cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Critical J-Integral Value of Injection-Molded Polycarbonate Using a Low Thermal Inertia Mold

Abstract A low thermal inertia mold (LTIM) is evaluated based on its ability to reduce residual stress and molecular orientation in thin polycarbonate parts. The mold employs a special cavity design which incorporates the use of high-temperature (above 350 °C) thermoelectric devices. Residual stresses are compared in LTIM and conventionally molded parts via an estimation of critical J-integral values (Jc)-the essential energy needed for crack initiation per unit area. The estimated values of Jc for LTIM and conventional parts are 6.3 and 7.3 kJ/m2, respectively. This difference may be due to the elevated LTIM cavity temperature which alleviates residual stresses and in turn reduces the estimated value of Jc. Observations of birefringence distributions were used to compare molecular orientation. The amount of birefringence is greatly reduced in a large central region of the LTIM parts, indicating low levels of orientation. Conventional parts show distinct color fringes along the melt flow path, indicative ...
Curriculum Decision Making in Teacher Education: Policies, Program Development, and Design:

The processes of curriculum policymak ing and program development in teacher education are outlined by Short. A series of tasks and decisions related to these processes are derived from re search and practice in the field of curric ulum studies and are described in the context of teacher education. The signifi cance of design criteria and the use of a unifying concept or theme in curricu lum planning in teacher education are explored.
Isotope-selective trapping of doubly charged Yb ions

We report isotope-selective loading and trapping of doubly ionized ytterbium into an rf quadrupole trap. Isotopically pure clouds of $^{174}\mathrm{Yb}$${}^{+}$ ions were first loaded into the rf trap via a multistage photoionization process. The Yb${}^{2+}$ ions were then produced by electron impact ionization of the trapped Yb${}^{+}$ ions. The Yb${}^{2+}$ ions were subsequently detected by rf excitation of their secular motion in the trap, which led to sympathetic heating and changes in the fluorescence of the laser-cooled Yb${}^{+}$ ions. The presence of doubly charged Yb ions was further verified by the appearance of a dark band in the center of Yb${}^{+}$ ion cloud after electron impact ionization. We discuss the possible formation of Yb${}^{2+}$H and similar compounds and the schemes for the direct optical detection of the Yb${}^{2+}$ ions.
Autoimmune thyroid disease: a risk factor for thyroid cancer.

ABSTRACT Objective To examine the relationship between clinical markers of autoimmune thyroid disease and the risk of thyroid cancer in patients with thyroid nodules. Methods A retrospective cohort analysis was performed in a single clinical practice. In 2, 500 consecutive patients, fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) was performed on all 3, 658 ultrasonography-positive thyroid nodules that were ≥1.0 cm in diameter or ≥0.5 cm in diameter with ultrasound features suspicious for thyroid cancer. Serum concentrations of thyroglobulin antibodies (TgAb), thyroid peroxidase antibodies, and thyroid-stimulating hormone were measured before FNAB. Diagnosis of thyroid cancer was based on pathologic analysis of thyroidectomy tissue. Associations of thyroid cancer with the independent variables were determined by multivariate logistic regression analysis and reported as the adjusted odds ratio (OR) with the 95% confidence interval (CI). Results There were 202 patients with malignant thyroid nodules, 51 patients with microscopic unsuspected thyroid cancer distal to the nodule under investigation (found at thyroidectomy), and 2, 247 patients with benign thyroid nodules. To evaluate the association of clinical markers for autoimmune thyroid disease with thyroid cancer, we included all 253 patients with thyroid cancer in the malignant cohort. Thyroid cancer was associated with elevated levels of TgAb (OR = 1.57; CI=1.11 to 2.23) and age Conclusion In patients who have thyroid nodules with indications for FNAB, elevated levels of TgAb are associated with thyroid cancer. (Endocr Pract. 2011;17: 201-209)
Extending the flash heating removal rate model to various interlayer dielectric CMP consumables

This study extends the application of a previously presented flash heating removal rate model to a series of interlayer dielectric (ILD) chemical mechanical planarization (CMP) experiments using Freudenberg XY and perforated groove pads along with Fujimi PL-4217 fumed silica slurry. Polishing tests were conducted at platen temperatures ranging from approximately 24 to 45°C. Application of the model indicates its versatility when using different tool sets, pad types, and slurry chemistries compared to those originally used to develop the model. The flash heating removal rate model was shown to predict experimental data from this study by an average root mean square (rms) error of 164 A/min. When compared to the traditional Preston model, which predicted the data by an average rms of 300 A/min, the flash heating model provides better predictive accuracy and enables one to predict previously assumed scatter associated with removal rate in a systematic and comprehensible manner.
The Decline of Western Civilization Part II: The Metal Years

Heavy metal aficionados know the scene well: Chris Holmes, from the band W.A.S.P., floats in a pool while pouring bottles of vodka over his head and into his mouth. His mother, sitting poolside, lo...
Pathogenesis of emerging avian influenza viruses in mammals and the host innate immune response.

