cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Managing Information with Fuzzy Reasoning System in Design Reasoning and Issue-Based Argumentation

Design by argumentation is a natural character of design process with social participation. Issue-Based Information System (IBIS) is an information representation system based on a structured database. It provides a hierarchically linked database structure to manage design information and facilitate design by argumentation. In this paper, we explore the enhancement of IBIS with FRS (Fuzzy Reasoning System) technology. The FRS adds computationally implemented dynamic links to the database of IBIS. Such dynamic links can represent logic relations and reasoning operations among related issues which allows further clarification of relations among issues in IBS. The enhanced system provides a general framework to manage design information and to assist design reasoning, which in turn will contribute to machine assisted design. The final goal is to formulate a system that can represent design knowledge and assist reasoning in design analysis. The system can help designers in clarifying and understanding design related issues, requirements and evaluating potential design alternatives. To demonstrate the system and its potential use, we reexamine a design experiment presented by Schon and represent the design knowledge and reasoning rules of the architects with our system, FRS-IBIS.
Effect of Participation in Business Membership Organizations on the Size and Occupational Diversity of Entrepreneurs' Core Business Discussion Network

Participation in social networks is associated with increased odds for entrepreneurial success, but few studies suggest how one best establishes a social network. This study investigates the effect that participation in business or professional membership organizations has on the size and occupational diversity of business owners' core business discussion networks. It compares the networks of those who belong to business-type membership organizations against those who do not. Results suggest that belonging to these organizations has a significant effect on the size and composition of the core business discussion network for male business owners, but not for females.
Dr. William R. Maples and the Role of the Consultants at the U.S. Army Central Identification Laboratory, Hawaii

This paper discusses the history and role of the consultants at the U.S. Army Central Identification Laboratory. Hawaii (CILHI) and the many contributions made by Dr. William R. Maples as a CILHI consultant. For over eleven years Dr. Maples was a prominent and integral force at the CILHI. His involvement with the CILHI as a senior forensic anthropologist began in 1985. In 1986 Dr. Maples signed a contract with the U.S. Army to conduct on-going reviews of the CILHI. He was one of the original consultants and maintained this responsibility until his death. For a significant portion of his professional career Dr. Maples was dedicated to first improving and then maintaining the scientific integrity of the CILHI. The uncompromising ethical and scientific standards by which the Central Identification Laboratory operates today is a direct reflection of the years of input by Dr. William R. Maples.
Bounded rationality: A Simon-like explication

Abstract Herbert Simon's notion of bounded rationality - satisficing - is analyzed with three objectives in mind. One, show that satisficing can be clearly distinguished from constrained maximization. Two, show why satisficing is rational for serial symbol processors. Three, present some empirical evidence supporting the claim that we are serial symbol processors. In pursuing these objectives, I follow Simon's lead and approach choice behavior from a computational perspective.
Integration in goods and factors

Abstract This paper compares integration when trade and factor flows are impeded by revenue-generating policies to integration when trade impediments do not generate revenue. The paper argues that in the latter case large pre-integration trade and factor flows have an additional effect of promoting integration besides the conventional integration-impeding effect. The paper introduces the concepts of expanding and consolidating trading clubs, and it concludes by characterizing the optimal international integration strategy for a small country.
Quality of surgical field during endoscopic sinus surgery: a systematic literature review of the effect of total intravenous compared to inhalational anesthesia

Background Adequate surgical field visualization is imperative for successful outcomes in endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS). The type of anesthetic administered can alter a patient's hemodynamics and impact endoscopic visualization during surgery. We review the current evidence regarding the effect of total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA) compared to inhalational anesthesia (INA) on visualization of the surgical field during ESS. Methods A systematic review of the literature was performed. Ovid MEDLINE, Scopus, and Cochrane databases were searched from 1946 to January 2012. Citations from the primary search were reviewed and filtered to identify all relevant abstracts in English. Articles meriting full review included prospective controlled trials enrolling adult patients undergoing ESS that were randomized to a group receiving INA or TIVA with outcome measures focused on surgical field visualization. Results Seven eligible trials fulfilled inclusion criteria. Four of the 7 demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in surgical field grade during ESS when receiving TIVA compared with INA. However, detailed INA concentrations were often not provided. High levels of INA may have been administered; therefore, side effects of INA rather than effects of an ideal INA administration were possibly represented. Analgesic administration also varied widely among the anesthetic groups, further complicating interpretation of study results. The lack of power and the heterogeneity of the studies precluded a formal meta-analysis. Conclusion Although several studies reported that TIVA improves surgical conditions in ESS, there are significant limitations. These findings prevent any definite recommendation at this point, emphasizing the need for further high-quality studies.
Deformable M-Reps for 3D Medical Image Segmentation

