cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Role of T cells in immunity to the intracellular pathogen, Leishmania major.

Members of the genus Leishmania are protozoan parasites that exist as flagellated promastigotes in the vector for the parasite, the phlebotomine sandfly. Man acquires the disease when bitten by an infected sandfly. The life cycle of Leishmania is schematically depicted in Figure 1. Within man, the parasite is an obligate intracellular parasite of macrophages in which it transforms into its nonflagellated amastigote form. The amastigotes are found in phagolysosomes in the macrophage where they not only survive but replicate until specific immunity intervenes and activates the macrophage to destroy the parasite. For a more detailed description of the biology of Leishmania and the epidemiology and clinical aspects of leishmaniasis, the reader is referred to any of several surveys on the subjects, among which are Howard (1986), Molyneux and Kililck-Ken-drick (1987), and Neva and Sacks (1990).
Observation of the ideal Josephson effect in superfluid 4He.

Superfluids and superconductors are the only states of condensed matter that can be described by a single wavefunction, with a coherent quantum phase Φ. The mass flow in a superfluid can be described by classical hydrodynamics for small flow velocity, but above a critical velocity, quantized vortices are created and the classical picture breaks down. This can be observed for a superfluid flowing through a microscopic aperture when the mass flow is measured as a function of the phase difference across the aperture; the curve resembles a hysteretic sawtooth where each jump corresponds to the creation of a vortex1,2,3. When the aperture is made small enough, the system can enter the so-called ‘ideal’ Josephson regime1,4, where the superfluid mass flow becomes a continuous function of the phase difference. This regime has been detected1,5,6 in superfluid 3He, but was hitherto believed to be unobservable, owing to fluctuations7, in 4He. Here we report the observation of the ideal Josephson effect in 4He. We study the flow of 4He through an array of micro-apertures and observe a transition to the ideal Josephson regime as the temperature is increased towards the superfluid transition temperature, Tλ.
Characterization of soybean lipoxygenase immobilized in cross- linked phyllosilicates

Lipoxygenase (LOX) is an enzyme that regioselectively introduces the hydroperoxide functionality into polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as linoleic acid (LA). Hydroperoxide derivatives of polyunsaturated fatty acids are of interest because they can serve as important intermediates in the synthesis of chemical and pharmaceutical compounds. In this study, LOX was immobilized in dispersed phyllosilicate layers that were cross-linked with silicate polymers formed by the hydrolysis of tetramethyl orthosilicates. The effects of substrate concentration, reaction temperature and solvent participation were studied on the oxidation of LA by LOX. The temperature optimum for the oxidation of LA by immobilized LOX was 25 degrees C and values of Km and Vmax for this reaction were 1.7 mM and 0.023 micromol/min respectively. Enzymic activity was stimulated by the addition of 10% (v/v) iso-octane to the reaction mixture. The immobilized LOX preparation showed a degree of substrate preference that demonstrated that 1,3-dilinolein was a better substrate than LA in the oxidation reaction, followed in order by 1-monolinolein, methyl oleate and trilinolein. In general, LOX immobilized in cross-linked phyllosilicates retained the physical and chemical characteristics of free LOX.
Multi-objective evolutionary search performance with explicit building-block sizes for NPC problems

This research uses an explicit building block based MOEA to solve the multiobjective quadratic assignment problem. We use the multiobjective messy genetic algorithm II (MOMGA-II) to determine what role certain building blocks sizes play in filling up the Pareto front. Additionally, we investigate the role of the competitive template. The algorithm uses the competitive template by propagating it through all the building block sizes and by randomizing it for each building block size. We show that randomized competitive templates produce better results due to more exploration, and larger building block sizes are more common on the outer edges of the Pareto front because they fill more chromosome characteristics in the genotype space.
Abstract 310: Production of Basal Lamina Collagen IV by Cardiac Fibroblasts in 3-Dimensional Cultures

Cardiac fibroblasts are generally considered the primary cell type that controls extracellular matrix homeostasis in the heart. Distinct changes in amounts and composition of extracellular matrix occur from birth to old age. Accordingly, age-dependent alterations in cardiac extracellular matrix are an important factor governing response to injury and pathological remodeling. Whereas cardiac myocytes are surrounded by a basal lamina, cardiac fibroblasts do not assemble a cell-adjacent basal lamina. Evidence is presented that in addition to fibrillar collagen production, cardiac fibroblasts are also the primary cell type responsible for the production of collagen IV. First, patterns and abundance of collagen IV in murine heart was established in sections from neonate, adult, and aged mice. Second, production of collagen IV by fibroblasts grown in 3-D fibrin gels was assessed by confocal microscopy and quantification by immmunoblot analysis. Finally, co-cultures of cardiac fibroblasts with myocytes were performed to show that fibroblasts are the primary cell type producing collagen IV under these conditions. The basal lamina of the myocytes plays a critical role in aligning and tethering myocytes together as well as making connections to the interstitial collagen fibers of the heart. Hence, production of collagen IV by cardiac fibroblasts would provide a mechanism by which cardiac fibroblasts assist in aligning and securing cardiac myocyte alignment and structural integrity via basal lamina production.
Observations on Pseudobryopsis and Trichosolen (chlorophyceae-bryopsidaceae) in America

