cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Electric Insect Traps

The electric insect trap, consisting of a filament or luminous tube light surrounded by an exposed high-voltage elecrocuting grid posseses shock and fire hazards. Although little is known regarding the phenomena of insect electrocution, efficient electrocution of small insects with a reduction of these hazards to an acceptable degree may be accomplished by proper design, construction, and installation. The limited success of insect traps is attributed to fouling of the electrocuting grids by the remains of insects sticking to the electrocuting grids. Although efficiency of electrocution is important, effectiveness of the device depends upon the grids remaining in operating condition. The arc produced when the insect flies between the electrodes of the grid may puncture the insect's body and release a sufficient amount of its body fluid to cover it with a gluey liquid. As the insect falls in the vicinity of the electrodes, the electrostatic forces may cause it to impinge on one of the electrodes. If sufficient body fluid has been exuded by the time it touches an electrode it may stick in a manner similar to a fly lighting on a freshly varnished surface. Although the insect remains may or may not interfere with the electrocuting grid, or they may be consumed by the arc in a short time, it is probable that fouling is responsible for many of the unsatisfactory reports from the field. Electrocuting grids which are less subject to fouling must be devised, and two designs of improved grids are proposed by the author.
A new method for studying picosecond dynamics of shocked solids: application to crystalline energetic materials

Abstract Micrometer sized crystallites of energetic materials are subjected to shock compression produced by absorption of picosecond laser pulses in an embedding polymer matrix. Picosecond coherent Raman spectroscopy is used to determine the temperature and pressure of the polymer and the dynamical response of shocked energetic material vibrational transitions.
Counterion-dependent microrheological properties of F-actin solutions across the isotropic-nematic phase transition.

We studied microrheological properties of $F$-actin across the isotropic-nematic phase transition region by video particle tracking (VPT) and by laser deflection particle tracking (LDPT). Both methods track the motion of thermally driven micron-sized beads, and convert the temporal mean square displacement (MSD) to shear moduli. The two methods give consistent results for the elastic modulus ${G}^{\ensuremath{'}}$ and less so for the loss modulus ${G}^{\ensuremath{''}}$. As the nematic order parameter increases with actin concentration, ${G}_{\ensuremath{\parallel}}^{\ensuremath{'}}$ (measured parallel to the nematic director) and ${G}_{\ensuremath{\perp}}^{\ensuremath{'}}$ (perpendicular to the director) grow apart, with ${G}_{\ensuremath{\perp}}^{\ensuremath{'}}$ larger than ${G}_{\ensuremath{\parallel}}^{\ensuremath{'}}$. The moduli scale with actin concentration as ${G}_{\ensuremath{\parallel}}^{\ensuremath{'}}\ensuremath{\sim}{c}^{0.54\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.13}$ and ${G}_{\ensuremath{\perp}}^{\ensuremath{'}}\ensuremath{\sim}{c}^{1.38\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.15}$. Furthermore, ${G}^{\ensuremath{'}}$ and ${G}^{\ensuremath{''}}$ dependence on $[{\mathrm{Mg}}^{2+}]$ were measured and compared for $1\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\mathrm{mg}∕\mathrm{ml}$ isotropic and $4\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\mathrm{mg}∕\mathrm{ml}$ nematic $F$-actin solutions, respectively. In the isotropic phase, ${G}^{\ensuremath{'}}$ increases with $[{\mathrm{Mg}}^{2+}]$ up to $6\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\mathrm{mM}$ and then plateaus. In the nematic phase, ${G}_{\ensuremath{\perp}}^{\ensuremath{'}}$ is larger than ${G}_{\ensuremath{\parallel}}^{\ensuremath{'}}$, and both ${G}_{\ensuremath{\perp}}^{\ensuremath{'}}$ and ${G}_{\ensuremath{\parallel}}^{\ensuremath{'}}$ increase with $[{\mathrm{Mg}}^{2+}]$ progressively up to $16\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\mathrm{mM}$, above which $F$-actin form large bundles. In both isotropic and nematic phases, ${G}^{\ensuremath{''}}$ only weakly depends on $[{\mathrm{Mg}}^{2+}]$. In conclusion, particle tracking microrheology reveals rich rheological features of $F$-actin affected by the isotropic-nematic phase transition and by tuning weak electrostatic interactions among the protein filaments.
Exhaled mercury following removal and insertion of amalgam restorations

P atient exposure to mercury from dental amalgam and restorative procedures has not been studied as extensively as mercury exposure to dental personnel. One. study found that in a group of 114 adults not undergoing dental treatment, only six had measurable mercury in the urine, and one of those persons was using a mercurial diuretic.’ This was compared to a group of 24 persons currently undergoing dental treatment. Of that group five showed mercury in the urine before and after treatment. The possibility of mercury absorption from sources other than dental amalgam, such as mercurial antiseptics and germicides, was discussed. The study concluded that dental amalgams do not appear to be an important source of mercury absorption and excretion. In another study Frykholm2 used a radioisotope of mercury in placing four or five amalgam restorations in each of five patients. The urinary excretion of radioactive mercury gradually increased for each individual and reached an average peak of 2.5 pg/liter on the fifth day following treatment. In each case the level then dropped to zero by the seventh or eighth day, at which time the radioactive amalgams were removed to avoid further exposure. On the day following removal, urinary levels of mercury rose to 5 pg/liter and then dropped to zero in 2 days. Some investigators have found urinary excretion of mercury to be quite irregular and therefore an unreliable measure of quantity absorbed. Following exposure there is an early rapid phase of urinary excretion followed by a slower phase that may account for more
Structure of radicals from X-irradiated guanine derivatives. 2. An experimental and computational study of 9-ethylguanine single crystals.

