cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Absence of chromosome fragility at 19q13.3 in patients with myotonic dystrophy

Myotonic dystrophy (DM) is an autosomal dominant disorder characterized by a trinucleotide (AGC) amplification at 19q13.3. The degree of trinucleotide amplification may increase in successive generations and generally correlates with severity of the disorder. Because amplification of a trinucleotide repeat is also associated with the observation of a fra(X)(q27.3) in the fragile X syndrome, we investigated whether chromosome fragility at 19q13.3 might be inducible in patients with DM. Using 3 different culture stress systems (medium 199, RPMI 1640 with excess TdR, and RPMI 1640 with FudR) and high resolution chromosome analyses, we studied 6 individuals with DM and 5 unaffected relatives representing two unrelated families. Molecular studies were done on two of the most affected patients and showed AGC repeat sequences of 970 and 1,260 at 19q13.3. The normal range of AGC repeat is 5 to 30. We found no indication of fragility at 19q13.3 in any of these individuals. © 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Algorithm development and validation of CDOM properties for estuarine and continental shelf waters along the northeastern U.S. coast

Abstract An extensive set of field measurements have been collected throughout the continental margin of the northeastern U.S. from 2004 to 2011 to develop and validate ocean color satellite algorithms for the retrieval of the absorption coefficient of chromophoric dissolved organic matter (aCDOM) and CDOM spectral slopes for the 275:295 nm and 300:600 nm spectral range (S275:295 and S300:600). Remote sensing reflectance (Rrs) measurements computed from in-water radiometry profiles along with aCDOM(λ) data are applied to develop several types of algorithms for the SeaWiFS and MODIS-Aqua ocean color satellite sensors, which involve least squares linear regression of aCDOM(λ) with (1) Rrs band ratios, (2) quasi-analytical algorithm-based (QAA-based) products of total absorption coefficients, (3) multiple Rrs bands within a multiple linear regression (MLR) analysis, and (4) diffuse attenuation coefficient (Kd). The relative error (mean absolute percent difference; MAPD) for the MLR retrievals of aCDOM(275), aCDOM(355), aCDOM(380), aCDOM(412) and aCDOM(443) for our study region range from 20.4 to 23.9% for MODIS-Aqua and 27.3–30% for SeaWiFS. Because of the narrower range of CDOM spectral slope values, the MAPD for the MLR S275:295 and S300:600 algorithms are much lower ranging from 9.9% and 9.1% for SeaWiFS, respectively, and 8.7% and 9.7% for MODIS, respectively. Multi-year, seasonal and spatial MODIS-Aqua and SeaWiFS distributions of aCDOM, S275:295 and S300:600 processed with these algorithms are consistent with field measurements and the processes that impact CDOM levels along the continental shelf of the northeastern U.S. Several satellite data processing factors correlate with higher uncertainty in satellite retrievals of aCDOM, S275:295 and S300:600 within the coastal ocean, including solar zenith angle, sensor viewing angle, and atmospheric products applied for atmospheric corrections. Algorithms that include ultraviolet Rrs bands provide a better fit to field measurements than algorithms without the ultraviolet Rrs bands. This suggests that satellite sensors with ultraviolet capability could provide better retrievals of CDOM. Because of the strong correlations between CDOM parameters and DOM constituents in the coastal ocean, satellite observations of CDOM parameters can be applied to study the distributions, sources and sinks of DOM, which are relevant for understanding the carbon cycle, modeling the Earth system, and to discern how the Earth is changing.
Retinal influences upon the trace phenomenon

These experiments were designed to determine whether the threshold of the trace phenomenon (the streak of light that is observed when a light is moved rapidly within the field of vision) could be influenced by the adaptation conditions of the retina and/or the nature or locus of the imposed stimulus. The experiments employed a rotating light stimulus, the speed of which could be systematically varied and accurately determined. In Experiment 1 it was predicted that the trace threshold would vary as a function of dark adaptation and stimulus intensity, in Experiment 2 it was predicted that the threshold would vary as a function of dark adaptation and stimulus locus, and in Experiment 3 it was predicted that the threshold would vary as a function of color adaptation and stimulus color. None of the predictions were supported. It was concluded that the trace phenomenon is probably due to central cortical activity rather than to peripheral processes within the retina.
Effects of adrenal cortical hormones and thyroxine on phosphorylase activity in muscle.

The open-chest rat preparation was used to investigate the interaction between corticosterone and thyroxine in regulating myo-cardial phosphorylase activity; measurements were also made of heart rate and mean arterial blood pressure. Corticosterone, but not thyroxine, caused an increase in total heart phos-phorylase which was due to a specific increase in the enzyme rather than a general increase in cellular protein. Both corticosterone and thyroxine increased cardiac phosphorylase a activity n i normal rats. The enzymatic and positive chronotropic effects of thyroxine were markedly diminished in adrenalectomized rats; simultaneous administration of corticosterone with thyroxine restored the responses to normal. In thy-roidectomized animals, corticosterone produced less stimulation of heart phosphorylase a than in control rats. When both thyroxine and corti-costerone were given to thyroidectomized animals, the level of phosphorylase a approximated that seen when these hormones were injected into normal ra...
Flow cytometric electronic direct current volume and radiofrequency impedance measurements of single cells and particles.

