cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The observation of damage regions produced by neutron irradiation in lithium-doped silicon solar cells.

Regions of lattice disorder produced in lithium-doped float-zone melted n/p-type silicon solar cells by irradiation with mono-energetic neutrons at doses between 1010 and 1013/cm2 have been studied. The defect regions were revealed by chemically etching the surface of the solar cells and by observing carbon replicas in an electron microscope. It was found that the defect density increased with increasing irradiation dose and increased lithium content, whereas the average defect diameter was found to decrease. From thermal annealing experiments it was found that in the lithium-doped material the defect structure was stable at temperatures between 300 and 1200° K. This was found to be in contrast to the undoped material where at the lowest doses considerable annealing was observed to occur. The above results are discussed in terms of the theoretical predictions and models of defect clusters proposed by Gossick and Crawford and Cleland.
Participant Responses to Blood Gas Proficiency Testing Reports

There is scant objective information regarding the effect of proficiency testing for blood gases or other analytes on characterizing poor or good performers or changing laboratory behavior. Following the institution of a percentile ranking system for participants in the American Thoracic Society—California Thoracic Society Blood Gas Proficiency Testing Programs, a telephone survey disclosed characteristics of three equally sized groups of participants as follows: (1) FAIL (failed rating); (2) LOW (lowest percentile rankings without a failed rating); and HIGH (highest percentile rankings). The FAIL and LOW groups often had isolated instruments, instruments which were infrequently operated, and/or instruments operated by nontechnicians, whereas these characteristics were not found in the HIGH group. Those in the LOW group who understood their ranking and those in the FAIL group always found defects or errors and took some corrective action. This study appears to show that it is harder to maintain good performance with isolated, underutilized, or nontechnician-operated blood gas instruments, and blood gas proficiency testing is economical and valuable in assessing performance and changing behavior.
A Microdomain for Protein Secretion in Gram-Positive Bacteria

Gram-positive bacteria face unique challenges in generating biologically active conformations for their exported proteins because they lack a dedicated compartment for folding secreted polypeptides. We have discovered that protein secretion by way of the general secretory (Sec) pathway in the important human pathogen Streptococcus pyogenes proceeds through a single microdomain. Unlike other mechanisms for asymmetry involving the Sec pathway, proteins destined for secretion are targeted to a single locus distal to either cell pole that has specialized to contain the Sec translocons. This subcellular organization may represent a paradigm for secretion common to other Gram-positive pathogens with profound implications for pathogenesis.
Novel Self-Scanned Photodiode Array Spectrophotometer

A self-scanned diode array spectrophotometer, designed and constructed at the University of California, Los Angeles, Department of Astronomy, is described. Careful attention to physical properties of the detector and system noise and stability requirements has resulted in an instrument with performance closely approaching theory. In particular, system noise performance is limited by thermal and interface state noise in the detector (a Reticon Corp. RL-256A-17) rather than preamplifier noise. Advantage is taken of the dependence of dark current on diode bias voltage, as well as temperature, such that a tradeoff between leakage rate and dynamic range can be selected. This feature also allows operation of the array at higher temperatures, enhancing sensitivity in the near infrared.© (1979) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
The impact matrix approach and decision rules to enhance index dimensionality, flexibility and representation

Abstract Many people use environmental indices to track and understand ecosystems. Indices make it possible to compare two or more complex, multifaceted systems at one time by reducing information about each system into a single number or diagram. Paradoxically, while this reductionism enhances understandability of the index, it works contrary to both the complex nature of the system and potentially disparate values that might be held by system users. A similar dilemma is found in the world of financial risk. We adapt the payoff matrix approach from financial risk to develop a comparable framework for ecosystem risk and call it the Impact Matrix. The payoff matrix utilizes the probability function for management alternatives to represent multiple pieces of information at one time (e.g. mean, variance, standard deviation). A matrix of these vectors allows for the development of many types of decision rules (e.g. minimax regret and maximin strategies) that can represent alternative value systems. In this paper we develop an “impact matrix” that uses similar features as the payoff matrix. The impact matrix concept is demonstrated for agricultural production systems through creation of a vector of possible environmental outcomes (e.g. surface runoff, nitrate in surface runoff, and soil erosion) for several agricultural management practices. We then develop criteria that utilize this information to represent the different ways that people think about environmental impacts. The result of this research is a tool that allows indicators to be incorporated in an index that can be adapted to different situations, and thus used in a variety of contexts while remaining simple to understand. That is, the impact matrix allows flexibility in developing indices of complex, multifaceted systems so that many disparate value systems may be easily represented.
The effects of alcohol and the expectancy of alcohol on snake fear