Summary: InﬂuenzaAvirusesofavianoriginrepresentanemergingthreatto human health as the progenitors of the next inﬂuenza pandemic. Inrecent years, highly pathogenic avian inﬂuenza H5N1 viruses have causedunprecedented epizootics on three continents and rare but highly fataldisease among humans exposed to diseased birds. Avianviruses of the H7and H9 subtypes have also infected humans but generally resulted in farmilder disease, yet they too should be considered as possible pandemicthreats. Inﬂuenza virus infection elicits a complex network of hostimmune responses that, in uncomplicated inﬂuenza, results in effectivecontrol of thevirus andthedevelopment oflong-termmemoryresponses.However, fatal avian H5N1 virus infection in both humans and experi-mental mammalian models is characterized by a high viral load in therespiratory tract, peripheral leukopenia and lymphopenia, a massiveinﬁltration of macrophages into the lung, and dysregulation of cytokineand chemokine responses. This review focuses on avian inﬂuenza virusesas a pandemic threat, their induction of host innate immune responses inmammalian species, and the contribution of these responses to the diseaseprocess.Keywords: avian inﬂuenza virus, pathogenesis, innate immunity
Optical position-coded multiple-valued logic and arithmetic using liquid crystal TVs and holograms

Abstract An optical implementation of multiple-valued logic (MVL) operators that employs an optical holographic look-up table addressed by a pair of position-encoded liquid-crystal TVs is proposed. Realizations of optical modified signed-digit (MSD) as well as Post logic elements are included. Some first-order experimental results are presented.
Notes from the Pressure Cooker: Sharpening Our Professional Edge

Advocates for teacher education reform are calling for university faculty to become more in tune with conditions in the schools. Linda Darling-Hammond (2006), for one, says that “the enterprise of ...
Correspondence between quantum and classical motion: comparing Bohmian mechanics with a smoothed effective potential approach

Abstract We simulate Bohm and classical trajectories through a constricted quantum wire. Results are obtained with and without self-consistency as well as with an “effective” potential, calculated by smoothing the self-consistent potential. Including this effective potential generates classical trajectories with behavior remarkably similar to that of the actual quantum system.
Nonreductive Biomineralization of Uranium(VI) Phosphate Via Microbial Phosphatase Activity in Anaerobic Conditions

The remediation of uranium from soils and groundwater at Department of Energy (DOE) sites across the United States represents a major environmental issue, and bioremediation has exhibited great potential as a strategy to immobilize U in the subsurface. The bioreduction of U(VI) to insoluble U(IV) uraninite has been proposed to be an effective bioremediation process in anaerobic conditions. However, high concentrations of nitrate and low pH found in some contaminated areas have been shown to limit the efficiency of microbial reduction of uranium. In the present study, nonreductive uranium biomineralization promoted by microbial phosphatase activity was investigated in anaerobic conditions in the presence of high nitrate and low pH as an alternative approach to the bioreduction of U(VI). A facultative anaerobe, Rahnella sp. Y9602, isolated from soils at DOE's Oak Ridge Field Research Center (ORFRC), was able to respire anaerobically on nitrate as a terminal electron acceptor in the presence of glycerol-3-ph...
Helper-dependent adenoviral vector-mediated long-term expression of human apolipoprotein A-I reduces atherosclerosis in apo E-deficient mice

Apolipoprotein A-I (APOA-I) is the major protein component of high-density lipoproteins (HDL). It has been shown that over-expression of human APOA-I increases HDL cholesterol and decreases atherosclerosis. We constructed a helper-dependent adenoviral (HD-Ad) vector that contains the entire human APOA-I gene (hgAI). Intravenous delivery of 1x10(13) viral particles/kg of this vector was followed by high levels of human APOA-I expression (up to 200 mg/dl) in the absence of detectable hepatic toxicity. We treated apo E-deficient mice with the hgAI vector and fed them either with a high-fat diet or with regular chow. As a control, two groups of mice were treated with PBS. The apo E-deficient mice treated with the hgAI vector showed supraphysiological levels of expression of human APOA-I at week 4 and high levels of HDL cholesterol compared to the control groups. Analysis of aortic atherosclerotic lesions 20 weeks after treatment, showed a significant reduction of lesion size in the treated mice with both diets. In conclusion, liver-directed gene transfer of human APOA-I using a HD-Ad vector resulted in a reduction of the development of atherosclerosis with the absence of significant toxicity.
Treatment of Alzheimer's disease with a cholinesterase inhibitor combined with antioxidants.

A formula (formula F) was prepared to counteract oxidative stress (OS) in the brain. The formula contained the most common antioxidants and was intended to: (a) protect proteins, lipids, DNA and prote
Experiments on the induction welding of thermoplastics

In induction welding of thermoplastics, induction heating of a gasket, made of a ferromagnetic-powder-filled bonding material and placed at the interface of thermoplastic parts to be joined, is used to melt the interface; subsequent solidification of the melt results in a weld. Tensile tests on induction butt-welds of polycarbonate (PC), poly(butylene terephthalate) (PBT), and polypropylene (PP) are used to characterize achievable weld strengths, and microscopy is used to correlate weld strength with the morphology of failure surfaces. In PC, PBT, and PP relative weld strengths as high as 48%, 43%, and 55% of the respective strengths of PC, PBT, and PP have been demonstrated. Relative weld strengths on the order of 20% have been demonstrated in PC-to-PBT welds.
Model for Thickness Dependence of Radiation Charging in MOS Structures