A flow-system instrument is described that uses direct current and radiofrequency (rf) currents to detect simultaneously the low and high frequency impedance changes produced by biologic cells or particles suspended in saline traversing through a 93-..mu..m diameter sensing orifice. For nonmembranous particles and plastic microspheres both the Coulter direct current volume and rf-parameter signals are proportional to particle volume. Cells having an intact plasma membrane produce rf-impedance changes dependent additionally on the electrical properties of the plasma membrane and intracellular structures. Thus, biologically different cells having the same Coulter direct current volume can be distinguished if they differ in their electrical rf impedance properties.
A Simulated transportation problem for improved operational planning: An application in the trucking industry

Abstract This paper demonstrates the use of a simulated transportation method as an approach to developing an instructional guide that is operationally flexible and feasible for planning truck rental needs in a way to minimize costs. The informational impact of this approach aids not only the internal operations, but also external relations with truck renting companies by providing a more accurate measure of the anticipated demand on rental equipment, thus allowing the rental companies an opportunity to meet this demand. The results of the research conducted indicate the simulated transportation method is a reliable and valid planning instrument for minimizing transportation cost and generating useful information for management decision making.
An Analysis of the Decision-Making Functions of a Simulated Air Defense Direction Center

Abstract : Two crews from the Air Defense Command were charged with the responsibility of defending the United States against hostile attack and then exposed to high stress situations in a simulated manual Air Defense Direction Center. Their responses were analyzed to determine what, if any, characteristic response patterns emerged. The following were suggested by the analysis of the data: (1) When reality is too complex to deal with first-hand, a man-machine system will construct a model of reality. This model is continuously modified by the system (to take into account changes in reality and changes in proficiency) but the modifications always reflect the charged responsibility. (2) The model of reality is then evaluated to determine the best of several possible responses. Responses are selected in terms of which most effectively meets the charged responsibility. (3) A system, apparently unconsciously, operates at a level of effort that remains relatively constant for the job at hand and will exceed this level rarely and for short intervals only. (4) A system apparently orders reality on a subjective list ranging from 'immediate response is mandatory' to 'no response is necessary' and then responds reading from the top of the list to the point of the system level of effort. (5) The major effect of stressing the system is to provoke a more careful culling of the list rather than increase the level of effort. (Author)
Brain tissue lipidomics: Direct probing using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry

Lipidomics is the new frontier in biomolecular structural studies. Not only are lipids the main components in membranes that define the contours of the cell and its organelles, but they are also used for storage. Lipids form stable noncovalent complexes with proteins as well as with many drugs. Lipids are a storage depot for drugs and certain types of organic molecules. To study lipid composition and distribution, complex and time-consuming techniques are used. However, recent advances in mass spectrometry, mainly matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) have made it possible to directly probe tissues to study structural components, as well as for the localization of drugs. Direct tissue imaging is a powerful tool as it gives a more complete and accurate structural picture and can trace and follow where drugs localize in tissue with minimal anatomical disruption and a minimum of manipulations. Hence, we believe that in addition to its accuracy and efficiency, this new approach will lead to a better understanding of physiological processes as well as the pathophysiology of disease.
Innovative Methods Resources for Research, Publishing, and Teaching

A selection of innovative methods congenial to research in feminist psychology is reviewed. The methods described include collaborations, discourse analysis, ethnography, existential-phenomenologic...
Tm-doped aluminate glass fibers for S-band optical amplification

Abstract Thulium-doped fiber amplifiers (TDFAs) have been proposed as practical devices for the amplification of light signals in the so-called S-band (1460–1530 nm) of the transparency window of standard telecommunications fiber. As the quantum efficiency of the desired 3H4 → 3F4 luminescence of Tm3+ is adversely affected by non-radiative decay when high maximum phonon energy (MPE) host glasses are used, a practical TDFA requires an active fiber made from a glass with intermediate to low MPE. We have explored the possibility of using aluminate fibers for this application, as bulk samples of Tm-doped alkaline earth aluminate glass are characterized by a MPE of 780 cm−1 and a quantum efficiency for the 1460 nm fluorescence of ∼35%. Despite the high devitrification tendency of aluminate glass, pure aluminate core fibers with minimum losses of ∼0.5 dB/m have been successfully fabricated by the rod-in-tube technique using viscosity- and expansion-matched alkaline earth aluminosilicate cladding glasses.
Inhibition by caffeine of ovarian hormone-induced mammary gland tumorigenesis in female GR mice.

Abstract The purpose of this study was to determine whether or not caffeine could influence the development of ovarian hormone dependent mammary tumors in GR mice. Virgin female GR mice were treated daily for 24 weeks with 17β-estradiol and progesterone, commencing at 8 – 10 weeks of age. One week after the onset of hormone treatment, caffeine (500 mg/l drinking water) was administered daily until experiment termination to one-half of the hormone-treated mice. Hormone treatment induced mammary tumors in 95–100% of the mice. Caffeine treatment significantly (P
Vasoactive intestinal peptide activates Ca2(+)-dependent K+ channels through a cAMP pathway in mouse lacrimal cells.

