cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Analysis and modeling of a family of two-transistor parallel inverters

A family of five static dc-to-square-wave inverters, each employing a square-loop magnetic core in conjunction with two switching transistors, is analyzed using piecewise linear models for the nonlinear characteristics of the transistors, diodes, and saturable-core devices. Four of the inverters are analyzed in detail for the first time. These analyses show that, by proper choice of a frame of reference, each of the five quite differently appearing inverter circuits can be described by a common equivalent circuit. This equivalent circuit consists of a five-segment nonlinear resistor, a nonlinear saturable reactor, and a linear capacitor. Thus, by proper interpretation and identification of the parameters in the different circuits, the results of a detailed solution for one of the inverter circuits provide similar information and insight into the local and global behavior of each inverter in the family.
Disposition of sulfonamides in food‐producing animals: pharmacokinetics of sulfamerazine in cattle

The disposition of sulfamerazine in the plasma and urine of cattle was determined following single intravenous and oral doses. The averaged and the individual animal data were described by a two-compartment pharmacokinetic model. The drug was eliminated with a biological half-life of 6.2 h, primarily by renal excretion of unchanged sulfamerazine and metabolism to acetylsulfamerazine. Sulfamerazine (in solution) was absorbed with a half-life 6.7 h and with relative completeness (68%) following oral administration.
Experience in the management of 50 consecutive penetrating wounds of the heart.

Fifty patients with penetrating wounds of the heart were grouped into three categories, based on the clinical severity of the injuries. Gunshot wounds consistenly resulted in a higher mortality than knife wounds. Central venous pressure (CVP) was the single most important means of determining cardiac tamponade. The survival rates in the respective groups were 6, 79 and 100 per cent. The improved survival in our series was due to a rapid transportation system, increased awareness of the significance of cardiac injuries and an aggressive surgical approach.
An implementation of interactive assistant system for shape creation through the genetic operations

On industrial design, human designer intuitively and subjectively creates the shape. In order to assist this process by artificial system, it is important to suggest the variety of the design candidates. In this article, we propose an interactive design assistant system in the case of bottle or bowl. The initial shape candidate population is made of the user-specified object's profile curve and the randomly generated ones. When the designer selects a candidate, population is updated to novel one by the crossover and mutation in terms of genetic algorithm. The designer can reach preferable shape on the candidate population and refine this shape by his/herself A proposed framework is implemented on the conventional 3-D modeling software in order to handle the geometric model for following detailed design. Through the case study, the framework demonstrates the applicability to suggest the various shape candidates reflecting the subjective preferences.
Exercise Maintenance Following Pulmonary Rehabilitation* Effect of Distractive Stimuli

Study objective To determine if distractive auditory stimuli (DAS) in the form of music would promote adherence to a walking regimen following completion of a pulmonary rehabilitation program (PRP) and, thereby, maintenance of gains achieved during the program. Design Experimental, randomized, two-group design with testing at baseline, 4 weeks, and 8 weeks. Setting Outpatient. Patients Twenty-four patients (4 men and 20 women) with moderate-to-severe COPD (FEV 1 41.3 ± 13% predicted [mean ± SD]). Intervention Experimental group subjects (n = 12) were instructed to walk at their own pace for 20 to 45 min, two to five times a week, using DAS with a portable audiocassette player. The control group (n = 12) received the same instructions, but no DAS. Measurements and results Primary outcome measures were perceived dyspnea during activities of daily living (ADL) and 6-min walk (6MW) distance. Secondary outcome measures were anxiety, depressive symptoms, health-related quality of life (QoL), global QoL, and breathlessness and fatigue at completion of the 6MW. In addition, all subjects recorded the distance and time walked using self-report (pedometers and daily logs). There was a significant decrease in perceived dyspnea during ADL (p = 0.0004) and a significant increase in 6MW distance (p = 0.0004) over time in the DAS group compared to the control group. DAS subjects increased 6MW distance 445 ± 264 feet (mean ± SD) from baseline to 8 weeks, whereas control subjects decreased 6MW distance to 169 ± 154 feet. No significant differences were noted for the remaining variables. The cumulative distance walked by the DAS group was 19.1 ± 16.7 miles compared to 15.4 ± 8.0 miles for the control group, a 24% difference (p = 0.49). Despite this difference, self-report exercise log data were similar for the two groups. Conclusion Subjects who used DAS while walking had improved functional performance and decreased perceptions of dyspnea, whereas control subjects could not maintain post-PRP gains. DAS is a simple, cost-effective strategy that may have the potential to augment the effectiveness of post-PRP maintenance training.
A collection of plant parasitic nematodes (Nematoda) from Mexico with descriptions of three new species.

