cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
MIMO control performance monitoring using left/right diagonal interactors

Abstract Although the minimum variance control (MVC) benchmark is popular for control performance monitoring, the requirement of a general interactor for multivariable processes is equivalent to knowing the Markov parameters, which is inconvenient in practice. To reduce the model requirement of a general interactor, a right diagonal interactor matrix is first used for a class of MIMO processes. Then a solution to the MIMO MVC benchmark is developed using the right diagonal interactor. Next, both the left and right diagonal interactors are integrated to characterize the complex time-delay structure of an extended class of multivariate processes. The factorization of the combined left/right diagonal interactors and the corresponding MVC benchmark estimation are also presented. The advantages of the new approach lie in the reduced a priori process knowledge and the simplified numerical procedures. A number of simulated examples are provided to illustrate the validity and effectiveness of the proposed performance monitoring approach.
The maximum value problem and NP real numbers

Abstract The concept of nondeterministic computation has been playing an important role in discrete complexity theory. In this paper the concept of nondeterminism is applied to a numerical problem—finding the maximum value of a polynomial time computable real function. The class of all these maximum values is characterized as the class of nondeterministic polynomial time ( NP ) computable real numbers. The completeness of real numbers is then investigated. The result that NP real numbers cannot be polynomial time many-one complete in NP (unless P = NP ) shows a basic difference between the maximum value problem and many natural NP combinatorial problems. It is also shown that real numbers are not complete in r.e. sets or PSPACE (unless P = PSPACE) and this seems to be a general phenomenon. Finally, the relationship between NP real numbers and NP sets over a single-letter alphabet and the existence of hardest NP real numbers are also discussed.
Coating Fine Nickel Particles with Al2O3 Utilizing an Atomic Layer Deposition-Fluidized Bed Reactor (ALD–FBR)

An atomic layer deposition–fluidized bed reactor (ALD–FBR) method has been developed to deposit ultrathin and conformal coatings on fine particles. Experiments of Al2O3 deposition on 150-μm-diameter nickel particles were conducted. The fluidized bed was constructed to operate under vacuum, and the fluidizing gas used was nitrogen. Trimethylaluminum and water were used as dosing reagents. The reactions were conducted at 450 K. Successful deposition of alumina films, with thickness controllable at the nanometer level, was observed based on transmission electron microscopy imaging, inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry, X-ray photoemission spectroscopy, particle-size distributions, and wavelength-dispersive spectrometry imaging.
Upregulation of Proinflammatory Cytokine Production in Response to Bacterial Pathogen-Associated Molecular Patterns in Dogs with Diabetes Mellitus Undergoing Insulin Therapy:

Background Metabolic alterations associated with diabetes mellitus alter innate immunity. Dogs often develop infectious or inflammatory complications related to diabetes mellitus, yet little is known about the effects of diabetes mellitus on the immune system in this species. Methods Prospective evaluation in dogs with poorly regulated spontaneous type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). In vitro leukocyte cytokine response to lipopolysaccharide (LPS), lipoteichoic acid (LTA), and peptidoglycan (PG) was compared between dogs with T1DM and healthy dogs. Additionally, the effect of acute in vitro glucose exposure on leukocyte tumor necrosis factor (TNF) production from healthy dogs was measured. Results Leukocytes from dogs with T1DM had significantly greater TNF production after LTA and PG stimulation compared with leukocytes from healthy dogs. Leukocyte interleukin (IL)-6 production was greater after stimulation with LPS, LTA, PG, and phosphate-buffered saline in the T1DM group. No such difference was noted when evaluating IL-10 production between groups regardless of stimulant. Dogs with T1DM had significantly greater IL-6 to IL-10 production ratios than healthy dogs. Acute exposure to dextrose did not augment cytokine production from healthy canine leukocytes. Conclusions Dogs with T1DM have altered innate immunity characterized by upregulation of proinflammatory cytokine production without a concurrent change in anti-inflammatory cytokine production. This may be one explanation for the common infectious and inflammatory complications associated with T1DM in dogs.
Signaling pathways underlying the pathophysiology and treatment of depression: novel mechanisms for rapid-acting agents

Basic and clinical studies demonstrate that stress and depression are associated with atrophy and loss of neurons and glia, which contribute to the decreased size and function of limbic brain regions that control mood and depression, including the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. Here, we review findings that suggest that opposing effects of stress and/or depression and antidepressants on neurotrophic factor expression and signaling partly explain these effects. We also discuss recent reports that suggest a possible role for glycogen synthase kinase 3 and upstream wingless (Wnt)–frizzled (Fz) signaling pathways in mood disorders. New studies also demonstrate that the rapid antidepressant actions of NMDA receptor antagonists are associated with activation of glutamate transmission and induction of synaptogenesis, providing novel targets for a new generation of fast-acting, more efficacious therapeutic agents.
Purification of 242Pu by irradiation with thermal neutrons

