cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Physics of Supernova Blast Waves. I. Kinematics of DEM L71 in the Large Magellanic Cloud

We present the results from Fabry-Perot imaging spectroscopy of the Balmer-dominated supernova remnant DEM L71 (0505-67.9) in the LMC. Spectra extracted from the entire circumference of the blast wave reveal the broad- and narrow-component Hα line emission characteristic of nonradiative shocks in partially neutral gas. The new spectra of DEM L71 include portions of the rim that have not been previously observed. We find that the broad-component width varies azimuthally along the edge of DEM L71, ranging from 450 ± 60 km s-1 along the eastern edge to values as high as 985 km s-1 along the faint western edge. The latter width is nearly 60% larger than the value determined by earlier spectroscopy of the brightest Balmer-dominated filaments. In part of the faint northern rim the broad component is not detected, possibly indicating a lower density in these regions and/or a broad-component width in excess of 1000 km s-1. Between the limits of zero and full electron-ion temperature equilibration at the shock front, the allowed range of shock velocities is 430-560 km s-1 along the east rim and 700-1250 km s-1 along other parts of the blast wave. The Hα broad-to-narrow flux ratios vary considerably around the remnant, ranging from 0.4 to 0.8. These ratios lie below the values predicted by our shock models. We find that narrow-component Hα emission from a cosmic-ray precursor may be the cause of the discrepancy. The least decelerated portions of the blast wave (i.e., regions excluding the brightest filaments) are well characterized by Sedov models with a kinetic energy E51 = (0.37 ± 0.06)D, where D50 is the LMC distance in units of 50 kpc. The corresponding age for DEM L71 is (4360 ± 290)D50 yr. This is the first time that velocity information from the entire blast wave has been utilized to study the global kinematics of a nonradiative supernova remnants at a known distance.
Adsorption of nuclides on mixtures of minerals

Abstract Distribution coefficients for adsorption of Sr(II) and Cs(I) on binary mixtures of various clay minerals and oxides have been determined in order to see whether distribution coefficients of mixtures can be predicted from those of the pure minerals. It is shown that in some cases, the distribution coefficients of mixtures are equal to the sum, Σf i D i , where f i is the weight fraction of component of i and D i is the distribution coefficient of that mineral. However, in some cases significant deviations from this relation were observed which probably indicate the presence of the interactions between the minerals.
The interaction of plasminogen activator with a reconstituted basement membrane matrix and extracellular macromolecules produced by cultured epithelial cells

Laminin and fibronectin are glycoproteins that influence cell behavior and mediate cell/substratum adhesion. We have examined the interaction of these macromolecules with the serine protease plasminogen activator (PA) in two types of extracellular matrices; one produced by the murine Engelbreth-Holm-Swarm (EHS) tumor (Matrigel), and another by normal kidney epithelial cells in culture. Matrigel was found to contain significant quantities of tissue-type PA (tPA). Two of the major components of Matrigel, laminin and type IV collagen, were also examined. Tissue-type PA was associated with purified preparations of laminin; however, it was not found associated with type IV collagen. Normal kidney epithelial cells in culture secrete large amounts of urokinase (UK) and deposit a subepithelial matrix containing both laminin and fibronectin. These matrix macromolecules were isolated from the deposited matrix by immunoprecipitation, examined by zymography, and found to contain UK. The potential role of this interaction in the mechanisms of cell migration and matrix remodeling is discussed.
Nanoencapsulation and immobilization of cinnamaldehyde for developing antimicrobial food packaging material

Abstract Use of antimicrobial coatings on food packaging is one of the important technologies of active packaging for improving food safety. There is growing demand for natural antimicrobials because of fear of adverse health effects of synthetic preservatives. The objectives of this study were to compare antibacterial properties of free and nanoencapsulated cinnamaldehyde in solution; polylactic acid (PLA) surfaces cast with cinnamaldehyde; and glass and PLA surfaces coated with cinnamaldehyde nano-liposomes. Cinnamaldehyde was nano-encapsulated by lipid bilayers of polydiacetylene – N-hydroxysuccinimide (PDA–NHS) nano liposomes and immobilized on glass slides and PLA films. Glass surfaces immobilized with nano-encapsulated cinnamaldehyde showed significant antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli W1485 and Bacillus cereus ATCC 14579, with reductions of 2.56 log10 CFU/ml and 1.59 log10 CFU/ml respectively in 48 h. PLA films cast with cinnamaldehyde also showed significant antibacterial activities against E. coli W1485 (2.01 log10 CFU/ml reduction) and B. cereus (4.81 log10 CFU/ml reduction). However, when the liposomal encapsulated cinnamaldehyde was immobilized on PLA films, it did not show any antibacterial activity. Glass surfaces coated with nano-encapsulated cinnamaldehyde may be used as an active packaging material in preserving liquid foods; however, further study is required to improve antimicrobial activities of PLA surfaces.
Evidence suggesting that L‐fucose is part of a recognition signal for sperm‐zona pellucida attachment in mammals

