cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
External Accumulation of Ions for Enhanced Electrospray Ionization Fourier Transform Ion Cyclotron Resonance Mass Spectrometry

Electrospray ionization (ESI) in combination with Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance (FTICR) mass spectrometry provides for mass analysis of biological molecules with unrivaled mass accuracy, resolving power and sensitivity. However, ESI FTICR MS performance with on-line separation techniques such as liquid chromatography (LC) and capillary electrophoresis has to date been limited primarily by pulsed gas assisted accumulation and the incompatibility of the associated pump-down time with the frequent ion beam sampling requirement of on-line chromatographic separation. Here we describe numerous analytical advantages that accrue by trapping ions at high pressure in the first rf-only octupole of a dual octupole ion injection system before ion transfer to the ion trap in the center of the magnet for high performance mass analysis at low pressure. The new configuration improves the duty cycle for analysis of continuously generated ions, and is thus ideally suited for on-line chromatographic applications. LC/ESI FTICR MS is demonstrated on a mixture of 500 fmol of each of three peptides. Additional improvements include a fivefold increase in signal-to-noise ratio and resolving power compared to prior methods on our instrument.
Indeno-Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons: A Versatile New Synthetic Route

Abstract Acylation of a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) adjacent to a ring junction with 2-bromobenzoyl chloride followed by Flash Vacuum Pyrolysis (FVP) of the resulting bromoketone affords the corresponding indeno-annulated PAH. The new method is illustrated by syntheses of indeno[1,2,3-cd]pyrene (1) from pyrene and indeno[1,2,3-cd]fluoranthene (2) from fluoranthene. The formation of indeno[1,2,3,4-defg]chrysene (11) from FVP of 8-(2-bromobenzoyl)-fluoranthene (10), and as a secondary product from FVP of 3-(2-bromobenzoyl)fluoranthene (9), reveals the ability of phenyl groups to migrate around the periphery of a didehydro-PAH. Mechanisms involving reversible hydrogen atom transfers are proposed. Diacylation of fluoranthene with 2-bromobenzoyl chloride followed by FVP gives the previously unknown, nonplanar, nonalternant, C28H14 PAH diindeno[1,2,3,4-defg: 1,2,3-rs]chrysene (21) in just two steps.
Time-frequency mapping of R-R interval during complex partial seizures of temporal lobe origin.

Abstract Background: Activation of autonomic nervous system is common with seizures. No reliable biological markers of impending seizures have been found. Evaluation of autonomic changes might help elucidate the transition from interictal to ictal states. Methods: We studied twelve patients (eight females, four males), from 19 to 62 years old with temporal lobe complex partial seizures (CPS). Dynamics of autonomic functions from oscillations in R–R interval (RRI) using time-frequency mapping based upon a Wigner distribution during pre-ictal, ictal and post-ictal periods. Oscillations in RRI at respiratory frequencies (RF) (>0.1 Hz) are parasympathetically mediated and at nonrespiratory frequencies (NONRF) (0.01–0.09 Hz) are under combined sympathetic and parasympathetic influence. Results: CPS evoked marked autonomic imbalance and tachycardia. Spectral powers at both RF_RRI and NONRF_RRI increased over the pre-ictal period. RF_RRI power then fell rapidly over the 30 s before seizure onset and remained markedly reduced during seizure (P
Estimation of a Moving Vehicle’s Position and Orientation Using Probabilistic Data Association

This paper presents a computationally efficient algorithm for real-time vehicle tracking, by detecting the two taillights using a laser scanning radar (LIDAR) sensor. It is assumed that the two targets are constrained by fixed known separation distance 2l. To reject clutter, a Probability Data Association (PDA) based algorithm is proposed. The algorithm first predicts the orientation of the vehicle and the position of one of the two targets. Then it uses a two-dimensional PDA filter to estimate the position of this target. All the measurements whose distance from the estimated target is close to 2l are converted into orientation angles. This is followed by a one-dimensional PDA filter, which probabilistically combines calculated angles to estimate the orientation of the vehicle. Simulation results show significant improvement by this algorithm over other methods, in terms of orientation tracking.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
The performance of difference coding for sets and relational tables

We characterize the performance of difference coding for compressing sets and database relations through an analysis of the problem of estimating the number of bits needed for storing the spacings between values in sets of integers. We provide analytical expressions for estimating the effectiveness of difference coding when the elements of the sets or the attribute fields in database tuples are drawn from the uniform and Zipf distributions. We also examine the case where a uniformly distributed domain is combined with a Zipf distribution, and with an arbitrary distribution. We present limit theorems for most cases, and probabilistic convergence results in other cases. We also examine the effects of attribute domain reordering on the compression ratio. Our simulations show excellent agreement with theory.
EFFECTS OF SELF-IMPOSITION AND EXPERIMENTER IMPOSITION OF ACHIEVEMENT STANDARDS ON PERFORMANCE

This research assessed the effects of imposition of achievement standards on crank-turning within conditions in which apparent reinforcements were present. Subjects were assigned to one of four experimental conditions: self-imposition of achievement standards, experimenter's imposition of achievement standards, apparatus-feedback control, and baserate control. A steady decline in cranking over the period was noted. Subjects given experimenter's standards cranked faster than did subjects in the baserate condition but did not differ significantly from subjects in the apparatus-feedback condition. Subjects under self-imposition cranked faster than did subjects in any other conditions.
Effect of tunicamycin on the structural proteins and infectivity of budded Autographa californica nuclear polyhedrosis virus.

