cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The chromosomes and DNA of Allium cepa

Giemsa C-banded idiograms that allow the identification of all chromosomes have been prepared for Allium cepa, Ornithogalum virens, and Secale cereale. An analysis of A. cepa DNA has determined that: (1) It has the lowest GC content so far reported for an angiosperm (∼32%). (2) It appears to have no satellite DNA detectable by CsCl or Cs2SO4-Ag+ density gradient centrifugation. (3) Aside from fold back DNA and unreactable fragments, a C0t curve indicates that most of the DNA can be adequately described as two major middle repetitive components (Fractions I and II) and a single copy component (Fraction III). And (4) most of the repeated DNA sequences are involved in a “short period” interspersion pattern with single copy and other repetitive sequences. In situ hybridization of tritiated cRNAs to fold back, long repeated, and Fraction I DNA from A. cepa to squash preparations of chromosomes and nuclei from A. cepa, O. virens, and S. cereale root tips indicates: (1) Sequences complementary to fold back DNA are scattered throughout the genome of A. cepa except for telomeric heterochromatin and nucleolus organizers while they are not detectable in the genomes of O. virens or S. cereale. (2) Although long repeated sequences are scattered throughout the genome of A. cepa, they are concentrated to some extent in telomeric heterochromatin and nucleolus organizers (NOs). Sequences complementary to long repeats of A. cepa occur primarily in chromosome three of O. virens while these sequences are more common in the genome of more distantly related S. cereale. (3) Fraction I DNA is scattered throughout the genome of A. cepa while it is hardly detectable in the genomes of O. virens and S. cereale. These results are discussed in regard to the evolutionary conservation and function of repeated DNA sequences.
COMMON-LAW JUDICIAL REASONING AND ANALOGY

Proponents of strict rule-based theories of judicial reasoning in common-law systems have offered a number of criticisms of analogical alternatives. I explain these criticisms and show that at best they apply equally well to rule-based theories. Further, I show how the analogical theories explain a feature of judicial common-law reasoning—the practice of distinguishing cases—that rule-based theories ignore. Finally, I show that reason-based, analogical theories of common-law judicial reasoning, such as those offered by John Horty and Grant Lamond, offer especially strong rejoinders to the rule-theorist objections and persuasive accounts of distinguishing.
Spin current and electrical polarization in GaN double-barrier structures

Tunnel spin polarization in a piezoelectric AlGaN/GaN double barrier structure is calculated. It is shown that the piezoelectric field and the spontaneous electrical polarization increase an efficiency of the tunnel spin injection. The relation between the electrical polarization and the spin orientation allows engineering a zero magnetic field spin injection manipulating the lattice-mismatch strain with an Al-content in the barriers.
Physical Performance during Combinations of Hypercapnic, Resistive, and Hot Air Breathing

Performance time for a 3.2-km (2-mi) run at maximal voluntary speed was determined for 12 subjects under seven experimental conditions: resistance breathing (R), hypercapnia (C), hot air breathing (H), and combinations R+C, R+H, H+C, and R+H+C. The tests were performed on a treadmill at 5% grade. Performance time was increased significantly when the subjects were exposed to resistance breathing alone (9%) or to any combination condition containing resistance (16%–31%). The effect of breathing resistance was not specific to the presence or absence of C, H, or their combination. Nevertheless, the physiological effects were not additive and could not be predicted by knowing the effects of the individual stresses. Performance time also was increased in Condition H+C (9%). Pulmonary ventilation was the most affected physiological variable, significantly reduced in Conditions R, H, C+R, H+R, and H+C+R. In conclusion, a multistress approach should be used when determining physiological responses or performance l...
Calpain Expression and Activity during Lens Fiber Cell Differentiation

In animal models, the dysregulated activity of calcium-activated proteases, calpains, contributes directly to cataract formation. However, the physiological role of calpains in the healthy lens is not well defined. In this study, we examined the expression pattern of calpains in the mouse lens. Real time PCR and Western blotting data indicated that calpain 1, 2, 3, and 7 were expressed in lens fiber cells. Using controlled lysis, depth-dependent expression profiles for each calpain were obtained. These indicated that, unlike calpain 1, 2, and 7, which were most abundant in cells near the lens surface, calpain 3 expression was strongest in the deep cortical region of the lens. We detected calpain activities in vitro and showed that calpains were active in vivo by microinjecting fluorogenic calpain substrates into cortical fiber cells. To identify endogenous calpain substrates, membrane/cytoskeleton preparations were treated with recombinant calpain, and cleaved products were identified by two-dimensional difference electrophoresis/mass spectrometry. Among the calpain substrates identified by this approach was αII-spectrin. An antibody that specifically recognized calpain-cleaved spectrin was used to demonstrate that spectrin is cleaved in vivo, late in fiber cell differentiation, at or about the time that lens organelles are degraded. The generation of the calpain-specific spectrin cleavage product was not observed in lens tissue from calpain 3-null mice, indicating that calpain 3 is uniquely activated during lens fiber differentiation. Our data suggest a role for calpains in the remodeling of the membrane cytoskeleton that occurs with fiber cell maturation.
Drop formation of swirl-jet nozzles with high viscous solution in vacuum-new absorbent in spray absorption refrigeration

