cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
High-order neural networks for image recognition

This paper discusses the application of high-order neural networks (HONNs) for image recognition and image enhancement of digitized images. A key property of neural networks is their ability to recognize invariances and extract essential parameters from complex high- dimensional data. The most significant advantage of the HONN over first-order networks is that invariances to geometric transformations can be incorporated into the network and need not be learned through iterative weight updates. A third-order HONN can be used to achieve translation, scale, and rotation invariant recognition with a significant reduction in training time over other neural net paradigms such as the multilayer perceptron. We have developed a model based on a third-order net that can be trained with various images. Simulation results show that the model is able to perform very well with images embedded in noise. It is also shown that this method outperforms the Hamming net. Our model has also been applied to another difficult and computationally-complex problem: human face recognition. We put forth arguments for the use of isodensity information in the recognition algorithm. A method of image recognition that fuses isodensity information and neural networks is described and its merits over other image recognition methods are expounded. It is shown that isodensity information coupled with the use of an 'adaptive threshold' strategy yields a system that is to a high degree unperturbed by image contrast noise. Simulation results for these applications are presented in the paper.
Constitutional coordination in unstable party systems: the Brazilian constitution of 1988

Constitutional assemblies are a common feature of many democratic transitions. However, the goal of coordinating constitutional choice would seem nearly impossible when assemblies are comprised of highly fragmented and volatile political parties. Building on Knight’s bargaining model, this article argues that the main challenge to coordination in unstable party systems is the procedural disequilibrium that results from incomplete information over breakdown payoffs. The likelihood of compromise in such circumstances is a function of the ideologies that frame constitutional choice and inform coalition-building. Thus, unstable party systems are not chaotic, although they may be deeply conflict-laden. These issues are illustrated empirically via the Brazilian Constitution of 1988, which demonstrates the possibilities for a stable constitutional order emerging from a fragmented and volatile party system.
Dehydrohalogenation Reactions Using Hindered Lithium Dialkylamide Bases

Abstract The E2 eliminations of 2-substituted butanes with a series of hindered lithium dialkylamide bases has been exmined. Excellent yields of butenes are obtained using 2-bromobutane and 2-iodobutane. Alkyl chlorides, acetates and tosylates give poor yields of olefin product. Elimination reactions show a rise, then a fall, in the 1-butene/2-butene(s) product ratio as the amide bulk increases. Dehydrohalogenation of 2-bromobutane with lithium 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidide in the presence of one equivalent of 12-crown-4 gives 1-butene/2-butene(s) product ratio of 99:1.
HPLC Determination of Taxol and Related Compounds in Taxus Plant Extracts

Abstract A sensitive and reproducible HPLC method, using a Curosil G column and gradient elution, was developed for the routine analysis of taxol (I) and six related taxanes, 10-desacetyl-7-epi-taxol (II), cephalomannine (III), 10-desacetyl taxol (IV), baccatin III (V), 10-desacetyl-7-epi-baccatin III (VI), and 10-desacetyl baccatin III (VII) in Taxus plant extracts. The method was linear for taxanes I-VII within the concentration range tested of 0.1μg–2.4 μg injected. Purging and regeneration procedures were used which allowed more than 600 injections to be made onto the same column without the development of backpressure problems. The day-to-day variation in the peak area of taxanes I-VII was minimum (C.V. = 9.8%, 9.1%, 5.8%, 7.7%, 7.4% and 7.8% respectively, n = 12). Variation within a day in the peak area of taxanes I-VII was even less (C.V. = 1.5%, 1.3%, 1.4%, 1.4%, 1.4%, 1.5% and 1.5%, respectively, n = 4). The separation efficiency of the Curosil G column was compared to pentafluorophenyl (Taxil) a...
Activated esters in the cationic polymerization of styrenes

Cationic polymerization of styrenes initiated by protonic acids can proceed via covalent intermediates. Calculations of the charge distribution in these species show low probability of transfer reactions. Macromolecular and model covalent species in the perchloric acid initiated polymerization of styrene have been directly observed by NMR. Esters formed with triflic acid are very reactive and participate in Friedel-Crafts alkylation at −78 °C. Acetates become active only in the presence of protonic and Lewis acids. 1-Phenylethyl trifluoroacetate activated with the parent acid reacts with styrene faster than the acid does. The racemization of the optically active ester is faster than its incorporation indicating an ionic mechanism of propagation in this system. Activation by Lewis acids proceeds by the reversible formation of complexes. Some systems yield polymers with low polydispersity.
Modeling of the Flow and Heat Transfer in Micro Heat Pipes

The fluid flow and heat transfer characteristics of micro heat pipes are analyzed theoretically, in order to understand the physical phenomena and quantify the influence of various parameters on overall thermal performance of these devices. A one-dimensional model is utilized to solve the governing equations for the liquid/vapor flow and the heat transfer in the heat pipe channel. Variations in the liquid and vapor cross-sectional areas along the axial length of the heat pipe are included and the equations are solved using an implicit finite difference scheme. Appropriate models for fluid friction in small passages with varying cross-sectional areas have been incorporated to yield the axial distribution of the meniscus radius of curvature and the velocity, temperature and pressure in both the liquid and the vapor phases. Using this information, the effective thermal conductivity of the micro heat pipe is modeled, and parametric studies are performed by changing the heat load and cooling rate. The results of the analysis are discussed and compared with other theoretical models and experimental results found in the literature. By so doing, this analysis provides greater insight into the physical phenomena of flow and heat transfer in micro heat pipes and identifies a methodology for optimizing the design of these devices.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
Catabolites of cholesterol synthesis pathways and forskolin as activators of the farnesoid X-activated nuclear receptor.

