cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Microstructure Properties of Alkyl Polyglucoside Microemulsions

Small-angle neutron scattering was used to characterize the length scales and interfacial properties of water−alkyl ethylene glycol ethers (CkOC2OCk)−n-alkyl polyglucoside (CmGn) bicontinuous microemulsions systematically as a function of surfactant structure and oil hydrophobicity. Analysis of the scattering spectra in terms of a thermodynamic model shows that on approach to the tricritical point in water−CkOC2OCk−C8βG1−NaClO4 mixtures the solution microstructure dissolves. With increasing alkyl chain length of the surfactant (m), water−CkOC2OCk−CmGn mixtures become increasingly structured. Conversely, increasing the surfactant headgroup length (n) makes the mixtures slightly less structured. The variations in solution microstructure with changes in m and n are not as large as those observed with changing surfactant structure in water−alkane−CiEj mixtures. Exchanging the α-D (CmαG1) for β-D (CmβG1) form reduces the degree of correlation between the water and oil domains in water−CkOC2OCk−CmG1 mixtures. I...
A plate-binding elisa for use with hybridoma supernatant fluids

An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is described for initial screening of hybridoma supernatants. The protocol is flexible enough to be used with a variety of different antigen types with only a few minor modifications. The method is uncomplicated and does not require any special instnumentation or expertise.
Padé approximant spectral fit for FDTD simulation of graphene in the near infrared

A parameterization of the dispersive conductivity of highly-doped graphene has been developed and is presented for use in finite-difference time-domain simulation of near infrared graphene-based photonic and plasmonic devices. The parameterization is based on fitting a Pade approximant to the conductivity arising from interband electronic transitions. The resulting parameterization provides an accurate spectral representation of the conductivity in the wavelength range 1.3 – 2.3μm which is important for near infrared graphene plasmonics. Finite-difference time-domain simulations of straight graphene plasmonic waveguides of infinite and finite width are presented.
Late Paleocene through middle Eocene climates in lowland North America

(2000). Late Paleocene through middle Eocene climates in lowland North America. GFF: Vol. 122, No. 1, pp. 184-185.
Why Summaries of Research on Psychological Theories are Often Uninterpretable

Null hypothesis testing of correlational predictions from weak substantive theories in soft psychology is subject to the influence of ten obfuscating factors whose effects are usually (1) sizeable,...
Acute diverticulitis after Duhamel–Martin procedure for total colonic Hirschsprung’s disease

A 28-year-old man with a history of total colonic Hirschsprung’s disease treated with a Duhamel–Martin procedure in infancy, presented with signs and symptoms of acute colonic diverticulitis. Flexible sigmoidoscopy demonstrated a 20 cm jejunocolonic anastomosis, consistent with his previous operation in childhood, with a large diverticulum at the proximal end of the anastomosis containing fecal concretions. The patient returned one month later after a course of antibiotics for definitive resection of the diverticulum. Intra-operative colonoscopy localized three large diverticula and resection of the involved segment was performed. The case is presented as an adult complication of total colonic Hirschsprung’s disease treated with childhood resection and reconstruction.
Endotoxin promotes synergistic lethality during concurrent Escherichia coli and candida albicans infection

Previous studies have suggested that the lipopolysaccharide (LPS, endotoxin) component of the gram-negative bacterial cell wall is a key virulence factor that serves to enhance mortality during infections in which fungi and gram-negative bacteria are copathogens. To test this hypothesis, mice were challenged ip with Escherichia coli 0111:B4, Candida albicans, or both, and the effect of administration of anti-E. coli 0111:B4 LPS monoclonal antibody (mAb) 8G9 on endotoxemia, bacteremia, and mortality was assessed. E. coli (2 x 10(7) colony-forming units (CFU)) plus C. albicans (6 x 10(7) CFU) infection produced 100% mortality at 7 days, compared to the relatively low mortality caused by infection with either E. coli or C. albicans alone (20 and 3%, respectively, P less than 0.01). Administration of mAb 8G9 to animals receiving both pathogens reduced mortality (100% versus 14%, P less than 0.05), endotoxemia (3653 +/- 3187 versus 2 +/- 2 endotoxin units (EU), P less than 0.01), and bacteremia (4.2 +/- 2.3 versus 1.1 +/- 2.1 log(CFU/ml), P less than 0.01) compared to animals receiving saline alone. In a separate series of experiments, purified E. coli 0111:B4 LPS was administered in place of viable E. coli. The simultaneous injection of 200 micrograms E. coli LPS and C. albicans (6 x 10(7) CFU) produced 93% mortality at 7 days, compared to the low mortality that occurred following injection with either E. coli 0111:B4 LPS or C. albicans alone (21 and 3% respectively, P less than 0.01).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Design of complex systems in the presence of large uncertainties: A statistical approach

The present paper proposes an algorithmic framework for designing complex systems in the presence of large uncertainties. It is highly applicable to realistic engineering problems as it is directly parallelizable and can interact in a non-intrusive manner with any deterministic solver (e.g. finite element codes) in order to quantify response statistics and their dependence on design variables. The efficiency of the proposed procedure, which in complex systems is equivalent to the number of calls to the deterministic solver, is high due to the optimized sampling process which is employed in conjunction with a Bayesian, statistical learning component. Several numerical examples, dealing with static and dynamic, linear and nonlinear systems demonstrate the accuracy and effectiveness of the proposed methodology. In addition robust sensitivity measures for systems in the presence of uncertainties are provided.
Activity of Purkinje and basket cells in chronically isolated cerebellar folia.

