cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Electron diffusion in a low pressure methane detector for particle dark matter

Abstract Measurements of the transverse diffusion of drifted electrons in low pressure (19–95 torr) methane are presented. The transverse diffusion coefficient was determined both with and without a magnetic field oriented parallel to the drift, and the expected functional dependence of the diffusion coefficient on pressure, reduced electric field, and magnetic field is demonstrated. These results are then used to show that ionization tracks in a time projection chamber to be used in a particle dark matter search can be drifted distances exceeding 1 m while maintaining resolution better than 1 mm.
Distribution of ultramicrobacteria in a gulf coast estuary and induction of ultramicrobacteria

The abundance of ultramicrobacteria (i.e., bacteria that pass through a 0.2μm filter) in a subtropical Alabama estuary was determined during a 1-year period. Although phenotypic and molecular characterization indicated that the population of ultramicrobacteria was dominated byVibrio species, species ofListonella andPseudomonas were also abundant. Vibrios occurred with the greatest frequency in waters whose salinities were less than 14‰, and were the most abundant species of the total ultramicrobacterial population year-round, whilePseudomonas species were absent or considerably reduced during the winter months. The total number of ultramicrobacteria showed an inverse relationship to total heterotrophic bacteria as measured by colony-forming units (CFU)/ml and to water quality as measured by several parameters. Analysis by generic composition indicated that both salinity and temperature significantly affected the distribution of these organisms. Laboratory studies revealed that strains of vibrios under starvation in both static and continuous-flow microcosms could be induced to form cells that passed through 0.2 and/or 0.4μm filters. Cells exposed to low nutrients became very small; some grew on both oligotrophic (5.5 mg carbon/liter) and eutrophic (5.5 g carbon/liter) media; and some few cells grew only on oligotrophic media. By passing selected vibrio strains on progressively diluted nutrient media, cells were also obtained that were small, that passed through 0.4μm filters, and that could grow in oligotrophic media. These results suggest that ultramicrobacteria in estuaries (at least some portion of the population) may be nutrientstarved or low nutrient-induced forms of certain heterotrophic, eutrophic, autochthonous, estuarine bacteria.
Discussion of “Modeling Reinforced-Concrete Beam-Column Joints Subjected to Cyclic Loading” by Laura N. Lowes and Arash Altoontash

This article comments on research in which a model is developed to represent the response of reinforced concrete (RC) beam-column joints under reversed-cyclic loading (Lowes and Altoontash, December 2003). The proposed model provides a simple representation of primary inelastic mechanisms that determine joint behavior: failure of the joint core under shear loading and anchorage failure of beam and column longitudinal reinforcement embedded in the joint. The authors concluded that comparison of simulated and observed response for a series of joint subassemblages with different design details indicates that the proposed model is appropriate for use in simulating response under earthquake loading. The discussion authors feel that the proposed constitutive model for the joint shear panel component of the reinforced concrete (RC) beam-column connection element presented by the authors in their paper may actually work quite well up to fairly high levels of joint shear demand (for well-detailed joints with adequate transverse reinforcement). However, they express concern that the model may not work nearly as well (possibly erroneously predicting joint failure at even moderate joint shear demands) for joints that are not necessarily well detailed with sufficient transverse reinforcement. Finally, the discussers are very much in agreement with the authors that proper robust simulation of RC frame response to seismic loading should include some sort of explicit treatment of inelastic joint effects on both stiffness and strength.
Acute administration of SCH23390 increases D1 receptors on nonpyramidal neurons in rat mPFC

Atypical antipsychotic drugs (APDs) such as clozapine and olanzapine antagonize both D1 and D2 receptors; however, little is known regarding their pharmacologic effect on specific neuronal elements within the local circuitry of corticolimbic regions, such as medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). To characterize the effect of short-term antagonism of the D1 receptor a high-resolution autoradiographic technique was used to assess the density (Bmax) and affinity (Kd) of this receptor on pyramidal cells (i.e., large neurons (LNs, ≥100 μm2)), nonpyramidal cells (i.e., small neurons (SNs, <100 μm2)) and in the surrounding neuropil (NPL) of layer VI in rat mPFC. Either normal saline or the selective D1 antagonist SCH23390 (1.0 mg/kg/day) were administered for 48 h via Alzet osmotic pumps. Frozen sections were incubated in [3H]SCH23390 (1–8 nM) in the presence or absence of the competitive inhibitor SKF38393 (10 μM). A microscopic adaptation to Scatchard analysis revealed a significant increase (82%) in Bmax for neuronal cell bodies (P < 0.05), but not for neuropil of drug-treated animals. Further analysis indicated that the increase in Bmax was present on SNs (94%, P < 0.05), but not LNs in SCH23390-treated rats. In contrast, Kd values for LNs, SNs, and NPL were not significantly altered by drug treatment. Since the vast majority of SNs are nonpyramidal in nature, short-term administration of a selective D1 antagonist seems to be associated with a preferential upregulation of this receptor on interneurons. Overall, these results are consistent with the hypothesis that the mechanism of action of atypical antipsychotic medications involves changes in D1 receptor activity associated with local circuit neurons in rat mPFC. Synapse 35:173–181, 2000. © 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Physical characteristics of residential psychiatric and substance abuse programs: Organizational determinants and patient outcomes