Abstract The budded phenotype of Autograha californica nuclear polyhedrosis virus (AcNPV BV) has a 64K glycoprotein in its envelope which is important in the ability of the virus to functionally enter host cells. Tunicamycin (TM), an inhibitor of N -linked glycosylation, was used to determine whether the sugar moiety was essential for the normal function of the 64K protein. At 10 μg/ml TM, glycosylation was completely inhibited. Infectivity of AcNPV BV was reduced to 2% of control while extracellular particles formed were 28% of control. Particles produced in the presence of 10 μg/ml TM were neutralizable by a monoclonal antibody reactive with the 64K envelope protein and their infectivity was sensitive to chloroquine. These results indicated that the major envelope protein, though unglycosylated, was still able to function normally in viral entry. Particles grown in the presence of 10 μg/ml TM however, contained on average, only 30% of the normal concentration of this major envelope protein. The combination of reduced number of extracellular particles and reduced amount of major envelope protein on these particles could account for the observed reduction in infectivity.
The effect of vitamin B6 deficiency on cytotoxic immune responses of T cells, antibodies, and natural killer cells, and phagocytosis by macrophages☆

The effect of vitamin B6 on cytotoxic immune responses of T cells, natural killer (NK) cells, cytotoxic antibody production, and macrophage phagocytosis was assessed in 5-week-old female C57B1/6 mice. Mice were fed 20% casein diets with pyridoxine (PN) added at 7, 1, 0.1, or 0 mg/kg diet, which represents 700, 100, 10, and 0% of requirement, respectively. Compared to mice fed 7 or 1 mg PN diet, animals fed 0 or 0.1 mg PN diet showed significantly reduced primary splenic and peritoneal T-cell-mediated cytotoxicity (CMC). Animals fed 0 mg PN diet also showed significantly depressed secondary T CMC of splenic and peritoneal lymphocytes against P815 tumor cells. Complement-dependent antibody-mediated cytotoxicity against P815 cells, phagocytosis of SRBC by macrophages, and native and interferon-induced NK cell activities against YAC cells were not affected by the level of vitamin B6 intake. The percentage of macrophages present in the peritoneal exudate cells was increased in animals fed the 0 mg PN diet. The immune responses were not enhanced or altered by the excess intake of vitamin B6 (7 mg PN). It appears that vitamin B6 is an essential nutrient for maintenance of normal T-cell function in vivo.
Structural Analysis of Methyl-Substituted Nitrosobenzenes and Nitrosoanisoles

The structures of a series of simple nitrosoarenes: o-nitrosotoluene, nitrosomesitylene, nitrosoprehnitene, 2-methyl-4-nitrosoanisole and 2,6-dimethyl-4-nitrosoanisole are reported. The nitrosoarenes studied adopt one of two orientations in the solid state. In one group (nitrosophrenitene, 2,6-dimethyl-4-nitrosoanisole and 2-methyl-4-nitrosoanisole) the nitroso moiety is coplanar with the arene and the nitrosoarenes exist as monomers (ArNO) in the solid state. In contrast the nitroso group in o-nitrosotoluene and nitrosomesitylene is orthogonal to the arene and these nitrosoarenes exist as trans dimers ArN(O)N(O)Ar. The structures of a series of simple nitrosoarenes: o-nitrosotoluene, nitrosomesitylene, nitrosoprehnitene, 2-methyl-4-nitrosoanisole and 2,6-dimethyl-4-nitrosoanisole are reported.
Copyrightability of Java APIs revisited

A recent case challenges the long-standing view that application program interfaces are not protectable under copyright law.
Memory for events occurring under anesthesia.

Abstract A number of anecdotal reports suggest that people have memories for incidents that happened while they were anesthetized. The present study investigated this possibility by studying an anesthetized patient's later memory for a word list. During an abdominal myomectomy, the patient was read a list of 100 unrelated words. Three subsequent memory tests were given, at 28, 53 and 82 hours after exposure. Recognition was at chance level. The results cast doubt on the suggestion that anesthetized patients have memory for events occuring while unconscious.
Student Workers: Essential Partners in the Twenty-First Century Academic Library.

