cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Science Background and Spatial Abilities in Men and Women

Deficits in spatial abilities, particularly mental rotation (MR), may contribute to women's avoidance of areas of study that rely on MR, including chemistry. Women who do experience success in chemistry may do so because they have good MR skills. We examined MR ability, assessed by the Purdue Visual Rotations Test (PVRT; Bodner and R. B. (1997)) in three groups of students: those with no college science background, those with a limited college science background that did not include organic chemistry, and those with more extensive science background including organic chemistry. Men and women with extensive background that included organic chemistry performed equally on the MR task, as did those students who had no college science background. However, men outperformed women on the MR task if they had limited science training, although this effect was mediated by the total number of chemistry courses taken. Self-reports of competence on the task were positively related to MR ability, but neither self-described effort nor other background variables (such as experience with spatial tasks and participation in athletics) were important to MR. Grades in science courses were not related to MR capability for any group of students. Our results suggest that while women often show a lesser ability with MR tasks, this deficit may not be an important contribution to women's tendency to avoid the physical sciences.
Catalytic reduction of NOx by hydrocarbons over Co/ZSM-5 catalysts prepared with different methods

Abstract Co/ZSM-5 catalysts were prepared by several methods, including wet ion exchange (WIE), its combination with impregnation (IMP), solid state ion exchange (SSI) and sublimation (SUB). FTIR results show that the zeolite protons in H-ZSM-5 are completely removed when CoCl2 vapor is deposited. TPR shows peaks for Co2+ ions at 695–705°C and for Co3O4 at 385–390°C, but a peak in the 220–250°C region appears to indicate Co2+ oxo-ions. The catalysts have been tested for the selective reduction of NOx with iso-C4H10 under O2-rich conditions and in the absence of O2, both with dry and wet feeds. A bifunctional mechanism appears to operate at low temperature: oxo-ions or Co3O4 clusters first oxidize NO to NO2, which is chemisorbed as NOy (y≥2) and reduced. In this modus operandi catalyst SUB shows the highest N2 yield ∼90% near 390°C for dry and wet feeds. It is found to be quite stable in a 52 h run with a wet feed. In contrast, the WIE catalyst, which mainly contains isolated Co2+ ions and has poor activity below 400°C, excels at T>430°C. This and the observation that, at high temperature, NO is reduced in O2-free feeds over Co/MFI catalysts, suggest that NO can be reduced over Co2+ ions without intermediate formation of NO2. The bifunctional mechanism at low temperature is supported by the fact that a strongly enhanced performance is obtained by mixing WIE with Fe/FER, a catalyst known to promote NO2 formation.
Renal Function in Rats with Unilateral Proteinuria Produced by Renal Perfusion with Aminonucleoside

Left (L) renal perfusion with an aminonucleoside of puromycin (PA), was used to produce unilateral proteinuria in 15 rats to examine the mechanisms responsible for renal salt retention in the nephrotic syndrome. Thirteen control rats underwent L renal perfusion with isotonic saline. Animals were studied 8 (group I) or 13 (group II) days after perfusion. Renal perfusion with saline per se did not change the glomerular filtration rate, renal plasma flow, or absolute and fractional excretion of sodium (Na) from the perfused kidney. PA animals showed a significant decrease in glomerular filtration rate from the perfused kidney and a proportional decrease in the absolute excretion of Na from the PA perfused kidney as compared to the right kidney. The fractional excretion of Na was equivalent in the L and R kidneys of the PA animals. The mean absolute Na excretion from the nonproteinuric R kidney of PA rats was almost twice that of the R kidney of the controls. The increased Na excretion by the nonproteinuric kidney of the PA animals compensated for the sodium retention by the proteinuric kidney.
Multiple volar carpometacarpal joint dislocation

Traumatic dislocation of the medial four carpometacarpal joints in a child is an unusual injury. Descriptions of this injury in the literature have been reviewed and a case is presented to illustrate the pertinent anatomy, biomechanical aspects, and details of management. Specifically, the importance of collateral circulation to the hand and an effective technique of pin fixation are described.
A novel approach for designing diversity radar waveforms that are orthogonal on both transmit and receive

In this paper, we present an approach to the design of orthogonal, Doppler tolerant waveforms for diversity waveform radar (e.g. MIMO radar). Previous work has given little consideration to the design of radar waveforms that remain orthogonal when they are received. Our research is focused on: (1) developing sets of waveforms that are orthogonal on both transmit and receive, and (2) ensuring that these waveforms are Doppler tolerant when properly processed. Our proposed solution achieves the above mentioned goals by incorporating direct sequence spread spectrum (DSSS) coding techniques on linear frequency modulated (LFM) signals. We call it Spread Spectrum Coded LFM (SSCL) signaling. Our transmitted LFM waveforms are rendered orthogonal with a unique spread spectrum code. At the receiver, the echo signal will be decoded using it's spreading code. In this manner, transmitted orthogonal waveforms can be match filtered only with the intended received signals. From analytical expressions of the waveforms we have designed and from simulation results, we found that: (a) cross-ambiguity function of two LFM spread spectrum coded (orthogonal) waveforms is small for all delays and Dopplers (i.e. transmit and receive signals satisfy the orthogonality constraint), (b) The length and type of the spread spectrum code determines amount of suppression (i.e. complete orthogonal or near orthogonal of the received signal), (c) We can process the same received signal in two different ways; one method can provide LFM signal resolution and the other method can provide ultra high resolution.
The interpretative reading festival