Described the Physical and Architectural Characteristics Inventory (PACI), which assesses the physical characteristics of hospital- and community-based psychiatric and substance abuse residential treatment programs for adults. Developed using data from 94 representative programs, the PACI has 7 dimensions that assess community accessibility, physical features that add convenience, aid recreation, and provide support for patients, and space for patient and staff functions. In comparison to community-based programs (n = 63), hospital programs (n = 31) had more social-recreational and prosthetic aids, safety features, staff facilities, and space. The PACI dimensions were also related to other organizational features, such as facility ownership and program size and staffing level. Programs with more physical amenities had patients who were more involved in self-initiated and community activities and were more likely to successfully complete the program and be discharged to independent living situations and paid jobs. Programs with more social-recreational and prosthetic aids, space, and access to community resources also had better patient outcomes. In addition, PACI dimensions were related to observers' ratings of facility attractiveness. Potential applications of the PACI and the full inventory of which it is a part are discussed.
Effects of Multiple Determinacy and Measurement Error on Trait-Behavior and Behavior-Behavior Relations: An Integrated Conceptual Model

The relationship is demonstrated between two explanations for the attenuation of observed trait-behavior and behavior-behavior correlations: multiple determinacy, as explicated recently by Ahadi and Diener and by Strube, and measurement error, as discussed previously be Epstein, Ajzen, and others. The former pertains to multiple determinants of a behavior construct other than the trait of interest, whereas the latter pertains to multiple determinants of a behavior measure other than the behavior construct of interest. However, it is shown that in the two cases the fundamental psychometric principles involved are the same. Implications of this integrated conceptual perspective are explored with respect to the magnitude of observed trait-behavior and behavior-behavior correlations that should be expected under different circumstances, focusing particularly on the distinction between global and more narrowly defined traits.
Group Problem Solving

(1955). Group Problem Solving. The Journal of Social Psychology: Vol. 41, No. 1, pp. 103-113.
Cum Nimis Absurdum and the Ancona Auto-da-Fé revisited: their impact on Venice and some wider reflections

Two major events are generally cited as indicative of the new hostile Counter-Reformation attitude of the Papacy toward the Jews and consequently as causing a deterioration of the situation of the Jews throughout the Italian peninsula. The first is the papal bull Cum Nimis Absurdum issued in 1555 by Paul IV, the zealous former Cardinal Caraffa, only months after he assumed the papal throne, while the second is the burning at the stake in 1556 of the former New Christians who had reverted to Judaism in Ancona. While not minimizing the importance of Cum Nimis Absurdum and the action against the former New Christians in Ancona, it may nevertheless be instructive to step back and reconsider their impact on the Jews of the Italian peninsula and clarify whether they really represented a major peninsula-wide turning point.
Methylation of intestinal and hepatic DNA in rats treated with methylazoxymethanol acetate

Descending colon is the most sensitive segment of rat intestine and is at least as sensitive as liver to the carcinogenic effects of methylazoxymethanol acetate. To determine whether a relationship exists between tumor induction and level of DNA methylation, we measured the levels of 7-methylguanine in the DNA isolated from duodenum, descending colon, and liver of rats treated with this carcinogen. Because radiolabeled methylazoxymethanol acetate is not available, we utilized high pressure liquid chromatography whereby methylated purines could be detected in amounts as little as 100-300 pmoles. DNA isolated from liver of carcinogen-treated rats had significant amounts of 7-methylguanine. On the contrary, DNA isolated from descending colon of rats treated with methylazoxymethanol acetate had minimal amounts of 7-methylguanine; these data suggest that the level of 7-methylguanine does not correlate with sensitivity to tumor induction by methylazoxymethanol acetate.
Neuronal nitric oxide synthase localizes through multiple structural motifs to the sarcolemma in mouse myotubes

In skeletal muscle, neuronal nitric oxide synthase is localized at the sarcolemma in association with the dystrophin glycoprotein complex (DGC). The nNOS N-terminal 231 amino acids comprise a PDZ domain (residues 1-100) and a beta-hairpin finger loop (residues 101-130) which binds alpha-syntrophin located in the DGC. Endogenous nNOS and GFP-tagged nNOS localize to the sarcolemma in mouse C2C12 myotubes. Expression of GFP-tagged nNOS domains in C2C12 myotubes reveals that the PDZ domain and the beta-hairpin finger loop of nNOS are independently capable of localizing to the sarcolemma of C2C12 myotubes. Binding studies indicate that alpha-syntrophin binds only to the beta-hairpin finger loop and not the PDZ domain of nNOS. nNOS may bind to proteins in addition to alpha-syntrophin at muscle sarcolemma.
R-Mix cells are faster, at least as sensitive and marginally more costly than conventional cell lines for the detection of respiratory viruses