The model considers charge buildup in MOS structures due to hole trapping in the oxide and the creation of sheet charge at the silicon interface. The contribution of hole trapping causes the flatband voltage to increase with thickness in a manner in which square and cube dependences are limiting cases. Experimental measurements on samples covering a 200 - 1000 A range of oxide thickness are consistent with the model, using independently obtained values of hole-trapping parameters. An important finding of our experimental results is that a negative interface charge contribution due to surface states created during irradiation compensates most of the positive charge in the oxide at flatband. The tendency of the surface states to "track" the positive charge buildup in the oxide, for all thicknesses, applies both in creation during irradiation and in annihilation during annealing. An explanation is proposed based on the common defect origin of hole traps and potential surface states.
Gompertzian growth and decay: a powerful descriptive tool for neuroscience.

Abstract First-order kinetics is based on simple exponential decay, usually expressed in base e (Naperian) notation. “Nonexponential” processes, for example, S-shaped functions, are frequently modeled as sums of that elemental construct, and the number of rate constants increases with the number of such terms. A powerful descriptive alternative to sums of simple exponentials is the Gompertz function. In Gompertz kinetics, the rate coefficient of an exponential process is assumed to change exponentially with the independent variable. Nonexponential processes are easily modeled, more efficiently and more accurately than is possible with standard kinetics. Application of Gompertz kinetics to neuroscience research topics ranging from cognitive to molecular is presented to illustrate the power of the model: distribution of nerve fiber diameters, conditioning–testing responses of excitable nerve, psychophysical estimates of taste intensity magnitude, time course of synaptic current, and behavior of membrane conductance during voltage clamp of squid axon.
The chemical composition of as-grown and surface treated amorphous boron carbon thin films by means of NEXAFS and XPS

Abstract Boron carbon (BC) thin film alloys have been grown using the technique of plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition. The electronic and chemical properties of the boron carbon thin films have been investigated with the techniques of near edge X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy and X-ray photoemission spectroscopy. The spectroscopic data indicates that the chemical bonding of the BC alloys is very similar to that of single crystal boron carbide. However, the lack of long-range order, i.e. amorphous structure, of the BC alloys shifts the B 1s and C 1s core level states relative to single crystal boron carbide, indicative of ionization states associated with defects. Comparison of the π∗ and σ∗ states across the C 1s absorption edge of the BC films with those of diamond and graphite indicates that the carbon bonding is predominantly sp3 in character. Boron bonding is a mixture of sp2 and sp3 hybridization based on comparisons with c- and h-boron nitride.
An ovarian steroid hormone regimen that increases hypothalamic oxytocin expression alters [3H] muscimol binding in the hypothalamic supraoptic nucleus of the female rat

Abstract Administration of sequential estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P) for 2 weeks followed by withdrawal of P 48 h prior to sacrifice will increase oxytocin (OT) messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) levels in the paraventricular and supraoptic nuclei (PVN and SON) of the ovariectomized rat. Progesterone is known to mediate certain of its effects via binding to the gamma aminobutyric acid A (GABAA) receptor. E2 and P are known to modulate the specific binding of the GABAA receptor agonist, muscimol, in certain brain regions. In the present study ovariectomized rats received empty or steroid-filled Silastic capsules for 2 weeks according to one of the following schedules: E2 only (E2 group) vs. sequential E2 and P in which P was either removed 48 h prior to killing (E2/P− group) or sustained until sacrifice (E2/P+ group). [ 3 H ]muscimol binding was measured in several brain regions of the animals. The steroid sequence that is known to increase SON OT mRNA (E2/P−) selectively decreased [ 3 H ]muscimol binding in the SON of ovariectomized rats. The results suggest that changes in GABAA receptor binding may, in part, play a role in the regulation of steroid-induced increases in hypothalamic OT expression.
Mechanism of repolarization alternans has restitution of action potential duration dependent and independent components.

Diastolic Intervals and Alternans of APD. Introduction: Investigation of relationship between diastolic-interval (DI)-dependent restitution of action potential duration (APD) and alternans of APD has produced conflicting results. We used a novel pacing protocol to determine the role of restitution in alternans by minimizing changes in DI preceding each activation. Methods: Transmembrane potentials were recorded from right ventricular endocardial tissue isolated from five dogs. We used three pacing sequences: (i) The tissue was paced at a constant DI for 100 beats. (ii) The DIs were changed randomly between two sequences of constant DI. (iii) Each constant DI trial was followed by constant cycle length trial where pacing cycle length was equal to average cycle length during previous constant DI trial. Results: Alternans of APD occurred even when DIs preceding each activation were invariant. Slopes of restitution during constant DI pacing were both negative and positive and were much larger than unity. Alternans amplitude during constant cycle length pacing was larger than during constant DI, 32.2 ± 12.3 versus 7.5 ± 2.8 msec, P < 0.01. Random perturbation of DI decreased alternans amplitude during constant DI pacing from 14.7 ± 4.8 to 10.5 ± 3.4 msec, P < 0.01. Conclusion: Our results indicate that mechanism of repolarization alternans has restitution-dependent and restitution-independent components. However, our results also provide direct evidence that shows that DI-dependent restitution of APD is not a necessary mechanism for the alternans to exist. Ability to pace with explicit control of DI provides a novel approach to dissect mechanisms of alternans into restitution-dependent and restitution-independent effects.
Providing Homeless Adults with Advantage: A Sustainable University Degree Program.

