cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Measurements, models, and mathematics of alloy systems

The classical phase studies of Hume-Rothery and co-workers extended the work of Dolezalek and Hildebrand. The demonstration of the importance of the electron concentration in addition to the atomic concentrations gave rise to such developments as Miedema's treatment of intermetallic compounds and the Brewer-Engel theory. The experimental techniques, to which Dr. Kleppa has made distinguished contributions, have provided partial thermodynamic data for many binary systems but complete descriptions are usually absent because of the shortcomings of available techniques. Applications of newer methods for structural analysis have not yielded substantial guidance to the practical metallurgist. The most successful predictions have been based on simple approximations to the Gibbs- Duhem equation with experimental data for binary systems. More “physically correct” analyses through ab initio calculations seem a long way from the practice of metallurgy.
Surface temperature sensitivities from cloud cover variations in the Hummel-Kuhn radiative-convective model with three different cloud approximations

In modeling the thermal structure of the atmosphere, the role of clouds is critically important. Clouds modify the solar flux distribution throughout the atmosphere, radiate significantly in the infrared, and provide large thermal reservoirs because of the large latent heat of water. In the best current radiative convective one-dimensional models the global atmosphere is modeled as the sum of clear and cloudy sky parts weighted by a fractional cloud cover. In considering the cloudy sky part, previous models have treated the clouds as input and characterized them simply in terms of their altitudes, thicknesses, and optical properties. This report compares the surface temperature sensitivities to variations in cloud cover for three cloud approximations: (1) a single effective fixed cloud with a mean water vapor profile, (2) a floating clouds approximation in which cloud altitudes and thicknesses are calculated and a mean water vapor profile is used and (3) a fully interactive formulation in which cloud altitudes and thicknesses are calculated and separate clear and cloudy water vapor profiles are used. In all three approximations the cloud cover amount, A c , is an input. The fully interactive approximation is shown to reduce the sensitivity of surface temperature to cloud cover variations from ?4.7 times 10 -2 K/(1% A c ) for the single effective approximation to ?3.6 times 10 -2 K/(1% A c ). This reveals that when the model allows the clouds and water vapor to interact, calculated surface temperature changes caused by changing the amount of clouds are less than previous studies indicate. DOI: 10.1111/j.2153-3490.1981.tb01769.x
Synview: the design of a system for cooperative structuring of information

The SYNVIEW system implements cooperative structuring of information through an explicit representation for debate between the users of the system and through a voting mechanism for resolving disputes. This paper reviews the original design of the system and describes modifications that are necessary for near-term applications. In particular, we examine ways to interface to existing information in the form of traditional documents, and we describe simplifications to the debate representation that reduce the amount of effort required to enter information. A proposal is given for a demonstration of a cooperative information system that would be used by a group of scientists working in a particular area of research. Cooperative information systems have an excellent long-term potential, but there are many issues that must be resolved to encourage their more immediate use.
Immunocytochemical localization of metallothionein in the rat prostate gland

Metallothionein (MT), which binds zinc and other metals, was localized within the rat prostatic complex at light and electron microscopic levels utilizing immunocytochemistry. Two groups of mature, male Sprague-Dawley rats were injected with cadmium chloride subcutaneously (2 mg/kg body weight) to induce the synthesis of MT, and were sacrificed 48 h postinjection. From the first group, prostatic tissue from the three lobes was prepared for light microscopy. The indirect peroxidase antiperoxidase procedure was used for MT localization using rabbit anti-MT as the primary antibody. The three lobes of the rat prostate demonstrated a positive reaction for MT, but among the lobes variations in the intensity and localization of the reaction product occurred. Tissues from the second group of animals were prepared for electron microscopy. Using the indirect immunogold labeling technique with anti-MT, MT localization was confirmed in the rough endoplasmic reticulum, secretory vesicles, secretory products, and subepithelial connective tissue. These localizations suggest that MT binds zinc both intra- and extracellularly, where it may function in zinc storage and metabolism.
Cholinergic receptor-mediated differential cytoskeletal recruitment of actin- and integrin-binding proteins in intact airway smooth muscle.

We tested the hypothesis that cholinergic receptor stimulation recruits actin- and integrin-binding proteins from the cytoplasm to the cytoskeleton-membrane complex in intact airway smooth muscle. ...
Union membership and campaign contributions

Laws governing labor relations in the United States are written in a manner which gives significant monopoly power to unions and also creates an incentive for workers to support union security arrangements. These laws would serve to reduce the gains which workers receive from unionization. They would also serve to increase the surplus which unions extract from their members. The argument that an important part of these laws is the creation of rents which can be transferred to the politicians who support laws. An examination of the effect of right-to-work laws on political contribution received by candidates for office indicates that, as the theory would predict, the existence of such laws serves to significantly reduce the contributions from unions. This reduction occurs largely because these laws reduce the number of union members who contribute; they do not seem to change the contributions per union member. The authors hypothesize that it is the monopolization which increases per member contributions, though testing this hypothesis is not possible. Nonetheless, it is the authors' belief that the empirical results have demonstrated the form of the laws mandating unions is explained by the interaction between the union and the politicians who support unionization.
Functionalization of carbon nanotubes by potassium permanganate assisted with phase transfer catalyst

