cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Modeling of printed circuit cards subject to vibration

Some of the current methodologies used in modeling printed circuit cards subjected to vibration are introduced. An overview of experimental and computational methods of determining the natural frequencies and mode shapes of circuit cards populated with various module types is presented. Methodologies for correlating experimentally derived vibration data with the computer models are explored. By using the modal assurance criterion as a correlation measure, it is shown that smearing or homogenizing the material properties is effective in preserving a good degree of correlation in the lower modes of vibration of an example printed circuit card. It is also observed that modeling the entire card as a single composite modeling region is surprisingly effective. However, increasing the number of composite modeling regions to five produced a better overall correlation of the modes of interest. >
Release of Rhizobium spp. from Tropical Soils and Recovery for Immunofluorescence Enumeration.

Limitations associated with immunofluorescence enumeration of bacteria in soil derive largely from the efficiency with which cells can be separated from soil particles and collected on membrane filters for staining. Many tropical soils fix added bacteria tightly, resulting in low recoveries. Eight soils, representative of three of the major soil orders found in the tropics (oxisols, vertisols, and inceptisols), were tested for recovery of added Rhizobium strains. All except one Hawaiian andept (Typic Eutrandept) yielded recoveries ranging from 90 to 0.1 M Na(2)HPO(4) = 0.1 M sodium-phosphate-buffered saline (pH 7.2) > 0.2 M NH(4)Cl > 0.2 KCl > NaCl = LiCl > water.
A free space optical crossbar switch using wavelength division multiplexing and vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers

Building large crossbar switches for low-latency, high-bandwidth interprocessor interconnects in multiprocessor systems is a difficult task because of the many practical limitations of digital electronics. This paper presents a first order design for a crossbar switch which utilizers wavelength tunable vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL) technology and free space optics. Free space optics can be utilized to construct a crossbar switch without the wiring complexity normally associated with digital electronic crossbar. Wavelength tunable VCSELs can be utilized to reduce the required number of components per node to as few as one wavelength tunable VCSEL and one fixed frequency receiver, thereby reducing the overall cost. By utilizing space division multiplexing, one can further increase the size of the optical crossbar switch by adding additional wavelength tunable VCSELs at each node, greatly increasing the saleability of the overall system. An example system configuration containing 256 channels is presented.
Preservation of primary bovine embryonic kidney cells with dimethyl sulfoxide.

Primary bovine embryonic kidney cells frozen with dimethyl sulfoxide can be recultured with satisfactory results.
Preprocessing techniques and column generation algorithms for stochastically efficient demand

We construct a discrete-time, multi-period replenishment plan that integrates the inventory, production and distribution functions and that satisfies the conditions of a very demanding cycle service level. The corresponding optimization problem takes the form of a very complex mixed-integer stochastic program. We develop a new enumerative algorithm that identifies the stochastically efficient demand trajectories at an authorized level of stockout, and derive three algorithmic preprocessing techniques used to discriminate the above trajectories. The application of the enumerative and preprocessing algorithmic approaches transforms the stochastic program into a disjunctive integer program solved through a column generation that reduces the risk of a bottleneck in the distribution resources of the supply chain. Computational results evaluate the efficiency of the algorithmic developments proposed in this paper, and attest the quality and robustness of the solution method. The solution methodology is validated on a real-life problem.
Patterns of ambulatory activity in subjects with and without intermittent claudication

Purpose This study compared the patterns of ambulatory activity in subjects with and without intermittent claudication. Methods The study participants were 98 subjects limited by intermittent claudication and 129 controls who were matched for age, gender, and race. Subjects were assessed on their ambulatory activity patterns for 1 week with a small, lightweight step activity monitor attached to the ankle using elastic Velcro (Velcro Industries BV, Manchester, NH) straps above the lateral malleolus of the right leg. The step activity monitor recorded the number of strides taken on a minute-to-minute basis, the time spent ambulating, and the time and number of strides measured at low ( 30 strides/min) cadences. Results Subjects with intermittent claudication took fewer total strides each day than the controls (3149 ± 1557 strides/d vs 4230 ± 1708 strides/d; P P = .001) and high (766 ± 753 strides/day vs 1285 ± 1029 strides/day; P P P = .034), primarily at medium (58 ± 30 min/day vs 75 ± 32 min/day; P P = .001) cadences. Conclusion Intermittent claudication is associated with lower total daily ambulatory activity owing both to less time ambulating and to fewer strides taken while ambulating, particularly at moderate and high cadences.
Further Refinements of the Peroxidase−Oxidase Oscillator Mechanism: Mixed-Mode Oscillations and Chaos

A model of the peroxidase−oxidase (PO) reaction which explicitly includes the species 2,4-dichlorophenol (DCP) is proposed. Simulations with this model are run at different pH values, resulting in ...
Structure-activity relationships of norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors with benzothiadiazine dioxide or dihydrosulfostyril cores.

