cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Safety Issues With Reciprocating Compressor Design, Operating Practices and Maintenance

Reciprocating compressors are extensively used on high pressure and critical applications in all industries. These equipment needs through review of design of various components for a failsafe design. API-618 specifies various details about construction of various components, but due to OEM design by compressor vendor, proper review is not done or due to cost economic of equipment these are not given importance.There are many examples when accident took place when these issues were ignored or correct assembly procedure for assembly of components is not followed and there were mistakes in design of piping system. In this paper, some of such cases are discussed and improvements are suggested for preventing any safety incidents. The issues described are designs of unloaders and venting system, unloader and vent piping, cylinder tap off connections, end clearance pocket unloaders, distance piece and crank case venting system, purge system for motors.One of the risks with valve unloaders is the contamination of the instrument air with flammable gas specially on high pressure application. The instrument air may get contaminated with hydrocarbon if unloader leaking from stem and leak off gas tubing which is connected to flare may get interchanged with the instrument air connection. The same mistake if not noticed & compressor started, it may lead to the incident where compressor can show showed a strange vibration pattern, and instrument air header may get contaminated with hydrocarbon gases.Another issue is crank case pressurisation due to improper venting system which can lead to pressurisation of crank case, failure of oil seals leading to flywheel end bearing failures. Further checking for finding reasons of crank case pressurisation, it is observed that excessive rod packing leaks results from incorrect leveling of compressor, distance and cylinders.Motor purge system is one of the essential requirements for starting large reciprocating compressors; mistake in design/fabrication of vent system may create unsafe condition leading to explosion in motor.All issues have been discussed in paper and various solutions and fail safe design have been suggested to improve safety and reliability. The studies also indicates that proper start up procedure and follow up of correct checklists during overhauling and start up can eliminate/ identify such mistakes.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
In vivo regulation of the heme oxygenase-1 gene in humanized transgenic mice

Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) catalyzes the rate-limiting step in heme degradation, producing equimolar amounts of carbon monoxide, iron, and biliverdin. Induction of HO-1 is a beneficial response to tissue injury in diverse animal models of diseases including acute kidney injury. In vitro analysis has shown that the human HO-1 gene is transcriptionally regulated by changes in chromatin conformation, but whether such control occurs in vivo is not known. To enable such an analysis, we generated transgenic mice, harboring an 87-kb bacterial artificial chromosome expressing human HO-1 mRNA and protein and bred these mice with HO-1 knockout mice to generate humanized BAC transgenic mice. This successfully rescued the phenotype of the knockout mice including reduced birth rates, tissue iron overload, splenomegaly, anemia, leukocytosis, dendritic cell abnormalities, and survival after acute kidney injury induced by rhabdomyolysis or cisplatin nephrotoxicity. Transcription factors such as USF1/2, JunB, Sp1, and CTCF were found to associate with regulatory regions of the human HO-1 gene in the kidney following rhabdomyolysis. Chromosome conformation capture and ChIP-loop assays confirmed this in the formation of chromatin looping in vivo. Thus, these bacterial artificial chromosome humanized HO-1 mice are a valuable model to study the human HO-1 gene, providing insight to the in vivo architecture of the gene in acute kidney injury and other diseases.
Enhanced Mechanical Properties of Alumina by Dispersed Titanium Diboride Particulate Inclusions

The mechanical properties of composite ceramics composed of 0 to 20 vol% of titanium diboride particles dispersed in an α-alumina matrix were investigated. The alumina–titanium diboride composite powder was hot-pressed at 1470°C for 20 min to achieve over 98.8% of the theoretical composite density. The strength and fracture toughness of the twophase, hot-pressed composite were both significantly improved compared to the single-phase alumina. Results from different methods of measuring the stress intensity factor, (KIc) are compared and discussed.
QUANTUM LOGIC GATES IN OPTICAL LATTICES

We propose a new system for implementing quantum logic gates: neutral atoms trapped in a very far-off-resonance optical lattice. Pairs of atoms are made to occupy the same well by varying the polarization of the trapping lasers, and then a near-resonant electric dipole is induced by an auxiliary laser. A controlled-NOT can be implemented by conditioning the target atomic resonance on a resolvable level shift induced by the control atom. Atoms interact only during logical operations, thereby suppressing decoherence.
Development of a Complementary and Alternative Medicine Programme at an Academic Medical Centre

With the increasing use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in the US, academic medical centres need to provide evidence-based CAM information and services. To develop a CAM programme involving practice, education and research at our tertiary-care academic medical centre, we initiated a four-pronged approach: (i) creation of an interdisciplinary CAM interest group, (ii) a survey of CAM use among 1514 patients seen at our institution, (iii) a survey of knowledge and attitudes toward CAM among 660 physicians in our institution’s Department of Internal Medicine and (iv) a pilot study of CAM consultations provided at no cost to 102 patients. Bringing together individuals from multiple disciplines across our institution resulted in numerous alliances and collaborations. We documented that many of our internists thought that addressing CAM therapies would improve patient satisfaction and that our patients used CAM therapies and found CAM consultations helpful. Our present programme is devoted to practice (a CAM consultation service has been implemented), education (medical school lectures and a postgraduate-level curriculum in CAM medicine have been developed) and research (there are several ongoing clinical trials).
E-learning: Research and applications

