cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Regulation of linear systems with fixed noncommensurate point delays

The first solution is given to the open problem of stabilizability and detectability (necessary sufficient conditions for internal stabilization by feedback) of retarded and a large class of linear neutral delay-differential systems with several fixed, noncommensurate point delays, using casual compensators (observers and state-feedback or dynamic output feedback) which are also the same type of neutral or retarded delay differential systems with fixed, point delays only. Our results are rank conditions on the system matrices [zI-F:G] and [zI-FT:HT] evaluated at points in the complex plane and are the weakest possible generally applicable sufficient such rank conditions for stabilization of neutral systems in the light of what is known on the stabilizability of such systems. These conditions are necessary for most practical purposes. The class of systems we consider include all retarded delay-differential systems with noncommensurate, fixed, point delays. In the case of retarded systems, these rank conditions are necessary and sufficient conditions for stabilization via compensators which are causal retarded delay-differential systems with fixed, point delays only.
Quantum Gaussian noise

In semiclassical theory, light is a classical electromagnetic wave and the fundamental source of photodetection noise is the shot effect arising from the discreteness of the electron charge. In quantum theory, light is a quantum-mechanical entity and the fundamental source of photodetection noise comes from measuring the photon-flux operator. The Glauber coherent states are Gaussian quantum states which represent classical electromagnetic radiation. Quantum photodetection of these states yields statistics that are indistinguishable from the corresponding Poisson point-process results of semiclassical photodetection. Optical parametric interactions, however, can be used to produce other Gaussian quantum states, states whose photodetection behavior cannot be characterized semiclassically. A unified analytical framework is presented for Gaussian-state photodetection that includes the full panoply of nonclassical effects that have been produced via parametric interactions.
Evaluation of Spot Price Based Electricity Rates

It is necessary to be able to evaluate the cost of providing electric service on a hour by hour basis in order to effectively market electric energy in a fashion which meets both the utility's and its customer's needs; i. e. to offer appropriate rates, contracts, and load management options to the customers. This paper provides a methodology which uses the theory of spot prices to evaluate the variable costs of electric energy on an hourly basis. The methodology decomposes variable costs in components corresponding to generation fuel and maintenance, T and D network losses and maintenance, and generation and network quality of supply components arising from unserved energy caused by shortages of generation and network capacity. The methodology provides a choice between four different methods of revenue reconciliation to cover the capital and fixed costs of generation and the T and D network. Planning studies can be done using the methodology without developing large new computer programs. A numeric example is presented which exhibits large price variations depending on random weather and generator outages
Exocrine secretions of bees X. 3,7-Dimethyldeca-2,6-dien-1,10-diol: A sex-specific compound fromNomada annulata (Hymenoptera: Anthophoridae).

3,7-Dimethyldeca-2,6-dien-1,10-diol was isolated from male cephalic extracts of the cleptoparasitic or “cuckoo” bee,Nomada annulata. The compound is absent in female head extracts. This diol, previously known only from a male danaid butterfly, is a new bee natural product and is not found in the volatile exocrine secretions of the host bee,Andrena macra. The role of this compound in this parasite-host system, including the chemical basis ofNomada-Andrena associations, is discussed.
Peroxide enhancement of poly(α-methylstyrene) thermal degradation

An experimental study showed the enhancement effect of di-tert-butyl peroxide on poly(α-methylstyrene) (PAMS) thermal degradation in trichlorobenzene solution (12.5 g/L). Peroxide was continuously injected into the reacting polymer solution at low flow rates (0.3-4.0 mL/h). Samples were taken periodically and analyzed by GPC to determine the temporal behavior of the molecular weight distribution. Peroxide addition fundamentally altered the degradation mechanism to one in which random degradation was significant. A distribution kinetics model based on the fundamental free-radical processes of initiation-termination, β-scission, and hydrogen abstraction was developed to describe the irreversible polymer degradation process. Reaction rate coefficients that are linearly dependent on the polymer molecular weight are the model parameters fitted to experimental data. The Arrhenius activation energies for individual steps in the reaction mechanism were calculated on the basis of the temperature dependence of the reaction rate. The different mechanisms for peroxide-enhanced thermolysis of PAMS and polystyrene are clarified by the distribution kinetics approach.
Lipid Profiling Reveals Arachidonate Deficiency in RAW264.7 Cells: Structural and Functional Implications

Glycerophospholipids containing arachidonic acid (20:4) serve as the precursors for an array of biologically active lipid mediators, most of which are produced by macrophages. We have applied mass spectrometry-based lipid profiling technology to evaluate the glycerophospholipid structure and composition of two macrophage populations, resident peritoneal macrophages and RAW264.7 cells, with regard to their potential for 20:4-based lipid mediator biosynthesis. Fatty acid analysis indicated that RAW264.7 cells were deficient in 20:4 (10 ± 1 mol %) compared to peritoneal macrophages (26 ± 1 mol %). Mass spectrometry of total glycerophospholipids demonstrated a marked difference in the distribution of lipid species, including reduced levels of 20:4-containing lipids, in RAW264.7 cells compared to peritoneal macrophages. Enrichment of RAW264.7 cells with 20:4 increased the fatty acid to 20 ± 1 mol %. However, the distribution of the incorporated 20:4 remained different from that of peritoneal macrophages. RAW26...
The F# Path to Relaxation

