cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The rôle of bursicon in melanization and endocuticle formation in the adult fleshfly, Sarcophaga bullata

Abstract The role of the hormone bursicon in melanization and growth of the cuticle in adults of Sarcophaga bullata has been investigated. Bursicon induces melanization of the outer layers of the cuticle and deposition of postemergent endocuticle. Endocuticle formation is inhibited by actinomycin D and puromycin with no discernible effect on melanization, and melanization is selectively inhibited by a dopa-decarboxylase inhibitor suggesting that this enzyme is involved in melanization but is not induced de novo by bursicon. These results indicate that RNA and protein synthesis are required for the bursicon-induced formation of endocuticle. In apparent contradiction to the latter suggestion, bursicon had no measurable effect on the incorporation of uridine- 3 H into the epidermis; it did, however, affect the incorporation of leucine- 3 H into the epidermis, causing an enhanced uptake.
Application of a macroscale hydrologic model to estimate the water balance of the Arkansas-Red River Basin

An approach for estimation of the parameters of a macroscale land surface hydrology model is illustrated for the Global and Water Cycle Experiment (GEWEX) Continental Scale International Project (GCIP) large-scale area southwest (LSA-SW) which essentially comprises the Arkansas-Red River basin. The macroscale land surface hydrology model parameters were estimated for 44 catchments within LSA-SW with areas ranging from 180 to 7100 km2 using an automated search procedure. The catchment parameters were then linearly interpolated and overlaid on a one degree grid, which was used to represent the drainage network. The macroscale grid network model was run off-line at a daily time step, forced by gridded station precipitation and potential evapotranspiration. The model-generated long-term mean streamflows were compared with observations (corrected for management effects such as reservoir storage and diversions) and were found to agree to within one percent for the Arkansas River and about two percent for the Red River. For both rivers, the model underestimates the seasonal peak streamflow in late spring, and overestimates the late summer and early fall minimum. Model-derived evapotranspiration, spatially averaged over the entire Arkansas-Red basin, was compared to evapotranspiration derived from an atmospheric moisture budget of the Arkansas-Red River basin. On an average annual basis, for the period 1973–1986, the two agree to within one percent. The mean seasonal cycles for the two estimates agree quite closely from late winter to midsummer. However, the hydrologic model estimates less evapotranspiration in the fall, and more in midwinter, than the atmospheric budget.
Interrelation of Coronary Angiographic Reference Lumen Size and Intravascular Ultrasound Target Lesion Calcium

Abstract Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) detects target lesion calcium twice as often as does coronary angiography. Target lesions in smaller vessels are thought to be more calcified than target lesions in large vessels. This study determined whether the presence and magnitude of target lesion calcium is related to angiographic reference lumen size. Preintervention IVUS imaging and coronary angiography were performed to study 1,454 non-aortoostial native vessel lesions in 1,342 patients. Target lesions and reference segments were evaluated according to previously published methods and are presented as mean ± 1 SD. By angiography, 37% of lesions contained calcium, and 68% of calcium-containing lesions were classified as moderately calcified, and 32% as severely calcified. There was no relation between angiographic reference lumen size and angiographic calcium detection (p = 0.7066) or classification (none/mild vs moderate vs severe, p = 0.8135). By IVUS, 73% of lesions contained calcium. There was a consistent relation between decreasing angiographic reference lumen size and increasing IVUS lesion-associated calcium: the presence of any calcium (p = 0.0122), arc of calcium (p = 0.002), percent of lesions with an arc of calcium >180° (p = 0.0018), length of calcium (p 180° (p = 0.0021), and length of superificial calcium (p
Development and characterization of SiC(f)/MoSi2–Si3N4(p) hybrid composites

Intermetallic compound MoSi2 has long been known as a high temperature material that has excellent oxidation resistance and electrical/thermal conductivity. Also its low cost, high melting point (2023 C), relatively low density (6.2 g/cu cm versus 9 g/cu cm for current engine materials), and ease of machining, make it an attractive structural material. However, the use of MoSi2 has been hindered due to its poor toughness at low temperatures, poor creep resistance at high temperatures, and accelerated oxidation (also known as 'pest' oxidation) at temperatures between approximately 450 and 550 C. Continuous fiber reinforcing is very effective means of improving both toughness and strength. Unfortunately, MoSi2 has a relatively high coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) compared to potential reinforcing fibers such as SiC. The large CTE mismatch between the fiber and the matrix resulted in severe matrix cracking during thermal cycling. Addition of about 30 to 50 vol % of Si3N4 particulate to MoSi2 improved resistance to low temperature accelerated oxidation by forming a Si2ON2 protective scale and thereby eliminating catastrophic 'pest failure'. The Si3N4 addition also improved the high temperature creep strength by nearly five orders of magnitude, doubled the room temperature toughness and significantly lowered the CTE of the MoSi2 and eliminated matrix cracking in SCS-6 reinforced composites even after thermal cycling. The SCS-6 fiber reinforcement improved the room temperature fracture toughness by seven times and impact resistance by five times. The composite exhibited excellent strength and toughness improvement up to 1400 C. More recently, tape casting was adopted as the preferred processing of MoSi2-base composites for improved fiber spacing, ability to use small diameter fibers, and for lower cost. Good strength and toughness values were also obtained with fine diameter Hi-Nicalon tow fibers. This hybrid composite remains competitive with ceramic matrix composites as a replacement for Ni-base superalloys in aircraft engine applications.
Substance P augments interleukin-10 and tumor necrosis factor-α release by human cord blood monocytes and macrophages

