cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of grain size on development of athermal and strain induced ɛ martensite in Co–Cr–Mo implant alloy

Abstract In the present work, the development of athermal ɛ martensite during quenching of a low carbon Co–Cr–Mo alloy was investigated as a function of the grain size. In addition, a strain induced transformation (SIT) from fcc to hcp was exhibited during compressive plastic straining. It was found that grain size exerts a strong influence on the resultant volume fractions of athermal and strain induced ɛ martensite. In particular, fine grain sizes inhibit the formation of athermal martensite while promoting appreciable volume fractions of ɛ martensite through the SIT mechanism. Moreover, X-ray diffraction analyses indicated that in 10 μm grained structures the volume fraction of strain induced ɛ martensite reaches a saturation level of approximately 0·65 just before compressive fracture. In contrast, increasing grain sizes result in the formation of up to 0·9 volume fraction of SIT martensite. Moreover, the alloy yield strength was found to decrease down to 592 MPa (approximately half the yield strength...
Bromocriptine stimulates Na+,K+-ATPase in renal proximal tubules via the cAMP pathway

The present study was undertaken to examine the effect of dopamine D2 receptor activation on Na+,K(+)-ATPase activity in rat renal proximal tubule suspension. Bromocriptine, a dopamine D2 receptor agonist, produced a concentration (10(-9)-10(-5) M) dependent stimulation of Na+,K(+)-ATPase activity which was antagonized by pretreating the tubules with domperidone (1 microM), a dopamine D2 receptor antagonist. Forskolin (1 microM), a direct activator of adenylyl cyclase, inhibited Na+ K(+)-ATPase activity and reversed the stimulation of Na+,K(+)-ATPase activity induced by bromocriptine. Pertussis toxin (200 ng/ml) treatment also abolished the bromocriptine-induced stimulation of Na+,K(+)-ATPase activity. Bromocriptine attenuated forskolin-stimulated cAMP accumulation which was blocked by pertussis toxin treatment of the tubules. The data suggest that dopamine D2 receptor activation by bromocriptine leads to stimulation of Na+,K(+)-ATPase activity which may be mediated through a pertussis-sensitive G protein and inhibition of adenylyl cyclase in rat renal proximal tubules.
Large-area low-temperature ultrananocrystalline diamond (UNCD) films and integration with CMOS devices for monolithically integrated diamond MEMS/NEMS-CMOS systems

Because of exceptional mechanical, chemical, and tribological properties, diamond has a great potential to be used as a material for the development of high-performance MEMS and NEMS such as resonators and switches compatible with harsh environments, which involve mechanical motion and intermittent contact. Integration of such MEMS/NEMS devices with complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) microelectronics will provide a unique platform for CMOS-driven commercial MEMS/NEMS. The main hurdle to achieve diamond-CMOS integration is the relatively high substrate temperatures (600-800°C) required for depositing conventional diamond thin films, which are well above the CMOS operating thermal budget (400 °C). Additionally, a materials integration strategy has to be developed to enable diamond-CMOS integration. Ultrananocrystalline diamond (UNCD), a novel material developed in thin film form at Argonne, is currently the only microwave plasma chemical vapor deposition (MPCVD) grown diamond film that can be grown at 400 °C, and still retain exceptional mechanical, chemical, and tribological properties comparable to that of single crystal diamond. We have developed a process based on MPCVD to synthesize UNCD films on up to 200 mm in diameter CMOS wafers, which will open new avenues for the fabrication of monolithically integrated CMOS-driven MEMS/NEMS based on UNCD. UNCD films were grown successfully on individual Si-based CMOS chips and on 200 mm CMOS wafers at 400 °C in a MPCVD system, using Ar-rich/CH4 gas mixture. The CMOS devices on the wafers were characterized before and after UNCD deposition. All devices were performing to specifications with very small degradation after UNCD deposition and processing. A threshold voltage degradation in the range of 0.08-0.44V and transconductance degradation in the range of 1.5-9% were observed.
A new approach to geometrical measurements in an animal model of vocal fold scar.

Summary A standard method for quantifying the geometric properties of vocal folds has not been widely adopted. An ideal method of geometrical measurement should effectively quantify the dimensions of the medial vibratory portion of the vocal fold, should be easily performed, should yield consistent results, and should be readily available at little to no cost. We have developed a new approach for geometrical measurements to meet these goals. The objective of this study is to describe this new approach and to assess its effectiveness in a canine model of vocal fold scar. One hundred thirty-five mid-membranous coronal sections of vocal folds from 10 canines (five with unilateral surgical scarring) were examined by light microscopy; digital images were captured. ImageJ was used to measure a variety of described parameters. Comparison between scarred vocal folds and control vocal folds was made. At least 20% of the slides for each vocal fold were randomly selected (n=42) for repeat measurements of interrater and intrarater reliability. A statistically significant difference between scarred and control vocal folds was obtained for horizontal distance ( P P =0.005), area ( P P P ≤0.009). Reliability calculations for intrarater and interrater measurements ranged from r =0.845 to r =0.994 and from r =0.734 to r =0.976, respectively. The proposed approach for geometrical measurements meets the intended objectives in a canine model of vocal fold scar. Future work is needed to apply this approach to other model systems.
Le “je” et son ombre. La mort imaginaire de Louis Sébastien Mercier à la lumière de Saint‐Martin