Abstract Objective: To evaluate shell vials of R-Mix, a combination of mink lung cells and human adenocarcinoma cells (strains Mv1Lu and A549, respectively, Diagnostic Hybrids, Athens, OH) to detect respiratory viruses from prospective clinical respiratory specimens and frozen stocks. Study design: We compared the performance of R-Mix to conventional culture (CC) using tubes of PMK, Hep-2, and MRC5 to detect respiratory viruses from fresh clinical specimens. For each respiratory specimen submitted to virology, two shell vials of R-Mix were inoculated and examined twice (generally after 24 and 48 h) by an indirect test with a pool of immunofluorescent antisera to influenza A and B, adenovirus, parainfluenza 1-3 and RSV (DAKO, Carpinteria, CA). If positive, testing with monoclonal antisera was done. CCs were incubated for 10 days, examined daily for cytopathological effect, hemadsorbed twice and stained if positive. Cost comparison was done. Lastly, respiratory viruses frozen from previous years were inoculated onto R-Mix. Results: R-Mix was positive for all 29 frozen virus stocks. In the clinical trial, 396 prospective specimens were inoculated into R-Mix and CC. R-Mix identified 21 specimens as respiratory virus positive; CC identified 19. Turn-around time of R-Mix for positive specimens was 1.4 days; for CC it was 5.2 days. Turn-around time of R-Mix for all specimens (positive and negative) was 2.0 days; for CC it was 9.8 days. The overall cost of R-Mix was ∼11% more than that of CC. Conclusion: R-Mix enabled rapid identification of all the frozen virus stocks representing the seven major respiratory viral groups. When compared to CC, R-Mix was slightly more sensitive than three cell lines (four tubes) used in CC but it was several days faster.
Investigation on the possibility of reducing protein, phosphorus, and calcium requirements of laying hens by manipulation of time of access to these nutrients

Experiments (Exp.) were conducted to determine whether the daily requirement of laying hens for protein, P, and Ca can be reduced by providing the hens with adequate levels of these nutrients only during those hours of the day that the physiological need for these nutrients for formation of various components of eggs are increasing. In Exp. 1, birds of the positive control were fed a 16% protein diet and birds of the negative control were fed a 13% protein diet continuously during the light period (0500 to 2100 h). The other groups were fed the 16% protein diet during the morning (0500 to 1300 h) and the 13% protein diet during the afternoon (1300 to 2100 h) or vice versa. The design of Exp. 2 was similar to Exp. 1. The birds of the positive control were fed a 0.4% available P (AP) and the birds of the negative control were fed a 0.2% AP diet, with other groups receiving the high-low AP or the low-high AP diets during the morning and the afternoon, respectively. The birds of the negative controls in these Exp. had almost comparable performance to those fed the other dietary treatments. As a result, these Exp. did not have negative controls for comparison of different dietary treatments. Additionally, regardless of dietary treatments, birds consumed about 40% of their daily feed intake during the morning and about 60% during the afternoon in these Exp. Due to these two shortcomings, it was not possible to reach to a decisive conclusion pertaining to the objectives of the Exp. The results of Exp. 3 indicated that the above pattern of daily feed intake was not due to an increased appetite for Ca during the afternoon hours for shell formation. Various indices of shell quality were not improved when most parts of the daily Ca need was fed during the afternoon and evening and were not reduced when most parts of the daily Ca need was fed during the morning.
Framework for computing the spatial coherence effects of polycapillary x-ray optics

Despite the extensive use of polycapillary x-ray optics for focusing and collimating applications, there remains a significant need for characterization of the coherence properties of the output wavefield. In this work, we present the first quantitative computational method for calculation of the spatial coherence effects of polycapillary x-ray optical devices. This method employs the coherent mode decomposition of an extended x-ray source, geometric optical propagation of individual wavefield modes through a polycapillary device, output wavefield calculation by ray data resampling onto a uniform grid, and the calculation of spatial coherence properties by way of the spectral degree of coherence.
Trypanosoma brucei:Molecular Cloning and Stage-Regulated Expression of a Malate Dehydrogenase Localized to the Mitochondrion

African trypanosomes exhibit dramatic developmental changes in carbohydrate and energy metabolism, with cytochrome-mediated respiration playing an important role only in the insect stages. The parasites possess three isozymes of malate dehydrogenase, each of which has a different subcellular localization and, likely, a distinct metabolic role. We have cloned and characterized a cDNA encoding one of these malate dehydrogenases. Epitope tagging and transfection experiments demonstrate that the corresponding protein is localized to the mitochondrion and that an intact amino terminus is required for proper compartmentalization. The abundance of transcript is developmentally regulated, with higher levels in procyclic stage parasites.
Ethics consultation as a tool for teaching residents.