This article describes a case study that best illustrates the value of student workers in university libraries, focusing particularly on how this kind of creative endeavor benefits everyone involved—the library, the students, the faculty, and at the end of the project: the university community.
CURRENT STATUS OF THE TREATMENT OF DISSEMINATED DISEASE

The treatment of disseminated cancer began in the mid40’s, less than 40 years ago, with the observations of the regression of advanced lymphomas when nitrogen-mustard was administered.” These important observations, however, promised only palliative control of disseminated cancer. In 1948, Farber et al. described the first complete remissions of advanced disseminated cancer when he observed the complete disappearance of all signs and symptoms of acute leukemia in children treated with anti-folic acid compounds.4 The conversion of a patient with disseminated cancer to a patient without evidence of disease was a truly unique and provocative clinical observation. However, Dr. Farber was also conservative and noted that virtually all, but not all, of the children in complete remission had their disease recur promptly. So even these observations only stimulated the therapeutic scientist to think in terms of palliation for disseminated cancer. It was Dr. M. C. Li who first conceived of curative therapy for advanced disseminated cancer.15 Li and coworkers reported the first complete remissions in patients with advanced metastatic choriocarcinoma and they made the enormously important observation that the women in remission had persistently elevated levels of chorionicgonadotrophin, which they recognized as due to residual metastatic choriocarcinoma which could not be demonstrated by clinical means. With the aid of this first “tumor marker” Dr. Li applied intensive therapy with methotrexate to patients early in remission and reported the first cures of metastatic choriocarcinoma. Subsequently the observations of multiple agent combination chemotherapy in childhood leukemia by Freireich and Frei demonstrated that intensification of remission even in the absence of a tumor marker could be associated with a detectable fraction of patients who had prolonged disease and treatment-free survivorship which represented the equivalent of cure.’ Subsequently the studies by Frei et al. and DeVita et al., applying the same principles of multiple agent combination chemotherapy to the treatment of Hodgkin’s disease, added yet another diagnosis to the growing list of diseases which had a detectable cured fraction.3.7 At the present time, in addition to the previously mentioned diagnoses, adults with acute myeloblastic leukemia, patients with diffuse histiocytic lymphoma, and paiticularly striking, males with embryonal tumors of testis add to a growing list of diagnoses where at least some of the patients can be cured with chemo
Characterization of the Thermodynamic Working Cycle in a MEMS-Based Micro Heat Engine

This work examines the conversion of thermal to mechanical energy in a micro heat engine by characterizing the heat engine’s working cycle. Results are given for dynamic measurements of pressure, volume, and temperature throughout the working cycle of the engine. Engine pressure is determined from the deformation of the two membranes in contact with the working fluid. A Michelson interferometer is used to measure the center deflection and displacement profile of both of these membranes. Pressure is determined from the membrane deflection using experimental static pressure-deflection curves. Engine temperature is measured using electrical resistance thermometry, via a micro resistance thermometer fabricated on the surface of a silicon membrane exposed to the working fluid in the engine cavity.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
Macroenvironmental determinants of operational loss severity

Abstract We investigate the relationships between the severity of operational loss events reported in the banking sector and various regulatory, legal, geographical, and economic indicators. Based on a data sample of over 57,000 losses incurred in more than 130 countries reported by the Operational Riskdata eXchange (ORX) consortium, we identify the most relevant exposure indicators for losses in four Basel II event categories: Internal Fraud; External Fraud; Employment Practices and Workplace Safety; and Clients, Products and Business Practices. We find evidence of significant correlations between Internal Fraud and constraints on executive power and the prevalence of insider trading. Clients, Products and Business Practices losses are significantly related to securities and shareholder protection laws, restrictions on banking activity, supervisory power, and the prevalence of insider trading. Other event types are sensitive to per-capita GDP and a governance index.
A field portable mass spectrometer for monitoring organic vapors

A portable mass spectrometer has been designed and built under the sponsorship of the US Army for the purpose of monitoring low concentrations of specified organics in the ambient atmosphere. The goals of the development were discrimination, sensitivity, portability, simplicity of operation, economy and convenience. These objectives were met in a system consisting of a computer operated mass spectrometer with a Llewellyn membrane separator inlet system housed in two 26×18×9 inch aluminum cases with a total weight less than 150 pounds. This system has shown the capability for field detection of hundreds of specific organic vapors at the parts per billion level in the ambient and workplace environments.
Western Boundary Currents and Frontal Air–Sea Interaction: Gulf Stream and Kuroshio Extension

Abstract In the Northern Hemisphere midlatitude western boundary current (WBC) systems there is a complex interaction between dynamics and thermodynamics and between atmosphere and ocean. Their potential contribution to the climate system motivated major parallel field programs in both the North Pacific [Kuroshio Extension System Study (KESS)] and the North Atlantic [Climate Variability and Predictability (CLIVAR) Mode Water Dynamics Experiment (CLIMODE)], and preliminary observations and analyses from these programs highlight that complexity. The Gulf Stream (GS) in the North Atlantic and the Kuroshio Extension (KE) in the North Pacific have broad similarities, as subtropical gyre WBCs, but they also have significant differences, which affect the regional air–sea exchange processes and their larger-scale interactions. The 15-yr satellite altimeter data record, which provides a rich source of information, is combined here with the longer historical record from in situ data to describe and compare the curr...
Air-coupled generation and detection of ultrasonic bulk waves in metals using micromachined capacitance transducers