An EPR (electron paramagnetic resonance) and ENDOR (electron-nuclear double resonance) study of 9-ethylguanine crystals X-irradiated at 10 K detected evidence for three radical forms. Radical Rl, characterized by three proton and two nitrogen hyperfine interactions, was identified as the product of net hydrogenation at N7 of the guanine unit. R1, which evidently formed by protonation of the primary electron addition product, exhibited an unusually distorted structure leading to net positive isotropic components of the α-coupling to the hydrogen attached to C8 of the guanine unit. Radical R2, characterized by two nitrogen and three proton hyperfine couplings, was identified as the primary electron loss product, °G + . Distinguishing between °G + and its Nl-deprotonated product is difficult because their couplings are so similar, and density functional theory (DFT) calculations were indispensable for doing so. The results for R2 provide the most complete ENDOR characterization of °G + presented so far. Radical R3 exhibited a narrow EPR pattern but could not be identified. The identification of radicals R1 and R2 was supported by DFT calculations using the B3LYP/ 6-311+G(2df,p)//6-31+G(d,p) approach. Radical R4, detected after irradiation of the crystals at room temperature, was identified as the well-known product of net hydrogenation at C8 of the guanine component. Spectra from the room temperature irradiation contained evidence for R5, an additional radical that could not be identified. Radical concentrations from the low temperature irradiation were estimated as follows: R1, 20%; R2, 65%; R3, 15%.
Periodic solutions of the restricted problem that are analytic continuations of periodic solutions of Hill's problem for small μ>0

This paper establishes the existence and first order perturbation approximation of an infinite number of one-parameter families of symmetric periodic solutions of the restricted three body problem that are analytic continuations of symmetric periodic solutions of Hill's problem for small values of the mass ratio μ>0.
A multiperiod planning model for the capacitated minimal spanning tree problem

The Multiperiod Capacitated Minimal Spanning Tree (MCMST) Problem consists of scheduling the installation of links in a network so as to connect a set of terminal nodes S=[2,3,…,N] to a central node (node 1) with minimal present value of expenditures, where link capacities limit the number of terminal nodes sharing a link. Some of the terminal nodes are active at the beginning of the planning horizon while others are activated over time. We formulate this problem as an integer programming problem. A branch exchange heuristic procedure for solving the problem is presented. We also present a Lagrangian relaxation method to find a lower bound for the optimal objective function value. This lower bound may be used to estimate the quality of the solution given by the branch exchange heuristic. Experimental results over a wide range of problem structures show that the branch exchange heuristic method yields verifiably good solutions to this problem.
The state-of-the-art in urban transportation planning or how we got here

This paper traces the development of urban transportation planning in the United States, focusing particularly on the influence that three previous conferences -Sagamore (1958), Hershey (1962), and Williamsburg (1965) - have had on the course of this development. Included also are comments on the current state of the art of urban transportation planning and observations as to its future direction.
Maximum-likelihood estimation of parameterized wavefronts from multifocal data.

A method for determining the pupil phase distribution of an optical system is demonstrated. Coefficients in a wavefront expansion were estimated using likelihood methods, where the data consisted of multiple irradiance patterns near focus. Proof-of-principle results were obtained in both simulation and experiment. Large-aberration wavefronts were handled in the numerical study. Experimentally, we discuss the handling of nuisance parameters. Fisher information matrices, Cramer-Rao bounds, and likelihood surfaces are examined. ML estimates were obtained by simulated annealing to deal with numerous local extrema in the likelihood function. Rapid processing techniques were employed to reduce the computational time.
Synthesis of thallium superconducting phases via melt quenching

Abstract This paper focuses on the synthesis of Tl-2201, Tl-2212 and Tl-2223 phases by the melt-quench process as a means of minimizing the thallium loss. The compositions were melted at high temperatures for a short period of time and quenched between steel plates followed by a subsequent heat treatment which resulted in the formation of the Tl-2201 and Tl-2212 phases from their respective stoichiometric compositions. A low purity Tl-2223 sample was obtained by this process from its stoichiometric composition. Results from X-ray diffraction and microstructural characterization are presented. This paper also presents the results of our unsuccessful attempts to stabilize the superconducting phases in borate glass.
Lorentz and gravitational resonances on circumplanetary particles

