cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Study of α-amylase and R-enzyme contaminants in Q-enzyme preparations from cotton leaves

Abstract Q-Enzyme is responsible for branching during the biosynthesis of amylopectin, the major form of starch in leaves. Its activity, however, cannot be determined accurately in the presence of the degradative enzymes, α-amylase and R-enzyme (the debranching enzyme). Q-Enzyme activity was measured by incubating with amylose primer and measuring changes in absorbance of the glucan-I2 complex. Maximum interference by α-amylase occurred early because it attacked the amylose primer. Maximum interference by R-enzyme occurred later during the incubation period, because R-enzyme affected branched glucan which was formed at the later stage of incubation. Therefore, these enzymatic interferences occurred in sequence at two separate times and sites. Dialysis of Q-enzyme preparation against EDTA greatly decreased the activity of α-amylase, probably by removing calcium. Addition of calcium to the dialyzed enzyme preparation restored most of the amylase activity. R-Enzyme was removed from the reaction mixture by complexing it with alumina (r)-gel. The insoluble complex was then removed by centrifugation. Dialysis of the enzyme extract against EDTA, followed by treatment with alumina (r)-gel, effectively overcame interferences by α-amylase and R-enzyme, and permitted accurate measurement of Q-enzyme activity.
Drag-Induced Transfer of Horizontal Momentum between Air and Raindrops.

Abstract A theoretical model for unsteady drag-induced transfer of horizontal momentum between air and raindrops in moderate to heavy rainfall is presented. The model accounts for a two-way coupling in which the relative horizontal motion between air and raindrops appears as a drag forcing in both the air and raindrop equations of motion. Analytical solutions of these coupled equations are obtained for the case of rain falling through (i) an initial step change in environmental wind, (ii) a uniform shear profile, and (iii) periodically varying vertical shears of various wavenumbers (a crude proxy for turbulent eddies). Formulas for the propagation (descent) speeds of the shear zones are obtained for (ii), (iii), and for the later stage of (i). However, these speeds are generally quite small—on the order of a few centimeters per second even for heavy rainfall. More importantly, the solutions of (i) and (iii) indicate that the drag interaction leads to a decay of the velocity gradients. A formula for the e-...
Analysis of N-benzoyl-L-tyrosyl-p-aminobenzoic acid (bentiromide) metabolites in urine by ion-pair high-performance liquid chromatography.

Abstract A high-performance liquid chromatographic method is described for the analysis of bentiromide metabolites in urine. The procedure involves no more than direct injection of the diluted urine sample, obviating the need for an extraction step or an internal standard. A μBondapak C 18 column is used with a mobile phase of 0.01 M tetrabutylammonium chloride (pH 7.4)—methanol (9:1). A flow-rate of 1.4 ml/min, detection at 254 nm and column temperature of 40°C are employed. These conditions were achieved by investigating the effects of mobile phase pH, and concentrations and types of organic modifiers, buffers and ion-pairing agents on the resolution of the metabolites. The analysis time is 18 min per sample and the coefficient of variation of replicate assays is less than 10% for most concentrations studied. Analytical recoveries were between 95 and 100% throughout the appropriate concentration ranges and no interferences were obtained with the exception of p -acetamidobenzoyl glucuronide which could be eliminated by treatment of the samples with β-glucuronidase. Concentration profiles of the metabolites were studied in normal subjects, and the methods was found to be potentially useful for clinical situations in which the existing bentiromide test leads to ambiguous results because of small bowel and hepatic dysfunctions.
Preparation of (1,4,7-triazacyclononane)Rh(hydrocarbyl)3 Compounds and Their Derivatives. Strong Donor Labilization of RhCl Bonds toward Alkylation and Preparation of Unusually Stable Alkyl Hydride Complexes of Rhodium

(tacn)Rh(R)3 compounds (tacn = 1,4,7-triazacyclononane; R = Me, Et, Ph, vinyl) have been prepared in 65−86% yields by treatment of (tacn)RhCl3·H2O with more than a 7-fold molar quantity of RLi in THF, followed by protonation by methanol. The product before protonation is (Li3tacn)RhR3 (Li3tacn = 1,4,7-trilithio-1,4,7-triazacyclononane) which can be isolated. The alkylation is complete in a few minutes to a couple of hours, depending on R, which compares with 3−4 days for CnRhCl3 with MeLi (Cn = 1,4,7-trimethyl-1,4,7-triazacyclononane) and suggests that the presumably first-formed (Li3tacn)RhCl3 is highly activated toward Cl- dissociation by the strong donor effect of the three LiNR2 groups in the rhodium coordination sphere. Protonation of (Li3tacn)RhR3 by methanol gives the neutral products (tacn)RhR3. X-ray structure determinations of (tacn)RhEt3 and (tacn)RhPh3 have been carried out. Protonolysis of (tacn)RhR3 (R = Me, Et, Ph) by 2 HSO3CF3 (HOTf) affords (tacn)RhR(OTf)2. Dissolution of the latter in D2...
A Weighted Sensing Scheme for ReRAM-Based Cross-Point Memory Array

