cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Some implications of biofuel development for engineering infrastructures in the United States

Under the US Environmental Protection Agency's Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program, mandates to increase the consumption of renewable fuels in transportation in the USA are leading to the emergence of a biofuel economy with infrastructure implications. This shift requires immediate consideration, as current engineering infrastructures may not be sufficient to support the realization of the mandates. New biorefineries will need to be established where suitable land is available and the climate is appropriate for growing feedstocks. Investments may need to be made to accommodate increases in local, regional, and national traffic from the transport of feedstocks and finished biofuels. Further, the large water demands of biorefineries and of growing feedstocks impose even greater pressure on water supply utilities. Higher sediment and nutrient runoffs from more intensive cultivation of corn (as feedstock for ethanol) have negative water quality effects that may lead to the need for upgrading drinking-water treatment facilities. Any infrastructure expansion should be conducted strategically, keeping in mind resource constraints, and environmental and social impacts. To understand the infrastructure needs and bottlenecks of biofuel development, a systems approach encompassing all aspects of the problem is essential. Research is needed to quantify the interdependencies, resiliency, and sustainability of the entire system in meeting biofuel goals. Research is also needed to integrate the social and physical aspects of the problem into a holistic framework for planning and management purposes. This paper reviews the literature to gain insights into some implications of biofuel development for engineering infrastructures in the USA. © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Environmental Profile of Drunella coloradensis Dodds (Ephemeroptera: Ephemerellidae) in the Western United States

ABSTRACT We describe several niche dimensions of Drunella coloradensis Dodds based upon physical and chemical parameters of over 900 stream stations in 11 western states. Nymphs were found at 199 stations and were collected at elevations from near sea level to over 9,000 ft and from streams with a wide range of water discharges. This mayfly showed significant avoidance of streams with ≤1% channel gradients and those where fine sediments dominated the substrate. Nymphs of D. coloradensis selected for waters with ≤100 mg/1 alkalinity and ≤50 mg/1 sulfate and streams with brush or evergreen trees dominating the riparian vegetation. Drunella coloradensis is intolerant of water quality degradation but moderately tolerant of other changes in the physical habitat. Drunella coloradensis shows divergence from related species through resource partitioning strategies related to water quality tolerances and physical habitat selection.
Penetrating the peristrephic: An unwritten chapter in the history of the panorama

Of all the ‘things panoramic’, the peristrephic panorama remains one of the least well known. It is usually mentioned in passing in the histories of the panorama, but both its form as a spectacle and its historical vicissitudes have remained obscure. This article discusses in a condensed manner the origins, evolution, forms and reception of the peristrephic panorama. It reconstructs the institutional development of this form from its earliest beginnings, excavating the careers of showmen like Messrs Marshall and J.B. Laidlaw. It then explains the forms the shows took by engaging in a close reading of contemporary descriptions – in particular, the one by the German prince Hermann Pueckler‐Muskau. The article proceeds to discuss some of the discursive manifestations the peristrephic panorama gave rise to, illuminating its position within the wider cultural fabric. The study shows that the peristrephic panorama had a character of its own as a transitionary form between the static circular panoramas and the l...
Disk Diffusion Susceptibility Testing of Haemophilus influenzae using Haemophilus Test Medium

A three-center collaborative study was performed with the aim of determining the reproducibility of disk diffusion and broth microdilution susceptibility tests ofHaemophilus influenzae with 19 different antimicrobial agents using a newly described medium, Haemophilus Test Medium. The results of both methods were found to be highly reproducible. Using Haemophilus Test Medium, inhibitory zone diameters and MICs were then determined for 150 test strains ofHaemophilus influenzae, selected with an emphasis on known mechanisms of resistance. Regression analysis of zone diameter-MIC comparisons was used to define zone diameter interpretive criteria and MIC correlates for Haemophilus Test Medium disk diffusion tests performed withHaemophilus spp. for the following antimicrobial agents: ampicillin, amoxicillin/clavulanate, ampicillin/sulbactam, cefaclor, cefuroxime, cefamandole, ceftriaxone, cefotaxime, ceftizoxime, ceftazidime, cefixime, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, rifampin, chloramphenicol, tetracycline, imipenem, aztreonam and ciprofloxacin.
Propagator for narrow potential barriers

The Schrodinger equation in integral form is applied to the one-dimensional scattering problem in the case of a narrow potential barrier. Since the kernel can be considered, in a first approximation, separable, an explicit expression for the propagator is found by means of the complementary error function. The problem of a particle confined in a half-space and interacting with a narrow potential barrier is also considered and solved in an approximate way.
Dimensional Analysis of Social Science Data: An Unconventional Approach

By consideration and analysis of the dimensional nature of areal space, this article provides a useful perspective from which to consider the dimensionality of data used in teaching about social science concepts. We start from the perspective of a dimensional structure that is already known and describe it. We then strata sample items from this domain of content. Finally, we examine how inferences about the underlying dimensional nature of space can be inferred from perceptual data. Problems are discussed in the use of procedures designed to describe and adjust the indices of our empirical property space so that they more accurately reflect our theoretical concerns.
A new and simple approach to square-wave polarography

