cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and characterization of highly triboluminescent doped europium tetrakis compounds

Abstract One of the most intriguing properties involving crystals is their ability to emit light when fractured. While this property was discovered over 200 years ago, no one has ever been able to come up with a complete theory that can predict the physical principles associated with triboluminescence. However, this has not stopped scientists from coming up with various uses for these materials. One such application is to use these materials as the active element for smart impact sensors that can warn of catastrophic impacts. If these sensors are to become a reality however, the material must emit a bright light when fractured. One of the brightest triboluminescent materials found thus far is europium dibenzoylmethide triethylammonium (EuD4TEA). This material was discovered by Hurt in 1966 and is bright enough to be seen in daylight. In 2011, the authors discovered that synthesizing EuD4TEA using europium nitrate instead of chloride significantly increased the triboluminescence yield and made the synthesis much easier and more consistent. However, to date, there are few investigations into the effects of dopants on the triboluminescence of EuD4TEA. This paper reports the investigation of the effects of various dopants on: (1) The triboluminescent light yield, (2) Crystal size and structure, (3) Synthesis time, and (4) Prompt decay time. Results show that inclusion of dopants during synthesis increases the triboluminescence emission of EuD4TEA by 55%, significantly reduces the synthesis time, and controls the decay time. All of these properties can be useful for constructing the first prototype of a customized impact sensor.
Correlation of microsporangial and megasporangial differentiation along racemes of Phytolacca americana L. (Phytolaccaceae)

Abstract Both quantitative and qualitative data were obtained for anthers and ovules throughout the lengths of floweringPhytolacca americana(pokeweed) inflorescences. Comparative data were collected for micro- and megasporangia at seven different locations along the lengths of 20 cm racemes. Each location represented a different developmental stage, from sporangial initiation through full differentiation, along the indeterminate racemes. Reproductive biology of pokeweed anthers, as recognized by inflorescence analysis, was most promoted in development between 4 cm (stage 1) and 5 cm (stage 2) from the terminus of inflorescences. Sporogenous cells first differentiated and stamen cell number quadrupled in stage two. Mitotic divisions, within anther subsurface cells, continued throughout all seven inflorescence stages, while divisions slowed between 6·2 cm (stage 4) and 7 cm (stage 5) from the terminus in anther surface cells. To regulate ovule development maximally, by the treatment of inflorescences, one should manipulate older, more basal flowers (and thus older developmental stages) in excess of 11·6 cm (stage 6) from the terminus. Megasporocytes were initiated and a 3-fold increase in ovule cell number occurred during stage 6. Similar to anthers, mitosis continued throughout the length of racemes in nucellar cells. Ovule surface cells, however, became mitotically quiescent 11·6 cm (stage 6) from the terminus of racemes.
Oil Layer as Source of Hydrocarbon Emissions in SI Engines

The role of lubrication oil film on the cylinder liner as a source of hydrocarbon emissions in spark-ignition engines is assessed. First, the source strength is examined via an analytical model of the gasoline vapor absorption/desorption process. The solution shows that depending on engine operating conditions, there are three regimes. The process could be (1) limited by the gas side diffusion process, (2) limited by the liquid phase diffusion process, with the absorbed fuel fully penetrating the oil layer thickness (thin oil film regime), and (3) again limited by the liquid phase diffusion process, but with the absorbed fuel penetration depth small compared to the oil layer thickness (thick oil film regime). In regime (1), the source strength (the integrated absorption or desorption flux over one cycle) is proportional to the inverse of the square root of the rpm, but independent of oil layer parameters. In regimes (2), the strength is proportional to the oil film thickness divided by the Henry`s constant. In regime (3), the strength is independent of the oil film thickness, but is proportional to the fuel penetration depth divided by the Henry`s constant. Then, the oxidation of the desorbed fuel (using iso-octane as fuel) is examinedmore » with a one-dimensional reaction/diffusion model. The novel feature of the model is that the desorbed fuel is being exposed to the piston crevice hydrocarbon, which is laid along the liner as the piston descends. At stoichiometric conditions, the oxidation of the crevice HC is reduced by the presence of the desorbed HC from the oil layer.« less
Field-effect measurements of mobility and carrier concentration of Cu2S colloidal quantum dot thin films after ligand exchange

Abstract Colloidal quantum dots (CQDs) of copper sulfide (Cu2S), an earth-abundant semiconductor, have a number of intriguing applications that require knowledge of their electrical properties. Depending on stoichiometry, mobility, and surface treatment, applications include photoabsorbers for solar cells, tunable plasmonics, and counter-electrodes for polysulfate electrolytes. However, there have not been any direct measurements of electrical properties in Cu2S CQD thin films. Here, we exchange as synthesized dodecanethiol ligands with short ethanedithiol or ethylenediamine ligands to form thin films of coupled Cu2S CQDs. The mobility and carrier concentration were found to vary by ligand treatment from 10− 5 cm2/Vs and 1019 holes/cm3 for ethanedithiol ligands to 10− 3 cm2/Vs and 1020 holes/cm3 for ethylenediamine. These results are consistent with the carrier concentrations inferred from sub-bandgap surface-plasmon-resonances measured by infrared spectroscopy. These results will be useful when designing Cu2S materials for future applications.
A new model of bi-directional ammonia exchange between the atmosphere and biosphere: Ammonia stomatal compensation point