Sixteen species of plant nematodes are reported, associated with plants in the states of Oaxaca, Nuevo Leon, Zacatecas, Sinaloa, Sonora, Coahuila and Campeche, Mexico. Three species described as new are Tylenchorhynchus mexicanus, Quinisulcius obregonus and Helicotylenchus craigi.
Religiosity and Violence Among Adolescents in the United States: Findings From the National Survey on Drug Use and Health 2006-2010

There is a pressing need to develop a more nuanced understanding of the relationships between particular expressions of religiosity and the various manifestations of violence among youth. This study examines these relationships among adolescents in the general population as well as across racial/ethnic, gender, and family income differences. Using a nationally representative sample of adolescents (N = 90,202) from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (2006-2010), logistic regression is used to examine the relationships between religiosity and violence. Results indicate that multiple components of adolescent religiosity are associated with the decreased likelihood of fighting, group fighting, and, to a lesser extent, violent attacks. A number of noteworthy differences were identified across race/ethnicity, gender, and family income. Findings from this investigation shed light on the relationship between particular facets of religiosity and violence that may be useful for violence prevention organizat...
The unique GGA clathrin adaptor of Drosophila melanogaster is not essential

The Golgi-localized, γ-ear-containing, ARF binding proteins (GGAs) are a highly conserved family of monomeric clathrin adaptor proteins implicated in clathrin-mediated protein sorting between the trans-Golgi network and endosomes. GGA RNAi knockdowns in Drosophila have resulted in conflicting data concerning whether the Drosophila GGA (dGGA) is essential. The goal of this study was to define the null phenotype for the unique Drosophila GGA. We describe two independently derived dGGA mutations. Neither allele expresses detectable dGGA protein. Homozygous and hemizygous flies with each allele are viable and fertile. In contrast to a previous report using RNAi knockdown, GGA mutant flies show no evidence of age-dependent retinal degeneration or cathepsin missorting. Our results demonstrate that several of the previous RNAi knockdown phenotypes were the result of off-target effects. However, GGA null flies are hypersensitive to dietary chloroquine and to starvation, implicating GGA in lysosomal function and autophagy.
Varices in early histological stage primary biliary cirrhosis.

Background/GoalsEsophageal varices (EV) in early histological stages of primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) have been recognized but not well defined. We sought to determine the prevalence, clinical characteristics, and predictors of EV in early-stage PBC, as well as to evaluate the effectiveness of rec
Induction of peroxisomal enzymes in rat liver by dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate

Male F-344 rats, when treated with either 150 mg/kg or 300 mg/kg body weight of DHEAS for 14 days, produced a dose-dependent increase in liver weight and peroxisomal β-oxidation activity, characteristic of peroxisomal proliferation. Contrary to previous observations in vitro, we also found a significant increase in catalase activity in rat liver with the higher dose of the steroid. Furthermore, the in vivo induction of peroxisomal β-oxidation by DHEAS observed in our study was significantly less than reported in vitro, and also unlike previously reported in vitro results, was approximately equivalent to DHEA administered in vivo.
Assessment of stroke index using impedance cardiography: comparison with traditional vital signs for detection of moderate acute blood loss in healthy volunteers.

OBJECTIVES Impedance cardiography has been used to detect early hemorrhagic shock, but, to the best of the authors' knowledge, no previous study has looked at the test characteristics of bioimpedance-derived hemodynamic parameters for the detection of a measured loss of blood volume. The authors set out to investigate the effect of controlled hemorrhage on stroke index (SI) using impedance cardiography, and to evaluate the performance of this test for moderate blood loss in comparison with the performance of traditional vital signs. METHODS Supine and standing measurements of SI were made using a thoracic electrical bioimpedance monitor in 197 healthy, adult volunteers before and after donation of a standard unit (500 mL) of whole blood. Pre- and post-donation means for supine SI, heart rate (HR), systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and for the postural changes in each of these measurements ( triangle up SI, triangle up HR, triangle up SBP, triangle up DBP), were compared using a paired-sample, two-tailed t-test. For each term, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were generated, treating pre- and post-donation populations as independent. Areas under the ROC curves were compared using a method for correlated test result data. RESULTS Mean +/- SD pre- and post-donation values for SI were 47.0 +/- 6.9 mL/m(2) and 43.9 +/- 7.3 mL/m(2), respectively (p < 0.0001). Mean pre- and post-donation values for triangle up SI were -7.7 +/- 5.8 mL/m(2) and -9.0 +/- 8.2 mL/m(2), respectively (p = 0.02). For discriminating between pre- and post-donation status, the areas under the ROC curves for SI and triangle up SI were 0.62 and 0.58, respectively. In comparison, the areas under the ROC curves for HR, SBP, DBP, triangle up HR, triangle up SBP, and triangle up DBP were 0.49, 0.61, 0.56, 0.82, 0.53, and 0.50, respectively. The area under the ROC curve for triangle up HR was significantly greater than the area under any of the other curves (p < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS Moderate blood loss was associated with a decline in mean SI that was clearly detectable with impedance cardiography. However, as a test for moderate blood loss in this controlled setting, neither SI nor triangle up SI performed better than traditional vital signs.
Exploring the Support Role of Special Education Teachers After Hurricane Ike Children With Significant Disabilities