Emerging digital technologies and increasing interest in the computerized delivery of higher education have led to e‐learning through electronic mail, the Internet, the World Wide Web (WWW), and multimedia. Issues such as the confidence with which college faculty integrate technology in their teaching, plagiarism and communication remain as important unresolved questions. Considering these, the marketplace of learners is not responding to e‐learning as anticipated. Understanding the importance of information systems, and of efforts to ensure that faculty use technology, as well as recognition of the marketplace, a framework has been developed for success with e‐learning. Reviews the selected definitions of e‐learning. A critical review of literature is provided with a view to developing a more practical framework for achieving success in e‐learning. Also, some reported case experiences are briefly discussed. Suggestions for future research are presented.
A novel implantable collagen gel assay for fibroblast traction and proliferation during wound healing.

Background. A novel implantable assay for studying cellular behavior in the wound environment was developed. The assay is unique in that it combines the more quantitative nature of in vitro assays with the greater physiological relevance of in vivo wound healing models. Materials and methods. Cells were seeded in a physiologically relevant biological matrix, a collagen gel, contained within a semipermeable tube, and then exposed to soluble factors of the wound environment at different stages of the wound healing response. Gels were harvested at prescribed time points, and cell proliferation rates and gel compaction were measured. These data were combined with our theory for cell–matrix mechanical interactions to estimate the cell traction exerted by the cells leading to gel compaction. Cell morphology and α-smooth muscle actin expression were also characterized. Results. The proliferation of and traction exerted by fibroblasts exposed to the soluble wound environment were different from those in similar collagen gels maintained in culture in complete medium. Proliferation and traction also varied over the course of the wound healing response. Traction was higher and proliferation lower in day 1–5 wounds compared to day 7–11 wounds. Recovered cells no longer stained for α-smooth muscle actin, in contrast to cells maintained in culture. Conclusions. Changes in the soluble wound environment that occur as the wound healing response proceeds alter fibroblast traction and migration. We have developed a new assay that employs a physiologically relevant biological matrix and allows the effects of the dynamic soluble wound environment on cellular traction, proliferation, and other phenomena such as protein expression to be quantified.
Interaction of thiourea with band 3 in human red cell membranes.

Although urea transport across the human red cell membrane has been studied extensively, there is disagreement as to whether urea and water permeate the red cell by the same channel. We have suggested that the red cell anion transport protein, band 3, is responsible for both water and urea transport. Thiourea inhibits urea transport and also modulates the normal inhibition of water transport produced by the sulfhydryl reagent,pCMBS. In view of these interactions, we have looked for independent evidence of interaction between thiourea and band 3. Since the fluorescent stilbene anion transport inhibitor, DBDS, increases its fluorescence by two orders of magnitude when bound to band 3 we have used this fluorescence enhancement to study thiourea/band 3 interactions. Our experiments have shown that there is a thiourea binding site on band 3 and we have determined the kinetic and equilibrium constants describing this interaction. Furthermore,pCMBS has been found to modulate the thiourea/band 3 interaction and we have determined the kinetic and equilibrium constants of the interaction in the presence ofpCMBS. These experiments indicate that there is an operational complex which transmits conformational signals among the thiourea,pCMBS and DBDS sites. This finding is consistent with the view that a single protein or protein complex is responsible for all the red cell transport functions in which urea is involved.
Systolic Function in Hypertensive Men With Concentric Remodeling

Abstract Hypertensive patients with concentric remodeling (relative wall thickness ≥0.45 and normal left ventricular [LV] mass index) may have poor outcomes. It is unclear whether systolic function abnormalities, shown to be present in some patients with concentric LV hypertrophy (increased LV mass index and relative wall thickness ≥0.45), are also present in patients with concentric remodeling. To assess LV pump, chamber, and myocardial function in hypertensive men with concentric remodeling, clinical and echocardiographic data of 118 hypertensive men with concentric remodeling were compared with data from 104 hypertensive men with normal relative wall thickness and normal LV mass index. Chamber function was assessed by relating endocardial fractional shortening to end-systolic circumferential stress, myocardial function was assessed by relating midwall fractional shortening to circumferential stress, and pump performance was assessed by stroke volume (Teichholz method). Compared with hypertensive men with normal relative wall thickness, concentric-remodeling patients had lower stroke volume (84±20 versus 111±20 mL, P P =NS), but midwall shortening was lower in patients with concentric remodeling (20±3% versus 22±3%, P 2 , P
Outcrossing rate and inbreeding depression in the perennial yellow bush lupine, Lupinus arboreus (Fabaceae).

