cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Similarity theory of diffusion and the observed vertical spread in the diabatic surface layer

The extension of Lagrangian similarity theory of diffusion to stratified flow is examined, to improve its prediction of the vertical spread of a passive substance. In the basic equation, $$d\bar Z/dt = bu_* \phi (\bar Z/L)$$ where $$\bar Z$$ is the average height of a cluster of particles,u * is the friction velocity andL is Monin-Obukhov length. It is shown theoretically, under the assumption of an equivalence between the diffusivities of heat and matter, that the unspecified function φ is the reciprocal of a more familiar meteorological parameter φ n , the dimensionless temperature gradient. The universal constantb is found to be approximately equal to von Karman's constant κ for various stability conditions. The predicted effect of stability on vertical spread shows excellent agreement with that of the published data from the O'Neill experiments.
Prison suicide rates by state

Prison suicide rates by state for 1984–1993 were significantly associated with the suicide rates of the general population of the states.
Orphanin FQ/nociceptin and [Phe1Ψ(CH2-NH)Gly2] nociceptin(1-13)-NH2 stimulate gastric motor function in anaesthetized rats

Orphanin FQ/nociceptin (OFQ/N) is a preferred endogenous ligand for the orphan opioid receptor-like-1 receptor. This peptide has been reported to increase intestinal, but not gastric, motor activity. In the present study, OFQ/N (0.6–60 nmol kg−1 i.v.) increased intragastric pressure and antral contractility and, as expected, decreased blood pressure in anaesthetized rats. The gastric motor effects of OFQ/N (6 nmol kg−1) were not affected by inhibition of nitric oxide synthase or opioid receptor blockade. OFQ/N (6 nmol kg−1) evoked gastric motor increases and hypotension were not affected by prior administration of its derivative [Phe1Ψ(CH2-NH)Gly2]nociceptin-(1-13)-NH2 unless the pseudopepotide was administered shortly (5 min) prior to OFQ/N. This putative antagonist (6–300 nmol kg−1) alone increased antral motility with approximately 100 fold lower potency than OFQ/N. Neither bilateral vagotomy nor spinal cord transection altered OFQ/N-evoked increases in intragastric pressure and antral contractility. In conclusion, OFQ/N induces gastric motor excitation in addition to its known effects to increase intestinal motility. The gastric responses to OFQ/N are not dependent on ‘classical’ opioid receptor activation or nitric oxide, similar to the case for the intestines. The primary site of action of OFQ/N on the stomach is probably via enteric nerves, since central descending vagal or sympathetic pathways are not necessary for OFQ/N to increase gastric motility. The gastric motor effects of the derivative [Phe1Ψ(CH2-NH)Gly2]nociceptin-(1-13)-NH2 are similar to OFQ/N, although with lower potency. The effects of the derivative as a partial agonist or antagonist in different experimental paradigms may reflect tissue OFQ/N receptor reserve. British Journal of Pharmacology (2000) 130, 1639–1645; doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0703463
Global error bounds for monotone affine variational inequality problems

Abstract A global “gradient projection” type error bound is given for monotone affine variational inequality problems. This new bound is based on a previously obtained global error bound for monotone linear complementarity problems and requires no assumptions on the monotone affine variational inequality other than solvability. The error bound can be used in conjunction with recent results of Tseng and Luo to establish global linear convergence of any regular splitting method for solvable symmetric monotone affine variational inequality problems.
Traumatic Axonal Injury in the Optic Nerve: Evidence for Axonal Swelling, Disconnection, Dieback, and Reorganization

Traumatic axonal injury (TAI) is a major feature of traumatic brain injury (TBI) and is associated with much of its morbidity. To date, significant insight has been gained into the initiating pathogenesis of TAI. However, the nature of TAI within the injured brain precludes the consistent evaluation of its specific anterograde and retrograde sequelae. To overcome this limitation, we used the relatively organized optic nerve in a central fluid percussion injury (cFPI) model. To improve the visualization of TAI, we utilized mice expressing yellow fluorescent protein (YFP) in their visual pathways. Through this approach, we consistently generated TAI in the optic nerve and qualitatively and quantitatively evaluated its progression over a 48-h period in YFP axons via confocal microscopy and electron microscopy. In this model, delayed axonal swelling with subsequent disconnection were the norm, together with the fact that once disconnected, both the proximal and distal axonal segments revealed significant dieback, with the proximal swellings showing regression and reorganization, while the distal swellings persisted, although showing signs of impending degeneration. When antibodies targeting the C-terminus of amyloid precursor protein (APP), a routine marker of TAI were employed, they mapped exclusively to the proximal axonal segments without distal targeting, regardless of the survival time. Concomitant with this evolving axonal pathology, focal YFP fluorescence quenching occurred and mapped precisely to immunoreactive loci positive for Texas-Red-conjugated-IgG, indicating that blood-brain barrier disruption and its attendant edema contributed to this phenomenon. This was confirmed through the use of antibodies targeting endogenous YFP, which demonstrated the retention of intact immunoreactive axons despite YFP fluorescence quenching. Collectively, the results of this study within the injured optic nerve provide unprecedented insight into the evolving pathobiology associated with TAI.
Applicability of a valence fluctuation model to the observed physical property response of actinide materials