Experiments were designed to test the effects of simple sugars and complex polysaccharides on the attachment of mammalian spermatozoa with the zona pellucida. In the guinea pig, L-fucose was a twofold better inhibitor of the attachment compared to other sugars at 50 mM. Fucoidin, an algal polysaccharide rich in sulfated L-fucose, was a very potent inhibitor, completely blocking attachment at a concentration of 100 μg/ml. Several other highly sulfated glycosaminoglycans showed no inhibitory activity, suggesting the fucoidin effect was not simply due to its charge or sulfate. In addition, fragments of fucoidin, generated by partial hydrolysis and isolated using Biogel P-2, were nearly as inhibitory as the native molecule on a weight basis. Fucoidin also inhibited sperm-zona attachment in the hamster and human; thus, its effect is not species specific. The data suggest that L-fucose may be part of a recognition signal between mammalian gametes.
Fabrication of single-mode optical fiber ferrule mold insert with 12 channels

This paper describes an application of the LIGA technology to the fabrication of optical fiber ferrule mold inserts with twelve channels. It presents the overall process from mask design, mask fabrication, deep x-ray lithography exposure, resist development, nickel electroforming, as well as surface finishing to attain the final result. Several deep x-ray mask-making methods are explored, including mechanically machined masks, micro-EDM masks, and electron beam written masks. The exposure, development and electroforming to fabricate nickel molds up to 500 micrometers thickness are reported in this study. Nickel structures for fiber ferrule mold insert with twelve channels made by electroforming are the final products. A practical method to finish the microstructure surface is presented. Channels with diameter precision -0.0/+0.5 micrometers and pitch alignment of 0.25 micrometers were accomplished to satisfy the requirements of the research sponsor for inserting and aligning 125 micrometers single-mode fibers.
An Alternate MILP Model for Short-Term Scheduling of Batch Plants with Preordering Constraints

An alternate model is presented when preordering constraints are imposed in the short term scheduling of batch plants. The idea is to include the assumption of preordering of orders to units in the underlying representation for the model, as opposed to including preordering as a separate set of constraints. The resulting model not only is conceptually simple but also results in shorter solution times.
FASTING AND COGNITIVE FUNCTION

The effects of short-term fasting (skipping breakfast) on the problem-solving performance of 9 to 11 yr old children were studied under the controlled conditions of a metabolic ward. The behavioral test battery included an assessment of IQ, the Matching Familiar Figure Test and Hagen Central Incidental Test. Glucose and insulin levels were measured in blood. All assessments were made under fasting and non-fasting conditions. Skipping breakfast was found to have adverse effects on the children's late morning problem-solving performance. These findings support observations that the timing and nutrient composition of meals have acute and demonstrable effects on behavior.
Religion and well-being in a church without a creed

This study of religion and well-being questions whether adherents of a religion without a specific creed may still derive well-being from their religious experience as do members of more orthodox religious institutions. Survey data from a Unitarian Universalist congregation were analyzed to test whether the relationship between religion and individual well-being in a non-Christian, non-creedal religious institution is similar to that observed in mainstream Christian denominations. Hierarchical linear regression analysis indicates that spirituality, social support, and the centrality of Unitarian Universalism (UU) to personal identity predict the amount of strength and comfort the respondents derived from religion, after controlling for demographic characteristics. Interaction effects between education and theological coherence and between gender and spirituality were also found. These results support the hypothesis that members of non-doctrinal religious groups benefit from religion by means of similar pr...
Recognition of conspecific song by the rufous-sided towhee

Abstract Dual-speaker experiments conducted with rufous-sided towhees ( Pipilo erythrophthalmus ) demonstrated that they do not respond to song of three other species and that the sequence and diversity of phrases within a song, and the time interval between syllables of the note-complex phrase, may be important in species recognition. These results are compared with results of song recognition studies done with species that are extensively sympatric with towhees in eastern North America.
Competence-Related Abilities and Psychiatric Symptoms: An Analysis of the Underlying Structure and Correlates of the MacCAT-CA and the BPRS

The current study used confirmatory factor analysis to examine the factor structures of two instruments commonly used in the assessment of competency to stand trial—the MacArthur Competence Assessment Tool—Criminal Adjudication (MacCAT-CA) and the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS). Results revealed support for the three-subscale factor structure of the MacCAT-CA defined by the authors of the instrument; for a slightly altered three-factor structure defined by Zapf, Skeem, and Golding (2005, Psychological Assessment, 17, 433–445); and for the four symptom clusters of the BPRS as defined by Hedlund and Vieweg (1980, Journal of Operational Psychiatry, 11, 48–63). In addition, exploratory factor analysis of all 24 items of the BPRS revealed a five-factor structure. Correlations between psychiatric symptoms, symptom clusters, and competence-related abilities were also examined using the previously identified and the newly identified factor structures of the MacCAT-CA and the BPRS. Significant relations between symptoms and psycholegal abilities are discussed.
The treatment of acute non-lymphocytic leukemia