M-reps (formerly called DSLs) are a multiscale medial means for modeling and rendering 3D solid geometry. They are particularly well suited to model anatomic objects and in particular to capture prior geometric information effectively in deformable models segmentation approaches. The representation is based on figural models, which define objects at coarse scale by a hierarchy of figures—each figure generally a slab representing a solid region and its boundary simultaneously. This paper focuses on the use of single figure models to segment objects of relatively simple structure. A single figure is a sheet of medial atoms, which is interpolated from the model formed by a net, i.e., a mesh or chain, of medial atoms (hence the name m-reps), each atom modeling a solid region via not only a position and a width but also a local figural frame giving figural directions and an object angle between opposing, corresponding positions on the boundary implied by the m-rep. The special capability of an m-rep is to provide spatial and orientational correspondence between an object in two different states of deformation. This ability is central to effective measurement of both geometric typicality and geometry to image match, the two terms of the objective function optimized in segmentation by deformable models. The other ability of m-reps central to effective segmentation is their ability to support segmentation at multiple levels of scale, with successively finer precision. Objects modeled by single figures are segmented first by a similarity transform augmented by object elongation, then by adjustment of each medial atom, and finally by displacing a dense sampling of the m-rep implied boundary. While these models and approaches also exist in 2D, we focus on 3D objects. The segmentation of the kidney from CT and the hippocampus from MRI serve as the major examples in this paper. The accuracy of segmentation as compared to manual, slice-by-slice segmentation is reported.
Human fetal sacrococcygeal extension or 'tail' in the second trimester: prenatal diagnosis, associated findings, and clinical outcome.

Background There are over 30 cases of prenatally diagnosed sacral extensions or human ‘tails’ in the literature, including isolated and syndromic etiologies. Most cases were reported to resolve by the second trimester and postnatal course was benign. Our objective was to describe the prenatal findings, associated anomalies, and clinical outcome of a series of seven fetuses diagnosed prenatally with fetal sacrococcygeal extension. Methods In a prospective study on a series of 4040 consecutive patients seen through our clinic in a 10-year period, 7 patients had a sacrococcygeal extension identified on fetal imaging. Fetal sonographic and magnetic resonance imaging findings, results of genetic testing, and clinical outcomes were analyzed. Results All seven fetuses had associated anomalies, including neurologic, craniofacial, cardiac, spinal, renal, and musculoskeletal abnormalities, or abnormal ultrasound findings including growth restriction and abnormal umbilical cord Doppler. There were two cases of trisomy 13 and one case of Pfeiffer syndrome. The mean gestational age at diagnosis was 19.3 weeks. Conclusion When a sacrococcygeal extension is seen on fetal imaging, work-up should include detailed fetal imaging and karyotype, and fetal growth should be monitored. Our experience with fetal sacrococcygeal extension demonstrates variability in the underlying presentation and etiology, making counseling in a prenatal setting challenging. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Rupture of cobalt/iron and oxygen bonds in the chain during thermal treatment of YBa2Cu3(57Co) O6.0: Emission Mössbauer studies

Abstract In oxygen-deficient 1-2-3 compound, 57 Fe 57 Co) substituent on the chain, i.e. Cu(1) site, cannot sense the magnetic field as it is sandwiched between equal number of symmetrically disposed magnetic neighbors which are antiferromagnetically coupled along the sheets. Consequently, observation of a Zeeman split sextet, at room temperature, is widely regarded as a signature for the Cu(2) site. Our group and subsequently a couple of other groups have generated a large proportion of the magnetic species (designated as M) by thermal treatment of the 1-2-3 compound in an inert ambient at about 800°C. This species manifests itself as a doublet (M') after oxygen loading of the compound. It has been proposed that iron and cobalt substituents migrate from Cu(1) to Cu(2) site during the thermal treatment. In this communication, we present evidence to support our earlier contention that this species (M or M') is not situated in the Cu-O sheets, but occupies an interstitial site. The interstitial 57 Fe( 57 Co) is not equidistant from the two neighboring Cu-O sheets, and senses a net magnetic field in the oxygen-deficient compound.
THE BASIS FOR ELEVATION OF SERUM GLUTAMIC PYRUVIC TRANSAMINASE LEVELS IN SERUM STORED ON CLOTS.

A modification of the serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase colorimetric assay is described which reduces the error due to preformed keto acids, and thus permits evaluation of "corrected" transaminase levels in serum specimens that have stood on the clot up to three weeks at 4°. Evidence is presented that even in bacterially contaminated specimens the major cause of elevation in levels during storage is a rise in preformed keto acids.
Stress Corrosion Cracking in a Unidirectional Ceramic-Matrix Composite

A study of matrix cracking in a unidirectional ceramic-matrix composite under static loading conditions has been conducted. The evolution of crack density with time has been measured using both flexure and uniaxial tension tests. Subcritical cracking has been observed at stresses below that required to develop matrix cracks in short-duration, monotonic loading tests. Furthermore, a relatively high final crack density has been observed following extended periods (~106 s) under static load. A fracture mechanics analysis applicable to subcritical crack growth has been developed and used successfully to model the evolution of matrix cracking with time and applied stress. The model incorporates the properties of the matrix, fibers, and interfaces, as well as the residual stress and the initial flaw distribution in the matrix.
Collaborative Management of Public Rangeland in Wyoming: Lessons in Co‐Management