Abstract Two related series of selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors were synthesized based on 3,4-dihydro-1H-2,1,3-benzothiadiazine 2,2-dioxide or 3,4-dihydrosulfostyril cores, and screened for monoamine reuptake inhibition. Structure–activity relationships were determined for the series’ in vitro potency and selectivity versus serotonin or dopamine transporter inhibition, and analogs based on both cores were identified as potent and selective NRIs. The 3,4-dihydrosulfostyril series was further tested for microsome stability, and compound 16j, which was optimized for both potency and stability, showed efficacy in an in vivo model of thermoregulatory dysfunction.
The W187decay scheme and possible vibrational levels in an odd-mass nucleus

The transitions and levels of Re/sup 187/ populated by W/sup 187/ beta / sup -/ decay were investigated with a bent crystal spectrometer, an iron-free homogeneous-field spectrometer, an iron-free 180 deg -focusing spectrometer, and a fast-slow coincidence angular-correlation unit. Seventeen transitions, which are interpreted to establish eight excited levels in Re/sup 187/ were observed. An analysis of the levels in terms of the Nilsson description showed that certain definite discrepancies exist between the theoretically expected level order and that observed. It is therefore suggested that two of the levels observed may correspond to the coupling of single particle states to gamma vibrations. (auth)
AIR QUALITY MODEL EVALUATION DATA FOR ORGANICS. 4. C2-C36 NON-AROMATIC HYDROCARBONS

The concentrations of 143 non-aromatic hydrocarbons are quantified in 36 samples (32 urban and 4 background) collected during a severe Los Angeles area photochemical smog episode. Gas phase, semivolatile, and particle phase organic compounds are viewed simultaneously across the carbon number range from C_2 to C_(36). Compound classes studied include the n-alkanes, branched alkanes, n-alkenes, branched alkenes, diolefins, alkynes, saturated cyclic hydrocarbons, unsaturated cyclic hydrocarbons, biogenic hydrocarbons, petroleum biomarkers, and the unresolved complex mixture contained within the semivolatile and particle phase organics samples. The abundance of the n-alkanes falls almost exponentially with increasing n-alkane carbon number, and the distribution of the n-alkanes between the gas and particle phases follows vapor/particle partitioning theory. The concentrations of individual low molecular weight alkenes decline during transport across the urban area in about the order expected given their initial rates of reaction with the hydroxyl radical. Petroleum biomarker concentrations that act as tracers for particulate organics emitted from vehicle exhaust have declined substantially between 1982 and 1993, reflecting the increased penetration of catalyst-equipped cars into the vehicle fleet. The most pronounced change in vapor phase non-aromatic hydrocarbons concentrations between 1987 and 1993 is a reduction in the concentration of the lightest blending components of gasoline (e.g., butanes), reflecting new regulations that limit the Reid vapor pressure of gasoline.
How well does applicant rank order predict subsequent performance during radiology residency

Rationale and Objectives. Residency selection committees expend substantial time and resources on assessing the quality of residency applicants to derive an appropriate rank order for the National Residency Matching Program. The authors determined whether there is a relationship between the rank number or rank percentile of applicants selected for a residency training program and subsequent radiology residency performance. Materials and Methods. Records of radiology residents completing their residency between 1991 and 1998 were reviewed. Available rank numbers and rank percentiles for each resident were compared with subsequent performance, as assessed subjectively by 4th-year radiology rotation evaluation forms and retrospective recall of four senior faculty members and objectively by numerical and percentile scores on the written portion of the American Board of Radiology (ABR) examinations. Correlation coefficients were obtained for each comparison. Results. Rank number and rank percentile were not significantly correlated with 4th-year resident rotation evaluations or ABR written examination scores or percentiles. A small correlation existed between rank order and retrospective evaluation of resident performance by the four senior faculty. Conclusion. Applicant rank number and rank percentile do not correlate with subsequent radiology residency performance as assessed on rotation evaluation forms or the ABR written examinations.
An analysis of high myopia in a pediatric population less than 10 years of age.

Purpose The purpose of this article is to document a comprehensive clinical profile—including the prevalence of amblyopia, strabismus, and anisometropia—of a pediatric population less than 10 years of age who manifested 6.00 diopters or more of myopia. Method A retrospective record review was performed on all pediatric patients less than 10 years of age, examined at the State University of New York (SUNY) State College of Optometry between 1998 and 2001, and with a spherical equivalent of 6.00 diopters or more of myopia. Results One hundred seventy-eight patients met the criteria. Amblyopia or reduced corrected visual acuity was present in 75.8% of the patients. Strabismus was present in 31.5% of the patients, with essentially equal numbers of esotropes and exotropes. Anisometropia was present in 35.4% of the patients. One hundred forty-five patients had high myopia in the absence of significant ocular or systemic compromising conditions. In this sample of 145, strabismus or anisometropia was an etiology for amblyopia. There was a greater prevalence of bilateral high myopia (64.8%) than unilateral high myopia. Anisometropia was present in 10.6% of the bilateral high myopes, and 78.4% of the unilateral high myopes. Conclusion Children less than 10 years of age with high myopia have a high risk of having amblyopia, strabismus, and anisometropia.
Recovery of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) from dogs and cats