Abstract The feasibility of purifying a radioisotopically impure sample of 242Pu using neutron irradiation to “burn up” the plutonium isotopic contaminants 238,239,240,241Pu is investigated. A starting point of 95% 242Pu is assumed, and different neutron energy spectra, fluxes, and irradiation periods representative of the conditions found at available reactors in North America were assessed with Monte Carlo simulation methods to predict the maximum obtainable enrichment of 242Pu. Calculations indicate that radioisotopic purities of 242Pu in excess of 99.5% are achievable with neutron fluxes at Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s High Flux Isotope Reactor, pointing encouragingly to experimental verification of these estimates.
HpTx2 Interaction With Kv4.3 and Kv4.1 Reveals Differences in Gating Modification

HpTx2 is an ICK gating modifier toxin specific for Kv4 channels. The Kd of HpTx2 for two similar channels, Kv4.3 and Kv4.1, was 2.4 μM and 7.1 μM, respectively. HpTx2 inhibition of Kv4.3 is highly voltage dependent, shifting the current-voltage relationship to more depolarized potentials; consistent with the classic behavior of gating modifier toxins. However, modification of Kv4.1 gating is much less voltage dependent. Site directed mutagenesis of the S3b interaction site of Kv4.3 and Kv4.1 shows that the same two conserved bulky hydrophobic amino acids are required for HpTx2 interaction with each channel. While the interior of the binding site is conserved between Kv4.3 and Kv4.1, three amino acids adjacent to the binding site are not conserved. Swapping these amino acids between Kv4.3 and Kv4.1 swaps the phenotypic response to toxin, while having minimal effect on gating properties of the channels. We modeled the activation gating of Kv4.3 and Kv4.1 and incorporated the effects of HpTx2 into the kinetic parameters of activation. The model is similar for both channels; it has four voltage-dependent transitions between the closed states followed by voltage-independent transition to an open state. Voltage-dependent transitions in Kv4.3 are more strongly affected by toxin. In Kv4.1, the voltage-independent transition from the closed pre-open to open state is most affected by HpTx2. Therefore, a higher proportion of toxin-bound Kv4.1 channels are in the closed pre-open state, compared to toxin-bound Kv4.3 channels. This decreases the voltage dependence of toxin-bound Kv4.1 opening. The model closely recapitulates our experimental data. These data show that amino acids near the HpTx2 binding site play a role in the kinetics of Kv4 channel activation gating.
Evidence against a short-term-store account of long-term recency effects

When subjects perform a distractor task before and after every item on a list, recall of the last item is much higher than recall of items from the middle of the list. Koppenaal and Glanzer (1990) have shown that this long-term recency effect can be eliminated by using, after the last item, a distractor task different from that used elsewhere on the list. They interpreted this finding as evidence in favor of a short-term-store account of long-term recency effects. This account is challenged by the results reported here. Practice either on the task or on time-sharing between the task and list items had little impact on the recency effect. Also, substantial recency effects were found when a different distractor task occurred after every list position. Thus, it is not true that long-term recency effects are found only when subjects have an opportunity to adapt to the distractor task. Our results are not consistent with a short-term-store account of recency effects.
Failure of Brain Norepinephrine Depletion to extinguish the Daily Rhythm in Hepatic Tyrosine Transaminase Activity

Brain norepinephrine effect on daily rhythmic changes in activity of tyrosine transaminase in livers of starved adrenalectomized rats
Evaluation of Heliox in Children Hospitalized With Acute Severe Asthma: A Randomized Crossover Trial

Study objective To determine whether breathing a blend of 70% helium:30% oxygen (heliox) would improve pulmonary function, decrease clinical score, and improve the sensation of dyspnea in children hospitalized with acute severe asthma. Design Prospective, randomized, double-blind, crossover study. Setting The inpatient pediatric service of a military, tertiary care, teaching hospital. Patients Children 5 to 18 years who required hospital admission for treatment of acute asthma. Interventions All patients received 5 mg of nebulized albuterol every 1 to 4 h, with a dose given within 30 min of the start of the study, and IV administered methylprednisolone. Patients breathed heliox and a 30% oxygen-enriched air mixture for 15 min each in random order. Measurements and results Clinical score, dyspnea score, oxygen saturation, heart rate, and respiratory rate, followed by FVC, FEV 1 , peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR), and, mean midexpiratory flow rate (FEF25–75) were obtained at study entry, 15 min after breathing the first gas mixture (heliox or air per randomization), 15 min after breathing the second mixture, and again 15 min after stopping the second gas mixture (study end values). Eleven children were enrolled, and all completed the study. There were no significant differences between study entry and study end spirometric values. Using the paired t test, we found no significant differences between mean values (SD) of FEV 1 and FVC obtained while breathing heliox vs air; FEV 1 -heliox, 53% (18%) of the predicted value; FEV 1 -air, 52% (16%) of the predicted value (p=0.36); FVC-heliox, 69% (22%) of the predicted value; and FVC-air, 70% (21%) of the predicted value (p=0.50). The differences in values for PEFR and FEF25.75 while breathing heliox vs air were small but did reach statistical significance in favor of heliox: PEFR-heliox, 56% (20%) of the predicted value; PEFR-air, 50% (16%) of the predicted value (p=0.04); FEF25–75-heliox, 32% (13%) of the predicted value; and FEF25–75-heliox, 29% (11%) of the predicted value (p=0.006). Heliox had no effect on either clinical or dyspnea scores. Conclusion The short-term inhalation of heliox did not benefit this group of children hospitalized with acute, severe asthma.
Mechanism Design with MP-Neural Networks

