cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Phyllotaxis, anthotaxis and semataxis

Long-lasting debates, caused by conflicting viewpoints among biometrists on the phenomena of rhythmic growth in plant shoots, are at last being settled on certain crucial points. Most workers today agree that not all symmetrical constructions in plants can be explained by the application of the phyllotaxis theory. This theory explains adequately the orthostichous arrangement of leaves on growing photosynthetic apices, but fails in the case of non-photosynthetic reproductive organs. In the present paper three successive systems of shoot arrangement are described: phyllotaxis for cauline leaves, anthotaxis for sporophylls, and semataxis for semaphylls (see Table II). Each of these systems serves a different purpose: photosynthesis, reproduction and advertisement, and is accordingly adapted to its special function. “Phyllotaxis” and “anthotaxis” are classical concepts dealing with the arrangement of leaves and flowers; “semataxis” is a new term used in this paper to describe the arrangements of semaphylls. Goethe's classical theory of the metamorphosis of plants (1790) and his hypothetical “Urpflanze” are discussed in this paper from the viewpoint of the phyllotaxis-semataxis relation.
Introduction to Focus Issue: Bipedal Locomotion—From Robots to Humans

Running and walking, collectively referred to as bipedal locomotion, represent self-organized behaviors generated by a spatially distributed dynamical system operating under the constraint that a person must be able to move without falling down. The organizing principles involve both forces actively regulated by the nervous system and those generated passively by the biomechanical properties of the musculoskeletal system and the environment in which the movements occur. With the development of modern motion capture and electrophysiological techniques it has become possible to explore the dynamical interplay between the passive and active controllers of locomotion in a manner that directly compares observation to predictions made by relevant mathematical and computer models. Consequently, many of the techniques initially developed to study nonlinear dynamical systems, including stability analyses, phase resetting and entrainment properties of limit cycles, and fractal and multifractal analysis, have come to play major roles in guiding progress. This Focus Issue discusses bipedal locomotion from the point of view of dynamical systems theory with the goal of stimulating discussion between the dynamical systems, physics, biomechanics, and neuroscience communities.
Quinonoid constituents of Dalbergia retusa heartwood

Abstract Light petrol. extracts of Dalbergia retusa heartwood yield major quantities of obtusaquinone and minor amounts of the blue-black quinhydrone of racemic 4-methoxy-dalbergione.
Keiretsu and risk: An examination of the risk exposure of keiretsu banks in Japan

We compare risk positions adopted by keiretsu and non-keiretsu banks in Japan and examine how the risk positions of Japanese banks changed following the conclusion in 1997 of an escalating series of banking crises in Japan and East-Asia. The results indicate that keiretsu banks take less risk than non-keiretsu banks, and that Japanese banks in general adopted lower risk profiles after 1997. Japanese bank risk is positively associated with the ratio of non-performing loans to capital, interest rates, and private investment in residential construction, and negatively with the ratio of administrative expenses to average assets and the money supply
A jet in the nucleus of NGC6251

A core and a jet of length ∼ 1.7 pc have been found in the nucleus of NGC6251. The nuclear jet is aligned with both the 200-kpc jet and the outer lobes, which have a separation of ∼ 3 Mpc; the alignment persists over a range of scales ≳ 5 × 106:1. The observations provide strong evidence that energy and momentum are transferred continuously from the central core to the outer lobes by a beam.
Effects of diagenetic processes on seismic velocity anisotropy in near-surface sandstone and carbonate rocks

Abstract The effects of diagenetic processes on velocity anisotropy in Ferron sandstone and Ellenburger carbonate core samples are investigated using petrophysical/petrological and P-wave velocity (Vp) data at room pressure and ambient (air dry) saturation. The Vp data are measured in both vertical (Vpv) and horizontal (Vph) directions (parallel and perpendicular to the axes of the cores, respectively), using a 125-kHz sonic probe. The petrophysical/petrological properties for the Ferron sandstone are bulk porosity, fluid permeability and volume fractions of quartz, clay, feldspar and calcite; for the Ellenburger carbonate, they are bulk porosity, vertical permeability, horizontal permeability, maximum permeability, grain density and bulk density. In the Ferron sandstone samples, the Vph values are higher (∼8.5%) than the Vpv values, which is attributed to laminated bedding or alignment of grain orientation. Correlations between Vp anisotropy and minerals that represent diagenetic processes are clearly demonstrated in the Ferron sandstone. Anisotropy decreases with decreasing feldspar, increasing calcite and increasing clay. This correlation suggests that calcite cementation and pore-filling kaolinite reduce velocity anisotropy of the Ferron sandstone by reduction of the net grain alignment or preferred pore orientations. The heterogeneity of the Ellenburger carbonate caused by multiple karsting and burials does not provide observable correlations between the velocity anisotropy and petrophysical/petrographic properties. In the Ellenburger carbonate, Vpv values are mostly higher (∼7.9%) than the Vph values and are likely to be related to near-vertically aligned regional fractures. The orientation and amount of velocity anisotropy and of permeability is scale dependent when fractures are present. Seismic anisotropy is closely related to subsurface lithology, rock fabric and texture, and to its diagenetic history. Consequently, analysis of seismic anisotropy provides an important tool for reservoir characterization and environmental and engineering applications.
Effects of 60 Hz electromagnetic field exposure on APP695 transcription levels in differentiating human neuroblastoma cells