Oltmanns (1904, p. 303) credits Berthold with the separation of Pseudobryopsis from Bryopsis on the basis of the presence of specialized gametangia and the segregation of the ramelli by a basal wall. The species from Naples which he knew, P. myura (J. Ag.) Berth., only occasionally has the erect axes branched, has simple ramelli neither markedly curved nor particularly swollen
Nutrition Education Intervention for Pregnant Women with High Oral Mutans Streptocci Levels

Text: Research has indicated that children attending Head Start programs in Connecticut have a high incidence of dental caries. Research shows that high oral mutans streptococci bacteria contribute to dental caries. Additionally, studies have shown that a reduction of mutans streptococci in the mother reduces the transmission of the bacteria to the child, thereby decreasing dental caries in the child. A nutrition education intervention was designed to reduce mutans streptococci in the mothers. Pregnant women from a community health center were recruited for this project. Women interested in participating had their mutans streptococci level measured to determine eligibility. One hundred twenty-one pregnant women completed the baseline visit which consisted of a demographic survey, Block Fat-Sugar-Vegetable Food Frequency Screener, and a 24-hour recall. Sixty-seven percent of the participants were Hispanic. Income was reported as less than $10,000 per year for 63% of the individuals reporting income. Food frequency data indicate that participants choose fruit juices, juice drinks, sweetened teas, and sweetened carbonated beverages more than unsweetened varieties. Forty-five percent of the participants indicated they eat cereal daily with 63% choosing sweetened cereals. Participants ate 1.7 servings of sweets (cake, cookies, ice cream, candy, etc.) per day. Two group nutrition education interventions were developed emphasizing the importance of decreasing sugar consumption. An interactive “sugar” game was played as part of the first intervention and an interactive computer game was played as part of the second intervention. Data show this population needs nutrition education and enjoys interactive group interventions.
Formation of a Stable Heterodimer between Smad2 and Smad4

Smad proteins mediate transforming growth factor β signaling from the cell membrane to the nucleus. Upon phosphorylation by the activated receptor kinases, the receptor-regulated Smad, such as Smad2, forms a heterocomplex with the co-mediator Smad, Smad4. This heterocomplex is then translocated into the nucleus, where it associates with other transcription factors and regulates expression of ligand-responsive genes. The stoichiometry between receptor-regulated Smad and co-mediator Smad is important for understanding the molecular mechanisms of the signaling process. Using purified recombinant proteins, we demonstrate that Smad2 and Smad4 form a stable heterodimer and that the Smad4 activation domain is important for the formation of this complex. Many tumor-derived missense mutations disrupt the formation of this heterocomplex in in vitro interaction assays. Mapping these mutations onto the structures of Smad4 and Smad2 identifies a symmetric interface between these two Smad proteins. Importantly, two previous models on the formation of a heterocomplex are incompatible with our observations and other reported evidence.
Supraventricular Origin of Bidirectional Tachycardia Report of a Case

We have confirmed a supraventricular origin of bidirectional tachycardia with simultaneous standard electrocardiograms and a His bundle electrogram. The patient had sinus rhythm, variable trifascicular block and atrioventricular block below the His bundle. Ventricular excitation varied among three patterns which included right bundle branch block with right axis deviation (RBBB-RAD), right bundle branch block with left axis deviation (RBBB-LAD), and right axis deviation without right bundle branch block (RAD). Sinus beats with alternating patterns of RBBB-RAD and RBBB-LAD resulted in bidirectional tachycardia as did sinus beats with alternating patterns of RBBB-LAD and RAD. Our observations prove that bidirectional tachycardia may be initiated by a supraventricular pacemaker and that the distinguishing bidirectional quality of this arrhythmia need not always occur with constant right bundle branch block.
Hyperoxia inhibits several critical aspects of vascular development

Normal human retinal vascular development uses angiogenesis and vasculogenesis, both of which are interrupted in the vaso-obliteration phase of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Canine oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR) closely resembles human ROP. Canine retinal endothelial cells (ECs) and angioblasts were used to model OIR and characterize the effects of hyperoxia on angiogenesis and vasculogenesis. Cell cycle analysis showed that hyperoxia reduced the number of G1 phase cells and showed increased arrest in S phase for both cell types. Migration of ECs was significantly inhibited in hyperoxia (P < 0.01). Hyperoxia disrupted the cytoskeleton of angioblasts but not ECs after 2 days. Differentiation of angioblasts into ECs (determined by acetylated low-density lipoprotein uptake) was evaluated after basic fibroblast growth factor treatment. Differentiation of angioblasts into pericytes was determined by smooth muscle actin expression after treatment with platelet-derived growth factor. Differentiation into ECs was significantly inhibited by hyperoxia (P < 0.0001). The percentage of CXCR4(+) cells (a marker for retinal vascular precursors) increased in both treatment groups after hyperoxia. These data show novel mechanisms of hyperoxia-induced disruption of vascular development.
Simulation, scale-up and economics of adsorption and membrane based processes for isoflavones recovery