In recent years, the design of cross-point array based on resistive random access memory (ReRAM) has been widely investigated because it offers extremely high storage density and low power consumption. However, the sneak-path leakage in such a resistive network is inevitable and grows fast as the array size increases, which severely constrains the scalability of cross-point array. This work proposes a novel weighted sensing scheme which suppresses the sneak-path leakage via precise voltage control of unselected memory cells. Furthermore, different weights are assigned to ReRAM cells, which can be read out at once using one single sensing component. The proposed weighted sensing scheme makes the implementation of large cross-point arrays possible meanwhile successfully reduces the area cost of peripheral circuitry. The effectiveness of the proposed design has been validated and studied via thorough circuit simulations.
Investigations of geoelectrical signatures at a hydrocarbon contaminated site

Abstract This study provides an evaluation of the utility and resolution of different geoelectrical methods in mapping contaminant distribution in the subsurface, and provides a window into the processes that may control their response at a site in Central Michigan. In situ and 2D surface resistivity, ground penetrating radar (GPR), and electromagnetic methods (EM) constrained by soil boring data were used to investigate the electrical properties of a light nonaqueous phase liquid (LNAPL) contaminant plume that resulted from 50 years of leakage into a glacio-fluvial geologic setting. Overall, the electrical signature from the in situ resistivity measurements were best able to image the subsurface stratigraphy and the associated contamination zone. GPR also mapped the subsurface stratigraphy. In particular, the GPR recorded a reflector that is subparallel to the water table, and occurs a few meters above the current free product level, which is coincident with the top of an oil-stained, light-gray sand layer. Further, regions of attenuated GPR reflections (shadow zones) due to enhanced conductivities were found to be coincident with low apparent resistivities. 2D geoelectrical measurements successfully imaged the top of the saturated zone and the underlying clay layer, but was unable to resolve any anomalous region that could be attributed to the hydrocarbon contamination. Likewise, the EM results provided no evidence of the presence of the free product plume at depth. Throughout this investigation, geoelectric measurements consistently recorded low resistivities (high apparent conductivities) associated with zones containing the free/residual product plume instead of high resistivities as has been suggested by the simple intuitive model. From this, it is inferred that substantial modification of the geochemical characteristics of the plume, surrounding media, and associated groundwater has occurred as a result of biogeochemical reactions. It is evident from this study that in situ resistivity measurements combined with surface geoelectrical measurements can characterize the distribution of conductive zones that may be associated with the biodegradation of LNAPL in the subsurface. Thus, the application of these techniques to hydrogeologic, contaminant monitoring, and remediation studies are far reaching.
Isolation of salt‐sensitive mutants from Sinorhizobium meliloti and characterization of genes involved in salt tolerance

Aims: The purpose of our research is to isolate salt-sensitive mutants and to study the genes involved in salt tolerance of the salt-tolerant bacterium Sinorhizobium meliloti 042BM. Methods: Wild type S. meliloti 042BM bacteria are able to grow at a NaCl concentration of 0.6 mol l−1. A transposon Tn5-1063a mutagenesis library of S. meliloti 042BM was constructed and eight salt-sensitive mutants were isolated, which were unable to growth on FY plates containing 0.4 mol l−1 NaCl. Significance: Our interest is to provide information about the mechanism of salt tolerance in bacteria by studying the genes involved in salt tolerance. Here, seven different genes were identified. These genes include omp10 encoding a cell outer membrane protein, relA encoding (p)ppGpp synthetase, greA encoding a transcription cleavage factor, nuoL encoding NADH dehydrogenase I chain L transmembrane protein, a putative nuclease/helicase gene and two unknown genes. Based on these findings, we suggest that the regulation of salt tolerance of S. meliloti 042BM is complex and on several levels.
Minimum Phosphorus Requirement of One-Cycle and Two-Cycle (Molted) Hens

In experiment 1 (one cycle), hens were fed diets containing 0.10, 0.115, 0.125, 0.135, 0.15, or 0.45% available P (AP) from 40 to 56 wk of age, with the last diet being a positive control. Egg production, egg mass, and BW were reduced (P < 0.05) by all lower AP levels except 0.15% AP when compared with the 0.45% AP treatment. In the second experiment (two cycles with a molt), hens were initially fed diets containing 0.10, 0.12, 0.14, 0.16, 0.18, 0.20, or 0.45% AP from 21 to 63 wk of age. Diets containing 0.10, 0.12, and 0.14% AP were terminated at 35, 39, and 50 wk, respectively, due to low egg production and increased mortality. Hens fed 0.16% AP also had significantly lower production performance than hens fed 0.45% AP during the first cycle. Hens on the 0.16 to 0.45% AP treatments were induced molted at 64 wk of age by 10 d of feed removal. The hens were then returned to the same AP layer diet they had been fed from 21 to 63 wk. For the 68 to 108 wk postmolt second-cycle period, hens fed the 0.16 to 0.20% AP diets (166 to 209 mg/d) had significantly lower egg production, egg mass, and feed efficiency than hens fed 0.45% AP. The results of our study indicated that first-cycle hens required approximately 0.18% AP or 198 mg AP/hen per day, and molted hens in their second cycle had a requirement that was greater than 0.20% AP or 209 mg AP/hen per day.
THE ROLE OF SHORT CHAIN FATTY ACID SUBSTRATES IN AEROBIC AND GLYCOLYTIC METABOLISM IN PRIMARY CULTURES OF RENAL PROXIMAL TUBULE CELLS