Micromachined capacitance transducers have been used for the first time to generate and detect ultrasonic longitudinal waves in a 5 mm thick aluminum plate in a completely air-coupled mode (i.e. without any contact). The source and receiver were placed on opposite sides of the aluminum plate in a normal-incidence through-thickness arrangement, leaving air gaps between the transducers and sample. The source was excited by a toneburst voltage whose frequency could be swept through the sample's through-thickness longitudinal resonance; whereas the reception circuitry employed a superheterodyned receiver. The measured resonant peak is consistent with that expected for a 5 mm thick aluminum plate, thus confirming generation and detection of bulk longitudinal waves in a metal by a capacitive air-coupled transducer. This work, when combined with previous studies by the author, shows that the entire range of solid materials (i.e. materials with acoustic impedances ranging from that of polymers and paper all the way to that of metals) can now in principle be investigated using micromachined air-coupled capacitance transducers and any of the available ultrasonic wave-modes.
Stage-specific increase in cell surface galactosyltransferase activity during spermatogenesis in mice bearing t alleles

Mouse sperm surface galactosyltransferase (GalTase) mediates fertilization by binding to its appropriate glycoconjugate substrate in the egg zona pellucida. GalTase is present throughout all stages of spermatogenesis, during which time it redistributes within the plasma membrane from a uniform, diffuse distribution on primary spermatocytes to a restricted domain overlying the dorsal surface of the acrosome. Previously, we have shown that GalTase activity is elevated on transmission-distorting t-bearing sperm populations, relative to normal sperm, and in this paper, we define the stage when surface GalTase activity becomes elevated during t spermatogenesis. GalTase specific activity is equal between normal and t-bearing primary spermatocytes, but following meiosis, surface GalTase activity becomes elevated nearly fourfold on t-bearing round spermatids. The increased GalTase activity on t-bearing spermatids is not due to decreased hydrolysis of the GalTase substrates, and is appropriately localized over the acrosomal region, even on misshapen sperm heads occasionally seen in t-sperm populations. These studies define the stage when a specific biochemical defect associated with mutant alleles of the T/t complex first becomes detectable. The t factors that elevate GalTase activity on round spermatids may be similar to previously identified t-specific testicular proteins that are maximally expressed at the same developmental stage, and which map to the same portion of the T/t complex.
Content of a radiology report.

Sir, I read with interest the recent publication on clinicians_ interpretations of radiology reports in wheezing and nonwheezing febrile children [1]. Like the authors, I am concerned with the varied interpretations that the pediatricians make from our radiology reports. Clearly there is a communication problem. There is a simple solution. The referring pediatrician should not be the person to draw a conclusion from the description of the findings in the images. This must be done by the radiologist. Too often the radiology report is an excellent description of the findings in the image, yet the conclusion is poor or absent. I believe that the critical component of the radiology report is not what we see, but what we think. The most important part of our imaging report should be the conclusion [2, 3]. In a patient presenting with new signs and symptoms (such as a febrile child), the conclusion of the imaging report must contain a differential diagnosis or, when possible, a definitive diagnosis [2, 3]. All too often the conclusion of the report is merely a restatement of findings. I suggest that if every imaging report in the study had a definitive conclusion, with diagnosis or differential diagnosis, referring pediatricians would not be made to draw their own diagnostic conclusion from the radiologist’s description of the findings. This will have been done by the radiologist.
SU‐GG‐J‐122: Therapeutic Efficacy of 198Au Nanoparticles Using a Canine Model of Prostate Cancer

As part of our efforts toward clinical translation of GA‐198AuNP, our studies are focused on therapeutic efficacy of nanoparticulate GA198AuNP agent in dogs with prostatic carcinoma. The overall goal is to gain clinical insights on therapeutic efficacy of GA198AuNP in a large animalmodel. We have performed a phase I clinical trial using GA‐AuNP administered intravenously or intra‐tumoral injection or infusion. CT scans were performed prior to injection and 24 hours post injection in 3 of the 4 dogs. Following injections, dogs were allowed further treatment as recommended by the primary attending clinician. Four dogs have been treated to date. Complications related to GA‐AuNP treatment were not observed, and all 4 dogs received adjunctive treatment with radiation therapy and/ or chemotherapy. These preliminary studies have clearly provided compelling evidence on the therapeutic potential of biocompatible GA‐AuNP for their utility as novel therapeutic agents in treating various types of inoperable solid tumors. Intra‐tumoral and intravenous administration of GA‐AuNP is safe in dogs with spontaneously occurring tumors. As further therapeutic efficacy studies continue, the outcome of this clinical trial in a large animalmodel will generate therapeutic efficacy data which will be used for filing IND application for Phase I clinical trial studies. This clinical translation effort provides significant advances in terms to deliver optimum therapeutic payloads into prostate cancers with subsequent reduction in tumor volume, thus may effectively reduce/eliminate the need for surgical resection. This presentation will include details of clinical translation of GA198AuNP in prostate tumor bearing dogs.
School restructuring and downsizing: using TQM to promote cost effectiveness

Examines an alternative to downsizing in the restructuring of organizations. Suggests that the restructuring and downsizing of staff often result from economic inefficiency. They are used to make immediate financial savings and to keep floundering organizations solvent. Such practices seldom produce sustained results. New financial difficulties soon arise because the root of the problem is not addressed – poor management practices.
Effects of feed pressure on fluorinated polyimide–organosilicate hybrid membranes