Abstract We have investigated the effects of SP on the constitutive and/or lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced expression of interleukin-10 (IL-10) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) in both freshly isolated cord blood monocytes (FICBM) and cord blood monocyte-derived macrophages (CBMDM). The cells were treated with SP at various concentrations (10 −14 to 10 −6 M) in the presence or absence of LPS and culture supernatants were analyzed for IL-10 and TNF-α as measured by an enzyme immunosorbent assay (ELISA). FICBM and CBMDM treated with SP alone increased TNF-α secretion. The stimulatory effects of SP on TNF-α secretion are inhibited by a anti-SP polyclonal antibody and SP antagonists, spantide ([D-Arg-1-D-Trp-7-D-Trp-9-Leu-11]-SP) and CP-96,345 (a nonpeptide antagonist of the SP receptor). Although the treatment with SP alone did not enhance IL-10 secretion by both freshly isolated and cultured cord monocytes, treatment with SP in combination with LPS leads to a synergistic interaction in upregulation of IL-10 secretion. Fragments of SP (SP 1–4 and SP 5–11 ) in the presence or absence of LPS show little effects on IL-10 secretion by FICBM. SP reverses the inhibitory effect of IFN-γ on LPS-induced IL-10 secretion by FICBM. In addition, the two SP antagonists and the anti-SP polyclonal antibody blocked the SP effect on IL-10 secretion by FICBM, indicating that these effects are specific and SP receptor mediated. Thus, SP is likely to play an important role in certain inflammatory conditions in the immune and nervous systems.
Mating types of Paramecium bursaria from Japan.

SummaryStudies on 65 clones of Paramecium bursaria collected in Japan showed that these animals apparently belonged to Variety I. All four mating types in this variety: A, B, C, and D were found.
Characterization of microstructural strengthening in the heat-affected zone of a blast-resistant naval steel

The influence of simulated heat-affected zone thermal cycles on the microstructural evolution in a blast-resistant naval steel was investigated by dilatometry, microhardness testing, optical microscopy, electron backscatter diffraction and atom-probe tomography (APT) techniques. Coarsening of Cu precipitates were observed in the subcritical and intercritical heat-affected zones, with partial dissolution in the latter. A small number density of Cu precipitates and high Cu concentration in the matrix of the fine-grained heat-affected zone indicates the onset of Cu precipitate dissolution. Cu clustering in the coarse-grained heat-affected zone indicated the potential initiation of Cu reprecipitation during cooling. Segregation of Cu was also characterized by APT. The hardening and softening observed in the heat-affected zone regions was rationalized using available strengthening models.
Integrated real-time data collection and safety improvement system at signalized intersections

Vehicles approaching a traffic signal at the onset of yellow indication will have to either stop or go. Vehicles that are far from the stopbar tend to stop, while vehicles that are close to the stopbar tend to go. Vehicles in the middle are said to be in the dilemma zone. Right-angle crashes can occur as a result of a dilemma zone when drivers decide to continue even though there is not enough clearance interval for them to clear the intersection. On the other hand, rear-end crashes might occur if a vehicle stops and the following vehicle proceeds. In this paper, the authors present a second-generation real-time intersection safety evaluation system that was developed as a part of a Virginia Department of Transportation Project. Analysis tools utilizing the data collection and evaluation system are presented in this paper as well. These tools are currently used to develop new dilemma zone analysis concepts and evaluation metrics.
Thermomechanical properties of nanotubes in a thermosetting polyimide matrix: Relationship to the percolation threshold

Abstract The objective of this research is to more fully understand the structure–property relationships in multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWNT)/high performance thermosetting polymer nanocomposites. Nanocomposites containing up to 7 wt.% MWNTs and a polyimide matrix (PETI-330) were characterized after curing and these characterization results were compared against similar nanocomposites containing carbon nanofibers (CNFs). Glass transition temperature values and thermomechanical testing indicated that the physical properties of the MWNT nanocomposites followed different trends at MWNT loadings less than and greater than the percolation threshold. In contrast, the CNF nanocomposites roughly showed a single relationship between physical property changes and CNF loading at the loadings studied here, which were all less than the percolation threshold. Overall, these results highlight the challenges in improving the properties of high performance matrices and suggest that MWNT network formation reduces reinforcement efficacy and that MWNTs can interfere with free radical curing processes.
Expression of Aminopeptidase A, an Angiotensinase, in Glomerular Mesangial Cells