As technology and science expand the array of treatment options, forcing decisions about what treatments are appropriate (and in which circumstances), the importance of ethics in the education of f...
Effects of Organizational Ethics and Organizational Constraints on Emotional Exhaustion

Recent ethical scandals in public sectors (e.g., Penn State and CIA) have increased interest in organizational ethics. With this study, we collected data from a public sector and examined a psychological process in which perceived organizational ethics influence employee well-being via the effects of organizational constraints. We found that employee conscientiousness served as an important boundary condition: perceived organizational ethics was negatively related to organizational constraints only among high-conscientiousness employees. Moreover, high- conscientiousness employees’ perceptions of organizational ethics indirectly influence their emotional exhaustion via organizational constraints. Our findings highlight the importance of clear ethical guidance in enhancing employee well-being in public sectors and also indicate that organizations that exude strong ethical stances may be a particularly bad fit for low- conscientiousness employees.
Cointegration-based tests of daily foreign exchange market efficiency

Abstract An immediate implication of cointegration is the existence of Granger-causal orderings among cointegrated series. This implies that asset prices determined in a weakly efficient market cannot be cointegrated. This proposition is tested using daily data for 18 foreign currencies. Tests are conducted for both pairwise combinations of currencies and higher-order systems. No significant evidence of cointegration among exchange rates is found.
3DIC from concept to reality

3DIC technology presents a new system integration strategy for the electronics industry to achieve superior system performance with lower power consumption, higher bandwidth, smaller system form factor, and shorter time to market through heterogeneous integration. TSMC's “Chip-on-Wafer-on-Substrate (CoWoS)” technology opens up a new opportunity to bring 3D chip stacking vision from concept to reality. The provided methodology will be discussed about this market trend and the different pieces needed to jointly make it a success, which includes customers' required application, TSMC's support design flow, as well as the ecosystem design enablement of multi-die implementation, DFT solution, thermal analysis, verification and new categories of IPs.
In Vitro Generation of Germ Cells: New Techniques to Solve Current Issues

Primordial germ cells comprise a privileged cellular class within the embryo charged with the elite task of maintaining species longevity. While in lower organisms germ-cell fate is determined by the allocation of germ plasm, mammalian germ-line differentiation requires extracellular signals that converge upon the proximal epiblast. Studies using mutant mice or explanted embryos have identified some of the factors controlling primordial germ-cell specification, such as members of the BMP family, but considerable gaps still exist in our understanding of the complete signaling network. Comprehensive investigations of mammalian germ-line specification have been hampered by the inaccessibility of this cell population in the early embryo. Recently, however, several labs including our own have derived primordial germ cells from embryonic stem cells in vitro, thus providing a powerful new technique for the study of germ cells. In this review the different methods used for the in vitro generation of germ cells and how these techniques may be improved and applied to further advance our knowledge of germ-cell biology are discussed.
Comparative endocranial vascular changes due to craniosynostosis and artificial cranial deformation

The processes of craniosynostosis (premature fusion of one or more of the calvarial sutures) and artificial cranial deformation are similar since both can alter the shape of the craniofacial complex. Most research exploring these processes has focused on the ectocranium, although it is obvious that these processes also modify the endocranium. Endocranial changes due to either craniosynostosis or artificial cranial deformation have not been as thoroughly examined. Silicone rubber endocasts were made from 11 craniosynostotic archaeologically derived specimens from North and South America. For comparative purposes, endocasts were made from 22 normal and 17 occipitally deformed crania that were archaeologically derived from North and South America. With all samples, middle meningeal vessel patterns and venous sinus impressions were qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed. Depth, width, and convolution of the middle meningeal vessels were recorded, and the direction of vessel branches was noted. Both artificial cranial deformation and craniosynostosis altered the endocranial vasculature. Middle meningeal vessel and venous sinus impressions of the craniosynostotic group differed when compared to both the undeformed and artificially cranially deformed samples. Sinuses traversing under synostosed sutures became wider and deeper. In contrast, sinuses directly underneath the greatest artificial deformational stress were shallower, while there was compensatory enlargement of sinuses further away from the greatest deformational effects. Such compensatory enlargement also was shown by the high incidence of enlarged occipital/marginal sinuses in artificially deformed skulls. Increased intracranial pressure is hypothesized to be the cause of the venous sinus changes found in craniosynostotic individuals. Middle meningeal vessel patterns from craniosynostotic and artificially deformed specimens were similar in that their direction paralleled the direction of altered cranial growth. These findings demonstrate that the endocranial vasculature is developmentally plastic and responds to deformation in a predictable pattern. © 1996 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
First Partial Differentiation by Computer With an Application to Categorical Data Analysis

Abstract A strategy is presented for producing code to evaluate first partial derivatives of a function f by computer. Advantage is taken of the capabilities that a compiler must have simply to bring about the evaluation of f. A bound kt on the time it should take to evaluate the partials of f is developed, where f takes time t to evaluate and k is independent of f. The benefits of the differentiation strategy for weighted least squares analysis of categorical data are discussed.
Safety and efficacy of bariatric surgery in morbidly obese patients with severe systolic heart failure.

