cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The rhetorical fantasy of energy transitions: implications for energy policy and analysis

This article explores the rhetoric of four energy transitions. It begins by summarising research on the intersection of fantasy, technology and the sociology of expectation. It then looks at how ideas of progress, modernity, cheapness, abundance and hope influence the way society perceives new energy technologies, causing them to overestimate benefits and underestimate challenges. Our rhetorical analysis finds in case studies of steam engines, gasoline automobiles, hydroelectric dams and nuclear reactors that newly ‘discovered’ sources of energy or newly invented technologies are always assumed to provide infinitely abundant energy and to have the potential to create positive utopian changes in society. We conclude by noting the salient implications of these rhetorical themes for energy planners, analysts and scholars.
On a new transformation to normality

A Gaussian approximation to the distribution of the nonnegative random variable Y is developed using the Wilson and Hilferty (1931) approach. This approximation uses the symmetrizing transformation ((Y + b)/k1)h where k1 is the first moment of Y and h and b are determined from the first three cumulants of Y. The approximation is illustrated in the case which Y is a non-central chi-square, where numerical evaluations indicate that the new transformation is an improvement over existing ones, especially for small values of k1.
Total Quality Service and the Business College

Moving a business college to commit to a total quality service approach is much more difficult than the literature suggests. The commitment to customer satisfaction is the essential focus of total quality service. It is unlikely to occur in business colleges. While small incremental change is readily possible, the values and culture of the faculty and administration prevent the requisite acceptance by the faculty of students as their customers, and acceptance of the faculty as customers of the academic administrators.The payoff for achieving high quality service in businesses and business colleges is the loyalty and gratitude from customers, resulting in ever higher demand for the service. Having students begging to be admitted to the college, having large numbers of students trying to take business courses would put the business college in an enviable position within the university. The grateful alumni could, in turn, help with employment opportunities and with major gifts to the college.
Arabidopsis plants constitutively overexpressing a myo-inositol 1-phosphate synthase gene (SaINO1) from the halophyte smooth cordgrass exhibits enhanced level of tolerance to salt stress.

Salinity is one of the most important environmental constraints limiting agricultural productivity. Considering the importance of the accumulation of osmolytes, myo-inositol in particular, in halophytic plant's adaptive response to salinity, an effort was made to overexpress the SaINO1 gene from the grass halophyte Spartina alterniflora encoding myo-inositol 1-phosphate synthase (MIPS) in Arabidopsis thaliana. We demonstrated that SaINO1 is a stress-responsive gene and its constitutive over expression in Arabidopsis provides significantly improved tolerance to salt stress during germination and seedling growth and development. The transgenics retained more chlorophyll and carotenoid by protecting the photosystem II. The low level of stress-induced cellular damage in the transgenics was clearly evident by lower accumulation of proline in comparison to WT. Our results indicated that possible overaccumulation of MIPS enzyme in the cytosol protected the transgenic Arabidopsis plants overexpressing SaINO1 from the toxic effect of Na+ under salt stress by reducing cellular damage and chlorophyll loss.
STRUCTURE AND DYNAMICS OF LIQUID SULPHUR

First-principles molecular dynamics calculations based on density-functional theory have been used to predict the structure, vibrational spectrum, and dynamics of liquid sulphur over a wide temperature range. The calculated structure factor is in excellent agreement with that derived from neutron diffraction experiments. At low temperature, the liquid structure is found to consist primarily of ${S}_{8}$ rings. The theoretical calculations provide important structural information that may not be possible to extract from experiment. The structure at high temperatures and/or after photoexcitation is found to consist of chains of varying lengths resulting from the breakup of the ${S}_{8}$ rings. Upon quenching, longer helical chains and cross linkages are observed indicating the initial stage of polymerization. The self-diffusion constant of liquid sulphur first increases slowly reflecting the interpenetrating chains and rings but increases rapidly as the rings break up into smaller chains.
Partial expression of sex-linked recessive amelogenesis imperfecta in females compatible with the Lyon hypothesis.

Abstract Two kindreds affected by a hypomaturation type of amelogenesis imperfecta compatible with a sex-linked mode of inheritance have been presented. Females who carry the gene show partial manifestation of the trait, that is, vertical bands of mottled hypomature enamel alternating with bands of normal-appearing enamel. This phenomenon is compatible with the Lyon hypothesis which states that only one X chromosome is active in the somatic cells of females.
Systemic effects of E-2078, a stabilized dynorphin A(1-8) analog, in rhesus monkeys.