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Animal-assisted therapy has been advocated in various healthcare facilities, including long-term care facilities and pediatric institutions. Dogs and cats are the most commonly used animals in these programs. Several years ago, we demonstrated the presence of multiple bacteria colonizing various animals used for animal-assisted therapy. Surprisingly, several dogs and cats were found to harbor MRSA. With the emerging problem of community-acquired MRSA, we decided to re-visit local animal grooming clinics to determine if dogs and cats might be possible carriers of MRSA. METHODS: All pets cultured were healthy and had not received antibiotics in the previous 30 days. Using standard microbiological techniques, cultures were obtained from the noses, mouths, and fur of 22 dogs and 20 cats. Staphylococcus aureus (SA) isolates were tested for methicillin sensitivity by standard MICs. RESULTS: All 42 animals were colonized with SA. Seven (16%) of the 42 isolates obtained were resistant to methicillin. CONCLUSIONS: Although dogs and cats have not previously been associated with MRSA colonization or infections, the isolation of this microorganism in our study is intriguing.
Investigation of temperature-dependent relaxation processes in polyethylene films by covalently attached anthryl probe

The dependence of several aspects of the fluorescence from 9-anthryl groups, covalently attached by tethers of differing lengths to interior sites of five polyolefinic films whose crystallinities range from 0 to 74%, has been explored between 40 and 400 K. The data are employed to determine microscopically the onsets of various relaxation processes of the polymers, the sensitivity of the probes to changes in their local morphologies, and the distribution of the groups between amorphous and interfacial sites. The results are compared with those from noncovalently attached (doped) 9-methylanthracene molecules. Specifically, the relationship between the lengths of tethers for the 9-anthryl groups, as well as the chemical method by which each tether is attached to the polymer chains, and the ability of the fluorescence from the lumophores to detect the onsets of host relaxation processes are explored. The two attachment methods lead to different distributions of lumophores in the amorphous and interfacial reg...
Prospective study of wound infections in Mohs micrographic surgery using clean surgical technique in the absence of prophylactic antibiotics

Background Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) has a low rate of surgical site infection (SSI) without the use of prophylactic antibiotics. In the studies to date, there has been variation in the steps taken by each surgeon to prevent SSIs but in all cases sterile technique was used during wound reconstruction. Objective We sought to evaluate the rate of SSIs among patients undergoing MMS with the use of clean surgical technique for all steps of MMS including wound reconstruction in the absence of prophylactic antibiotics. Methods We prospectively evaluated 1000 patients undergoing MMS using clean surgical technique for SSIs. Clean surgical technique includes the use of clean surgical gloves and towels and a single pack of sterile instruments for all steps including wound reconstruction. Results There were 11 SSIs among 1000 patients with 1204 tumors, with an overall rate of infection of 0.91% (95% confidence interval 0.38%-1.45%). Three of the 11 infections were complications of hematomas. Four of the 11 infections occurred in flap closures, which had the highest rate of SSIs of 2.67% (4/150). Limitations The study was a prospective, single-institution uncontrolled study. Conclusion To our knowledge, this is the first study to examine the rate of SSIs with the use of clean surgical technique, in the absence of antibiotic prophylaxis, for all steps of MMS including wound reconstruction. Our rate of SSIs of 0.91% is exceedingly low, underscoring the overall safety of MMS and its performance in the outpatient setting without the use of antibiotic prophylaxis or sterile technique.
Isolation and partial characterization of glycopeptides from human parotid amylase A

Abstract Amylase was prepared from human parotid saliva by a modification of earlier procedures in which chromatography on DEAE-Sephadex was substituted for crystallization. The enzyme preparation was separated into Family A, containing the glycosylated isoenzymes, and Family B, containing the non-glycosylated isoenzymes. Both families were reduced, carboxymethylated and digested with trypsin. The tryptic peptides were separated on columns of Sephadex G-25. A single glycopeptide fraction from Family A accounted for 87% of the original carbohydrate. This glycopeptide fraction was purified further on Sephadex G-50 and digested with pronase, yielding three glycopeptides which were purified by thin-layer electrophoresis and paper chromatography. The amino acid compositions of the glycopeptides indicate at least two carbohydrate attachment sites, one of which is in close proximity to a half-cystine residue.
Clinical prediction of insightful response to a single large dose of LSD

Twenty psychiatric inpatients were given a single 2.5 mcg/kg intravenous dose of LSD in the context of a prolonged interview session after preliminary clinical study and indoctrination. Insightful responses, as rated from tape recordings, were found more frequently in patients with characteristics of psychopathic personality than in other types of patients. No responders were less than 22 years of age. A attempt to use methamphetamine as a comparison drug showed that it was easily distinguishable from LSD by clinical observation, Jarvik Questionnaire and Bender-Gestalt score changes, and from randomly selected brief samples of tape recorded verbalization.
Immunocytochemical analysis of retinal neurons under electrical stimulation.