(1940). The interpretative reading festival. Quarterly Journal of Speech: Vol. 26, No. 1, pp. 101-104.
Tuning the surface wettability of carbon nanotube carpets in multiscale hierarchical solids

Abstract An attractive approach of increasing functionality of solid surfaces is to create hierarchical multiscale morphology by attaching tailored carpet-like arrays of Carbon nanotubes (CNT) on them. Such surfaces offer fractal morphology along with unprecedented increase in specific surface areas, and significantly boost the potency of porous materials used in surface-active applications. However, full utilization of these structures will require intimate interaction between the solid surface and its environmental fluid. CNT arrays tend to be hydrophobic, which limit their effectiveness in aqueous environments. In this research, we investigated two different surface modifications methods to induce hydrophilic property to CNT nano-carpets on graphitic substrates: dry oxygen plasma treatment and wet sol–gel oxide coating. Structure, morphology, composition and chemistry of these multiscale surfaces have been related to wettability and water flow properties. Plasma oxygen treatments did not alter the surface morphology, but induced temporary wettability, that could be reversed by heat treatment. On the other hand, sol–gel treatment permanently coated the nanotubes with a strongly bonded layer of amorphous SiO 2 . This coating imparts permanent alterations in surface chemistry, contact angle, wettability and water flow. Porous carbon foams were coated with CNT arrays and their water permeability measured before and after sol–gel silica coating. The hydrophilic coating was seen to increase flow rate and reduce pressure build-up. These results have important implications on all devices that utilize surface activity of porous solids, such as catalytic membranes, antimicrobial filters, and microfluidic sensors.
Role of the Peripheral Intravenous Catheter in False‐positive D‐dimer Testing

Objective To determine whether inserting a peripheral intravenous catheter (IV) can significantly increase the circulating D-dimer concentration. Methods Twenty healthy young adult volunteers underwent cannulation of an antecubital vein with a 20-gauge Teflon IV. Time 0 venous blood was drawn during IV insertion. The IV was salinelocked and left in place for 90 minutes, at which time a second venipuncture was performed in a contralateral antecubital vein (+90 min). A qualitative D-dimer assay [erythrocyte-agglutination assay, SimpliRED (SRDD)] and a quantitative spectrophotometric assay [enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (EIA), Dimertest Gold] were performed on all samples. Time 0 means (+/-SD) were compared with +90 min means by paired t-test, and SRDD pairs were compared with McNemar's test. Results Time 0 initial venipuncture blood samples yielded a mean D-dimer concentration of 15 +/- 24 ng/mL, with 2/20 SRDD tests read as positive (95% CI = 1% to 32%). At +90 min, the D-dimer concentration was 33 +/- 21 ng/mL (p = 0.04 vs time 0), with 5/20 SRDD tests read as positive (95% CI = 9% to 49%, p = 0.248). Conclusions Insertion of an IV increased the circulating D-dimer concentration (determined by EIA), but did not lead to a significant increase in false-positive conversion of the SRDD. An effort should be made to perform D-dimer testing on "first-stick" blood to optimize specificity. However, a strongly positive D-dimer reaction cannot be ascribed to the presence of an IV.
Establishing the priority of labor

Pope John Paul II and the social teachings of the Catholic Church emphasize that labor should not be treated as an instrument in the production process. Rather justice requires that labor be given priority over capital. The reasons for this priority are explained. Several labor market conditions are examined to show that generally the priority of labor over capital does not exist. These conditions include unemployment, unjust wages, poverty, suppression of union activities, lack of participatory management, and discrimination against women and foreign workers. The works of Pope John Paul II are examined to discern the causes of these injustices and possible remedies for them. The roles played by the indirect employer, structures of evil, the ownership of economic resources, as well as the error of economism are considered.
Research on discrimination in housing and mortgage markets: Assessment and future directions

Abstract This paper presents a holistic conceptual framework within which various research topics related to discrimination may be interrelated and evaluated. It then critically analyzes extant research relating to central components in the framework: the detection of discrimination, causes of discrimination, consequences of discrimination, and policy initiatives related to fighting discrimination both directly by deterrence and indirectly by attacking segregation and the prejudices it spawns. A great deal is known about the nature of private acts of housing discrimination, but little about which policies are most effective in combating such discrimination. On the other hand, relatively little is known about the extent of housing discrimination perpetrated by local governments and public agencies and about both differential treatment and disparate impact forms of discrimination in mortgage and related (appraisal, insurance) markets.
Wire-OR Logic on Transmission Lines

In modern high-speed systems, avoid wire-OR logic in transmission lines whenever possible or make allowances for its foibles.
In vitro stability of sodium nitroprusside solutions for intravenous administration