Abstract Laboratory scale adsorption and membrane based processes for the recovery of isoflavones from red clover flowers were reported earlier ( Xu et al., 2005 , Xu et al., 2006 ). However, studies on scale-up and simulation for commercialization for both the methods have not been studied. In present study the economic feasibility of isoflavones recovery based on these two methods was investigated with a commercial bio-process simulator (SuperPro Designer®). Laboratory scale separation data from previously published work was used in the simulations. Preliminary simulation studies confirmed the requirement of effluent streams recycling in order to reduce the production costs. Different flowsheets incorporating solvent recovery and recycle operations were designed and simulated to compare the economics of operation. Modified adsorption and membrane based processes incorporating recycling of waste streams were found to be economically more attractive than that of respective standard processes reported in the literature. The membrane process with solvent recycling had the lowest production cost of US$618/kg for isoflavones supplement. The adsorption-recycle process was found to be more expensive at US$1116/kg, while it had a higher content of isoflavones.
Amalgamation classes of some distributive varieties

This paper investigates the amalgamation classes of finitely generated varieties with distributive congruence lattices. Necessary and sufficient conditions are given for an algebra to be a member of the amalgamation class of a variety generated by a finite modular lattice or pseudocomplemented distributive lattice and of a filtral variety.
An existence theorem for discrete-time infinite-horizon optimal control problems

An existence theorem is given for a general class of deterministic, infinite-horizon, discrete-time optimal control problems. The hypotheses of the theorem are weak and can be easily verified. The objective function may be either a summation or supremum over time.
Targeted Therapy for the Treatment of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: Focus on Inhibition of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor

Systemic chemotherapy is the standard treatment for patients with advanced stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and improves both their survival and quality of life. Despite this, the overall prognosis for advanced NSCLC remains poor. Molecularly targeted therapies are being developed in an effort to improve outcomes for patients with advanced NSCLC. The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) pathway is dysregulated in the majority of NSCLC tumors and plays a role in tumor growth and invasion. As such, EGFR has emerged as a rational target in the treatment of NSCLC. EGFR signal may be blocked with small molecule inhibitors of the tyrosine kinase of EGFR (erlotinib, gefitinib) and with monoclonal antibodies against the ligand-binding domain (cetuximab). Erlotinib and gefitinib are in clinical use as single agents for the treatment of NSCLC and recent data suggest cetuximab improves survival when combined with chemotherapy for the treatment of metastatic NSCLC. This article reviews the role of currently available and emerging EGFR inhibitors in the treatment of NSCLC.
Current balancer for parallel operation of multiple MW power modules

This paper deals with current balancing techniques for parallel operation of multiple mega-watt (MW) power converter/inverter modules. A compact and reliable current balancer is needed in many high current mega-watt power conversion systems. Detailed current balancer circuit design, implementation, and validation with a 4.3-MW/3600-A inverter module are presented. To achieve the 3600-A rms inverter current rating, six phase legs have to be operated in parallel. Each phase leg employs 1200-A IGBTs to provide 600-A rms output current. Because of differences of time delay and parameter tolerance in control circuits and switching speed difference in IGBTs, direct parallel operation without any current balancing circuit may result in huge circulating current and short circuit to the IGBTs. A current balancer is indispensable in practice. To achieve compactness and light weight, a very high permeability magnetic core with no air gap is used for the current balancer. Circuit modeling, design, and experimental validation with the 4.3-MW/3600-A inverter module demonstrate in detail how to implement such current balancers. Experimental results obtained show an excellent current balancing ability with circulating current limited below 2.6% of the rated current.
Model for ferroelectric Gd2(MoO4)3

Abstract Based on recent X-ray data, it is suggested that the phase transition in Gd 2 (MoO 4 ) 3 is a structural transition driven by a soft q ≠ 0 mode. A tentative model to account for the elastic and ferroelectric properties is presented.
Accumulation and depletion of oxytetracycline in juvenile white shrimp (Penaeus setiferus)

Abstract Oxytetracycline was fed in a formulated feed to juvenile white shrimp ( Penaeus setiferus ) at concentrations ranging from 1,000 to 10,000 mg/kg of feed for 3 weeks, followed by 2 weeks of feeding without oxytetracycline. Oxytetracycline was detectable after 24 h of feeding at 5,000 and 10,000 mg/kg of feed, and after 48 h when 1,000 mg/kg was fed. Peak concentrations at 5,000 and 10,000 mg oxytetracycline were reached within the first week of feeding in one group of shrimp while the other group required 2 weeks at 5,000 and 3 weeks at 10,000 mg oxytetracycline to reach maximum levels. At 1,000 mg oxytetracycline maximum retention occurred during the third week of feeding in both groups. When food containing oxytetracycline was discontinued, retention of this antibiotic in the shrimp was undetectable within 3 days for the 1,000 mg group and within 2 weeks for the groups on 5,000 and 10,000 mg/kg oxytetracycline diets.
Osteoclast precursors, RANKL/RANK, and immunology.