Abstract The treatment of acute nonlymphocytic leukemia involves a two stage approach. During the first stage, remission induction, cytotoxic drugs are administered to return hematopoiesis to normal. During the second stage, therapy is administered in an attempt to prolong the duration of remission. The clinical approaches and the problems incurred during these stages are not identical. At the time of diagnosis a decision must be made regarding whether or not the patient is likely to benefit from chemotherapy. If the answer is in the affirmative, then a decision must be made regarding the appropriate chemotherapeutic regimen. The optimal approach for the treatment of patients appears to vary depending on the age of patient and whether or not there is a history of toxic exposure in the past. Overall remission rates vary from 40% to 85% depending upon the age of the patient and the patient's past history. Patients whose leukemia is induced into complete remission benefit from therapy administered after complete remission is attained. The optimal therapy, however, has not as yet been clearly defined. Conventional maintenance therapy appears to provide little benefit. On the other hand, the more intensive therapies are associated with substantial risk to the patient. The role of these modalities in the treatment of older patients is currently under investigation.
Domenico Campagnola and an Earthquake Fantasy

Abstract Domenico Campagnola was a sixteenth century artist who worked in Venice and Padua; it can be presumed that he experienced the Friuli earthquake of 1511. A drawing by him has recently surfaced, representing the collapse of a city in an earthquake. Examining the structural and seismological evidence it is identified here as an artist's fantasy. This is consistent with the artistic interest in landscape for its most tumultuous and tempestuous qualities.
Steric effects on water accessability control sequence-selectivity of radical cation reactions in DNA.

The one-electron oxidation of duplex DNA results in the introduction of a radical cation (electron “hole”) that migrates by a series of short hops and is trapped by an irreversible reaction with water or molecular oxygen. This reaction typically occurs at guanines within Gn sequences where n = 2, 3. It has been generally observed that the 5‘-G of these GG steps is more reactive than the 3‘-G, and this has been explained by means of model calculations to be due to electronic interactions between the two guanines and with adjacent nucleobases. We performed electronic structure calculations on d(5‘-XGGX-3‘)/d(3‘-YCCY-5‘) sequences, where X = A,T,U, and Y is the complementary base. These calculations reveal only a modest preference for the hole to be located on the 5‘-G compared with the 3‘-G. In contrast, molecular dynamics simulations reveal that the distribution of water at the reactive site of the G-radical cation is influenced by its steric environment. In particular, these simulations indicate inhibitio...
Management of hypoplastic left heart syndrome in a Consortium of University Hospitals

To determine current management of hypoplastic left heart syndrome, we utilized the discharge database of the University Hospital Consortium and obtained data on the surgical procedures, length of stay, hospital charges, and outcome for 636 neonates with this condition admitted to 40 member institutions from 1989 to 1993. Of the 636 patients, 95 (15%) were discharged without surgical intervention. A Norwood operation was performed in 222 (53% mortality) and transplantation in 40 (42% mortality). Median length of stay and hospital charges were 17 days and $57,418 for the Norwood procedure and 47 days and $126,695 for transplantation.
The Disadvantage of Too Much Success.

Introduction Too much success can be a disadvantage. A gambler playing blackjack in a casino may find himself out in the street after enjoying a string of good fortune. Viruses that replicate too rapidly may kill their host before the host is able to infect other members of the population. In this note we consider three coin-tossing models in which "too much success" is defined by the occurrence of success runs of length r, where r is a positive integer. When such a success run occurs, play terminates and the player has no further opportunities to earn rewards. Three models are considered; in each a sequence of independent coin tosses occurs with a fixed success probability p. The objective is to choose the success probability p so as to maximize the expected reward before the stopping criterion applies.
When is ignorance bliss? The effects of inaccurate self-assessments of knowledge on learning and attrition

Two studies were conducted to examine the implications of inaccurate self-appraisals in online training. Self-assessment of knowledge moderated the effects of trainees’ performance on subsequent performance and attrition. Performance was highest after uniformly positive ratings (i.e., high self-assessment and high performance), followed by underestimation, overestimation, and uniformly negative ratings, respectively. Attrition was lowest after uniformly positive ratings, followed by underestimation, uniformly negative ratings, and overestimation, respectively. Effort had a more positive effect on performance following low than high self-assessments and this interaction fully mediated the self-assessment/performance interaction on subsequent performance. Commitment had a more negative effect on subsequent attrition following low than high self-assessments and this interaction fully mediated the self-assessment/performance interaction on subsequent attrition. Finally, trainee conscientiousness affected their behavior when their performance and self-assessments were inconsistent—overestimating and underestimating performance increased attrition more for trainees low in conscientiousness and impaired performance more for trainees high in conscientiousness.
Determination of Rheological Behavior of Aluminum Oxide Nanofluid and Development of New Viscosity Correlations