L’article explore l’influence de la pensee de Saint-Martin sur l’ecriture onirique de Louis Sebastien Mercier. L’analyse de « Je suis mort », un court texte tire des Songes et visions philosophiques, demontre que la rencontre de la pensee du « philosophe inconnu » provoque chez Mercier un important bouleversement esthetique. Ce bouleversement se traduit par le recours a une premiere personne qui echappe aux exigences figuratives propres aux principaux genres du recit personnel du dix-huitieme siecle. L’ecriture visionnaire de Mercier differe de l’ecriture du reve dans la dissociation qu’elle opere entre le corps et l’esprit. Elle met de plus en scene une reforme du statut accorde au langage par l’entremise d’une representation surnaturelle de la musique qui, analogue a la revolution qui se produit dans l’ecriture du Moi de Mercier, conjugue a une critique de la pensee des Lumieres une remise en question de son esthetique. L’esquisse de poetique anti-representative que presente le texte de Mercier invite ainsi a repenser non seulement la transition entre le dix-huitieme et le dix-neuvieme siecle, mais encore a considerer sous un nouveau jour les rapports entre l’esthetique allemande et francaise qui lui sont aujourd’hui inherents.
Effective summation over intermediate states in double-beta decay.

We consider two separate schemes for eliminating the explicit summation over states in the intermediate nucleus in double-beta decay. The first, known as the operator expansion method, has recently been applied in several calculations; we show in a variety of simple models that the method fails and isolate its weaknesses. We then describe an efficient technique for generating Green's function matrix elements, based on the Lanczos algorithm, and apply it to a full {ital fp}-shell calculation in {sup 48}Ca. The method efficiently generates an exact (to within machine accuracy) result while the operator expansion method is again inaccurate.
Refinement of the structure of K2Cr2O7

The parameters for the structure of K2Cr2O7 have been refined from 7511 observed reflections; ao = 7.4200(6)A, bo = 13.399(3)A, co = 7.3845(9)A, cosα = −0.1396(2) (α = 98°2'), cosβ = −0.0154(2) (β = 90°53'), cosγ = −0.1078(2) (γ = 96°11'). The discrepancy factor R(Fo2) = 0.0702 with a type 2 extinction correction. The average CrO distances are 1.609A (unshared) and 1.783A (shared).
THE NEUTRON-STAR HYPOTHESIS OF CELESTIAL X-RAY SOURCES

THE discovery of galactic X-rays by Giacconi et al.1, confirmed by Friedman et al.2, which was quite unexpected from our present understanding of physical processes in astronomical objects, has induced a variety of theoretical investigations3. Among various mechanisms so far proposed to explain the X-ray sources, the neutron-star hypothesis suggested by several authors4 seems to present a reasonable combination of the radiative power, the distance, the life and the frequency of occurrence of the X-ray sources although the existence of neutron stars is still open to question.
Workshop jGRASP: An Integrated Development Environment with Visualizations for Teaching Java in CS1, CS2, and Beyond

The purpose of the workshop is to introduce faculty to the advanced pedagogical features provided by jGRASP for teaching and learning Java, especially for first year students. This includes the traditional CS1 (introduction to programming) and CS2 (introduction to data structures and algorithms). jGRASP is a freely available lightweight integrated development environment (http://jgrasp.org) that provides automatically generated visualizations for improving the comprehensibility of software. These visualizations, which are particularly well suited for CS1 and CS2 students learning Java, include Control Structure Diagrams, UML Class Diagrams, and dynamic Object Views (including arrays, ArrayList, LinkedList, HashMap, and TreeMap). The object workbench and integrated debugger facilitate a unique way for students to view objects created by their programs. The workshop will include hands-on activities and example programs to demonstrate how instructors can improve the learning and programming experience of their students by using jGRASP and the pedagogically sound visualizations it provides.
Attenuation of oxidant-mediated endothelial cell injury with docosahexaenoic acid: the role of intracellular iron.

Previous studies have demonstrated that altering the fatty acid composition of porcine pulmonary artery endothelial cells (PAEC) significantly modulates their susceptibility to oxidative stimuli, e.g. H2O2. Based on observations that fatty acids also function to transport iron, an important catalyst for H2O2-mediated hydroxyl radical generation, we hypothesized that fatty acid-induced alterations in PAEC iron metabolism contribute to modulation of PAEC oxidant susceptibility. To test this hypothesis, PAEC were treated with culture medium supplemented with 0.1 mM oleic (18:1), linolenic (18:3) or docosahexaenoic (22:6) acids or with an equivalent volume of ethanol vehicle for 3 h. After thorough washing and incubation in unsupplemented culture medium for 24 h, PAEC monolayers were subjected to additional studies. Supplementation with 22:6 attenuated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release from PAEC 2 h following treatment with 100 μM H2O2 for 30 min (% LDH release: ETOH-control = 7.9 ± 1.6, 22:6-control = 5.9 ± 0.9, ETOH-H2O2 = 26.4 ± 4.2, 22:6-H2O2∗ = 16.2 ± 2.9; ∗P < 0.05 vs ETOH-H2O2). In a non-cellular system, 18:1 and 18:3 were more effective than their methyl ester derivatives or 22:6 at translocating iron from aqueous to hydrophobic environments. In contrast, only supplementation with 22:6 significantly increased PAEC uptake of 57Fe and human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) ferritin content, whereas none of the supplementation conditions altered PAEC catalytic iron measured with bleomycin. These novel observations indicate that specific fatty acids are capable of altering PAEC iron uptake and ferritin content thereby contributing to the understanding of the mechanisms by which fatty acids modulate the oxidant susceptibility of vascular endothelial cells.
Fatty acids and their prostaglandin derivatives: inhibitors of proliferation in aortic smooth muscle cells