Summary: Rapid progress has been made in recent years in our understanding of the mechanisms regulating the formation, activation, and survival of osteoclasts, which are derived from precursor cells in the myeloid lineage. In contrast, study of the regulation of osteoclast precursors (OCPs) has been relatively slow, in part because it has been hard to accurately identify them. However, following the discovery of cell-surface markers that facilitated purification of OCPs, recent studies have demonstrated that peripheral blood OCP numbers are increased in tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-mediated arthritis, both in animals and humans, and these numbers correlate with serum TNF levels. The increase can be reversed by anti-TNF therapy. Furthermore, the precursor cells that give rise to osteoclasts can also differentiate into other cell types, including dendritic cells. Receptor activator nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL) stimulates OCPs to produce pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, and RANKL blockade prevents joint inflammation in a murine model of inflammatory arthritis. These findings suggest that OCPs may serve as a source for both osteoclasts and other effector cells and participate actively in the pathogenesis of diseases. Here, we review our current understanding of the regulation of OCP formation and differentiation and provide a model of a vicious cycle in which pro-inflammatory cytokines produced in inflamed joints feedback on the bone marrow to promote the generation and release of OCPs. The OCPs then home to the inflamed joints to differentiate into mature osteoclasts or to produce more inflammatory factors in the presence of RANKL. Disruption of this cycle could provide a new strategy for the development of drugs to treat inflammatory arthritis and other disorders associated with elevated OCP/myeloid progenitors.
Respiration and cell volume of primary cultured cerebral astrocytes in media of various osmolarities

Abstract Respiration and cell volume of cerebral astrocytes from primary culture were measured in media of various osmolarities. Respiration was measured in 3T3 fibroblasts under similar conditions. Uncoupled respiration and respiration independent of oxidative phosphorylation were obtained by adding dinitrophenol and oligomycin, respectively. In NaCl media, dinitrophenol-stimulated respiration was inhibited at low and high osmolarities. With increasing osmolarity from 363 to 1185 mOsm, oligomycin-insensitive respiration increased and became the predominant respiratory component. The same respiratory changes in response to altered osmolarity were observed in 3T3 fibroblasts. In astrocytes, the oligomycin-insensitive respiration also increased in hyperosmolar sodium acetate media but was unchanged with increasing osmolarity in choline chloride or sucrose media. The increase in oligomycin-insensitive respiration in hyperosmolar NaCl media was blocked by amiloride, an inhibitor of passive Na + movement. In contrast to amiloride, ouabain, an inhibitor of Na + , K + -ATPase, inhibited was the constant amount of respiration with increasing NaCl concentration. The relationship of astrocyte volume to osmolarity was the same in hyper-osmolar media containing NaCl or sucrose. Cell volumes were greater in hypo-osmolar NaCl than in sucrose media. Our results suggest the presence of a Na + -dependent respiratory component in primary cultured cerebral astrocytes in media of increased osmolarity. This respiratory component is not coupled to oxidative phosphorylation of a Na + , K + -ATPase. It may be important in the proposed physiologic role of the astrocyte in maintaining brain extracellular water content and electrolyte concentrations.
Pancreatic function in malabsorbing alcoholic cirrhotics.

A six-month prospective study to identify malabsorbing alcoholic cirrhotics was performed in a 500-bed general medical and surgical Veterans Administration Hospital. Of 50 patients with alcoholic liver disease, only 9 met the criteria of, cirrhosis and malabsorption. Six of these subjects were studied using pancreozymin-secretin tests and Lundh tests meals. Only 1 of the 6 malabsorbing cirrhotics had distinctly abnormal test results from both methods of study.
Pain measurement in reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome.

The reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome (RSDS) consists of a triad of pain, edema and sympathetic dysfunction of an extremity following trauma, peripheral nerve injury or central nervous system disorder. Reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome is a difficult and costly pain syndrome to treat. One of the difficulties in evaluating treatment efficacy is the objectification and quantification of patient findings. The purpose of this investigation was to develop a simple, reproducible and systematic evaluation of pain and neurologic impairment in RSDS. The protocol evaluation included the following measures of pain and impairment: (1) objectification of distal joint pain by palpation (0–4 scale); (2) volumetric measurement by water displacement of the distal limb; (3) skin temperature measurement; (4) active range of motion assessment of the affected limb (AROM); (5) McGill Pain Questionnaire (MPQ); and (6) visual analogue pain scale (VAS). Seventeen subjects with definite or probable RSDS were evaluated. The mean age of patients was 35.6 years ± 8.0 years (±2 S.E.M.), and the mean duration of symptoms was 11.8 ± 4.8 months. There were an equal number of subjects with upper and lower extremity involvement. The VAS had significant correlations with limb volume, AROM-lower extremity and joint pain indices (P < 0.0005). The MPQ subscales had robust correlation with the joint pain indices alone (P < 0.0001). Skin temperature was not predictive of changes in joint pain score, AROM, limb volume or subjective pain measures. However, there was internal consistency between volumetric and AROM measures and joint pain indices. This protocol is recommended for use in therapeutic trials for the treatment of the RSDS.
Herniation through the foramen of Morgagni in children