Abstract A new multi-layer canopy resistance model of bi-directional NH3 exchange is presented. This new model, which is based on the Multi-Layer BioChemical deposition (MLBC) model [Wu, Y., Brashers, B., Finkelstein, P.L., Pleim, J.E., 2003a. A multiplayer biochemical dry deposition model. I. Model formulation. J. Geophys. Res. 108, D1; Wu, Y., Brashers, B., Finkelstein, P.L., Pleim, J.E., 2003b. A multiplayer biochemical dry deposition model. II. Model evaluation. J. Geophys. Res. 108, D1], incorporates a parameterization for the ammonia stomatal compensation point that is theoretically derived to consider the effects of leaf temperature and apoplastic concentrations of NH4+ and H+. The new ammonia stomatal compensation point scheme accounts for the effects of deposition, emission and leaf temperature on the dynamics of apoplast [NH4+] and [H+]. The new model is evaluated against bidirectional NH3 fluxes measured over fertilized soybean. The general patterns of observed deposition and emission are successfully reproduced when the ammonia stomatal compensation point is included. Driven by the effects of deposition, emission and leaf temperature, modeled apoplastic [NH4+] and [H+] display significant diurnal variation when the buffer effect of the underlying metabolic processes generating or consuming NH4+ were ignored. Model predictive capability is improved slightly by incorporating the feedback into a dynamic stomatal compensation point. A simple implementation of the feedback mechanism in the current model provides opportunities for improvement. While the stomatal flux is shown to be an important process in the regulation of canopy-scale fluxes, it appears that exchange with leaf surface water and soil may also be important.
Lattice model of microemulsions

Etude en trois dimensions d'un modele simple d'huile, eau, et amphiphiles dans lequel l'amphiphile est energetiquement favorise pour prendre place entre les deux autres. Il existe des phases riches en huiles ou en eau, de fluide desordonne, et lamellaires. Des diagrammes de phase presentent la progression de deux a trois phases, et a la coexistence de deux phases
Predicate transformers and higher-order programs

Example higher-order programs are presented in the style of Hoare logic and refinement calculus, as motivation for a study of weak (lax) coexponents in categories of predicate transformers. The preordered category of monotonic predicate transformers between powersets is shown to have weak components that give an operationally sound predicate transformer semantics to higher-order programs and designs. The semantics is for stored programs, orthogonal to (but compatible with) procedures and parameter passing. The weak coexponent is not unique, and may be chosen to represent all designs in refinement calculus, or to represent only feasible programs, or only total deterministic programs. For the latter alternative there is a complete axiomatization in terms of program level laws of refinement, for positively conjunctive predicate transformers. A different alternative makes all program specifications representable. The results exemplify both the benefits and the limitations of categorial axiomatizations of program constructs.
Wraparound S-band and GPS antenna arrays for sounding rocket sub-payload

The objective of this study is to determine a reliable and relatively simple antenna solution for a sounding rocket sub-payload. The sub-payload is a cylinder with a diameter of 6 inches and a height of 4 inches. The communication system requires S band and GPS antennas. In order to enable the payload to spin stably after launching, it is desirable to have both antennas conformal to the payload surface. Both antennas are required to provide a smooth omni-directional pattern, and therefore creating challenges as one needs multiple antennas to achieve the requirement on the limited payload surface area. Another challenge is to create a reliable circular polarized antenna that will be used as GPS antenna on the cylindrical surface.
Optimal Stochastic Tracking for Primary Frequency Control in an Interactive Smart Grid Infrastructure

An optimal stochastic tracking scheme is proposed for an interactive smart grid infrastructure made of three steps: 1) The utility reshapes the customer load profiles by scheduling a demand response for the requested customer loads; 2) individual smart home makes optimal sequential decisions on power purchase; and 3) optimal stochastic control schemes for the active power balance (primary frequency control) are designed, in the presence of uncertainties arising from customer loads and distributed renewable generations. With the first two parts addressed in our previous work, in this paper, we focus on the primary frequency control scheme design in the multilayer control architecture to stabilize frequency and maintain the active power balance within the distributed areas. We propose two stochastic tracking schemes based on the state-space representation of a synchronous generator: 1) reference-dynamics-based tracking and 2) reference-statistics-based tracking. We further extend the proposed optimal controllers by considering the realistic scenario of asynchronous load signals from different customers. To compensate for different delays seen by different customer signals, a Kalman-filter-based prediction scheme is proposed to estimate the correct reference signal. We show that the centralized reference prediction can equivalently be implemented distributively. Simulation results are presented, showing the performances of the proposed prediction and tracking schemes.
The physics and physiology of lung surfactants

Langmuir monolayers have provided experimentally accessible models for studies of lung surfactants at the air-alveolus interface since the medical necessity of lung surfactant was demonstrated by the pioneering work of Avery and Clements in the early 1960s. The fundamental goal of these in vitro studies is a molecular level understanding of the relationships between lung surfactant composition, monolayer morphology, and monolayer physical parameters such as minimum surface tension, spreading, viscosity, etc.
Hypnotizability in relation to the ability to learn thermal biofeedback.