It is shown that the physical property behavior of the light actinide elements, U, Np, and Pu, and certain of their alloys, is like that of known mixed-valence, R.E. metallic compounds. It is inferred that interconfiguration fluctuation (ICF) theory should also be applicable to actinide materials.
The influence of metallic interfaces on the properties of superconductors

The influence of AgPd and Au interfaces on the formation of the (HgBi-1223) superconductor was investigated. Variations in the BaCaCuO precursor phase assemblage and the use of as the Bi source were examined in an attempt to lower the reaction temperatures suitable for the growth of HgBi-1223 in conjunction with AgPd and Au substrates. Phase pure samples of HgBi-1223 were synthesized at temperatures below . Use of as a Bi source combined with variations of the BaCaCuO precursor phase assemblage allowed the formation of some liquid phase during the reaction and resulted in dense HgBi-1223 samples with aligned colonies of grains. Magnetization measurements in fields up to 30 T indicated good intergrain coupling within the large grain colonies. Comparison of the microstructural features of bulk samples and the metal-superconductor interface showed that the interface has a positive influence on grain growth and alignment. The metallic interfaces, however, were found to have a detrimental effect on the purity of the superconducting phase due to the formation of amalgams.
Salt- and temperature-stable quantum dot nanoparticles for porous media flow

Abstract The transport of colloidal nanoparticles (NPs) through porous media is a well-studied phenomenon at ambient temperature and in low-to-zero salinity water found in aquatic systems. Little is known at much higher temperatures and salinities such as conditions found in petroleum reservoirs, thus limiting the possible use of NPs in downhole oilfield applications. Using 3-nm CdSe quantum dots (QDs) as a model material, we report that NPs can be prepared with excellent colloidal stability at high ionic strengths and elevated temperatures. QDs with an outer coating of a nonionic ethoxylated alcohol surfactant showed little aggregation in synthetic seawater with ionic strength of 0.55 M and 1 M NaCl brine solution based on dynamic light scattering analysis. They showed colloidal stability up to 70 °C, close to the cloud point temperature of the nonionic surfactant. They further showed nearly unimpeded flow behavior when carried in high-salinity water through a packed column of crushed calcite or sandstone mineral at room temperature. QDs were successfully passed through a medium-permeability Berea sandstone core (100 mDa) at 17 atm, 25 °C, and 8 mL/h. The preparation strategy for salt- and temperature-stable QDs is applicable to a wide range of particle sizes and compositions, toward the general handling and use of functional NPs in high-salinity environments.
Oxidative Stress in Heart Failure: What Are We Missing?

Over the past several decades, investigations in humans and animal models of heart failure (HF) have provided substantial evidence that oxidative stress is increased in HF and contributes to disease progression. The high metabolic activity of cardiac myocytes makes these cells active sources of reactive oxygen species. Work in cell and animal models clearly demonstrates that oxidative stress activates processes such as changes in gene expression and cell death that are now accepted components of myocardial remodeling and HF. Antioxidants prevent progressive remodeling and even improve cardiac function in animal models of HF. It is therefore disappointing that to date no antioxidant strategy has translated to a therapeutic in the HF clinic. Possible explanations, including inadequate appreciation of the critical disease-modifying sources of reactive oxygen species, the choice of the wrong antioxidant strategy, or incomplete understanding of individual variability in human antioxidant defenses in this brief review.
INCREASED OXIDATIVE DAMAGE TO MITOCHONDRIAL DNA FOLLOWING CHRONIC ETHANOL CONSUMPTION

Abstract Ethanol consumption adversely affects the structural and functional integrity of hepatic mitochondria. Some of these effects may arise from the increased cellular levels of oxidizing radicals induced by ethanol feeding. Since DNA is a potential target of free radical damage, we investigated the effect of chronic ethanol feeding on oxidative modification of mtDNA. Mitochondria were isolated from the livers of control and ethanol-fed rats and the mtDNA analyzed for the presence of 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG). A 21% increase in the level of 8-OHdG was detected in mtDNA from animals that had been fed an ethanol-containing diet for 42-76 days (control, 3.98 ± 0.5; ethanol, 4.8 ± 0.9 8-OHdG/100,000dG). This difference increased to 43% in animals that had been fed ethanol for 105-164 days (control, 6.9 ± 1.0; ethanol, 9.9 ± 1.1 8-OHdG/100,000dG). This increase in mtDNA oxidation was accompanied by a decrease in the recovery of mtDNA (42-76 days: control, 88 ± 11; ethanol 76 ± 8 ng/mg mitochondrial protein; 105-164 days: control, 88 ± 13; ethanol 62 ± 14 ng/mg mitochondrial protein). The data presented demonstrate that chronic ethanol feeding leads to increased oxidative damage of hepatic mtDNA. This may in turn result in progressive mtDNA mutations and deletions and impaired mitochondrial function.
Theory-based behavior change interventions: comments on Hobbis and Sutton.