Abstract Electrical activity of Purkinje and basket cells in cerebellar folia neurologically isolated from adjacent folia for as long as 2 months was studied. Purkinje cells showed a considerable amount of spontaneous activity throughout this period despite the loss of all climbing and mossy fibers, and their activity could be increased by electrical stimulation. Similar spontaneous activity was not seen in basket cells, although basket-cell inhibition of Purkinje cells was observed frequently. In some isolated folia this inhibition lasted as long as 3 min. Folia-to-folia effects transmitted by Purkinje cell collaterals were demonstrated. These effects consisted of both long and short term inhibition of Purkinje cell activity, although usually this inhibition was not as prolonged as that induced by parallel-fiber stimulation in the same folium. Several functional differences are given between cerebellar “slabs” and cerebral “slabs.”
THE IDENTITY OF HIPPA CAERULEA RISSO, 1816: AN ISOPOD IN MOLE CRAB'S DISGUISE

Until now, the identity of the Mediterranean crustacean described by Risso (1816) as Hippa caerulea has never been adequately ascertained. The only conclusion appears to be that it is not a hippid crab (Decapoda, Anomura, Hippoidea, Hippidae), as no revision of hippid crabs has included this species (Miers, 1878; De Man, 1896), and no species of Hippahasever been subsequently recorded from the Mediterranean. The only published suggestion as to its true identity was made by Holthuis (1977), who placed it in synonymy with Albunea carabus (Linnaeus, 1758) (Hippoidea, Albuneidae). In doing so, Holthuis (1977: 62) admitted that Risso’ s species “ has several aspects which do not agree with [ A. carabus]”. In fact, an examination of the descriptions of Risso (1816, 1827) shows that H. caerulea substantially differs from A. carabus in color, morphology, size, habitat and behavior and, as such, cannot be considered conspecie c with that taxon. However, many of the characters of H. caerulea agree with those of female isopods of the genus Gnathia Leach, 1813. A comparison of the components of Risso’ s (1816) description of H. caerulea to gnathiid isopods is given below in support of this hypothesis.
Apocrine adenocarcinoma: case report and review of the literature.

. Apocrine adenocarcinoma is a rare, primary malignant neoplasm of the skin. Clinically, it is a painless, skin-colored, slow-growing, firm or cystic nodule. The tumor has a high rate of local recurrence and can metastasize. In selected cases, Mohs micrographic surgery appears to be an effective treatment. We report the first case of apocrine adenocarcinoma to occur on the fingertip, and the first to be treated with Mohs micrographic surgery.
The Pop Culture of Sex: An Evolutionary Window on the Worlds of Pornography and Romance

Pornography and romance, at first glance they seem to be two genres that are almost polar opposites. Yet both are the products of our evolved human sexuality and both have been the subjects of a va...
A SHOCK WAVE STUDY OF RECOMBINATION IN NEAR-STOICHIOMETRIC HYDROGEN-OXYGEN MIXTURES

Recombination in very dilute hydrogen-oxygen-argon mixtures with H2/O2 ratios of 3:1 and 2.2:1 has been studied in a shock tube at 1307°–1846°K and 1.3–6.1 atm. The progress of the reaction was followed by OH ultraviolet line absorption. It was determined that recombination was third order in total pressure and that Reactions (I)–(III) were sufficient to account for the total rate of species disappearance. H+H+M→H2+M (I) H+O2+M→HO2+M (II) H+OH+M→H2O+M (III) In the course of this analysis, the rate coefficient of Reaction (III), kIII(M=Ar), was determined to be 5.4±50%×1015 cc2/mole2 sec at these temperatures. The results of this work and of previous recombination studies indicate that throughout the regime 8≥H2/O2≥0.33 recombination can be satisfactorily accounted for by only Reactions (I)–(III).
Synovial fibroblasts promote osteoclast formation by RANKL in a novel model of spontaneous erosive arthritis.