Abstract We investigated previous findings that hypnotizability was unrelated to the ability to learn to control skin temperature. Twenty-six subjects were given the Hypnotic Induction Profile (HIP) and Stanford Hypnotic Susceptibility Scale (SHSS:C), Form C. Hypnotizability scores were then correlated with temperature changes recorded during two different periods in three different thermal biofeedback sessions. The two different periods consisted of a no-feedback recording period and a feedback recording period following a habituation period. HIP and SHSS:C scores were significantly correlated, r (24)= .60, p < .001. However, none of the scores on either hypnotizability measure correlated significantly with any changes in temperature during any period of any thermal biofeedback session. Clinical implications of these findings are discussed.
Matching final focus to distributed radiator target requirements with skew quadrupoles

Abstract We demonstrate that ion-beam elliptical focal spots can be rotated with skew quadrupoles, by arbitrary angles, to map appropriately onto annular rings at either end of distributed-radiator heavy-ion fusion targets. The rotation is accompanied by an increase in the area, a variation in the ellipticity, and a shift in the axial location of the beam focal spot, all of which are small enough that they may be acceptable. Possible further optimizations are discussed.
Emission from oxygen atoms produced by electron-impact dissociative excitation of oxygen molecules.

Absolute optical-emission cross sections have been measured for transitions in the wavelength range 3690--11 300 A\r{} originating from 32 terms of excited oxygen atoms produced by electron impact on oxygen molecules with incident electron energy up to 500 eV. The excitation functions show a broad peak at about 90 eV with a shoulderlike structure of varying degree near 35 eV. The observed threshold energy is very close to the energy defect of the dissociation process. Near the threshold, dissociative excitation through partly bound Rydberg states of the oxygen molecule is believed to be a major mechanism for producing the observed atomic-oxygen emission, whereas simultaneous ionization and excitation followed by dissociation become important at energies above 50 eV. Combination of the measured cross sections with theoretical transition probabilities allows us to determine the absolute optical-emission cross sections for a series of atomic-oxygen transitions in the long-wavelength infrared region of the spectrum.
Interaction between a stream which passes through an enclosure and natural convection within the enclosure

Abstract An analysis has been made of the fluid flow and heat transfer in a vertically oriented cylindrical enclosure in whose lower and upper walls there are small apertures through which fluid passes into and out of the enclosure. The throughflow stream induces a recirculating flow in the enclosure. Furthermore, natural convection motions are induced in the enclosure owing to the temperature difference between the entering stream and the enclosure walls. The strengths of the forced and natural convection flows are respectively characterized by the Reynolds and Rayleigh numbers, and the latter may be either positive or negative depending on whether or not the wall temperature T w exceeds the entering fluid temperature T 0 . When the throughflow stream is vertically upward, positive-Rayleigh-number natural convection (i.e. T w > T 0 ) opposes the throughflow-driven recirculation and reduces the heat transfer in the range of small and intermediate Rayleigh numbers. At high Rayleigh numbers, the throughflow stream is overpowered by the natural convection, with resulting high values of heat transfer. For negative Rayleigh numbers (i.e. T w T 0 ), the heat transfer is little different from that for zero Rayleigh number.
Is Los Angeles-Style Sprawl Desirable?

Abstract This article reviews the literature on characteristics, causes, and costs of alternative development patterns. In doing so it debunks arguments by Gordon and Richardson in favor of Los Angeles-style sprawl. Sprawl is not suburbanization generally, but rather forms of suburban development that lack accessibility and open space. Sprawl is not a natural response to market forces, but a product of subsidies and other market imperfections. The costs of sprawl are borne by all of us, not just those creating it, and include inflated public spending, loss of resource lands, and a waning sense of community. The only realistic cure for sprawl is active planning of the sort practiced almost everywhere except the United States (and beginning to appear here out of necessity).
High-resolution radio observations of the supernova remnant G24.7 + 0.6 and the discovery of an ultracompact H II region

The Crab-like SNR G24.7 + 0.6 with 12 arcmin resolution at 20 cm wavelength has been observed. The image reveals a bright Crab-like core surrounded by a faint shell. An ultracompact H II region lies adjacent to the remnant core and several other compact H II regions lie just outside the remnant shell. Optical, far-infrared, and X-ray observations of the region are also presented. The specific attributes of this remnant and its place in the classification of composite versus Crab-like remnants as well as the general question of the association between Crab-like remnants and H II regions are discussed.
Oncolytic effect of bovine enterovirus on mouse and human tumours.

WE have previously reported the oncolytic effect of bovine enterovirus 1 on Ehrlich carcinoma and sarcoma 1 in both the solid and ascites form in mice. The basis of the oncolytic specificity was associated with the adsorption spectrum of the virus1,2. We have now extended this work to a larger spectrum of transplantable tumours in inbred strains of mice and to initial experiments on the cytopathic effect of BE virus on a number of cell lines and primary cells of human origin. These results demonstrate that the oncolytic effect of BE virus and perhaps other enteroviruses, may be more than a “laboratory curiosity”3 and may be of use against certain types of neoplasia.
Physiology of fluid and electrolyte responses during inactivity: water immersion and bed rest.