A sensitive high-performance liquid chromatographic assay for nitroprusside using an ion-exchange column and UV detection was developed to evaluate the stability of aqueous solutions of sodium nitroprusside in light-protected glass and plastic containers and during simulated infusions. The results showed that sodium nitroprusside is stable in 5% dextrose, normal saline, and lactated Ringer's solutions in light-protected glass or plastic containers. In addition, there was no decrease in the delivered potency of sodium nitroprusside solutions during simulated infusions lasting up to 24 h.
Synthesis of Dihydropyrimidinones/Thiopyrimidinones: Nafion-Ga, an Efficient “Green” Lewis Acid Catalyst for the Biginelli Reaction

Biginelli reaction is the most well-known and widely studied multicomponent reaction used for the direct synthesis of many biologically active 3,4-dihydropyrimidinones or thiones and their derivatives by reacting a β-keto ester/1,3-dicarbonyl compound, an aldehyde, and urea/thiourea. A new easily recoverable solid catalyst, Nafion-Ga (Gallium Nafionate, Ga(III) salt of Nafion-H, a solid polymeric perfluoroalkanesulfonic acid) was prepared from Nafion-K by metal exchange. Nafion-Ga is found to be an efficient and environmentally benign catalyst for the Biginelli reaction. A series of 3,4-dihydropyrimidinones and thiones were conveniently prepared by this green protocol using the catalyst under solvent free conditions. The wide scope of the catalyst for many other acid catalyzed organic transformations can be ascertained by further screening studies.
Studies of Gastrointestinal Viral Flora of Cholera Patients.

SummaryVirus isolation studies on rectal swab specimens of cholera patients were carried out in tissue cultures during the Bangkok, Thailand cholera epidemic of 1958 and 1959. An adenovirus or enterovirus was isolated from 6 of 44 patients with proven cholera. It was concluded that viruses which can be isolated in monkey kidney and HeLa cell tissue cultures were not involved in the cholera syndrome.
Beyond the “decorated landscapes” of educational reform: Toward landscapes of pluralism in science education

Perhaps, we are at the fork in the road when it is imperative that we consider whether the pursuit of pluralism in science education is a worthwhile endeavor in light of recent educational reforms that seem to decorate the true aim of education. The "decorated landscapes" of educational reform concentrate on economic growth and do little to promote the conservation of Earth's natural environments that sustain life itself. Here we renew a discussion of a 300-year pursuit in the United States toward educational landscapes that contribute to students' lives. We connect with scholars who have pursued the pluralistic landscapes of culture in an attempt to make education more authentic and democratic and with scholars who have pursued an education for the conservation of the Earth's natural environments. We argue that these two educational domains are and necessarily should be reflective, reliant, and reciprocal of each other if we wish to truly engage students in scientific literacy—the authentic, relevant, and meaningful science education experiences
Sex differences in the acquisition of intravenously self-administered cocaine and heroin in rats.

Rationale: Despite numerous reports that male and female animals differ in behavioral responses to drugs, few studies have investigated sex differences in drug-reinforced behavior. Objectives: Acquisition of IV cocaine and heroin self-administration was compared in 20 female and 22 male Wistar rats. Methods: An autoshaping procedure was used to train rats to press a lever that resulted in either a 0.2 mg/kg infusion of cocaine or a 0.015 mg/kg infusion of heroin under a fixed-ratio 1 (FR 1) schedule. Daily sessions consisted of six 1-h autoshaping components followed by a 6-h self-administration component. During each autoshaping component, a retractable lever briefly (15 s) extended into the test chamber on a random interval schedule with a mean of either 90 s (cocaine groups) or 480 s (heroin groups) and either ten (cocaine groups) or five (heroin groups) computer-automated infusions were delivered each hour. During each 6-h self-administration component, the lever remained extended and each response on the lever resulted in an infusion of either cocaine (0.2 mg/kg) or heroin (0.015 mg/kg). The criterion for acquisition of cocaine self-administration was a mean of at least 100 infusions and the criterion for heroin self-administration was a mean of at least 20 infusions during the self-administration component over five consecutive sessions. Results: Female rats acquired both cocaine and heroin self-administration more rapidly than males. Acquisition of cocaine self-administration occurred in a greater percentage of female rats compared to males. Female rats self-administered more cocaine than males after acquisition criteria had been met. Conclusions: These findings indicate that female rats were more vulnerable than males to the acquisition of cocaine and heroin self-administration under the conditions of the present experiment.
Potassium ion fluxes in corneal epithelial cells exposed to UVB