This study examined the role of odd and even short-chain fatty acid substrates on aerobic and glycolytic metabolism in well-aerated primary cultures of rabbit renal proximal tubule cells (RPTC). Increasing oxygen delivery to primary cultures of RPTC by shaking the dishes (SHAKE) reduced total lactate levels and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity and reduced net glucose consumption compared to RPTC cultured under standard conditions (STILL). The addition of butyrate, valerate, heptanoate, or octanoate to SHAKE RPTC produced variable effects on glycolytic metabolism. Although butyrate and heptanoate further reduced total lactate levels and net glucose consumption during short-term culture (<24 h), no fatty acid tested further reduced total lactate levels, net glucose consumption, or LDH activity during long-term culture (7 days). During the first 12 h of culture, maintenance of aerobic metabolism in SHAKE RPTC was dependent on medium supplementation with fatty acid substrates (2 mM). However, by 24 h, SHAKE RPTC did not require fatty acid substrates to maintain levels of aerobic metabolism equivalent to freshly isolated proximal tubules and greater than STILL RPTC. This suggests that SHAKE RPTC undergo adaptive changes between 12 and 24 h of culture, which give RPTC the ability to utilize other substrates for mitochondrial oxidation, therefore allowing greater expression of mitochondrial oxidative potential in SHAKE RPTC than in STILL RPTC.
Darcy–Brinkman flow past a two-dimensional screen

Abstract The flow past a screen composed of periodic slats in a plane is studied. The method of eigenfunction expansions and point match is used to solve the Darcy–Brinkman equations. The velocities, pressures and resistances are determined for the flow in three orthogonal directions. Aside from screen geometry, the flow is governed by a porous media parameter k which is zero for pure viscous flow. The fundamental case for the flow over a single slat is then extrapolated. It is found that for k = 0 the Stokes paradox occurs and the drag rises singularly as k is increased from zero.
Meteorology and haze structure during AGASP-II, Part 1: Alaskan Arctic flights, 2–10 April 1986

The second Arctic Gas and Aerosol Sampling Program (AGASP-II) was conducted across the Alaskan and Canadian Arctic in April 1986, to study the in situ aerosol, and the chemical and optical properties of Arctic haze. The NOAA WP-3D aircraft, with special instrumentation added, made six flights during AGASP-II. Measurements of wind, pressure, temperature, ozone, water vapor, condensation nuclei (CN) concentration, and aerosol scattering extinction (bsp) were used to determine the location of significant haze layers. The measurements made on the first three flights, over the Arctic Ocean north of Barrow and over the Beaufort Sea north of Barter Island, Alaska are discussed in detail in this report of the first phase of AGASP II. In the Alaskan Arctic the WP-3D detected a large and persistent region of haze between 960 and 750 mb, in a thermally stable layer, on 2, 8, and 9 April 1986. At its most dense, the haze contained CN concentrations >10,000 cm−3 and bsp of 80×10−6 m−1 suggesting active SO2 to H2SO4 gas-to-particle conversion. Calculations based upon observed SO2 concentrations and ambient relative humidities suggest that 104–105 small H2SO4 droplets could have been produced in the haze layers. High concentrations of sub-micron H2SO4 droplets were collected in haze. Ozone concentrations were 5–10 ppb higher in the haze layers than in the surrounding troposphere. Outside the regions of haze, CN concentrations ranged from 100 to 400 cm−3 and bsp values were about (20–40)×10−6 m−1. Air mass trajectories were computed to depict the air flow upwind of regions in which haze was observed. In two cases the back trajectories and ground measurements suggested the source to be in central Europe.
Mapping the ion kinetic energy in a helium microwave plasma orthogonal acceleration time-of-flight mass spectrometer.

The ion kinetic energy of a helium microwave plasma is studied using an orthogonal acceleration time-of-flight mass spectrometer. The ions produced in the plasma are extracted into the mass spectrometer in an ‘off-cone’ mode (i.e. the helium plasma plume is off the sampler cone), and enter the repelling zone in the x-direction, which is perpendicular to the flight tube. The information of ion initial kinetic energy was obtained from both theoretical calculations and experimental results. The potential influence of two x-direction steering plates (X-steering plates) on the ion energy and signal intensity was examined. The influence of gas composition on the ion kinetic energy was also investigated. The calculated results show that ions with different m/z have different velocity and kinetic energy when they enter the ion modulation zone, and lighter ions have higher velocity and lower kinetic energy. The experimental results obtained demonstrate that the ion signals of different m/z produced with an ‘off-cone’ sampling helium microwave plasma show similar trends as calculated with the potential difference of the X-steering plates, revealing their narrow kinetic energy distribution in the x-direction. Under typical operating conditions, the x-direction kinetic energy of ions detected mostly range from about 14.9 eV for 7Li+ to 16.8 eV for 208Pb+. Published in 2001 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
PARAMETRIC REPRESENTATIONS OF NON-STEADY ONE-DIMENSIONAL FLOWS: A CORRECTION

Abstract : BRL Report No. 1316 (AD-635 254) contains a serious logical error. This invalidates that Report's assertions about the ease with which examples of 1-dimensional flows can be constructed. The present Report (i) expurgates BRL Report No. 1316; (ii) describes the error; (iii) corrects it; and (iv) salvages a family of examples of 1-dimensional flows.
Rapid isoenzyme analysis of cell cultures by agarose Electrophoresis

An enzyme electrophoresis method is described for determining and monitoring the species of cells in culture. Electrophoresis runs are completed in 25 min. The methods used are straightforward and do not require a large investment in preparation time or equipment.
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy as a "true" outpatient procedure: initial experience in 130 consecutive patients.