Collaborative processes are gaining acceptance as a means to integrate different values and interests in the management of natural resources. This paper examines one form of collaboration, Coordinated Resource Management (CRM), as it is being applied to public rangeland management in Wyoming. The study included personal and telephone interviews of participants in CRM groups, document review, and personal observation to understand how the process works to achieve consensus among diverse stakeholders. Groups used five mechanisms to deal with different values and interests in their processes: (1) elimination of unnecessary or “overlay” conflict; (2) limitation of values and visions considered; (3) use of broad goals to guide actions; (4) casting value differences as disagreement over facts; (5) a search for and faith in win-win solutions. These mechanisms vary in their usefulness for achieving co-management ideals. Where interests or values have come into open conflict, as in some conflict-resolution groups,...
Molecular Dimensions for Adsorptives

Pore volumes, accessible surface areas, and the thermodynamics of adsorption are essential in the understanding of solid surface characteristics fundamental to catalyst and adsorbent screening and selection. The recently developed Multiple Equilibrium Analysis (MEA) provides a thorough characterization of the adsorption process. Molecular properties such as molecular volumes and projected molecular areas are needed in order to convert moles adsorbed to surface volumes and probe dependent, accessible surface areas. These molecular quantities are also needed in conventional methods for determining areas and pore volumes. Generally, these molecular properties have been estimated from bulk properties, but many assumptions are required. As a result, different literature values are employed for these essential molecular properties. In this article, molecular structures for various conformers of many molecules are calculated using ZINDO. Molecular volumes and excluded molecular areas are determined from these st...
Fractional-power semigroups of growth n

Abstract We characterize certain semigroups, in terms of growth properties, as fractional-power semigroups associated with special linear operators. Such a semigroup is holomorphic in a sector containing the positive reals. Its norm may grow as a negative power of distance from the origin, and may grow extremely rapidly with angular approach to the edges of the sector of definition. We show that a semigroup of this kind can be viewed as {exp(− w (− A ) a )}, where A is an operator whose resolvent is defined, with polynomial growth, in a region asymptotic, in a special sense, to a half-plane.
Theoretical and practical significance of formal reasoning

Piaget's theory has profoundly influenced science education research. Following Piaget, researchers have focused on content-free strategies, developmentally based mechanisms, and structural models of each stage of reasoning. In practice, factors besides those considered in Piaget's theory influence whether or not a theoretically available strategy is used. Piaget's focus has minimized the research attention placed on what could be called “practical” factors in reasoning. Practical factors are factors that influence application of a theoretically available strategy, for example, previous experience with the task content, familiarity with task instructions, or personality style of the student. Piagetian theory has minimized the importance of practical factors and discouraged investigation of (1) the role of factual knowledge in reasoning, (2) the diagnosis of specific, task-based errors in reasoning, (3) the influence of individual aptitudes on reasoning (e.g., field dependence-independence), and (4) the effect of educational interventions designed to change reasoning. This article calls for new emphasis on practical factors in reasoning and suggests why research on practical factors in reasoning will enhance our understanding of how scientific reasoning is acquired and of how science education programs can foster it.
Two-frequency MOPA diode laser system for difference-frequency generation of coherent THz waves

We developed a tunable, cavity-locked diode laser source at 850 nm for difference-frequency generation of coherent THz- waves. The difference frequency is synthesized by three fiber-coupled external-cavity diode lasers, where tow of the lasers are locked to adjacent modes of an ultra-stable Fabry-Perot cavity and the third laser is offset-phase- locked to the second cavity-locked laser using a tunable microwave oscillator. The first cavity-locked laser and the offset-locked laser produces the difference frequency, whose value is precisely determined by sum of integer multiple of free spectral range of the Fabry-Perot cavity and the offset frequency. The difference-frequency signal is amplified to 500 mW by the master oscillator power amplifier technique, simultaneous two-frequency injection-seeding with a single semiconductor optical amplifier. Here we demonstrate the difference-frequency generation of THz waves with the low- temperature-grown GaAs photomixers and its application to high-resolution spectroscopy of simple molecules. An absolute frequency calibration was carried out with an accuracy of approximately 10-7 using CO lines in the THz region.© (1999) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Depressive realism: A meta-analytic review

The current investigation represents the first meta-analysis of the depressive realism literature. A search of this literature revealed 75 relevant studies representing 7305 participants from across the US and Canada, as well as from England, Spain, and Israel. Results generally indicated a small overall depressive realism effect (Cohen's d=-.07). Overall, however, both dysphoric/depressed individuals (d=.14) and nondysphoric/nondepressed individuals evidenced a substantial positive bias (d=.29), with this bias being larger in nondysphoric/nondepressed individuals. Examination of potential moderator variables indicated that studies lacking an objective standard of reality (d=-.15 versus -.03, for studies possessing such a standard) and that utilize self-report measures to measure symptoms of depression (d=.16 versus -.04, for studies which utilize structured interviews) were more likely to find depressive realism effects. Methodological paradigm was also found to influence whether results consistent with depressive realism were found (d's ranged from -.09 to .14).
Trojan horse or proton force: finding the right partner(s) for toxin translocation.