Abstract The goal of this study was to investigate the efflux of K + from human corneal limbal epithelial cells (HCLE) exposed to ambient levels of UVB, which is known to cause apoptosis, and to examine the effect of K + channel blockers on loss of potassium induced by UVB. HCLE cells were exposed to 100–200 mJ/cm 2 UVB, followed by incubation in culture media with 5.5–100 mM K + , BDS-1, Ba 2+ or ouabain. To measure intracellular cations, cells were washed in 280 mM sucrose and lysed in DI water. K + and Na + levels in lysates were measured by ion chromatography. HCLE cells showed maximal loss of K + i 10 min after exposure to UVB and 5.5 mM K + media, with recovery of normal K + levels after 90 min. Treatment with 1 μM BDS-1 following UVB exposure reduced the loss of K + by HCLE cells. Exposure to 0.1–5 mM Ba 2+ inhibited UVB-induced K + loss in a time and dose-dependent manner. These results confirm that blocking K + channels in HCLE cells exposed to UVB prevents efflux of K + , confirming that UVB activates K + channels in these cells. Electrophysiology data show that K + channels remain highly active at least 90 min after UVB exposure. HCLE cells exposed to UVB and incubated in 0.01–1 μM ouabain did not recover from UVB-induced K + loss. These data suggest that the Na/K pump may act to restore [K + ] i to control levels in HCLE cells following UVB exposure and that the pump is not damaged by exposure to UVB. Incubation of HCLE cells exposed to UVB in medium with 25–100 mM K + media prevented K + efflux at extracellular concentrations as low as 25 mM (the concentration in tear fluid), maintaining control levels of K + i . In all experiments inward fluxes and intracellular Na + levels mirrored K + changes, albeit at the expected lower concentrations. The prevention of UVB-induced K i + loss by 25 mM K o + is consistent with the possible contribution of the relatively high K + concentration in tears to protection of the corneal epithelium from ambient UVB.
COMPETITIVE STRATEGY, ENVIRONMENTAL SCANNING AND PERFORMANCE: A CONTEXT SPECIFIC ANALYSIS OF THEIR RELATIONSHIP

This study examines the scanning/strategy relationship in the context‐specific setting of the health care industry. It extends the current research on the strategy/scanning relationship to include performance. Results confirm the moderating role played by environmental scanning activities in the strategy/performing relationship, thus providing further evidence for the contingency relationship among the environment, the organization's internal processes, and performance.
PHASE DIAGRAMS OF CALCIUM AND STRONTIUM AT HIGH PRESSURES

The melting temperatures for both Ca and Sr increase rapidly with pressure, reaching nearly 1200\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C at 40 kbar. The only solid-solid transition in Ca below 35 kbar is that between the body-centered cubic and face-centered cubic polymorphs; the slope of the phase boundary is about 3.3\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C/kbar. The phase boundary between the homologous Sr polymorphs has an initial slope of about -10\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C/kbar becoming much steeper at higher pressures. Also, the hysteresis associated with the transition is a function of pressure and becomes very large above 22 kbar. The face-centered cubic Sr shows a large increase in resistance with pressure and a negative temperature coefficient of resistance prior to the polymorphic transition. The resistance discontinuity for the fcc-bcc transformation is a sharp increase at lower pressures, which progressively decreases in magnitude and sharpness and reverses sign at the higher pressures.
How vernier acuity depends on contrast.

Vernier acuity was measured by finding the just discriminable offset for an edge separating fields of different luminances. The contrast of this stimulus is easily specified by the formula c = (L stim — L sur )(L stim + L sur ). Vernier thresholds are about 4–5 sec of arc for contrasts 0.22 and higher, but increase exponentially with decreasing contrast (Fig. 1). By comparison, the presence of the stimulus could be detected at a contrast of 0.016. The possible role of the magnocellular and parvocellular pathways in carrying the input signals to the fine localization process is discussed.
Effect of hypothermia on changes in high-energy phosphate production and utilization in total ischemia.

Abstract The effect of temperature on the rate of production, utilization and destruction of high-energy phosphate in total ischemia was investigated in the dog heart. These studies were performed utilizing a new model of ischemic injury which was designed to test the effect of interventions on the metabolism and structure of ischemic myocardium. In this model, the normal heart was isolated from the circulation in vivo and was arrested immediately with hyperkalemic, oxygenated, autogenous arterial blood prior to the induction of total ischemia. Left ventricular pressure changes in the isolated heart were used to time the onset of ATP depletion to the levels associated with the development of contracture-rigor. Decrements in temperature progressively slowed both ATP production from anaerobic glycolysis and ATP utilization and delayed but did not prevent ATP depletion and the onset of contracture-rigor. Reserve supplies of high-energy phosphates were utilized and much of the adenine nucleotide pool was destroyed at all temperatures studied. Anaerobic glycolysis provided more than 80% of the high-energy phosphates utilized by the ischemic cell at all temperatures but always ceased when ATP levels decreased to 1–2% of control. The results demonstrate that the protective effect of hypothermia in total ischemia is due to a proportional slowing in rates of energy production and utilization. Consequently, hypothermia only delays the depletion of the high-energy phosphate reserves of the myocyte and the destruction of the adenine nucleotide pool.
The net generation: the experiences, attitudes and behaviour of children using the Internet for their own purposes

The much trumpeted ‘information society’ borne by the Internet has been greeted by a confusing mixture of delight and trepidation, not least regarding the attendant implications for children. No clear consensus has emerged among librarians, educators or others as to whether the potential benefits of the system outweigh any risk associated with retrieving potentially harmful material. Presented here is a pilot research study that examines how children use the Internet, and what their opinions of the system are. This was undertaken to inform a research proposal to be submitted to funding organisations. Results of the preliminary fieldwork point to much independent educational use, particularly with regard to project work. Printouts of photographs and documents were prized more than the intangible information itself, so children were not discouraged by the reading level of a text and did not evaluate relevance on this criterion. Leisure use was dominated by game playing. Some children accessed online chat groups, with occasional foul language encountered accepted as a natural, if unwanted, consequence of Internet use. There was little evidence of other potentially harmful or upsetting material being viewed.
Tests of candidate genes in breed cross populations for QTL mapping in livestock.