This study explored the role of special education teachers of children with significant disabilities during Hurricane Ike. Grounded theory methods were used to analyze interview data of the teachers (n = 4) who were employed in school districts directly affected by the hurricane. The five categories that emerged from the data were losses for students and families, losses for teachers, resource supports, communication supports, and supports to reestablish routines. Despite being affected by the storm themselves, the teachers provided essential support to their students and families throughout all phases of the disaster. The role of these teachers evolved to include instrumental and psychological supports, which has been documented in previous studies. These teachers’ roles differed in that they provided support while school was closed and included the disability-related needs of their students. Recommendations include that teachers receive training on the needs of students with significant disabilities and...
Nausea and Vomiting Side Effects with Opioid Analgesics during Treatment of Chronic Pain: Mechanisms, Implications, and Management Options

Objectives. Gastrointestinal (GI) side effects such as nausea and vomiting are common following opioid analgesia and represent a significant cause of patient discomfort and treatment dissatisfaction. This review examines the mechanisms that produce these side effects, their impact on treatment outcomes in chronic pain patients, and counteractive strategies. Results. A number of mechanisms by which opioids produce nausea and vomiting have been identified. These involve both central and peripheral sites including the vomiting center, chemoreceptor trigger zones, cerebral cortex, and the vestibular apparatus of the brain, as well as the GI tract itself. Nausea and vomiting have a negative impact on treatment efficacy and successful patient management because they limit the effective analgesic dosage that can be achieved and are frequently reported as the reason for discontinuation of opioid pain medication or missed doses. While various strategies such as antiemetic agents or opioid switching can be employed to control these side effects, neither option is ideal because they are not always effective and incur additional costs and inconvenience. Opioid-sparing analgesic agents may provide a further alternative to avoid nausea and vomiting due to their reduced reliance on mu-opioid signalling pathways to induce analgesia. Conclusions. Nausea and vomiting side effects limit the analgesic efficiency of current opioid therapies. There is a clear need for the development of improved opioid-based analgesics that mitigate these intolerable effects.
A variation in mouse kidney pyruvate kinase activity determined by a mutant gene on chromosome 9.

Pyruvate kinase activity was studied in kidney extracts of mice from various sources. One C57BL/6J female among several hundred examined expressed activity approximately one half of the normal level. This animal transmitted the trait, and a single gene responsible for the activity difference was identified and mapped to chromosome 9. Linkage with Mod-1 and dilute was established. A spontaneous mutation in the C57BL/6J strain apparently was responsible for the variant pyruvate kinase.
Framework for Selecting Performance Assessment Tools for Achieving LEED 3.0 Credits

Architects, designers and engineers involved in a sustainable design project often require information and tools beyond energy simulation software. They look for tools to support their decisions and to assess the risk involved in decision making. This research presents a framework that links building performance assessment tools with the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system. The objective is to bridge the gap between architects, engineers, contractors, facility managers and LEED professionals. This work provides information about performance tools that can be used in the different phases of design, construction and operation of a LEED-rated building. This research presents a three-dimensional matrix of the ‘right tool for the right job at the right time’ by linking LEED credits, software tools and phases of building design, construction and operation. Overall, the findings of the research demonstrate that the framework can be used to achieve 21% of total possible LEED 3.0 cre...
Adaptive Stimulus Representations: A Computational Theory of Hippocampal-Region Function

We present a theory of cortico-hippocampal interaction in discrimination learning. The hippocampal region is presumed to form new stimulus representations which facilitate learning by enhancing the discriminability of predictive stimuli and compressing stimulus-stimulus redundancies. The cortical and cerebellar regions, which are the sites of long-term memory. may acquire these new representations but are not assumed to be capable of forming new representations themselves. Instantiated as a connectionist model. this theory accounts for a wide range of trial-level classical conditioning phenomena in normal (intact) and hippocampal-lesioned animals. It also makes several novel predictions which remain to be investigated empirically. The theory implies that the hippocampal region is involved in even the simplest learning tasks; although hippocampal-lesioned animals may be able to use other strategies to learn these tasks. the theory predicts that they will show consistently different patterns of transfer and generalization when the task demands change.
Cross-sectional study of nutrition knowledge and attitudes of medical students at three points in their medical training at 11 southeastern medical schools.