The nuclear receptors are a family of transcriptional mediators that, upon activation, bind DNA and regulate gene transcription. Among these receptors, the farnesoid X-activated receptor (FXR) has recently been identified as one activated by bile acids and farnesol. To investigate the potential of other sterols to activate FXR, as well as to examine relevant relationships among identified activators of FXR, the current study used a mammalian cell transcription assay to quantify and compare activation potential. In addition to the classical bile acids deoxycholate (DCA) and chenodeoxycholate (CDCA), FXR was shown to be transcriptionally active in the presence of the androgen catabolites 5alpha-androstan-3alpha-ol-17-one (androsterone) and 5beta-androstan-3alpha-ol-17-one (etiocholanolone), as well as the sterol bronchodilatory drug forskolin. Conversely, cholesterol and several other key precursors to the androgens and bile acids were either not active or only slightly active. Furthermore, it was observed that the bile acid ursodeoxycholate (UDCA) could inhibit DCA and CDCA activation of FXR in a manner parallel to its ability to antagonize DCA and CDCA induction of apoptosis. By far, the most efficacious activator of FXR was forskolin. Interestingly, although it is classically viewed as an initiator of the adenylate cyclase/protein kinase A (PKA) pathway, PKA inhibition did not inhibit forskolin's activation of FXR nor was cyclic AMP (cAMP) able to stimulate FXR-mediated transcription. These data would suggest that forskolin acts as a ligand for FXR rather than as a secondary activator of FXR and could have important implications with respect to its potential toxicity and pharmacological use.
The U-Ti system: Strengths and weaknesses of the CALPHAD method

Abstract Input from Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations is used to understand phase equilibria in a binary metallic alloy fuel system: U–Ti. The CALPHAD approach is employed to calculate a U–Ti phase diagram that is consistent not only with experimental data but also—more importantly—with thermodynamic data from DFT calculations: heat of formation of γ(bcc)-U–Ti alloys as a function of composition, and formation enthalpy of the δ-U2Ti compound. Three DFT-based electronic structure methods are utilized: SR-KKR-ASA-CPA, SR-EMTO-CPA, and FPLMTO-SQS, and the use of derived ab initio data avoids the manifestation of unreasonable or inaccurate phase stabilities that result from an otherwise unconstrained Gibbs energy minimization within the CALPHAD approach. We also investigate phase formation of the δ-U2Ti phase in the U–Ti system, that stabilizes in the same C32 structure as other binary metallic fuel alloys such as U–Zr and Np–Zr.
Reactive sputtered CuInSe2

Abstract The deposition of CuInSe 2 thin films by co-sputtering from copper and indium planar magnetron sputtering sources in a working gas of argon plus H 2 Se is being investigated. Near-stoichiometric coatings deposited onto glass and molybdenum-coated substrates have been found to have resistivities, Hall mobilities, absorption coefficients, band gaps, surface topographies, grain sizes and oxygen heat treatment behavior comparable with those of films produced by the more common three-source evaporation method. However, it has not been possible by reactive sputtering to deposit indium-rich films ([In]/[Cu] ≈ 1.5) of the type commonly used as a top layer in the preparation of two-layer device quality films by the evaporation method. Apparently an indium-rejection behavior, which occurs during the deposition process in H 2 Se reactive sputtering, makes it difficult to achieve indium compositions beyond the amount that can be incorporated into the CuInSe 2 chalcopyrite phase. Experiments are described which were conducted to examine the dependence of the indium-rejection behavior on the deposition conditions.
Relationship of Attachment and Social Support to College Students' Adjustment Following a Relationship Breakup

Two constructs integral to adolescent development, continuing parental attachment and social support, were investigated to assess whether the constructs are differentially related to indices of adjustment following a romantic relationship breakup. Participants were 241 undergraduate students (M age = 20.62 years, 61% female, 39% male) with a relationship breakup within the last year. As hypothesized, hierarchical regression analyses showed that current attachment levels were related to the outcome variables. Indices of social support accounted for additional variance only when broadly conceptualized as perceived connection to the social environment, rather than perceived support from family and friends. Implications for counseling are discussed.
Thermal Wedging in Lake Macatawa, Michigan: Long-Term Impact of Channelization

Abstract Bottom wedging of cold Lake Michigan waters into Lake Macatawa, Michigan through a connecting ship channel occurs frequently during summer months and results from upwelling in Lake Michigan. This thermal wedging causes sporadic flushing of sediment-laden waters into Lake Michigan, pronounced artificial stratification in Lake Macatawa which may lead to anoxic bottom conditions, and pronounced drops in bottom temperature. Since Lake Macatawa, like many other coastal lakes and rivers located along the Great Lakes, has been connected to Lake Michigan via an artificial ship channel, the process of thermal wedging is an unnatural one. Influences of thermal wedging upon the lake environment should be considered in evaluating the long term effect of channel construction.
ETHNIC STUDIES: GROWING PAINS OF A SOCIAL STUDIES STEPCHILD