In recent years, several F2 crosses between outbred lines of livestock have been developed to identify quantitative trait loci (QTL). These populations are valuable for further genetic analysis, including positional candidate gene loci (CGL). Analysis of CGL in F2 populations is, however, hindered by extensive between-breed linkage disequilibrium (LD). The objectives here were to develop and evaluate three tests for CGL in simulated F2 breed-cross populations. 1) A standard association test, based on the fixed effect of CGL genotype. This test was significant for CGL at considerable distances from the QTL. 2) A marker-assisted association test, based on a test at the CGL of the fixed effect of CGL genotype in a breed-cross QTL interval mapping model. This removed the impact of between-breed LD, but was not powerful in detecting CGL closely linked to the QTL, unless the CGL was the QTL. 3) An F-drop test, comparing F ratios for a QTL at the CGL with and without the CGL included as fixed effect. It had low power to distinguish close from distant CGL. Power to distinguish two CGL within 10 cM from the QTL was limited and little improved by including QTL effects associated with markers to remove between-breed LD, although the power was greater when one of the CGL was the causative mutation. Therefore, while we conclude that candidate gene tests in QTL mapping populations must be interpreted with caution, we now have a clearer picture of the value of candidate gene tests in these populations.
“Through a Glass Darkly”: Researcher Ethnocentrism and the Demonization of Research Participants

“I am a man / More sinn’d against than sinning.”—King Lear, Act 3, Scene 2, lines 59–60 In Shakespeare's play, Lear rails against his daughters who have abandoned him and asks the gods for vengeanc...
Computational Modeling of Convective Heat Transfer in Converging-Diverging Plate Channels With Fin-Wall Perforation

The convective heat transfer performance of converging-diverging plate channels with fin-wall perforations is computationally modeled. Covering a Reynolds Number range of 10 < Re < 1000 for air (Pr = 0.72) flows, a parametric study of the effect of the two dimensional duct geometry, which has symmetric fin wall corrugations of trapezoidal profile, are considered. The geometric variables are described by the divergent-plane’s inclination angle φ and the convergent-divergent amplitude ratio α. The wall perforations are modeled as uniformly distributed equi-size thin slots so as to render a porosity (ratio of perforated are to total surface area) β of 10% on the fin surface. The fin-wall transpiration (fluid injection in the divergent section and fluid suction in the convergent section) is seen to promote enhanced convective heat transfer by inducing cross stream mixing and periodic disruption of the boundary layer. As a result, the thermal-hydraulic performance is found to be characteristically unusual, where increase in heat transfer is accompanied with a reduction in frictional loss. The enhanced performance evaluated by both area goodness and volume goodness measures, is seen to render a substantially more compact heat exchanger.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Three-dimensional structural analysis of fibronectin heparin-binding domain mutations.

Using recombinant fibronectin proteins containing the V region and two point mutations in the high-affinity heparin-binding domain, we previously showed that these domains modulate tumor cell invasion as well as proteinase expression and apoptosis in human fibroblasts. Structurally, the wildtype counterparts to these two point mutations, together with four other discontinuous, positively charged residues, form a cationic cradle in domain III-13 of fibronectin that binds heparin. We constructed a three-dimensional model of this cationic cradle and determined whether the two engineered point mutations in the heparin-binding domain would alter this cradle conformation, thus explaining the altered cell behavior. Our model of fibronectin domain III-13 was generated from a template of the three-dimensional structure of a homologous (25% identity) domain, III-3, from tenascin. The amino acid sequences of III-13 that differed from tenascin III-3 were replaced, and side chains for positively charged arginines 6 and 7 were substituted with uncharged threonines. The model revealed that the two mutated threonine residues were solvent accessible, readily accommodated as part of an antiparallel beta strand, and remained part of the three-dimensional cradle. These models suggest that the two point mutations in the heparin-binding domain of fibronectin III-13 alter cell function probably through changes in charge and not through changes in the conformational structure of the cationic cradle. J. Cell. Biochem. Suppl. 36: 156-161, 2001.
Design Of A Large Depth Of View Three-Dimensional Camera For Robot Vision

The design of a compact laser scanner for robot vision is presented. The design is based on synchronized scanners. It is shown that the Scheimpflug condition of focusing coupled with the low divergence of a laser beam provides an ideal arrangement for large depth of view. A geometrical analysis and a prototype description are presented.
A New Algorithm to Consider the Effects of Core Losses on 3-D Transient Magnetic Fields

As a follow-up to our previous effort to consider the effects of steel lamination core loss on 3-D transient magnetic fields, a new algorithm is proposed to eliminate possible convergence problems and improve computation efficiency when a strong eddy core-loss component is involved. The proposed approach is validated by two application examples in terms of the power-balance testing, that is, the increase of input power between considering the core-loss effects and without considering core-loss effects must be equal to the total core losses.
On the Translation of Verse

