cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A comparison of methods for estimating broadband noise in the frequency domain

Estimating the noise component of a signal that consists of sinusoids plus broadband noise is a ubiquitous problem. Most methods work in the time-domain, but frequency-domain methods can be computationally more efficient and invariant to the time-domain noise distribution. We compare two prominent frequency-domain approaches, one that computes statistics over periodograms of multiple time segments, and another that computes statistics over frequency segments from a single periodogram. We explore the accuracy-resolution tradeoff for both approaches and provide comparisons of accuracy, sample and segment size dependence, frequency resolution, and computational complexity for each method.
DNA replication in Physarum polycephalum.

Abstract The DNA of Physarum polycephalum, a eukaryote whose nuclei divide synchronously, was uniformly-labeled with [14C]thymidine or pulse-labeled for 10 minutes with [3H]thymidine. Nuclei isolated from combined 14C- and 3H-labeled cultures were gently lysed on top of neutral and alkaline sucrose density gradients. In neutral gradients, uniformly-labeled DNA from G2-phase cultures sedimented at a rate corresponding to an average (peak) molecular weight of 2.3 × 108 daltons, while in alkaline gradients the average molecular weight was 4 × 107 daltons. Pulse-labeled nuclear DNA sedimented in alkaline sucrose according to an average molecular weight of 1.5 × 107 daltons. Upon continued incubation in the absence of [3H]thymidme, the molecular weight of these “precursor” pieces increased, reaching that of the non-replicating (G2) DNA after a 90-minute chase period. On the other hand, pulse-labeled double-strand DNA species were initially heavier (average molecular weight 3.6 × 108 daltons) and had a broader size distribution than did non-replicating DNA. These species do not contain protein and may, therefore, consist predominantly of intact replicating (forked) molecules. During a subsequent chase period the heavy intermediates were converted into molecules equal in size to the parental DNA. This transition was first observed after a 30-minute chase and was completed within 60 minutes. The presence of cycloheximide during the 10-minute pulse-labeling period had little effect on the profiles obtained for either neutral or alkaline sucrose gradients, but if the inhibitor was present during the chase period, the size increase of the pulselabeled single-strand units and the completion of synthesis of mature double-strand molecules were prevented. From these data, a working model for DNA replication in Physarum polycephalum is proposed. Replication is postulated to occur discontinuously, the ends of alternate single-strand “subunits” of the native molecule serving as initiation and termination sites.
Predicting Relocation Intentions of Culturally Diverse Workforce Entrants1

The factors that determine intentions to relocate in the continental U. S. among Puerto Rican nursing professionals were explored. One hundred and eleven nursing students in their last semester of nursing school responded to a biographical questionnaire. Intentions to relocate were regressed on factor scores resulting from factor-analyzing questionnaire items. The results indicated that the individual's level of independence (e. g., lack of family attachment) was the best predictor of intentions to relocate. In addition, both lack of fear of discrimination and being at a middle life stage were positively related to intentions to take a job in the U. S. Implications for further study of the motivations driving culturally diverse laborforce entrants are discussed.
Measurement of Thyrotropin in Clinical and Subclinical Hyperthyroidism Using a New Chemiluminescent Assay

A new commercially available chemiluminescent TSH assay demonstrates an 8- to 10-fold increase in sensitivity over a sensitive immunoradiometric assay, allowing increased ability to distinguish partial from more complete thyrotroph suppression. Sera were analyzed from 145 patients who had TSH concentrations below 0.08 mU/L in the immunoradiometric assay. Most patients with overt hyperthyroidism had undetectable TSH concentrations in the chemiluminescent assay. Three groups of patients were identified, in which a large subgroup had undetectable values in the immunoradiometric assay and detectable values in the chemiluminescent assay (12 of 17 patients under treatment for hyperthyroidism who had recently normalized their serum thyroid hormone levels, 33 of 68 patients taking L-T4, and 4 of 8 patients with endogenous subclinical hyperthyroidism). In addition, several patients with undetectable basal and detectable TRH-stimulated TSH values in the immunoradiometric assay had detectable basal TSH values in the chemiluminescent assay. The utility of first generation TSH immunometric assays was their ability to distinguish hyperthyroidism from euthyroidism. The clinical utility of increasingly sensitive TSH assays will be to distinguish degrees of thyrotroph suppression in subclinical hyperthyroidism.
Presence of wild type Aujeszky's disease virus in swine identified as subclinical low-prevalent serological test reactors within qualified virus-negative herds.