(1975). ETHNIC STUDIES: GROWING PAINS OF A SOCIAL STUDIES STEPCHILD. The Review of Education: Vol. 1, No. 2, pp. 251-254.
The common convective envelope model for W Ursae Majoris systems and the analysis of their light curves

The common convective envelope model for W UMa systems is used to analyse the light curves of the sixteen systems with spectroscopic mass ratios. From the derived photometric elements, an indication is found that Binnendijk's W-type systems have only shollow common envelopes, which is therefore suggested to be the cause of the difference between A- and W-type systems. It is also suggested that the structure of many contact binaries permits only a shallow common envelope and that further study of such envelopes will yield the modification in the model required if a closer fit to the W-type light curves is to be obtained.
Influence of an inhibitor of gibberellin biosynthesis, paclobutrazol, on apple seed gibberellin content

Tissue-culture-propagated own-rooted cv. Spartan apple trees (Malus domestica Borkh.) planted in 1979 were treated in 1983 and 1985 via a soil-line trunk drench with the plant growth retardant paclobutrazol [(2RS, 3RS)-1-(4-chlorophenyl)-4.4-dimethyl-2-(1,2, 4-triazol-1-yl) pentan-3-ol]. Seeds of immature fruits from untreated and treated trees were sampled in 1989 ca 75 days after full bloom. After seeds were freeze-dried, gibberellins (GAs) were extracted, purified and fractionated via C18 reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Gibberellins A1, A3, A4, A7, A8, A9, A15, A17, A19, A20, A24, A34, A35, A44, A51, A53, A54, A61, A62, A63 and A68 were identified by using C18 HPLC, gas chromatography-selected ion monitoring and Kovats retention indices. Eight of the GAs identified were also quantified by using deuterated internal standards. The paclobutrazol applications caused a 55% reduction of vegetative shoot elongation in 1989, but both treated and untreated trees had developed a biennial bearing pattern by that time (heavy bloom or “on year’in 1989). Levels of early 13-hydroxylation pathway GAs, viz. GA53, GA19, GA20, GA1 and also GA3, were not altered by treatment. However, GA4, GA7 and GA9 were increased 13.4, 6.5 and 3.8 times, respectively, in seeds of fruit from treated compared to untreated trees.
Eggshell thickness and reproduction in American kestrels exposed to chronic dietary lead.

American kestrels (Falco sparverius) were randomly paired and fed 0, 10, or 50 ppm metallic lead in their diet from November 1979–May 1980. Lead levels were elevated in bones and livers of birds receiving the treated diets, particularly the 50 ppm treatment group. Differential deposition of lead was noted between males and females, with the highest levels in the females. No adverse effects were evident with respect to survival, egg laying, or initiation of incubation in any treatment group nor was fertility or eggshell thickness affected. Little or no lead was transferred to the egg contents and although lead was present in the shell, the levels were too variable for this to be considered a useful measure of exposure.
Isolation of obligate anaerobic bacteria from ulcerative keratitis in domestic animals.

Objective To determine the frequency of obligate anaerobic bacterial isolation from corneal samples of domestic animals with ulcerative keratitis and to characterize the historical, clinical, cytological, and microbiological features of culture-positive cases. Animals studied Three hundred and thirty domestic animals with ulcerative keratitis. Procedures Anaerobic bacteriologic culture and Gram stain were performed on corneal samples from consecutive animals examined with suspect septic ulcerative keratitis. Additional corneal diagnostics included: aerobic bacteriologic culture for all species; fungal culture for ungulates; Mycoplasma culture and virus isolation or feline herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1) polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for cats. Historical, clinical, and cytological findings were correlated with microbiologic data. Results Anaerobic bacteria were isolated from 13.0% of corneal samples (dogs: 14.0%; horses: 12.9%; cats: 7.9%; alpacas: 18.8%). The most frequent isolates were Clostridium, Peptostreptococcus, Actinomyces, Fusobacterium, and Bacteroides species. The majority of these infections were mixed anaerobic and aerobic bacteria, unless antimicrobial therapy had been administered prior to presentation. The clinical appearance of anaerobic bacterial culture-positive cases was highly variable. Ocular trauma, pre-existing corneal disease, previous corneal surgery, and chronic dermatological disease were significantly (P ≤ 0.05) correlated with positive anaerobic cultures in one or more species. Conclusions The results of the present study demonstrate that obligate anaerobic bacteria are present within the intralesional flora of ulcerative keratitis in domestic animals. In most species evaluated, these bacteria were identified infrequently. Anaerobic bacterial infection of the cornea most frequently occurs in association with other ocular pathogens and previous corneal abnormalities.
Towards tetrasilabicyclo[1.1.0]butane: reductive coupling of 1--butyl-2,2-dimesityl-1,1,2-trichlorodisilane ☆