Abstract To function successfully, a retinal prosthesis needs to provide effective stimulation in a safe manner. To date, most studies have been dedicated to assessing proper stimulation parameters, for example, determining stimulus threshold. Few studies have looked at the effects of prolonged stimulation on retinal morphology. One previous study did show gross morphological changes in the rat retina due to mechanical pressure, with and without electrical stimulation (Colodetti, L., Weiland, J.D., Colodetti, S., Ray, A., Seiler, M.J., Hinton, D.R., Humayun, M.S., 2007). Here, we used immunocytochemistry to investigate the effects of the same experimental conditions on neuronal structure in finer detail. For this purpose, we first defined four experimental groups. In Group 1, the stimulating electrode was near but did not contact the retina, and we did not apply current pulses. In Group 2, the electrode also did not contact the retina, but we applied current pulses of 0.09 μC/phase. In Group 3, the stimulating electrode directly contacted the retina, but we did not apply current pulses. In Group 4, the stimulating electrode directly contacted the retina, and we applied current pulses of 0.09 μC/phase. We found neural damage only in the outer retina, including a disturbance of synaptic vesicle proteins in the photoreceptor terminals and a remodeling of horizontal and rod bipolar cells' processes. These results show that, although gross morphological changes are mainly concentrated around the area of electrode contact, immunocytochemistry can reveal changes in adjacent areas as well.
Composting of energetic materials

Composting has been used for centuries for stabilization of organic residues and production of a humus-like end product traditionally used as a soil conditioner. The process may be successfully ado...
An Evaluation of Provider Educational Needs in Geriatric Care

Providers of geriatric care in Arkansas were surveyed to determine the desire for more information on their specialty as well as opportunities for further training. Those in the nursing profession were most interested in further training, and the major area of interest for all providers was in cognitive decline and mental health information. Specifically, information was sought in the areas of dementia, depression, and memory loss. It is recommended that improvement in geriatric care in the future should focus on nursing education and on raising the level of knowledge and academic prestige in the treatment of elderly patients, especially in the mental health areas.
Financial Simulations On a Massively Parallel Connection Machine

The valuation of complex financial instruments that ap pear in the banking and insurance industries requires simulations of their cashflow behavior in a volatile in terest rate environment. These simulations are complex and computationally intensive. Their use, thus far, has been limited to intra-day analysis and planning. Re searchers at the Wharton School and Thinking Machines Corporation have developed model formulations for massively parallel architectures, like the Connection Ma chine CM-2. A library of financial modeling primitives has been designed and used to implement a model for the valuation of mortgage-backed securities. Analyzing a portfolio of these securities-which would require 2 days on a large mainframe-is carried out in 1 hour on a CM-2a. The valuation of a single security is carried out in real time 1-2 sec. It has been possible to design an interactive system that carries out sensitivity analysis, compares securities, or changes the assumptions of the model, and display the result under direct control from an analyst.
Quantification of radiation-induced regional lung injury with perfusion imaging

Abstract Purpose: To better understanding the dose and time dependence of radiation therapy (RT)-induced regional lung dysfunction as assessed by changes in regional lung perfusion. Methods and Materials: Patients who were to receive RT for tumors in and around the thorax, wherein portions of healthy lung would be incidentally irradiated, were prospectively studied. Regional function was assessed pre- and post-RT with single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) lung perfusion scans, obtained following the intravenous administration of ∼4 mCi of technetium-99m macroaggregated albumin. Pre-RT computed tomography (CT) scans were used to calculate the three-dimensional (3D) dose distribution, reflecting tissue density inhomogeneity corrections. Each SPECT scan was correlated with the pre-RT CT scan, and the 3D dose distribution. Changes in regional lung perfusion were correlated with regional Rt dose, at various time intervals following radiation. Results: The data from 20 patients (7 breast cancer, 5 lymphoma, 1 esophagus, 1 sarcoma, and 6 lung cancer) have been analyzed. Patients with gross intrathoracic lung cancers causing obstruction of regional pulmonary arteries were not included. For most patients, there is a statistically significant dose-dependent reduction in regional blood flow at all time points following radiation. While a time dependence is suggested in the high dose range, the limited amount of data prevents meaningful statistical evaluation. Conclusions: Radiation therapy-induced regional lung dysfunction occurs in a dose-dependent manner and develops within 3–6 months following radiation. In contrast to classical "sigmoid" dose-response curves, desribed mainly for changes following whole lung irradiation, these data suggest a more gradual relationship between regional dysfunction and RT dose. Retraction of irradiation lung with secondary movement of unirradiated lung into the "3D-defined irradiated volume" may have introduced inaccuracies into this analysis. Additional studies are currently underway to asses this possibility and better refine this dose-response curve. Studies are underway to determine if changes in assessment of whole lung function, such as pulmonary function tests, can be predicted by summing the regional changes observed.
Matrix metalloproteinase activity in thoracic aortic aneurysms associated with bicuspid and tricuspid aortic valves.