The prevalent Mathematical Programming Neural Network (MPNN) models are surveyed, and MPNN models have been developed and applied to the unconstrained optimization of mechanisms. Algorithms which require Hessian inversion and those which build up a variable approach matrix, are investigated. Based upon a comprehensive investigation of the Augmented Lagrange Multiplier (ALM) method, new algorithms have been developed from the combination of ideas from MPNN and ALM methods and applied to the constrained optimization of mechanisms. A relationship between the weighted least square minimization of design equation error residuals and the mini-max norm of the structure error for function generating mechanisms is developed and employed in the optimization process; as a result, the computational difficulties arising from the direct usage of the complex structural error function have been avoided. The paper presents relevant theory as well as some numerical experience for four MPNN algorithms.
Electronic structural dependence of the photophysical properties of fluorescent heteroditopic ligands - implications in designing molecular fluorescent indicators.

Two fluorescent heteroditopic ligands (2a and 2b) for zinc ion were synthesized and studied. The efficiencies of two photophysical processes, intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) and photoinduced electron transfer (PET), determine the magnitudes of emission bathochromic shift and enhancement, respectively, when a heteroditopic ligand forms mono- or dizinc complexes. The electron-rich 2b is characterized by a high degree of ICT in the excited state with little propensity for PET, which is manifested in a large bathochromic shift of emission upon Zn2+ coordination without enhancement in fluorescence quantum yield. The electron-poor 2a displays the opposite photophysical consequence where Zn2+ binding results in greatly enhanced emission without significant spectral shift. The electronic structural effects on the relative efficiencies of ICT and PET in 2a and 2b as well as the impact of Zn2+-coordination are probed using experimental and computational approaches. This study reveals that the delicate balance between various photophysical pathways (e.g. ICT and PET) engineered in a heteroditopic ligand is sensitively dependent on the electronic structure of the ligand, i.e. whether the fluorophore is electron-rich or poor, whether it possesses a donor–acceptor type of structure, and where the metal binding occurs.
Phytoene and β-carotene response of fluridone-susceptible and -resistant hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata) biotypes to fluridone

Abstract Fluridone has been widely used for control of the submersed aquatic weed hydrilla in Florida for over 25 years. Recently, some hydrilla biotypes were suspected of having developed resistance to fluridone. Laboratory studies were conducted to monitor changes in phytoene and β-carotene contents as a function of suspected susceptible and resistant hydrilla biotypes to fluridone treatment. Hydrilla shoot tips from each biotype were exposed to 5, 10, 15, 20, 30, and 50 μg L−1 fluridone. Higher β-carotene and lower phytoene content was observed in all resistant hydrilla biotypes compared with the susceptible. The susceptible biotype showed an increase in phytoene or a decrease in β-carotene content when treated with as little as 5 μg L−1 of fluridone, whereas much higher doses were needed for the resistant biotypes. EC50 β-carotene values of 9 and 63 μg L−1 fluridone were found in the susceptible and the most resistant biotype, respectively. Consistent levels of hydrilla injury occurred at phytoene/β c...
Developing computational design creativity systems

The underlying hypothesis of this paper is that the rigor needed to build computational design creativity systems will produce insights that will increase our understanding of creativity. The paper points to a variety of factors that will need to be studied and understood in detail in order to build such systems. It examines selected technical literature about creativity to determine what key characteristics have been proposed as underlying creative production. In addition, as the existence of creativity is a judgment relative to personal or group norms, it is helpful to understand what factors inform that judgment. Besemer's creative product semantic scale for product assessment provides three dimensions, with nine attributes that can be used for judgments. This paper discusses how creative product assessment scales might provide important clues about how to build computational systems in order to produce creative products.
On the hard core equation of state for nematics

Abstract An equation of state is proposed for a system of rods interacting only through hard core repulsions. A quantitative comparison is made with recently proposed equations of state based upon the scaled-particle and Percus-Yevick theory.
The Educational Use of Social Annotation Tools in Higher Education: A Literature Review.