Abstract Reductive coupling of 1- t -butyl-2,2-dimesityl-1,1,2-trichlorodisilane employing Li-naphthalenide furnishes, on oxygenation or hydrolysis of the reaction mixture, products ( 8 - 11 ) that may arise from insertion of oxygen into or the addition of water across the Si-Si bonds of 1,3-di- t -butyl-2,2,4,4-tetramesityltetrasilabicyclo-[1.1.0]butane ( 3 ).
Polyolefin oxidation: Quantification of alcohol and hydroperoxide products by nitric oxide reactions☆

Abstract A new procedure has been developed for the identification and quantification of key products from the oxidation of solid polyolefins, based on reactions with gaseous nitric oxide. Alcohol and hydroperoxide groups are converted to nitrites and nitrates, respectively, and can be detected with high sensitivity by infrared spectroscopy. Furthermore, the nitrate and nitrite absorptions are influenced by the primary, secondary or tertiary nature of the alkyl substituents so that it is possible to identify differing sites of attack in branched polyolefins. Preliminary results from the application of nitric oxide reactions to the analysis of polyethylene and polypropylene oxidized by γ-irradiation are used to illustrate the potential of the technique and a comparison made with other current methods.
Anticonvulsant activity of ginseng on seizures induced by chemical convulsants.

Summary: Purpose: To test the anticonvulsant activity of three preparations of American ginseng: whole root extract, whole leaves/stems extract, and a partially purified extract that concentrates the Rb ginsenosides (Rb extract). Methods: One hour after treatment with normal saline, or one of the three ginseng preparations, seizures were induced in adult, male, Sprague–Dawley rats with kainic acid (KA; 10 mg/kg), pilocarpine (300 mg/kg, preceded by methylscopolamine, 1 mg/kg, s.c.), or pentylenetetrazol (PTZ, 50 mg/kg). Time to onset of seizure activity, duration of seizure activity for PTZ, seizure severity, and weight change for KA and pilocarpine were determined for each animal. The brains from animals who had received KA or pilocarpine were examined for severe neuronal stress, by using immunoreactivity for heat-shock protein (HSP)72. Results: The Rb extract had a dose-dependent anticonvulsant effect in all three models of chemically induced seizures: increasing the latency to the seizures; decreasing the seizure score, weight loss, and subsequent neuronal damage after pilocarpine; and shortening the seizure duration and reducing mortality after PTZ. The Rb extract also significantly reduced the effects of KA, including completely blocking behavioral seizures. The root preparation increased the mortality rate after administration of pilocarpine, but had no other significant effects. The leaves/stems preparation, at 120 mg/kg, reduced the weight loss after pilocarpine, but had no other significant effects. Conclusions: Ginseng extract made from either the root or leaves/stems is ineffective against chemically induced seizures. A partial purification of the whole extract that concentrates the Rb1 and Rb3 ginsenosides has significant anticonvulsant properties.
Molecular Composites Made of Ionic Poly(p-phenylene terephthalamide) and Poly(4-vinylpyridine): Deformation Modes

Deformation modes were examined on strained thin films of a series of molecular composites containing ionically modified rodlike molecules of poly(p-phe- nylene terephthalamide) (PPTA) dispersed in a polar polymer matrix. The rigid mole- cules were a modified form of PPTA in which the H atom of the amide group was replaced, on 30 mol % of the monomer units, by an ionic propane sulfonate group. The polar polymer matrix of these composites was the flexible-coil polymer, poly(4-vi- nylpyridine). Ionic interactions between the two components increased the effective entanglement strand density and produced changes in the deformation modes. The observed changes were dependent on the relative concentration of the two components and on the nature of the counterion. With K as the counterion, the induced deforma- tion mode changed from pure crazing, as in the matrix polymer, to combined crazing and shear deformation at 5 wt % of the ionic polymer and to essentially pure shear deformation as the concentration increased to 15 wt %. However, when Ca 2 was the counterion, pure shear deformation developed at a concentration of only 5 wt %. This effect was attributed to a greater ionic interaction and to a higher effective strand density of the composites, when monovalent K was replaced by divalent Ca 2 . © 2003
Evolutionary and genetic methods in drug design

Many phases of rational drug design involve finding solutions to large combinatorial problems for which an exhaustive search is intractable. A simulation of the evolutionary pressure of natural selection can be incorporated into artificial intelligence algorithms to rapidly find good, if not optimal, solutions to such problems. This review describes implementations and select applications of genetic algorithms and evolutionary programming in various aspects of rational drug design. Evolutionary methods have been developed in the areas of pharmacophore elucidation, lead discovery and lead optimization, as well as in many areas of peripheral importance to rational drug design.
Computerized system for stimulus generation, control, behavioral data acquisition and summary for primate visual psychophysics

Abstract A computerized system for the collection of visual contrast sensitivity information from nonhuman primates is described. A systems analytical approach is presented in which modulation transfer functions are obtained that describe the spatial resolving power of the visual system. Sample data from humans including a transfer function are presented. Detailed descriptions of all facets of the experimental method are presented. Included are computer software summaries, an instrumentation description, stimulus calibration and display procedures, a description of the psychophysical task, and a data summary. The general method has application to numerous animal psychophysical tasks in which titration schedules are used.
Some effects of diffusion on the flow of ions in the solar wind