Abstract The action of vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) on Ca 2+ -dependent K + currents, in dissociated mouse lacrimal cells, was investigated using patch clamp techniques. In whole cell recordings, VIP (10–100 pM) increased the magnitude of the Ca 2+ -dependent K + current. In single channel recordings, VIP increased the fraction of time the large chary bdotoxin-sensitive Ca 2+ -activated K + channel spent in the open state. The activity of this channel was also increased by adding forskolin or 8-bromo cAMP to the bath. Additionally, application of either cAMP or catalytic subunit of cAMP-dependent protein kinase directly to the cytoplasmic surface of excised inside out patches reversibly lengthened the time Ca 2+ -activated K + channels spent in the open state. These data suggest that VIP stimulates Ca 2+ -activated K + channels by a cAMR-dependent pathway in mouse lacrimal acinar cells.
Reliability and Validity Analysis of the Stay Well and Healthy! Health Risk Appraisal for Persons with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Background The Stay Well and Healthy! Health Risk Appraisal (SWH-HRA) tool was developed and piloted in an in-home preventive healthcare program for persons ageing with intellectual and developmental disabilities (Aronow & Hahn 2005; Hahn & Aronow 2005). This paper presents the results of reliability and validity assessment of the SWH-HRA tool based on pilot data for 201 participants with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD) who were administered the SWH-HRA, a subsample of 36 who were administered the SWH-HRA twice within 100 days, and a subsample of 69 participants who received an advanced practice nurse (APN) (nurse practitioner) intervention. Materials and Methods The reliability of the SWH-HRA tool was assessed using descriptive statistics, scale item analyses and correlation analyses. Descriptive statistics were run on all health risk measures of the SWH-HRA, and the results were examined for face validity. Cronbach’s alpha statistics were calculated for all multi-item scales. Factor analyses were used to evaluate the factor structure in three scales. Correlation statistics were used for test–retest reliability and for validity assessment comparing selected SWH-HRA scales with comparable measures used by the APN. Criterion validity was assessed by evaluating the relationship of the risk items or scales to use of emergency room and hospital services and to participation. Results The findings of the psychometric analysis of the SWH-HRA tool, which was developed for assessing health and risks of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities, support the tool’s overall reliability and validity. Conclusions The findings add support for continued use and testing of the SWH-HRA in randomized clinical control trials comparing SWH-HRA use to usual care with persons with IDD. Further psychometric testing is indicated with persons with other types of disabilities.
The composition and architecture of hydrated hydroxy anions as observed in the crystalline state - A review

Abstract Search of the Cambridge Structural Database reveals that hydrated hydroxide anions can be quite complex in their stereochemistry. As in the case of hydronium cations [I. Bernal. C.R. Chim. 9 (2006) 1454], they can be acyclic as well as cyclic. Moreover, it is documented here that hydrated hydroxide anions exist in the form of geometrical isomers or conformers. A simple example occurs in species of composition H5O3− which exist in isomeric forms in which their stereochemistry depends on whether the OH− is the hydrogen donor to waters or vice versa. All illustrations in this survey were generated with DIAMOND.
The heterogeneity statistic I 2 can be biased in small meta-analyses

Estimated effects vary across studies, partly because of random sampling error and partly because of heterogeneity. In meta-analysis, the fraction of variance that is due to heterogeneity is estimated by the statistic I2. We calculate the bias of I2, focusing on the situation where the number of studies in the meta-analysis is small. Small meta-analyses are common; in the Cochrane Library, the median number of studies per meta-analysis is 7 or fewer. We use Mathematica software to calculate the expectation and bias of I2. I2 has a substantial bias when the number of studies is small. The bias is positive when the true fraction of heterogeneity is small, but the bias is typically negative when the true fraction of heterogeneity is large. For example, with 7 studies and no true heterogeneity, I2 will overestimate heterogeneity by an average of 12 percentage points, but with 7 studies and 80 percent true heterogeneity, I2 can underestimate heterogeneity by an average of 28 percentage points. Biases of 12–28 percentage points are not trivial when one considers that, in the Cochrane Library, the median I2 estimate is 21 percent. The point estimate I2 should be interpreted cautiously when a meta-analysis has few studies. In small meta-analyses, confidence intervals should supplement or replace the biased point estimate I2.
Kinetics of cytokine expression in melanoma metastases classifies immune responsiveness.

Production of cytokines (CKs) in the tumor micro-environment may modulate tumor–host interactions. However, pre-clinical models often provide conflicting data and there is no established role for CKs as modulators of the natural or treatment-related behavior of tumors. Serial sampling by fine-needle aspirates (FNAs) of identical metastases from patients affected with metastatic melanoma and undergoing IL-2–based vaccination allowed prospective measurement of IL-10, TGF-β1, TGF-β2 and IFN-γ transcriptional levels assessed by quantitative real-time PCR. Thus, it was possible to prospectively document the expression of markers relevant to a given treatment and follow at the same time the clinical outcome of the lesions left in place. Eight of 27 metastatic lesions completely regressed in response to the treatment and 1 demonstrated >50% shrinkage. These regressions occurred after the follow-up FNA had been obtained. IL-10 transcript was differentially expressed in pre-treatment FNA of responding lesions (t-test p2 = 0.002). During treatment, INF-γ transcript levels significantly increased in regressing compared to non-regressing lesions (t-test p2 = 0.03). These data suggest that the pre-treatment CK profile of the tumor micro-environment may determine clinical responsiveness to immune therapy. Furthermore, temporal changes in CK expression during treatment might describe the biological characteristics of an effective immune response. © 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Synthesis of some oligosaccharides containing the O-α-l-fucopyranosyl-(1→2)-d-galactopyranosyl unit

