cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Temporal gravity and elevation changes at Pacaya volcano, Guatemala

Abstract Repetitive gravity surveys at Pacaya Volcano from 1975 to 1979 revealed time-dependent changes in the gravity field, which although related to volcanic activity, could not be uniquely attributed to elevation changes or mass redistributions because elevation control was lacking. Elevation control was established in July 1979 using precision leveling. Relative elevation and gravity measurements in June and July of 1979, January 1980 and June 1980 indicate concurrent gravity and elevation changes contemporaneous with variations in eruptive activity. From June 1979 to January 1980, while fumarolic activity was dominant, relative to the most remote station, the volcano deflated by at least 195 mm and the gravity field increased by up to 221 μgal. From January 1980 to June 1980, preceding a Strombolian eruption beginning about June 1980, the volcano inflated by at least 19 mm and the gravity field decreased by up to 231 μgal. Gravity change maps for the intervals of January 1978 to June 1979, June 1979 to January 1980, and January 1980 to June 1980 show areas subject to repeated positive and negative gravity change. Some of those areas coincide with areas of maximum elevation change observed in the June 1979–January 1980 and January 1980–June 1980 intervals; however, gravity changes were observed in areas lacking elevation changes. Adjusting observed gravity changes for elevation changes using a free-air value of −3.086 μ gal/cm does not substantially alter the pattern, position, or amplitude of the gravity changes. The relationship between gravity changes, elevation changes, and volcanic activity requires a mechanism producing gravity decreases with little inflation during times of increased eruptive activity, and producing gravity increases with subsidence during times of declining eruptive activity. Such a pattern of changes could be produced by a near-surface magma body in which high-density degassed magma is displaced volume for volume by low-density vesiculated magma during time of increased eruptive activity, and in which loss of gasses by fumarolic activity produces a density increase and a reduction in volume of the magma body during periods of declining eruptive activity. Such a pattern of changes could also be induced by a low-density, vesiculated magma body moving upward in the volcanic pile by piecemeal stoping where the high-density rocks of the volcano are replaced on a volume for volume basis by low-density magma during periods of increasing eruptive activity; and by later density increases and magma body volume reductions accompanying devolatilization and devesiculation during periods of declining eruptive activity. Simple density change and density contrast models involving shallow magma bodies at depths of 100 to 200 m indicate density changes or contrasts of about 0.4 g/cm 3 could produce the gravity changes.
Multilevel solution method for the p-version of finite elements

Abstract A multilevel iteration scheme is utilized in the solution of equations resulting from the p-version of the finite element method. The advantage of this approach is that it is possible to attain the speed of multigrid techniques in the solution of systems of equations without generating a sequence of nested grids on comlex geometries. We compare the performance of the multilevel method with other iterative methods, and a direct method for the solution of the Poisson equation on a square with the Dirichlet boundary conditions and demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach for both sequential and parallel computation.
Microbiology of early CF lung disease.

Recent bronchoscopy studies using assays to measure inflammation and molecular typing techniques have facilitated an increased understanding of the early events that occur within the lungs of young children with cystic fibrosis and provided additional insights into the natural history of lung disease in children. In 2000, the US CF National Patient Registry data showed that among 1000 infants or =10(5) CFU/ml of BAL fluid. Investigators have studied the microbiology of young CF infants using specimens derived from the upper airway (deep throat) compared with the lower airway (broncheoalveolar lavage specimens) to determine if the upper airway is predictive of pathogens in the lower airway. In general, these studies have shown that a negative oropharyngeal culture indicated that isolation of P. aeruginosa from the lower airway was unlikely, but a positive culture did not predict lower airway infection. Similar findings were noted for H. influenzae and S. aureus.
Pediatric Leptomeningeal Metastasis: 111In-DTPA Cerebrospinal Fluid Flow Studies