Rationale: E-2078 ([N-methyl-Tyr1, N-methyl-Arg7, d-Leu8] dynorphin A(1–8) ethylamide) is a dynorphin A(1–8) analog with a reduced tendency to be biotransformed, when compared to the unmodified opioid peptide. E-2078 has been found to produce κ-opioid agonist effects in vivo in rodents. Objective: In the present studies, we investigated whether systemically administered E-2078 could produce κ-agonist effects in rhesus monkeys, in tests of antinociception, diuresis and ethylketocyclazocine (EKC) discrimination. Methods: E-2078 (0.32–18 mg/kg, SC, IM or IV) was tested in the warm water (50°, 55°C) tail withdrawal assay of thermal antinociception. The diuretic effects of E-2078 (0.056– 1.8 mg/kg, SC) were also compared to those of the κ-agonist, U69,593 (0.01–0.32 mg/kg, SC). Lastly, the effects of E-2078 (0.1–3.2 mg/kg, SC or IV) were studied in rhesus monkeys trained to discriminate EKC (0.0056 mg/kg SC) from vehicle, in a food-reinforced operant procedure. Results: E-2078 did not produce thermal antinociception in rhesus monkeys following SC or IM administration, up to the largest doses presently studied (i.e., 18 and 10 mg/kg, respectively). E-2078 caused thermal antinociception by the IV route, but this effect was not apparently mediated by κ- or µ-opioid receptors, as shown by its insensitivity to quadazocine (1 mg/kg) pretreatment. However, SC E-2078 caused diuresis, and this effect was blocked by quadazocine pretreatment, consistent with mediation by κ-opioid receptors. E-2078 generalized in EKC-discriminating monkeys, but only after the largest dose (3.2 mg/kg), and only following IV administration. Conclusions: The present studies suggest that systemically administered E-2078 can produce some κ-receptor mediated effects in rhesus monkeys, but its profile of action is not identical to non-peptidic κ-agonists following all routes of administration, or across all experimental situations.
Maturation of the Acetylcholine Receptor in Skeletal Muscle: Regulation of the AChR γ-to-ϵ Switch

Abstract During the development of the mammalian neuromuscular junction, acetylcholine receptors (AChRs) become localized to the postsynaptic muscle membrane. As this process nears completion, the fetal form of the receptor, containing a γ subunit (composition α2βγδ) is gradually replaced by an ϵ subunit-containing adult form (α2βϵδ). To understand how this transition is controlled, we compared the expression and regulation of the AChR γ and ϵ subunits in developing, adult, and cultured muscles. Immunostaining with subunit-specific antibodies showed that replacement of γ subunit- by ϵ subunit-containing AChRs occurs largely during the first postnatal week in fast-twitch muscles, and occurs homogeneously throughout individual endplates. In the slow-twitch soleus, however, this transition is delayed, and in the multiply innervated slow fibers of extraocular muscle, γ subunit expression persists into adulthood. The transcriptional bases of the AChR subunit transition, and of these intermuscular variations, were demonstrated in mice bearing transgenes containing promoter elements from the AChR γ and ϵ subunit genes, each coupled to a nuclear-localized β-galactosidase (nlacZ) reporter. We show that transgene expression is stimulated by the nerve-derived inducer of AChR expression, ARIA, in myotubes cultured from γ–nlacZ as well as ϵ–nlacZ mice. However, the expression of γ–nlacZ, but not ϵ–nlacZ, is increased by treatment of myotubes with TTX, and the ARIA sensitivity of γ–nlacZ is dependent on the electrical state of the myotube. Thus, the promoters of the γ and ϵ subunit genes may integrate ARIA- and activity-dependent signals in different ways to generate their complementary patterns of expression.
The preparation and characterization of hydroxycarbonate colloidal particles of individual and mixed rare earth elements

Abstract The wide use of the rare earth elements in the preparation of technically important materials requires a wide range of preparative techniques. In this paper the preparation of colloidal spheres and other shapes is outlined. Homogeneous precipitation of rare earth hydroxycarbonate colloidal particles was carried out under different conditions of temperature and pH. The morphology of the products was studied by scanning electron microscopy. Mixed praseodymium and neodymium salts were precipitated as amorphous spheres with atomic-level mixing to demonstrate the value of the method to produce homogeneous mixtures.
Long-Duration Surge Testing of Lightning Arresters

A METHOD OF long-duration surge-withstand design testing of station-type lightning arresters is proposed for consideration by the industry. The test method involves successive applications of a surge having an essentially constant magnitude and a duration measured in thousands of microseconds.
Electroencephalographic and electrocardiographic patterns during open heart operations with the use of cardiopulmonary bypass

SINCE THE EARLY pART OF 1956, various congenital cardiac anomahes have been operated upon at the Umversaty of California Mechcal Center, Los Angeles, using cardiopulmonary bypass. This report discusses certain observations made on patients who underwent cardiac surgery during 1957, with the aid of the Gibbon screen oxygenator. The bypass apparatus, as modl~ed by our surgical team, has been described in another pubhcatlon (7). During the entire period of anaesthesia, continuous electrocardiographic and electro encephalograpbac tracings were recorded, while effects of the anaesthetic agent and other variables were carefully noted. Preoperative diagnosis of the majority of patients (18 total) was interventricular septaI defect Other dmgnoses were: transposltmn of the great vessels m two patients and one case of each of the following, bacuspld aortic valve, pulmonary valve and infundlbular stenosis, atrial septal defect with anomalous pulmonary veins, atrioventncular commums w~th other anomalies, and rheumatic mltral stenosis and msut~cieney (Table I) Except for the patients with atrial septal defect, operatmn was performed ar~ all instances as a hfe-sawng measure because of progressive determratmn of the p~taent
Void formation and solute segragation in Ti-14.4 at% Al

