cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Low cycle fatigue of a polycrystalline Ni-based superalloy: Deformation substructure analysis

Abstract The deformation behavior of the polycrystalline superalloy R104 has been characterized via scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM). Specimens tested under low cycle fatigue (LCF) conditions were examined based on testing temperature, total strain range, and/or cycle number. Extensive electron microscopy characterization has revealed non-planar deformation to be a dominant mode in polycrystalline R104, resulting from ample cross-slipping processes between {1 1 1} and {1 0 0} planes. Somewhat unexpectedly, this mechanism appears at both low and high temperatures, although the macroscopic material response is quite different.
Diversity, Stability, and Sustainable American Agriculture

If the great successes of American agriculture hide risks to match, what can be done to level out the risks, to reach stability, while preserving productivity? How does research contribute to the problem, or to its solution?
Energy transformations in the subcloud layer of hurricane Gladys(1975)

The question of the energy balance of air penetrating toward a hurricane core in the subcloud layer is examined at hand of research flight observations, when a whole hurricane mission was carried out at and below cloud base. The pressure drop in this model is taken as due to energy supplied by oceanic sensible heat transfer to the atmosphere. The subcloud layer depth so calculated agrees well with the observed one. All sensible heat supply is retained in the subcloud layer while about half of the evaporated moisture must be transported by turbulent exchange to higher layers. Kinetic energy balance is achieved in the subcloud layer without substantial turbulent transfer from above. But, this result does not hold at hurricanes of greater intensity when heat or kinetic energy transport from above is required or when, alternatively, the surface sensible heat source must be intensified. The kinetic energy balance of inflow above the subcloud layer must be achieved largely by turbulent exchange in cloud towers penetrating to the upper troposphere. DOI: 10.1111/j.2153-3490.1979.tb00932.x
Mechanisms of mitochondrial translational regulation

The mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation system is formed by multimeric enzymes. In the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the bc1 complex, cytochrome c oxidase and the F1FO ATP synthase contain subunits of dual genetic origin. It has been recently established that key subunits of these enzymes, translated on mitochondrial ribosomes, are the subjects of assembly-dependent translational regulation. This type of control of gene expression plays a pivotal role in optimizing the biogenesis of mitochondrial respiratory membranes by coordinating protein synthesis and complex assembly and by limiting the accumulation of potentially harmful assembly intermediates. Here, the author will discuss the mechanisms governing translational regulation in yeast mitochondria in the light of the most recent discoveries in the field. © 2013 IUBMB Life, 65(5): 397–408, 2013
Presence of aberrant thyroid tissue in the guinea pig.

Small highly active aberrant thyroid tissues were detected at various sites in thyroidectomized but not in normal guinea pigs of the Hartley and Zeimet strains by their ability to very actively accumulate I131. Histological study showed follicles lined with flat cuboidal cells and the lumens filled with colloid. Aberrant thyroids have been frequently detected as pathological growths at many different sites in man (1, 2). Studies utilizing serial histological examination of the thyroid area have indicated the presence of aberrant thyroids also in the guinea pig (3, 4, 5, 6), rabbit (3), dog (7, 8) baboon (9) and rat (10, 11). It seemed that a more detailed study of the distribution of aberrant thyroids could be made by the use of the sensitive I131 uptake technic.
L∞ Error and Bandwidth Selection for Kernel Density Estimates of Large Data

Kernel density estimates are a robust way to reconstruct a continuous distribution from a discrete point set. Typically their effectiveness is measured either in L1 or L2 error. In this paper we investigate the challenges in using L∞ (or worst case) error, a stronger measure than L1 or L2. We present efficient solutions to two linked challenges: how to evaluate the L∞ error between two kernel density estimates and how to choose the bandwidth parameter for a kernel density estimate built on a subsample of a large data set.
Ethical issues: impact of the animal rights movement on surgical research

The aggressive militancy of many animal rights or "antivivisectionist" groups is causing great consternation but little action on the part of medical and surgical researchers. Pediatric surgeons are particularly affected, since issues of tissue healing, growth and development, and organ or total-body responses to surgical insults must be established in the live organism, usually in animal models that cannot be replaced by other methods. Investigators have been threatened physically; laboratories have been vandalized and valuable data destroyed. Biomedical researchers have been called "animal-Nazis." The proliferation of animal rights groups such as the Animal Liberation Front (ALF) and People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) have prompted the birth of pro-research organizations such as "Putting People First" and the "incurably ill For Animal Research" (iiFAR). The result of this pro and con activity is an extraordinary amount of time and expense devoted to cover the cost of new regulations and laboratory security (approximately $ 1.5 billion in the U. S. alone) at the expense of research budgets, adding to the increasing shortage of research funding. This situation has created dilemmas for the surgeon involved in basic animal research: is it worth taking personal risks to develop new techniques? Is it ethical to allow these fears to hinder progress in surgery? Should we do away with animal research entirely and test new techniques directly on children? Would that be ethical? These questions are difficult to answer, but must be addressed if we expect medicine to progress.
The influence of neurite-inducing agents on cholinergic activity in human neuroblastoma cells.