This manuscript emphasizes the physiology of fluid-electrolyte-hormonal responses during the prolonged inactivity of bed rest and water immersion. An understanding of the total mechanism of adaptation (deconditioning) should provide more insight into the conditioning process. Findings that need to be confirmed during bed rest and immersion are: (1) the volume and tissues of origin of fluid shifted to the thorax and head; (2) interstitial fluid pressure changes in muscle and subcutaneous tissue, particularly during immersion; and (3) the composition of the incoming presumably interstitial fluid that contributes to the early hypervolemia. Better resolution of the time course and source of the diuretic fluid is needed. Important data will be forthcoming when hypotheses are tested involving the probable action of the emerging diuretic and natriuretic hormones, between themselves and among vasopressin and aldosterone, on diuresis and blood pressure control.
Therapeutic effect of kinetin on tobacco alternariosis.

LESIONS produced by Alternaris tenuis on tobacco leaves consist of fungal invaded, necrotic centres surrounded by well demarcated, non-invaded, chlorotic haloes1,2, though necrosis does occur without chlorosis following infection of leaves in advanced senescence3. Alternariol monomethyl ether (AME)4 and tenuazonic acid5 have been implicated as chlorosis inducing metabolites (CIM) but other metabolites6,7 may be involved. CIM are readily detoxified in young, living tissue6, though tenuazonic acid seems to be fairly stable5. Under uniform conditions, infection of progressively older leaf tissues results in lesions with chlorotic halos of increasing width1,3 which suggests that the CIM are detoxified less readily or are synthesized more abundantly as the host tissue ages.
Incidence of unsuspected metastases in lateral cervical cysts.

Objective: Solitary cystic squamous cell carcinoma metastases may be difficult to distinguish clinically from a benign cervical cyst. We sought to identify the incidence of solitary cystic squamous cell carcinoma metastasis in patients presenting with apparently benign cervical cysts. Study Design: Retrospective review. Methods: The records of all patients who presented with isolated lateral cervical cysts between 1983 and 1999 were reviewed. Patients with a clinically apparent primary malignancy, a history of head and neck cancer, a history of irradiation, or age less than 18 years were excluded from analysis, as were patients with a histological diagnosis of nonsquamous cell malignancy or those without a final histological diagnosis. Results: One hundred twenty-one adult patients presented with an initial diagnosis of lateral cervical cyst. Metastatic squamous cell carcinoma was demonstrated histologically after surgical excision in 12 patients (9.9%). The incidence of malignancy was significantly greater in patients greater than 40 years of age (23.5%, P <.0001). Results of preoperative fine-needle aspiration (FNA) were negative for malignancy in five cases of metastatic squamous cell carcinoma. Panendoscopy with directed biopsies revealed an occult primary in the base of tongue in three patients, tonsil in one patient, and nasopharynx in one. No primary was found in six patients, despite repeated examinations and close follow-up. Conclusions: Solitary cervical cysts in patients older than 40 years of age should be presumed to be carcinoma until proven otherwise. A negative FNA result may be misleading, because of hypocellularity of the cyst fluid. Excisional biopsy should be undertaken with provisions made for frozen-section analysis of the specimen and contingency panendoscopy with directed biopsies of Waldeyer's ring if frozen-section histological examination reveals malignancy.
Does aneuploidy destabilize karyotypes automatically

In their recent paper, Valind et al. test the theory that “aneuploidy automatically” destabilizes the karyotype (1). According to this theory, aneuploidy, an abnormal balance of chromosomes, destabilizes the karyotype automatically by unbalancing the cooperations of thousands of genes, especially mitosis genes: The more aneuploid the cell the more unstable is the karyotype (2⇓⇓–5).
Cloning and characterization of the cDNAs and genes (mep20) encoding homologous metalloproteinases from Aspergillus flavus and A. fumigatus.

Abstract Aspergillus fumigatus (Afu) and A. flavus (Afl), two causative agents of invasive aspergillosis, produce highly homologous serine proteinases. In addition, the former produces a 42-kDa metalloproteinase (MEP), whereas the latter produces a 23-kDa MEP. The cDNA and the gene encoding the 42-kDa MEP were cloned and sequenced. Here, we report the cloning of the cDNA and the gene encoding the 23-kDa MEP from Afl and a homologous gene from the Afu. Using degenerate primers based on the amino acid (aa) sequence of A. oryzae (Ao) MEP and thermolysin-like proteinases, a 282-bp fragment of the 23-kDa MEP-encoding gene of Afl was cloned by PCR. A 6.5-kb KpnI fragment of Afl genomic DNA containing the complete gene was cloned. The open reading frame (ORF) in this gene encodes a protein of 381 aa. Since the mature enzyme from this and other aspergilli would have a theoretical molecular mass of about 20 kDa, this MEP-encoding gene is designated mep20. A Western blot of the protein in the culture filtrate of Afl with polyclonal antibodies prepared against the MEP showed a single band at 23 kDa. The N-terminal sequence of the extracellular MEP20, TKVAS, was found at aa 194–198 within the ORF. Thus, the primary translation product has a putative 19-aa signal and a pro region of 174 aa. A homologous gene cloned from a genomic DNA library of Afu showed an ORF encoding 365 aa. Comparison of the nucleotide (nt) sequences of the cDNAs cloned by RT-PCR with their respective genes showed that there are no introns in the ORF of mep20 in Afl, but there is a 59-bp intron in the gene from Afu. The MEP20 of Afl and Afu have 68% identity and show weak immunological cross reactivity. MEP20 from both these fungi share about 60% sequence identity with the penicillolysin of Penicillium citrinum and the neutral protease II of Ao. MEP20 of Afl and Afu show only the conserved sequence, HEFTHA, but not the two other conserved sequences seen in thermolysins and similar MEP.
Novel therapeutic use of Versajet for intestinal mucormycosis