Abstract In this paper, the drop formation properties of a lithium bromide salt solution Trane [Trane, Private communication, 1997, [1] ], which is utilized in a new concept of spray absorber, is investigated. In the spray absorber of the absorption refrigeration cycles, the feasibility of forming droplets with an optimum diameter of 300 μm, calculated by the drop absorption model, were studied. To achieve above, a single nozzle spray chamber able to attain a low-pressure of 1.23 kPa (0.178 psia) pressure was built. The nozzles experimentally tested were swirl-jet nozzles. The differential pressure across the nozzles was varied from 50 to 200 kPa (7.25–29 psia). The flow rate in the experiment was varied between 0.018 and 0.043 kg/s (2.376–5.676 lb/min). The flow number that define the effective flow of the selected nozzles were 7.6 × 10−7, 1.5 × 10−6 and 2.3 × 10−6 and the viscosity ratio of this disperse/continuous phase flow was 1300. The nozzles tested were able to produce drop sizes having a mean volumetric diameter (MVD) between 375 μm and 425 μm. Comparison of drop absorption model results to conventional absorber results shows a significant improvement in absorption.
Aqueous phase adsorption of toluene in a packed and fluidized bed of hydrophobic aerogels

Abstract Surface-treated hydrophobic silica aerogel granules (Cabot Nanogel®) are contacted by a downward flow of a dilute toluene–water solution in either a packed bed or an inverse fluidized bed mode. The toluene adsorption efficiency and capacity of the Nanogel granules in both the packed or inverse fluidized bed are studied. The results show that the major factors which affect the toluene adsorption efficiency and capacity are the weight of the Nanogel granules (bed height) and fluid superficial velocity. In the fluidized bed adsorber the breakthrough time is considerably shorter than in the packed bed adsorber due to solids mixing in the fluidized bed; the outlet toluene concentrations at short times are also much higher and the toluene adsorption efficiencies are relatively low. The Nanogel granules adsorb about 4% of their weight in toluene. Simple models were used to predict the packed bed and inverse fluidized bed experimental results based on batch equilibrium and batch kinetic measurements of the Nanogel granules and the toluene solution. Good agreement between the models and experimental results were obtained.
Atomic resolution observations of nonlinear depleted zones in tungsten irradiated with metallic diatomic molecular ions

Direct evidence, on an atomic scale, is presented for the enhancement of damage production per projectile ion in metallic diatomic molecular ion (dimer) irradiations of tungsten as compared to monatomic ion (monomer) irradiations. Irradiations were performed in situ at ≲10 K, in a field‐ion microscope, employing 20 keV Ag+ and W+ ions and the results are compared with 40 keV W+2 and Ag+2 ion bombardments; the average energy per ion is 20 keV. The energy and mass of the dimers are such that the collision cascades are nonlinear. By directly counting the number of vacancies in individual depleted zones, produced by the different ions, it was demonstrated that the number of vacancies produced per incoming ion of the dimer is 1.55 times greater than the number of vacancies produced per monomer. The depleted zones produced in the near‐surface region, by the W+2 dimers, give rise to void‐like contrast effects. Whereas the W+ monomers do not produce the void‐like contrast of the W+2 ions. This result can only be ...
Ionization potentials of the N2O molecule

Abstract Minimal basis STO, SCF and CI calculations have been made for the three lowest ionization potentials of NNO. Although lower ground state energies are obtained both in the CI and SCF calculations when identical Slater orbitals, centered on different nitrogen atoms, have different exponents, the computed ionization potentials become better as those exponents are made equal.
Flight Range, Dispersal Patterns and Population Density of the Eye Gnat, Hippelates Collusor

Gnats tagged with radioactive phosphorus, released in the Palm Desert and Indio areas of the Coachella Valley in southern California, generally dispersed into agricultural areas and adjacent residential sections where favorable conditions existed for their feeding and breeding activities. They avoided virgin desert and barren hills, but were found to cross ½ mile of desert to suitable habitats on the far side. Dispersal occurred both up-wind and down-wind, but the greatest distance travelled in both experiments (4.1 and 4.3 miles, respectively) was with the wind. In one experiment, the population density was estimated at 3 to 5 thousand gnats per acre. Gnats were found resting at night on dry or damp ground, on soil clods, on dried rootlets protruding above the ground, and on foliage of low-growing plants.
Mapping vortex-like hydrodynamic flow in microfluidic networks using fluorescence correlation spectroscopy.