Abstract A practical approach for the synthesis of oligosaccharides containing the O-α- l -fucopyranosyl-(1→2)- d -galactopyranosyl unit has been developed by utilizing the readily accessible 3,4,6-tri-O-acetyl-2-O-(2,3,4-tri-O-acetyl-α- l -fucopyranosyl)-α- d -galactopyranosyl bromide (1). Thus, condensation of bromide 1 with 8-(methoxycarbonyl)octanol in benzene, in the presence of mercuric cyanide, afforded, after column-chromatographic separation, the anomers (3 and 4) of 8-(methoxycarbonyl)octyl 3,4,6-tri-O-acetyl-2-O-(2,3,4-tri-O-acetyl-α- l -fucopyranosyl)- d -galactopyranoside in the ratio of 13:4. On the basis of their specific rotations, compounds 3 and 4 were tentatively assigned the α and β configuration, respectively. Similarly, bromide 1 was allowed to react with some other, appropriately protected sugars having a free alcohol group, to afford the corresponding α and β anomers of a galactopyranosyl residue having an α- l -fucopyranosyl substituent at O-2. Column-chromatographic separation of the anomeric mixtures, followed by systematic removal of the protecting groups, then provided the final oligosaccharides desired. In this manner, the synthesis of the following oligosaccharides has been accomplished: α- l -Fuc-(1→2)-α- d -Gal-1→O(CH2)8CO2Me (5), α- l -Fuc-(1→2)-β- d -Gal-1→O(CH2)8CO2Me (6), α- l -Fuc-(1→2)-α- d -Gal-(1→3)-β- d -GlcNAc-1→OC6H4NO2-p (11), α- l -Fuc-(1→2)-β- d -Gal-(1→3)-β- d -GlcNAc-1→OC6H4NO2-p (13), α- l -Fuc-(1→2)-α- d -Gal-(1→3)-α- d -GalNAc-1→OC6H4NO2-o, and α- l -Fuc-(1→2)-β- d -Gal-(1→3)-α- d -GalNAc-1→OC6H4NO2-o (18). The structures assigned to compounds 5, 6, 11, 13, and 18 were all supported by their respective 13C-n.m.r. spectra.
Antibacterial Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Synthetase Inhibitors: Amide- and Ether-Linked Tethered Dimers with α-Amino Acid End Groups

Tethered dimers incorporating natural α-amino acid end groups were synthesized, including examples in which the previously reported esterase-sensitive ester linker was replaced with more stable amide or ether linkers. These compounds remained effective both as inhibitors of NAD synthetase and as potent antibacterial agents for Gram-positive strains. Studies on nonspecific effects, including detergent properties and promiscuous inhibition, suggested little contribution to observed activities.
High-speed horizontal-path atmospheric turbulence correction with a large-actuator-number microelectromechanical system spatial light modulator in an interferometric phase-conjugation engine

Results of atmospheric propagation for a high-speed, large-actuator-number adaptive optics system are presented. The system uses a microelectromechanical system- (MEMS-) based spatial light modulator correction device with 1024 actuators. Tests over a 1.35-km path achieved correction speeds in excess of 800 Hz and Strehl ratios close to 0.5. The wave-front sensor was based on a quadrature interferometer that directly measures phase. This technique does not require global wave-front reconstruction, making it relatively insensitive to scintillation and phase residues. The results demonstrate the potential of large-actuator-number MEMS-based spatial light modulators to replace conventional deformable mirrors.
Effects of digitalis on the human sick sinus node after pharmacologic autonomic blockade.

Abstract To study the effects of digitalis on the sinus node and the mechanisms involved, 16 patients with the sick sinus syndrome had electrophysiologic assessment of sinus nodal function during (1) control study, (2) after pharmacologic autonomic blockade with propranolol (0.2 mg/kg body weight and atropine sulfate 0.04 mg/kg intravenously), and (3) 10 minutes after 0.01 mg/kg of intravenous ouabain. The study was completed within 30 minutes of pharmacologic autonomic blockade. During the control study 50 percent of patients had an abnormal corrected sinus nodal recovery time or abnormal sinoatrial conduction time, or both. The effects of ouabain on sinus nodal function were compared with those after pharmacologic autonomic blockade. Ouabain significantly increased both intrinsic sinus cycle length (ouabain 975 ± 194 ms [mean ± standard deviation]; autonomic blockade 1,025 ± 218 ms, probability [p] These findings suggest that (1) digitalis in therapeutic doses has a depressant effect on intrinsic sinus nodal automaticity in patients with normal as well as abnormal sinus nodal function; (2) digitalis has no significant effects on sinoatrial conduction; and (3) the effects of digitalis on sinus nodal automaticity are primary and independent of its vagal and antiadrenergic effects.
Life cycles of nemerteans that are symbiotic egg predators of decapod Crustacea: adaptations to host life histories