Abstract Micron-sized circumplanetary dust particles are subject to various non-gravitational perturbations, principally solar radiation pressure and electromagnetic forces, which are typically a few percent as strong as the planetary gravity. Individually, these perturbations can cause some orbital evolution, but when the perturbations act in concert the excursions can be much larger. We demonstrate this effect for a single example, the coupling between resonances and drag forces. Throughout this work, we emphasize the parallels between satellite-satellite gravitational resonances and their electromagnetic counterparts (Lorentz resonances).
There’s no real choice but to sign: neoliberalization and normalization of hydraulic fracturing on Pennsylvania farmland

Finewood and Stroup (J Contemp Water Res Educ 147(1), 72–79, 2012) observe that as hydraulic fracturing for natural gas spreads across the USA, neoliberal ideologies normalize fracking’s potential dangers, including impacts to water and more general environmental quality. Theoretical observations like these must be tested empirically. I do so here, analyzing data from extensive fieldwork in Pennsylvania’s Bradford, Susquehanna, and Washington counties. Drawing on comparative mixed method data from fieldwork in northeastern Pennsylvania’s ‘Endless Mountains’ region and the Pittsburgh area, I compare how small-scale farmers perceive and sometimes enact elements of market-based, neoliberal rationality when assessing hydrofracking’s community, environmental, and economic outcomes. This paper explores why this matters sociologically, given small-scale farmers’ roles as land-use decision-makers, stewards of related natural resource development, and marginalized producers with limited access to market shares and subsidies. In counties like Bradford and Washington, impacts of fracking small-scale farmers have been under-studied. To address that gap, I examine impacts on farmers operating around natural gas development and within neoliberal economic structures. Analyzing extensive interview and ethnographic data, the following research questions are addressed: (1) Among small-scale farmers impacted by hydraulic fracturing, what evidence exists that neoliberal logic helps farmers normalize fracking? and (2) How does normalization interact with decisions to sign natural gas leases? My findings indicate that many farmers utilize neoliberal logic when assessing impacts of hydraulic fracturing and shale gas development, particularly as rapid energy development relates to their land-use decisions. Neoliberal normalization of hydraulic fracturing emerges most saliently regarding environmental outcomes and economic development. I connect this to small-scale farmers’ economic vulnerability and the limited agency in dictating land use near their farms.
A rapid procedure for locating double bonds in unsaturated fatty acids

Abstract We have presented a rapid method for determining the locations of the double bonds in unsaturated fatty acids. Fatty acid esters are oxidized with permanganate to form new fatty acids and dicarboxylic acids, and these products are analyzed by GLC. The major components of a mixture of isomers can be quickly identified, and their approximate proportions measured.
Analysis of transcapillary osmotic transients following exercise or burn injury

Abstract The rapid outpouring of fluid from capillaries into tissue following burn injury, or the increased filtration that occurs to meet the elevated metabolic requirements of cells during exercise, is thought to be a result of transient osmolality of particles produced in the tissue. To examine this hypothesis, we have developed and analyzed a mathematical model of capillary-tissue exchange and determined the time course of events following increased metabolic production of a substance within the tissue.
A randomized, controlled study of insulin pump therapy in diabetic preschoolers.

Objective To compare glycemic control, safety, and parental satisfaction in preschool-aged diabetic children randomized to treatment either with continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) or intensive insulin injection therapy. Study design This clinical trial enrolled 42 patients Results Thirty-seven patients completed 6 months of therapy. There was a significant decrease in HbA1c during the study period for both groups (from 8.9% ± 0.6% to 8.6% ± 0.6% at 3- and 6-month visits). At 3 months, children using pumps had a significantly lower HbA1c than the injection group (8.4% vs 8.8%); however, by 6 months the two groups were similar (8.5% vs 8.7%). No differences in pre-meal blood sugar variabilities were seen between groups. Children on pumps had increases in the number of meter-detected episodes of hypoglycemia. Pump therapy was safe and well tolerated. No episodes of ketoacidosis occurred in either group, whereas one hypoglycemic seizure occurred in each group. Parents reported satisfaction with CSII, with 95% of families continuing on CSII beyond the 6-month study period. Conclusion Pump therapy in preschool-aged children was not associated with clinically significant differences in glycemic control as compared with intensive injection therapy. The rationale for initiating CSII in this age group should be based on patient selection and lifestyle preference.
Temperature-compensated BAW orientations over 500°C on LGT for frequency control and sensor applications

Recently extracted langatate (LGT) elastic, piezoelectric and dielectric constants up to 900°C were utilised to predict the temperature coefficient of frequency (TCF) of bulk acoustic wave (BAW) orientations. A range of LGT BAW orientations were identified with turnover temperatures between 100 and 550°C for use in high-temperature sensor and frequency control applications. In addition, the piezoelectric coupling of the identified orientations was investigated to determine the preferred cuts for high-temperature operation.
Network structure, predator–prey modules, and stability in large food webs