Abstract Various factors capable of inducing morphological differentiation of neuroblastoma cells were studied to determine whether they may also specifically regulate cholinergic function in human cholinergic neuroblastoma cells MC-IXC. Choline acetyltransferase (CAT) activity was monitored to reflect cholinergic function while Mg2+ ATPase activity was monitored to reflect effects which are not related specifically to neuronal function. Among the agents, dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), dimethylformamide (DMF), dimethylacetamide (DMA), D-α-tocopherol, ascorbic acid and dibutyryl-cAMP, only low doses of DMSO were found to selectively inhibit CAT activity while Mg2+ ATPase activity along with population growth remained unaffected. Of the three chemically related organic compounds tested (DMSO, DMF, DMA), DMSO was the least potent with regard to inhibition of population growth and Mg2+ ATPase activity while DMA was the most potent inhibitor. Sodium butyrate caused a decline in CAT activity while retinoic acid induced an enhancement. The combination of sodium butyrate with retinoic acid caused an enhancement of CAT activity similar in magnitude to that observed with retinoic acid alone. Lastly, CAT activity was found to be independent of population density unlike that in different neuroblastoma cell lines.8,12,19
Use of a Mandibular Plate to Maintain Intergonial Width in a Partially Edentulous Patient Undergoing Mandibular Symphysis Reconstruction

One of the most challenging and essential aspects of management of patients with traumatic or ablative deformities involving the mandibular symphysis is maintenance of intergonial width. Classically, the use of occlusal splints has been a simple and cost-effective solution to this problem. Patients who are edentulous, the use of Gunning splints with circummandibular wires is an alternative strategy. In the present report, we describe the use of a mandibular fixation plate for maintenance of intergonial width in an edentulous patient with a postablative mandibular symphysis defect.
Organic modifiers for the separation of organic acids and bases by liquid chromatography.

Abstract A straight-chain alcohol or diol additive in the mobile phase was used to modify and improve the HPLC separation of organic acids and bases. Incorporation of 2% 1-butanol, 1% 1,2-hexanediol, or 0.25% 1,2-octanediol into an aqueous mobile phase greatly improved the separation of alkane carboxylic acids on a silica C18 column, both in terms of separation time and peak shape. When 1.5% 1-hexanol, 0.09% 1-decanol or 0.01% 1-dodecanol was added to an acetonitrile–water (30:70) mobile phase, much sharper peaks and better resolution were obtained for aromatic bases separated on an underivatized polystyrene–divinylbenzene column. The mobile phase additive is believed to coat the stationary phase surface by a dynamic equilibrium. The coated surface is more hydrophilic and facilitates the efficient partitioning of analytes between the mobile and stationary phases.
Sub-Halfmicron Negative Resist Systems By Image Reversal

There has been a rising interest in image reversal of positive working resists. For optical and X-Ray applications, one practical advantage of image reversal is the elimination of the need of two sets of complementary masks to do positive and negative imaging. For direct write serial lithography such as electron beam and ion beam lithography, there is a great saving on writing time if the unexposed areas are much larger than the exposed areas. In this paper, we report the conversion of an e-beam generated positive pattern to a negative pattern by an image reversal technique which employs the filling of the positive trenches with silicon containing materials. The surface of the planarized positive images is etched back in CF, RIE to reveal the resist surface. A subsequent 02 RIE image transfer step completes the reversal process. The vertical sidewall angles of the positive images have a strong influence over the resulting linewidths of the reversed images. Negative images of excellent linewidth control are obtained using this technique unlike most negative resists which swell during development. This technique allows one to achieve a negative resist pattern which keeps the resolution and the linewidth control of the original positive resist system. The effects of the sidewall slopes of the positive images on linewidth variation of the resulting negative images are discussed. The choice of the planarizing materials to provide good planarization over various sizes of topography and the RIE etchback uniformity will also be described.
Magnetic field stabilization of a two-dimensional fluid jet: a multiple relaxation Lattice Boltzmann simulation

The stabilization of a two-dimensional fluid jet from the Kelvin–Helmholtz (KH) instability by an external parallel magnetic field is examined by lattice Boltzmann techniques. For sufficiently strong magnetic fields, the jet does not break up into large-scale vortices but retains the major features of the jet, albeit somewhat expanded. There are time-dependent striations within the expanded jet.
Coupled plasma-wall modeling