Life cycles of five species of nemerteans that are symbiotic egg predators of decapod crustaceans are reviewed and compared. These life cycles range from the relatively simple life cycle of Carcinonemertes regicides from the red king crab, Paralithodes camtschatica, to the complex life cycle of C. errans on the Dungeness crab, Cancer magister. Increased complexity of these life cycles is evaluated as a series of adaptations to cope with life history features of their respective hosts. These host attributes include seasonal brooding, rapid embryogenesis and brooding in alternate years. Lengthy host brood periods permit autoinfection of the respective nemertean symbionts with resultant loss of many host eggs. Adaptations associated with short or intermittent brooding periods include migrations of regressing adult worms to the gills and their return to the egg mass at the next oviposition, transfer of worms from old to new cuticles at ecdysis, use of male and juvenile female crabs as hosts, and sexual transmission at host copulation. Future research needs are briefly discussed.
Flexible manufacturing system structural control and the Neighborhood Policy, part 2. Generalization, optimization, and efficiency

In the first of this pair of papers, the Neighborhood Policy was shown to be a correct and scalable Structural Control Policy (SCP). Operating constraints that guarantee deadlock-free flexible manufacturing system (FMS) operation are generated based on machine capacity. For some systems these constraints appear to be quite conservative. This paper generalizes the Neighborhood Policy so that many different SCPs can be generated for the same FMS configuration. A method of finding permissive neighborhood systems is then developed. Finally, SCP efficiency is defined and investigated for Capacity-Based and Optimal Neighborhood Policies.
Adaptive Aircraft Flight Control Simulation Based on an Artificial Immune System

Over the past decade much progress has been made in the development of adaptive, model-following flight control systems. These systems are being designed to account for the degradation and even the failure of the actuators used to implement the control laws within aircraft. Typically, these adaptive, model-following flight control systems require software components capable of (1) monitoring system performance, (2) quantifying changes occurring in the performance characteristics of actuators, and (3) adapting control laws based on changes in actuator performance. Interestingly enough, the challenges facing natural immune systems also require the successful completion of three similar tasks: (1) monitoring organism performance, (2) identification of antigens, and (3) distribution of targeted antibodies. Thus, the characteristics inherent in natural immune systems have been captured and employed in computational systems called artificial immune systems (AISs). This paper describes an adaptive, model-following flight control system based on an artificial immune system. The effectiveness of the approach is demonstrated in a system designed to maintain cruise conditions in the simulation of a Boeing 747 aircraft in the presence of atmospheric turbulence and degradations in the performance characteristics of actuators used to manipulate various control surfaces.
Effect of urinary bladder outlet obstruction on the rabbit ureter

Ureters of mature New Zealand white male rabbits were studied at 7 and 14 days following partial bladder outlet obstruction. Muscarinic receptor density; intracellular concentrations of DNA, RNA, lipid, and hydroxyproline; and functional characteristics of the whole ureter were assessed as a means of characterizing the ureteral secondary response to partial bladder obstruction. Wet weight increased 2-fold by day 7 and almost to 3-fold by day 14. Ureteral length increased 15% by day 7 and 29% by day 14. DNA concentration varied only slightly from controls while RNA increased by 68% by day 7 but returned to near normal range by day 14. Total hydroxyproline content increased, although hydroxyproline concentration per mg tissue decreased. Total lipids increased by 73% over the first 7 days but subsequently decreased to 27% above control levels by day 14. After 1 week of obstruction, muscarinic receptor density was 35.5% of controls, and after 2 weeks of obstruction, muscarinic density was 52.5% of controls. Although muscarinic receptor density decreased significantly, the number of receptors per ureter did not substantially change. Flow studies demonstrated increased opening pressures at 7 days and decreased opening pressures by day 14. Flow as a function of constant pressure was not significantly changed by the 7th day but increased 24% by the 14th day. Bethanechol (muscarinic agonist) caused similar decreases in flow in control and 1- and 2-week obstructed ureters. These studies indicate that 1 week following partial outlet obstruction, ureters demonstrate increased protein synthesis and lipid deposition resulting in increased weight and length. By the 2nd week, protein synthesis and lipid content begin to return to normal. Weight and length remain significantly increased and the capacity for flow through the ureter improves.
A note on Cooley's energy correction formula

Abstract A simple alternative derivation based on standard first-order perturbation theory in quantum mechanics is given for Cooley's energy correction formula which is employed in the popular iterative Numerov-Cooley method for numerically solving the one-dimensional eigenvalue Schrodinger equation.
Metabolism and Excretion of Normorphine in Dogs

Abstract Normorphine metabolism was studied in dogs given 20 mg of normorphine hydrochloride/kg sc. Free and conjugated normorphine excreted in the urine over 144 hr represented 32 and 32%, respectively, of the administered dose. Eighty percent of the urinary excretion of the drug occurred within 9 hr. One percent of the administered dose was excreted as free normorphine in the feces. The urine was chromatographed on a column. Evaporation of the washing and methanolic effluent yielded a residue, which was purified by crystallization from aqueous methanol. Results of UV and IR studies, elemental analysis, and determination of normorphine and glucuronic acid content established the identity of this metabolite as normorphine 3-glucuronide. Dihydronormorphine and dehydronormorphine were detected with GLC–mass spectrometry as minor metabolites.
Critical behavior of periodic networks containing tiles with irrational ratio of areas