Abstract Objective Matrix metalloproteinases are endopeptidases that function in cell matrix turnover. Abnormal matrix metalloproteinase activity has been implicated in the formation of atherosclerotic abdominal aortic aneurysms. Recent studies suggest that abnormal matrix metalloproteinase activity may also be associated with the formation of atherosclerotic and nonatherosclerotic thoracic aortic aneurysms. Bicuspid aortic valves are associated with an intrinsic aortic pathology that predisposes to formation of proximal thoracic aneurysms while tricuspid aortic valves are not. The objective of this study was to compare the activities of matrix metalloproteinases and levels of their inhibitors in thoracic aneurysms of patients with bicuspid and tricuspid aortic valves. Methods Endogenous and total activity of matrix metalloproteinase-2 and matrix metalloproteinase-9 were measured in proximal nonatherosclerotic thoracic aortic aneurysms of 16 patients with bicuspid aortic valves and 12 patients with tricuspid aortic valves. Levels of tissue inhibitor metalloproteinase-1 and -2 were also measured. Results were standardized to total protein (mg). Results Total matrix metalloproteinase-2 activity was greater in aneurysms associated with bicuspid valves when compared with those from tricuspid valves (43 ± 11 ng/mg vs 14 ± 2 ng/mg, P = .02). Total matrix metalloproteinase-9 activity was also greater in aneurysms associated with bicuspid aortic valves (4.0 ± 0.9 vs 1.5 ± 0.3, P = .02). There was no meaningful difference between groups in levels of tissue inhibitor-1 and -2. Conclusion The increased activity of matrix metalloproteinases in the walls of aneurysms associated with bicuspid aortic valves may partly explain the predilection to aneurysm formation in these patients.
Problematics of grounded theory: innovations for developing an increasingly rigorous qualitative method

Our purpose in this article is to identify and suggest resolution for two core problematics of grounded theory. First, while grounded theory provides transparency to one part of the conceptualization process, where codes emerge directly from the data, it provides no such systematic or transparent way for gaining insight into the conceptual relationships between discovered codes. Producing a grounded theory depends not only on the definition of conceptual pieces, but the delineation of a relationship between at least two of those pieces. Second, the conceptualization process of grounded theory is done in hierarchical fashion, where individual codes emerge from the data but then are used to generate insight into more general concepts and thematic statements. But various works on grounded theory have failed to provide any systematic way of using data specific levels of scale (the codes) to gain insight into more macro levels of scale (concepts and themes). We offer fractal concept analysis as a means of reso...
Skin cancer and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma: examining the link

Background The incidence rates of melanoma and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) have increased substantially worldwide over the past several decades. It has been hypothesized that ultraviolet light exposure through sunlight may be a common environmental risk factor shared by both skin cancer and NHL. Objective The purpose of this study was to better understand the association between skin cancer and NHL and to evaluate its implication in clinical practice. Methods We reviewed the current literature on the link between the two malignancies and on the role of ultraviolet light in the development of NHL. Publications were selected using a PUBMED search with the terms “non-Hodgkin's lymphoma” and “skin cancer.” Epidemiologic studies in English and published after 1995 were the focus. Conclusions Large population-based studies support an increased risk of subsequent NHL among patients with skin cancers (both melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancers) and a risk of skin cancer development in patients with NHL, although support for a direct relationship between ultraviolet light and the incidence of NHL is weak and inconsistent. Given their increased risk of developing skin cancers, patients with a history of NHL may benefit from a full-body examination during their visits. SHASA HU, MD, DANIEL G. FEDERMAN, MD, FANGCHAO MA, MD, PHD, AND ROBERT S. KIRSNER, MD, PHD, HAVE INDICATED NO SIGNIFICANT INTEREST WITH COMMERCIAL SUPPORTERS.
Kac-Moody algebras from general covariance

Abstract It is shown how Kac-Moody algebras arise from symmetry reductions of a four-dimensional generally covariant field theory, via a (3+1) canonical decomposition. This observation may be of significance in qhe quantization of certain midi-superspace reductions of general relativity.
Healthy Behaviors and Sources of Health Information Among Low‐Income Pregnant Women

This article addresses responses from two open-ended questions, describing the healthy behaviors and sources of health information in 150 low-income pregnant women. Data for this exploratory study were collected as part of a larger descriptive correlational study. Qualitative content analysis was used in the analysis. One hundred fifty English-speaking pregnant women aged 18 and over were interviewed at a public prenatal clinic in the Southeastern United States at their first prenatal visit. Health behaviors were placed into seven mutually exclusive categories: food-related behaviors, substance-related behavior, exercise/rest/activity, self-awareness/appearance, learning, focus on baby, and no specific behaviors. Sources of information questions were placed into seven mutually exclusive categories: family, health personnel, reading, hearing, other people, self-intuitive, and no response. Low-income pregnant women are aware of healthy behaviors and report practicing them during their pregnancies. Because family members are a common source of information for health practices, they should be included in health education efforts.
Ultrashort Laser Pulse Heating of Nanoparticles: Comparison of Theoretical Approaches