Abstract An alloy of Ti-14.4 at% Al was irradiated with 3.0 MeV 58Ni ions at temperatures near 600°C and to damage levels from 1.3 to 14.7 dpa. TEM examination of these specimens showed the damage produced voids, dislocation loops and network dislocations. The undersize aluminum solute atom segregated to the voids, grain boundaries and the irradiated surface, causing enhanced precipitation of γ'-Ti3Al at these sinks for point defects. Shells of α 2 ~ 75 A thick coated the voids and a continuous film of γ' was observed on the irradiated surface and on some grain boundaries. The surface film of α2 contained 1 3 a 〈11 2 0〉 antiphase boundaries. Voids have not been previously observed in irradiated hcp Ti and this is the first observation of substantial irradiation-induced segregation in an hcp alloy.
The Favor Factory

Peter H. Stone, Heist: Superlobbyist Jack Abramoff, His Republican Allies, and the Buying of Washington, New York: Ferrar, Straus and Giroux, 2006, 224 pp. Casino Jack and the United States of Mone...
A 1MHz-bandwidth type-I ΔΣ fractional-N synthesizer for WiMAX applications

A major source of close-in phase noise in ΔΣ fractional-N frequency synthesizers is noise-folding due to the nonlinear behavior of the combined phase-frequency detector (PFD)/charge-pump (CP) circuit. A fractional-N PLL with an analog discrete-time PFD and loop filter, along with an error cancelling DAC is utilized to alleviate the impact of ΔΣ quantization error and nonlinearities on the phase noise and spurious emissions. In comparison to Type-II PLL, this design suffers less quantization noise folding because the ΔΣ quantization noise goes through phase error transfer function with better linearity. A two-state Type-I loop replaces the more conventional Type-II charge-pump PLLs where a tri-state PFD/CP produces a current proportional to phase error [1]. The Type-I loop shifts the operating point of the phase detector away from the nonlinear region (i.e., close to zero phase error), thus eliminating the need for special CP linearization techniques [2–4]. The architecture of the PLL is depicted in Fig. 23.1.1. In this architecture, a third-order re-quantization path along with an 8b current-steering DAC reduces quantization noise induced phase error by more than 20dB, enabling a wide loop bandwidth of 1MHz.
Resolution beyond the diffraction limit using frequency-domain field confinement in scanning microscopy

Abstract A technique is described to achieve resolution beyond the diffraction limit in scanning microscopy. The approach is based on the generation of a frequency domain focal spot size by the sample itself. Theoretical graphs and experimental results are presented to show the signal generation process. Enhanced resolution is demonstrated in fluorescence imaging of a sensitizing dye. The two-point resolution, and single-point image width, attained in fluorescence imaging should improve to around 150 and 130 nm, respectively, for a proper combination of lenses.
Older adults with epilepsy demonstrate cognitive impairments compared with patients with amnestic mild cognitive impairment

Little is known about the cognitive effects of chronic epilepsy in older adults. To better characterize cognitive impairment in seniors with epilepsy, we compared cognitive performance of 26 seniors with epilepsy with that of 26 well-matched patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and 26 well-matched healthy older adults. Participants completed neuropsychological testing with the Dementia Rating Scale (DRS), Logical Memory, and CFL Word Fluency. There were no significant demographic group differences, although seniors with epilepsy had higher self-reported depression. Seniors with epilepsy performed below controls on virtually all neuropsychological tests, and performed below patients with MCI on DRS Total score, Initiation/Perseveration, and CFL Fluency. Seniors with epilepsy on antiepileptic drug (AED) polytherapy had the most severe cognitive deficits, whereas seniors with epilepsy on AED monotherapy were comparable to cholinesterase inhibitor-naive patients with MCI. This study emphasizes the clinical importance of cognitive impairment in seniors with epilepsy and highlights the need for future studies addressing causes and treatment of cognitive impairment.
Application of Visible/near Infrared Derivative Spectroscopy to Arctic Paleoceanography

The lack of well-preserved carbonate in much of the Arctic marine environment dictates the need for alternative methods of paleoceanographic reconstruction. The broad variety of physical properties measurements makes them well suited for use in a variety of environments, but they provide unique opportunities when employed in the Arctic. Because Arctic sediment is introduced and reworked by a variety of mechanisms, the signature from multiple processes becomes intermixed with the sediment. Many of these processes operate in other ocean basins, while some function only in Polar Regions. A strategy to address this mixing problem is to employ spectrally-resolved physical properties measurements, or to use multiple methods in conjunction to generate multivariate data sets, which can differentiate concurrent processes. Data of this type is well suited to multivariate analysis techniques such as sample-based or variable-based, varimax-rotated, principle component analysis (VPCA). These are methods that decompose the data matrix to infer process from orthogonal functions. The method is applied to cores from the Chukchi sea to document that visible derivative spectroscopy provides a powerful means of reconstructing sediment provenance. In the Chukchi Sea, diffuse spectral reflectance provides a proxy to monitor variations in Holocene flow through the Bering Strait.
The risk of using baboons as transplant donors. Exogenous and endogenous viruses.