Abstract We review our recent measurements of the suoerconducting-normal transition boundary, Hc(H), of two new two-dimensional periodic networks. Each network is a mixture of squares and equilateral triangles in the number ratio 1:2. In both cases we observe maxima in Tc(H) with one major period, which corresponds to an area Ap = Asq + 2Atr. In this paper we discuss some details of the solutions of London loop equations. The behavior of these networks in the continuum limit (for small applied fields) is also discussed.
Nanostructured Thin Film Polymer Devices for Constant-Rate Protein Delivery

Herein long-term delivery of proteins from biodegradable thin film devices is demonstrated, where a nanostructured polymer membrane controls release. Protein was sealed between two poly(caprolactone) films, which generated the thin film devices. Protein release for 210 days was shown in vitro, and stable activity was established through 70 days with a model protein. These thin film devices present a promising delivery platform for biologic therapeutics, particularly for application in constrained spaces.
Automatic numerical generation of body-fitted curvilinear coordinate system for field containing any number of arbitrary two-dimensional bodies

A method for automatic numerical generation of a general curvilinear coordinate system with coordinate lines coincident with all boundaries of a general multi-connected region containing any number of arbitrarily shaped bodies is presented. With this procedure the numerical solution of a partial differential system may be done on a fixed rectangular field with a square mesh with no interpolation required regardless of the shape of the physical boundaries, regardless of the spacing of the curvilinear coordinate lines in the physical field, and regardless of the movement of the coordinate system. Numerical solutions for the lifting and nonlifting potential flow about Joukowski and Karman-Trefftz airfoils using this coordinate system generation show excellent comparison with the analytic solutions. The application to fields with multiple bodies is illustrated by a potential flow solution for multiple airfoils.
An algorithm for discrete approximation by quasi-convex functions on Rm

Abstract Let S be a finite subset of Rm having n elements. A real valued function k on S is said to be quasiconvex if there exists a quasi-convex function k′ defined on the convex hull co(S) of S such that k = k′ on S. Given a real function ƒ on S, the problem is to find a best quasi-convex approximation g to ƒ in the uniform norm. In this article, the greatest quasi-convex minorant of ƒ is characterized, and the maximal best approximation to ƒ is identified as a shift of the minorant. An algorithm for computing this best approximation is developed and its complexity is analyzed as a function of n when m = 2. The algorithm involves computation of on-line or semidynamic convex hulls. The problem has applications in curve fitting and graphics.
Vascularity Assessment of Thyroid Nodules by Quantitative Color Doppler Ultrasound

Our objective was to assess the role of quantitative Doppler vascularity in differentiating malignant and benign thyroid nodules. Color Doppler images of 100 nodules were analyzed for three metrics: vascular fraction area, mean flow velocity index and flow volume index in three regions (nodule center, nodule rim and surrounding parenchyma). Vascular fraction area and flow volume index were higher in malignant than benign nodules in both the central and rim regions, whereas flow velocity index was equivalent in both regions. Of the three vascularity metrics studied, the vascular fraction area of the central region was most effective in predicting malignancy, with a sensitivity of 0.90 ± 0.05, specificity of 0.88 ± 0.13, positive predictive value of 0.84 ± 0.14, negative predictive value of 0.92 ± 0.03 and accuracy of 0.89 ± 0.08. Quantitative Doppler vascularity of the nodule center yielded a high level of discrimination between benign and malignant nodules and, thus, has the greatest potential to contribute to gray-scale assessment of thyroid cancer.
A Novel Terminal Web-Like Structure in Cortical Lens Fibers: Architecture and Functional Assessment†

This study describes a novel cytoskeletal array in fiber cells of the ocular lens of the rat and shows its relationship to the classical terminal web of other epithelial tissues. Naive adult Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 28) were utilized. F-actin, fodrin, myosin IIA, and CP49 distribution was assessed in anterior and posterior polar sections. For functional analysis, lenses were cultured with or without cytochalasin-D for 3 hr, then processed for confocal microscopy or assessed by laser scan analysis along sutures. Phalloidin labeling demonstrated a dense mesh of F-actin adjacent to posterior sutural domains to a subcapsular depth of 400 μm. Anterior polar sections revealed a comparable actin structure adjacent to anterior suture branches however, it was not developed in superficial fibers. Fodrin and myosin were localized within the web-like actin apparatus. The data was used to construct a model showing that the cytoskeletal array is located within the blunt, variable-width fiber ends that abut at sutures such that the “terminal web” flanks the suture on either side. Treatment with cytochalasin-D resulted in partial disassembly of the “terminal web” and perturbed cellular organization. Laser scan analysis revealed that cytochalasin-D treated lenses had significantly greater focal variability than control lenses (P = 0.020). We conclude that cortical fibers of rat lenses contain a bipolar structure that is structurally and compositionally analogous to classical terminal webs. The results indicate that the lens “terminal web” functions to stabilize lens fiber ends at sutures thus minimizing structural disorder, which in turn, promotes the establishment and maintenance of lens transparency. Anat Rec, 2010. © 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
On two‐grid convergence estimates

We derive a new representation for the exact convergence factor of classical two-level and two-grid preconditioners. Based on this result, we establish necessary and sufficient conditions for constructing the components of efficient algebraic multigrid (AMG) methods. The relation of the sharp estimate to the classical two-level hierarchical basis methods is discussed as well. Lastly, as an application, we give an optimal two-grid convergence proof of a purely algebraic ‘window’-AMG method. Published in 2005 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Seasonality of coitus and seasonality of birth.