The interaction between nanoparticles and ultrashort laser pulses holds great interest in laser nanomedicine, introducing such possibilities as selective cell targeting to create highly localized cell damage. Two models are studied to describe the laser pulse interaction with nanoparticles in the femtosecond, picosecond, and nanosecond regimes. The first is a two-temperature model using two coupled diffusion equations: one describing the heat conduction of electrons, and the other that of the lattice. The second model is a one-temperature model utilizing a heat diffusion equation for the phonon subsystem and applying a uniform heating approximation throughout the particle volume. A comparison of the two modeling strategies shows that the two-temperature model gives a good approximation for the femtosecond mode, but fails to accurately describe the laser heating for longer pulses. On the contrary, the simpler one-temperature model provides an adequate description of the laser heating of nanoparticles in the femtosecond, picosecond, and nanosecond modes.
Relationship of Na+, K+ and Mg-ATP binding sites for the human erythrocyte stromal (Na+ + K+)-dependent ATPase

Abstract Treatment of human erythrocyte stromata with the endopeptidase trypsin (EC 3.4.4.4) indicates that Na+ and Mg-ATP binding associated with the (Na+ + K+)-dependent ATPase (EC 3.6.1.3) are at independent sites in the membrane. Similar treatment with α-chymotrypsin (EC 3.4.4.5) indicates that K+ and Mg-ATP bind at separate sites. It also appears unlikely that Na+ or K+ bind to the phosphorylated intermediate believed to be part of cation-dependent ATPase. The results further indicate, but do not prove, that Na+ and K+ also bind at separate sites in the membrane.
Linguistics: The Study of the Language Capacity and its Functions

Language is considered a defining property of humanity in ancient myths and in contemporary humanities disciplines such as philosophy and in linguistics. But there are competing views about what constitutes the capacity for language. One approach, known as the formal generative approach, regards the language capacity as autonomous from other cognitive abilities, and equates it with the syntactic ability to form an infinite number of sentences from finite means. Another, known as the functional approach, regards the language capacity as a non-autonomous symbolic system. From this perspective factors such as speech acts, narrative discourses, and frequency effects are as important as syntax for understanding the language capacity. Implications of work from these two perspectives for a broad range of disciplines, especially literary studies, are suggested.
The mesoglea of hydra. I. Physical and histochemical properties

The mesoglea of Hydra serves both as a skeleton and as a substratum for cell migration. These functions are made possible in Hydra pseudoligactis by a system of fibers that run along the body column, parallel to the oral-aboral axis, and perpendicular to the oral-aboral axis. The fibers are either a mucoprotein or a close spatial arrangement of protein and polysaccharide. They are 0.3 μ in diameter and contain an elastin-like and collagen-like protein. Spaced along the fibers are acid mucopolysaccharide-like particles, 0.7 μ in diameter, which appear to serve a structural or supportive function. Between the fibers are 2.4 μ diameter holes for extension of epithelial cell processes. The remainder of the mesoglea consists of an amorphous gel with a collagen matrix. The physical arrangement of the fibers allows the normal movements of hydra and could also control the direction of cell migration. The arrangement of fibers may be a dynamic system under the control of an enzyme.
Electrical conductivity as a source of information on charge carriers in low molecular weight organic solids

Abstract By determination of the temperature thresholds for current flow in hydrocarbon glasses γ-irradiated at 77 K in an electrical conductivity cell, different populations of trapped charge carriers have been distinguished and information has been obtained on their orientation and migration under the influence of the applied field. Characterization has been assisted by the use of charge scavengers, photobleaching and blocking electrodes. The recent data suggest that the warmup conductivity current peak at 85 K from γ-irradiated 3-methylpentane, previously assigned to electron movement, results from the migration of C6H13 - carbanions and monomeric cations, while that at 102 K is due to carbanions and dimeric cations. 3-Ethylpentane and methylcyclohexane give qualitatively similar curves. In all cases the fraction of the total trapped charge which reaches the electrodes is small. The warmup conductivity curves of unirradiated hydrocarbon glasses and of methyltetrahydrofuran show current peaks attributable to orientation of their molecular dipoles. These can be avoided if the electrical field is applied before cooling.
Fibrinogen alpha genes: conservation of bipartite transcripts and carboxy-terminal-extended alpha subunits in vertebrates.

All three well-studied subunits of the clotting protein fibrinogen ({alpha}, {beta}, {gamma}) share N-terminal structural homologies, but until recently only the {beta} and {gamma} chains were recognized as having similar globular C-termini. With the discovery of an extra exon in the human fibrinogen {alpha} gene (exon VI), a minor form of the {alpha} subunit ({alpha}{sub E}) with an extended {beta}- and {gamma}-like C-terminus has been identified. In the present study, the polymerase chain reaction has been used to identify sequences that encode counterparts to {alpha}{sub E} in chicken, rabbit, rat, and baboon. The basic six-exon structure of the fibrinogen {alpha} genes is shown to be conserved among mammals and birds, as are the intron positions. Bipartite transcripts - still bearing an intron prior to the last exon - are found among the products of the various vertebrate fibrinogen {alpha} genes. The last exon represents the largest conserved segment of the gene and, in each species examined, encodes exactly 236 amino acids. The C-termini of these {alpha}{sub E} chains align without a single gap and are between 76 and 99% identical. Since the exon VI-encoded domain of {alpha}{sub E} is as well conserved as the corresponding regions of the {beta} andmore » {gamma} chains, it follows that it is equally important and that {alpha}{sub E}-fibrinogen plays a vital, if as-yet unrecognized physiological role. 21 refs., 7 figs., 1 tab.« less
Asymmetry questionnaire outcomes correlate with several hemisphericity measures