: African nonhuman primates harbor several exogenous and endogenous retroviruses which deserve further consideration in the transplant setting. In particular, simian foamy viruses (SFV), simian T-cell lymphotropic virus (STLV), baboon endogenous virus (BaEV), and simian endogenous retrovirus (SERV) are all carried by baboons and may be transmitted to humans by transplantation. We have found baboons to have high seroprevalence rates to both SFV and STLV, and molecular and serologic methods have been developed to detect such agents. In addition, current nonhuman primate breeding programs have thus far not focused on eliminating these viruses. In summary, the close genetic relationship with humans and number of persistent viral infections in baboons translates into a much greater infectious disease risk when compared to that of other domesticated species.
(316) Psychological and physiological correlates of a brief intervention to enhance self-regulation in chronic pain

The main objectives of this ongoing study are to determine if training and practice in a brief focused breathing technique is associated with: 1) increased self-regulatory ability to a standard laboratory stressor (cold pressor test) as indexed by Heart Rate Variability; 2) increased pain tolerance to a cold pressor test; 3) decreased breathing rate at follow-up; 4) increased pain management self-efficacy; and 5) decreased self-reported fatigue. Participants were diagnosed with either fibromyalgia (n 13) or masticatory myofascial pain (n 7). Study participants completed an initial laboratory assessment including a diaphragmatic breathing training session. Participants were instructed to practice the technique for three ten-minute sessions each day, and returned to the lab for a second visit after two-weeks. Preliminary results from this study indicate significant improvements in fatigue (p .01) and pain management self-efficacy (p .01) between pre and post-training assessments. More striking is the change in pain severity. Mean pain severity scores changed from 4.56 to 3.78 (p .05) on a 0-10 Visual Analog Scale with 10 being the worst. Tolerance to the cold pressor test increased significantly (60.3s to 76.8s, p .01). Total power in the HRV spectral frequency range post cold-pressor increased significantly between the two lab sessions (p’s .05). Additionally, and as expected, breathing rate was significantly reduced at the second assessment. Results of this preliminary study suggest training and practice of a brief diaphragmatic breathing technique is associated with significant changes in a number of areas of physiological and psychological functioning in chronic pain patients. In particular, HRV total power post-training may represent a significant improvement in self-regulatory ability. Further, the significant reduction in pain severity between time one and time two suggests regular use of a self-regulatory training technique may be associated with a reduction in subjective pain measures.
Augmentation of the phagocytic activity of murine spleen cell populations induced by Adriamycin.

Abstract C57B1/6 mice were injected i.v. with Adriamycin (5 mg/kg) and various days later, spleen cells were tested for Fc dependent phagocytic activity by measuring protection of 51Cr-labelled, antibody coated SRBC from hypotonic shock. No difference in phagocytic activity was observed with spleen cells from untreated mice or mice treated with Adriamycin 1–7 days prior to killing. Increases in phagocytic activity were, however, seen with spleen cells from mice treated 9 to 13 days prior to killing. Phagocytic activity of spleen cells from mice treated 5 days prior to killing was increased after these cells were cultured for 5 days when compared to cultured cells from untreated mice. Despite depletion of mature phagocytic cells from spleen cells suspensions by silica treatment, followed 24 hours later by silica removal by density gradient centrifugation, phagocytic activity was observed with spleen cells from ADM treated mice (day-5) after 5 days in culture. No phagocytic activity was seen with spleen cells from untreated mice using the same silica treatment and culture conditions. When cultured spleen cells from untreated or ADM treated mice (day-5) were fractionated by plastic adherence, twice as many adherent cells were removed compared to controls. Their phagocytic activity (per cell) was, however, the same. Thus, ADM may increase the number of immature nonphagocytic macrophages in the spleen resulting in increased mature macrophages after culture.
Interactions of Delmopinol with Constituents of Experimental Pellicle

The prolonged retention of an effective chemotherapeutic agent on oral surfaces and in dental plaque aids in plaque control. The objective of this study was to investigate interactions between delmopinol, a morpholinoethanol derivative, and experimental pellicle. Hydroxyapatite beads were coated with different constituents of pellicle (e.g., saliva, carbohydrates, cell-free enzymes, and bacteria). Delmopinol demonstrated a higher affinity for saliva-coated hydroxyapatite (sHA) and for experimental pellicle coated with in situ-synthesized glucans than for untreated hydroxyapatite. High-molecular-weight (MW) dextran but not low-MW dextran interfered with the adsorption of delmopinol to sHA. Delmopinol did not compete with dextran for the same binding sites on sHA, nor did it compete with saliva for the same binding sites on untreated hydroxyapatite. Delmopinol inhibited the activity of cell-free fructosyltransferase adsorbed onto sHA. In addition, synthesis of glucans by Streptococcus mutans adsorbed onto sHA was significantly reduced in the presence of delmopinol.
Metabolism of bufotenine-2'-14C in human volunteers.