Abstract A new method has been developed for instrumenting square-wave polarography. It is simpler, more reliable, and much less expensive than equipment used in the past. This paper describes the design, construction and performance of the instrument.
Electrical activity of the central nervous system of the frog

Careful exploration has been made of the electrical activity of the brain of various mammals (Adrian and Matthews 1934; Gerard, Marshall and Saul 1936; Gerard 1936 a and b ), but there has been very little study of the brains of other vertebrates (Adrian 1931; Umrath and Umrath 1934). The small size and relatively homogeneous cell population of the Amphibian brain offer certain advantages in analysis of the physicochemical factors determining activity; and further, the low metabolism of the poikilothermic brain at room temperature, together with the short distances for oxygen diffusion, suggested the possibility of studying sustained activity in the isolated organ. The present report covers a general exploration of spontaneous electrical changes in the neuraxis of the grass frog ( Rana pipiens ) and bull frog ( R. catesbiana ).
Hemodynamics of infrapopliteal PTFE bypasses and adjunctive arteriovenous fistulas.

Abstract Purpose. Blood flow, pressure and peripheral resistance in patients with established polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) grafts and adjunctive arteriovenous fistulas (AVF) have rarely been investigated. To better elucidate the effects of this AVF, we obtained noninvasive measurements of hemodynamic variables in patients with infrapopliteal PTFE grafts and an AVF. Methods . Systolic, mean and diastolic arm and toe pressures were measured with an oscillometric technique employed in automatic blood pressure monitors. Peak-systolic velocity, end-diastolic velocity and flow rates at the graft and recipient distal artery were measured with duplex ultrasound. Resistance for the leg and foot in peripheral resistance units ( PRU ) was estimated as mean arm pressure divided by graft flow rate and as mean toe pressure divided by distal artery flow rate respectively. We analyzed data from 21 patients. Toe pressures were measurable in 13 patients. Bypass graft inflow was at the external iliac artery in 11 patients, common femoral in six, common iliac in two and superficial femoral in two. The distal anastomosis was at the anterior tibial artery in 10 patients, peroneal in seven and posterior tibial in four patients. Results . Graft systolic and diastolic velocities were 91±46 (mean±sd) and 38±31 (mean±sd) cm/s respectively. Toe systolic pressure averaged 81±28 (mean±SD) mmHg with a corresponding toe/brachial index (TBI) of 0.53±0.18 (mean±SD). The ratio between arm mean pressure, 104±20 (mean±SD) mmHg, and graft flow rate, 413±290 (mean±sd) ml/min, yielded an estimated leg resistance of 0.32±0.20 peripheral resistance units (PRU) (mean±sd). The ratio between mean toe pressure, 51±21 (mean±SD) mmHg, and distal artery flow rate, 37±26 (mean±SD) ml/min, produced an estimated foot resistance averaging 1.66±1.18 PRU (mean±sd). Conclusions. Average graft flow rate was five times greater than flow reported for standard tibial bypasses. Although distal artery flow rate and graft peak systolic velocity were within reported normal ranges, mean toe pressure and toe-brachial index were below normal. Leg and foot resistances were decreased. These data suggest that bypasses with arteriovenous fistulas have increased flow, desirable for graft patency, but may affect distal perfusion pressure.
Refractive index matching in large-scale stratified experiments

The measurement of dilution in jets and plumes by planar laser-induced fluorescence in large-scale stratified environments with refractive index matching is discussed. The density and refractive index of various salt (NaCl) and ethanol solutions were measured to high precision, and it is shown that linear stratifications with density differences at least up to 20 σ t with acceptably small refractive index variations can be achieved at reasonable cost. Equations are presented to facilitate the design of experiments with arbitrary density differences. The presence of ethanol significantly increases the laser attenuation, however. The rate of attenuation was measured for various solute concentrations and equations presented to predict the attenuation for arbitrary salt and ethanol concentrations. The rapid attenuation due to ethanol may limit the maximum density differences attainable with long laser traverse distances. Examples are given of discharges into linearly stratified fluids including a jet in a stationary environment, and a buoyant jet in a cross flow.
Herd composition in an Aymara community of the Peruvian Altiplano: a linear programming problem

A model of herd management is presented for Aymara alpaca herders in the south central Andes. Linear programming methods and subjective utility values are used to model how pastoralists choose the size of their herd and the species they raise. These decisions are modeled in light of the land and labor resources available to pastoralists, and the products Andean herders must derive from their herds (meat, wool, and dung). The model predicts typical herd size in the community of Chinchillape, and has implications for social and economic changes seen in the Andes today. Specifically, pastoralists in Chinchillape are pursuing maximizing strategies, optimizing herd value by concentrating on alpacas, and decreasing the proportion of llamas in their herd in response to expanding transportation systems. Finally, results of the models indicate that sheep are a very poor option for Andean herders. This explains the reluctance of indigenous herders to adopt sheep herding in some areas of the Andes.
Reading on-the-go: a comparison of audio and hand-held displays

