cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Modeling the formation of secondary organic aerosol. 1. Application of theoretical principles to measurements obtained in the α-pinene/, β-pinene/, sabinene/, Δ3-carene/, and cyclohexene/ozone systems

Secondary organic aerosol (SOA) forms in the atmosphere when volatile parent compounds are oxidized to form low-volatility products that condense to yield organic particulate matter (PM). Under conditions of intense photochemical smog, from 40 to 80% of the particulate organic carbon can be secondary in origin. Because describing multicomponent condensation requires a compound-by-compound identification and quantification of the condensable compounds, the complexity of ambient SOA has made it difficult to test the ability of existing gas/particle (G/P) partitioning theory to predict SOA formation in urban air. This paper examines that ability using G/P data from past laboratory chamber experiments carried out with five parent hydrocarbons (HCs) (four monoterpenes at 308 K and cyclohexene at 298 K) in which significant fractions (61−100%) of the total mass of SOA formed from those HCs were identified and quantified by compound. The model calculations were based on a matrix representation of the multicomponent, SOA G/P distribution process. The governing equations were solved by an iterative method. Input data for the model included (i) ΔHC (μg m^(-3)), the amount of reacted parent hydrocarbon; (ii) the α values that give the total concentration T (gas + particle phase, ng m^(-3)) values for each product i according to Ti = 10^3 αiΔHC; (iii) estimates of the pure compound liquid vapor pressure P^o_L values (at the reaction temperature) for the products; and (iv) UNIFAC parameters for estimating activity coefficients in the SOA phase for the products as a function of SOA composition. The model predicts the total amount M_o (μg m^(-3)) of organic aerosol that will form from the reaction of ΔHC, the total aerosol yield Y (= M_o/ΔHC), and the compound-by-compound yield values Y_i. An impediment in applying the model is the lack of literature data on P^o_L values for the compounds of interest or even on P^o_L values for other, similarly low-volatility compounds. This was overcome in part by using the G/P data from the α-pinene and cyclohexene experiments to determine P^o_L values for use (along with a set of 14 other independent polar compounds) in calculating UNIFAC vapor pressure parameters that were, in turn, used to estimate all of the needed P^o_L values. The significant degree of resultant circularity in the calculations for α-pinene and cyclohexene helped lead to the good agreement that was found between the Y_i values predicted by the model, and those measured experimentally for those two compounds. However, the model was also able to predict the aerosol yield values from β-pinene, sabinene, and Δ^3-carene, for which there was significatly less circularity in the calculations, thereby providing evidence supporting the idea that given the correct input information, SOA formation can in fact be accurately modeled as a multicomponent condensation process.
The cis-regulatory effect of an Alzheimer’s disease-associated poly-T locus on expression of TOMM40 and apolipoprotein E genes

Abstract Background We investigated the genomic region spanning the Translocase of the Outer Mitochondrial Membrane 40-kD ( TOMM40 ) and Apolipoprotein E ( APOE ) genes, that has been associated with the risk and age of onset of late-onset Alzheimer's disease (LOAD) to determine whether a highly polymorphic, intronic poly-T within this region (rs10524523; hereafter, 523) affects expression of the APOE and TOMM40 genes. Alleles of this locus are classified as S, short; L, long; and VL, very long based on the number of T residues. Methods We evaluated differences in APOE messenger RNA (mRNA) and TOMM40 mRNA levels as a function of the 523 genotype in two brain regions from APOE e3/e3 white autopsy-confirmed LOAD cases and normal controls. We further investigated the effect of the 523 locus in its native genomic context using a luciferase expression system. Results The expression of both genes was significantly increased with disease. Mean expression of APOE and TOMM40 mRNA levels were higher in VL homozygotes compared with S homozygotes in the temporal and occipital cortexes from normal and LOAD cases. Results of a luciferase reporter system were consistent with the human brain mRNA analysis; the 523 VL poly-T resulted in significantly higher expression than the S poly-T. Although the effect of poly-T length on reporter expression was the same in HepG2 hepatoma and SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells, the magnitude of the effect was greater in the neuroblastoma than in the hepatoma cells, which implies tissue-specific modulation of the 523 poly-T. Conclusions These results suggest that the 523 locus may contribute to LOAD susceptibility by modulating the expression of TOMM40 and/or APOE transcription.
An analog array processor

A fully-parallel 16-channel analog array processor for concurrent signal normalization in pattern recognition applications will be described. Using a standard monolithic bipolar process the chip consumes 1mW, provides a 1MHz bandwidth and unlimited channel-expansion facilities.
Scattering loss of s.a.w. resonators

A theory is outlined that predicts the scattering loss into bulk waves of high-Q-factor s.a.w. resonators. The theory applies to an isotropic medium. Nevertheless, experimental results on LiNbO3 are interpreted by the theory.
An Efficient Deterministic Parallel Algorithm for Adaptive Multidimensional Numerical Integration on GPUs