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy has received nearly universal acceptance and is currently considered the "gold standard" for the treatment of cholelithiasis. Many centers have employed "short-stay" units or "23-hour admissions" for postoperative observation following laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The practice of early discharge as "true" outpatients following this procedure has not been well defined. A retrospective analysis of 130 consecutive patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy in an outpatient surgery unit was performed. A follow-up telephone survey was carried out of patients who successfully completed the procedure as outpatients. One hundred thirty patients underwent outpatient laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The patient population consisted of 78% women, with an age range of 17 to 76 years (mean age 47.1 years). Symptomatic gallstone disease was the indication for laparoscopic cholecystectomy in 92 % of the patients. All patients underwent successful completion of laparoscopic cholecystectomy with no conversions to an open procedure. The mean length of operation was 75 ±23 minutes (range 25 to 147 minutes). The mean length of stay in the postanesthesia care unit (PACU) ranged from 95 to 460 minutes with a mean length of stay of 200 ±79 minutes. A total of eight patients (6.2%) were admitted to the hospital directly from the PACU in the immediate postoperative period. Six of these eight patients were discharged on the first postoperative day. Following discharge from the PACU, an additional six patients (4.6%) required hospital admission. Three of these six patients were discharged after a single day of hospitahlization. Ninety-eight of 116 eligible patients were available for follow-up telephone evaluation. The outpatient experience was rated as good by 75.5% of the patients, fair by 22.5%, and poor by 2%. In retrospect, 20.4% of the patients stated that they would have preferred an inpatient to an outpatient procedure. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy can be performed as a true outpatient procedure with patients discharged to home within hours of completion of the procedure. Less than 10% of patients will fail this protocol and another 5% of the patients may require hospitalization after returning to their homes.
Electroejaculation of chimeric rats

With the advent of genetic engineering of rodents came the need to assess fertility and germline competency, especially in chimeric rodents generated using embryonic stem cells. Traditional methods rely on natural mating and progeny testing, which is time- and cost-intensive. Electroejaculation is a faster method of collecting sperm for genetic analysis and offers the additional benefit of using fewer animals. This column describes a refined electroejaculation technique for chimeric rats using light gas anesthesia and a custom-made platform for sperm collection.
Primary Dermal Melanoma: Distinct Immunohistochemical Findings and Clinical Outcome Compared With Nodular and Metastatic Melanoma

Objective To provide an updated and expanded analysis of clinical outcome and immunohistochemical (IHC) findings unique to primary dermal melanoma (PDM) that may be used to differentiate this entity from primary nodular melanoma (PNM) and cutaneous metastatic melanoma (MM). Design Cohort analysis and extensive IHC panel comparing PDM with PNM and cutaneous MM. Setting Melanoma clinics and pathology departments of academic and VA medical centers. Patients Thirteen patients with a solitary dermal or subcutaneous nodule of histologically proven melanoma, prospectively followed through April 30, 2007. Interventions Clinical, pathologic, and IHC assessment of patients diagnosed as having PDM. Main Outcome Measures Long-term clinical outcome and determination of unique clinical and IHC features in the study cohort compared with other melanoma subtypes. Results Histologically, there was no evidence of an overlying in situ component, ulceration, or regression, and there was no associated nevus in any cases. Clinical history and findings from workup, including imaging studies, skin examination, and sentinel lymph node biopsy, were negative for evidence of melanoma elsewhere. The mean Breslow depth was 9.6 mm. Two patients developed satellite or in-transit recurrences, 1 developed pulmonary metastasis, and another died of liver metastases. Overall, the cohort showed a 92% melanoma-specific survival rate at a mean duration of follow-up of 44 months. The IHC findings showed that PDM exhibited lower levels of staining for the antigens p53 (P = .02), Ki-67 (Mib-1) (P = .002), cyclin D1 (P = .001), and podoplanin (recognized by D2-40 antibody) lymphovascular staining (P Conclusions Patients with PDM have remarkably prolonged survival compared with patients with MM or PNM of similar thickness. Preliminary results suggest that PDM may be characterized by lower levels of p53, Ki-67, cyclin D1, and D2-40 compared with histologically similar MM and PNM.
Increased muscarinic cholinergic receptor density on CD4+ lymphocytes in progressive multiple sclerosis.