(Author's summary.-Translation is not one of the great arts, yet it requires, particularly in the translation of verse, thorough knowledge of language, with true appreciation of the beautiful, and some ability in the use of words. Classical verse is incapable of mechanically accurate reproduction in our modern tongue. The same is true, but in lesser degree, of verse in the modern foreign languages. Examples are offered in illustration of these statements.)
Are penetrating aortic ulcers best treated using an endovascular approach

Background Optimal treatment for penetrating aortic ulcers has yet to be determined. Although open surgical repair is an effective therapeutic option, less invasive alternatives such as endoluminal grafting are emerging as a potential adjunct for the treatment of penetrating aortic ulcers isolated to the descending thoracic aorta. We reviewed our cumulative experience with thoracic endografting for penetrating aortic ulcers of the descending thoracic aorta. Methods Between March 2003 and September 2005, 21 patients with penetrating aortic ulcers of the descending thoracic aorta were treated with Gore TAG thoracic endoluminal stent-grafts as part of a single-center investigational device exemption protocol. Results Mean patient age was 73 ± 12 years, and 7 (33%) of 21 were men and 14 (67%) were women. Patients presented with both acute ( Conclusions Endovascular therapy for penetrating aortic ulcers of the descending thoracic aorta is safe and feasible. The number of patients diagnosed with penetrating aortic ulcers is expected to increase as improved imaging systems are becoming more commonplace. As a result, new and safer treatment paradigms will become even more important in the treatment of aortic diseases. Compared with historical surgical results, endovascular therapy for penetrating aortic ulcers of the descending thoracic aorta appears to have less operative mortality and is as equally effective as open surgical repair. Long-term surveillance and continued investigation are warranted.
The quantitative distribution of a putative PKCε mRNA in Limulus central nervous system by modified competitive RT-PCR

Abstract Recently, a full length cDNA for the epsilon (e) isoform of protein kinase C (PKC) was cloned and sequenced from a cDNA library for the horseshoe crab, Limulus polyphemus . This multifunctional enzyme has been implicated in the modulation of the choline cotransporter in Limulus and the epsilon isoform has been identified in homogenates from its central nervous system (CNS). RT-PCR has proven to be a very useful method for quantifying even a few molecules of mRNA in tissue samples. A modified competitive RT-PCR was used here to quantify a putative PKCe mRNA in Limulus CNS preparations. First, we replaced normally used oligo dT and random primers generated from mRNA with a PKCe specific (3′ end) primer P4. Then we used modified nucleotides to extend sample life in storage and finally, we used only annealing and denaturing temperatures during PCR to reduce background. The modified method was used for the first time to quantify PKCe mRNA from three distinct areas of the CNS in Limulus. Results revealed high levels of PKCe mRNA in the corpora pedunculata, in the abdominal ganglia and in the brain ring. These results indicate that PKCe mRNA is broadly distributed throughout the Limulus CNS. Importantly, this modified competitive RT-PCR technique was successfully applied to the quantitation of specific mRNA from Limulus nervous tissue for which no internal standard is available commercially.
Primary photochemical processes of tetraphenylmethane solids

Abstract Studies of UV irradiatated tetraphenylmethane crystals by electron paramagnetic resonance and electronic optical spectroscopy are presented. The primary processes of photochemical reactions are proposed as: (1) (C 6 H 5 ) 4 C + hv → (C 6 H 5 ) 3 C· + C 6 H 5 · and (2) 2C 6 H 5 · → C 6 H 5 C 6 H 5 . No similar effect occurs with other tetrapheny compounds, triphenylmethane, or diphenylmethane. The steric strain in Ph 4 C and effective resonance in Ph 3 C· may be responsible for the high q of the above photochemical reactions.
Credit guarantee contract model based on asymmetric information

In practice, the credit guarantee institutions plan the credit guarantee contract bases on the average success probability or expected revenue without considering the risk level of small and medium-sized enterprise's (SME's) investment projects, which is not fair on SME with different risk. This paper builds a credit guarantee contract model based on the guarantee rate and counter-guarantee measure value. When different risk types of SME accept the same guarantee rate, the counter-guarantee measure value provided by them is equal. When different risk types of SME accept the different guarantee rate, the higher risky SME prefer accepting lower guarantee rate and providing higher counter-guarantee measure value, while, the lower risky SME are just the opposite. Guarantee institute can judge the risk type of SME exactly through SME with different risk selecting guarantee contract, which makes the guarantee contract more scientific and reasonable. This is the paper style requirement for the Chinese Control and Decision Conference.
Treatment of Hailey-Hailey disease (or benign familial pemphigus) using short pulsed and short dwell time carbon dioxide lasers.