The asymmetry questionnaire segregated subjects (n=143) into two groups. These were significantly correlated with similar groups separated, not only by three new biophysical hemisphericity protocols (Dichotic Deafness Test, Phased Mirror Tracing, Best Hand Test), but also by two preference-type measures (polarity questionnaire, preference questionnaire). Each of the 15 asymmetry questionnaire statements was significantly correlated with the outcomes of these five laterality measures. This is the third questionnaire whose outcomes correlate with those of the new biophysical measures of hemisphericity.
Molecular genetics of adrenal hypoplasia congenita.

Insight into the molecular pathogenesis of adrenal hypoplasia congenital (AHC) requires an understanding of the complexity of this ‘‘simple’’ Mendelian disorder. We will explore the investigation of this complexity in vitro and in model organisms. Complex biological systems have the characteristic architecture of scale-free networks, which gives them extremely robust properties. We have developed a high density-multiplex reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (HD-MRT-PCR) approach that permits HD-MRT for more than 20 transcripts in a single-tube reaction, followed by PCR amplification. Our results compare adrenal cortical cell lines and confirm that NCI-H295 cells are the optimal model for investigation of the transcriptional regulatory network involved in adrenal development. We also show that mutation in a critical network component like DAX1 compromises not a single pathway, but an entire network sector. We will examine very early preliminary evidence from lines of transgenic mice that express green fluorescent protein (GFP) under control of the DAX1 promoter. These mice express GFP in the hypothalamus and adrenal cortex in a pattern anticipated by DAX1 expression studies. These mice will serve as a model for investigation of adrenal development. We will also present our preliminary approach to identify genes involved in adrenal development using a vertebrate model organism, zebrafish. Our investigations are developing an understanding of the complex regulatory networks involved in normal adrenal development and AHC pathogenesis.
In-line interferometric time-integrating acousto-optic correlator

A novel, efficient, stable, in-line interferometric, two Bragg cell, acousto-optic architecture is introduced for signal correlation and spectrum analysis. The processor employs an image-inversion technique to produce a correlation output that does not have to be generated on a fast spatial carrier, thus reducing the burden on the required space–bandwidth product on the output time-integrating detector array. The system is particularly suited for wide-instantaneous-bandwidth signal processing and is demonstrated as an autocorrelator for dc-to-10-MHz AM signals on a 100-MHz carrier. A fixed-spatial-carrier output-based correlator and spectrum-analyzer architecture that is particularly limited in the wideband mode is demonstrated for comparison purposes with the proposed flexible-spatial-carrier-design-based in-line acousto-optic correlator.
An analysis of genetic variation in Astragalus cremnophylax var. cremnophylax, a critically endangered plant, using AFLP markers

A recently developed molecular technique (amplified fragment length polymorphisms, AFLP) was used for characterizing genetic heterogeneity within and among populations of a critically endangered species of plant, Astragalus cremnophylax var. cremnophylax. Using AFLP, up to 50 polymorphic genetic markers per AFLP-PCR amplification were generated, and a total of 220 variable markers overall. This information was used first to assess genetic diversity within each of the three known populations of Astragalus cremnophylax var. cremnophylax from Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona, USA: North Rim (NR; n = 970), South Rim Site 1 (SR1; n = 500), and South Rim Site 2 (SR2; n = 2). Diversity in the form of average heterozygosity [symbol: see text] H [symbol: see text] and the proportion of polymorphic genes [symbol: see text] P [symbol: see text] was greatest in the NR population ([symbol: see text] H [symbol: see text] = 0.13 and [symbol: see text] P [symbol: see text] = 0.38) and least in the SR2 population ([symbol: see text] H [symbol: see text] = 0.02 and [symbol: see text] P [symbol: see text] = 0.04). Diversity was also quite low for the SR1 population ([symbol: see text] H [symbol: see text] = 0.04 and [symbol: see text] P [symbol: see text] = 0.10). In addition, substantial genetic differentiation among populations was indicated by both phenetic (AMOVA) and genetic analyses (overall corrected FST = 0.41). This finding was corroborated by the results of several multivariate analyses which utilized the genetic data, including a UPGMA cluster analysis and a principal coordinate analysis which revealed the existence of discrete groups corresponding to the populations. Population structure was further revealed within the NR population which was known to consist of four spatially separated groups of plants. Several recommendations for the future management of the species are discussed.
Polarization optical processor, binary optical gates, wave polarization, thin films, and ellipsometry

