corpora lutea.
AccuTouch Endoscopy Simulator: Development, Applications and Early Experience

These studies suggest that there are several potential advantages to use of the AccuTouch simulators, including (1) improvement of the endoscopic training of trainees before patient contact, (2) possible evaluation for procedural competency, and (3) possible cost savings, increasing the productivity of faculty while the trainees are developing competency using the trainers. Other potential advantages might include the training of endoscopists in new diagnostic and therapeutic techniques and even new devices before patient contact. With continued improvement in software and hardware, endoscopic simulators will become an integral part of endoscopic training programs.
Large synchronous motor failure investigation; measurements, analysis and lessons learned

In the oil and gas industry, large synchronous motors are used to drive water injection pumps (WIPs) to support the pressure of a reservoir, and to maintain the production level of a reservoir over a longer period. Therefore, failures in such motors will have an adverse impact on operation and production. Even though synchronous motors are superior to induction motors in relation to system voltage regulation and power factor correction, their starting is more complicated. As a result, application of synchronous motors requires careful engineering analysis in the design stage of a project to determine system requirements for a successful operation. This paper presents a failure analysis case study for three 11,000 HP synchronous motors at a gas-oil separation plant (GOSP) along with the starting issues faced prior to the occurrence of a permanent damage. The fundamentals of dynamic motor acceleration requirements to achieve a successful start will be reviewed. In addition, results of site measurements and subsequent computer simulation will be presented. Furthermore, the analysis results were substantiated by a failure root cause analysis report provided by the manufacturer. The paper also presents obstacles faced when dealing with erroneous and limited data. availability, and the approaches to overcome these flaws.
IDENTIFICATION OF LACTIC ACID BACTERIA BY RIBOTYPING1

Current methods that can be used for the identification of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) include: biochemical tests, pulsed field gel electrophoresis, and fatty acid analysis. These methods can be costly, time-consuming, and technically difficult. We are investigating the microbial ecology of vegetable fermentations and are interested in the rapid identification of LAB isolates. We have adapted a PCR-based ribotyping method for use with LAB. The PCR product (s) produced contains the sequences from the intergenie spacer regions between the rRNA genes. These products can be resolved by standard agarose or acrylamide gel electrophoresis. Using this method, we have identified PCR product electrophoresis banding patterns for the primary species of LAB found in vegetable fermentations, including those from the genera Lactobacillus, Leuconostoc, Lactococcus, and Pediococcus.
Petrochemical and Geochronological Studies of Plutonic Rocks in the Southern Appalachians: I. The Salisbury Pluton

The Salisbury pluton, composed chiefly of albite adamellite, is the most leucocratic and has the most anomalous trace element assemblage of 96 igneous bodies studied thus far in the Piedmont of the southeastern United States. Major element composition and textural evidence indicate that (l) the pluton originally underwent "eutectic point" crystallization in the system Ab-Or-An-Q-H 2 O; and (2) extensive metasomatic alteration occurred near the end of crystallization. The whole-rock Rb-Sr isochron age is 411 ± 6 m.y. The initial Sr 87 /Sr 86 ratio of 0.7032 ± 0.0010 indicates that the original magma from which the Salisbury magma fractionated was derived from the mantle and was not contaminated by older crustal rocks.
Beta-adrenergic function in heart muscle disease and heart failure.

Abstract Using data derived from clinical and experimental observations, we examine the role of the myocardial β-adrenergic receptor system in pathophysiologic processes involved in heart muscle disease and heart failure. The available data suggest that the sympathetic nervous system exerts important influences on myocardial structure and function. As such the β-adrenergic pathway represents an obvious locus for therapeutic intervention in evolving cardiomyopathic states.
Distribution of arsenic concentrations in groundwater of the Seymour Aquifer, Texas, USA.

The purpose of this study was to investigate arsenic concentrations in the Seymour Aquifer. Discontinuous alluvium of the aquifer occupies a broad, semi-arid region of northern Texas, USA. Throughout the formation's outcrop, permeable deposits and unconfined conditions may facilitate downward travel of contaminants applied to the land surface. Past agricultural practices are a potential source of arsenic to the aquifer. However, of 64 water samples analyzed from 2001–2004, only one exceeded the maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 10 ug/l for arsenic in drinking water. The median arsenic concentration was 2.7 ug/l, and 34% of samples had arsenic concentrations less than 2 ug/l. No relationship between arsenic concentration and well depth was observed.
Lords of the Sea: A History of the Barbary Corsairs. By Alan G. Jamieson. (London, England: Reaktion Books, 2012. Pp. 242. $39.00.)