Born in a lab, matured in the enterprise, and now fully baked as an open-source, cross-platform, professionally-supported language - the F# journey has always been about reconciling the apparently irreconcilable: Functional and Objects, Types and Dynamism, Company and Openness, Programming and Data, Patterns and Abstraction, GPU and CPU, Async and Sync, Server and Client. Take two irreconcilable ideas, and F# finds a way. Come along and take a journey with me through the modern programming landscape and the F# approach to research, language design, interoperability, tooling and community.
Sociological and Technological Interdependencies of New Media

Somehow I got assigned to create a faculty bulletin board, with photos of each faculty member along with answers to several questions students had asked. Someone started on it about two years before, but there were photos and quotes from only about a third of the faculty. This seemed unnecessarily tacky–just who were the rest of the faculty, and why weren’t they included? So, the Chair of the department, wisely realizing no one but me really cared, told the faculty during one meeting that I was now in charge of completing the board, and I had authority to harass them for photos and a short interview. That was actually fun, as I got to spend some time with old and new faculty, learned how to use my new little digital camera and transfer the photo files to a CD, and get them printed through online ordering–learning about and using digital media. After I finished the faculty bulletin board (using all my high-level skills of formatting, using colored paper, and stapling, but also reducing a bit the potential of my doing further harm to the discipline or my university through writing or analysis), two faculty asked if I could use a different photo, meaning I needed to get just two new photos printed. Certainly not worth using the online service again, with transaction costs geared toward 36 photos, wait time, and a long trip to the pic place. So I decided to use one of the self-serve kiosks in a nearby drugstore–always on a mission to force myself to learn about new media technology. Well, there were several warning signs right there: a simple task, intended to help others, motivated by the potential for learning, communicating with service personnel, and using new media technology. After cropping and adjusting the photos using the standard Microsoft Picture Manager (nothing fancy for me!) I copied the two photos onto my USB flash memory (sort of like my own memory–not fast, but it disappears in a flash) drive. I went to the pharmacy, and, as it was early in the day, all the kiosks were free and the person behind the photo counter had only one customer. I sat down by the one for self-service, individual prints–not the large-volume kiosks that sent the orders to the photo processing department for later pickup.
Body condition during pregnancy and lactation and reproductive efficiency of mares

Abstract In Experiment I, 32 mares were equally allotted to the following treatments: mares fed to A) high body condition from 90 days prepartum to foaling and maintained in high body condition to 90 days postpartum, B) high body condition from 90 days prepartum to foaling and allowed to lose body condition to 90 days postpartum, C) lose body condition from 90 days prepartum to foaling and maintained in low body condition to 90 days postpartum, and D) lose body condition from 90 days prepartum to foaling and allowed to gain weight after foaling to attain a high level of body condition by 90 days postpartum. After three cycles, pregnancy rate at 30 days postovulation was lower (P
It's easy to build your own microarrayer!

Abstract DNA microarrays are becoming the tool of choice for microbial gene-expression profiling and genotypic analysis. The construction of a gridding robot for the ‘in-house' production of microarrays is a choice worth considering, and offers distinct advantages over other options in terms of cost effectiveness and scale. Having built our own robot, we want to dispel some of the myths that might be associated with such a project, as well as provide practical advice for potential builders in the UK and Europe.
Postural ST-T Wave Changes in the Radioelectrocardiogram Simulating Myocardial Ischemia

Six hundred and seventy-six healthy subjects between 5 and 77 years of age have been studied by radioelectrocardiography. These subjects were studied before exercise, during a Master's two-step test, and after exercise. Orthostatic ST-T changes occurred in 32 of 200 subjects (16 per cent). The results indicate that the positioning of the bipolar chest leads is crucial in eliminating "abnormal" ST-T changes caused by changes in posture and position. Criteria for orthostatic ST-T changes have been presented. It is concluded that more rigid criteria for "definitely abnormal" ST-T changes during radioelectrocardiography should be developed, so that coronary artery disease will not be overdiagnosed, nor will significant ST-T changes be regarded as "normal variants" occurring with activity.
Possible influence of intrarenal generation of kinins on prostaglandin release from the rabbit perfused kidney.