Eight cases of herniation through the foramen of Morgagni are described. They fell into two distinct groups presenting either as neonatal respiratory distress or as an incidental findings in older children. Diagnosis is essentially radiological, stressing the importance of a lateral film. Surgical repair is advocated. the abdominal approach being perferred. Pneumopericardium is a rare but severe complication.
Microphysical, radiative, and dynamical impacts of thin cirrus clouds on humidity in the tropical tropopause layer and lower stratosphere

Cloud-resolving numerical simulations are carried out to study how in situ formed cirrus affect the humidity in the tropical tropopause layer and lower stratosphere. Cloud-induced impacts on the specific humidity are evaluated separately in terms of (i) the dehydration efficiency and (ii) the increase in the saturation mixing ratio associated with cloud radiatively induced temperature adjustment. The numerical results show that the dehydration efficiency of cirrus clouds, which is measured by the domain average relative humidity, varies within 100 ± 15% in all model configurations (with/without heterogeneous ice nucleation and with/without cloud radiative heating and cloud dynamics). A larger impact on the specific humidity comes from temperature increase (of a few kelvins) induced by cloud heating. The latter is found to scale approximately linearly with the domain average ice mass. Resolving the cloud radiatively induced circulations approximately doubles the domain average ice mass and associated cloud-induced temperature change.
Changing Occupational Pattern Among Prehistoric Horticulturalists in sw New Mexico

AbstractStudies of the land use patterns of prehistoric agriculturalists have traditionally assumed that cultivation implies sedentism. Recent research has challenged this as a necessary assumption, offering various views on the mobility patterns of prehistoric agriculturalists. This paper presents an evaluation of the occupational history of a Mimbres and Tularosa Mogollon site located in SW New Mexico, but outside core population areas. Although cultivation was the primary activity throughout the history of site occupation, discontinuity of site use and change in occupation patterns indicate considerable movement by these prehistoric cultivators. Abandonment of large sites in core population areas of the Mimbres branch occurred during the occupation of this small site. The change in its role in the settlement system may indicate regional reorganization of the Mimbres population or abandonment by that population, preceding reoccupation by a different group.
New Atom/Group Volume Additivity Method to Compensate for the Impact of Strong Hydrogen Bonding on Densities of Energetic Materials

The quantitative impact of strong hydrogen bonding on the densities of energetic materials is discussed. On the basis of our new volume parameters designated for neutral high-energy density materials, the volume of each NH2 or NH group must be corrected by −8 A3 to compensate for strong bonding: i.e., (1) when both carbon atoms vicinal to an NH2 or NH group have nitro groups or one C−NO2 and one N−oxide; or (2) if the molecule has C2 symmetry, e.g., at least two nitro and two NH2 groups in the vicinal position, two NH2 groups may be corrected by −8 A3 in total (exemplified by 1,1-diamino-2,2-dinitroethene (FOX-7), 2,4,6-triamino-3,5-dinitropyridine (Cambridge Crystallographic Data Centre (CCDC) Refcode: TIBMUM), 2,6-diamino-3,5-dinitropyrimidine (CCDC refcode: CIWMAW01, etc.); or (3) when some heterocycles (triazole, pyrazole, etc.) contain the fragment −NHNO2. For 261 explosives with an average density of 1.803 g·cm−3, the mean absolute deviation (MAD) for the proposed current method is 0.026 g·cm−3, and...
Effects of bismuth replacement for copper on the microstructure and superconductivity of YBa2Cu3Oy

The partial replacement of copper with bismuth in YBa2Cu3Oy had led to a new phase instead of crystal site substitution. The resulting YBa2BiO6 could also be found whenever YBa2Cu3Oy reacted with Bi2O3. The YBa2BiO6 was formed either at the expense of YBa2Cu3Oy or by decomposing it, together with the liberation of copper oxide. Electrical measurements revealed the trend toward increased semiconducting normal state resistivity for bismuth-replaced samples. The insulating YBa2BiO6 phase was responsible for the deterioration of both superconductivity and mechanical strength.
Ultraviolet spectral evolution and heavy element abundances in Nova Austrinae 1981

Nova CrA 1981, a moderately fast galactic nova, was systematically observed over a period of seven months with the IUE satellite. The initial evolution of the UV spectrum was similar to that of previously observed novae; however, several months after maximum, weak emission due to very high ionizating forbidden lines of Na, Mg, Al, and Si appeared, eventually decreasing in strength over the next two months. The spectral development of the lines is consistent with the photoionization of an expanding shell; a high-temperature 'coronal' origin is ruled out. Abundances deduced from the spectra show that most of the observed heavy elements in the ejected material are enhanced with respect to helium, with neon the most abundant of these. In addition, there are substantial deviations of the Na/Mg/Al/Si abundance ratios from solar values. This is interpreted as evidence for the mixing of core material with the accreted envelope on a massive O-Ne-Mg (as opposed to a C-O) white dwarf. Furthermore, the proportion of core material in the ejecta implies that the mass of the white dwarf decreased as a consequence of the outburst.
Radiological evidence of progression of bronchiectasis.