Abstract Subclinical low-prevalent Aujeszky's disease (AD) serological test reactors test reactors are defined as those few swine within a qualified AD virus (ADV)-negative herd that have antibodies to wild type virus. However, clinical signs of the associated diease are not observed in these putatively infected swine or elsewhere in the herd. Twelve such animals, including 7 previously vaccinated with a genetically modified ADV, were identified in Illinois (USA) during a 2.5 year period. The humoral immune responses of the 5 nonvaccinated swine were assessed by an enhanced virus neutralization test and a radioimmunoassay. Anti-ADV antibodies were determined to be present in the serum from 4 of these swine. Attempts to isolate ADV by in vitro and in vivo inculations of cell cultures and weanling mice, respectively, of tonsillar and trigeminal nerve ganglionic tissue preparations from each animal (vaccinated and nonvaccinated) were unsuccessful. Tonsillar and trigeminal nerve ganglionic tissues of each animal were screened for the presecence of wild type and/or vaccine viral genomes by a soluble polymerase chain reaction (PCR) coupled with Southern hybridization. Unique PCR primers were used distinguish between wild type and vaccine viral DNAs. Additional PCR procedure, which amplifiers a portion of the essential and highly conserved viral gp50 gene, also was employed in an effort to detect viral genomes. Wild type viral DNA was found in the tissues from at least 5 of the vaccinated and 3 of the nonvaccinated swine. These results indicate that such animals should be considered as being infected with ADV. Further, these findings emphasize the need to develope highly specific and sensitive antemortem testing methods for accurate assessment of ADV infection in herds containing such subclinical, yet serologically positive, swine.
Neuroimaging Correlates of Novel Psychiatric Disorders after Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury

Objective To study magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) correlates of novel (new-onset) psychiatric disorders (NPD) after traumatic brain injury (TBI) and orthopedic injury (OI). Method Participants were 7 to 17 years of age at the time of hospitalization for either TBI or OI. The study used a prospective, longitudinal, controlled design with standardized psychiatric assessments conducted at baseline (reflecting pre-injury function) and 3 months post-injury. MRI assessments including diffusion tensor imaging (DTI)–derived fractional anisotropy (FA), volumetric measures of gray and white matter regions, volumetric measures of lesions, and cortical thickness were conducted. Injury severity was assessed by standard clinical scales. The outcome measure was the presence of an NPD identified during the first 3 months after injury. Results There were 88 participants (TBI, 44; OI, 44). NPD occurred more frequently in the TBI (21/44; 48%) versus the OI (6/44; 14%) group (Fisher's exact test, p = .001). NPD in TBI participants was not related to injury severity. Multivariate analysis of covariance of the relationship between FA in hypothesized regions of interest (bilateral frontal and temporal lobes, bilateral centrum semiovale, bilateral uncinate fasciculi) and NPD and group (TBI versus OI) was significant, and both variables (NPD, p p Conclusions Lowered white matter integrity may be more important in the pathophysiology of NPD than indices of gray matter or white matter atrophic changes, macroscopic lesions, and injury severity.
Alterations in supraoptic nucleus ultrastructure of maternally behaving virgin rats

Adult, nulliparous female rats were induced to behave maternally via constant cohousing with rat pups. After exhibiting maternal behaviors for 3 days, the animals were transcardially perfused, the supraoptic nuclei (SON) excised and examined quantitatively by transmission electron microscopy. Relative to virgin controls, the animals behaving maternally were found to have significant increases in: a) mean number of dendrites in large (9-12) dendritic bundles, b) mean area per single dendritic profile, c) area of the dendritic zone occupied by dendritic profiles and d) size of the dendritic zone. No significant changes were observed in the cell body zone or in the number of double synapses in the dendritic region. The observed changes are likely to be at least in part associated with the oxytocin-containing cells of the SON. These observations suggest a role for the SON in promoting maternal behaviors and constitute a novel demonstration of a neural modification in the mammalian central nervous system that appears conjointly with a complex set of behaviors.
Clinical and radiographic outcomes of thoracic and lumbar pedicle subtraction osteotomy for fixed sagittal imbalance

Object he authors conducted a study to evaluate the radiographically documented and functional outcomes obtained in patients who underwent pedicle subtraction osteotomy (PSO). They also compared outcomes after classification of cases into thoracic and lumbar PSO subgroups. Methods he authors analyzed data obtained in 35 consecutive PSO-treated patients with sagittal imbalance. One surgeon performed all surgeries. The minimal follow-up period was 2 years. Events during the perioperative course and complications were noted. Standing long-film radiographs of the spine were obtained and measurements were made preoperatively, immediately postoperatively, and at most recent follow-up examination. The modified Prolo Scale and the 22-item Scoliosis Research Society (SRS-22) Outcomes Questionnaire were administered. Early complications after PSO included neurological injury, wound-related problems, and nosocomial infections. Late complications were limited to pseudarthrosis and attendant instrumentation failure. E...
Subcellular Localization of Metallothionein IIA in Human Bladder Tumor Cells Using a Novel Epitope-Specific Antiserum