Nine children (five girls and four boys) ranging in age from 1 to 18 years (median age, 12 years) with leptomeningeal metastasis were evaluated for cerebrospinal fluid compartmentalization with cerebrospinal fluid flow studies using ventricular diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid labeled with indium 111 (111In-DTPA). Histologic diagnosis included medulloblastoma (two), primitive neuroectodermal tumor (two), acute lymphoblastic leukemia (two), pineoblastoma (one), ependymoma (one), and anaplastic astrocytoma (one). Sixteen 111In-DTPA cerebrospinal fluid flow studies were performed, of which nine demonstrated normal anterograde cerebrospinal fluid flow of radionuclide, with the following cerebrospinal fluid compartment median times to appearance, with ranges in parentheses: ventricles, 1 minute (0 to 3 minutes); cisterna magna/basal cisterns, 5 minutes (3 to 5 minutes); cervical subarachnoid space, 8 minutes (5 to 10 minutes); thoracic subarachnoid space, 15 minutes (10 to 30 minutes); lumbar subarachnoid space, 35 minutes (20 to 45 minutes); and sylvian cistern, 80 minutes (60 to 90 minutes). Blockage of normal anterograde cerebrospinal fluid flow was seen in seven 111In-DTPA cerebrospinal fluid flow studies in the following cerebrospinal fluid compartments: cervical subarachnoid space (four), lumbar subarachnoid space (two), and cisterna magna/basal cisterns (one). Five 111In-DTPA cerebrospinal fluid flow studies were performed after demonstration of cerebrospinal fluid compartmentalization and treatment with limited-field radiation therapy to involved regions; cerebrospinal fluid flow blocks resolved in three. In conclusion, cerebrospinal fluid compartmentalization, as shown by radionuclide ventriculography, is a common occurrence in pediatric leptomeningeal metastasis (four of nine patients, or 44%) and may be palliated by involved-field radiotherapy.
Silicon integrated circuits shine

Mixing light-emitting diodes and ordinary electronics on the same silicon chip could create new possibilities for cheap, smart optoelectronics, and inspire new applications.
Reliability of Clinical Office-Based Laryngeal Electromyography in Vocally Healthy Adults

Objective:This study aimed to conduct a 3-session reliability assessment of the laryngeal electromyography (LEMG) signal in healthy participants during intensity controlled vocalization tasks. We hypothesized that vocal intensity level and testing session would affect LEMG measures.Methods:This prospective study used a 2-factor repeated measures design. Seven participants underwent bipolar needle LEMG of the right thyroarytenoid muscle. Data were collected over 3 testing sessions using vocalization tasks performed with visually guided intensity feedback targets (65 and 75 dB SPL). Root mean square amplitudes in microvolts were analyzed for within-session and between-session reliability.Results:The main effect for intensity was found to approach significance (F = 5.71, P = .054). However, intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) using a 2-factor mixed random effect model indicated poor to fair signal reliability between testing sessions (ICC = 0.56 at 65 dB, 0.40 at 70 dB). Intraclass correlation coeffic...
Sublingual midazolam premedication in children: a dose response study

The purpose of this study was to evaluate various doses of sublingual midazolam premedication in children. In our prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, children (n = 102, age range 12 to 129 months) scheduled for day surgery were randomized to receive either midazolam in one of three doses (0.25, 0.5, or 0.75 mg.kg-1) or placebo. Injectable midazolam was mixed with a thick grape syrup and placed under the tongue; the patient was asked to hold it as long as possible before swallowing. Children readily accepted the mixture. Analysing all patients randomized, none of the children receiving placebo vs 28% receiving 0.25 mg.kg-1 (P = 0.02), 52% receiving 0.5 mg.kg-1 (P < 0.001), and 64% receiving 0.75 mg.kg-1 (P < 0.001) of midazolam showed satisfactory sedation (drowsy) at 15 min after administration. Children receiving the two higher doses of midazolam (0.5 and 0.75 mg.kg-1) accepted mask induction willingly, while the group receiving 0.25 mg.kg-1 resembled the placebo group (P < 0.05).
New processable polyaromatic amides curable by intramolecular cyclization. XVI

New Processable Polyaromatic amides were prepared from 2,2′-diiododiphenyl-4,4′-dicarbonyl dichloride (I) and several aromatic diamines. Phenylethynyl groups were introduced in these polymides by replacing the iodine groups with copper phenyl acetylide. On thermal curing, 2,2′-di(phenylethynyl)biphenyl group undergoes intramolecular cyclization to form 9-phenyl dibenzanthracene derivative. The cured polymers showed increased heat and chemical stabilities. No melting points were observed for all the polymers below 500°C. The viscosity of the polymers was decreased on substitution of the iodine by phenylethynyl groups.
A NEW REAGENT FOR NITROGUANIDINATION OF PROTEINS.