Background Morbid obesity (MO) is a risk factor for congestive heart failure (CHF). The presence of MO impairs functional status and disqualifies patients for cardiac transplantation. Bariatric surgery (BAS) is a frontline, durable treatment for MO; however, the safety and efficacy of BAS in advanced CHF is unknown. Hypothesis We hypothesized that by utilizing a coordinated approach between an experienced surgical team and heart failure specialists, BAS is safe in patients with advanced systolic CHF and results in favorable outcomes. Methods We performed a retrospective chart review of 12 patients with MO (body mass index [BMI] 53 ± 7 kg/m2) and systolic CHF (left ventricular ejection fraction [LVEF] 22 ± 7%, New York Heart Association [NYHA] class 2.9 ± 0.7) who underwent BAS, and then compared outcomes with 10 matched controls (BMI 47.2 ± 3.6 kg/m2, LVEF 24 ± 7%, and NYHA class 2.4 ± 0.7) who were given diet and exercise counseling. Results At 1 y, hospital readmission in BAS patients was significantly lower than controls (0.4 ± 0.8 versus 2.5 ± 2.6, p = 0.04); LVEF improved significantly in BAS patients (35 ± 15%, p = 0.005), but not in controls (29 ± 14%, p = not significant [NS]). The NYHA class improved in BAS patients (2.3 ± 0.5, p = 0.02), but deteriorated in controls (3.3 ± 0.9, p = 0.02). One BAS patient was successfully transplanted, and another listed for transplantation. Conclusions Bariatric surgery is safe and effective in patients with MO and severe systolic CHF, and should be considered in patients who have failed conventional therapy to improve clinical status. Copyright © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cytomegalovirus Infection in Patients with Active Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Background The reported prevalence of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection with active inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is highly variable, and whether CMV negatively impacts the clinical course is controversial.
CATECHOLAMINES IN EPIDERMIS, DERMIS AND WHOLE SKIN

Epinephrine and norepinephrine are present in epidermis and the per unit weight levels are higher in epidermis than in dermis and whole skin.
From the mouse to the mass spectrometer: detection and differentiation of the endoproteinase activities of botulinum neurotoxins A-G by mass spectrometry.

We have developed an assay (Endopep-MS) that detects the specific endoproteinase activities of all seven BoNT types by mass spectrometry (MS). Each BoNT type cleaves a unique site on proteins involved in neuronal transmission. Target peptide substrates based on these proteins identify a BoNT type by its enzymatic action on the substrate and the production of two peptide products, which are then detected by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight MS or liquid chromatography electrospray ionization MS/MS. We showed the ability to detect all seven toxin types in a multiplexed assay format. The detection limits achieved range from 0.039 to 0.625 mouse LD50/mL for toxin types A, B, E, and F in a buffer system. The Endopep-MS assay is the first to differentiate all seven BoNT types, is sensitive, specific, and has the potential to quantify toxin activity.
Nanoparticulate reinforced metal matrix nanocomposites – a review

Particulate reinforced metal matrix composites (MMCs) are widely used in many industries. With the development of nanotechnologies, the particulates scales down to the nano-level to enhance MMCs. MMCs with nano-sized reinforcements are termed as metal matrix nanocomposite (MMNCs). MMNCs have shown promising properties. Many researchers are using different methods to fabricate MMNCs. In this paper, some commonly used methods used to fabricate MMNCs are introduced including: powder metallurgy, casting, rapid solidification and in-situ fabrication. The enhancing mechanism of MMNCs is discussed. The properties obtained by different methods are illustrated. Some unsolved problems are also listed.
X-ray crystal structure of the 1∶2∶2 pentaethyleneglycol dimethyl ether(pentaglyme)∶dichloropicric acid∶water complex. Infrared studies of the 1∶2∶2 complexes with tri-, tetra-, and pentaglyme

The 1∶2∶2 pentaglyme∶dichloropicric acid∶water adduct crystallizes in two polymorphic forms. Polymorph I is triclinic, space groupP¯1; at −96°Ca=11.629(6),b=12.566(8),c=12.877(16)A,α=89.19(8),β=83.76(8), γ=85.95(5)°,D x =1.599 g cm−3,V=1866(5)A3,Z=2. Refinement on 7729 observed reflections yielded a finalR value of 0.045. Polymorph II is orthorhombic, space groupP212121; at −87°Ca=13.631(7),b=26.441(8),c=5.182(6)A,D x =1.597(3) g cm−3,V=1868(3)A3,Z=2. Refinement of 1610 observed reflections yielded a finalR of 0.071 for a disordered structure. The hydrogen bonding pattern in I is similar to that found in the analogous 18-crown-6 complex. Two pairs of alternate O atoms in the polyether are hydrogen bonded to two water molecules, each of which is hydrogen bonded to the phenol O atom of a neutral dichloropicric acid molecule. The bond distances and torsion angles in the S shaped polyether are similar to those in the cyclic polyether with C-C-O-C angles near 180° and O-C-C-O near±60°. The complex in II resembles that in I in overall shape and dimensions, also having normal bond distances and angles. The nonhydrogen atoms in water and the dichloropicric acid can be located unambiguously. However, the polyether molecule is disordered, and a satisfactory model for the disorder could not be found. Comparison of the IR spectra of the 1∶2∶2 tri-, tetra-, and pentaglyme∶dichloropicric acid∶water complexes suggests that the hydrogen-bonding in the tetraglyme complex is weaker than in the pentaglyme complex, but that in the triglyme complex is as strong or stronger.
Unsteady Loading of Rotor Blades by High Pressure Air Injection