Abstract The transport properties of a series of fluorinated polyimide–organosilicate hybrid membranes were characterized as a function of feed pressure to determine the degree of CO2 plasticization. The pure gas feed pressures ranged from 4 to 30 atm using CO2 and CH4 at 35 °C. The sol–gel derived organosilicate domains were formed using partially hydrolyzed alkoxide precursors, which were cross-linked with the polymer matrix. The degree of plasticization was dependent upon the degree of cross-linking, being the lowest in a highly cross-linked hybrid membrane. Separate analysis of the diffusion and sorption behavior of CO2 and CH4 suggested that the plasticization phenomenon results more from changes in local chain dynamics rather than increases in free volume due to swelling.
An Electronic DC to AC Converter for Use in Servo Systems

The usefulness of alternating current servomechanisms has been restricted in many cases by the difficulty of obtaining a satisfactory ac error signal. The conversion from dc signals to an ac error signal, i.e., the modulation system, is shown to be a predominant source of difficulty. A modulation circuit having characteristics, much improved over conventional types, has been developed. Practical application to a servomultiplier with results observed is discussed.
Polycrystalline diamond circular resonant diaphragms with low onset of nonlinear response

In this paper, we report the results of an initial study to characterize the resonance behavior of ultra-thin, large area, circular polycrystalline diamond diaphragms as a potential structural material for resonant sensors. The resonant response of the diaphragms fabricated on Si substrates was measured for excitation frequencies from the low kHz to 1 MHz. Due to the large aspect ratio, a high Young's modulus and high quality factors, resonances enter the nonlinear Duffing regime at very low drive voltages. This nonlinear behavior is known for its use in parametric excitation, allowing for interesting applications in many areas, including quantum optics and plasma physics. Higher resonance mode center frequencies were found to deviate from expected frequencies when compared to membrane theory due to the large aspect ratio and high Young's modulus-to-stress ratio.
Wear analysis in THA utilizing oxidized zirconium and crosslinked polyethylene.

Oxidized zirconium, a material with a ceramic surface on a metal substrate, and highly cross-linked polyethylene are two materials developed to reduce wear. We measured in vivo femoral head penetration in patients with these advanced bearings. We hypothesized the linear wear rates would be lower than those published for cobalt-chrome and standard polyethylene. We retrospectively reviewed a select series of 56 THAs in a relatively young, active patient population utilizing oxidized zirconium femoral heads and highly cross-linked polyethylene acetabular liners. Femoral head penetration was determined using the Martell computerized edge-detection method. All patients were available for 2-year clinical and radiographic followup. True linear wear was 4 μm/year (95% confidence intervals, ± 59 μm/year). The early wear rates in this cohort of relatively young, active patients were low and we believe justify the continued study of these alternative bearing surfaces.
Expression of energy metabolism related genes in the gastric tissue of obese individuals with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

Background Stomach is an integral part of the energy balance regulating circuit. Studies exploring the effects of cross-system changes in the energy homeostasis in stomach tissue are scarce. The proximity of the stomach to liver - the most common secondary target affected by obesity – suggests that these two organs are exposed to each other’s local secretion. Therefore, we aimed at expression profiling of energy metabolism associated genes in the gastric tissue of obese non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) patients.
Metal levels in feathers of 12 species of seabirds from Midway Atoll in the northern Pacific Ocean

Seabirds are excellent subjects for examination of heavy metals because they are long-lived, feed at different distances from land, and exhibit different trophic levels. In this paper we compare the levels of lead, cadmium, mercury arsenic, chromium, manganese, selenium, and tin in the feathers of birds nesting on Midway Atoll in the northern Pacific Ocean. We test the null hypothesis that there are no interspecific differences in the levels of metals in the feathers of the adult black-footed albatross (Diomedea nigripes), Laysan albatross (Diomedea immutabilis), red-footed booby (Sula sula), great frigatebird (Fregata minor), Bonin petrel (Pterodroma hypoleuca), Christmas shearwater (Puffinus nativitatis), red-tailed tropicbird (Phaethon rubricauda), wedge-tailed shearwater (Puffinus pacificus), brown noddy (Anous stolidus), sooty tern (Sterna fuscata), grey-backed tern (Sterna lunata), and white tern (Gygis alba), and young of some of these species. There were interspecific differences in the levels of all metals for adults. Christmas shearwater had the highest levels of lead, cadmium, selenium and manganese, but the second lowest levels of mercury. In general, metal levels were the lowest in the smallest species (white tern), but were not the highest in the largest species (black-footed albatross), except for manganese, arsenic and mercury. There was a high variance in metal levels among adults for some species, but not for others. White tern adults were variable for lead, while Christmas shearwaters were variable for lead and cadmium. Compared to the means for metals in other birds generally (after Burger, 1993), Christmas shearwaters had higher levels of lead, white terns, brown noddy, Christmas shearwater, frigatebirds and Laysan albatrosses had higher levels of cadmium, and bonin petrel, wedge-tailed shearwater, tropicbirds, frigatebirds, red-footed boobies, and both albatrosses had higher levels of mercury. Whereas the means for lead and cadmium were below the known effects levels, some individuals had levels high enough to cause adverse effects in the birds. The mean values for mercury in Bonin petrel, red-tailed tropicbird, and black-footed albatross were higher than the levels known to cause adverse reproductive and behavioral effects.
Synthetic hydroxyapatite crystals I. Sodium and potassium fixation