The contribution of diffusive effects to the near equality of flow velocities of H+ and heavier ions of the solar wind at 1 AU is examined. Frictional drag on heavy ions from average solar wind fluxes of H+ appears to make an appreciable contribution to equalizing velocities. The frictional drag on H+ due to the presence of heavy ions may make an appreciable contribution to equalizing flow velocities, since compensating increases in coronal temperatures may be required in order to give solar wind velocities for H+. However, rather large enhancements of heavy ions near the sun appear to be required. If appreciable enhancements of heavy ions extend beyond about 2.5 solar radii, significant increases in heavy ion temperatures above H+ temperatures may be produced. This temperature difference may contribute to equalizing flow velocities and may contribute to the explanation of measured temperature differences at 1 AU between H+ and He++.
Three Models of Development: Community Ophthalmology NGOs and the Appropriate Technology Movement

Abstract This paper describes a new shift in the appropriate technology movement in less economically developed countries as seen in a multi-sited ethnography of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in the scientific field of ophthalmology. This research reveals how Aravind Eye Care System in southern India and Tilganga Institute of Ophthalmology in Nepal are addressing “undone science” for avoidable blindness. They are creating the requisite local hospital and personnel infrastructure while conducting “civil society research.” They are also providing high quality modern care to low-income patients of the global south while charging reduced or no fees. This paper argues that they represent a third model in the appropriate technology movement—contextually appropriate local production of high technology. This third model focuses on socially responsible innovation for purposes of social improvement; it is rooted in nonprofit, social enterprise organizations to include the following four aspects: (1) scientific innovation or the “appropriation” of new science; (2) organizational innovation, including changes in operations management for self-sufficiency through multiple revenue streams; (3) technological innovation or the creation of new products and artifacts; and (4) an underlying ideological orientation that is based on local philosophy (and challenges hegemonic understandings of postcolonial dependency or neoliberalism).
Brain metastases in N2-positive non-small-cell lung cancer: Implications for prophylactic cranial irradiation

Patients with non-small-cell lung cancer with positive lymph nodes (stage IIIA and IIIB) have an increased risk for brain metastases. Those with nonsquamous histology are at higher risk. Despite this fact, the use of prophylactic cranial irradiation (PCI) has not shown an improvement in survival in these patients and is still considered to be investigational. The Radiation Therapy Oncology Group attempted to prospectively address this in a randomized trial that recently closed because of poor accrual. We present 2 cases and review the literature and provide an argument for the consideration of PCI in select patients.
On the modification of γ-globulin by acid☆

Bovine γ-pseudoglobulin undergoes structural modification on exposure to media more acidic than pH 4.2. By the concomitant use of hydrodynamic and osmotic pressure measurements the conclusion is reached that under certain conditions (e.g., ionic strength 0.1, pH changing from 7 to 3.1) the protein undergoes configurational changes which affect its sedimentation constant, but are usually without influence on its molecular weight. With properly chosen salt concentration, however, acid pH's also can cause aggregation of the protein molecules.
Expression of specific pteridines in neural crest transplants betweenPleurodeles and axolotl

Abstract Species specificity between ambystomids and salamandrids occurs with respect to pteridine content of xanthophores. Ranachrome-3 is typical of axolotl larvae but is not found inPleurodeles. Pleurodeles contains pleurodeles-blue, which is absent from axolotl xanthophores. Axolotl xanthophores contain much more isoxanthopterin than do those ofPleurodeles. Exchange of neural crest between these two species results in the appearance of both ranachrome-3 and increased amounts of isoxanthopterin inPleurodeles hosts. Expression of the axolotl pteridine pattern is an autonomous function. Pleurodeles-blue does not develop in axolotl hosts. The expression of this pteridine byPleurodeles xanthophores seems to be dependent upon host environment.
T- and NK-cell lymphoma update

Abstract The 2008 WHO classification of mature T- and NK-cell neoplasms recognizes 18 distinct clinico-pathological entities and a number of subgroups or provisional disease categories. The most important changes compared to the 2001 edition include recognition of chronic lymphoproliferative disorders of NK cells and EBV-positive T-cell lymphoproliferative disorder of childhood entities; redefinition of subcutaneous panniculitis-like T-cell lymphoma (TCL) as a neoplasm of T cells expressing α/β T-cell receptor and recognition of primary cutaneous γ/δ TCL, and separation of anaplastic large cell lymphoma into ALK positive and negative subtypes. With the help of molecular tools, investigators have unveiled some of the molecular events in T-cell lymphomagenesis. These include delineation of similarities between physiological T-cell subsets and some TCL and a number of gene specific genetic alterations. Although the findings have a long way to go before a clinical translation can be achieved, they raise a number of new potential diagnostic and treatment targets.
High sensitivity test signatures for unconventional analog circuit test paradigms