An improved process is presented to functionalize carbon nanotubes by potassium permanganate with the help of phase transfer catalyst (PTC). The PTC helps to extract potassium permanganate from the solid phase to an organic solvent phase and improves the efficiency of nanotube oxidation. The higher reaction efficiency as well as mild reaction conditions leads to a higher yield of functional nanotube preparation. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirms the functional groups attached to the nanotube surface. A preliminary comparison is given of the potassium permanganate oxidation of nanotubes with and without PTC. This method is believed to be a potential economic method for large-scale functional nanotube preparation.
Early Reactions to the Work of Leo Lesquereux in Kansas Paleontology

Early reactions to and assessments of the work of Leo Lesquereux in Kansas paleontology are examined with attention given to contemporary scientists working with fossil materials from Kansas. Most reactions were favorable, although some commentators took exception to some of Lesquereux's dating of fossil specimens.
Invasive Prenatal Diagnostic Procedures 2005

Amniocentesis and Chorionic Villus Sampling have been the two most common prenatal diagnostic procedures for decades. There are wide variations in utilization, operator skills, quoted procedure risks, actual observed risks, and patient choices that come from highly variable counseling as to those risks. The compilation of published data suggests procedure risks of amniocentesis to be about 1/200 and in very skilled hands to be slightly lower. The risks of CVS in very experienced hands may also be about 1/200. Most studies comparing CVS to amniocentesis in skilled hands have found equivalency of risks. No well controlled studies support claims of amniocentesis risk at 1/1000 or lower. There is no increased risks of limb reduction defects following CVS at 10 weeks or greater, but there is an increase in Talipes from "Early Amniocentesis." In the first trimester CVS is the safer procedure.
Predictors of survival in patients with high-grade peritoneal metastases undergoing cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy.

Background Peritoneal metastases in patients with high-grade adenocarcinoma have been typically associated with a poor outcome. Recent literature has suggested that cytoreduction surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) may improve survival. We examined this subset of patients in an effort to better delineate those factors which contribute to improved survival. Methods A retrospective review was performed looking at patients who had undergone CRS/HIPEC. Patients were identified as high-grade histology on the basis of pathology reports indicating their lesion as high grade, moderately, or poorly differentiated and/or associated with signet ring or goblet cell carcinoid features. Peritoneal cancer index and completeness of cytoreduction (CC) were used to define disease burden. Survival analysis was performed by the method of Kaplan-Meier with the log-rank test used to determine significance. Results Of the 250 patients who underwent CRS/HIPEC between 1999 and 2011, 36 (14%) were identified as having peritoneal metastases from a high-grade gastrointestinal primary. Actual overall survival from the time of diagnosis was 11.1% at 5 years. Median survival from time of surgery was 21.6 months. Survival advantage was conferred to those patients who underwent a CC0/CC1 resection, had a peritoneal cancer index score at time of surgery ≤20, appendiceal primary, or moderately differentiated histopathology. Receipt of neoadjuvant chemotherapy and nodal status was not significantly predictive of improved survival. Patients with signet ring cell histology had a particularly poor prognosis. Conclusion For those patients with high-grade peritoneal metastases and historically a poor prognosis, prolonged survival may be achieved through CRS/HIPEC, optimally with a CC0/CC1 resection.
Determination of position of substitution on 2-acetamido-2-deoxy-D-galactosyl residues in glycolipids

The substitution site on 2-acetamido-2-deoxy-D-galactosyl residues in oligosaccharide chains of glycolipids was determined by permethylation of the glycolipid with methyl iodide in the presence of dimethylsulfinyl carbanion, methanolysis of the permethylated product under mild conditions, acetylation with acetic anhydride-pyridine, and identification of the resulting substituted methyl glycosides of 2-deoxy-2(N-methylacetamido)-D-galactose by g.l.c. The method was applied to glycolipids of known structure, including normal brain ganglioside, Tay-Sachs ganglioside, and Forssman glycolipid.
Blade Tonal Noise Reduction Using Stator Trailing-Edge Articulation

The biologically-inspired method of trailing-edge articulation is investigated as a means of reducing tonal noise due to the stator wake / rotor blade interaction in underwater vehicles. This work is experimental in nature and conducted in the closed channel water tunnel at Naval Undersea Warfare Center in Newport, Rhode Island. Tail articulation is carried out with a life scale stator model with hinged flapping tail designed to (i) operate in freestream velocities corresponding to Reynolds number in the range 75,000 < Re < 300,000 and (ii) operate at frequencies up to 30 Hz in order to investigate the range of Strouhal number 0.0 < St < 0.35. Velocity measurements in the active stator wake are carried out by Laser Doppler Velocimetry (LDV) and Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) in order to investigate the effects of tail articulation on the stator wake. Time averaged measurements of the stator wake by LDV show that Strouhal number of the tail articulation has a dominant effect on the time mean stator drag. Instantaneous phase-averaged measurements of the stator wake by PIV show three regimes of the stator wake as Strouhal number is increased; quasi-steady wake spreading, vortex roll up, and strong vortex wake. Ongoing experiments with an instrumented propeller will demonstrate the efficacy of stator trailing-edge articulation on reducing unsteady blade forces.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Silencing the receptor EphA2 suppresses the growth and haptotaxis of malignant mesothelioma cells

