cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor on blood pressure and erythropoiesis in rats

Positive correlation between systolic blood pressure and plasma renin substrate was demonstrated in Wistar-Kyoto rats when plasma renin substrate was reduced to within a range of 18 and 88% of control values with varying amounts of ramipril. When ramipril was given in amounts that had a maximum effect on systolic blood pressure, marked changes in erythropoietin, reticulocyte count and hematocrit % were observed. Consistent blood pressure-lowering effect was evident for several weeks after ramipril withdrawal. Furthermore, blood pressure obtained 3 days after the rats were taken off ramipril correlated positively with the hematocrit % measured while the rats were still on ramipril (r = 0.83; P less than 0.001). Mean blood volume of 17 rats receiving ramipril was similar to that of the 10 control rats. Plasma and renal renin substrate were highly and positively correlated (r = 0.86; P less than 0.001). Inasmuch as plasma renin substrate is rate-limiting for angiotensin I, it may reflect intrarenal AII and prove to be a useful clinical assessment of converting enzyme inhibition. The increased levels of renin, renin substrate and packed cell volume seen in rats fed Purina basal diet (10% fat) as compared with rats fed Purina lab chow (4.5% fat), support the working hypothesis that intrarenal angiotensin II controls both blood pressure and erythropoiesis.
Biomonitoring of 2-Amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine (PhIP) and Its Carcinogenic Metabolites in Urine

2-Amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine (PhIP) is a carcinogenic heterocyclic aromatic amine that is produced in cooked meats. The simultaneous analysis of PhIP and its metabolites in human urine is a challenge, because these biomarkers only occur in urine at parts per billion or lower concentrations and must be selectively purifed from thousands of other urinary constituents. We have developed a facile solid-phase extraction method, employing a mixed-mode reverse-phase cation exchange resin, to simultaneously isolate PhIP, its glucuronide conjugates, and the glucuronide conjugates of the genotoxic metabolite 2-hydroxyamino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine from the urine of meat eaters. PhIP and its metabolites were quantified by liquid chromatography−electrospray ionization/tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI/MS/MS), using a triple stage quadrupole mass spectrometer in the selected reaction monitoring scan mode. The lower limit of quantification (LOQ) of PhIP is 5 parts per trillion (ppt), an...
Investigating the Effects of Excipients on the Powder Flow Characteristics of Theophylline Anhydrous Powder Formulations

Pharmaceutical excipients may have a great effect on properties affecting tablet production. To determine if formulations containing theophylline anhydrous would have properties allowing them to be easily tableted, functional parameters affecting powder flow were evaluated. The Carr Flowability Indices were used for this evaluation. Formulations to be studied include theophylline anhydrous as the active ingredient, hydrous lactose and dicalcium phosphate dihydrate as diluents, polyvinylpyrrolidone as a binder, and fumed silica as a flow promoter. The effect of each component on powder flow is discussed.
An Examination of Model Track Forecast Errors for Hurricane Ike (2008) in the Gulf of Mexico

AbstractSources of dynamical model track error for Hurricane Ike (2008) in the Gulf of Mexico are examined. Deterministic and ensemble model output are compared against National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) Global Forecast System (GFS) analyses to identify potential critical features associated with the motion of Ike and its eventual landfall along the upper Texas coast. Several potential critical features were identified, including the subtropical ridge north of Ike and several synoptic-scale short-wave troughs and ridges over central and western North America, and Tropical Storm Lowell in the eastern North Pacific. Using the NCEP Gridpoint Statistical Interpolation (GSI) data assimilation scheme, the operational GSI analysis from the 0000 UTC 9 September 2008 cycle was modified by perturbing each of these features individually, and then integrating the GFS model using the perturbed initial state. The track of Ike from each of the perturbed runs was compared to the operational GFS and it w...
MRI of Askin's Tumor: Case Report at 1.5 T

This represents the first case of an Askin's tumor demonstrated on MRI. It showed a large pleural-based mass which trapped pleural fluid in large pseudotumors. The disease was unilateral and involved the mediastinum as well. Magnetic resonance imaging was helpful in demonstrating extrathoracic disease in the area of the right brachial plexus.
Laser-induced fluorescence measurement of the oil film thickness in an internal combustion engine

The use of a fluorescent dopant molecule to enhance the natural fluorescence of motor oils, and allow quantitative determination of temperature and film thickens in internal combustion engines has been investigated. Measurement of the fluorescence as a function of temperature were made with neat Mobil 1, and solutions of the dopant BTBP in mineral oil and Mobil 1. The fluorescence yield of neat Mobil 1 was found to vary by 30 percent over the temperature range explored, but the spectral characteristics, as measured with bandpass filters, were unaffected by temperature. The BTBP fluorescence was found to increase significantly with temperature, and it was found the narrower regions in the spectrum increased proportionally more than the fluorescence collected over the entire spectrum, allowing a determination of temperature to be made which can then be used to correct for the change in fluorescence yield. Solutions in Mobil 1 showed a smaller increase than that observed in mineral oil.
Variational analysis of functions of the roots of polynomials

The Gauss-Lucas Theorem on the roots of polynomials nicely simplifies the computation of the subderivative and regular subdifferential of the abscissa mapping on polynomials (the maximum of the real parts of the roots). This paper extends this approach to more general functions of the roots. By combining the Gauss-Lucas methodology with an analysis of the splitting behavior of the roots, we obtain characterizations of the subderivative and regular subdifferential for these functions as well. In particular, we completely characterize the subderivative and regular subdifferential of the radius mapping (the maximum of the moduli of the roots). The abscissa and radius mappings are important for the study of continuous and discrete time linear dynamical systems.
Shear force at failure and stiffness of all-inside meniscal repair devices.