Prostaglandins are synthesized from eicosa-8,11,14-trienoic acid and eicosa-5,8,11-14-tetraenoic acid by smooth muscle cell cultures from guinea pig aorta. Production is inhibited by indomethacin. The precursor fatty acids and their prostaglandin derivatives inhibit proliferation of the cell cultures. The relative availability of fatty acids for prostaglandin biosynthesis may represent a control mechanism for cell proliferation.
Marrow cell uptake by megakaryocytes in routine bone marrow smears during blood loss.

In studying smears of marrow aspirates, we have encountered the presence of normal appearing haemopoietic cells within megakaryocytes. We have then searched routine marrow smears from 125 patients seen in our service during 3 years. The presence of marrow cells (granulocytic, erythroid, and lymphoid cells) within megakaryocytes was seen in 16 cases of whom 9 had documented bleeding and 5 had carcinoma. 3 patients were suspected of bleeding but this was not documented. 56 % of patients with bleeding and 83 % of patients with carcinoma seen during this period displayed this phenomenon. A search for this phenomenon in routine marrow smears may reveal unsuspected blood loss.
Evaluation of various solid adsorbents for sampling trace levels of methanethiol

Abstract The efficiency of fourteen solid adsorbent sampling tubes in trapping trace levels of methanethiol was evaluated. A thermal desorption-gas chromatographic method for the accurate separation of methanethiol from other simultaneously collected reduced volatile sulfur gases was developed. Trapping experiments demonstrated that silica gel (96.4% recovery) and molecular sieves (86.2% recovery) were the best solid adsorbent materials for collecting methanethiol when the sweep gas is dry. Using a calcium chloride drying tube, silica gel provided similar results (i.e., better than 95% recovery values) when the sweep gas contained moisture (i.e., normal field sampling conditions). Molecular sieves also were shown to be acceptable adsorbent materials for trapping methanethiol under moist conditions (73.9% recovery). Recovery values showed no significant changes during 36 h storage or using different flow rates (between 10–80 ml/min).
Implementation issues II

The panelists were asked to address three questions. The three sections below are summaries of the ideas discussed in response to each of these questions.1. When debugging a program, what information about that program is important for presentation to the user? What techniques can the debugger use to determine such information?While helping to develop a debugger, John Johnson had observed many programmers using it, and had noticed two distinct styles of information gathering:• Many programmers began by getting fairly small amounts of information. They simply wanted an overview of the "flow" of the program, in order to get a general understanding of its behavior.• After suspicion had been narrowed down to- a particular area within the program, the users wanted as much information as possible, formatted nicely.
A Sociolinguistic Analysis of Final /s/ in Miami Cuban Spanish

Abstract This study analyzes the variation of syllable- and word-final /s/ among two generations of Cubans in Miami, Florida (USA): older, early exile immigrants who arrived in Miami as adults in the 1960s and 1970s, and young Miami-born Cubans whose maternal and paternal grandparents immigrated to Miamifrom Cuba prior to 1980. Since sibilant weakening is generally considered to be an ongoing language change in Caribbean Spanish, it was hypothesized that the young generation of English-dominant bilinguals would present with much higher rates of aspiration and deletion, in keeping with [Silva-Corvalan, C., 1994. Language Contact and Change. Spanish in Los Angeles. Clarendon Press, Oxford] hypothesis that linguistic changes are accelerated in situations of language contact. However, the data instead revealed significantly higher rates of sibilant retention among young Miami-born speakers, indicative of a ‘reversed’ language change. This finding is attributed principally to the social need of the Miami-born grandchildren of early exile Cubans to differentiate their speech from that of later Cuban immigrant groups, mostly for political and ideological reasons. The influence of gender and the impact of Spanish language fluency among the young generation are considered, as is the role of language-internal factors.
Structured model reduction

In this paper, we consider model reduction by structured aggregation, where each reduced order state component is constrained to be simply a sum of components of the original state. This requirement, designed to preserve the physical significance of the system variables, is commonly imposed on models of large power systems, chemical process systems, and economic systems. We examine the principle of invariant response as a criterion for partitioning the state into components to be lumped together. It is shown that very coarse system responses can be used to determine appropriate partitions for the structured aggregates.
Predator‐prey behaviour of fathead minnows, Pimephales promelas and largemouth bass, Micropterus salmoides in a model ecosystem

The predator-prey behaviours displayed by largemouth bass, Micropterus salmoides and fathead minnows, Pimephales promelas, were investigated. Fathead PRMOWS were subjected to predation by largemouth bass and observed in a model system that was designed to mimic a natural ecosystem. Anti-predator devices utilized by fathead minnows include schooling, surface swimming, formation of a circular aggregation, and seeking refuge under vegetation.
Polarization of the reflected light of asteroid 433 Eros