BACKGROUND. The over-expression of the ephrin-A1 ligand receptor EphA2 is associated with the growth and metastatic potential of tumors. Although EphA2 is expressed in a variety of tumors, its expression and function in malignant mesothelioma (MM) remain unknown. The authors hypothesized that expression of the receptor EphA2 in MM cells (MMCs) plays a key role in the growth and haptotactic migration of MM. They also hypothesized that silencing EphA2 expression by using small-interfering RNA (siRNA) inhibits the proliferation and haptotaxis of MMCs and induces apoptosis in MMCs. METHODS. The expression of EphA2 in MMCs and in normal pleural mesothelial cells (PMCs) was studied by using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis and Western blot analysis. The growth of MMCs was determined with the WST-1 cell-proliferation assay. The haptotactic migration of MMCs and PMCs was determined with a Boyden chamber assay. Expression of caspases was determined with calorimetric assays. RESULTS. The results demonstrated that silencing the receptor EphA2 by siRNA significantly reduced the proliferation and haptotactic migration of MMCs compared with controls. Over-expression of EphA2 with plasmid pcDNA/EphA2 enhanced the proliferation and haptotaxis of MMCs significantly. Knocking down EphA2 expression initiated caspase-9–mediated apoptosis in MMCs. CONCLUSIONS. The current results suggested that constitutive expression of EphA2 may contribute to the aggressive behavior and cellular survival of MMCs. EphA2 may be an effective therapeutic target in patients with mesothelioma. Silencing the receptor EphA2 gene is a novel approach for the containment of growth and migration of tumor in patients with malignant mesothelioma. Cancer 2006. © 2006 American Cancer Society.
Symmetry breaking in vortex-source and Jeffery—Hamel flows

The stability and bifurcations associated with the loss of azimuthal symmetry of planar flows of a viscous incompressible fluid, such as vortex-source and Jeffery–Hamel flows, are studied by employing linear, weakly nonlinear and fully nonlinear analyses, and features of new solutions are explained. We address here steady self-similar solutions of the Navier–Stokes equations and their stability to spatially developing disturbances. By considering bifurcations of a potential vortex-source flow, we find secondary solutions. They include asymmetric vortices which are generalizations of the classical point vortex to vortical flows with non-axisymmetric vorticity distributions. Another class of solutions we report relates to transition trajectories that connect new bifurcation-produced solutions with the primary ones. Such solutions provide far-field asymptotes for a number of jet-like flows. In particular, we consider a flow which is a combination of a jet and a sink, a tripolar jet, a jet emerging from a slit in a plane wall, a jet emerging from a plane channel and the reattachment phenomenon in the Jeffery–Hamel flow in divergent channels.
Effects of periodic hypoxia on distribution of demersal fish and crustaceans

Effects of periodic hypoxia (O2 20 m) during normoxia and hypoxia from 26 June to 20 October 1989. Three periods with hypoxia in the bottom water (below 10 m depth) occurred in mid-July, early August and early September, each with a duration of 6 to 14 d. The demersal fish and crustaceans studied were all affected by hypoxia, and a general migration from deeper to shallower water took place during July and August. However, when oxygen conditions improved after a hypoxic event all species, exceptS. empusa, returned to the deeper areas. The degree of vertical migration was related to levels of oxygen concentration and varied for the different species.M. undulatus was the most sensitive species to low oxygen, followed byL. xanthurus andC. sapidus. T. maculatus andS. empusa were more tolerant and survived in 14 to 25% oxygen saturation by increasing ventilation rate and, forS. empusa, by also increasing blood pigment (haemocyanin) concentration. Periodic hypoxia driven by the spring-neap tidal cycle may represent a natural phenomenon with which the fishes and crustaceans are in a delicate balance. Areas experiencing periodic short-lived hypoxia may be good nursery grounds for fisheries species, and there is no indication that the habitat value in the study area of lower York River is lessened. However, if eutrophication lengthens the time of hypoxia or brings the system closer to anoxia the system may change and become characteristically stressed. The migratory and physiological responses of these species to hypoxia are good indicators of the severity of oxygen stress and could be used as part of an early warning monitoring system for changes in environmental quality.
Intervention to Change Parent-Child Reading Style: A Comparison of Instructional Methods.