Abstract The present investigation examined the effects of alcohol vs the expectancy of alcohol on fear and avoidance behavior in snake fearful subjects. In the two-by-two design, the subjects' expectancy (alcohol in the form of malt liquor versus a placebo) was crossed with the actual beverage consumed (malt liquor versus nonalcoholic near beer). While the alcohol ingestion was associated with a significant reduction in self-reported fear while approaching a harmless snake, no corresponding increase in approach behavior was observed. The cognitive manipulation had no discernible effect, a finding that is at odds with much of the published literature. In light of available findings, as well as some preliminary questionnaire data, a tentative hypothesis is offered regarding the necessary and sufficient conditions for the belief that one has consumed alcohol to alter one's behavior.
The propagation of discontinuities along characteristic surfaces in non-equilibrium fluids☆

We will determine the ordinary differential equation which governs the growth and decay, along the bicharacteristic curves, [l, p. 5971 of the discontinuities in the derivatives of the solutions to systems of quasi-linear partial differential equations. The technique will then be used to study the growth of discontinuities in the physical variables appearing in the equations of a compressible nonequilibrium fluid. Our results will be stated for solutions which are in the Lichnerowicz class (Cl, C3), [2, p. 31, but the technique applies to other classes also. The method consists of using Coburn’s representation [3, Definition 51 for the derivatives of the unknown functions in order to modify an approach due to Courant [l, p. 6181 for the linear case. The growth of discontinuities in the equilibrium case has been studied by Kaul [4] for a shallow liquid, and by Gopalkrishna [S] for a collisionless plasma, each author using the methods of T. Y. Thomas. The linearized equations for a nonequilibrium system have been analyzed by Gelfand [6], Stupochenko and Stakanov [7]. For the one-dimensional equilibrium case, see Jeffrey and Tanuiti [8]. In this paper, we will apply our general results to the nonlinear equations of a nonequilibrium fluid to obtain sufficient conditions for the growths of the discontinuities along the bicharacteristics corresponding to a particular speed of propagation.
A perturbation procedure for weakly coupled oscillators

Abstract Problems involving systems of oscillators with weak non-linear (polynomial) coupling are of interest in connection with the ergodic problem of statistical mechanics and as simple models of non-linear interactions. These systems have been studied by Ford and Waters [1] and Jackson [2, 3], who used variations of the Wigner-Brillouin (WB) procedure to calculate the dynamics. The principal difficulty with WB is that it places too strong a restriction on the analytic form the answer can take. With this restriction, the famous “small divisor” problem can emerge at some point in the calculation. This paper describes the “N- timing ” procedure (of which WB is essentially a special case), shows how it can be applied to calculate the long-time dynamics of coupled oscillator systems, and establishes by computer experiments the accuracy of N-timing for a particular example. A subsequent paper will present an example in which small divisors arise and show how they can be eliminated by N-timing.
Poetry: It's Not Just for English Class Anymore.

Higher level thought involves both critical and creative thinking skills. Although the psychological literature is rich with research on teaching critical thinking, relatively little published work...
THOMAS FORM OF THE SPIN-DEPENDENT OPTICAL POTENTIAL AND ASYMMETRY OF 20 MeV POLARIZED PROTONS

Abstract Recently measured asymmetries produced in the inelastic scattering of 20.3 MeV polarized protons are analyzed in the DWBA collective model approximation. Substantial improvements are observed when the deformed spin-dependent optical potential is of the full Thomas form.
Context-dependent response to red coloration in stickleback

Abstract Although Tinbergen found that red nuptial coloration of male three-spined stickleback,Gasterosteus aculeatus, elicited attack by other males, subsequent researchers have had difficulty replicating his results (Tinbergen 1948,Wilson Bull.,60,6–51; 1951,The Study of Instinct.Oxford: Oxford University Press). Rowland et al. (1995,Anim. Behav.,50,267–272) found that males tested in neutral tanks attacked a moderately coloured video image of a conspecific male more than either a bright or dull image in simultaneous presentations. These results suggest that a dual-effect process representing an interaction between aggression and fear might determine attack response. Based on this hypothesis, males tested in home tanks should attack the video images more than males tested in neutral tanks and should attack the brighter images most because their attack:fear ratio is higher. Males in their own territories spent more time attacking video images than males in neutral tanks. Males in their own territories also spent more time attacking the brighter image than they spent attacking either the moderate or the dull image. These results demonstrate the influence of spatial location on the response of male stickleback to rivals. Furthermore, a dual-effect model provides a heuristic tool for understanding the agonistic behaviour of male stickleback.
Comparison of particle image velocimetry and optical flow velocimetry for turbulent flows and flames