Abstract The ability to quickly measure flow parameters in microfluidic devices is critical for micro total analysis system (μTAS) applications. Macrofluidic methods to assess flow suffer from limitations that have made conventional methods unsuitable for the flow behavior profiling. Single molecule fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS) has been employed in our study to characterize the fluidic vortex generating at a T-shape junction of microscale channels. Due to its high spatial and temporal resolution, the corresponding magnitudes relative to different flow rates in the main channel can be quantitatively differentiated using flow time ( τ F ) measurements of dye molecules traversing the detection volume in buffer solution. Despite the parabolic flow in the channel upstream, a heterogeneous distribution of flow has been detected across the channel intersection. In addition, our current observations also confirmed the aspect of vortex-shaped flow in low-shear design that was developed previously for cell culture. This approach not only overcomes many technical barriers for examining hydrodynamic vortices and movements in miniature structures without physically integrating any probes, but it is also especially useful for the hydrodynamic studies in polymer-glass based micro -reactor and -mixer.
Hygroscopic thickness swelling rate of compression molded wood fiberboard and wood fiber/polymer composites

Abstract The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of ambient environment, temperature and relative humidity, on the hygroscopic thickness swelling rate of wood fiberboard and wood fiber/polymer composites. A swelling model describing the thickness swelling process of composites exposed to water vapor conditions was developed, from which the parameter, KSR, can be used to quantify the swelling rate. All the composites examined in this study were manufactured using a compression molding method. The adhesive used to make the composites was polymeric diphenylmethane diisocyanate (pMDI) resin. Polymers used in the wood fiber/polymer composites were processed from reclaimed automobile polymer mixtures, called polymer fluff. A polymer content of 30% was used to process the wood fiber/polymer composites. Four different ambient temperatures (17, 40, 60, and 80 °C) and four relative humidities (66%, 75%, 93%, and 100%) were examined in the experiment. The results of this study indicated that the swelling model developed was a good predictor of the hygroscopic swelling process of wood fiberboard and wood fiber/polymer composites. The lower the composite swelling rate, the better the swelling prediction was obtained. The standard errors of the swelling model were related to the temperature and relative humidity. The higher the temperature, or the lower the relative humidity, the greater the prediction error was obtained. Temperature had a significant effect on the hygroscopic thickness swelling rate. The swelling rate increased as the temperature increased. From the activation energy values calculated from Arrhenius plots, the temperature had less effect on the swelling rate for wood fiber/polymer composites compared to the wood fiberboard. A poor relationship was found between the relative humidity and the swelling rate.
The color of anxiety: Neurobehavioral evidence for distraction by perceptually salient stimuli in anxiety

Anxiety is reliably associated with an attentional bias favoring threatening information which is thought to be a key mechanism in the etiology and maintenance of anxious pathology. However, whether and how anxiety is related to attentional capture at a more basic level (i.e., in the absence of threat) is less well understood. To address this gap in the literature, we examined the association between anxiety and attentional capture in the context of visually salient, yet affectively neutral, stimuli. Specifically, we used a visual search task in which participants were required to locate a target while ignoring a salient distractor stimulus. A total of 122 undergraduates—half of whom were assigned to a state-anxiety induction—completed this task while event-related potentials were recorded and also completed self-report measures of trait and state anxiety. The results revealed that trait anxiety, but not state anxiety, was associated with impaired attentional control in the presence of a salient distractor. That is, behavioral slowing and the N2pc event-related potential—a neural measure of attentional selection—were enhanced for trait-anxious participants when the distractor was proximate to the target and required controlled attention in order to inhibit it. These findings extend previous work by providing evidence from multiple levels of analysis that attentional aberrations in anxiety reflect broad deficits in inhibiting distracting stimuli and are not limited to threat-relevant contexts.
A study of aldehyde oxidation at glassy carbon, mercury, copper, silver, gold and nickel anodes

Abstract The rate, potential and mechanism of the anodic oxidation of aliphatic aldehydes have been found to be highly dependent on solution conditions and electrode material. Aldehyde oxidations in neutral acetonitrile on glassy carbon occur at very positive potentials (ca. +3 V vs. SCE) and the peak potentials correlate with the ionization potentials of the aldehydes. In aqueous base, aldehyde oxidation is assisted by reversible addition of hydroxide to the carbonyl group to form electroactive gem-diolate (II). Oxidations of aldehydes in aqueous base on Hg, Ni, Ag and Au all yield the corresponding carboxylate via two-electron oxidation plus aldol and Cannizzaro byproducts and the oxidations occur at potentials far negative of the unassisted oxidation in neutral acetonitrile. On Ni, Cu and possibly Hg the oxidation involves the formation of a metal oxide which acts as a chemical oxidizing agent. On Ag and Au the oxidations take place on a surface which is not covered by a phase oxide. A mechanism involving a direct electrochemical process with oxidation of gem-diolate adsorbed on an oxide-free metal surface is proposed. A pulsed electrolysis technique was utilized to circumvent deactivation of Ag and Au electrodes during electrolysis and preparation of an “aurized” gold surface with a much slower deactivation rate is described.
Dynamic synchronization analysis of venous pressure-driven cardiac output in rainbow trout.