Abstract The major ultimate metabolites of bufotenine-2′-14C in two volunteers have been identified and quantitated in the urine after intravenous administration of doses of 0.2 mg and 1 mg (10 μc/mg). Both subjects excreted over 90% of the 14C within 12 hours. Most of this was in the form of 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (68% and 74%). Only small amounts of bufotenine itself were excreted (1% and 6%). The remaining radioactive materials in the urine were not identified.
Properties of a distinct subpopulation of GABAergic commissural interneurons that are part of the locomotor circuitry in the neonatal spinal cord

Commissural inhibitory interneurons (INs) are integral components of the locomotor circuitry that coordinate left-right motor activity during movements. We have shown that GABA-mediated synaptic transmission plays a key role in generating alternating locomotor-like activity in the mouse spinal cord (Hinckley et al., 2005a). The primary objective of our study was to determine whether properties of lamina VIII (LVIII) GABAergic INs in the spinal cord of GAD67::GFP transgenic mice fit the classification of rhythm-coordinating neurons in the locomotor circuitry. The relatively large green fluorescent protein-expressing (GFP(+)) INs had comparable morphological and electrophysiological properties, suggesting that they comprised a homogenous neuronal population. They displayed multipolar and complex dendritic arbors in ipsilateral LVII-LVIII, and their axonal projections crossed the ventral commissure and branched into contralateral ventral, medial, and dorsal laminae. Putative synaptic contacts evident as bouton-like varicosities were detected in close apposition to lateral motoneurons, Renshaw cells, other GFP(+) INs, and unidentified neurons. Exposure to a rhythmogenic mixture triggered locomotor-like rhythmic firing in the majority of LVIII GFP(+) INs. Their induced oscillatory activity was out-of-phase with bursts of contralateral motoneurons and in-phase with bouts of ipsilateral motor activity. Membrane voltage oscillations were elicited by rhythmic increases in excitatory synaptic drive and might have been augmented by three types of voltage-activated cationic currents known to increase neuronal excitability. Based on their axonal projections and activity pattern, we propose that this population of GABAergic INs forms a class of local commissural inhibitory interneurons that are integral component of the locomotor circuitry.
Laryngeal mask airway for therapeutic fiberoptic bronchoscopic procedures

Summary These cases illustrate the advantages of the laryngeal mask as compared with an endotracheal tube or oxygen face mask for selected patients undergoing therapeutic bronchoscopic procedures. The advantages include a larger internal diameter allowing easier passage of instruments, reduced work of breathing, lack of discomfort associated with insertion, access to the vocal cords and upper trachea unimpeded by the presence of an endotracheal tube, and capnographic and volume monitoring of respiration. The LMA is thus a valuable alternative for airway management in pulmonary compromised patients undergoing therapeutic bronchoscopic procedures.
The Health and Mental Health of Disabled Substance Abusers

In 1996 Congress terminated Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits to individuals disabled by substance abuse. Although most were expected to continue benefits under another disability category, 64% were not reclassified. This article examines data from a longitudinal study of individuals in Los Angeles County affected by the legislation. While poor physical health predicted both continued SSI benefits and receipt of public income assistance, many individuals reporting significant mental and physical health problems were not reclassified and did not receive public income assistance, raising concern for their welfare. Local safety nets may become increasingly important for this population.
Deceived by Omission: The Difficulty of Matching Measurement and Theory When Assessing the Home Environment.

The two commentaries on our article illustrate the kinds of challenges one faces in constructing measures of the home environment. There are few areas of inquiry in the field of human development where Gjerde's (this issue) concern about defining the boundaries for group membership is more salient than is true of the family environment. Likewise, there are few areas of measurement where Knight's (this issue) concern about measurement equivalence is more pertinent than is measurement of the home environment. Although the focus of the two commentaries and the focus of our article are quite different on their face, one theme unites them all: In constructing and evaluating measures, one needs to be wary of being deceived by what is omitted in the process. In the commentary by Gjerde, this theme took the form of concerns about obliterating the differences among persons who are classified as belonging to the same broad ethnic or cultural group. In the commentary by Knight, this theme took the form of concerns a...
Effective Weight Loss for Overweight Children: A Meta-Analysis of Intervention Studies

Childhood overweight has increased in the United States. Success of weight-loss programs has been limited (Barlow, S.E., & Dietz, W.H. (1998). Obesity evaluation and treatment: Expert committee recomendations. Pediatrics, 102, e29.). The purpose of this investigation was to systematically examine the effectiveness of weight-loss interventions for children. For this meta-analysis, seven weight-loss intervention studies were coded and quality index scores calculated. The interventions had a significant positive effect on weight-loss average d = 0.95, with a 95% confidence interval of 0.79 to 1.11. Limited interventional studies with effective long-term maintenance of weight loss in children are available in the literature. However, there are effective methods for weight loss in children.
Racial differences in the presentation and surgical management of breast cancer.