Linear polarizations measured for asteroid 433 Eros at various wavelengths and at solar phase angles ranging from 9 to 53 deg are presented. The polarization results are entirely typical of main-belt S asteroids, and indicate a dusty surface with geometric albedo 0.20. The derived effective diameter at photometric maximum is 21 km. Eros is quite uniform polarimetrically; no dependence on aspect is detected, and the polarization is shown to be constant during a single rotation with a precision of one part in forty.
The Effect of SO2:HCl in Mixed Gas and Deposit Corrosion of Waste-to-Energy Boilers

High temperature corrosion via chlorine is a key factor in the degradation of boiler tubes in waste-to-energy (WTE) plants. Corrosion rates are particularly high in the superheater where material temperatures may exceed 450°C and where carbon or low alloy steels may be used. Although increasing sulfur, in the form of SO2, in WTE flue gas has been shown in previous works to have potential for decreasing the corrosion of these materials, the inhibitive effect is not well understood.This work investigated the corrosion of SA178A, a low carbon steel alloy (0.07 wt% C), and NSSER-4, a stainless steel (17.3Cr-13.1Ni-2.5 Si-Fe), via exposure under various well-defined environments, SO2:HCl ratios between 1:8 to 2:1 (HCl fixed at 800 ppm), 8% O2, 12% CO2, 0 and 15% H2O, N2 (balance) at 500°C in a horizontal tube furnace for 50 hours. Additional coupon testing was performed on NSSER-4 after application of 4 mg/cm2 ± 10% NaCl or Na2SO4 at 500 and 700°C for 24 hours to assess the impact of higher SO2 in the against both deposit and gaseous corrosion. Specimen preparation and corrosion assessment followed ASTM method G1-03.Experiments demonstrated little to no trends in corrosion rates at SO2:HCl ratios between 1:8–2:1 under mixed gas environment. However corrosion reduction was observed when SO2:HCl was increased from a reference condition of 1:8 to greater than 1.4:1 in tests with NaCl present, which was also not observed under dry conditions. These results suggest that one possible explanation for the reduction of boiler materials corrosion rate with higher concentrations of SO2 may be largely attributed to the conversion of metal chlorides to sulfates.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
Hydrogen spillover on silica: ethylene hydrogenation and H2―D2 exchange

Abstract Using spiltover hydrogen, activation of silica Aerosil has been achieved utilizing a unique reactor similar to one developed in Lyons, France, by Teichner. Activation was achieved without direct contact between the oxide (spillover acceptor phase) and the supported metal (spillover source phase). The induced hydrogenation and exchange activity occurs independent of the metal. This induced catalytic activity is an activated process requiring high temperatures and long time periods. The mechanism of the hydrogenation reaction is similar to that on metal oxides in that the molecular identity of the reacting hydrogen is retained. Thus, dideuteroethane is the primary product in the reaction of deuterium with ethylene. Differences in activity from both metals and metal oxides are noted, such as in ethylene and H 2 -D 2 exchange reactions; it is unclear whether these are due to the higher temperatures and/or to changes in the relative rates of the mechanistic Steps.
Ultrastructure of the aesthetasc (olfactory) sensilla of the spiny lobster, Panulirus argus

The aesthetascs of the spiny lobster, Panulirus argus, are hair sensilla located on the lateral filaments of the antennules. Each hair is about 0.8 mm long and innervated by about 320 bipolar sensory neurons, the dendrites of which project as a bundle into the hair shaft. Each of the dendrites develops two cilia. Within a very short distance each of these cilia branches repetitively and dichotomously resulting in 8000 to 10000 outer dendritic segments per hair, or about 20 to 30 branches per neuron. The branches intertwine frequently before running to the tip of the hair. Each hair also possesses inner and outer auxiliary cells. The inner auxiliary cells surround the bundle of dendrites, extending distally to the origin of the ciliary segments. Extensions of these cells project into the bundle of dendrites, separating groups of dendrites into discrete clusters. Outer auxiliary cells wrap the inner ones, but do not extend beyond the base of the hair.
Use of a Minimum Rate of Change Formalism to Quantify Variability of Extragalactic X-Ray Sources

A method to obtain rigorous, quantitative constraints on the rate of variability is suggested. The method is motivated by the case when the existence of time variability is unequivocal, but the statistical uncertainties are too large to apply more direct methods such as power spectrum analysis. Conceptually the data are fitted to a function of time and a set of free parameters. The method of Lagrange multipliers is used to solve for that parameter set which minimizes the value of the derivative at time t(m). The result can be related physically to the minimum efficiency with which rest mass must be converted to radiation energy. Slightly different formulations of the general principal are used to estimate maximum source size scales associated with the variability.
Sunspots and Expectations: W. S. Jevons's Theory of Economic Fluctuations