In this paper we present a 20-participant controlled experiment to evaluate and compare a head-down visual display and a synthesized speech audio display for comprehending text while mobile. Participants completed reading comprehension trials while walking a path and sitting. We examine overall performance and perceived workload for four conditions: audio-walking, audio-sitting, visual-walking, and visual-sitting. Results suggest audio is an acceptable modality for mobile comprehension of text. Participants' comprehension scores for the audio-walking condition were comparable to the scores for the visual-walking condition. More importantly, participants saw improvements in their ability to navigate the environment when using the audio display.
USING SIMPLEX PROBLEM SOLVING PROCESS TO IMPROVE TEAM PROJECT PERFORMANCE

DOI: 10.14684/intertech.13.2014.37-41 Students working toward a baccalaureate degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology at the University of Cincinnati are required to complete a "Design, Build, and Test" senior capstone project. This four-course sequence senior project is designed to facilitate students’ abilities to synthesize and apply the knowledge and skills that have been acquired prior to their senior year. This sequence enhances their abilities to solve open-ended problems and to prepare them for the transition from an academic environment to industry. Some capstone design projects are team projects. In addition to expertise and knowledge acquired from their coursework and co-ops, the team projects also require team members to develop additional skills needed to be successful in a team oriented business world. This paper describes the application of the Simplex system – A creative problem solving method, to one of the 2008-2009 team projects. This system was used to improve the quality of the project while experiencing rich team environment. The short description of the capstone design course sequence and comparison to a similar project without using Simplex system is also discussed.
Effect of acute administration of bromocriptine on isoproterenol- and angiotensin II-induced water intake in estrogen-treated rats.

Abstract Chronic administration of an estrogenic agent is well known to attenuate the drinking response of rats to treatment with a variety of dipsogenic agents, and to increase plasma concentration of prolactin. Treatment with prolactin is also known to reduce the drinking response to administration of the dipsogenic agent, isoproterenol. Hence, a possibility existed that the antidipsogenic effect of chronic treatment with estrogen was mediated by an increased plasma prolactin concentration. Since bromocriptine, a dopaminergic agonist, is known to reduce plasma prolactin concentration in estrogen-treated rats, it was administered (1.0 mg/kg, IP) 15 min prior to treatment with either isoproterenol (25 μg/kg, SC) or angiotensin II (200 μg/kg, SC). The results suggest that the antidipsogenic effect of chronic treatment of rats with estradiol benzoate (30.4 and 45.7 μg/kg/day) can be reversed, at least partially, by acute administration of bromocriptine.
A personal experience with the influence of diabetes and other factors on the outcome of infrainguinal bypass grafts for occlusive disease.

Objective To investigate the influence of diabetes mellitus and other factors on the outcome of all infrainguinal bypass grafts performed for occlusive disease by a single surgeon at a tertiary referral center. Methods The series includes 650 operations in 412 men and 238 women with median ages of 65 and 69 years, respectively. Critical ischemia was the indication for most procedures (n = 553, 85%), but 97 (15%) were done for claudication alone. Nearly half (n = 312, 48%) of the patients were diabetic, and 195 (30%) required insulin. All-autogenous vein was used for 389 grafts (60%). Synthetic or composite materials were employed for the remaining 261 grafts, 91 (35%) of which were entirely above the knee. Perioperative data were recorded contemporaneously and were supplemented by reviewing 558 of the 565 medical records and the Social Security Death Index. Survival, graft patency, and limb salvage were analyzed using logistic regression, Kaplan-Meier estimates and proportional hazards models. Results Diabetics were more likely to have critical preoperative limb ischemia (P Conclusions Diabetes was one of several factors influencing survival and limb preservation, but it did not adversely affect graft patency. The number of graft revisions was an important predictor of further occlusion or amputation.
Growth of strained Si and strained Ge heterostructures on relaxed Si1−xGex by ultrahigh vacuum chemical vapor deposition

Numerous applications require the growth of planar strained-layer heterostructures on relaxed Si1−xGex. After briefly reviewing these applications as well as the challenges in growing such heterostructures, we provide experimental examples illustrating the influence of lattice mismatch, growth temperature, and film composition on the morphology of thin strained layers in the Ge–Si alloy system. Procedures for growing strained Si and strained Ge single and double heterostructures via ultrahigh vacuum chemical vapor deposition are described in detail. We demonstrate planar growth of strained Ge layers with lattice mismatches as high as 2%, planar Si layers on any Si1−xGex lattice constant, and double heterostructures that are comprised of a strained Ge layer capped with strained Si. Notably, the techniques described here have already been applied to the fabrication of extremely high mobility p- and n-channel metal–oxide–semiconductor field-effect transistors and germanium-on-insulator substrates.
The Developmental State in Mauritius