Much is known about the structure function relationships of a large number of bacterial protein toxins, the nature of their cell surface receptors, and their enzymatic activities which lead to the inactivation of their respective cytosolic targets. Despite this wealth of knowledge a detailed understanding of the mechanisms which underlie translocation of the catalytic domain across the eukaryotic cell membrane to the cytosol, the penultimate event in the intoxication process, have been slow in developing. In the case of diphtheria toxin, two prominent hypotheses have been advanced to explain how the catalytic domain is translocated from the lumen of endocytic vesicles to the target cell cytosol. We discuss each of these hypotheses and provide an overview of recent observations that tend to favor a mechanism employing a Cytosolic Translocation Factor complex in the entry process. This facilitated mechanism of translocation appears to rely upon protein-protein interactions between conserved domains within the transmembrane domain of diphtheria toxin and host cell factors to effect delivery of the enzymatic moiety. We have recently identified a 10 amino acid motif in the transmembrane domain of diphtheria toxin that is conserved in anthrax Lethal and Edema Factors, as well as in botulinum neurotoxins A, C and D. Stable eukaryotic cell transfectants that express a peptide containing this motif become resistant to the toxin, and sensitivity is completely restored by co-expression of siRNA which inhibits peptide expression. Data obtained from use of the protein fusion toxin DAB389IL-2 in cytotoxicity assays using susceptible Hut 102/6TG and resistant transfectant Hut102/6TG-T1 cells, as well as pull down assays have led to the formulation of a working model of facilitated delivery of the diphtheria toxin catalytic domain to the cytosol of target cells which is discussed in detail.
Failure to change exploration or saccharin preference in rats exposed to chronic mild stress

Chronic mild stress (CMS) exposes animals to unpredictable stressors. Reduced consumption of sucrose or saccharin solutions by CMS rats has been used as a putative measure of anhedonia, typical of depression. Our objective was to determine whether saccharin consumption and preference and suppression of exploratory and rearing behaviors in the open field were reliable indicators of CMS-induced behavioral depression. In Experiment 1, male Wistar rats subjected to 6 weeks of CMS consumed significantly less food and gained less weight than controls. CMS did not effect saccharin intake, or preference, measured in a two-bottle test with water. CMS rats exposed to a novel open field showed increased exploration and rearing. In a second test, performed immediately after a novel stress of restraint, there were no differences in exploratory or rearing behavior of CMS and control rats. In Experiment 2, CMS was reduced to 3 weeks and rats were single or group housed in their home cages. Open field activity of CMS rats was similar to that in Experiment 1. Saccharin preference of CMS rats was significantly suppressed when tested after 24 hours of water deprivation, but was not different from controls after 5 hours of water deprivation. In the final experiment Sprague Dawley rats behaved the same as Wistar rats in the CMS paradigm. Therefore, the CMS protocol used in these experiments did not induce behaviors indicative of depression but did cause a mild anorexia and weight loss. Saccharin intake of CMS rats was dependent upon their dehydration state and could not be attributed to stress-induced anhedonia.
Integration, testing, and calibration of imaging systems for land and water remote sensing

Imagery is presented along with calibration and testing procedures of several airborne imaging systems. The low altitude airborne systems include a cooled hyperspectral imaging system with 1024 spectral channels and 1375 spatial pixels. The hyperspectral imaging system is collocated with a full resolution high definition video recorder for simultaneous HD image acquisition, 12.3 megapixel digital images for multispectral "sharpening" the hyperspectral imagery, or large frame 9 inch film cameras yielding scanned aerial imagery with approximately 2200 by 2200 pixel multispectral imagery. Two high spectral (252 channels) and radiometric solid state spectrographs are used for collecting upwelling radiance (sub-meter pixels) and a downwelling irradiance using a fiber optic irradiance sensor. These sensors are utilized for cross calibration and independent acquisition of ground or water reflectance signatures. The upwelling spectrograph is integrated to collect signatures collocated with a 12.3 megapixel Nikon D2Xs with 5 HZ WAAS GPS input for mixed pixel analysis in conjunction with the other sensing systems. In addition to the airborne hyperspectral sensors, traditional photogrammetric imagery can be collected from dual 9 inch frame cameras capable of using a combination of panchromatic, color or color infrared film types. The panchromatic film can be collected with special filters designed to create spectral windows, such as the "red edge" which is useful for land or shallow submerged vegetation and live coral detection. The 9 inch film negatives are scanned to produce over 250 megapixel scanned multispectral imagery for sub pixel assessments us and image fusion sharpening of the hyperspectral imagery. The scanned imagery covers larger spatial regions and is thus useful for geospatial registration, rectification, and spatial sharpening of the hyperspectral imagery along flight lines. All of the airborne sensor systems allow for modern research in the use of sun and sky glint regions in imagery to identify water surface wave field characteristics as well as oil slicks. The systems described provide unique data sets of for modern airborne or satellite remote sensing algorithm development and testing of radiative transfer models.
Cardiac and hepatic acyl-CoA and acylcarnitine hydrolase activities in clofibrate-fed rabbits.