Recent development in Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) has enabled a new possibility for highly efficient parallel computing in science and engineering. Their massively parallel architecture makes GPUs very effective for algorithms where processing of large blocks of data can be executed in parallel. Multidimensional integration has important applications in areas like computational physics, plasma physics, computational fluid dynamics, quantum chemistry, molecular dynamics and signal processing. The computationally intensive nature of multidimensional integration requires a high-performance implementation. In this study, we present an efficient deterministic parallel algorithm for adaptive multidimensional numerical integration on GPUs. Various optimization techniques are applied to maximize the utilization of the GPU. GPU-based implementation outperforms the best known sequential methods and achieves a speed-up of up to 100. It also shows good scalability with the increase in dimensionality.
Multilayer reticles: advantages and challenges for 28nm chip making

Chip manufacturing with multilayer reticles offers the possibility to reduce reticle cost at the expense of scanner throughput, and is therefore an attractive option for small-volume production and test chips. Since 2010, GLOBALFOUNDRIES Fab 1 uses this option for the 28nm IP shuttles and test chips offered to their customers for development and advance testing of their products. This paper discusses the advantages and challenges of this approach and the practical experience gained during implementation. One issue that must be considered is the influence of the small image field and the asymmetric reticle illumination on the lithographic key parameters, namely layer to layer overlay. Theoretical considerations and experimental data concerning the effects of lens distortion, lens heating, and reticle heating on overlay performance are presented, and concepts to address the specific challenges of multilayer reticles for high-end chip production are discussed.
Analysis of thermal stresses in copper interconnect/low-k dielectric structures

Numerical simulations of thermal stresses in copper (Cu) interconnect and low-k dielectric systems are carried out. The three-dimensional (3-D) finite-element analysis assumes a two-level metal structure connected by a via. Mechanical deformation is generated by thermal expansion mismatches during cooling and cyclic temperature changes. The thin barrier/etch stop layers, as well as oxide or polymer-based low-k dielectric materials, are all taken into account in the model. The stress and deformation fields are examined in detail; salient features having direct implications in device reliability are illustrated with representative contour plots. It is found that the use of low-k material in place of traditional oxide dielectric significantly reduces the triaxial tensile stresses in Cu but enhances plastic deformation, especially in the via region. The compliant low-k material causes the thin barrier layers to bear very high stresses. Deformation in the Cu line and via structure is more affected by the thermal expansion property of the dielectric, but the stresses in the barrier layers are more influenced by the elastic modulus of the dielectric.
The Solubility of Unmodified Cellulose: A Critique of the Literature

Abstract Petrochemical, shortages have stirred renewed interest in cellulose because it is the single replaceable raw material, and exists in great abundance. This literature survey reviews the cellulose solvent systems that do not in general rely on stable cellulose derivatives that can be isolated. This review is arranged in a manner suggested by Turbak [1] that classifies all cellulose solvents by the nature of their interaction with cellulose. An alternate classification, presented in Section VI, mainly for the benefit of the pragmatist, reappraises the various solvents in terms of aqueous or nonaqueous systems. When available, the minimum information on the properties of regenerated and coagulated cellulose is provided to further assist in assessing the overall potential of the many different systems capable of dissolving cellulose.
Treatment of serpiginous choroiditis with intravitreous fluocinolone acetonide implant

Purpose: To describe a case in which a fluocinolone acetonide implant was used in a patient with serpiginous choroiditis. Design: Case report. Results: A 57-year-old woman with active serpiginous choroiditis threatening the fovea of her right eye received one intravitreous triamcinolone acetonide injection, leading to immediate disease control. An intravitreous fluocinolone acetonide implant was placed, and resulted in ongoing control of the disease as of her 14 months postoperative follow-up. Conclusions: Intravitreous fluocinolone acetonide implant should be recognized as a potential treatment option for serpiginous choroiditis.
Sexuality and Physical Disability: A Disability-Affirmative Approach to Assessment and Intervention Within Health Care

The role of sexual health has been historically underaddressed in the assessment and treatment of people with disabilities. This is due to several factors, including provider discomfort and lack of competence in discussing sexual health, and few assessment tools or treatment strategies designed specifically for people with disabilities. However, the literature suggests that people with disabilities desire opportunities for sexual expression and are engaging in sexual activity. The research shows that sexual health is an important component of overall quality of life. We aim to update readers to ongoing and new discourse about the complex factors associated with sexual health for people with disabilities, review available assessments and interventions and make suggestions for how to integrate these into a disability-affirmative framework that is relevant for a range of health-care providers in varied settings, and make recommendations for future inquiry and practice. We emphasize that providers working with people with disabilities need to be educated in the social model of disability and aware of the biopsychosocial factors affecting sexual health, as well as encouraged to develop insight into their own disability biases. People with disabilities represent the largest minority population in the USA, and the health-care system is now challenged to grow and adapt to the needs of this traditionally underserved population. Through the lens of a health-care system, we recommend incorporating discussions about sexual health into an integrative primary care model that promotes accessibility and patient-centered care for people with disabilities.
Application of two-dimensional correlation infrared spectroscopy to the study of immiscible polymer blends