Hobbis and Sutton (this issue) suggest that Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) techniques can be used in interventions based on the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). Although this suggestion has merit, CBT is only one of many applicable methods for producing belief and behavior change. Moreover, CBT’s primary purpose is to help people carry out intended behaviors, not to influence intentions, and that it is more useful in face-to-face than in community-level interventions. Contrary to Hobbis and Sutton’s critique, TPB can accommodate core beliefs or fundamental assumptions, but the theory suggests that interventions targeted at such beliefs are less effective than interventions targeted at behavior specific beliefs.
The Juxtamembrane Sequence of Cytochrome P-450 2C1 Contains an Endoplasmic Reticulum Retention Signal

The N-terminal signal anchor of cytochrome P-450 2C1 mediates retention in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane of several reporter proteins. The same sequence fused to the C terminus of the extracellular domain of the epidermal growth factor receptor permits transport of the chimeric protein to the plasma membrane. In the N-terminal position, the ER retention function of this signal depends on the polarity of the hydrophobic domain and the sequence KQS in the short hydrophilic linker immediately following the transmembrane domain. To determine what properties are required for the ER retention function of the signal anchor in a position other than the N terminus, the effect of mutations in the linker and hydrophobic domains on subcellular localization in COS1 cells of chimeric proteins with the P-450 signal anchor in an internal or C-terminal position was analyzed. For the C-terminal position, the signal anchor was fused to the end of the luminal domain of epidermal growth factor receptor, and green fluorescent protein was additionally fused at the C terminus of the signal anchor for the internal position. In these chimeras, the ER retention function of the signal anchor was rescued by deletion of three leucines at the C-terminal side of its hydrophobic domain; however, deletion of three valines from the N-terminal side did not affect transport to the cell surface. ER retention of the C-terminal deletion mutants was eliminated by substitution of alanines for glutamine and serine in the linker sequence. These data are consistent with a model in which the position of the linker sequence at the membrane surface, which is critical for ER retention, is dependent on the transmembrane domain.
Effects of Wheat-Residue Management on Double-Cropped Soybean and Subsequent Crops

Management of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) residue is an important consideration in production of double-cropped soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]; however, little information is available concerning long-term effects of wheat-residue management on subsequent crop yield and soil quality. A 12-yr study was conducted in southeastern Kansas to evaluate the agronomic effects of three wheat-residue management practices (moldboard plow, burn then disk, and disk only) on: (i) grain yield, seed weight, and leaf nutrient concentrations (N,P,K) of double-cropped and full-season soybean and winter wheat in a 2-yr cropping rotation; (ii) soil moisture and bulk density at the R5 soybean growth stage; and (iii) changes in soil fertility properties (pH, organic matter [OM], P, and K). Double-cropped soybean yield varied with wheat-residue management and available soil moisture, but no residue practice was superior in all years. Seed weight and leaf K concentration of double-cropped soybean were highest with plowing, whereas disking resulted in greater soil bulk density, regardless of year. Grain yield, seed weight, and leaf N, P, and K concentrations of subsequent full-season soybean and winter wheat were not affected significantly by previous wheat residue management. After six 2-yr cropping cycles, soil pH, OM, available P, and exchangeable K had changed very little from initial values. In rotations where double-cropping occurs only once every 2 or 3 yr, wheat-residue management may not have significant long-term effects on subsequent crop yield or soil quality.
Contributions of Gas Phase Reactions to CVD Processes

An analytical model to account for the effects of gas phase reactions in CVD processes is presented. In this model a system with only two reactions, gas phase production of an intermediate and reaction of the intermediate on the surface of the substrate to form the film is considered. The reaction kinetics, convective and diffusive transport mechanisms are coupled to analyse the thickness distribution over the length of the reactor. Theoretical deposition rate profiles in the direction of gas flow are shown with varying deposition temperatures and gas flow velocities for both surface and gas phase reaction controlled mechanisms. It has been shown that by analyzing the nature of the deposition rate profiles, the rate limiting step in a CVD process can be identified.
In Vitro Tyrosine Phosphorylation of PLC-γ1 and PLC-γ2 by SRC-Family Protein Tyrosine Kinases

Abstract The phosphorylation of purified phospholipase C-γ1 (PLC-γ1) and PLC-γ2 by src-family-protein tyrosine kinases (PTKs) p56lck p53/56lyn, p59hck, p59fyn, and p60src was studied in vitro. All five PTKs phosphorylated PLC-γ1 and PLC-γ2, suggesting that both PLC-γ isozymes can be phosphorylated in cells by any of the src -fami1y PTKs in response to the activation of cell surface receptors. Comparison of the in vitro phosphorylation rates revealed no distinct specificity between PLC-γ1 and PLC-γ2, or between the five PTKs.
3-Alkoxy-5-isoxazolidinones mimic β-lactams

3-Alkoxy-5-isoxazolidinones mimic the action of β-lactams. They bind to the penicillin-binding proteins. They inhibit Class A, Class B, and Class D β-lactams. They inhibit the growth of Bacillus subtilis. We give a novel synthesis for these compounds.
Moving mammogram-reluctant women to screening: a pilot study

Background Effective interventions are needed for women long overdue for screening mammography.
Carotid endarterectomy: Its procedural development and technical update

Abstract Technical requirements for performance of carotid endarterectomy are described. Patient selection is emphasized, and issues about use of shunts and patch angioplasty are described. Special management considerations—including the anatomically high carotid bifurcation, intraarterial thrombi, and postoperative stroke—are carefully reviewed. Finally, clinical activities designed to decrease length of stay for carotid endarterectomy are reported. Forty percent of patients are now being discharged home on the day of operation.
Interaction of the myogenic determination factor myogenin with E12 and a DNA target: mechanism and kinetics.