We describe the case of a 17-year-old boy who developed intestinal mucormycosis from Rhizophus oryzae (order Mucorales) following chemotherapy for the management of acute myeloid leukaemia. He underwent a hemicolectomy and further surgery utilising the pressure washing of Versajet to debride colonised fungal collections from the psoas muscle limiting the amount of surgical debridement needed.
A milestone in the policy sciences

What stands in the way of inquiry to help communities clarify and secure theircommon interests? The problem is not the theories and procedures available,as many scholars presume. The framework presented in Jurisprudence for aFree Society is quite adequate even if it is provisional. The problem is professionalism(Torgerson, 1985), or more precisely, the decline of professionalismas it was understood in the Law, Science, and Policy seminar over severaldecades. As McDougal recalls in the Preface:
HUMAN CAPITAL MEASUREMENT: THEORY AND PRACTICE

In early 2010, the US economy sits in its most precarious position since the Great Depression of the 1930s. At its height in 1933, 25% of all workers and 37% of all non-farm workers were completely out of work. The unemployment rate in the USA is now over 9.5%.1 As Figure 1 indicates, when the US economy spirals into severe recession unemployment cascades up as well. Periods of recession coincide with significant rise in unemployment and the two forces feed on each other, taxing economic systems. When consumer spending declines and capital (stock) markets endure significant loss unemployment spirals upward, earned income tax revenue declines, government expenditure on benefits for the unemployed increase, consumer spending declines further and sales tax revenue declines. Housing values decline in a recession which causes property tax revenue to decline which causes a shortfall in municipal tax revenue so city budgets do not balance, so more unemployment occurs, now in the public sector. The US and the world economy in general are still in the throes of such cataclysmic events even while this is written in the summer of 2009. Europe’s economy continues in a similarly dire situation with overall unemployment at 9.5% for the European Union as of May 2009.2 Interestingly Australia unemployment hovers in the 5.8% rate range.3 The crash of the US economy has reverberated throughout the world and adversely impacted virtually every other economic system on the globe. This sad fact is well known and undisputed by economists and social scientists throughout the world. The US Congress sits as this is being written (in the summer of 2009) and debates an almost 1 trillion dollar healthcare package to assist (in part) in bringing the US economy out of crisis. On February 17th of 2009, US President Obama signed into law an $800 billion plus stimulus package. Significant debate in the USA continues as to whether the immense government spending (and attendant increase in debt) has done any good. Britain, Germany and other world powers are undergoing similar investments and debates. Hundreds of millions of these dollars are earmarked for projects to increase employment and increase the human capital (HC) of the world labour force on programmes such as educational loans and subsidies.
A protein-nucleic acid complex in teliospores of Ustilago maydis.

The ribonucleic acids extracted from nongerminated teliospores of Ustilago maydis showed the spectrum similar to histone-DNA complex with a high 230/260 mμ ratio. The chemical analyses of the RNA preparations revealed that the spectral abnormality was due to the complexing of RNA with a protein. On the other hand RNA prepared from the isolated ribosomes of spores exhibited a normal spectrum and low protein content relative to RNA fraction. These observations show that an unusual protein is present in germinated spores which complexes with RNA and disappears as germination occurs.
Photochemistry of 3,4,9,10-perylenetetracarboxylic dianhydride dyes: visible absorption and fluorescence spectra and fluorescence quantum yields of the mono(n-octyl)imide derivative in aqueous and non-aqueous solutions

Abstract This study characterizes the visible absorption and fluorescence spectra and fluorescence quantum yields of the dicarboxylate, dicarboxylic acid and anhydride forms of the mono( n -octyl)imide derivative of 3,4,9,10-perylenetetracarboxylic dianhydride in aqueous micellar and organic solvent media. All three forms of the mono( n -octyl)imide dye have primary visible absorption maxima in the range 495 – 530 nm, with extinction coefficients of (3 – 8) ×10 4 M −1 cm −1 and fluorescence maxima in the range 520 – 600 nm, with quantum yields of 0.5 – 1.0. Vibrational structure in the absorption and fluorescence spectra increases and the Stokes loss decreases in the sequence dicarboxylate &>; dicarboxylic acid &>; anhydride. The dicarboxylic acid form of the dye dehydrates and cyclizes smoothly to the anhydride form in sodium dodecylsulfate micellar solutions with first-order kinetics and a half-time of 7 × 10 −5 s −1 (24 °C).
Regulation of the glutamine content of astrocytes by cAMP and hydrocortisone: Effect of pH