Little is known about the breeding systems of perennial Lupinus species. We provide information about the breeding system of the perennial yellow bush lupine, Lupinus arboreus, specifically determining self-compatibility, outcrossing rate, and level of inbreeding depression. Flowers are self-compatible, but autonomous self-fertilization rarely occurs; thus selfed seed are a product of facilitated selfing. Based on four isozyme loci from 34 maternal progeny arrays of seeds we estimated an outcrossing rate of 0.78. However, when we accounted for differential maturation of selfed seeds, the outcrossing rate at fertilization was lower, ;0.64. Fitness and inbreeding depression of 11 selfed and outcrossed families were measured at four stages: seed maturation, seedling emergence, seedling survivorship, and growth at 12 wk. Cumulative inbreeding depression across all four life stages averaged 0.59, although variation existed between families for the magnitude of inbreeding depression. Inbreeding depression was not manifest uniformly across all four life stages. Outcrossed flowers produced twice as many seeds as selfed flowers, but the mean performance of selfed and outcrossed progeny was not different for emergence, seedling survivorship, and size at 12 wk. Counter to assumptions about this species, L. arboreus is both self-compatible and outcrosses ;78% of the time.
Design of cooperative vehicle safety systems based on tight coupling of communication, computing and physical vehicle dynamics

One of the main characteristics of a Cyber Physical System (CPS) is the tight coupling of the computing and communications aspects of the system with its physical dynamics. In this paper, we examine this characteristic for a cooperative vehicle safety (CVS) system, and identify how the design and operation of such CPSs should consider this tight coupling. In CVS systems, vehicles broadcast their physical state information over a shared wireless network to allow their neighbors to track them and predict possible collisions. The physical dynamics of vehicle movement and the required accuracy from tracking process dictate certain load on the network. The network performance is directly affected by the amount of offered load, and in turn directly affects the tracking process and its required load. The tight mutual dependence of physical dynamics of vehicle (physical component), estimation/tracking process and communication process (cyber components) require a new look at how such systems are designed and operated. We consider these factors and propose methods to simplify the design procedure for such tightly coupled systems. The method includes modeling the subcomponent of the CPS and devising interaction and control algorithms to operate them. The proposed methods are compared with methods based on separate design of components that deal with physical and cyber aspects. Through simulation experiments we show significant gains in performance when CPS design considerations are respected.
A spectral method for elliptic equations: the Neumann problem

Let ? be an open, simply connected, and bounded region in ? d , d???2, and assume its boundary ?? is smooth. Consider solving the elliptic partial differential equation ??Δu?+??u?=?f over ? with a Neumann boundary condition. The problem is converted to an equivalent elliptic problem over the unit ball B, and then a spectral method is given that uses a special polynomial basis. In the case the Neumann problem is uniquely solvable, and with sufficiently smooth problem parameters, the method is shown to have very rapid convergence. Numerical examples illustrate exponential convergence.
Biomechanics research in traumatic spinal injuries: "everything should be kept as simple as possible, but no simpler".

The vast majority of the knowledge in spinal biomechanics available today is derived from studies on cadaveric specimens (2). Nevertheless, every time a researcher intends to defend a position on the basis of biomechanical data acquired from such types of experiments, a well known set of criticisms arises. Several limiting factors for the validity of the results obtained in such research scenarios are usually mentioned: the room temperature and humidity (which, by differing from the in-vivo conditions, are thought to alter the stiffness of the constructs), and the influence of preservation processes (such as cooling or freezing) on the viscoelastic properties of the cadaveric tissues and the role of surrounding structures other than bone and joints (such as muscles and tendons), which provide a dynamic biomechanical effect in the in vivo condition (1). Moreover, although cadaveric models are useful for quantifying the results proportioned by different surgical strategies (such as the degree of spinal canal decompression provided by a full laminectomy in comparison to bilateral decompression through a hemilaminectomy) as well as for testing the biomechanical properties of different stabilization techniques, they are completely unsuitable for studying how instability affects the physiology of the spinal cord after traumatic injuries, and, therefore, of limited application in the field of spinal cord injury research. Although the majority of neurosurgeons do not find any major technical difficulty when facing the task of providing stabilization and fusion for a patient with a thoracolumbar fracture, inducing stabilization and fusion of adjacent vertebral segments in smallanimal models has always been a great challenge for laboratory researchers. The problem involves, besides other factors, the lack of appropriate instrumentation (such as screws, rods or wires) specifically designed to address the peculiarities of the anatomy of such animals. In fact, it would not be unfair to state that the difficulties associated with the several different methods that have already been tried as attempts to achieve stabilization of the spinal column in experimental models have significantly limited the amount of in-vivo research on the biomechanical variables involved in spinal cord injury as well as on the associated effects of such injuries to the normal physiology of the spinal cord (7). Although transpedicular screws and rods would be theoretically ideal, they are in practice not feasible due to the small size of rats’
Visual Feedback Navigation and Control of a Quadrotor Using Fuzzy Expert Systems

This paper proposes a novel tele-autonomous control method of a quadrotor miniature air vehicle (MAV) that utilizes visual feedback mechanisms. The controller navigates a commercially available quadrotor to different Region-Of-Interests (ROI) as determined by the user. Visual feedback and state estimation is accomplished via vanishing point estimation for corridor centering and navigation. Speeded-Up Robust Feature (SURF) algorithms are used for feature selection, distance estimation, and approaching the ROI. The results of these visual feedback mechanisms are then fed into multiple Fuzzy Expert Systems for navigation and control. Experimental results are presented validating the approach using an unmanned quadrotor in an unknown indoor environment.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Synthesis and characterization of the methylethylboranes

Abstract The compounds (CH3)2BC2H5 and CH3B(C2H5)2 were prepared by reaction of (CH3)4B2H2 and C2H4. The compounds were readily isolable in the pure state. A thorough characterization of these compounds is presented. Conclusions relevant to bonding in the analogous unsaturated methylvinylboranes are discussed in the light of the results of this investigation.
Does soil organic matter variation affect the retention of 15NH4+ and 15NO3− in forest ecosystems?