Abstract The effects of bradykinin and kininogen on renal prostaglandin release were studied in rabbit isolated kidneys perfused with oxygenated Krebs solution. The concentration of prostaglandin-like material in kidney effluent was determined by bioassay after extraction of the samples with organic solvents. In 7 experiments the samples were assayed after separation of prostaglandins E and F by thin layer chromatography. Addition of bradykinin to the perfusing fluid increased the venous and urinary effluxes of prostaglandin E-like substance by sixfold and fivefold, respectively, but efflux of prostaglandin F-like material was unaffected. Addition of kininogen to the perfusing fluid augmented the venous and urinary release of prostaglandin E-like substances by fifteenfold and ninefold respectively and caused a twofold increase in the efflux of prostaglandin F-like material into the venous effluent. Aprotinin, a kallikrein inhibitor, reduced the prostaglandin releasing action of kininogen but not of bradykinin. In contrast, inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis by indomethacin suppressed the release of prostaglandin evoked by either bradykinin or kininogen. This study suggests that augmented release of prostaglandins in response to kininogen is a consequence of renal generation of kinins. Thus, changes in the intrarenal activity of the kallikreinkinin system may modulate renal prostaglandin release.
CHANGES IN THE FAT PERCENTAGE AND FAT YIELD OF DAIRY COWS WITH INJECTIONS OF AN ANTERIOR PITUITARY PREPARATION1

SEVERAL INVESTIGATORS have shown that certain extracts from the anterior pituitary have marked effects on the fat metabolism of various laboratory animals 1–5). The present report concerns the effect of anterior pituitary extracts on the fat production of dairy cattle. The anterior pituitary extract used in this study was the alkaline extract described by Best and Campbell (3) and was prepared in this laboratory according to the method outlined in that report. No quantitative assay was made on the preparation. Tests were made, however, to demonstrate the liver-fat activity of the extracted material. The preparation was injected for 5 day-periods in 500 mg. amounts. For purposes of comparison a prolactin preparation prepared in this laboratory by the method of Bates and Riddle (6) was given in 500 mg. amounts to the same 4 cows during another 5-day period.
Genome-Wide Association Study of African and European Americans Implicates Multiple Shared and Ethnic Specific Loci in Sarcoidosis Susceptibility

Sarcoidosis is a systemic inflammatory disease characterized by the formation of granulomas in affected organs. Genome-wide association studies (GWASs) of this disease have been conducted only in European population. We present the first sarcoidosis GWAS in African Americans (AAs, 818 cases and 1,088 related controls) followed by replication in independent sets of AAs (455 cases and 557 controls) and European Americans (EAs, 442 cases and 2,284 controls). We evaluated >6 million SNPs either genotyped using the Illumina Omni1-Quad array or imputed from the 1000 Genomes Project data. We identified a novel sarcoidosis-associated locus, NOTCH4, that reached genome-wide significance in the combined AA samples (rs715299, P(AA-meta) = 6.51 × 10(-10)) and demonstrated the independence of this locus from others in the MHC region in the same sample. We replicated previous European GWAS associations within HLA-DRA, HLA-DRB5, HLA-DRB1, BTNL2, and ANXA11 in both our AA and EA datasets. We also confirmed significant associations to the previously reported HLA-C and HLA-B regions in the EA but not AA samples. We further identified suggestive associations with several other genes previously reported in lung or inflammatory diseases.
Parametric study on rewetting velocities obtained with a two-dimensional heat conduction code

Abstract A comprehensive parametric study has been performed to quantify the effect of different variables on the rewetting velocity in a light water reactor following a loss-of-coolant accident. To this purpose, a numerical solution of the general two-dimensional (axial and radial) heat conduction equation in cylindrical geometry has been obtained. The method used is the alternating-direction implicit procedure developed by Peaceman and Rachford. The model accounts for decay heat generation in the fuel, coolant subcooling, different wall temperatures and different heat transfer coefficients across the gap and at the clad surface. The two-dimensional model can be reduced to a one-dimensional model by setting the heat conduction in either the radial or axial direction to zero. Results with the new model agree with previous models and with experimental data. The variables studied were: axial and/or radial heat conduction, clad temperature, quench temperature, coolant temperature, temperature for the onset of nucleate boiling, heat transfer coefficients, stored and decay heats, clad material and clad thickness. The critical thickness (clad thickness for which the calculated rewetting velocity remains constant) was also determined and found to be larger than the clad thickness of light water reactor fuel pins under usual reflood conditions. According to these calculations, the stored and decay heats affect the rewetting velocity significantly.
Dynamic modelling of oestrogen signalling and cell fate in breast cancer cells

Cancers of the breast and other tissues arise from aberrant decision-making by cells regarding their survival or death, proliferation or quiescence, damage repair or bypass. These decisions are made by molecular signalling networks that process information from outside and from within the breast cancer cell and initiate responses that determine the cell's survival and reproduction. Because the molecular logic of these circuits is difficult to comprehend by intuitive reasoning alone, we present some preliminary mathematical models of the basic decision circuits in breast cancer cells that may aid our understanding of their susceptibility or resistance to endocrine therapy.
Opioid antagonists in the periaqueductal gray inhibit morphine and β-endorphin analgesia elicited from the amygdala of rats