Abstract A procedure and an apparatus were devised to permit the precipitation, growth, and aging of basic calcium phosphate crystals under conditions approximately physiological with respect to ionic strength, pH, and temperature. Crystals made in this fashion gave the x-ray diffraction pattern of hydroxyapatite, exhibited a molar ratio, Ca P , close to the theoretical value, 1.66, for this substance, and had specific surfaces of about 150 sq. m./g. From a medium containing potassium ions, only trace quantities of non-exchangeable potassium were fixed in the solid phase. Even this small amount decreased as the crystals aged. In contrast, much more sodium from the medium was incorporated into non-exchangeable sites in the crystals, and this amount increased during aging. The crystallographic and physiologic, significance of these findings are discussed briefly.
Protein kinase C modulates glutamate receptor inhibition of Ca2+ channels and synaptic transmission

FAST synaptic transmission in the central nervous system can be modulated by neurotransmitters and second-messenger pathways. For example, transmission at glutamatergic synapses can be depressed by the metabotropic glutamate receptor1,2, providing autoreceptor-mediated negative feedback. Metabotropic glutamate receptor inhibition of Ca2+ channels may contribute to this pathway3–6. In contrast, stimulation of protein kinase C can enhance excitatory synaptic transmission7, whereas both depression and enhancement of Ca2+ current have been reported8. Here we show that in hippocampal CA3 and cortical pyramidal neurons, activation of protein kinase C enhances current through N-type Ca2+ channels and, in addition, dramatically reduces G protein-dependent inhibition of these same channels by the meta-botropic glutamate receptor. In parallel experiments on fast excitatory transmission at corticostriatal synapses, kinase C activators were similarly found to reduce the inhibitory effect produced by stimulation of the metabotropic glutamate receptor. The results show that second-to-second control of Ca2+ channels by the metabotropic glutamate receptor can itself be modulated on a slower timescale by protein kinase C. These mechanisms may be used in the control of fast excitatory synaptic transmission.
Multiple uses of a plastic template in fixed prosthodontics

Abstract A technique has been presented for the construction of a slotted template that aids in determining adequate tooth reduction for a porcelain veneer crown and helps to align the placement of buccal and lingual retentive grooves in posterior abutment teeth. In addition, the slotted template may be used by preclinical and clinical instructors in fixed prosthodontics to objectively evaluate tooth reduction.
Valence-band electronic structure of MoS2 and Cs/MoS2(0002) studied by angle-resolved x-ray photoemission spectroscopy.

The angle dependence of the valence-band photoemission from the trigonal prismatic layered ${\mathrm{MoS}}_{2}$ shows both the forward-scattering features normally observed in core-level photoelectron diffraction and, in addition, the initial-state orbital character associated with partially occupied, nonbonding ${\mathit{Mo}}^{\mathit{IV}}$(4${\mathit{d}}_{{\mathit{z}}^{2}}$+4${\mathit{d}}_{{\mathit{x}}^{2}\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}{\mathit{y}}^{2}}$ +4${\mathit{d}}_{\mathit{xy}}$) orbitals near the top of the valence band. The difference in forward scattering between the Mo and S emitters is also used to assess relative contributions from the Mo and S atomic orbitals at specific binding energies within the valence band. Deposition of cesium (0.23 ML Cs with 1 ML equal to the Cs saturation coverage) onto the basal plane of ${\mathrm{MoS}}_{2}$ introduces a density of states at 1.25 eV above the top of the valence-band maximum. The intensity anisotropy for this Cs-induced valence level is interpreted via the angle dependence of the electric dipole matrix element as due to the initial-state orbital character at the bottom of the conduction band of the Cs/${\mathrm{MoS}}_{2}$ heterostructure. \textcopyright{} 1996 The American Physical Society.
Critical configurations for dislocation nucleation from crack tips

In the present paper, we analyse several activation configurations of embryonic dislocations nucleated from the tip of a cleavage crack. The activation configurations include nucleation on inclined planes, on oblique planes and on cleavage ledges and are treated within the classical framework of Peierls. A variational boundary integral method with an interplanar tension-shear potential developed earlier is used to solve for the saddle-point configurations of embryonic dislocation loops and their associated energies. Based on the assumption that the brittle-to-ductile transition in cleavage fracture is a nucleation-controlled process (as is expected to be the case in bcc transition metals such as α-Fe) the results of the calculations are used to estimate the brittle-to-ductile transition temperatures. It is concluded that only dislocation nucleation on cleavage ledges furnishes realistic values of the transition temperature. The homogeneous nucleation of dislocations on either inclined or oblique planes requires transition temperatures well above the melting point. This implies that nucleation of dislocations from a crack tip in intrinsically brittle crystals is only possible at local crack front heterogeneities such as cleavage ledges, and that the homogeneous nucleation of dislocations from a straight crack front is not possible. This conclusion is supported by the experimental observation that dislocation nucleation from a crack tip is a rare event which occurs preferentially at heterogeneities.
Generation of sidewall patterns in microchannels via strain-recovery deformations of polystyrene

