cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Induction Electrohydrodynamic Pump in a Vertical Configuration: Part 1—Theory

An induction electrohydrodynamic (EHD) pump in an axisymmetric, vertical configuration is studied theoretically. The model includes the effect of entrance conditions, buoyancy effects, secondary flow, and Joule heating. Primarily the forward (cooled wall) and to a lesser extent the backward (heated wall) modes are investigated. A finite difference technique is used to obtain the numerical solutions. A set of these solutions is presented to show the influence of the controlling factors of operating an induction EHD pump. The results indicate that the entrance temperature profile plays an important role in the operation of the pump because steeper profiles produce higher velocities. The pump must be operated at an optimum frequency, wavelength, and electric conductivity level.
Matched Charitable Contributions: Comparative Statics and Equilibrium

A small optimizing agent maximizes his utility by allocating his income to private consumption and to a contribution to a particular charity. The agent’s contribution may be matched, at a particular rate, by a large agent. We provide a comprehensive comparative-statics analysis of the agent’s problem, allowing for changes in the agent’s income, the agent’s conjecture about other agents’ contributions, and the match rate. A Nash equilibrium among n such agents is shown to exist if private consumption is a normal good for all agents. The equilibrium is unique if private consumption and charitable giving are normal goods for all agents.
The tactical face of stalking

Abstract The empirical literature on stalking was reviewed, and found wanting for greater descriptive detail of the process of stalking. For this study, fifty-five stalking case files from the city attorney's Domestic Violence Unit in a major western metropolitan area were coded for over one hundred variables each. Multiple victimization factors were examined to ascertain the characteristics of stalking victims and to analyze the relationship between victimization, symptomology, and coping strategies. Results indicate that the most common coping strategy was “hung up when they called,” and that victims reported feeling “threatened” more than any other symptom. In addition, as the number and/or breadth of perpetrator tactics increased, the victims experienced more symptoms. A history of violence was reported in the majority of the case files, and the presence of restraining orders had a strong correlation with victimization. Implications for refining current theory and research on stalking and strategies for successful intervention were examined.
Enzyme catalysis in the presence of nonaqueous solvents using chloroperoxidase

Studies exploring the effect of two nonaqueous solvents on enzyme activity were done using chloroperoxidase as a model system. Chloroperoxidase produced by Caldariomyces fumago is a bifunctional enzyme with halogenating activity at pH 3 and peroxidation activity at pH 5 to 6. Methanol affected both of these activities similarly. Furthermore, methanol and the halogen acceptor, monochlorodimedon, competitively inhibit the reaction. These results are discussed in terms of the site of action of methanol. At 10% methanol concentration, the enzyme retained up to 33% of its activity depending on the monochlorodimedon concentration. Dimethylsulfoxide at 10% concentration permitted up to 47% retention of activity. Its effects on the enzyme are more complex than methanol and are discussed in terms of a transitory inactivation of the enzyme.
Analysis of the perception-action cycle for visually induced postural sway in 9-month-old sitting infants

Abstract Recent progress in understanding the adult’s postural control system comes from studying the relation between the timing of postural responses and visual motion. In this study, we sought to investigate this same relation in infants by testing the postural responses of 10 9-month-old infants sitting in a moving room. Trials were defined by the walls oscillating at different frequencies ranging from 0.2 to 0.8 Hz. In contrast to previous research with infants, we tested postural sway with multiple measures including center of pressure (COP), and head and lower back movements. The results revealed that all three measures were influenced by the driving frequency of the wall movements, but the pattern of this relation differed across measures. In particular, sway coherence between the head or lower back and room movements decreased with frequency, but sway coherence between the COP and room movements remained flat. The reasons for this pattern of results are discussed in terms of the type of control system necessary for producing postural sway to visual motion.
Vasculitis in Behçet's disease

Vasculitis underlies most of the characteristic lesions of Behcet's disease and is obligatory for the diagnosis in populations at risk. Sporadic cases and similar presentations in non-Silk-Route patients should be labelled as Behcet's syndrome and carry different prognosis because of differences in underlying pathologic changes and pathogenesis. Ethnicity and vasculitis should be included in diagnostic criteria. Large vessel involvement is characteristic if less common.
Case of microarteriovenous malformation-induced trigeminal neuralgia treated with radiosurgery.

