cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
D.s.c. and TGA measurements of O2 interaction with coal chars

Abstract Differential scanning calorimetry (d.s.c.) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) were used to follow oxygen chemisorption on a series of coal chars when exposed to 0.1 MPa of O2 at 373 K. Elovich plots correlated heat release and weight of oxygen chemisorbed as a function of reaction time. Rates of both heat release and weight increase generally decreased with increasing rank of original coal. Rates of heat release upon oxygen chemisorption also generally increased as rates of gasification of the chars at higher temperatures in air increased. Enthalpies of oxygen chemisorption, as a function of reaction time, were calculated for selected chars.
Performance measurements of a user-space DAFS server with a database workload

We evaluate the performance of a user-space Direct Access File System (DAFS) server and Oracle Disk Manager (ODM) client using two synthetic test codes as well as the Oracle database. Tests were run on 4-processor Intel Xeon-based systems running Windows 2000. The systems were connected with ServerNet II, a Virtual Interface Architecture (VIA) compliant system area network. We compare the performance of DAFS/ODM and local-disk based I/O, measuring I/O bandwidth and latency. We also compare the runtime and CPU utilization of the Oracle database running the TPC-H benchmark over DAFS/ODM and local disk.
Acute Study of Clinical Effectiveness of Nesiritide in Decompensated Heart Failure: Nesiritide Redux

Nesiritide, a synthetic drug form of human B-type natriuretic peptide, is approved for the early treatment of dyspnea in acute decompensated heart failure. Meta-analyses suggested a risk of worsening renal insufficiency and mortality with its use. Therefore, the Acute Study of Clinical Effectiveness in Decompensated Heart Failure (ASCEND-HF) was designed as a prospective, multicenter, double-blind, randomized trial to examine the use of nesiritide in this common, morbid, and often lethal clinical condition. Two coprimary end points, dyspnea and 30-day hospital readmission or death, were chosen to examine symptomatic response and objective outcomes, respectively. Preliminary reports from ASCEND-HF investigators suggest no significant improvement in symptoms or clinical outcomes, although no adverse effect on mortality or renal function was noted. We recommend the continued use of nesiritide in acute decompensated heart failure as an individualized case-based therapy to those patients who meet criteria for treatment and are expected to receive benefit from its use.
Kepone and other selected chlorinated hydrocarbon pesticides and PCBS behavior during hydraulic dredging of the James River near Hopewell, Virginia

Abstract Field and laboratory studies were conducted on the behavior of Kepone and fifteen other chlorinated hydrocarbon pesticides and PCBs during the dredging of the James River, Virginia near Windmill Point. Over a period of six hours, water samples were collected from an area extending three miles up and downstream from the end of the dredge discharge pipe outfall. Laboratory experiments involved mixing sediment and water samples at a 1:4 ratio for 30 minutes and separation of the aqueous phase by cen‐trifugation (elutriate test). Data on field samples showed that the “release”; of chlorinated organic residues, including Kepone, was mainly associated with the colloidal and particulate matter. The elutriated test results indicated a slight tendency for release of chlorinated organic residues in the soluble and colloidal fraction. In samples collected from the contaminated Bailey Creek area, higher concentrations of Kepone were detected in the soluble or colloidal fraction than found from sediments coll...
Irreducible Divisor Graphs II

Let R be an integral domain, and let x ∈ R be a nonzero nonunit that can be written as a product of irreducibles. Coykendall and Maney (to appear), defined the irreducible divisor graph of x, denoted G(x), as follows. The vertices of G(x) are the nonassociate irreducible divisors of x (each from a pre-chosen coset of the form π U(R) for π ∈ R irreducible). Given distinct vertices y and z, we put an edge between y and z if and only if yz|x. Finally, if y n |x but y n+1 ∤ x, then we put n − 1 loops on the vertex y. In this article, inspired by the approach of the authors from Akhtar and Lee (to appear), we study G(x) using homology. A connection is found between H 1 and the cycle space of G(x). We also characterize UFDs via these homology groups.
Waterless coupling of ultrasound from planar contact transducers to curved and irregular surfaces during non-destructive ultrasonic evaluations

The Applied Physics group at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) in Richland, WA has evaluated a method for waterless/liquidless coupling of ultrasonic energy from planar ultrasonic contact transducers to irregular test surfaces for ultrasonic non-destructive evaluation applications. Dry couplant material placed between a planar transducer face and a curved or uneven steel or plastic surface allows for effective sound energy coupling and preserves the integrity of the planar transducer sound field by serving as an acoustic impedance matching layer, providing good surface area contact between geometrically dissimilar surfaces and conforming to rough and unsmooth surfaces. Sound fields radiating from planar ultrasonic contact transducers coupled to curved and uneven surfaces using the dry coupling method were scanned and mapped using a Pinducer receiver connected to a raster scanner. Transducer sound field coverage at several ultrasonic frequencies and several distances from the transducer contact locations were found to be in good agreement with theoretical beam divergence and sound field coverage predictions for planar transducers coupled to simple, planar surfaces. This method is valuable for applications that do not allow for the use of traditional liquid-based ultrasonic couplants due to the sensitivity of the test materials to liquids and for applications that might otherwise require curved transducers or custom coupling wedges. The selection of dry coupling material is reported along with the results of theoretical sound field predictions, the laboratory testing apparatus and the empirical sound field data.
Tests of spinning turbine fragment impact on casing models