Particle image velocimetry (PI V) has become an accepted technique for measuring two components of the velocity field in a cross section of reacting and non-reacting flows. To implement PIV, particles are introduced into the flow to track the fluid velocities. It has been demonstrated that PIV can be combined with scalar measurements by using laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) [1], however, particle-based techniques complicate simultaneous laser-based measurements of many scalar quantities due to strong scattering interference from the seed particles. A number of “non-particle” velocimetry approaches have been applied in turbulent flows, though few have found broad applicability under reacting conditions. For instance, the Scalar Imaging Velocimetry approach of Dahm et al. [2] produces a velocity field by inverting the scalar transport equation. The Image Correlation Velocimetry (ICV) technique of Tokumaru and Dimotakis [3] provides a basis for measuring the displacement fields of gas-phase fluid motions. Extension of this approach to reacting flows appears feasible [4,5] provided appropriate scalars are selected for imaging and validation experiments are carried out. Recent work on dynamic programming algorithms has been reported to achieve results that in some cases are superior to conventional PIV [6].
Morphologically defined subgenera of Plasmodium from avian hosts : test of monophyly by phylogenetic analysis of two mitochondrial genes

Malaria parasites in the genus Plasmodium are now placed within 11 subgenera based on morphology under the light microscope, life-history traits, and host taxon. The phylogenetic significance of these characters, however, is problematic because the observed variation could be homoplasious. Using Plasmodium infections found in 2632 birds of many avian families collected in the USA, and several samples from other locations, we compared identifications to subgenus based on morphology in blood smears with a 2-gene molecular phylogeny (the first for avian Plasmodium) to determine if the 5 avian Plasmodium subgenera represent monophyletic groups. Phylogenetic trees recovered by parsimony, likelihood, and Bayesian methods presented nearly identical topologies. The analysis allowed testing the hypothesis of monophyly for the subgenera. Monophyly of the subgenera Haemamoeba, Huffia, and Bennettinia was supported by the analysis. The distinctive morphology of Haemamoeba species appears to have evolved once. Most samples identified to Novyella also fell within a monophyletic clade with the exception of 2 samples that fell basal to all other avian Plasmodium. Samples of the subgenus Giovannolaia did not form a monophyletic group. Thus, the characters used by parasitologists for over a century to define subgenera of Plasmodium vary in their phylogenetic significance.
On the status of wafer-level metal integrity testing

Abstract Wafer-level metal integrity testing is very complex. Trade-offs with test time, stress temperature, test structure, stress technique, and true understanding of the stress, are all involved and are discussed in this work. A discussion of conventional electromigration stress execution issues is provided as a prelude to highly accelerated metal integrity testing in the last section. Much of the published work in wafer-level EM and metal integrity testing is used to help describe the issues and trade-offs involved.
A summary of the biological activities of the various lots of pituitary hormones produced under the programs of the National Institute of Arthritis, Metabolism and Digestive Diseases.

BEGINNING in late 1956 with the distribution of commercial preparations of bovine growth hormone and ovine prolactin, workers in endocrine research the world over have been given many lots of pituitary hormone preparations, which now include ovine and bovine growth hormone, prolactin, luteinizing and thyroid—stimulating hormones, and ovine and porcine follicle—stimulating hormone. This program, originally supported by several of the National Institutes of Health, has been supported since 1959 by a single grant from the National Institute of Arthritis, Metabolism and Digestive Diseases.
Fusion of Large-Scale Genomic Knowledge and Frequency Data Computationally Prioritizes Variants in Epilepsy

Curation and interpretation of copy number variants identified by genome-wide testing is challenged by the large number of events harbored in each personal genome. Conventional determination of phenotypic relevance relies on patterns of higher frequency in affected individuals versus controls; however, an increasing amount of ascertained variation is rare or private to clans. Consequently, frequency data have less utility to resolve pathogenic from benign. One solution is disease-specific algorithms that leverage gene knowledge together with variant frequency to aid prioritization. We used large-scale resources including Gene Ontology, protein-protein interactions and other annotation systems together with a broad set of 83 genes with known associations to epilepsy to construct a pathogenicity score for the phenotype. We evaluated the score for all annotated human genes and applied Bayesian methods to combine the derived pathogenicity score with frequency information from our diagnostic laboratory. Analysis determined Bayes factors and posterior distributions for each gene. We applied our method to subjects with abnormal chromosomal microarray results and confirmed epilepsy diagnoses gathered by electronic medical record review. Genes deleted in our subjects with epilepsy had significantly higher pathogenicity scores and Bayes factors compared to subjects referred for non-neurologic indications. We also applied our scores to identify a recently validated epilepsy gene in a complex genomic region and to reveal candidate genes for epilepsy. We propose a potential use in clinical decision support for our results in the context of genome-wide screening. Our approach demonstrates the utility of integrative data in medical genomics.
Differential Effects of TPA and Pristane on Gene Expression and Transformation in Mouse Epidermal Cells

The effects of 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) or 2,6,10,14-tetramethylpentadecane (pristane) on gene expression and transformation were examined using two clones (P+, TPA transformation sensitive and P-, TPA resistant) of the mouse epidermal cell line JB6. Results from transformation studies indicated pristane was more efficient, i.e., lower concentrations were required to elicit an equivalent response, in transforming the P+, but not the P-, clone of JB6 compared to TPA. Furthermore, results from these studies demonstrated either TPA or pristane was effective in the transactivation of the chloramphenicol acetyltransferase gene under the regulatory control of most viral promoter/enhancer elements transfected into the P+, but not the P-, clone of JB6. However, if a consensus cAMP response element was linked to the simian virus 40 early promoter, pristane activation was observed in both P+ and P- cells. The differential effects of these two compounds suggest that while they have similar characteristics, they may utilize different pathways to elicit their effects.
Maximum Tolerable Power Supply Noise for Data-Clock Synchronization