Abstract Eleven southeastern medical schools cooperated to evaluate nutrition knowledge and attitudes of medical students. This study complements previous reports of an examination of entering freshmen and seniors. Average knowledge scores for 165 students tested after basic sciences (preclinical) training in this study were 67 +/- 7% compared with 53 +/- 6% for freshmen and 69 +/- 8% for seniors. The upperclassmen's scores were higher than the freshmen's (p less than 0.001) and varied with the amount of required nutrition teaching. Only 13% of preclinical students perceived nutrition as important to their careers compared with 74% of entering and 59% of graduating students, suggesting that preclinical teaching reduces their sense of relevance of nutrition to medicine. These findings suggest that nutrition knowledge can be increased through preclinical coursework and that the knowledge level can be maintained through the clinical years. However, the positive attitude of freshmen toward nutrition is lost after preclinical training and is only partially regained after the clinical years.
Chaotic non-planar vibrations of the thin elastica: Part II: Derivation and analysis of a low-dimensional model

Abstract Here, we develop a simple model for the bending-torsion vibrations of the thin elastica; the experimental observations were described in Part I. A geometrically exact rod theory is developed: dimensional analysis demonstrates that a curvature constraint not used in previous analyses is appropriate in our case, and this is used to develop a coupled set of non-linear integro-differential equations for the problem. Using an additional simplifying assumption on the spatial derivative of the torsional field variable, a simplified set of partial differential equations is derived. It is shown that a two-mode projection of these model partial differential equations can be related to an intuitively appealing two-degree-of-freedom mechanical system. Numerical experiments on the two-mode model show that it captures much of the behavior observed in the physical experiments on the thin elastica. In particular, the model possesses a family of bending-torsion non-linear modes with a frequency-amplitude characteristic much like that found experimentally, and the driven problem loses planar stability in a fashion analogous to that observed with the elastica.
Aerosol Sulfur Association with Aluminum in Eastern North America: Evidence for Solubilization of Atmospheric Trace Metals before Deposition

Statistical evidence has been found for the association of atmospheric aerosol sulfur with soil mineral elements in the eastern United States. The variability in time sequence aerosol composition, measured by proton-induced X-ray emission (PIXE) analysis of 3,600 two-hourly filter samples at nine sites during October 1977, has been examined using factor analysis and multiple linear regression. At all sites, 84% to 91% of the variance is accounted for by three or four factors, including a mainly sulfur component that also contains Al and other soil mineral metals, as well as one or two dust components and a Pb-Br component attributed to automotive emissions. The first of these is interpreted to represent sulfuric acid taken up by airborne alkaline mineral dust. At ambient relative humidities sulfuric acid aerosol may reach pH 0 or below, and the alkaline soil mineral particles are expected to be rendered soluble by reaction with their strongly acidic surface coatings. The resulting solubilized trace metals, after wet or dry deposition to the surface, may be more biologically available than if the metals were deposited in an insoluble mineral form. At two northeastern U.S. sites, the Al concentrations in the S-rich aerosol component are high enough to account for much of the soluble Al reported to be present in Adirondack lakes. At the midwestern sites, the Al concentrations in the S-rich component are higher, corresponding to the expected higher dust fluxes to the atmosphere by wind erosion of soils. At all sites the atmospheric deposition fluxes of metals, after solubilization by reaction of airborne soil mineral particles with sulfuric acid, may be an important input to aquatic and possibly terrestrial ecosystems.
A High-Fat, High-Oleic Diet, But Not a High-Fat, Saturated Diet, Reduces Hepatic α-Linolenic Acid and Eicosapentaenoic Acid Content in Mice

Considerable research has focused upon the role of linoleic acid (LNA; 18:2n-6) as a competitive inhibitor of α-linolenic (ALA; 18:3n-3) metabolism; however, little data exist as to the impact of saturated fatty acids (SFA) and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) on ALA metabolism. We tested the hypothesis that a high SFA diet, compared to a high MUFA (oleic acid 18:1n-9) diet, reduces ALA conversion to long chain n-3 fatty acids. Mice were fed for 12 weeks on three diets: (1) a control, 16 % fat energy diet consisting of similar levels of SFA and MUFA (2) a 50 % fat energy high MUFA energy diet (35 % MUFA and 7 % SFA) or (3) a 50 % fat energy, high SFA energy diet (34 % SFA, 8 % MUFA). ALA and LNA content remained constant. Analysis of hepatic lipids demonstrated a selective reduction (40 %) in ALA but not LNA and a 35 % reduction in eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA; 20:5n-3) in the high MUFA mice compared to the other groups. Lower content of ALA was reflected in the neutral lipid fraction, while smaller levels of phospholipid esterified EPA and docosapentaenoic acid (DPA; 22:5n-3) were evident. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; 22:6n-3) content was elevated by the high SFA diet. Expression of Fads1 (Δ5 desaturase) and Fads2 (Δ6 desaturase) was elevated by the high MUFA and reduced by the high SFA diet. These data indicate that a high MUFA diet, but not a high SFA diet, reduces ALA metabolism and point to selective hepatic disposition of ALA versus LNA.
Self-testing produces superior recall of both familiar and unfamiliar muscle information