W. Stanley Jevons's statistical study of periodicity has received much scrutiny (Aldrich 1987), but less attention has been given to his theoretical position on economic fluctuations, a circumstance which T. W. Hutchison justly finds surprising considering that â€œJevons maintained that aggregate instability, and the distress it caused, presented profoundly serious problems, and devoted some of his most strenuous economic research to their explanationâ€ (Hutchison 1988, p. 6). This paper takes up the challenge to examine the development of Jevons's thought on economic fluctuations from the early 1860s until his death in 1882.
Controlling the Sensitivity of an Optical Cavity with Slow and Fast Light

We measure mode pushing in a Fabry-Perot cavity by a dispersive medium and find that the scale factor increases more than the mode width. We discuss the conditions that result in such enhanced cavity sensitivities.
Isotopic fractionation of methane in the martian atmosphere

The existence of methane in the martian atmosphere may be an indicator of subsurface life. Biological processes are known to fractionate the common isotopologues of methane, and hence measuring these isotopic ratios may yield constraints on the nature of the methane source. Any measurement of the isotopic ratios of atmospheric methane must consider the additional fractionation due to photochemistry in order to quantify the isotopic ratios of the source. Using a one-dimensional photochemical model, we find that photochemistry has a small (4.5‰) contribution to δ^(13)C(CH_4) but has a large (114‰) contribution to δD(CH_4). Confirmation of these fractionation values will require additional laboratory data on key model inputs, particularly the ultraviolet absorption cross sections of ^(13)CH_4 and kinetic rate coefficients for the reactions of ^(13)CH_4 and CH_3D with OH and O(^1D) at pressures and temperatures relevant to the martian atmosphere.
Carbon-fiber Woven Fabrics for a Concrete-structure Retrofit

Torayca T700S is a unidirectional woven fabric designed for retrofitting existing concrete structures. Its unique fabric structure ensures excellent welding capacity and workability. This material may be used in CF-sheet applications (including UD prepreg, UD sheet, and UD cloth) in place of the steel retrofit method conventionally used for reinforcement against bending and shear of such structures as road-floor slabs, piers, and building columns. It is so light that the weight load to the structure can be neglected, while its physical properties make the retrofit work easy. The authors consider further experimentation with this material and a collection of relevant data under varying structural conditions are essential before it can be used widely.
Preparing Preservice Teachers to Become Teacher Leaders

Abstract Since PreK–12 student achievement is the primary focus of schools, all teachers are called to serve as teachers leaders and improve learning on their campuses. Rather than waiting until they have gained experience, teachers can begin acquiring the knowledge, skills, and dispositions of teacher leaders during their preservice programs. Drawing upon published literature, this synthesis paper recommends reflection, service learning, and involvement in university-level student professional organizations as ways to prepare preservice teachers to become teacher leaders.
Nutritional Effects of β-Methyl-Aspartate and Methyl-Malonate on Euglena gracilis and Ochromonas malhamensis.

SummaryThe following compounds do not either replace or spare the growth requirement for Vit. B12 of either E. gracilis or O. malhamensis: DL-β-methyl-aspartate, L-threo-β-methyl-aspartate, ureido-β-methyl-aspartate, N-acetyl-L-threo-β-methyl-aspartate, and methyl-malonate. Inhibition of growth of E. gracilis by benzimidazole is not annulled by β-methyl-aspartate.
Does tissue transglutaminase play a role in Huntington's disease?

Tissue transglutaminase (tTG) catalyzes the incorporation of polyamines into substrates, or the formation of isopeptide bonds. tTG also binds and hydrolyzes GTP/ATP. Huntington's disease (HD) is caused by a pathological expansion of the polyglutamine domain in the protein huntingtin (htt). Because a polypeptide bound Gln residue is the primary determining factor for a tTG substrate, it has been hypothesized that due to the increase in Gln content, mutant htt may modified by tTG and this event may contribute to the pathogenesis of HD, possibly by facilitating the formation of htt aggregates. tTG is increased in HD, suggesting involvement in the pathogenic process. However, tTG is not required for aggregate formation. Further, tTG is excluded from htt aggregates and increasing or decreasing tTG has no effect on the frequency or localization of the aggregates. Considering these and other data, tTG is unlikely to play a major role in the formation of htt inclusions in HD brain. tTG may play a role in modulating neuronal cell death in response to specific stressors. If a stress increases the transamidating activity of tTG (e.g. increases in Ca++ levels), then tTG facilitates the cell death process. In contrast, if a stress does not result in an increase in the transamidating activity of tTG, then tTG protects against cell death. The protective effects of tTG are independent of its transamidating and hence likely dependent on its GTP/ATP binding and hydrolytic activity. Therefore the increase in tTG levels in HD brain could either be helpful or harmful depending on the cellular mechanisms that contribute to neuronal death. Acknowledgements: Supported by NIH grant AG12396.
A theoretical evaluation of the relaxation method in determining the temperature ratio in an inductively coupled plasma

Abstract The assumptions underlying the use of a relaxation method to determine experimentally the temperature ratio T e T g are examined. It is shown that the systematic error is small with respect to standard spectroscopic methods. A simple experimental method is given which allows the establishment of an upper error limit.
Differential Effects of Chronic Ethanol Administration and Withdrawal on γ‐Aminobutyric Acid Type A and NMDA Receptor Subunit Proteins in Male and Female Rat Brain