Abstract Ten 1/11-scale model turbine missile impact tests were conducted at a Naval spin chamber test facility to assess turbine missile effects in nuclear plant design. The objective of the tests was to determine the effects of missile spin, blade crush, and target edge conditions on the impact of turbine disk fragments on the steel casing. The results were intended for use in making realistic estimates for the initial conditions of fragments that might escape the casing in the event of a disk burst in a nuclear plant. The burst of a modified gas turbine rotor in a high-speed spin chamber provided three missiles with the proper rotational and translational velocities of actual steam turbine fragments. Tests of bladed, spinning missiles were compared with previous tests of unbladed, nonspinning missiles. The total residual energy of the spinning missiles, as observed from high-speed photographs of disk burst, was the same as that of the nonspinning missiles launched in a piercing orientation. Tests with bladed missiles showed that for equal burst speeds, the residual energy of bladed missiles is less than that of unbladed missiles. Impacts of missiles near the edge of targets resulted in residual missile velocities greater than for central impact.
In-situ phosphatizing coatings II: A high-solids polyester baking enamel

A single step in-situ phosphatizing coating (ISPC) can be formulated by pre-dispersing an optimal amount of in-situ phosphatizing reagents (ISPRs) into the paint system. The technique of ISPC is applied to a high-solids polyester-malemine baking enamel using a designed “ISPR-2.” The in-can stability of ISPC is verified using rheological measurements. The coating properties and protective performance of the ISPC are compared to those of the multi-step coating of control sample (MCCS). The immersion tests in a 3% NaCl solution and salt spray testings show a significant improvement in paint disbondment from the “X” scribe for ISPC. The observed coating performance enhancement of ISPC over MCCS is confirmed from the multi-functionality of ISPRs. Phosphate chemistry proceeds via an acid-base type of interaction, P-O−- Mn+, and polymer chemistry generates a covalent P-O-C linkage with the polymer network.
Inhibition of DNA synthesis and cell division by actinomycin D.

Nach in-vitro-Kultur oder Verwundung in vivo der Froschlinsen wird zuerst meistens, im Epithel, eine intensive DNS-Synthese gefunden auf die spater zahlreiche Kernteilungsfiguren folgen. Nach Behandlung mit Actinomycin D werden diese Reaktionen stark gehemmt. Autoradiographische Untersuchungen mit dem DNS-Vorlaufer H-3-Thymidin und dem RNS-Vorlaufer H-3 Uridin erlauben den Schluss, dass die DNS-Synthese (und damit Zellteilung) von einer fruheren RNS-Synthese abhangt.
Ionization by Collisions of the Second Kind in Mixtures of Oxygen with the Rare Gases

Harnwell's experiments on ionization by collisions of the second kind have been continued. Mixtures of oxygen with argon, neon and helium and incidental effects of water vapor have been studied. Evidence of the following collisions of the second kind was obtained: The experiments confirm the conclusions of Hogness and Lunn as to the processes of ionization in oxygen but leave the exact value of the first ionizing potential uncertain.(1).${\mathrm{A}}^{+}$+${\mathrm{O}}_{2}$\ensuremath{\rightarrow}${\mathrm{O}}_{2}^{+}$+A(2).${\mathrm{A}}^{+}$+${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$O\ensuremath{\rightarrow}${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$${\mathrm{O}}^{+}$+A (very strong)(3).${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$${\mathrm{O}}^{+}$+${\mathrm{O}}_{2}$\ensuremath{\rightarrow}${\mathrm{O}}_{2}^{+}$+${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$O(4).${\mathrm{Ne}}^{+}$+${\mathrm{O}}_{2}$\ensuremath{\rightarrow}${\mathrm{O}}^{+}$+O+Ne(5).${\mathrm{He}}^{+}$+${\mathrm{O}}_{2}$\ensuremath{\rightarrow}${\mathrm{O}}^{+}$+O+He
Gene–ethanol interactions underlying fetal alcohol spectrum disorders

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) is an umbrella term that describes a diverse set of ethanol-induced defects. The phenotypic variation is generated by numerous factors, including timing and dosage of ethanol exposure as well as genetic background. We are beginning to learn about how the concentration, duration, and timing of ethanol exposure mediate variability within ethanol teratogenesis. However, little is known about the genetic susceptibilities in FASD. Studies of FASD animal models are beginning to implicate a number of susceptibility genes that are involved in various pathways. Here we review the current literature that focuses on the genetic predispositions in FASD.
A non-exoskeleton optoelectric wrist goniometer