Dozens of studies have found learning strategies based on the "testing effect" promote greater recall than those that rely solely on reading; however, the advantages of testing are often only observed after a delay (e.g., 2-7 days later). In contrast, our research, which has focused on kinesiology students learning kinesiology information that is generally familiar to them, has consistently demonstrated that testing-based strategies produce greater recall both immediately and after a delay. In an attempt to understand the discrepancies in the literature, the purpose of the present study was to determine if the time-related advantages of a testing-based learning strategy vary with one's familiarity with the to-be-learned information. Participants used both read-only and testing-based strategies to repeatedly study three different sets of information: 1) previously studied human muscle information (familiar information), 2) a mix of previously studied and previously unstudied human muscle information (mixed information), and 3) previously unstudied muscle information that is unique to sharks (unfamiliar information). Learning was evaluated via free recall assessments administered immediately after studying and again after a 1-wk delay and a 3-wk delay. Across those three assessments, the read-only strategy resulted in mean scores of 29.26 ± 1.43, 15.17 ± 1.29, and 5.33 ± 0.77 for the familiar, mixed, and unfamiliar information, respectively, whereas the testing-based strategy produced scores of 34.57 ± 1.58, 16.90 ± 1.31, and 8.33 ± 0.95, respectively. The results indicate that the testing-based strategy produced greater recall immediately and up through the 3-wk delay regardless of the participants' level of familiarity with the muscle information.
Management of Complications of Radiotherapy of the Head and Neck

A brief summary of the use of radiation therapy and its potential morbidity—both expected and unexpected—is presented. This article serves as a reminder that although there are long-term cures of definitive irradiation, they may also be associated with lifelong, potentially life threatening consequences.
Electromechanical Impedance Based Crack Detection for a Rotating Machine

Visual examination, ultrasonic tests, and dye penetrant inspection, are some examples of nondestructive techniques widely used for crack detection in rotors. These methods have proved to be costly, since satisfactory results rely on detailed and periodic inspections. Significant research effort has been directed in recent years to online monitoring techniques, i.e., based on vibration signals measured during rotor operation. However, most of them are able to only detect deep cracks. The uniqueness of this paper relies on the detection of incipient transverse cracks in rotating shafts by using the so-called, electromechanical impedance method. This method has become a promising tool for structural health monitoring of machines due to its sensitivity to small local damage. Basically, the method monitors changes in the electric impedance of piezoelectric transducers, bonded to (or embedded into) the host structure, through specific mathematic functions, the so-called damage metrics, to detect damage. This is possible because the transducer’s impedance is directly related to the mechanical impedance of the structure. In this context, successful experimental tests were performed in a horizontal rotor supported by roller bearings. PZT patches were bonded along the rotor’s shaft, in which transverse cracks were introduced. The technique was validated under different unbalance conditions.
Validation of a one-dimensional, steady, infinite-rate model for gas-turbine combustors

A one-dimensional numerical model has been developed for the analysis of complete gas-turbine combustor configurations. It is based on the solution of the integral form of the Euler equations with sources. These equations include the conservation equation for a mixture-fraction variable, which allows the determination of the composition of the mixture at any point. As a result the heat-release from combustion is automatically given as part of the solution. The method is applied to a production burner and the results compared with those from an industrial one-dimensional burner code. Agreement between both methods is good, providing a validation for the present model.
Immobilized boron-centered heteroscorpionates: heterocycle metathesis and coordination chemistry.

The preparation of a resin-supported boron-scorpionate ligand and its nickel(II) coordination complexes are reported. The supported ligand is prepared as its potassium salt, making it a general rea...
The Irish Disestablishment Conference of 1869

The Reform Bill of 1867 inaugurated a new era in the political history of Great Britain. By enlarging the electorate and increasing the possibilities for party organisation this Act brought to a close that period of the mid-nineteenth century when parties were in a state of flux. This was manifested in Parliament by a growing disparity between the popularly elected House of Commons and the hereditary based House of Lords. In 1868 and 1869 these bodies converged in a constitutional struggle over the disestablishment of the Irish Church. By toppling Disraeli from the premiership and acquiring a clear mandate from the electorate for a change in the status of the Irish Church Gladstone was able to make an irrefutable case for disestablishment. When Gladstone placed his bill before Parliament opposition developed in the first instance, as expected, from churchmen and Tories in the House of Lords who feared that the passage of disestablishment would admit a host of further changes in the constitution. Through the efforts of archbishop Tait, however, and other moderates the upper house wisely passed the principle of the bill. But opposition to the measure was based not so much on upholding the principle of establishment in Ireland, which was indefensible, but on a disagreement with the substance, or the details by which the Irish Church was to be disendowed. During the committee stage the House of Lords precipitated a crisis by so amending the bill as to maintain the financial security of the Irish Church. For the purpose of reaching a compromise on the disendowment clauses of the bill a conference of party leaders was summoned. To this end the mediation efforts of the queen were directed. But any settlement of the crisis depended in the final analysis on the extent of Conservative opposition and the ease with which party divisions could be bridged.
Metal Suppression of Pentacene Grain Growth