Abstract A reagent 1-nitroguanyl-3,5-dimethyl pyrazole was use for nitroguanidination of bovine serum albumin. This reagent permitted extensive nitroguanidination of the free amino groups of serum albumin at pH 9.5. Tyrosine, tryptophan, and histidine residues were unaffected. The modified protein showed a slight increase in the sedimentation coefficient and a decrease in diffusion coefficient. The molecular weight determined from the sedimentation and diffusion data was 74270 which is good agreement with a theoretical value of 73500. Electrophoretically nitroguanidated serum albumin showed an increase in mobility and appeared to split into two components.
Gain Scheduling Feedback Control for Tower Cranes

The objective of crane control is to build an algorithm to move a load from point to point in the shortest time without inducing large swings. We assume that this objective cannot be accomplished in less than a single oscillation cycle of the load. Therefore, the controller is built to move the load such that it completes only one oscillation cycle at the end of the motion. Consequently, the settling time of the system should be equal to the period of oscillation of the load. This criterion enables the calculation of the controller feedback gains for varying load weight and cable length. The controller is built first for overhead cranes and then modified for tower cranes. Two controllers are used, one for the rotational motion of the tower and the other for the translational motion of the trolley. Numerical simulations show that the controller is effective in reducing the load oscillations and transferring the load in a reasonable time compared with that of optimal control.
Discrimination Learning and Inhibition

Pigeons learned to discriminate between a white vertical line on a dark background (S+) and a monochromatic circle of light (S—) either with or without responses to s—(errors). Gradients of inhibition, which were centered around S—, and which had greater than zero slopes, were obtained only from those subjects who learned to discriminate with errors. The results indicate that the occurrence of errors is a necessary condition for S—to function as an inhibitory stimulus. This finding is consistent with other performance differences in subjects who have learned to discriminate with and without errors.
Complementary roles of antibody affinity and specificity for in vivo diagnostic cardiovascular targeting: how specific is antimyosin for irreversible myocardial damage?

Background Identification of irreversible myocyte injury with antimyosin antibody imaging depends on both antibody specificity and affinity. To characterize the role of antibody affinity, we performed studies in dogs with acute coronary occlusion followed by reperfusion using 3 monoclonal antimyosin antibodies with different affinities.
NS3 simulation and analysis of MCCA: Multihop Clear Channel Assessment in 802.11 DCF

We present a new method for routing MAC frames at layer 2 (L2) within an 802.11 MANET. The new method, Multihop Clear Channel Assessment (MCCA), improves on the RTS/CTS mechanism used in the 802.11 DCF by extending it from a single hop protocol to a multihop one. Such an approach can, in some circumstances, eliminate the need for a routing protocol at layer 3 (L3), since frames, instead of being routed at L3, are forwarded from node to node across multiple hops at L2. This can yield considerable performance improvements due to the absence of additional routing traffic and processing at L3, especially under highly mobile scenarios. We review the results obtained by implementing MCCA using the NS3 network simulator with suitably modified 802.11 source code. We analyze static and mobile ad hoc network scenarios using MCCA when compared to a L3 routing protocol such as Optimized Link State Routing (OLSR) and Ad hoc On demand Distance Vector (AODV). Using NS3, we ultimately demonstrate that in certain scenarios, MCCA at L2, vs a L3 routing protocol, indicates significant improvements in key MANET performance metrics such as Quality of Service (QoS), average latency, packet delivery ratio and device power consumption.
Infrared heterodyne detection

Heterodyne experiments have been performed in the middle infrared region of the electromagnetic spectrum using the CO 2 laser as a radiation source. Theoretically optimum operation has been achieved at kHz heterodyne frequencies using photoconductive Ge:Cu detectors operated at 4°K, and at kHz and MHz frequencies using Pb 1-x Sn x Se photovoltaic detectors at 77°K. In accordance with the theory, the minimum detectable power observed is a factor of 2/η greater than the theoretically perfect quantum counter, hvΔf. The coefficient 2/η varies from 5 to 25 for the detectors investigated in this study. A comparison is made between photoconductive and photodiode detectors for heterodyne use in the infrared, and it is concluded that both are useful. Heterodyne detection at 10.6 µm is expected to be useful for communications applications, infrared radar, and heterodyne spectroscopy. It has particular significance because of the high radiation power available from the CO 2 laser, and because of the 8 to 14 µm atmospheric window.
Contextually guided semantic labeling and search for three-dimensional point clouds