Abstract Experimental investigations have been carried out to study the rheological behavior of aluminum oxide nanofluid. Nanoparticles with average particle size of 53 nm were dispersed in a base fluid of 60% (by mass) of ethylene glycol and water. Nanofluids of volumetric concentrations 1 to 10% were tested for determining the viscous properties. It was found that this nanofluid behaved as non-Newtonian at lower temperatures (-35°C to 0°C) and Newtonian at higher temperatures (0°C to 90°C). The data showed that the viscosity increases with an increase in concentration and decreases with increase in temperature. Two new correlations were developed expressing viscosity as a function of temperature and concentration.
Scheduling a two-stage flowshop under makespan constraint

We consider selecting and sequencing jobs in a two stage flowshop so that the selected jobs are completed before a specified time limit (such as the end of a shift). The objective is to maximize the weighted (reward) sum of the selected jobs. We show that the problem is NP-hard, and present two procedures to find an optimum solution. The first procedure uses dynamic programming, and the second uses mixed integer programming. The integer programming formulation exploits special properties of the problem and solves large instances of the problem. We also develop heuristics and provide worst case performance guarantees. An improvement procedure is also developed. Extensive computational testing shows that our heuristics, when used jointly with the improvement procedure, yield excellent results (providing solutions within 3% of the optimum in an average sense) for both balanced and unbalanced shops.
The Heat Capacity Anomaly in Phenanthrene; Effects of Deuteration, Purification and Dissolution

Abstract Arndt and Damask1 reported a heat capacity anomaly of 380 cal/mole in phenanthrene around 70°C. An electrical anomaly occurs at the same temperature and has also been described in detail.2 No explanation as yet exists for these phenomena. Further studies being conducted involve the use of fully deuterated phenanthrene but, since this is available only in limited quantities, some of the purification procedures had to be omitted. It was of interest to see if these omitted procedures suppressed the heat capacity anomaly to any extent, since it has been reported that impurities and radiation suppress the electrical anomaly.2 Accordingly, the heat capacity anomaly of phenanthrene was remeasured under different conditions.
Central limit theorem for chemical kinetics in complex systems

The prevalence of apparently first-order kinetics of reactant disappearance in complex systems with many possible reaction pathways is usually attributed to the dominance of a single rate limiting step. Here, we investigate another possible explanation: that apparently first-order kinetics might arise because the aggregate behavior of many processes, with varying order of reaction and rate constant, approaches a “central limit” that is indistinguishable from first-order behavior. This hypothesis was investigated by simulating systems of increasing complexity and deriving relationships between the apparent reaction order of such systems and various measures of their complexity. Transformation of a chemical species by parallel irreversible reactions that are zero-, first-, or second-order is found to converge to a central limit as the number of parallel reactions becomes large. When all three reaction orders are represented, on average, in equal proportions, this central limit is experimentally indistinguishable from first-order. A measure of apparent reaction order was used to investigate the nature of the convergence both stochastically and by deriving theoretical limits. The range of systems that exhibit a central limit that is approximately first-order is found to be broad. First-order like behavior is also found to be favored when the distribution of material among the parallel processes (due to differences in rate constants for the individual reactions) is more complex. Our results show that a first-order central limit exists for the kinetics of chemical systems and that the variable controlling the convergence is the physical complexity of reaction systems.
The syndrome of gastroduodenal disease associated with chronic cor pulmonale.

SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS 1. The syndrome of gastroduodenal disease associated with pulmonary emphysema and chronic cor pulmonale is described. Of 65 cases of pulmonary emphysema with right heart disease on whom postmortem examinations were performed, 21 revealed peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum, and six showed hypertrophic gastritis. A like number of clinical cases studied with x-rays of the upper gastrointestinal tract yielded a 30 per cent ratio of peptic ulcers and a high incidence of gastritis. Almost all of these cases, with a few exceptions, did not have the history or pain typical of peptic ulcer. A high proportion of these cases died from hemorrhage and perforation. 2. In the absence of characteristic symptoms, lack of polycythemia in a state of marked hypoxia might occasionally serve as a diagnostic pointer for peptic ulcer or bleeding gastritis. Absence of polycythemia, however, may also be due to other causes. In addition, many of these cases do not bleed and maintain the polycythemia. 3. It is advised that all patients of this group be subjected to x-ray studies, and if necessary gastroscopic examinations of the gastroduodenal tract. This is the only means of establishing a proper diagnosis and instituting early treatment in order to forestall serious complications.
Or is it just a little relaxation