Human activities have fundamentally changed global nitrogen (N) cycling, leading to elevated N deposition in most parts of the world. The fate of deposited N, whether being retained to sustain plant growth or causing ecosystem N saturation, is critical to the global carbon (C) cycling and local environment. In a short-term laboratory experiment, we used 15N-labeled NH4+ and NO3− to study the fate of N inputs in forest soils and what regulates N retention. Soils with a wide range of organic matter content and other attributes were collected from a 70-year-old plantation containing monotypic stands of Norway spruce (Picea abies), red pine (Pinus resinosa), sugar maple (Acer saccharum), and red oak (Quercus rubra), and separated into 0–5 cm and 5–15 cm layers. Nitrogen added to the soil was either immediately extracted (Time 0: T0) with K2SO4 solution, or incubated for 7 d (T7) and then extracted. Retention of 15N into the non-extractable soil pool at T0 was limited; but after the 7-d incubation, between 20 and 70% of the 15NH4+ was retained. Nitrification transformed on average 50% of the 15NH4+ into 15NO3− during the incubation while retention of 15NO3− at T7 remained low (7.40 ± 1.08%). Retention of 15NH4+ into non-extractable soil at T7 was positively correlated to the percentage of soil organic matter (SOM) (r2 = 0.323, P < 0.001), and was significantly higher (P < 0.001) in the high-SOM 0–5 cm layer than in the low-SOM 5–15 cm layer. Conversion of 15NH4+ to 15NO3− during incubation significantly reduced the 15NH4+ retention (P < 0.001). Our results suggest that the variations of SOM and other soil attributes play strong roles in the retention of newly deposited inorganic N and could affect forest ecosystem responses to chronic N deposition.
Adaptive Resistance to Aminoglycoside Antibiotics from First-Exposure Down-Regulation

Adaptive resistance to the bactericidal effect of an aminoglycoside antibiotic was induced in Pseudomonas aeruginosa and other aerobic gram-negative bacilli by initial exposure to the drug. Both subinhibitory and inhibitory concentrations produced resistance in bacterial cells surviving the effects of the initial ionic binding. Development of drug refractoriness required an adaptive period of growth, was enhanced by the continued presence of drug, and reversed after several hours of growth in drug-free medium. Unstable resistance was not explained by selection of mutants. The mechanism of adaptive resistance was down-regulation of aminoglycoside uptake during the period of accelerated energy dependent drug transport (EDP II). Down-regulation induced by gentamicin or tobramycin produced cross-resistance to other aminoglycosides. The kinetics of unstable first-exposure resistance suggests that a continuous drug level might not provide the most effective therapy with aminoglycosides and gives rationale to larger initial and longer interval bolus dosing.
Spinodal Decomposition in SU(3) Lattice Gauge Theory

We consider Glauber dynamics after a heating quench from the disordered (confined) into the ordered (deconfined) phase of SU(3) lattice gauge theory. For 4 N σ 3 lattices the exponential growth factors of low-lying structure function modes are calculated and the Debye screening mass is estimated from the critical mode. Due to a competition between differently ordered vacuum domains, the equilibration of the QCD vacuum after the heating quench is non-trivial. We investigate the influence of such domains on the gluonic energy density.
Age-related macular degeneration 1969-2004: a 35-year personal perspective.

Purpose To provide a personal perspective concerning diagnosis, treatment, and evaluation of treatment for early and late stages of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) over a 35 year period, 1969–2004. Design Literature review, personal recollections, and conversations with investigators who participated in trials to evaluate treatments for AMD. Methods The author reviewed the literature pertaining to evaluation and treatment of patients with AMD and conversed with investigators who, over the past 35 years, designed, conducted and participated in trials to assess new and existing treatments for AMD. Results In 1969, patients with AMD constituted a small part of a typical ophthalmic practice. From 1969 to 2004, the prevalence of AMD has increased, and the methods of evaluation and treatment have changed dramatically. The emergence of fluorescein angiography and the development of laser photocoagulation and photodynamic therapy have substantially altered clinical practice. Several promising pharmacologic interventions are now being assessed in clinical trials. Nevertheless, AMD remains the leading cause of severe and irreversible vision loss in the United States because there are no highly effective treatments available for most patients. Conclusions Because of an aging population and the lack of highly effective treatments, late AMD remains a major unsolved problem. However, there is extensive research being conducted with support from the National Eye Institute and from industry. There is also great interest in prevention trials. Accordingly, the author is optimistic that over the next 35 years there will be significant improvements in our ability to prevent severe vision loss from late AMD.
Recent STAR results on W production and asymmetry in polarized \vec p + \vec p collisions at √r = 500 GeV