Seasonal variation of birth rates has been observed in every population in which it has been studied. Many hypotheses have been advanced to account for the variation, including seasonal variation in frequency of coitus. This relationship is known to be true for other primates, but seasonal variation in coital rate has not been previously documented in man. This paper presents over one hundred woman-years of data on coital rates from about .fifty white, mostly well-educated, premenopausal, married, husband-present volunteers. Seasonal fluctuations were seen in coital rates, of about the same magnitude as seasonal variations in the white birth rates reported for New York City, 1962–64; for the United States, 1963; and for the highest socioeconomic quintile census tracts, Baltimore, 1952–56. However, shifting the birth rates back forty weeks to approximate conception dates revealed no association with the observed coital rates. If the pattern presented has great generality, seasonal variations in births cannot be explained by seasonality of coitus.
The GRI/Industry Eastern Gas Shale Data Base

The Gas Research Institute (GRI) has established, as part of its research program, the Gas Resource Information System (GRIS). GRIS is a computerized data base that contains historical data on eastern gas shale wells. GRIS was established at the request of industry and contains all those elements which industry feels are important for the evaluation of drilling, completion, stimulation and production techniques for eastern gas shale wells. While GRI will be researching the data on the base to optimize production from the eastern gas shales, it will make GRIS available to industry as a mutually beneficial tool. GRI intends to cooperate with industry in updating and maintaining the data base.
Impedance and complex power of radiating elements under electromagnetic source transformation

Transformation optics is a methodology that has proven useful in the design of complex media used to alter and control electromagnetic waves in either passive space or regions that contain source distributions. Recently it has been shown that the application of source transformations can reshape field radiation patterns corresponding to arbitrarily shaped sources. In the accompanying numerical confirmations, the effect of source transformations on fundamental quantities that are critical to the design and evaluation of antenna based systems--such as complex power and impedance, remain unexplored. In this paper, we present results of theoretical analysis as well as full wave finite element simulations, proving that the complex power and impedance associated with an electromagnetic source are not changed by source transformation methods. These results open the door to the application of source transformations for the design of practical antenna based systems, such as conformal and phased array antenna design. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett, 2011; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.26077
Broadband water vapor transmission functions for atmospheric IR flux computations

Transmission functions associated with water vapor molecular line and e-type absorption in the IR spectra regions are presented in the form of simple analytical functions and small tables, from which atmospheric IR fluxes and cooling rates can be easily computed. For typical clear atmospheres ranging from the tropics to the subarctic region, the difference with respect to line-by-line calculations is less than 0.15 C/day in the cooling rate and approximately equal to or less than 1 percent in fluxes.
NK cell activation by dendritic cell vaccine: a mechanism of action for clinical activity

Recent reports revealed that dendritic cell (DC)-natural killer (NK) cell interaction plays an important role in tumor immunity, but few DC vaccine studies have attempted to evaluate the non-specific, yet potentially clinically relevant, NK response to immunization. In this study, we first analyzed in vitro activation of NK cells by DCs similar to those used in clinical trials. Subsequently, NK cell responses were analyzed in a phase I clinical trial of a vaccine consisting of autologous DCs loaded with a fowlpox vector encoding CEA. The data were compared with the clinical outcome of the patients. DC enhances NK activity in vitro, partly by sustaining NK cell survival and by enhancing the expression of NK-activating receptors, including NKp46 and NKG2D. Among nine patients in our clinical trial, NK cytolytic activity increased in four (range 2.5-5 times greater lytic activity) including three who had increased NK cell frequency, was stable in two and decreased in three. NKp46 and NKG2D expression showed a good correlation with the patients' NK activity. When patients were grouped by clinical activity (stable disease/no evidence of disease (stable/NE, n=5) vs progressive disease (N=4) at 3 months), the majority in the stable/NE group had increases in NK activity (P=0.016). Anti-CEA T cell response was enhanced in all the nine patients analyzed, but was not significantly different between the two groups (P=0.14). Thus, NK responses following DC vaccination may correlate more closely with clinical outcome than do T cell responses. Monitoring of NK response during vaccine studies should be routinely performed.
Lipid Composition in Postnatal Methylazoxymethanol-Treated Swiss Albino Mouse Cerebellum