Abstract This paper presents a literature review of empirical research related to the use and effect of online social annotation (SA) tools in higher education settings. SA technology is an emerging educational technology that has not yet been extensively used and examined in education. As such, the research focusing on this technology is still very limited. The literature review has aimed at presenting a comprehensive list of SA empirical studies not limited to a particular research method or study domain. Out of more than 90 articles that were initially found, only 16 studies met the inclusion criteria. Among the included studies were eight experimental or quasi-experimental studies and eight evaluation/survey studies. The SA empirical research has provided some evidence regarding the potential effectiveness of integrating social annotation tools into learning activities. Findings from the gathered literature were synthesized to provide recommendations for using SA technology in educational settings.
Liquid crystal display (LCD) drive electronics

A new drive circuit for the liquid crystal display (LCD) of the InFocus TVT-6000 video projector is currently under development at the U.S. Army Missile Command. The new circuit will allow individual pixel control of the LCD and increase the frame rate by a factor of two while yielding a major reduction in space and power requirements. This paper will discuss results of the effort to date.© (1995) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Biochemical and Structural Characterization of a Novel Class of Inhibitors of the Type 1 Insulin-like Growth Factor and Insulin Receptor Kinases

The type 1 insulin-like growth factor receptor (IGF-1R) is often overexpressed on tumor cells and is believed to play an important role in anchorage-independent proliferation. Additionally, cell culture studies have indicated that IGF-1R confers increased resistance to apoptosis caused by radiation or chemotherapeutic agents. Thus, inhibitors of the intracellular kinase domain of this receptor may have utility for the clinical treatment of cancer. As part of an effort to develop clinically useful inhibitors of IGF-1R kinase, a novel class of pyrrole-5-carboxaldehyde compounds was investigated. The compounds exhibited selectivity against the closely related insulin receptor kinase intrinsically and in cell-based assays. The inhibitors formed a reversible, covalent adduct at the kinase active site, and treatment of such adducts with sodium borohydride irreversibly inactivated the enzyme. Analysis of a tryptic digest of a covalently modified IGF-1R kinase fragment revealed that the active site Lys1003 had been reductively alkylated with the aldehyde inhibitor. Reductive alkylation of the insulin receptor kinase with one of these inhibitors led to a similarly inactivated enzyme which was examined by X-ray crystallography. The crystal structure confirmed the modification of the active site lysine side chain and revealed details of the key interactions between the inhibitor and enzyme.
Simulating the Independent Effects of Muscle Fiber Type Composition on Vertical Jumping Performance

The fiber type composition of human limb muscles is believed to influence explosive movement ability. Indirect evidence is found in data from power athletes, who tend to have a greater percentage of fast twitch (FT) muscle fibers, and a lower percentage of slow twitch (ST) fibers, than endurance athletes [e.g., 1]. The apparent advantage of having a high proportion of FT fibers in explosive activities is reinforced by the existence of significant positive correlations between the percentage of FT fibers and jump height [e.g., 2].Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Oxygen isotope exchange in the leached layer of labradorite feldspar

Abstract Labradorite crystals were reacted with a 0.01 N HC1—H 2 16 O solution to produce an ≈ 1000 Angstrom-thick leached layer on the mineral surface. These crystals were then placed in a similar acid solution (0.01 N HC1) containing H 2 18 O for varying periods of time. After this reaction we observe that 18 O infiltrates the leached layer to depths of ≈ 1000 Angstroms in ≈3 days, and cannot be removed by heating of the mineral to 120°C, or by subjecting the sample to vacuum for several hours. This evidence suggests that most of the exchange was at silanol and siloxane groups in the leached layer, and not as loosely sorbed molecular water.
CONTAINMENT VESSEL TEMPERATURE FOR PU-238 HEAT SOURCE CONTAINER UNDER AMBIENT, FREE CONVECTION AND LOW EMISSIVITY COOLING CONDITIONS

The EP-61 primary containment vessel of the 5320 shipping package has been used for storage and transportation of Pu-238 plutonium oxide heat source material. For storage, the material in its convenience canister called EP-60 is placed in the EP-61 and sealed by two threaded caps with elastomer O-ring seals. When the package is shipped, the outer cap is seal welded to the body. While stored, the EP-61s are placed in a cooling water bath. In preparation for welding, several containers are removed from storage and staged to the welding booth. The significant heat generation of the contents, and resulting rapid rise in component temperature necessitates special handling practices. The test described here was performed to determine the temperature rise with time and peak temperature attained for an EP-61 with 203 watts of internal heat generation, upon its removal from the cooling water bath.
Pharmacologic Manipulation of ob Expression in a Dietary Model of Obesity

Mutation of the obese (ob) gene results in severe hereditary obesity and diabetes in the C57BL/6J and related strains of mice. In this study we examined the expression of the ob gene in a dietary model in which moderate obesity develops in response to fat (58% of calories from fat) without mutation of the ob gene, and in four genetic models of obesity in mice: ob/ob, db/db, tubby, and fat. Several white and brown adipose depots were examined (epididymal, subcutaneous, perirenal, and interscapular). Northern blot analysis shows that levels of ob mRNA are increased in all adipose depots examined in every model of obesity. The average fold increases were 12.0 +/ 2.1 (ob/ob), 4.8 +/- 1.5 (db/db), 2.8 +/- 0.1 (tubby), 2.4 +/- 0.3 (fat), and 2.1 +/- 0.2 (high fat diet-induced A/J). Moreover, we found that the expression of the ob gene could be manipulated by pharmacologically blocking the development of diet-induced obesity. Supplementation of a high fat diet with a beta 3-adrenergic receptor agonist (CL316,243) prevented obesity, but not hyperphagia associated with high fat feeding (body weights of high fat-fed A/J mice = 34.0 +/- 1.0 g; high fat plus CL316,243-fed mice = 26.8 +/- 0.5 g; n = 10). CL316,243-treated, high fat-fed animals contained levels of ob mRNA in all adipose depots that were equal to or less than levels in low fat-fed mice (average levels in high fat plus CL316,243-fed mice relative to low fat-fed mice: 0.93 +/- 0.09). Inasmuch as fat cell size, but not number, was increased in a previous study in diet-induced obese A/J mice, these results indicate that expression of the ob gene serves as a sensor of fat cell hypertrophy, independent of any effects on food intake.
Collector–frother interaction in column flotation of Florida phosphate