This is a detailed, synthetic account of the Barbary corsairs who rose from a minor Mediterranean nuisance to become a major maritime menace. After more than three centuries of marauding, the Frenc...
Psychological and Behavioral Aspects of Sustainability

I am honored to introduce this special issue of Sustainability, which exemplifies how the field of Psychology can contribute to multi- and inter-disciplinary efforts to create a sustainable society. In fact, achieving the goal of environmental, economic, and social sustainability is predicated on changing human behavior; the purview of Psychologists (reviewed in [1], see also [2–7]). So-called “environmental problems” are really problems of human behavior, caused by collective human actions and their underlying thoughts, beliefs, feelings, and values [1]. Consequently, research from various sub-fields of psychology can [...]
Adaptations to the farm crisis: Macro level implications of micro level behaviors

Abstract Using panel data collected during a short term crisis period, the changes in household labor and finances of a random sample of North Carolina farm operations are examined. Most farms (63 percent) reported no changes in their labor allocation patterns or financial arrangements. Among farms that reported some type of change, postponing farm or household purchases, restructuring financial liabilities, and increasing family income were the most widely utilized adaptations. Variables measuring farm and household economic hardship discriminate the group that used any type of adaptation from the group that attempted no changes. Multinomial logistic regression was used to examine the effect of adaptation use on survival in agriculture. Farm operations that attempted any type of change in their use of labor and capital were the ones that ultimately did not survive in agriculture. The results point to the need to consider the linkage between macro level structural conditions and the micro level behavior of individuals and households in developing policy interventions to ameliorate economic hardship.
Examining psychotherapeutic and psychosocial factors in working with immigrant families

In spite of the fact that the United States has been historically associated with immigrants, little is still known about the process of assimilation that immigrant families go through, and a lack of sensitivity to the cultural diversity of immigrant families persists. Some mental health workers still suggest that the same techniques employed in working with American families can be applied to immigrant families. Through years of research, behavioral scientists have come to realize that a different approach to tutelage and psychotherapy is needed if immigrant families are to acculturate smoothly in American society. This paper addresses some problems associated with acculturation, the process of acculturation, immigrant families in transition and perspectives on the effectiveness of psychotherapeutic interventions. Some rudimentary guidelines are presented for understanding immigrant families via a comprehensive assessment battery which can assist in determining the stages of acculturation, the client's social and emotional functioning, as well as any cultural transitional conflicts the client may be experiencing as a result of migration. Moreover, a model for treating immigrant families is suggested.
Core Excitation Modeling Methodology for Efficient Power Delivery Analysis

This paper presents a comprehensive core power delivery excitation modeling approach, covering from complex pre-silicon hand estimate to simple post-silicon reverse engineering. Blending the two approaches, an optimized method is recommended to provide the most appropriate method in deriving the next generation core currents for power delivery analysis.
Uptake of glycine, leucine, phenylalanine, and their dodecyl ester derivatives by last instar larvae of the codling moth (Lepidoptera: Olethreutidae)

Abstract 1. 1. In vivo uptake of glycine, leucine, phenylalanine, and their dodecyl ester derivatives was determined by means of a wash-off technique. 2. 2. Little uptake of leucine was observed: 38% of 3 × 10 −8 moles of phenylalanine in a 3μl droplet that was applied dorsally disappeared. 3. 3. After exposure to a 3 μl droplet of glycine, ninhydrin-positive material increased in the droplet. 4. 4. The dodecyl ester dodecyl sulfates of phenylalanine and leucine in 95% ethanol were both taken up through the cuticle of this insect.
806—Membrane potential of squid axons: Comparison between the Goldman-Hodgkin-Kantz equation and the surface/diffusion potential equation☆

Abstract The resting membrane potential of squid axons measured as a function of the nature of the ionic species as well as the ionic strength of the extracellular medium. The observed membrane potentials were analyzed using two equations: 1. the Goldman-Hodgkin-Katz equation, and 2. the surface/diffusion potential equation, using the same relative permeability factors. The overall experimental results were found to be explained better by the surface/diffusion potential equation. The surface charge density of the outer surface (on the responsible for the iron transfer) of the squid axons was found to be about - e /180 A 2 . Using the obtained surface charge density and the membrane potential equation involving divalent cations, the relative permeabilities (with respect to K + ) of divalent cations across the squid axon membranes were observed to be 0.035 for Ca 2+ , 0.033 for Sr 2+ and 0.023 for Mg 2+ fron the experimental data.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy with Adolescents: Identifying and Clarifying Values