THE Portuguese were the first Europeans to come across the island of Mauritius. It was found by the Dutch in 1598, and the Dutch East India Company settlement created in 1638 introduced both sugar cane and slavery. The French arrived in 1721, using slaves to clear large holdings which eventually became sugar cane plantations. Over time there emerged a colonial society of extreme inequality, where power and privilege belonged to estate planters from France while hard labour and deprivation became the lot of slaves imported from Africa. The British established political control of Mauritius in 1814 and preserved the structure of the island's economy and society with one exception: slavery was abolished in 1835 with generous compensation to slave owners. The colonial state helped to organise the importation of indentured workers from India, and by the 1860s the island had become the leading cane producer in the British Empire.
Escherichia coli K1 Internalization via Caveolae Requires Caveolin-1 and Protein Kinase Cα Interaction in Human Brain Microvascular Endothelial Cells

The morbidity and mortality associated with Escherichia coli K1 meningitis during the neonatal period have remained significant over the last decade and are once again on the rise. Transcytosis of brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMEC) by E. coli within an endosome to avoid lysosomal fusion is crucial for dissemination into the central nervous system. Central to E. coli internalization of BMEC is the expression of OmpA (outer membrane protein A), which interacts with its receptor for the actin reorganization that leads to invasion. However, nothing is known about the nature of the signaling events for the formation of endosomes containing E. coli K1. We show here that E. coli K1 infection of human BMEC (HBMEC) results in activation of caveolin-1 for bacterial uptake via caveolae. The interaction of caveolin-1 with phosphorylated protein kinase Calpha (PKCalpha) at the E. coli attachment site is critical for the invasion of HBMEC. Optical sectioning of confocal images of infected HBMEC indicates continuing association of caveolin-1 with E. coli during transcytosis. Overexpression of a dominant-negative form of caveolin-1 containing mutations in the scaffolding domain blocked the interaction of phospho-PKCalpha with caveolin-1 and the E. coli invasion of HBMEC, but not actin cytoskeleton rearrangement or the phosphorylation of PKCalpha. The interaction of caveolin-1 with phospho-PKCalpha was completely abrogated in HBMEC overexpressing dominant-negative forms of either focal adhesion kinase or PKCalpha. Treatment of HBMEC with a cell-permeable peptide that represents the scaffolding domain, which was coupled to an antennapedia motif of a Drosophila transcription factor significantly blocked the interaction of caveolin-1 with phospho-PKCalpha and E. coli invasion. These results show that E. coli K1 internalizes HBMEC via caveolae and that the scaffolding domain of caveolin-1 plays a significant role in the formation of endosomes.
Estimating the spatial distribution of organic carbon density for the soils of Ohio, USA

Historical database of National Soil Survey Center containing 1424 geo-referenced soil profiles was used in this study for estimating the organic carbon (SOC) for the soils of Ohio, USA. Specific objective of the study was to estimate the spatial distribution of SOC density (C stock per unit area) to 1.0-m depth for soils of Ohio using geographically weighted regression (GWR), and compare the results with that obtained from multiple linear regression (MLR). About 80% of the analytical data were used for calibration and 20% for validation. A total of 20 variables including terrain attributes, climate data, bedrock geology, and land use data were used for mapping the SOC density. Results showed that the GWR provided better estimations with the lowest (3.81 kg m−2) root mean square error (RMSE) than MLR approach. Total estimated SOC pool for soils in Ohio ranged from 727 to 742 Tg. This study demonstrates that, the local spatial statistical technique, the GWR can perform better in capturing the spatial distribution of SOC across the study region as compared to other global spatial statistical techniques such as MLR. Thus, GWR enhances the accuracy for mapping SOC density.
Motoric responses to sucrose in postmature and term infants

Postmature infants calm less when presented with sucrose solutions than term infants. To further assess the influence of postmaturity on sucrose responsivity, several motoric responses were examined in healthy term neonates and chronically stressed postmature (> or = 288 days gestational age (GA) e.g., > 41 weeks) neonates with Clifford's Syndrome tested between 5-91 h of age. Following baseline observations, each subject was presented with 0.1 ml of a 14% sucrose solution for 10 s each min for 5 min, and observations were continued for 5 min following stimulation. During sucrose stimulation and poststimulation phases, postmature infants showed more tremors during quiet state than term infants. Across conditions, postmature infants exhibited increased finger sucking, rhythmic sucking, but less mouth opening and arm movements than healthy, term infants. Sequence analysis revealed that short-latency mouthing, repetitive movements of the upper and lower lips, followed sucrose infusion reliably in postmature infants, but not term infants. These results suggest that postmaturity is associated with: 1. Increased oral behaviors associated with arousal and self soothing; and 2. Increased sucrose reactivity, as indicated by contingent mouthing and increased tremors.
Coordinated Mass Movements of Blow Fly Larvae (Diptera: Calliphoridae)

I watched blow fly (Diptera: Calliphoridae) larvae in western Maine that had consumed six animal carcasses so that I could identify patterns relating to when, how, and why they left the carcasses. The blow fly larvae stayed under the carcasses on hot, dry days, and then left them on rainy nights, traveling in random directions. Following several rainless days, the larvae left the carcasses at dawn on days with heavy dew and proceeded in a single 1-2-cm-wide column directly toward the rising sun. Species composition of one larvae column was nearly all or exclusively Phormia regina.
Photoacoustic tomography to identify angiogenesis for diagnosis and treatment monitoring of inflammatory arthritis

Identifying neovascularity, i.e. angiogenesis, as a feature of inflammatory arthritis, can help in early diagnosis and treatment monitoring of this disease. Photoacoustic tomography (PAT), as a hybrid imaging modality, relies on intrinsic differences in the optical absorption among the tissues being imaged. Since blood has highly absorbing chromophores including both oxygenated and deoxygenated hemoglobin, PAT holds potential in identifying early angiogenesis associated with inflammatory joint diseases. In this study, we used PAT to identify the changes in the development of inflammatory arthritis, through the study on a well-established adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA) rat model. Imaging at two different wavelengths, 1064 nm and 532 nm, revealed that there was a significant signal enhancement in the ankle joints of the arthritis affected rats when compared to the normal control group. Histological analysis of both the normal and the arthritic rats correlated well with the imaging findings. The results from this study suggest that the emerging PAT technology could become a new tool for clinical management of inflammatory joint diseases.
Zinc transport across an in vitro blood-brain barrier model

The influence of plasma zinc concentration on the rate of zinc transport into the brain was examined using an in vitro model of the blood-brain barrier. The model was constructed by culturing porcine brain capillary endothelial cells on porous membrane filters suspended between two chambers of fluid, representing the capillary lumen and the cerebrospinal fluid of the brain. A relatively narrow range of zinc concentrations (2–30 μmol/L) was employed in order to examine the most physiologically relevant situation, obtained by diluting the serum or adding ZnCl2. The results consistently found that the rate of zinc transport across the blood-brain barrier was similar (P > .05) between 10 and 26 μmol zinc/L; the rate was slower (P < .05) at zinc concentrations below 7 μmol/L and faster (P < .05) above 30 μmol zinc/L. These results demonstrate that the blood-brain barrier is highly restrictive to zinc. Zinc enters the brain at a constant rate within the range of plasma zinc concentrations that occur in healthy individuals. Outside this range, zinc transport was significantly altered. The zinc transport process was highly selective for zinc, since none of the analogous minerals could effectively compete with it. The zinc transport process does not require energy, since metabolic inhibitors did not influence the transport rate. J. Trace Elem. Exp. Med. 10:9–18, 1997. © 1997 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Role of protein kinase A, phospholipase C and phospholipase D in parathyroid hormone receptor regulation of protein kinase Cα and interleukin-6 in UMR-106 osteoblastic cells

Abstract Parathyroid hormone (PTH) stimulates both bone formation and resorption by activating diverse osteoblast signalling pathways. Upstream signalling for PTH stimulation of protein kinase C-α (PKCα) membrane translocation and subsequent expression of the pro-resorptive cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6) was investigated in UMR-106 osteoblastic cells. PTH 1–34, PTH 3–34, PTHrP and PTH 1–31 stimulated PKCα translocation and IL-6 promoter activity. Pharmacologic intervention at the adenylyl cyclase (AC) pathway (forskolin, IBMX, PKI) failed to alter PTH 1–34- or PTH 3–34-stimulated PKCα translocation. The phosphoinositol–phospholipase C (PI–PLC) antagonist U73122 slightly decreased PTH 1–34-stimulated PKCα translocation; however, the control analogue U73343 acted similarly. Propranolol, an inhibitor of phosphatidic acid (PA) phosphohydrolase, decreased diacylglycerol (DAG) formation and attenuated PTH 1–34- and PTH 3–34-stimulated PKCα translocation and IL-6 promoter activity, suggesting a phospholipase D (PLD)-dependent mechanism. This is the first demonstration that PLD-mediated signalling leads to both PKC-α translocation and IL-6 promoter activation in osteoblastic cells.
Potential applications of cutin-derived CuO reaction products for discriminating vascular plant sources in natural environments

An extensive suite of C14–C18 hydroxylated fatty acids of cutin origin was identified among the nonlignin CuO reaction products from tissues of 67 different plant species. These mid-chain and ω-hydroxylated cutin acids together accounted for 0.5 to 4% of the organic carbon (OC) in these nonwoody vascular plant tissues and were produced in characteristically different yields by the various plant types. Nonvascular plants, including bulk phytoplankton, kelps, mosses, and liverworts, did not yield measurable amounts of cutin acids, except for trace levels of ω-hydroxytetradecanoic acid detected in kelps. Most of the “lower” vascular plants, such as clubmosses and ferns, produced simple cutin acid suites composed mainly of ω-hydroxy C14 and C16 acids. Gymnosperm needles yielded cutin acid suites dominated by C16 acids, in which 9,16- and 10,16-dihydroxyhexadecanoic acids were characteristically abundant. Relatively high yields of C18 acids were obtained from angiosperm tissues, among which dicotyledons exhibited a predominance of 9,10,18-trihydroxyoctadecanoic acid over all the other C18 acids. The Chromatographie peak corresponding to dihydroxyhexadecanoic acid was a mixture of the positional isomers 8,16-, 9, 16-, and 10,16-dihydroxyhexadecanoic acids, whose relative abundances uniquely characterized monocotyledon tissues and distinguished among different types of gymnosperm tissues. Based on the cutin acid yields obtained from the different plant types, several geochemical parameters were developed to distinguish up to six different cutin-bearing plant groups as possible components of sedimentary mixtures.
Optical and power characteristics of synchrotron radiation sources [also Erratum 34(4)1243(Apr1995)]

The optical and the power characteristics of various synchrotron radiation sources are summarized. The optical characteristics-flux, brightness, coherence, polarization, etc-determine the quality of the source for photon experiments. The power characteristics determine the heat load on beam-line elements. After discussing the cases of the bending magnet, wiggler, and undulator, the case of the helical undulator is considered separately, emphasizing its different power characteristics from the planar case.
Superior mesenteric arteriovenous fistula causing massive hematemesis.

A 62-YEAR-OLD WOMAN with a history of hypertension and congestive heart failure presented with a 2month history of frequent cramps. The pain was associated with a 25-pound weight loss but no nausea, vomiting, fevers, or chills. The pain gradually increased in intensity, radiated to the back, and became associated with anorexia, watery diarrhea, and 1 episode of passage of blood through the rectum. An extensive surgical history included total abdominal hysterectomy 11 years before presentation, perforated appendicitis 4 years before, and lysis of adhesions for small bowel obstruction 31/2 years before. The patient’s physical examination was remarkable only for multiple abdominal scars and mild epigastric and periumbilical tenderness. There was a palpable pulsatile epigastric mass with a bruit. The stool was guaiac negative. Complete blood count, coagulation studies, and serum liver enzyme, amylase, and lipase concentrations were within normal limits. A chest x-ray revealed only cardiomegaly, and plain abdominal x-rays were unremarkable. A computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen and pelvis showed diffuse low attenuation of the small and large bowel. The superior mesenteric vein (SMV) was dilated (up to 2.3 cm diameter) without evidence of thrombosis (Fig 1). Also noted were a 4.0cm suprarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm and a 3.2-cm infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm. Colonoscopy revealed diffusely edematous mucosa with punctate areas of erythema in the entire colon and visualized small bowel. Biopsies showed normal cellular architecture and reactive mesothelial cells. On hospital day 4, the abdominal pain increased, and the abdominal bruit became louder and harsher. Shortly thereafter, several episodes of massive hematemesis resulted in hypotension and unresponsiveness. The patient was intubated, resuscitated, and transferred to the intensive care unit. Hematocrit at this time was 17% (compared with 32% on admission). Emergent upper endoscopy showed varices and bright red blood in the esophagus but no active bleeding. The patient received octreotide acetate. An angiogram obtained to further elucidate the cause of the patient’s portal hypertension revealed a large arteriovenous fistula between the distal superior mesenteric artery (SMA) and SMV (Figs 2, 3), with the enlarged SMV perfusing the coronary and splenic veins in a retrograde manner. There were no patent SMA branches distal to the fistula. The inferior mesenteric artery was noted to be diminutive. Angiographic embolization of the fistula was achieved with multiple 5-mm, 6-mm, and 8-mm coils deployed at the neck of the arteriovenous fistula (Fig 4). Octreotide acetate was continued, and clindamycin and ciprofloxacin were also adminisAccepted for publication August 15, 2002.
Ocular manifestation of simian immunodeficiency syndrome (SAIDS).

The management of opportunistic infections is a significant problem in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and the development of more effective chemotherapeutic agents is needed. We present the ocular manifestations of an AIDS-like disease in rhesus monkeys experimentally infected with simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) at the Delta Regional Primate Research Center. These findings consisted of rubeosis in the anterior segment and retinitis, optic neuritis, choroiditis and panophthalmitis in the posterior segment of the eye.Investigation of the retinas by electron microscopy revealed SIV in both eyes of one animal and a herpes virus in two animals. Serology confirmed cytomegalovirus (CMV) as the likely agent.This primate model will prove useful for both further investigations of the possible interaction between immunosuppressive lentiviruses and CMV in ocular disease and antiviral drug testing.
Preliminary Experiments of Barrier Discharge Plasma Actuators using Dry and Humid Air

Experiments are performed using dry and humid air to ascertain the effect of humidity on the performance of a plasma actuator in flight conditions. These actuators are becoming popular in controlling flow about low to moderate speed aerospace vehicles. These experiments are performed at a new Test Facility of the Computational Plasma Dynamics Laboratory (CPDL) in Kettering University. A blow-down open loop wind tunnel with 1-foot by 1 foot test section is used for a range of flow speeds. Our aim is to complement the ongoing numerical modeling effort at CPDL with test data for validation purposes. Preliminary measurements are made from the pressure profile of the base-geometry/DBD actuator in each test condition. Initial calculations of the theoretical Blasius skin-friction are made. The coefficients of those values are reported. Recommendations for use of the plasma actuator based on our initial findings are also presented.
A Phase II Trial of Capecitabine Concomitantly With Whole-Brain Radiotherapy Followed by Capecitabine and Sunitinib for Brain Metastases From Breast Cancer

BACKGROUND Brain metastasis from breast cancer presents a significant threat to women's health and quality of life. Capecitabine and sunitinib have shown some activity in this setting; therefore, we conducted a single-arm phase II trial with these agents. METHODS Patients with breast cancer and central nervous system (CNS) metastases received whole-brain radiotherapy concurrently with capecitabine (1,000 mg/m(2) per day for 14 consecutive days), followed by concomitant capecitabine (2,000 mg/m(2) per day for 2 weeks followed by a 1-week break) and sunitinib (37.5 mg daily, continuously). The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS). RESULTS Of 25 planned patients that would be required to detect a 4-month improvement (from 5 to 9 months) in median PFS with 80% power, 12 were enrolled, and the study was then closed for slow accrual. Median PFS was 4.7 months, and median overall survival was 10 months. In the CNS, 25% had progressive disease, and 83% experienced extra-CNS progression. The most common side effects were fatigue and nausea. CONCLUSION In 12 evaluable patients studied, concurrent capecitabine and whole-brain radiation followed by capecitabine and sunitinib did not extend PFS over historical rates and was associated with significant toxicity. Our study was small and closed due to slow accrual.
Approximate reachability for dead code elimination in esterel

Esterel is an imperative synchronous programming language for the design of reactive systems. Esterel⋆ extends Esterel with a non-instantaneous jump instruction (compatible with concurrency, preemption, etc.) so as to enable powerful source-to-source program transformations, amenable to formal verification. In this work, we propose an approximate reachability algorithm for Esterel⋆ and use its output to remove dead code. We prove the correctness of our techniques.
What is the value of limited feedback for MIMO channels

Feedback in a communications system can enable the transmitter to exploit channel conditions and avoid interference. In the case of a multiple-input multiple-output channel, feedback can be used to specify a precoding matrix at the transmitter, which activates the strongest channel modes. In situations where the feedback is severely limited, important issues are how to quantize the information needed at the transmitter and how much improvement in associated performance can be obtained as a function of the amount of feedback available. We give an overview of some recent work in this area. Methods are presented for constructing a set of possible precoding matrices, from which a particular choice can be relayed to the transmitter. Performance results show that even a few bits of feedback can provide performance close to that with full channel knowledge at the transmitter.
Positive Youth Development, Participation in Community Youth Development Programs, and Community Contributions of Fifth-Grade Adolescents: Findings From the First Wave Of the 4-H Study of Positive Youth Development

The 4-H Study of Positive Youth Development (PYD), a longitudinal investigation of a diverse sample of 1,700 fifth graders and 1,117 of their parents, tests developmental contextual ideas linking PYD, youth contributions, and participation in community youth development (YD) programs, representing a key ecological asset. Using data from Wave 1 of the study, structural equation modeling procedures provided evidence for five firstorder latent factors representing the “Five Cs” of PYD (competence, confidence, connection, character, and caring) and for their convergence on a second-order PYD latent construct. A theoretical construct, youth contribution, was also created and examined. Both PYD and YD program participation independently related to contribution. The importance of longitudinal analyses for extending the present results is discussed.
Passive films on metallic biomaterials under simulated physiological conditions

The metallic materials used for implantable medical devices are predominantly stainless steels, Ti and its alloys, and Co-Cr alloys. The corrosion resistance of each of these materials is associated with a passive oxide film on its surface. Since corrosion resistance is crucial to implant performance, considerable effort has been focused on understanding the nature of the passive film present under physiological conditions. Surface analytical techniques and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy have been used in a number of studies to investigate the passive film formed on metallic biomaterials in simulated physiological solutions. This review focuses on the surface characteristics of these materials with regard to composition, thickness, and impedance of the passive films. Of particular interest are changes in the films with surface treatment and the nature of the films developed over time in the simulated solutions. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 102A: 1595–1604, 2014.
A Risk Management-based Decision Analysis Framework for resilience in Maritime Infrastructure and Transportation Systems

This research is an effort to develop a Risk Management-based Decision Analysis (RMDA) Framework based on the common fundamental elements that define the nature of resilience in Maritime Infrastructure and Transportation Systems (MITS). While developing a systematic process for making strategic and investment decisions, RMDA enables the decision-makers to identify, analyze, and prioritize risks involved in MITS operations; to define ways for risk mitigation, plan for contingencies, and devise mechanisms for continuously monitoring and controlling risk factors and threats to the system. Our suggested RMDA framework utilizes a Decision Tree Analysis (DTA) methodology for assessing the cost-effectiveness of the devised strategies.
Inhibition of human intestinal wall metabolism by macrolide antibiotics: Effect of clarithromycin on cytochrome P450 3A4/5 activity and expression