Dialogic reading is an evidence-based intervention to promote the language skills of 2- and 3-year-old children. This study examined conditions under which dialogic reading could be implemented in a community setting. Three methods of instruction were compared: (a) in-person with video instruction in small groups, (b) self-instruction by video with telephone follow-up and, (c) self-instruction by video alone. Results showed few parents read with a dialogic style prior to instruction. Instruction yielded more than a 4-fold increase in parents' dialogic reading behaviors and had significant positive effects on children's language use (including number of words and mean length of utterances) during shared reading. When the data were stratified by parents' education and instructional method (in-person vs. self-instruction), there was a significant difference favoring in-person instruction as the more efficacious method of instruction, especially for parents with high school education.
236 A Model and Treatment for Autism at the Convergence of Chinese Medicine and Western Science: First 130 Cases

236 A Model and Treatment for Autism at the Convergence of Chinese Medicine and Western Science: First 130 Cases
Correlation Coefficients Measured on the Same Individuals

Abstract When two correlation coefficients are calculated from a single sample, rather than from two samples, they are not statistically independent, and the usual methods for testing equality of the population correlation coefficients no longer apply. This paper considers the situation when the sample is from a multivariate normal distribution. Several possible large sample testing procedures are given, all based on Fisher's z-transformation. Power curves are given for each procedure and for seven values of the asymptotic correlation between the two sample correlation coefficients.
Photoelectron spectrum of a polycyclic aromatic nitrogen heterocyclic anion: quinoline−

We report a joint photoelectron spectroscopic and theoretical study on the molecular anion, quinoline−. Analysis of the vibrationally resolved photoelectron spectrum found the adiabatic electron affinity, EAa(C9H7N), to be 0.16 ± 0.05 eV. These findings were supported by density functional theory calculations. Our experimental and computational results demonstrate the unusual electrophilicity for a polycyclic aromatic heterocycle.
Transganglionic and anterograde transport of horseradish peroxidase across dorsal root ganglia: A tetramethylbenzidine method for tracing central sensory connections of muscles and peripheral nerves

Abstract Horseradish peroxidase was applied either to severed sciatic nerves or to individual muscle groups in the lower leg of the rat. This horseradish peroxidase was taken up by sensory nerves and transported across the dorsal root ganglion and then anterogradely as far as central sensory terminals in the spinal cord and medulla. The dorsal root, dorsal column and the tract of Lissauer contained horseradish peroxidase labeled fibers. Following horseradish peroxidase application to the cut sciatic nerve, extraperikaryal reaction-product within the central processes of the sensory neurons was seen in the upper dorsal horn (substantia gelatinosa), lower dorsal horn, intermediate gray, ventral horn and nucleus of Clarke of the ipsilateral spinal cord; in the contralateral dorsal and ventral horns, and in the ipsilateral nucleus gracilis. Following intramuscular injections of horseradish peroxidase, the reaction-product was virtually absent in the upper dorsal horn and was concentrated in the lower dorsal horn, intermediate gray and ventral horn. These experiments show that horseradish peroxidase is transported anterogradely in significant quantities along the intact central processes of the dorsal root ganglion so that sensory terminations belonging to individual peripheral nerves or muscle groups can be traced. The demonstration of this complex transport was made possible with a sensitive histochemical method that used tetramethylbenzidine as the chromogen. Alternate sections processed with a commonly employed diaminobenzidine procedure did not show any of these central sensory connections.
Novel collectin/C1q receptor mediates mast cell activation and innate immunity

Mast cells play a critical role in innate immunity, allergy, and autoimmune diseases. The receptor/ligand interactions that mediate mast cell activation are poorly defined. The α2β1 integrin, a receptor for collagens, laminins, decorin, E-cadherin, matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1), endorepellin, and several viruses, has been implicated in normal developmental, inflammatory, and oncogenic processes. We recently reported that α2 integrin subunit–deficient mice exhibited markedly diminished neutrophil and IL-6 responses during Listeria monocytogenes–and zymosan-induced peritonitis. Peritoneal mast cells require α2β1 integrin expression for activation in response to pathogens, yet the ligand and molecular mechanisms by which the α2β1 integrin induces activation and cytokine secretion remain unknown. We now report that the α2β1 integrin is a novel receptor for multiple collectins and the C1q complement protein. We demonstrate that the α2β1 integrin provides a costimulatory function required for mast cell activation and cytokine secretion. This finding suggests that the α2β1 integrin is not only important for innate immunity but may serve as a critical target for the regulation of autoimmune/allergic disorders.
Tea variety and brewing techniques influence flavonoid content of black tea