Human metallothioneins (hMTs) are a family of highly homologous proteins thought to be critical in cellular protection against toxins. The comparative function of individual isoforms is, however, obscure. Antibodies to individual MT isoforms might help clarify this issue but their generation has been challenging. We now describe a strategy that has successfully produced an epitope-specific antiserum to a major human isoform, hMT IIA. The immunogen, a conjugated tridecyl amino acid synthetic peptide unique to residues 8-20 in hMT IIA (AAGDSCTCAGSCK), yielded an antiserum (B2) that reacted specifically with hMT IIA in a concentration- and titer-dependent manner and showed no reactivity with human or rabbit liver MT I or horse MTs. This antiserum recognized rabbit liver MT II and, surprisingly, also reacted weakly with chicken MT. MT amino acid sequence comparisons and peptide blocking studies suggested aspartate-11 and threonine-14 are important antigenic determinants for B2. Using confocal immunofluorescence microscopy and B2 antiserum, we observed nuclear localization of hMT IIA with human bladder T24 tumor cells in exponential growth but more cytoplasmic localization at confluence. These results suggest the subcellular location of hMT IIA is a function of cell density in T24 bladder carcinoma cells. The general approach of epitope-specific antibodies may be useful for the generation of antibodies to other MT isoforms and for studying the role of individual MT isoforms in biology and toxicology.
Streamlining Monte-Carlo Simulation with the Quasi-Analytic Method: An Analysis of a Path-Dependent Option Strategy

Trading strategies and contingent claims with path-dependent returns are difficult to model analytically. Monte Carlo simulation, the standard solution technique, is computationally expensive and provides a solution only for the specific parameter values used in the simulation. We present an alternative "quasi-analytic" procedure that combines the power and flexibility of the simulation approach with the computational efficiency of an analytical solution. Our method uses simulation results to construct an analytic function that provides an approximate mapping from the input parameters to the returns distribution function. This analytic function can then be used to estimate the returns distribution for other parameter values directly without further simulation. We illustrate the approach by analyzing the performance of a path-dependent long-term protective put strategy that requires rolling over a series of short-term options. The returns to the strategy depend on the investor's choice of put strike and rollover policy. We use our method to examine a risk-averse investor's optimal trading strategy, a problem that is time-consuming using standard Monte Carlo simulation. In one example, the simulation approach takes more than forty-five minutes to solve for just one particular volatility scenario, while our method provides the answer in a matter of seconds.
Cutting Fluid Aerosol Generation due to Spin-off in Turning Operation: Analysis for Environmentally Conscious Machining

This paper presents an analytical model for the prediction of shop floor aerosol generation rate and particulate size distribution due to the spin-off motion of cutting fluid from a rotational workpiece in a turning operation. Based on the theory of atomization and principles of fluid motion, the model analyzes the generation of cutting fluid aerosol associated with the formation of rotating cylindrical peripheral disk and liquid sheet on the workpiece surface. In coupling with fluid flow rate analysis and Rosin and Rammler distribution model, the airborne particulate generation rate and size distribution are expressed in terms of fluid properties, fluid application condition, and machining process parameters. Experiments were performed with the use of the light scattering particle measurement devices to calibrate and verify the analytical models. Under various fluid flow rates and workpiece rotational speeds, experimental data have shown reasonable agreement with model predictions. The predictive models developed in this paper can be used as a basis for human exposure and health hazard analysis. It can also facilitate the control and optimization of the use of cutting fluids in achieving a balanced consideration of process productivity and environmental consciousness.
Buckling behavior of compression-loaded symmetrically laminated angle-ply plates with holes

An approximate analysis for buckling of a rectangular specially-orthotropic plate with a central circular hole is applied to symmetrically-laminated angle-ply plates. Results obtained from finite element analyses and experiments indicate that the approximate analysis predicts accurately the buckling loads of (+/-theta sub m)s plates with integer values of m not below 6 and with hole diameters up to 50 percent of the plate width. Moreover, the results indicate that the approximate analysis can be used to predict the buckling trends of plates with hole diameters up to 70 percent of the plate width. Results of a parametric study indicate the influence of hole size, plate aspect ratio, loading conditions, boundary conditions, and orthotropy on the buckling load. Results are also presented that indicate the relationship of the bending stiffness and the prebuckling load distribution to the buckling load of a plate with a hole.
Periodic orbit effects on conductance peak heights in a chaotic quantum dot

We study the effects of short-time classical dynamics on the distribution of Coulomb blockade peak heights in a chaotic quantum dot. The location of one or both leads relative to the short unstable orbits, as well as relative to the symmetry lines, can have large effects on the moments and on the head and tail of the conductance distribution. We study these effects analytically as a function of the stability exponent of the orbits involved, and also numerically using the stadium billiard as a model. The predicted behavior is robust, depending only on the short-time behavior of the many-body quantum system, and consequently insensitive to moderate-sized perturbations and interactions. (c) 2000 The American Physical Society.
E. coli aspartate transcarbamylase: Part I: Catalytic and regulatory functions

Abstract E. coli aspartate transcarbamylase controls pyrimidine biosynthesis by a combination of genetic, metabolic and allosteric mechanisms, leading to a balanced pool of pyrimidines and purines in the cell. A wealth of biochemical information now allows us to begin to understand this complex allosteric enzyme.
Extreme-relativistic transformations of relativistic wave equations