Background: Investigations have shown that chronic ethanol exposure results in selective alterations in levels of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)A and NMDA receptor subunits. We previously reported significant sex differences in these chronic ethanol-induced adaptations. Because we have more recently found important sex differences in timing for the development of and recovery from ethanol dependence, we wanted to ascertain whether there were associations between overt expression of withdrawal and neuroadaptations at the level of GABAA and NMDA receptors. Methods: Western blot analysis was used to assay protein levels for several GABAA and NMDA receptor subunits in rat cerebral cortex and hippocampus by using subunit-selective antibodies. Rats were fed 6% ethanol in a liquid diet with pair-fed controls. Feeding, harvesting of tissue, and Western blot experiments were all conducted while maintaining the paired design. Tissue was harvested after 3 days of ethanol exposure, 9 days of ethanol exposure, or 3 days of ethanol withdrawal after 14 days of liquid diet administration. Results: We again found sex-, subunit-, and brain region–selective effects of ethanol administration and withdrawal for GABAA and NMDA receptors. There was a strong association between increased GABAA receptor α4 subunit levels and previously determined withdrawal-induced changes in seizure susceptibility, highlighted by the sex differences in ethanol exposure length required to cause withdrawal signs. In addition, results obtained after 9 days of ethanol administration were in general agreement with previous findings after 14 days of ethanol administration. Conclusions: These data further support the suggestion that alterations in subunit assembly of GABAA and NMDA receptors may have some mechanistic role in neuroadaptations underlying ethanol dependence and withdrawal. Furthermore, significant sex differences in these adaptations suggest that multiple types of adaptations may be elicited, depending on innate differences in the actions/effects of ethanol.
Fourier transform-IR determination of protein contamination in thioglycolic acid lignin from radish seedlings, and improved methods for extractive-free cell wall preparation.

Fourier transform (FT)–IR spectroscopy was used to characterize and check for contamination in lignothioglycolic acid (LTGA) preparations from radish seedlings. LTGA, prepared by the conventional technique of extracting plant material first with 50% (v/v) aqueous methanol, was so highly contaminated with proteins that lignin, based on absorptivity at 280 nm, was overestimated by as much as eight-fold. When samples were extracted first with buffer to remove soluble proteins, then with buffer plus 1 M sodium chloride to remove ionically-bound proteins, and finally digested with cellulase and pectinase, the FT–IR spectra of the LTGA samples so obtained were comparable to spectra of LTGA prepared from purified hardwood lignin. Lignin values estimated from benzaldehydes recovered after cupric oxide degradation were similar for both methods of sample preparation. FT–IR analysis of the cell wall material from which LTGA had been extracted showed that this procedure removed all detectable lignin. LTGA values provide an accurate and highly sensitive assay of lignin in radish seedlings and this procedure should be widely applicable to lignin analysis of other young herbaceous tissues, but only if proteins are removed during extractive-free cell wall preparation. Copyright © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluation of a live attenuated bovine parainfluenza type 3 vaccine in two- to six-month-old infants.

Background. A safe and effective parainfluenza type 3 (PIV-3) virus vaccine is needed to prevent serious PIV-3-associated illness in infants younger than 6 months of age. In previous studies a live bovine PIV-3 (BPIV-3) vaccine, which was developed to prevent human PIV-3 (HPIV-3) disease, was shown to be safe, infectious, immunogenic and phenotypically stable in 6- to 36-month-old infants and children. Methods. The safety, infectivity and immunogenicity of a single dose of the BPIV-3 vaccine was evaluated in a randomized, placebo-controlled, double blinded trial in 19 infants 2 to 5.9 months of age and in 11 additional 6- to 36-month-old subjects. Results. The BPIV-3 vaccine was well-tolerated in both age groups and infected 92% of those younger than 6 months and 89% of those older than 6 months of age. Serum hemagglutination-inhibition (HAI) antibody responses to HPIV-3 and to BPIV-3, respectively, were detected in 42 and 67% of the younger infants, compared with 70 and 85% of the older subjects. In the younger infants we analyzed the rate of antibody response by titer of maternally acquired antibodies; low titer was defined as a preimmunization serum HAI titer <1 :8 and high titer was defined as a preimmunization serum HAI titer ≥1 :8. Young infants with a low titer of maternally acquired antibodies were significantly more likely to respond to the BPIV-3 vaccine than those with a high titer (89% vs. none for serum HAI response to BPIV-3 ; P = 0.02, Fisher's exact test). Conclusions. This study demonstrated that the BPIV-3 vaccine was safe and infectious in infants younger than 6 months of age and was also immunogenic in the majority of these young infants. Additional studies are needed to determine whether two or more doses will enhance the immunogenicity of the BPIV-3 vaccine in young infants and to assess its safety and immunogenicity when given simultaneously with routine childhood immunizations.
Angiotensin II type 1 receptor blockade ameliorates tubulointerstitial injury induced by chronic potassium deficiency.