Abstract 1. Catalase activity in the heart of male rabbits was 21% of that found in the liver; clofibrate feeding (0.3% w/w for 10 days) resulted in an 80% increase in both cardiac and hepatic catalase activities. 2. Fatty acyl-CoA oxidase activity in control heart was 11% of that found in control liver; this peroxisomal activity did not increase subsequent to clofibrate feeding. 3. Only acyl-CoA hydrolase activity in the cardiac supernatant was elevated by clofibrate feeding. 4. Acylcarnitine hydrolase activity was increased significantly in the homogenate, extract and supernatant of both heart and liver from the clofibrate-fed rabbit. 5. Clofibrate feeding increased CoASH and carnitine tissue levels in heart and liver.
Improving the teaching effectiveness of graduate teaching assistants

In recent years a growing concern about the improvement of the teaching effectiveness of graduate teaching assistants has emerged on many campuses. The purpose of this paper is to describe a response to this need—a program of instructional development for teaching assistants presently being implemented in the Department of Speech Communication at the University of Washington. The description includes program objectives and implementation procedures.
SYNERGISTIC EFFECT OF POKEWEED MITOGEN AND S. AUREUS COWAN I IN VITRO BLOOD B CELL DIFFERENTIATION

Neonatal B cells, unlike adult B cells, do not develop into immunoglobulin secreting plaque forming cells when cultured in the presence of pokeweed mitogen alone or killed S. aureus Cowan I alone. We found that simultaneous addition of these two B cell activators significantly increased the development of plaque forming cells in cord blood mononuclear cells. In 55 neonate cultures, pokeweed mitogen and S. aureus Cowan I together induced 7114(±10,077) plaque forming cells/106 cord blood mononuclear cells, compared to 875(±2527) with pokeweed mitogen alone or 672(±1590) with S. aureus Cowan I alone. This effect was not seen with adult cells. Additional experiments indicate that the synergistic effect of pokeweed mitogen and S. aureus Cowan I on cord blood mononuclear cells can best be explained by a two-phase model of B cell differentiation wherein the macrophage and its soluble product governs an early first phase, while the T helper and its soluble mediator governs the later second stage. We propose that in the neonate, S. aureus Cowan I acts on the macrophage to initiate the differentiation, and pokeweed mitogen acts on the T helper to complete the development into plaque forming cells.
Continuous-wave electrically excited carbon monoxide laser operating on first overtone infrared bands: 2.5- to 4.0-microns kinetic modeling and design

The kinetic modeling and design of a carbon monoxide (CO) gas laser is presented. In contrast to the more widely known fundamental band CO laser, this laser is designed to operate on the first overtone bands, the Δν = 2 vibrational quantum transitions. Lasing on these bands is known to produce multi-line output at wavelengths from 2.5 microns to beyond 4.0 microns in the infrared. The present study is to develop a compact, wall-cooled CO overtone laser, that can develop average powers O[100 W]. A kinetic modeling code has been developed to guide the design, and to calculate both continuous wave (c.w.) and Q-switched performance. There are distinct advantages in Q-switched operation of this laser, which is potentially one of the few truly efficient lasers scalable to very high average powers.
Paraneoplastic overlap syndrome in non-small squamous cell lung carcinoma

This is a case of paraneoplastic overlap of limbic encephalitis and opsoclonus myoclonus in a patient with non-small squamous cell lung carcinoma.
Microspectroscopic method for determination of size and distribution of protein complexes in vivo

Resonant Energy Transfer (RET) from an optically excited molecule to a non-excited molecule residing nearby has been used to detect molecular interactions in living cells. Information such as the number of proteins forming a molecular complex has been obtained so far for a handful of proteins, but only after exposing the samples sequentially to at least two different excitation wavelengths. Changes in the molecular makeup of a cellular region occurring during this lengthy process of measurement has limited the applicability of RET to determination of cellular averages. We developed a method for imaging protein complex distribution in living cells with sub-cellular spatial resolution, which relies on a spectrally-resolved two-photon microscope. The use of diffractive optics in a non-descanned configuration allows acquisition of a full set of spectrally-resolved images after only one complete scan of the excitation beam. This presentation will briefly describe our basic experimental setup and a simple theory of RET in oligomeric complexes, and it will review our recent results on determination of the geometry and size of oligomeric complexes of several proteins in yeast as well as in mammalian cells. This method basically transforms RET into a method for performing veritable structural determinations of protein complexes in vivo.
Oxidative stress and neurodegeneration in penile ischaemia.