Abstract Epidemiological studies have suggested that workers with primary occupation that are likely to have resulted in the medium-to-high extremely low frequency (ELF) electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure are at increased risk of Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis. As a first step in investigating the possibility of an association between the ELF-EMF exposure and AD at the cellular level, we have used the differentiating IMR-32 neuroblastoma cells. In double-blind experiments, IMR-32 cells were exposed to the magnetic field intensities of 50, 100, and 200 μT at a frequency of 60 Hz for a period of 4 h at the three ages of differentiation (2, 10, and 16 days after incubation in differentiation medium). We used a custom-made Helmholtz coil setup driven by a 60-Hz sinusoidal signal from a function generator and an in-house built power amplifier. Total RNA extracted from the exposed cells was separated by the agarose gel electrophoresis and transferred to a nylon membrane for the northern hybridization. Digoxygenin-labeled APP695 RNA probes were used to detect changes in the APP695 mRNA levels in response to the ELF-EMF exposure. The results reported herein provided no support for any relationship between the APP695 gene transcription and IMR-32 differentiation age, as well as the magnetic field exposure. This study constitutes the first step towards investigating the possibility of an association between the ELF-EMF exposure and AD manifestations at the cellular level.
Commercial bank lending to developing countries : supply constraints.

Abstract Middle-income developing countries rely heavily on commercial bank borrowing for the bulk of their financing requirements, but borrowing from this source cannot be projected with confidence. Privately owned financial institutions are subject to a number of capital and regulatory constraints which can adversely affect (will heavily influence) the level and direction of future lending to developing countries. Moreover, the volatility and short-term character of commercial bank lending suggests an urgent need to reduce the role of commercial banks in recycling the OECD and OPEC surplus, and to create new mechanisms designed to ensure more stable and longer term sources of capital to developing countries.
Beyond familiar shores: faculty teaching with technology

The integration of technology in classrooms has had a positive impact on student achievement. But an investment of time is necessary to move technology from a part-time tool to an active tool, fully integrated into the curriculum. Also, in order to provide technology in the classroom, educators must receive professional staff training on how to effectively use technology. This paper discusses web use as a professional source of development and curriculum materials, and how to integrate technology into classrooms to promote learning.This session will Chart a Bold New Course with suggestions for collaborative learning and group problem solving in the classroom, "just-in-time" learning, and how educators can become facilitators and coaches to students.
Application of W-band, Doppler Radar to Railgun Velocity Measurements

Abstract This paper describes a W-Band Doppler radar system in use at the electromagnetic launch facility at the Naval Surface Warfare Center in Dahgren, VA. Experimental results for a medium caliber railgun launch at 2000 m/s are presented. A discussion of the radar signal characteristics is given and the Doppler velocity profile during launch is computed. The in-bore time history of the launch package derived from the radar system is found to have good agreement with that derived from traditional magnetic field flux sensors (B-dot sensors). Given the increased temporal resolution of the radar system over B-dot measurements, time resolved friction coefficients can be estimated based on launch parameters. Due to the capabilities of the Dahlgren test range, the radar is able to track the projectile for a portion of flight just after the projectile exits the launcher. Drag coefficients for the projectile in hypervelocity free-flight are also presented.
A Preliminary summary of the multanovski school of long‐range weather‐forecasting

The Institute of Long-Range Weather Forecasts, since 1930 a full fledged division of the Central Weather Bureau of USSR, was established in 1912, at the Central Geophysical Observatory as a result of a resolution adopted at the Second Meteorological Congress, calling for the development of forecasting methods to meet the needs of agriculture. B. P. Multanovski, present head of the Institute was entrusted with the work of carrying on investigations to promote the development of long-range forecasting methods. Together with his associates he developed, in the course of many years, the methods which serve at present as the basis for forecasts.
Manipulations of vasopressin alter aggression differently across testing conditions in monogamous and non‐monogamous Peromyscus mice