Abstract Highly repetitive wrist motion and extreme wrist posture can result in carpal tunnel syndrome. To study the association between wrist motion and posture and carpal tunnel syndrome, a hand/wrist goniometer is indispensable. This paper describes the development of an optoelectric goniometer. The goniometer utilized a fluid-based absolute angle sensor to transduce wrist posture into electrical signals. A geometric relationship and 6 nonlinear equations were used to calculate relative wrist angles. The result was an easy-to-use and non-exoskeleton hand/wrist goniometer which measures radial-ulnar deviation and flexion-extension of the wrist. Validation results showed that the average error of the absolute angle transducer was 4.5% of the full scale output (180°). Correlation between the output from the sensor and the standard motion was 0.977. Repeatability tests showed that the variation was 6.02% of the input value. The resolution of the sensor was 0.036°.
Classifying circuit performance using active-learning guided support vector machines

Leveraging machine learning has been proven as a promising avenue for addressing many practical circuit design and verification challenges. We demonstrate a novel active learning guided machine learning approach for characterizing circuit performance. When employed under the context of support vector machines, the proposed probabilistically weighted active learning approach is able to dramatically reduce the size of the training data, leading to significant reduction of the overall training cost. The proposed active learning approach is extended to the training of asymmetric support vector machine classifiers, which is further sped up by a global acceleration scheme. We demonstrate the excellent performance of the proposed techniques using three case studies: PLL lock-time verification, SRAM yield analysis and prediction of chip peak temperature using a limited number of on-chip temperature sensors.
Age-related changes in human lens crystallins identified by two- dimensional electrophoresis and mass spectrometry

The purpose of this study was to identify the major protein components in adult human lenses and to analyse the specific age-related changes in these proteins using two-dimensional electrophoresis, Edman sequencing, and in conjunction with the data in the accompanying manuscript, mass spectrometry. The majority of changes in the two-dimensional electrophoretic pattern of lens proteins occurred prior to 17 years of age, and included a decrease in proteins migrating to the original positions of beta B1, beta B3, beta A3, gamma C and gamma D, and the appearance of many new species with apparent molecular weights on two-dimensional electrophoretic gels similar to beta B2 and gamma S, but having more acidic pIs. These proteins were identified as deamidated forms of beta B1 and beta A3/A1 missing portions of their N-terminal extensions. With the exception of alpha B, deamidation was detected in all crystallin species. These data indicated that a major fraction of the water-soluble protein of the adult human lens is composed of truncated beta B1 and beta A3/A1 crystallins, and that nearly all human crystallins, including the, beta-crystallins, are susceptible to deamidation. The results also provided the most detailed map to date of the identities of protein species on two-dimensional electrophoresis gels of adult human lenses.
High Frequency Gravity Waves Observed in OH airglow at Starfire Optical Range, NM: Seasonal Variations in Momentum Flux

[1] Airglow imager and Na wind/temperature lidar measurements at Starfire Optical Range, New Mexico (35°N, 107°W) are used to estimate the seasonal variation of the vertical fluxes of horizontal momentum carried by high frequency Atmospheric Gravity Waves (AGWs). The cross-correlation coefficients between the vertical and horizontal wind perturbations were calculated from the OH airglow imager data collected during 32 nights in 1998, 1999 and 2000. The RMS wind velocities were deduced from the lidar measurements. The combined information was used to estimate the upper limit of the momentum flux. The meridional component of the vertical flux of horizontal momentum was observed to be towards the summer pole. The zonal component had westward preference in winter and weak preference in summer. The unanticipated large meridional component may act to regulate the summer to winter circulation in the mesosphere.
Comparative feeding value of wheat, corn, barley, milo, oats, and a mixed concentrate ration for lactating cows.

Abstract Pelleted grain rations containing 95.7% of either wheat, corn, barley, milo, oats, or a control mixed grain ration were compared in digestion, lactation, and acceptability trials. In the lactation trial, alfalfa hay and grain were fed in an approximate 55:45 ratio. In the acceptability trial, hay was restricted to 1% of body weight and grain was fed ad libitum. In the lactation and acceptability trials, there were no significant (P>.05) differences between treatments in yield of daily milk, fat-corrected milk, solids-not-fat, or milk protein. Differences in dry matter, digestible protein, and total digestible nutrient consumption did not result in differences in milk production. Feed intake data and visual observations in the acceptability trial indicated that milo, followed by oats, was the most acceptable of the pelleted grain rations, whereas corn was the least acceptable. Results of both trials indicated that although there was some difference in acceptability of the grain rations when forage was restricted, under a 45:55 grain-to-hay ratio the six rations were similar in effect on milk production when the individual grain represented 95% of the concentrate mixture.
High resolution transmission electron microscopy nanostructure of condensed-silica aerogels☆

High resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) was used to study the morphology of ultralow-density transparent condensed-silica (CS) aerogels. Silica aerogels were synthesized by two slightly different two-step polymerization processes and they were supercritically dried in a high temperature autoclave. Aerogel CS1 had a density of 9 kg/m3 and a BET surface area of 574 m2/g; aerogel CS2 had a density of 30 kg/m3 and a specific surface area of 630 m2/g. Both samples were fractured, vertically replicated with 0.95 nm Pt-C and backed with approximately 12 nm of rotary evaporated carbon. The silica aerogel was then removed from the replica with dilute HF acid and the replicas were studied by HRTEM. The stereoscopic HRTEM images reveal that connectors in both CS aerogels are extended filaments which resemble bottlebrushes, having microporosity. This morphology results from side-chain formation on a nearly linear CS stem. The slightly different chemistry leads to different morphologies for the two aerogels. For CS1, the connectors between stems have diameters ranging from 1.7 to 14.2 nm with an average of 6.4 ± 0.5 nm and connector lengths averaged 62 ± 21 nm with some as long as 132 nm. Pore sizes ranged from 13 to 240 nm with an average of 74 ± 43 nm. The pores were slightly larger than those in CS2 which ranged from 12 to 277 nm and averaged 61 ± 56 nm. For CS2, the connectors had diameters ranging from 1.5 to 16.5 nm and averaging 9.7 ± 0.5 nm. The connector lengths in the CS2 aerogel averaged 58 ± 27 nm with some as long as 127 nm. The connector diameters in CS2 (9.7 ± 0.5 nm) were the only important aerogel feature significantly different and greater than those in CS1 (6.4 ± 0.5 nm). The CS1 and CS2 connectors had side-chain diameters of 2 ± 0.7 and 0.95 ± 0.5 nm, respectively, and a similar microporosity of approximately 2.0 ± 1 nm.
SU-E-T-440: Dosimetry Parameter Comparison between Field-In-Field Technique and Conventional Physical Wedge Technique for Whole Breast Radiation Treatment.

Purpose: To compare an advantage/disadvantage between Field‐in‐Field (FIF) technique and conventional physical wedge (PW) technique for a whole breast (WB) tangential field irradiation. Methods and Materials: Total 86 patients were included in this study. 46 of them were left breast cancer cases. FIF/PW plans were created by Eclipse (V7.3, Varian) with 6MV or 6MV mixed with 18MV. Plans had a same ioscenter location, beam setup and normalized isodose line selection for each case. Varian 21EX Linac with 120 MLC was used for beam delivery. Two plans were compared by PTV encompassed by 95% isodose line (V95), dose inhomogeneity (DI), dose received by 10% volume of lung (D10), mean lungdose (MLD), dose received by 5% volume of heart (D5), Mean heartdose(MHD), total MU, maximum dose in the plan and the number of field needed for each fraction. Results: Comparing with PW plan, FIF plan showed an average percentage improvement of V95 was 0.1±1.6, DI was 0.6±5.0, MLD was 1.5±4.2, D5 was 2.0±8.8, MHD was 3.2±4.6. However, D10 increased by 1.4%±0.050. FIF lowered an average daily MU by 28.5%±0.080, maximum dose by 0.5%±0.018, and increased number of treatment field by 1.50±0.356. There were 12 cases treated with mixed beam in PW technique vs 10 in FIF technique. Conclusion: The advantages of FIF technique included: (1) Reduce radiation contamination to contra lateral breast and Linac room induced activity by remove the PW, lower MU and diminish a higher energy. (2) Time saving was not only from less MU but also from not need go into the treatment room for a wedge adjustment. (3) Reduced the therapist work load. (4) Regular MU 2nd check was applied because there was not FIF merge involved in the treatment field. With a MLC to shape the field and treatment record/verification system to control the treatment, increasing number of treatment field didn't show as a problem.
Position Operators and Localizability of Quantum Systems Described by Finite- and Infinite-Dimensional Wave Equations

The principles of quantum mechanics impose certain restrictions on acceptable position operators. The probability density as derived from the position operator should agree with the fourth component of the current vector. The various relativistic wave equations are reexamined from the point of view of this consistency test. These and the group theoretical considerations lead to the conclusion that only a Dirac particle can be considered to be elementary. The position operator of the infinite-dimensional theories is investigated and the advantages of theories using the unitary representations of the Lorentz group are discussed.
Reduced hematopoietic function and enhanced radiosensitivity of transforming growth factor‐β1 transgenic mice

The cytokine transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) has been implicated in some tissue responses to radiation. Previous studies have demonstrated that exogenous TGF-β1 increased the lethality of radiation in mice, but the effects of endogenous TGF-β1 have not been investigated. To this end, we examined mice that are transgenic for active TGF-β1 (Alb/TGF-β1), over-expressed via an albumin promoter in the liver with resultant elevation of circulating levels of this cytokine. Alb/TGF-β1 mice subjected to 8 Gy of total body irradiation at 3 or 5 weeks of age experienced significantly higher mortality than wild type age- and sex-matched controls by 1 to 2 weeks after irradiation. Alb/TGF-β1 3 weeks of age also succumbed to 2 and 4 Gy of whole-body irradiation, while no mortality was observed in wild type mice. Four-week-old Alb/TGF-β1 mice exhibited mild anemia and mild uremia. At one week after whole body irradiation with 2 Gy, 4-week-old Alb/TGF-β1 mice had significantly reduced white blood cell counts, hematocrit, and platelet counts. Histopathologically, irradiated Alb/TGF-β1 mice exhibited decreased bone marrow cellularity and decreased splenic extramedullary hematopoiesis. These results suggest that chronic over-expression of active TGF-β1 is associated with increased radiosensitivity and that this effect may be mediated by increased sensitivity of bone marrow to the suppressive effects of radiation. Since TGF-β1 levels can be greatly elevated in patients with certain tumors, these findings may be significant for radiotherapy. Int. J. Cancer (Radiat. Oncol. Invest.) 90, 13–21 (2000). Published 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Infinity in Ontology and Mind