Generalized two-dimensional correlation vibrational spectroscopy is potentially a powerful method for the study of interactions in polymer blends. This paper is the first in a series that systematically examines the utility of this technique and deals primarily with methodology. Normalization methods are discussed, and the effects of concentration errors and small bandwidth variations are considered. These often occur in immiscible systems because of sample preparation problems and lead to features in asynchronous spectra that can be misinterpreted.
P-recursive sequence and key-dependent multimedia scrambling

Multimedia scrambling technologies ensure that multimedia content is only used by authorized users by transforming multimedia data into an unintelligible format. This paper introduces a new P-recursive sequence and two multimedia scrambling algorithms based on the P-recursive sequence. The P-recursive sequence is a more generalized sequence which can derive many well-known sequences such as the P-Fibonacci sequence, the P-Lucas sequence and P-Gray code. The algorithms can be used to scramble two or three dimensional multimedia data in one step. Electronic signatures, grayscale images and three-color-component images are all examples of 2-D and 3-D multimedia data which can utilize these algorithms. Furthermore, a security key parameter p may be chosen as different or the same values for each dimensional component of the multimedia data. Experiments show that the presented algorithms can scramble multimedia data at different levels of security by partially or fully encrypting multimedia data. They also have been demonstrated in the experiments to show good performance in known-plain text attack and common image attacks such as data loss, Gaussian noise, and Salt Pepper noise. The scrambled multimedia data can be completely reconstructed only by using the correct security keys.
"Integrating Experiential Learning Into Criminal Justice Education: Internships and Academics"

*This paper is a revision of a paper titled "The Role Of The Internship In Criminal Justice Education: Problems and Promises," presented by the author at the meeting of the American Society of Criminology, Philadelphia, November 1979.
Single synonymous codon substitution eliminates pausing during chloramphenicol acetyl transferase synthesis on Escherichia coli ribosomes in vitro.

The coding sequence for chloramphenicol acetyl transferase (CAT) contains several rare codons; three of them are ATA encoding isoleucine in positions 13, 84 and 119 of the amino acid sequence. Expression of CAT on Escherichia coli ribosomes in vitro results in mostly full-length product but also distinct smaller polypeptides from less than 3 kDa to over 20 kDa. As reported earlier, the smaller polypeptides are the predominant products, if translation is initiated with fluorophore-Met-tRNAf. All this translational pausing is eliminated when the first ATA codon is mutated to ATC, a frequently used codon for isoleucine in E. coli. Addition of large amounts of E. coli tRNA to the coupled transcription/translation reaction does not reduce the number of pause-site peptides seen in the expression of wild-type CAT. Thus we hypothesize that the mRNA structure may be an important determinant for translational pausing.
Benefits from Groundwater Management: Magnitude, Sensitivity, and Distribution

Empirical estimates of benefits from groundwater management are reported for an area in California with heavy reliance on groundwater supplies. Benefits are quite sensitive to the water demand schedule and interest rate but less sensitive to other parameters. However, in all cases considered the increases in welfare from groundwater management are less than ten percent. Tax revenues received under a system of pump taxes are four to five times as large as the benefits from management. Thus, groundwater users gain under a system of quotas but may suffer substantial welfare losses under pump taxes.
Reserpine responsive myoclonus and hyperpyrexia in a patient with Angelman syndrome

A case of an older patient with the Angelman syndrome due to a deletion at the 15q11-q13 region is presented. The patient demonstrated generalized prolonged myoclonus severe enough to produce temperatures of 41.4 degrees C and CPK elevations to 7281 U/l. This myoclonus was unresponsive to benztropine, clonazepam and worsened with bromocriptine. It resolved with sleep induced by either lorazepam or diphenhydramine and during treatment with reserpine. Once discharged from the hospital and treated with reserpine, there were much less frequent recurrences of the myoclonus that responded well to concomitant treatment with clonazepam. Later attempts to reduce the reserpine resulted in worsening of the myoclonus. Older patients with Angelman syndrome may display a wide variety of neurologic syndromes. This severe myoclonus in this patient worsened with dopamine agonist treatment and initially improved with dopamine depletion therapy while in the long-term responding best to a combination of clonazepam and reserpine.
The Effects of High-dose Barbiturates on the Acoustic Reflex and Auditory Evoked Responses: Two Case Reports

The effects of high-dose barbiturates (pentobarbital) on the acoustic reflex, and the auditory brainstem (ABR) and middle-latency (AMR) responses, are illustrated with two case reports. Auditory electrophysiologic data were recorded serially during recovery from therapeutic barbiturate coma. ABR latency remained within normal limits in barbiturate coma, but amplitude of the wave I component was abnormally augmented. Contralateral and ipsilateral acoustic reflex activity, and the Pa component of the AMR, were not observed in barbiturate coma, and reappeared with the emergence of brainstem neurologic signs. These findings suggest a fundamental difference in the neurophysiologic substrate of the ABR vs. acoustic reflex and AMR. Possible mechanisms for the differential influence of barbiturates on these three auditory electrophysiologic measures are offered.
Deposition of gradient-index antireflective coating: An approach based on ultrastructure processing