Differences in the distribution of arginine vasopressin (AVP) and a subtype of AVP receptors, the V1a receptor, may explain dissimilarities in social behavior of monogamous and non-monogamous rodents. Intracerebroventricular infusions of AVP and a V1a antagonist were used in sexually naive males of two mouse species, the monogamous and highly aggressive California mouse (Peromyscus californicus) and the non-monogamous and less aggressive white-footed mouse (P. leucopus), to begin testing the interaction between the social system of a species and the effects of AVP on aggression. Two testing conditions, the resident-intruder aggression test (R-I) and the neutral arena aggression test, were used because they may differ in function and underlying biological mechanisms. In the R-I test, administration of the antagonist lengthened attack latencies in California mice. In contrast, blocking V1a receptors did not alter attack latencies in the R-I test in white-footed mice or in the neutral arena aggression test in both species. AVP also did not alter aggression in either species in either behavioral test. Overall, these results suggest that AVP may be more likely to be associated with offensive aggression as measured in the R-I test than with neutral arena aggression and that the effects of AVP manipulations may differ between monogamous and non-monogamous rodents. Aggress. Behav. 31:000–000, 2005. © 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Chemiluminescent PEG-PCL micelles for imaging hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is one of the fundamental molecules of biology, regulating key cell signaling pathways and the development of numerous inflammatory diseases. There is therefore great interest in developing contrast agents that can detect hydrogen peroxide in vitro and in vivo. In this report, we present a new contrast agent for imaging hydrogen peroxide, termed the chemiluminescent poly(ethylene glycol)-b-poly(e-caprolactone) (PEGPCL) micelles (CPMs), which can detect hydrogen peroxide at nanomolar concentrations and chemiluminesce in the near IR range (676 nm) in the presence of hydrogen peroxide. The CPMs are composed of a PEG-PCL scaffold and have fluorescent dyes and peroxalate esters in their hydrophobic PCL core. The CPMs image hydrogen peroxide by undergoing a three-component chemiluminescent reaction involving a peroxalate ester, a fluorescent dye, and hydrogen peroxide. The CPMs also have a stealth PEG corona to enhance their circulation half life. The CPMs should find numerous applications for imaging hydrogen peroxide because of their nanomolar sensitivity, small size, and stealth pegylated surface.
Acute and Longterm Effects of Thyroidectomy on Plasma Calcium in Rats

The acute and longterm effects of thyroidectomy on plasma calcium were studied in male rats bearing parathyroid autotransplants. Zivic-Miller rats were maintained on alternating 12 h light (0800–2000)-12 h dark cycles and fed only during the dark period. They were thyroidectomized at the beginning of the feeding period or at the onset of the period of food deprivation. Wistar rats were thyroidectomized following 24 h starvation, and all animals were bled just before and at timed intervals after surgery. The following observations were made 1) Thyroidectomy resulted in a significant rise in plasma calcium concentration with a maximum increase observed within 3 h. In animals thyroidectomized at the beginning of the feeding period, the maximum increase was 0.94 mg/100 ml of plasma and after 12 h the plasma calcium level was still significantly higher than the presurgery level. 2) When thyroidectomy was performed at the onset of food deprivation, the increase in plasma calcium concentration was 0.84 and 0.57 ...
Changes in adrenocortical monooxygenase activities in alloxan-diabetic rabbits

Abstract Studies were carried out to determine if diabetes mellitus influenced the activities of adrenal steroidogenic enzymes. Adult male rabbits were made diabetic by an i.v. infusion of alloxan (100 mg/kg) and were killed 1 or 2 months later. Mitochondrial cytochrome P-450 concentrations were not affected by diabetes but steroid 11β-hydroxylase activity was greater in the diabetics than in controls after both 1 and 2 months. The type I spectral change produced by 11-deoxycorticosterone, the substrate for 11β-hydroxylation, was also greater in mitochondria from diabetics. By contrast, mitochondrial cholesterol side-chain cleavage activity was similar in controls and diabetics. Microsomal cytochrome P-450 concentrations were unaffected by diabetes but 21-hydroxylase activity was significantly lower in adrenal microsomes from diabetics than from controls. The results indicate that alloxan-induced diabetes alters adrenocortical steroid metabolism which may contribute to changes in the pattern of steroid secretion noted by other investigators.
Propagation of singularities and maximal functions in the plane

In this work we mainly generalize Bourgain's circular maximal function to include variable coefficient averages. Our techniques involve a combination of Bourgain's basic ideas plus microlocal analysis. In particular, to see the role of curvature, we rely heavily on methods used in studying propogation of singularities for hyperbolic differential equations. We also show that, forp>2, there is local smoothing inL p for solutions to the wave equation.
Studies of 17-hydroxycorticosteroids

Summary Plasma 17-hydroxycorticosteroidconcentrations were found to be elevated markedly in seven patients with salicylate intoxication and in guinea pigs given large doses of sodium salicylate intraperitoneally. Guinea pigs given sodium lactate or smaller amounts of sodium salicylate, intraperitoneally, were found to have levels of these steroids which were not significantly different from those of untreated animals.
A versatile long-path, slot burner for atomic and molecular absorption spectroscopy with oxyacetylene and nitrous oxide-acetylene flames

Abstract A description is given of a long-path slot burner designed specifically for the observation of theabsorption spectra of atomic and molecular species in high burning velocity flames such as premixed oxyacetylene, nitrous oxide-acetylene and others. Aerosols of solutions are introduced into the fuel-oxidant mixture for the observation of atomic and molecular absorption spectra of metallic elements and their compounds. Atomic absorption detection limits for a number of elements in a fuel-rich oxyacetylene flame are reported and compared with those obtained for a nitrous oxide-acetylene flame. Recordings of the absorption spectra of C 2 , CN, and metal monoxide molecules observed in the two acetylene flames are also included.
Optimal Wasteload Allocation Procedure for Achieving Dissolved Oxygen Water Quality Objectives. II: Optimal Load Control

This paper presents the development of an efficient strategy for achieving in-stream dissolved oxygen (DO) water quality standards (WQSs) via optimized point-load control strategies using the adjoint method. To this end, a least-squares-type objective function is formulated that measures the difference between desired (WQSs) and current DO concentrations at strategically selected monitoring points in the domain. The goal is to minimize the difference between actual DO concentration and the WQS, hence allowing time-variant loadings to utilize the assimilative capacity of the receiving water body at an optimal level. Time-variant discharge rates for a number of discharge locations are considered as control parameters, while different zone-specific critical DO levels are imposed as constraints. The selection of the control is kept flexible and a number of different scenarios are tested. First, only carbonaceous biochemical oxygen demand is used, which allows for a reduction of the number of equations that need to be solved. In the other tests, all constituents are switched on and different variables at each load node are selected as a control by first varying the concentrations individually, and then linking them through control of the volumetric flow rate. Optimization is achieved using a conjugate gradient search method, for which the gradients are computed through the solution of both the direct and adjoint problems. It is shown that the large amount of gradient information (parameter space has a dimension of several thousands) can be computed very efficiently using the adjoint, and that optimized results are achieved after only a few iterations irrespective of the initial guess. Computations are carried out using both two-dimensional model formulation applied to a long rectangular channel with varying width and slope and a model for the upper Potomac River estuary.
Incidence rates and predictors of diabetes in those with prediabetes: the Strong Heart Study.

Background The association between prediabetes as currently defined and incident diabetes in populations with widespread obesity, insulin resistance syndrome, and diabetes is not well defined. In this article, diabetes risk factors and incidence rates in American Indians (AI) with prediabetes are examined.
Hydrogenation of conjugated dienes with diamine substituted cobalt cyanide catalysts in two-phase systems

Abstract Two catalyst systems prepared by mixing CoCl 2 , KCN and diamine (diamine = ethylenediamine or 2,2′-bipyridine) at a 1:3:1 ratio under hydrogen in a two-phase solvent mixture (water—methanol and benzene) have been investigated for the hydrogenation of conjugated dienes into monoenes. Investigations with isoprene as the substrate showed that the addition of a phase transfer reagent to these two phase reaction mixtures had little effect on the reaction rates or the product distributions. In general, these two phase, diamine substituted catalyst systems behaved in the same way as the [Co(CN) 5 H] 3− system when used under phase transfer conditions.
Degradation of a non-cycling mammalian polo-like kinase.

Commentary to:Murine FGF-Inducible Kinase is Rapidly Degraded via the Nuclear Ubiquitin-Proteosome System When Overexpressed in NIH 3T3 CellsGregory F. Alberts and Jeffrey A. Winkles
Use and Implications of the Harmonic Mean Model on Mixtures for Basic Research and Drug Discovery

The use of the harmonic mean model for predicting the activities of a given mixture and its constituents has not previously been explored in the context of combinatorial libraries and drug discovery. Herein, the analyses of historical data confirm the harmonic mean as an accurate predictor of mixture activity. The implications of these results are discussed.
Improved tendon radioprotection by combined cross-linking and free radical scavenging

Allograft safety is a great concern owing to the risk of disease transmission from nonsterile tissues. Radiation sterilization is not used routinely because of deleterious effects on the mechanical integrity and stability of allograft collagen. We previously reported several individual cross-linking or free radical scavenging treatments provided some radioprotective effects for tendons. We therefore asked whether a combination of treatments would provide an improved protective effect after radiation exposure regarding mechanical properties and enzyme resistance. To address this question we treated 90 rabbit Achilles tendons with a combination of cross-linking (1-ethyl-3-[3-dimethyl aminopropyl] carbodiimide [EDC]) and one of three scavenging regimens (mannitol, ascorbate, or riboflavin). Tendons then were exposed to one of three radiation conditions (gamma or electron beam irradiation at 50 kGy or unsterilized). Combination-treated tendons (10 per group) had increases in mechanical properties and higher resistance to collagenase digestion compared with EDC-only and untreated tendons. Irradiated tendons treated with EDC-mannitol, -ascorbate, and -riboflavin combinations had comparable strength to native tendon and had averages of 26%, 39%, and 37% greater, respectively, than those treated with EDC-only. Optimization of a cross-linking protocol and free radical scavenging cocktail is ongoing with the goal of ensuring sterile allografts through irradiation while maintaining their structure and mechanical properties.
Periodontal and Restorative Considerations in Rotary Gingival Curettage

Rotary gingival curettage, a relatively new surgical retraction procedure, is discussed from periodontal and restorative points of view. Treatment planning and restorative recommendations can maintain the health and stability of the attachment apparatus.
Atmospheric Rivers as Drought Busters on the U.S. West Coast

AbstractAtmospheric rivers (ARs) have, in recent years, been recognized as the cause of the large majority of major floods in rivers all along the U.S. West Coast and as the source of 30%–50% of all precipitation in the same region. The present study surveys the frequency with which ARs have played a critical role as a common cause of the end of droughts on the West Coast. This question was based on the observation that, in most cases, droughts end abruptly as a result of the arrival of an especially wet month or, more exactly, a few very large storms. This observation is documented using both Palmer Drought Severity Index and 6-month Standardized Precipitation Index measures of drought occurrence for climate divisions across the conterminous United States from 1895 to 2010. When the individual storm sequences that contributed most to the wet months that broke historical West Coast droughts from 1950 to 2010 were evaluated, 33%–74% of droughts were broken by the arrival of landfalling AR storms. In the Pa...
Acute Outcomes after Introduction of a Standardized Clinical Assessment and Management Plan (SCAMP) for Balloon Aortic Valvuloplasty in Congenital Aortic Stenosis

Introduction. Standardization of care can reduce practice variation, optimize resource utilization, and improve clinical outcomes. We have created a standardized clinical assessment and management plan (SCAMP) for patients having balloon aortic valvuloplasty (BAV) for congenital aortic stenosis (AS). This study compares acute outcomes of BAV at our institution before and after introduction of this SCAMP. Methods. In this retrospective matched cohort study, each SCAMP patient was matched to four historical controls. Outcomes were categorized based on the combination of residual AS and aortic regurgitation (AR) as: (1) Optimal: gradient ≤35 mm Hg and trivial or no AR; (2) Adequate: gradient ≤35 mm Hg and mild AR; (3) Inadequate: gradient >35 mm Hg and/or moderate or severe AR. Results. All 23 SCAMP patients achieved a residual AS gradient ≤35 mm Hg; the median residual AS gradient for the SCAMP group was lower (25 (10-35) mm Hg) than in matched controls (30 (0-65) mm Hg; P = 0.005). The two groups did not differ with regard to degree of AR grade after BAV. Compared with controls, SCAMP patients were more likely to have an optimal result and less likely to have an inadequate result (52% vs. 34% and 17% vs. 45%, respectively; P = 0.02) Conclusions. A SCAMP for BAV resulted in optimal acute results in half of the initial 23 patients enrolled, and outcomes in this group were better than those of matched historical controls. Whether these improved acute outcomes translate into better long-term outcomes for this patient population remains to be seen.
Effect of Norethynodrel-Mestranol on the Reproductive System and Mammary Glands of Male BALB/c Mice∗

The effect of norethynodrel-mestranol (NE+M) on the reproductive sys tem and mammary glands of male BALB/c mice was studied. 100 mcg NE plus 1.5% M was administered daily for 15 30 or 60 days. After 15 days atrophy of the seminal vesicle and prostate was evident. Interstitial cells showed atrophy after 30 days while it required 60 days for spermatogenesis to be inhibited. Hypertrophy of the zona fasiculatat and reticularis of the adrenal glands was evident at all times during treatment. Most of the animals developed mammary duct systems though few alveoli were present. Luteinizing hormone secretion appeared to be initially inhibited while follicle stimulating hormone secretion was not suppressed until later. The release of luteotropic hormone was not affected.
CMV retinitis in a patient with good syndrome.

Purpose: To describe cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis in a patient with Good syndrome. Methods: A 48-year-old patient with Good syndrome presented with a necrotizing retinitis in the left eye. Quantitative touchdown real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed on aqueous fluid. Results: Quantitative PCR showed 152 copies of CMV per ml and was negative for varicella zoster virus (VZV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), herpes simplex virus (HSV-1), and HSV-2. The positive CMV PCR suggested CMV retinitis and the patient was treated with intravitreal ganciclovir injections (2.5 mg/0.05 ml), followed by ganciclovir implant. The retinal lesions showed decreasing activity two weeks after the onset of the therapy. A repeat PCR showed a decreasing number of CMV copies at one and two weeks (122 copies/ml and 0 copies/ml, respectively) that correlated clinically with the decreasing retinitis activity. Conclusions: Quantitative PCR can be useful in diagnosing as well as assessing the response to therapy of CMV ret...
Quench Layer Contribution to Exhaust Hydrocarbons from a Spark-Ignited Engine

INTRODUCTION Hydrocarbons remaining in a wall quench layer have been proposed as a major source of hydrocarbon emissions in spark-ignited internal combustion engines (Daniel and Wentworth, 1962). Additional experiments using wall mounted sampling valves were subsequently carried out by Daniel (1967), Muller and von Watzdorf (1968), Weiss et al. (1979), and Henningsen and Qvale (1980). Our paper presents the results of an experimental study of the quench layer also using a wall mounted sampling valve. The valve was electrohydraulically actuated and had uniquely small leakage and crevice characteristics. Our results do not support the contention that the wall quench layer is a major source of exhaust emissions. Hydrocarbons from other sources, as yet not quantified, such as those emitted from ring crevices, deposits or oil films appear to be likely contributors to exhaust hydrocarbons (Wentworth, 1971; Haskell and Legate, 1972; and Kaiser et al., 1980).
Excitation spectra of group III impurities in germanium under uniaxial stress

The absorption spectra of Ga, In and Tl impurities in Ge have been measured using polarized radiation with uniaxial stress along the [100] and [111] crystallographic directions. The experimental lines have been identified using group theoretical selection rules and estimates of the polarized line intensities obtained from the acceptor state wave functions. From this identification the splittings of the acceptor ground state and the three excited states corresponding to the B, C and D lines have been determined. From the acceptor ground state splitting the splitting of the valence band edge in Ge and the corresponding deformation potential parameters can be obtained. The values determined are b=+0·9 ± 0·1 eV and d=+2·1 ± 0·2 eV.
The structure of a separating turbulent boundary layer. Part 1. Mean flow and Reynolds stresses

The problem of turbulent-boundary-layer separation due to an adverse pressure gradient is an old but still important problem in many fluid flow devices. Until recent years little quantitative experimental information was available on the flow structure downstream of separation because of the lack of proper instrumentation. The directionally sensitive laser anemometer provides the ability to measure the instantaneous flow direction and magnitude accurately. The experimental results described here are concerned with a nominally two-dimensional, separating turbulent boundary layer for an airfoil-type flow in which the flow was accelerated and then decelerated until separation. Upstream of separation single and cross-wire hot-wire anemometer measurements are also presented. Measurements in the separated zone with a directionally sensitive laser-anemometer system were obtained for U, V , $\overline{u^2}, \overline{v^2}, - \overline{uv}$ , the fraction of time that the flow moves downstream, and the fraction of time that the flow moves away from the wall. In addition to confirming the earlier conclusions of Simpson, Strickland & Barr (1977) regarding a separating airfoil-type turbulent boundary layer, much new information about the separated region has been gathered. (1) The backflow mean velocity profile scales on the maximum negative mean velocity U N and its distance from the wall N . A U + vs. y + law-of-the-wall velocity profile is not consistent with this result. (2) The turbulent velocities are comparable with the mean velocity in the backflow, although low turbulent shearing stresses are present. (3) Mixing length and eddy viscosity models are physically meaningless in the backflow and have reduced values in the outer region of the separated flow. Downstream of fully developed separation, the mean backflow appears to be divided into three layers: a viscous layer nearest the wall that is dominated by the turbulent flow unsteadiness but with little Reynolds shearing stress effects; a rather flat intermediate layer that seems to act as an overlap region between the viscous wall and outer regions; and the outer backflow region that is really part of the large-scaled outer region flow. The Reynolds shearing stress must be modelled by relating it to the turbulence structure and not to local mean velocity gradients. The mean velocities in the backflow are the results of time averaging the large turbulent fluctuations and are not related to the source of the turbulence.
Magnetic resonance imaging in ischemic heart disease

The clinical use of MR imaging in ischemic heart disease is still limited, although this is the major cardiac disease afflicting populations of many countries. However, with the recent development of faster MR techniques, MR imaging provides multiple capabilities for the evaluation of most aspects of ischemic heart disease. We described the potential application of MR imaging for identifying and quantifying morphologic and functional alterations caused by myocardial infarction and ischemia; the contribution of MR contrast media to improve tissue characterization and to identify ischemic myocardium; and the application of fast MR imaging techniques for assessing anatomy and blood flow in the native coronary arteries and bypass conduits. With continued development of these capabilities, MR imaging has the potential to be a comprehensive noninvasive imaging modality in ischemic heart disease.
A Wireless Sensor Networks' Analytics System for Predicting Performance in On-Demand Deployments

The need for advanced tools that provide efficient design of on-demand deployment of wireless sensor networks (WSN) is critical for meeting our nation's demand for increased intelligence, reconnaissance, and surveillance. For practical applications, WSN deployments can be time consuming and error prone since they have the utmost challenge of guaranteeing connectivity and proper area coverage upon deployment. This creates an unmet demand for decision-support systems that help manage this complex process. This paper presents research to develop a system for predicting optimal deployments of WSN. Specifically, it presents results of image processing algorithms for terrain classification, results of modeling WSN signal propagation under different terrain conditions, results of optimization and visualization techniques for high-dimensional deployments, and system architecture for efficient integration and future deployment. Results show a feasible approach that can be used to automatically determine areas of high signal obstruction—which is essential to estimate obstruction parameters in simulations—and mapping of accurate WSN path-loss models to enhance the overall decision-making process during predeployment of large-scale WSN.
Analysis of long-term mechanical grooming on large-scale test panels coated with an antifouling and a fouling-release coating

Long-term grooming tests were conducted on two large-scale test panels, one coated with a fluorosilicone fouling-release (FR) coating, and one coated with a copper based ablative antifouling (AF) coating. Mechanical grooming was performed weekly or bi-weekly using a hand operated, electrically powered, rotating brush tool. The results indicate that weekly grooming was effective at removing loose or heavy biofilm settlement from both coatings, but could not prevent the permanent establishment of low-profile tenacious biofilms. Weekly grooming was very effective at preventing macrofouling establishment on the AF coating. The effectiveness of weekly grooming at preventing macrofouling establishment on the FR coating varied seasonally. The results suggest that frequent mechanical grooming is a viable method to reduce the fouling rating of ships' hulls with minimal impact to the coating. Frequent grooming could offer significant fuel savings while reducing hull cleaning frequencies and dry dock maintenance requirements.
Selective actions of central μ and κ opioid antagonists upon sucrose intake in sham-fed rats

Intake of a palatable sucrose solution in real-fed rats is mediated in part by central mu and kappa opioid receptors. Since general opioid antagonists still inhibit sucrose intake in sham-fed rats, the present study examined whether centrally administered mu (beta-funaltrexamine: 5, 20 micrograms), mu1 (naloxonazine: 50 micrograms), kappa (nor-binaltorphamine: 1, 5, 20 micrograms), delta (naltrindole: 20 micrograms) or delta 1 (DALCE: 40 micrograms) opioid subtype antagonists altered sucrose intake in sham-fed rats in a similar manner to systemic naltrexone (0.01-1 mg/kg) and whether such effects were equivalent to altering the sucrose concentration. Sucrose (20%) intake in sham-fed rats was significantly and dose-dependently reduced by naltrexone (59%), beta-funaltrexamine (44%) and nor-binaltorphamine (62%), but not by naloxonazine, naltrindole or DALCE. The reductions in sham sucrose (20%) intake by general, mu and kappa antagonism were similar in pattern and magnitude to diluting sucrose concentration from 20% to 10% in untreated sham-fed rats. Since both real-fed and sham-fed rats share similar patterns of specificity of opioid effects, magnitudes and potencies of inhibition, it suggests that central mu and kappa antagonism acts on orosensory mechanisms supporting sucrose intake.
Streaming Pointwise Mutual Information

Recent work has led to the ability to perform space efficient, approximate counting over large vocabularies in a streaming context. Motivated by the existence of data structures of this type, we explore the computation of associativity scores, otherwise known as pointwise mutual information (PMI), in a streaming context. We give theoretical bounds showing the impracticality of perfect online PMI computation, and detail an algorithm with high expected accuracy. Experiments on news articles show our approach gives high accuracy on real world data.
AGED WOMEN FROM NON ENGLISH SPEAKING BACKGROUNDS

Aged women from all groups in Australia experience common problems. Financially they are less well off than are men, they are more likely to be widowed and to be living alone. In addition to these experiences aged women from non-English speaking backgrounds can also experience difficulties through their inability to communicate, especially in formal and semi-formal situations. Inter-family value shifts also threaten self image and the quality of life. Ethnically segregated retirement villages can be instrumental in enabling people to retain control of their lives, in enhancing social networks and in preserving family relationships.
Robust M-channel biorthogonal filter banks

Phoong and Vaidyanathan (1994) and Phoong et al. introduced a new class of two-channel biorthogonal filter banks. The two-channel systems enjoy many desirable properties. The present paper makes an attempt to generalize the previous results to the M-channel case while preserving the desired properties. The proposed M-channel filter banks have the advantage of low computational complexity. The perfect reconstruction (PR) property is structurally guaranteed, and therefore PR is preserved even when all the parameters are quantized to a finite precision. The new design method allows to design one filter at a time sequentially which is more efficient than designing all M filters simultaneously. Therefore one can control the characteristic of every subband filter separately. These filter banks may find applications where different properties of different subbands are desired. >
Nitric oxide synthase: role in the genesis of vascular disease.

▪ Abstract The product of nitric oxide (NO) synthase is the most potent endogenous vasodilator known. NO not only is a potent vasodilator, it also inhibits platelet adherence and aggregation, reduc...
Macrophages Release Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha and Interleukin-12 in Response to Intracellular Bacillus anthracis Spores

Herein we report that infection of a murine macrophage cell line with Bacillus anthracis results in the production of tumor necrosis factor alpha and interleukin-12 (IL-12). When infected with B. anthracis spores in combination with lipopolysaccharide, macrophages release increased amounts of IL-12. We found no evidence of inhibition of cytokine responses in macrophages infected with B. anthracis spores.
A Pioneering Integrated Circuit Design Program--High Volume Fast Track Hiring and Integration of Engineers

This paper will present a pioneering hiring-integration (HI) program. First sector will illustrate a novel 12-month graduate trainee program (GTP) - sourcing, selecting and hiring rightful candidates for design position. Second sector wraps up the program with a full fledge integration program which will be the core of this paper. Custom curricula comprise 3 phases with 127 courses 100% internally designed, developed and instructed. The combined total training hours stands at 368. Operations of the HI Program is championed and owned by a voluntary 'Technical Integration Taskforce'. The results - 4-year average of 117 new hires ramped with average instructor effectiveness of 80%, course effectiveness of 81.5% and use of training of 88.75%.
Non-Hertzian behavior in binary collisions of plastic balls derived from impact acoustics.