The purpose of this study was to determine the failure load and stiffness of various meniscal repair devices. A total of 61 fresh-frozen porcine menisci (medial and lateral) were used for the study. A 30-mm vertical, full-thickness tear was created and repaired using one of three all-inside fixation devices and one inside–out repair in the vertical mattress pattern. We used the MaxBraid (Biomet, Warsaw, IN) inside–out suture as a control. The other devices tested were the Meniscal Cinch (Arthrex, Naples, FL), Ultra FasT-Fix (Smith & Nephew, Andover, MA), and the MaxFire MarXmen (Biomet, Warsaw, IN). In addition, two devices, MaxFire MarXmen and Ultra FasT-Fix, were tested using a horizontal mattress configuration. Using the vertical mattress pattern, the Meniscal Cinch had the highest average load to failure. The Meniscal Cinch was significantly less stiff than the other three devices ( p p = 0.005). The MaxFire MarXmen device produced a significantly stiffer ( p
Conditioned stimuli and the expression of extraversion: Help or hindrance?

Upon consideration of the unconditioned and particularly the conditioned stimuli that have been proposed to participate in the generation of incentive motivational states and, by extension, of extraversion, the nature of the contribution of NAS DA becomes less clear. Different kinds of conditioned stimuli can also exert strong control over the expression of behavioral sensitization. How might such stimuli affect the ability of experience-dependent processes to introduce stable individual differences in the development and expression of extraversion trait levels?
Reproductive Tract Disorders among Afghan Refugee Women Attending Health Clinics in Haripur, Pakistan

Afghans comprise one of the largest groups of refugees in the world, with the majority living in Pakistan. The objective of this study was to identify commonly-occurring reproductive tract infections (RTIs), describe knowledge of women about RTIs, and assess physical and behavioural factors contributing to the development of RTIs. Afghan women presenting at Basic Health Units in refugee camps in Haripur, Pakistan, with reproductive health-related complaints, were included in the study (n=634). Data collection included implementation of an interviewer-administered questionnaire, along with a physical examination and laboratory tests. A descriptive analysis was conducted first. Qualitative data were coded and analyzed using predetermined themes. Chi-square test was used for determining the possible relationships between a binary outcome and categorical risk factors. Over three-fourths (76.7%) of those who reported to the health clinics with reproductive complaints had an RTI. Nearly half (49.5%) of these women were diagnosed with some form of vaginitis, and 14.7% were diagnosed with clinical suspicion of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Women with cervical prolapse (p=0.033) or who cleansed after intercourse (p=0.002) were more likely to have vaginitis. There was a significant difference (p=0.017) in the prevalence of suspected PID among women who used mud only (11.1%), any water (18.8%), and an old cloth or toilet paper (9.8%) for cleansing after defaecation. Specific physical and behavioural contributors to the high prevalence of RTIs in this population were identified, and recommendations to ameliorate these factors are offered.
Free voting in a provincial parliament: The case of ‘same‐sex’ legislation in Ontario, 1994

Previous research on parliamentary free voting, which has been confined exclusively to national parliaments and almost exclusively to the British House of Commons, has found relatively little constituency impact on members’ voting decisions, even on the most contentious issues of social policy. Since sub‐national parliaments tend to be smaller, less professionalised, and (arguably) ‘closer to the people’, it is possible that a more significant ‘constituency connection’ might be observed in these legislative arenas. This study extends the literature on this topic by empirically examining the fate of a recent homosexual rights bill in the Ontario Legislative Assembly. Contrary to expectations, none of the constituency characteristics used in logistical regression models generates a significant MLE coefficient, suggesting that Canadian provincial legislators may be even less sensitive to constituency preferences than their national counterparts.
Flyash radiative properties and effects on radiative heat transfer in coal-fired systems

Abstract The radiative properties of flyash polydispersions are calculated, allowing for realistic wavelength-dependent optical constants. Spectral absorption, scattering, and extinction efficiencies are presented, along with the spectral scattering asymmetry parameter. Wavelength-integrated Planck mean values are also given. The mean single-particle total emissivity ranges from approximately 0.05 to 0.15, depending on size distribution and temperature. The effects of magnetite particles in the ash on the radiative properties are discussed. The contribution of flyash to radiative heat transfer in coal combustion systems is examined, and for typical furnace conditions flyash is predicted to enhance the total emittance by approximately 20%.
Testing Moderators of Message Framing Effect A Motivational Approach