We measured the density and affinity of muscarinic cholinergic receptors (MR) in 29 chronic progressive and ten stable multiple sclerosis (MS) patients and 27 control subjects using [3H]N-methyl-scopolamine. The density of MR on CD4+ lymphocytes was significantly higher in chronic progressive MS (CPMS) than in controls (7.9 ± 0.7 vs. 4.5 ± 0.4 fmol/106 cells, p < 0.001). Stable patients did not differ significantly from control subjects. Receptors of the M1 subtype were measured on CD4+ lymphocytes of nine patients and seven controls with the selective antagonist [3H]methylpirenzepine: M1/total receptor ratio was 64.1% in CPMS and 81.2% in controls, suggesting a selective increase of M2-type MR in CPMS. The findings may relate to parasympathetic denervation hypersensitivity of lymphocytes or to lymphocyte activation which is known to be associated with increased MR number.
Analysis of C-V and I-V data of BST thin films

Abstract Thin films of Ba0.7Sr0.3TiO3 have been fabricated using Enhanced Metal Organic Decomposition (EMOD) process on Si/SiO2/Ti/Pt substrates. The C-V characteristics of these films reveal a relation of log(1/Cm) ∝ VA where Cm is the measured capacitance at a frequency of 10 KHz and VA is the applied voltage. This voltage variable capacitance is characterized by an inverse quadratic distance proportinal charge distribution at the boundary layer between metal and paraelectric material. Above a threshold voltage of 3–5 V the leakage current density exhibits a modified Schottky emission, which states that log (JL) ∝ V 1/4. Below this threshold voltage, the origin of the leakage current which is operative in normal circuit applications has been discussed and identified from its temperature variation.
Joint base station clustering and beamformer design for partial coordinated transmission using statistical channel state information

In this paper we consider the problem of partial coordinated transmission in the downlink of a wireless heterogeneous network (HetNet). The partial coordination is crucial in trading off system performance with backhaul overhead, and it is achieved through jointly optimizing the base station (BS) clustering and the downlink beamformers. Unlike many existing works, we focus on the practical scenario where the channel state information (CSI) is imperfect/incomplete at the transmitter. Mathematically, we formulate the problem into a penalized stochastic optimization problem, and propose an algorithm that converges almost surely to its stationary solution set. Interestingly, our method does not require any additional computational complexity or memory compared to the existing algorithms using perfect CSI. Effectiveness of our method is validated through numerical experiments.
Linking zebra mussel invasion and waterborne commerce in the USA.

The zebra mussel, a non-indigenous species in North American freshwater ecosystems, has received significant attention over the past two decades as a costly and damaging invader. In the USA, federal-, state-, and local-level policies designed to control and/or prevent the spread of this species remain flawed, in that they do not everywhere account for (or enforce regulations over) all potential anthropogenic dispersal pathways. Ballast water discharge is well-known as an important vector in the dispersal of aquatic invasive species in general, but for the zebra mussel its effects as a source of transmission have rarely been investigated. This article uses simple econometric techniques to measure the relationship between zebra mussel invasion in US states and domestic commercial navigation. Coefficient estimates suggest that incoming waterborne shipments from invaded states are an important determinant of the level of zebra mussel invasion in the receiving state. In designing a comprehensive framework for combating the spread of zebra mussels across US freshwater ecosystems, policy-makers may need to more carefully consider the monitoring and treatment of commercial ships' ballast water discharges as potentially effective strategies.
Biochemical systematics of the viviparous fish family Goodeidae

The systematic relationships of the freshwater teleost family Goodeidae inferred from a distance Wagner analysis of allozyme data are mainly consistent with previous systematic hypotheses, including some of those based on karyology. However, a recently proposed hypothesis based on bony anatomy of the mouth is not supported. Branching patterns of species within genera were 100% supported based on a jack knife consensus test except for Xenotoca, which is apparently a polyphyletic lineage. A fossil goodeid of Miocene age was used to calibrate the molecular clock for goodeids at Nei D= 1.0 = 11.3 million years.
Premixed combustion in a periodic flow field. Part II: The importance of flame extinction by fluid dynamic strain

Abstract A numerical model has been developed to study the importance of flame extinction by fluid dynamic strain that occurs during premixed combustion in an oscillating flow field. This is the second of a pair of papers that reports on the fundamental mechanisms that ensure the correct phase relation between the energy release and the resonant pressure waves, which is required by Rayleigh's criterion for stable oscillations. The axisymmetric model is based on the vortex dynamics method combined with a flame sheet algorithm. The model is used to demonstrate that flame extinction by fluid dynamic stretch plays a dominant role in delaying reaction until later in the cycle. Without the extinction mechanism significant energy release occurs during the peak of injection, at a time when experimental observation shows it proceeds through a minimum. Additionally, the predicted rate of energy release decreases as the reactant injection rate decreases, but the experimental observation shows an increase in the energy release rate at this cycle time. By including extinction due to stretch in the flame model the onset of ignition of the fresh reactants is significantly delayed, giving much better agreement with the experimental data. Results are presented that show that the effect due to flame extinction by stretch dominates the effects due to either the expansion of the reactants as they burn or the shape of the injection profile. These results also show that although reactants injected during one cycle may still be burning during the next cycle, they are not the source of ignition for the subsequent cycles. This implies that the ignition mechanism is either thermal or radical, or both. Although the flow field studied here is from a pulse combustor, the conclusions are applicable to combustor configurations where a large vortical structure is formed during injection of reactants.
Federating data with Information Integrator

Information Integrator is an extension to IBM's relational database DB2, which uses data federation to provide benefits to molecular biology researchers through two unique capabilities: increased flexibility in combining data from disparate sources, and SQL access to non-SQL data, easing the task of automating data analysis.
INVESTIGATION OF UNIDENTIFIED PHARMACOLOGICALLY ACTIVE SUBSTANCES IN THE HUMAN CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM.