Radiological evidence of progression of bronchiectasis was sought in a group of 84 consecutive adultpatients admitted to a tertiary unit with a particular interest in the disease. Methodical comparison for each patient of the earliest and most recent chest X-rays ( n = 84), bronchograms ( n = 1) and thoracic computed tomography (CT) scans ( n = 32) was performed. Fifteen patients (18%) were considered to show radiological evidence of progression of bronchiectasis, 14 on chest X-ray, two of whom also showed progression on CT scans, and in one patient on bronchography alone. The likelihood of finding evidence of radiological progression increased the longer the interval between examinations. Serial radiology allows identification of patients with progression of disease and indicates the need to review management strategy.
Smoking withdrawal symptoms in two weeks of abstinence

In order to study trends in smoking withdrawal symptoms, 35 participants in a smoking cessation clinic completed four questionnaires daily for 2 weeks. The questionnaire dealt with a variety of symptoms which a factor analysis showed could be grouped into four factors: stimulation, desire to smoke, and physical and psychological symptoms. Changes were observed in reports of symptoms over days. Trend analyses found that each symptom group except stimulation showed significant patterns or changes as a function of days in abstinence. These symptom clusters were all found to have U-shaped functions. In addition, desire to smoke and psychological symptoms showed linear decreases as abstinence proceeded. Light and heavy smokers were found to differ in the pattern of reported stimulation.Ss who were totally abstinent reported less severe craving overall for cigarettes than those who only reduced their cigarette consumption by an average of 60%. Also, the craving of totally abstinentSs dropped off more sharply as abstinence proceeded. The import of these patterns and trends in withdrawal symptoms as a function of time is discussed.
The prediction of the maximum corrosion fatigue crack propagation rate in the low alloy steel-de-oxygenated water system at 288°C

Abstract There is increasing evidence that the environmental enhancement of fatigue crack growth rate in the A533B pressure vessel steel-de-oxygenated water system at 288°C is a function of the sulphur content in both the alloy and the environment. The objective of this investigation is to explain quantitatively this phenomenon and to predict the maximum theoretical increase in propagation rate due to this compositional effect at various stress amplitude, mean stress and loading frequency conditions. The film-rupture-slip-dissolution model of environmentally enhanced cracking was used as a working hypothesis. Measurements of oxidation rates on bared surfaces exposed to aqueous environments expected at the crack tip indicated that these rates were strongly dependent on the sulphur content in the electrolyte. Incorporating these oxidation rates into the film-rupture-slip-dissolution model of crack advancement indicated that such a model, could explain quantitatively the observed corrosion fatigue rates over a wide range of frequency, ΔK and R values for both high and low sulphur content systems. The model predicted that the theoretical maximum environmental enhancement in the crack propagation rate may be in excess of the currently observed values, under certain material and loading condition combinations. The theory also predicted that these excessive enhancements were unlikely to be sustained since the crack advance rate should decelerate with time due to chemical blunting at the crack tip. Limited experimental evidence indicates that this prediction is correct.
Bacteriophage T4 as a generalized DNA-cloning vehicle

We have designed a method for inserting foreign DNA segments into bacteriophage T4. A plasmid containing T4 DNA is opened within the T4 sequence and the foreign DNA is inserted in vitro. Recombination in vivo, between T4 and the doubly chimeric plasmid, results in insertion of the foreign DNA into the genome of viable T4 phage. We have demonstrated the method by inserting a 203-bp DNA fragment from the lactose operon of Escherichia coli, into the dispensable region of the rIIB gene of T4. With minor modifications, the method should make possible the cloning of very large DNAs into any one of a large number of sites on the T4 chromosome.
Literacy instruction: From assignment to assessment

Abstract This action research demonstrates the answer to this question: How can literacy professors provide effective training in evaluating writing to preservice graduate education students? The study examines writing assessment instruction in the context of a literacy course required of preservice teachers seeking secondary (7–12) certification in content area instruction. Approximately half of the course is devoted to instruction in 3 areas of writing assessment: (1) theory and practice in aspects of holistic writing assessment analysis, (2) methods for designing teachable rubrics, and (3) approaches to creating and sharing written feedback. Student-participants’ written responses to protocols demonstrate learning outcomes in these 3 areas along with their attitudes and the effects of their practice with an authentic set of high school students’ essays. The study demonstrates the effectiveness of this assessment instruction as a part of overall effectiveness in teacher preparation programs at the graduate level.
Changes in extracellular space in optic nerves of regenerative and nonregenerative animals after hypertonic fixation: Implications for axon regeneration

Abstract The optic nerves of some regenerative and nonregenerative animals were compared using electron microscopy, after hypertonic perfusion. Optic axons and glial cell processes separated more readily in regenerative animals, creating large extracellular spaces. In mammals, cell processes remained in close proximity. These findings may indicate lesser adhesion between cell processes in optic nerves of regenerative animals, a characteristic that could allow “potential” space for axon regrowth after nerve injury.
The rhythm of microbial adaptation.