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a mindfulness-based behavioral therapy that incorporates a combination of mindfulness, experiential exercises, and values-guided behavioral interventions ...
Is the background knowledge of ergonomists important if ergonomics is to succeed within a simultaneous engineering (SE) environment

Abstract Successful implementation of simultaneous engineering (SE) depends upon a number of factors. Meaningful communication among the team members is one factor. While most members on the SE multidisciplinary team have a common foundation, engineering, it is generally the ergonomist who lacks such background and becomes the weakest member of the team. Instead of being a problem solver, he/she is frequently treated as an irrelevant element in the scheme of things. This paper shows that simple ergonomic recommendations for product design could result in economically undesirable consequences for the manufacturer. Therefore, the ergonomist on the SE team must understand and consider the economic and technical impact of his/her recommendations on consumer product manufacturing and, in consultation with the engineering designer and process engineer, determine the best way to implement them. This obviously requires a thorough understanding of manufacturing and the adoption of an interdisciplinary role on the part of ergonomists. Furthermore, discussions involving the significance and importance of ergonomics should be carried out in forums primary to manufacturing (Society of Manufacturing Engineers, Institution of Production Engineers, Journals of Design and Manufacturing, etc.) and process engineers so that the main objective — consideration of ergonomics in product manufacture — may be achieved cost effectively. Relevance to industry Successful implementation of simultaneous engineering should lead to usable and reliable products that can be made easily, quickly, efficiently, and economically. Consideration of ergonomic design guidelines is essential in order to manufacture such products. Therefore, for market success, manufacturers must ensure that ergonomists participating in multidisciplinary SE design teams have background in both design and manufacturing technology.
Sickle cell gnathopathy: radiologic assessment

To provide objective evaluation of sickle cell gnathopathy, lateral skull radiographs of fifty patients with sickle cell anemia and twenty-five controls, matched for age and sex, were evaluated with respect to hard palate length and palate--alveolar ridge (PAR) angle. These measurements were compared to the angle formed between sella, nasion, and a point just below the anterior nasal spine of the maxilla (SNA angle), which is widely used in evaluation of the midfacial skeletal profile. The maxillary protrusion was found to be due to an increase in the PAR angle, as there was significant difference in this measurement between the two groups while there was no difference in the hard palate and SNA angle measurements. In keeping with prior explanations, marrow hyperplasia is the cause of maxillary overgrowth. Although often detected clinically, sickle cell gnathopathy can be evaluated radiographically simply and accurately by measurement of the PAR angle.
Archival asset package design concept for an OAIS system

The core functionalities of an Open Archive Information System (OAIS) are to store, preserve, and provide access to the digital records for a long time. Packaging digital records for preservation is the basic building function block of an OAIS, and is crucial in exchanging archival records between preservation systems. On the other hand, the scope of the challenges that a large OAIS has to satisfy is a quantifiable consequence of two factors. First is system scalability due to the exponential growth of digital records, as usage of information and web technology are increasingly adopted. Second is the variety of record types, both in terms of format and content category. Within this context, we propose a design concept of Archival Asset Package (AAP), which serves as a generic object model for transferring records between components of an OAIS, and also between peer systems. The key characteristics of AAP are extensibility and uniformity. Furthermore, we will show how the AAP design is supported by a scalable and evolvable Content Server Architecture.
Genetics of Asthma and COPD: Similar Results for Different Phenotypes

Asthma and COPD are common respiratory diseases that are caused by the interaction of genetic susceptibility with environmental factors. Environmental influences are important in both diseases, and although there are differences in genetic susceptibilities, there are also similarities. Three examples of interest for both asthma and COPD patients are discussed. The first is the results of family studies, which have shown evidence for susceptibility loci for both asthma-related and COPD-related phenotypes in the same chromosomal region. Second, evidence for a gene-environment interaction with passive smoking for asthma patients compared with individual smoking for COPD patients will be covered. The third is an example of one candidate gene (interleukin-13), in which similar results have been observed for both asthma and COPD.
Calibration of the Soft X-ray Telescopes (SXT) onboard the ASTRO-H satellite