Two fundamental categories of any ontology are the category of objects and the category of universals. We discuss the question whether either of these categories can be infinite or not. In the category of objects, the subcategory of physical objects is examined within the context of different cosmological theories regarding the different kinds of fundamental objects in the universe. Abstract objects are discussed in terms of sets and the intensional objects of conceptual realism. The category of universals is discussed in terms of the three major theories of universals: nominalism, realism, and conceptualism. The finitude of mind pertains only to conceptualism. We consider the question of whether or not this finitude precludes impredicative concept formation. An explication of potential infinity, especially as applied to concepts and expressions, is given. We also briefly discuss a logic of plural objects, or groups of single objects (individuals), which is based on Bertrand Russell’s (1903, The principles of mathematics, 2nd edn. (1938). Norton & Co, NY) notion of a class as many. The universal class as many does not exist in this logic if there are two or more single objects; but the issue is undecided if there is just one individual. We note that adding plural objects (groups) to an ontology with a countable infinity of individuals (single objects) does not generate an uncountable infinity of classes as many.
Remanent Magnetization of Lower to Middle Eocene Basalt Flows from Oregon

THE Siletz River Volcanic Series of north-western Oregon offers an ideal opportunity to determine the direction of the Earth's magnetic field in the western United States during the early Tertiary. The formation consists of 3,000–5,000 ft. of mainly submarine basaltic flows, flow breccia and tuff. Interbedded clastic sedimentary strata have yielded more than thirty species of fossils including brachiopoda and Turritella andersoni cf. subsp. susanae Merriam, on the basis of which J. Durham correlated this formation with the Capay shale of California1. Additional faunal assemblages, including some foraminifera collected subsequently to those referred to above, confirm this correlation and clearly establish the age of the Siletz River Volcanic Series as early middle Eocene to lower Eocene. Petrographically, the flows are porphyritic in texture, with phenocrysts of plagioclase and augite in a ground mass which consists of volcanic glass, plagioclase laths, and granules of augito and magnetite, the latter constituting as much as 15 per cent of the rock1.
Remote contact LBIC imaging of defects in semiconductors

Abstract A high resolution and nondestructive optical technique, called “laser-beam-induced current (LBIC)”, has been developed for spatial imaging of electrically active defects in liquid phase epitaxial (LPE) HgCdTe alloy semiconductor. The technique consists of mapping the induced current between two remote contacts on the sample as a function of the incident-focused laser beam position. The induced current is a result of the charge separating effect of built-in fields in the vicinity of defects in semiconductors. The low laser power does not damage the sample, and the resolution of the technique is limited by the diffusion length of the carriers in the material. Also, since device structures such as p-n junctions are special cases of electrically active regions, LBIC imaging has been utilized to study the opto-electronic properties of these structures in a nondestructive manner, without requiring any electrical contact to the active elements. In addition, LBIC has been utilized to obtain electrical nonuniformities at the HgCdTe semiconductor surface near its interface with a ZnS passivation layer.
Melt-texture processing and high-temperature reactions of Bi-2212 thick films

Abstract The optimum melting temperature and the phases which form on cooling from the melted state during melt-texturing Bi 2 Sr 2 CaCu 2 O 8 are investigated. Nearly phase-pure and highly c -axis-oriented thick films are produced under these optimum conditions. The highest-quality films are produced by melting above 955°C, where the (Sr,Ca) x Cu y O z phases melt to form (Sr,Ca)O and liquid. The heat-treatment schedule after melting includes rapid cooling to 880°C, followed by slow cooling at 0.8 K/min to 775°C. In addition to the reactions which occur on cooling, an overview of the peritectic phases which form on heating is given. The principal tools used in these investigations are dynamic observations with high-temperature powder XRD (HTXRPD) and optical microscopy, which are complimented by DTA and electron microprobe EDS.
Dependence structures in Chinese and US financial markets: a time-varying conditional copula approach

In this article, we use a time-varying conditional copula approach to model Chinese and US stock markets’ dependence structures with other financial markets. The Autoregressive-Generalized Autoregressive Conditional Heteroscedastic-t (AR-GARCH-t) model is used to examine the marginal distributions, while Normal and Generalized Joe-Clayton (GJC) copula models are employed to analyse the joint distributions. In this pairwise analysis, both constant and time-varying conditional dependence parameters are estimated by a two-step maximum likelihood method. A comparative analysis of dependence structures in Chinese versus US stock markets is also provided. There are three main findings: first, the time-varying-dependence model does not always perform better than constant-dependence model. This result has not previously been reported in the literature. Second, we find that the upper tail dependence is much higher than the lower tail dependence in some short periods, which has not been documented in previous liter...
Non-periodic cues generate seven ftz stripes in the Drosophila embryo