A new approach to analyze the impact of power supply noise on clock jitter and data-clock synchronization is suggested. Resonances of the worst-case clock jitter and timing margin as functions of supply noise have been demonstrated. Maximum power supply noise that does not violate setup timing constraint is examined.
The calculated response of a liquid-scintillator total-absorption hadron calorimeter

The calculated performance of a large-volume, all-liquid-scintillator calorimeter for incident pions having momenta in the range of 3 to 20 GeV/c is presented. The calculated scintillation pulse-height distribution, energy deposition, leakage energy, and pulse-height resolution as a function of pion energy are given. Calculated and experimental pulse-height distributions are compared for 20-GeV/c incident pions. (auth)
Use of Failure Modes Effects and Criticality Analysis to Improve Patient Safety

The Joint Commission for Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations recently approved revisions to their accreditation standards that are intended to support improvements in patient safety and reduce medical errors. Key among these is the requirement to perform a Failure Modes, Effects, and Criticality Analysis (FMECA) on one high-risk process each year and propose measures to address the most critical failures. Because FMECA was developed for other industries such as nuclear, aerospace, and chemical, some adaptation of its form and use is needed. The FMECA process is normally performed by analyzing each element of an engineered system as represented on a process flow diagram. Medical processes, in contrast, are usually defined procedurally. The key elements of a medical process are more likely to be actions than equipment and components. A community project was put together to develop and test the FMECA adaptation and had good results. This collaboration consisted of safety analysts at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in Richland, Washington and the Quality and Performance Improvement managers of the three local hospitals. This paper describes this adaptation.Copyright © 2002 by ASME
X-ray microCT study of pyramids of the sea urchin Lytechinus variegatus

Abstract This paper reports results of a novel approach, X-ray microCT, for quantifying stereom structures applied to ossicles of the sea urchin Lytechinus variegatus . MicroCT, a high resolution variant of medical CT (computed tomography), allows noninvasive mapping of microstructure in 3-D with spatial resolution approaching that of optical microscopy. An intact pyramid (two demipyramids, tooth epiphyses, and one tooth) was reconstructed with 17 μm isotropic voxels (volume elements); two individual demipyramids and a pair of epiphyses were studied with 9–13 μm isotropic voxels. The cross-sectional maps of a linear attenuation coefficient produced by the reconstruction algorithm showed that the structure of the ossicles was quite heterogeneous on the scale of tens to hundreds of micrometers. Variations in magnesium content and in minor elemental constitutents could not account for the observed heterogeneities. Spatial resolution was insufficient to resolve the individual elements of the stereom, but the observed values of the linear attenuation coefficient (for the 26 keV effective X-ray energy, a maximum of 7.4 cm −1 and a minimum of ∼2 cm −1 away from obvious voids) could be interpreted in terms of fractions of voxels occupied by mineral (high magnesium calcite). The average volume fraction of mineral determined for a transverse slice of the demipyramid near where it joins an epiphysis was 0.46; for a slice 3.3 mm adoral it was 0.70. Local volume fractions of mineral approached 1, and, away from resolvable voids, considerable portions of the demipyramids had volume fractions of calcite at or below ∼0.33. MicroCT imaging of a demipyramid before and after infiltration with a high absorptivity fluid (sodium polytungstate) confirmed the determination of the volume fractions of minerals.
Notes on Burmese Manuscripts: Text and Images

While recent cataloging work in Myanmar, Japan, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Thailand has served to greatly enhance our knowledge of Burmese, Sanskrit and Pali texts transmitted in Burmese manuscripts, we still lack adequate descriptive and critical studies of manuscript-related practices and mentalities in pre-modern Burma. The present note is concerned with the development of manuscript ornamentation. It examines the varieties of Burmese manuscript textual supports and their histories, the scope of genres that received decoration, and the technologies associated with ornamentation.
Malignant tumours of liver and lung in rats fed aminopyrine or heptamethyleneimine together with nitrite.