An unidentified substance with acetylcholine-like activity has been isolated from human brain by Chromatographie procedures. The substance is more active on the frog reclus preparation than on the guinea pig ileum. It has anRitf value of 0.65 ± 0.05 in BuOH: EtOH:Ac:H2O. An amino acid analysis of material isolated from this region of the chromatogram revealed two major ninhydrin peaks corresponding to leucine (0.112 μmoles) and isoleucine (0.052 μmoles). Two additional prominent ninhydrin peaks appeared in an equivalent amount of an acid hydrolyzate which corresponded to aspartic acid (1.925 μmoles) and glutamic acid (1.709) μmoles). The amounts of leucine and isoleucine were of the same order as those in the unhydrolyzed sample. Only trace amounts of other amino acids were found. Dinitrophenylation experiments did not give rise to either DNP-glutamic acid or DNP-aspartic acid on hydrolysis. Hydrozinolysis indicated glutamic to be a C-terminal amino acid. The hydrolyzed material possessed no pharmacological activity. The active substance was temporarily presumed to be an acetylated dipeptide of aspartic and glutamic acid.
Effect of preparation parameters on the induced piezoelectric and mechanical properties of 0.90 PMN-0.10 PT ceramics

Abstract Among the relaxor ferroelectric compositions, Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3-PbTiO3 solid solutions are considered as prime candidates for low and high electric field applications, such as capacitors and transducers. For many applications, it is necessary to prepare highly dense ceramics with small average grain size. In a previous paper, physical and electric properties of the ceramic with average grain sizes ranging from 0.7 to 3.5 μm were discussed. In this paper, the effect of hot isostatic pressing on low and high electric field properties, and mechanical properties of a few of the ceramics with differing grain sizes are reported. These properties are compared to that of as-sintered ceramics with same grain size distribution.
Rapid Resolution of Venous Stasis Retinopathy After Carotid Endarterectomy

A 60-year-old woman with ocular hypertension developed unilateral venous stasis retinopathy and neovascularization of the optic disk as the first signs of carotid occlusive disease. The retinopathy and the neovascularization disappeared rapidly and dramatically after carotid endarterectomy. Neovascularization in venous stasis retinopathy must be maintained by hypoxia or hypoperfusion, possibly through some intermediate substance such as a vasoproliferative factor.
Integration host factor interacts with the DNA replication enhancer of filamentous phage f1

Abstract We present data which show that the Escherichia coli integration host factor (IHF) is an activator of phage f1 DNA replication. Phage f1 poorly infects bacterial strains lacking IHF because IHF is required for efficient expression of F-pili, the receptor for f1 phage. However, when F- strains are transfected with f1 DNA the phage replicates in IHF mutants (himA, himD, or himA himD) at a rate of only 3% of that in wild-type bacteria. A plasmid dependent on the f1 replicon fails to transform IHF mutants. By gel retardation analysis, we show that IHF specifically binds to the origin of replication. DNase I "footprinting" experiments demonstrate that IHF binds to multiple sites within the replication enhancer sequence, a cis-acting, A + T-rich sequence that potentiates f1 DNA replication. Moreover, the effect of IHF mutation on f1 growth is suppressed by initiator protein (f1 gene II) mutations that restore efficient replication from origins that lack a functional replication enhancer sequence. This genetic evidence supports the conclusion that the replication enhancer sequence is the site of action of IHF.
Quantitative evaluation of the metabolic interactions between trichloroethylene and 1,1-dichloroethylene in vivo using gas uptake methods.

Gas uptake simulation methods were used to determine kinetic constants for trichloroethylene (TCE) and 1,1-dichloroethylene (1,1-DCE) metabolism in vivo in male Fischer 344 rats. Both are metabolized by single, saturable, oxidative pathways with high-affinity substrate binding. The allometrically scaled maximum velocities (Vmaxc) for TCE and 1,1-DCE were, respectively, 11 and 7.5 mg/hr (i.e., 84 and 77 μmol/hr). Gas uptake studies were also conducted with three mixed atmosphere exposures with the following initial concentrations in parts per million: 500 (1,1-DCE):2000 (TCE); 500 (1,1-DCE):500 (TCE); and 2000 (1,1-DCE):500 (TCE). Mixture uptake curves were described by a system of equations in which a full physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PB-PK) model was provided for each chemical and each was regarded as an inhibitor of the other's metabolism. A generic model was developed to accommodate multiple mechanisms of inhibitory interactions, i.e., competitive, noncompetitive, or uncompetitive. An excellent correspondence was obtained between predicted and observed behavior when the inhibition was assumed to be purely competitive with binding constants for TCE and 1,1-DCE set to 0.25 and 0.10 mg/liter, respectively; i.e., in vivo 1,1-DCE is a slightly better substrate for microsomal oxidation than is TCE. The PB-PK model which was successful in describing the mixture data was used to predict conditions under which 1,1-DCE hepatotoxicity would be expected in coexposure to constant concentration atmospheres of these two chloroethylenes. These predictions were compared with data on the increases in plasma liver enzymes resulting from exposures to either 1,1-DCE alone or to 1,1-DCE in combination with TCE.
A space-optimal data-stream algorithm for coresets in the plane