Angiotensin II type 1 receptor blockade ameliorates tubulointerstitial injury induced by chronic potassium deficiency. Background Chronic potassium (K + ) deficiency, one of the well-known causes of renal tubulointerstitial injury, is associated with an alteration in vasoactive mediators including persistent generation of renal cortical angiotensin (Ang) II despite the suppression of plasma Ang II, and suppression of urinary nitrite/nitrate excretion. We tested the hypothesis that K + -deficiency–induced renal tubulointerstitial injury could be mediated by Ang II or a reduction in nitric oxide. Methods Rats were fed a K + -deficient diet (0.01% K + ) alone, or with either losartan or L -arginine (L-Arg) in drinking water. Control rats were fed with a normal K + diet (0.36% K + ). At the end of 10 weeks, kidneys were excised and renal injury was evaluated. Results Serum K + was similarly depressed in all three groups receiving the K + -deficient diet. Rats on the K + -deficient diet alone developed renal hypertrophy and tubulointerstitial fibrosis with an increase in tubular osteopontin expression, macrophage infiltration and type III collagen deposition. Administration of losartan significantly reduced renal hypertrophy and prevented tubulointerstitial injury in the cortex, although some medullary injury occurred. In contrast, administration of L-Arg did not attenuate tubulointerstitial injury in the cortex, despite a complete recovery of urinary nitrate excretion. Mild but significant improvement of tubular osteopontin expression and macrophage infiltration were observed in the medulla of L-Arg-treated hypokalemic rats. Conclusions These results indicate that hypokalemic renal injury is mediated, at least in part, by Ang II via the Ang II type 1 receptor, with a lesser contribution mediated by a reduction in nitric oxide. Losartan may be beneficial in preventing hypokalemic tubulointerstitial injury.
The impact of task preview information as a function of recipient self-efficacy.

Abstract Perceived general self-efficacy of a sample of 87 university students performing a job simulation task was hypothesized to moderate the relationship between task preview exposure and task performance and between task preview exposure and task self-efficacy. Two types of task previews (Favorable and Realistic) were used to test the proposed relationship. Using moderated regression analyses, significant General Self-Efficacy × Task Preview condition interaction effects were found for task performance. Task self-efficacy was significantly predicted by the levels of task preview condition. Implications for Realistic Job Preview research are discussed.
Comparison of monophasic with single and dual capacitor biphasic waveforms for nonthoracotomy canine internal defibrillation.

Monophasic and single capacitor and dual capacitor biphasic truncated exponential shocks were tested in pentobarbital-anesthetized dogs with use of a nonthoracotomy internal defibrillation pathway consisting of a right ventricular catheter electrode and a subcutaneous chest wall patch electrode. Seven dogs weighing 20.2 ± 0.5 kg were utilized. Monophasic pulses of 10 ms duration were compared with three biphasic pulses. All biphasic waveforms had an initial positive phase (PI) followed by a terminal negative phase (P2) and the total duration of Pt Plus P2 was 10 ms. The dual capacitor biphasic waveform (PI 9 ms, P2 1 ms) had equal initial voltages of Pt and P2. Two simulated single capacitor biphasic waveforms were also tested, the first designed to minimize the magnitude of P2 (P19 ms, P21 ms with initial voltage of P2 equal to 0.3 of the initial voltage of P1) and the second to maximize P2 (PI 5 ms, P2 5 ms with initial voltage of P2 = 0.5 PI). Alternating current was used to induce ventricular fibrillation and four trials of eight initial voltages from 100 to 800 V were performed for each of the four waveforms. Stepwise logistic regression was utilized to construct curves relating probability of successful defibrillation and energy. In the logistic model, the dual capacitor biphasic and single capacitor biphasic waveforms that maximized P2 were associated with significantly (p < 0.001) lower energy requirements for defibrillation than those of the monophasic waveform. The single capacitor biphasic waveform that minimized P2 was not significantly better than the monophasic waveform. The biphasic waveforms associated with the lowest energy requirements for defibrillation were characterized by a higher P2/PI energy ratio. These results demonstrate that single capacitor biphasic waveforms can be constructed that are superior to similar duration monophasic waveforms and comparable with some dual capacitor biphasic waveforms. The relative magnitude of PI and P2 appears to be an important determinant of defibrillation efficacy.
Stability and Quench Behavior of $\hbox{YBa}_{2} \hbox{Cu}_{3}\hbox{O}_{7 - x}$ Coated Conductor at 4.2 K, Self-Field

YBa2Cu3O7- x (YBCO) coated conductors (CCs) are now capable of carrying very high transport critical current density Jc over a broad range of magnetic field and temperature space, and as a result, they are receiving significant interest for a wide range of applications. While many of these applications take advantage of the high-temperature performance of YBCO CCs, because the YBCO CC is typically produced on a high-strength substrate and carries very high Jc at very high magnetic field, there is now growing interest in using YBCO CCs at 4.2 K to generate very high magnetic fields. The transition from high-field conductor to high-field superconducting magnet, however, requires that some challenging issues be addressed. One of the most important challenges remaining is to better understand the stability and quench behavior at 4.2 K, so that an effective quench protection system can be developed. Here, we report on measurements of the stability and quench behavior of short YBCO CC at 4.2 K by inducing a quench via a heat pulse from a heater mounted on the conductor surface. Through gradually increasing heater pulse amplitude, the transition from stable to unstable (i.e., recovery to quench) is observed through voltage and temperature measurements. Using these data, the minimum quench energy (MQE) and normal zone propagation velocity (NZPV) are determined. It is found that, for the same fraction of critical current (I/Ic), YBCO CCs have similar MQE and NZPV as Ag-alloy-clad Bi2Sr2CaCu2Ox wires and significantly higher MQE and lower NZPV than those of MgB2 round wires of similar Ic (4.2 K). Furthermore, the voltage and temperature versus time data are correlated to better understand the quench onset behavior at 4.2 K. It is determined that a normal temperature gradient exists from the CC surface to the YBCO layer within the conductor, as well as a directly measured longitudinal temperature gradient. After the heater pulse has ended but while the transport current continues, the temperature gradient along the length becomes dominant. Nevertheless, voltage and temperature measurements remain problematic for quench detection in large magnets because of the slow longitudinal propagation velocity. Thus, new approaches to quench detection and/or protection of high-field YBCO magnets are needed.
Thin films and techniques for SAW sensor operation above 1000°C