A new method of derivation of the extreme-relativistic transformations of the Dirac and Sakata-Taketani (S.T.) equations is given. The feasibility of using the extreme-relativistic transformation of the S.T. equation for particle interpretation is briefly considered.
Nanoparticle sizing with a resolution beyond the diffraction limit using UV light scattering spectroscopy

We investigated the detection of dielectric nanoparticles using static light scattering spectroscopy (LSS) in the UV range (from 250 to 390 nm). The light scattered by the polystyrene nanospheres in the backward direction were collected by means of an optical fiber probe and a charge-coupled device (CCD) spectrograph. The size distributions of the nanoparticles were obtained by a discrete inverse on the backscattering spectra using a theoretical model based on Mie theory. Our results show that UV LSS can be used to measure the sizes of nanoparticles with an accuracy far exceeding the diffraction limit and to study subwavelength structures at nanometer scale. This technique may find potential scientific and industrial applications including the study of macromolecular complexes at nanoscale, detection and identification of viral particles, non-invasive probing of nanoscale surface structures, and monitoring the processing of pharmaceutical nanoparticles.
Chemistry and electrochemistry of hot corrosion of metals

Abstract Hot corrosion beneath fused salt films may involve the fluxing of the protective oxides as either acidic or basic solutes. High temperature Pourbaix-type diagrams can be used to interpret the basicity-dependent solubilities. The measured solubilities for NiO, Co3O4, Al2O3, iron oxides, Cr2O3 and SiO2 in fused Na2SO4 at 1200 K show remarkable agreement with the expected behavior. The presence of strong acids and their salts, e.g. NaVO3, in Na2SO4 greatly increases the acid solubilities of oxides and stabilizes (buffers) a more basic solution. Corrosive oxyanion fused salts are usually ionically conducting electrolytes so that the corrosion attack must exhibit an electrochemical mechanism. Various transient electrochemical measurements have identified S2O72− (dissolved SO3) as the oxidizing agent which is reduced in hot corrosion attack. The chemical changes occurring at a polarized platinum electrode in Na2SO4 are measured and interpreted.
Presentation of a new method for specific measurement of in vivo insulin-stimulated glucose disposal in humans: comparison of this approach with the insulin clamp and minimal model techniques.

This study was initiated to compare the abilities of two alternative approaches to the measurement of insulindependent glucose disposal in normal humans. The ability of insulin to stimulate glucose disposal was measured in 12 normal subjects by determining glucose disposal rates during insulin clamp studies carried out at both basal insulin concentrations (∼6 μU/ml) and during a period of sustained hyperinsulinemia (∼60 μU/ml). The increment in glucose disposal was defined as nsulin-dependent disposal and compared to estimates of insulin action generated by both the conventional insulin clamp approach and the minimal model technique. The results documented an extremely close correlation (r = 0.99; P ¼ 0.001) between the direct determination of insulin-dependent glucose disposal and insulin-stimulated glucose disposal as estimated by the insulin clamp technique. In contrast, there was a poor correlation (r = 0.44; P = NS) between insulin sensitivity as estimated by the minimal model technique and insulin-d...
Specific G proteins mediate endothelin induced contraction.

Abstract Endothelin is a potent vasoconstrictor peptide which has recently been localized in the gastrointestinal tract. We have investigated the transmembrane signaling properties of endothelin in isolated smooth muscle cells of the rabbit rectosigmoid. Endothelin induced a dose dependent contraction of smooth muscle cells in a range of 10−10 to 10−6M. In normal buffer, contraction peaked at 30 sec and was sustained for up to 8 min. Incubation in 0Ca/2mM EGTA abolished the sustained contraction induced by endothelin, but had no effect on the initial transient contraction. Preincubation of saponin treated cells with G protein antisera had no effect on control cell length. Preincubation of saponin treated isolated smooth muscle cells with specific G protein antisera (rabbit antisera) for Goα or Gs for 60 minutes did not inhibit contraction induced by endothelin. Preincubation with an antiserum to Gi3α inhibited the initial transient contraction induced by endothelin and preincubation with an antiserum to Gi1−2α inhibited the sustained phase of the endothelin induced contraction. Our data indicate that: 1) Endothelin induces a direct sustained contraction of smooth cells from the rectosigmoid; 2) The transmembrane signalling of endothelin is through two specific GTP binding components that are Giα, one for the initial transient contraction, and the other for the sustained phase of the contraction.
Effect of particle cracking on elastoplastic behaviour of metal matrix composites