Large, complex networks of ecological interactions with random structure tend invariably to instability. This mathematical relationship between complexity and local stability ignited a debate that has populated ecological literature for more than three decades. Here we show that, when species interact as predators and prey, systems as complex as the ones observed in nature can still be stable. Moreover, stability is highly robust to perturbations of interaction strength, and is largely a property of structure driven by predator–prey loops with the stability of these small modules cascading into that of the whole network. These results apply to empirical food webs and models that mimic the structure of natural systems as well. These findings are also robust to the inclusion of other types of ecological links, such as mutualism and interference competition, as long as consumer–resource interactions predominate. These considerations underscore the influence of food web structure on ecological dynamics and challenge the current view of interaction strength and long cycles as main drivers of stability in natural communities.
Transforming patents into prior-art queries

Searching for prior-art patents is an essential step for the patent examiner to validate or invalidate a patent application. In this paper, we consider the whole patent as the query, which reduces the burden on the user, and also makes many more potential search features available. We explore how to automatically transform the query patent into an effective search query, especially focusing on the effect of different patent fields. Experiments show that the background summary of a patent is the most useful source of terms for generating a query, even though most previous work used the patent claims.
Government By Contract

Many organizations have characteristics that normally are associated with govern-ments, but which are created by private contract. Neighborhood associations and condominium associations are examples. These organizations often provide public goods, have the power to tax their members, and are governed democratically. They tend to be created by an entrepreneur who creates a contractual government and then sells shares in the government along with property ownership, with the expectation that the contractual government increases the value of the associated property. Property value is enhanced because the entrepreneur produces constitutional rules, which allows subsequent purchasers to avoid the decision-making costs inherent in reaching agreement at the constitutional level.
Comparison of carbon metabolism between chloramphenicol-treated and untreated cultures of Clostridium acetobutylicum

Carbon distribution from substrates to products in Clostridium acetobutylicum ATCC 824 was investigated by adding 14C-labeled substrates as tracers. Comparison of carbon conversion between chloramphenicol (CAP)-treated and untreated cultures was also studied. The percentage of 14C recovery in butanol, acetone and ethanol from uniformly labeled [14C]glucose was increased by 17, 25 and 30%, respectively, after CAP addition. The incorporation of 14C in solvents from 14C-labeled acetate and butyrate was also increased by the antibiotic treatment. A total 14C recovery of 12% in all the products from added [14C]Na2CO3 indicates significant heterotrophic CO2 fixation in this microorganism. The ratio of carbon in butanol derived from glucose, acetate and butyrate was about 71:6:18, and this ratio was unchanged by CAP treatment.
How federal health-care policies interface with urban and rural areas: a comparison of three systems.

Abstract Global public health policies span national borders and affect multitudes of people. The spread of infectious disease has neither political nor economic boundaries, and when elevated to a status of pandemic proportions, immediate action is required. In federal systems of government, the national level leads the policy formation and implementation process, but also collaborates with supranational organisations as part of the global health network. Likewise, the national level of government cooperates with sub-national governments located in both urban and rural areas. Rural areas, particularly in less developed countries, tend to have higher poverty rates and lack the benefits of proper medical facilities, communication modes and technology to prevent the spread of disease. From the perspective of epidemiological surveillance and intervention, this article will examine federal health policies in three federal systems: Australia, Malaysia and the USA. Using the theoretical foundations of collaborat...
Software quality analysis by combining multiple projects and learners

When building software quality models, the approach often consists of training data mining learners on a single fit dataset. Typically, this fit dataset contains software metrics collected during a past release of the software project that we want to predict the quality of. In order to improve the predictive accuracy of such quality models, it is common practice to combine the predictive results of multiple learners to take advantage of their respective biases. Although multi-learner classifiers have been proven to be successful in some cases, the improvement is not always significant because the information in the fit dataset sometimes can be insufficient. We present an innovative method to build software quality models using majority voting to combine the predictions of multiple learners induced on multiple training datasets. To our knowledge, no previous study in software quality has attempted to take advantage of multiple software project data repositories which are generally spread across the organization. In a large scale empirical study involving seven real-world datasets and seventeen learners, we show that, on average, combining the predictions of one learner trained on multiple datasets significantly improves the predictive performance compared to one learner induced on a single fit dataset. We also demonstrate empirically that combining multiple learners trained on a single training dataset does not significantly improve the average predictive accuracy compared to the use of a single learner induced on a single fit dataset.
An overview of analysis tools for integrated resource planning

Abstract Least-cost utility planning confronts utilities with the difficult task of preparing resource plans that use conventional modeling tools in new ways, as in the calculation of avoided costs from production-cost models, and it introduces a new generation of planning tools specifically designed to deal with the complexities of demand-side resource quantification and demand-supply-side integration. In this paper, we provide a road map that seeks to illustrate the broad range of capabilities available with current planning models and the major conceptual distinctions among them. We start from a sketch of the major steps in least-cost planning and highlight some of the complexities involved. We then discuss various approximations to this ideal that can be achieved with existing modeling tools. Moving from the most sophisticated approach, the linking of a number of detailed, specialized models, we discuss successively simpler modeling approaches and the compromises they involve.
A Monomeric Mn III —Peroxo Complex Derived Directly from Dioxygen