A 2 (frame: gain vs. loss) × 2 (evaluative input: high vs. low) × 3 (target behavior: sunscreen, self-exam, and indoor tanning) quasi-experimental study (N = 452) was conducted to test moderators of message framing effect. The results showed that effectiveness of a frame is a function of its evaluative input. There was evidence that the gain frame is more effective for prevention behavior and the loss frame for detection behavior. There was no evidence that proscriptive vs. prescriptive behaviors moderated framing effect. Data also suggested that dispositional motivations can be a moderator of message framing effect, but might be contingent upon level of evaluative input and type of behavior.
Weak link behavior in polycrystalline BaPb/sub 0.75/Bi/sub 0.25/O/sub 3/

A study has been made of the critical-current densities of polycrystalline samples of the perovskite oxide superconductor BaPb/sub 0.75/Bi/sub 0.25/O/sub 3/ (BPB). BPB does not have the complications of twin boundaries and a highly anisotropic unit cell as is found in the high-T/sub c/ oxide superconductors (HTSC), and the coherence length ( xi ) is much longer than in HTSC materials ( approximately 7 nm as compared to approximately 0.5 to 2.5 nm). Thus some problems which have proved quite complex for HTSC materials (e.g. twin pinning or weak links) should be absent or have a different character in BPB. The authors have produced several samples of BPB. X-ray diffraction showed that the samples were single-phase, but an electron microprobe was used to identify about 1 vol.% of other phases present. The authors found that the transport critical-current density, as high as 2 A/cm/sup 2/ in zero field, drops markedly in fields of only 0.1 T. Flux penetration measurements place the magnetization critical-current density at about 10/sup 4/ A/cm/sup 2/. This large discrepancy is attributed to weak links. >
Shareholder Activism and CEO Pay

We study a sample of 134 vote-no campaigns and 1,198 non-binding shareholder proposals related to executive pay between 1997 and 2007. While union pension funds are the most frequent sponsor of these initiatives, relative to other proponents they are not more likely to target unionized firms or firms with labor-related negotiations and disputes. Activists target firms with high CEO pay, whether excessive or not, while voting support is higher in firms with excess CEO pay. Proposals that try to micromanage level or structure of CEO pay receive little or no voting support. Instead, shareholders favor proposals related to the pay setting process (e.g., subject certain compensation items to shareholder approval). These proposals are also more likely to be implemented. Firms with excess CEO pay targeted by vote-no campaigns experience a $7.3 million reduction in total CEO pay. In firms targeted by proposals sponsored by institutional proponents and calling for greater link between pay and performance, the reduction in CEO pay is $2.3 million. By shedding light on the effectiveness of monitoring mechanisms currently available to shareholders, our findings contribute to the debate on the proposed adoption of a “say on pay” shareholder vote on executive pay.
Cytoplasmic synthesis of soluble and mitochondrial malate dehydrogenase isozymes in maize.

Abstract The effects of cycloheximide and chloramphenicol on the incorporation of radioactive leucine into trichloroacetic acid-insoluble material and on malate dehydrogenase (MDH) activity in maize scutella were studied. In 40 h of treatment, chloramphenicol (0.5 – 2.0 mg/ml) does not inhibit the increase of either soluble (s) or mitochondrial (m) malate dehydrogenase isozymes. However, 8 h following the addition of cycloheximide (2–10 μg/ml), the usual increase of total malate dehydrogenase activity is reduced by more than 70%. The reduction in the activity of the soluble and the mitochondrial malate dehydrogenase isozymes is similar. From these observations, and from our former studies on this system, we conclude that both the soluble and the mitochondrial malate dehydrogenases are synthesized on cytoplasmic ribosomes.
A gel-based proteomic analysis of the effects of green tea polyphenols on ovariectomized rats

Objective: Our recent study demonstrated the protective action of green tea polyphenols (GTPs) against bone loss in ovariectomized (OVX) rats through their antioxidant capacities to scavenge reactive oxygen species. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the alterations of liver protein profiles in estrogen-deficient middle-aged rats after GTP treatment by a gel-based proteomic approach. This may lead to understanding the mechanisms of GTPs in promoting bone health. Methods: Liver samples were obtained from 14-mo-old female OVX rats treated with no GTPs (OVX) or 0.5% (w/v) GTPs (OVX þ GTP) in drinking water for 16 wk (n ¼ 10/group). Twodimensional difference gel electrophoresis combined with mass spectrometry was used to compare the liver protein profiles of pooled samples from the OVX and OVX þ GTP groups. Liver proteins were labeled in duplicate by reversing the fluorescent dyes. Results: Approximately 800 protein spots were detected. The expression levels of superoxide dismutase-1 and adenosine triphosphate synthase were 2.0-fold and 1.5-fold higher in the OVX þ GTP group versus the OVX group, respectively, whereas the expression level of catecholO-methyltransferase was 1.5-fold lower in the OVX þ GTP group versus the OVX group. The changes of superoxide dismutase-1 and catechol-O-methyltransferase in individual liver samples were confirmed by western blots. Conclusion: Our data provide further evidence for the antioxidant role of GTPs by increasing superoxide dismutase-1 and adenosine triphosphate synthase and the estrogen-associated effect of GTPs by decreasing catechol-O-methyltransferase.
The Appropriated Racial Oppression Scale: Development and preliminary validation.