ASTRO-H is an astrophysics satellite dedicated for non-dispersive X-ray spectroscopic study on selective celestial X-ray sources. Among the onboard instruments there are four Wolter-I X-ray mirrors of their reflectors' figure in conical approximation. Two of the four are soft X-ray mirrors, of which the energy range is from a few hundred eV to 15 keV. The focal point instruments will be a calorimeter (SXS) and a CCD camera (SXI), respectively. The mirrors were in quadrant configuration with photons being reflected consecutively in the primary and secondary stage before landing on the focal plane of 5.6 m away from the interface between the two stages. The reflectors of the mirror are made of heat-formed aluminum substrate of the thickness gauged of 152 m, 229 m, and 305 m of the alloy 5052 H-19, followed by epoxy replication on gold-sputtered smooth Pyrex cylindrical mandrels to acquire the X-ray reflective surface. The epoxy layer is 10 m nominal and surface gold layer of 0.2 m. Improvements on angular response over its predecessors, e.g. Astro-E1/Suzaku mirrors, come from error reduction on the figure, the roundness, and the grazing angle/radius mismatching of the reflecting surface, and tighter specs and mechanical strength on supporting structure to reduce the reflector positioning and the assembly errors. Each soft x-ray telescope (SXT), FM1 or FM2, were integrated from four independent quadrants of mirrors. The stray-light baffles, in quadrant configuration, were mounted onto the integrated mirror. Thermal control units were attached to the perimeter of the integrated mirror to keep the mirror within operating temperature in space. The completed instrument went through a series of optical alignment, thus made the quadrant images confocal and their optical axes in parallel to achieve highest throughput possible. Environmental tests were carried out, and optical quality of the telescopes has been confirmed. The optical and x-ray calibrations also include: angular resolution, effective area in the energy range of ~ 0.4 - 12keV, off-axis response, etc. Some of those are being carried out by our counterpart at JAXA/ISAS, Japan. We report the calibration results of the FM1 and FM2 that were obtained at Goddard Space Flight Center.
A function for kinesin I in the posterior transport of oskar mRNA and Staufen protein.

The asymmetric localization of messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein determinants plays an important role in the establishment of complex body plans. In Drosophila oocytes, the anterior localization of bicoid mRNA and the posterior localization of oskar mRNA are key events in establishing the anterior-posterior axis. Although the mechanisms that drive bicoid and oskar localization have been elusive, oocyte microtubules are known to be essential. Here we report that the plus end–directed microtubule motor kinesin I is required for the posterior localization of oskar mRNA and an associated protein, Staufen, but not for the anterior-posterior localization of other asymmetric factors. Thus, a complex containing oskar mRNA and Staufen may be transported along microtubules to the posterior pole by kinesin I.
Favorable balance of prostacyclin and thromboxane A2 improves early patency of human in situ vein grafts.

Abstract Graft thrombosis soon after reconstruction remains a major obstacle to the use of reversed vein grafts in infrapopliteal reconstruction. Our clinical experience with in situ vein grafts corroborates Leather's results by demonstrating an overall graft patency of 95% below the knee at 1 year and 94% in the infrapopliteal group. It has been postulated that this improved early patency rate of in situ vein grafts is the result of more optimal preservation of the endothelium of the vein graft. To investigate this hypothesis, human saphenous veins were handled by an in situ and a reversed technique. The intact vein segments were then tested for luminal production of prostacyclin and thromboxane A 2 and fixed for scanning electron microscopic analysis of the surface morphology. This study demonstrated that endothelial cell prostacyclin release is enhanced in human in situ vein segments but not in reversed vein segments. In addition, luminal production of thromboxane A 2 is significantly greater in the reversed than in the in situ vein segments. These findings are associated with marked endothelial structural damage in the reversed veins and minimal endothelial disruption in the situ veins. Therefore the ratio of the antiaggregatory vasodilator prostacyclin to the proaggregatory vasoconstrictor thromboxane A 2 is significantly more favorable for the in situ vein segment than for the reversed vein segment. The observed excellent early patency of the situ vein grafts in our poor-risk patient population may in part be the result of this favorable balance of prostacyclin and thromboxane A 2 and the more optimally preserved endothelial morphology. (J VASC SURG 1984;1:149-59.)
Factors Affecting the Clinical Development of Cytochrome P450 3A Substrates