Pentacene thin-film transistors use either bottom-contact or top-contact electrodes. Transistors with bottom-contact electrodes are fabricated in such a way that metal is deposited and patterned before pentacene deposition while those with top-contact electrodes are fabricated in reverse order. Hole mobility is closely related to pentacene grain sizes and grain sizes of pentacene depend heavily on the surface roughness. When the surfaces are flat and smooth enough, the grains of pentacene are still small if metal is deposited before pentacene, i.e., bottom-contact configuration. Pentacene inside the channels formed by source and drain electrodes has much smaller grains than those far away from metal electrodes. To further understand this phenomenon, we first studied pentacene grain growth on different substrates (oxide, Poly-4-vinylphenol or PVP, and SU8-2.) but with same metal electrodes (500 O Au). Next, we studied pentacene grain growth on the same substrate (oxide) but with different metal electrodes (500 O Au, 500 O Al, and 500 OCr). To avoid contaminating and damaging substrate surfaces, we used shadow masks for metal deposition. For substrate studies, the fabrication process of testing samples began by oxidation of silicon wafers. PVP and SU8-2 were spin-coated on oxide wafers and cured. 500 O Au was thermally evaporated through shadow masks onto wafers to form source and drain. Pentacene was then thermally evaporated onto the wafers. Likewise, the fabrication process of the second study began by oxidation of silicon wafers. Different metals were thermally evaporated through shadow masks onto oxide wafers. Finally, pentacene was thermally evaporated onto the wafers. To further study the relation between pentacene grain sizes and distance from metal electrodes, we also made metal ring structures. The substrates were kept at room temperature during pentacene deposition for all samples. Grain diameters were calculated from scanning probe microscopic or atomic force microscopic images. Images taken with Veeco Digital Instrument Dimension 3100 AFM were analyzed with Scion Image program. After counting particle numbers, average grain diameters were calculated assuming grains are circular. Our data show that pentacene has drastically smaller grains inside the channels electrodes than that far away electrodes for all 3 kinds of substrates: oxide, PVP and SU8-2. EDS spectrum confirms that there is no Au inside the channels. Not only Au, but also Al and Cr show the same phenomenon. Across the 400-um metal rings, pentacene grain diameters increase first and then decrease, confirming that pentacene grain growth is somehow suppressed by the presence of metal. This phenomenon adds another reason supporting that pentacene thin-film transistors with bottom-contact electrodes have worse performances due to smaller grains. Currently, we are working on modeling this phenomenon and finding theoretical explanations.
Introduction: Spirituality and Catastrophe

In this issue, the focus of the Southern MediccilJownaV s Spirituality/Medicine Interface Project is on what physicians need to know about spirituality and mass catastrophe. As used here, spirituality involves religious beliefs, practices, and traditions, but also more broadly includes a search for the sacred,' ultimate truth, or ultimate reality. Spirituality is closely related to but distinct from concepts such as meaning and purpose in life, connectedness to others, and sense of peacefijlness to which spiritual strivings may eventually lead but arc not part of the definition itself.' Mass catastrophes include natural disasters (eg, hurricanes) and acts of human terrorism (eg, bombings) that affect entire communities; these contrast with personal catastrophes (eg, murder, infidelity, torture, disfigurement). Catastrophe as discussed here will be limited to disaster on a communitywide scale. The purpose of these articles is to prepare physicians to address the unique emotional, social, and spiritual needs of survivors and of their families, of rescue workers, and of the treating physicians themselves. Besides generally preparing physicians to meet the medical and psychological needs of survivors, this issue will help to increase awareness of the spiritual needs of these potential patients, to learn how to sensitively identify those needs, and to detemiine when and whom to refer. The role that religion and spirituality play in helping survivors cope with the trauma of disasters is ofren quite significant. The ultimate result, we hope, will be a nation that is more resilient during times of catastrophe.
Expression and DNA binding of the human 52 kDa Ro/SSA autoantigen.

Abstract The 52 kDa Ro/SSA protein is an intracellular autoantigen that is frequently recognized by antibodies in sera of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus or Sjogren's syndrome. While the function of this molecule is not known, zinc finger and leucine zipper motifs have been identified in its predicted amino acid sequence which suggest that it may interact with nucleic acids. To test this hypothesis, the human gene which encodes this protein was cloned in a baculovirus and expressed in Spodoptera frugipoda cells. Extracts from these infected insect cells were used as a source of protein for this study. The protein is similar in size and antigenicity to that expressed in human cells. This protein binds to DNA at physiological temperature and is eluted with high concentrations of sodium chloride. Striking similarities were found between the sequence in, and adjacent to, the nucleic acid-binding motifs of 52 kDa Ro/SSA and a growing family of zinc finger proteins which have been shown to bind to DNA or regulate gene expression. The findings presented here place this protein structurally and functionally in this family and demonstrate a biochemical assay which can be used to study its function.
Successful fertilization in vitro of fresh intact oocytes by perivitelline (acrosome-reacted) spermatozoa of the rabbit