Abstract Lagergren et al. performed a population-based, case-control study to investigate the possible association between use of lower esophageal sphincter (LES)–relaxing medications and risk for adenocarcinoma of the esophagus, squamous cell cancer of the esophagus, and adenocarcinoma of the gastric cardia. They used randomly selected population-based controls from their population registry. The authors identified five groups of medications introduced before 1970 as LES relaxing: nitroglycerin, anticholinergics, β-adrenergic agonists, aminophylline, and benzodiazepines. They demonstrated an association, which they felt was causal, between the use of LES-relaxing medications and risk for adenocarcinoma of the esophagus. Long term use of LES-relaxing drugs correlated positively with the degree of esophageal adenocarcinoma risk, as demonstrated by an incidence rate ratio of 3.8 for esophageal adenocarcinoma in patients who used LES-relaxing drugs, particularly anticholinergics, daily for >5 yr. Importantly, they also found a higher prevalence of reflux among users of LES-relaxing agents. Cardia adenocarcinoma and esophageal squamous cell carcinoma were in general not associated with the use of these drugs, though a weaker association was noted with long term use of nitroglycerin and adenocarcinoma of the gastric cardia. No consistent association between use of LES-relaxing drugs and risk for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma was found.
Decreased bone turnover with balanced resorption and formation prevent cortical bone loss during disuse (hibernation) in grizzly bears (Ursus arctos horribilis)

Disuse uncouples bone formation from resorption, leading to increased porosity, decreased bone geometrical properties, and decreased bone mineral content which compromises bone mechanical properties and increases fracture risk. However, black bear bone properties are not adversely affected by aging despite annual periods of disuse (i.e., hibernation), which suggests that bears either prevent bone loss during disuse or lose bone and subsequently recover it at a faster rate than other animals. Here we show decreased cortical bone turnover during hibernation with balanced formation and resorption in grizzly bear femurs. Hibernating grizzly bear femurs were less porous and more mineralized, and did not demonstrate any changes in cortical bone geometry or whole bone mechanical properties compared to active grizzly bear femurs. The activation frequency of intracortical remodeling was 75% lower during hibernation than during periods of physical activity, but the normalized mineral apposition rate was unchanged. These data indicate that bone turnover decreases during hibernation, but osteons continue to refill at normal rates. There were no changes in regional variation of porosity, geometry, or remodeling indices in femurs from hibernating bears, indicating that hibernation did not preferentially affect one region of the cortex. Thus, grizzly bears prevent bone loss during disuse by decreasing bone turnover and maintaining balanced formation and resorption, which preserves bone structure and strength. These results support the idea that bears possess a biological mechanism to prevent disuse osteoporosis.
Technical and management notes: The impact of federal research and development spending on productivity

Although the government has a long history of supporting R&D activity, very little is known about the effects of federal R&D spending. The hypothesis investigated in this paper is that federal R&D indirectly affects the productivity of the conducting firm. The empirical results support the theoretical model which predicts that the marginal rate of return to private R&D is lower in firms receiving relatively more federal R&D dollars.
1169 DISADVANTAGES OF NASAL CONTINUOUS POSITIVE AIRWAY PRESSURE (CPAP) OBSERVED DURING CONTINUOUS MONITORING OF OXYGEN TENSION

1169 DISADVANTAGES OF NASAL CONTINUOUS POSITIVE AIRWAY PRESSURE (CPAP) OBSERVED DURING CONTINUOUS MONITORING OF OXYGEN TENSION
Finite mixture models with concomitant information: assessing diagnostic criteria for diabetes

The World Health Organization (WHO) diagnostic criteria for diabetes melllitus were determined in part by evidence that in some populations the plasma glucose level 2 h after an oral glucose load is a mixture of two distinct distributions. We present a finite mixture model that allows the two component densities to be generalized linear models and the mixture probability to be a logistic regression model. The model allows us to estimate the prevalence of diabetes and sensitivity and specificity of the diagnostic criteria as a function of covariates and to estimate them in the absence of an external standard. Sensitivity is the probability that a test indicates disease conditionally on disease being present. Specificity is the probability that a test indicates no disease conditionally on no disease being present. We obtained maximum likelihood estimates via the EM algorithm and derived the standard errors from the information matrix and by the bootstrap. In the application to data from the diabetes in Egypt project a two-component mixture model fits well and the two components are interpreted as normal and diabetes. The means and variances are similar to results found in other populations. The minimum misclassification cutpoints decrease with age, are lower in urban areas and are higher in rural areas than the 200 mg dl -1 cutpoint recommended by the WHO. These differences are modest and our results generally support the WHO criterion. Our methods allow the direct inclusion of concomitant data whereas past analyses were based on partitioning the data.
Semi-empirical model for prediction of unsteady forces on an airfoil with application to flutter

A semi-empirical model is described for predicting unsteady aerodynamic forces on arbitrary airfoils under mildly stalled and unstalled conditions. Aerodynamic forces are modeled using second order ordinary differential equations for lift and moment with airfoil motion as the input. This model is simultaneously integrated with structural dynamics equations to determine flutter characteristics for a two degrees-of-freedom system. Results for a number of cases are presented to demonstrate the suitability of this model to predict flutter. Comparison is made to the flutter characteristics determined by a Navier-Stokes solver and also the classical incompressible potential flow theory.
Task-level approaches for the control of constrained multibody systems