High temperature (300°C to 1400°C) wireless sensors have applications in energy exploration and generation, harsh environment industrial processing, and aerospace engineering. Existing technology developed at the University of Maine allows the fabrication of surface acoustic wave (SAW) langasite (LGS) sensors with Pt-Rh/ZrO2 electrodes that can deliver long-term stable operation up to 850°C. Since LGS remains piezoelectric up to its melting point of ~1400°C, it is desirable to extend the current SAW sensor temperature range of operation. In addition, it is desirable to diminish the SAW interdigital transducer (IDT) electrode dimensions to increase the wireless frequency of operation towards the GHz range. In this work, new thin film electrode materials have been investigated to allow the operation of SAW one-port resonators up to 1000°C and beyond. In particular, alternative Pt/Al2O3 and Pt-Rh/HfO2 thin film electrode compositions are presented, which yield operation of SAW resonator sensors up to 1100°C. In addition to a previously used capping layer, an interfacial layer has been added between the LGS and the electrodes to delay any interdiffusion between the materials and extend the temperature and/or time of sensor performance. Finally, it is also reported in this work that exposure of untreated SAW device electrodes with 120 nm thick and 2μm wide Pt-Rh/ZrO2 co-deposited IDT fingers to temperatures above 850°C can create long platinum-rich nano-whiskers. These structures short-circuit the SAW interdigital (IDT) fingers, rendering the device unusable. The short-circuit problem was solved by the use of multilayered electrode structures and the used of the capping layer.
THE BANK OF JAPAN: A CASE STUDY IN THE EFFECTIVENESS OF CENTRAL BANK TECHNIQUES OF MONETARY CONTROL*

THE PURPOSE OF this study is to examine the effectiveness of monetary controls by the Japanese central bank-the Bank of Japanand to analyze the relative importance of various instruments of central bank control. The study is concerned with the description and analysis of monetary policy in Japan in the tight-money periods of 1953-55 and 1957-58 only as this is necessary to demonstrate the efficacy of monetary controls in this particular institutional and environmental context. In Part I the hypothesis is examined that Bank of Japan monetary policy can be an effective means of implementing economic stabilization policy, especially in the restriction of realized business investment under conditions of excessive domestic demand. This hypothesis is significant because, (a) given its factor proportions, Japan has had to rely structurally upon imports for economic growth and, (b) given success in meeting capital formation requirements, the major operative constraint on stable growth has been periodic balance-of-payments crises emanating from excessive domestic demand and attendant inflationary pressures. The analysis focuses on corporate business reliance on external funds to finance investment activities and the reliance of the commercial banking system on central bank financing. Internal generation of funds by corporation business has been insufficient to finance the high level of business-planned investment emanating from the rapid growth of the economy. Capital markets have been relatively undeveloped; consequently, business has relied heavily on borrowing from the banking system, especially from the city banks. Under conditions of relatively interest-inelastic demand for funds and relatively low maximum legal lending rates, the availability of funds from the banking system, rather than simply their cost, has been an important determinant of realized business investment.
A new score for the evaluation of palpable breast masses in women under age 40.

Abstract Background: The purpose of this study was to develop a rapid and accurate diagnostic test for palpable breast masses in women under age 40. Methods: Masses were evaluated utilitzing a modified triple test score (MTTS), which assigned scores of 1 point for benign, 2 points for suspicious, or 3 points for malignant findings from physical examination, ultrasonography, and fine needle aspiration. The MTTS was the sum of the three scores and was correlated with biopsy or follow-up. Results: Among 113 masses, 100 scored 3 points, 8 scored 4 points; all were benign. Three scored 5 points; 1 was malignant. Two scored ≥6 points: both were malignant. Conclusions: The MTTS has 100% diagnostic accuracy when other than 5 points. Masses scoring ≤4 points are benign. Masses scoring ≥6 points may proceed to definitive therapy. Masses scoring 5 points (3%) require biopsy. This approach avoids open biopsy in the majority of cases, while capturing all malignancies.
Supplementary optimality properties of the restoration phase of sequential gradient-restoration algorithms for optimal control problems

In this paper, sequential gradient-restoration algorithms for optimal control problems are considered, and attention is focused on the restoration phase. It is shown that the Lagrange multipliers associated with the restoration phase not only solve the auxiliary minimization problem of the restoration phase, but are also endowed with a supplementary optimality property: they minimize a special functional, quadratic in the multipliers, subject to the multiplier differential equations and boundary conditions, for given state, control, and parameter.