Objective The aim of the present study was to develop an instrument to measure "internalized racism" called appropriated racial oppression for people of Color. Method Generated items were reviewed by experts in the areas of multicultural psychology and scale construction. A total sample of 656 adults was collected in 2 phases: The first phase consisted of 341 adults (Age: M = 35, SD = 12.05). Of these, 99 were Black, 70 multiracial, 61 Asian, 61 Latino, 37 Native American, 10 identified as "other," and 3 participants did not answer. Most were female (n = 256), and heterosexual (n = 277). In the second phase, there were 315 adults (Age: M = 35; SD = 12.05). Eighty were Black, 68 Multiracial, 56 Asian, 54 Latino, 40 Native American, 16 were other and 1 participant did not answer. Two-thirds were female (n = 216) and heterosexual (n = 251). Results The 341 adult participants' responses were used to run exploratory factor analysis that revealed a 32-item, 4-factor structure for the construct of appropriated racial oppression. The 315 adult participants' data were used in a confirmatory factor analysis that resulted in a 4-factor, 24-item model fit. To test for both predictive and criterion-related validity, a path analysis was conducted. Results of the path analysis demonstrated significant relationships between appropriated racial oppression and anxiety and depression. Conclusion It has been found that there is preliminary evidence for the validity of the newly developed Appropriated Racial Oppression Scale. Moreover, results of this study provide critical information in assisting clinicians treating individuals with appropriated racial oppression.
Negative Feedback and Adaptive Resistance to the Targeted Therapy of Cancer

Mutational activation of growth factor signaling pathways is commonly observed and often necessary for oncogenic transformation. Under physiologic conditions, these pathways are subject to tight regulation through negative feedback, which limits the extent and duration of signaling events after physiologic stimulation. Until recently, the role of these negative feedback pathways in oncogene-driven cancers has been poorly understood. In this review, I discuss the evidence for the existence and relevance of negative feedback pathways within oncogenic signaling networks, the selective advantages such feedback pathways may confer, and the effects such feedback might have on therapies aimed at inhibiting oncogenic signaling. Sigificance: Negative feedback pathways are ubiquitous features of growth factor signaling networks. Because growth factor signaling networks play essential roles in the majority of cancers, their therapeutic targeting has become a major emphasis of clinical oncology. Drugs targeting these networks are predicted to inhibit the pathway but also to relieve the negative feedback. This loss of negative feedback can itself promote oncogenic signals and cancer cell survival. Drug-induced relief of feedback may be viewed as one of the major consequences of targeted therapy and a key contributor to therapeutic resistance. Cancer Discov; 2(4): 311–9. ©2012 AACR .
Oceanic processes as potential trigger and amplifying mechanisms for Heinrich events

] Marine sediments recorded a series of Heinrich events during the last glacial period, massive ice surges thatdeposited prominent layers of ice-rafted debris in the North Atlantic. Here we explore oceanic mechanisms thatcan potentially trigger and amplify the observed ice calving events. Simulations of abrupt glacial climate changewith a coupled ocean-atmosphere-sea ice model show a substantial regional sea level rise in the North Atlantic inresponse to a collapse of the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (MOC). The increased heat uptake ofthe global ocean after the MOC collapse leads to an additional rise in global sea level. We hypothesize that thesesea level changes have the potential to destabilize Northern Hemisphere ice shelves and ice sheets and to triggerice surges. Sea level rise due to ice calving and subsurface ocean warming provides two positive feedbackmechanisms contributing to further destabilization of ice shelves and ice sheets.
Dietary sodium restriction: still searching for the grains of truth.

To the Editor: We read with great interest the review “Dietary Sodium Restriction: Take It With a Grain of Salt,” by DiNicolantonio et al.1 The authors point out the paucity of data linking dietary sodium restriction to reductions in cardiovascular events and provide an excellent and broad-based overview of many important studies. However, we want to raise several issues for comment. The authors conclude that “there is sound evidence that a low sodium diet leads to a worse cardiovascular prognosis in patients with systolic congestive heart failure….” This statement is based on several studies performed by a single Italian research group, in which large loop diuretic doses (100-500 mg/d furosemide equivalent) were continued for months in outpatient participants regardless of clinical status. For reference, the mean furosemide equivalent dose at hospital discharge in large North American and European studies is 50 to 80 mg/d,2,3 and discharge furosemide doses of ≥240 mg/d predict higher mortality even in the very ill heart failure population in the Evaluation Study of Congestive Heart Failure and Pulmonary Artery Catheterization Effectiveness study.4 In this setting, it seems difficult to conclude that low-sodium diets “caused increased mortality and heart failure hospitalizations” rather than the known neurohormonal and renal effects of high-dose diuretics in the setting of volume depletion. Abundant data from animal models and humans suggest that at least some persons would benefit greatly from dietary sodium restriction. DiNicolantonio et al1 correctly characterize sodium consumption as physiologically regulated and challenging to modulate. However, it is not impossible to do so in populations, as evidenced by successful policy-driven sodium intake reductions in Finland and the United Kingdom.5 We strongly believe that additional research, particularly in special populations such as those with heart failure, is needed before dismissing such efforts as potentially “counterproductive… and risky.”
Cognitive impairment in aged rhesus monkeys associated with monoamine receptors in the prefrontal cortex

The “frontal aging hypothesis” has been proposed by many researchers suggesting that the earliest and most severe age-related changes in the cortex occur in the frontal lobes. Two of these changes include decreases in cognitive functions mediated by the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and significant decreases in norepinephrine (NE) and dopamine (DA). To investigate whether the changes in these neurotransmitter systems are directly related to the cognitive decline seen in aging we utilized the rhesus monkey as a model of normal human aging. Our goal was to determine if age-related changes in cognition is associated with changes in norepinephrine and dopamine receptor binding density in the PFC. Eight young monkeys between five and ten years of age (six males and two female) and eight aged monkeys between 25 and 32 years of age (five males and three females) were behaviorally characterized. Subsequently on-the-slide in vitro binding assays were used to quantify the α-1 adrenergic, α-2 adrenergic and DA1 receptors as well as the NE and DA uptake receptors. Aged animals as a group demonstrated significant cognitive impairments and aging produced a significant decrease in α-1 adrenergic and α-2 adrenergic receptor binding in the PFC but no significant change in binding for the DA1 receptor or the NE or DA uptake receptors. Further analysis revealed a significant relationship between monoamine receptor binding and cognitive performance on three tasks: delayed non-matching to sample, delayed recognition span test and the conceptual set-shifting task.
Biomolecular implementation of linear I/O systems

Linear I/O systems are a fundamental tool in systems theory, and have been used to design complex circuits and control systems in a variety of settings. Here we present a principled design method for implementing arbitrary linear I/O systems with biochemical reactions. This method relies on two levels of abstraction: first, an implementation of linear I/O systems using idealised chemical reactions, and second, an approximate implementation of the ideal chemical reactions with enzyme-free, entropy-driven DNA reactions. The ideal linear dynamics are shown to be closely approximated by the chemical reactions model and the DNA implementation. We illustrate the approach with integration, gain and summation as well as with the ubiquitous robust proportional-integral controller.
Quaternary stratigraphy and paleoenvironments of the Texas Rolling Plains

The Lingos Formation (new) comprises a thick sequence of Quaternary alluvial-fan, lacustrine, fluvial, and eolian deposits. These strata cover 9,250 km 2 of the western Rolling Plains of Texas. The Lingos Formation is part of the newly designated Paducah Group, which includes three previously recognized middle to upper Pleistocene formations in addition to the Lingos Formation and several unnamed or uncorrelated stratigraphic units. The origin of these formations is closely associated with westward retreat of the Caprock Escarpment and with subsidence resulting from regional intrastratal dissolution of Permian evaporites. Dissolution produced subsidence basins, which gradually filled with sediment derived from the retreating escarpment. Lakes occupied at least some of the subsidence basins and were sustained by emergent ground water rather than by surficial inflow. Stratigraphic relations and paleofaunas document significant Quaternary environmental change linked to subsidence, stream incision, and climatic variation. Chronologic control is afforded by diagnostic vertebrate faunas (Rancholabrean and Holocene), Paleoindian through historic archeological remains, and more than 50 radiocarbon ages. On the basis of these data, deposition of the Lingos Formation spanned the period from less than 300 ka ago to the present. The depositional history of the Lingos Formation provides a model for the origin of the Paducah Group as a whole, and for Quaternary landscape evolution throughout the Rolling Plains.
Congested Banyan network analysis using congested-queue states and neighboring-queue effects

A Banyan network analysis technique is presented which more accurately models a congested network than other reported techniques. The analysis is based on the observation that a full queue (within the switching modules making up the network) causes traffic to back up. For a short time after becoming full, the free space in the queue is limited to no more than one slot. A queue in such a condition is called congested. Because of blocking the arrival rate to a congested queue is higher; this tends to maintain congestion. The arrival rate to a congested queue's dual is lower, as is the service rate for queues feeding the congested queue. These effects are captured in the analysis by using a state model that codes the condition of a queue and its neighbors. From a queue's state it can be determined if the queue, its dual, or a next-stage queue to which it connects is congested, as well as the number of items in the queue. Network throughput computed with the model is closer to that obtained from simulations than other Banyan analyses appearing in literature, including those designed to model congestion. Further, the queue-occupancy distributions are much closer than other analyses, suggesting that the analysis better models conditions in congested Banyan networks.
Numerical solution of two- and three-dimensional rotor tip leakage models

Blade tip losses represent a major efficiency penalty in a turbine or compressor rotor. These losses are presently controlled by maintaining close tolerances on tip clearances. This paper initially focuses on the control of tip leakage flow through minimization of the discharge coefficient to control the normal leakage flow component. A detailed numerical study of rotor-tip winglets, using a two-dimensional (2-D) turbulent flow formulation in primitive variables, is reported. Long and short winglets on the pressure, suction, and both sides (partial shroud) of the blade tip are analyzed. The results of the viscous analysis indicate superior performance with a partial shroud. The numerical technique is extended further to incorporate the axial flow effects by solving the full three-dimensional (3-D) Navier-Stokes equations with tip clearance effects included in the analysis. The 3-D model is validated by comparing it with the experimental results of the double-sided discharge rig of an earlier investigation. In addition, the variations in the specification of the boundary conditions at the inlet and exit of the pressure and suction side channels are investigated in detail. Comparison of the numerical and experimental results suggests an improvement in the predictive capability of the 3-D model over the 2-D analysis. Nomenclature b = height of the channel CD = discharge coefficient Ckn = discharge coefficient for 2-D model (Ref. 9) D — dilation term du dv dw dx dy Lc = axial length of tip clearance slot (3-D model) Ld = axial length of blade downstream of tip clearance (3-D model) Lg =tip clearance, gap height (3-D model) Lp = width of pressure side channel (3-D model) Ls - width of suction side channel (3-D model)
Aperiodic dynamics for appetitive/aversive behavior in autonomous agents

Biological brains are saturated with complex dynamics. Artificial neural network models abstract much of this complexity away and represent the computational process of neuronal groups in terms of simple point, and sometimes periodic attractors. But is this abstraction justified? Aperiodic dynamics are known to be essential in the formation of perceptual mechanisms and representations in biological organisms. Advances in neuroscience and computational neurodynamics are helping us to understand the properties of nonlinear systems that are fundamental in the self-organization of stable, complex patterns for perceptual, memory and other cognitive mechanisms in biological brains. Much of this new understanding of the principles of self organization in biological brains has yet to be modeled or used to improve the performance of autonomous robotic and virtual agents. In this paper we present a model of an autonomous agent learning appetitive/aversive behaviors using a neuronal group model capable of such aperiodic dynamics. We demonstrate how such dynamics are useful in the self-organization of perception and behavior, and discuss the use of aperiodic dynamics in the self-organization of cognitive mechanisms in autonomous agents.
Basis for Selecting Cement-Based Waste Forms for Immobilizing Radioactive Waste

Research at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) has shown that cement-based waste forms can be tailored to tolerate wide fluctuations in waste-feed compositions and still maintain properties that are compatible with standard equipment and produce a product that meets regulatory requirements. The 20-year operational history of ORNL's grouting program has demonstrated this resilience and reliability on a spectrum of waste feeds encompassing the developmental history of the nuclear fuel cycle. Cement-based materials are the most frequently used waste forms for solidifying non-high-level waste. These materials are also perhaps the most misused for immobilizing wastes. This paper discusses the scientific basis for selecting a suitable cement-based waste form to solidify and immobilize radioactive waste. For instance, when a given amount of cement (the source of calcium) is replaced with class F fly ash, the strontium leachability is reduced proportionally. This paper discusses the use of gel clays such as bentonite and attapulgite to absorb excess fluids and thus increase waste loading. Also, cement-compatible natural materials such as nonswelling clays are used to ion exchange or absorb soluble ions such as cesium and thus reduce leachability. Recently, blast furnace slag has been the subject of much interest in cement-based immobilization technology. Data are presented to show that a waste form containing blast furnace slag and other cementing materials is very effective in reducing the release rates of 99 Tc.
Isoreticular synthesis and modification of frameworks with the UiO-66 topology

Amino, bromo, nitro, and naphthalene functionalized UiO-66 metal–organic frameworks have been synthesized through reticular chemistry. UiO-66–NH2 is shown to be suitable for postsynthetic modification with a variety of anhydrides to generate new, functionalized frameworks.
Drivers and Free Riders: Collective and Private Rationalities in an Ecomovement

Why do citizens with a common interest in providing a public good fail to act on that interest? Private-rationality theory maintains that individuals are most concerned with private goods and will tend to ride free on the efforts of a few activists. Other theorists contend that citizens are public-interested and therefore a collective rationality can override individualistic concerns. Empirical research, however, has yet to compare the two theories in a single design. This paper examines the two perspectives with data from a protest movement against a nuclear waste facility. The findings offer little support for private-rationality theory. Few opponents of the facility rode free, and variables for private rationality failed to predict participation. Instead, participation was extensive and variables for collective rationality were significantly related. Solidarity, political alienation, ideology, and political interest had a positive effect on protest. The study validates recent scholarly attempts to de-economize and re-socialize political analysis.
Science and Religion: Their Logical Similarity

In his “Theology and Falsification” Professor Antony Flew challenges the sophisticated religious believer to state under what conceivable occurrences he would concede that there really is no God Who loves mankind: ‘Just what would have to happen not merely (morally and wrongly) to tempt but also, logically and rightly, to entitle us to say “God does not love us” or even “God does not exist”? I therefore put…the simple central questions, “What would have to occur or to have occurred to constitute for you a disproof of the love of, or of the existence of, God”?’
Qualitative measurement interpretation using quantity spaces

A description is given of an algorithm for qualitative measurement interpretation which use the quantity spaces generated by the envisionment process to interpret numerical data taken across time. The algorithm is domain-independent, An extended example of the application of the algorithm is presented, based on the interpretation of blood glucose data using an envisionment generated form a model of the physiology of human glucose regulation. >
EXPRESSION OF A TRK HIGH AFFINITY NERVE GROWTH FACTOR RECEPTOR IN THE HUMAN PROSTATE

Nerve growth factor-beta (NGF beta) and a NGF beta-immunoreactive protein derived from human prostatic stromal cell secretory protein (hPS) have been shown to stimulate the growth of prostate epithelial cells. An NGF beta-immunoreactive protein has been localized to the stroma of human prostate tissues, and a low affinity NGF receptor (gp75NGFR) has been localized to the adjacent epithelia, consistent with the paracrine regulation of prostate growth. Interestingly, gp75NGFR is progressively lost during neoplastic progression of the human prostate. In this report we have characterized the expression of the signal-transducing component of the NGF receptor, the Trk tyrosine receptor kinase, in prostate epithelial cells that bind exogenous NGF beta and an endogenous NGF beta-immunoreactive protein in hPS. In this context, a pan-Trk antibody that recognizes all of the members of the Trk receptor family (TrkA, TrkB, and TrkC) specifically localized expression of the Trk receptor to the epithelial component of n...
A Delphi study of the future of new technology research in public relations

New technology has dramatically expanded over the past decade. New features on websites, powerful mobile devices, and the subsequent restructuring of news services have dramatically changed the profession. This study sought to learn about the broader issues of technology, and forecast trends in online communication technologies. In an effort to learn what technology professionals outside of public relations know about new technology and social media, this study used a Delphi methodology and solicited the participation of technology professionals from computer science, professional writing, communication studies, art, business, music and other areas. The first two rounds of the Delphi findings are reported and suggest that public relations professionals need to broaden their understanding of new technology to consider social and relational issues, rather than the current focus on practice.
Acute toxicity of metal ions in cultures of osteogenic cells derived from bone marrow stromal cells.

The effects of metal ions released from orthopedic implants on nearby bone cells remain largely unknown. The purpose of this study was to examine the acute toxicity of metal ions on osteogenic cells derived from bone marrow. Bone marrow stromalcells were cultured with metal ions found in commonly used orthopedic implants, that is, Ti-6Al-4V, Co-Cr-Mo, and 316L stainless steel. Solutions of individual ions and combinations representing the alloy composition were prepared from atomic absorption standards and added to the cultures to give concentrations ranging from 50 ppb to 5o ppm. After a 48-h period of exposure to ions, the bone marrow cultures were examined for effects of cytotoxicity by measuring total cell number, total cell protein, and mitochondrial activity. Cr6+ was grossly cytotoxic; Co2+, Mo6+, Fe3+, and Ni2+ were moderately cytotoxic; and Ti4+, Al3+, V5+, and Mn2+ were minimally toxic, as determined by the assays used. Ion solutions representing Co-Cr-Mo and 316L stainless steel were moderately toxic; solutions representing Ti-6Al-4V were toxic at only the highest concentrations used. The observed cytotoxicity was time-dependent, with irreversible toxic effects being initiated following as short as a 3- to 6-hour exposure. These results show that metal ions associated with Co-Cr-Mo and 316L stainless steel are toxic to osteogenic cells at concentrations approximating those measured in the fibrous membrane encapsulating orthopedic implants. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Myosin heavy chain–based fiber types in the adult human cricopharyngeus muscle

The cricopharyngeus (CP) muscle is a major component of the upper sphincter of the esophagus. Its physiology is complex; a variety of reflexes maintain CP sustained contraction except during swallowing, when it relaxes to allow a food bolus to pass into the esophagus. In order to understand CP function, we previously studied the normal adult human CP and found that it has an unusual layered structure, with a slow inner and fast outer layer. In addition, a majority of its muscle fibers express unusual myosin heavy chain (MHC) isoforms (slow-tonic, α-cardiac, neonatal, and embryonic) as well as the major MHC isoforms (types I, IIa, and IIx). In this study, autopsied adult human CP muscles were studied with immunocytochemical techniques to determine the patterns of MHC coexpression in CP muscle fibers. The results show that CP fibers were hybrids expressing from two to six MHC isoforms. Ten different combinations of MHC isoforms were identified in CP fibers, with the most common (54%) containing three MHC isoforms. The variety of hybrid CP fiber types suggests that the CP is capable of a wide range of contraction characteristics. Determination of MHC expression patterns of the CP muscle fibers is critical for evaluating the contractile properties of the sphincter. Muscle Nerve, 2007
Continuities in Measurement, 1959–1963

A content analysis of all issues of four of the leading sociological journals for the most recent five-year period indicates a lack of agreement and research continuity with respect to the use of measurement procedures. Of the 986 different scales and indices found, fewer than one-fourth were used more than once, and only 1.6 percent were used or cited more
Blood and liver metabolites in fed and fasted diabetic goats.