A micromechanics-based elastoplastic and damage constitutive model is proposed to predict the overall mechanical behaviour of particle-reinforced metal matrix composites. Unidirectionally aligned spheroidal elastic particles, some of which contain penny-shaped cracks, are randomly distributed in the elastoplastic metal matrix. These imperfect particles, attributed to progressive particle cracking,are modelled by using the double-inclusionconcept. An ensemble-volume averaged homogenization procedure is employed to estimate the effective yield function of the damaged composites. The associative plastic flow rule and the hardening law are postulated based on the continuum plasticity theory. The underlying damage evolution of particles is considered in accordance with the Weibull's statistical function to characterize the varying probability of reinforcement cracking. The elastoplastic mechanical behaviour of particulate composites under uniaxial loading conditions is simulated and compared with available experimental results.
Equivalence of the generalized bond-energy model, the Wagner-Schottky-type model and the compound-energy model for ordered phases

Abstract The equivalence of three thermodynamic models used in the literature to describe the compositional and temperature dependencies of the thermodynamic properties of ordered intermetallic phases is presented. The three models are the generalized bond-energy model, the Wagner-Schottky-type model and the compound-energy model. Equations to convert the model parameters of the generalized bond-energy model to those of the other two models are derived. The validity of these equations is demonstrated by showing the successful conversion of the model parameters for the ordered phases in the Ti-Al system from the generalized bond-energy model to those of the Wagner-Schottky-type model and the compound-energy model. However, conversion of the model parameters from these two models to the generalized bond energy model is generally not possible due to additional constraints imposed in developing the later model.
In vitro studies of the fate of sulfadimethoxine and ormetoprim in the aquatic environment

Abstract These studies showed sulfadimethoxine and ormetoprim to be stable at salinities of 0 and 30 ppt and at pHs of 2, 7, and 12 for a period of 1 year. Sulfadimethoxine was stable at 25°C and 37°C, but showed a marked decrease in concentration at 4°C. Warming of the 4°C sample resulted in a return to original drug levels indicating that the drug had redistributed out of the aquatic phase at the lower temperature. Ormetoprim concentrations were stable at all temperatures evaluated. The concentrations of both sulfadimethoxine and ormetoprim were unaffected by the presence of silica sand, high density poly-ethylene, or poly-vinyl chloride. The presence of bentonite clay caused a reduction in ormetoprim concentrations while sulfadimethoxine was unchanged by this substrate. Acidification of the sample containing the bentonite clay resulted in a return of ormetoprim concentration to original levels. From these studies, it is apparent that the potential environmental half-lives for these drugs must exceed 1 year and are likely to be several years in duration.
Support of Product Innovation With a Modular Framework for Knowledge Management: A Case Study

This paper presents an e-Design framework for knowledge management through its application in an engineering design case study. The e-Design framework enables the implementation of integrated design information throughout the entire design process. It facilitates the ease of sharing real time information across multiple individual designers, departments, or organizations as would be required in large scale design efforts. Similarly, it allows for the ease of use of technical tools integral to the design process that small design departments depend upon. Thus, regardless of the scale, the efficiency of engineering design can be improved with the use of the e-Design framework. The many features of the e-Design framework are exemplified through its application in a practical industry design problem. The case study in this paper addresses the utility and ease of use of this framework and provides one potential implementation method. This study involves a representative application of an innovative new mast design to elevate a surveillance camera on a military vehicle. The design process utilizes the NIST functional basis [3] to improve effectiveness and efficiency during conceptual design. The decision tool module of the e-Design framework is then used to evaluate and select the best conceptual design based on product design criteria. We use this case study to illustrate information quality and the clarity of design intent throughout the entire design process. The results reveal a usable design process method that can improve the transparency of design knowledge from design conception to completion. Additional benefits include storing of the information generated at the early stages for sharing and reuse throughout the entire design process. Most of all, improved transparent communication throughout the design process will reduce duplication of efforts and trial and error occurrences.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Body Attitude, Gender, and Self-Concept: A 30-Year Perspective

Two comparable samples of college men and women from 1966 and 1996 were compared using the Kurtz Body Attitude Scale (BAS; R. M. Kurtz, 1966). As predicted, women in 1996 reported a significantly more negative body attitude than women in 1966 did. No significant differences in the 2 samples of men were found. With the 1996 sample, the relationship between body attitude and self-esteem was also examined using Marsh's Self-Description Questionnaire-III (SDQ-III; H. W. Marsh & R. O'Neill, 1984). There was a significant relationship between body attitude and general self-esteem, and there were also complex gender differences in the relationships of various SDQ-III facets to body attitudes.
A novel mechanism for group translocation: Substrate‐product reutilization by γ‐glutamyl transpeptidase in peptide and amino acid transport

Gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (gamma-GTP) is suggested to act as a carrier in the group translocation of oligopeptides and possibly some amino acids across cellular membranes. It is proposed that the process may involve the repetitive transfer of gamma-glutamyl groups to acceptor peptides which are being translocated from the exterior of the cell to its interior. After group translocation of the peptides has occurred with concomitant formation of gamma-glutamyl peptide products, it is suggested that the products might then be utilized as substrate for the enzyme in order to permit the translocation of other peptides from the exterior. The system is economical and requires only that it be primed with an appropriate source of gamma-glutamyl peptides, such as glutathione. In contrast to most group translocation systems previously described, substrate-product reutilization by gamma-GTP would not be expected to accumulate peptides against a concentration gradient. Mechanisms for maintaining low intracellular concentrations of the translocated peptides are described. Studies on acceptor substrate specificity of gamma-GTP from bovine choroid plexus and rat kidney show some glycyl peptides are much better substrates than free amino acids in accord with the proposal that gamma-GTP might be primarily involved in peptide translocation. Both kinetic and topological evidence support the suggestion that repetitive transfer of gamma-glutamyl moieties by gamma-GTP could occur during group translocation of peptides and possibly some amino acids.
Motion of W marker during sequential compound formation in bimetallic AlCu thin films

Abstract Discontinuous W films have been used as diffusion markers to study interdiffusion during the sequential formation of CuAl2, CuAl and Cu9Al4 intermetallic compounds in bimetallic Al and Cu thin films. Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy has been used to determine marker displacement. For the formation of CuAl2 between Cu and Al, both diffuse. For the formation of CuAl between Cu and CuAl2, Cu is the dominant diffusing species. However, for the formation of Cu9Al4 between Cu and CuAl, again both Cu and Al diffuse.
Corticosteroids in perinatal medicine: how to improve outcomes without affecting the developing brain?

Summary Antenatal glucocorticoid therapy remains one of the most striking successes in the perinatal management of complicated pregnancies that result in premature birth. The anti-inflammatory and maturative properties of fluorocorticoids are such that all women at risk of preterm delivery before 34 weeks gestation should be treated. Betamethasone is preferred to dexamethasone and no more than two courses, 2 weeks apart, should be given until the evidence from further controlled trials on repeated doses becomes available. In particular, the early use of postnatal dexamethasone should be avoided in preterm infants because of the deleterious effects on neurological development, including not only cerebral palsy but also cognitive function and psychiatric-related behavior. Treatment with other steroids should be restricted to the context of randomized controlled trials.
Field descriptions for a steady, developing tube flow of vanishing Reynolds number

Numerical solutions for the stream function, vorticity, velocity, and pressure fields are presented for the case of a steady, laminar, isothermal, Newtonian flow developing from an initial slug flow in a circular cylinder of infinite length at zero Reynolds number.
ALTERATIONS IN BLOOD LEUKOCYTE POPULATIONS IN SMYTH LINE CHICKENS WITH AUTOIMMUNE VITILIGO

Abstract Smyth line (SL) chickens spontaneously develop a posthatch autoimmune loss of pigment cells (vitiligo) in the feather. Concurrent with the development of Smyth line vitiligo (SLV), mononuclear cell infiltration and altered T cell profiles can be observed in the pulp of developing feathers. To determine whether the development of SLV is preceded by or associated with alterations in blood lymphocyte and leukocyte populations, blood leukocyte profiles were established at various times prior to and throughout the spontaneous development of SLV. The proportions among various blood leukocyte populations (percentage of lymphocytes, monocytes, heterophils, eosinophils, and basophils) were determined by differential leukocyte counts. The proportions among blood lymphocyte populations were examined by immunofluorescence and flow cytometric analyses. Lymphocyte markers included fluorescence-conjugated monoclonal antibodies to identify T cells (CD3), T helper cells (CD4), cytotoxic T cells (CD8), and B cells (IgM). The proportions among blood lymphocyte populations examined did not differ between SL and MHC-matched parental Brown line (BL) control chickens prior to and throughout the development of SLV. Compared to BL controls, SL chickens had, however, increased proportions of inflammatory leukocytes in the blood, particularly at the time when most hatchmates developed SLV. Examination of leukocyte alterations with respect to first observation of SLV revealed that inflammatory leukocyte levels were elevated early in SLV. Although altered leukocyte profiles in the blood were observed during the development of SLV, blood from SL chickens did not reflect alterations in lymphocyte populations known to occur at the site of melanocyte destruction. The role of inflammatory blood leukocytes in the development of SLV needs to be further investigated.
The stability of viscoelastic creeping plane shear flows with viscous heating

Abstract The two-dimensional linear stability of creeping plane Couette and Poiseuille flow of a viscoelastic fluid with viscous heating is investigated using a Galerkin-type Chebyshev collocation approach and a non-isothermal formulation of the FENE-P constitutive model. Viscous heating is observed to have a destabilizing/stabilizing tendency for Couette/Poiseuille flow at long to moderate disturbance wavelengths, and a stabilizing effect at short wavelengths, but no instabilities are found in the inertialess flow limit. Shear-thinning due to finite polymer extensibility reduces the base flow stresses as well as normal stress gradients at fixed Nahme number, and tends to further stabilize the flow, especially at short wavelengths. In addition to our non-isothermal results, our calculations indicate that creeping Poiseuille flow using the isothermal upper-convected Maxwell model is least-stable at high Deborah numbers to an odd mode with a wavenumber based on channel half-width of k =1.5.
High efficiency sequentially vapor grown n-i-p CH3NH3PbI3 perovskite solar cells with undoped P3HT as p-type heterojunction layer