It was reported recently that the glutamine content of astrocytes incubated with glutamate and ammonium is steeply dependent on the pH of the solution. The present study shows that pretreatment of astrocytes with dibutyryl cAMP or with hydrocortisone, conditions that induce glutamine synthetase activity, increased glutamine content 2.4-fold and 5.3-fold, respectively. Nevertheless, a shift of pH from 7.4 to 7.8 increased glutamine content further by 2.7-fold and 3.0-fold, respectively. The net rates of uptake of glutamate and export of glutamine varied narrowly compared to these very large changes in glutamine content.
Mechanical Modeling of a Solder Thermal Interface Material: Implications for Thermo-Mechanical Reliability

This paper addresses cracking in solder thermal interface materials (STIMs) used in electronic packages under accelerated testing or service conditions. Finite-element models of various packages have been built to study the deformation in the STIM through a few cycles of accelerated testing. Two commonly observed failure modes — center/off-center brittle interfacial cracking, and cohesive corner cracking — were looked at. The success of the modeling approach was evaluated by comparison with thermal impedance data, as well as with CSAM images showing the extent of cracking in the STIM. It is shown that the models agree qualitatively with experimental data, both in terms of failure locations, as well as in terms of rank ordering different packages in terms of STIM degradation.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Multiple Scattering of Polarized Light in Planetary Atmospheres. Part I. The Doubling Method

Abstract The doubling method is described for multiple scattering of light in plane-parallel atmospheres. The polarization of the radiation and the azimuth dependence are correctly accounted for. The method is practical for application to realistic simulations of clear, hazy and cloudy planetary atmospheres.
Contextualism and the Real Nature of Academic Skepticism

The questions before us are these: 1) Is contextualism true? 2) If contextualism is true, will it shed much light on skepticism? I think the answer to the first question is a qualified "yes" and the answer to the second is a resounding "no". The basic claim of the contextualist, as portrayed by Cohen in his paper "Contextualism and Skepticism," is that the truth of sentences attributing or denying knowledge or the possession of adequate evidence to someone will vary according to some features of the speaker uttering the sentences. Bluntly put, one set of speakers-or one speaker alone-can legitimately require that someone, S, satisfy relatively high standards of evidence in order for S to have knowledge, and hence can truly deny that S has knowledge whenever S's evidence fails to meet that high standard. Another set of speakers can set lower standards and hence can truly affirm that the very same S under the very same circumstances has knowledge. So, "S knows that p" and "S does not know that p" can both be true because the truth value of the sentences depends in part upon the standards employed by the person who is uttering them.
Tolerance to δ-but not μ-opioid receptors in the spinal cord attenuates inhibition of the tail-flick response induced by β-endorphin administered intracerebroventricularly in mice

Male ICR mice were rendered tolerant by intrathecal (IT) injection once a day with either mu-agonist, D-Ala2-NMePhe4-Gly-ol-enkephalin (DAMGO) or delta-agonist, D-Pen2-D-Pen5-enkephalin (DPDPE) (toleragen) by doubling the dose each day starting from 0.125 and 1 microgram for DAMGO and DPDPE, respectively, for 6 days. On day 6, the magnitude of tolerance was assessed by establishing IT dose-response lines for the effect of the chronic drug given as bolus injections (probe). The antinociception was assessed by the tail-flick and hot-plate test. Repeated IT injections of DPDPE reduced inhibition of the tail-flick and hot-plate response induced by DPDPE (ED50 values for DPDPE increase 10-fold) but not DAMGO. Repeated IT injections of DAMGO reduced inhibition of the tail-flick and hot-plate response induced by DAMGO (ED50 value for DAMGO increase 7- to 10-fold) but not DPDPE. The effects of the tolerance to mu- and delta-opioid receptor activity in the spinal cord on inhibition of the tail-flick and hot-plate response induced by intracerebroventricularly (ICV) administered beta-endorphin and morphine were then studied. beta-Endorphin or morphine at different doses were injected ICV 4 hr after the last IT injection of DPDPE or DAMGO. Repeated IT bolus injections of DPDPE reduced inhibition of the tail-flick response but not the hot-plate response induced by beta-endorphin. On the other hand, repeated IT bolus injections of DAMGO did not affect inhibition of the tail-flick and hot-plate response induced by beta-endorphin.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Resource Flexibility Issues in Multistage Manufacturing

We test the situational impact of two types of resource flexibility, machine flexibility and labor flexibility, in a material requirements planning (MRP)-driven production system. Machine flexibility has not been treated in prior multistage research, only labor flexibility. Machine flexibility is closely related to a plant's positioning strategy. A process-focused plant opts for considerable machine flexibility by choosing general-purpose equipment. Resource flexibility, if effective, can be an attractive alternative to two other types of buffers, inflated inventories and costly capacity cushions. Our simulation results, using factor settings established earlier by a panel of managers, show that resource flexibility is indeed an effective buffer against uncertainties such as end-item demand variability, capacity bottlenecks, equipment failures, and yield losses. Machine flexibility is especially helpful in environments characterized by high uncertainties, tight capacities, and large lot sizes. Worker flexibility has a similar, but less dramatic, impact. Benefits are most striking with customer service, rather than with inventory or labor productivity. Finally, we show that simultaneous introduction of both machine and labor flexibility yields only marginal improvements over either kind of flexibility alone.
Carcinogenicity predictions for a group of 30 chemicals undergoing rodent cancer bioassays based on rules derived from subchronic organ toxicities.