In addition to brainstem sites of action, analgesia can be elicited following amygdala microinjections of morphine and mu-selective opioid agonists. The present study examined whether opioid analgesia elicited by either morphine or beta-endorphin in the amygdala could be altered by either the general opioid antagonist, naltrexone, the mu-selective antagonist, beta-funaltrexamine (BFNA) or the delta 2 antagonist, naltrindole isothiocyanate (Ntii) in the periaqueductal gray (PAG). Both morphine (2.5-5 micrograms) and beta-endorphin (2.5-5 micrograms) microinjected into either the baso-lateral or central nuclei of the amygdala significantly increased tail-flick latencies and jump thresholds in rats. The increases were far more pronounced on the jump test than on the tail-flick test. Placements dorsal and medial to the amygdala were ineffective. Naltrexone (1-5 micrograms) in the PAG significantly reduced both morphine (tail-flick: 70-75%; jump: 60-81%) and beta-endorphin (tail-flick: 100%; jump: 93%) analgesia elicited from the amygdala, indicating that an opioid synapse in the PAG was integral for the full expression of analgesia elicited from the amygdala by both agonists. Both BFNA (68%) and Ntii (100%) in the PAG significantly reduced morphine, but not beta-endorphin analgesia in the amygdala on the tail-flick test. Ntii in the PAG was more effective in reducing morphine (60%) and beta-endorphin (79%) analgesia in the amygdala on the jump test than BFNA (15-24%). Opioid agonist-induced analgesia in the amygdala was unaffected by opioid antagonists administered into control misplacements in the lateral mesencephalon, and the small hyperalgesia elicited by opioid antagonists in the PAG could not account for the reductions in opioid agonist effects in the amygdala. These data indicate that PAG delta 2, and to a lesser degree, mu opioid receptors are necessary for the full expression of morphine and beta-endorphin analgesia elicited from the amygdala.
Infiltration from a trickle source in a heterogeneous soil medium

Abstract Galerkin's weighted residual method is used to numerically solve the two-dimensional nonlinear partial differential equation that describes the transient movement of water in an unsaturated porous medium. The model which was successfully used by the authors to simulate the transient moisture movement in a homogeneous soil medium is now applied in a newer version to one-dimensional vertical and two-dimensional steady-state moisture flow in a heterogeneous soil medium. The computed results in the vertical infiltration problem compared well with results obtained from a Hermitian finite-element model. The results of the steady-state pressure head distributions also compared well with experimental data from a trickle irrigation source. The advantages of the existing model to other simulation models are its ability to deal with moisture movements through a very dry soil environment in a homogeneous or heterogeneous medium, as well as its ability to treat the irregularly shaped flow regions which are usually difficult to model with other numerical models.
African–Americans and Kidney Disease: New Insights into an Old Problem

Chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal disease are a growing epidemic, both in the United States and worldwide. African–Americans are disproportionately afflicted with kidney disease. The reasons for this disparity are multiple, but ultimately unclear. Not only are diabetes mellitus and hypertension more prevalent in African–Americans, but also end-organ damage from these processes appears also to be accelerated. Also, certain primary and secondary glomerular diseases are more prevalent and more severe in African–Americans than in Caucasians. Despite controlling for these factors and socioeconomic status, the increased prevalence of kidney disease in African–Americans is still not entirely explained. Recently, two studies identified certain alleles within the MYH9 gene locus that are more frequently expressed in African–Americans with focal segmental glomerulosclerosis and non-diabetic renal disease. These studies emphasize the important role that genetic factors may play in explaining racial discrepancies in kidney disease, and represent exciting areas for new research.
TGF‐β1‐Stimulated Osteoblasts Require Intracellular Calcium Signaling for Enhanced α5 Integrin Expression

Abstract The osteoactive factor, transforming growth factor beta1 (TGF-beta1), influences osteoblast activity and bone function. We recently characterized a Smad-independent TGF-beta1-induced Ca(2+) signal in human osteoblasts (HOB) and demonstrated its importance in cell adhesion. Here, we further elucidate the role of the TGF-beta1 Ca(2+) signal in the mechanics of HOB adhesion. Osteoblast interaction with fibronectin (FN) through alpha5beta1 integrin is principally responsible for osteoblast-substrate adhesion. Our results show that the TGF-beta1 intracellular Ca(2+) signal is responsible, in part, for stimulation of alpha5 integrin expression, but not beta1 integrin or FN expression. Increased alpha5 integrin protein and mRNA expression was seen as early as 12 h after TGF-beta1 treatment, but was inhibited by cotreatment with nifedipine, a Ca(2+) channel blocker. TGF-beta1 increased both FN and beta1 integrin protein production within 48 h, independent of nifedipine cotreatment. Immunofluorescence observations revealed that TGF-beta1 increased alpha5 integrin staining, clustering, and colocalization with the actin cytoskeleton, effects that were blocked by nifedipine. The TGF-beta1 Ca(2+) signal, a pathway crucial for HOB adhesion, enhances alpha5 integrin expression, focal contact formation, and cytoskeleton reorganization. These early events are necessary for osteoblast adhesion; thus they determine the fate of the cell and ultimately affect bone function.
Renal excretion of hydrogen ions: a defense against acidosis in premature infants.