A gas turbine engine consists of three primary components: a compressor, a combustion chamber, and a turbine. The operating range, performance, and reliability of gas turbine engines are limited by aerodynamic instabilities that occur in the compressor at low mass flow rates. Two of such compressor instabilities are rotating stall and surge. The stabilization of compression systems by means of active control has been demonstrated on several research compressors using different actuators such as inlet guide vanes, bleed valves, and air injection to manipulate the compressor flow field. This paper presents experimental and model simulated results of the steady and unsteady behaviors of air injection in high speed axial flow compressors that can be used for feasibility studies and control algorithm development. A control oriented model of the unsteady response of the transonic compressor blade rows to steady air injection is presented. This behavior was modeled by one-dimensional flow in a diffusing passage subject to a time varying inlet flow condition in the rotor relative reference frame. The one-dimensional model was then used to provide simplified input boundary conditions for a computational fluid dynamic (CFD) model that predicted aerodynamic loading on a transonic rotor blade due to steady air injection. The aerodynamic loading on a transonic rotor blade due to steady air injection were then simulated from the computational fluid dynamic (CFD) model. The simulation results for an evenly circumferentially spaced discrete number of jet actuators show that the fluctuating loading due to jet injection are non-sinusoidal and periodic. Total pressure, total temperature, and absolute flow angle survey measurements that map out the effect of high pressure air injection on a transonic compressor rotor for different levels of steady injection and different orientations are also presented.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Further Work with Noble Element Scintillators

An investigation of the relative scintillation efficiencies of the various noble gas mixtures has been made in an attempt to find a combination that would yield either more light than any of the pure gases or allow a more economical use of the heavier gases without substantial loss of light. Data on the efficiency of all binary mixtures of Xe, Kr, A, Ne, and He are presented. They show a characteristic large drop in the light for mixtures containing a small proportion of the heavier gas in a major fraction of the lighter. However, a 10 per cent Xe-90 per cent He mixture has a relatively large output and could be useful in constructing a high-efficiency neutron counter using the He3(n, p)H3 reaction. Data are also presented on the relative conversion efficiencies of several commonly used organic waveshifters. Of those tested, the best are diphenyl stilbene, tetraphenylbutadiene, and quaterphenyl having relative efficiencies of 1.0, 0.7, and 0.4, respectively. A survey investigation was also made of the relative efficiencies of solid and liquid xenon, krypton, and argon for ordinary glass and for quartzfaced photomultipliers. Although these data are not as accurate or reproducible as the corresponding work on gases, they indicate several of the combinations may approach NaI(T1) in light output.
Specializations of the chorioallantoic placenta in the Brazilian scincid lizard, Mabuya heathi: a new placental morphotype for reptiles.

New World skinks of the genus Mabuya exhibit a unique form of viviparity that involves ovulation of tiny (1 mm) eggs and provision of virtually all of the nutrients for embryonic development by placental means. Studies of the Brazilian species M. heathi reveal that the chorioallantoic placenta is unlike those reported in any other squamate genus and exhibits striking specializations for maternal–fetal nutrient transfer. The uterine lining is intimately apposed to the chorioallantois, with no trace of an intervening shell membrane or of epithelial erosion; thus, the placenta is epitheliochorial. The uterus exhibits multicellular glands that secrete organic material into the uterine lumen. Opposite the openings of these glands, the chorion develops areolae, invaginated pits that are lined by absorptive, columnar epithelium. A single, mesometrial placentome develops, formed by radially oriented uterine folds that project into a deep invagination of the chorion. Uterine epithelium of the placentome appears to be syncytial and secretory and overlies a rich vascular supply. The apposed chorionic epithelium is absorptive in morphology and contains giant binucleated cells that bear microvilli. Several specializations of the placental membranes of M. heathi are found among eutherian mammals, signifying evolutionary convergence that extends to histological and cytological levels. The chorioallantoic placenta of M. heathi and its relatives warrants recognition as a new morphotype for reptiles, defined here as the “Type IV” placenta. This is the first new type of chorioallantoic placenta to be defined formally for reptiles in over half a century. J. Morphol. 254:121–131, 2002. © 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Haemoglobin adjustments to define anaemia.

OBJECTIVE To provide researchers with an unambiguous definition of anaemia using haemoglobin. METHODS Review of recommendations by expert groups and review of the literature. RESULTS This report provides an unambiguous approach to haemoglobin adjustments to define anaemia using international criteria. When determining anaemia using haemoglobin, it is important to account for pregnancy, altitude, cigarette smoking, and possibly ethnicity after removing unlikely values. These haemoglobin adjustments are presented. CONCLUSION Recommendations for defining extreme haemoglobin values and for reporting anaemia and haemoglobin results are provided, and software programs to determine anaemia are described.
Dynamic behavior of surfactant films

Abstract The hysteresis in (γ- A ) exhibited by surfactant films, which are mechanically expanded and compressed, has been studied as a function of cycling frequency. The shape and area of the hysteresis loops varied with frequency. The surfactants used were lung surfactant, vegetable lecithin, lauric acid, and sodium dodecyl sulfate.
Cross-Linguistic Influence in Intonation: French/Japanese and French/English.