Objective Erosion of cartilage and bone is a hallmark of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This study was undertaken to explore the roles of hyperproliferating synovial fibroblasts and macrophages in abnormal osteoclast formation, using the recently described BXD2 mouse model of RA. Methods Cell distribution in the joints was analyzed by immunohistochemistry, using tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining to identify osteoclasts. To identify the defective cells in BXD2 mice, mouse synovial fibroblasts (MSFs) were cultured with bone marrow–derived macrophages. Osteoclast formation was assayed by TRAP staining and bone resorption pit assay, and the cytokine profiles of the MSFs and macrophages were determined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results In BXD2 mice, TRAP-positive osteoclasts were found at sites of active bone erosion, in close proximity to hyperproliferating synovial fibroblasts. On coculture, MSFs from BXD2 mice, but not C57BL/6 mice, produced high levels of RANKL messenger RNA, induced macrophages to form osteoclasts, and actively eroded bone slices, through a mechanism(s) that could be blocked by pretreatment with osteoprotegerin. Although macrophages from BXD2 mice expressed higher basal levels of tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and IL-6 than those from C57BL/6 mice, abnormal osteoclast formation was not due to enhanced sensitivity of the BXD2 mouse macrophages to RANKL. TNFα, produced by both BXD2 MSFs and BXD2 mouse macrophages, had a strong stimulatory effect on RANKL expression. Conclusion BXD2 MSFs produce RANKL and induce the development of osteoclasts from macrophages. The enhanced production of RANKL is possibly due to autocrine stimulation, together with paracrine stimulation by factors produced by macrophages.
The heat shock response of pollen and other tissues of maize.

While a heat shock treatment of 40 °C or 45 °C induced the vegetative tissues of maize to produce the typical heat shock proteins (HSPs), germinating maize pollen exposed to the same temperatures did not synthesize these characteristic HSPs. Comparison of RNA accumulation in shoot and tassel tissue showed that mRNAs for HSP70 and HSP18 increased several-fold, reaching high levels within 1 or 2 hours. At the higher temperature of 45 °C these vegetative tissues were blocked in removal of an intron from the HSP70 mRNA precursor, which accumulated to a high level in tassel tissue. In germinating pollen exposed to heat shock, mRNAs for these HSPs were induced but accumulated only to low levels. The stressed pollen maintained high levels of RNA for α-tubulin, a representative normal transcript. It is likely that the defective heat shock response of maize pollen is due to inefficient induction of heat shock gene transcription.
The SSC: Status and physics update

Abstract I give a very brief update on the current organizational and budgetary status of the Superconducting Super Collider (SSC) and review the most recent refinements and new approaches for finding several important physics signals.
Africa's oil: potential and implications

On 1 January 2007, the Republic of Angola officially joined the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC). Luanda's accession is the first change in the organization's membership in more than three decades. This significant development demonstrates Africa's growing contribution to the overall global energy security. This study examines the oil outlook of the major producers in the continent: Nigeria, Angola and Sudan. It also analyses the growing interdependence between major oil consuming nations (the United States, China and the European Union) and African producers. The contention is that increasing production from Africa and consolidating partnership with OPEC Members will contribute to global energy security and further enhance cooperation between producers and consumers.
Recent books in qualitative research methodology

(1992). Recent books in qualitative research methodology. Communication Education: Vol. 41, Instructional Communication Research: Focus on the Teacher, pp. 240-245.
ALK5- and TGFBR2-independent role of ALK1 in the pathogenesis of hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia type 2

ALK1 belongs to the type I receptor family for transforming growth factor-β family ligands. Heterozygous ALK1 mutations cause hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia type 2 (HHT2), a multisystemic vascular disorder. Based largely on in vitro studies, TGF-β1 has been considered as the most likely ALK1 ligand related to HHT, yet the identity of the physiologic ALK1 ligand remains controversial. In cultured endothelial cells, ALK1 and another TGF-β type I receptor, ALK5, regulate angiogenesis by controlling TGF-β signal transduction, and ALK5 is required for ALK1 signaling. However, the extent to which such interactions between these 2 receptors play a role in pathogenesis of HHT is unknown. We directly addressed these issues in vivo by comparing the phenotypes of mice in which the Alk1, Alk5, or Tgfbr2 gene was conditionally deleted in restricted vascular endothelia using a novel endothelial Cre transgenic line. Alk1-conditional deletion resulted in severe vascular malformations mimicking all pathologic features of HHT. Yet Alk5- or Tgfbr2-conditional deletion in mice, or Alk5 inhibition in zebrafish, did not affect vessel morphogenesis. These data indicate that neither ALK5 nor TGFBR2 is required for ALK1 signaling pertinent to the pathogenesis of HHT and suggest that HHT might not be a TGF-β subfamily disease.
Shakespeare and the Common Core: An Opportunity to Reboot:

Shakespeare's works should continue to be prevalent in American secondary education, but teachers will have to improve their instructional methods to reach 21st-century students.
Laboratory measurements of the acoustic and transport properties of carbonate rocks and their link with the amount of microcrystalline matrix