A new concept, based on ultrastructure processing, has been developed to deposit graded-index antireflective coatings. According to this concept the substrate is coated, in proper sequence, by a series of solutions (or sols) of identical composition but of differing particle size. The microporous gel coating deposited in this way is characterized by a gradation of porosity due to the deposition of larger particles at the top surface and smaller particles in the substructure. On thermal consolidation, the gel coating forms a single-layer, graded-index coating; thus the chemical leaching/etching steps presently followed for porosity grading could be avoided. In this communication the results of some preliminary experiments which demonstrate the technical feasibility of the concept are reported.
Finite Adaptability in Multistage Linear Optimization

In multistage problems, decisions are implemented sequentially, and thus may depend on past realizations of the uncertainty. Examples of such problems abound in applications of stochastic control and operations research; yet, where robust optimization has made great progress in providing a tractable formulation for a broad class of single-stage optimization problems with uncertainty, multistage problems present significant tractability challenges. In this paper we consider an adaptability model designed with discrete second stage variables in mind. We propose a hierarchy of increasing adaptability that bridges the gap between the static robust formulation, and the fully adaptable formulation. We study the geometry, complexity, formulations, algorithms, examples and computational results for finite adaptability. In contrast to the model of affine adaptability proposed in, our proposed framework can accommodate discrete variables. In terms of performance for continuous linear optimization, the two frameworks are complementary, in the sense that we provide examples that the proposed framework provides stronger solutions and vice versa. We prove a positive tractability result in the regime where we expect finite adaptability to perform well, and illustrate this claim with an application to Air Traffic Control.
A case study on quantitative in vitro to in vivo extrapolation for environmental esters: Methyl-, propyl- and butylparaben

Parabens have been reported as potential endocrine disrupters and are widely used in consumer projects including cosmetics, foods and pharmaceuticals. We report on the development of a PBPK model for methyl-, propyl-, and butylparaben. The model was parameterized through a combination of QSAR for tissue solubility and quantitative in vitro to in vivo extrapolation (IVIVE) for hydrolysis in portals of entry including intestine and skin as well as in the primary site of metabolism, the liver. Overall, the model provided very good agreement with published time-course data in blood and urine from controlled dosing studies in rat and human, and demonstrates the potential value of quantitative IVIVE in expanding the use of human biomonitoring data in safety assessment. An in vitro based cumulative margin of safety (MOS) was calculated by comparing the effective concentrations from an in vitro assay of estrogenicity to the free paraben concentrations predicted by the model to be associated with the 95th percentile urine concentrations reported in NHANES (2009-2010 collection period). The calculated MOS for adult females was 108, whereas the MOS for males was 444.
Morphological and environmental scaffolding synergize when evolving robot controllers: artificial life/robotics/evolvable hardware

Scaffolding---initially simplifying the task environment of autonomous robots---has been shown to increase the probability of evolving robots capable of performing in more complex task environments. Recently, it has been shown that changes to the body of a robot may also scaffold the evolution of non trivial behavior. This raises the question of whether two different kinds of scaffolding (environmental and morphological) synergize with one another when combined. Here it is shown that, for legged robots evolved to perform phototaxis, synergy can be achieved, but only if morphological and environmental scaffolding are combined in a particular way: The robots must first undergo morphological scaffolding, followed by environmental scaffolding. This suggests that additional kinds of scaffolding may create additional synergies that lead to the evolution of increasingly complex robot behaviors.
Effects of Prostaglandin Ei and of Epinephrine on the Dynamics of Insulin Release in Vitro1

The effects of prostaglandin E1, PGE, and of epinephrine-(Epi) on the dynamics of insulin release from rat islet, in vitro, was investigated. PGE1, 0.3 ¼g/ml produced biphasic insulin release in the presence of 50 mg/100 ml glucose, but inhibited both phases of insulin release induced by 300 mg/100 ml glucose. Further, Epi produced a dose dependent inhibition of both phases of glucose induced insulin release. Addition of PGE1 reversed this effect of Epi such that insulin release in the presence of high concentrations of Epi plus PGEj plus glucose were greater than in the presence of glucose alone. (Endocrinology 94: 835, 1974)
Failures in plastic ball bearings

Abstract Failures of bearings having plastic inner and outer rings and steel balls were investigated and classified in four different modes: (1) wear, (2) surface fatigue, (3) plastic flow and (4) associated failures.
Negative muon capture in carbon leading to specific final states

Abstract The yields of γ rays from specific final nuclear states excited following negative muon capture in 12C have been measured. Using the values for the capture rates to excited states in 12B and the result of an earlier experiment for the total capture to all bound states in 12B, we obtain for the durect capture rate to the ground state of 12B, λ( 12 B gs ) = (6.0 ± 0.4) × 10 3 s −1 . This value is in agreement with theoretical predictions, but the theoretical and experimental uncertainties permit extraction of only a rather imprecise value for the weak-magnetism coupling constant in the muon capture Hamiltonian.
Scalability investigation of proximity losses in fractional-slot concentrated winding surface PM machines during high-speed operation