Abstract In this work we have developed a simple approach to generate micropatterns on the sidewalls of polystyrene (PS) microchannels. The PS used is a thermal shape-memory polymer. The sidewall patterns were produced based on large strain-recovery property of this polymer. During the strain recovery, a shallow, wide channel became a deep, narrow channel. In the meanwhile, micropatterns that pre-existed on the slightly sloped sidewalls of the shallow channels were transferred to approximately vertically oriented sidewalls of the deep channels. A simple mathematical relationship was proposed to determine the new orientations of the channel sidewalls after the strain recovery. This relationship was further validated by experiments. The developed approach has been successfully applied to generate Ag 50 μm × 50 μm dots, 100- and 500 μm-wide straight lines, and 150 μm-wide serpentine lines not only on the bottoms but also on the sidewalls of PS microchannels. Furthermore, the generation of a simple conductor across a channel was explored. This conductor included external wires, contact pads and Ag lines. The fabricated conductor could be potentially applied to create a 3-D electrical field inside the channel.
A Daily Process Investigation of Alcohol-involved Sexual Risk Behavior Among Economically Disadvantaged Problem Drinkers Living with HIV/AIDS

Alcohol use is believed to increase sexual risk behavior among people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). As drinking and sexual risk acts often occur in the same social contexts, this association is difficult to confirm. In this study, electronic daily diaries were completed by 116 PLWHA over 5 weeks. This yielded a total of 1,464 records consisting of data pertaining to discrete occasions of anal and vaginal sex. Simultaneous within- and between-person multilevel analyses were conducted, including situational variables (partner type, partner serostatus, partner drinking) and individual difference variables (gender, level of alcohol dependence). The resulting model explains 27.5% of the variance and reveals that interactions among these situational and individual difference variables predict changes in the estimated rate of unprotected sex (US). Also, in defined contexts, the amount of alcohol consumed prior to sex significantly affects the rate of US among members of the sample. Implications are discussed.
Fitting FFT onto an energy efficient massively parallel architecture

We present novel implementations of the Fast Fourier Transform on the massively parallel Connex Array™(CA) circuit. The estimated performance is 19 GFlops (BenchFFT metric) of parallel computing 64 FFTs of size 1024, using 5 Watts. We compare the CA and NVIDIA's GTX 285 GPU performance. The CA is not a direct NVIDIA competitor, targeting a different application area. Considering its low power dissipation, the CA is a good solution for low cost mobile computing equipment, video processing, and multi-channel high-sampling audio processing.
Comparative study on removal of cadmium(II) from simulated wastewater by adsorption onto GAC, DB, and PR

Abstract This investigation deals with the utilization of granular-activated carbon (GAC), dead biomass (DB) and phosphate rocks (PR) as adsorbents for the removal of cadmium(II) from simulated wastewater. A series of experiments were conducted in a batch system to evaluate the effect of system variables. The effect of pH, initial cadmium(II) concentration, dose of adsorbents, and contact time were considered. The equilibrium data were analyzed using Langmuir, Freundlich and Redlich–Peterson isotherm models at different doses of GAC, DB, and CGA. The Langmuir model was found to fit the equilibrium data very well with high-correlation coefficient (R 2). The maximum uptake capacities were found to be 17.757, 24.677, and 31.379 mg/g onto GAC, DB, and PR, respectively. Adsorption kinetic data were tested using pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order, and intra-particle diffusion models. The adsorption process was found to follow a pseudo-first order reaction. The thermodynamic studies showed that the adsorpti...
Operant licking in rabbits for intraoral injection of basic types of tastants

In order to compare and contrast hedonic properties of 0.75 M NaCl and 0.5 M sucrose used in behavioral electrophysiology of taste, tests were carried out of evoked patterns of orolingual response and operant licking on a FR-32 schedule to discrete intraoral injections of these stimuli and other basic types of tastants. In tests of taste reactivity, NaCl and sucrose evoked quantitatively similar numbers of orolingual response in excess of those evoked by water. NaCl was also similar to sucrose in amount of operant licking generated at the outset of the test session. Both of these stimuli were more effective than either 0.02 M HCl, 0.01 M QHCl, or water. The NaCl also did not have the suppressant effect of HCl when alternated with sucrose as the reinforcement for licking. NaCl differed from sucrose in sustaining operant licking. While NaCl would appear to share the same basic hedonic value of sucrose, long-term associative processes pertaining to postingestional consequences of fluid input and short-term sensory processes may act to limit behavioral responsivity for concentrated NaCl. Additional information was obtained on operant licking for sodium saccharin.
Sports Rehabilitation of the Injured Athlete

Correct and timely rehabilitation is a vital component of the treatment of sports injuries. The goals of rehabilitation include restoring function, restoring pain-free full range of motion, and achieving full muscle strength and sports endurance. Generally, sports rehabilitation entails a phased approach including progressive exercises and therapeutic modalities to achieve full recovery. This review discusses the rehabilitation of upper extremity, lower extremity, and back injuries.
Cutting effectiveness of tungsten carbide burs and diamond points at ultra-high rotational speeds.