Photovoltaic devices with perovskite materials as light absorbing material were fabricated through sequential vapor deposition of lead iodide and methylammonium iodide with undoped poly3hexylthiophene (P3HT) as a hole transporting layer. The sequential vapor deposition process produced films and devices with the large grains and low defect densities, very small values of dark current, and high open circuit voltages. The thickness of the P3HT layer was a critical parameter for achieving high solar conversion efficiencies of 13.7%. The vapor deposition process also produced devices with a tight distribution of performance characteristics and very high open circuit voltages (0.99 V).
Abstract A11: Common links suggest a shared embryologic origin for pancreatic and ovarian mucinous tumors

Background: Mucinous ovarian tumors (MOT) have been linked to mucinous colorectal and appendiceal adenocarcinomas. However, recent molecular studies suggest MOT may share more in common with pancreatic mucinous cystic neoplasms (MCN). Commonalities between these seemingly disparate tumors are explored. Methods: Epidemiologic features of MOT and mucinous gastrointestinal tumors were compared using the SEER database. Regional cases of 287 mucinous ovarian tumors were examined against 2,339 age-matched controls to delineate MOT risk factors. A case series of MCN was identified by chart review. Protein expression patterns among tumors were examined using seven immunohistochemical markers. Results: SEER revealed that among GI neoplasms the epidemiology of MCN was most similar to MOT by age, race, and stage. MCN occurred almost exclusively in women, with a sex ratio of 19:1, compared to 1•1:1 and 1•2:1 for mucinous colorectal and appendiceal adenocarcinomas. In the case-control study, appendectomy and cervical conization did not reduce the risk of MOT, while smoking (OR 2•68, 95% CI 1•85-3•89, p Interpretation: Clinical and morphologic similarities between MOT and MCN suggest a common pathogenesis, potentially a shared precursor such as embryologic rests that stopped in the pancreatic buds during migration of the primordial follicles to the gonads during development. This implies mucinous ovarian tumors may originate from primordial follicles, not the ovarian surface epithelium, offering a novel explanation for their pathogenesis. Citation Format: Intidhar Labidi-Galy, Kevin M. Elias, Allison F. Vitonis, Jason L. Hornick, Leona A. Doyle, Michelle S. Hirsch, Daniel W. Cramer, Ronny Drapkin. Common links suggest a shared embryologic origin for pancreatic and ovarian mucinous tumors. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on Advances in Ovarian Cancer Research: From Concept to Clinic; Sep 18-21, 2013; Miami, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2013;19(19 Suppl):Abstract nr A11.
Hair bundle motility induced by chemoreceptors in anemones.

Abstract Most hair bundles are essentially fixed with respect to frequency specificity. However, hair bundles in sea anemones are dynamically tuned by actin-dependent changes in length. Tuning to low frequencies is accomplished by activation of chemoreceptors to N -acetylated sugars resulting in hair bundle elongation. We report here that following sugar-induced tuning of hair bundles, membrane currents reverse polarity in hair cells during unidirectional mechanical stimulation. Reversal in polarity of currents with sugar stimulation is inhibited if hair bundle elongation is blocked by pretreatment with cytochalasin D. A re-examination of morphological changes to hair bundles reveals a sugar-induced reorientation of stereocilia in addition to elongation with chemosensitization. In controls, hair bundles are noticeably twisted. With sugar stimulation stereocilia become oriented more parallel to the long axis of the hair bundle. This sugar-induced change in orientation is similarly inhibited by cytochalasin D pretreatment. Based on these results, we present a model wherein anemone hair bundle twisting serves as a built-in safety mechanism to preserve linkages likely to be subjected to potentially damaging tension during tuning. The twisted hair bundles can untwist while elongating to relieve excessive tension on extracellular linkages between stereocilia critical to mechanosensititvity.
SOME REMARKS ON CULTURES OF DERMATOPHYTES ON HAIR-ON-SOIL MEDIUM.

(A) A layer of fungus vegetation on heavy agar substrate, (2–3 mm), deposited on wet soil is reached by the biochemical ingredients in the soil by diffusion through the agar layer. This fact was demonstrated and made visible by the use of a 1% eosin solution.
Inverse derivative chronopotentiometry/quartz crystal microgravimetry of solid conducting salt films

Abstract An instrument, built in-house, for the purpose of making derivative chronopotentiometric and quartz crystal microgravimetric measurements is described. The spreadsheet-based software allows for presentation of the raw or derivative data of both the chronopotentiometric and gravimetric measurements in either the time or potential domain. The system was used to study the nucleation-controlled growth of the phase transition associated with the TCNQ(0/−1) couple isolated from a thin film of the conducting salt 9-aminoacridinium tetracyanoquinodimethane. The d t /d E – E curves for a nucleation process are presented along with the Hillman–Bruckenstein analysis of the corresponding mass changes of the film.
Calculation of Adjusted Response Frequencies Using Least Squares Regression Methods