Summary 1. Small premature infants, weighing approximately 1.5 kilograms and about 4 weeks of age, are relatively inefficient in hydrogen-sodium ion exchange with regard to ammonium excretion in the presence of induced acidosis. Larger premature infants, weighing approximately 2.5 kilograms and about 6 weeks of age, are more mature in this capacity and are comparable to older children and adults when compared per unit of body weight. On a surface area basis, the larger premature infants are also comparable to full-term infants 2 to 4 months old in excretion of ammonium. 2. The filtered phosphate load is a limiting factor in the amount of titratable acid excreted in the small premature infant during induced acidosis. In the larger premature infant, the urinary titratable acid excretion is comparable to that of the adult on a surface area basis both before and after phosphate loading. 3. The smaller premature infant may be handicapped in his defense against acidosis through a deficiency in renal function.
Economic Analysis of a Continuous Casein Process Using Carbon Dioxide as Precipitant

Abstract Economic analyses are presented for two conceptual casein plants of commercial scale. For the first analysis, costs were estimated for a plant that used CO 2 as precipitant to manufacture casein. The results were compared with estimated costs for Ca caseinate plants. In the second analysis, costs were estimated for the precipitation step only for a casein plant that used CO 2 as a precipitant. In the first case, the equipment was sized for a Ca caseinate plant with a flow rate of 10,000L of milk/h and a caseinate output of 320 kg/h. Unit operating costs for production of CO 2 -precipitated casein with recycling of CO 2 were $0.038/kg less than for Ca caseinate manufactured from fresh casein and $0.103/kg less than for casein manufactured from dried casein. In the second case, operating costs for precipitation of casein with CO 2 in a plant with a flow rate of 50,000L of milk/h and a casein output of 1500 kg/h are $0.095/kg more than with lactic acid or HCl if CO 2 was not recycled. If CO 2 was recycled, capital costs were increased, but operating costs were significantly reduced. With recycling of CO 2 , the cost difference between CO 2 -precipitated casein and the other caseins was $0.021/kg.
Efficacy and safety of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors in combination with metformin

Introduction Use of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors is prevalent for the treatment of type 2 diabetes since they have fewer adverse effects compared with other non-insulin medications currently available; however, as monotherapy, the glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c)-lowering power of these agents is moderate. The aim of this article is to evaluate the current literature regarding the safety and efficacy of DPP-4 inhibitors in combination with metformin.
The Florida State Libraries Resource Sharing Initiative: Did the Predictions Pan Out?

This article revisits discussion from “The Florida State Libraries Resource Sharing Initiative: Unity Among a Disparate Group” (Schmidt & Smith, 2012) on the implementation of a new resource sharing program within the Florida State University Libraries called UBorrow. The program and its effects are assessed after 2 years with comparison to the project launch's original predictions.
Ethephon Alteration of Corn Plant Morphology

(…) Ethephon was applied at rates of 0.0, 0.14, 0.28, and 0.56 kg ha −1 at tassel elongation (TE), 6 d after tassel elongation (TE+6), and at ear elongation (EE) to Pioneer hybrid P3183 grown on Sharpsburg silty clay loam soil (Fine, montmorillonitic, mesic Typic Argiudoll). Plant and ear height were reduced more by ethephon application at EE than at TE or TE+6 (…)
Colorimetric method for the determination of fatty acids in blood by oxidation with dichromate.

Abstract A method is described for the colorimetric determination of fatty acids by oxidation in a household pressure cooker at 15 lb. pressure by a solution of potassium dichromate in 74% sulfuric acid. For colorimetric measurement the acid is diluted to 53 %. The method was applied to the determination of the total fatty acids of blood plasma, and results obtained in a series of samples are shown to be in good agreement with those determined by measuring the fatty acid esters with iron perchlorate. The advantages of the proposed method are discussed.
A functional serotonin transporter gene polymorphism and depressive effects associated with interferon-α treatment

Background Interferon-alpha (IFN- α ) treatment frequently induces depression, potentially leading to early dose reductions or a shorter duration of treatment, which can adversely affect outcomes, including quality of life. Objective Defining relevant risk factors for IFN- α -induced depression is essential in order to identify prophylactic treatment strategies. Method The authors examined whether a functional polymorphism (5-HTTLPR) in the gene encoding the serotonin transporter moderates IFN- α -induced depressive symptoms in 1,015 patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC) receiving pegylated IFN- α and ribavirin. Depressive symptoms were assessed at baseline, 12 weeks, and 20 weeks of treatment Results Depression symptoms increased during antiviral treatment; 5-HTTLPR genotype moderated IFN- α -induced depression symptoms in both non-Hispanic Caucasians and Hispanic patients, although the opposite risk allele was associated with depression in the two populations. Conclusion 5-HTTLPR may moderate risk for the development of depressive symptoms during IFN- α therapy for CHC in a population-specific manner.
Excess risk estimation under multistage model misspecification

We study the use of simultaneous confidence bands for risk estimation with quantal response data, and derive methods for estimating simultaneous upper confidence limits on predicted extra risk under a multistage model. Monte Carlo evaluations explore characteristics of the point estimates and simultaneous limits when the selection of possible multistage parameters is misspecified. Results show that standard Scheffe-type confidence bands are highly conservative in their coverage. Proportional width bands that exhibit less conservative properties are also studied.
Nonequilibrium transport of reactive solutes through layered soil profiles with depth-dependent adsorption

The pesticide atrazine was used as a reactive tracer in a series of miscible displacement experiments that were conducted with soil columns containing the same amount of sludge or manure, but distributed either as a layer or uniformly in depth. Travel time probability density function (pdf) of Cl- and atrazine measured from both types of columns was analyzed based upon a transfer function model that assumes a two-site nonequilibrium advection-dispersion equation(ADE). Sorption sites contributed by both organic materials were primarily rate-limited. Travel time of atrazine, estimated by temporal moment analysis on the measured travel time pdf, was consistently increased in organic material-amended columns for both distributions. When flux concentration of atrazine was fitted to the nonequilibrium ADE, either a higher overall distribution coefficient (K d ) or a higher fraction of instantaneous adsorption sites (f) or both were found for layered columns, indicating an enhanced accessibility to sorption sites of organic amendments probably due to less shielding by soil minerals.
Acetaminophen binds to mouse hepatic and renal DNA at human therapeutic doses.