Abstract Rodent carcinogenicities for a group of 30 chemicals which form the subject of the Second NIEHS Predictive-Toxicology Evaluation Experiment are predicted based on their subchronic organ toxicities. Predictions are made by rules learned by the rule learning (RL) induction program.
Studies of Surfaces of Materials Using Low Energy Ion Beams

Characterization of solid surfaces using low energy, i.e. ? 10keV, ion beams has gained increasing popularity during the past decade. The three most commonly used low energy ion beam techniques are: secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS), sputter-induced photon spectrometry (SIPS) and ion scattering spectrometry (ISS). As far as detection sensitivity is concerned, SIMS is probably superior to almost all surface analytical techniques. Impurity levels in the parts per million range can be easily determined. SIMS is widely applied to semiconductor problems in which concentration-versus-depth information is usually sought. SIPS is especially suited to compositional analysis of non-conducting materials since, unlike techniques based on detection of charged particles, charging of the sample surface by the primary beam does not affect the collection of optical radiation from sputtered excited atoms. ISS is probably the best available technique for studying the composition of the topmost surface layer of any material. Its monolayer sensitivity due to the properties of low energy scattering is unique among surface analytical techniques. This paper discussed the use of each of these three techniques to solve problems in materials science.
Constraints in Collective State Atomic Interferometry Due to Inhomogeneities in Laser Intensity and Atomic Velocity

We show that in a collective state atomic interferometer, the signal amplitude depends significantly on the transverse spatial variation of laser intensity, and the spread in Doppler shifts due to velocity distribution in the atoms.
A note on the optimal sequence position for a rate-modifying activity under simple linear deterioration

This paper addresses the integration of two emerging classes of scheduling problems which, for the most part, have evolved independently. These problem classes are (i) scheduling problems with time-dependent processing times and (ii) scheduling problems with rate-modifying activities (RMAs). The integration of these two concepts is motivated by human operators who experience fatigue while carrying out tasks and take rest breaks for recovery, but is also applicable to machines that experience performance degradation over time and require maintenance in order to sustain acceptable production rates. We explore a sequence-independent, single processor makespan problem with position-dependent processing times and prove that under certain conditions, the optimal policy is to schedule the RMA in the middle of the task sequence.
Tacit beliefs and other doxastic attitudes

Des croyances tacites n'existent pas. Dans la plupart des cas, ce ne sont que des dispositions a croire, et ce qui reste pourrait etre classifie comme des etats sub-doxastiques (sub-doxastic states)
Using Voice Recognition to Collect License Plate Data for Travel Time Studies

The use of portable computers for performing travel time studies has become commonplace with many transportation agencies. Whereas data entry has historically been done via the keyboard, a new method of data entry is being proposed that should make license plate data collection with portable computers more efficient and convenient. This new method uses voice recognition to allow the user to dictate license plate data into a microphone. These data are then directly entered into the computer and time-stamped. The authors have developed a standalone Windows program for performing license plate data collection using voice recognition. Preliminary testing has indicated that this technology has the capability to provide entry accuracy rates in excess of 95 percent, as well as to provide sample sizes comparable to or larger than those obtained through keyboard entry. Additionally, this technology has the capability to reduce personnel requirements for situations typically using two data-collecting people per sta...
Modification of gel-drawn poly(vinyl alcohol) fibers with formaldehyde

Poly(vinyl alcohol) fibers which were drawn from dried gels were chemically treated with formaldehyde to induce crosslinking in the amorphous phase. The room temperature storage modulus decreased early in the treatment, to an almost constant value of 50–60% of the initial modulus of the fiber. This behavior was independent of the concentration of formaldehyde used. The modulus at low temperature was also reduced, and no Tg peak could be seen in heavily treated fibers. The modulus above the original Tg, 70°C, was much less affected. The crystallinity determined by DSC fell by one third as the room temperature modulus decreased, and X-ray diffraction indicated a reduction in the crystal length along the chain direction at the same time. Thus, under the conditions of treatment used, the loss of properties due to destruction of crystals outweighs the stiffening and reduced water sensitivity of the crosslinked amorphous phase.
Neuropsychological deficits in nonsmokers with schizophrenia: effects of a nicotinic antagonist.