A university partnered with the New York City Department of Homeless Services (NYC DHS) to provide cohorts of adults a 60-credit Associate Degree Program in Business Administration over a 2-year period. Results of two cohorts of 30 Advantage Academy Program graduates revealed significant improvement in College Board AccuPlacer (ACPL) Arithmetic results and grade point averages (GPAs) near the 3.0 cumulative average. Eleven Cohort I completers also revealed a significant positive change in self-efficacy based on pre/post-administration of two scales whereas 19 Cohort II completers did not show evidence of such a change. Information is provided for 44 non-completers as well. Eighteen graduates have been employed as managers or in a customer service field related to the business major. With the third cohort graduation completed in May 2014, this is the first comprehensive and sustainable higher education program of its kind for homeless adults to help them end cycles of poverty and agency alliance.
Modified Stewart Platform for Spacecraft Thruster Vector Control

Adaptive or intelligent structures which have the capability for sensing and responding to their environment promise a novel approach to satisfying the stringent performance requirements of future space missions. This paper introduces an intelligent modified Stewart platform as an adaptive thruster mount structure with precision positioning and active vibration suppression capabilities for use in space satellites as an intelligent thruster vector control platform. The intelligent thruster mount would utilize piezoelectric sensors and actuators for precision positioning and active vibration suppression to provide fine-tuning of position tolerance for thruster alignment and low transmissibility of vibration to the satellite structure. Similar intelligent platform, introduced here, may be used for sensitive equipment aboard of the spacecraft to suppress the vibration that resonates throughout the spacecraft structure during a thruster firing, solar panel boom opening/reorientation, etc. This vibration renders sensitive optical or measurement equipment non-operational until the disturbance has dissipated. This intelligent system approach would greatly enhance mission performance by fine tuning attitude control, potentially eliminating the non-operational period as well as minimizing fuel consumption utilized for position correction. The configuration of the intelligent thruster mount system is that of a modified Stewart platform. This system is an intelligent tripod with two in-plane rotational degrees of freedom (2-DOF) for the top device-plate. Precision positioning of this structure is achieved using active members that extend or contract to tilt the upper device-plate where the thruster is mounted. An inverse analysis of a modified Stewart platform is employed to determine the required axial displacement of the active struts for the desired angular tilt of the upper device-plate. The active struts can participate in precision positioning as well as vibration suppression of the upper device-plate where the thruster, i.e., the source of the unwanted vibrations and misalignment, is mounted. The proposed Thruster Vector Control (TVC) intelligent platform offers a promising method for achieving fine tuning of positioning tolerances of a thruster as well as minimizing the effects of the disturbances generated during thruster firing in spacecraft such as a satellite.Copyright © 2002 by ASME
Correlation of archaeological ceramics and clays using an external-beam PIXE analysis of the major elemental constituents

Abstract Time-consuming trace-element analysis is often used to determine the origin of archaeological artifacts. In an effort to locate the source of clay used to manufacture archaeological ceramics from eastern Oklahoma, we find that a determination of major elemental constituents using external-beam PIXE analysis is a useful technique for determining the probability of common origin. Using a 7 nA, 1.5 MeV external proton beam, it takes less than one minute to determine the concentration of the major elements to an accuracy of better than 5%. This rapid analysis makes it possible to quickly select pottery sherds of similar composition and eliminate clay samples which are not strongly correlated with the sherds. Trace-element analysis of these strongly correlated samples can then in principle be used to make an absolute identification. Major elemental analysis is thus useful for survey work where many samples must be examined. The effects of sample inhomogeneity and the firing process, as well as the probability of false correlations, are discussed.
Specificity of pyridoxine (pyridoxamine) 5′-phosphate oxidase for flavin-phosphates

Abstract The reversible resolution of pyridoxine (pyridoxamine) 5′-phosphate oxidoreductase (deaminating, EC 1.4.3.5) to apoenzyme and FMN has been accomplished in 85–100% yield. The effects of structural alterations of FMN were studied in order to assess the coenzyme specificity of this enzyme. 1. 1. An anionic group at the 5′-terminus is required. Riboflavin and FAD are inactive, while riboflavin 5′-sulfate and 5′-O-methylphosphate are less active than FMN. 2. 2. Secondary hydroxyl groups on the N10-side chain are required for activity, since deletion of the hydroxyls, as in the 5′-phosphate of the ω-hydroxypentylflavin, or blocking the hydroxyls, as by acetylation of FMN, abolishes activity. Epimeric configuration is also important, since, among the different hydroxylated side chains tested, only l -lyxityl conferred measurable activity. 3. 3. The isoalloxazine ring system is more tolerant to modification. 2-Morpholino-FMN is measurably active, for instance. 7,8-Dichloro-FMN and 3-carboxymethyl-FMN are strong competitive inhibitors. The results are interpreted in terms of three regions of the FMN binding site, all of which contribute not only to the interaction of FMN with the protein, but also to the catalytic capability of the holoenzyme.
Absence of PsaC subunit allows assembly of photosystem I core but prevents the binding of PsaD and PsaE in Synechocystis sp. PCC6803.