Glomerular mesangial cells are known to express angiotensin II type 1 receptors and contract in response to circulating and/or locally produced angiotensin II. In addition, stimulation of mesangial cell matrix protein synthesis by elevated levels of angiotensin II is known to contribute to the development of glomerulosclerosis. Previously, we reported that mesangial cells were positively immunostained with antiserum directed against aminopeptidase A, the principal angiotensinase in the metabolism of angiotensin II. Here we demonstrate directly that aminopeptidase A is expressed in mesangial cells cultured from rat kidney. First, cultured mesangial cells had measurable aminopeptidase A enzymatic activity. Second, immunoblots for aminopeptidase A were positive for isolated glomeruli and mesangial cells, although two bands were seen for mesangial cells (approximately 138 and 144 kD), and only the larger band was seen for isolated glomeruli and kidney. Third, Northern blot hybridizations of total RNA from mesangial cells or kidney were positive and labeled similarly sized bands. Fourth, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction amplification of mesangial cell total RNA yielded a partial cDNA of the expected size that was confirmed by sequencing to be identical to rat kidney aminopeptidase A. These results indicate that aminopeptidase A is expressed within mesangial cells. These results further suggest that metabolism of angiotensin II by aminopeptidase A could play a protective role in minimizing the adverse effects of angiotensin II stimulation of mesangial cells.
Activated Carbon Fiber and Fabric Achieved by Pyrolysis and Activation of Phenolic Precursors

Phenolic textiles (fiber or fabric) were pyrolyzed in a nitrogen atmosphere at 500°C for up to 4 hr. One hour of pyrolysis gave optimum carbonization based on weight loss. The resulting carbon textiles were activated at 900°C in a carbon dioxide atmosphere for up to 31/2 hr. The level of activity attained was determined routinely by carbon tetrachloride vapor sorption. Surface area, pore diameter, and pore volume determinations were conducted on representative samples. Surface areas as high as about 2800 m2/g were attained.
Seven-helix receptors

Significant advances in our understanding of the functions of G-protein-coupled receptors are reviewed for 1990. Factors important in receptor regulation (phosphorylation) and structure (disulfide bridge, protein folding and intracellular loops) are discussed. Three receptor cytoplasmic surface regions are responsible for coupling receptors to G proteins, and as many as six helical transmembrane segments may be involved in ligand binding.
Laser-Induced Reshaping of Metallodielectric Nanoshells under Femtosecond and Nanosecond Plasmon Resonant Illumination

Absorption of pulsed laser light energy at the plasmon resonant wavelength of silica−gold core−shell nanoparticles results in a reshaping of the nanoparticle's metal shell layer. Dramatically distinct and reproducible changes in nanoparticle morphology occur as a function of laser pulse width in the femtosecond versus nanosecond regime and laser fluence. The changes are accompanied by large modifications in the plasmon resonant wavelength and spectrum of the reshaped nanoparticle. At the highest femtosecond pulse energies used, deformation of the silica core is also observed.
A PRIORI ESTIMATION OF CHEMICAL RELAXATION OSCILLATIONS VIA A SINGULAR PERTURBATION TECHNIQUE

The application of a zeroth order singular perturbation technique to certain models of chemically reacting systems exhibiting relaxation oscillation behavior is presented. Resultant estimates of amplitudes and periods for two well-studied systems—viz., CO oxidation on platinum and the nth order reaction in the CSTR—are shown to be in good agreement with values determined by numerical integration of the respective model equations. Also presented is a method by which regions in parameter space where limit cycles exist may be determined a priori. This method, coupled with accurate experimental data, could prove to be a powerful tool in the critical evaluation of and discrimination between candidate models of chemical oscillations.
Rivermouth Alteration of Agricultural Impacts on Consumer Tissue δ15N

Terrestrial agricultural activities strongly influence riverine nitrogen (N) dynamics, which is reflected in the δ15N of riverine consumer tissues. However, processes within aquatic ecosystems also influence consumer tissue δ15N. As aquatic processes become more important terrestrial inputs may become a weaker predictor of consumer tissue δ15N. In a previous study, this terrestrial-consumer tissue δ15N connection was very strong at river sites, but was disrupted by processes occurring in rivermouths (the ‘rivermouth effect’). This suggested that watershed indicators of N loading might be accurate in riverine settings, but could be inaccurate when considering N loading to the nearshore of large lakes and oceans. In this study, the rivermouth effect was examined on twenty-five sites spread across the Laurentian Great Lakes. Relationships between agriculture and consumer tissue δ15N occurred in both upstream rivers and at the outlets where rivermouths connect to the nearshore zone, but agriculture explained less variation and had a weaker effect at the outlet. These results suggest that rivermouths may sometimes be significant sources or sinks of N, which would cause N loading estimates to the nearshore zone that are typically made at discharge gages further upstream to be inaccurate. Identifying definitively the controls over the rivermouth effect on N loading (and other nutrients) will require integration of biogeochemical and hydrologic models.
The Caffeine challenge: “Dew” you believe it works?