Abstract Two trials were to study alloxan diabetes in goats. The data were grouped: 1) normal fed goats (10); 2) 48-h fasted goats (5); 3) fed goats sampled 96h after alloxan treatment (5); and 4) goats treated with alloxan following a 48-h fast and sampled 96h after alloxan treatment with continued fasting (3). Groups 1 and 4 exhibited the following means: serum insulin 43.9, 16.4, 9.4, and 6.7μU/ml; blood glucose 55.0, 47.3, 219.6, and 485.6 mg/100ml; blood ketones 4.3, 2.6, 36.6, and 28.6 mg/100ml; blood acetate 4.7, 4.0, 42.7, and 4.9 mg/100ml; plasma-free fatty acids 1.8, 10.0, 14.4, and 40.5 mg/100ml; and plasma triglyceride 13.3, 7.0, 47.6, and 12.2 mg/100ml. Liver samples from five fed goats before and 12 days after alloxan treatment exhibited the following means: phospholipid 27.5 and 26.1 mg/g; triglyceride 21.2 and 98.9 mg/g; and percent lipid 7.2 and 14.4. The diabetes was accompanied by fatty liver development and probably reduction in utilization of acetate and triglyceride in the fed animals.
Colon Cancer in Older Adults

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common malignancy in the elderly. Randomized trials have demonstrated that adjuvant and palliative chemotherapy for CRC improves survival and quality of life. Unfortunately, there is a lack of evidence-based data about elderly patients to guide decisions regarding therapy. Clinical trials have generally excluded the vulnerable elderly population commonly seen in practice and included the robust elderly, who seem to benefit from chemotherapy as much as younger patients. The existing literature consists of pooled datasets from large studies and a few small dedicated trials on chemotherapy and its toxicity in elderly patients with CRC. We present illustrative data in this article and summarize our recommendations for managing the disease in elderly patients in a variety of clinical circumstances.
Binding of hepatic lipase to heparin: identification of specific heparin-binding residues in two distinct positive charge clusters

The interaction of hepatic lipase (HL) with heparan sulfate is critical to the function of this enzyme. The primary amino acid sequence of HL was compared to that of lipoprotein lipase (LPL), a related enzyme that possesses several putative heparin-binding domains. Of the three putative heparin-binding clusters of LPL (J. Biol. Chem. 1994. 269: 4626-4633; J. Lipid Res. 1998. 39: 1310-1315), one was conserved in HL (Cluster 1; residues Lys 297-Arg 300 in rat HL) and two were partially conserved (Cluster 2; residues Asp 307-Phe 320, and Cluster 4; residues Lys 337, and Thr 432-Arg 443). Mutants of HL were generated in which potential heparin-binding residues within Clusters 1 and 4 were changed to Asn. Two chimeras in which the LPL heparin-binding sequences of Clusters 2 and 4 were substituted for the analogous HL sequences were also constructed. These mutants were expressed in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells and assayed for heparin-binding ability using heparin-Sepharose chromatography and a CHO cell-binding assay. The results suggest that residues within the homologous Cluster 1 region (Lys 297, Lys 298, and Arg 300), as well as some residues in the partially conserved Cluster 4 region (Lys 337, Lys 436, and Arg 443), are involved in the heparin binding of hepatic lipase. In the cell-binding assay, heparan sulfate-binding affinity equal to that of LPL was seen for the RHL chimera mutant that possessed the Cluster 4 sequence of LPL. Mutation of Cluster 1 residues of HL resulted in a major reduction in heparin binding ability as seen in both the cell-binding assay and the heparin-Sepharose elution profile. These results suggest that Cluster 1, the N-terminal heparin-binding domain, is of primary significance in RHL. This is different for LPL: mutations in the C-terminal binding domain (Cluster 4) cause a more significant shift in the salt required for elution from heparin-Sepharose than mutations in the N-terminal domain (Cluster 1).
The Importance of Implementation Fidelity Data for Evaluating Program Effectiveness

The authors explain implementation fidelity and demonstrate its impact on real–life programming.
Using least squares to improve blind signal copy performance

Conventional methods for signal copy require one to estimate the directions of arrival (DOA's) of the signals prior to computing the weight vectors. Blind copy algorithms alleviate the need for DOA estimation (and hence the need for array calibration data) by exploiting the temporal rather than spatial structure of the signals, but they converge slowly in some cases. In this letter, we present a simple technique that uses both spatial and temporal information to improve signal copy performance. Specifically, the algorithm uses an initial blind estimate of the signals to compute a least-squares estimate of the array response, which in turn is used to update the signal estimates. >
Addressing Transmission Grid Complexity using Advanced Technological Concepts

Electric power system is one of the most complex machine a human being has ever built. Among the attributes of this complexity are inadequate power flow control, inadequate reactive power management, power angle and voltage instabilities, in adequate planners/operators training, inefficient use of collected data, etc. This paper presents a number of advanced technological concepts, which have been developed and applied, to address these complexity attributes. The presented technological concepts address thermal capacity of transmission circuits and substation equipment, power flow control, reactive power management, and increasing robustness and integrity of transmission grids.