Abstract Background: African American women are seen with more advanced breast cancers, are less likely to be treated with breast-conserving surgery, and generally have poorer prognoses than white women. There are a myriad of potential causes for these phenomena. The purpose of this study was to measure racial differences in the surgical treatment of breast cancer among women with comparable health care access and delivery. Methods: The Breast Cancer Registry of the Department of Surgery at Henry Ford Hospital was accessed for all patients between January 1, 1990, and December 31, 1997 for whom data on race, tumor characteristics, stage, and treatment specifics were available. Socioeconomic information was collected with use of 1990 census block data. Proportions of women who received each treatment were compared for African Americans and whites with use of the relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). We used multiple logistic regression to obtain estimates of the relative risk, controlling for potential confounding factors. Results: Of the 1699 patients in the database, 1250 had sufficient information for analysis. A total of 8.7% of African American women were diagnosed with late-stage disease (ie, stage III or IV) compared with 7.9% of whites. Nevertheless, African American women had a lower frequency of stage I disease (30.5% vs 36.2%) and a higher frequency of stage II disease (36.8% vs 31.4%). Overall and adjusted risk estimates for age, tumor stage, marital status, median income, and type of insurance revealed no substantive or statistically significant differences between African American and white patients. The adjusted RR for local excision was 1.39 (95% CI 0.78 to 2.49), for lumpectomy and axillary dissection RR 0.92 (95% CI 0.66 to 1.29), for simple mastectomy RR 0.84 (95% CI 0.41 to 1.72), and for modified radical mastectomy RR 1.00 (95% CI 0.73 to 1.36). Conclusions: In this setting of equal access to health care, African American women still have higher frequenceis of stage II disease, although the frequencies for late-stage disease are similar. Nevertheless, no surgical differences were found in this population, even after the effects of socioeconomic indicators and stage at diagnosis were controlled for. Survival differences between African American and white women are unlikely to be explained by differences in treatment. (Surgery 1999;125:375-9.)
HIV-1 infection of DC: evidence for the acquisition of virus particles from infected T cells by antigen uptake mechanism.

Dendritic cells (DC) play a pivotal role in transmission and dissemination of HIV-1. Earlier studies reported that DC present at the site of infection trap virus particles via DC-SIGN and transfer the virus to the interacting naive T cells. This prompted us to ask the question whether DC could acquire virus from infected T cells during DC-T cell interaction. To address this, we investigated the likely transfer of virus from HIV-1 infected T cells to DC and the underlying mechanisms involved. Results indicate that DC acquire virus from infected T cells via antigen uptake mechanism and this results in infection of DC with expression of proteins directed by viral DNA. Further studies with HIV-1 lacking the Env protein also resulted in infection of DC. The use of antibodies against DC-SIGN and DC-SIGN-R ruled out a role for receptor in the infection of DC. Additional data show that DC infection is directly correlated with the ability of DC to take up antigen from infected T cells. Overall, these studies provide evidence to suggest that HIV-1, besides infecting immune cells, also utilizes immunological mechanism(s) to acquire and disseminate virus.
Inhibition of dopamine β-hydroxylase by 2-mercapto-1-methylimidazole

Abstract The inhibition of bovine dopamine β-hydroxylase (dopamine β-monooxygenase, EC 1.14.17.1) BY 2-mercapto-1-methylimidazole has been studied using a simple, ‘metal-free’ assay system. 2-Mercapto-1-methylimidazole is an uncompetitive inhibitor of dopamine β-hdyroxylase with respect to ascorbate and a mixed type of inhibitor with respect to tyramine. These findings are consistent with 2-mercapto-1-methylimidazole interacting exclusively with the reduced form of dopamine β-hydroxylase.
A multi-module artificial neural network approach to pattern recognition with optimized nanostructured sensor array

Abstract The selection of appropriate sensing array nanomaterials and the pattern recognition of sensing signals are two challenges for the development of sensitive, selective, and cost-effective sensor array systems. To tackle both challenges, the work described in this paper focuses on the development of a new hybrid method which couples multi-module method with artificial neural networks (ANNs) for the optimization—optimized multi-module ANN classifier (OMAC) to enhance the correct detection rate for multiple volatile organic compounds (VOCs). In this OMAC method, each module is dedicated to a group of VOCs with specific inputs. Each sensor element's selectivity is quantitatively evaluated to assist the selection of sensing array materials, which also facilitates the selection of inputs to each dedicated neural network module. This OMAC method is shown to be useful for achieving a high overall recognition rate for a selected set of vapor analytes. The results are discussed, along with the implications to the better design of ANN pattern classifiers in chemical sensor applications.
Nonenzymatic Deamidation of Food Proteins

Many cereal proteins, such as wheat, corn, and oat proteins, have high levels of the amide-containing amino acids, glutamine and asparagine. These side chains are susceptible to hydrolysis of the amide bond, which leads to release of ammonia and transformation to acidic groups. The released ammonia has been implicated in the formation of aroma compounds and pigments because of its participation in the Maillard browning reaction. The conversion of the amide groups to acid groups may partially unfold the protein, resulting in an amphiphilic molecule that can be used as a surface active agent or emulsifier by food processors. This review provides general information on the factors that affect deamidation of proteins as well as the implications of deamidation for food processing.
A Direct Experimental Study of Three Systems of Spatial Vectorcardiography

Three commonly used systems of vectorcardiography are compared on an absolute and direct quantitative basis in terms of equations, geometric interpretations, scalar leads and vectorcardiograms, using experimental results obtained on an accurate, three-dimensional homogeneous torso model of the human subject with a dipole fixed in position in the center of the heart. It is concluded that the accuracy of the three systems, as presently used, is unsatisfactory and that further consideration of the systems of Duchosal and Grishman is questionable because of excessive intrinsic errors. Certain chance properties of the Wilson tetrahedron enable standardization modifications which lead to fairly accurate results for some dipole positions, and this system also possesses other features which appear to be desirable. The applicability of the results and conclusions to the human subject depends upon the degree to which the human heart may be represented by a fixed-position dipole and the degree to which human body electrical inhomogeneities influence body surface potentials.
Analysis of Ultrasonic Machining Using Monte Carlo Simulation