The evolutionary biologist “studies the steps by which the miraculous adaptations so characteristic of every aspect of the organic world have evolved”1. But the general nature of such adaptive steps is still unclear. Evolution is often thought to be random and dependent on unpredictable events2. In this light, one might expect the steps taken by adaptation to be completely random, both biologically and temporally. Here I present a mathematical derivation to show that, on the contrary, adaptive steps can have fairly strong rhythm. I find that the strength of the adaptive rhythm, that is its relative temporal regularity, is equal to a constant that is the same for all microbial populations. As a consequence, numbers of accumulated adaptations are predicted to have a universal variance/mean ratio. The theory derived here is potentially applicable to the study of molecular evolution.
The Cardinal Number d and Convergent Sequences in Q

. The cardinal number d is defined such that N1 |Ml b |Ml d |Ml c. It is shown that d is the minimum cardinality of a sequential cover of the space of the rational numbers with the usual topology.
There’s No Crying in Baseball, or Is There? Male Athletes, Tears, and Masculinity in North America:

We explore men’s negotiation of emotional expression within larger social discourses around masculinity. Drawing on the phenomenon of men’s crying within the competitive sports context, we demonstrate that although the prevailing image of men’s emotion is one of constricted expression and experience, inexpressivity is representative neither of typical nor ideal masculinity in contemporary dominant culture. We first review the literature on prevailing cultural beliefs about normative male emotional expression, then focus on literature specific to men’s tears. Turning to a discussion of masculinity and sports participation, we offer possible explanations for why counter normative emotional expressions may be particularly prevalent and public in the context of men’s competitive sports, despite wider cultural discourses that appear to discourage men’s openly expressive behavior.
Void structure in textiles by nuclear magnetic resonance, Part I. Imaging of imbibed fluids and image analysis by calculation of fluid density autocorrelation functions

Abstract Void structure in textiles may be characterized by a variety of methods, including many based on nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). The NMR techniques are based on the measurement of fluid distribution or diffusion within porous media, and are therefore particularly relevant for characterizing the void space that governs fluid interactions and movement within textile substrates. In this article, we describe the use of NMR imaging, also known as magnetic resonance imaging, to measure average void dimensions in textile fabrics. In addition to direct visualization using NMR images, void space may be analyzed by calculating the fluid density autocorrelation function. The advantages of both types of data analysis are discussed. These NMR techniques are applied to a water-saturated nylon fabric and the results compared to void sizes measured from optical microscopy.
Printed Circuit Board Pad Crater Test Methods and Sample Design

The continual drive toward smaller second level interconnect dimensions, along with the introduction of Halogen-Free circuit board materials and increased process temperatures of Lead-Free solders, have all contributed to a more frequent occurrence of Pad Crater damage in circuit board materials during manufacturing and test processes. This paper addresses the methodology and test data of some common industry methods used to evaluate Pad Crater strength in circuit board materials. Pad Crater test data is highly sensitive to sample design; as a result a discussion of sample design criteria is also included.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Expanded Solubility Parameter Approach I: Naphthalene and Benzoic Acid in Individual Solvents

An expanded solubility parameter system was tested in conjunction with the extended Hansen solubility approach and the UNIFAC method to calculate the solubilities of naphthalene and benzoic acid in polar and nonpolar solvents. The expanded parameter system is characterized by δd for the dispersion force, δp for dipolar forces, a basic or electron-donor parameter, δb, and an acidic or electron-acceptor parameter δa. The correlation between the calculated and observed solubilities of benzoic acid was increased by use of the four-parameter system. An indicator variable was required to bring the solubilities into line in strongly dipolar solvents such as N, N-dimethylformamide. For naphthalene, use of the four-parameter approach proved not to be an improvement over the three-parameter extended Hansen solubility approach. The UNIFAC method was not successful in calculating solubilities of benzoic acid in the 40 polar and nonpolar solvents. A triangular plot of the three Hansen parameters for benzoic acid, p-hydroxybenzoic acid, and methyl p-hydroxybenzoate illustrated the contributions of dispersion, dipolar, and Lewis acid-base (hydrogen bonding) interaction forces among the three benzoic acid compounds and the various classes of solvents. A multiple regression procedure for calculating the four partial solubility parameters of drug solutes was developed.
Cycles of risk