Abstract This study examines main and interaction effects of frother type, collector and pH on the efficiency of column flotation of Florida phosphate. Two types of frothers are used including sodium alkyl ether sulfate, as an anionic frother, and mixed polyglycols as a nonionic frother. A mixture of fatty acid and fuel oil is used as a collector. The results show that column flotation, depending on the operating conditions, can give phosphate concentrates of high grade (∼31% P 2 O 5 ) at a recovery as high as (∼99%). However, interaction between frothers and the collector and consequently the flotation efficiency were found to be dependent on frother type. Specifically, anionic frother was found to lose its ability to stabilize the froth in the presence of low dosages of collector. An anionic frother used in the presence of conditioning water containing residual collector (i.e., supernatant water after conditioning solids with collector) resulted in a significant reduction in recovery. This phenomenon does not occur with the polyglycol (nonionic) frother. Flotation results of the three-phase system have been confirmed by results obtained in two-phase experiments where a low dosage of collector is added while measuring air hold-up in the presence of different frothers. The residual collector reduces air hold-up and increases bubble size when added with the alkyl ether sulfate (anionic) frother. On the other hand, a synergistic effect was obtained in the presence of the nonionic frother.
Enhancement of Adsorption Inside Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes: Li Doping Effect on n-Heptane van der Waals Bonding

Doping of opened single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) with metallic Li has been carried out under ultrahigh vacuum. Li atoms enter into the interior sites of the SWNTs by surface migration with an activation energy of 0.3 ± 0.04 eV. Density functional theory calculations indicate that the Li atoms ionize inside the SWNTs to produce Li+ ions. The Li-doped SWNTs exhibit an ∼10% enhancement of the van der Waals bonding for n-heptane molecules, a model for volatile organic compounds, within the interior due to polarization of the alkane molecules in the strong electrostatic field around the Li+ ions. The investigations reveal the utility of temperature-programmed desorption from SWNTs for understanding the energetics of confined molecule adsorption in pristine and doped SWNTs. Statistical mechanical simulations using a polarizable potential for alkanes give increases in isosteric heats of adsorption at high alkane loading that are in excellent agreement with experiments. Our simulations predict that the bin...
An Ounce of Prevention

In this issue, Wald and coworkers have further expanded the menu of proven measures for prevention of herpesvirus transmission, demonstrating that condoms protected men from genital herpes in a dos...
Threats to new product manufacturability and the effects of development team integration processes

Abstract The thesis of this article is that new product manufacturability (NPM) is influenced by certain challenges inherent in new product development (NPD), and by efforts to integrate manufacturing and other functional concerns into the product design process. This research tests the direct and interacting effects of these influences via a survey of 91 completed NPD projects representing a variety of manufacturing industries. While most hypotheses were supported, the analysis also provides some surprising findings. Project complexity and increased levels of design outsourcing are associated with poorer NPM. Product newness and project acceleration are associated with better NPM. All the measured aspects of development team integration are associated with better NPM, including intense manufacturing involvement, a collaborative work environment, supplier influence on the product design, and strong management support in the project. Furthermore, certain integration variables exert moderating effects on relationships between technological uncertainty, product newness, design outsourcing, project acceleration and NPM. By exposing these relationships this research extends the theory of product development influences on manufacturability beyond a focus on engineering-oriented approaches (e.g., design-for-manufacture). The results suggest that larger managerial issues must be addressed and that more contingency-oriented research is needed to explore the benefits and limitations of development team integration processes.
Detection of Oligonucleotides by External Injection into an Ion Trap Storage/Reflectron Time-of-flight Device

The detection of oligonucleotides has been studied using external injection of Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) produced ions into a quadrupole ion trap storage device. The ions stored in the trap are then detected by pulsed DC ejection into a reflectron time-of-flight mass spectrometer. It is shown that by using a low acceleration voltage from the probe tip and external injection into the trap that 3-mers to 9-mers can be stored for 20‐50 ms and detected as intact ions. In comparison, direct MALDI inside the trap resulted in extensive fragmentation as a function of storage time. Using the external injection method with a He buffer gas in the trap yields a resolution of 250‐400 in the ion trap storage/reflectron time-of-flight mass spectrometer. The resolution can be further enhanced to 400‐800 using a bipolar extraction method. In addition, the trapping efficiency for the injection of externally produced ions into the trap can be enhanced using a dynamic trapping method. The MALDI mass spectra produced by this methodology result in excellent signal-to-noise ratio due to the capabilities of the trap for eliminating low mass matrix background from the spectra. © 1997 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
MINERALOGY AND CHEMISTRY OF THE ASHMORE CHONDRITE