The myogenic determination factors MyoD, myogenin, myf5, and MRF4 are members of the basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) family of transcription factors and crucial agents of myogenesis. The bHLH regions of these proteins enable them to dimerize with E proteins, another class of the bHLH family, and to bind a specific DNA element known as an E box (CANNTG consensus sequence), which results in the activation of muscle-specific gene expression. As a model for such assembly of the myogenic determination factor/E protein-DNA ternary complex, we have studied the physiologically relevant association of myogenin, E12, and the 3' E box of the acetylcholine receptor (AChR) alpha-subunit gene enhancer. Using the technique of electrophoretic mobility shift assay combined with order-of-addition and time-course experiments, we find that heterodimerization of myogenin with E12 occurs prior to DNA-binding. In addition, we deduce the dissociation (Kd) and rate (k) constants for each step in the formation of the myogenin/E12-DNA ternary complex. Kinetic simulations indicate that at 37 degrees C myogenin and E12 heterodimerize with a Kd of 36 microM (k(on) of 573 M(-1) x s(-1) and k(off )of 0.0205 x s(-1)), and that subsequently the heterodimer binds the AChR alpha-subunit gene enhancer 3' E box with a Kd of 8.8 nM (with possible k(on) and k(off) values ranging from 1.0x10(8) to 14.1x10(8) M(-1) x s(-1), and 0.875 to 12.3 s(-1), respectively).
Evolution of the Cleidoic Egg Among Reptilian Antecedents of Birds

Evolution of the avian egg from the naked amniotic egg of ancestral reptiles probably was the outcome of intense predation by soil invertebrates and microbes on a highly integrated and coadapted complex of characters. The calcareous shell which from its inception afforded a measure of protection to eggs against attacks by soil organisms became progressively thicker and more complex in the face of continuing selection for antipredator devices. However, increases in thickness and complexity of eggshells led to simultaneous reductions in the amount of liquid water that could be absorbed by incubating eggs from the substrate. Because embryos initially were dependent upon uptake of substantial quantities of water from the environment to satisfy their needs for this solvent, adaptive increases in thickness of the eggshell required coupled increases in the amount of water contained by eggs at oviposition, thereby reducing the degree of dependence of embryos upon external sources of water for successful completion of development. The rigid-shelled eggs resulting from this evolutionary sequence absorbed little (if any) liquid water during incubation, and the eggs contained sufficient water at oviposition to sustain embryos to hatching. Such eggs were functionally cleidoic and had attained an avian level of organization.
Pseudo-spectral time-domain simulation of the transmission and the group delay of photonic devices

The pseudo-spectral time-domain (PSTD) method is applied to the simulation of photonic structures. We study transmission and group delay properties of dielectric and dispersive devices. An auxiliary differential equation technique is used to model the dispersive behavior of metallic features. Comparisons with the finite-difference time-domain method show the superiority of the PSTD method in particular when extracting phase information from a photonic device. The validity of the algorithm is demonstrated by investigating a ring resonator, Bragg gratings and metallic nano-particle arrangements.
Predicting protein dynamic binding capacity from batch adsorption tests

The dynamic binding capacity (DBC) and its dependence on residence time influence the design and productivity of adsorption columns used in protein capture applications. This paper offers a very simple approach to predict the DBC of an adsorption column based on a measurement of the equilibrium binding capacity (EBC) and of the time needed to achieve one-half of the EBC in a batch adsorption test. The approach is based on a mass transfer kinetics model that assumes pore diffusion with a rectangular isotherm; however, the same approach is also shown to work for other systems where solute transport inside the particle occurs through other transport mechanisms.
The freezing resistance of the arctic subtidal isopod,Mesidotea entomon (Linnaeus, 1758)

The in vitro freezing point of hemolymph from specimens ofMesidotea entomon adapted to seawater with a salinity of 34‰ is equal to that of seawater of the same salinity. On the other hand, if such specimens are cooled in freezing seawater, the in vivo freezing point of the hemolymph is 0.3 °C lower than the previous in vitro freezing point (Fig. 2). This difference between the in vivo and in vitro freezing points is probably due to an increase in the ionic concentration of the hemolymph in response to the increasing salt concentration of the freezing seawater with which the hemolymph probably remains isoosmotic. Specimens do not freeze as the hemolymph becomes more concentrated, because the cuticle ofM. entomon prevents the external ice from seeding the hemolymph. Measurements of the permeability of the cuticle to ice demonstrate that the cuticle is sufficiently impermeable to act as a barrier to seeding. Also, the structure of the cuticle is consistent with its functional impermeability (Fig. 6).
Analytical and Preparative Chromatography of Metalloporphyrins on Polyamide