Abstract We have examined the expression pattern of the segmentation gene fushi tarazu (ftz) by in situ hybridization to whole mount embryos using digoxygenin labeled probes. This method has revealed previously undetected stages in the development of the ftz RNA pattern. The ftz stripes arise individually in a distinct, non-linear order along the anterior-posterior axis of the embryo. In addition, the stripes develop differentially along the dorsal-ventral axis; most stripes emerge on the ventral side and then gradually spread dorsally until they surround the entire circumference of the embryo. The order of appearance of ftz stripes is not inversely correlated with the order of appearance of hairy (h) stripes as would be expected if ftz stripes were generated by h repression. Furthermore, the seven ftz stripes are correctly established in embryos carrying mutations in h, eve or runt, with normal expression patterns decaying only after cellularization. Thus, the so called primary pair-rule genes are involved in the refinement rather than establishment of the ftz stripes. The contribution of cis-acting regulatory elements to the ftz pattern was examined. The zebra and upstream elements interact to generate seven correctly positioned stripes at the end of cellularization. However, stripe establishement is not correctly mimicked by any ftz/lac fusion gene: stripes arise in an order drastically different from the endogenous ftz gene suggesting the existence of ftz regulatory elements outside the 10-kb region examined to date. These observations suggest that the ftz pattern is directed by at least two independent regulatory systems: first, stripe establishment is directed by regionally distributed factors that act differentially in individual stripes along both anterior-posterior and dorsal-ventral axes of the egg and, second, stripe refinement and maintenance are mediated by pair-rule gene products that interact with previously identified ftz regulatory elements. This multi-level regulation provides a back-up system that ensures the development of seven stripes in the blastoderm.
The PGM isoenzyme distribution among negroid people of Zimbabwe

Abstract The value of the phosphoglucomutase isoenzyme system as a method for typing negroid blood in Zimbabwe has been evaluated. Due to the high frequency of the 1 phenotype (70%) a significant improvement in discriminating power is obtained when isoelectric focussing is used.
ELECTROPHORETIC COATINGS FOR ADVANCED MATERIALS

ABSTRACT We have electrophoretically deposited a variety of coatings for a number of applications. We have also worked extensively with a process for electrophoretically depositing styrene acrylate polymer coatings. These coatings provide useful corrosion protection and dielectric properties for capacitors and electrical insulation. Dielectric breakdown strengths in the order of 1000 V/micrometer have been observed for capacitors with this coating as the dielectric. Various particles have also been dispersed in the electrolyte; these mixtures yield composite coatings of unusual materials such as fissile uranium in a carbon matrix. The process can also be adapted to form very thin, free-standing styrene acrylate films or pellicles. We have also explored the feasibility of depositing a variety of colloidal inorganic particles from liquid suspensions. Our results show that isopropanol works relatively well as a dispersing medium for a large number of powders. Isopropanol slurries can be used to deposit a num...
Quantum dots: A new quantum state?

In bulk semiconductors, the absorption of one photon of energy greater than the bandgap leads to one exciton. In quantum dots, however, it could be possible to create multiple excitons from a single high-energy photon, a finding with dramatic implications for the efficiencies of devices such as solar cells.
WISC-R: An Abbreviated Version.

Analyzed a total of 400 WISC-R protocols with a stepwise multiple regression in order to determine whether an abbreviated form of this instrument could be identified that would be cost-effective. Subsamples of the data that represent different age, sex, and examiner groups were analyzed independently as well as together as a single total sample. No significant differences between subsamples were found. Results indicate that the derived prediction equation could be applied to the results of five designated WISC-R subtests to predict range of intellectual functioning with acceptable accuracy, thereby reducing test administration and scoring time by one-half.
Taking DNA to market and regulatory defaults.

The public debate on recombinant DNA research has ended even though significant issues of public interest remain undecided or untouched. The reason for the termination of other than muted public discussion is not simply the removal of an initial fear of catastrophic biohazards. With the cessation of public debate over such hazards came also the dissolution of most public forums. The ends to which recombinant DNA research and development ought to be directed are not matters of public debate. With the transfer of basic research knowledge to the private sector, that sector's proprietary interests and ownership prerogatives effectively deny any continued public participation in charting the future of genesplicing technology and its application.
Initiation, Maintenance and Modulation of Swimming in the Medicinal Leech by the Activity of a Single Neurone

A neurone (designated cell 204) has been identified in the segmental ganglia of the leech which, when stimulated intracellularly in isolated nerve cords, reliably initiates and maintains the neuronal activity pattern characteristic of swimming. In a minimally dissected leech, cell 204 activity results in normal swimming movements. Cell 204 is an unpaired, intersegmental interneurone which is present in most, if not all, of the segmental ganglia. Horseradish peroxidase injections indicate that cell 204 has extensive arborizations in its own ganglion and sends an axon both anteriorly and posteriorly via Faivre9s Nerve. Cell 204 is normally quiescent, but during swimming activity becomes depolarized and produces impulse bursts in the ventral contraction phase of its own segment. Such activity is observed in every cell 204 in the nerve cord and is independent of the stimulus used to evoke the swimming episode. Activity in any cell 204 is sufficient for initiation and maintenance of swimming activity, whereas activity in any two of them is not necessary for swimming. During swimming activity, imposed increases in the impulse frequency of any cell 204 cause a decrease in the swim cycle period of the entire nerve cord. Tactile stimulation of the skin, which is an effective method of eliciting swimming episodes, excites cell 204. Our findings indicate that cell 204 may activate swimming in the intact leech.
THE NEW FEDERALISM PARADOX