The binding and activation of dioxygen by transition metal complexes is a fundamentally and practically important process in chemistry. Often the initial steps involve formation of peroxometal species that is difficult to observe because of their inherent reactivity. The interaction of dioxygen with a manganese(II) complex (1) of bis[(N'-tert-butylurealy)-N-ethyl]-(6-pivalamido-2-pyridylmethyl)amine was investigated, leading to the detection of a new intermediate that is a peroxomanganese(III) complex (2). This complex is high-spin (S = 2) with a g value of 8.2 and D = -2.0(5) as determined by parallel-mode electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy. The coordination of a peroxo ligand was established using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy that reveals a new signal at 885 cm-1 for 2 when formed from 16O2-this band shifts to 837 cm-1 when 18O2 is used in the preparation. Moreover, electrospray ionization mass spectra contain a strong ion at an m/z of 576.2703 for the 16O-isotopomer that shifts to 580.2794 in the 18O-isotopomer. Complex 2 also is capable of oxidatively deformylating aldehydes, which is a known reaction of peroxometal complexes. The similarities of 2 to the peroxo intermediates in cytochrome P450 are noted.
Postnatal Changes in the Size of the Avian Cochlear Duct

The length of the cochlear duct was measured in chicks aged embryonic day 14 to posthatch day 469. Chicks were anesthetized, decapitated and their cochlear ducts exposed under an operating microscope. Because of the very thin bone and cartilage surrounding the relatively straight tube of the papilla the entire cochlear duct could rapidly be exposed and measured without fixation or removal from the head. The length of the duct was measured using a computer based Zeiss Videoplan Image Analysis System. A total 41% increase in length was seen from embryonic day 14 to post-hatch day 469; 20% of this increase occurred after hatching. It is suggested that this increase in cochlear duct length could influence basilar membrane properties important to frequency coding mechanisms during development.
That's my final offer! Bargaining behavior with costly delay and credible commitment

Abstract We examine laboratory bargaining experiments with symmetric and asymmetric delay costs and options for proposers to credibly commit to a bargaining position. Contrary to standard game-theoretic predictions, our experimental results suggest that commitment can be used effectively to increase the committer's payoff, particularly in a one-to-many bargaining environment where strategic holdout behavior is likely. However, we find evidence that commitment may also increase the number of failed agreements and reduce overall efficiency from exchange. To explain why behavior is inconsistent with standard game-theoretic predictions, we offer a behavioral bargaining model that allows for both “sincere” and “strategic” responders. Strategic responders behave as expected-payoff maximizers, while sincere responders behave according to a minimum-acceptable-offer (MAO) rule. We demonstrate that a mix of sincere and strategic types in the population is necessary to generate increasing equilibrium offers over time and “holdout” behavior, whereby strategic responders wait for higher offers in later periods. In response, proposers may find it optimal to commit early to an offer if commitment is possible.
Bioavailability of 14 nitrofurantoin products.

Abstract Single lots of 14 commercially available 50- and 100- mg nitrofurantoin products were evaluated in vitro and in vivo. All products tested met USP XVIII specifications for drug content, disintegration time, and dissolution rate. Statistically significant differences were observed in bioavailability, as determined from crossover urinary excretion studies in 14 human volunteers. The cumulative amount of drug excreted and the duration of therapeutic urine levels were compared. No useful correlation was observed between the extent of urinary excretion and either the disintegration or dissolution characteristics of the dosage forms tested.
Silicon integrated circuits: A personal view of the first 25 years

Following Dummer's original vision, in 1958 the Ministry of Defence awarded the UK's first contract for research into ‘silicon solid circuits’. Here, the author of that original research proposal assesses the strengths and weaknesses that have influenced the first 25 years of the UK semiconductor industry
Acute alcohol intoxication and gadolinium chloride attenuate endotoxin-induced release of CC chemokines in the rat.

Abstract This work tests the hypotheses that Kupffer cells are a major source of CC-chemokines (MIP-1α, MCP-1, RANTES) during acute endotoxemia and that acute ethanol intoxication modulates Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 1 mg/Kg, i.v.)-induced chemokine release in the rat. LPS stimulated the release of CC-chemokines into the circulation, hepatic sequestration of leukocytes and liver injury. LPS-induced serum chemokines peaked at 1–3 h and could not be detected at 24-h posttreatment. Splenectomy significantly suppressed LPS-induced RANTES release, but not MIP-1α and MCP-1. Kupffer cell depletion by gadolinium chloride or acute ethanol intoxication significantly attenuated LPS-induced CC-chemokine release and hepatic injury. Hepatic sequestration of leukocytes during endotoxemia was also suppressed by acute ethanol. LPS downregulated the expression of MIP-1α and MCP-1 mRNAs and upregulated RANTES mRNA in Kupffer cells at 3-h post endotoxin. The expression of mRNAs was further suppressed in ethanol plus the LPS-treated group. Ethanol also suppressed the LPS-mediated priming of Kupffer cells for enhanced CC-chemokine release in vitro. Ethanol alone significantly upregulated the expression of CC-chemokine mRNA, and primed the Kupffer cells for enhanced RANTES release. CC-chemokine release and mRNA expression in hepatic sinusoidal endothelial cells were not significantly altered by ethanol, except for MCP-1 release. These data show that acute ethanol may be beneficial in tissue injury during acute endotoxemia.
A spatial memory task appropriate for electrophysiological recordings

Abstract We developed a novel method for assessing spatial learning that is compatible with the requirements of electrophysiological recording of multiple single neurons. The behavioral task utilized a rectangular track with 8 reward boxes of which a subset contained available food (bait). Errors were scored whenever the rat investigated a non-baited box location (commission), failed to investigate a baited box location (omission), or hesitated in front of a non-baited box location (hesitation). Several controls encouraged the animal to solve the task through allocentric cues rather than through procedural strategies or simple local cue pairing. The learning curve for this task (3–5 d to criterion) was comparable to that of other spatial learning tasks when adequately motivated. The types of errors varied as the animal learned the task. Unlike other spatial learning tasks, the multi-box track allows many repeated samples of the same spatial coordinates within a short period of time to allow, for example, reliable determination of place fields while recording from hippocampal cells. Multiple trials per session also allow for high intensity training important for many learning assessments such as the timing and type of sleep involved in learning and memory.
Combined CI–HY studies of atomic states. II. Compact wave functions for the be ground state

Combined CI–HY method techniques have been employed in obtaining a 57-term CI–HY wave function with an energy of −14.66632 a.u. A method due to Brown has been adopted for obtaining this wave function and various shorter expansions. A 44-term expansion with an energy of −14.66606 a.u. is analyzed in terms of various pair effects, and qualitative arguments are presented for understanding these effects.
Spatial distribution of oxygen in the cornea of a closed eye wearing a gas permeable contact lens.

(1985). Spatial Distribution of Oxygen in the Cornea of a Closed Eye Hearing a Gas Permeable Contact Lens. Current Eye Research: Vol. 4, No. 6, pp. 723-724.
Production of ions by electrohydrodynamic spraying techniques.

T electrical atomization or spraying of liquids in vacua has been studied extensively since 1959 as a source of charged heavy particles for electric propulsion systems. In 1962, Krohn sprayed high-conductivity liquids and produced simultaneously both ions and heavy particles. It has been reported recently that, under the appropriate conditions, the electrical spray will produce only ions by field emission from the surface of the parent fluid. A sufficiently strong electric field applied to a surface, in such a direction as to make the surface positive, produces an emission of positive ions. If the ions originate in an adsorbed layer or are produced by the emitter material itself, the ion source may be weak and rapidly exhausted. Muller has produced steady ion currents in the microampere range by supplying the ionizable matter in the gaseous phase. In this Note we shall describe electrohydrodynamic (EHD) spraying techniques which can be utilized to supply the ionizable matter in the liquid phase and hence produce ions of the parent working fluid. All experimental work was performed in a vacuum of 10~ torr maintained by a 6-in. oil diffusion pump. The electrical spray originated at the tip of a stainless-steel capillary tube held at a high positive d.c. potential relative to a coaxial, grounded, planar electrode as shown in Fig. 1. The tip of the capillary was thus maintained in a region of high electric field intensity which could be controlled by varying the applied potential difference. The requisite voltage was produced by a highly regulated 30 kv d.c. supply. The working fluid was stored in a standard medical syringe inside the vacuum system and was forced through the capillary tube by a positive displacement feed system that pushed on the plunger of the syringe (Fig. 1). The spray was initiated by the following procedure. The feed system was allowed to run until a hemisphere of liquid
Concentration trends and profitability in US manufacturing: a comment

(1991). Concentration trends and profitability in US manufacturing: a comment. Applied Economics: Vol. 23, No. 4, pp. 717-720.
“Back to basics” and accountability issues in secondary school speech education

Because of a return to “basics,” speech instruction in many secondary schools may be reduced or eliminated. To preserve a place for speech in shrinking language arts curricula, the author argues that teachers must not only justify speech instruction but must also respond to the issues of accountability underlying the “back to basics” movement.
Homogeneously catalyzed formaldehyde condensation to carbohydrates

Abstract Studies conducted in a continuous stirred tank reactor have produced quantitative results on the kinetics of the Ca(OH) 2 catalyzed formose reaction and its associated Cannizzaro effects. Combined feed molarities were varied from 5.60 M HCHO and 1.034 M Ca(OH) 2 to one-tenth of these values. The observed autocatalytic and zero order nature of the kinetics of the homogeneously catalyzed formaldehyde condensation reaction were explained by using rate expressions which are analogous to Langmuir-Hinshelwood relationships. Product decomplexing is the rate limiting step, under the conditions studied. The rate of the formose condensation reaction at intermediate conversion levels at 60 °C is, expressed as moles of HCHO converted/min/liter of reaction volume, 3.15 × Ca(OH) 2 molarity. The Cannizzaro reaction rate passes through a maximum near 50% conversion, then a minimum near 90%, and then sharply increases when reaction severity approaches 100% conversion. Terminal products determined by GLC analyses are 10% C 4 , 30% C 5 , 50% C 6 , and 5% > C 6 carbohydrate species. Product distributions at intermediate conversion levels are provided.
Synthesis and function of messenger RNA during early embryonic development.

Abstract Newly synthesized RNA functioning as templates in protein synthesis has been detected in the cytoplasm of sea urchin embryos at all stages of development, from two blastomeres to the hatched, swimming blastula. This RNA, identified by its incorporated radioactive uridine, is recoverable from the polyribosomes. It is released from polyribosomes after puromycin or EDTA treatments. Purified by phenol-sodium dodecyl sulfate extraction, the labeled messenger RNA sediments heterogeneously in the range of 4 s to 50 s, but it contains an extremely prominent 9 s component throughout the period of cleavage. Analysis of the relation between nascent peptide radioactivity (after a short exposure to labeled amino acid) and polyribosomal polymer number shows that all size classes are active in translation. If “inactive polyribosomes” are present, they cannot account for more than a very small fraction of the total in any class. Newly synthesized mRNA was distributed uniformly to polyribosomes of all sizes. It did not accumulate among the smaller ones. The small polyribosomes did accumulate mRNA of distinctly lower sedimentation velocity than the average, confirming the fact that they do not retain, in non-functional form, all or most new mRNA. Differences in sedimentation pattern and in amount exist between polyribosomes from normal embryos and those from Dactinomycin-treated embryos at the same morphologic stage. These differences reflect differences between messages stored during oogenesis and the mRNA synthesized after fertilization. Changes in the sedimentation pattern of polyribosomes associated with new mRNA also appear in the course of normal pregastrular development.
Mechanistic Investigations on the Formation of Supramolecular Cylindrical Shaped Oligomers and Polymers by Living Ring Opening Metathesis Polymerization of a 7-Oxanorbornene Monomer Substituted with Two Tapered Monodendrons

The synthesis of the monomer exo,exo-5,6-bis[[[(3,4,5-tris((4-(dodecyl-1-oxy)benzyl)oxy)]benzyl)oxy]carbonyl]-7-oxabicyclo[2.2.1]hept-2-ene (4), containing two tapered monodendrons and its living ring-opening metathesis polymerization initiated with RuCl2(CHPh)(PCy3)2 are discussed. Oligomers and polymers with narrow molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn = 1.06−1.29) and degrees of polymerization (DP) from 6 to 120, which correspond to Mn from 12 600 to 252 800, were synthesized and characterized. The monomer (4) and the corresponding polymers (5) self-assemble into disklike and cylindrical shapes which produce an enantiotropic hexagonal columnar (Φh) liquid crystalline (LC) phase. The analysis of the Φh phase of the monomer, oligomers, and polymers as a function of the DP reveals four regions and mechanisms for the generation of the Φh phase, i.e., below the DP which forms a disklike molecule, below the DP which corresponds to the maximum length of a disklike molecule (DP = 26), up to the DP which corresp...
Does Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Increase the Disparity in Metabolic Syndrome and Cardiovascular-Related Health for African-American Women?

There have been few formal studies of differences in the phenotype of PCOS among women of African-American ancestry. Generally, African-American women tend to have an adverse cardiovascular risk profile when compared with women of other racial groups. The metabolic syndrome is a clinical disorder that identifies individuals at risk for diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Preliminary studies support that both African-American and White women with PCOS have similar prevalences of the metabolic syndrome, suggesting that the diagnosis may not be associated with racial differences in cardiovascular risk factors.
Antigen-Receptor Signaling to Nuclear Factor κB

Signal transduction events leading to the survival, differentiation, or apoptosis of cells of the innate or adaptive immune system must be properly coordinated to ensure the normal mounting and termination of immune responses. One of the key transcription factors in immune responses is nuclear factor κB (NF-κB), which has been the focus of intense investigation over the past two decades. With the identification of the CARMA1-BCL10-MALT1 complex and ongoing progress in understanding the molecular mechanisms connecting T cell and B cell receptor proximal signals to the IκB kinase (IKK) complex, a cohesive model of antigen receptor (AgR)-dependent signaling to NF-κB activation is beginning to emerge. In this review, we provide an overview of the current state of research into the mechanisms that regulate AgR-mediated NF-κB transcriptional activity, with particular focus on the events leading to activation of the IKK complex.
Which physiologic tests are useful in patients with constipation