The production of W± bosons in longitudinally polarized proton + proton collisions at RHIC is a unique way to study the flavor-dependent spin structure of the proton, since at leading order it couples directly and exclusively to specific quark flavor pairings: \(u + \bar d \to W^ +\) and \(\bar u + d \to W^ -\). Measurement of the longitudinal single-spin asymmetry of the electron decay daughters in W production is sensitive to the polarizations of the quarks involved. Results from the first proton-proton collisions at √r = 500 GeV in 2009 are presented, along with a discussion of the forward-rapidity tracking upgrade.
Control of Myogenic Differentiation by Cellular Oncogenes

The establishment of a differentiated phenotype in skeletal muscle cells requires withdrawal from the cell cycle and termination of DNA synthesis. Myogenesis can be inhibited by serum components, purified mitogens, and transforming growth factors, but the intracellular signaling pathways utilized by these molecules are unknown. Recent studies have confirmed a role for proteins encoded by cellular proto-oncogenes in transduction of growth factor effects that lead to cell proliferation. To test the contrasting hypothesis that cellular oncogenes might also regulate tissue-specific gene expression in developing muscle cells, myoblasts have been modified by incorporation of the cognate viral oncogenes, the corresponding normal or oncogenic cellular homologs, and chimeric oncogenes, whose expression can be induced reversibly. Regulation of the endogenous cellular oncogenes also has been examined in detail. Down-regulation of c-myc is not obligatory for myogenesis; rather, inhibitory effects ofmyc on muscle differentiation are contingent on sustained proliferation. In contrast, activatedsrc andras genes block myocyte differentiation directly, through a mechanism that is independent of DNA synthesis and is rapidly reversible, resembling the effects of inhibitory growth factors. The coordinate regulation of diverse tissue-specific gene products including muscle creatine kinase, nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, sarcomeric proteins, and voltage-gated ion channels, raises the hypothesis that inhibitors such as transforming growth factor-β andras proteins might exert their effects through a transacting transcriptional signal shared by multiple muscle-specific genes.
Intrasexual selection constrains the evolution of the dorsal color pattern of male black swallowtail butterflies, Papilio polyxenes

Males of the eastern black swallowtail (Papilio polyxenes asterius Stoll) with typical coloration were more successful in intrasexual competition for mating territories than were males altered to have female-like mimetic coloration. Sibling males were matched for wingspan and emergence date and released as pairs, one with its pattern altered and one a control that was marked but with unaltered appearance. Significantly fewer altered males were resighted one or more days after release compared with control males (33% vs. 76%, 1990; 46% vs. 83%, 1993). Altered males were less able to establish and maintain themselves in preferred territories. The inability of released, altered males to establish a territory appears related to significantly longer male-male encounters. Encounters involving at least one participant with altered appearance averaged 66 s compared with 24 s if neither male was altered. However, altering the coloration of P. polyxenes males that already had established themselves in a territory had little effect. After courtships of similar duration ( 40 s), released virgin females were equally likely to mate with either altered or control males. This suggests that male-male intrasexual selection is of greater importance than female mate choice in maintaining a non-mimetic dorsal coloration in male P. polyxenes.
Correlations between surface science models and `real-world` catalysts

Over the past two decades the “pressure and material gaps” separating ultrahigh-vacuum surface science and technical catalysis has been bridged by coupling an apparatus for the measurement of reaction kinetics at elevated pressures with an ultrahigh-vacuum system for surface analysis. Studies with this combined methodology have provided an atomic-level understanding of various aspects of heterogeneous catalysis such as structure/activity relationships, the role of promoters and inhibitors on catalytic activity, and the nature of the metal−metal bond in mixed-metal catalysts. These investigations have demonstrated the relevance of single-crystal studies for modeling the behavior of high surface area supported catalysts as well as the power of surface analytical techniques for characterizing adsorbed reactants and intermediates.
Photoinduced electron transfer from N,N,N′,N′-tetramethylbenzidine incorporated into layered zirconium phosphate studied by ESR and diffuse reflectance spectroscopies

Abstract N,N,N′,N′-Tetramethylbenzidine was introduced into layered α-zirconium phosphate (α-ZrP) during synthesis of α-ZrP and by impregnation. N,N,N′,N′-Tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) was photoionized at room temperature by 370 nm visible light irradiation by a monophotonic process to form stable TMB+ radical cations which were detected by electron spin resonance and diffuse reflectance spectroscopies. TMB is incorporated into α-ZrP only on the external surface both during synthesis of α-ZrP and by impregnation. No net photoyield difference is seen between these two incorporation methods. The half-life of photoinduced TMB+ ion in α-ZrP is about 10 h at room temperature which is an order of magnitude higher than in micelles or amorphous silica gel.
Uptake and release of petroleum by intertidal sediments at Port Valdez, Alaska