SOME human cancer might be caused by nitrosamines formed in the gastrointestinal tract from nitrite in the food and secondary or tertiary amines ingested deliberately or incidentally1–3. This hypothesis was supported by experiments in which rats fed with nitrite and secondary amines developed the same type of tumours as after treatment with the respective nitrosamines4.
Estimating the maple syrup production potential of American forests: an enhanced estimate that accounts for density and accessibility of tappable maple trees

This paper examines the maple syrup production potential of American forests by analyzing Forest Inventory & Analysis (FIA) data provided by the US Forest Service on the resource of sugar maple (Acer saccharum Marsh.) and red maple (Acer rubrum L.) trees in twenty states. The analysis is based on tree species and size (diameter at breast height, or dbh), ownership category, jurisdiction, the density of maple trees in a stand, and the distance of the stand to an access road. Although there are over 2 billion sugar and red maple trees of tappable size growing in US forests, when narrowed down according to the attributes of an optimal ‘sugarbush’, there are 100 million potential taps from sugar maples alone and 286 million potential taps with sugar and red maples combined. Overall, 45 % of the tappable-size maple trees are found in stands whose density is not high enough to support commercial sap extraction whereas only 6 % are found in stands that are at least 1.6 km from an access road. The ten states with commercial maple syrup industries have a much higher percentage of their maple trees occurring in stands of optimal density and also contain a higher percentage of sugar maple than red maple trees. States that are utilizing the highest percentage of their potential sugarbushes include Vermont and Maine, whereas states that have significant room for expansion include Michigan, New York, and Pennsylvania.
Factors that Influence Dietary Fat and Fiber Intake of Registered Dietitians in New Mexico

Abstract LEARNING OUTCOME: To ascertain the factors which influence intake of fat and fiber by Registered Dietitians (RD) in New Mexico (NM). Using a survey instrument which was validated and pilot tested, all RDs in NM (225) were surveyed; responses were received from 153 (68%). RDs were asked a series of questions about factors which influence what they eat related to fat and fiber and, thus, following the Dietary Guidelines. About 30% indicated that such eating was very much influenced by their spouse or significant other. Almost 13% indicated that culture very much influenced what they ate related to these nutrients. Time available to prepare food, to shop and to eat were three other factors which very much influenced what was eaten related to fat and fiber; 56%, 36% and 31%, respectively. Other major influences included food likes and dislikes, cooking knowledge and abilities, concern about health and concern about weight; 74%, 40%, 72% and 53%, respectively. Because NM is 46th in the nation in per capita income, dietitians in the state often counsel patients about how to eat on a restricted budget. Even though such counseling is common, 7% of the respondents indicated that healthier food costs more and 15% indicated that cost of food very much influenced what they ate related to fat and fiber. Although RDs in NM had almost perfect scores related to knowledge about fat and fiber and the associated Dietary Guidelines, these data indicated that following the guidelines related to these nutrients was significantly influenced by outside factors such as a spouse or significant other, culture, time, cooking knowledge and abilities and to some extent cost. Thus, it is apparent that even in a highly knowledgable group which should be more motivated than most, knowledge alone is not sufficient to insure compliance with guidelines which were formulated to promote health and decrease the nutrition related risks associated with some of the leading causes of death in NM and the United States.
Dominance‐subordinance in cohabiting pairs of adult rats: Effects on Aggressive behavior

Following an initial intruder aggression test, 10 pairs of adult male rats matched on aggressiveness were formed. The first 20 min of paired cohabitation were used to determine dominance and subordinance between pau members. Residents judged to be dominant from this observation session gained significantly more weight during cohabitation and exhibited significantly more aggression on the second aggression test than their subordinate counterparts. Significant correlations among various measures of aggression were found, but open field performance did not correlate, with the measures of aggression nor did changes in open field scores reflect changes in aggression.
The effect of bilingual instruction and play on preschoolers' English proficiency

This study seeks to demonstrate the benefits of bilingual instruction, story drama, and play with low-income preschool children. Sixty-five percent of the children in the study were dual language learners (DLLs). The investigation took place in a state-funded, public, universal prekindergarten program implementing Tools of the Mind (Tools), a Vygotskian play-based curriculum. Teachers read aloud fairy tales twice a week. Children in three classrooms were exposed to one of three read-aloud conditions: English-only, bilingual and no play, or bilingual and play. The results indicated that the classroom that provided bilingual instruction and play had significantly higher English proficiency and story recall scores than either of the other two classrooms. Providing opportunities to play and reenact fairy tales seemed to have positive effects on English proficiency and story recall for low-income preschool children.
Blood Pressure Effects of High-Dose Amlodipine-Benazepril Combination in Black and White Hypertensive Patients Not Controlled on Monotherapy