Abstract Background Paradoxical hyperactivity is an idiosyncratic reaction to intravenous pentobarbital (IVPB) sedation characterized by extreme inconsolable irritability and hyperactive behavior, similar to that seen in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Paradoxical reactions are more often seen during the recovery phase but can occur during induction. Stimulants are known to increase concentration and improve self-control in hyperactive children. Objective In an IRB-approved prospective study, the presenters evaluated the effectiveness of a stimulant, caffeine, in treating paradoxical hyperactivity to IVPB sedation in children. Methods From April 2001 to December 2002, children sedated with IVPB for diagnostic imaging and interventional procedures were eligible for enrollment. IVPB was given either as a single agent or in combination with midazolam or midazolam and fentanyl citrate. Caffeine was administered either orally, IV, or combined. A positive response was recorded if symptoms (agitation, crying, or hyperactivity) decreased within 40 minutes of caffeine administration. Response time was characterized as immediate (within 10 minutes), early (11-20 minutes), late (21-30 minutes), delayed (31-40 minutes), absent (>41 minutes), or unknown (no time or response recorded). Results PO Caffeine IV Caffeine IV+PO Caffeine Total # of patients enrolled 82 114 7 203 # of positive responses 69 67 7 143 % of positive response 84% 59% 100% 70% Complications 0 0 0 0 Conclusion Administration of caffeine is effective in managing paradoxical hyperactivity to IVPB in children. The best results were in the small subgroup that received both oral and IV therapy. Further investigation is required to determine whether combined oral and IV therapy is warranted and whether confounding factors such as blood sugar and caffeine intake at home inhibit the effectiveness of this treatment.
Long Island Sound: Distributions, trends, and effects of chemical contamination

Trace metals and organic contaminants concentrations are monitored annually in surface sediments, blue mussel tissue, and winter flounder livers at multiple sites in Long Island Sound by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Status and Trends (NS&T) program for Marine Environmental Quality. The NS&T program is also conducting various studies on the bioeffects of contaminants in the sound. Three years of monitoring results indicate organic and elemental contaminants concentrations in sediments and biota at sites in the western portion of the sound are high on a national scale. Possible decreasing trends in cadmium and chlordane in the sound are suggested by the 1986–1988 data for their concentrations in mussels. A comparison between NS&T Mussel Watch results and those of the Environmental Protection Agency’s Mussel Watch, conducted from 1976 through 1978, indicated a decadal increase in copper concentrations and a decrease in lead in the sound. Bioeffects studies in the sound have revealed responses to contamination only in localized zones where contaminant levels are very high.
First steps toward a statistically generated information technology integration model

SUMMARY One hundred and two case studies relating to integrating information technology into the classroom were analyzed using logistic regression. The purpose of this procedure was to generate a statistical model that would reflect the significant components present in successful case studies. In order to accomplish this, we identified instructional components that were common to all case studies. Through this process, we identified six instructional components that we labeled: Use of Software, Use of Web-Based Instruction, Use of Web Information Resources, Use of Problem-Based learning, Instructional Design Choice, and Tailoring Multimedia Courseware. These six instructional components were considered variables in the statistical analysis. Three of the six variables were statistically significant and were incorporated in the model (i.e., Use of Software, Use of Problem-Based Learning, and Instructional Design Choice). We recommend this model in teacher training in order for teachers to be prepared to su...
Relation of Emotion-Related Regulation to Children's Social Competence: A Longitudinal Study

The differential relations of children's emotion-related regulation (i.e., effortful control and impulsivity) to their personality resiliency, adult-rated popularity, and social competence were examined in children who were 4.5-7.9 years old and who were remeasured 2 years later. Parents and teachers reported on all constructs, and children's attentional persistence was observed. Structural equation modeling was used to test the mediating role of resiliency on the relations between regulation/control and popularity using two-wave longitudinal data. The results provide some evidence of the mediating role of resiliency in the relations between effortful control and popularity, provide some evidence of bidirectional effects, and also buttress the view that emotional regulation should be differentiated into effortful and reactive forms of control.
Determination of the optic flow field using the spatiotemporal deformation of region properties

Abstract Local feature based dynamic scene analysis methods are usually sensitive to noise. This letter presents a method for the determination of the optic flow field for single or multiple moving regions using region based features.
Genetic Contributions to Left Ventricular Hypertrophy

Left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy is a common condition that profoundly affects morbidity and mortality from cardiovascular diseases, including myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure, and stroke. Noninvasive imaging methods have greatly expanded our ability to evaluate cardiac structural and functional characteristics, and enhanced our understanding of the natural history of L hypertrophy. The etiology of LV hypertrophy is likely due to the effects of multiple genes interacting with other genes and the environment. Although hypertension is recognized as a strong determinant of LV hypertrophy, blood pressure explains only a limited amount of the interindividual variation in LV mass. Moreover, LV hypertrophy occurs in the absence of hypertension, and in some cases precedes its development. Genes encoding proteins involved in the structure of the LV, as well as genes encoding cell signal transduction, hormones, growth factors, calcium homeostasis, and blood pressure, are likely candidates for the development of common forms of LV hypertrophy. An overview of the epidemiology and pathophysiology of LV hypertrophy and dysfunction is provided, in addition to evidence of the genetic basis for LV hypertrophy.
Prenatal Screening for Thrombophilias: Indications and Controversies