This paper presents a task-level control methodology for the general class of holonomically constrained multibody systems. As a point of departure, the general formulation of constrained dynamical systems is reviewed with respect to multiplier and minimization approaches. Subsequently, the operational space framework is considered and the underlying symmetry between constrained dynamics and operational space control is discussed. Motivated by this symmetry, approaches for constrained task-level control are presented which cast the general formulation of constrained multibody systems into a task space setting using the operational space framework. This provides a means of exploiting task-level control structures, native to operational space control, within the context of constrained systems. This allows us to naturally synthesize dynamic compensation for a multibody system, that properly accounts for the system constraints while performing a control task. A set of examples illustrate this control implementation. Additionally, the inclusion of flexible bodies in this approach is addressed.
Activation Theory and Task Design: An Empirical Test of Several New Predictions

Predictions from activation theory concerning task design are presented. Activation theory is modified to (a) account for the frequent empirical finding that relatively nonstimulating tasks cause elevated arousal levels and (b) allow for effects of individual differences on task-characteristics/taskresponse relationships. An experiment was conducted to test the hypotheses that (a) a relatively nonstimulating task would cause more negative reactions (increased arousal, decreased satisfaction) than a moderately high-stimulating task; (b) electrodermal lability and extroversion would moderate task-stimulation-level/task-response relationships; and (c) there would be inverted-U relationships between activation levels and performance. Modest support for each of the hypotheses was obtained. Activation theory is discussed as an explanation for the process that intervenes between task stimulation and responses of task performers. Activation theory has been used to explain the effects of variations in task design on responses of task performers (Scott, 1966), but little empirical research has evaluated activation theory's utility as a task design theory. This shortage of research may be due to a belief that activation theory allows only vague predictions (Hackman & Oldham, 1980; Steers & Mowday, 1977), or does not consider effects of individual differences (Hackman & Oldham, 1980; Hulin & Blood, 1968), in explaining task-characteristic/task-response relationships. The present study addresses these issues in an empirical test of activation theory. Activation theory is based on the concept of activation level, denned here as the degree of neural activity in the reticular activation system (RAS), a major part of the central nervous system (Fiske & Maddi, 1961; Scott, 1966). Activation level is monotonically related to the total stimulation impact on the RAS from external (e.g., noise), internal (e.g., heart rate), and cerebral cortex (e.g., cognitions) sources. Because activation level is difficult to measure directly, it is typically inferred from other measures of central nervous system activation (e.g., electroencephalograms) and/or physiological arousal (e.g., skin conductance).
Processing bodies and plant development

Processing bodies (P-bodies) contain RNA–protein complexes linked to cytoplasmic RNA decay pathways including mRNA decapping, nonsense-mediated decay (NMD) and small RNA-mediated decay. Plants deficient in P-body components display severe developmental perturbations, suggesting that these cytoplasmic bodies play important roles in regulating gene expression during plant development. Here, we summarize recent progress in the genetic dissection of P-body components and their roles in translational repression and mRNA decapping.
Multiresolution gradient-based edge detection in noisy images using wavelet domain filters

We detected edges in noisy images using multiresolution analysis with the wavelet transform. products of wavelet coefficients at several scales were used to identify and locate edges. We found that it was important to consider the changes in edge position at different scales to detect edges in noisy imagery. We analyzed one-dimensional edges and compared the results of our approach with the first derivative of the signal. In addition, we compared the results of noisy images with another wavelet-based edge detection method. Our results led to improved edge detection in noisy images.
The Regulation of Cambial Division and Secondary Xylem Differentiation in Xanthium by Auxins and Gibberellin

Cambial division continued in decapitated Xanthium plants without concomitant xylem fiber differentiation. The application of indoleacetic acid to these plants did not affect the production of cambial derivatives or induce xylem fiber differentiation. When naphthaleneacetic acid was applied either to the second internode or to the stump of a lateral shoot, xylem fiber differentiation was induced in the newly formed cambial derivatives on the xylem side of the cambium in the stem. When naphthaleneacetic acid was applied unilaterally, xylem fiber differentiation was restricted to that side of the stem in the first internode and hypocotyl. Naphthaleneacetic acid also enhanced the production of cambial derivatives. Gibberellic acid enhanced cambial derivative production but did not affect the differentiation of xylem fibers. Similar numbers of cambial derivatives were produced in some naphthaleneacetic acid-treated plants in which xylem fiber differentiation was induced and in gibberellic acid-treated plants which did not differentiate xylem. When naphthaleneacetic acid was applied 72 hours after decapitation, the oldest of the cambial derivatives on the xylem side failed to develop into fibers although younger cells did. These results suggest that auxin has its direct effect on the induction of xylem differentiation rather than the induction of divisions prerequisite to differentiation.
Dislocation Density Tensor Characterization of Deformation Using 3D X-Ray Microscopy