Much of the social choice literature has tried to skirt around the main conclusion which it has come up with. The literature seems to imply that the world is in disequilibrium, yet it keeps trying to model the process in terms of equilibrium models and to search for conditions which guarantee equilibria. The conditions which have been found for equilibrium when only pure strategies are used are so servere, we would seldom expect them to be met. But if the conditions for equilibria over pure strategies are servere, then the conditions for equilibria over risky strategies must be even more so, for risky strategies can, atbest, disrupt existing equilibria. In this paper, we have attempted to accept the deductions of the model, and to investigate, instead, the implications of this lack of equilibrium. We have argued that, in a large class of situations, it seems that we will get convergence in risk even if there is no euqilibrium. Moreover, the point to which the risk will converge may not be entirely arbitrary, i.e., the area of intransitivities, given that candidates adopt optimal responses to each other, may be a fairly localized region in the space.
New epoxy resins. II. The preparation, characterization, and curing of epoxy resins and their copolymers

A polymer having high aromaticity and/or cyclic ring structures in the chain backbone usually gives high heat resistance and flame resistance. Five glycidyl ether-type epoxy resins are prepared from bisphenol A (DGEBA), 9,9-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)fluorene (DGEBF), 3,6-dihydroxyspiro-[fluorene-9,9′-xanthane] (DGEFX), 10,10-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl) anthrone (DGEA), and 9,9,10,10-tetrakis(4-hydroxyphenyl)anthracene (TGETA) in order to study structure–thermal stability–flame resistance property relationships. In this study, trimethoxyboroxine (TMB) and diaminodiphenylsulfone (DDS) are employed as the curing agents. The char yield at 700°C under a nitrogen atmosphere and the glass transition temperature (Tg) for the uncured resins decrease according to the sequence TGETA > DGEFX > DGEA > DGEBF > DGEBA. The Tg values for these cured epoxy resins are DGEBA < DGEBF < DGEFX < DGEA. A Tg for the TGETA is not obtainable but would be expected to be the highest. The char yields at 700°C of these cured epoxy resins have the same trend as the uncured resins. DGEBF, DGEFX, DGEA, and TGETA added to the DGEBA system show increases in the char yield, Tg, and oxygen index with increasing concentration of these novel epoxy resins.
Management's evaluation of internal controls under Section 404(a) using the COSO 1992 control framework: Evidence from practice

A large number of surveys and research studies have been conducted on documenting the costs and benefits of implementing Section 404 internal control certification requirements. Overall, these studies conclude that for companies of all sizes — accelerated and nonaccelerated filers — costs far outweigh the benefits and sustaining compliance with Section 404 at such high costs would make US capital markets much less competitive in future. None of these research studies, however, have focused on analysing one of the most key aspects of SOX 404 implementation — that is, how companies are utilising the COSO 1992 control framework to carry their mandate under Section 404(a). Although the COSO Committee had issued in 2004 an ERM-based control framework, the COSO 1992 control model has remained the framework of choice for majority of the companies so far that have filled their Section 404 certifications. This research paper attempts to understand how the guidance presented in this control model is being utilised by documenting the current implementation practices at a cross-section of the SEC registrants. By analysing the responses of 374 survey participants from companies of all sizes, this research study documents that companies are relying more on the internal control auditing standard than utilising the guidance provided in the COSO 1992 control framework to conduct their ICFR evaluations. Such a significant nonreliance on the most widely cited control model should be of concern to the audit committees, senior company managers, external and internal auditors, standard-setting and regulatory agencies in the US and abroad as various other countries assess the practicality and viability of implementing similar rules in their jurisdictions. Given the findings reported in this research paper, investors may question the robustness of ICFR assessment assurances provided to them by the companies in their Section 404(a) management reports, audit committees may wonder if they are being provided with a false-sense of security that their company's ICFR is effective. Similarly, external auditors may question the basis of their client's claim that they have conducted the ICFR assessment 'in accordance with the COSO 1992 Framework.' Policy makers may question whether there is a need to more formally evaluate the suitability of the COSO 1992 control framework for Section 404(a) assessments and if there is a need to develop a set of generally accepted control assessment standards that would provide direct and practical guidance to company managements in conducting their internal control evaluations.
Immunofluorescence staining of cultured neurons: a comparative study using tetanus toxin and neurofilament antisera.

Tetanus toxin and neurofilament antisera stained cultured neurons of rat embryo in a similar pattern. However, some neuronal processes were stained only by one of these antisera, and bright neurofilament-positive large neurons present in late cultures (after 6 days) did not, or only weakly, stained with tetanus toxin antisera.
A Model for a Propagating Shear Band on the Basis of a Tilt Wall Dislocation Array

Microstructural parameters influencing shear band propagation and, ultimately, fracture in steels are reviewed for two types of test. These are the plane strain tension characteristics of spheroidized steels and the mixed mode I/III J-resistance behavior of a rotor steel. In the former case, shear band propagation is associated with voids forming at carbide particles because of incompatibility effects. In the latter case, the mixed mode I/III toughness is less than that in either pure mode I or pure mode III because local plastic flow in the path of the crack produces damage in the form of voids by a process analogous to the first case. A model for the interaction of a shear band and particles, suggested by these results, is proposed in the form of a discontinuous tilt wall of dislocations that breaks away and propagates past the particles. The model is shown to be consistent with several experimental observations, both of shear band characteristics and of the stress required to propagate the band. 35 refs., 4 figs.