RGB-D cameras, which give an RGB image together with depths, are becoming increasingly popular for robotic perception. In this paper, we address the task of detecting commonly found objects in the three-dimensional (3D) point cloud of indoor scenes obtained from such cameras. Our method uses a graphical model that captures various features and contextual relations, including the local visual appearance and shape cues, object co-occurrence relationships and geometric relationships. With a large number of object classes and relations, the model's parsimony becomes important and we address that by using multiple types of edge potentials. We train the model using a maximum-margin learning approach. In our experiments concerning a total of 52 3D scenes of homes and offices (composed from about 550 views), we get a performance of 84.06% and 73.38% in labeling office and home scenes respectively for 17 object classes each. We also present a method for a robot to search for an object using the learned model and the contextual information available from the current labelings of the scene. We applied this algorithm successfully on a mobile robot for the task of finding 12 object classes in 10 different offices and achieved a precision of 97.56% with 78.43% recall.1
On the cross-section structure of deoxyribonucleic acid in solution.

Abstract We present X-ray scattering data on dilute solutions of calf thymus DNA in a number of monovalent chlorides, particularly NaCl and CsCl. Salt concentrations are from 0.05 to 1.0 m . The data include a range of small angles where the scattered flux is sensitive to the cross-section parameters of the molecule. Our measured mass per unit length for NaDNA is within 2 or 3% of the theoretical value for the B form. For CsDNA our measurement is about 9% below theory but within experimental error. At larger angles, where internal periodicities dominate the scattering, the data on NaDNA are in much better agreement with the B than with the A form. We observe two cross-section radii of gyration, a result characteristic of a cylindrical core of high electron density surrounded by a shell of much lower electron density. The larger radius of gyration is that of the entire structure, the smaller characterizes the core. Our results imply that the core is ionized or partially ionized DNA and that the shell is a Debye-Huckel layer of counterions and perhaps electrostricted solvent about 20Athick. The experimental data and the model are not accurate enough to decide what fraction of the counterions should be considered site bound to the DNA although there is some evidence to indicate that site binding, if it exists, is not large.
An Algorithm for the Vertex Packing Problem

This paper presents several properties of the vertex packing problem and develops an algorithm for its solution. We show a relationship between the vertex packing problem on the original graph and on a class of related bipartite graphs. This can be used to generate good initial solutions, which in some cases are known to be optimal. We also show that the group-theoretic approach to integer programming, when applied to vertex packing, yields a trivial group problem regardless of the determinant of the associated basis matrix. These ideas are incorporated into an algorithm and computational experience is presented.
A Kinect based vibrotactile feedback system to assist the visually impaired

This paper presents a Microsoft Kinect based vibrotactile feedback system to aid in navigation for the visually impaired. The lightweight wearable system interprets the visual scene and presents obstacle distance and characteristic information to the user. The scene is converted into a distance map using the Kinect, then processed and interpreted using an Intel Next Unit of Computing (NUC). That information is then converted via a microcontroller into vibrotactile feedback, presented to the user through two four-by-four vibration motor arrays woven into gloves. The system is shown to successfully identify, track, and present closest objects, closest humans, multiple humans, and perform distance measurements.
Compressing still and moving images with wavelets

The wavelet transform has become a cutting-edge technology in image compression research. This article explains what wavelets are and provides a practical, nuts-and-bolts tutorial on wavelet-based compression that will help readers to understand and experiment with this important new technology.
Toward an Integrated GIScience and Energy Research Agenda

The growing evidence indicating that climate change is real and accelerating, coupled with a host of interrelated energy sustainability questions, has fostered increased interdisciplinary research ...
Organizing Quality Assurance in a Maternal-Child Heath Division

The 10-step monitoring and evaluation process is described and applied to a maternal child health division of a 300 bed tertiary care hospital Examples of specific important aspects of care and indicators are given the organized plan developed for this division is examined using the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare organization's guidelines.
Insulin resistance in the HIV-lipodystrophy syndrome

Insulin resistance is increasingly recognized among HIV-infected patients with fat redistribution (lipodystrophy) who are receiving highly active antiretroviral therapy. The mechanisms of insulin resistance in this population remain unknown, but could relate to a decrease in glucose transport caused by the direct effects of certain antiretroviral agents, such as the protease inhibitors, or to the effects of severe fat redistribution, including subcutaneous fat loss and increased visceral adiposity. Insulin resistance in patients with HIV lipodystrophy is associated with hyperlipidemia and impaired fibrinolysis, and might increase the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Furthermore, insulin-sensitizing agents might improve insulin resistance and reduce the risk of CVD in this population.
A THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK FOR THE STUDY OF ITEM DIFFICULTY AND DISCRIMINATION