Abstract The uptake and release of Prudhoe Bay crude oil by intertidal sediments at Port Valdez, Alaska have been studied. In two experiments designed to simulate the stranding of a light oil slick, oil was spread on sediments daily for 5 days. Hydrocarbon content of the top 1.0 cm of the sediments was monitored for 60 days from the first oiling. The two experimental rates of oil application were 1.2 μl cm −2 and 5.0 μl cm −2 . In both experiments the added oil was no longer detectable on the sixtieth day. Possible reasons for this rapid loss of petroleum by sediments are discussed.
Plume Dispersion in the Convective Boundary Layer. Part II: Analyses of CONDORS Field Experiment Data

Abstract Extensive analyses are performed on data from the CONDORS (convective diffusion observed with remote sensors) field experiment, described in detail by Ebeerhard et al. Convective scaling is used to facilitate comparisons with laboratory and numerical simulations and to give the results generality. Near-surface χ/Q from lidar-detected oil fog are generally in excellent agreement with nearby samples of coreleased SF6, considering the large spatial gradients found in the oil fog. Extrapolations to the surface of ∫χdy/Q of radar-detected “chaff” agree reasonably well with most oil fog values after a mathematical compensation for the chaff's settling speed. Measured wind direction distributions compare favorably with ∫χdy and ∫χdz distributions of both tracers. The directly measured bulk variables σy, and σz, show little effect of source height or of tracer type except that surface-released σy are enhanced by up to 60% at X<0.3 [X =(x/U)w*/zi, where U is mean wind speed, w* is the convective scale vel...
TRANSVERSE DIFFUSION AND CONDUCTIVITY COEFFICIENTS FOR A THREE-DIMENSIONAL MAGNETIZED EQUILIBRIUM PLASMA.

Equilibrium transport coefficients are calculated for a three-dimensional magnetized plasma. It is shown that the transverse spatial diffusion and conductivity coefficients are related via a generalized Einstein relation. These coefficients have both a $\frac{1}{B}$ (volume dependent) term (with $B$ a uniform magnetic field) as well as a $\frac{1}{{B}^{2}}$ (volume independent) term for a finite plasma. For an infinite plasma, the coefficients have a "classical" $\frac{1}{{B}^{2}}$ dependence.
Uptake and Degradation of Lipoproteins by Human Trophoblastic Cells in Primary Culture

It has been shown previously that human placental trophoblastic cells use principally lipoprotein-cholesterol for progesterone synthesis. In the present investigation, human placental trophoblastic cells in primary culture were employed to study the kinetics of uptake and degradation of lipoproteins by trophoblastic tissue. Maximal uptake of [125I]iodo-low density lipoprotein ([l25I]iodo-LDL) by these cells was achieved by 5–6 h, while degradation of [125I]iodo-LDL was linear from 30 min to 32 h. Uptake and degradation of [l25I]iodo-LDL as a function of substrate concentration was studied. The apparent dissociation constants (KD) for both uptake and degradation processes were calculated from these data and were found to be similar (1.03 × 10-8 and 6.8 × 10-9 M, respectively), a finding which is suggestive that these processes are causally related. Chloroquine inhibited [l25I]iodo-LDL degradation by these cells, a finding that is indicative that LDL degradation is dependent on lysosomal proteolytic activit...
Efficient Sieve Maximum Likelihood Estimation of Time-Transformation Models

Time transformation models assume the survival time to be linearly related to covariates through an unknown monotonic transformation function and an error term with known distribution. In this article, the sieve method of maximum likelihood is used to estimate the unknown monotonic transformation of survival time. More specifically, a suitable class of Bernstein polynomials is used to estimate the transformation function while preserving monotonicity and smoothness. The proposed estimation method is less parametrically intensive than current time transformation methods. Furthermore, the method produces a smooth estimate of the time transformation, and hence the survival function. We discuss the selection of the number of parameters for the polynomial asymptotically, and for moderate sample sizes. The asymptotic properties of the estimators are shown, including the asymptotic normality and efficiency of the regression coefficient. Simulation studies illustrate that our estimator has good empirical properti...
The ATP-sensitive K+-channel (KATP) controls early left–right patterning in Xenopus and chick embryos

Consistent left–right asymmetry requires specific ion currents. We characterize a novel laterality determinant in Xenopus laevis: the ATP-sensitive K+-channel (KATP). Expression of specific dominant-negative mutants of the Xenopus Kir6.1 pore subunit of the KATP channel induced randomization of asymmetric organ positioning. Spatio-temporally controlled loss-of-function experiments revealed that the KATP channel functions asymmetrically in LR patterning during very early cleavage stages, and also symmetrically during the early blastula stages, a period when heretofore largely unknown events transmit LR patterning cues. Blocking KATP channel activity randomizes the expression of the left-sided transcription of Nodal. Immunofluorescence analysis revealed that XKir6.1 is localized to basal membranes on the blastocoel roof and cell–cell junctions. A tight junction integrity assay showed that KATP channels are required for proper tight junction function in early Xenopus embryos. We also present evidence that this function may be conserved to the chick, as inhibition of KATP in the primitive streak of chick embryos randomizes the expression of the left-sided gene Sonic hedgehog. We propose a model by which KATP channels control LR patterning via regulation of tight junctions.
Sodium channels gone wild: resurgent current from neuronal and muscle channelopathies