In photosystem I (PSI) of oxygenic photosynthetic organisms the psaC polypeptide, encoded by the psaC gene, provides the ligands for two [4Fe-4S] clusters, FA and FB. Unlike other cyanobacteria, two different psaC genes have been reported in the cyanobacterium Synechocystis 6803, one (copy 1) with a deduced amino acid sequence identical to that of tobacco and another (copy 2) with a deduced amino acid sequence similar to those reported for other cyanobacteria. Insertion of a gene encoding kanamycin resistance into copy 2 resulted in a photosynthesis-deficient strain, CDK25, lacking the PsaC, PsaD and PsaE polypeptides in isolated thylakoid membranes, while the PsaA/PsaB and PsaF subunits were found. Growth of the mutant cells was indistinguishable from that of wild-type cells under light-activated heterotrophic growth (LAHG). A reversible P700+ signal was detected by EPR spectroscopy in the isolated thylakoids during illumination at low temperature. Under these conditions, the EPR signals attributed to FA and FB were absent in the mutant strain, but a reversible Fx signal was present with broad resonances at g=2.079, 1.903, and 1.784. Addition of PsaC and PsaD proteins to the thylakoids gave rise to resonances at g=2.046, 1.936, 1.922, and 1.880; these values are characteristic of an interaction-type spectrum of FA- and FB-. In room-temperature optical spectroscopic analysis, addition of PsaC and PsaD to the thylakoids also restored a 30 ms kinetic transient which is characteristic of the P700+ [FA/FB]- backreaction. Expression of copy 1 was not detected in cells grown under LAHG and under mixotrophic conditions. These results demonstrate that copy 2 encodes the PsaC polypeptide in PSI in Synechocystis 6803, while copy 1 is not involved in PSI; that the PsaC polypeptide is necessary for stable assembly of PsaD and PsaE into PSI complex in vivo; and that PsaC, PsaD and PsaE are not needed for assembly of PsaA-PsaB dimer and electron transport from P700 to Fx.
High-efficiency dual-band power amplifier for radar applications

A two-stage Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) monolithic power amplifier has been developed. The main features of the amplifier are the coverage of two distinct frequency bands, X-band and Ku-band; high power output of 800 mW at 2 dB compression at 85 C, and high efficiency, 14 to 20 percent at 85 C. The circuit includes on-chip biasing accessible from both sides of the circuit and is stable under any combination of input/output loads attainable with standard tuners. The amplifier measures 0.109 by 0.120 in. and was fabricated with standard ion-implanted, 0.5 micron gate length MESFETs.© (1991) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Explicit expressions for element coordinate transformations by symbolic manipulation

Abstract A symbolic manipulator has been used to develop explicit expressions for element stiffness matrices in global coordinates. Numerical experiments using these expressions give execution time reductions of as much as four to one or more, when compared with efficient matrix multiplication methods to achieve the same result. A three dimensional beam element and a general element are treated.
Laws and cause

L'A. defend la these du monisme anormal, selon lequel un enonce vrai, singulier et causal, concernant deux evenements mentaux presuppose une loi qui regit ces deux evenements des lors qu'ils sont decrits de facon appropriee. L'A. etablit des relations conceptuelles entre les notions d'evenement, loi et objet, afin d'expliquer pourquoi l'identite entre entites mentales et physiques n'implique pas l'identite entre le vocabulaire mental et le vocabulaire physique
Updating and refining a study brochure for a cancer registry-based study of BRCA mutations among young African American breast cancer patients: lessons learned

The aim of the present study was to update, refine, and evaluate a study brochure to promote participation in a population-based study of BRCA mutations among AA women with a personal history of early-onset breast cancer. A multi-step approach was used to develop this brochure and included: (1) feedback from community members (through a Community Advisory Panel (CAP)) to develop and refine the study brochure, (2) pilot testing of materials with the target audience, and (3) review of pilot testing results with the CAP. Based on the feedback received at each step, the study brochure was refined. In phase 1, the major changes included emphasizing the concept of leaving a legacy and family, using the terms Black and women of color, and use of patient vignettes and photos. In phase 2, attraction and cultural acceptability were identified as two areas for improvement in the study brochure. These results demonstrate that involvement of community members and target study population in the development of a study-specific brochure can provide invaluable feedback to optimize recruitment strategies. This approach can be readily adapted to develop study recruitment materials for individuals from a variety of cultural and ethnic backgrounds.
Drop size and velocity instrumentation