Measurement of venous function in vivo is inherently difficult. In this study, we used the Hilbert transform to examine the dynamic relationships between venous pressure and cardiac output (CO) in ...
Induction of Ca2+-Activated K+ Current and Transient Outward Currents in Human Capillary Endothelial Cells

Human capillary endothelial cells (HCEC) in normal media contain noninactivating outwardly rectifying chloride currents, TEA-sensitive delayed rectifier K+ currents and an inward rectifier K+ current. Two additional ionic currents are induced in HCEC when the media are allowed to become conditioned: A Ca2+-activated K+ current (BKCA) that is sensitive to iberiotoxin is induced in 23.5% of the cells, a transient 4-AP-sensitive K+ current (A current) is induced in 24.7% of the cells, and in 22.3% of the cells both the transient and BKCA currents are coinduced. The EC50 for Ca2+ activation of the BKCA current in HCEC from conditioned media is 213 nM. RNA message for BKCA (hSlo clone) is undetecable after PCR amplification in control cells but is seen in those from conditioned cells. The induction of BKCA current is not blocked by conditioning with inhibitors of nitric oxide synthase, cyclo-oxgenase or lypo-oxygenase pathways. Apparently the characteristics of human endothelial cells are highly malleable and can be easily modified by their local environment.
Computer science curriculum for high school students

This paper describes a current project to design an Introductory Computer Science Course for High School students. Problems concerning the choice of hardware, the selection of software, programming language(s) and the overall design of the curriculum are discussed. In addition, some previous related research is summarized and a plan for future activities is outlined.
Phenotypic effects of the weaver gene are evident in the embryonic cerebellum but not in the ventral midbrain.

Abstract Degeneration of neurons in two structures, the cerebellum and the dopaminergic neurons in the ventral midbrain, is a well characterized action of the weaver gene. In order to see whether the gene has effects prenatally, both the cerebellum and the ventral midbrain were examined in mouse embryos genotyped for the weaver gene ( wu, Girk2 ) on day E19. Anatomically matched sections of the midline cerebellar vermis were quantitatively analyzed 2 h after the dams were given a single injection of [ 3 H]thymidine. A gene-dose effect was seen in the retardation of fissure development. This was more pronounced in homozygotes ( wu/wu ) and less so in heterozygotes ( wu /+) when compared with wild type controls (+/+). Quantitative measures of the following features showed stepwise differences between genotypes so that the wu/wu are most affected and wu /+ are somewhat affected compared with +/+: surface length of the midline vermis, area of the entire midline vermis and the external germinal layer (egl), total number of cells in the egl, [ 3 H]thymidine-labeled and -unlabeled egl cells, cells in the Purkinje cell layer, cells in the region of the deep nuclei, [ 3 H]thymidine-labeled cells in the Purkinje cell layer (presumptive proliferating Bergmann glia), and [ 3 H]thymidine-labeled cells in the region of the deep nuclei. In contrast to the obvious phenotypic effects of wu in the embryonic cerebellum, qualitative immunocytochemical examination of tyrosine hydroxylase staining in the ventral midbrains of the same embryos showed that the position and density of the presumptive dopaminergic neurons was similar in all genotypes.
Control-oriented modeling of Ionic Polymer Metal Composites for biomimetic underwater propulsion

In this paper, we develop a control-oriented model for underwater vehicles propelled by vibrating Ionic Polymer Metal Composites (IPMCs). The time-varying actions exerted by the IPMC on the vehicle body, including thrust, lift, and moment, are estimated by combining force and vibration measurements with reduced order modeling based on modal analysis. The model predictions are validated through experimental results on a miniature remotely-controlled biomimetic underwater vehicle. The proposed model finds application in designing autonomous missions for such vehicles, including controlled interactions with live fish for the purpose of elucidating leadership mechanisms in gregarious fish shoals.
Land Aggregation Using Contingent and Guaranteed Payments

This article explores the use of alternative payment mechanisms to overcome the holdout problem when multiple parcels of land must be acquired to complete a real-estate development project. Purchase offers contingent upon successful land aggregation are compared to combination offers containing both guaranteed and contingent payments to determine which approach better mitigates holdout. The distribution of gains between developers and landowners is also examined. The results of a series of economic experiments suggest that contingent offers expedite land aggregation but developer payoffs are higher when combination offers are used. The results offer insight to real-estate developers participating in land aggregation and inform government entities considering the necessity of public-sector intervention in real-estate markets to encourage desired development projects.
FIDELITY OF DEOXYNUCLEIC S-METHYTHIOUREA (DNMT) BINDING TO DNA OLIGOMERS :INFLUENCE OF C MISMATCHES

Complementary short-strand DNA homooligomers and methylthiourea linked homonucleosides associate and form triplexes in solution. The melting temperatures, Tm, and the association and dissociation kinetic and thermodynamic parameters were determined by UV thermal analysis for the triplexes of short-strand DNA homooligomers (1-A20, 2-CA4CA4CA4C, 3-C2A3C2A3C2A3C2, 4-C3A2C3A2C3A2C2, and 5-CACACACACACACACACACA) with the S-methylthiourea linked nucleoside {5‘-NH3+-d(Tmt)4-T-OH (DNmt5)}. Circular dichroism studies show evidence of triple-helical association dependent on the mismatch content of the target homooligomer. The melting and cooling curves exhibit hysteresis behavior in the temperature range of 10−95 °C at 0.13 deg/min thermal rate. From these curves the rate constants for association (kon) and dissociation (koff) were obtained. Tm decreases drastically with increase in mismatch of the target oligomer. The rate constants kon and koff at a given temperature (288−310 K) are dependent on the C/A ratio. The...
Functionally-defined compartments of the lordosis neural circuit in the ventromedial hypothalamus in female rats.