Abstract Objective : To examine the influence of variety and brewing technique on the catechins, theaflavins, and thearubigins in black tea using published data. Methods and materials : Differences due to tea variety were examined by comparing values for the characteristic flavanols that are responsible in part for the distinct flavors of the various teas. These included catechins, theaflavins, and thearubigins in varieties of blended teas (from several regions) and unblended teas (from only one region) in the published literature. Total catechins, theaflavins, and thearubigins were calculated per 180 mL serving of tea for teabags of different weights. For brewing techniques, calculations by infusion strength of 1.25% (2.25 g teabag per 180 mL water) and by an illustrative extraction efficiency were compared to analytical results at a 2 min brewing time. Results : The unblended teas (e.g. Assam, Kenya, Ceylon, China, and Darjeeling) varied greatly in the amount and pattern of their flavonoid content. Compared to unblended teas, the blended teas were lower in total catechins and mid-range in theaflavins. Differences in flavonoid content per tea serving were the result of tea variety, weight of tea used, and, to a lesser extent, brewing technique. Significance : Tea variety, weight of tea or teabag, and brewing techniques all affect estimates of flavonoid intake. Databases that include flavonoid data for different varieties of teas and different brewing techniques will be useful for dietary assessment studies. For research purposes it would be helpful to list tea type (black, green, oolong, pu’er), unblended or blended, and if data suffice, for unblended by region (Assam, China, Darjeeling) and for blended by name (Earl Gray, English Breakfast). More research is needed on the effects of brewing techniques so accurate formulas can be developed to determine flavonoid content.
On the decomposition flame of liquid ozone-oxygen mixtures in a tube

Abstract A theory of flame propagation previously developed by the author is applied to a decomposition flame burning above a liquid ozone-oxygen mixture in a tube cooled with liquid oxygen at the outside. Neglecting heat losses to the wall, heat radiation and heat conduction along the glass tube, flame velocities are computed for pressures of 1, 2 and 10 atmospheres for mixtures containing 50, 75 and 100 per cent ozone. The results obtained for atmospheric pressure are in reasonably good agreement with the available experimental result.
Isotope effect on the carcinogenicity of 3-methylcholanthrene in mouse skin by selective deuteration of the 1-methylene group: biological evidence for a mechanism of tumor initiation.

Abstract 3-MethylchoIanthrene (MC) in chloroform and trifluoroacetic acid-d 1 yielded 3-methylcholanthrene- d4 (MC-d 4 ), a compound selectively deuterated at the 1-, 5-, and 6-carbon atoms. In turn, the protodedeuteration of the labeled hydrocarbon at the 6-carbon atom led to 3-methyleholanthrene-d 3 (MC-d 3 ). A comparative test for carcinogenicity between MC and MC-d 3 by repeated skin painting on female Swiss mice showed a significantly lower tumorigenic activity of the latter. The result implies that the 1-carbon atom of the hydrocarbon is a critical binding-site to cellular targets in the tumor-initiating process.
Synthetic studies in the Pb doped Bi2(Ca, Sr)n+1CunO2n+4+δ family of superconductors

Abstract A better than 95% pure monophasic 110 K ( n = 3 phase) superconductor of the Bi 1.5 Pb 0.5 (Ca, Sr) n+1 Cu n O 2n+4+δ family of oxides has been prepared starting from the ideal composition of Bi 1.5 Pb 0.5 Ca 2 Sr 2 Cu 3 O x showing a superconducting transition at 102 K. The possibility of preparation of this oxide starting from other compositions such as Bi 0.7 Pb 0.3 CaSrCu 2 O x and Bi 1.84 Pb 0.34 Ca 2.03 Sr 1.91 Cu 3.06 O x has been investigated in detail. Preparation of the n = 4 member of this family has also been attempted. The advantages of hot pressing over cold pressing will be discussed briefly. The phases have been characterized by X-ray diffraction, electrical resistivity and high-frequency phase impedance measurements.
Beyond the Usual Prediction Accuracy Metrics: Reporting Results for Clinical Decision Making

In this issue, Raji and colleagues evaluate strategies based on alternative risk-prediction models for the use of computed tomography screening for lung cancer. The editorialists applaud the study ...
Generation of the African Easterly Jet and Its Role in Determining West African Precipitation

Abstract An examination of analyses and model simulations is used to show that the African easterly jet forms over West Africa in summer as a result of strong meridional soil moisture gradients. In a series of GCM experiments, the imposition of realistic surface wetness contrasts between the Sahara and equatorial Africa leads to strong positive meridional temperature gradients at the surface and in the lower troposphere; the associated easterly shear in the atmosphere is strong enough to establish easterly flow—the African easterly jet—above the monsoon westerlies at the surface. Positive temperature gradients associated with the summertime distributions of solar radiation, SSTs, or clouds are not large enough to produce the easterly jet in the absence of soil moisture gradients. A thermally direct ageostrophic circulation is identified that can accelerate the largely geostrophic zonal flow and maintain the jet. While moisture converges throughout the lower troposphere over East Africa, moisture divergenc...
High Voltage Insulation Space Environment and Design Guideline