OBJECTIVE To seek markers of oxidative stress and examine neural structural integrity in chronic penile ischaemia using a rabbit model of arteriogenic erectile dysfunction (ED), as the role of ischaemia in penile neuropathy and the oxidative mechanism of neurodegeneration in ED remains unknown. MATERIALS AND METHODS A rabbit model of atherosclerosis-induced ED was developed by partial balloon de-endothelialization of the iliac arteries. After 10 weeks, intracavernosal blood flow and erectile function in the arteriogenic ED group were compared with age-matched controls. Erectile tissues were processed for analysis of oxidative stress markers and nerve fibre density using enzyme immunoassay and immunohistochemical staining, respectively. Oxidative stress-sensitive genes were determined with quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Tissue ultrastructure was examined by transmission electron microscopy. RESULTS Significant erectile tissue ischaemia, erectile dysfunction, increased levels of oxidative products, and marked nitrotyrosine immunoreactivity was evident in the ED group. Oxidative stress-sensitive genes encoding hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), superoxide dismutase (SOD), aldose reductase (AR) and nerve growth factor (NGF) were up-regulated in the ischaemic erectile tissue. These changes were associated with collapsed axonal and Schwann cell profiles, neurodegeneration, mitochondrial structural damage, increased caveolae, loss of endothelium, and sporadic vacuolization. CONCLUSIONS Neuropathy appears to follow the vascular insult in arteriogenic ED. Neural injury in penile ischaemia involves a neurovascular phenomenon mediated by oxidative free radicals. Mitochondrial structural damage and increased HIF-1α gene expression may be early signals of oxidative stress and neurodegeneration in ED. Up-regulation of SOD, AR and NGF may be a coordinated defensive reaction to oxidative radicals that seems to fail to prevent neural injury in the ischaemic penis. Our study introduces the concept of oxidative neurodegeneration in the pathophysiology of arteriogenic ED. Therapeutic strategies to protect penile nerves from free radical incursion may enhance the efficacy of surgical and pharmacological interventions in arteriogenic ED.
Enhanced Biofilm Production by a Toluene-Degrading Rhodococcus Observed after Exposure to Perfluoroalkyl Acids

This study focuses on interactions between aerobic soil-derived hydrocarbon degrading bacteria and a suite of perfluorocarboxylic acids and perfluoroalkylsulfonates that are found in aqueous film-forming foams used for fire suppression. No effect on toluene degradation rate or induction time was observed when active cells of Rhodococcus jostii strain RHA1 were exposed to toluene and a mixture of perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) including perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS) at concentrations near the upper bounds of groundwater relevance (11 PFAAs at 10 mg/L each). However, exposure to aqueous PFAA concentrations above 2 mg/L (each) was associated with enhanced aggregation of bacterial cells and significant increases in extracellular polymeric substance production. Flocculation was only observed during exponential growth and not elicited when PFAAs were added to resting incubations; analogous flocculation was also observed in soil enrichments. Aggregation was accompanied by 2- to ...
Initial Experience Using a Radiofrequency Powered Transseptal Needle

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to determine the safety and efficacy of using a novel radiofrequency (RF) powered transseptal needle to perform transseptal puncture (TSP). Methods: TSP was performed in 35 consecutive patients undergoing left-sided catheter ablation (mean age = 51 years; male = 71%) using a RF powered transseptal needle (NRG, Adult Large and Standard Curve C1, 71 cm, Baylis Medical Company, Inc.). Prior TSP had been performed in 34% of patients. The transseptal apparatus was positioned with the tip of the dilator engaged in the fossa ovalis. RF energy was delivered to the tip of the transseptal needle using a proprietary RF generator at 10 W for 2 seconds as gentle pressure was applied to the needle. Results: In 5 of the 41 TSPs, the needle crossed into the left atrium before RF energy was delivered. In 35 of the remaining 36 punctures, the needle was successfully advanced into the left atrium after application of RF current. In 1 patient, the TSP with the powered needle was unsuccessful but was accomplished using a standard needle. The only complication was a transient right atrial thrombus, which occurred in 2 patients. Conclusion: A radiofrequency powered transseptal needle can be used to perform TSP safely and successfully without the need for significant mechanical force, even in patients who have undergone TSP previously. Additional studies are needed to determine whether a powered transseptal needle should be used routinely. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 21, pp. 423–427, April 2010)
Characterization of anodic sulfide films on Hg0.78Cd0.22Te

Anodic sulfide films were grown on HgCdTe and studied by Auger electron spectroscopy, surface analysis by laser ionization, Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy, Raman and photoluminescence spectroscopy, and high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy to determine their elemental composition and their chemical and physical structure. This information, when coupled with a knowledge of the possible chemical reactions at the interface between the film and the HgCdTe substrate, explains why anodic surface films are more thermally stable than anodic oxide films.
Multiexciton fluorescence from semiconductor nanocrystals