Sexual behavior in female rats, typified by the lordosis reflex, is dependent upon estrogen action in the ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus (VMH) and its surrounding neuropil. However, the synaptic organization of this brain region remains unclear. Pseudorabies virus (PRV) was used to transneuronally label the neural network that innervates the lumbar epaxial muscles that execute the lordosis response. PRV-labeled neurons were identified within and subjacent to the VMH four days after injection of PRV into the back muscles. The pattern of labeling was defined in relation to three landmarks: the VMH core, as defined by Crystal Violet staining; the shell, as defined by the oxytocin fiber tract; and the cluster of estrogen receptor-containing cell nuclei. The pattern of PRV labeling in the VMH displayed a striking rostral-caudal gradient. In general, many of the PRV-labeled neurons were found in the oxytocin fiber tract, with far fewer in the core of the VMH. Furthermore, PRV-labeled neurons were rarely found in the cluster of estrogen receptor-containing neurons, and less than 3% of the PRV-labeled neurons were double labeled for estrogen receptor. The results suggest that oxytocin may directly influence these lordosis-relevant VMH projection neurons, whereas estrogen may have transsynaptic effects.
Isotropic effective energy simulated annealing searches for low energy molecular cluster states

The search for low energy states of molecular clusters is associated with the study of molecular conformation and especially protein folding. This paper describes a new global minimization algorithm which is effective and efficient for finding low energy states and hence stable structures of molecular clusters. The algorithm combines simulated annealing with a class of effective energy functions which are transformed from the original energy function based on the theory of renormalization groups. The algorithm converges to low energy states asymptotically and is more efficient than a general simulated annealing method.
Valuing software-based options for space systems flexibility

Abstract On-board software is a critical element in the operation and functionality of a space system. The functional requirements of space systems can change over time, and unforeseen failures can affect systems performance, thereby necessitating modifications and upgrades to the on-board software. Remote software upgrades as an option, can help space systems in operation to maintain their functionality in an uncertain environment, or even take advantage of uncertainty by adding novel applications or improving functionality while in space. In this paper, the concept of increasing flexibility of space systems through software is defined and some examples are discussed. The author presents a quantitative framework for measuring the value of flexibility in space systems. A case study on a direct broadcast satellite (DBS) is presented and the value of flexibility introduced to the satellite by software upgrade is measured using the flexibility framework. The quantitative flexibility framework allows decision-makers to assess the extent of software flexibility their space systems can exhibit in the face of uncertainty.
Relationships of Oxygen Uptake and Oxygen Delivery in Respiratory Failure Not Due to the Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome

Previous studies have suggested that oxygen uptake ( V ˙ o 2 ) may be dependent on oxygen delivery (QO 2 ) at most levels of QO 2 in patients with the adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS); however, the adequacy of substrate delivery in patients with non-ARDS respiratory failure is unclear. The purpose of the present study was to examine the relationship between V ˙ o 2 and QO 2 in a group of critically ill patients (n = 10) with non-ARDS respiratory failure ( ie , cardiac pulmonary edema, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD], or pneumonia). For comparison, these relationships were also examined in a group of patients (n = 6) with ARDS. The data indicate that V ˙ o 2 is dependent on QO 2 in both patients with ARDS and non-ARDS respiratory failure. In contrast, regional venous oxygen tension differences varied considerably between the two groups of patients, indicating differences in local adaptations to critical reductions in QO 2 . Finally, over a similar range of QO 2 , oxygen extraction was greater in patients with ARDS compared to patients with non-ARDS respiratory failure (r = −0.67 and slope = −0.62 vs r = −0.45 and slope = −0.35; p<0.05). These data suggest that a linear relationship between V ˙ o 2 and QO 2 is not unique to patients with ARDS and may not predict regional adaptations to critical reductions in substrate availability.
Evolution of O Stars. III. Helium Burning

Stellar evolution for star of 30 solar masses during helium ignition, depletion and exhaustion
Preparation of 26Al AMS standards

Abstract Absolute AMS (accelerator mass spectrometry) measurements require reliable standards for calibration. Highly concentrated 26 Al was obtained from NBS (National Bureau of Standards). The 26 Al, SRM 4229, was sequentially diluted with natural Al and 26 Al AMS standards were prepared. These 26 Al AMS standards are widely used as primary standards at major AMS laboratories. A substantial amount of 26 Al AMS standards with 26 Al/Al ratios of 7.444 × 10 −11 , 3.096 × 10 −11 , 1.065 × 10 −11 , 4.694 × 10 −12 , 1.818 × 10 −12 and 4.99 × 10 −13 are now available for the AMS community. Solutions having 26 Al/Al ratios between 10 −12 and 10 −10 were measured by several AMS laboratories; excellent linearity was obtained within the range of 5 × 10 −13 –1 × 10 −10 26 Al/Al.
Nonlinear Hydrodynamic Stability

The variational principle of V.I. Arnold [J.Appl.Math.Mech.{bold 29}, 1002 (1965)] is extended to general ideal magnetohydrodynamics (MHD). This is done using the trick of ``superdynamics,`` or the replacement of certain terms in the equations of motion by arbitrary functions. The variational constraint thus introduced leads to a sufficient, and likely necessary, Lyapunov stability criterion. All ideal MHD equilibria with fluid flow, except those with parallel sub-Alfvenic flow, are unstable according to this criterion. The method of superdynamics is extensible to other Hamiltonian systems. {copyright} {ital 1998} {ital The American Physical Society}
Culturally homogeneous and heterogeneous groups: explaining communication processes through individualism-collectivism and self-construal