Radiosurgery to the right fifth cranial nerve was performed with the Gamma Knife on a 39- year-old patient who presented with classic symptoms of trigeminal neuralgia (TN), but was found on imaging studies to harbour a small intrinsic vascular malformation within the nerve. Based on size and drainage, the arteriovenous malformation (AVM) was Spetzler-Martin Grade III and no previous history of bleeding was reported. The patient had failed a trial of carbamazepine, and no surgical procedures had been performed. A decrease in symptoms was reported by the 6-month follow- up. A review of the literature on microAVM-induced TN is provided as well as a discussion of management.
“The Judge Didn't Sentence Me to Be Raped”: Tracy Neal v. Michigan Department of Corrections: A 15-Year Battle Against the Sexual Abuse of Women Inmates in Michigan

This research traces the history of Tracy Neal v. Michigan Department of Corrections, a class action lawsuit against the Michigan Department of Corrections that alleged the sexual abuse of women prisoners spanning more than two decades. The litigation resulted in combined jury verdicts of more than $30 million for the plaintiffs and a $100 million settlement that included extensive injunctive relief. This article examines the abuses and conditions suffered by female inmates in Michigan prisons, the court decisions, jury trials, and settlement. Drawing on interviews from several lead attorneys for the plaintiffs, the article provides an examination of the circumstances, discusses litigation strategy, and highlights lessons from Neal that could be relevant to civil rights scholars and advocates. The article concludes with a discussion of the impact and future implications of this case.
Fabrication, characterization and testing of (111) FePt L1 0 for heat assisted magnetic recording

The fabrication, characterization and recording of granular FePt L1 0 (111) oriented media are discussed. The granular structure is obtained through the addition of SiO 2 during the deposition. It exhibited grain sizes less than 10 nm on average after post annealing. The effect of adding SiO 2 is examined in the following manner. The crystallographic structure is examined through X-ray diffraction. The microstructures of the grains are observed by transmission electron microscopy. Hysteresis loops were obtained with a custom built polar magneto optic Kerr effect magnetometer (PMOKE) with field range up to 20 kOe and a Quantum Design SQUID magnetometer with field capability up to 50 kOe. Heat assisted magnetic recording was performed utilizing a custom designed and built heat assisted magnetic recording spin stand. The heat assisted magnetic recording spin stand was utilized to examine incident laser power requirements along with applied magnetic flux density requirements for recording. Data was successfully recorded and readout on high anisotropy FePt L1 0 (111) media that was not writable with perpendicular magnetic recording techniques. Recording results indicate that due to the high Curie temperature and large magnetization, a large applied magnetic flux density and a high recording temperature are required for saturation recording.
Nitrides as alternative materials for localized surface plasmon applications

Optical responses of titanium nitride and zirconium nitride are studied in the visible and near-infrared regions for localized surface plasmon applications. Both materials are found to be promising alternatives to noble metals.
Cerebral cortical microvessels: An insulin-sensitive tissue☆

Abstract Cerebral cortical microvessels were isolated from bovine brains and incubated in the presence or absence of porcine insulin. The conversion of D-glucose to CO2 and lipids was increased significantly in insulin-treated microvessels. Insulin also caused a significant increase in the activity of cyclic-AMP phosphodiesterase in these microvessels. Specific binding of 125I-insulin to isolated brain microvessels, displaceable by cold insulin was also observed. The effects of insulin reported in this communication mark the first direct evidence that insulin is capable of regulating the metabolic activity of cerebral cortical microvascular tissue. The possible physiological significance of this finding is discussed.
Angular, oriented microtubes in metamorphic plagioclase

Angular, oriented microtubes are abundant in oligoclase in medium-grained gneiss from southeastern Pennsylvania. The microtubes are isolated, elongate voids that extend through the thin section with rectangular to square cross sections ∼2 μm on a side. The microtubes occur in planar sets of from 5 to 40 equal-sized individuals, spaced 2 to 5 μm apart; single occurrences have never been observed. The walls are either parallel or perpendicular to [010] of the host. Oligoclase also contains open intragranular cracks with zigzag morphology and matching, stair-step–shaped walls. We suggest that angular, oriented microtubes form by displacement and healing along zigzag intragranular cracks. This hypothesis explains unique properties of microtubes: regular spacing, equal size, rectangular cross section, crystallographically controlled orientation, and existence in sets. Angular, oriented microtubes are perhaps indicators of fracturing under conditions of low in situ confining pressure followed by release of shear stress along microcrack planes.
Micron-Resolution Photocurrent of CdTe Solar Cells Using Multiple Wavelengths

An apparatus developed recently at Colorado State University utilizes a diffractionlimited optics system and a high-resolution translation system to measure the laser-induced photocurrent at resolutions of 1 μm and equivalent incident laser intensities of 1 sun (100 mW/cm 2 ). Multiple lasers in the 635-830 nm range can be easily selected by changing the fiberoptic connectors. The spot profile and location are unchanged when different lasers are selected. In addition, a laser temperature tuned through the 825-857 nm range allows measurement of local variations in the quantum efficiency near the CdTe band gap, which track intermixing of CdS/CdTe. This capability extends the previous analysis, which includes the separation of series resistance and shunting effects. The effect of post-deposition processing and elevated temperature stress on local variations in electrical and optical parameters, especially using the near-bandgap wavelengths, are examined using a series of samples fabricated at NREL.
Living with the 2-digit year-Year 2000 maintenance using a procedural solution