The Ashmore olivine-bronzite chondrite is a group H, type 5 stone which differs from other H5 chondrites mainly in its higher proportion of chromite (0.9 wt %) and in the relatively lower iron and higher magnesium content of the chromite. The modal proportions of opaque phases were obtained by point-counting in reflected light, and the modal proportions of nonopaque silicate phases in the matrix were estimated from traverses of a selected small area by electron microprobe. The consistency between the bulk chemical analysis and the chemical composition calculated from the modal mineral proportions implies that the bulk silicate composition of the chondrules is very similar to that of the silicate matrix and suggests a common source for both chondrules and matrix.
Water permeability of isolated tissues from decapod crustaceans—1. Effect of osmotic conditions

Abstract 1. 1. The diffusional permeability to water of the gill and gut tissues of three decapods, Cancer irroratus, Callinectes sapidus , and Libinia emarginata was measured using THO (tritiated water). 2. 2. C. irroratus and C. sapidus were acclimated to 100% and 40% seawater. L. emarginata were maintained in 100% seawater. 3. 3. Gill and gut tissues of C. irroratus and C. sapidus acclimated to 40% seawater have per cent saturation values which are significantly lower than those of animals of the same species acclimated to 100% seawater. Thus C. irroratus and C. sapidus can reduce the water permeability of their tissues on acclimation to lower salinities. 4. 4. Within each acclimation group, there are no significant differences in THO influxes between the tissues exposed to water at the acclimation salinity and the tissues acutely stressed with water at 10% of the acclimation salinity. 5. 5. There are no interspecific differences with respect to the water permeability of the gills of the three species at either salinity.
Calorimetric Determination of the Heat of Ionization of Water at 10° and 40°C*

Abstract The heat of neutralization, ΔH n , of perchloric acid with sodium hydroxide has been determined at 10° and 40° in a low ionic strength (µ) region using a nonisothermal, constant-temperature-environment solution calorimeter. Correction of the data to infinite dilution by extrapolation of a plot of ΔH n , vs. µ 0.5 gives values at zero ionic strength, for the heat of ionization of water, of 14.216 and 12.695 kcal/mole, at 10° and 40°, respectively. The data are correlated with those of earlier workers to give an equation allowing the calculation of the heat of ionization of water at zero ionic strength over the temperature range 0-55°.
Exploring the Potential for Moral Hazard When Clinical Trial Research is Conducted in Rural Communities: Do Traditional Ethics Concepts Apply?

Over the past 20 years, clinical research has migrated from academic medical centers to community-based settings, including rural settings. This evolving research environment may present some moral hazards or challenges that could undermine traditionally accepted standards for the protection of human subjects. The study described in this article was designed to explore the influence of motives driving the decisions to conduct clinical trial research in rural community settings. The researchers conducted semi-structured interviews with 80 participants who conducted clinical trials with rural subjects. The interviews provided a way to examine the influence of budgetary factors when deciding to conduct a clinical study, how information about the budget and the purpose of the study is conveyed to research participants, and the potential willingness of clinicians and coordinators to enroll in the kinds of studies they offer. The findings suggest that clinical trial research in rural communities may challenge clinicians’ abilities to balance the needs of the patient with the needs of the research enterprise. Few respondents seemed to recognize the traditionally recognized hazards of a dual relationship, specifically the moral risks of trying to attend to the interests of both patient and industry. It seems important to re-examine how we protect human subjects and what such protection should look like as research becomes part of the way medical care is provided, even in very rural areas.
Strong and weak immune responses across the same major histocompatibility barrier in rats

Inbred rat strains, Fischer 344 (F-344) and Lewis (LEW), share the serologicalAg-Bl allele and react very weakly in mixed lymphocyte culture (MLC). Despite this apparent identity atAg-B, these strains differ markedly in their immune responses to anAg-B disparate third strain Marshall 520 (M-520) (Ag-B6). F-344 recipients allowed M-520 heart grafts an extended survival, whereas LEW recipients rejected them rapidly. F-344 and M-520 showed a weak response in MLC in contrast to a strong response for LEW and M-520. F-344 produced antisera in response to injection of M-520 cells that had a relatively high antibody titer but low cytotoxic activity. F-344 responded to another strain, Buffalo (BUF) (alsoAg-B6), in a similar fashion. F-344 apparently can produce a strong allogeneic response, as it was able to rapidly reject heart grafts from (LEW x Brown-Norway) F1 donors (LBN) (Ag-B 1/3). The low response of F-344 to M-520 probably was not due to shared antigens between the two strains because M-520 heart grafts underwent rapid rejection in LEW hosts highly tolerant to F-344. To explain the contrasting response of F-344 and LEW to theAg-B6 disparity, we propose that it is controlled by an immune-response gene(s); that F-344 has a low-responding allele and LEW has a high-responding allele. The data do not reveal a location for this proposed gene. The high-responding allele appears to be dominant, as M-520 hearts were rejected rapidly by (F-344 x LEW) F1 recipients.
A review of methods of measuring system parameters in time-variant space communication channels