Three-dimensional (3D) X-ray microscopy with submicron resolution has been used to make spatially resolved measurements of lattice curvature and elastic strain over two-dimensional slices in thin deformed Si plates. The techniques and capabilities associated with white-beam 3D X-ray microscopy are discussed, and both theoretical and experimental considerations associated with the measurement of Nye dislocation density tensors in deformed materials are presented. The ability to determine the local geometrically necessary dislocation (GND) density in the form of a dislocation density tensor, with micron spatial resolution over mesoscopic length scales, is demonstrated. Results are shown for the special case of an elastically bent (dislocation free) thin Si plate and for a similar thin Si plate that was bent plastically, above the brittle-to-ductile transition temperature, to introduce dislocations. Within the uncertainties of the measurements, the known result that GND density is zero for elastic bending is obtained, and well-defined GND distributions are observed in the plastically deformed Si plate. The direct and absolute connection between experimental measurements of GND density and multiscale modeling and computer simulations of deformation microstructures is discussed to highlight the importance of submicron-resolution 3D X-ray microscopy for mesoscale characterization of material defects and to achieve a fundamental understanding ofmore » deformation in ductile materials.« less
Interference model for spectrum sensing with power control

This paper analyzes the aggregate interference in a cognitive radio network. We consider a model in which the secondary transmitters are geographically distributed according to a Poisson point process in a wireless environment subject to shadowing noise and path loss. The secondary transmitters may transmit simultaneously and consequently incur an aggregate interference level on the primary system. We derive the moment generating function and the expectation of the aggregate interference for this model using properties of the Poisson point process. Based on the interference analysis, a scheme is proposed to estimate the maximum transmission power for each of the active secondary transmitters so as to satisfy a constraint on the aggregate interference. Our numerical results show a significant gain in the achievable capacity for the secondary system relative to an earlier scheme in which only a single secondary transmitter was permitted to transmit at any given time.
The Porcine Ovarian Follicle. II. Electron Microscopic Study of Surface Features of Granulosa Cells at Different Stages of Development

Surface features of granulosa cells from porcine ovarian follicles were studied at different stages of development by electron microscopy. The presence ofnumerous microvilli on the luminal surface granulosa cells of large follicles and their absence on granulosa cells from small and medium follicles were observed. Microfilaments within the microvilli were also observed. A possible relationship between these structural features and the appearance of trophic hormone receptors is discussed.
Retargeting of the Bacillus thuringiensis toxin Cyt2Aa against hemipteran insect pests

Although transgenic crops expressing Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) toxins have been used successfully for management of lepidopteran and coleopteran pest species, the sap-sucking insects (Hemiptera) are not particularly susceptible to Bt toxins. To overcome this limitation, we demonstrate that addition of a short peptide sequence selected for binding to the gut of the targeted pest species serves to increase toxicity against said pest. Insertion of a 12-aa pea aphid gut-binding peptide by adding to or replacing amino acids in one of three loops of the Bt cytolytic toxin, Cyt2Aa, resulted in enhanced binding and toxicity against both the pea aphid, Acyrthosiphon pisum, and the green peach aphid, Myzus persicae. This strategy may allow for transgenic plant-mediated suppression of other hemipteran pests, which include some of the most important pests of global agriculture.
Task Content Familiarity, Task Type and Efficacy of Recasts

The role of recasts has been the subject of an increasing number of second language acquisition (SLA) studies in recent years, as has been the role of tasks. Few studies, nevertheless, exist that investigate the interaction between the two. The present study makes a preliminary excursion into this unexplored domain by examining the impact of two task variables, task content familiarity and task type, on the efficacy of recasts. A total of 36 adult ESL learners participated in the study, and were randomly assigned to one of the four experimental groups: the Same Video group, the Different Video Group, the Same Notes group, or the Different Notes group. A pre-test/post-test/ delayed-post-test design was employed to detect any improvement in participants’ ability to use the past progressive form – the linguistic target. Results from analyses of variance show significant main effects for task content familiarity and task type.
Multiple primary sweat gland carcinomas.

Sweat gland carcinoma is a rare tumor, but one with a fully malignant potential. A unique case of two primary sweat gland carcinomas occurring in the same individual, with both metastasizing to regional lymph nodes, is presented. Microscopic and histochemical investigation revealed the tumors to be of apocrine sweat gland type. The clinical course for both of these tumors closely resembles that reported for other sweat gland carcinomas. Aggressive surgical therapy, including regional lymphadenectomy, is often necessary to afford the greatest likelihood for cure of these lesions.
Black lipid membranes: Thickness determination and molecular organization by optical methods

Abstract The thickness of black lipid membranes in aqueous solution is deduced from measurements of the intensity of reflected light. The membrane refractive index is determined according to Brewster's law. Numerical computations of membrane reflectance are presented for both a single-layer model and a triple-layer model. Experimental data interpreted in terms of the proposed triple-layered structure permit certain deductions concerning the molecular organization of these black lipid membranes.
Excision of a pulmonary valve abscess in a 61-year-old woman with single ventricle

A 61-year-old woman with levo-transposition of the great arteries, double-inlet single left ventricle, and valvar and subvalvar pulmonary stenosis presented with a large pulmonary valve vegetation unresponsive to antibiotic therapy. The diagnostic evaluation and the surgical management are discussed. At operation the pulmonary valve was excised and an abscess cavity was obliterated with a pericardial patch. She is currently doing well 3 years after the operation.
Molecular Changes Associated with Heat-Shock Treatment in Avian Mononuclear and Lymphoid Lineage Cells