Laboratory data and computer tomography (CT) scan image analysis of carbonate rocks were combined demonstrating a quantitative link between acoustic and transport properties, the fraction of microcrystalline calcite (micrite) in the matrix, and the grain-to-micrite matrix ratio. Samples from the Monte Acuto formation, Gargano, Italy, a transgressive system tract (TST) whose microstructure ranges from basal pelagic mudstones to coarse calciturbidites, were analyzed. Results indicate that high micrite rocks with low grain-to- micrite matrix ratios, typical of low-energy depositional settings, are relatively stiffer and more impermeable. In contrast, lower amounts of micrite, due to high-energy depositional settings or its removal from intergranular macropores by progressive leaching of the matrix, leads to high grain-to-micrite matrix ratios. This process will increase porosity and reduce rock stiffness, both of which reduce velocity. Decreasing micrite content correlates well with increasing macroporosity....
Compositional effects of capital controls: evidence from Latin America

Abstract This paper examines the effects of capital controls on the composition of international capital flows, paying particular attention to debt inflows versus equity inflows. Using quarterly panel data from Latin America from 1990 to 2000, capital controls are found to significantly affect the composition of the capital account.
Direct electrochemical analyses of a thermophilic thioredoxin reductase: interplay between conformational change and redox chemistry.

Thioredoxin reductases (TrxRs) are flavin-containing dithioloxidoreductases that couple reduction equivalents from the soluble NAD(P)H pool to the soluble protein thioredoxin (Trx). Previous crystallographic studies of the Escherichia coli enzyme (ecTrxR) have shown that low molecular weight TrxRs can adopt two distinct conformations: the first (FO) is required for the oxidation of the flavin cofactor and the generation of reduced Trx; the second (FR) is adopted for the reduction of the flavin by NAD(P)H. Here, protein electrochemistry has been used to interrogate the equilibrium between the oxidized and reduced conformations of the ecTrxR and a novel, low molecular weight TrxR from the thermophilic archaeon Thermoplasma acidophilum (taTrxR) that is characterized structurally and biochemically in the accompanying paper [Hernandez et al. (2008) Biochemistry 47, 9728−9737]. A reversible electrochemical response is observed that reveals a dynamic behavior dependent upon the temperature of the experiment. At ...
Lithium cleavage of unsaturated vicinal di-tert-phosphines

Lithium cleavage of unsaturated vicinal di-tert- phosphines producing lithium diphenylphosphide
Molecular typing of human adenoviruses by PCR and sequencing of a partial region of the hexon gene

Human adenoviruses (Ads) are responsible for a substantial disease burden. Type-specific identification of Ads can help guide therapeutic and disease prevention strategies and aid epidemiological investigations. Immunotyping of Ads by serum neutralization (SN) is laborious and time consuming and depends upon type-specific antisera that are in short supply. A rapid molecular typing assay based on polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification and sequencing of Ad hexon gene hyper-variable regions 1-6 (HVR(1-6)) known to contain type-specific epitopes was evaluated as an alternative to SN. Deduced amino acid sequences of HVR(1-6) obtained from all 51 currently recognized Ad prototype strains were well resolved, with the exception of types 15 and 29, which were identical. Of 192 temporally and geographically diverse Ad field isolates sequenced in this study, and 111 previously published sequences, all more closely matched their predicted prototype strains. Ads were also detected and correctly identified directly from 24 clinical specimens positive by culture or antigen detection. PCR and sequencing of HVR(1-6) offers a practical alternative to SN for typing most Ads and can be readily adapted for use in laboratories with molecular capabilities.
1983 Perspectives on the pharmacotherapy of opiate addiction

Abstract The clinical problems of opiate addiction have largely retained their enigmas and challenges despite much work and many exciting developments during the past 10 years. This paper will present some of the more important advances. Narcotic pharmacology has undergone a revolutionary development. The major discoveries include the opiate receptors, recognition of their heterogeneity, their widespread distribution in neural and non-neural tissue, the delineation of endogenous ligands which range from the penta-peptides, met- and leu-enkephalins to large polypeptides, and some indications of the functional consequences of opioid-receptor interaction [1–3]. However, application of these advances in clinical medicine have been far more productive in neurophysiology than in the understanding of the problems of human opiate addicts. Pharmacotherapy with opiate agonists and antagonists have had extensive trials, especially in the U.S.A., but also to some extent in England, Sweden and the Orient. What have we learned as a result of these efforts? It is fitting to take stock of what happened, to appreciate what continues to be used, and what some future considerations might evolve.
Automatic control of the ion-illumination angle in a spark-source mass spectrometer

Automatic adjustment of only the spark-gap width in a spark-source mass spectrometer does not ensure that optimum conditions of electrode geometry are maintained with respect to the ion-optics system. A device has been developed which simultaneously maintains a constant gap width and also a more constant z-axis ion-illumination angle. This is the first development to utilize ion-optics parameters to adjust the sparking electrodes automatically. The system maintains the electrodes in an optimum configuration such that higher and more constant instrument sensitivity is maintained automatically. In addition, a significant improvement in the precision of instrumental response is demonstrated. It appears that relative isotopic abundances can be determined directly by the spark-source method which are comparable to those obtained in some cases by surface ionization or by electron bombardment. Results are given that support this contention.
TOWARD INTELLIGENT VARIABLE MESSAGE SIGNS IN FREEWAY WORK ZONES: NEURAL NETWORK MODEL