The objective and methods of measurement on linear, timevariant communication channels are discussed with a view of assessing their applicability for the diagnostics of certain unconventional channels of interest to space communication. These may include channels formed during the early, powered phase of the space vehicle flight and during its re-entry into the Earth's atmosphere. No attempt is made here to elucidate the physical phenomena which are responsible for the formation and properties of such channels and the problem of their measurement is approached from the input-output point of view. It is assumed that the channels in question have been rendered semi-transparent through a suitable choice of carrier frequencies, but that the transmitted waveforms are impressed with identifiable channel characteristics, such as the multipath and Doppler spread. It is concluded that due to the uniqueness and complexity of such channels only the most rudimentary measuring methods, leading to the estimates of gross channel parameters, can be contemplated at this time. The need for further research is indicated.
On permutational products of groups

We here study permutational products of groups, a study which was initiated by B. H. Neumann [8], [9].
Strain differences in subcellular calcium distribution in striated muscle of the mouse.

SummaryThe distribution of 45Ca to the subcellular components of the heart and skeletal muscle of five strains of mice varies to a remarkable degree in the first hour after intravenous injection. Tissues from CBA and C57 bound less isotope than SJL, CF-1 or DBA. Most of the bound 45Ca was found in the heaviest fraction of heart homogenates while distribution was more uniform in the centrifugal fractions of skeletal muscle. The mitochondria in hearts of DBA mice which showed visible areas of calcification bound much less 45Ca than the same fraction of normal DBA mice. Skeletal muscle from these mice also differed from that of normal mice of the same strain in the extent of isotope binding.
Contact sensitizing potential of annatto extract and its two primary color components, cis-bixin and norbixin, in female BALB/c mice

Abstract The present studies were performed to examine the contact allergenic effects of an annatto extract (ANT) in female BALB/c mice. ANT at 5–10% induced a greater than threefold increase in lymph node cell proliferation when compared to the control in the LLNA. Moreover, a significant increase in the percent ear swelling at 24 h after ANT challenge was observed in the MEST. A significant increase in the percentage of B cells was also observed. To determine which of the two predominant coloring components (norbixin and bixin) in ANT was responsible for the sensitizing effects of ANT, norbixin was subsequently examined, with negative results being observed in both the LLNA and MEST following treatment with norbixin (1–20%). These findings suggested that perhaps bixin was responsible for the positive responses in both the LLNA and MEST following exposure to ANT. Therefore, further studies using a partially purified cis -bixin extract were conducted. Positive responses in both the LLNA and MEST were observed in mice treated with cis -bixin at the concentrations as low as 0.1–0.5%. These results have demonstrated that cis -bixin, but not norbixin, is likely a contact sensitizer and contributes to the contact hypersensitivity effects observed following dermal exposure to ANT in mice.
Functional aging of the nigro-striatal system

Abstract A number of movement disorders in the elderly are suggestive of age-associated extrapyramidal dysfunction. In addition, the onsets of two major movement disorders of better-known extrapyramidal pathophysiological locus, Huntington's chorea and Parkinson's disease, are highly age related. While slight to moderate declines in a number of presynaptic dopaminergic markers in the striatum have generally supported the view of declining dopaminergic function in the aged, a clear picture of the relationship between these biochemical parameters and function of this important extrapyramidal pathway has yet to emerge. Recent results from a number of laboratories representing combined behavioral, electrophysiological, and biochemical approaches have allowed a more analytical approach to the problem. First, age-related changes in this pathway appear to be coordinated between the pre- and post-synaptic components of the system. Dopamine receptor binding and dopamine-activated adenyl cyclase decrease at an earlier age and to a greater extent than do the presynaptic markers of the dopamine neurons themselves. Second, functional disorder of the nigro-striatal system may be more regulatory in nature than simple neuronal loss would suggest. Aging C57BL/6J mice, for example, did not show behavioral or biochemical supersensitivity following a chronic haloperidol regime which resulted in both phenomena in young- and middle-aged mice. Regulatory decreases in receptor number and response to dopamine agonists appear to be intact in the aging mouse. Lastly, the increased vulnerability of the elderly to seemingly incompatible motoric side-effects to the neuroleptic drugs indirectly suggest alterations in the control system parameters of the nigro-striatal pathway. Electrophysiological approaches are now opening this avenue of investigation.
Glucose, not Glutamine is the Dominant Energy Source Required for Proliferation and Survival of Head and Neck Squamous Carcinoma Cells