1 he rotary cutting instruments used in dentistry remove tooth structure by cutting or abrading. Prior to the early 1940’s, the abrasion of tooth structure was accomplished with Carborundum disks and mounted stones. The introduction of diamond instruments, together with increased rotational speeds (20,000 to 30,000 r. p. m.) resulted in increased cutting efficiency at lighter cutting pressures. Tungsten carbide steel burs became available in 1947 and have proved to be a significant improvement over the carbon steel burs previously used. The basic design of the tungsten carbide bur evolved from the 6 bladed carbon steel bur. This design utilized engineerin, u theories for cutting tools. However, considering the material being cut (enamel and dentin) and the variations in speed and pressure used by different dentists, it is not possible to predict optimum design and performance accurately. As a result, design changes have been based upon empirical findings rather than scientific research. Because of this, the United States Bureau of Standards, the United States Armed Forces, and the Australian Bureau of Dental Standards have established specifications which influence the quality of dental burs. In an attempt to cope with the forementioned variables, the manufacturer considers tooth profile, helix angle, sharpness and number of cutting edges, concentricity, and quality of carbide steel in a series of compromises to produce a satisfactory product. The profile of the bur tooth is determined by the rake and relief angle. A small rake and large relief angle result in a small bur tooth profile and faster cutting. However, the resultant small cross section of the bur tooth produces a weaker edge more subject to dulling. Also, problems of longevity of the grinding tools used in the manufacturing process have a role in the profile design of the bur tooth. The helix angle influences the smoothness of the cut, the larger angle producing a smoother cut. Quality control in the grinding of the cutting edges of the
Real-time assessment of seed dormancy and seedling growth for weed management

Computer software called WeedCast was developed to simulate weed seed dormancy, timing of seedling emergence, and seedling height growth in crop environments in real-time and using actual or forecasted weather data. Weather data include daily rainfall and minimum and maximum air temperatures. Air temperatures are converted to average daily soil temperature at 5-cm soil depth using a series of equations that are specific for soil type, tillage system and previous year's crop-residue type. Daily rainfall and soil temperature estimates are combined to determine soil water potential (in megapascals) at 5-cm depth. Daily estimated soil water potential or soil temperatures are matched to empirically-derived threshold values that induce secondary dormancy in seeds of certain species. Soil growing degree days (GDD), calculated from soil temperatures, are used to project maximum emergence rates of weed seedlings. Emergence ceases on days when soil water potential falls below threshold values specific to each species. GDD based on air temperatures are used to estimate post-emergence seedling height growth. All three types of simulation provide information that allows users to answer important weed management questions in real-time. These types of questions include but are not limited to the following: (1) Are soil-applied treatments necessary? (2) How late can pre-emergence herbicides be applied? (3) When should mechanical control be implemented? (4) When should field-scouting commence and end? (5) When should post-emergence herbicides be applied?
Optimal intervention in semi-Markov-based asynchronous genetic regulatory networks

Probabilistic Boolean networks are a class of rule-based models for gene regulatory networks. This class of models is used to design optimal therapeutic intervention strategies. While synchronous probabilistic Boolean networks have been investigated in detail in the literature, no similar endeavor has been completed for asynchronous networks. This paper addresses this issue by introducing an asynchronous extension to probabilistic Boolean networks and by developing intervention methods based on this new model. The proposed framework introduces asynchronism at the level of aggregated genes status. The theory of semi-Markov decision processes is then used to devise effective intervention methods where the objective is to reduce the time duration that the system spends in undesirable states. The necessary timing information for the proposed model can be obtained from sequences of gene-activity profile measurements. This is one of the major advantages of the propose approach.
Carbon monoxide poisoning during ice storms: A tale of two cities

This is a retrospective case series conducted at two university hospital emergency departments of 68 patients with a discharge diagnosis of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning presenting during two different ice storms (March 1991 and February 1994) in two cities (Rochester, NY, and Nashville, TN). Fifty-five patients were seen over 10 d in Rochester and 13 patients over 4 d in Nashville. The main sources of CO exposure were the indoor use of gasoline generators (40 patients), propane or kerosene heaters (9 patients), and charcoal grills (8 patients). Six patients did not speak English fluently (5 Asian patients in Nashville and 1 Greek patient in Rochester). The use of charcoal grills was the most common CO source in Nashville, occurring exclusively in patients of Asian descent, 5 of whom did not speak English. In Rochester, the use of gas generators was the most common CO source. Ice storms represent a significant threat to populations affected by prolonged power outages. Different cities will be affected in different ways. When ice storms occur, the media should distribute information about potential sources of CO exposure. In some cases, the message may need to be distributed by alternative methods to populations who do not speak English or do not have access to mainstream media.