Voltage-dependent sodium channels are the central players in the excitability of neurons, cardiac muscle, and skeletal muscle. Hundreds of mutations in sodium channels have been associated with human disease, particularly genetic forms of epilepsy, arrhythmias, myotonia, and periodic paralysis. In this issue of the JCI, Jarecki and colleagues present evidence suggesting that many such mutations alter the gating of sodium channels to produce resurgent sodium current, an unusual form of gating in which sodium channels reopen following an action potential, thus promoting the firing of another action potential (see the related article beginning on page 369). The results of this study suggest a widespread pathophysiological role for this mechanism, previously described to occur normally in only a few types of neurons.
LABORATORY STUDIES ON THE IMMUNE EFFECTS OF HALOGENATED AROMATICS

The effects of TCDD exposure on the developing immune system were investigated in Wistar/Fischer hybrid or Fischer rats. Fetal and neonatal rats were exposed to TCDD through maternal dosing (5 muk/kg) on day 18 of gestation and on days 0, 7, and 14 of postnatal life (group 1). Another group of neonatal rats was exposed to TCDD through maternal dosing on days 0, 7, and 14 of postnatal life only (group 2). Variable but significant effects on body weights and thymus/body weight ratios were found up to 133 days of age. Cell mediated immune functions were depressed up to 133 days of age in both groups but less severely in animals exposed only postnatally. Furthermore, TCDD suppressed cell-mediated immune functions without affecting humoral immune function. Adoptive cell transfer studies indicated suppression of T-cell functions was selective in that "helper" cell function was not suppressed. In other studies, the effects on lymphocyte function following brief exposure of spleens from B6C3F1 mice to TCDD in dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) were investigated. DNA, RNA and protein synthesis were inhibited at concentrations less than 2 X 10(-7) M TCDD in DMSO. This concentration accounted for approximately 0.2 ng TCDD uptake per spleen. The structurally related chemicals 3,4,3',4'-tetrachlorobiphenyl and 1-amino, 3,7,8-trichlorodibenzop-p-dioxin did not show significant lymphocyte effects even at two-fold higher concentrations. The ability of lymphocyte mitogens to bind to their cell surface receptors was not affected by TCDD treatment. TCDD was slightly cytolytic to lymphocytes after 48 hours of culture. DMSO treatment alone was also slightly toxic to lymphoid cells as indicated by a 10--20% loss of cell viability, although this occurred within 4 hours after DMSO exposure. Studies were performed to investigate the effects of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzofuran (TCDF) on immune function in adult Hartley guinea pigs. Animals received 6 weekly doses of either 0, 0.05, 0.17, 0.5 or 1.0 microgram TCDF/kg body weight. TCDF slightly depressed cell-mediated immune functions, particularly at the higher dose levels as indicated by decreased lymphocyte blastogenesis, delayed hypersensitivity reactions, and production of macrophage inhibitor factor. Additionally, thymus-to-body-weight ratios were slightly reduced in the 0.5 and 1.0 microgram dosage groups. Serum IgG levels and antibody titer to BGG did not differ from controls. These results indicate that TCDF-induced immunosuppression is similar to that of TCDD.
Recent developments with orthogonal-transfer CCD

We describe recent results from a new type of CCD imager which is capable of transferring charge in all four directions and is called an orthogonal-transfer CCD or OTCCD. This device has applications in adaptive imaging where the image motion is fast in relation to the frame time. We have built a 512 X 512 pixel frame-transfer device in which the imaging section has OT pixels and the frame store has conventional three-phase pixels. We have demonstrated at the Michigan-Dartmouth-MIT (MDM) observatory on Kitt Peak that significant improvements in seeing can be obtained by partially correcting for atmosphere-induced phase distortions using this device. By imaging a bright guide star on the frame store and operating it as a fast- framing tracker we are able to measure the lowest-order distortion. We then use this information to clock the OT section to maintain registration between the charge packets and the shifting star images. The preliminary results show that the OTCCD can remove approximately 0.5 inches in quadrature with the remaining sources of broadening at MDM. Pockets are more numerous in this device than expected, and their effects are exacerbated by the multiple transfers during image tracking. Some evidence has been found that links the pockets to the use of aluminum as the fourth gate level.
Levels in 140,142,144Nd and a search for pairing vibrations at N = 82 with the (p, t) reaction

Abstract The 142,144,146Nd(p, t) reactions were studied with 31 MeV protons. A pair-vibrational like state is observed in the 144Nd(p, t) reaction but shifted in energy and with less intensity than expected. Although no such state is seen in the 146Nd(p, t) reaction, the same L = 0 intensity to excited states is observed to be distributed among a number of 0+ levels.
Estimation of efficiency for bubbler-type gas absorbers

Abstract The behaviour of bubbler-type absorbers is discussed, and used to predict an estimate of absorption efficiency for such absorbers and to indicate the factors which have the greatest effect on efficiency.
Furnace and laser methods of bonding metals to ceramics: phenomenological investigation