We discuss the complex-plane representation of the polarization state of electromagnetic waves, of thin film polarization behavior, of ellipsometry, and of the polarization optical processor and binary gates. We discuss the general and special cases of representation for digital applications using two orthogonal polarization states. We also discuss two gate architectures and their operation. In addition, we present the polarization optical processor architecture and operation. The optical processor and gates do not require special logic and uses the current wealth of knowledge of digital design. They can be used to optically implement all current and future binary digital gates. The table-top realization of the gates is also briefly discussed. The optical processor and gates have much higher speeds and comparable or higher chip densities than achievable in the microelectronics industry as it is currently achieving its physical limits. In addition, the polarization optical processor and binary optical gates produce virtually no heat, which is a crucial advantage. Those are perfect solutions to the current end-of-the-road status of the semiconductor industry. Patent Pending.
Regional blood flow during pulsatile cardiopulmonary bypass and after circulatory arrest in an infant model.

Background. Pulsatile perfusion systems have been proposed as a means of improving end-organ perfusion during and after cardiopulmonary bypass. Few attempts have been made to study this issue in an infant model. Methods. Neonatal piglets were subjected to nonpulsatile (n = 6) or pulsatile (n = 7) cardiopulmonary bypass and 60 minutes of circulatory arrest. Cerebral, renal, and myocardial blood flow measurements were obtained at baseline, on bypass before and after circulatory arrest, and after bypass. Results. Cerebral blood flow did not differ between groups at any time and was diminished equally in both groups after circulatory arrest. Renal blood flow was diminished in both groups during bypass but was significantly better in the pulsatile group than in the non-pulsatile group prior to, but not after, circulatory arrest. Myocardial blood flow was maintained at or above baseline in the pulsatile group throughout the study, but in the nonpulsatile group, it was significantly lower than baseline during CPB prior to circulatory arrest and lower compared with baseline and with the pulsatile group 60 minutes after CPB. Conclusions. Pulsatile bypass does not improve recovery of cerebral blood flow after circulatory arrest, may improve renal perfusion during bypass but does not improve its recovery after ischemia, and may have beneficial effects on myocardial blood flow during bypass and after ischemia compared with nonpulsatile bypass in this infant model.
Use of locally dense basis sets for nuclear magnetic resonance shielding calculations

The locally dense basis set approach to the calculation of nuclear magnetic resonance shieldings is one in which a sufficiently large or dense set of basis functions is used for an atom or molecular fragment containing the resonant nucleus or nuclei of interest and fewer or attenuated sets of basis functions employed elsewhere. Provided the dense set is of sufficient size, this approach is capable of determining chemical shieldings nearly as well as a calculation with a balanced basis set of quality equal to the locally dense set, but with considerable savings of CPU time
Parallel excitation-emission multiplexed fluorescence lifetime confocal microscopy for live cell imaging

We present a novel excitation-emission multiplexed fluorescence lifetime microscopy (FLIM) method that surpasses current FLIM techniques in multiplexing capability. The method employs Fourier multiplexing to simultaneously acquire confocal fluorescence lifetime images of multiple excitation wavelength and emission color combinations at 44,000 pixels/sec. The system is built with low-cost CW laser sources and standard PMTs with versatile spectral configuration, which can be implemented as an add-on to commercial confocal microscopes. The Fourier lifetime confocal method allows fast multiplexed FLIM imaging, which makes it possible to monitor multiple biological processes in live cells. The low cost and compatibility with commercial systems could also make multiplexed FLIM more accessible to biological research community.
SPECIFIC GRAVITY DETERMINATION WITH A UNIVERSAL TESTING MACHINE

SUMMARY —A rapid, precise technique for determining specific gravity of fruits and vegetables was developed. The method utilized a universal testing machine. The effects of crosshead speed, choice of standard density fluid and weight measurements were studied and optimized. A standard sphere of known volume and weight was used to compare this method with other techniques now used. In addition to using the standard sphere, tomatoes were studied to evaluate the efficiency of this method. Calculation of specific gravity involved determining fruit volume and weight. Other volume measurement techniques investigated proved inaccurate or too time-consuming. An Instron universal testing machine was used in measuring the buoyancy force of a fruit submerged in a standard density fluid. The buoyancy force is directly related to the fruit volume. Error analysis showed relatively low sensitivity to errors in weight measurement, but was influenced mainly by errors in determining the fluid density. This error was minimized by use of high-density fluids; thus, saturated salt brines and high-density organic fluids were used for the experimental work.
Compression and Aging Properties of Experimental Dental Composites Containing Mesoporous Silica as Fillers

ABSTRACT Porous fillers can be used to obtain micromechanical interlocking between the filler particles and polymer matrix. Micromechanical interlocking in dental composites can overcome the traditional problem of hydrolysis associated with silane coupling. Such an interlocking could also enhance the overall performance of dental composites. In the current study, mesoporous silica was used as fillers to obtain experimental composites. Light curable dental resin (BisGMA/TEGDMA) was used as polymer matrix. The mechanical (compressive) and aging properties of these experimental composites were investigated. The results demonstrated that mesoporous fillers improved the mechanical and aging properties of experimental dental composites.