Alkylation of DNA by acetaminophen metabolites has been reported previously, but has received little attention, and the biological impact of this alkylation is essentially unknown. In the present study, apparent covalent binding of acetaminophen metabolites to DNA in male ICR mice was observed at levels of 2.0 ± 0.4 to 18.5 ± 5.5 pmol of acetaminophen/mg of DNA in liver and 0.6 ± 0.1 to 26.9 ± 2.6 pmol of acetaminophen/mg of DNA in kidney with doses ranging from 10 to 400 mg/kg. Investigations of the reaction of [3H]-N-acetyl-p-benzoquinone imine (NAPQI) or [ring-14C]NAPQI with DNA in vitro yielded low levels of DNA alkylation. Greater apparent binding of [3H]NAPQI to DNA occurred in reactions containing nuclear proteins, such as by using chromatin or whole nuclei. The binding of NAPQI to purified DNA also was enhanced by the presence of 0.1 mM cysteine, but not by 1.0 mM cysteine. Increased binding of NAPQI to DNA in the presence of cysteine or nuclear protein is in contrast to the effects of alternate s...
Activation ofClostridium perfringens cytotoxic enterotoxin(s) in vivo and in vitro: Role in triggers for sudden infant death

The action ofClostridium perfringens cytotoxic enterotoxins may be activated/exacerbated both in vivo and in vitro by the addition of an activator molecule present in a brush border membrane fraction isolated from young rabbits. Increased concentrations of the activator could be induced by immunologically stimulating rabbits with Ribi adjuvant. Comparative studies suggested that the activator was interferon-gamma (IFN-γ). In vitro IFN-γ sensitized cell lines apparently by enhancement of cell permeability, which allowed a more rapid uptake of the toxins, resulting in cell death at lower toxin concentrations. Viral and/or bacterial infections are inducers of IFNs. We propose that some immunologically immature infants are predisposed to infection. In the weeks prior to death, these infants may suffer from an infection that induces the synthesis of IFNs, sensitizing the infant to a more virulent infection and possible sudden death.
Specific Sequestering Agents for the Actinides. 29. Stability of the Thorium(IV) Complexes of Desferrioxamine B (DFO) and Three Octadentate Catecholate or Hydroxypyridinonate DFO Derivatives: DFOMTA, DFOCAMC, and DFO-1,2-HOPO. Comparative Stability of the Plutonium(IV) DFOMTA Complex1

The metal complex stability constants of Th(IV) with desferrioxamine B (DFO) and three octadentate derivatives [N-(2,3-dihydroxy-4-carboxybenzoyl)desferrioxamine B (DFOCAMC), N-(1,2-dihydro-1-hydroxy-2-oxopyridin-6-yl)carbonyl)desferrioxamine B (DFO-1,2-HOPO) and N-(2,3-dihydroxy-4-(methylamido)benzoyl)desferrioxamine B (DFOMTA)] have been determined. The formation constant of the Pu(IV)/DFOMTA complex has also been determined, and the formation constants have been estimated for the other Pu(IV) complexes of octadentate DFO derivatives. The DFO derivatives form 1:1 complexes with Th(IV) in aqueous solution. The solution chemistry of the Th(IV) complexes has been studied by spectrophotometric, potentiometric and proton NMR titrations. The Th(IV) formation constants are as follows (log Kf values and esd's): DFO, 26.6(1); DFOMTA, 38.55(5); DFOCAMC, 37.2(3); DFO-1,2-HOPO, 33.7(4). The Pu(IV)/DFOMTA formation constant, determined by competitive spectrophotometric titration is (log Kf value) 41.7(2). The estim...
Currency substitution in a production economy

Abstract This paper examines a small open economy with endogenous employment using an intergenerational model. Under floating rates, risk-averse workers enhance their welfare through currency substitution. Workers' currency substitution behavior produces a Phillips curve with anticipated exchange rate movement and domestic inflationary expectation as explanatory variables. The dependence of the level of equilibrium employment on the terms of trade is demonstrated. Finally, the association between exchange rates and current accounts is examined in relation to the role of money.
Anabolic androgenic steroids differentially affect social behaviors in adolescent and adult male Syrian hamsters.

Anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) are synthetic derivatives of testosterone used by over half a million adolescents in the United States for their tissue-building potency and performance-enhancing effects. AAS also affect behavior, including reports of heightened aggression and changes in sexual libido. The expression of sexual and aggressive behaviors is a function of complex interactions among hormones, social context, and the brain, which is extensively remodeled during adolescence. Thus, AAS may have different consequences on behavior during adolescence and adulthood. Using a rodent model, these studies directly compared the effects of AAS on the expression of male sexual and aggressive behaviors in adolescents and adults. Male Syrian hamsters were injected daily for 14 days with either vehicle or an AAS cocktail containing testosterone cypionate (2 mg/kg), nandrolone decanoate (2 mg/kg), and boldenone undecylenate (1 mg/kg), either during adolescence (27–41 days of age) or in adulthood (63–77 days of age). The day after the last injection, males were tested for either sexual behavior with a receptive female or agonistic behavior with a male intruder. Adolescent males treated with AAS showed significant increases in sexual and aggressive behaviors relative to vehicle-treated adolescents. In contrast, AAS-treated adults showed significantly lower levels of sexual behavior compared with vehicle-treated adults and did not show heightened aggression. Thus, adolescents, but not adults, displayed significantly higher behavioral responses to AAS, suggesting that the still-developing adolescent brain is more vulnerable than the adult brain to the adverse consequences of AAS on the nervous system and behavior.
3-D Visualization of Flow in Microscale Jet Impingement System

This paper presents our recent work on the reconstruction of three-dimensional (3-D) flow fields in a microscale jet impingement cooling flows. We use micron-resolution PIV to capture successive two-dimensional (2-D) “slices” of the flow field in a 3-D structure, and compare with models of flow near microscale jets. This approach is specifically constructed to determine the z-component of the flow velocities, which play a key role in enhancing heat transfer at the impingement surface. These new results will enable a predictive design capability for microjet impingement cooling structures for high power electronics.© 2009 ASME
In pursuit of the effective neighborhood information system: User-friendliness and training

Abstract The goal of this research is to address the effectiveness of Neighborhood Information Systems (NIS) as an Information Technology (IT) tool in assisting community development. NISs are hybrid applications of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and web technologies that provide demographic, social, and economic information to community stakeholders. Government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and community organizations engage in decision-making process for community development, and NISs are designed to help information-sharing and effective and participatory decision-makings for community development stakeholders. This study finds that NISs have been successful in developing user-friendly features but can improve their effectiveness by providing training to the community users. While it is important to craft user-friendly NISs, it is more important to understand user needs and provide task-specific training to make NISs more effective. Additional findings of this research support the proposition that NISs promote data-sharing and empowerment among community stakeholders and is used in the decision-making process.
Employee resistance to organizational change: Managerial influence tactics and leader-member exchange.

The authors explored the relationship between managerial influence tactics and employee resistance to organizational change. Using attribution theory, the authors developed a series of hypotheses concerning the effects of influence tactics on employee resistance to change and the ways in which these relationships are moderated by leader-member exchange. Results, which are based on multisource data, suggest that employee resistance reflects both the type of influence a manager uses and the strength of leader-member exchange.
Prompting and confirmation as a function of the familiarity of stimulus materials

The relative effectiveness of learning paired-associates by a prompting and a confirmation technique was compared over all combinations of familiarity and novelty of stimulus and response terms. Ten S s were randomly assigned to each cell of a 2 3 factorial design and were given five training trials to learn a list composed of seven paired-associate items. The test for learning consisted of presenting the stimulus term alone and asking the S to give the appropriate response term. An analysis of the number of correct responses on the test trial indicated prompting to be significantly superior to confirmation. Although the means for the prompting groups were consistently greater than those for the confirmation groups, the differences were not statistically significant when individual contrasts were made for the FF, NF, FN, and NN conditions. The findings of Cook and Brown (1963) were partially supported in terms of the order of the prompting group means. Evidence was presented that only the nature of the response term had a significant effect upon performance.
Change in patterns of relapse after combined proton and photon irradiation for locally advanced paranasal sinus cancer

Materials/Methods: Between 1988 and 2002, 91 patients with newly diagnosed non-metastatic American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) stage III IV paranasal sinus cancer received combined conformal proton and photon radiotherapy at the Massachusetts General Hospital. There were 43 females and 48 males, with a median age of 51 years (range 16 82). The histology was squamous cell carcinoma in 28, carcinoma with neuroendocrine differentiation in 34, adenoid cystic carcinoma in 20, and sarcoma in 9 patients. Sixty-seven percent of patients underwent surgical resection before radiation. The median total prescribed dose to the primary target volume was 73.6 Cobalt-Gray-Equivalent (CGE) (range 59.40–77.80). The median proportion of proton dose was 49% (range 23 84). Eighty-seven percent of patients received continuous accelerated hyperfractionated radiotherapy. Thirty-two patients received chemotherapy, and 84% of these received cisplatin and etoposide for carcinoma with neuroendocrine differentiation. The mean follow-up of patients in the study was 3.8 years.
Lesions of the nucleus paragigantocellularis: effects on mating behavior in male rats.