Polyamide has been used as a chromatographic material for detection and purification of several metalloporphyrins, namely, cobalt(II)-protoporphyrin IX, carbonyl derivative of ruthenium (II)-mesoporphyrin IX and rhodium (III)-mesoporphyrin IX chloride. These metalloporphyrins have been purified in 100 mg scale in high yields on the polyamide columns. Various fractions obtained from the purification of a metalloporphyrin on polyamide column were characterized by using TLC on polyamide layer sheets and visible, IR, and ESR spectroscopy. The coordination between metal ion of metalloporphyrin and amide and free amine groups of polyamide appears to be the most important mechanism of separation of metalloporphyrins on the polyamide column.
Effect of Lesions in the Septal Forebrain of the Rat on Sleeping Time under Barbiturate

Rats with electrolytic lesions in the septal forebrain show increased sleeping times after injection with thiopental sodium or barbital, as compared with normal and other control rats and rats with lesions in the cerebral cortex or caudate nucleus.
Species song discrimination in adult female song and swamp sparrows

Abstract Six female song sparrows (Melospiza melodia) and six female swamp sparrows (Melospiza georgiana) were treated with oestradiol, and their response to song measured by frequency and intensity of copulation-solicitation display. Test stimuli were synthetic songs composed of either song sparrow or swamp sparrow syllables assembled in either song-sparrow-like or swamp-sparrow-like temporal patterns. Female song sparrows responded preferentially to songs containing their own species' syllables and to songs containing their own species' temporal patterns. Swamp sparrows were also sensitive to both syllable type and temporal, pattern, in contrast to male swamp sparrows, which show no preference for swamp sparrow temporal patterns.
Relativistic BWO with Gaussian beam extracted radially using an electromagnetic bandgap medium

Cerenkov high power microwave sources can be used to generate short, Gaussian microwave pulses that are attractive for many applications. The backward wave oscillator (BWO) is typically known to radiate the TM 0n -mode in circular waveguide. The microwave signal is usually extracted axially after reflecting the TM 01 -mode from the upstream end of the SWS by using either a cutoff-neck or a cavity resonator reflector.
The Demise and Reawakening of Spirituality in Western Entrepreneurship

Understanding spirituality may serve as a foundation for developing new approaches to managerial action, organizational learning, social change and leadership. This article explores this phenomenon by hermeneutically tracing the demise and reawakening of spiritual entrepreneurship in Western life over the past 200 years. Spiritual aspects of entrepreneurial organizations are also framed via the lens of critical management theory as reflected in literature spanning four social epochs: federalist reality, the Industrial Revolution, disciplinary society, and the post-industrial milieu. The resulting themes highlight the interconnectedness and reciprocal influences between social reality and spiritual leadership in Western entrepreneurial enterprises. Drawn from the author's doctoral research (Jue 2004), the article suggests a need for reintegrating spiritual leadership among post-modern organizations and entrepreneurial firms in the achievement of more sustainable futures.
EFFECTS OF CHRONIC COCAINE ADMINISTRATION ON AGGRESSIVE BEHAVIOR IN VIRGIN RATS

Virgin Sprague-Dawley rats received subcutaneous injections of saline, 3.5, 7.5 or 15 mg/kg of cocaine, twice daily, for 20 consecutive days. Females were videotaped for 10 minutes in the presence of a male rat for assessment of aggression towards the intruder 2, 3, and 5 days following cessation of cocaine or saline administration. Oxytocin levels in discrete brain areas were assayed following behavioral testing, 5 days following cessation of cocaine or saline administration. The 30 mg/kg-dose group tended to have a lower frequency of fight attacks and aggressive postures compared to saline-treated controls across sessions. The frequency of most of the behaviors analyzed were represented by quadratic functions across time, such that the highest frequency of behavior occurred 2 days following the final injection with relatively less activity 3 and 5 days following cessation of saline or cocaine administration. The 30 mg/kg cocaine-treated group had significantly lower hippocampal OT levels than the 15 mg/kg group 5 days following cessation of cocaine or saline administration.
Comparative Evaluation of Extinction through Strain among Three Alcoholic Butanol Isomers in Non-Premixed Counterflow Flames

AbstractButanol isomer diffusion flames were studied experimentally in a counterflow burner configuration with an emphasis on establishing a difference in extinction strain rate among three fuels with practically identical thermochemistry. An effect of molecular structure on the extinction strain rates of butanol isomers was observed and analyzed in terms of bond dissociation energies. The results indicate that although all isomers share essentially the same adiabatic flame temperature, n-butanol flames can sustain a consistently higher extinction strain rate than the flames of other isomers (isobutanol and sec-butanol). Extinction strain rates of isobutanol and sec-butanol were equal, within experimental error. Numerical simulation of n-butanol diffusion flames produced results consistent with those measured experimentally and provided insight into the distribution of major species and combustion intermediates. Stable annular flames were observed for all three isomers as a temporary step before extinction.
Switching by point-contact spin injection in a continuous film