Abstract The objective of the study was to test the position of the effective decision-making theory ( Oetzel et al., 1995 ) that process differences in culturally homogeneous and heterogeneous groups can be explained by group composition, cultural individualism–collectivism (I–C) and self-construal. Sixty-two Japanese and 86 European Americans participated in a decision-making activity in either a homogeneous or a heterogeneous group. The major findings are: (1) Heterogeneous groups are more likely to have unequal distribution of turns and to utilize majority decisions than homogeneous groups; (2) Homogeneous Japanese groups have fewer conflicts, use more co-operative conflict tactics, and fewer competitive conflict tactics than homogeneous European American groups; (3) Groups composed of members with high independent self-construals are more likely to use competitive tactics and less likely to use co-operative tactics than group composed of members with low independent self-construals; and (4) Groups composed of members with varying levels of independent or interdependent self-construals are more likely to have unequal distribution of turns than group composed of members with similar levels of independent or interdependent self-construals. Implications, future directions, and limitations are discussed.
PRETERM BIRTH PREVENTION PROGRAMS: A Critique of Current Literature

Published reports of the effectiveness of preterm birth prevention programs have produced mixed results. Many larger observational studies suggest benefit. The randomized trials, however, suggest no effect on reducing rates of preterm birth in high-risk populations. This article reviews and critiques these reports and suggests areas for further research.
Genetic variations of apolipoprotein A5 gene is associated with the risk of coronary artery disease among Chinese in Taiwan.

Abstract Recently, a T/C polymorphism of the promoter region of the APOA5 gene at position -1131 and a G/T polymorphism at position 553 were found to be associated with increased levels of plasma triglyceride. Triglyceride plays a role in coronary artery disease (CAD), so this case–control study tested for a possible link between these two APOA5 polymorphisms, their common haplotypes and the risk of CAD. The subjects included 211 CAD patients and 677 unrelated controls. A significantly higher level of triglycerides and a lower level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) were noted for carriers with -1131C than for non-carriers ( P P = 0.014) in controls with genotypes that contained the c.553T allele than in homozygotes for the G allele. Subjects homozygous for the wild-type haplotype had significantly lower triglyceride levels and higher HDL-C levels than subjects with all other haplotype pairs. The -1131C homozygous carriers and c.553T heterozygous carriers were found more frequently in 211 patients with CAD than in the 317 age/sex-matched controls ( P = 0.008 and 0.023, respectively) in univariate analysis. The significant association between c.553T allele carriers with CAD remained in multivariate regression analysis (OR, 1.79; CI, 1.07–3.00; P = 0.028), after adjustments were made for other risk factors. Notably, haplotype analysis further verified that the APOA5 -1131C and c.553T bi-loci haplotype was significantly overpresented in CAD, as compared to the controls. These results indicate that the variants of APOA5 gene modulate plasma triglyceride and may use them to predict CAD susceptibility in Taiwanese Chinese.
Panic disorder and chest pain: A study of cardiac stress scintigraphy patients

Abstract Recurrent chest pain in the absence of coronary artery disease is a major public health problem. Despite the reassurance provided by objective measures of coronary vessel patency and an excellent cardiac prognosis, many patients continue to experience symptoms, social and occupational disability, and to seek frequent medical therapy. 1–4 Several studies have identified a high prevalence of panic disorder among patients with chest pain and normal coronary arteries. 5–7 In populations undergoing coronary angiography or treadmill testing, 30% to 50% of patients with negative results meet criteria for panic disorder. 5–7 The current study investigated the prevalence of panic and other psychiatric disorders in the nuclear medicine department in patients with chest pain referred for noninvasive evaluation by myocardial stress perfusion scintigraphy. We also assessed 2 self-report measures, the Zung anxiety scale, 8 and the anxiety sensitivity index 9 for their use as screens for panic disorder.
IMMUNOMAGNETIC-ELECTROCHEMILUMINESCENT DETECTION OF E. COLI O157:H7 IN GROUND BEEF1

An immunomagnetic electrochemiluminescence approach using a commercially available instrument was developed to detect the presence of E. coli O157:H7 in samples of ground beef. The approach can detect E. coli O157:H7 that have been incurred with 0.05 CFU of the bacterium per gram of beef after an enrichment for 18 h at 37C. Results of comparison tests indicate that the approach is at least 100 times more sensitive than the Reveal dipstick method with a probable false positive rate less than 4–5%. To enhance the adaptability of the approach, a heat treatment was introduced to eliminate the possibility of generating aerosols of live pathogens during the sample loading process. To minimize the carryover of contaminants associated with the capture of E. coli O157:H7 by immuno magnetic beads (IMB), an immuno magnetic separation procedure was developed. The procedure involved the use of a magnetic field to first retain the IMB together with captured bacteria on a paramagnetic column. After washing away the contaminants, the target bacteria were then released from the column by removing the magnetic field. With the proven sensitivity and improved sample treatment procedures, the ECL approach could be considered as an attractive alternative for screening the presence of E. coli O157:H7 in foods.
Transcendence and the Problem of Otherworldly Nihilism: Taylor, Heidegger, Nietzsche*