Abstract Background Biochemical, physiological and genetic evidence suggests dysregulation of central nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) systems in schizophrenia, which may contribute to neuropsychological dysfunction and the high rates of smoking in this disorder. To evaluate the effects of nAChR blockade on neuropsychological performance in schizophrenia without the confounding effects of cigarette smoking, we compared neuropsychological performance in schizophrenia and healthy control nonsmokers after pre-treatment with the centrally-acting nAChR antagonist mecamylamine (MEC). Methods Using a within-subjects, counterbalanced design, schizophrenia ( n = 14) and control ( n = 15) nonsmokers were pre-treated for 3 days with MEC (0.0, 5.0, and 10.0 mg/day). Subjects performed repeated neuropsychological assessments including visuospatial working memory (VSWM), Continuous Performance Test (CPT), Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST), Word Serial Position Test (WSPT) and Stroop Color Word Test (SCWT) during three sequential test sessions per week over three test weeks. Results We found significant main effects of schizophrenia diagnosis on: VSWM 30 and 60 delays ( p 's p p p Conclusions Our results suggest that there are a broad range of neuropsychological deficits in nonsmokers with schizophrenia. Furthermore, pretreatment with a centrally-acting nAChR antagonist did not alter neuropsychological performance in either nonsmoking patients with schizophrenia or controls.
Cross sections for single and double strand breaks in SV-40 virus in EO buffer after heavy ion irradiation: Experiment and theory

Measured cross sections after heavy ion bombardment, for both single and double strand breaks of SV-40 virus in EO buffer (which emphasizes indirect effects), are consistent with the theory of Butts and Katz for 1-hit detectors.
The effects of developmental cadmium exposure on morphine sensitization and challenge with selective D1 and D2 antagonists

Abstract The purpose of this investigation was to determine the effects of developmental (perinatal) cadmium exposure on the development and expression of behavioral sensitization to morphine. Adult female rats were maintained ad libitum on diets containing 0, 25, or 50 ppm added cadmium (administered as cadmium chloride) for 30 days prior to breeding with nonexposed males. This exposure regimen continued throughout the gestational period and for 15 days postnatally during lactation, at which time regular rat chow was provided. On postnatal day (PND) 21, male pups from the respective litters were weaned and placed on an unadulterated food supply (no added cadmium) and tap water for the remainder of the study. Beginning on PND 70, animals from each exposure condition (0, 25, 50 ppm exposure conditions) received, for 21 consecutive days, either vehicle (distilled water) or 10 mg/kg morphine sulfate injections (ip) prior to being monitored for locomotor activity during 80-min test sessions. Following this 21-day period of morphine sensitization training, dose–effect profiles were determined for each exposure condition with successive daily challenges of 0, 10, and 20 mg/kg morphine. Subsequently, different doses of the D1 antagonist SCH 23390 (0.01, 0.056, and 0.10 mg/kg) and the D2 antagonist eticlopride (0.01 and 0.056 mg/kg) were presented prior to administration of the training dose of morphine (10 mg/kg). The results of the investigation revealed that developmental cadmium exposure attenuated the development/expression of morphine sensitization. Furthermore, it was found that the suppressive effects of the D2 antagonist eticlopride were decreased by early cadmium exposure.
Stopping Power and Energy Loss for Ion Pair Production for 340-Mev Protons

The relative stopping powers for 300 Mev protons of H, Li, Be, C, Al, Fe, Cu, Ag, Sn, W, Pb, and U have been measured. The results are shown in Table I. The energy spent per ion-pair production in the gases H{sub 2}, He, N{sub 2}, O{sub 2}, and A at 340 Mev proton energy has also been measured. The results are shown in Table II.
Low-field magnetoacoustic residual stress measurement in steel

Much of the recent development of the magnetoacoustic technique has been devoted to refine this technique as a reliable and practical tool for measuring bulk residual stress in steel components. For this, the effects of structural and metallurgical properties on the magnetoacoustic interaction have been studied for various types of steel samples. Also, progress is being made to obtain quantitative residual stress measurements in railroad wheels. This paper reviews the physical basis and the experimental results of the magnetoacoustic stress measurements in steels.
Evaluating area and performance of hybrid FPGAs with nanoscale clusters and CMOS routing

Advances in fabrication technology of nanoscale devices such as nanowires, carbon nanotubes and molecular switches provide new opportunities for implementing cluster-based FPGAs. Extensive research is needed to evaluate area and performance of FPGAs made from these devices and compare with their CMOS counterparts. In this work, we propose a hybrid FPGA that uses nanoscale clusters with a functionality similar to the clusters of traditional CMOS FPGAs. The proposed cluster is constructed by a crossbar of nanowires and can be configured to implement the required LUTs and intracluster MUXes. A CMOS interface is also proposed to provide configuration and memory elements for the nanoscale cluster. In the proposed architecture, inter-cluster routing remains at CMOS scale. We have developed models for area and delay of clusters and interconnects of the proposed hybrid FPGA. FPGA tools are configured with these models and used to synthesize and configure the benchmark circuits onto the hybrid FPGAs with NiSi nanowires or nanotubes. Experiments are conducted to evaluate and compare area and performance of the hybrid FPGA and traditional CMOS FPGA (scaled to 22nm). Up to 82p area reduction was obtained from implementing MCNC benchmarks on the hybrid FPGA. Performance of the hybrid FPGA is shown to be close to that of CMOS FPGA.