Abstract The new time-dependent one-dimensional code WALLPSI to calculate wall temperature, erosion rates, and concentrations of trapped, chemically bonded, absorbed, and mobile hydrogen inside the wall has been developed. To study basic physics processes, WALLPSI is coupled to the 1-D edge plasma transport code EDGE1D. The results of self-consistent plasma–neutrals–wall modeling with WALLPSI/EDGE1D which show strong plasma–wall coupling are presented. Variation of hydrogen inventory in the wall in response to the changing plasma impact is discussed. Oscillatory behavior and thermal instability of plasma in contact with hydrogen saturated wall are modeled.
Extended antiretroviral treatment interruption in HIV‐infected patients with long‐term suppression of plasma HIV RNA

Objectives Evaluation of extended treatment interruption (TI) in chronic HIV infection among patients successfully treated with antiretroviral therapy. Methods An observational analysis of 25 patients in a prospectively followed cohort with chronic HIV infection, viral loads <500 HIV-1 RNA copies/mL for at least 6 months, and an interruption in therapy of ≥28 days duration was carried out. Follow up was divided into 3-month time periods for analysis. The effects of time period, stratification group and stratification group by time period interactions on CD4 counts were tested using a mixed model. Univariate comparisons among patient characteristics and responses were performed using Fisher's exact test or the Wilcoxon rank sum test. Results At initiation of TI, the median CD4 count was 799 cells/μL. TI duration was a median of 7.1 months. HIV RNA rebounded to a median maximum level of 75 000 copies/mL. Maximum viral rebound was significantly greater in patients who were male, had lipodystrophy and had zenith HIV RNA prior to TI of ≥50 000 copies/mL. Lower CD4 cell counts were observed during TI in patients with lipodystrophy, zenith HIV RNA ≥50 000 copies/mL, history of AIDS, HIV infection ≥5 years and presuppression CD4 count ≤350 cells/μL. Patients who reinitiated therapy had shorter TI duration, presuppression CD4 count ≤350 cells/μL, previous AIDS diagnosis and lipodystrophy. No patients developed adverse or AIDS-defining events during TI. Conclusions Long-term TI resulted in greater immune deterioration in patients with high viral set points or low CD4 cell counts prior to initiation of suppressive antiretroviral therapy.
Physical weathering of stones

This paper reviews the main physical agents responsible for stone weathering. Particular emphasis is placed on the effects of wind and water. Aeolian erosion occurs in windy regions with sandy terrain, but in urban areas it is extremely rare and is often confused with other forms of deterioration. The problem of condensation on surfaces and in pores is extensively discussed, in relation to pore shape and size. Physical effects dominate in the smallest pores, and solution effects in the largest ones. The Kelvin law and thermodynamic considerations are used to explain condensation-evaporation cycles and adsorption isotherms. Capillary rise, increase in pressure in air pockets, freezing-thawing cycles and micro meteorological conditions favorable for the soaking of monuments are discussed. A final section is devoted to the dissolution of stones and the formation of black crusts as a consequence of the way the stone is washed out or simply wetted by meteoric water. The intensity of rainfall is important in activating or removing the dry pollutant deposits that form on monuments, especially during the dry periods characteristic of the Mediterranean climate. Condensation plays a minor role compared with rainwater. However, the porosity, geometrical shape and exposition of the stone are also important factors which can characterize different local balances and, consequently, the form of weathering.
ANN-based predictive analytics of forecasting with sparse data: Applications in data mining contexts

Technoeconomics of a business structure exhibit evolving performance attributes as decided by various exogenous and endogenous causative variables. Proposed in this paper is a predictive model to elucidate the forecast performance on such evolving traits in large business structures (like electric power utility companies). The method uses artificial neural network (ANN) based predictive analytics viewed in data mining contexts. Specifically, should the available data be sparse, a method of scarcity removal in the knowledge domain is proposed for subsequent use in the ANN-based data mining exercise. Hence forecast projections on the growth/decay profile across the ex ante regime are determined. Further, for each forecast projection, a cone-of-forecast is suggested toward the corresponding limits (error-bounds) on the accuracy of rules extraction in data mining. Example simulations pertinent to real-world data on the performance of wind-power generation versus wind-speed are presented demonstrating the efficacy of forecasting strategy pursued. Possible shortcomings of the proposals are identified.
Fluctuations in finite systems: Time reversal symmetry, surface onsager reciprocal relations and fluctuating hydrodynamics

Abstract A simple extension of Onsager's regression hypothesis to finite systems is used to derive reciprocal relations between parameters appearing in boundary conditions for the dynamics of second order macroscopic systems. An equivalent Langevin description is constructed; in general it contains surface sources that reflect the dissipative nature of the boundary conditions. Generalized Einstein relations are derived and extensions of the theory to the nonequilibrium domain are discussed. Examples from coupled thermal and mass diffusion, acoustics and hydrodynamics are considered. In particular, a relationship is found between the thermal creep, temperature jump, shear temperature jump and slip coefficients in a one component fluid and the surface noise source correlations are given in terms of these parameters.
Presence in seventeenth-century practice and theory