Abstract We use transient photoluminescence to spectrally resolve the emission from 1, 2, and 3 electron–hole pairs states in CdSe colloidal nanocrystals with radii ranging between 2.3 and 5.2 nm. Temporally and spectrally resolved multiexciton emission from single NCs is also observed. The observation of multiexciton emission enables new experiments and potential applications at both the single NC level and using ensembles of NCs. First we discuss the use of single CdSe(CdZnS) core(shell) colloidal NCs (spheres and rods) to generate triggered photon pair emission at room temperature, with specific ordering of the pair’s constituent photons. Second, we incorporate CdSe/ZnS core-shell nanocrystals into a TiO 2 host matrix and observe simultaneous two-state amplified spontaneous emission and lasing from both multiexcitonic transitions (1S 3/2 –1S e and 1P 3/2 –1P e ) in a surface-emitting distributed feedback CdSe NC laser. From our data we deduce radiative lifetimes, quantum yields, stimulated emission gain, and power dependencies for the multiexciton transitions.
A Reversible Conversion of Phototransformable Protochlorophyll(ide)656 to Photoinactive Protochlorophyll(ide)656 by Hydrogen Sulfide in Etiolated Bean Leaves

The relationship of phototransformable protochlorophyll-(ide) to photoinactive protochlorophyll(ide) has been studied in the primary leaves of 7- to 9-day-old dark-grown bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L. var. Red Kidney) seedlings. Subjecting the leaves to an atmosphere of H2S causes an immediate loss of phototransformable protochlorophyll(ide)650 and a simultaneous increase in photoinactive protochlorophyll(ide)633. When such leaves are returned to air or N2, the absorbance at 650 nm increases, whereas the absorbance at 633 nm decreases and photoactivity is restored. The reversion of protochlorophyll-(ide)633 to protochlorophyll(ide)650 is one-half complete in 3 minutes at 22 C in 8-day-old leaves. Ninety-five per cent recovery of protochlorophyll(ide)650 is obtained when exposure to H2S is less than 3 minutes in duration; longer periods reduce the reversion capacity proportionately. The leaves are relatively undamaged by brief exposures to H2S, as judged by electron microscopy and by their ability to synthesize chlorophyll under continuous illumination. Hydrogen sulfide has no immediate effect upon the absorption properties of a partially purified preparation of the protochlorophyll(ide) holochrome, an etioplast suspension, or leaves subjected to freezing and thawing. Compounds such as HCN and HN3 cause an irreversible conversion of protochlorophyll(ide)650 to protochlorophyll(ide)633 with total loss of photoactivity. Sulfhydryl agents, such as β-mercaptoethanol and cysteine, cause a slow, irreversible transformation of the photoactive pigment to the photoinactive form and inhibit the ability of the leaves to synthesize chlorophyll under continuous illumination. The results obtained suggest that H2S may alter the interaction between the source of hydrogens on the protein moiety of the holochrome and the chromophore in vivo by reducing a disulfide bond in the protein, thereby causing a reversible conformational change in the complex.
Self-Consistent Analysis of Strain-Compensated InGaN–AlGaN Quantum Wells for Lasers and Light-Emitting Diodes

Strain-compensated InGaN-AlGaN quantum wells (QW) are investigated as improved active regions for lasers and light emitting diodes. The strain-compensated QW structure consists of thin tensile-strained AlGaN barriers surrounding the InGaN QW. The band structure was calculated by using a self-consistent 6-band kmiddotp formalism, taking into account valence band mixing, strain effect, spontaneous and piezoelectric polarizations, as well as the carrier screening effect. The spontaneous emission and gain properties were analyzed for strain-compensated InGaN-AlGaN QW structures with indium contents of 28%, 22%, and 15% for lasers (light-emitting diodes) emitting at 480 (500), 440 (450), and 405 nm (415 nm) spectral regimes, respectively. The spontaneous emission spectra show significant improvement of the radiative emission for strain-compensated QW for all three structures compared to the corresponding conventional InGaN QW, which indicates the enhanced radiative efficiency for light emitting diodes. Our studies show the improvement of the optical gain and reduction of the threshold current density from the use of strain-compensated InGaN-AlGaN QW as active regions for diode lasers.
Petrographic, X-ray diffraction, and electron spin resonance analysis of deformed calcite: Meteor Crater, Arizona

Calcite crystals within the Kaibab limestone in Meteor Crater, Arizona, are examined to understand how calcite is deformed during a meteorite impact. The Kaibab limestone is a silty finegrained and fossiliferous dolomudstone and the calcite crystals occur as replaced evaporite nodules with impact-induced twinning. Twinning in the calcite is variable with deformational regimes based on abundances of crystals with twins and twin densities within crystals. The twins are similar to those that are seen in low tectonically deformed regimes. Low levels of shock are inferred from minor peak broadening of the X-ray diffraction patterns (XRD) of the calcite crystals. In addition, electron spin resonance (ESR) spectroscopy data also indicates low shock levels (<3.0 GPa). Quantitative shock pressures and correlation between the XRD and ESR results are poor due to the inferred low shock levels in conjunction with the analytical error associated in calculation of the shock pressures.
Thermodynamics of Mixing for Statistical Copolymers of Ethylene and α-Olefins