In previous work, an integrated analysis tool for predicting the strand- and bundle-level proximity losses was developed and experimentally verified using a 30 kW (continuous) surface permanent magnet (SPM) machine designed with fractional-slot concentrated windings. In this extended work, a new 200 kW (continuous) FSCW-SPM machine has been designed based on commercial specifications for a high-performance electric traction machine. Predicted proximity losses developed by applying the integrated analysis tool to this 200 kW machine match finite element analysis predictions very well over the speed range from 1500 r/min (corner point) to 6000 r/min (maximum speed). In addition to confirming the scalability of the proximity loss analysis tool to higher power machines, this investigation has also demonstrated that these larger FSCW-SPM machines are vulnerable to high proximity losses at high speeds. Special design features such as transposing the stator winding strands must be taken to suppress these losses that can otherwise reach unacceptably high levels without these techniques.
Stop codon reassignments in the wild

The canonical genetic code is assumed to be deeply conserved across all domains of life with very few exceptions. By scanning 5.6 trillion base pairs of metagenomic data for stop codon reassignment events, we detected recoding in a substantial fraction of the >1700 environmental samples examined. We observed extensive opal and amber stop codon reassignments in bacteriophages and of opal in bacteria. Our data indicate that bacteriophages can infect hosts with a different genetic code and demonstrate phage-host antagonism based on code differences. The abundance and diversity of genetic codes present in environmental organisms should be considered in the design of engineered organisms with altered genetic codes in order to preclude the exchange of genetic information with naturally occurring species.
Acute effects of two melanocytolytic agents, hydroquinone and β-mercaptoethanolamine, upon tyrosinase activity and cyclic nucleotide levels in murine melanomas

Abstract The acute in vitro actions of two potent melanocytolytic agents, hydroquinone (HQ) and β-mercaptoethanolamine (MEA), were determined in the B-16, Cloudman S-91 and Harding-Passey (HP) murine melanomas grown in vivo. Drug treated melanoma dice (5–480 min) were analyzed for tyrosinase activity and cyclic nucleotide levels (cAMP, cGMP). HQ and MEA effects on tyrosinase activity are complex and vary with tumor type, duration of treatment and agent tested. MEA or HQ inhibited B-16 tyrosinase activity. With combined drug therapy, low concentrations of MEA plus HQ stimulate B-16 tyrosinase activity while high concentrations of the drugs have little effect on enzymatic activity. MEA depresses tyrosinase activity while HQ elevates enzymatic activity in the S-91 melanoma. Both high and low concentrations of the combined drugs (MEA plus HQ) elicit the same response, stimulation at 10 min followed by continued depression of tyrosinase activity for the remainder of the 4 h study period. MEA initially stimulates HP tyrosinase activity followed by depression of enzymic activity. In contrast, HQ initially depresses HP tyrosinase activity followed by stimulation of enzymic activity. In combination the drugs inhibit HP tyrosinase activity. The effects of MEA and/or HQ on murine melanoma cyclic nucleotide levels are equally complex. MEA or HQ elevate cAMP and cGMP levels in all three tumors with the exception of S-91 cGMP levels which are not altered. In combination the drugs increase cyclic nucleotide levels in each of the three tumor types but at different times. No correlation is present between cyclic nucleotide levels and tyrosinase activity. Thus, the action of increased cyclic nucleotide levels in melanogenesis can not be separated from the direct actions of MEA and HQ upon melanogenesis. The divergent effects of MEA and/or HQ on tyrosinase activity and cyclic nucleotide levels in these melanomas are not correlated with the known in vivo melanocytolytic activity of these drugs. Thus, these parameters appear to be inadequate indicators of melanoma cell viability in chemotherapeutic screening of drugs effective in destroying malignant melanoma.
An optical method for the measurement of surface waves in the laboratory

The heights of surface waves in a laboratory experiment may be observed by variations in the absorption of light as it passes vertically through the fluid. With uniform illumination through the glass bottom of a tank the optical path length through a black dye solution may be recorded photographically from above the tank and the heights of surface waves may be measured from the film density. A linear relation between film density and wave height is possible if the ‘straight-line’ region of a film blackening curve is used and if the dye has a sufficiently constant absorption coefficient in the band of significant wave lengths. Optimum results are obtained by using as strong a concentration of dye as the intensity of illumination permits and by selecting a film with maximum contrast. In a simple experiment it was found possible to measure variations of the height of the free surface of the fluid to an accuracy approaching one per cent of the total depth, but significantly greater precision may be possible by using more elaborate apparatus.
An artificial top component of R17 bacteriophage.

Abstract The RNA bacteriophage R17 when exposed to pH 10.5 is disrupted to yield a protein and products of alkaline hydrolysis of the viral RNA. The protein has an intrinsic sedimentation coefficient of 41.1 s and an intrinsic viscosity of 0.055 dl./g at 20 °C. It has a typical protein absorbancy spectrum and contains less than 1% RNA. These data, together with electron micrographs, indicate that the protein consists of a hollow protein shell similar in structure to the protein portion of R17.
Ester-imine condensations: preparation of racemic intermediates for the synthesis of the carbapenem antibiotics PS-5 and PS-6.