A thrombophilia is defined as a disorder of hemostasis that predisposes a person to a thrombotic event. Data suggest that at least 50% of cases of venous thromboembolism in pregnant women are associated with an inherited or acquired thrombophilia, which can lead to an increased risk of maternal thromboembolism and adverse pregnancy outcomes such as recurrent pregnancy loss, intrauterine fetal demise, preterm preeclampsia, and intrauterine growth restriction. Inherited and acquired thrombophilias have different indications for testing. This article examines screening procedures for thrombophilias in the setting of adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Filament heterogeneity within the dystrophic neurites of senile plaques suggests blockage of fast axonal transport in Alzheimer's disease

In this study, the direct comparison of biopsy and autopsy tissue by morphological and immunocytochemical techniques, respectively, was used to document cytoskeletal changes of dystrophic neurites (DN) of senile plaques in Alzheimer's disease. This dual approach demonstrated several unreported abnormalities which, together with analogous findings in several experimental models, suggest that DN are associated with deficiencies in fast axonal transport and replacement of the cytoskeleton by an array of related abnormal filaments.
Multi-Scale Modeling of Cancer Cell Migration and Adhesion During Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition

Cancer is a leading cause of death in the US, and tumor cell metastasis and secondary tumor formation are key factors in the malignancy and prognosis of the disease. The regulation of cell motility plays an important role in the migration and invasion of cancer cells into surrounding tissues. The primary modes of increased motility in cancerous tissues may include collective migration of a group of epithelial cells during tumor growth and single cell migration of mesenchymal cells after detachment from the primary tumor site [1]. In epithelial cancers, metastasizing cells lose their cell-cell adhesions, detach from the tumor mass, begin expressing mesenchymal markers, and become highly motile and invasive, a process known as epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) (Fig. 1) [2]. Although the cellular and biochemical signaling mechanisms underlying EMT have been studied extensively, there is limited information about the biomechanical mechanisms of EMT. In particular, it is not known how changes in cell mechanics (cell stiffness, cell-cell adhesion strength, traction forces) influence the detachment, migration and invasion processes that occur during metastasis.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Novel Circulating Fluidized-Bed Membrane Reformer for the Efficient Production of Ultraclean Fuels from Hydrocarbons

An integrated novel fluidized-bed membrane steam reformer for the efficient production of hydrogen is proposed and investigated. It consists of two connected subsystems, viz., a circulating fluidized-bed membrane reformer and a reactor-regenerator for dry reforming. The steam-reforming part is an extension of the previous successful work regarding a bubbling fluidized-bed membrane reformer. The fast fluidization regime is more efficient and productive than the bubbling regime. Hydrogen-permeable membranes to remove hydrogen are used together with a CO 2 acceptor to remove carbon dioxide and enhance the performance. An in situ supply of heat through oxidative steam reforming is also suggested. The deactivated catalyst is regenerated and recirculated back to the reformer. The CO 2 -rich stream from the efficient fast fluidized membrane steam reformer is used in a reactor-regenerator dry reforming subsystem, and additional syngas is produced. A reliable reaction engineering model is utilized to investigate this novel configuration. A comparison between the predicted performance of the fast fluidized-bed reformer and the industrial data for a fixed bed as well as the pilot-plant data of the bubbling fluidized-bed configurations investigated earlier shows that the fast fluidized bed is more efficient and productive.
Solar luminosity variations in solar cycle 21

The ACRIM I experiment (Active Cavity Radiometer Irradiance Monitor) on the solar maximum Mission (SMM) satellite has provided a nearly continuous record of solar total irradiance variations since early 19801. It has detected variations on time scales ranging from minutes to SMM's lifetime. The long-term variations have revealed a downward trend during the declining phase of solar cycle 21 (ref. 2) of the sunspot cycle, a flat period between mid-1985 and mid-1987, and an upturn in late 1987 which suggests a direct correlation of luminosity and solar active region population. If the upturn continues into the activity maximum of solar cycle 22, a relation between solar activity and luminosity of possible climatological significance could have been discovered. The sense of the correlation agrees with what has been predicted from the coincidence of the 'little ice age' climate anomaly in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries and the Maunder Minimum of solar activity3. The best-fit relationship for the variation of total irradiance S, with sunspot number Rz, and 10–cm flux F10, are S=1,366.82+7.7l×10−3 Rz and S=1,366.27+8.98×10−3 F10 (W m−2). These could be used to approximate total irradiance variations over the periods for which these indices have been compiled.
Local density enhancement in dilute supercritical solutions

Abstract We study the structure around a dilute Lennard-Jones (LJ) solute in a supercritical LJ fluid using integral equation theories and Monte Carlo simulation. We show that the Percus–Yevick approximation can be seriously in error in the near-critical region. The solute's coordination number as a function of the solvent density can be nearly linear, or quite non-linear, depending on the solute–solvent interaction. These results are rationalized as a crossover from a low-density energy-dominated regime to a high-density entropy-(packing-) dominated regime, and are discussed within the context of the local density enhancement concept.
Biomaterials for sinus implantation.

Purpose of review Biomaterials are frequently used in the paranasal sinuses to control bleeding, promote tissue regeneration, improve healing, or prevent scarring. Few, however, have been prospectively examined in a peer-reviewed format prior to commercialization. This paper examines recent advances in biomaterials used in surgical rhinology and especially highlights some 'postmarketing' concerns. Recent findings Three biomaterials have received recent attention. The use of hydroxyapatite cement within the frontal sinus has been questioned due to recent data regarding late infection and exposure. Thrombin-gelatin paste has been shown to be effective in controlling bleeding following sinus surgery but there are conflicting data about its effect on increased scarring. Hyaluronan derivatives have also received attention, with scarring concerns again raised. Importantly, it appears that the chemical modifications of the starting material may have a significant impact on compatibility and function. Summary Surgeons must be aware of the potential risks and limitations of biomaterials used in rhinology. While recent and future advances in biomaterials will likely improve patients' outcomes in sinus diseases, it is apparent that currently available materials may only be a first step to that goal. More rigorous prospective evaluation of biomaterials should guide their use in the paranasal sinuses.
LEED and HREELS investigation of the hydrogen-covered Mo(110) surface

Abstract The adsorption of hydrogen on the Mo(110) surface has been investigated by both low-energy electron diffraction (LEED) and high-resolution electron energy loss spectroscopy (HREELS). Results fall into three regimes. For low coverages, the LEED pattern observed remains (1 × 1), similar to the clean surface. At hydrogen coverages near 0.5 ML, a substrate reconstruction alters the observed pattern to (2 × 2). For higher coverages, fractional-order diffraction beams are extinguished, leaving a (1 × 1) pattern. Two vibrational peaks are observed in HREELS spectra for both low- and high-coverage regimes at loss energies of 88 and 136 meV, and at 99 and 152 meV, respectively. A quasi-trigonal adsorption site is consistent with the vibrational energies and diffraction patterns observed at low and saturation coverages. At intermediate coverages, a vibrational peak with differing symmetry indicates the occupation of a long bridge-site during the transition from (2 × 2) to the hydrogen-saturated (1 × 1). No evidence is found for the hydrogen “liquid” phase reported by Balden et al. [Phys. Rev. Lett. 73 (1994) 854] for H W (110) ; consequently this phase is not responsible for the giant phonon anomalies observed in both systems. Published by Elsevier Science B.V.
Neuroimaging in pregnancy: a review of clinical indications and obstetric outcomes

AbstractObjective: To determine indications and outcomes of pregnant women requiring neurologic imaging at a tertiary care center.Methods: We reviewed medical records of women receiving magnetic resonance (MR) head imaging during pregnancy to determine indications for such imaging and their pregnancy outcomes.Results: Between April 2007 and December 2008, 60 pregnant women presented to Brigham and Women's Hospital with severe headache or other acute neurologic complaint and underwent head imaging. Two patients were found to have significant findings considered to be neurologic emergencies: a right thalamic hemorrhage and a subarachnoid hemorrhage. Nine patients had abnormal findings not requiring immediate intervention but deeming further evaluation. Sixteen patients had abnormal findings determined to be incidental and unrelated to their indication for imaging. Thirty-three patients had unremarkable imaging studies. The most common presenting symptoms included headache (70%) and visual disturbances (48%)...
RURAL RETAIL BUSINESS THRESHOLDS AND INTERDEPENDENCIES

ABSTRACT. The occurrence of rural retail activity may be related to the concept of threshold, which suggests the direct relationship between surrounding populations and the hierarchical functions provided. Empirid studies have typically examined individual categories of retail firm concentration or multiplication in isolation of the extent of other retail activities. This study develops models of retail business concentration for sparsely populated rural markets, and emphasizes proper statistical treatment of the discrete firm-count data. The analytical approach specifies systems of multivariate count data models that can capture the interdependencies among merent types of retail firms. The degree of interdependence is tested and shown to be a significant statistical feature of the model of rural retail firm counts.
The relative contribution of oral cancer risk factors may differ in younger as compared to older adults.

Original Article Llewellyn CD, et al. An analysis of risk factors for oral cancer in young people: a case-control study. Oral Oncol 2004;40(3):304-13. Level of Evidence 3b Purpose The aim was to evaluate risk factors for oral cancer among adults diagnosed when younger than 46 years. Source of Funding NHS Executive London (NHSE-LRO), Research and Development, Responsive Funding Programme, Ben Walton Trust. Type of Study/Design Case-control study
Correlation of excited electronic states of organic ions and mass-spectral fragmentation patterns

Abstract In a recent paper, the authors presented a new method of measuring parent-ion-fragmentation rate constants as a function of energy in a mass spectrometer source. Charge-exchange ionization was used to provide nearly monoenergetic excitation. The fragmentation rate constant curves obtained in this way were shown to have an experimental correlation with the photoelectron spectrum (PES) of the compound. A brief argument was presented to explain this observed correlation theoretically. However, the proposed explanation of the effect was incorrect. An alternative explanation of the observed correlation is now proposed. This does not invalidate use of the correlation in assigning the electronic states from which fragmentations occur.
EFFECT OF PROGESTERONE AND DESOXYCORTICOSTERONE ON ACCESSORY SEX ORGANS OF THE CASTRATE MALE GUINEA PIG

SEVERAL INVESTIGATORS (1-3) have recently shown by direct evidence that progesterone, the corpus luteum hormone, has the capacity to induce androgenic reactions in the rat. Previously, evidence indicative of the androgenicity of progesterone had been suggested by several investigators. Hill (4-5) showed that ovaries of mice, when transplanted to the ears of castrate mice, apparently produced an androgenic substance. This work was confirmed by Deansely (6) in the rat. Papanicolaou (7, 8) also showed that ovaries in normal guinea pigs had an androgenic action when stimulated with the APL factor of pregnancy urine. Several other workers have also shown that ovaries, transplanted into a large series of castrate male rats or guinea pigs, had an androgenic effect in an occasional animal (9, 10, 11). Since the only direct evidence for the androgenicity of progesterone had been obtained in the rat, it was thought of interest to determine directly if this property could also be shown with the guinea pig as the exp...
Autophagy induced by ischemic preconditioning is essential for cardioprotection.

Based on growing evidence linking autophagy to preconditioning, we tested the hypothesis that autophagy is necessary for cardioprotection conferred by ischemic preconditioning (IPC). We induced IPC with three cycles of 5 min regional ischemia alternating with 5 min reperfusion and assessed the induction of autophagy in mCherry-LC3 transgenic mice by imaging of fluorescent autophagosomes in cryosections. We found a rapid and significant increase in the number of autophagosomes in the risk zone of the preconditioned hearts. In Langendorff-perfused hearts subjected to an IPC protocol of 3 × 5 min ischemia, we also observed an increase in autophagy within 10 min, as assessed by Western blotting for p62 and cadaverine dye binding. To establish the role of autophagy in IPC cardioprotection, we inhibited autophagy with Tat-ATG5K130R, a dominant negative mutation of the autophagy protein Atg5. Cardioprotection by IPC was reduced in rat hearts perfused with recombinant Tat-ATG5K130R. To extend the potential significance of autophagy in cardioprotection, we also assessed three structurally unrelated cardioprotective agents—UTP, diazoxide, and ranolazine—for their ability to induce autophagy in HL-1 cells. We found that all three agents induced autophagy; inhibition of autophagy abolished their protective effect. Taken together, these findings establish autophagy as an end-effector in ischemic and pharmacologic preconditioning.
NMR and Vortex Lattice Melting in YBa2Cu3O7

We report ${}^{89}$Y and ${}^{17}$O NMR (9 T) echo decays for YB${\mathrm{a}}_{2}$C${\mathrm{u}}_{3}$${\mathrm{O}}_{7}$ and correct for contributions from dipolar coupling ${}^{63,65}$Cu in order to isolate effects of vortex dynamics. We confirm vortex localization in the solid state with rms displacements consistent with Langevin dynamical theory, but with motional dynamics at time scales $(10--100\ensuremath{\mu}\mathrm{s})$ some $\ensuremath{\sim}{10}^{6}$ times slower than predicted. Vortex migration over longer time scales is restricted to distances less than 1/100 of an intervortex spacing over times as long as 100 ms, in contrast with the rapid long range diffusion occurring in the liquid state.
Adsorption in near-critical binary solvent mixtures: thermodynamic analysis and data

Abstract In this paper we investigate the adsorption thermodynamics of dilute solutes absorbing from high pressure supercritical fluid phases. Both pure and mixed solvent phases consisting of carbon dioxide-ethane mixtures have been studied with the data presented covering a wide range of thermodynamic conditions including those in the system's near-critical regime. Large polycyclic organic species have been used as solute species since these are representative of compounds of most practical interest in the field. The analyses of the data have used various approaches for representing and predicting adsorption equilibrium constants and other thermodynamic properties in these systems. In the first approach we have adapted the Bragg-Williams lattice model for the stationary phase properties in conjunction with an equation of state for the fluid phase. In a subsequent analysis we have investigated the use of the Henry's law limit for the solute's stationary phase properties. This latter approach shows the potential for leading to very useful methods for predicting stationary phase properties in multicomponent systems of this kind and its efficacy for these purposes has been evaluated with data from two different systems. In addition to adsorption coefficient measurements, solute heats of adsorption can be found using the results presented. In the toluene-carbon dioxide system the results of this study compare favorably with those reported by Recasens et al. (1993).
Upper and lower bounds for eigenvalues of torsion and bending problems by finite difference methods

In diesem Artikel werden mit Hilfe von Differenzenanalogien mathematisch strenge obere und untere Schranken fur die Torsions- und Biegungsfrequenzen freier Balken hergeleitet. Zur Losung des Differenzenproblems werden sodann Sturm-Folgen Algorithmen vorgeschlagen. Tabellen numerischer Ergebnisse fur verschiedene Beispiele mit stuckweise konstanter Masse und Biegesteifigkeit zeigen eine Uberlegenheit gegenuber Ergebnissen, die fruher mit Hilfe von Raleigh-Ritzschen- und Vergleichsoperator-Verfahren erhalten worden waren.
Monodisperse Double Emulsions Generated from a Microcapillary Device

Double emulsions are highly structured fluids consisting of emulsion drops that contain smaller droplets inside. Although double emulsions are potentially of commercial value, traditional fabrication by means of two emulsification steps leads to very ill-controlled structuring. Using a microcapillary device, we fabricated double emulsions that contained a single internal droplet in a core-shell geometry. We show that the droplet size can be quantitatively predicted from the flow profiles of the fluids. The double emulsions were used to generate encapsulation structures by manipulating the properties of the fluid that makes up the shell. The high degree of control afforded by this method and the completely separate fluid streams make this a flexible and promising technique.
Skillful Wintertime North American Temperature Forecasts out to 4 Weeks Based on the State of ENSO and the MJO

Previous work has shown that the combined influence of El Ni~ Oscillation (ENSO) and the Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO) significantly impacts the wintertime circulation over North America for lead times up to at least 4 weeks. These findings suggest that both the MJO and ENSO may prove beneficial for generating a seamless prediction link between short-range deterministic forecasts and longer-range seasonal forecasts. To test the feasibility of this link, wintertime (December–March) probabilistic 2-m temperature (T2m) forecasts over North America are generated solely on the basis of the linear trend and statistical relationships with the initial state of the MJO and ENSO. Overall, such forecasts exhibit substantial skill for some regions and some initial states of the MJO and ENSO out to a lead time of approximately 4 weeks. In addition, the primary ENSO T2m regions of influence are nearly orthogonal to those of the MJO, which suggests that the MJO and ENSO generally excite different patterns within the continuum of large-scale atmospheric teleconnections. The strong forecast skill scores for some regions and initial states confirm the promisethatinformationfromtheMJOandENSOmayofferforecastsofopportunityinweeks3and4,which extend beyond the current 2-week extended-range outlooks of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Climate Prediction Center (CPC), and an intraseasonal link to longer-range probabilistic forecasts.
Phase dynamics in the Taylor–Couette system

The phase dynamics of flows in the Taylor–Couette system have been studied by applying a forced modulation to the upper boundary of a large aspect ratio concentric cylinder system. In a one phase variable case, the Taylor vortex flow, the perturbations diffuse along the axial direction and the pattern’s response is well described by a simple diffusion model. In a two phase variable case, the wavy vortex flow, the perturbations either propagate as traveling waves or diffuse, depending on the coupling between the axial and azimuthal phase variables. In the turbulent Taylor vortex flow, where spatial coherence coexists with the turbulent flow, the phase dynamics of the coherent structure are described by a diffusion model with a diffusion coefficient an order of magnitude larger than for the laminar Taylor vortex flow.
Immunization Against Measles by Aerosol

About 20 years ago Japanese and American investigators found that inhalation of relatively small amounts of aerosolized partly attenuated measles vaccines was consistently immunogenic in nearly all susceptible children. The resulting modified measles was not transmissible to susceptible children. Between 1965-66 Japanese investigators showed that levels of neutralizing antibody produced by killed measles virus vaccine which prevented subsequent immunization when live vaccine was administered subcutaneously did not prevent the immunogenic effect of the same vaccine when given in an aerosol form. This raised the possibility that aerosolized vaccine may be immunogenic in infants with residual maternal antibody in whom subcutaneously injected vaccine is ineffective. In 1971 Soviet investigators reported the high effectiveness and complete absence of febrile and other clinical reactions in 3306 children who were exposed in large groups in large tents or chambers to aerosols of the more attenuated measles vaccines currently available. An inexpensive nebulizer and the procedure for administration of aerosolized vaccine to individual children are described here. If the good results reported from the USSR can also be obtained with this simple method of vaccination by aerosol it may be possible to carry out mass vaccinations against measles with thousands of nonprofessional personnel and thereby quickly eliminate measles in those countries where it is still a serious public health problem. (authors)
An Interferon Paradox

Type 1 interferons (IFN-α/β) are a major first line of host defense against viral infection. Because of this potent antiviral activity, IFN-based therapies have been developed for chronic infections with hepatitis B and C viruses, as well as for HIV. However, a poorly understood phenomenon has been the persistence of virus despite induction of antiviral immune responses by type 1 IFNs. On page 207 and 202 in this issue, Teijaro et al. ( 1 ) and Wilson et al. ( 2 ) address this long-standing question and find that IFN-α/β can also suppress the immune system in ways that promote viral persistence. This paradoxical finding should spur a reassessment of the fundamental roles of IFN-α/β during chronic infections.