Background.Surgical intervention of Hailey–Hailey disease (HHD) may be required to achieve prolonged remission or cure. Excisional surgery, dermabrasion, and continuous carbon dioxide (CO2) laser therapies have been utilized with success, though patients may experience considerable morbidity.Objecti
NF-κB is required for H- ras oncogene induced abnormal cell proliferation and tumorigenesis

Oncogenic mutations in ras lead to constitutive activation of downstream signaling pathways that modulate the activities of transcription factors. In turn, these factors control the expression of a subset of genes responsible for neoplastic cell transformation. Recent studies suggest that transcription factor NF-kappa B contributes to cell transformation by inhibiting the cell death signal activated by oncogenic Ras. In this study, inhibition of NF-kappa B activity by forced expression of a super-repressor form of I kappa B alpha, the major inhibitor of NF-kappa B, markedly decreased the growth rate, saturation density and tumorigenicity of oncogenic H-Ras transformed rat embryo fibroblasts. Such clonally isolated cells overexpressing I kappa B alpha super-repressor not only were viable but also exhibited no sign of spontaneous apoptosis. Inhibition of NF-kappa B in these cells was functionally demonstrated by both the loss of cytokine induced DNA binding activity and a profoundly increased sensitivity to cell death in response to TNF-alpha treatment. In contrast, inhibition of NF-kappa B activity in non-transformed fibroblasts had minimal effect on growth, but rendered the cells resistant to a subsequent transformation by H-ras oncogene. Similar results were also obtained with rat intestinal epithelial cells harboring an inducible ras oncogene. Taken together, these findings suggest that NF-kappa B activity is essential for abnormal cell proliferation and tumorigenicity activated by the ras oncogene and highlight an alternative functional role for NF-kappa B in oncogenic Ras-mediated cell transformation that is distinct from its anti-apoptotic activity. Oncogene (2000) 19, 841 - 849.
The mechanism of precursor modulation of human pyruvate kinase I by fructose diphosphate.

Abstract Bidirectional effects on the velocity of human PK I reactions, which depend upon the concentration of FDP, are described. A model to account for these observations is proposed. It is suggested that PK I consists of two identical protomers, each of which contains a catalytic site. If no site is occupied by substrate, the enzyme has a low affinity for PEP. If one site is occupied by either PEP or FDP, the second site has a higher affinity for substrates. The effect of FDP at low concentrations of substrate is to increase the affinity for substrate at the second site, and to “activate” PK 1. FDP at high concentrations competes for substrate and acts as an inhibitor of the reaction. Evidence for such interaction between two or more catalytic sites induced by both substrate and non-substrate effectors is reviewed for PK I and for other regulatory enzymes. The contribution of FDP modulation of PK I to the homeostasis of glycolysis and gluconeogenesis in mammalian erythrocytes and liver is discussed.
Measurement of diffusion coefficients for the reduction of copper(I) and (II) in acetonitrile

Summary Values of the diffusion coefficients in the reductions Cu(II) to Cu(I) [ D =10.0·10 −6 cm 2 sec −1 ], Cu(II) to Cu(O) [ D =12.3·10 −6 cm 2 sec −1 ], and Cu(I) to Cu(O) [ D =16.4·10 −6 cm 2 sec −1 ] have been determined. Owing to the fast exchange of coordinated and uncoordinated acetonitrile molecules, the greater probability of ion-pair formation in the cupric cases, and the release of water into the diffusion layer in the discharge of the cupric species, the largest diffusion coefficient was found for the cuprous species. The experimental diffusion coefficient for the cupric species is significantly smaller during reduction to Cu(I) than during reduction to the amalgam. Possible reasons for this real difference are discussed.
SEX DIFFERENTIAL FLORAL LONGEVITY, NECTAR SECRETION, AND POLLINATOR FORAGING IN A PROTANDROUS SPECIES

Sex differential nectar production, floral longevity and pollinator foraging were examined in Lobelia cardinalis, a self-compatible, protandrous species that is hummingbird pollinated. The staminate phase of the flowers lasts significantly longer and produces significantly more nectar (total sugar) per day than the pistillate phase of the flowers. Additional pollen is presented throughout the staminate phase. Because inflorescences of L. cardinalis mature acropetally, the nectar reward on any given day is greatest at the top of the inflorescence (where staminate phase flowers are located). Hummingbirds appear to be sensitive to this pattern of nectar presentation as they most commonly began foraging in the middle of an inflorescence and proceeded upward. This foraging pattern tends to promote outcrossing and suggests that staminate phase flowers are visited more often than pistillate phase flowers. We conclude that L cardinalis emphasizes the male function at anthesis. Others have hypothesized that the features of this species are a logical consequence of intrasexual selection, but further research is needed before we place great confidence in a sexual selection interpretation of our data.
Modification of medullary respiratory-related discharge patterns by behaviors and states of arousal.