Spin-polarized currents injected through a point-contact into a continuous Co/Cu/Co trilayer film can reversibly switch the magnetization of small magnetic bits in the top Co layer. The magnetic states written depend on the polarity of the injection currents, and remain stable at room temperature. The reversible writing can be achieved for a wide range of contact resistances with a well-defined voltage for the reversal.
Temperature-Programmed Desorption Studies of the Interactions of H2, CO, and CO2 with Cu/SiO2

Abstract The interactions of H2, CO, and CO2 with a Cu/SiO2 catalyst have been investigated using temperature-programmed desorption spectroscopy. The heats of adsorption of H2 and CO were obtained from analysis of the experimentally observed spectra, and the activation energy for H2 adsorption was obtained from isothermal measurements of the adsorption rate. The heat of adsorption of H2 increases from 10.1 to 13.8 kcal/mol for 0.07 ≤ θH ≤ 0.26. The activation energy for H2 adsorption is 10.5 kcal/mol. and the activation energy for H2 desorption increases from 20.6 to 24.3 kcal/mol for 0.07 ≤ θH ≤ 0.26. The heat of adsorption of CO decreases with coverage from 16.4 to 12.5 kcal/mol for 0.01 ≤ θCO ≤ 0.18. The coverage by molecularly adsorbed CO2 was below the detectable limits for adsorption temperatures above 250 K. Evidence was found, however, for a small amount of dissociatively adsorbed CO2. The present findings are in very good agreement with recent studies on Cu single-crystal surfaces.
Molecular genetic and morphologic integration in malformations of the nervous system for etiologic classification

Molecular genetics ahs brought new insight into the etiology and pathogenesis of nervous system malformations, and provided a means of precise genetic diagnosis including the prenatal detection of many cerebral dysgeneses. Many cerebral malformations previously thought to be a single disorder are now known to be common end results of many independent genetic mutations. Examples are holoprosencephaly and lissencephaly. Gradients of genetic expression along the axes of the neural tube established at the time of gastrulation may explain many varieties and clinical expressions of cerebral malformations, including the involvement of non-neural tissues, such as midfacial hypoplasia from defective neural crest migration. A new classification of CNS malformations is proposed that integrates, but does not discard traditional morphologic criteria, but integrates them with new molecular genetic criteria.
Pediatric Seizure and Epilepsy Classification: Why Is It Important or Is It Important?

The classification of seizures and epilepsy is a divisive (no pun intended) topic. Debate ranges from how to classify seizures and epilepsy to whether a classification is needed at all. The classification of seizures and epilepsy in the pediatric population, specifically in the neonatal age group, differs from similar classifications in the adult population. To date, the most workable classification documents are the 1981 Classification of Seizures and the 1989 Classification of the Epilepsies from the International League Against Epilepsy. Subsequently, alternative classifications and schemes have been proposed but not universally accepted. Some pediatric-specific classifications, again with particular emphasis on classifying seizures and epilepsy in the neonatal population, have also been proposed. This review examines these classifications and attempts to analyze their pediatric-specific components in terms of applicability to the pediatric population and for their utility for pediatric physician-scientists and health care providers.
Near-field optical spectroscopy of localized excitons in strained CdSe quantum dots

Control of the growth dynamics during the epitaxy of coherently strained ZnSe/CdSe quantum structures results in a varied interfacial texture that broadly defines two qualitatively different regimes for exciton localization. An island growth mode produces quantum dot regions in which the lateral confinement of excitons is directly revealed through the observation of resolution-limited (full width at half maximum of 0.8 meV) emission peaks in near-field photoluminescence spectra. By contrast, layer-by-layer growth produces potential fluctuations at length scales small compared to the exciton diameter, so that the localization of excitons is driven by a random interfacial potential with a smooth density of states.
A historical note on superconductors.

I enjoyed reading M. Rice's Perspective “Superfluid helium-3 has a metallic partner” (12 Nov. 2004, p. [1142][1]) about the elegant work of K. D. Nelson et al . (“Odd-parity superconductivity in Sr2RuO4,” Reports, 12 Nov. 2004, p. [1151][2]), in which they confirmed the nature of
Edema and Vascular Permeability in Cerebral Ischemia: Comparison Between Ischemic Neuronal Damage and Infarction

The respective influences of ischemic neuronal damage and infarction on the development of abnormal blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability and cerebral edema were evaluated in a rat model of temporary four-vessel occlusion in which ischemic neuronal damage with only infrequent infarction is produced. Survival times ranged from 40 minutes to 5 days after ischemia. Evans blue and horseradish peroxidase (HRP) were given before sacrifice. The majority of brain showed moderate ischemic neuronal damage inthe striatum. In these areas there was neither leakage of Evans blue nor extravasation of HRP. Astrocytic processes were moderately swollen. Large, grossly-visible unilateral infarcts were present in only 5 animals, and all showed abnormal BBB permeability of HRP which occurred via enchanced pinocytosis, and occasionally via diffuse leakage through necrotic vessels. Astrocytic processes were markedly swollen and their plasma membranes were disrupted. Whole brain and regional water content in a parallel series of animals were measured from 15 minutes (min) to 48 hours (h) postischemia. They showed a transient, 1% increase in whole brain water content from 15 to 60 min postischemia, but no increase in regional water content at any postischemic interval. These studies suggest that ischemia produces BBB permeability to large molecules, and sustained cerebral edema only when the process damages blood vessels and astrocytes; neuronal necrosis alone is insufficient.
Improved asymmetry prediction for short interfering RNAs