The ability of supplementary rabbit spermatozoa recovered from the perivitelline space of fertilized eggs to penetrate and fertilize fresh oocytes was determined. One-cell embryos were recovered from superovulated does ~4 hours after ovulation. The perivitelline spermatozoa were released by rupturing the zona pellucida of mechanically and enzymatically denuded 1-cell embryos and then fresh cumulus-intact oocytes were added. Fertilization of fresh oocytes was evaluated by pronuclei and second polar body formation. Thirty-three of 143 oocytes (24%) were fertilized by perivitelline spermatozoa. Of these, eight (24%) progressed to normal 2-cell embryos in vitro. These data suggest that some completely acrosome-reacted perivitelline rabbit spermatozoa retain the ability to penetrate the cumulus, bind and penetrate the zona pellucida, and fuse with the vitellus of fresh intact unfertilized oocytes to initiate apparently normal embryonic development.
Role of physicians in interrogations.

Discussion of physician participation in interrogations during wartime based on the American Medical Association's Code of Medical Ethics, which prohibits physician monitoring of interrogations but allows patient care. Virtual Mentor is a monthly bioethics journal published by the American Medical Association.
The development of a novel load-line translation algorithm for dynamic power control of power amplifiers during power back-off

The need for highly reliable communication systems that are flexible and adaptable to the changing needs and requirements that occur during space exploration are essential. Output power and efficiency of the system's transmitter are two dynamic requirements that can be improved with an adaptable communication system. Bias adaptation updates the transmitter DC bias to optimize efficient use of power in the transmitter. Within a wireless communication system, the RF power amplifier has significant consequence over the efficiency and linearity of the overall system. Further concern of non-linearity is increased for the power amplifier because the amplifier's best output power and efficiency performance occurs at points when the amplifier is exhibiting non-linear characteristics. These non-linear characteristics are produced by the amplifier entering a saturation region; as a result gain compression and signal distortion become noticed. Furthermore, with the integration of a bias adaption scheme into the amplifier design which uses voltage variation, there is also the additional concern of amplitude modulation to phase modulation distortion. A bias adaption approach was implemented that provides the amplifier with the ability to obtain better efficiency, over a static Class-A bias case, without additional degradation of the linearity performance. The approach also provides further insight into the non-linear behaviors of the amplifier and the measured results are in good agreement with the simulated linearity results provided via Agilent's Advance Design System design software. The Cripps' Class-A Load-line method serves as the foundation for this analysis. The approach translates the original Class-A Load-line to compensate for the change in the input drive level. A load-line bisector was calculated to assist in the change of DC bias proportionately with the change in output RF power. As a result, the adaptable power amplifier showed an average improvement of 69% in power added efficiency (PAE) compared to a static Class-A bias over power levels below the 1dB compression point (P 1dB). The Carrier to Interference Ratio (C/I) increased by a maximum 7dB over the static Class-A bias case. Furthermore, the linear variation of DC bias, guided by the load-line bisector, resulted in the linear change of the P1dB. The efficiency performance of the adaptable power amplifier showed and average improvement of 70% when driven by BPSK and QPSK modulated input signals.
Inelastic Neutron Scattering of H2 in Xerogel

The properties of molecular hydrogen adsorbed in Britesorb were studied through inelastic neutron scattering. We have measured both the rotational energy levels and the momentum distribution at bilayer and nearly full pore fillings. Splitting of the J=1 rotational energy levels is observed for molecular hydrogen adsorbed on the surface, while the rotational properties of the hydrogen adsorbed after monolayer completion is consistent with behavior in the bulk. Additionally, the measurement of the momentum distribution showed that the mean kinetic energy of the molecules in the bilayer is 88 K±7 K. The kinetic energy measured in the nearly full pore was 81 K±6 K, which is consistent with a simple model in which the behavior of the monolayer is dominated by the interaction with the surface of the pore wall but H2 adsorbed after monolayer completion is bulk like.
SEMIEMPIRICAL FORMULAS FOR GAMMA-RAY DOSE RATES THROUGH TWO-LAYER SLAB SHIELDS.

A series of dose rate calculations in two-layered slab shields has been performed, using a Monte Carlo technique, at combinations of source energy and slab thickness selected with the aid of a comp...
Paratheism: A Proof that God neither Exists nor Does Not Exist

Theism and its cousins, atheism and agnosticism, are seldom taken to task for logical-epistemological incoherence. This paper provides a condensed proof that not only theism, but atheism and agnosticism as well, are all of them conceptually self-undermining, and for the same reason: All attempt to make use of the concept of “transcendent reality,” which here is shown not only to lack meaning, but to preclude the very possibility of meaning. In doing this, the incoherence of theism, atheism, and agnosticism is secondary to the more general incoherence of any attempts to refer to so-called “transcendent realities.” A recognition of the conceptually fundamental incoherence of theism, atheism, and agnosticism compels our rational assent to a position the author names “paratheism.”
Low-Temperature Synchrotron Photoionization Study of 2-Methyl-3-buten-2-ol (MBO) Oxidation Initiated by O(3P) Atoms in the 298-650 K Range.