Postnatal Swiss albino mice were treated with with methylazoxymethanol acetate (MAM) or saline and sacrificed at 25 days of age. Granule cell depletion resulted. Significant reduction in the cerebellar weight, protein, ganglioside sialic acid , cerebrosides, sulfatides, and phospholipids were documented. There was not, however, selective reduction of any component known to be associated with the synaptic structures. Specific association of cerebellar ganglioside with its granule cell population was not substantiated. Cerebroside/sulfatide ratios were not different in the two groups, indicating that significant alterations previously observed in spinal cord were not present in the cerebellum. It was concluded that the bulk of cerebellar granule cells and their synaptic connections could be deleted without affecting total ganglioside and phospholipid concentrations.
Reconstruction of the US First Website

The Web idea started on 1989 with a proposal from Sir Tim Berners-Lee. The first US website has been developed at SLAC on 1991. This early version of the Web and the subsequent updates until 1998 have been preserved by SLAC archive and history office for many years. In this paper, we discuss the strategy and techniques to reconstruct this early website and make it available through Stanford Web Archive Portal.
Effects of poultry waste supplementation to rice-crayfish (Oryza sativa - Procambarus clarkii) culture ponds

A study was conducted to determine if poultry manure supplementation to experimental crayfish culture ponds planted in rice would have an effect on pond metabolism, water quality, and crayfish population dynamics. Fourteen 0.014 ha ponds 0.75 m deep were planted in the summer of 1978. Ponds were flooded on 1 October 1980, and fresh poultry manure was applied biweekly. Three treatments were evaluated: (1) rice receiving poultry manure at a mean rate of 10.2 kg ha−1 day−1 (low manure), (2) rice receiving poultry manure at a mean rate of 102.1 kg ha−1 day−1 (high manure), and (3) rice only (control). Diel dissolved oxygen changes were measured to assess gross photosynthesis and net respiration rates. Midday ammonia-nitrogen, pH, alkalinity, and turbidity levels were also monitored. Crayfish dynamics were assessed by regularly sampling with three gear types. Preliminary evaluation of the pond system revealed no differences in sediment chemistry, young-of-the-year recruitment, or vegetation standing crop. No deleterious oxygen demand was created by manuring; instead the highly manured ponds had elevated photosynthetic rates. NH3-N rose to 1.80 mg l−1, but never influenced population structure or growth. The high-manure treatment had the most obvious effect on crayfish dynamics. Form I (a sexually mature male crayfish) catch per unit effort (CPUE), total CPUE, length, and abundance differences were detected in the later months and were greater in the high-manure treatment than in the other treatments. Both growth and survival were elevated by the high manuring rate.
The A-theory of time and induction

The A-theory of time says that it is an objective, non-perspectival fact about the world that some events are present, while others were present or will be present. I shall argue that the A-theory has some implausible consequences for inductive reasoning. In particular, the presentist version of the A-theory, which holds that the difference between the present and the non-present consists in the present events being the only ones that exist, is very much in trouble.
Salinity Tolerance of Young American Shad, Alosa sapidissima

Young American shad were subjected to abrupt and gradual changes between saltwater and freshwater media. No mortality occurred with salinity increase, even abrupt change from fresh water or 5 o/oo salinity to about 30 o/oo salinity. Complete mortality occurred with abrupt salinity decrease from about 30 to 0 o/oo but not with gradual decrease from about 5 to 0 o/oo. Young American shad tolerate salinity change, especially salinity increase. Instances of apparent intolerance of salinity change reported in the literature and observed by myself may be primarily due to handling stress. Euryhaline ability permits American shad to use brackish and freshwater nurseries. The importance of brackish nurseries probably depends on the rate of seaward dispersal of the young and the proximity of brackish water to the chief spawning grounds.
Genetic Mapping of QTLs Underlying Partial Resistance to Sclerotinia sclerotiorum in Soybean PI 391589A and PI 391589B

Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] PI 391589B, a selection from PI 391589A was recently identified as a new source of resistance to Sclerotinia sclerotiorum (Lib.) deBary, which causes Sclerotinia stem rot. The objective of this study was to identify the quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with resistance to S. sclerotiorum in Pls 391589A and 391589B. BC 1 F 4:5 and BC 1 F 4:6 populations from a cross of 'Kottman'(2) x PI 391589A and a population of F 2 -derived lines from a cross of PI 391589B x IA2053 were evaluated for resistance to S. sclerotiorum in the field and in the greenhouse from 2003 to 2005 and genotyped with simple sequence repeat markers. Single factor analysis identified 18 markers on nine linkage groups (LGs) significantly (P < 0.05) associated with resistance to S. sclerotiorum in the two populations. Four regions on LGs E, F, M, and O were significantly associated with the disease resistance in both populations. The four regions are between Satt411 (12.9 cM) and Satt369 (56.2 cM) on LG E, between Satt269 (11.4 cM) and AW186493 (21.0 cM) on LG F, between Satt463 (50.1 cM) and Satt323 (60.1 cM) on LG M, and between Satt581 (106.0 cM) and Satt153 (118.14 cM) on LG O on the soybean composite map developed by Song and others in 2004. Composite interval mapping identified seven QTLs (P < 0.10), each explaining 6.0 to 15.7% of the phenotypic variance. A QTL on LG M near marker Satt463 (50.1 cM) is unique to PI 391589A and B. Therefore, Pls 391589A and 391589B offer breeders a new allele for resistance to the disease.