Circa 1600 Netherlandish artists began drawing nude figures that appeared to have been completed nae t’leven (from or towards life). In order to grasp the importance of this shift in artistic practice, the term nae t’leven must be seen in relationship to the concept of welstant, an idea evoking the representation of the harmonious interplay among the separate limbs of a moving body into a single figure. Through considering the dynamics between nae t’leven and welstant in practice and theory, it may be seen that the artist’s presentation of a nude figure was a realization not only of the body-in-movement but also of the artist’s own comprehension of leven (life). This development of working nae t’leven in artistic practice paralleled changes in seventeenth-century natural philosophy, in which thinkers such as Rene Descartes argued that the body’s movement was generated by an internal force as opposed to an external power. These shifts in seventeenth-century artistic practice and natural philosophy demonstr...
Analysis of nitrated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons

Many nitrated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (NPAH) that are present in low concentrations in the environment and in emission sources have been shown to be mutagenic and/or carcinogenic. This paper reviews the current methods of analysis of these compounds with the emphasis on NPAH measurements in ambient particulate matter samples.
Recrystallization and grain growth in strain gradient samples

Annealing alloys that contain the critical amount of retained strain usually results in a large final grain size, because the recrystallization reaction is nucleation limited. Subsequent growth of these nuclei through strained material rapidly produces large grains. The process slows dramatically when the strain-free grains impinge upon one another. In past studies, critical strain behavior was studied using multiple tension or compression samples, each deformed to different strain levels. In this study, the recrystallization behavior of a nickel base superalloy was studied using wedge samples. When compressed between flat dies, the wedge shaped specimen provides a strain-gradient sample because the nominal strain varies as a function of position, from zero strain in the short region, through the critical strain level, to a high strain in the tall region. Observations made in wedge samples were compared to conventional compression tests, and the relationship analyzed using results of finite element calculations. An extrusion of powder metallurgy processed, nickel-base superalloy Rene' 88 was used.
Second hand smoke exposure in children: environmental factors, physiological effects, and interventions within pediatrics.

Background Second hand smoke (SHS) exposure has long been correlated with many adverse disease processes, particularly in children. For children growing up with socioeconomic disadvantages and increased exposure to SHS, exposure can have far-reaching consequences. Objective The purpose of this review was to examine the literature assessing the effects of SHS exposure in children, as well as the perspectives of both parents and providers regarding current practices in cessation counseling. The review also sought out recommendations on ways to increase the influence of pediatricians on parental smoking. Study group Children under the age of 18 years. Methods PubMed and MEDLINE were searched systematically. A narrative approach was used because the studies differed in methods and data. Results The studies showed correlations between SHS exposure and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), asthma, altered respiratory function, infection, cardiovascular effects, behavior problems, sleep difficulties, increased cancer risk, and a higher likelihood of smoking initiation. Questionnaires of both parents and pediatricians showed that pediatricians are not consistently carrying out the recommended smoking cessation interventions, with lack of training as a primary barrier. Nevertheless, interventions targeting improved cessation training for both residents and practicing pediatricians have been studied and show promising results. Conclusions SHS exposure has many detrimental effects on children's health, particularly for those in low socioeconomic circumstances, for which factors in the built environment accentuated a higher baseline risk. By counseling parents, expanding residency education, and continuing advocacy work, pediatricians can have a significant positive impact on children's health as related to SHS exposure.
Collagen injection in the scarred vocal fold

Summary Scar tissue in the vocal fold can impair vibration and voice quality. The association of scarring and glottic insufficiency prompted our use of injectable bovine collagen in a variety of pathologic conditions exhibiting vocal fold scarring. Incremental augmentation and improved glottic function in several treated patients seemed to be facilitated by softening of scar tissue. Although the use of bioimplants in the larynx is associated with immunologic risks, the proclivity to soften scar tissue is one potential benefit of such materials. The biological activity of injectable collagen seems to alter local collagen metabolism by promoting ingrowth of host fibroblasts that are active in collagen degradation and synthesis. Further research to study the mechanisms whereby injectable collagen promotes remodeling of connective tissue might have significant therapeutic implications in the management of laryngeal scarring.
Theoretical exploration of a taut cable and a TMD system

Abstract A Tuned Mass Damper-Magnetorheological (TMD-MR) damper that can be placed anywhere along a cable was proposed and tested in the previous study by the writers to overcome the deficiency of the traditional mechanical dampers. In the present study, free vibrations of a taut horizontal cable with an attached TMD model that represents the proposed TMD-MR damper are investigated in detail using analytical formulations of a complex equation of motion, which comes to be an eigenvalue problem in terms of the location of the damper, the mass, and the frequency ratios between the TMD damper and the cable, and the damping ratio of the TMD damper. The solution of this complex eigenvalue problem represents the dynamic characteristics of the cable–damper system. Two special cases (over-damped and zero-damped oscillation) are discussed. Effects of parameters such as the positions and properties of the TMD damper on the system dynamic characteristics are investigated in terms of system modal damping. Parametric results show that a considerable modal damping can be obtained using the TMD damper if an appropriate balance between the TMD component and the MR component is achieved. This numerical procedure provides a basis for a rational design of the TMD-MR damper for any specific cable. A design example is provided for demonstration purposes.
REGULATION OF PML MESSENGER-RNA EXPRESSION IN HUMAN BREAST-CARCINOMA CELLS