The objective of this review is to evaluate the risks associated with the discovery and development of cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A substrates. CYP3A is the most abundant P450 enzyme in human liver and is highly expressed in the intestinal tract. The enzyme contributes substantially to metabolism of approximately 50% of currently marketed drugs that undergo oxidative metabolism. As a result, drug-drug interactions involving inhibitors of CYP3A-mediated metabolism can be of great clinical consequence. It is the position of the authors that, because of the factors responsible for the broad substrate specificity of CYP3A, discovery and development of compounds across a large and broad portfolio that are completely devoid of CYP3A metabolism is not feasible. Thus, it is important that scientifically valid approaches to the discovery and development of compounds metabolised by CYP3A be realised. The clinical relevance of CYP3A metabolism is dependent on a multitude of factors that include the degree of intestinal and hepatic CYP3A-mediated first-pass extraction, the therapeutic index of the compound and the adverse event associated with inhibition of CYP3A metabolism. Thus, a better understanding of the disposition of a CYP3A-metabolised compound relative to the projected or observed therapeutic index (or safety margin) can provide ample evidence to support the continued development of a CYP3A substrate. This document will highlight current practices as well as the benefits and risks associated with those practices.
Interactions Between Endocannabinoids and Stress-Induced Decreased Sensitivity to Natural Reward

Since endocannabinoids modulate reward processing and the stress response, we tested the hypothesis that endocannabinoids regulate stress-induced decreased sensitivity to natural reward. Restraint was used to produce stress-induced reductions in sucrose consumption and preference in male mice. Central cannabinoid receptor (CB1) signaling was modulated pharmacologically prior to the application of stress. The preference for sucrose over water was significantly decreased in mice exposed to restraint. Treatment of mice with a cannabinoid receptor agonist (CP55940) or fatty acid amide hydrolase inhibitor (URB597) attenuated, while the CB1 receptor antagonist/inverse agonist, rimonabant (SR141716), enhanced, stress-induced decreases in sucrose preference. These data are consistent with a tonically active, stress-inhibitory role for the CB1 receptor. Mice treated with 10 daily episodes of restraint showed reduced sucrose preference that was unaffected by CP55940 and URB597. However, rimonabant produced a greater reduction in sucrose preference on day 10 compared to day 1. These data suggest that on day 10, endocannabinoid signaling is maximally activated and essential for reward sensitivity. The findings of the present study indicate that the CB1/endocannabinoid signaling system is an important allostatic mediator that both modulates the responses of mice to stress and is itself modulated by stress.
Estimating Levels and Modeling Determinants of Black and White Voter Turnout in the South, 1880 to 1912

(2001). Estimating Levels and Modeling Determinants of Black and White Voter Turnout in the South, 1880 to 1912. Historical Methods: A Journal of Quantitative and Interdisciplinary History: Vol. 34, No. 4, pp. 141-158.
Expertise and evidence in the assessment of library service quality

The assessment of library service quality requires both expertise and objectivity. Undergraduate students are neither expert nor objective, and assessment methods that rely heavily on students’ perceptions are likely to be inadequate in several respects. Students’ needs are not necessarily consistent with their preferences, for example, and the limited experiences of most undergraduates give them only a partial understanding of library collections and services. Although user surveys provide valuable information about patrons’ perceptions, that information is no substitute for objective standards based on professional knowledge.
Morphological Evolution and Weak Interface Development within Chemical-Vapor-Deposited Zirconia Coating Deposited on Hi-Nicalon™ Fiber

The phase contents and morphology of a ZrO 2 fiber coating deposited at 1050°C on Hi-Nicalon by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) were examined as a function of deposition time from 5-120 min. The morphological evolution in the ZrO 2 coating was correlated to the development of delamination within the ZrO 2 coating. The delamination appears to occur as a result of: (i) continuous formation of tetragonal ZrO 2 nuclei on the deposition surface; (ii) martensitic transformation of the tetragonal phase to a monoclinic phase on reaching a critical grain size; and (iii) development of significant compressive hoop stresses because of the volume dilation associated with the transformation. Our observations suggest that it will be of critical importance to further understand and eventually control the nucleation and grain growth behavior of CVD ZrO 2 and its phase transformation behavior for its potential applications for composites.
A Well-Behaved TVD Limiter for High-Resolution Calculations of Unsteady Flow