Proper selection of manufacturing conditions is one of the most important aspects in Ultrasonic Machining process, as these conditions determine the Material Removal Rate (MRR). In this work, two very popular mathematical models proposed by Miller and Shaw have been investigated using Monte Carlo simulation based Crystal Ball analysis tool. Effects of abrasive particle size, particle concentration, amplitude of tool vibration, tool radius and depth of hole on MRR have been analyzed for both models. Miller’s model indicates a strong positive relationship between abrasive grain size, concentration and MRR. Contrary to the literature search on experimental data, Shaw’s mathematical model indicates a negative relationship between MRR and grain size, and a very weak relationship between MRR and concentration. No definite relationship could be established between either tool radius and MRR or amplitude and MRR. A negative relationship between depth of hole and MRR was obtained for Shaw’s model.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Dihydrogen Phosphate Clusters: Trapping H2PO4– Tetramers and Hexamers in Urea-Functionalized Molecular Crystals

Co-crystallization of two urea-functionalized ligandswith tetrabutylammonium (TBA) dihydrogen phosphate resulted in the isolation of discrete (H2PO4–)4 and (H2PO4–)6 clusters stabilized in the crystalline state by multiple urea hydrogen bonds. Structural analysis by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, combined with a Cambridge Structural Database survey of (H2PO4–)n aggregates, established that these clusters display unique topologies and hydrogen-bonding connectivities.
Tricyclic Alkaloid Core Structures Assembled by a Cyclotrimerization−Coupled Intramolecular Nucleophilic Substitution Reaction

A facile approach to tricyclic alkaloid core structures was developed by sequencing a pyridine-forming [2 + 2 + 2] cyclotrimerization reaction with an intramolecular nucleophilic substitution. This methodology enabled the facile assembly of the spiroindolinone framework of citrinadins A and B, and cyclopiamine B.
Implicit learning of evaluative vs. non-evaluative covariations: The role of dimension accessibility

Abstract Implicit covariation learning, the development of simple associations without awareness, has been demonstrated repeatedly along the evaluative dimension [De Houwer, J., Thomas, S., & Baeyens, F. (2001). Associative learning of likes and dislikes: A review of 25 years of research on human evaluative conditioning. Psychological Bulletin, 127, 853–869], but associations involving other dimensions appear more difficult to learn implicitly. The present research highlights the unique properties of the evaluative dimension that may predispose it to implicit learning. We provide evidence in the first experiment that implicit covariation learning occurs along the evaluative dimension, but does not spontaneously occur along non-evaluative dimensions. In Experiment 2, implicit learning along non-evaluative dimensions occurred when participants were subliminally primed with the to-be-learned dimension. In the discussion, we integrate findings from implicit evaluative conditioning research with the broader implicit learning literature.
Measurement of the circulating muon flux in the Fermilab Debuncher ring

Using a novel experimental technique, we have measured the flux of pions, electrons, muons, and antiprotons which are injected into and circulate in the Fermilab Debuncher ring. The experimental technique relied upon the use of a nondestructive, rf pickup to measure the bunch structure of the beam on a turn-by-turn basis. The measured muon to antiproton ratio is μ−/p = 1.0±0.2, and the ratio of muons to protons on target is μ−/poT = 2.0±0.4×10−5.
Fetal and Maternal Secretion Rate of Cortisol in Sheep: Diffusion Resistance of the Placenta

Extract Three pregnant ewes and their fetuses, in utero, were infused constantly with 14C-cortisol and 3H-cortisol. The maternal concentrations of cortisol in plasma were 5.24f1.16 ,ug/100 ml and the fetal concentrations in plasma were 2.39%0.25 pg1100 ml. Metabolic clearance rates were estimated to have a mean of 1,397 liters124 h in the ewes and 92 liters124 h in the fetuses. The mean rates of blood production for the ewe and the fetus were 73.6 and 2.14 mg/24 h, respectively, while the mean rates of cortisol secretion for the ewe and fetus were 73.5 and 1.64 mg/24 h, respectively. Application of the theoretical model presented, allowed us to calculate the contribution the mother was making to the cortisol concentration in the plasma of the fetus and vice versa. We also calculated the ratio of relative resistance for transplacental passage of cortisol. S'eculation From the model proposed, it was calculated that the fetus contributed very little to the maternal cortisol levels. In two experiments, more than 60 % of the fetal levels of plasma cortisol were of fetal origin, while in another experiment, almost all the cortisol was produced by the fetus. We speculate, therefore, that a 'placental barrier' exists in sheep during pregnancy. The physiological role of this barrier remains to be determined.
Some finiteness conditions on indecomposable operands