A method of testing for parametric faults in analog circuits based on a polynomial representation of fault-free function of the circuit is presented. The response of the circuit under test (CUT) is estimated as a polynomial in the root mean square (RMS) magnitude of the applied input voltage at a relevant frequency or DC. The test then classifies the CUT as fault-free or faulty based upon a comparison of the estimated polynomial coefficients with those of the fault-free circuit. The test application needs very little augmentation of the circuit to make it testable as only output parameters are used for classification. The method is validated on an active elliptic filter and is shown to uncover parametric faults causing deviations as small as 5% from nominal values. Fault diagnosis based upon sensitivity of polynomial coefficients at relevant frequencies is discussed. Another type of circuit signatures in the form of probability moments of the output when test input is random noise are also proposed. It is shown that the sensitivity of either signature can be enhanced by a newly proposed nonlinear V-transform. Finally, an adaptive test framework leveraging from these signatures and the transform technique is shown to improve defect level and yield loss.
Transfer of Chlorfenapyr Among Workers of Reticulitermes flavipes (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae) in the Laboratory

The potential for transfer of chlorfenapyr among subterranean termites was investigated using a donor–recipient (5:95 ratio) experiment. In one experiment, workers of Reticulitermes flavipes (Kollar) (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae) were exposed to treated sand at 0, 50, 100, 250, and 500 ppm chlorfenapyr (wt [AI]/wt sand). Exposed workers were allowed to interact with untreated nestmates for 14 d, after which mortality was assessed. The three colonies responded differently to the treatments in this experiment. For two colonies, donor exposure rates of 500 ppm (as well as 250 ppm for colony B) chlorfenapyr resulted in significantly greater recipient mortality than controls. For colony C, donor chlorfenapyr exposure did not significantly influence recipient mortality. In a second experiment examining donor mortality over time, donor termites exposed to all test concentrations of chlorfenapyr (except for 0 ppm) suffered 100% mortality within 5 d. Analysis of donor termite body washes using gas chromatography indicated a linear uptake of chlorfenapyr by termites over the concentration range studied. Thus, for this concentration range, no upper limit (saturation plateau) of termite uptake for chlorfenapyr was reached.
Synthesis and reactivity of molybdenum-sulfur cubes

Abstract A series of tetranuclear Mo4S4(R2NCS2)6 complexes has been prepared by using the ‘self-assembly’ route as well as by synthesis from well-defined molecular building blocks. A variety of mononuclear, dinuclear and trinuclear building blocks have been successfully used to prepare the tetranuclear Mo4S46+ complexes. These thiocubanes have been prepared with mono-anionic 1,1-dithiolate ligands, which provide each of the Mo atoms with a pseudo-octahedral coordination geometry and result in the formation of neutral species. Mo4S4L6 complexes with dialkyldithiocarbamate (DTC), R2NCS2; dialkyldithiophosphate (DDP), (RO)2PS2; alkylxanthate (XAN), ROCS2; and alkylthioxanthate (THIOXAN), RSCS2 ligands have been prepared. The structure of the Mo4S4(DDP)6 complex was determined by single crystal X-ray structure analysis and is compared with the structures of other known Mo4S4 thiocubane complexes. The synthesis, electrochemistry, reactivity and bonding of the tetranuclear clusters are presented.
Pulsating Stars in Close Binaries. I. Investigations of Eclipse Mapping and Oblique Pulsations

Asteroseismology has successfully been applied to our Sun, white dwarfs, Cepheids, and a few other classes of variable stars to discern their internal properties. However, the success of applying asteroseismology depends on the determination of pulsation spherical harmonics, which is often difficult. To facilitate mode identifications, we investigate a new tool for asteroseismology: pulsating stars in close binaries, with an emphasis on pulsating subdwarf B stars. In this work we consider variations in the inclination of the pulsation spherical harmonics to the rotation axis and the impact of changing viewing geometry caused by eclipses (eclipse mapping).
Somatostatin-Like Immunoactivity and Biological Activity Is Present in a Human Pheochromocytoma

Somatostatin (SRIF)-like immunoreactivity (SRIF-LI) has previously been demonstrated immunohistochemically in sympathetic nerves and ganglia and in adrenal medullary cells. Studies were therefore performed to determine whether SRIF-LI was present in an adrenal pheochromocytoma. Acetic cid extracts of pheochromocytoma tissue contained high SRIF-LI concentrations (5.52 micrograms/g wet wt). On Sephadex G-75 gel filtration, the major peak of pheochromocytoma SRIF-LI coeluted with synthetic SRIF. SRIF-LI of a larger molecular size was also present in the tumor. Pheochromocytoma SRIF-LI coeluted with synthetic SRIF on reverse phase high pressure liquid chromatography. Pheochromocytoma SRIF-LI purified by high pressure liquid chromatography was equipotent to synthetic SRIF in inhibiting (Bu)2cAMP-stimulated GH release by rat pituitary cells in monolayer culture. Serum SRIF-LI was elevated in the patient before surgery and was restored toward normal after removal of the tumor. Serum levels of GH, TSH, and insulin were not obviously different before and after tumor removal. The results indicate that SRIF-LI is produced in excessive quantities by a pheochromocytoma. The immunological, chromatographic, and biological properties of the pheochromocytoma SRIF-LI suggest that it is indistinguishable from synthetic SRIF. This finding extends the list of peptides produced by pheochromocytoma and may provide an additional serum marker for the tumor in man.U
Thermal imaging of microwave fields inside the surfatron and the microwave plasma torch