Given a point set P⊆R2, a subset Q⊆ P is an e-kernel of P if for every slab W containing Q, the (1+e)-expansion of W also contains P. We present a data-stream algorithm for maintaining an e-kernel of a stream of points in R2 that uses O(1/√ e) space and takes O(log (1/e)) amortized time to process each point. This is the first space-optimal data-stream algorithm for this problem.
Multi-period optimal energy procurement and demand response in smart grid with uncertain supply

We propose a simple model that integrates two-period electricity markets, uncertainty in renewable generation, and real-time dynamic demand response. A load-serving entity decides its day-ahead procurement to optimize expected social welfare a day before energy delivery. At delivery time when renewable generation is realized, it sets prices to manage demand and purchase additional power on the real-time market, if necessary, to balance supply and demand. We derive the optimal day-ahead decision, propose real-time demand response algorithm, and study the effect of volume and variability of renewable generation on the social welfare.
Image based range determination

Flight vehicles operating at low altitudes such as rotorcraft require range determination schemes for locating the terrain and obstacles. The development of a ranging scheme combining image sequences from vehicle mounted passive imaging sensors and the vehicle motion variables obtained from an on-board inertial navigation system is described. This approach can handle sequences from more than one imaging device. Derivation of the numerical algorithm and the performance results using a laboratory image sequence are given. Other applications of the proposed approach include ranging schemes for autonomous planetary rovers and telerobots.
Carbon sequestration using brine of adjusted pH to form mineral carbonates

Abstract The permanent mineral storage of carbon using brine is a critical component of geologic carbon sequestration in saline aquifers. It is suggested that pH has a significant effect on the precipitation of mineral carbonates. The design of an ex situ process to efficiently drive this otherwise geologic reaction requires an understanding of the evolution of brine pH from the initial step of pH adjustment, through to the final stages of the conversion. The effects of temperature, pressure, and pH on the formation of carbonates, such as calcite, during the reaction of CO2 with natural gas well brine were investigated. A high pressure/high temperature reactor equipped with a liquid sampling valve allows for the monitoring of brine pH and composition throughout 6-h reactions at temperatures of 75 and 150 °C and pressures of 600 and 1500 psi. Results show that temperature has a greater control on changes in pH than pressure. However, initial brine pH is the main factor controlling the formation of carbonates. ICP-AES analysis of brine samples to identify changes in brine composition during reaction suggests that a much longer reaction time is needed to approach steady state and to establish a clear correlation between variations in solution chemistry and the precipitation of carbonates. XRD has confirmed the precipitation of calcite in experiments with an adjusted initial pH to approximately 9.
Sonographer-Fetus Bonding

A survey of 50 obstetrical sonographers was conducted in the Phoenix metropolitan area to assess certain aspects of fetal ultrasound. The primary concern was the evaluation of sonographer opinions on abortion prior to their experience in ultrasound as compared to their current views, and if "seeing" the fetus sonographically had altered their beliefs. Attention was also placed on the sonographer's perspective on maternalfetal bonding as a result of ultrasound, as well as on sonographer practices of communicative feedback to patients during obstetrical ultrasound examinations. The results of the survey indicate that: 1) seeing the fetus has indeed altered sonographers' opinions on abortion; 2) sonographers strongly believe that maternal-fetal bonding is strengthened by the sonographic demonstration of the fetus; and 3) there is widespread practice of high-feedback sonography.
Selective retinal ganglion cell loss in familial dysautonomia

To define the retinal phenotype of subjects with familial dysautonomia (FD). A cross-sectional study was carried out in 90 subjects divided in three groups of 30 each (FD subjects, asymptomatic carriers and controls). The study was developed at the Dysautonomia Center, New York University Medical Center. All subjects underwent spectral domain optical coherence tomography (OCT) and full neuro-ophthalmic examinations. In a subset of affected subjects, visual evoked potentials and microperimetry were also obtained. We compared the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness from OCT between the three groups. OCT showed loss of the RNFL in all FD subjects predominantly in the maculopapillary region (63 % temporally, p < 0.0001; and 21 % nasally, p < 0.005). RNFL loss was greatest in older FD subjects and was associated with decreased visual acuity and color vision, central visual field defects, temporal optic nerve pallor, and delayed visual evoked potentials. Asymptomatic carriers of the FD gene mutation all had thinner RNFL (12 % globally, p < 0.005). OCT and clinical neuro-ophthalmological findings suggest that maculopapillary ganglion cells are primarily affected in FD subjects, leading to a specific optic nerve damage that closely resembles mitochondrial optic neuropathies. This raises the possibility that reduced IKAP levels may affect mitochondrial proteins and their function in the nervous system, particularly in the retina.
Ordering graphs in a normalized singular value measure

A proposed measure of network cohesion for graphs arising from interrelated economic activity is studied. The measure is the largest singular value of a rowstochastic matrix derived from the adjacency matrix. It is shown here that among graphs on n vertices, the star universally gives the (strictly) largest measure. Other universal comparisons among graphs with larger measures are difficult to make, but one is conjectured, and a selection of empirical evidence is given.
A Hybrid Approach to Understand the Organization of the Mycobacterial Partition Assembly