In the development of RNA interference (RNAi) therapeutics, merely selecting short, interfering RNA (siRNA) sequences that are complementary to the messenger RNA (mRNA) target does not guarantee target silencing. Current algorithms for selecting siRNAs rely on many parameters, one of which is asymmetry, often predicted through calculation of the relative thermodynamic stability of the two ends of the siRNA. However, we have previously shown that highly-active siRNA sequences are likely to have particular nucleotides at each 5’-end, independent of their thermodynamic asymmetry. Here, we describe an algorithm for predicting highly active siRNA sequences based only on these two asymmetry parameters. The algorithm uses end sequence nucleotide preferences and predicted thermodynamic stabilities, each weighted based on training data from the literature, to rank the probability that an siRNA sequence will have high or low activity. The algorithm successfully predicts weakly- and highly-active sequences for enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) and protein kinase R (PKR). Use of these two parameters in combination improves the prediction of siRNA activity over current approaches for predicting asymmetry. Going forward, we anticipate that this approach to siRNA asymmetry prediction will be incorporated into the next generation of siRNA selection algorithms.
Realtime Video Compression On A Multiprocessor System

Technology has evolved to the point that image sequences can be captured, compressed, transmitted, decompressed, and displayed in real time with a system consisting of predominantly off-the-shelf components. The system we have developed is able to decode and display approximately 10 frames/sec (128x128 images) using four 16Mhz Motorola 68020s controlled by an IBM PC/AT. The 68020 processors are connected to a Multibus 1®. Via a BIT3® interface [1], the PC/AT sees the Multibus as an extension of its bus. We are presently optimizing the four processor system to handle 8-15 frames/sec.
Adaptive Waveform Distortion Compensation

Radar receivers use low sidelobe matched filtering techniques to separate closely spaced targets. Ideally, low sidelobes can be achieved through either waveform selection or through spectral weighting of the matched filter. In practice, however, the minimum achievable sidelobe levels are determined by the presence of waveform distortion. Such distortion can be unintentional (e.g., as the result of hardware errors in the radar's transmitter or receiver) or intentional. This paper presents several non-iterative adaptive processing techniques for canceling coherent waveform distortion. Moreover, these techniques also potentially super-resolve closely spaced targets
Biomarkers: Mining the Biofluid Proteome

Proteomics has brought with it the hope of identifying novel biomarkers for diseases such as cancer. This hope is built on the ability of proteomic technologies, such as mass spectrometry (MS), to identify hundreds of proteins in complex biofluids such as plasma and serum. There are many factors that make this research very challenging beginning with the lack of standardization of sample collection and continuing through the entire analytical process. Fortunately the advances made in the characterization of biofluids using proteomic techniques have been rapid and suggest that these mainly discovery driven approaches will lead to the development of highly specific platforms for diagnosing diseases and monitoring responses to different treatments in the near future.
Spider silk as a novel high performance biomimetic muscle driven by humidity

The abrupt halt of a bumble bee's flight when it impacts the almost invisible threads of an orb web provides an elegant example of the amazing strength and toughness of spider silk. Spiders depend upon these properties for survival, yet the impressive performance of silk is not limited solely to tensile mechanics. Here, we show that silk also exhibits powerful cyclic contractions, allowing it to act as a high performance mimic of biological muscles. These contractions are actuated by changes in humidity alone and repeatedly generate work 50 times greater than the equivalent mass of human muscle. Although we demonstrate that this response is general and occurs weakly in diverse hydrophilic materials, the high modulus of spider silk is such that it generates exceptional force. Furthermore, because this effect already operates at the level of single silk fibers, only 5 microm in diameter, it can easily be scaled across the entire size range at which biological muscles operate. By contrast, the most successful synthetic muscles developed so far are driven by electric voltage, such that they cannot scale easily across large ranges in cross-sectional areas. The potential applicability of silk muscles is further enhanced by our finding that silkworm fibers also exhibit cyclic contraction because they are already available in commercial quantities. The simplicity of using wet or dry air to drive the biomimetic silk muscle fibers and the incredible power generated by silk offer unique possibilities in designing lightweight and compact actuators for robots and micro-machines, new sensors, and green energy production.
The unique nature of H+ in water

The H+(aq) ion in ionized strong aqueous acids is an unexpectedly unique H13O6+ entity, unlike those in gas phase H+(H2O)n clusters or typical crystalline acid hydrates. IR spectroscopy indicates that the core structure has neither C3vH3O+ Eigen-like nor typical H5O2+ Zundel-like character. Rather, extensive delocalization of the positive charge leads to a H13O6+ ion having an unexpectedly long central O⋯O separation of ∼2.57 A and four conjugated O⋯O separations of ∼2.7 A. These dimensions are in conflict with the shorter O⋯O separations found in structures calculated by theory. Ultrafast dynamic properties of the five H atoms involved in these H-bonds lead to a substantial collapse of normal IR vibrations and the appearance of a continuous broad absorption (cba) across the entire IR spectrum. This cba is distinguishable from the broad IR bands associated with typical low-barrier H-bonds. The solvation shell outside of the H13O6+ ion defines the boundary of positive charge delocalization. At low acid concentrations, the H13O6+ ion is a constituent part of an ion pair that has contact with the first hydration shell of the conjugate base anion. At higher concentrations, or with weaker acids, one or two H2O molecules of H13O6+ cation are shared with the hydration shell of the anion. Even the strongest acids show evidence of ion pairing.
A global approach to path planning for redundant manipulators