An increasingly popular method of managing freeway traffic is to use variable message signs (VMS). A neural network model is presented for real-time control of a VMS system in freeway work zones. The neural network is trained to detect the start of a queue in a work zone and provide a message in the freeway upstream. The travelers are informed about the congestion in a work zone when a queue starts to form. The intelligent VMS system can be trained with data for different periods within a day, such as morning and evening rush hours, nonrush hours during the day, and night, for a more detailed traffic flow prediction over the period of one day. Two different neural network training rules are used: the simple backpropagation (BP) and the Levenberg-Marquardt BP algorithms. The network is trained using data adapted from the measured data. Based on different numerical experiments it is observed that the convergence speed of the Levenberg-Marquardt BP algorithm is at least one order of magnitude faster than the simple BP algorithm for the work zone traffic queue detection problem.
Volatility, Correlation, and Diversification in aMulti-Factor World

In a multi-factor world, diversification benefits do not generally depend on correlation. Investors can restructure portfolios to align factor sensitivities. This implies that diversification benefits depend only on the idiosyncratic volatility that remains after restructuring. Similarly, the risk reduction that follows adding an asset to an existing portfolio does not depend on the asset’s correlation with the portfolio. These implications evince the fundamental importance of measuring the underlying factors and estimating factor sensitivities for every asset. Other researchers have investigated several methods for measuring factors. An easy-to-implement general method involves specifying a group of heterogeneous indexes or traded portfolios. Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) could be well suited to this purpose.
Heterogeneous process migration: issues and an approach

Process migration is the transfer of some significant part of the state of execution of a process from one machine (source) to another (destination), so that the process can resume execution on the destination machine from the point where it stopped execution on the source machine. When the source and destination machines differ significantly in their hardware and software configurations, the transferred process state needs to be translated to a correct state, valid on the destination machine, and such a migration is called a heterogeneous process migration. This paper discusses some of the motivations, problems and issues associated with architectural heterogeneity, especially the effects caused by having different number of registers on the source and destination machines, when doing heterogeneous process migration. It also describes an approach to accomplish heterogeneous process migration while addressing these effects of heterogeneity in register cardinality. The principal advantage of this approach is that it doesn't require any recompilation during the migration phase, and the migrated process can resume execution from a point very close to the point where it stopped execution on the source machine.
Mass spectrum in a conformally invariant Brans-Dicke theory

In this paper it is shown that the Brans-Dicke theory, for a special case, is conformally invariant. For the case that the energy-momentum tensor of matter is zero, i.e., for particlelike solutions, an explicit solution for the scalar field phi and for the metric tensor is found. Imposing certain natural boundary conditions leads to the result that, far away, the net effect of this solution is to appear as a particle which has a discrete mass spectrum and an event horizon which is less than the ordinary Schwarzschild radius.
General study of area supply methods

ELECTRIC POWER is usually delivered to the distributed loads of an area by superimposed voltage webs or networks. In general, the higher voltage webs are used to transmit power, whereas the lower voltage webs, which provide much denser area coverage, are used to distribute power. Connections are required between the webs, which consist of step-down transformers with the necessary switching and protective apparatus. There are three general methods of supplying the lower voltage networks: 1. Radial networks. Separate lower voltage networks, each of which is supplied from one step-down transformer location. 2. Integrated networks. Integrated lower voltage networks which are effectively one large network supplied from several step-down transformer locations. 3. Radial networks with emergency cutovers. Same as 1, except normally open ties are provided between the networks to make possible load transfers from one network to other networks under outage or emergency conditions.
ConfChem Conference on A Virtual Colloquium to Sustain and Celebrate IYC 2011 Initiatives in Global Chemical Education—The Continuing Celebration of IYC 2011: What the IUPAC Polymer Division Is Doing To Keep Things Going

The IUPAC polymer division regards the International Year of Chemistry as a starting point for ongoing engagement with the public to better communicate the important role of polymer chemistry in serving society. Prior to that we had started a polymer division education Web site to distribute the contents of an educational CD focused on polymers. This Web site became our principal tool for IYC activities including a video and essay contest aimed at high school and university students, an international funding call, and a list of polymer division sponsored IYC events and conferences. In addition, it provides links to educational Web sites around the world, videos related to polymer scientists and polymer division award winners, and simple definitions of common polymer terms. This communication discusses the results of a student competition, an international funding call designed by national funding agencies to develop best practices for multinational research programs, and noteworthy aspects of the educational Web site and summarizes one of the invited papers to the ConfChem online conference A Virtual Colloquium to Sustain and Celebrate IYC 2011 Initiatives in Global Chemical Education, held from May 18 to June 29, 2012 and hosted by the ACS DivCHED Committee on Computers in Chemical Education (CCCE) and the IUPAC Committee on Chemistry Education.
Synthesis and characterization of tris(β-diketonato)technetium(III) and -(IV) complexes