The segrosome or the bacterial chromosome partition cassette (ParABS) is a molecular motor, which is composed of two proteins (ParB and ParA) and a set of centromere-like DNA sequences (parS). ParBs spread by self-associating on the parS-proximal chromosome to form the partition assembly, which is a nucleoprotein filament of unknown nature. The partition assembly interacts with the cytoskeletal ParA for driving the segregation of DNA, probably by triggering depolymerization of the ParA filament. We are using a hybrid approach to understand the three dimensional organization of the mycobacterial partition assembly. Formation and organization of the partition assembly will be described using a combination of solution X-ray and neutron scattering with H/D contrast variation, structural mass spectrometry, transmission electron microscopy and optical tweezers-based approaches. A model of the partition assembly will lead us to understand how it recruits the ParA for chromosome movement.
310 ANTERIOR CEREBRAL ARTERY PULSATILITY INDEX (PI) WITH NON-NUTRITIVE SUCKING (NNS) AND GAVAGE FEEDINGS

We studied the anterior cerebral arterial flow PI with a doppler over the anterior fontanelle during gavage feeding and gavage feeding with non-nutritive sucking with an 8 mHz doppler transducer. PI was calculated as (Systolic - Diastolic) ÷ Systolic. Initially a baseline PI was obtained and after the orogastric gavage tube was inserted and with NNS with gavage feeding. Eight infants were studied. Their mean birth weight is 1553 ± 344 gms and mean gestational age 32.2 ± 1.5 weeks. A total of 14 studies was performed. The mean postnatal age of study is 14.2± 13.1 days at a mean postconceptual age of 34 ± 2.2 weeks. The mean resting PI is .672 ± .05. The mean PI during gavage feeding is .724 ± .07. The mean PI during gavage + NNS is .687 ± .06. There was a statistically significant change in the PI from baseline to PI during gavage feeding (p<.05). There was no significant difference in the PI from baseline to NNS + gavage. Furthermore, NNS has been shown by others to improve oxygenation. Our restuls indicate that during gavage feeding the PI increass and with NNS this decreases. This shows that NNS alters the CBF towards the baseline before gavage feeding. These results indicate that NNS helps to reverse the gavage feed ing-induced changes in the cerebral blood flow velocity. We recommend NNS in all infants during gavage feeding.
Keratoacanthoma and squamous cell carcinoma are distinct from a molecular perspective

Keratoacanthoma is a controversial entity. Some consider keratoacanthoma as a variant of squamous cell carcinoma, whereas others see it as a distinct self-resolving squamoproliferative lesion. Our objective is to examine the relationship of keratoacanthoma with squamous cell carcinoma and normal skin by using DNA microarrays. DNA microarray studies were performed on formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded blocks from ten cases of actinic keratoacanthoma utilizing the U133plus2.0 array. These results were compared with our previously developed microarray database of ten squamous cell carcinoma and ten normal skin samples. Keratoacanthoma demonstrated 1449 differentially expressed genes in comparison with squamous cell carcinoma (>5-fold change: P 5-fold change: P<0.01) with 1085 genes upregulated and 1350 genes downregulated. The most upregulated genes, comparing keratoacanthoma with normal skin included MALAT1, S100A8, CDR1, TPM4, and CALM1. The most downregulated genes included SCGB2A2, DCD, THRSP, ADIPOQ, adiponectin, and ADH1B. The molecular biological pathway analysis comparing keratoacanthoma with normal skin showed that cellular development, cellular growth and proliferation, cell death/apoptosis, and cell cycle pathways are prominently involved in the pathogenesis of keratoacanthoma. The most enriched canonical pathways were clathrin-mediated endocytosis signaling, molecular mechanisms of cancer and integrin signaling. The distinctive gene expression profile of keratoacanthoma reveals that it is molecularly distinct from squamous cell carcinoma. The molecular pathways and genes differentially expressed in comparing keratoacanthoma with normal skin suggest that keratoacanthoma is a neoplasm that can regress due to upregulation of the cell death/apoptosis pathway.
Multiphasic consequences of the acute administration of ethanol on cerebral glucose metabolism in the rat.

Abstract The present study investigated the role of the postinjection interval in determining the functional consequences of acute ethanol administration in the CNS. Local cerebral metabolic rates for glucose (LCMRglc) were determined by the 2[14C]deoxyglucose method in 48 brain structures of ethanol-naive Sprague–Dawley rats. Tracer was injected 1 or 45 min after a 0.8 g/kg intragastric dose of ethanol or water. At the early time point, LCMRglc was increased in a highly restricted portion of the basal ganglia that included the dorsal striatum, globus pallidus, and core of the nucleus accumbens, compared to water controls. No significant decreases were found at this early time point. At the later time point, by contrast, LCMRglc was decreased in a different set of brain structures. These sites were limbic in nature and included the infralimbic and anterior cingulate cortices, dentate gyrus, lateral septum, and the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis. These data indicate that there are multiple phases that can be detected during the time course of an acute dose of ethanol. They further demonstrate the involvement of different neural systems at the two time points. Increased activity in basal ganglia is consistent with stimulated motor activity, whereas diminished activity in limbic sites may correspond to changes in mood and motivation.