Abstract This paper examines Charles Taylor's case against complete secularization in A Secular Age in the light of Nietzsche's and Heidegger's critiques of the potential for nihilism inherent in different kinds of philosophical appeals to “transcendence”. The Heideggerian critique of metaphysics as ontotheology suggests that the theoretical pluralism Taylor rightly embraces is more consistently thought of as following from a robust ontological pluralism, and that Taylor's own commitment to ontological monism seems to follow from his own desire to leave room in his theoretical account for an ontotheological creator God who stands outside the world and ultimately unifies its meaning. The Nietzschean critique contends that any such appeal to something that transcends the limits of human finitude remains nihilistic, insofar as such valorizations of the otherworldly undermine our capacity to appreciate and experience the genuine meaningfulness of human existence in its this-worldly finitude. The paper explore...
Mikheyev-Smirnov-Wolfenstein effect in electron-neutrino scattering experiments

We calculate the influence of resonant neutrino scattering (the Mikheyev-Smirnov-Wolfenstein (MSW) effect) in the Sun and in the Earth on measurable quantities in solar-neutrino--electron scattering experiments. The MSW effect reduces the expected rate for /sup 8/B-neutrino--electron scattering by a factor that ranges from --0.8 to --0.2 if resonant scattering is the correct explanation for the discrepancy between observation and calculation in the /sup 37/Cl experiment. The Earth can produce a significant diurnal effect for certain values of the neutrino mixing angle and mass difference.
Fair Energy-Efficient Network Design for Multihop Communications

We consider the energy-efficient network resource allocation that minimizes a cost function of average user powers for multi-hop wireless networks. A class of fair cost functions is derived to balance the tradeoff between efficiency and fairness in energy-efficient designs. Based on such cost functions, optimal routing, scheduling and power control schemes are developed. Relying on stochastic optimization tools, we further develop stochastic network resource allocation schemes which are capable of dynamically learning the traffic and channel statistics, and converging to the optimal strategy on-the-fly.
Whither the global population problem.

Growth of the human population has been underway for thousands of years and was never a problem until recently. It is now expanding exponentially, and today global population stands at nearly 6 billion with 97 million being added each year. Currently, overpopulation has led to serious social and environmental problems such as poverty, overcrowded slums, crime, terrorism, pollution of air and water, and depletion of the protective ozone layer. Warnings were sounded, but few listened. The enthusiasm once generated for solving the problem of too many people was short-lived. The press with puzzling abrogation of its responsibility to the public managed to allay all fears of population overgrowth. Two U.S. presidents welcomed such growth as a stimulus to economic development. Although modern contraceptives are safe, effective, and widely available, more are badly needed, but none are in the pipeline. Research is being hampered by hostile attitudes and by the high cost in time and money of bringing a new contraceptive to an uncertain market with the added threat of litigation. At the present rate of growth, the population will double in the next century. This is believed to be beyond the carrying capacity of our planet. Corrective measures by man or nature need to be undertaken.
US Imperialism and the Third World

A review of: 'The Selected Writings of Eqbal AhmadCarollee Bengelsdorf', Margaret Cerullo, and Yogesh Chandrani, eds., New York: Columbia University Press, 2006.
Determination of Lime in Hot-Mix Asphalt

Lime is added to hot-mix asphalt to mitigate stripping and other modes of moisture damage. No standard forensic test exists for the measurement of the lime content after it has been incorporated in the asphalt. This paper evaluates several methods to quantify the amount of hydrated lime (calcium hydroxide) in asphalt. A rapid analytical technique, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, was identified for determining the quality and quantity of lime. It yields qualitative or semiquantitative results from samples as small as 10 mg. No sample preparation is involved, and the binder can be scraped directly from large stones in the hot mix. The analysis can be completed in 30 s and offers the possibility of timely adjustment to the mix. For more accurate quantitative measurement, a second procedure is recommended. Samples are taken from cores with a hammer drill. The lime is separated from the resulting dust by acid extraction, and the calcium level is determined by atomic absorption spectroscopy or ion exchange chromatography. Different methods for removing the binder are discussed.
The decoupling of Smoothened from Gαi proteins has little effect on Gli3 protein processing and Hedgehog-regulated chick neural tube patterning

Abstract The Hedgehog (Hh) signal is transmitted by two receptor molecules, Patched (Ptc) and Smoothened (Smo). Ptc suppresses Smo activity, while Hh binds Ptc and alleviates the suppression, which results in activation of Hh targets. Smo is a seven-transmembrane protein with a long carboxyl terminal tail. Vertebrate Smo has been previously shown to be coupled to Gαi proteins, but the biological significance of the coupling in Hh signal transduction is not clear. Here we show that although inhibition of Gαi protein activity appears to significantly reduce Hh pathway activity in Ptc−/− mouse embryonic fibroblasts and the NIH3T3-based Shh-light cells, it fails to derepress Shh- or a Smo-agonist-induced inhibition of Gli3 protein processing, a known in vivo indicator of Hh signaling activity. The inhibition of Gαi protein activity also cannot block the Sonic Hedgehog (Shh)-dependent specification of neural progenitor cells in the neural tube. Consistent with these results, overexpression of a constitutively active Gαi protein, Gαi2QL, cannot ectopically specify the neural cell types in the spinal cord, whereas an active Smo, SmoM2, can. Thus, our results indicate that the Smo-induced Gαi activity plays an insignificant role in the regulation of Gli3 processing and Shh-regulated neural tube patterning.
Coenzyme Q10 changes are associated with metabolic syndrome.