The use of general linear regression methods for the analysis of categorical data is recommended. The general linear model analysis of a 0,1 coded re sponse variable produces estimates of the same re sponse probabilities that might otherwise be esti mated from frequencies in a multiway contingency table. When factors in the design are correlated, the regression analysis estimates the same response probabilities that would be estimated from the simple marginal frequencies in a balanced ortho gonal design. The independent effects that are es timated by the regression analysis are the un- weighted means of the response probabilities in various cells of a cross-classification design; how ever, it is not necessary that all cells in a complex design be filled in order for the estimates to have that interpretation. The advantages of the general linear model analysis include familiarity of most psychologists with the methods, availability of computer programs, and ease of application to problems that are too comp...
Myosin II motors and F-actin dynamics drive the coordinated movement of the centrosome and soma during CNS glial-guided neuronal migration.

Summary Lamination of cortical regions of the vertebrate brain depends on glial-guided neuronal migration. The conserved polarity protein Par6α localizes to the centrosome and coordinates forward movement of the centrosome and soma in migrating neurons. The cytoskeletal components that produce this unique form of cell polarity and their relationship to polarity signaling cascades are unknown. We show that F-actin and Myosin II motors are enriched in the neuronal leading process and that Myosin II activity is necessary for leading process actin dynamics. Inhibition of Myosin II decreased the speed of centrosome and somal movement, whereas Myosin II activation increased coordinated movement. Ectopic expression or silencing of Par6α inhibited Myosin II motors by decreasing Myosin light-chain phosphorylation. These findings suggest leading-process Myosin II may function to "pull" the centrosome and soma forward during glial-guided migration by a mechanism involving the conserved polarity protein Par6α.
Neptune: above-ground storage tank inspection robot system

The Neptune system allows unmanned entry and sensor data collection in above-ground storage tanks (ASTs). The sensors are immersed in the petroleum product and uses video and ultrasonics to ascertain from the inside-out the state of corrosion of the floor and side-walls. This eliminates the need to empty or clean the tanks and also avoids the required human walk-through inspection, which results in a very sparse data set from which the tank's state must be statistically extrapolated. >
Randomized dose-ranging pilot trial of omega-3 fatty acids for postpartum depression.

Objective: Postpartum depression (PPD) affects 10–15% of mothers. Omega-3 fatty acids are an intriguing potential treatment for PPD. Method: The efficacy of omega-3 fatty acids for PPD was assessed in an 8-week dose-ranging trial. Subjects were randomized to 0.5 g/day (n = 6), 1.4 g/day (n = 3), or 2.8 g/day (n = 7). Results: Across groups, pretreatment Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HRSD) mean scores were 18.1 and 19.1 respectively; post-treatment mean scores were 9.3 and 10.0. Percent decreases on the EPDS and HRSD were 51.5% and 48.8%, respectively; changes from baseline were significant within each group and when combining groups. Groups did not significantly differ in pre- or post-test scores, or change in scores. The treatment was well tolerated. Conclusion: This study was limited by small sample size and lack of placebo group. However, these results support further study of omega-3 fatty acids as a treatment for PPD.
Convective effects on directional solidification of a simulated metal alloy

The first significant results of a ground-based experimental program which supports a low gravity space processing Spacelab experiment are reported. The phenomena which precipitate pluming and thus freckling in a metal alloy analog (ammonium chloride and water) are studied in detail and the sequential events leading to massive channeling and convection are optically documented. The pluming is shown to be other than a random burst of unstable fluid from a preferred channel but rather a natural occurrence resulting from a fundamental (Rayleigh-Benard) fluid dynamic instability at the density inversion interface. This extrapolates to critical size parameters appropriate to processing of actual metal alloys.
Predictors of U.S. Food Insecurity Across Nonmetropolitan, Suburban, and Principal City Residence During the Great Recession

In 2009, 14.7% of U.S. households were food insecure, lacking consistent access to adequate food. Food insecurity increased in all residence areas with the “Great Recession” beginning in 2007, with the greatest increase in suburbs. The Current Population Survey Food Security Supplement was used to examine the likelihood of food insecurity across residence areas. Net of income and other household characteristics, suburban households were more likely to be food insecure than nonmetropolitan households and as likely to be food insecure as principal city households. The results suggest that during the recession economic hardship spread increasingly to suburbs.
A study of samples of well water collected from selected areas in California to determine the presence of DBCP and certain other pesticide residues.

The precise mechanism whereby DBCP residues contaminate water supplies is not known. It is, therefore, unlikely that DBCP can be kept out of ground water supplies if current application technology is followed. For this reason, and considering the widespread nature of contamination of well water, it is not likely that further agricultural use of DBCP should be authorized.