Black hypertensive patients are more resistant to angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor monotherapy than White patients. This resistance can be overcome with the combination of ACE inhibitors with diuretics or calcium-channel blockers (CCBs). The objective of this clinical investigation was to evaluate the antihypertensive effectiveness of monotherapy with the ACE inhibitor benazepril or the CCB amlodipine and their combination in Black and White hypertensive patients in two separate studies. This was a post hoc analysis of data from two separate studies, pooled because of their similarities, to increase the sample size. Outpatient Black and White hypertensive patients were selected for these studies. In study H2303, 201 patients of both sexes and races, whose mean seated diastolic blood pressure (MSDBP) was ≥95 mmHg after 4 weeks of single-blind treatment with benazepril 40mg/day, were randomized into two groups. Group 1 received benazepril 40mg/day and group 2 received amlodipine/benazepril 5/40mg/day, which was uptitrated to amlodipine/benazepril 10/40 mg/day at week 4 of the study. In study H2304, 812 similar patients, whose MSDBP was ≥95 mmHg after 4 weeks of single-blind treatment with amlodipine 10 mg/day, were randomized into three groups. Group 1 received amlodipine/benazepril 10/20 mg/day, uptitrated to amlodipine/benazepril 10/40 mg/day after 2 weeks. Group 2 received amlodipine/benazepril 10/20 mg/day. Group 3 received amlodipine 10 mg/day. All three groups were followed up for 6 additional weeks. This report presents the results of post hoc analysis of pooled data from two separate but similar studies. Combination therapy resulted in greater lowering of MSDBP and mean seated systolic blood pressure (MSSBP) than monotherapy with either benazepril or amlodipine (p< 0.001). With respect to combination therapy, the combination of amlodipine/benazepril 10/20 mg/day resulted in greater blood pressure (BP) reductions in White patients than in Black patients (p<0.004). In contrast, the combination of amlodipine/benazepril 10/40 mg/day resulted in similar BP reductions in both Black and White hypertensive patients. There were no serious clinical or metabolic side effects noted, with the exception of pedal edema, which was more common with amlodipine monotherapy. This study showed that combination therapy with amlodipine/benazepril is more effective in BP lowering than monotherapy with the component drugs. Black hypertensive patients are responsive to the combination of amlodipine/benazepril; however, they require higher dose combinations for BP reductions similar to those achieved in White hypertensive patients.
Natural aging and radiation-induced life shortening in Drosophila melanogaster.

Abstract Various tissues of control and γ-irradiated male Drosophila melanogaster have been investigated by light and electron microscopy. Old flies showed involutionary changes in the fat body, oenocytes, muscle, mid-gut, Malpighian tubules, brain and sex organs. There was an accumulation of electron-dense bodies in the oenocytes and of ceroid-like material in the cytoplasm of the mid-gut cells. Also, senescent flies showed a striking reduction in the ribosomes and endoplasmic reticulum in the Malpighian tubules. In 28–33-day-old flies which were exposed to 50 kR of γ-irradiation at 1 day of age, the most consistent pathological changes were focal cytoplasmic edema and virus accumulation in the nuclei. Our present results support the view that irradiation results in life-shortening through a radiation syndrome mechanism which is essentially unrelated to aging.
Hydrodynamic analysis of a two-dimensional model for micromechanical resonance of free-standing hair bundles.

Abstract To investigate the role of inner ear fluids and structures on mechanical stimulation of the hair bundles of hair cells, we analyzed a two-dimensional structure that consists of: a rectangular flap (which represents a hair bundle) attached to a flat basal plate (which represents the surface of the epithelium that contains the hair cells) with a spring-loaded hinge (that represents the compliant attachment of a hair bundle to the hair cell body) and surrounded by a viscous fluid (that represents endolymph). We computed the fluid velocity as well as the forces on and motion of the flap in response to sinusoidal vibration of the plate by numerical integration of the hydrodynamic equations, and —at asymptotically low and high frequencies — by analytic methods. The results suggest that: (1) the surface of the sensory epithelium, from which hair bundles project into fluid, plays an important part in the production of fluid forces on hair bundles; (2) both fluid inertia and viscosity play a key role in hair bundle mechanics; (3) passive mechanical resonances are likely to contribute to both frequency selectivity and frequency-to-place coding in the inner ear.
Regulation of Plant Immunity through Modulation of Phytoalexin Synthesis

Soybean hairy roots transformed with the resveratrol synthase and resveratrol oxymethyl transferase genes driven by constitutive Arabidopsis actin and CsVMV promoters were characterized. Transformed hairy roots accumulated glycoside conjugates of the stilbenic compound resveratrol and the related compound pterostilbene, which are normally not synthesized by soybean plants. Expression of the non-native stilbenic phytoalexin synthesis in soybean hairy roots increased their resistance to the soybean pathogen Rhizoctonia solani. The expression of the AhRS3 gene resulted in 20% to 50% decreased root necrosis compared to that of untransformed hairy roots. The expression of two genes, the AhRS3 and ROMT, required for pterostilbene synthesis in soybean, resulted in significantly lower root necrosis (ranging from 0% to 7%) in transgenic roots than in untransformed hairy roots that had about 84% necrosis. Overexpression of the soybean prenyltransferase (dimethylallyltransferase) G4DT gene in soybean hairy roots increased accumulation of the native phytoalexin glyceollin resulting in decreased root necrosis.
Self-synchronous coherent beam combination

A completely novel concept for coherent beam combination is presented. The technique completely eliminates the need for a reference beam resulting in a dramatic simplification of electronic coherent beam combination without any compromise in performance.
An extended basis set lcao xα treatment of NiH and Ni2