The paper is based on experience at the (US) Defense Logistics Agency Systems Design Center (DSDC) in developing and implementing a tool set and processes for remediation of the Year 2000 problem using a procedural approach. The problem and four general solution strategies are briefly described. DSDC's reasons for early focus on a lwindowingr approach are discussed. The tools are discussed in terms of the problems they address and the degree of automation they can (and cannot) supply. A step by step process for mainframe batch COBOL, based on the tools, is summarized
Plastid Development in Albescent Maize

Plastid development in albescent (al/al) and wild-type (+/al) strains of Zea mays has been studied in the electron microscope. Etiolated seedlings of the mutant are severely deficient in colored carotenoid pigments and accumulate carotenoid precursors tentatively identified as phytoene and phytofluene. The fine structure of proplastids in etiolated wild-type and mutant leaves is similar with 1 notable exception. Osmiophilic bodies found in the wild-type were lacking in all sections of albescent proplastids examined suggesting that these structures may be storage centers for carotenoid pigments. Plastid pigments are destroyed, chlorophyll synthesizing potential is lost, and the ultrastructure of plastids is irreversibly altered when mutant seedlings are placed directly in high intensity light. However, synthesis of plastid pigments and development of the photosynthetic apparatus as seen in the electron microscope is normal, and indistinguishable from that in the wild-type, in seedlings of the albescent mutant preilluminated with low intensity light prior to high intensity illumination. During treatment in low intensity light carotenogenesis is initiated in the mutant and proceeds normally thereafter.
Amazon Conservation in the Age of Development

Amazon Conservation in the Age of Development. Ronald Foresta. Gainesville: University of Florida Press, 1991. x + 366pp. $49.95 (cloth). ISBN 0–8130–1092–6.
Factors associated with treatment for hypotension in extremely low gestational age newborns during the first postnatal week

Hypotension is one of the most common diagnoses assigned to extremely low gestational age newborns (ELGANs), and treatments to increase blood pressure are often used in this population.1 These treatments are administered under the assumption that increasing blood pressure increases tissue perfusion and that, below a threshold value, perfusion of vital organs is compromised, resulting in cell dysfunction and tissue injury.2 Among extremely premature infants, the range of blood pressures that maintain adequate perfusion and prevent injury is unknown.3 Blood pressure depends on systemic blood flow, cardiac output, and systemic vascular resistance, but most clinicians use blood pressure as a proxy for adequate tissue perfusion.4–7 To date, the range of “normal” blood pressures has been derived from the distribution of blood pressures in populations of infants who are not treated for hypotension. With this approach, reference ranges have been developed for gestational age and birth weight groups, forming the basis for recommendations for treatment of low blood pressure.8–16 In addition, there is a dearth of studies of commonly used therapies for hypotension with clinically relevant, long-term outcomes.17 The main problem with using a nontreated population approach to define infants who have abnormal blood pressures is that the treatment of hypotension depends on decisions made by clinicians without direct knowledge about the consequences of varying levels of blood pressure, systemic vascular resistance, or cardiac output. An additional problem is that previous studies designed to examine the incidence of hypotension enrolled relatively small numbers of infants at the lowest gestational ages, in whom morbidities potentially associated with hypotension are most likely to occur. In this study, we had 3 objectives: (1) to describe the distribution of the lowest blood pressure measurements for a large cohort of ELGANs, using the physician's decision to treat low blood pressure as an indicator of the clinician's concern regarding the likelihood of impaired perfusion; (2) to compare the lowest blood pressures of ELGANs who received treatment for low blood pressure with the lowest blood pressures of their peers who did not receive such treatment; and (3) to evaluate institutional differences in the use of treatments for low blood pressure.
The asplenia syndrome: A review of significant extracardiac structural abnormalities in 29 necropsied patients

Although congenital cardiac disease dictates the course and prognosis of patients with the congenital asplenia syndrome, structural abnormalities in extracardiac systems may further complicate the clinical picture. A study of 29 necropsied asplenic patients was undertaken to ascertain the type and incidence of these anomalies. Significant gastrointestinal and genitourinary abnormalities were found in approximately 25 per cent of these patients, and serious central nervous system, bronchopulmonary, and skeletal anomalies were found in 5 to 10 per cent.
Does productive role occupancy prevent depression among older rural Chinese adults? A latent difference score analysis

Objectives: Depression has been reported as common among older rural Chinese adults, who often face limited access to healthcare services and resources. Empirical studies conducted in the West have shown beneficial effects of productive engagement on psychological well-being. However, the mechanisms by which engagement in productive activities leads to and results from improved mental health remain unclear.Method: Utilizing role enhancement and social resource theories, the present study investigated the relationship between productive role occupancy and depression among older Chinese adults in rural areas over 8 years. Using four waves of data from the Well-Being of Elderly in Anhui Province of China study, we employed bivariate latent different score analysis to examine the temporal sequence of productive role occupancy and depression among 1696 older adults.Results: Findings indicated that trajectories of productive role occupancy and depression rose across the four waves. There is evidence for self-fe...
Computer-aided estimation of psychophysical thresholds by Wetherill tracking