Electrical insulation research and development for space power systems have been continuing progressively for manned and unmanned space and aerospace vehicles. Initial studies and test evaluations started in the 1950s and have been continuing with the evolving state of high voltage systems and their increasing use in space programs. In the early days of the space program, electrical systems were largely based on the 28 volt standard. As systems grew larger and more complex, the introduction of high voltage components and systems led to design issues involving electrical breakdown. As experience accumulated within industry and government, attempts were made to capture it with various design guidelines. One such effort, the Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC), began the development of a suitable guidelines document in the early 1970's. Originally issued as 50 M05189b, October 1972, it was upgraded to a MSFC standard and reissued as MSFC-STD-531 in September 1978. By the late 1990s it was clear that STD-531 needed considerable revision to capture experience gained in the two decades since its issue. This document has served as the basis for several derived works that became focused, program-specific HV guidelines previously. This paper is an overview of space environments, space environmental effects/interactions, and high-voltage electrical/electronic design techniques required to specify and apply electrical insulation to spacecraft high-voltage parts, components and systems
Lean-Burn Stationary Natural Gas Engine Operation With a Prototype Laser Spark Plug

An end pumped passively Q-switched laser igniter was developed to meet the ignition system needs of large bore lean burn stationary natural gas engines. The laser spark plug used an optical fiber coupled diode pump source to axially pump a passively Q-switched Nd:YAG laser and transmit the laser pulse through a custom designed lens. The optical fiber coupled pump source permits the excitation energy to be transmitted to the spark plug at relatively low optical power, less than 250 W. The Q-switched laser then generates as much as 8 mJ of light in 2.5 ns, which is focused through an asymmetric biconvex lens to create a laser spark from a focused intensity of approximately 225 GW/cm 2 . A single cylinder engine fueled with either natural gas only or hydrogen augmented natural gas was operated with the laser spark plug for approximately 10 h in tests spanning 4 days. The tests were conducted with fixed engine speed, fixed boost pressure, no exhaust gas recirculation, and laser spark timing advance set at maximum brake torque timing. Engine operational and emissions data were collected and analyzed.
Bringing Silicon to Light: Luminescence in Silicon Nanostructures

The many and diverse approaches to materials science problems have greatly enhanced our ability in recent times to engineer the physical properties of semiconductors. Silicon, of all semiconductors, underpins nearly all microelectronics today and will continue to do so for some time to come. However, in optoelectronics and, more recently, in photonics, the severe disadvantage of an indirect band gap has limited the application of elemental silicon. Here we review a number of diverse approaches to engineering efficient light emission in silicon nanostructures. These different approaches are placed in context and their prospects are assessed for applications in silicon-based photonics.
Nucleotide sequences surrounding the nonanucleotide promoter motif influence the activity of yeast mitochondrial promoter.

The highly conserved nonanucleotide (5'-TATAAGTAA[+2]) promoter sequence dictates initiation of gene-specific transcription by the mitochondrial (mt) RNA polymerase in yeast mitochondria. However, transcriptional efficiency of the nonanucleotide promoter in different mt genes varies severalfold. To explore the regulatory role of the promoter-proximal template sequence in mt transcription, different deletion, nucleotide (nt) substitution, and tandem promoter constructs were analyzed under in vitro transcription reaction conditions. It has been found that the conserved nonanucleotide promoter plus more than 9 nt of nonconserved sequence 3' to the promoter were absolutely essential for mt gene-specific transcription. In addition, approximately 300 nt of nonspecific DNA sequence 5' to the promoter was also important for efficient transcription. Interestingly, introduction of consecutive T residues in the early transcribed sequence of the template strongly inhibited mt transcription at low nt concentrations (i.e., 5 microM UTP). In contrast, neither other nt clusters nor a bacterial terminator-like sequences at that location inhibited mt transcription. Under the nonproductive reaction conditions, the full-length transcript from the mt polyT template was drastically reduced with the formation of several short abortive oligoribonucleotides. These results suggest that the transcriptional efficacy of the yeast mt promoter is influenced by sequence 3' to the promoter.
Intelligence in early adulthood and life span up to 65 years later in male elderly twins

Background : previous research has reported that greater intelligence in early life is associated with longer lifespan. Whether this relationship is mediated by genetic factors or environmental factors, some of which could be modified by an individual, is unclear. Objective : we examined the association between intelligence test scores, obtained during the 1940s, and age at death in a group of 492 male twin pairs, members of the National Academy of Sciences - National Research Council Twins Registry of WWII veterans. Design : using self-report information collected in the 1960s, we examined whether modifiable risk factors for mortality, such as use of tobacco and alcohol, cardiovascular disease, and body mass index altered the association between intelligence and longevity. Results : when each member of a twin pair was treated as an independent observation, higher intelligence test scores were associated with longer life span (P = 0.0002). Modifiable risk factors were associated with life span as expected. However, in co-twin control analyses in which one twin served as the control for the other twin, neither intelligence nor any modifiable risk factors showed a significant association with life span. Conclusion : our findings suggest that genetics and early life environmental factors contribute heavily to lifespan and when one controls for these factors using twins, the effect of intelligence on longevity is diminished.
Plasma cell differentiation initiates a limited ER stress response by specifically suppressing the PERK-dependent branch of the unfolded protein response.