Abstract A new method is introduced for imaging microwave fields, such as those found in microwave-plasma support structures. The method relies upon the darkening that such fields cause in heat-sensitive paper, such as that used in some telefax printers. With this new method, the microwave-frequency electric fields inside two microwave-plasma support structures, the surfatron and the microwave plasma torch, have been measured and subsequently imaged in three dimensions. The images reveal that the surfatron and microwave plasma torch have different operational behavior. As expected, the electric field strength inside the surfatron exponentially falls off down the length of the quartz plasma tube. The field inside the microwave plasma torch initially diminishes, but then increases in strength towards the end of the tube. An aerosol was introduced into the surfatron to observe the effect of water vapor on the electric field strength and distribution. The exponential axial decay of the electric field in the ‘dry’ surfatron plasma, characteristic of a surface wave propagating down a quartz plasma tube, is extended further down the quartz tube in the ‘wet’ plasma. A drop in plasma conductivity is likely the origin of the elongated propagation of the surface wave.
A dynamic continuum model for molecular regulation of the humoral immune response.

Abstract Based on current concepts of the nature of specific immunocompetent cell surface receptors, hematopoietic stem cell differentiation and membrane dynamics, a simple model is proposed by which the event of immunogen binding by cell surface receptors specifically stimulates a constitutive process. The concept that enhancement of process flows in two directions with time allows for correlation of recent experimental findings into a molecular theory for antibody induction. The Model helps explain antibody specificity, heterogeneity and affinity changes and rationalizes immune memory.
Compact perturbations and norm attaining operators

In 1963, Lindenstrauss showed that for a reflexive space, X, and any Banach space,Y, that the norm attaining operators in L(X, Y) are dense. Recall that a linear operator A is norm attaining if there exists a unit vector x such that ∥Ax∥ = ∥A∥. In this note, it will be shown that for any fixed bounded linear operator A on a Hilbert space the set of compact perturbations of A which fail to produce a norm attaining operator is smaller than nowhere dense (porous) in the ideal of compact operators. A simple new proof of Lindenstrauss' result for a Hilbert space will be established. Examples are given which show that the hypotheses of these theorems cannot be relaxed.
Ion Exchange Properties of Novel Hydrous Metal Oxide Materials

Hydrous metal oxide (HMO) materials are inorganic ion exchangers which have many desirable characteristics for catalyst support applications, including high cation exchange capacity, anion exchange capability, high surface area, ease of adjustment of acidity and basicity, bulk or thin film preparation, and similar chemistry for preparation of various transition metal oxides. Cation exchange capacity is engineered into these materials through the uniform incorporation of alkali cations via manipulation of alkoxide chemistry. Specific examples of the effects of Na stoichiometry and the addition of SiO{sub 2} to hydrous titanium oxide (HTO) on ion exchange behavior will be given. Acid titration and cationic metal precursor complex exchange will be used to characterize the ion exchange behavior of these novel materials.
Ganglion cell responses of the mudpuppy retina to sinusoidal flicker

Abstract Spike discharges of mudpuppy ganglion cells were described in response to sinusoidal light stimulation of their receptive field centers. Tonic surround stimulation increased the responses of on-off-cells and off-cells, but decreased the on-cell response.
The impact of family planning programs on fertility in developing countries: A critical evaluation

Abstract Controversy surrounds the question: do organized family planning programs produce fertility decline in developing countries that is independent of other causes? Two major conclusions emerge from this critical evaluation of 26 past studies on this question. First, the disparate results are associated with the differential validity of the studies. Second, the fertility declines or variations analyzed were generated mainly be indigenous causes, that is, they would have occurred and the means for bringing them about would have been available without family planning programs. Hence, the programs had little net effect on fertility.
Selective zinc-lead extraction from chloride solutions with long-chain amines

Abstract The zinc-lead separation from a chloride solution in the form of a synthetic leach liquor has been studied using tertiary aliphatic amines and tetra-alkylammonium salts. Larger extractions, and hence distribution coefficients, are observed with ammonium salts. However, the best separation factors occur when employing tertiary amines. The results show that it is possible to leave the lead in the aqueous solution whilst the zinc is transferred to the organic phase by a proper choice of the hydrochloric acid and extractant concentrations. An approach to coordination chemistry is suitable to explain the extraction mechanism.
Spatial frequency and orientation tuning of spatial visual mechanisms in human albinos

A masking paradigm was used to measure the spatial frequency and orientation tuning of spatial mechanisms in the albino visual system. Threshold elevation curves obtained in this manner at test spatial frequencies of 0.25 cycles/deg (cpd), 0.50 cpd, and 1 cpd have the same shape as curves obtained from normal subjects at test frequencies two octaves higher. Additional masking studies showed that contrast processing in albinos obeys the same compressive power law as in normals. Thus, spatial mechanisms in albino central vision have normal spatial frequency and orientation bandwidths. As central cones in the albino are spaced 3-4 times further apart than in the normal fovea, these results support the hypothesis that monocular spatial vision in albinos is primarily limited by this increased receptor spacing. It is hypothesized that this, in turn, is the result of arrested development of the albino retina.
Energy Conversion During Expansion of a Solid-Particle-Entrained Gas