Several methods for direct bonding of metals to ceramics in air and various inert atmospheres using a furnace or lasers as a heating source are investigated. In order to investigate inter-diffusion between the copper layer and the sapphire and also to measure the percentage of diffused copper in sapphire, Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy (RBS) was performed. Based on heat transfer theory and on diffusion theory, a model was derived to explain and predict the behavior of furnace and laser beam bonding of metals to ceramics. The predictions of the model are in agreement with the experimental percentages of diffused copper in sapphire obtained in the RBS investigations. Based on experimental investigations and theoretical modeling, it has been concluded that the direct bonding phenomenon is a thermal effect, similar to transient liquid phase bonding. The major advantage of direct bonding is that no filler material is required between the metallic member and the ceramic substrate. Finally, the method of direct bonding of metals to ceramics using a laser beam is capable of directly drawing a metallic pattern on a ceramic substrate.
Better safe than sorry

Abstract Viruses are becoming more prevalent. It is important to be safe rather than sorry. You need to learn to protect yourself, your company, and your fellow computer users. Even if no new viruses are developed, we can expect the problem to be with us for years to come.
Pulsed doppler evaluation of right ventricular diastolic filling in children with pulmonary valve stenosis before and after balloon valvuloplasty

Abstract To assess right ventricular (RV) diastolic filling in children with pulmonary stenosis (PS), 14 patients (mean age 5.1 years) were examined immediately before and after pulmonary balloon valvuloplasty. Fourteen normal children (mean age 4.8 years) were also studied. From the tricuspid valve inflow Doppler study, the following measurements were made at peak inspiration: peak velocities at rapid filling (peak E) and during atrial contraction (peak A), ratio of peak E to peak A velocities, RV peak filling rate normalized for stroke volume, total area under the Doppler curve, percent of the total Doppler area occurring in the first third of diastole (0.33 area fraction), percent of the total area occurring under the E wave (E area fraction), percent of the total area occurring under the A wave (A area fraction) and the ratio of E area to A area. Before balloon valvuloplasty, the patients with PS had higher peak A velocity (0.64 ± 0.28 vs 0.39 ± 0.08 m/s), lower E A velocity ratio (1.11 ± 0.52 vs 1.76 ± 0.45), lower 0.33 area fraction (0.34 ± 0.14 vs 0.49 ± 0.08), higher A area fraction (0.45 ± 0.21 vs 0.27 ± 0.09) and lower E A area ratio (1.73 ± 1.05 vs 2.96 ± 1.14) than the normal subjects (p
Quality of life measurement in prospective studies of cancer treatments in dogs and cats

Background Quality of life (QOL) is an important consideration in healthcare decision-making for pets with cancer. To determine the effect of disease and treatment on pet QOL, this important variable should be objectively measured as an outcome in veterinary cancer studies. Objectives To determine the prevalence and methodology of QOL measurement in a sample of recently published reports of prospective studies evaluating cancer treatments in client-owned dogs and cats; to characterize reporting of QOL outcomes and to identify article characteristics associated with QOL measurement. Methods English-language reports of prospective studies of cancer treatments in dogs and cats published from 2008 to 2013 were identified using medical research databases combined with a hand-searching strategy. Data pertaining to general article characteristics and QOL measurement were abstracted and summarized. Results Reports of 144 eligible studies were identified. QOL was measured in 16 (11.1%) studies, with 8 (5.6%) reporting the results. All studies that measured QOL reported using unvalidated instruments, or did not report how QOL was assessed. Only 1 study provided sufficient information for QOL measurements to be replicated. Recently published articles (2011–2013) were significantly more likely to report measuring QOL, compared with earlier articles. Conclusions Quality of life of pets undergoing cancer treatment is largely unreported and cannot be meaningfully compared across treatments or disease states using the existing literature. Reliable, validated instruments are needed to facilitate the measurement and comparison of pet QOL in veterinary cancer research. Consistent reporting practices could improve transparency and interpretation of QOL results.
The influence of ecdysones and eyestalk removal on the molt cycle of the crayfish Orconectes obscurus.

Abstract Eedysone initiated early proecdysis at all seasons when injected at a dose of 2.14 μg per gram body weight. During the seasons when crayfish do not molt in nature, eedysone produced a shortened, but abnormal proeedysis. Such animals were unable to complete eedysis. α- and β-Eedysone were equally effective. Eyestalk removal initiated proeedysis later and shortened proeedysis more than eedysone injection.
Dewey in CORC : Classification in metadata and pathfinders

The Cooperative Online Resource Catalog project (CORC) is providing an opportunity for OCLC researchers and Dewey editors to explore the potential of the Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC) system for organizing electronic resources. Efforts to enrich the content of the DDC database through vocabulary mapping projects have improved the ability of CORC users to employ classification in metadata records and pathfinders. Mapped vocabulary is used in the following ways: (1) to improve access to Dewey by expanding the indexing vocabulary; (2) to assist in the assignment of subject elements during metadata creation; (3) to provide supplemental terminology for automated classification; and (4) to provide alternative access mechanisms or views to resources in the CORC database.