In response to terminal differentiation signals that enable B cells to produce vast quantities of antibodies, a dramatic expansion of the secretory pathway and a corresponding increase in the molecular chaperones and folding enzymes that aid and monitor immunoglobulin synthesis occurs. Recent studies reveal that the unfolded protein response (UPR), which is normally activated by endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, plays a critical role in this process. Although B cells activate all three branches of the UPR in response to pharmacological inducers of the pathway, plasma cell differentiation elicits only a partial UPR in which components of the PKR-like ER kinase (PERK) branch are not expressed. This prompted us to further characterize UPR activation during plasma cell differentiation. We found that in response to lipopolysaccharides (LPS)-induced differentiation of the I.29 μ+ B cell line, Ire1 was activated early, which led to splicing of XBP-1. PERK was partially phosphorylated with similar kinetics, but this was not sufficient to activate its downstream target eIF-2α, which initiates translation arrest, or to induce other targets like CHOP or GADD34. Both of these events preceded increased Ig synthesis, arguing this is not the signal for activating these two transducers. Targets of activating transcription factor 6 (ATF6) were up-regulated considerably later, arguing that the ATF6 branch is activated by a distinct signal. Pretreatment with LPS inhibited activation of the PERK branch by pharmacological inducers of the UPR, suggesting that differentiation-induced signals specifically silence this branch. This unique ability to differentially regulate various branches of the UPR allows B cells to accomplish distinct outcomes via the same UPR machinery.
Mechanism of Fluorometric Analysis of Tetracycline Involving Metal Complexation

Tetracycline complexation with calcium and organic ligands was studied using fluorescence, circular dichroism, and solvent extraction methods. The results were used to interpret the mechanism of the commonly used fluorometric methods for the analysis of tetracycline in biological fluids. Tetracycline formed ternary calcium complexes with barbital sodium and L-tryptophan in alkaline solutions. The circular dichroism studies indicate that the calcium ion in these complexes is bound to the C-4 dimethylamino and the C-12a hydroxyl groups of tetracycline. These ternary complexes are strongly fluorescent and can be extracted easily into 1-butanol or ethyl acetate. Based on the characteristics of the ternary complexes and of the tetracycline degradation products, it is concluded that only the active form of tetracycline can be complexed and extracted for fluorescence analysis.
SUBMILLIMETER-WAVE SPECTRA OF AMMONIA AND PHOSPHINE.

Rotational transitions of different isotopic species of ammonia and phosphine have been observed in the \textonehalf{}- to 1-mm region. The frequency of the $J=0\ensuremath{\rightarrow}1$ transition of $^{14}\mathrm{N}$${\mathrm{H}}_{3}$ is 572 496.69 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 0.60 Mc/sec and that for $^{15}\mathrm{N}$${\mathrm{H}}_{3}$ is 572 053.18 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 0.50 Mc/sec. Spectral constants ${B}_{0}$ observed for the different isotopic species (in Mc/sec) are: 298 114.68 for $^{14}\mathrm{N}$${\mathrm{H}}_{3}$, 297 359.32 for $^{15}\mathrm{N}$${\mathrm{H}}_{3}$, 154 173.25 for $^{14}\mathrm{N}$${\mathrm{D}}_{3}$, and 153 600.82 for $^{15}\mathrm{N}$${\mathrm{D}}_{3}$. Structural dimensions for the ground vibrational state of ammonia obtained by isotopic substitution are 1.0136 \AA{} for the bond length and 107\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}3' for the bond angle. For P${\mathrm{H}}_{3}$, the rotational constants obtained (in Mc/sec) are: ${B}_{0}=133 480.15$, ${D}_{J}=3.95$, and ${D}_{\mathrm{JK}}=\ensuremath{-}5.18$; for P${\mathrm{D}}_{3}$ they are ${B}_{0}=69 471.09$, ${D}_{J}=1.02$, and ${D}_{\mathrm{JK}}=\ensuremath{-}1.31$. An upper limit of \textonehalf{} Mc has been put on the unknown inversion frequency of P${\mathrm{H}}_{3}$.
Baltic amber Ibaliidae (Hymenoptera: Cynipoidea): a new genus with implications for the phylogeny and historical biogeography of the family

. The first definitive ibaliid wasp (Cynipoidea: Ibaliidae) is described and illustrated from a female preserved in middle Eocene (Lutetian) Baltic amber. Archaeibalia succinica Liu & Engel gen. et sp.n. is distinct from all other members of the family, cladistically placed as sister to all other Ibaliidae, and classified in its own subfamily, Archaeibaliinae Liu & Engel subfam.n. The genus was putatively a parasitoid of wood-boring insects in hardwood trees. Given that the species is exceptionally rare in Baltic amber (a single individual) despite a habitat that would have placed it in immediate proximity with resin flows, the host of A. succinica was probably not living in the ‘Baltic amber tree’. The historical biogeography and evolution of ibaliids is reconsidered based on the present paleontological evidence.
Pneumoperitoneum does not potentiate the nephrotoxicity of aminoglycosides in rats