Background: The purpose of this study was to determine whether coenzyme Q10 (CoQ) concentrations and redox status are associated with components of the metabolic syndrome. Methods: This is a cross-sectional survey of 223 adults (28–78 years), who were drawn from the ongoing Princeton Follow-up Study in greater Cincinnati. Individuals were assessed for measures of fatness, blood pressure, glucose, lipid profiles, C-reactive protein (CRP), reduced CoQ (ubiquinol), oxidized CoQ (ubiquinone), total CoQ and CoQ redox ratio (ubiquinol/ubiquinone). Results: After adjusting for age, sex and race, we found that total CoQ, ubiquinol and CRP levels are significantly increased in metabolic syndrome. Comparison of minimal risk and high-risk metabolic syndrome groups indicates an increased CoQ redox ratio in the high risk group (p<0.05). Step-wise logistic regression analysis, using age, sex, race, (ln)CRP, total cholesterol, LDL, ubiquinol, ubiquinone and total CoQ as predictors, shows that only age (p=0.001), total CoQ adjusted for plasma lipids (p<0.0001) and (ln)CRP (p<0.005) were significant predictors of metabolic syndrome. Conclusions: The presence of metabolic syndrome components are associated with increased plasma total CoQ and ubiquinol concentrations after adjusting for age, sex and race. An increase in CoQ redox ratio may indicate a gender-specific adaptive response to oxidative stress in females, but not males.
Pentagastrin stimulates in vitro growth of normal and malignant human colon epithelial cells

Summary Five normal and four malignant human colon epithelial cultures initiated and maintained in our laboratories as well as the standardized in vitro human adenocarcinoma cell line HT-29 were plated in multiwell plates and incubated at 37°C for 72 hours with either phosphate-buffered saline solution or pentagastrin (5 μg/ml). Pentagastrin stimulated normal cells to increase (p
Characterization of raman spectral changes in energetic materials and propellants during heating

Abstract : Raman spectroscopy has been shown to be a useful tool for characterizing neat crystalline explosive samples and for identifying principle components in many propellant and explosive formulations. Herein, we report recent measurements of Raman spectra of explosives and propellant formulations during bulk heating and recent measurements of laser heating of the samples during measurement of Raman spectra. The results of these measurements are important to investigators using Raman spectroscopy to measure vibrational spectra of burning propellant samples.
Interleaved multi-phase ZCS isolated DC-DC converter for sub-sea power distribution

Power distribution in subsea oil and gas platforms is a challenging task. In addition to efficiency and power density, reliability and maintainability of the power conversion system are very important. A compact modular design can boost both reliability and maintainability of the power conversion system. Multi-phase soft-switching high-frequency isolated DC-DC converter is proposed to build DC links from high voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission line. Input-series output-parallel connection of DC-DC converters is proposed for increased voltage blocking capability and decreased current ripple in the intermediate capacitive DC link. Each phase module of the power conversion system is implemented by a current-fed zero-current-switching (ZCS) full-bridge phase-shift PWM DC-DC converter. Phase shift between switches of each leg of the full-bridge is adjusted to control power flow while phase shift between different phases (modules) is selected according to the number of phases in order to minimize ripple of the output voltage. To verify the proposed system design and analysis, experimental results on scaled-down laboratory prototype are presented for a three-phase ZCS DC-DC converter.
Small gas turbine combustor primary zone development

Designers of small gas turbine engines prefer a close-coupled compressor to turbine shafting arrangement, which in some designs necessitates the use of a small reverse-flow annular combustor. A design methodology for obtaining the maximum performance potential of these combustors is necessary. This paper describes an approach to optimize the design process and gain insight into primary zone performance through interactive theoretical analyses and experimental tests. Three candidate combustor designs are described which address the performance limiting problem areas associated with small annular combustors. Design methodology centers around understanding and controlling primary zone aerodynamics and the interaction of the distributed fuel with internal airflow patterns. Complete three-dimensional flow field analytical performance prediction procedures are presented and results compared with performance and emission measurements described by probes located at the exit of the primary zone. The effective use of analytical performance prediction methods in the design process is demonstrated.
Cervical radiculopathy and myelopathy: presentations in the hand.

ASSH Disclaimer: The material presented in this CME activity is mad ASSH for educational purposes only. This material is not intended to methods or the best procedures appropriate for the medical situation rather it is intended to present an approach, view, statement, or opinion may be helpful, or of interest, to other practitioners. Examinees agree to medical education activity, sponsored by the ASSH, with full knowledge a they waive any claim they may have against the ASSH for reliance o presented. The approval of the US Food and Drug Administration is requ