PURPOSE: Physiologic tests such as manometry, colonic transit times, balloon compliance, defecography, pudendal nerve latency, and electromyography are used to evaluate patients with severe constipation. Patients referred because of severe constipation between 1991 and 1996 were studied to examine the role that physiologic testing played in making a diagnosis and directing treatment. METHODS: Of 139 patients referred for severe idiopathic constipation, physiologic testing was recommended in 127, and 104 patients underwent the studies. The pretesting impression was noted, and test results were evaluated to determine diagnostic accuracy. If a specific initial impression was documented, tests were classified as refuting it, confirming it or confirming and adding significant information. If there was no clear pretest impression, tests were evaluated for their ability to indicate a diagnosis. The patient's history also was evaluated to determine what information was most useful in making a diagnosis. Historical features including duration of constipation, symptoms consistent with outlet obstruction or dysmotility, age, associated urinary incontinence, and prior hysterectomy were analyzed. Data were collected prospectively, then reviewed by an independent observer. RESULTS: Ninety-eight study patients remained after 29 were excluded who did not undergo the recommended studies (19) or because no initial impression was documented (10). In 43 patients (44 percent), testing did not provide additional useful information. In 8 patients, testing confirmed the initial impression and added information impacting the treatment plan. Test results clearly refuted the initial impression in only one patient. In 46 (47 percent) patients the initial impression was uncertain, and in 43 (94 percent) of these, testing aided in making the diagnosis. In three cases, the diagnosis remained uncertain after testing. Prior hysterectomy (P=0.003), urinary incontinence (P<0.001), and symptoms of pelvic outlet obstruction (P=0.03) were associated with a high incidence of rectocele. Defecography and transit times were the most useful tests. Surprisingly, symptoms of outlet obstruction or dysmotility did not show an overall correlation with transit times. CONCLUSIONS: In one-half of these patients with severe constipation, physiologic testing added significant information, leading to a specific diagnosis. Pretesting history and symptoms did not predict which patients were most likely to benefit from these studies.
LEAF ARRANGEMENTS IN AILANTHUS ALTISSIMA

THE GENERAL systems of leaf arrangements are known (Wright, 1873; Henslow, 1876; de Candolle, 1881; Weisse, 1894; Strasburger, 1930; and others). The causations of the different arrangements are still speculative. The literature on the causes of phyllotaxis appears to segregate into four groups: (1) general or non-specific, (2) unknown influences which radiate or circulate through the plant or its stem apices, (3) leaf and leaf-primordial positions, and (4) changes resulting from the application of X-rays, apical incisions, or hetero-auxin. The general or non-specific causes of phyllotaxis are concerned with both internal and external factors. Winkler (1901, 1903) states that inner correlations along with heredity and outside influences determine leaf arrangement and that no single factor plays an important r6le in all types of phyllotaxis. Janse (1928) states that while leaf position is the result of internal factors, external influences, such as nutrition and gravity, may modify the position. Hill, Overholts, and Popp (1936) state, "The actual position occupied by leaves on the stem is determined (1) by inherent characteristics of the plant and (2) by environmental conditions." Schimper and Braun (cited by Schwendener, 1878, p. 4.5, and Snow and Snow, 1931, p. 2) suggest that the regularity of leaf positions in the spiral arrangement is the result of a growth influence which travels spirally up the stem, producing a primordium at regular intervals. Schoute (1913) considers that leaf position is regulated by some inhibiting influence which is produced by the developing primordia and which diffuses out, preventing a new primordium from forming until a position is reached where the substance no longer exerts a controlling influence. Church (1904, 1920) has concluded that leaf position is controlled by radiating impulses from the stem tip and that when a point is reached where the impulses intersect, a primordial position is established. Hofmeister (1868) formulated a theory that each new leaf-primordium forms in the largest gap between the previously formed primordia. To explain his theory he assumed that the primordial positions were controlled by a tension produced by the developing primordia and that a new primordial position is not established until a position is reached in which the tension is below the level of inhibition. Schwendener (1878, 1901) accepted Hofmeister's theory that each new primordium develops in the largest gap between the previously formed primordia. He offered his own explanation that growth pressure of the developing leaves and the size of the developing leaves relative to the size of the growing tip determines this position in the largest gap between the previously
Age-related changes in in vitro and in vivo survival of murine CFU-S and CFU-c.

Abstract Present evidence suggests that the proliferative potential of most cell types declines with age. An apparent exception to this is the erythroid and myeloid colony-forming cell (CFU-S) of the marrow. In an effort to reveal a latent proliferative defect in old marrow, CFU-S from the marrow of young and old B6AF 1 mice were serially transplanted every 12 days into lethally irradiated young syngeneic hosts. Contrary to expectation, it was found that the number of CFU-S declined more slowly if the marrow had been obtained from old donors. Similarly, it was found that CFU-S, but not CFU-c, from old marrow replicated or were recruited more vigorously in long-term culture than CFU-S from young donors. The results obtained with anti-Thy 1.2 serum and complement treatment of old marrow cells suggest that CFU-S from old marrow replicate more vigorously because old marrow has more θ + helper cells or the old CFU-S is more responsive to θ + helper stimuli.
Engineering by homologous recombination: exploring sequence and function within a conserved fold

In nature similar protein folds accommodate distant sequences and support diverse functions. This observation coupled with the recognition that proteins can tolerate many homologous substitutions inspires protein engineers to use recombination to search for new functions within sequences encoding structurally related molecules. These searches have led to proteins with novel activities, diversified specificities and greater stabilities. Computational methods that exploit structural and evolutionary information are being used to design highly mutated yet still natively folded chimeric proteins and protein libraries.