Abstract The preparations and properties of tris(dipivaloylmethanato)technetium(III), tris(trifluoroacetylacetonato)technetium(III), and tris(hexafluoroacetonato)technetium(III) are described. The oxidation of the dipivaloyl derivative to tris(dipivaloyl)technetium(IV) hexafluorophosphate was shown to take place readily. Voltammetric studies and magnetic resonance results on the new complexes are reported. The large shifts observed for the complexes seem to be due to a contact interaction.
Blanching subcutaneous nodules in neonatal neuroblastoma

Summary Persistent blanching in and around the cutaneous metastases of a neuroblastoma was observed in a newborn infant girl. Catecholamines were demonstrated in the tumor cells from a skin metastasis by electron microscopy and fluorescence histochemistry. The blanching is believed to result from local vasoconstriction following release of catecholamines from the tumor cells. The blanching phenomenon may be a useful diagnostic sign characteristic of the skin metastases of neuroblastoma.
Kinetics of deactivation of a reforming catalyst during methylcyclohexane dehydrogenation in a diffusion reactor

Abstract The deactivation of a commercial reforming catalyst having 0.6% Pt supported on γ-alumina was studied in a single pellet diffusion reactor using the dehydrogenation of methylcyclohexane to toluene reaction as a model of the reforming process. The reaction was studied in the temperature range 350–400 °C and methylcyclohexane and hydrogen partial pressure from 15–60 and 0–800 Torr, respectively. In this range of concentrations, the reaction is approximately first order with respect to MCH and H2. Results of this work establish the sensitivity of the poisoning rate to hydrogen partial pressure in agreement with previous work. It is shown that only a part of the intermediate poison structures can be removed by hydrogenation under reaction conditions. A model of the poisoning process is developed which explains the data quantitatively, and agrees with previous work in important aspects.
Wafer level self-packaged infrared microsensors

One common requirement of microbolometers fabricated on both rigid and flexible substrates is the need for vacuum packaging to eliminate the thermal conductivity of air and achieve high performance. However, vacuum packaging of microbolometers is expensive and is a limiting factor in achieving truly low-cost uncooled infrared detection. Vacuum packing of microbolometers on flexible substrates requires a novel approach unless flexibility is to be sacrificed. This paper explores the vacuum packaging of microbolometers through self-packaging. In this case, the micromachined encapsulation in a vacuum cavity is investigated through computer simulation of microbolometers in flexible polyimide films and through the encapsulation of microbolometers on rigid Si substrates with a Si3N4 shell. In this manner, self packaged uncooled microbolometers were fabricated on a Si wafer with semiconducting yttrium barium copper oxide (YBCO) as the infrared sensing material. The self-packaged structure is designed such that it can be covered with a superstrate, yielding low stress in the flexible skin sensors and better detection figures of merit. The devices have demonstrated voltage responsivities over 103 V/W, detectivities above 106 cm Hz1/2/W and temperature coefficient of resistance around -3.3% K-1. Computer simulations using CoventorWare and MEMulator have been used to determine suitable materials for the process, the optimum design of a vacuum element and a streamlined process flow.
Management of deformational plagiocephaly: Repositioning versus orthotic therapy

Objectives We compare positioning with orthotic therapy in 298 consecutive infants referred for correction of head asymmetry. Study design We evaluated 176 infants treated with repositioning, 159 treated with helmets, and 37 treated with initial repositioning followed by helmet therapy when treatment failed. We compared reductions in diagonal difference (RDD) between repositioning and cranial orthotic therapy. Helmets were routinely used for infants older than 6 months with DD >1 cm. Results For infants treated with repositioning at a mean age of 4.8 months, the mean RDD was 0.55 cm (from an initial mean DD of 1.05 cm). For infants treated with cranial orthotics at a mean age of 6.6 months, the mean RDD was 0.71 cm (from an initial mean DD of 1.13 cm). Conclusions Infants treated with orthotics were older and required a longer length of treatment (4.2 vs 3.5 months). Infants treated with orthosis had a mean final DD closer to the DD in unaffected infants (0.3 ± 0.1 cm), orthotic therapy was more effective than repositioning (61% decrease versus 52% decrease in DD), and early orthosis was significantly more effective than later orthosis (65% decrease versus 51% decrease in DD).
Viscoelasticity of aqueous telechelic poly(ethylene oxide) solutions: Relaxation and structure

We present a rheology study of associating polymers. The associating polymers are telechelic, composed of a water-soluble backbone (polyethylene oxide) terminated by hydrophobic moieties (C16H33). In aqueous solutions, these polymers self-assemble to form micellar structures. Above a critical concentration, approximately 1 wt % of polymer, bridging between the micelles forms a transient network. Traditionally, the viscoelastic response of these polymeric solutions has been described using the Maxwell model. In this work we measure the viscoelastic properties over an extended frequency range (0.01-6000 Hz) using microrheology, and show that at high frequencies the rheology behaves as the square root of the oscillation frequency. To fit the data, we use a combination of the Maxwell model and the Rouse model. The Maxwell model accounts for the hydrophobic associations between the polymeric micelles, and the Rouse model accounts for the microscopic dynamics of the individual micelles.
On the uncertainties of flash flood guidance: toward probabilistic forecasting of flash floods