One of the aims of Nixon's “New Federalism” reforms was to promote political decentralization in the federal system. An examination of the impact of revenue-sharing and block grant programs in El Paso, Texas, reveals that the New Federalism seems to have had the opposite effect in that city. El Paso is now more dependent, politically and economically, on federal grants than it was prior to the New Federalism and local autonomy is significantly reduced. The reasons for this paradoxical impact in El Paso and the applicability of these findings to other cities are discussed.
Reporting data from high-throughput screening of small-molecule libraries

Publications reporting results of small-molecule screens are becoming more common as academic researchers increasingly make use of high-throughput screening (HTS) facilities. However, no standards have been formally established for reporting small-molecule screening data, and often key information important for the evaluation and interpretation of results is omitted in published HTS protocols. Here, we propose concise guidelines for reporting small-molecule HTS data.
In vivo cytokine response to Escherichia coli alpha-hemolysin determined with genetically engineered hemolytic and nonhemolytic E. coli variants.

Alpha-hemolysin is an Escherichia coli exotoxin that enhances bacterial virulence, has profound effects on leukocytes in vitro, and induces the release of interleukin-1 (IL-1) but not tumor necrosis factor (TNF) from human monocytes in vitro. The purpose of this study was to examine alpha-hemolysin9s influence on virulence and TNF and IL-1 production in vivo. Two genetically engineered, isogeneic strains of E. coli were used; one variant produces alpha-hemolysin, and the other does not. Male BALB/c mice were injected with either of the two variants and serum TNF and IL-1 were assayed. These results were compared with those obtained from the injection of either of two serotypes of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The nonhemolytic E. coli strain produced no mortality and no significant elevation of serum TNF or IL-1 levels. In contrast, equal inocula of the hemolytic E. coli strain produced significant mortality and elevation of serum IL-1 levels. No significant elevation of TNF levels was detected in this group despite high-level mortality. A pattern of induction of mortality and elevation of serum IL-1 levels without elevation of serum TNF levels is distinct from the pattern typical of LPS. In these experiments, both serotypes of LPS caused elevations of TNF and IL-1 levels whether or not mortality was induced. Thus, alpha-hemolysin produces a cytokine response in vivo that is similar to that previously demonstrated in vitro by Bhakdi et al. (S. Bhakdi, M. Muhly, S. Korom, and G. Schmidt, J. Clin. Invest. 85:1746-1753, 1990) and appears to induce mortality independently of serum TNF.
The limitation of CMRR in low voltage operational amplifier with N-P input pairs

This paper discusses the Common Mode Rejection Ratio (CMRR) degradation problem in low voltage Operational Amplifiers using N-P complementary input pairs. The CMRR degradation in a low voltage opamp is due to the significant increase in both systematic and mismatching common mode gains which are, in turn, due to the tail current switching between the N and P pairs. Small signal analysis revealed that both systematic common mode gain and mismatching common mode gain are proportional to the rate of change of the tail current source of the input differential pairs. It is concluded that the systematic CMRR degradation could be overcome by topology modification but the mismatching remains to be the dominant factor which limits the improvement of CMRR in low voltage opamp with N-P differential pairs.
Deletion of a subgroup of ribosome-related genes minimizes hypoxia-induced changes and confers hypoxia tolerance

Hypoxia is a widely occurring condition experienced by diverse organisms under numerous physiological and disease conditions. To probe the molecular mechanisms underlying hypoxia responses and tole...
Bayesian Inference in Cyclical Component Dynamic Linear Models

Abstract Dynamic linear models (DLM's) with time-varying cyclical components are developed for the analysis of time series with persistent though time-varying cyclical behavior. The development covers inference on wavelengths of possibly several persistent cycles in nonstationary time series, permitting explicit time variation in amplitudes and phases of component waveforms, decomposition of stochastic inputs into purely observational noise and innovations that impact on the waveform characteristics, with extensions to incorporate ranges of (time-varying) time series and regression terms wihin the standard DLM context. Bayesian inference via iterative stochastic simulation methods is developed and illustrated. Some indications of model extensions and generalizations are given. In addition to the specific focus on cyclical component models, the development provides the basis for Bayesian inference, via stochastic simulation, for state evolution matrix parameters and variance components in DLM's, building o...
Positron emission tomography/computed tomography findings during therapy predict outcome in patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma treated with chemotherapy alone but not in those who receive consolidation radiation