Background Clarithromycin increases both hepatic and intestinal availability of the selective cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A probe midazolam. This study was designed to identify determinants of variability in the extent of intestinal wall CYP3A inhibition by clarithromycin, such as CYP3A5 genotype, and the mechanism of inhibition. Methods Ten healthy volunteers received 500 mg oral clarithromycin twice a day for 7 days. Before and after administration of clarithromycin, small-bowel mucosal biopsy specimens were obtained endoscopically. Intestinal CYP3A activity was determined from the rate of 1′-hydroxymidazolam and 4-hydroxymidazolam formation by incubation of small-bowel homogenate with midazolam (25 Μmol/L) and NADPH for 5 minutes. Intestinal CYP3A4 and CYP3A5 messenger ribonucleic acid was quantified by real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. Intestinal CYP3A4 and CYP3A5 protein concentrations were determined by immunoblotting. Serum and homogenate concentrations of midazolam, clarithromycin, and metabolites were determined by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. CYP3A5 genotype was determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Results The formation of 1′-hydroxymidazolam (1.36 ± 0.46 pmol · min−1 · mg−1 at baseline versus 0.35 ± 0.16 pmol · min−1 · mg−1 after administration) and 4-hydroxymidazolam (0.39 ± 0.12 pmol · min−1 · mg−1 at baseline versus 0.12 ± 0.05 pmol · min−1 · mg−1 after administration) was significantly (P < .001) reduced after clarithromycin administration. Clarithromycin administration did not result in a significant change in intestinal CYP3A4 and CYP3A5 messenger ribonucleic acid and protein expression. All subjects had detectable serum clarithromycin concentrations after 7 days of clarithromycin (3.71 ± 2.43 Μmol/L). The mean concentration of clarithromycin in the intestinal biopsy homogenate was 1.2 ± 0.7 nmol/L (range, 0.42–2.39 nmol/L). Compared with CYP3A5 nonexpressers, subjects with at least 1 CYP3A5*1 allele (CYP3A5 expressers) had greater inhibition of intestinal CYP3A activity after treatment with clarithromycin. There was a strong linear relationship between the decrease in intestinal CYP3A activity and baseline catalytic activity (R2 = 0.9). Conclusion Baseline intestinal activity of CYP3A4 was a key determinant of variability of the inhibitory effect of clarithromycin among individuals. CYP3A5*1 alleles were associated with greater baseline intestinal CYP3A activity and, therefore, greater extent of inhibition. The primary in vivo mechanism was not rapidly reversible competitive or irreversible inhibition but was likely formation of metabolic intermediate complexes. Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics (2005) 77, 178–188; doi: 10.1016/j.clpt.2004.10.002
Ending tobacco-caused mortality and morbidity: the case for performance standards for tobacco products

The US Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act and WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control provide us with powerful tools to reduce the death and disease caused by the use of tobacco products. One tool that can contribute substantially toward this goal is the authority to establish performance standards for tobacco products. Conjointly with reducing levels of nicotine in cigarettes, performance and quality control standards need to be established for non-combusted tobacco products. Performance standards and incentives should be provided so that tobacco companies are compelled to manufacture and market products with very low or almost non-existent toxicity (eg, nicotine-only products).
IKKβ phosphorylation regulates RPS3 nuclear translocation and NF-κB function during infection with Escherichia coli strain O157:H7

NF-κB is a major gene regulator in immune responses, and ribosomal protein S3 (RPS3) is an NF-κB subunit that directs specific gene transcription. However, it is unknown how nuclear translocation of RPS3 is regulated. Here we report that phosphorylation of RPS3 Ser209 by the kinase IKKβ was crucial for nuclear localization of RPS3 in response to activating stimuli. Moreover, virulence protein NleH1 of the foodborne pathogen Escherichia coli strain O157:H7 specifically inhibited phosphorylation of RPS3 Ser209 and blocked RPS3 function, thereby promoting bacterial colonization and diarrhea but resulting in less mortality in a gnotobiotic piglet-infection model. Thus, the IKKβ-dependent modification of a specific amino acid in RPS3 promoted specific NF-κB functions that underlie the molecular pathogenetic mechanisms of E. coli O157:H7.
Development of Fiber-Optic Voltage Sensors and Magnetic-Field Sensors

The principle, temperature characteristics, and frequency characteristics of fiber-optic voltage sensors and magnetic field sensors are reported, along with the results of an aging test on these sensors. The fiber-optic voltage sensor utilizes the "Pockels" effect of Bi12SiO20 single crystal and the fiber-optic magnetic-field sensor utilizes the "Faraday" effect of ZnSe polycrystal and Bi12SiO20 single crystal. The basic performance of these sensors has been investigated from the perspective of their use as parts in electrical apparatuses. In addition, in this paper some practical applications in electrical substations and transmission lines are presented. These include a fault section detecting system for gas insulated transmission line (GIL), an optical voltage transformer and optical current transformer which are embedded in gas insulated switchgear (GIS), and a surge voltage receiving system.