The induction of heat-shock protein (HSP) synthesis in avian cells of the mononuclear phagocytic system (MPS) and lymphoid system (LS) lineage was investigated by exposure to in vitro heat-shock conditions. In addition, the kinetics of HSP90 mRNA expression was examined in chicken peritoneal macrophages (PM) as well as heat-shock-induced HSP synthesis in PM from chickens, turkeys, quail, and ducks. Each MPS and LS cell type expressed three major (23, 70, and 90 kDa) HSP following a 1-h heat shock at 45 C. However, a unique heat-induced 32-kDa protein (P32) was expressed only by cells of MPS lineage. The expression of HSP90 mRNA in chicken PM was temperature- and time-dependent. These findings imply that avian PM undergo molecular changes in response to elevated environmental temperatures and that the pattern of HSP expression appears to be distinct for cells of the MPS and LS lineages in chickens.
Adverse birth outcomes and maternal complications in licensed cosmetologists and manicurists in California.

Due to concerns around occupational chemical exposures, this study sought to examine whether women working as cosmetologists (providing hair and nail care services) and manicurists (providing only nail care services) have an elevated risk for adverse pregnancy outcomes. In this population-based retrospective study of cosmetologists and manicurists in California, we linked cosmetology licensee and birth registry files to identify births during 1996–2009. We compared outcomes among cosmetologists and manicurists to those of the general female population and to women from other industries. We also conducted restricted analyses for Vietnamese women, who comprise a significant proportion of the workforce. There was little evidence of increased risk for adverse birth outcomes, but we observed an association for small for gestational age (SGA) among Vietnamese manicurists (OR 1.39; 95 % CI 1.08–1.78) and cosmetologists (OR 1.40; 95 % CI 1.08–1.83) when compared to other working women. Some maternal complications were observed, notably an increased risk for gestational diabetes (OR 1.28; 95 % CI 1.10–1.50 for manicurists; OR 1.19; 95 % CI 1.07–1.33 for cosmetologists) compared with the general population, which further elevated when restricted to Vietnamese workers (OR 1.59; 95 % CI 1.20–2.11 for manicurists; OR 1.49; 95 % CI 1.04–2.11 for cosmetologists). Additionally, we observed an association for placentia previa among manicurists (OR 1.46; 95 % CI 1.08–1.97) and cosmetologists (OR 1.22; 95 % CI 1.02–1.46) compared with the general population. Women in the nail and hair care industry may be potentially at increased risk for some maternal complications, although further research is warranted. Vietnamese workers may also have increased risk for SGA.
Microlens formation in microgel/gold colloid composite materials via photothermal patterning.

We report on the nature of photothermally patterned regions inside self-assembled hydrogel nanoparticle materials containing coassembled colloidal Au. These composite materials are prepared from ∼2...
Spectrin autoantibodies in normal human serum and in polyclonal blood grouping sera.

Summary Naturally occurring spectrin autoantibody was detected in normal human sera and in polyclonal blood grouping sera by the immunoblotting technique. The autoantibody seems to be IgG, stable, of high titre and low affinity. It was detected in all sera tested. Preparations of monoclonal antibodies directed against some blood group antigens and anti-A1 lectin reagent were devoid of spectrin autoantibody as expected. This autoantibody may be instrumental in clearing red cell membrane components from the circulation during haemolysis. Care must be exercised in studies designed to determine the association of some blood group antigens with the red cell membrane skeleton, when using polyclonal sera which contain spectrin autoantibodies in addition to the antibodies against the blood group antigen in question.
Polarization scrambling using a photoelastic modulator: Application to circular dichroism measurement

In circular dichroism (CD) measurement using conventional modulation-spectroscopy techniques, spurious signals arise when birefringence and polarization sensitivity are simultaneously present along the optical path. We show that when such spurious signals originate in components subsequent to the sample, they can be removed by a second modulator placed immediately after the sample. This second modulator, which must have a different frequency from the first and must be adjusted to a specific retardation level, scrambles the polarization of the light so that the time average of the signal is zero. The true CD signal of the sample, on the other hand, is unaffected. An experimental demonstration of this result is presented. Spurious signals due to imperfections in components before the sample or in the sample itself cannot be nulled in the same manner.
Cloning and expression of a Nostoc sp. leucine biosynthetic gene in Escherichia coli

Genomic DNA extracted from the symbiotically-competent, heterocyst-forming cyanobacterium Nostoc sp. strain 7801 was resistant to cleavage by a number of restriction endonucleases. A cosmid library of Nostoc DNA was prepared and maintained in the modification-limited Escherichia coli strain HB101. Analysis of cloned Nostoc DNA fragments indicated infrequent occurrence of restriction endonuclease recognition sites in the Nostoc genome.