Abstract We evaluated the effects of bilateral radio-frequency lesions of the paragigantocellular (PGi) reticular nucleus in the ventral medulla on male rat copulatory behavior. In Experiment 1, sexually naive male rats with such lesions were more likely than sham-operated controls to copulate to ejaculation during their first exposure to an estrous female. Additionally, among the rats that copulated to ejaculation, those with lesions demonstrated a reduction in mount frequency (MF), intromission frequency (IF), and ejaculation latency (EL), and an increase in copulatory efficiency (CE). In Expt. 2, sexually experienced male rats were allowed to sexual exhaustion. Males with PGi lesions showed an increased latency to sexual exhaustion and an increased number of ejaculations prior to exhaustion. Additionally, rats with PGi lesions displayed reductions in IF, EL, and post-ejaculatory interval (PEI) as they approached sexual exhaustion. Our results provide further evidence that the PGi is a supraspinal locus of descending inhibitory influence on spinal nuclei mediating ejaculatory reflexes in the male rat.
BIOMECHANICAL CONSEQUENCES OF PLANTAR FASCIAL RELEASE OR RUPTURE DURING GAIT : PART I-DISRUPTIONS IN LONGITUDINAL ARCH CONFORMATION

To examine whether conformational changes induced by plantar fascial division may progress during gait, we loaded the feet of seven cadavers using an apparatus that simulates the actions of the extrinsic plantarflexors. We measured the effects of plantar fasciotomy at two instants in the terminal-stance phase of gait. Radiographic measurements of height of the arch, base length of the arch, and talo first-metatarsal angle were used to assess contributions to arch support made by the plantar fascia, tibialis posterior, peroneus longus and brevis, and digital flexor muscles. Complete fasciotomy caused significant collapse of the arch in the sagittal plane. Early in terminal stance, at the instant after heel-off, mean height of the arch decreased from 47 to 45 mm. Late in terminal stance, at the instant preceding contralateral heel strike, mean height of the arch decreased from 46 to 43. Effects of division of the central band, though significant, were mild. Medial base length of the arch increased from 163 to 167 mm in the absence of tibialis posterior contraction at late terminal stance. Arch-supporting abilities of the other extrinsic muscles were insignificant.
The small subunit ribosomal RNA gene ofTetraselmis convolutae — a feed alga for invertebrate mariculture

This reports the first sequence for a small subunit (185) ribosomal RNA gene (SSU rDNA) fromTetraselmis convolutae.Tetraselmis (=Platymonas) species are important feed stocks for many organisms important in mariculture. This sequence is an essential molecular marker to distinguish the DNAs ofTetraselmis from the DNAs of other organisms in the culture. In addition thisTetraselmis SSU rDNA sequence provides an important entry for the gradually expanding database of symbiotic microalgae.
An analysis and testing of operation induced faults in MOS VLSI

The operation induced faults in CMOS circuits are discussed. The significance of these faults for high density, small geometry circuits is pointed out. For modeling purposes the effects of these faults are correlated with classical fault models. A conductance fault model is presented to incorporate these faults. A test scheme to detect these faults is suggested which is based on the measurement of supply current. A scheme to generate test patterns for these faults is also outlined. >
The use of mammalian cortical kidney slices for the study of tubule secretion: a pioneering step toward understanding organic anion transport.

This essay examines the historical significance of an APS classic paper that is freely available on line: Cross RJ and Taggart JV. Renal tubular transport: accumulation of p-aminohippurate by rabbi...
Too close for comfort? Registered sex offender spatial clustering and recidivistic sex crime arrest rates.

This study examined whether three measures of the spatial distribution of registered sex offenders (RSOs) in September 2010 were associated with differences in county-level rates of recidivistic se...
Monitoring of non-cigarette tobacco use using Google Trends

Background Google Trends is an innovative monitoring system with unique potential to monitor and predict important phenomena that may be occurring at a population level. We sought to validate whether Google Trends can additionally detect regional trends in youth and adult tobacco use. Methods We compared 2011 Google Trends relative search volume data for cigars, cigarillos, little cigars and smokeless tobacco with state prevalence of youth (grades 9–12) and adult (age 18 and older) use of these products using data from the 2011 United States state-level Youth Risk Behaviors Surveillance System and the 2010–2011 United States National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), respectively. We used the Pearson correlation coefficient to measure the associations. Results We found significant positive correlations between state Google Trends cigar relative search volume and prevalence of cigar use among youth (r=0.39, R 2 = 0.154, p=0.018) and adults (r=0.49, R 2 = 0.243, p 2 = 0.209, p=0.003 and r=0.48, R 2 = 0.226, p Conclusions The results of this study validate that Google Trends has the potential to be a valuable monitoring tool for tobacco use. The near real-time monitoring features of Google Trends may complement traditional surveillance methods and lead to faster and more convenient monitoring of emerging trends in tobacco use.
The Purchase of Intimacy

Students of the intersection between monetary transfers and intimate social relations face a choice among three ways of analyzing that relationship: as hostile worlds whose contact contaminates one or the other; as nothing but market transactions, cultural constructions, or coercion; or as differentiated ties, each marked by a distinctive set of monetary transfers. A review of payment practices, legal disputes, and recent legal theory illustrates the weakness of the first two views and the desirability of further pursuing the third alternative.