A total variation diminishing (TVD) limiter is proposed that attempts to maximize performance given that the inherent limitation of TVD formulations is peak loss. For the scalar advection and Burger's equation, the present results are qualitatively superior to those using the harmonic and superbee limiters, balancing well the competing effects of skewing, smearing, and squaring. In the case of the Euler equations, the current results appear to significantly improve upon previous TVD results and are quite comparable with more elaborate algorithms.
Isolation and Characterization of a Mutant of Arabidopsis thaliana Resistant to α-Methyltryptophan

Mutants of Arabidopsis thaliana have been selected for resistance to growth inhibition at the seedling stage by α-methyltryptophan (aMT). One mutant, amt-1 has been characterized in detail. The appearance and growth rate of the mutant in the absence of the inhibitor are similar to wild type, both as plants and callus. However, mutant plant growth is unaffected by 25 micromolar aMT and mutant callus growth by 50 micromolar aMT, concentrations that completely inhibit the growth of wild-type plants and callus, respectively. Tryptophan levels in mutant and wild-type plants are 24.3 ± 2.7 and 4.7 ± 1.2 micrograms per gram fresh weight, respectively, and in the corresponding callus 64.0 ± 2.6 and 31.8 ± 8.4 micrograms per gram fresh weight, respectively. Anthranilate synthase (AS) activity levels in crude extracts from whole plants are 3.09 ± 0.54 nanomoles per milligram protein per hour in amt-1 and 1.32 ± 0.21 nanomoles per milligram protein per hour in wild-type plants. In crude extracts from callus, anthranilate synthase levels are 11.54 ± 2.05 nanomoles per milligram protein per hour and 7.74 ± 1.58 in amt-1 and wild type, respectively. Enzyme extracts are inhibited by l-tryptophan; the concentrations required for 50% inhibition (I50) are 3.9 and 1.9 micromolar for amt-1 and for wild type, respectively. The mutation segregates as a single nuclear allele and shows incomplete dominance. The concomitant increases in both AS activity and its I50 for tryptophan suggest that the mutation amt-1 either resides in one of the AS structural genes or causes increased expression of an AS isoform with an I50 greater than the average for the entire extract.
Formally specifying CARA in Java

A restricted dialect of Java is proposed as a language for writing formal specifications for reactive systems. Specifications written in this dialect have one Java class per system module. Each class uses static fields to record module state, uses synchronized static methods as entry points for services provided by the module, and communicates with other modules by method calls. Specifications written in this form are directly executable, can serve as a reference model for subsequent implementations, and can also be used as a target for formal verification techniques. Application of the method to construct an executable specification of the CARA (Computer-Assisted Resuscitation Algorithm) system is described.
Interface Properties in a Porous‐Matrix Oxide Composite

This study focuses on the interfacial properties of a family of porous matrix oxide composites with uncoated fibers. Measurements of debond energy and sliding stress are made using a modified version of the established fiber push-in test. Modifications include the following: (i) use of a sphero-conical indenter (not a sharp-tipped one) to produce only elastic deformation of the fibers, and (ii) analysis of the loop width (instead of absolute displacements) to ascertain interface properties. The method obviates the need for indentation tests on reference (non-sliding) fibers. It also mitigates the problems associated with the elastic deformation of the surrounding matrix. The measured debond toughnesses (about 0.05 J/m2) are about two orders of magnitude lower than the fiber toughness. This ensures that debonding will occur when a matrix crack impinges on a fiber. Additionally, the sliding stresses are in the same range as those reported for C-coated Nicalon fibers in glass–ceramic matrices (about 5 MPa). The latter results are qualitatively consistent with the observed damage tolerance in these two seemingly disparate systems, as manifested in the degree of fiber pullout as well as the notch sensitivity of tensile strength.
Serum histamine levels following adminstration of ultrastructural tracers in three strains of rats

Intravenous administration of the electron-opaque tracer ferritin resulted in substattial elevation of serum histamine levels in both the Munich-Wistar and Wistar-Furth strains of albino rats. Lewis rats were unaffected. Similarly, infusion of the non-protein tracer dextran was followed by greatly elevated serum histamine concentrations in Munich-Wistar and Lewis, but not in Wistar-Furth, rats. In sharp contrast with these results were those obtained using the tracer polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). PVP infusion caused no elevation of serum histamine levels in any of the rat strains studied. Caution in the use of such tracers is thus advised, since serum histamine concentration affects vascular permeability. Careful matching of ultrastructural tracer and strain of experimental amimal is prerequisite in permeability studies.
The synthesis of aromatic divinylogs and aromatic halogenated vinylogs