We describe a microcomputer implementation of an efficient procedure to obtain psycho-physical thresholds at any of three response-probability levels, by Wetherill tracking. The procedure yields reliable 50% thresholds (average coefficient of variation=5.1%) based on about 30 responses. Thresholds obtained in this way correlate highly with constant stimulus measurements requiring six times as many responses. Computer-assisted Wetherill tracking should find wide application in psychophysical screening tests.
Army Research Laboratory land mine and unexploded ordnance experiments and results

The (ARL), as part of customer and mission-funded exploratory development programs, has been evaluating low-frequency, ultra-wideband imaging radar for detection of buried mines and unexploded ordnance. As part of these programs, ARL has designed and built an instrumentation-grade radar measurement asset. In addition, ARL has established and conducted experiments at two nationally significant subsurface target test sites at Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona and Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. This paper reviews the significance of the test sites and recent modeling and data analysis results using the Eglin and Yuma data. It also discuses the difference in soil conditions from these data collections and the impact that they may have on mine radar cross section (RCS) and detection performance. Finally, new imagery is presented that shows positive contrast of low metal content mines at these test sites.
Anomalies of viologens in bases and water

The use of viologens as oxidation-reduction indicators in the biochemical field has greatly increased recently. In the presence of organic and inorganic bases the viologens undergo an auto-reduction which casts doubts on their general reliability as oxidation-reduction indicators. The inorganic bases act on the viologens only at high concentrations of the latter; however, some nitrogen bases, like pyrrolidine and piperidine, cause the blue coloration even at the low concentrations used in biochemical work. KOH, NaOH and Na2CO3 (not NaHCO3) gave the characteristic blue coloration of the reduced form when added to aqueous solutions of the viologens. Piperidine, pyrrolidine and pyridine affect the viologens in a similar manner. Benzyl viologen was reacted with NaOH, NaOCH3 and pyrrolidine and the products of each reaction were isolated. On the basis of these results a mechanism is proposed for this disproportionation. Although reduced viologens do not follow Beer's law in water, we have found that they do follow it in certain organic solvents. The conclusions show that reductions of both benzyl and methyl viologen carried out at high pH values or in the presence of a nitrogen base may be partially or totally the result of the interaction of the base with the viologen.
Adding targeted multiple interventions to standard fall prevention interventions reduces falls in an acute care setting

Commentary on: E Ang, SZ Mordiffi, HB Wong. Evaluating the use of a targeted multiple intervention strategy in reducing patient falls in an acute care hospital: a randomized controlled trial. J Adv Nurs2011;67:1984–92.
Functional significance of vascular endothelial growth factor receptors on gastrointestinal cancer cells

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has been shown to be the major mediator of physiologic and pathologic angiogenesis. VEGF was initially thought to be an endothelial cell specific ligand, but recently, VEGF has been shown to mediate tumor cell function via activation of receptors on tumor cells themselves. Here, we review the expression patterns and binding profiles of the VEGF receptors and their ligands on gastrointestinal tumor cells. Furthermore, we describe the current knowledge in regards to the function of these receptors on tumor cells. Elucidating the function of VEGF receptors on tumor cells should help us to better understand the potential mechanisms of action of anti-VEGF therapies.
Retrospect and prospect for subarea travel demand modeling: an empirical study

At present, customized subarea models have been widely used in local transportation planning throughout the USA. A subarea model's biggest strengths lie in its more detailed and accurate modeling outputs which better meet local planning requirements. In addition, a subarea model can substantially reduce database size and model running time. In spite of these advantages, subarea models remain quite weak in modeling transit projects, smart growth measures, air quality conformity, and other areas. In addition to evaluating subarea models, this paper uses the Irvine Transportation Analysis Model (ITAM) as an empirical case of subarea model to illustrate the remedial procedures in maintaining its consistency with the regional model of the Orange County Transportation Analysis Model (OCTAM). Looking into the future, subarea models face both opportunities and challenges. More GIS applications, travel surveys, micro-simulation software utilization, and modeling improvements are expected to be incorporated into the subarea modeling process.
Sub-threshold current based acceleration and modeling of OFF-state TDDB in drain extended NMOS and PMOS transistors

It is not always practical to observe OFF-state drain-to-gate dielectric breakdown in power transistors due to the upper limit set to stress voltage by junction breakdown. In this paper we demonstrate that OFF-state breakdown in drain extended power transistors can be accelerated by increasing the channel current (IS) by biasing the transistor in sub-threshold. We also show that the charge pumping scaling factors along with observed breakdown times can be used to build an IS and VDG dependent model to extrapolate failure times at operating bias conditions.
High-energy W ion implantation into VO2 thin film

Abstract High-energy (1.0 MeV) W ions were implanted into polycrystalline VO2 films with doses of 0.86 × 1015, 2.18 × 1015 and 6.12 × 1015 ions/cm2. The composition and W depth profile, crystal structure, surface morphology, optical properties and phase transition, before and after thermal annealing, were studied with Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, atomic force microscopy, and spectrophotometry. Amorphization of the film from irradiation damage was observed for all ion doses, resulting in the loss of thermochromism and change (smoothing) in surface morphology. Recrystallization of the implanted film, recovery and improvement of thermochromism were obtained by annealing at 400°C/60 min in air. The implantation and annealing resulted in a reduction in transition temperature τc by 43°C/at.%W for the average implanted depth, a value almost twice as high as reported from other methods.
Prospective association between dieting and smoking initiation among adolescents.

Abstract Purpose. To examine the relation between dieting and smoking initiation among adolescents. Design. Prospective data from a nationally representative study were used. Setting. Two waves (1994 to 1996) of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health. Subjects. The sample included 7795 non-Latino Caucasian and non-Latino African-American adolescents. Measures. Dieting status was the independent variable and trying smoking and initiation of regular smoking were the dependent variables. Covariates included age, ethnicity, overweight status, false self-perception about being overweight, and availability of cigarettes at home. Analysis. Logistic regression and latent transition analyses were used. Results. Females had a higher prevalence of dieting (55%) when compared with males (25%). Dieting initiation was a significant predictor for initiation of regular smoking among females (OR = 1.94, p = .010), but not among males. Inactive dieting was a significant predictor among males (OR = 1.74, p = ....
Minace filter infrared target tracking, recognition, and rejection tests with aspect view, depression angle, and scale variations

ABSTRACT We examine the sensitivity of minimum noise and correlation energy (MINACE) filtersto three different types of distortion variations (aspect view, depression angle, and scale) that are typically present in in frared (IR) im agery used for automatic target recognition (ATR) and tracking applications. Prior DIF (distortion-invariant filter) ATR work has addressed at most two simultaneous variations  aspect view and depression angle variations for SAR data, and aspect view and thermal state variations for IR data. No prior Minace ATR work has addressed scale variations. In our tests, we consider all three simultaneous variations  aspect view, depression angle, and scale. This is new. Our goal is to determine if one Minace filter per object can handle full 360° aspect view variations and can handle small depression angle variations, and to determine the range of scales that one Minace filter per object can handle after training on data at one or more scales. This determines when new Minace filters are needed in an image clos ing sequence. In all cases, shifts of the target test inputs are considered. We use ou r autoMinace algorithm that automates selec tion of the Minace filter parameter c and the training set images to be included in the f ilter. We also consider rejection of unseen confuser objects and clutter. No confuser, clutter, or test set data are present in the training or the validation set. We present test results using both real and CAD IR data. Keywords: Automatic target recognition, confuser rejection, co rrelation filter, distortion-invariant filter, IR target recognition, Minace filter, tracking
Plasma Distribution and Signaling Activities of IGF-II Precursors

“Big” and pro-IGF-II are routinely present in human plasma in addition to mature IGF-II, and both activate signaling through the insulin receptor.
Detection of avian infectious bronchitis viral infection using in situ hybridization and recombinant DNA.

A recombinant DNA probe with specificity for the 3′ end of genomic RNA from the Ark 99 strain of infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) was found to hybridize with extracted RNA of three strains with the Ark serotype, as well as the Mass41, Holl52, Gray, JMK, Conn, Fla and SE17 strains of IBV. Viral infection was detected in the cytoplasm of chicken embryo kidney cells inoculated with Mass41, Ark99, SE17 or two recent field isolates of IBV using in situ cytohybridization and a biotinylated probe. In vivo infections were detected in individual cells of tracheas and lungs 2, 4, and 6 days after inoculation of chicks with Mass41 and Ark99. In situ hybridization of Ark99 infected tissue sections using 32P-dATP labelled probe indicated that more viral replication was present in the trachea on day 4 than either days 2 or 6; whereas more viral RNA was found in the lungs on day 6 than days 2 or 4 after inoculation.
Solid-state anaerobic digestion for methane production from organic waste

Abstract Solid-state anaerobic digestion (SS-AD) generally occurs at solid concentrations higher than 15%. In contrast, liquid anaerobic digestion (AD) handles feedstocks with solid concentrations between 0.5% and 15%. Animal manure, sewage sludge, and food waste are generally treated by liquid AD, while organic fractions of municipal solid waste (OFMSW) and lignocellulosic biomass such as crop residues and energy crops can be processed through SS-AD. Some advantages of SS-AD include smaller reactor capacity requirements, less energy used for heating, and no processing energy needed for stirring. Due to its lower water content, the digestate of SS-AD is much easier to handle than the effluent of liquid AD. However, SS-AD systems also have disadvantages such as larger amounts of required inocula and much longer retention time. The principles and applications of the SS-AD process are reviewed in this paper. The variation in biogas production yields of different feedstocks is discussed as well as the need for pretreatment of lignocellulosic biomass to enhance biogas production. The effects of major operational parameters, including C/N ratio, solids content, temperature, and inoculation on the performance of SS-AD are summarized. While an increase in operating temperature can improve both the biogas yield and the production efficiency, other practices such as using AD digestate or leachate as an inoculant or decreasing the solid content, may increase the biogas yield but have negative impact on production efficiency. Different reactor configurations used in current commercial scale SS-AD systems and the impact of economics on system selection are also discussed.
Preliminary studies on the processing sequence for southern red oak and municipal solid waste using a hybrid dilute acid/enzymatic hydrolysis process for ethanol production

Based on this preliminary study, a metric ton of dry southern red oak chips subjected to a first-stage dilute sulfuric acid hydrolysis would yield 132 kg of xylose and 40 kg of glucose and mannose. A second-stage dilute sulfuric acid hydrolysis on the first-stage residue would yield only 128 kg of additional glucose, but a second-stage cellulytic enzyme hydrolysis on the first-stage residue would yield an additional 265 kg of glucose. Fermentation of these hydrolyzates would show that the hybrid process would yield over 50% more ethanol. Results on other biomass are also included.
Stable photoinduced charge separation in layered viologen compounds

SOLAR energy can be used and stored by the efficient production of long-lived photoinduced charge separation1–3—a state achieved in photosynthetic systems by the formation of a long-lived radical pair4–7. A number of artificial systems have been reported that efficiently undergo photochemical charge transfer8–10; unfortunately, the thermal back electron transfer often proceeds at an appreciable rate, limiting the utility of these systems. Here we report the photochromic behaviour of novel layered zirconium phosphonate/viologen compounds which show very efficient photo-induced charge transfer, and form a charge-separated state which is long-lived and stable in air. Spectroscopic studies indicate that the photoproduct is the dialkyl viologen radical cation, produced in the inter lamellar region of the zirconium phosphonate. We suggest that the remarkable stability of the charge-separated state arises from structural features which allow for stabilization of the radicals by delocalization and shielding from molecular oxygen.
Evaluation of a silicon-containing benzocyclobutene thermoset resin as a plasma etch stop

An experimental silicon-containing benzocyclobutene thermosetting resin from DOW has been evaluated for use as a plasma etch stop in packaging applications. The thermal and etch properties of this particular resin (DOW UX-13005.02L) make it suitable for use as an etch stop. Further, a model for in situ laser interferometry is proposed. By applying the model to the laser interferogram, the initial etch rate and amount of material removed before etching ceases may be determined.
Innovation in Homebuilding and the Future of Housing

Problem: The future of housing depends in part on innovation by homebuilders. Planners should know how to influence innovation in homebuilding in order to promote innovative practices that conserve the environment, improve quality, and reduce costs. Purpose: This article explains challenges involved in innovation in home building, as well as providing planners with strategies to influence innovation in the industry. Methods: I review the literature and identify sources of resistance to or acceptance of innovation in home building. I also report the results of two national surveys of innovation adoption and use regression analysis to test variables likely to inhibit or promote innovation. Results and conclusions: Small builders receptive to innovation are likely to be led by a technology champion and to build custom homes for a relatively affluent and informed clientele. These firms provide a likely audience for technology innovations that require more upfront investment, as with some green building produc...
FIBRINOGEN INTERACTION WITH PLATELET RECEPTORS

In summary: Incubation of platelets with ADP or proteolytic enzymes (chymotrypsin or pronase) results in an exposure of two classes of specific binding sites on platelet surface: low and high affinity fibrinogen receptors. Fibrinogen interaction with these receptors results in platelet aggregation. High affinity fibrinogen receptors are not exposed on thrombasthenic platelets stimulated by ADP but are rendered available on chymotrypsin-treated thrombasthenic platelets; low affinity receptors cannot be exposed by ADP or chymotrypsin on these platelets. Availability of high affinity fibrinogen receptors on thrombasthenic platelets may depend on the residual glycoprotein IIIa. Fibrinogen receptors appear to be associated with glycoproteins IIb, IIIa and a 66,000 Mr platelet membrane component that is exposed during proteolysis of platelet membranes. Some of the platelet-binding sites on the fibrinogen molecule appear to be associated with the COOH-terminal portion of the gamma chain (gamma 374-411). Additional binding sites may also be located in the COOH-terminal portion of the A alpha chain. The conformation of the fibrinogen molecule may be important in its interaction with platelets. Platelet aggregation may result from bridging platelets by fibrinogen molecule in the presence of bivalent cations. In conclusion, platelet interaction with fibrinogen is a complex process involving different binding sites of the fibrinogen molecule. Our own data and review of literature suggest that platelet-interaction with fibrinogen is of major significance in hemostasis.
Individual differences in use of diagrams as external memory in mechanical reasoning

Abstract Participants in two experiments solved mechanical reasoning problems that involved inferring the motion of components of mechanical systems from static diagrams of the systems. Some participants were allowed to make notes on the diagrams while solving these problems and others were not. Previous research shows that low-spatial individuals have difficulty solving these problems, possibly because they have limited spatial working memory capacity. We predicted that participants would make notes on the diagram indicating the inferred motion of each component and that making notes in this way would improve performance, particularly for low-spatial participants. Consistent with previous research (Hegarty & Sims 1994), low-spatial participants made more errors than high-spatial participants. Participants made more notes on problems that placed high demands on working memory. Making notes on diagrams was associated with more accurate performance of low-spatial participants, but was not related to performance of high-spatial participants. The results are discussed in terms of working memory limitations and compensating metacognitive skills.
Characterization of a Plasmodium vivax Cysteine Proteinase Gene Identifies Uniquely Conserved Amino Acids that May Mediate the Substrate Specificity of Malarial Hemoglobinases

Abstract The gene encoding a cysteine proteinase of the human malaria parasite Plasmodium vivax has been identified and characterized. The sequence predicted by the proteinase gene shares several unique features with the sequences of two recently characterized cysteine proteinases of other malarial species. These features include the conservation of a number of amino acids that are predicted, based on a recently devised model for the related Plasmodium falciparum cysteine proteinase, to be located near the enzyme's active site. We hypothesize that these residues have been conserved to maintain optimal proteolytic specificity in the hydrolysis of globin by malaria parasites.
Spreading of the interface at the top of a slightly polydisperse sedimenting suspension

The interface at the top of a dilute sedimenting suspension of small particles which are not identical does not remain sharp but instead becomes increasingly diffuse as the sedimentation proceeds. For more concentrated suspensions, the self-sharpening effect of hindered settling leads to a considerable reduction in the observed spreading of the sedimenting interface. In order to quantify this spreading, a light extinction technique was used to measure the concentration profile in the interface of a suspension of particles with a small spread of sizes as it fell past a thin sheet of light. A particle volume-fraction range of 0.002 ≤ Φ0 ≤ 0.15 was examined, and each fluid-particle system had a particle Reynolds number less than 10−3 and a Peclet number greater than 107 so that inertia and colloidal effects were negligible. Calculations of the spreading arising from the small degree of polydispersity in particle sizes and the self-sharpening effect are presented. Surprisingly, the measured vertical thickness of the interface was found to be several times that predicted from this theory.It is proposed that the observed spreading may be attributed to hydrodynamic interactions between particles that lead to fluctuations in particle settling velocities about the mean. An analysis of the data shows that the measured interface thickness, after subtracting off that predicted from polydispersity and self-sharpening, increases approximately with the square root of the settling distance and may therefore be described as a diffusion process, termed ‘self-induced hydrodynamic diffusion’. By sealing the hydrodynamic diffusivity as , is between 1 and 2 for the smaller particle volume fractions examined, increases very rapidly with increasing concentration to a value between 10 and 15 for particle concentrations of a few percent by volume, and then levels off or declines slightly as the particle concentration is increased further.
Targeted conversion of AC lines to DC lines for improved power system dispatch

In this paper the concept of targeted conversion of AC lines to DC lines is proposed for improved security-constrained economic dispatch by incorporating the converted line into the formulation to improve flow pattern control and relieve flow constraints on both the converted line and the remaining AC system. The proposed model treats the flow on the converted line as an independent control variable for the operator to utilize. It is shown that the introduction of this additional control variable significantly decreases the dispatch cost through congestion relief. Wind curtailment due to transmission congestion, is also shown to be significantly relieved. The technical feasibility of the implementation, combined with the economic benefits, suggests that targeted conversion of AC lines to DC lines a promising approach to best utilizing transmission grid for maximized social welfare. Illustrative examples on a 24-bus system demonstrate the technical feasibility and economic benefits for renewable energy resources by use of the proposed conversion.
Massively parallel computational methods in light scattering by small particles

Algorithms suitable for use on parallel computers are being developed to simulate the scattering and absorption of light by small penetrable objects such as ice crystals and biological cells. The solution of the problem is based on a geometrical optics approach. Each incident ray undergoes multiple reflections and refractions as it travels through the scattering object. Since the interactions of each incident ray are independent of those of all other rays, parallel computer architectures can be used in an efficient manner.Data parallel algorithms have been developed which assign one processor to each incident ray. A massively parallel architecture consisting of 64K processors (the Connection Machine) is being used. This means that the scattering calculations for over 65,000 rays can be carried out simultaneously.Using a stochastic approach, a Monte Carlo technique is used whereby each ray is either reflected or refracted based on probabilities. The object is represented by a collection of small facets enabling almost any shaped object or objects to be modeled from any orientation.
The Antianginal Agent Trimetazidine Does Not Exert Its Functional Benefit via Inhibition of Mitochondrial Long-Chain 3-Ketoacyl Coenzyme A Thiolase

Trimetazidine acts as an effective antianginal clinical agent by modulating cardiac energy metabolism. Recent published data support the hypothesis that trimetazidine selectively inhibits long-chain 3-ketoacyl CoA thiolase (LC 3-KAT), thereby reducing fatty acid oxidation resulting in clinical benefit. The aim of this study was to assess whether trimetazidine and ranolazine, which may also act as a metabolic modulator, are specific inhibitors of LC 3-KAT. We have demonstrated that trimetazidine and ranolazine do not inhibit crude and purified rat heart or recombinant human LC 3-KAT by methods that both assess the ability of LC 3-KAT to turnover specific substrate, and LC 3-KAT activity as a functional component of intact cellular beta-oxidation. Furthermore, we have demonstrated that trimetazidine does not inhibit any component of beta-oxidation in an isolated human cardiomyocyte cell line. Ranolazine, however, did demonstrate a partial inhibition of beta-oxidation in a dose-dependent manner (12% at 100 micromol/L and 30% at 300 micromol/L). Both trimetazidine (10 micromol/L) and ranolazine (20 micromol/L) improved the recovery of cardiac function after a period of no flow ischemia in the isolated working rat heart perfused with a buffer containing a relatively high concentration (1.2 mmol/L) of free fatty acid. In summary, both trimetazidine and ranolazine were able to improve ischemic cardiac function but inhibition of LC 3-KAT is not part of their mechanism of action. The full text of this article is available online at http://www.circresaha.org.
Automatic Medical Image Segmentation Using Gradient and Intensity Combined Level Set Method

This paper presents a new level set based solution for automatic medical image segmentation. Study shows that level set methods using image intensity or gradient information alone can not generate satisfying segmentation on some complex organic structures, such as lung bronchia or nodules. We investigate the intensity distribution of these organic structures, and propose a calibrating mechanism to automatically weight image intensity and gradient information in the level set speed function. The new method can tolerate estimation error in intensity distribution and detect object boundaries whose gradient is low. The experimental results show that the proposed method gives stable and accurate segmentation results on public lung image data. can make segmentation results instable as shown in the later sections of this paper. We investigate the effects of the estimation error and propose a new calibrating mechanism to combine gradient information and intensity distribution into segmentation process. By searching the maximal overlap of image gradient with the boundaries determined by intensity distribution, the proposed method can locate the boundaries of interested objects more stably. The paper is organized as following. In Section II, we briefly describe the background of level set method and discuss the defects with segmentation by only image gra- dient or intensity distribution. Section III illustrates the new mechanism to combine gradient information and intensity distribution in segmentation. Experimental results are pre- sented in Section IV. Section V concludes the paper and discusses future research directions.
Exogenous pro-angiogenic stimuli cannot prevent physiologic vessel regression.

Background In healing wounds, rising levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) induce a period of robust angiogenesis. The levels of pro-angiogenic factors in the wound begin to decline just before a period of vascular regression, suggesting that these mediators are necessary to sustain vessel density. The purpose of this study was to determine if the maintenance of pro-angiogenic stimuli in the wound would prevent physiological vessel regression. Materials and methods A standard subcutaneous sponge wound model was modified by the addition of a mini-osmotic pump, allowing manipulation of the wound milieu by the addition of exogenous growth factors. After initial characterization of this model, exogenous VEGF (10 μg/mL), FGF (10 μg/mL), PDGF (10 μg/mL), or VEGF (10 μg/mL) plus FGF (10 μg/mL) were delivered to wounds and blood vessel density analyzed by immunohistochemistry. Results VEGF administration resulted in a transient increase in wound vessel density (P Conclusions These findings suggest that the anti-angiogenic signals that mediate physiological vascular regression in wounds are strongly dominant over pro-angiogenic stimuli during the later phases of wound healing. Clinical manipulation of anti-angiogenic signals in addition to the currently used pro-angiogenic targets may be needed to achieve therapeutic modulation of blood vessel density.
Cutting Edge: Reversal of Murine Lupus Nephritis with CTLA4Ig and Cyclophosphamide

Cyclophosphamide (CTX) prevents progression of nephritis and prolongs survival in (NZB x NZW)F(1) (B/W) mice and is used to treat humans with lupus nephritis. To compare the efficacy of CTLA4Ig with CTX and determine whether there is an incremental benefit to combining CTLA4Ig with CTX, we treated B/W mice with CTX, CTLA4Ig, or both agents. In mice with mild renal disease, treatment delayed the onset of proteinuria and prolonged survival in all groups. In mice with advanced renal disease, treatment with both agents reduced proteinuria in 71% of mice, whereas mice treated with either agent alone had no such improvement. Survival was also markedly improved among mice treated with both agents. Thus, combination treatment with CTX and CTLA4Ig is more effective than either agent alone in reducing renal disease and prolonging survival of B/W mice with advanced nephritis. This striking reversal of proteinuria is unprecedented in animal models of SLE.
Activation of members of the mitogen-activated protein kinase family by glucose in endothelial cells

To better understand the molecular mechanisms for hyperglycemia-induced proatherogenic changes in endothelial cells, the effect of high glucose on activation of members of the mitogen-activated pro...