Purpose To assess the value of mid-therapy positron emission tomography (PET) findings for predicting survival and disease progression in patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, considering type of therapy (chemotherapy with or without radiation therapy). Methods and Materials We retrospectively evaluated 294 patients with histologically confirmed diffuse large B-cell lymphoma with respect to age, sex, disease stage, International Prognostic Index score, mid-therapy PET findings (positive or negative), and disease status after therapy and at last follow-up. Overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were compared according to mid-therapy PET findings. Results Of the 294 patients, 163 (55%) were male, 144 (49%) were age >61 years, 110 (37%) had stage I or II disease, 219 (74%) had International Prognostic Index score ≤2, 216 (73%) received ≥6 cycles of rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone, and 88 (30%) received consolidation radiation therapy. Five-year PFS and OS rates were associated with mid-therapy PET status: PFS was 78% for those with PET-negative (PET−) disease versus 63% for PET-positive (PET+) disease ( P =.024), and OS was 82% for PET− versus 62% for PET+ ( P P =.012], OS 78% for PET− and 51% for PET+ [ P =.0055]) but not for those who received consolidation radiation therapy (PFS 84% PET− vs 81% PET+ [ P =.88]; OS 90% PET− vs 81% PET+ [ P =.39]). Conclusion Mid-therapy PET can predict patient outcome, but the use of consolidation radiation therapy may negate the significance of mid-therapy findings.
Towards exploring interactive relationship between clusters and outliers in multi-dimensional data analysis

Nowadays many data mining algorithms focus on clustering methods. There are also a lot of approaches designed for outlier detection. We observe that, in many situations, clusters and outliers are concepts whose meanings are inseparable to each other, especially for those data sets with noise. Thus, it is necessary to treat clusters and outliers as concepts of the same importance in data analysis. In this paper, we present a cluster-outlier iterative detection algorithm, tending to detect the clusters and outliers in another perspective for noisy data sets. In this algorithm, clusters are detected and adjusted according to the intra-relationship within clusters and the inter-relationship between clusters and outliers, and vice versa. The adjustment and modification of the clusters and outliers are performed iteratively until a certain termination condition is reached. This data processing algorithm can be applied in many fields such as pattern recognition, data clustering and signal processing. Experimental results demonstrate the advantages of our approach.
Diffusion tensor MRI as a biomarker in axonal and myelin damage

Diffusion tensor imaging has been used extensively as a research tool to understand the structural changes associated with white matter pathology. Using water diffusion as the basis to construct anatomic details, diffusion tensor imaging offers the potential to identify structural and functional adaptations before gross anatomical changes, such as lesions and tumors, become apparent on conventional MRI. Over the past 10 years, further parameters, such as axial and radial diffusivity, have been developed to characterize white matter changes specific to axons and myelin. In this paper, the potential application and outstanding issues on the use of diffusion tensor imaging directional diffusivity as a biomarker in axonal and myelin damage in neurological disorders will be reviewed.
Selenium Suppresses Leukemia through the Action of Endogenous Eicosanoids

Eradicating cancer stem-like cells (CSC) may be essential to fully eradicate cancer. Metabolic changes in CSC could hold a key to their targeting. Here, we report that the dietary micronutrient selenium can trigger apoptosis of CSC derived from chronic or acute myelogenous leukemias when administered at supraphysiologic but nontoxic doses. In leukemia CSC, selenium treatment activated ATM-p53-dependent apoptosis accompanied by increased intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species. Importantly, the same treatment did not trigger apoptosis in hematopoietic stem cells. Serial transplantation studies with BCR-ABL-expressing CSC revealed that the selenium status in mice was a key determinant of CSC survival. Selenium action relied upon the endogenous production of the cyclooxygenase-derived prostaglandins Δ(12)-PGJ2 and 15d-PGJ2. Accordingly, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and NADPH oxidase inhibitors abrogated the ability of selenium to trigger apoptosis in leukemia CSC. Our results reveal how selenium-dependent modulation of arachidonic acid metabolism can be directed to trigger apoptosis of primary human and murine CSC in leukemia.
Ubiquitin-proteasome-mediated local protein degradation and synaptic plasticity

A proteolytic pathway in which attachment of a small protein, ubiquitin, marks the substrates for degradation by a multi-subunit complex called the proteasome has been shown to function in synaptic plasticity and in several other physiological processes of the nervous system. Attachment of ubiquitin to protein substrates occurs through a series of highly specific and regulated steps. Degradation by the proteasome is subject to multiple levels of regulation as well. How does the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway contribute to synaptic plasticity? Long-lasting, protein synthesis-dependent, changes in the synaptic strength occur through activation of molecular cascades in the nucleus in coordination with signaling events in specific synapses. Available evidence indicates that ubiquitin-proteasome-mediated degradation has a role in the molecular mechanisms underlying synaptic plasticity that operate in the nucleus as well as at the synapse. Since the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway has been shown to be versatile in having roles in addition to proteolysis in several other cellular processes relevant to synaptic plasticity, such as endocytosis and transcription, this pathway is highly suited for a localized role in the neuron. Because of its numerous roles, malfunctioning of this pathway leads to several diseases and disorders of the nervous system. In this review, I examine the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway in detail and describe the role of regulated proteolysis in long-term synaptic plasticity. Also, using synaptic tagging theory of synapse-specific plasticity, I provide a model on the possible roles and regulation of local protein degradation by the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway.