cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Layered (BaxSr1-x)Ti1+yO3+z thin films for high frequency tunable devices

Low dielectric loss and high electrical breakdown fields, in conjunction with an application-specific permittivity response, are simultaneous requirements for (Ba{sub x}Sr{sub 1-x})Ti{sub 1+y}O{sub 3+z} thin films. This has proved problematic, in that synthesis conditions which tend to reduce dielectric loss also tend to reduce zero-bias permittivity and electric-field tunability of the permittivity, thereby necessitating undesired compromises in overall performance for some applications. In order to address this problem of simultaneous optimization, we fabricated BST thin films with very low dielectric loss, Ti-rich BST layers ((Ba+Sr)/Ti=0.73) at the electrode/BST interfaces, in series with a primary, high tunability, high permittivity BST layer ((Ba+Sr)/Ti=0.9) in the center of this layered BST structure. Planar capacitors fabricated from the BST films exhibit low dielectric loss (tan {delta}=0.005) simultaneously with high (76%) tunability at room temperature and high breakdown fields ({approx}4 MV/cm), compared with capacitors with a single BST layer (Ba+Sr/Ti=0.9). Post annealing of the layered BST films at 800 C further improved dielectric loss down to 0.003, while keeping the high tunability and high breakdown field of the as-deposited films.
Toward a better understanding of radiographic contrast.

Abstract Contrast is a familiar term that relates directly to the ability of human observers to detect differences in optical density. It also has been used to describe changes in x-ray fluence determined by attenuation differences in tissues of diagnostic interest. Ambiguous conclusions in the literature can be often traced to a lack of specificity in what is being measured and the validity of the implicit assumptions involved. Particularly troublesome are nonspecific bases for normalization and the assumption that a finite change in fluence can be accurately represented as a differential. These practices also tend to obscure consideration of system nonlinearities which can result in contrast enhancement produced by exposure to fogging radiation. Precisely defined components of contrast are symmetrically determined by the concept of modulation. This concept provides a powerful basis for mathematical description of linear systems. Bases for linearization of radiographic systems are also confusing unless they are explicitly stated. This is particularly true for transfer functions as defined in many radiographic applications. Special functions which account for nonlinearity commonly associated with contrast gain in the detector simplify description and provide a quantitatively meaningful basis for specifying system performance in terms of information theory.
Risk areas in embedded software industry projects

A powerful way to understand where gaps are in the expertise of embedded system designers is to look at what goes wrong in real industry projects. In this paper we summarize the "red flag" issues found in approximately 90 design reviews of embedded system products conducted over a ten year period across a variety of embedded system industries. The problems found can be roughly categorized into the areas of process, requirements, architecture, design, implementation, verification/validation, dependability, project management, and people. A few problem areas, such as watchdog timers and real time scheduling, are standard embedded education topics. But many areas, such as peer reviews, requirements, SQA, and user interface design might be worthy of increased attention in texts and education programs.
A conceptual framework: Redefining forest soil's critical acid loads under a changing climate

Federal agencies of several nations have or are currently developing guidelines for critical forest soil acid loads. These guidelines are used to establish regulations designed to maintain atmospheric acid inputs below levels shown to damage forests and streams. Traditionally, when the critical soil acid load exceeds the amount of acid that the ecosystem can absorb, it is believed to potentially impair forest health. The excess over the critical soil acid load is termed the exceedance, and the larger the exceedance, the greater the risk of ecosystem damage. This definition of critical soil acid load applies to exposure of the soil to a single, long-term pollutant (i.e., acidic deposition). However, ecosystems can be simultaneously under multiple ecosystem stresses and a single critical soil acid load level may not accurately reflect ecosystem health risk when subjected to multiple, episodic environmental stress. For example, the Appalachian Mountains of western North Carolina receive some of the highest rates of acidic deposition in the eastern United States, but these levels are considered to be below the critical acid load (CAL) that would cause forest damage. However, the area experienced a moderate three-year drought from 1999 to 2002, and in 2001 red spruce (Picea rubens Sarg.) trees in the area began to die in large numbers. The initial survey indicated that the affected trees were killed by the southern pine beetle (Dendroctonus frontalis Zimm.). This insect is not normally successful at colonizing these tree species because the trees produce large amounts of oleoresin that exclude the boring beetles. Subsequent investigations revealed that long-term acid deposition may have altered red spruce forest structure and function. There is some evidence that elevated acid deposition (particularly nitrogen) reduced tree water uptake potential, oleoresin production, and caused the trees to become more susceptible to insect colonization during the drought period. While the ecosystem was not in exceedance of the CAL, long-term nitrogen deposition pre-disposed the forest to other ecological stress. In combination, insects, drought, and nitrogen ultimately combined to cause the observed forest mortality. If any one of these factors were not present, the trees would likely not have died. This paper presents a conceptual framework of the ecosystem consequences of these interactions as well as limited plot level data to support this concept. Future assessments of the use of CAL studies need to account for multiple stress impacts to better understand ecosystem response.
Three years later: the adaptation process of 1980 (Mariel) Cuban and Haitian refugees in South Florida

In recent years, southern Florida has experienced rapid new inflows of immigrants from Central America and the Caribbean. Since the arrival in 1980 of Mariel (Cuban) and Haitian immigrants to this area, a great deal of speculation has emerged as to the adaptation of these two groups to south Florida and the impact which their presence has wielded on the social and economic arenas of that region. In this paper, we present selected background characteristics of representative samples of both groups and discuss our empirical findings with regard to the labor market experiences, social networks, and educational experiences of the immigrants included in our sample. While the two groups minimally differ from earlier cohorts of their compatriots entering south Florida, their experiences since arriving in Florida have been quite different. Both the Cuban and Haitian immigrants arriving in 1980 demonstrate higher levels of unemployment than their counterparts who arrived earlier; however, the existence of the Cuban economic enclave in Miami did facilitate the entry of a greater number of Cubans than Haitians into the formal labor market. Initial evidence indicates that significant numbers of individuals from both groups participate in the informal labor market, often receiving less than the minimum wage.
Efficiency and uniformity considerations in optical coherent transient devices

The efficiency and uniformity of photon echoes are investigated in optical coherent transient sequences using temporally overlapped linear frequency-chirped programming pulses. Distortions in the power spectrum of the programming pulses due to edge effects are found to cause fluctuations in echo efficiency as a function of echo time delay. Smoothing the edges of the programming pulse envelopes is found to significantly reduce distortion in the power spectrum of the pulses, which leads to echoes that are both more efficient and more uniform than those generated by pulses without smoothed edges. The effect of programming pulse strength on echo efficiency and uniformity is shown and discussed through simulations for an optically thin medium and through experiment in Tm3+:YAG at 4 K.
Guiding Reflective Practice: An Auditing Framework to Assess Teaching Philosophy and Style

Growing as an educator takes hard work and commitment. It requires the educator to engage in regular, objective self-examinations of instructional beliefs and behaviors. Although this task can be d...
Polarization-maintaining fiber with wide temperature resistance

We have developed a polarization-maintaining fiber with wide temperature resistance and low bending loss. Attenuation, polarization crosstalk, and bending loss at 1550 nm of the fiber are 0.88 dB/km, -24 dB/100m, 1/100 as large as those of conventional one (bending diameter = 20 mm, 10 turns), respectively. Besides, the polarization crosstalk is less than -24 dB/100m at a temperature in the range of -60 to +300oC. As a result this fiber can be used over a wide range of temperature.
Preserved Zr-Temperatures and U–Pb Ages in High-Grade Metamorphic Titanite: Evidence for a Static Hot Channel in the Himalayan Orogen

Abstract Titanite grains from ~ 800 °C gneisses of the c. 6-km thick Greater Himalayan Sequence of central Nepal were analyzed for Zr-in-titanite temperatures and U–Pb ages to investigate the formation and evolution of a former weak mid-crustal channel in the Himalaya. Laser-ablation ICP-MS depth profiles and spot analyses of titanite Zr and U–Pb isotopic compositions are inconsistent with diffusional reequilibration on scales greater than 1–2 μm, and instead data appear to faithfully record both temperature and age. Titanite records protracted heating from 700–750 °C at ~ 37 Ma to 775 °C at ~ 24 Ma, and possibly slight cooling to 765 °C at ~ 20 Ma. Such temperatures exceed partial melting reactions in associated metapelites and imply profoundly weak rheologies (i.e. a hot channel), yet predate initiation of the bounding Main Central Thrust and South Tibetan Detachment systems by as much as 15 Myr. Evidently, thick but weak crustal channels may remain stationary with respect to the convergence direction for >10 Myr, even during one of Earth's biggest continent–continent collisions.
Magneto-Transport Characterization Of E-Beam-Induced Damage In GaAs-AlGaAs Heterostructures

The effect of electron irradiation as a function of energy on the 2D EG transport properties of high electron mobility transistor (HEMT) structures at liquid helium temperature was measured. High mobility HEMT structures were molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) grown with a 2D EG channel approximately 850 A below the surface. A Cambridge EBMF 10.5 was used for electron irradiation with electron energies between 2.5 and 20 keV. The HEMT structures were fabricated into Hall bar geometry. Damage is assessed by changes in the 2D EG concentrations, as determined from Shubnikov-de Haas (SdH) oscillations in a magnetic field from 0 to 8.5 Telsa, and changes in the zero field Hall mobilities. For electron energies from 5.0 to 12.5 keV, the electron dose produced a degradation of the Hall mobility. No -damage effect was observed for electron energies at 2.5 keV and 15 keV and above. This result could be attributed to the penetration depth and damage distribution. Electron damage introduced parallel conduction which was exhibited in the magnetoresistance curves. The results of this work will be useful in reducing damage from electron beam proCessing of submicron devices.© (1990) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
The Economic Implications of Infection in Cardiac Surgery

To assess the economic impact of infection, the records of 496 patients aged 18 to 82 years (mean, 61 years) undergoing open-heart operations in 1981 and 1982 were reviewed, and the costs (length of stay, hospital charges, pharmacy charges) were compared for matched pairs of patients with and without infection who had coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) procedures. Patients received a 5-day regimen of prophylactic cephalosporin. Operative site infections occurred within 6 months of operation in 17 patients (3.4%), urinary tract infections in 9 (1.8%), and pulmonary infections in 6 (1.2%). Early and late mortality was each 2%. No deaths were infection related, and no postoperative bacterial endocarditis occurred (minimum one-year follow-up). For the matched CABG patient in whom a postoperative wound infection developed, the average length of hospital stay was 16.7 days longer and the average hospital bill was $8,118 greater, with the average cost to the hospital $6,605 greater.
Auditory sensitivity and psychophysical tuning curves in the elephant nose fish,Gnathonemus petersii

Hearing sensitivity and psychophysical tuning curves were determined for the mormyridGnathonemus petersii. Pure tone hearing thresholds were determined from 100 Hz to 2,500 Hz, with best sensitivity being about −31 dB (re: 1 dyne/ cm2) from 300 Hz to 1,000 Hz. In order to determine frequency tuning of the auditory system, psychophysical tuning curves (PTC's) were measured with the masker presented simultaneously with, or just ahead of, the 500 Hz test signal. The sound level for different frequencies needed to just mask the test tone were determined from 100 to 800 Hz. Maximum masking occurred in both forward and simultaneous conditions when the masker and the test tone were at the same frequency. As the masker was moved in frequency from 500 Hz, higher sound levels of maskers were needed to afford masking of the test tone. The data were similar in simultaneous and forward masking, with theQ 10 dB, a measure of sharpness of tuning, being about 5 in both cases. Data were compared for other species for which behavioral thresholds and PTC's are available.Gnathonemus hears about as wide a range of frequencies as the goldfish,Carassius auratus, although the PTC's for the two species are strikingly different. The PTC's forGnathonemus resemble those determined in a forward-masking paradigm for the clown knife fish,Notopterus chitala, even thoughGnathonemus has a wider hearing bandwidth.
Bulbocavernosus muscle area measurement: a novel method to assess androgenic activity.

Serum testosterone does not correlate with androgen tissue activity, and it is critical to optimize tools to evaluate such activity in males. Ultrasound measurement of bulbocavernosus muscle (BCM) was used to assess the relationship between the number of CAG repeats (CAGn) in the androgen receptor (AR) and the BCM size; the changes in the number of CAGn over age were also evaluated. Transperineal ultrasound measurement of the BCM was also performed. AR CAGn were determined by high performance liquid chromatography, and morning hormone levels were determined using immunoassays. Forty-eight men had CAG repeat analysis. Twenty-five were 45 years of age, mean 53 years (s.d. = 5.58). The median CAGn was 21 (13-29). BCM area was greater when the number of CAGn were 24 (P = 0.04). There was a linear correlation between the number of CAGn and the BCM area R 2 = 16% (P = 0.01). In the 45 to 65-years-old group, a much stronger negative correlation (R 2 = 29%, P = 0.01) was noticed. In the 19 to 29-years-old group, no such correlation was found (R 2 = 4%, P = 0.36). In older men, the number of CAGn increased with age (R 2 = 32%, P = 0.01). The number of CAGn in the AR correlates with the area of the BCM. Ultrasound assessment of the BCM is an effective surrogate to evaluate end-organ activity of androgens. The number of CAGn may increase with age.
Travel-Related Illness

Travel abroad for business and pleasure should be safe and meaningful for the traveler. To assure that safe experience, certain processes should be considered before travel. A thorough pretravel health assessment will offer patients and health care providers valuable information for anticipatory guidance before travel. The destination-based risk assessment will help determine the risks involved in travel to specific locations and guide in the development of contingency plans for all travelers, especially those with chronic conditions. Diseases are more prevalent overseas, and immunizations and vaccinations are all important considerations for persons traveling abroad.
Microscopic simulation of superconductor-topological insulator proximity structures

We present microscopic, self-consistent calculations of the superconducting order parameter and pairing correlations near the interface of an $s$-wave superconductor and a three-dimensional topological insulator with spin-orbit coupling. We discuss the suppression of the order parameter by the topological insulator and show that the equal-time pair correlation functions in the triplet channel, induced by spin-flip scattering at the interface, are of ${p}_{x}\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}i{p}_{y}$ symmetry. We verify that the spectrum at subgap energies is well described by the Fu-Kane model. The subgap modes are viewed as interface states with spectral weight penetrating well into the superconductor. We extract the phenomenological parameters of the Fu-Kane model from microscopic calculations, and find they are strongly renormalized from the bulk material parameters. This is consistent with previous results of Stanescu et al. for a lattice model using perturbation theory in the tunneling limit.
Variations in mitochondrial structure and content of neurons and neuroglia in rat brain: An electron microscopic study

Summary A systematic qualitative and quantitative electron microscopic comparison of mitochondrial structure and content in neurons and neuroglia from different regions of the central nervous system was carried out in aldehyde perfusion-fixed rat brain. Consistent variations were found in mitochondrial structure, size and concentration among different neuronal and neuroglial perikarya. The cristal volume fraction of mitochondria (cristal packing density) was highest in choroid (26.8%), intermediate in neurons (17.3%), and lowest in astrocytes (11.0%) and oligodendrocytes (11.3%), suggesting that oxidative enzyme concentrations may be substantially different among these 3 mitochondrial populations. Mitochondrial volume fractions varied markedly among different neuroglial somata being highest in chronoid epithelia (10.2%), intermediate in pyramidal tract astrocytes (7.0%), ependyma (6.6%), and astrocytes of medullary central grey matter (6.5%) and lowest in pyramidal tract oligodendrocytes (3.4%), optica nerve oligodendrocytes (3.3%) and optic nerve astrocytes (2.8%). Differences in mitochondrial concentrations were also found among neuronal perikaya from different regions of the central nervous system. The mitochondrial volume fraction of neuronal perikaya was highest in mesencephalic trigeminal nucleus (8.5%), followed by inferior colliculus (7.0%), cervical anterior horn (6.2%), dorsal motor vagal nucleus (5.6%) and lowest in cerebellar granule cells (3.3%). It is suggested that differences such as those in mitochondrial volume fractions of cells coupled with differences in cristal packing density of mitochondria should reflect considerable variation in capacity for oxidative metabolism among the various neurons and neuroglia of the central nervous system.
Minimum intravenous infectious dose of ovine progressive pneumonia virus (OPPV)

Abstract The minimum intravenous infectious dose for ovine progressive pneumonia virus (OPPV) WLC1 was determined using twenty-four 6 month-old lambs. Twelve groups of two 6 month-old lambs were inoculated intravenously (i.v.) with tissue culture fluid containing ovine progressive pneumonia virus (OPPV) WLC1 titers ranging from 10 7.6 TCID 50 /lamb down to 10 −3.4 TCID 50 /lamb and were monitored for seroconversion using the OPPV agar gel immunodiffusion assay (AGID). Fifteen of the 16 lambs given equal or greater than 10 0.6 TCID 50 seroconverted, and virus could be isolated from peripheral blood leukocytes in 13 out of the 15 of these lambs. None of the eight lambs receiving less than 10 0.6 TCID 50 seroconverted during the 12 months. The results of this study indicated that 10 0.6 or 4 TCID 50 /lamb given i.v. was capable of establishing infection.
Coagulation Factors, Inflammation Markers, and Venous Thromboembolism: The Longitudinal Investigation of Thromboembolism Etiology (LITE)

Abstract Purpose We sought to assess prospectively whether higher levels of blood coagulation factors and inflammation markers are risk factors for venous thromboembolism. Subjects and methods In two pooled population-based cohort studies, we measured levels of factor VII, factor VIII, von Willebrand factor, fibrinogen, and C-reactive protein, and white blood cell count, in samples obtained from 19,237 adults with no baseline history of venous thromboembolism, cancer, or warfarin use. The endpoint was validated venous thromboembolism during follow-up (median, 7.8 years). Results A total of 159 venous thromboembolism events occurred. Factor VIII and von Willebrand factor were linearly associated with increased risk of venous thromboembolism ( P for trend Conclusion In this prospective study, elevated factor VIII and von Willebrand factor levels were common, independent, and dose-dependent risk factors for venous thromboembolism, and an elevated factor VII level was a possible risk factor. Venous thromboembolism, unlike arterial disease, was not related to inflammatory markers.
Learning from History: World War II and the Culture of High Technology

Rhetorical study of technology will benefit from a broad view of technology that considers it as a cultural phenomenon, including epistemic, artifactual, technical, economic, aesthetic, and politic...
The influence of environmental temperature on the metabolism of the thyroid hormone in the rat.

IT HAS been conclusively demonstrated that in many animals, including the rat, an increase in thyroid activity occurs on exposure to cold. (Ring, 1939; Uotila, 1939; Dempsey and Astwood, 1943). Uotila (1939) has shown that the pituitary stalk is a necessary link in the thyroid stimulation but beyond this, the mechanism of the response is obscure. In an attempt to elucidate further the manner in which exposure to cold causes an increase in the activity of the thyroid gland, we have studied the effect of environmental temperature on the serum protein-bound iodine first, in untreated rats, and second, in rats maintained on propylthiouracil and graded doses of thyroid. In the latter experiments, in which the rate of supply of thyroid hormone is known, one can obtain an index of the rate of utilization of thyroid hormone and can determine whether or not the increased utilization in rats exposed to cold is dependent upon an increase in the concentration of hormone in the blood stream.
Influence of androgen in the neonatal period on ejaculatory and postejaculatory behavior in the rat.

Abstract The objective of the present report was to investigate the influence of androgen in the neonatal period on the development of ejaculatory and postejaculatory behavior. At birth, male rats were either castrated (neonatally castrated males), implanted with a Silastic tube of the aromatase inhibitor androsta-1,4,6-triene-3,17-dione for the first 10 days (ATD males), or left untreated (normal males). Female rats were either injected with 0.5 mg testosterone propionate (TP) on Days 1 (day of birth) and 2 (androgenized females) or left untreated (normal females). All gonadally intact animals were castrated at 60 days of age. Following TP administration, all animals were tested for ejaculatory and postejaculatory behavior under both shock and nonshock conditions. All animals were capable of showing the intromission pattern; however, the ejaculatory pattern was exhibited regularly only by those animals exposed to androgen at birth (normal males, androgenized females, and ATD males). The normal males required fewer intromissions to achieve ejaculation than the other two groups exhibiting this reflex. This result is discussed in terms of peripheral genital stimulation deficits and the differentiation of neural tissue responsible for masculine copulatory behavior. Androgenized females and ATD males displayed a refractory period, characterized by 22-kHz vocalizations, equal to or longer than that found in normal males. These results indicate that defeminization is not necessary for the display of normal ejaculatory and postejaculatory behavior.
Spectroscopic observations with the Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA)

Abstract The joint US and German SOFIA project to develop and operate a 2.5-meter infrared airborne telescope in a Boeing 747-SP is now in its final stages of development. Flying in the stratosphere, SOFIA allows observations through the infrared and submillimeter region, with an average transmission of greater than 80%. SOFIA is characterized by a wide instrument complement ranging from broadband imagers, through moderate resolution spectrographs capable of resolving broad features due to dust and large molecules, to high-resolution spectrometers suitable for kinematic studies of molecular and atomic gas lines at km/s resolution. This broad range in instruments will enable SOFIA to make unique contributions to a broad array of science topics. First science flights will begin in 2009 and the observatory is expected to operate for over 20 years. The sensitivity, characteristics, science instrument complement, and examples of first light spectroscopic science are discussed.
Cigarette Smoking as a Predictor of Death from Prostate Cancer in 348,874 Men Screened for the Multiple Risk Factor Intervention Trial

The association of cigarette smoking and mortality from prostate cancer was evaluated in 348,874 black and white men who were screened as part of the Multiple Risk Factor Intervention Trial (MRFIT). Current smoking status was assessed, serum cholesterol was measured, and demographics were recorded at screening; however, no information was collected on history of smoking, prostate screening, or diet. The vital status of each member of this cohort was ascertained through 1990. Death certificates were obtained from state health departments and coded by a trained nosologist. A total of 826 deaths due to prostate cancer occurred over an average of 16 years follow-up. The proportional hazards model was used to study the joint association of age, race, income, cigarette smoking, serum cholesterol level, and use of medication for diabetes mellitus on risk of death from prostate cancer. Statistically significant associations were observed with age (p or = 26 cigarettes per day compared with nonsmokers was 1.45 (p = 0.0003). These findings add to the limited evidence that cigarette smoking may be a risk factor for prostate cancer.
Incremental Reformulated Automatic Relevance Determination

In this work, the relationship between the incremental version of sparse Bayesian learning (SBL) with automatic relevance determination (ARD)-a fast marginal likelihood maximization (FMLM) algorithm-and a recently proposed reformulated ARD scheme is established. The FMLM algorithm is an incremental approach to SBL with ARD, where the corresponding objective function-the marginal likelihood-is optimized with respect to the parameters of a single component provided that the other parameters are fixed; the corresponding maximizer is computed in closed form, which enables a very efficient SBL realization. Wipf and Nagarajan have recently proposed a reformulated ARD (R-ARD) approach, which optimizes the marginal likelihood using auxiliary upper bounding functions. The resulting algorithm is then shown to correspond to a series of reweighted l1-constrained convex optimization problems. This correspondence establishes and analyzes the relationship between the FMLM and R-ARD schemes. Specifically, it is demonstrated that the FMLM algorithm realizes an incremental approach to the optimization of the R-ARD objective function. This relationship allows deriving the R-ARD pruning conditions similar to those used in the FMLM scheme to analytically detect components that are to be removed from the model, thus regulating the estimated signal sparsity and accelerating the algorithm convergence.
Successful Transplantation of a Split Crossed Fused Ectopic Kidney into a Patient with End-Stage Renal Disease

Potential donors with congenital renal anomalies but normal renal function are often overlooked because of a possible increase in technical difficulty and complications associated with the surgery. However, as the waiting list for a deceased donor kidney transplant continues to grow, it is important to consider these kidneys for potential transplant. This paper describes the procurement of a crossed fused ectopic kidney, and subsequent parenchymal transection prior to transplantation as part of a combined simultaneous kidney pancreas transplant. The transplant was uncomplicated, and the graft had immediate function. The patient is now two years from transplant with excellent function.
Computational Studies of Ammonia Channel Function in Glutamine 5′-Phosphoribosylpyrophosphate Amidotransferase

Glutamine 5′-phosphoribosylpyrophosphate amidotransferase (GPATase) catalyzes the synthesis of 5′-phosphoribosylamine in a reaction that involves the translocation of ammonia along an intramolecular tunnel linking the two active sites of the enzyme. We now report a locally enhanced sampling (LES) strategy for modeling ammonia transfer between the active sites of Escherichia coli GPATase in its active conformation. Our calculations demonstrate that the ammonia channel in GPATase is best regarded as a “pipe” through which ammonia travels in the absence of an external “driving” potential. This combined LES/PMF computational approach, which offers a straightforward alternative to steered molecular dynamics simulations in studies of substrate channeling, also provides new insights into the molecular basis of the reduced ammonia transfer efficiency exhibited by the L415A GPATase mutant.
Carcass characteristics of Rubia Gallega and Asturiana cattle at 10 to 18 months of age

Summary Carcasses of 55 young bulls (10 to 18 mos. age) of the Rubia Gallega and Asturiana breeds were physically separated into retail product, bone and fat trim. Cross-sectional area of the longissimus muscle, Warner-Bratzler shear values, taste panel evaluations of tenderness and juiciness, and chemical analyses of moisture, fat and protein in lean meat also were determined. Asturiana cattle had higher dressing percentage, larger longissimus area and lower percentage bone than Rubia Gallega. These differences were indicative of greater muscling, less bone and a higher ratio of muscle to bone in Asturiana cattle. Age at slaughter differences were primarily associated with the normal growth process, i. e., percentage fat increased while percentage bone decreased with increasing age. Zusammenfassung Schlachtkorpermerkmale von 10–18 Monate alten Rubia Gallega und Asturiana Rindern Schlachtkorper von 55 Jungstieren (10–18 Monate alt) der beiden Rassen wurden in Fleisch, Knochen und Abschnittfett zerteilt. Querschnittsflache des Longissimus Muskels, Warner-Bratzler Schertest, Bewertungen von Zartheit und Saftigkeit, Bestimmung von Wasser, Fett und Protein in Magerfleisch wurden durchgefuhrt. Asturiana Rinder hatten hohere Ausschlachtung, grosere Ruckenmuskelflache und weniger Knochen als Rubia Gallega. Die Unterschiede deuten auf starkere Bemuskelung, weniger Knochen und ein besseres Muskel-Knochenverhaltnis in Asturiana Rindern. Schlachtalterunterschiede waren hauptsachlich mit normalen Wachstumsprozessen verbunden, also Zunahme des Fett- und Abnahme des Knochenanteiles. Resumen Characteristicas de la Canal en Terneros de raza Rubia Gallega y Asturiana entre los 10 y 18 meses de Edad Las canales de 55 terneros de 10 a 18 meses de razas Rubia Gallega y Asturiana fueron despiezadas en cortes comerciales y separadas la carne, hueso y grasa. Se midio el area del musculo longissimus, se tomaron la resistencia al corte por el metodo de Warner-Bratzler, se realizo un panel de degustacion para evaluar la terneza y jugosidad y se realizo analisis la terneza y jugosidad y se realizo analisis quimico de humedad, grasa y proteina de la carne. La raza Asturiana posee un mayor rendimiento de la canal, una mayor area del musculo longissimus y un menor porcentaje de hueso que la Rubia Gallega. Estas diferencias son indicativas de una mayor musculatura, huesos mas finos y una mayor relacion de carne sobre hueso en la raza Asturiana. Las diferencias segun las edades al sacrificio estuvieron asociadas fundamentalmente con el proceso de crecimiento. El porcentaje de grasa se incremento, mientras que el porcentaje de hueso disminuyo con la edad.
In-line skating fractures in children.

Seventy-eight fractures are reported in 61 children who fell while in-line skating. Distal radius or radius and ulna fractures as a result of falls on the outstretched hand occurred in >75% of cases. Almost half of the patients were novices with <4 weeks of experience on in-line skates. In fact, one in eight children sustained a fracture during the first attempt at the sport. Closed reductions were needed in 26 cases. Only two of 61 children were wearing any protective equipment at the time of the fracture.
Pyroxene-melt equilibria

A thermodynamic analysis of pyroxene-melt equilibria is performed through use of a literature survey of analyses of high-Ca pyroxene and coexisting silicate melt pairs and analyses of low-Ca pyroxene silicate melt pairs. Reference is made to a modified version of a model developed by Bottinga and Weill (1972) which more successfully accounts for variations in melt composition than does a model which considers the melt to be composed of simple oxides which mix ideally. By using a variety of pyroxene melt relations, several pyroxene-melt and low-Ca pyroxene-high-Ca pyroxene geothermometers are developed which have internally consistant precisions of approximately + or - 20 C. Finally, it is noted that these equations may have application in modeling the evolution of mineral compositions during differentiation of basaltic magmas.
Generative team learning in Web 2.0 environments

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine how teams work and learn in Web 2.0 environments. Web 2.0 technologies enable geographically dispersed teams to work in synchronous and nonsynchronous modes of interaction in dynamic, self‐directed ways, within and across team boundaries, thereby avoiding some of the limitations of earlier generations of electronic communication.Design/methodology/approach – The paper explores how Web 2.0 technologies that are user‐controlled and team‐driven allow multiple modes of communication and team member active learning. Cases and an examination of team web‐based work processes and learning outcomes are examined.Findings – Web 2.0 functionality differs from traditional, primarily face‐to‐face modes of work and learning. Web 2.0 technologies can promote generative learning processes in which team members are open to new ideas, explore new ways of interacting, and apply their learning.Practical implications – Potential outcomes are the emergence of emotional intellige...
Sustained Anti-CD4/CD8 Treatment Blocks Inflammatory Activation and Intimal Thickening in Mouse Heart Allografts

Abstract We evaluated inflammatory activation and vascular thickening in a heterotopic murine heart transplant model. C57BL/6J recipient mice received anti-CD4 therapy (days 1 to 4 after transplantation) or sustained, combined anti-CD4/CD8 therapy (days 1 to 4, weekly thereafter). Morphometric analysis of grafts (>95 days) found the mean percentage of vessel occlusion to be 51.7% in allografts treated with anti-CD4, 8.3% in allografts treated with sustained anti-CD4/CD8, and 6.7% in isografts. Mean transcript levels of the adhesion molecules P-selectin, intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1), and leukocyte function-associated antigen 1 (LFA-1) and the cytokines interleukin 4 (IL-4), interferon-γ (IFN-γ), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), allograft inflammatory factor 1 (AIF-1), and monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1) were measured with reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction [RT-PCR] assays using deoxycytidine triphosphate radiolabeled with phosphorus 32 [ 32 P-dCTP]. The assays were normalized against glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase [G3PDH] Levels were found to be significantly higher in the anti-CD4 group than in the anti-CD4/CD8 group. A strong correlation was also found between the percentage of luminal occlusion and the expression of these markers of inflammation ( r =.92-.99, P
Is a life without meaning satisfying? The moderating role of the search for meaning in satisfaction with life judgments

Results from two studies revealed that the relation between meaning in life and life satisfaction was moderated by the extent to which the rater was searching for meaning in his or her life. In Studies 1a and 1b, the presence of meaning was more strongly related to life satisfaction for those who were actively searching for meaning in life than for those who were not. Study 2 extended the finding to judgments concerning a fictitious target's life satisfaction based on experimentally manipulated information regarding meaning in life. Thus, the role of meaning in life satisfaction judgments varies across individuals, depending on the level of search for meaning in life. These results suggest that search for meaning behaves like a schema increasing the salience of meaning-relevant information, and provides new ways of understanding people's efforts to establish meaningful lives.
Computationally efficient algorithm for multifocus image reconstruction

A method for synthesizing enhanced depth of field digital still camera pictures using multiple differently focused images is presented. This technique exploits only spatial image gradients in the initial decision process. The image gradient as a focus measure has been shown to be experimentally valid and theoretically sound under weak assumptions with respect to unimodality and monotonicity. Subsequent majority filtering corroborates decisions with those of neighboring pixels, while the use of soft decisions enables smooth transitions across region boundaries. Furthermore, these last two steps add algorithmic robustness for coping with both sensor noise and optics-related effects, such as misregistration or optical flow, and minor intensity fluctuations. The dependence of these optical effects on several optical parameters is analyzed and potential remedies that can allay their impact with regard to the technique's limitations are discussed. Several examples of image synthesis using the algorithm are presented. Finally, leveraging the increasing functionality and emerging processing capabilities of digital still cameras, the method is shown to entail modest hardware requirements and is implementable using a parallel or general purpose processor.
A thermodynamic analysis of the AlZn system and phase diagram calculation

Abstract Using the Redlich-Kister expression to represent the Gibbs energies of the liquid, fcc and hcp phases in the Al-Zn binary system, the model parameter values were obtained by optimization using thermodynamic and phase equilibrium data available in the literature. Not only are the model-calculated values for the thermodynamic properties in agreement with the available experimental data, but also the calculated phase diagram is in agreement with the phase boundary data. The thermodynamic description obtained in the present study is an improvement over the previous descriptions reported in the literature.
Observations on the resistance of Fpstein-Barr virus DNA synthesis to hydroxyurea.

Abstract The EBV genome was expressed in EBV “negative” D98/HR-1 somatic cell hybrids following treatment with IUdR as monitored by induction of early antigen (EA), virus capsid antigen (VCA), and virus particles. When the hybrid cells were treated with hydroxyurea (HU) following induction, total DNA synthesis was dramatically reduced but expression of both EA and VCA was not altered. The number of EBV genome equivalents increased following induction with IUdR in the presence of 5 mM HU. Synthesis of EBV specific DNA proceeded to the same degree with or without treatment with HU in lymphoblastoid cells infected with EBV while HU treatment reduced total DNA synthesis by 85–90%. Cytosine arabinoside (ara-C) used in the same manner as HU in IUdR induced hybrid cells dramatically reduced cellular DNA synthesis and totally inhibited EBV DNA synthesis. Of all viruses tested thus far, EBV is unique in that EBV specific DNA synthesis is refractile to inhibition by treatment with HU. Several possible explanations for this unique phenomenon are presented.
NMR Analysis of the Water-Soluble Fraction of Airborne Pollen Particles

The analysis of ambient organic aerosols by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy is limited because of the large number of organic compounds present at low concentrations. Here, we demonstrate the integrative analysis of NMR spectra of airborne pollen particles using reference spectra, spectral similarity metrics, principal components analysis (PCA), and a chemical mass balance model to determine the predominant types of organic compounds. Strong associations among glucose, fucose, specific amino acids, and airborne pollen particles were observed by spectral similarity metrics and PCA. Carbohydrates accounted for about 51 % of the airborne pollen particles in the spectrum followed by amino acids (42 %) and other compounds (7 %). Overall, our investigations showed that analysis of NMR spectral data of mixtures of environmental organic compounds with pattern recognition methods may generate information on the chemical characteristics of the mixture.
Correlations between juvenile hormone esterase activity, ecdysone titre and cellular reprogramming in Galleria mellonella

Abstract Juvenile hormone esterase (JHE) activity, ecdysone titre, and developmental competence of the epidermis were determined in last instar larvae and pupae of Galleria mellonella. Haemolymph JHE activity reaches a peak before increases are observed in ecdysone titre both during larval-pupal and pupal-adult metamorphosis. JHE activity is low during the penultimate larval instar although general esterase activity is relatively high. In last instar larvae two ecdysone peaks are noted after the increase in JHE activity. Furthermore, epidermal cell reprogramming occurs just after the increase in haemolymph JHE activity and possibly before the first increase in ecdysone titre. This was tested by injection of high doses of β-ecdysone into last instar larvae of different ages resulting in rapid cuticle deposition. Reprogramming occurred if the resulting cuticle was of the pupal type. These correlative observations may increase our understanding of the relative importance of an ecdysone surge in the absence of JH in reprogramming of the insect epidermis.
Glutamate, of the Endogenous Primary α‐Amino Acids, Is Specifically Released from Hair Cells by Elevated Extracellular Potassium

A hair cell (octavolateralis mechanoreceptor cell) sheet preparation from the trout saccular macula was superfused with bicarbonate-based physiological saline. Among the primary amine-containing compounds resolved by cation-exchange HPLC, glutamate alone was released in a statistically significant manner with elevation of extracellular [K+] from 3.5 to 14 mM in the presence of 1.8 mM calcium. Release of glutamate averaged 10.9 +/- 2.5 pmol (mean +/- SEM) over a 10-min period for a hair cell sheet preparation representing 20 micrograms of cell protein. No potassium-evoked release of glutamate was observed in 0 mM calcium/10 mM magnesium saline, suggesting calcium dependency. Because the sheet preparation, by the method of its isolation, contained only the hair cell as the intact cell type, release of glutamate, induced by relatively small increases in extracellular potassium, can be attributed directly to the receptor cell. The specific release of glutamate and its block by magnesium are consistent with the hypothesis that glutamate is one neurotransmitter/neuromodulator mediating receptoneural transmission in the octavolateralis periphery.
Dietary intervention study to assess estrogenicity of dietary soy among postmenopausal women

We tested the hypothesis that postmenopausal women on a soy-supplemented diet show estrogenic responses. Ninety-seven postmenopausal women were randomized to either a group that was provided with soy foods for 4 weeks or a control group that was instructed to eat as usual. Changes in urinary isoflavone concentrations served as a measure of compliance and phytoestrogen dose. Changes in serum FSH, LH, sex hormone binding globulin, and vaginal cytology were measured to assess estrogenic response. The percentage of vaginal superficial cells (indicative of estrogenicity) increased for 19% of those eating the diet compared with 8% of controls (P = 0.06 when tested by ordinal logistic regression). FSH and LH did not decrease significantly with dietary supplementation as hypothesized, nor did sex hormone binding globulin increase. Little change occurred in endogenous estradiol concentration or body weight during the diet. Women with large increases in urinary isoflavone concentrations were not more likely to show...
Glycosylation of a membrane protein is restricted to the growing polypeptide chain but is not necessary for insertion as a transmembrane protein

Abstract The membrane glycoprotein of vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV), synthesized in vitro in the presence of pancreatic microsomes, is glycosylated in two distinct steps while its polypeptide chain is nascent (Rothman and Lodish, 1977). We show here that unglycosylated glycoprotein, which accumulates in vivo following treatment of cells with tunicamycin and in vitro as a result of translation in the presence of detergent-treated microsomal membranes, is inserted normally as a transmembrane protein. This means that glycosylation, while normally occurring concurrently with insertion, is not required for insertion. Our experiments also show that the two steps in glycosylation correspond to the sequential transfer of preformed "core" oligosaccharides of typical structure to two Asn residues in the growing chain. The accumulation of unglycosylated glycoprotein in vitro is due to the fact that the completed transmembrane polypeptide cannot be glycosylated. The detergent treatment of microsomes impairs their rate of glycosylation so that chains are frequently completed before they can be glycosylated. This provides a simple explanation for certain types of heterogeneity often found in glycoproteins. We believe that the detergent treatment procedure results in the solubilization of the microsomal membrane followed by reconstitution. This is a prerequisite for the eventual purification of the membrane proteins and lipids involved in insertion and glycosylation of this model membrane protein.
Pure-Silica-Zeolite MFI and MEL Low-Dielectric-Constant Films with Fluoro-Organic Functionalization

The synthesis of organic-functionalized pure-silica-zeolites (PSZs) with MFI- and MEL-type structures for low-k applications prepared through a direct-synthesis method by adding a fluorinated silane to the synthesis solution is reported. The added fluorine functionality increases the hydrophobicity of the zeolites, which are characterized by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, 29Si and 19F solid-state NMR spectroscopy, nitrogen adsorption, and thermogravimetric analysis. The functionalized zeolite powders have low water content and calcined spin-on films prepared from the functionalized nanoparticle suspensions exhibit higher water contact angles and lower k values (2.1 and 1.8 for the functionalized MFI- and MEL-type zeolites, respectively) than PSZ films. The use of a direct-synthesis method to decrease the moisture adsorption in the films eliminates the extra post-spin-on silylation steps that are traditionally used to render the zeolite films hydrophobic.