Pneumatic energy is converted into solid particle kinetic energy as a solid-particle-entrained gas flows downward through a vertical nozzle. For the conditions studied, the solid particles serve as a heat exchange medium to enable a gas expansion that is nearly isothermal. Also, the kinetic energy associated with the two-phase fluid is predominantly that associated with subsonic solid-particle motion. The kinetic energy of the solid particles is converted into other forms using a low-speed turbine. A theoretical description of the process is presented, and the initiation of an experimental effort to study the process is described. Experimental gas phase temperature measurements indicate the realization of isothermal expansion. Experimental turbine erosion rate measurements indicate that relatively low erosion rates occur for the conditions studied.
Morphological changes and yield enhancement of Russet Burbank potatoes by AC 243,654

The nitroguanidines are a new family of plant growth regulators with cytokinin-like activity. AC 243,654, l-(m)-methoxybenzyl)-3-nitroguanidine, is a member of this family, and has caused morphological and yield changes on several crops. Greenhouse-grown potatoes (Solanum tuberosum L.), cultivar Russet Burbank were exposed at 15 days after emergence (DAE) to AC 243,654 at 0.5 and 1 kg/ha. The effects of AC 243,654 on plant growth and tuber yields were determined at 7, 14, 28, 42, 56, and 70 days after treatment (DAT). At 14 to 42 DAT, AC 243,654 increased the number of branches. Stolon length was increased at 7 and 14 DAT, and root length was decreased at 7 DAT. Stem length was not affected. Plant weight was higher in treated plants than in checks at 14 DAT but not at 28 DAT. At 42 DAT, the check weight was decreasing while the weight of the treated plants was maintained. The slower weight loss in treated plants is attributed to the anti-senescence effect of AC 243,654. Treated plants had greater tuber yield and number than the checks at tuber initiation, 7 DAT. From 14 DAT to the final harvest at 70 DAT, the treated plants produced higher yields than the checks of tubers over 25.4 mm. This resulted in higher total yields at 42, 56 and 70 DAT, but not at 14 and 28 DAT due to the proportionately lower yield of tubers less than 25.4 mm
Substance P stimulates the opossum sphincter of oddi in vitro

We have previously shown that substance P (SP) regulates sphincter of Oddi (SO) motility in vivo. However, its mechanism of action remains unclear. Our aim was to develop an in vitro model to measure spikeburst (SB) an contractile frequency (CMC) of the SO and to characterize further SP effects. In 16 opossums, SO rings were excised, mounted within a Kreb's tissue bath with bipolar electrodes and force transducers, allowed to equilibrate, and exposed to increasing SP concentrations with washout between each test solution. Spikeburst and CMC frequencies were recorded on a polygraph, quantitated, expressed as differences before and during SP, and statistically analyzed with Student's test. Although SP induced a significant concentration-dependent increase in phasic SB frequency and CMC, the amplitude of concentrations was not affected by SP. A close correlation was found between basal and SP-stimulated SB and CMC, suggesting myoelectric and mechanical coupling. Previous exposure of SO to SP antagonist [D-Arg1, D-Pro2, D-Trp7,9, Leu11]-SP significantly decreased the response to SP. Tetrodotoxin (TTX), did not affect the delta CMC response to SP. In conclusion an in vitro preparation was developed to study the effect of SP on the SO. Substance P increased SB and CMC of the SO in a concentration-dependent fashion, thus acting as a stimulatory peptide. Perfusion of SO rings with SP antagonist had no effect on basal CMC but significantly inhibited the action of SP in a competitive manner. The effect of SP was not altered by TTX. These data suggest that the action of SP on the SO is primarily myogenic.
Metrizamide interferes with the determination of protein by the Lowry method.

Abstract Metrizamide, a tri-iodinated benzamido-derivative of glucose, is a density-gradient material which gives dense aqueous solutions of low viscosity and osmolality (1). These advantages, coupled with its nonionic nature, chemical inertness, and low degree of hydration in solution, promise that it will be increasingly used for the separation of biological macromolecules, subcellular components, viruses, and cells by equilibrium density gradient centrifugation (2–4). In the course of our attempts to use Metrizamide to facilitate the fractionation of membranous organelles of pituitary homogenates by equilibrium density centrifugation (5), we have found that Metrizamide, even at concentrations as low as 1%, significantly interferes with protein determination by the Lowry method. We report here that the interference of Metrizamide can be circumvented by the use of appropriate blanks and calibration curves.
Corticofugal control of central auditory sensitivity in the big brown bat, Eptesicus fuscus

Using bats as a model auditory system, we studied corticofugal control of auditory sensitivity of neurons in the inferior colliculus. We demonstrate for the first time that the corticocollicular pathway continuously regulates acoustic signal processing in the inferior colliculus by increasing the threshold, reducing the auditory spatial response area, and sharpening the frequency tuning curve of recorded inferior collicular neurons. Regulation of auditory sensitivity of recorded inferior collicular neurons was observed when the corticocollicular pathway was activated by electrical stimulation in the auditory cortex. The effect of this corticofugal regulation of auditory sensitivity in inferior collicular neurons can also be produced by ionophoretical application of GABA to the collicular recording site. This regulation of ascending acoustic information by commands originating from higher brain centers may provide the bat with a mechanism to actively control acoustic signal processing and thus optimize acoustic signal analysis.