The lithium enolates of ethyl butyrate (7) and ethyl isovalerate (19) react with N-p-methoxyphenylcinnamaldimine (8) in tetrahydrofuran (THF) - hexamethylphosphoric triamide (HMPA) to afford predominantly trans β-lactams 9 (67%) and 20 (78%), respectively. β-Lactam 9 was converted to PS-5 (5) intermediate 18 in 21% overall yield (8 steps). β-Lactam 20 was converted to PS-6 (6) analog 28 in 22% overall yield using an eight step sequence.
Morphine/ondansetron PCA for postoperative pain, nausea, and vomiting after skull base surgery

ObjectivePatients who underwent skull base procedures have been noted to experience appreciable pain. This study examines pain after surgery and the effectiveness of patient controlled analgesia (PCA) with combination morphine ondansetron for analgesia and control of emesis.Study Design and SettingA total of 120 skull base surgery patients were randomized to receive placebo, morphine, or morphine ondansetron. Demographic and intraoperative variables were recorded along with pain, nausea, vomiting, and rescue analgesics. Total PCA use, hospital stay, satisfaction, and cost were also compared.ResultsDemographically the groups were similar. Pain was elevated with placebo PCA, and this group averaged twice as many analgesic rescues. Total usage time was lower with placebo PCA. Morphine ondansetron PCA had the lowest pain score with highest satisfaction. Nausea and vomiting was similar but female patients had more vomiting regardless of PCA group.Conclusions and SignificanceThe use of morphine PCA reduced pain...
Effects of aging on atrial and ventricular human myosin

Enzymatic and structural studies of human cardiac myosin from young and old subjects have been investigated to determine possible changes in myosin properties in aging hearts. Human ventricular myosin from old subjects (47–70 years old) has lower actin-activated ATPase activity than and increased alkaline sensitivity as compared to myosin from young subjects (1–132 months old). Ca2+-and K+ (EDTA)-ATPase activities, pyrophosphate gel patterns and one-dimensional peptide mapping of heavy chains of ventricular myosin from old subjects are similar to those observed for myosin from young subjects. Atrial myosin from human hearts differs significantly from ventricular myosin in that the Ca2+-, Mg2+- and actin-activated myosin Mg2+-ATPase activities of atrial myosin are significantly higher than those of ventricular myosin.
Searches for physics beyond the Standard Model in $t\bar{t}$ events

The top quark is currently only observed at the Tevatron, where it is mainly produced in $t\bar{t}$ pairs. Due to the very high mass of the top quark compared to the other quarks and the gauge bosons, it is expected to play a special role in electroweak symmetry breaking. Therefore it might be especially sensitive to new physics. Measurements of various production and decay quantities of the top quark could lead to discoveries of physics beyond the standard model. Several such measurements were performed by the CDF collaboration during Run1 of the Tevatron. These measurements and first results from CDF in Run2 are presented. PACS: 14.65.Ha Properties of the Top Quark – 12.60.-i Models beyond the Standard Model
Quantitative tests for plate tectonics on Venus

Quantitative comparisons are made between the characteristics of plate tectonics on the earth and those which are possible on Venus. Considerations of the factors influencing rise height and relating the decrease in rise height to plate velocity indicate that the rate of topographic dropoff from spreading centers should be about half that on earth due to greater rock-fluid density contrast and lower temperature differential between the surface and interior. Statistical analyses of Pioneer Venus radar altimetry data and global earth elevation data is used to identify 21,000 km of ridge on Venus and 33,000 km on earth, and reveal Venus ridges to have a less well-defined mode in crest heights and a greater concavity than earth ridges. Comparison of the Venus results with the spreading rates and associated heat flow on earth reveals plate creation rates on Venus to be 0.7 sq km/year or less and indicates that not more than 15% of Venus's energy is delivered to the surface by plate tectonics, in contrast to values of 2.9 sq km a year and 70% for earth.
Monte Carlo algorithms with absorbing Markov chains: Fast local algorithms for slow dynamics

A class of Monte Carlo algorithms which incorporate absorbing Markov chains is presented. In a particular limit, the lowest order of these algorithms reduces to the $n$-fold way algorithm. These algorithms are applied to study the escape from the metastable state in the two-dimensional square-lattice nearest-neighbor Ising ferromagnet in an unfavorable applied field, and the agreement with theoretical predictions is very good. It is demonstrated that the higher-order algorithms can be many orders of magnitude faster than either the traditional Monte Carlo or $n$-fold way algorithms.
The crab and cygnus a as gamma ray sources

The Crab is estimated to give a maximum nuclear γ-ray flux of 10−2 cm−2 s−1 from the decay of251Cf formed with253Cf during the supernova outburst. Although extrapolation of the radio and visual fluxes suggests the possibility of a flux as high as 10 γ cm−2 s−1 between 1 and 2 MeV, model calculations suggest that 7·10−5 γ cm−2 s−1 above about 10 MeV is more probable. Bremsstrahlung and Compton scattering yield considerably lower fluxes. Cygnus A, regarded as the result of a collision of matter and antimatter, should yield lower fluxes than the γ cm−2 s−1 estimated by Morrison. The radio flux suggests a π0 decay γ-flux of 4·10−5 γ cm−2 s−1. ForE>10 MeV, any γ-ray flux exceeding 5·10−5 γ cm−2 s−1 should be detectable from a balloon flown emulsion stack.
Laser-induced thermal events in empty and pulp-filled dental pulp chambers.