This work studies the oxidation of 2-methyl-3-buten-2-ol initiated by O(3P) atoms. The oxidation was investigated at room temperature, 550, and 650 K. Using the synchrotron radiation from the Advanced Light Source (ALS) of the Lawrence Berkley National Laboratory, reaction intermediates and products were studied by multiplexed photoionization mass spectrometry. Mass-to-charge ratios, kinetic time traces, photoionization spectra, and adiabatic ionization energies for each primary reaction species were obtained and used to characterize their identity. Using electronic structure calculations, potential energy surface scans of the different species produced throughout the oxidation were examined and presented in this paper to further validate the primary chemistry occurring. Branching fractions of primary products at all three temperatures were also provided. At room temperature only three primary products formed: ethenol (26.6%), acetaldehyde (4.2%), and acetone (53.4%). At 550 and 650 K the same primary pro...
L-arginine attenuates Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) induced Nuclear Factor Kappa-Beta (NF-κB) activation in Caco-2 cells.

Background Specific nutrients like L-arginine (L-Arg) ameliorate intestinal inflammation, however the exact mechanisms of this effect are unclear. We hypothesized the anti-inflammatory effects of L-Arg require active transport and metabolism by inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) to generate nitric oxide (NO). To test this hypothesis we examined the effects of L-Arg, L-Arg transport activity, NO production and iNOS inhibitor on IL-1β-mediated NF-κB-activation in Caco-2 cells. Methods Caco-2 cells were cultured, transfected with a NF-κB promoter luciferase vector, incubated ± L-Arg, ± IL-1β and luciferase activity was measured. Using siRNA we inhibited the L-Arg cationic amino acid transporter system y+ (CAT1) expression and examined its effects on L-Arg transport activity and IL-1β-mediated NF-κB-activation. Finally, the effects of sodium nitroprusside (SNP, a NO donor) and Nω-nitro-L-arginine (NNA, an iNOS inhibitor) on IL-1β-mediated NF-κB-activation were examined. Results IL-1β increased NF-κB luciferase activity (8-fold) and NF-κB expression (mRNA and protein), both of these were significantly decreased by L-Arg. System y+ CAT1 siRNA decreased CAT1 expression, L-Arg transport activity and attenuated the inhibitory effects of L-Arg on NF- κB activity. SNP attenuated the IL-1β-induced increase in NF-κB luciferase activity and expression, whereas NNA diminished the inhibitory effects of L-Arg on IL-1β-inducible NF- κB luciferase activity. Conclusion The inhibitory effects of L-Arg on IL-1β-mediated NF-κB-activation in Caco-2 cells involve L-Arg transport activity by CAT1, regulation of IL-1β-mediated increases in NF-κB expression, changes in iNOS expression and NO production. Our data suggest the inhibitory effects of L-Arg on NF-κB activation are mediated in part by iNOS since SNP preserves and NNA attenuates the effects of L-Arg on IL-1β-mediated NF-κB-activation and expression.
Kinematic difference between a biological cell and an artificial vesicle in a strong DC electric field – a “shell” membrane model study

Cellular biomechanics can be manipulated by strong electric fields, manifested by the field-induced membrane deformation and migration (galvanotaxis), which significantly impacts normal cellular physiology. Artificial giant vesicles that mimic the phospholipid bilayer of the cell membrane have been used to investigate the membrane biomechanics subjected to electric fields. Under a strong direct current (DC) electric field, the vesicle membrane demonstrates various patterns of deformation, which depends on the conductivity ratio between the medium and the cytoplasm. The vesicle exhibits prolate elongation along the direction of the electric field if the cytoplasm is more conductive than the medium. Conversely, the vesicle exhibits an oblate deformation if the medium is more conductive. Unlike a biological cell, artificial vesicles do not migrate in the strong DC electric field. To reconcile the kinematic difference between a cell and a vesicle under a strong DC electric field, we proposed a structure that represents a low-conductive, “shell-like” membrane. This membrane separates the extracellular medium from the cytoplasm. We computed the electric field, induced surface charge and mechanical pressure on the fixed membrane surface. We also computed the overall translational forces imposed on the structure for a vesicle and a cell. The DC electric field generated a steady-state radial pressure due to the interaction between the local electric field and field-induced surface charges. The radial pressure switches its direction from “pulling” to “compressing” when the medium becomes more conductive than the cytoplasm. However, this switch can happen only if the membrane becomes extremely conductive under the strong electric field. The induced surface charges do not contribute to the net translational force imposed on the structure. Instead, the net translational force generated on the shell structure depends on its intrinsic charges. It is zero for the neutrally-charged, artificial vesicle membrane. In contrast, intrinsic charges in a biological cell could generate translational force for its movement in a DC electric field. This work provides insights into factors that affect cellular/vesicle biomechanics inside a strong DC electric field. It provides a quantitative explanation for the distinct kinematics of a spherical cell verses a vesicle inside the field.