Abstract An extended basis set LCAO Xa calculation on NiH yields agreement with experiment and ab initio calculations. However, for Ni 2 our results are in sharp disagreement with various ab initio calculations, possibly due to basis set effects rather than fundamental differences between density functional and Hartree-Fock based approaches.
Talking like teachers: Teacher and pupil discourse in Botswana primary classrooms

Abstract This paper discusses the role of teacher‐talk in Botswana primary schools. There is overwhelming evidence that pupils’ contributions are outweighed by those of their teachers. Even when teachers make a conscious effort to increase the pupils’ opportunities for participation, this is constrained by frontal teaching and teaching through the medium of English. The outcome is that the foreign medium forces the teachers to put emphasis on education as a product rather than a process. The paper advocates the development of a genuinely bilingual model of education in which both teachers and pupils will make full use of their linguistic resources.
Chiral models: Their implication for gauge theories and large N

Abstract Two-dimensional chiral models are investigated from a strong coupling viewpoint, with the ultimate objective of understanding the phase structure of gauge theories. Predictions for the average link and beta function are obtained. The abelian case agrees well with previous work. Strong evidence for a phase transition in the U( N ) cases is found, in contrast to the SU(2) and SU(3) theories. Large N character expansion techniques are developed and give strong evidence for a large N phase transition. Our conclusions can be applied qualitatively to gauge theories, with one difference: instantons are necessary in QCD for connecting weak with strong coupling.
Chronic oral toxicity of aldrin and dieldrin in rats and dogs

Abstract The results of feeding rats and dogs diets containing aldrin and dieldrin for 2 yr are reported. When groups of 24 (12 male and 12 female) rats were placed on diets containing 0 (controls), 0·5, 2, 10, 50, 100 or 150 ppm of aldrin or dieldrin at 3 weeks of age and continued on their respective diets for 2 yr, neither aldrin nor dieldrin affected growth. Survival was markedly decreased among rats on either supplement at 50 ppm or greater, and a dose-response relationship occurred. Liver weight to body weight ratios were significantly increased in rats at all levels of aldrin and dieldrin fed, although not necessarily for both sexes at each level. Both gross and microscopic changes were caused by aldrin and dieldrin at all levels given. In rats on the higher dose levels distended and haemorrhagic urinary bladders, enlargement of the liver, and an increased incidence of nephritis occurred. Rats, fed smaller amounts of either insecticide, showed a general increase in tumour incidence, which was almost doubled. In rats on all dose levels the characteristic microscopic liver lesions, which occur in rodents given any of a number of chlorinated insecticides, were found. Such liver change was minimal in rats on 0·5 ppm of dieldrin, and especially, of aldrin. Among rats on 50 ppm or more this change was generally pronounced. In a total of 26 dogs, fed aldrin or dieldrin at 0·2–10 mg/kg/day for up to 25 months, those on 0·5 mg or more showed gross toxic effects, including loss of weight and convulsions, and they died progressively earlier with increasing dose level. Microscopic effects were limited to fatty degenerative changes in liver and kidney and bone marrow changes (reduced cellularity, particularly in the erythroid line) in those dogs on 1 mg/kg/day or more of either insecticide. Similar effects occurred in dogs on 0·5 mg dieldrin; however, no microscopic change was noted in dogs on 0·5 mg aldrin. No effect, gross or microscopic, was seen in dogs on 0·2 mg of either insecticide.
Artificial Organs versus Regenerative Medicine: Is It True?

Individuals engaged in the fields of artificial kidney and artificial heart have often mistakenly stated that "the era of artificial organs is over; regenerative medicine is the future." Contrarily, we do not believe artificial organs and regenerative medicine are different medical technologies. As a matter of fact, artificial organs developed during the last 50 years have been used as a bridge to regeneration. The only difference between regenerative medicine and artificial organs is that artificial organs for the bridge to regeneration promote tissue regeneration in situ, instead of outside the body (for example, vascular prostheses, neuroprostheses, bladder substitutes, skin prostheses, bone prostheses, cartilage prostheses, ligament prostheses, etc.). All of these artificial organs are successful because tissue regeneration over a man-made prosthesis is established inside the patient's body (artificial organs to support regeneration). Another usage of the group of artificial organs for the bridge to regeneration is to sustain the functions of the patient's diseased organs during the regeneration process of the body's healthy tissues and/or organs. This particular group includes artificial kidney, hepatic assist, respiratory assist, and circulatory assist. Proof of regeneration of these healthy tissues and/or organs is demonstrated in the short-term recovery of end-stage organ failure patients (artificial organs for bridge to regeneration). A third group of artificial organs for the bridge to regeneration accelerates the regenerating process of the patient's healthy tissues and organs. This group includes neurostimulators, artificial blood (red cells) blood oxygenators, and plasmapheresis devices, including hemodiafiltrators. So-called "therapeutic artificial organs" fall into this category (artificial organs to accelerate regeneration). Thus, almost all of today's artificial organs are useful in the bridge to regeneration of healthy natural tissues and organs. It does not matter whether these tissues are cultivated inside or outside the patient's body. Thus, we strongly believe in the need for joint development programs between artificial organ technologies and regenerative medicine technologies. In particular, the importance of using both man-made substitute organ technologies and natural tissue-derived substitute organ technologies is stressed for improved medical care in the future.
A catalog of nonsynonymous polymorphism on mouse Chromosome 16