Background and Objective The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate: 1. thermal events during laser irradiation @2.1 μm of the pulp; 2. whether these effects are adequately modeled using an empty pulp chamber/root canal. Study Design/Materials and Methods In extracted human teeth, pulpal access was prepared and thermocouples placed 2, 3 mm apical to the center of the irradiation spot. Pulp-filled or empty pulp chambers were irradiated using a Ho:YAG laser: Spot Size: 1 mm; Power: 1, 2, 3.5, 4.5W; PRR: 5, 12 Hz; Duration: 10 sec. Thermal measurements were repeated 3×. Results Thermal trends did not differ significantly and correlated positively with power (P 3.5W, pulp chamber temperatures exceeded those in pulpal tissue (P < 0.05). Conclusion Pulp tissues must be present to ensure clinical relevance of thermal measurements. Lasers Surg. Med. 22:46–50, 1998. © 1998 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
On Merely Modal Epistemic Peers: Challenging the Equal-Weight View

There is a controversy, within social epistemology, over how to handle disagreement among epistemic peers. Call this the problem of peer disagreement. There is a solution, i.e. the equal-weight view, which says that disagreement among epistemic peers is a reason for each peer to lower the credence they place in their respective positions. However, this solution is susceptible to a serious challenge. Call it the merely modal peers challenge. Throughout parts of modal space, which resemble the actual world almost completely, there are hordes of epistemic peers, who disagree with almost any arbitrarily chosen belief had by residents of the actual world. Further, the mere modality of these peers is not itself an epistemic difference-maker. Thus, on the equal-weight view, we should significantly lower the credence we place in most of our beliefs. Surely, this is seriously mistaken. Thus, there are serious considerations that cut against the equal-weight view.
Compensation of large-diameter optical system aberrations with spatial light modulators and deformable mirrors

Compensation of slowly varying wavefront aberrations of low-cost meter-scale optical communication receiver mirror systems is reported. Our goal is to reduce the surface wavefront error of a low-cost large aperture telescope mirror from multiple waves to about 1-wave or less peak-to-valley (P-V). Both spatial light modulators and monolithic deformable mirrors are applied in our active optical compensation systems. Spatial light modulators with only one wave stroke can compensate for aberrations of over 10-waves P-V by using 2π phase wraps, while deformable mirrors are limited to 10- wave aberrations (P-V), due to stroke limitations of commercially available systems. We demonstrate aberration compensations of a low-cost 0.6-m diameter mirror using a deformable mirror and a 0.3-m diameter telescope using a spatial light modulator. Upon aberration compensation, image quality is recovered close to the original, with the residual distortion limited by the diffraction efficiency. The laser beam spot size is reduced by a factor of four, and the measured received signal level is increased ten-fold.
Islam and inheritance in Malaya: culture conflict or Islamic revolution?

This essay examines the impact of the Islamic legal tradition on Malay ideas about the inheritance of property. It concludes that Muslim legal concepts have been fully incorporated into a Malay framework for the analysis of society and how it does and should work. Previous writers have seen Islam as part of a conflicting legal cultural dualism which opposes a harsh, male chauvinist and foreign Islamic law to a general fund of humane, Malay folk wisdom, implying inherent rural factionalism and a split peasant legal personality. The essay presents data from the West Malaysian state of Kedah to explicate the “typical” Malay case, in which Islam is said to give a bilateral kinship system a patrilateral bias. This analysis cites three interdependent factors in folk ideology which provide rationales for the distribution of property and have bases in peasant knowledge of Islam. The essay finds that Islamic law is so thoroughly part of Malay life that one may consider Malay culture part of a Southeast Asian Islamic Great Tradition. It concludes by exploring reasons for the appeal of legal dualism and discusses possible changes in Malay ideas about the morality of property distribution.
Diterpenoids and flavonoids from Grindelia discoidea

Abstract A new labdane-type diterpenoid acid, discoidic acid, has been isolated from the aerial parts of Grindelia discoidea. Its structure has been deduced as 4β-hydroxymethyllabd-7-en- 15-oic acid on the basis of the spectral data of its methyl ester derivative and comparison of these data with those of the methyl ester derivative of its isomer, 3β-hydroxylabd-7-en- 15-oic acid, also isolated from the same extract. In addition, a dihydroflavonol and two flavonols have been isolated.
7-Nitroindazole Inhibits Brain Nitric Oxide Synthase and Cerebral Vasodilatation in Response to N-Methyl-d-aspartate