Two new higher homologues of p-divinylbenzene, p-allylstyrene (p-allylvinylbenzene) and p-1-propenylstyrene (p-1-propenylvinylbenzene) were synthesized and characterized. Intermediates for the synthesis of difunctional aromatic vinylogs, p-chloro-allylbenzene was prepared for the first time and p-bromostyrene was made by methods different from those reported previously for this material. The usefulness of anhydrous cobaltous chloride for the activation of vinyl bromide in the reaction with aromatic Grignard compounds was demonstrated in the synthesis of p-allyl- and p-bromostyrene. Rearrangement of the allyl to the 1-propenyl group on treatment with activated alumina at 300° was shown in the synthesis of p-1-propenylstyrene and 1-propenylbenzene. Peroxide-initiated bulk polymerization of p-divinylbenzene, p-1-propenylstyrene, and p-allylstyrene established the following order of reactivity: vinyl > 1-propenyl > allyl. Preliminary polymerization of 1-propenylstyrene and copolymerization with styrene in bulk and in solution showed the former to be an efficient though slower crosslinking agent than p-divinylbenzene. Molding of solid copolymers of styrene and p-1-propenyl-styrene was carried out, resulting in the formation of thermosetting clear and brittle resins.
Wind tunnel tests and equivalent 1-minute loads for the design of cladding glass

Abstract Three methods for converting fluctuating wind loads to equivalent 1-minute constant loads have been proposed in the literature: (1) a simplified method that assumes a linear load-stress relationship and, in addition, that the glass strength is affected only by the peak wind pressure rather than by the whole time history of the load, (2) a simplified method applicable to annealed glass that assumes a linear load-stress relationship, and (3) a method based on fracture mechanics models and nonlinear stress analysis, developed at the National Bureau of Standards. This paper compares the three methods for estimating equivalent 1-minute wind loads and examines the effect on the estimates of assuming different distribution parameters of glass strength and different fracture mechanics parameters. The results suggest that the second of the above methods is adequate in most cases but that the first method yields equivalent 1-minute loads that are too low by about 20 percent for annealed glass and about 15 percent for heat strengthened glass.
SPM conscious loop scheduling for embedded chip multiprocessors

One of the major factors that can potentially slow down widespread use of embedded chip multiprocessors is lack of efficient software support. In particular, automated code parallelizers are badly needed since it is not realistic to expect an average programmer to parallelize a large complex embedded application over multiple processors, taking into account several factors at the same time such as code density, data locality, performance, power and code resilience. Especially, increasing use of software-managed SPM (scratch-pad memory) components in embedded systems require an SPM conscious code parallelization. Motivated by this observation, this paper proposes a novel compiler-based SPM conscious loop scheduling strategy for array/loop based embedded applications. This strategy tries to achieve two objectives. First, the sets of loop iterations assigned to different processors should approximately take the same amount of time to finish. Second, the set of iterations assigned to a processor should exhibit high data reuse. Satisfying these two objectives help us to minimize parallel execution time of the application at hand. The specific method adopted by our scheduling strategy to achieve these objectives is to distribute loop iterations across parallel processors in an SPM conscious manner. In this strategy, the compiler analyzes the loop, identifies the potential SPM hits and misses, and distributes loop iterations over processors such that the processors have more or less the same execution time. Our experimental results so far indicate that the proposed approach generates much better results than existing loop schedulers. Specifically, it brings 18.9%, 22.4%, and 11.1% improvements in parallel execution time (with a chip multiprocessor of 8 cores) over a previously proposed static scheduler, a dynamic scheduler, and an alternate locality-conscious scheduler, respectively.
Randomized, Controlled Trials

In medicine, a randomized, controlled trial (RCT) is a form of research designed to provide information regarding the potential benefits and risks of a treatment in individuals (Figure).1 Treatments typically are new drugs or medical devices, but could also include new diagnostic tests or therapeutic strategies (ie, an approach to treating a patient). RCTs are invaluable to the medical community to help improve the care of patients. Figure. Basic structure of a classic randomized, controlled trial (RCT). For the sake of simplicity, only one experimental arm is shown, but RCTs can have multiple experimental arms. The control arm may consist of an active therapy (active-controlled) or a placebo (an inactive substance; placebo-controlled). Ideally, a double-blind design is used in which neither the investigator nor the subject know the arm to which the subject has been allocated. RCTs come in many shapes and sizes, from enrolling a few patients at 1 hospital to enrolling tens of thousands of patients at hundreds of hospitals or clinics across the world. Given the size and complexity of such RCTs, they are typically designed by a panel of experts (eg, physicians experienced in treating a certain disease) and sponsored by a governmental agency (eg, the National Institutes of Health) or a pharmaceutical or biotechnology company. A scientific protocol serves as an operating manual for how the trial is to be conducted, ensuring consistency across all sites. Common elements of the trial protocol that a study team is likely to discuss with a potential research subject are listed in the Table.2 Key …
Long-range interaction and elastic collisions of isolated vortices