The melt-state interactions that govern phase behavior in polyolefin blends were evaluated by small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) and compared with earlier results for structurally similar model polymers. The materials are statistical copolymers of ethylene with a range of propylene, 1-butene, 1-hexene, and 1-octene contents, made by metallocene catalysis. They are modestly polydisperse (Mw/Mn ∼ 2) and not available in deuterated form, thus requiring modification of the procedures used for the nearly monodisperse and easily deuterated model polymers. The SANS intensity expression for polydisperse components was confirmed independently, and two experimental procedures, employing binary and ternary blends with deuterated model components, were used. The interactions obey a solubility-parameter formalism, in agreement with the earlier studies. Moreover, the values of δ − δref obtained for the α-olefin copolymers were found to depend only on w, the weight fraction of α-olefin comonomer. Finally, this δ − δr...
Diffusion of mobile products in reactive barrier membranes

Abstract Diffusion of mobile products produced in reactive barrier membranes was studied theoretically and experimentally. A diaphragm cell in which a reactive solute challenges a reactive membrane was adopted for this purpose. A diffusion equation with a reaction term describes the behavior of a mobile product before breakthrough of the solute, while the common diffusion equation governs the system after the breakthrough. An approximate, analytical solution was derived to this diffusion problem based on a pseudo-steady state assumption, and the result agreed closely with a numerical solution without assumptions. A poly(vinyl alcohol) membrane containing zinc oxide particles was challenged by hydrochloric acid in a diffusion experiment to validate the theoretical predictions. Diffusion of zinc chloride, the mobile reaction product, was monitored using a colorimetric method. The experimental results matched the analytical model.
Monitoring the growth of American beech affected by beech bark disease in Maine using the Kalman filter

The effect of beech bark disease on tree growth was tracked using paired resistant and susceptible American beech trees in two locations in Maine. Within each site, the paired trees were chosen in close proximity and with similar morphological characteristics (e.g. stem diameter and crown class) to minimize environment effects in subsequent analysis. A Kalman filter approach was employed to analyse the yearly time-dependent mean differences between paired susceptible and resistant tree-ring widths using simple structural time series models in state space form. On one site, under the influence of a moderate maritime climate, stand dynamics is hypothesized to account for the 34 year difference in onset of decline of trees in codominant, versus those in the intermediate crown classes. The harsher winter conditions associated with the second, more northerly site and known to limit the insect component of the disease complex, are hypothesized to be more of a factor in the close (six year) difference in decline onset between the two crown classes on this site. Some strengths and cautions in the Kalman filter approach are discussed in relation to the analysis of time-dependent trends in tree-ring series.
A brief note concerning archaebacterial phylogeny

Critical analysis of the recently proposed alternative to the normal archaebacterial tree, the new eocyte tree, shows that the latter's central topology, in which the eubacteria branch from an entirely different section of the unrooted archaebacterial tree than the eukaryotes, is consistent with an artifact. The effects of the alignment used and the particular composition of the sequence quartets analyzed to infer this tree are discussed in detail.Key words: archaebacteria, molecular phylogeny, 16S ribosomal RNA, evolution, eocyte tree.
Nicardipine is a safe and effective agent in pediatric hypertensive emergencies

Nicardipine is the first dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker capable of intravenous administration. Seven pediatric patients with hypertensive emergencies attributable to various pathological processes were treated with intravenous nicardipine, starting at 1 microg/kg/min. Nicardipine appeared to be safe and effective in controlling hypertension in these patients. Two patients who received nicardipine through peripheral lines developed superficial thrombophlebitis. None of the five patients receiving nicardipine through a central line experienced phlebitis, and no other adverse effects were noted.
Rodent models clarify the role of cells expressing the substance P receptor in pain

The recent failure of substance P receptor (NK1) antagonists in clinical trials for treatment of pain spawned additional studies asking why preclinical models implicating SP in chronic pain did not translate into a viable target for analgesic development. This review focuses on recent pain model system studies, suggesting that it is not SP or NK1 per se, but rather the cells that express NK1 that are crucial for maintaining chronic pain.
Acid-activated carbons from almond shells: physical, chemical and adsorptive properties and estimated cost of production.

Abstract A series of phosphoric-acid activated carbons were made from almond shells using six different activation or activation/oxidation methods. The carbons were compared to each other and to two commercial carbons in an effort to ascertain the relative value of the carbons in terms of yield, surface area, attrition, surface functional groups, organic uptake, metal uptake, as well as estimated cost of production. Of the six methods investigated, the method that produced the best overall performing almond shell carbon and least expensive carbon in terms of production cost was the “Air-Activation” method. This method involved the simultaneous activation and oxidation of almond shells under an air atmosphere.
Content triage with similarity digests: The M57 case study

Abstract In this work we illustrate the use of similarity digests for the purposes of forensic triage. We use a case that consists of 1.5 TB of raw data, including disk images, network captures, RAM snapshots, and USB flash media. We demonstrate that by applying similarity digests in a systematic manner, the scope of examination can be narrowed down within a matter of minutes to hours. In contrast, conventional manual examination of all the data may require several days, and its effectiveness relies substantially on the experience of the investigator.