Abstract Quantifying uncertainty associated with flash flood warning or forecast systems is required to enable informed decision making by those responsible for operation and management of natural hazard protection systems. The current system used by the U.S. National Weather Service (NWS) to issue flash-flood warnings and watches over the Unites States is a purely deterministic system. The authors propose a simple approach to augment the Flash Flood Guidance System (FFGS) with uncertainty propagation components. The authors briefly discuss the main components of the system, propose changes to improve it, and allow accounting for several sources of uncertainty. They illustrate their discussion with examples of uncertainty quantification procedures for several small basins of the Illinois River basin in Oklahoma. As the current FFGS is tightly coupled with two technologies, that is, threshold-runoff mapping and the Sacramento Soil Moisture Accounting Hydrologic Model, the authors discuss both as sources of...
Do schools hold the key to controlling parasitic disease

The rising rate of school attendance in many African countries is providing an unparalleled opportunity to reach children burdened by parasitic disease. Gavin Yamey explores how Kenya is seizing its chance
The Genus Sobarocephala (Diptera: Clusiidae) in America North of Mexico

Adults of Sobarocephala are often taken in fruit fly traps, although the few rearing records suggest that the larvae feed in rotting wood. The Nearctic species are revised, with a key to 15 species, including 8 new species: cruciger, muesebecki, atrifacies, latifacies, texensis, atricornis, dreisbachi, interrupta . Male genitalia, color patterns of mesonotum and female abdomen, and puparia of the 3 reared species are figured.
Lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophage inducible nitric oxide synthase and nitric oxide production is decreased by an omega-3 fatty acid lipid emulsion.

Background Omega-3 fatty acids (ω-3 FA) have been demonstrated to have anti-inflammatory properties, postulated to occur through several principal mechanisms, including (1) displacement of arachidonic acid from the cellular membrane; (2) shifting of prostaglandin E2 and leukotriene B4 production; and (3) molecular level alterations including decreased activation of nuclear factor kappa B and activator protein-1. An additional regulator that is likely associated is the production of nitric oxide (NO) by nitric oxide synthetase. NO is a short-lived free radical involved in many biological functions. However, excessive NO production can lead to complications, suggesting that decreased NO production is a potential target for some inflammatory diseases. We hypothesized that pretreating with an ω-3 FA lipid emulsion would decrease the production of NO in macrophages and that this effect would occur through alterations in inducible nitric oxide synthetase (iNOS). Materials and methods Greiss reagent was used to assess NO production in RAW 264.7 macrophages following ω-3 or ω-6 FA treatment alone or in combination with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation for 12 h/24 h. iNOS levels were determined by Western blot. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha levels were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results Following LPS-stimulation, ω-3 FA pretreatment at 12 and 24 h produced significantly less NO (P Conclusion These experiments demonstrate that, in addition to other anti-inflammatory effects, ω-3 FA lipid emulsions also significantly lower NO production in LPS-stimulated macrophages through altered iNOS protein expression.
A Method for Computing All Solutions to Systems of Polynomials Equations

Small polynomial systems of equations arise in many apphcations areas: computer-aided design, mechanical design, chemmal kinetics modeling, and nonlinear circuit analysis. Use of local iterative methods, such as Newton's method, can be a hit-or-miss process. Purely algebraic schemes, such as the method of resultants, can lead to severe numerical difficulties. Imbedding methods provide the most reliable techniques for computing all solutmns to small polynomial systems. One such method is described and computational experience with it is reported on.
Electrophysiology of cultured human lens epithelial cells

The lens epithelial K+ conductance plays a key role in maintaining the lens ionic steady state. The specific channels responsible for this conductance are unknown. We used cultured lens epithelia and patch-clamp technology to address this problem. Human lens epithelial explants were cultured and after 1–4 passages were dissociated and used in this study. The cells from which we measured had a mean diameter of 31±1 μm (sem,n=26). The resting voltage was −19±4 mV (sem,n=10) and the input resistance was 2.5±0.5 GΩ (sem,n=17) at −60 mV. Two currents were prominent in whole-cell recordings. An outwardly rectifying current was seen in nearly every cell. The magnitude of this current was a function of K+ concentration and was blocked by 3mm tetraethylammonium. The instantaneous current-voltage relationship was linear in symmetric K+, implying that the outward rectificiation was due to gating. The current showed complex activation and inactivation kinetics. The second current seen was a transient inward current. This current had kinetics very similar to the traditional Na+ current of excitable cells and was blocked by 0.1 μm tetrodotoxin. In single-channel recordings, a 150-pS K+ channel and a 35-pS nonselective cation channel were seen but neither account for the macroscopic currents measured.
Effects of Minority Stress Processes on the Mental Health of Latino Men Who Have Sex with Men and Women: A Qualitative Study