Abstract A general review is made of a wide range of commercially available instruments for investigating the structure of liquid sprays. The techniques include photographic recording, visualization, drop size and velocity measurement. A brief mention is made of non-probing methods including phase discriminating suction probes and a submicron particle size analyzer using a radioactive source. Following the discussion of the major requirements for detailed spatial and temporal analysis of continuous and pulsed liquid sprays, the major portion of the paper is devoted to discussion of optical techniques. Imaging techniques including still and motion photography, holography and video recording are reviewed. The basic principles and practice in the use of optical interferometry for simultaneous particle sizing and velocity measurement of individual particles are examined and described in detail. The concepts of visibility and peak amplitude of doppler signals are related to problems associated with light intensity distributions within the measurement control volume. Calibration methods and spatial and temporal averaging procedures are presented. In the section on anemometry, simultaneous measurement of drop size and velocity as well as differentiation between drop and gas velocity is examined. The laser Fraunhofer diffraction method for particle size analysis of droplet clouds is also discussed. This instrument is being widely used for rapid and convenient testing of overall spray characteristics. Additional spatial resolution is achieved by using tomography in which slices of a spray are examined at various locations and at different angles. The laser diffraction meter has also been specially adapted for making more rapid measurements in high frequency pulsed Diesel sprays. The final section of the paper is devoted to recent and future developments. These include uniform laser light intensity distributions within the measurement control volume to reduce spastial ambiguity; use of 3-D motion picture photography for determination of individual droplet trajectories; automatic image analysis and numerical holographic reconstruction.
Correlation of lesions from multiple images for CAD

The object of this research is to investigate a method for determining whether two different imaged presentations of a lesion actually represent the same abnormality. Tasks of this kind are expected to arise in numerous applications, including when interpreting multi-view mammograms or multi-modal images for breast cancer diagnosis and when comparing breast images in longitudinal studies for evaluation of disease prognosis or treatment outcome. Currently, we consider the above-stated discrimination task in two-view breast sonography. We are studying image-based feature(s) and are developing general correlation formulation that uses the identified feature(s). By using a database of 262 actual breast lesions we have obtained promising initial results that yield an Az value of 0.82 in the task of distinguishing between corresponding lesion pairs and non-corresponding lesion pairs.
Optical fluorescent imaging to monitor temporal effects of microbubble-mediated ultrasound therapy

Microbubble-mediated ultrasound therapy can noninvasively enhance drug delivery to localized regions in the body. This technique can be beneficial in cancer therapy, but currently there are limitations to tracking the therapeutic effects. The purpose of this experiment was to investigate the potential of fluorescent imaging for monitoring the temporal effects of microbubble-mediated ultrasound therapy. Mice were implanted with 2LMP breast cancer cells. The animals underwent microbubble-mediated ultrasound therapy in the presence of Cy5.5 fluorescent-labeled IgG antibody (large molecule) or Cy5.5 dye (small molecule) and microbubble contrast agents. Control animals were administered fluorescent molecules only. Animals were transiently imaged in vivo at 1, 10, 30, and 60 min post therapy using a small animal optical imaging system. Tumors were excised and analyzed ex vivo. Tumors were homogenized and emulsion imaged for Cy5.5 fluorescence. Monitoring in vivo results showed significant influx of dye into the tumor (p ; 0.05). However, after tumor emulsion, significantly higher dye concentration was detected in therapy group tumors for both small and large molecule groups in comparison to their control counterparts (p <; 0.01). This paper explores a noninvasive optical imaging method for monitoring the effects of microbubble-mediated ultrasound therapy in a cancer model. It provides temporal information following the process of increasing extravasation of molecules into target tumors.
Origin of delay time in stress corrosion cracking of austenitic stainless steels

Abstract Stressed specimens of 25% Cr, 20% Ni stainless steels were removed from boiling MgCI2 solution, pickled, and re-immersed. Total time to failure was not altered. Also, specimens, not stressed, when heat treated at 154°C in air or by immersion in boiling MgCl2 solution for various times showed the same susceptibility to stress corrosion cracking. These experiments, combined with additional supporting evidence, prove that an oxide or passive film has little or no influence on time for crack initiation and propagation. Instead, the important factor appears to be associated with the time for segregation at lattice imperfection sites, of nitrogen atoms and similar damaging impurities, aided by the elevated temperature of the test. This segregation of nitrogen causes an ageing effect and also produces crack-sensitive paths. A low-nitrogen 20 % Cr, 19 % Ni austenitic stainless steel, for example, neither quench-ages nor is it susceptible to stress corrosion cracking.
Using LCA to Find Improvements for Hydrogen Production From Wind Electrolysis

Although hydrogen is generally considered to be a clean fuel, it is important to recognize that its production may have negative impacts on the environment. Examining the resource consumption, energy requirements, and emissions from a life cycle point of view gives a complete picture of the environmental burdens associated with hydrogen production. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory has performed a life cycle assessment (LCA) on a renewable hydrogen production process that employs wind/electrolysis. The results of the LCA showed areas where improvements would have the greatest reduction in stressors (i.e., resources, energy, and pollutants).Copyright © 2003 by ASME
Glucagon affinity absorbents: selective binding of receptors of liver cell membranes.

AFFINITY chromatography has been used in the rapid isolation of enzymes, antibodies, antigens and other ligand-binding proteins1–6. Selective adsorbents with biological specificity perhaps may best be used in the resolution and isolation of complex biological structures and important regulatory macromolecules present in cells in very low amounts. For example, polypeptide and steroid hormone receptors, drug receptors, transport proteins and repressor molecules may be well suited for study by this technique because they display specific binding functions with a high degree of affinity.
Synthesis and kinetic studies of diphenyl 1-(N-peptidylamino)alkanephosphonate esters and their biotinylated derivatives as inhibitors of serine proteases and probes for lymphocyte granzymes.