Background Tumor metabolism is an essential contributor to disease progression and response to treatment. An understanding of the metabolic phenotype of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) will allow the development of appropriate antimetabolic strategies for this tumor type. Methods A panel of 15 HNSCC cell lines was assayed for glucose and glutamine dependence and sensitivity to metabolic inhibitors. In addition, broad-spectrum metabolomic analysis using mass spectrometry/liquid chromatography was combined with individual measurements of reducing potential, adenosine triphosphate, and lactate production to characterize cellular metabolic phenotypes. Results HNSCC energy and reducing potential levels closely mirrored extracellular glucose concentrations. Glucose starvation induced cell death despite the activation of secondary energetic pathways. Conversely, glutamine was not required for HNSCC survival and did not serve as a significant source of energy. 2-deoxyglucose (2-DG) and its fluorinated derivative decreased glycolytic and Krebs cycle activity, cellular energy, and reducing potential and inhibited HNSCC cell proliferation. 2-DG effects were potentiated by the addition of metformin, but not by inhibitors of the pentose phosphate pathway or glutaminolysis. Despite dependence on glucose catabolism, the authors identified a subset of cell lines with relative resistance to starvation. Exploration of 1 such cell line (HN30) suggested that the presence of wild-type p53 can partially protect tumor cells from glucose starvation. Conclusions HNSCC tumor cells are dependent on glucose, not glutamine, for energy production and survival, providing a rationale for treatment strategies that target glucose catabolism. However, antimetabolic strategies may need to be tailored to the tumor background, more specifically, p53 status.
A Community Expands Access To Health Care: The Case Of Access Health In Michigan

Access Health, a Michigan-based “three-share plan,” is viewed as a successful community-based approach to expanding health benefits in the workplace. It was the stimulus for recently proposed legis...
A semi-infinite periodic rectangular barrier model to study surface states

Abstract A semi-infinite one-dimensional model has been used to derive the surface state energy equation for periodic rectangular barriers. The dependence of the surface state energy and penetration distance on the periodic barrier width, location of the surface cell and height of the surface barrier are considered.
An Introduction to Sexuality Education for Orthodox Jewish Female High School Students

Abstract Issues regarding sexuality are often little discussed in highschools serving students from religiously conservative backgrounds. Frequently, parents and school administrators are uncomfortable with, and reluctant to discuss the topic, and as a result students have inadequate opportunities to engage in discussions about sex and relationships. This lesson is designed to introduce a unit on sexuality for such a female audience, specifically Orthodox Jews, in an empowering environment that solicits their input and encourages future discussion.
G Protein Signaling in the Regulation of Rice Seed Germination

Seed germination and early seedling growth are regulated by an intricate network of hormonal signaling pathways. The plant hormones gibberellic acid (GA) and abscisic acid (ABA) are particularly important positive and negative regulators of these processes, respectively. In the cereal rice, mutant analysis has implicated heterotrimeric guanine nucleotide–binding protein (G protein) signaling in GA-stimulated expression of several genes, including expression of the gene encoding the hydrolytic enzyme α-amylase, which breaks down carbohydrate reserves and thus mobilizes nutrients that nourish the young seedling.
Ingredient Effects on the Thermal Inactivation of Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus in Formulated, Comminuted Meat Products

The stability of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) virus after thermal processing of formulated comminuted beef products, such as, Salisbury steak, beef loaf and cured beef prepared from FMD-infected cattle, was examined. Virus survival after product processing in flexible plastic tubes varied with the ingredient present in the product formulation. The virus was completely inactivated in those products containing inorganic salts (sodium chloride, tripolyphosphate or nitrite), farinaceous material or spices after thermal processing to a core temperature of 79.4°C. In those formulated products that contained either FMDV virus-positive milk or heart tissue from infected cattle, the virus survived the above processing conditions. However, the virus was inactivated in these same products after processing to a core temperature of 93°C.
New dual-frequency microwave technique for retrieving liquid water path over land

[1] We present and demonstrate a new methodology for retrieving liquid water path over land using satellite-based microwave observations. As input, the technique exploits Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer for EOS (AMSR-E) brightness temperature polarization-difference signals at 37 and 89 GHz. Regression analysis performed on model simulations indicates that over variable atmospheric and surface conditions these polarization-difference signals can be simply parameterized in terms of the surface emissivity polarization-difference (Δe), surface temperature, liquid water path (LWP), and precipitable water vapor (PWV). By exploiting the weak frequency dependence of Δe, a simple expression is obtained which enables fast and direct (noniterative) retrievals of LWP. The new methodology is demonstrated and validated using several months of AMSR-E observations over (1) the Southern Great Plains (SGP) of the United States and (2) an area near Montreal, Canada, instrumented during the Alliance Icing Research Study II (AIRS II) field campaign. Comparisons are also made with MODIS LWP retrieval results for one scene over the SGP region. Retrieval results in clear-sky conditions indicate an uncertainty on the order of 0.06 mm, in agreement with theoretical estimates. In cloudy conditions, results using the new method are systematically smaller than results for both ground-based microwave radiometers and MODIS but are well correlated.