This study explores the interaction of two nearly axisymmetric two-dimensional vortices using a combination of numerical simulations and analytical arguments. We consider isolated or ‘shielded’ eddies, characterized by zero net vorticity. The ability of such vortices to propagate and interact is associated with the small dipolar component that is introduced initially. Numerical contour dynamics experiments indicate that the interaction of shielded eddies takes one of two forms, depending on their initial separation and on the relative orientation of their dipolar components. Eddies can influence each other by remotely modifying the dipolar moments of partner vortices, an effect manifested in a gentle deflection of their trajectories from a straight course. Strong interactions occur when eddies collide and rebound. The remote interaction is explained by weakly nonlinear theory in which the basic state consists of identical circularly symmetric eddies and the perturbation is assumed to be small. It is argued that the elastic rebounds observed during direct collisions are induced by the exchange of fluid between colliding vortices.
Spooning of the nails and webbing of the esophagus: koilonychia and Plummer-Vinson Syndrome.

Chronic iron deficiency can be associated with nail deformities like Koilonychia and Platynychia. It can also be associated with esophageal webs (Plummer‐Vinson syndrome or Patterson‐Brown‐Kelly syndrome) causing dysphagia in the patient. Though the pathogenesis of this association remains anecdotal and presence of these physical findings should prompt the clinician towards considering chronic iron deficiency as the cause of anemia.
Measurement of the FSR of a high finesse etalon with 2.5 kHz accuracy using a narrow-linewidth frequency swept laser

Measurement of the FSR of an etalon having finesse of 1000 with 7 digits of accuracy or 2.5 kHz. A modified PDH technique is used in conjunction with a frequency swept, narrow-linewidth CW laser.
Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair with Sequential Visceral Perfusion: A Technical Note

The aim of this study was to develop a method for type III and type IV thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm (TAA) repair that reduces ischemia time to the abdominal viscera, spinal cord, and lower extremities. Over a 25-month period, five type IV TAAs and three type IV TAAs were repaired with a trifurcated polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) graft to bypass three of four visceral vessels and another graft to reconstruct the thoracoabdominal aorta. The trifurcated graft was sewn end-to-side to an unaffected area of descending thoracic aorta. Sequential end-to-end bypasses to the left renal, superior mesenteric, and celiac arteries followed this anastomosis. The remaining TAA was then replaced with a Dacron tube or bifurcated graft by clamping distal to the trifurcated graft so as to maintain visceral and left renal artery perfusion. Implantation of the right renal artery into the Dacron graft completed visceral artery reconstruction. The postoperative results indicate the feasibility of type III and IV TAA repair using tangential thoracic aortic clamping, individual aortic branch vessel reconstruction, and separate distal revascularization. This operative technique decreases ischemia time to the abdominal viscera, spinal cord, and lower extremities.
A new species of Castilleja (Orobanchaceae) from the central Sierra Madre Occidental, Mexico, and an annotated key to the Castilleja species of that region

Abstract Castilleja holmgrenii is described from several collections made in the Sierra Madre Occidental in southeast Sinaloa and adjacent southwest Durango, Mexico. The new species is a member of subgenus and section Castilleja. This apparently rare species is presently known from two small, geographically restricted populations. Also provided are a list of the Castilleja species of this region with notes on their status and distribution, a key for their identification, and nomenclatural and taxonomic notes concerning some of the species.
Detecting similar documents using salient terms

We describe a system for rapidly determining document similarity among a set of documents obtained from an information retrieval (IR) system. We obtain a ranked list of the most important terms in each document using a rapid phrase recognizer system. We store these in a database and compute document similarity using a simple database query. If the number of terms found to not be contained in both documents is less than some predetermined threshold compared to the total number of terms in the document, these documents are determined to be very similar. We compare this to the shingles approach.