Abstract Diphenyl 1-(N-peptidylamino)alkanephosphonate esters are highly reactive, specific, and aqueously stable irreversible inhibitors which can be used to probe the functions of many serine proteases, including the lymphocyte granzymes. We synthesized 16 peptide phosphonates with Ala, Met, Phe, or Val P1 amino acid residues, including two biotinylated derivatives for future functional and biochemical characterization of granzymes. The reactivity of the inhibitors was characterized with human leukocyte elastase (HLE), porcine pancreatic elastase (PPE), bovine chymotrypsin, and the granzymes of natural killer (NK) cells, which include a number of proteolytic activities (Asp-ase, Met-ase, etc.) that cleave peptide substrates with these residues in the P1 position. The reactivity and specificity of the phosphonates depended on the length and sequence of the peptidyl moiety and on the leaving group. Z-Ala-Ala-AlaP(OPh)2was a good inhibitor of HLE and PPE (kobsd/[I] = 38 and 30 m −1s−1, respectively) and had little reactivity with chymotrypsin. Z-Phe-Pro-PheP(OPh)2was a good inhibitor of chymotrypsin (kobsd/[I] = 17,000 m −1s−1) and had little reactivity with the elastases. The leaving group of Z-MetP(OPh-4-Cl)2made it a more effective chymotrypsin inhibitor than Z-MetP(OPh)2(kobsd/[I] values of 142 and 30 m −1s−1, respectively). With granzymes, the compounds reacted with a fraction of the Met-ase, chymase, and Ser-ase activities and lacked reactivity with Asp-ase and tryptase. Z-MetP(OPh-4-Cl)2was an excellent inhibitor of Met-ase 1. Bi-Aca-Aca-Phe-Leu-PheP(OPh)2appears to react specifically with one chymase while leaving other chymases untouched. Perforin-dependent lysis mediated by cytotoxic lymphocyte granules was inactivated by Z-Ala-Ala-AlaP(OPh)2, Z-MetP(OPh-4-Cl)2, Z-Leu-PheP(OPh)2, and Bi-Aca-Aca-Phe-Leu-PheP(OPh)2. The biochemical properties and biological efficacy of these inhibitors make them suitable for cellular and physiological studies of granzyme function.
The effects of anti-inflammatory and antiallergic drugs on the release of IL-1β and TNF-α in the human whole blood assay

Heparinized human whole blood was evaluated as a model to study the effects of various classes of anti-inflammatory drugs on IL-1β and TNF-α release from leukocytes. Human whole blood was stimulated with zymosan (1.5 mg/ml) or LPS (5 μg/ml) to induce significant cytokine release. As previously reported, the 5-lipoxygenase/cyclooxygenase (5-LO/CO) inhibitor, SKF86002 (30 μM), significantly inhibited both IL-1β and TNF-α release using either stimulus. In contrast, the cyclooxygenase (CO) inhibitors (naproxen and ibuprofen) and the lipoxygenase (5-LO) inhibitors (zileuton, L-663536 and BWA4C) did not effect IL-1β or TNF-α release/biosynthesis. Isoproterenol (β-agonist), rolipram (a PDE-IV inhibitor), and IBMX (a nonselective PDE inhibitor), significantly inhibited TNF-α but not IL-1β in the LPS model while having no effect in the zymosan model. This human whole blood assay is a unique and rapid method which can be used to identify novel inhibitors of IL-1β and TNF-α release/biosynthesis.
Time-scale separation and robust controller design for uncertain nonlinear singularly perturbed systems under perfect state measurements

We study time-scale separation and robust controller design for a class of singularly perturbed nonlinear systems under perfect state measurements. The system dynamics are taken to be jointly linear in the fast state variables, control and disturbance inputs, but nonlinear in the slow state variables. Since global timescale separation may not always be possible for nonlinear singularly perturbed systems, we restrict our attention here to some closed subset of the state space, on which a timescale separation holds for sufficiently small values of the singular perturbation parameter. We construct a slow controller and a composite controller based on the solutions of particular slow and fast games obtained using time-scale separation. For the class of systems for which the slow controller can be selected to be robust with respect to small regular structural perturbations on the slow subsystem, we show under some growth conditions that the composite controller can achieve any desired level of performance that is larger than the maximum of the performance levels for the slow and fast subsystems,. A slow controller, however, is not generally as robust as the composite controller; but, still under some conditions which are delineated in the paper, the fast dynamics can be totally ignored. The paper also presents a numerical example to illustrate the theoretical results.
Control of imploding plasma flows in the star-like wire arrays

The configuration of star-like wire arrays is used to control the imploding plasma flows. Implosions in star-like wire arrays with two close located wires ("gates") instead of a single wire on the inner cylinder are studied. The goal of the experiments is the modeling of conditions for hydrodynamic and transparent modes of implosions in wire arrays. Results show that imploding plasma flows can be deflected by the off-center wires forming a rotating pinch. Colliding plasma columns can be formed and studied in stars with gates. Implosion of external cylinders can be used for controlled formation of the precursor in the wire array. Transparent and hydrodynamic modes can also be studied with star-like wire arrays.
Survival and reproduction of lesser grain borer, Rhyzopertha dominica (F.) (Coleoptera: Bostrichidae) on flora associated with native habitats in Kansas