This article reports the findings of research on the acquisition of French intonation by native speakers of Canadian English and Japanese. Intonation is limited, in this study, to the domain of phonosyntax where intonational cues are correlated with syntactical units. Results of the study show that cross-linguistic influence in intonation is of central importance in the learner's acquisition of the target system and that one should not underestimate the degree of complexity of that influence. The study shows that it is relevant to differentiate between cross-linguistic influence of intonational phonological rules and cross-linguistic influence of phonetic characteristics, and that in both aspects a cross-linguistic influence is at work.
State of Dispersion of Reinforcing Silica in a Silicone Elastomer, as Investigated by Transmission Electron Microscopy

Commercial silicone rubbers typically contain submicron particles dispersed within them, the particles being responsible for the mechanical properties required for commercial success. Fumed silica has long been used for the reinforcement of higher-perfomance silicone rubber compositions, but high-porosity aerogels can function as well. The object of the work here was to compare the state of dispersion of some high-porosity aerogels with that of a fumed silica. Model silicone HCR (“heat-cured rubber”) compositions were prepared, and their mechanical properties characterized. Thin sections of the rubbers were then examined by TEM. Much of the fumed silica had been dispersed to give sub-micron sized features, although a number of larger features were present. The hydrophobic aerogel, in contrast, had been dispersed to give even finer features in the rubber, with very few super-micron fragments. The state of dispersion of the hydrophilic aerogel was quite different, showing many poorly-broken down large fragments up to 5 µm or more in diameter. The visual appearance of the compound reflected this poorer state of dispersion.
What is the potential of avirulent influenza viruses to complement a cleavable hemagglutinin and generate virulent strains

Abstract A large pool of avirulent influenza viruses are maintained in the wild ducks and shorebirds of the world, but we know little about their potential to become virulent. It is well established that the hemagglutinin (HA) is pivitol in determining virulence and that a constellation of other genes is also necessary ( R. Rott, M. Orlich, and C. Scholtissek, 1976 , J. Virol . 19, 54–60). The question we are asking here is the ability of avirulent influenza viruses to provide the gene constellation that will complement the HA from a highly virulent virus and for the reassortant to be virulent. Reassortant influenza viruses were prepared between ultraviolet treated A/Chicken/Pennsylvania/1370/83 (H5N2) [Ck/Penn] and influenza viruses from natural reservoirs. These viruses included examples of the predominant subtypes in wild ducks, shorebirds, and domestic poultry. Attention was given to the influenza viruses from live poultry markets, for it is possible that these establishments may be important in mixing of influenza genes from different species and the possible transmission to domestic and mammalian species. The reassortants were genotyped by partial sequencing of each gene and were tested for virulence in chickens. Each of the reassortants contained the hemagglutinin and matrix (M) genes from Ck/Penn and a majority of genes from the viruses from natural reservoirs indicating a preferential association between the HA and M genes. The reassortants containing multiple genes from wild ducks and a cleavable HA were avirulent indicating that the gene pool in ducks may not have a high potential to provide genes that are potentially virulent. In contrast, a disproportionate number of viruses from shorebirds and all avirulent H5N2 influenza viruses from city markets provided a gene constellation that in association with cleavable H5 HA were highly virulent in chickens. An evolutionary tree based on oligonucleotide mapping established that the H5N2 influenza viruses from birds in city markets are closely related.
DietCam: Automatic dietary assessment with mobile camera phones

Obesity has become a severe health problem in developed countries, and a healthy food intake has been recognized as the key factor for obesity prevention. This paper presents a mobile phone based system, DietCam, to help assess food intakes with few human interventions. DietCam only requires users to take three images or a short video around the meal, then it will do the rest. The experiments of DietCam in real restaurants verify the possibility of food recognition with vision techniques.
Identifying the source of weathered petroleum: Matching infrared spectra with correlation coefficients

A novel method is presented for identifying the source of weathered petroleum by measuring the similarity between the spectrum of a weathered oil and spectra of artificially weathered samples. The Pearson correlation coefficient is used as the similarity measure, and three separate K-nearest neighbor approaches are tested on the data set.
On dynamic stability of elastic bodies with prescribed initial conditions

Abstract The question of dynamic instability “in the large” of an elastic body with a given initial velocity and a given initial displacement is studied. Definition of dynamic stability, the necessary and sufficient stability criterion, and a more practical sufficiency condition for stability are presented, and they are discussed in terms of trajectories in a functional phase space or a phase space of finite dimension. It is believed that this particular approach clarifies the stability concept and also delineates more precisely the stability criteria. The general concept and criteria of dynamic stability of elastic bodies developed here can be applied to elastic structures, such as shells and curved beams, subjected to impulsive loading. As an example of application a complete analysis of a curved beam subjected to impulsive loads is offered in the paper.
Plant reproduction under elevated CO2 conditions: a meta-analysis of reports on 79 crop and wild species