The modulatory influences of behaviors and states of arousal on bulbar respiratory-related unit (RRU) discharge patterns were studied in an unanesthetized, freely behaving guinea pig respiratory model system. When fully instrumented, this model system permits concurrent monitoring and recording of (i) single units from either Botzinger complex or nucleus para-ambiguus; (ii) electrocorticogram; and, (iii) diaphragmatic EMG. In addition to being used in surveys of RRU discharge patterns in freely behaving states, the model system also offered a unique opportunity in investigating the effects of pentobarbital on RRU discharge patterns before, throughout the course of, and during recovery from anesthesia. In anesthetized preparations, a particular RRU discharge pattern (such as tonic, incrementing or decrementing) typically displayed little, if any notable variation. The most striking development following pentobarbital was a state of progressive bradypnea attributable to a significantly augmented RRU cycle duration, burst duration and an increase in the RRU spike frequencies during anesthesia. In freely behaving states, medullary RRU activities rarely adhered to a fixed, immutable discharge pattern. More specifically, the temporal organization (such as burst duration, cycle duration, and the extent of modulation of within-burst spike frequencies) of RRU discharge patterns regularly showed complex and striking variations, not only with states of arousal (sleep/wakefulness, anesthesia) but also with discrete alterations in electrocorticogram (ECoG) activities and a multitude of on-going behavioral repertoires such as volitional movement, postural modification, phonation, mastication, deglutition, sniffing/exploratory behavior, alerting/startle reflexes. Only during sleep, and on occasions when the animal assumed a motionless, resting posture, could burst patterns of relatively invariable periodicity and uniform temporal attributes be observed. RRU activities during sniffing reflex is worthy of further note in that, based on power spectrum analyses of concurrently recorded ECoG activities, this particular discharge pattern was clearly associated with the activation of a 6-10 Hz theta rhythm. These findings indicated that bulbar RRU activity patterns are subject to change by not only behaviors and sleep/wakefulness cycles, but also a variety of modulatory influences and feedback/feedforward biases from other central and peripheral physiological control mechanisms.
Prediction of SAMPL3 host-guest affinities with the binding energy distribution analysis method (BEDAM)

BEDAM calculations are described to predict the free energies of binding of a series of anaesthetic drugs to a recently characterized acyclic cucurbituril host. The modeling predictions, conducted as part of the SAMPL3 host-guest affinity blind challenge, are generally in good quantitative agreement with the experimental measurements. The correlation coefficient between computed and measured binding free energies is 70% with high statistical significance. Multiple conformational stereoisomers and protonation states of the guests have been considered. Better agreement is obtained with high statistical confidence under acidic modeling conditions. It is shown that this level of quantitative agreement could have not been reached without taking into account reorganization energy and configurational entropy effects. Extensive conformational variability of the host, the guests and their complexes is observed in the simulations, affecting binding free energy estimates and structural predictions. A conformational reservoir technique is introduced as part of the parallel Hamiltonian replica exchange molecular dynamics BEDAM protocol to fully capture conformational variability. It is shown that these advanced computational strategies lead to converged free energy estimates for these systems, offering the prospect of utilizing host-guest binding free energy data for force field validation and development.
A molecular dynamics algorithm for simulation of field theories in the canonical ensemble

We add a single scalar degree of freedom (“demon”) to the microcanonical ensemble which converts its molecular dynamics into a simulation method for the canonical ensemble (euclidean path integral) of the underlying field theory. This generalization of the microcanonical molecular dynamics algorithm simulates the field theory at fixed coupling with a completely deterministic procedure. We discuss the finite size effects of the method, the equipartition theorem and ergodicity. The method is applied to the planar model in two dimensions and SU(3) lattice gauge theory with four species of light, dynamical quarks in four dimensions. The method is much less sensitive to its discrete time step than conventional Langevin equation simulations of the canonical ensemble. The method is a straightforward generalization of a procedure introduced by S. Nośe for molecular physics.
On a Singular Behavior of Capillary Surfaces

Mario Miranda raised the question, whether a capillary tube of section ${\cal D}_{0}$ in an infinite bath under a uniform downward gravity field always raises liquid higher over its section than does a tube of the same material and section ${\cal D}_1 \supset \supset {\cal D}_0$ . Finn and Kosmodem’yanskii, Jr. recently gave conditions under which a negative answer is obtained for all gravity small enough; they gave also an example in which ${\cal D}_0$ is a disk and in which the answer changes in a discontinuous way, for fixed ${\cal D}_1$ and differentiable change of $\partial {\cal D}_0$ . In the present work we characterize the most general convex ${\cal D}_1$ for which such a discontinuous change can occur.
An application of microprocessor technology to automated data collection

This paper describes the application of a low-power 8-bit microprocessor and its supporting hardware to the collection and transmission of binary data in the ELOG data collection system. It includes a discussion of the way ELOG functions and the hardware used to support that function, as well as a description of the computer algorithms used to organize data collection.
A note on the total unimodularity of matrices

A necessary and sufficient characterization of totally unimodular matrices is given which is derived from a necessary condition for total unimodularity due to Camion. This characterization is then used in connection with a theorem of Hoffman and Kruskal to provide an elementary proof of the characterization of totally unimodular matrices in terms of forbidden submatrices due to Camion.
Genetic model for observed distributions of proportions of haemoglobin in sickle-cell trait

IN individuals with sickle-cell trait, mature erythrocytes contain less haemoglobin (Hb) S than HbA. Although variations in the proportions of HbS and HbA have been recognised since quantification of the Hb fractions first became possible, the mechanisms responsible are incompletely understood. Nutritional deficiencies1,2 and other non-genetic conditions3,4 affecting globin synthesis may alter these proportions in individual heterozygotes but are unlikely to explain the variations found in population surveys. A simple genetic model which can account for the observed distributions of the proportions of HbS in sickle cell trait is presented here.