We examined the mRNA expression profile of PML, a novel nuclear protein recently characterized from acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) blast cells, in a number of breast carcinoma cell lines. PML mRNA was found to be differentially expressed among the cell lines examined. A correlation of borderline significance between PML mRNA expression and the proliferative capacity of the cell Lines was noted. Serum stimulation significantly elevated the PML mRNA levels in the T47D and MDA-MB-231 cells. These results would suggest that PML may function as a positive regulator of cellular proliferation in breast carcinoma cells.
Low-Power Interface IC for Triplate Electrostatic Energy Converters

This letter proposes a low-power energy harvesting circuit (EHC) that performs synchronous energy conversion on a triplate variable capacitor to improve the maximum achievable output power. A triplate macro-scale electrostatic generator with capacitor variation of 405 pF to 1.15 nF and 405 pF to 1.07 nF on two complementary adjacent capacitors operating 180° out of phase at 98 Hz is fabricated and used in the characterization of the designed EHC. The integrated circuit is fabricated using AMI 0.7-μM high-voltage CMOS process and tested with the triplate capacitor to demonstrate mechanical to electric energy conversion. At steady state, the EHC produces 3.26 nJ/cycle, including energy flyback losses. This results in a total output power of approximately 308 nW on a 10-μF reservoir capacitor from a 98-Hz vibration signal.
KINETIC PROPERTIES OF THE GLYCINE RECEPTOR MAIN- AND SUB-CONDUCTANCE STATES OF MOUSE SPINAL CORD NEURONES IN CULTURE

1. The kinetic properties of the two most frequent conductance states of glycine receptor channels from somata of mouse spinal cord neurones in cell culture were investigated using the outside-out patch clamp technique. At low concentrations of glycine (0.5, 1 and 2 microM), single-channel currents were recorded with two predominant amplitudes corresponding to a dominant or main-conductance state of about 42 pS and a sub-conductance state of about 27 pS. Both conductance states opened singly and in bursts of several openings. Total current evoked and single-channel opening frequency increased as glycine concentration was increased from 0.5 to 2 microM. 2. For both conductance states mean open times were increased and open time frequency histograms were shifted to longer times as glycine concentration was increased from 0.5 to 2 microM. For both conductance states, three exponential components were required to fit best open time frequency distribution histograms at all glycine concentrations (0.5, 1 and 2 microM). The time constants of the exponential components for each conductance state were not significantly different across concentration, suggesting that the main- and sub-conductance states of the channel each opened into at least three open states. For the main-conductance state, the time constants were 1.09 +/- 0.09, 4.06 +/- 0.26 and 9.79 +/- 0.30 ms. For the sub-conductance state, the time constants were 0.55 +/- 0.04, 2.64 +/- 0.35 and 8.57 +/- 1.08 ms. The increase in long open times with concentration was due primarily to a shift in relative frequency of occurrence of openings from the shortest to the two longest open states. 3. Closed time frequency distributions of closures between main-conductance state openings, closures between sub-conductance state openings and closures between both main- and sub-conductance state openings were fitted with multiple exponential components, suggesting that the channel had several closed states. The two shortest time constants (0.16 +/- 0.01 and 1.26 +/- 0.13 ms) did not vary significantly with concentration (0.5-2 microM) or method of analysis. The longer time constant varied with concentration. 4. Bursts were defined as groups of openings surrounded by closures greater than a critical closed time. For both conductances states, mean burst durations were increased and burst duration frequency histograms were shifted to longer times as glycine concentration was increased from 0.5 to 2 miroM. Burst duration frequency histograms contained four exponential components for the main-conductance state and three exponential components for the sub-conductance state.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
Synthesis and activity of substituted carbamates as potentiators of the α4β2 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor

Abstract The synthesis and structure–activity relationship of a series of carbamate potentiators of α4β2 nAChR is reported herein. These compounds were highly selective for α4β2 over other nAChR subtypes. In addition, compounds increased the response of α4β2 nAChRs to acetylcholine, as measured with patch–clamp electrophysiology.
a Comparison of Methods and Instrumentation of Biological Early Warning Systems

: Rapid biological information systems using aquatic organisms to monitor water and waste water quality have only recently begun to develop technologically for practical on-site applications. One approach which has been demonstrating its feasibility recently monitors the ventilatory behavior of fish to assess, for example, the quality of drinking water supplies and industrial waste water discharges. A comparison of the basic strategies of the various biological monitoring systems making use of this concept is presented. In addition, the applications and potential utilization of these systems are discussed.
Convertible Bond Design and Capital Investment: The Role of Call Provisions

If firms issue convertible securities to facilitate sequential investment, the securities should be engineered to give sufficient flexibility to accommodate timing of follow-on investment. We examine call provisions in convertible bonds and argue that firms with investment options expected to expire sooner (later) will offer weaker (stronger) call protection. We find that issues with weak or no call protection are offered by firms that invest greater amounts soon after issuance than those issuing convertibles with strong protection. Moreover, capital expenditure levels during the 5-year period following issuance are inversely related to the length of call-protection periods. MOST CONVERTIBLE BONDS AND NOTES have call provisions, and most provisions have important qualifications or protection. Broadly speaking, convertibles may have absolute protection (not callable), hard call protection (noncallable for a specified period), provisional or soft call protection (callable if certain conditions on stock price are met), or no protection (callable anytime). In this study, we investigate the relations between the strength and length of call protection and firms' subsequent investment behavior. Our hypothesis is a natural implication of the sequential financing motive for convertible debt financing. For example, in Mayers (1998), firms finance their planned multistage investment programs with convertibles. Besides Mayers' sequential financing motive, other explanations for convertible financing include theories based on post-issuance risk shifting (Jensen and Meckling (1976), Green (1984)), heterogeneous risk assessment (Brennan and Schwartz (1988)), and asymmetric information (Stein (1992)). In a recent study, Lewis, Rogalski, and Seward (2001) offer an explanation based on equity market rationing. Stein's (1992) model has at least an implicit role for callability, but we believe Mayers' explanation has direct implications for the nature of call provisions that we examine here. He argues that convertible financing is well suited to
Recent advances in the postoperative management of infants

Summary Special problems associated with postoperative care of infants have fostered both the development of a number of new techniques and the adaptation of several old ones. A discussion of some of the recent advances in this field is presented, including particular emphasis on special methods for monitoring homeostasis in these tiny patients.
Preliminary investigations on the effects of a Strongylus vulgaris larval extract, mononuclear factors and platelet factors on equine smooth muscle cells in vitro

Factors involved in the proliferation of equine vascular smooth muscle cells were studied in vitro. The most prominent proliferative responses in cultured vascular smooth muscle cells were induced by Strongylus vulgaris larval antigen extract (LAE) and platelet-derived factors. Less significant proliferative responses were obtained with conditioned media from S. vulgaris LAE stimulated and from unstimulated equine mononuclear leukocytes. Additionally, vascular smooth muscle cells exposed to S. vulgaris LAE developed numerous perinuclear vacuoles and were more spindle-shaped than control or smooth muscle cells exposed to other factors. Equine mononuclear leukocytes exposed to LAE developed prominent morphological changes, including enlargement, clumping and increased numbers of mitotic figures.
Chronic Stress and Toxic Waste: The Role of Uncertainty and Helplessness1

Residents of an area near a hazardous toxic waste dump and a matched control area 5 miles from any toxic storage site were compared to examine mediation of chronic stress by feelings of uncertainty and helplessness. Self-report, behavioral, and biochemical measures of stress were collected and were analyzed as a function of whether subjects lived near the toxic hazard as well as in light of feelings of uncertainty and helplessness. Subjects living near the landfill were concerned about the hazard, reported more symptom distress, performed more poorly on a task requiring concentration and motivation, and exhibited higher levels of urinary catecholamines than did control subjects. Feelings of uncertainty were only modestly related to stress, but helplessness was more central to chronic stress among people living near the hazard.
Correction Factor Formula to Predict the Central and Minimum Film Thickness for Shear-Thinning Fluids in EHL

Using a coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulation based on the bead-spring polymer model, we reproduced the film distribution of molecularly thin lubricant films with polar end groups coated on the disk surface and quantified the film-surface morphology using a molecular-probe scanning method. We found that the film-surface morphology changed periodically with increasing film thickness. The monolayer of a polar lubricant that entirely covers the solid surface provides a flat lubricant surface by exposing its nonpolar backbone outside of the monolayer. By increasing film thickness, the end beads aggregate to make clusters, and bulges form on the lubricant surface, accompanying an increase in surface roughness. The bulges continue to grow even though the averaged film thickness reaches or exceeds the bilayer thickness. With further increases in film thickness, the clusters start to be uniformly distributed in the lateral direction to clearly form a third layer. As for the formation of fourth and fifth layers, the process is basically the same as that for the second and third layers. Through our calculations of the intermolecular potential field and the intermolecular force field, these values are found to change periodically and are synchronized with the formation of molecule aggregations, which explains the mechanism of forming the layered structure that is inherent to a polar lubricant.
A SIMPLE NEW TECHNIQUE FOR THE MEASUREMENT OF THE ELASTIC AND MAGNETOELASTIC PROPERTIES OF FERRITES

A simple new technique for the measurement of elastic and magnetoelastic properties of ferrites in described. Results on several materials are presented to indicate the versatility of the technique. Because of fundamental scientific interest, and in view of the potential applications of ferrites in devices such as variable magnetoelastic delay lines or nonreciprocal elastic surface wave devices, a number of techniques have been developed to measure the fundamental magnetic and elastic properties which determine the behavior of these devices. An excellent survey of both the experimental techniques and results has been published by Le Craw and Comstock [I]. Among the most important of the properties, when considering the choice of material for device application, are the magnetoelastic coupling coefficient and the elastic losses. While the techniques previously developed can yield precise results for these quantities, these techniques often require elaborate specimen preparation, or construction of special equipment. We propose a simple experimental technique using readily available equipment. It is potentially capable of yielding detailed quantitative information, and should be most convenient as a quick qualitative method of choosing materials having sufficiently interesting properties to warrant investigation by more elaborate techniques. The experiment we propose is based on the measurement of the frequency and Q of acoustical resonances in small ferrite spheres excited by an oscillating magnetic field. Since the frequency is determined by the elastic constants and the sphere diameter, and the coupling by the magnetoelastic constants, such measurements permit the determination of the material parameters of interest. This technique was employed by Le Craw [2], who used a frequency synthesizer followed by a power amplifier to supply the oscillating field, and a sensitive receiver as a detector. The modification we propose is that the sphere of ferrite be placed in the inductance of a marginal oscillator. In our experiments we used a commercial nuclear magne(*) Work supported by the Joint Services Electronics Program. tic resonance gaussmeter, such as is employed in most laboratories to measure magnetic fields, with the hydrogen-lithium sample replaced by the ferrite sphere resting in the bottom of a thin walled glass tube. A biasing field sufficient to magnetize the sample to saturation as a single domain is applied (i. e. to remove domain walls). The frequency of the marginal oscillator is swept in the usual manner until a resonance is observed. At the frequency corresponding to an acoustic resonance of the sphere, magnetoelastic coupling will excite acoustic oscillations in the sphere. The absorption at resonance is determined by the geometry of the system, the magnitude of the magnetoelastic constants, and the acoustic losses. An equivalent circuit is shown in figure 1.
Non-aceticlastic methanogenesis from acetate: acetate oxidation by a thermophilic syntrophic coculture

Methanogenesis from acetate by a rod-shaped enrichment culture grown at 60° C was found to require the presence of two organisms rather than a single aceticlastic methanogen. A thermophilic Methanobacterium which grew on H2/CO2 or formate was isolated from the enrichment. Lawns of this methanogen were used to co-isolate an “acetate oxidizer” in roll tubes containing acetate agar. The rod-shaped acetate oxidizer was morphologically distinct from the methanogen and did not show F420 autofluorescence. The coculture completely degraded 40 μmol/ml acetate, and produced nearly equal quantities of methane, and methanogenesis was coupled with growth. The doubling time for the coculture at 60°C was 30–40 h and the yield was 2.7±0.3 g dry wt/mol CH4. Studies with 14C-labelled substrates showed that the methyl group and the carboxyl group of acetate were both converted primarily to CO2 by the coculture and that CO2 was concurrently reduced to CH4. During growth, there was significant isotopic exchange between CO2 and acetate, especially with thecarboxyl position of acetate. These results support a mechanism for methanogenesis from acetate by the coculture in which acetate was oxidized to CO2 and H2 by one organism, while H2 was subsequently used by a second organism to reduce CO2 to CH4. Since the H2 partial pressure must be maintained below 10-4 atm by the methanogen for acetate oxidation to be thermodynamically feasible, this is an example of obligate interspecies hydrogen transfer. This mechanism was originally proposed for a single organism by Barker in 1936.
Theoretical study of the dislocation structure in HgI2

Abstract The structures of dislocations that participate in plastic deformation processes in mercuric iodide (α-HgI2) are studied theoretically. The idealized atomic configurations of the dislocations are determined and planar views are used to illustrate the geometric arrangements of atoms in both edge and screw configurations. Slip of glissile dislocations on (001) planes is responsible for plastic deformation in the model of James and Milstein [J. Mater. Sci. 18 (1983) 3249]. Here it is argued that these are (001)a〈100〉 dislocations (i.e. their Burgers vector has a magnitude equal to the lattice parameter a and is in a〈100〉 direction). It is shown that these dislocations can be subdivided into type a or b, according to whether the Hg atoms in the (001) planes that are adjacent to the (001) I-I slip planes move (from their “unslipped” equilibrium positions) closer to or further from nearest I atoms in the next nearest neighbor I slip plane as slip initiates. Atomic based calculations indicate that the critical shear stresses required for movements of types a and b dislocations can be appreciably different. Other topics discussed include (i) interactions of glissile (001)a〈100〉 dislocations with forest {010}a〈100〉 edge or {010}c[001] screw dislocations and the relevance of these interactions to work hardening, (ii) the generation of Frank-Read mills formed by the successive traversal of forest {010}a〈100〉 edge dislocations by glissile (001)a〈100〉 dislocations, and (iii) the separation of {010}c[001] edge dislocations into Shockley partial dislocations.
Invasive fungal infections in the intensive care unit

Invasive fungal infections, especially candidemia and systemic candidiasis, have become a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the last few decades. This comes in parallel with the major advances made in intensive care. Patients who are critically ill, in medical or surgical ICUs are especially at risk for CANDIDA infections. Invasive candidiasis accounts for up to 15 to 30% of all nosocomial infections in critically ill patients. Management of these severe infections has been challenging due to a lack of rapid and reliable diagnostic methods, leading to delays in initiating appropriate antifungal therapy. However, some notable improvements have been made in diagnostics with improved culturing methods, rapid species identification, and detection of fungemia with newer antigen assays. Newer classes of antifungals have recently become available with broader antifungal activity, fewer drug-drug interactions, and improved tolerability when compared with the older antifungal agents. Despite these advancements, the mortality rates associated with candidiasis remain excessively high, with an overall mortality in the range of 30 to 50% and an attributable mortality of ~30%. In addition to this high case-fatality rate, candidemia is also associated with a substantial economic burden, primarily due to an extended length of stay. Strategies to evaluate either the prevention, early diagnosis, or initiation of appropriate therapy should yield both clinical and socioeconomic benefits.
Rhinoscleroma: A Growing Concern in the United States? Mayo Clinic Experience

Rhinoscleroma is a chronic, progressive, granulomatous infection of the upper airways caused by the bacterium Klebsiella rhinoscleromatis. Although most cases occur in developing countries, recent immigration patterns have led to an increasing number of patients with rhinoscleroma in the United States. Rhinoscleroma may mimic various inflammatory and neoplastic processes, including leprosy, paracoccidioidomycosis, sarcoidosis, basal cell carcinoma, and Wegener's granulomatosis. Current therapy consists of a combination of surgical debridement and prolonged antimicrobial therapy. Rhinoscleroma should be added to the list of opportunistic infections that can occur in patients with human immunodeficiency virus.
Systemic inflammatory response syndrome

Abstract Systemic inflammatory response syndrome is a term used to describe the host's response to infection or diffuse tissue injury characterized by the release of various proinflammatory and antiinflammatory mediators. The local release of inflammatory mediators is critical in the development of a systemic inflammatory response. If the initial response is balanced and contained, homeostasis is preserved. However, if either response is excessive, systemic involvement and end organ damage occur. Understanding the relationships between the initiators and secondary mediators generated in response to inflammation improves our understanding of the clinical syndrome associated with infection and progressive multiple system organ dysfunction. It also creates a potential role for the use of cytokines in early diagnosis of infection and development of targeted therapeutic strategies to attenuate the systemic inflammatory response and improve clinical outcome. Copyright © 2001 by W.B. Saunders Company
Actin Motility: Staying on Track Takes a Little More Effort

The pigment cells of amphibians and fish have provided excellent models for understanding how actin and microtubule motors move organelles along the complex trailway of filaments in the cytoplasm. Recent work provides more evidence that these motors are engaged in a continuous tug-of-war.
Magnetic field effects for copper suspended nanofluid venture through a composite stenosed arteries with permeable wall

In the present paper magnetic field effects for copper nanoparticles for blood flow through composite stenosis in arteries with permeable wall are discussed. The copper nanoparticles for the blood flow with water as base fluid is not explored yet. The equations for the Cu–water nanofluid are developed first time in the literature and simplified using long wavelength and low Reynolds number assumptions. Exact solutions have been evaluated for velocity, pressure gradient, the solid volume fraction of the nanoparticles and temperature profile. The effect of various flow parameters on the flow and heat transfer characteristics is utilized.
The role of transmission in competitive electricity markets

Transmission plays a critical role in competitive electricity markets as the underlying infrastructure which enables the robust functioning of such markets. Comprehensive regional planning for both reliability and economic purposes is necessary to ensure that cost-effective, regulated transmission is built should market projects not come forward in a timely manner to avoid prolonged, high costs for customers. Cost allocation and recovery mechanisms that recognize the broad benefits of transmission investment should accompany comprehensive planning processes to ensure that uncertainty about cost recovery does not inhibit investment. The role of the new Electric Reliability Organization and mandatory reliability rules and the FERC Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on incentives for transmission investment will affect the environment for transmission investment as well. This presentation/session provides an overarching framework for thinking about these issues.