This paper presents a new approach to path planning for redundant manipulators. The path planning problem is posed as a finite time nonlinear control problem which can be solved by a Newton-Raphson type algorithm together with an exterior penalty function method. This technique is capable of handling various goal task definitions as well as incorporating both joint and task space constraints. The algorithm has shown promising results in planning joint path sequences to meet Cartesian goal planning and path following. In contrast to local approaches, this algorithm is less prone to problems such as singularities and local minima. Applications to planar 3R and 4R arms, cooperating 3R arms and a spatial 9 DOF arm are included. >
Estimation of the reproductive number of the Spanish flu epidemic in Geneva, Switzerland.

The 1918 influenza pandemic known as the “Spanish Flu” has been the worst in recent history with estimated worldwide mortality ranging from 20 to 100 million deaths. Using epidemic modeling and hospital notification data during the 1918 influenza pandemic in the Canton of Geneva, Switzerland, we estimated the reproductive numbers of the first and second waves of influenza infection to be R1 = 1.49 (95% CI: 1.45–1.53) and R2 = 3.75 (95% CI: 3.57–3.93), respectively. Our estimates indicate that containment of the next influenza pandemic could require strict interventions that include effective isolation strategies in hospitals and reductions in the susceptibility of the general population.
A computer vision method to locate cold spots in foods in microwave sterilization processes

A major challenge in developing advanced thermal processess based on electromagnetic heating is to determine the location of cold spots in foods. A rapid and reliable method was developed in this study with the aim to effectively locate the cold spot in model food sterilized in microwave systems. The developed method involved application of chemical marker M-2 yield to a model food, mashed potatoes, using computer vision system and an image processing software IMAQ Vision Builder to capture and analyze color patterns after thermal processes. A systematic study was conducted to establish relationships among M-2 yields, color values from captured images of cut food samples, and thermal lethality (F0). Several factors including consistency of imaging background and positions of lights over the diffuser box were considered to standardize the method. To facilitate the comparative study of heating characteristic for different combinations of power levels and F0, a mapping scale using unheated and saturated mashed potato samples was developed by fixing the lowest and upper most gray-scale values. Color values equivalent to gray-level values were positively correlated to F0 and M-2 yield. The specified cold spot location determined by computer vision method was validated in a 915MHz single-mode microwave sterilization system. The results showed that the computer vision method can potentially be used as an effective tool in microwave sterilization process development for regulatory acceptance and industrial applications.
Health Policy Watch: Ethical Obligations in the Body Politic: The Case of Normalization Policy for Marginal Populations

A common tale of moral cacophony and euphemism on the city streets: Each day, an owner of a small business decides, “once and for all,” how to respond to the “homeless person” panhandling for “spare change” as she makes her way to work in the morning. Today, she looks the other way and holds more tightly to her purse. Nearby, a building contractor waits impatiently for the traffic light to change as his van is approached by a small and shabby band of “street people” demanding to clean his windshield. He turns his wipers on to signal them away. Sometimes this works. At the next light, a woman carrying an infant swaddled to her torso offers a tube of three roses for a dollar. The driver smiles pleasantly, but does not stop. The businesswoman, now close to work, buys two tubes of roses and does not wait for the change from the five-dollar bill she earnestly presses into the mother's hand.
On interior-point based retrospective approximation methods for solving two-stage stochastic linear programs

In a recent paper, Gongyun Zhao introduced what appears to be the first interior point formulation for solving two-stage stochastic linear programs for finite support random variables. In this paper, we generalize Gongyun Zhao's formulation by incorporating it into a retrospective approximation framework. What results is an implementable interior-point solution paradigm that can be used to solve general two-stage stochastic linear programs. After discussing some basic properties, we characterize the complexity of the algorithm, leading to guidance on the number of samples that should be generated to construct the sub-problem linear programs, effort expended in solving the sub-problems, and the effort expended in solving the master problem.
Electron beams and x-ray emission of conical wire array Z-pinches

Summary form only given. It is well known that intense beams of energetic electrons are accelerated in z-pinches. Using magnetic deflection and Faraday cup detection we measured electron energies and the current of beams produced in conical wire array z-pinches and x-pinches. The variations in pointing and divergence of the beams reduced the accuracy of these measurements. However, the beam activity can be correlated with the x-ray emission of the z-pinches. We will present results of these measurements.
Gate-level modeling of leakage current failure induced by total dose for the generation of worst-case test vectors

A novel gate-level model has been developed for the automatic generation of worst-case test vectors for leakage current failure induced in CMOS devices by total dose.