Background and Purpose N -Methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) produces dilatation of cerebral arterioles that is dependent on production of nitric oxide (NO). In these experiments we examined the hypothesis that cerebral vasodilatation in response to NMDA is mediated by the neuronal isoform of NO synthase. Methods We measured diameters of cerebral arterioles (baseline diameter, 89±7 μm) using a closed cranial window in anesthetized rabbits that received either vehicle (10 mL/kg IP peanut oil) or 7-nitroindazole (7-NI; 50 mg/kg IP). 7-NI is reported to be a selective inhibitor of neuronal NO synthase. Results Two hours after administration of 7-NI, activity of brain NO synthase (measured by conversion of l-arginine to l-citrulline) was reduced by 33% compared with vehicle (24±1 versus 16±3 pmol/min per milligram protein; n=7; P .05). Conclusions These findings suggest that vasodilatation in response to NMDA is mediated by neuronally derived NO. 7-NI appears to produce selective inhibition of brain NO synthase but not endothelial NO synthase.
Budding of melanized Cryptococcus neoformans in the presence or absence of L-dopa

Cryptococcus neoformans is a pathogenic fungus that produces melanin when incubated in the presence of certain phenolic substrates such as l-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (l-dopa). Melanin is an enigmatic polymer that is deposited in the cell wall and contributes to virulence. Substantial progress has been made in understanding the synthesis of melanin and the mechanisms by which it contributes to virulence, but relatively little is known about how melanin is rearranged during growth and budding. In this study we used transmission and scanning electron microscopy and immunofluorescence of melanized cells and melanin ‘ghosts' to study the process of melanization during replication. Budding in melanized C. neoformans results in focal disruption of cell-wall melanin at the bud site. In the presence of l-dopa, bud-related melanin defects are repaired and daughter cells are melanized. However, in the absence of substrate, mother cells cannot repair their melanin defects and daughter cells are non-melanized. Hence, melanin in the parent cell is not carried to the daughter cells, but rather is synthesized de novo in buds. These results imply that melanin remodelling occurs during cell growth in a process that involves degradation and synthesis at sites of budding.
The use of thermal energy in ankle arthroscopy

Abstract Arthroscopy has proven to be a useful technique in the diagnosis and treatment of multiple ankle disorders. The confines of the joint, however, pose unique problems for arthroscopic instrumentation. Because of its adaptability, the electrothermal technique significantly enhances the arthroscopic approach to multiple soft tissue lesions about the ankle, including synovial disease, impingement, and instability.
Time optimal paths and acceleration lines of robotic manipulators

The concept of acceleration lines and their correlation with time optimal paths of robotic manipulators is presented. The acceleration lines represent the directions of maximum tip acceleration from a point in the manipulator work-space, starting at a zero velocity. These lines can suggest the number and shapes of time optimal paths for a class of manipulators. It is shown that nonsingular time optimal paths are tangent to one of the acceleration lines near the end-points. A procedure for obtaining near-optimal paths, utilizing the acceleration lines, is developed. These paths are obtained by connecting the end points with B splines tangent to the acceleration lines. The near-minimum paths are shown to yield better traveling times than the straight line path between the same end points. The near-minimum paths can be used as initial conditions in existing optimization methods to speed-up convergence and computation time. Also, this method is potentially a powerful tool for on-line robot path planning, and for interactive designs of robotic-cell layouts. Examples of time optimal paths of a two link manipulator, obtained by other optimization procedures [1], and their acceleration lines, are shown.
Distribution of venlafaxine in three postmortem cases.

Venlafaxine (V) is a second-generation antidepressant approved for use in the United States in It a derivative of phenethylamine and is structurally unrelated to first- and other second-generation antidepressants. Nevertheless, its mechanism of action is similar to other antidepressants; it inhibits the reuptake of presynaptic norepinephrine and serotonin. Its major routes of elimination involve O and N demethylation. O-Desmethylvenlafaxine (ODV) is biologically active. Therapeutic concentrations of V and ODV are approximately 0.2 and 0.4 rag/L, respectively. Three cases of drug intoxication involving V are presented. V and ODV were identified
Statistical distribution of the internal field in planar ferrites

The effects of nonellipsoidal geometry and the role of corners and edges of planar ferrite elements in current microwave and millimeter wave devices are investigated numerically using micromagnetic methods. The noncollinear static magnetization ground state is calculated for the case of three-dimensional rectangular Y/sub 3/Fe/sub 5/O/sub 12/ (YIG). The statistical distribution of the internal field over the YIG volume was obtained for different aspect ratios. The distribution of the internal field is bimodal. The low-field mode is concentrated in the volume, the high-field mode is produced by the surface of the ferrite. The nonuniform magnetization persists well in fields above 1.5 times the 4/spl pi/M/sub s/ magnetization, requiring higher bias fields for proper operation of planar ferrite devices.