Capture of Rhyzopertha dominica in pheromone-baited traps located many kilometers away from grain storage suggests that this species may be exploiting non-grain food sources. To investigate the potential for survival of this species on alternative hosts in the absence of grain, we conducted no-choice feeding assays with twigs and seeds of trees, and seeds of grasses, forbs, and shrubs, commonly encountered on Kansas prairie landscapes where R. dominica has been captured. In addition, R. dominica development and progeny production were assessed on seeds that adults were able to survive on for at least two weeks. Adult survival was poor on grass and forb seeds, although 13.4% of individuals survived on Elymus canadensis, Canada wildrye, seeds after two weeks, compared with 80.3% on Triticum aestivum, wheat, and 0.0% survival in the absence of food. Beetles readily tunneled into twigs from a wide range of tree species, but survival was generally low. A few individuals survived up to four weeks on Gleditsia triacanthos, honey locust. In contrast, bioassays showed that R. dominica could survive and reproduce on damaged seeds (acorns) of six species of oak, but not on undamaged seeds. For example, survival was 95.8% on damaged Quercus muehlenbergii, chinquapin oak. A survey of acorns at the original field collection site showed that the majority of the acorns on the ground had been cracked or bored into by insects and small mammals. Furthermore, we recovered three R. dominica adults from acorns collected in the field and held in sealed containers in the laboratory. These findings suggest that R. dominica populations in Kansas can persist on wild acorns when grain is not available.
Design of Optimal Modulation Controllers for Multiarea AC/DC Systems Using Eigenvalue Sensitivities

This paper develops a new technique for the design of optimal modulation controllers for multi-area ac/dc systems. The technique is based on optimal pole assignment using eigenvalue sensitivities. The basic feature of the proposed method is that both the diagonal and the off-diagonal elements of the weighting matrices are used for the eigenvalue assignment which results in increased design flexibility. The method is applied to the design of a modulation controller for a strongly interconnected three area ac/dc system. Dynamic simulation results presented in the paper show that the proposed modulation controller results in significant improvement of dynamic performance of the interconnected system.
Simple and Accurate Approximations for Computing Covariance Matrices of Gamma and Weibull Order Statistics

In this article, we propose a simple technique that can be used to calculate accurate approximations for the covariances of Weibull and/or Gamma order statistics, given knowledge of the corresponding means and variances of these order statistics. Ratio formulas for relating the covariances and variances of the order statistics for these two probability distribution functions (pdf's) are intuitively derived from a first-order Mosteller approximation, and then refined using the Blom adjustment technique. The necessary Blom coefficients are in turn found by optimizing the well-known recursive formula for mixed moments using standard nonlinear estimation techniques. Analytical and simulation results confirm that very good approximations to the covariance matrices of Gamma and Weibull order statistics can be obtained for a wide range of shape parameters using this methodology. Four examples are provided which demonstrate how this approach can be used to derive accurate o-BLU weights, precise variance approxima...
Expensive Traditions: Energy Expenditure of Aleutian Geese in Traditional and Recently Colonized Habitats

In an effort to reduce goose depredation at a traditional spring migratory stopover site, private landowners implemented a coordinated hazing plan to scare Aleutian cackling geese (Branta hutchinsii leucopareia) from private lands to adjacent public pastures that were cultivated and set aside specifically for geese. Coincidentally, some Aleutian geese began using a new stopover site 150 km farther south in their spring migratory range; numbers at the new site continue to increase. We tested the idea that when their ability to acquire resources deteriorates geese are likely to seek improved foraging conditions, especially during spring migration when individuals strive to maximize nutrient stores and minimize energy expenditure. We quantified measures of goose foraging performance in traditional and new spring staging sites by calculating foraging opportunity, foraging effort, body condition, and daily energy expenditure. Geese staging at the site with higher levels of human disturbance had less foraging opportunity and, despite increased foraging effort and more nutritious food-plants at the site, birds there experienced an elevated energy expenditure and poorer body condition than birds at the new stopover site. Reduced foraging time and increased energy expenditure at the traditional spring staging site may have triggered the colonization process. Suitability assessment of habitat for migratory geese should include measures of foraging opportunity, disturbance risks, and daily energy expenditure in addition to quantity and quality of foods.
The Mlvi-1 locus involved in the induction of rat T-cell lymphomas and the pvt-1/Mis-1 locus are identical.

Abstract Mlvi-1 defines a locus of proviral integration in rat thymomas induced by Moloney murine leukemia virus. pvt-1/Mis-1 represents an independently identified locus which becomes rearranged either by chromosomal translocation in murine plasmacytomas or by provirus insertion in retrovirus-induced murine and rat thymic lymphomas. Although it had been claimed that pvt-1/Mis-1 and Mlvi-1 represent two different loci, we present here evidence showing that they are identical. This finding demonstrates the need for rigorous characterization of any newly identified common regions of integration in retrovirus-induced neoplasms.