Abstract Objectives. Pneumoperitoneum is associated with transient renal dysfunction. To our knowledge, the safety of administering nephrotoxins such as aminoglycosides during pneumoperitoneum has not been studied. Our hypothesis was that pneumoperitoneum potentiates the nephrotoxicity of aminoglycosides. Methods. From 29 rats we obtained preprocedure 24-hour urine collections. In the pneumoperitoneum group (n = 7), carbon dioxide was insufflated intra-abdominally at 15 mm Hg pressure for 2 hours. In the gentamicin group (n = 7), 10 mg/kg gentamicin was administered intravenously. In the combined pneumoperitoneum/gentamicin group (n = 8), the same dose of gentamicin was administered 10 minutes before pneumoperitoneum. Sham rats (n = 7) received anesthesia only. Urine was collected for the 24 hours after the procedure, and 1 week later blood for creatinine determination and final 24-hour urine collections were obtained. All urine samples were assayed for creatinine and N-acetyl-beta-glucosaminidase (NAG). Results. Only the gentamicin and combined pneumoperitoneum/gentamicin groups presented day 1 values for NAG excretion that were significantly greater than same day sham or paired preprocedure values; the rest of the urinary creatinine and NAG day 1 levels and all the day 7 levels were not significantly different from same day sham or paired preprocedure levels. Day 7 serum creatinine and creatinine clearance did not differ significantly among the groups. Conclusions. We found that intravenous gentamicin transiently increased urinary excretion of NAG in rats, which resolved within 1 week. Pneumoperitoneum for 2 hours at 15 mm Hg did not increase urinary NAG, either alone or in gentamicin-treated rats. Moreover, our data are sufficient to refute with 95% certainty the possibility that gentamicin plus pneumoperitoneum decreases creatinine clearance more than approximately 60%. These results do not support the hypothesis that pneumoperitoneum potentiates the nephrotoxicity of aminoglycosides.
Advances in Segmentation Modeling for Health Communication and Social Marketing Campaigns

Large-scale communication campaigns for health promotion and disease prevention involve analysis of audience demographic and psychographic factors for effective message targeting. A variety of segmentation modeling techniques, including tree-based methods such as Chi-squared Automatic Interaction Detection and logistic regression, are used to identify meaningful target groups within a large sample or population (N=750-1,000+). Such groups are based on statistically significant combinations of factors (e.g., gender, marital status, and personality predispositions). The identification of groups or clusters facilitates message design in order to address the particular needs, attention patterns, and concerns of audience members within each group. We review current segmentation techniques, their contributions to conceptual development, and cost-effective decision making. Examples from a major study in which these strategies were used are provided from the Texas Women, Infants and Children Program's Comprehensi...
Physician behavior in the care of pediatric chronic illness: association with health outcomes and treatment adherence.

ABSTRACT:Objective:Physician behavior is an important but understudied influence on child and parental adherence to medical treatment.Method:To address this need, research was reviewed in the following topic areas: child and adolescent perceptions of physicians’ behavior in pediatric chronic illness
MEK'ing the Most of p53 Reactivation Therapy in Melanoma

Melanoma is one of the few tumor types in which p53 is functionally repressed without extraneous mutations. With the number of kinase-based drug targets rapidly declining, p53 represents a relatively untapped resource for therapeutic intervention. Studies in other tumor types have demonstrated that reactivation of p53 is a viable strategy to initiate sustained tumor regression; combining p53 reactivation while inhibiting traditional genetic targets, such as mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal–related kinase kinase (MEK), holds therapeutic promise.
Simplified nuclear Boltzmann-Langevin simulation☆

Abstract Within the framework of the Fokker-Planck formulation of the nuclear Boltzmann-Langevin theory, we derive simple analytical expressions for the transport coefficients that are accurate for small temperatures and near equilibrium. The numerical effort associated with solving the BL equation for the nucleon phase-space density f can then be reduced by orders of magnitude, by picking the stochastic changes in f on the basis of the transport coefficients, rather than by simulating the basic two-particle-two-hole processes as previously done. The proposed method is illustrated for a maximally simple BL model applied to the equilibration in a Fermi-Dirac gas.
Optimization and transformation analysis of grain-boundary-location-controlled Si films

Excimer-laser crystallization (ELC) of amorphous Si (a-Si) films on low-temperature glass substrates is a promising technology for preparing polycrystalline Si for thin-film transistor (TFT) devices for active matrix liquid crystal displays (AMLCD`s). By optimizing various experimental parameters, the authors were able to extend the width of the microstructurally optimized regions in grain-boundary-location-controlled (GLC) Si films up to 10 {micro}m. In situ transient reflectance (TR) measurements during the solidification process reveal that the underlying GLC transformation sequence is consistent with the artificially controlled superlateral growth (ACSLG) scenario, from which the GLC process was developed and is being optimized. A definite change in the slope of the TR signal was found to appear at the transition between the vertical-and-lateral-growth and lateral-growth-only modes. Protrusions at the center of the GLC Si microstructure, which are observed in cross-sectional TEM micrographs and surface profile measurements, are formed as a result of the positive volume change associated with freezing of Si.