Numerous phenotypic traits differ among inbred mice, and the genetic diversity of inbred strains has been exploited in studies of quantitative trait loci (QTL). Sequencing the mouse genome has resulted in improved tools for the study of QTL, but a comprehensive catalog of sequence variants between strains would be of great value in identifying and testing potentially causative alleles. A/J DNA was included in the Celera shotgun sequence of the mouse genome and C57BL/6 DNA was sequenced by an international consortium. We have resequenced A/J and B6 DNA to cover nearly all of the protein-coding portions of mouse Chromosome 16, revealing that there are 106 nonsynonymous substitutions in 74 of the 779 genes on the chromosome. The pattern of substitution is more similar to the spectrum of benign polymorphism in the human population than it is to human disease-causing mutations. In mouse, polymorphic variants tend to be associated with one another on large haplotypes; this pattern also holds true for nonsynonymous polymorphism. However, sufficient fragmentation of haplotypes is present to suggest that only a very-high-resolution haplotype map will enable effective inference of alleles in additional strains.
Inhibition of Cellular Proteasome Activities Mediates HBX-Independent Hepatitis B Virus Replication In Vivo

The X protein (HBX) of the hepatitis B virus (HBV) is essential for HBV productive infection in vivo. Our previous study (Z. Hu, Z. Zhang, E. Doo, O. Coux, A. L. Goldberg, and T. J. Liang, J. Virol. 73:7231-7240, 1999) shows that interaction of HBX with the proteasome complex may underlie the pleiotropic functions of HBX. Previously, we demonstrated that HBX affects hepadnaviral replication through a proteasome-dependent pathway in cell culture models. In the present study, we studied the effect of the proteasome inhibitor MLN-273 in two HBV mouse models. We demonstrated that administration of MLN-273 to transgenic mice containing the replication-competent HBV genome with the defective HBX gene substantially enhanced HBV replication, while the compound had a minor effect on wild-type HBV transgenic mice. Similar results were obtained by using C57BL/6 mice infected with recombinant adenoviruses expressing the replicating HBV genome. Our data suggest that HBV replication is subjected to regulation by cellular proteasome and HBX functions through the inhibition of proteasome activities to enhance HBV replication in vivo.
Cytology of malignant melanoma of soft parts: Fine‐needle aspirates and exfoliative specimens

We describe the morphologic features of 25 cytology specimens (13 fine-needle aspirates and 12 exfoliative specimens) obtained from nine patients with malignant melanoma of soft parts (MMSP). Analysis of the fine-needle aspirates and exfoliative specimens revealed primarily a dispersed cell population with occasional cell clustering. Tumor cells were round to polygonal with moderately abundant cytoplasm and had round nuclei with prominent nucleoli. In two cases, an initial definitive diagnosis of MMSP was rendered on material obtained by fine-needle aspiration with the aid of immunocytochemical and ultrastructural studies.
Anatomical repair of nerve membranes in crushed mammalian spinal cord with polyethylene glycol.

Acute damage to axons is manifested as a breach in their membranes, ion exchange across the compromised region, local depolarization, and sometimes conduction block. This condition can worsen leading to axotomy. Using a novel recording chamber, we demonstrate immediate arrest of this process by application of polyethylene glycol (PEG) to a severe compression of guinea pig spinal cord. Variable magnitudes of compound actions potentials (CAPs) were rapidly restored in 100% of the PEG-treated spinal cords. Using a dye exclusion test, in which horseradish peroxidase is imbibed by damaged axons, we have shown that the physiological recovery produced by polyethylene glycol was associated with sealing of compromised axolemmas. Injured axons readily imbibe horseradish peroxidase—but not following sealing of their membranes. The density of nerve fibers taking up the marker is significantly reduced following polyethylene glycol treatment compared to a control group. We further show that all axons—independent of their caliber—are equally susceptible to the compression injury and equally susceptible to polyethylene glycol mediated repair. Thus, polyethylene glycol—induced reversal of permeabilization by rapid membrane sealing is likely the basis for physiological recovery in crushed spinal cords. We discuss the clinical importance of these findings.
Bodner-Partom Constitutive Model and Nonlinear Finite Element Analysis

The parameters in the constitutive model are computed from a least-square fit to experimental data obtained from uniaxial stress-strain and creep tests at 650 o C. The finite element model of a double-notched specimen is employed to determine the value of the elastic-plastic strain and is compared to experimental data