This paper presents slight deviations from Hertz’s impact law, inferred from acoustic signatures of polypropylene ball collisions. An impact acoustics model is used to fit the acoustic data. The model is built upon a generalized relationship between impact force (F) and deformation (ξ) of the form F=κξα. Agreement with experiment is reached when α and κ differ from Hertz’s values by −6.25% and +1%, respectively. The difference is ascribable to non-idealities such as slight material inhomogeneities, impact-point asymmetry, plasticity etc. Also, the collision energy released as sound, which is usually dismissed as negligible, is derived from data fitting. The acoustic-to-incident energy ratio, dependent on impact duration, is constrained to be on the order of 100 ppm.
Experimental preretinal neovascularization by laser-induced venous thrombosis in rats

PURPOSE. Retinal ischemia and neovascularization (NV) are important components of many retinal disorders. To facilitate further investigation of retinal ischemia and neovascularization, we sought t...
Roles of nitric oxide synthase inhibition and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 inhibition on vascular morphology and function in an in vivo model of pancreatic cancer.

Purpose: Both nitric oxide (NO) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) mediate tumor vascular function. Because these molecules regulate one another9s expression, we hypothesized that NO synthase (NOS) inhibition produces effects comparable to those of anti-VEGF therapy on human pancreatic cancer xenografts. Experimental Design: L3.6pl human pancreatic cancer cells were s.c. implanted in nude mice. On day 6, mice were randomized to receive ( a ) PBS (control), ( b ) DC101 [VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR-2) antibody] by i.p. injection, ( c ) N -nitro-l-arginine (NNLA; NOS inhibitor) in the drinking water, or ( d ) both DC101 and NNLA. Mice were killed on day 20. Results: DC101 and NNLA as single agents inhibited tumor growth by ∼50% to 60% ( P P P P P P P P Conclusions: Although VEGFR-2 can mediate NOS activity, the combination of VEGFR-2 and NOS inhibition significantly increased the antivascular effect over single agent therapy. The addition of NOS inhibition led to an even further alteration of tumor vessel morphology and vascular perfusion compared with VEGFR-2 blockade, suggesting that NO and VEGFR-2 have distinct but complementary effects on the tumor vasculature.
Dynamical Tropical Cyclone Track Forecast Errors. Part I: Tropical Region Error Sources

Abstract All highly erroneous (>300 n mi or 555 km at 72 h) Navy Operational Global Atmospheric Prediction System (NOGAPS) and U.S. Navy version of the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory model (GFDN) tropical cyclone track forecasts in the western North Pacific during 1997 are examined. Responsible error mechanisms are described by conceptual models that are all related to known tropical cyclone motion processes that are being misrepresented in the dynamical models. Error mechanisms that predominantly occur while the tropical cyclone is still in the Tropics are described in this paper, and those errors that are more related to midlatitude circulations are addressed in a companion paper. Of the 69 NOGAPS large-error cases, 39 were attributed to excessive direct cyclone interaction (E-DCI), 12 cases of excessive ridge modification by the tropical cyclone (E-RMT), and 10 cases of excessive reverse trough formation (E-RTF). Of the 50 GFDN large-error cases, 31 were E-DCI, and only two E-RMT and two E-RTF c...
Learning About Causal Mechanisms: Bounding the Indirect Effect of Oil Through State Weakness on Civil War

Conflict scholars have devoted considerable attention to the natural resource curse, and specifically to connections between natural resources, state weakness, and civil war. Many have posited a state weakness mechanism - that significant oil production causes state weakness, and state weakness consequently increases the likelihood of civil war onset. In this paper, I develop nonparametric methods for bounding mechanism-specific causal effects to show, using standard measures, that the state weakness mechanism does not exist in the short or medium term. In only two cases is there the possibility of a medium term effect, and the state weakness mechanism is unlikely to be operative even in these two cases. Furthermore, the methods introduced in this paper do not rely on assumptions about unmeasured confounders, so this result is robust to the consideration of other risk factors for civil war onset. The state weakness mechanism may still exist in the form of long term effects or an effect that reinforces pre-existing war and/or state weakness. However, the null hypothesis of no long-term and/or reinforcing effect cannot be rejected without the use of additional assumptions.
Remind Me: Minimizing Negative Effects of Multitasking

Abstract Multitasking is common in our everyday life. Often people multitask either consciously or otherwise, whether talking on the phone while driving or visiting social networking sites while completing a work assignment. Students are commonly engaged in multiple tasks while completing homework. Research shows that multitasking negatively impacts one's performance. System designers can examine various ways to minimize negative effects of multitasking. Systems can be designed to automatically set up reminder alerts reminding users to attend their primary task. In order to examine whether reminders would improve user performance when multitasking, we set up a web-based laboratory experiment with a multi-tabbed user interface. The first tab contained slides with study material for a world history quiz. The remaining tabs each contained different games. Participants had 20-minutes to study and were able to switch tasks whenever they desired. Participants were randomized into one of two conditions: reminders or no-reminders. Participants in the reminder condition received reminder alerts every one minute off-task reminding them of the primary task. As long as the user was on the slides tab, no reminders appeared. Participants in the control condition did not receive any reminders. Data for 66 participants was analyzed. The results of the study suggest that receiving reminders about a task when multitasking may be helpful for females. However, for males, these reminder alerts were not helpful, and in fact appear to increase the negative effects of multitasking by causing more switches and possibly lower performance.