Summary • Reproductive traits are key characteristics for predicting the response of communities and ecosystems to global change. • We used meta-analysis to integrate data on eight reproductive traits from 159 CO 2 enrichment papers that provided information on 79 species. • Across all species, CO 2 enrichment (500–800 µl l −1 ) resulted in more flowers (+19%), more fruits (+18%), more seeds (+16%), greater individual seed mass (+4%), greater total seed mass (+25%), and lower seed nitrogen concentration, (N) (−14%). Crops and undomesticated (wild) species did not differ in total mass response to elevated CO 2 (+31%), but crops allocated more mass to reproduction and produced more fruits (+28% vs +4%) and seeds (+21% vs +4%) than did wild species when grown at high CO 2 . Seed [N] was not affected by high CO 2 concentrations in legumes, but declined significantly in most nonlegumes. • Our results provide robust estimates of average plant reproductive responses to CO 2 enrichment and demonstrate important differences among individual taxa and among functional groups. In particular, crops were more responsive to elevated CO 2 than were wild species. These differences and the substantial decline in seed [N] in many species have broad implications for the functioning of future natural and agro-ecosystems.
A hydrogel-actuated environmentally sensitive microvalve for active flow control

This paper reports on the fabrication and test of a hydrogel-actuated microvalve that responds to changes in the concentration of specific chemical species in an external liquid environment. The microvalve consists of a thin hydrogel, sandwiched between a stiff porous membrane and a flexible silicone rubber diaphragm. Swelling and deswelling of the hydrogel, which results from the diffusion of chemical species through the porous membrane is accompanied by the deflection of the diaphragm and hence closure and opening of the valve intake orifice. A phenylboronic-acid-based hydrogel was used to construct a smart microvalve that responds to the changes in the glucose and pH concentrations. The fastest response time (for a pH concentration cycle) achieved was 7 min using a 30-/spl mu/m-thick hydrogel and a 60-/spl mu/m-thick porous membrane with 0.1 /spl mu/m pore size and 40% porosity.
The pulmonary artery pulsatility index identifies severe right ventricular dysfunction in acute inferior myocardial infarction.

Background: Right ventricular dysfunction (RVD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the setting of acute inferior wall myocardial infarction (IWMI), and early detection may improve clinical outcomes. We defined a novel hemodynamic index, the pulmonary artery pulsatility index (PAPi), and explored whether the PAPi correlates with severe RVD in acute IWMI. Methods: From 2008 to 2010, we identified 20 patients presenting with angiographically confirmed proximal right coronary artery occlusion and suspected RVD (sRVD) as defined by hemodynamic instability, profound bradycardia, or ST-elevation in lead V4R. Two controls groups were studied (1) 50 patients with nonobstructive coronary artery disease (Non-CAD) and (2) 14 patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome requiring left coronary stenting (ACS). Hemodynamic indices analyzed at the time of catheterization included: (1) the right atrial to pulmonary capillary wedge pressure ratio (RA:PCWP), (2) right ventricular stroke work (RVSW), and (3) the PAPi. Qualitative echocardiographic scores of RV systolic function were determined by two blinded investigators within 24 hr of catheterization. Results: Among subjects with sRVD, 7 (35%) received a percutaneous RV support device (pRVSD) for medically refractory RV failure and 4 (20%) died prior to hospital discharge. Compared to Non-CAD and ACS controls, subjects with sRVD had a significantly lower PAPi (4.32 ± 3.04 vs. 5.52 ± 4.40 vs. 1.11 ± 0.57, respectively, P < 0.01) and a higher RA:PCWP ratio (0.48 ± 0.24 vs. 0.51 ± 0.26 vs. 0.81 ± 0.30, respectively, P < 0.05). Both the PAPi and RA:PCWP ratios correlated significantly with RVSW and qualitative echocardiographic grading. The PAPi demonstrated the highest sensitivity (88.9%) and specificity (98.3%) for predicting in-hospital mortality and/or requirement of a pRVSD. Using ROC curve derived cut-points, a PAPi ≤ 0.9 provided 100.0% sensitivity and 98.3% specificity (C-statistic: 0.998) for predicting these outcomes, exceeding the predictive value of the RA:PCWP ratio or RVSW. Conclusions: The PAPi is a simple, invasive hemodynamic measure that may help identify high-risk patients with acute IWMI with severe RVD. Earlier identification of this high-risk population may improve clinical outcomes. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
ATP7A (Menkes protein) functions in axonal targeting and synaptogenesis

Menkes disease (MD) is a neurodegenerative disorder caused by mutations in the copper transporter, ATP7A, a P-type ATPase. We previously used the olfactory system to demonstrate that ATP7A expression is developmentally, not constitutive, regulated, peaking during synaptogenesis when it is highly expressed in extending axons in a copper-independent manner. Although not known to be associated with axonal functions, we explored the possibility that the inability of mutant ATP7A to support axon outgrowth contributes to the neurodegeneration seen in MD. In vivo analysis of the olfactory system in mottled brindled (Atp7aMobr) mice, a rodent model for MD, demonstrates that ATP7A deficiency affects olfactory sensory neuron (OSN) maturation. Disrupted OSN axonal projections and mitral/tufted cell dendritic growth lead to altered synapse integrity and glomerular disorganization in the olfactory bulbs of Atp7aMobr mice. Our data indicate that the neuronal abnormalities observed in MD are a result of specific age-dependent developmental defects. This study demonstrates a role for ATP7A and/or copper in axon outgrowth and synaptogenesis, and will further help identify the cause of the neuropathology that characterizes MD.