Let S be a monoid such that every left S-operand satisfies the ascending chain condition on orbits. Let X be an indecomposable [0-indecomposable] left S-operand. There is a descending chain of suboperands of X defined in terms of maximal orbits. If this chain terminates after a finite number of terms, the last non-empty [non-zero] term defines a distinguished collection Open image in new window (X) [ Open image in new window 0(X)] of disjoint [0-disjoint] orbits in X. The assumption that Open image in new window (X) [ Open image in new window 0(X)] is finite for all appropriate X, together with the additional assumption that every left S-operand satisfies the d.c.c. on orbits, implies that S has a unique minimal left ideal [that the principal left ideals outside of the minimal ideal are linearly ordered].
Prevalence of health risk behaviors among Asian American/Pacific Islander high school students

Abstract Purpose: To compare the prevalence of selected risk behaviors among Asian American/Pacific Islander (AAPI) students and white, black, and Hispanic high school students in the United States. Methods: The national Youth Risk Behavior Survey conducted in 1991, 1993, 1995, and 1997 by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention produced nationally representative samples of students in grades 9 through 12 in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. To generate a sufficient sample of AAPI students, data from these four surveys were combined into one dataset yielding a total sample size of 55,734 students. Results: In the month preceding the survey, AAPI students were significantly less likely than black, Hispanic, or white students to have drunk alcohol or used marijuana. AAPI students also were significantly less likely than white, black, or Hispanic students to have had sexual intercourse; however, once sexually active, AAPI students were as likely as other racial or ethnic groups to have used alcohol or drugs at last intercourse or to have used a condom at last intercourse. AAPI students were significantly less likely than white, black, or Hispanic students to have carried a weapon or fought but were as likely as any of the other groups to have attempted suicide. Conclusions: A substantial percentage of AAPI students engage in risk behaviors that can affect their current and future health. Prevention programs should address the risks faced by AAPI students using culturally sensitive strategies and materials. More studies are needed to understand the comparative prevalence of various risk behaviors among AAPI subgroups.
Fundamental Factors in the Design of a Fast-Responding Methanol-to-Hydrogen Steam Reformer for Transportation Applications

Improving the dynamic response of the steam reformer in a fuel cell power plant designed for transportation applications will enable the power plant to operate in a transient manner with a reduced need for supplementary batteries and their associated cost, weight, and life cycle limitations. As a method of seeking improvements to the dynamic response, a sixth-order dynamic model of a steam reformer is used with a design optimization process to determine the values of the steam reformer design parameters which will yield the fastest response time to a step input in hydrogen demand under a variety of initial conditions. Results of this analysis suggest that a steam reformer designed to have a maximum output of approximately 12,600 mol/h of hydrogen and optimized for fast response could have response times on the order of 15-20 s. A sensitivity analysis suggests that this response can be achieved primarily by reducing the thermal capacity of the reformer and improving the rate of heat transfer to the gaseous constituents within the reformer. With a steam reformer response time on the order of 15-20 s, supplementary energy storage devices, such as the ultracapacitor and flywheel, become more feasible. These devices are attractive because they have superior life cycle and power density characteristics when compared with traditional chemical batteries.
Analysis of a drosophila tRNA gene cluster

Abstract The arrangement and the nucleotide sequences of the tRNA genes in a 9.3 kb fragment of Drosophila DNA have been determined. This fragment, cloned in Col E1 to form the plasmid pCIT12 (Yen et al. 1977), contains eight tRNA genes. These are irregularly spaced within the DNA and encode a single tRNA 2 Arg , three tRNA Asn , one tRNA IIe and three tRNA 2 Lys . Each DNA strand contains the coding sequences for several tRNA genes, and the transcription direction differs for the various genes of the same isoacceptor. We propose that the inverted repeat secondary structure features observed by electron microscopy in the single-stranded DNA (Yen et al. 1977) are formed by tRNA genes. This finding explains the difficulty in detecting all the tRNA genes by hybridization of DNA with radioactive tRNA. These Drosophila tRNA genes do not contain intervening sequences; nor do they encode C-C-A, the 3′ terminal sequence of mature tRNA. Computer analysis of the DNA sequences revealed a conserved undecanucleotide sequence found only in the 5′ flanking regions of the three tRNA Lys genes; no sequence common to all tRNA gene regions in pCIT12 was detected. pCIT12 did not contain any homology to the "consensus sequence" found in the 5′ flanking regions of Xenopus 5S genes (Korn and Brown 1978) or to the transcription control region found within those genes (Sakonju, Begenhagen and Brown 1980).
Characterization of surfaces by soft X-ray spectroscopy

Abstract Soft X-ray spectroscopy has important capabilities for investigating the surface region of metals and alloys. By calibrating the changes in the soft X-ray emission bands from both the metal and the oxygen, it is possible to determine the oxide thickness, the degree of oxidation, the element in the alloy with which the oxygen has combined, the relative amounts of alloying elements in the surface oxide, and the oxide state of a substrate metal that has a protective coating. For Ti-6Al-4V alloys there was an increase in surface oxygen after prebond treatment which was due to a change in the degree of oxidation rather than in oxide thickness, and the oxygen was combined with the titanium in the surface oxide. The oxygen K intensity distribution, from aluminum that was given a surface chromate treatment, showed that the oxygen is combined with the chromium. In Fe-Cr alloys there is an increase in the amount of chromium combined with oxygen relative to bulk chromium with decreasing chromium content. The oxide surface of steel with a 50 A metal protective coating was reduced when the oxide of the protective metal coating had a heat formation greater than that of the iron oxide.