Emerging literature on minority stress among sexual minority populations has described the negative consequences that multiple minority statuses may exert on mental health and well-being. This literature has tended to focus on individuals whose self-identifications reflect sexual minority sexual categories, such as gay or bisexual, and has explored the intersection of these definitions with ethnic, racial, and class statuses. Few such studies have explored mental health among men who actively deny a sexual minority sexual identity label while engaging in same-sex sexual behaviors. The present study used ethnographic interview data from 20 non-gay-identified bisexually behaving Dominican and Puerto Rican men in New York City. Participants described discovery of same sex sexual behavior as a threat to their intimate relationships, community affiliation, and counter to expectations of Latino masculinity. Recounting a wide range of information management strategies used to avoid open disclosure about their sexual lives, participants experienced the potential consequences of disclosure as extreme and even life threatening. Men anticipated social isolation, depression, self-injury, and suicidality as possible outcomes from disclosing sexual behavior with other men to their female romantic partners. This analysis provides direction for future research on minority stress processes and mental health service delivery among Latino men who have sex with men and women.
Nitrogen Mineralization in Riparian Soils along a River Continuum within a Multi-Land-Use Basin

Nitrogen dynamics in riparian systems are often addressed within one land-use type and are rarely studied on watershed scales across multiple land uses. This study tested for temporal trends and watershed-wide spatial patterns in N mineralization and identified site factors related to N mineralization. We measured net N mineralization in situ at monthly intervals for 1 yr at 32 riparian sites along the 124-km length of the Calapooia River, Oregon. We observed seasonal trends of mean net N mineralization with relatively low rates in the fall (29.8 kg N ha ―1 yr ―1 ) and winter (30.1 kg N ha ―1 yr ―1 ) and relatively high rates in the spring (122.1 kg N ha ―1 yr ―1 ) and summer (99.7 kg N ha ―1 yr ―1 ) when conditions for microbial activity and decomposition were likely enhanced. Annual net N mineralization on an area basis ranged from ―13.5 to 234.0 kg N ha ―1 yr ―1 with a mean for all sites of 50.1 kg N ha ―1 yr ―1 . Annual net N mineralization per kilogram of soil ranged from ―16.2 to 207.1 mg N kg soil ―1 yr ―1 with a mean for all sites of 64.4 mg N kg soil ―1 yr ―1 . Regression analysis revealed hardwood basal area and coverage of grass as significant positive predictors of kilograms of N mineralized per hectare. Location along the river explained 22% of the variability of N mineralization per hectare, indicating that riparian areas may function differently along the length of the river.
A scheme for simulating particle pair motions in turbulent fluid

Abstract A technique is developed for simulating the random motion of particles in turbulent fluid. The technique is applicable to single particles or to pairs of particles whose motions are correlated. The method is intended for use in determining one or two-particle Lagrangian turbulence statistics either from instantaneous velocity fields generated by turbulence simulation models or from Eulerian statistics of the turbulence acquired either from observations, from theory, or from a turbulence closure model. In the latter capacity the scheme provides a basis for Monte Carlo type models of turbulent diffusion. The scheme requires as inputs the probability density of the Eulerian velocity, or at least its mean and variance; the autocorrelation of the Eulerian velocity, or at least its integral time scale; and the energy dissipation rate of the turbulence.
Structure-borne noise reduction in a truck cab interior using numerical techniques

Abstract A computer-aided-engineering (CAE) method is used for noise reduction in a truck cab interior. The finite element (FE) and the boundary element method (BEM) are used to characterize the acoustic field of a truck cab interior in terms of the natural frequencies and the mode shapes. Structural vibration responses of the cab are computed for excitations at the cab mounts in a frequency range from 50 to 250 Hz. Interior noise levels at the driver's right ear are determined using the boundary element method for excitations at the cab mounts. A panel acoustic contribution analysis (PACA) is done to determine the structural areas of the cab contributing most to the noise levels at the driver's right ear. Structure-borne noise is reduced in the interior of the cab by selection and placement of sound absorbing material at the appropriate locations in the cab, as determined by PACA.
Residual errors in laser interferometry from air turbulence and nonlinearity

Laser displacement interferometry is used extensively in precision equipment for semiconductor manufacture. In these applications it is often necessary to introduce a high velocity airflow to the measurement environment to minimize the density of airborne particulate contaminants. The performance of the heterodyne interferometer is degraded by the resulting fluctuations in the index of refraction along the beam path. The magnitude, correlation length, and probability distribution of the optical path length (OPL) fluctuations are measured for several airflow conditions. The data are interpreted in terms of the path length errors for some common interferometric configurations. The OPL fluctuations are generally less significant than the systematic sources of measurement error. A more fundamental limit on the accuracy of the heterodyne Michelson interferometer is the periodic nonlinearity caused by leakage of the frequency components in the beamsplitter. The effect is discussed in detail. A direct observation of the nonlinearity is reported. The magnitude of the effect is about λ/64 for the beam splitters used in this experiment. A simple technique which indicates the presence and magnitude of the nonlinearity is described.