Traditionally, test item difficulty is a statistical concept, defined in terms of the performance of examinees rather than in terms of intrinsic properties of the item itself. A clearer understanding of the association between item properties and examinee performance, however, would result in numerous benefits, including better prediction and control of item difficulty in the test development process and enhanced construct validity of the test. As a first step toward the goal of achieving such understanding, a theoretical framework is delineated, drawing on both measurement concepts and concepts drawn from cognitive psychology and personality theory. In this formulation, the difficulty of an item is seen as a function of the demands set by the item tasks and the abilities and attributes which the examinee may find necessary or useful in responding correctly to the item. In addition, interactions of examinee abilities and item characteristics may occur where solutions to an item may be reached by using different strategies or abilities and the difficulty of meeting the item demand using these different approaches is not equivalent. Examples from the measurement and psychological literature provide suggestions of a number of examinee characteristics and item properties which might be expected to affect item difficulty. The formulation is then extended to item discrimination. Finally, the literature on verbal analogies is reviewed within the theoretical framework to suggest sources of variation in the difficulty and discrimination of this item type.
Surfactant protein D alters allergic lung responses in mice and human subjects.

Background Surfactant protein (SP) D has been proposed to be protective in allergic airway responses. Objective We aimed to determine the effect of SP-D deficiency on murine and human airway allergy. Methods Immunologic responses of SP-D gene–deficient mice ( Sftpd −/− ) at baseline and after 4 intranasal Aspergillus fumigatus exposures were assessed. In addition, the significance of a single nucleotide polymorphism (Met 11 Thr) in the human SP-D gene (known to decrease SP-D function) was investigated. Results Macrophage and neutrophil bronchoalveolar lavage fluid levels and large airway mucus production were increased in naive Sftpd −/− mice in association with increased lung CCL17 levels and CD4 + T cell numbers. T H 2-associated antibody levels (IgG1 and IgE) were significantly lower in 4- to 5-week-old Sftpd −/− mice ( P Sftpd −/− splenocytes released significantly less IL-4 and IL-13 on anti-CD3/CD28 stimulation ( P Sftpd −/− mice compared with values seen in wild-type mice in association with decreased airway resistance ( P SFTPD gene, affecting SP-D levels and pathogen binding, was associated with decreased atopy in black subjects and potentially lower asthma susceptibility in white subjects. Conclusion Sftpd −/− mice have an impaired systemic T H 2 response at baseline and reduced inflammation and airway responses after allergen exposure. Translational studies revealed that a polymorphism in the SFTPD gene was associated with lower atopy and possibly asthma susceptibility. Taken together, these results support the hypothesis that SP-D–dependent innate immunity influences atopy and asthma.
Adjusting FVC for the Effect of Obstruction

Objective To derive a method of taking into account the effects of obstruction on the FVC, allowing more accurate assessment of other negative ("restrictive") influences. Design In 656 subjects with airways obstruction, defined as FEV 1 /FVC of 0.70 or less, regression of FVC was expressed as percentage of predicted value (FVC %PRED) on potential explanatory variables, including FEV 1 /FVC. The resulting equation was used to adjust FVC %PRED in 530 other obstructed men, to test whether the adjustment resulted in a different relationship of FVC %PRED to body weight. Setting A large occupational respiratory surveillance program utilizing rigorously quality-assured and standardized spirometry. Subjects The study included 5,188 men aged 45 to 65 years who denied fibrogenic dust exposures, including 656 with airways obstruction. Results There was a significant (p 1 /FVC) and lower FVC %PRED. Depending on which of several predictive equations is used, obstruction explains 15 to 17% of variability in FVC %PRED over the entire range of severity of obstruction. Adjusting for obstruction in the separate group of 530 subjects showed a significantly larger effect of body weight on FVC %PRED. Conclusion A simple equation can be used to discount the negative effects of obstruction on FVC. This allows more accurate clinical interpretation and can be useful in the analysis of epidemiologic data.
Repopulation of denuded murine Descemet's membrane with life-extended murine corneal endothelial cells as a model for corneal cell transplantation.

· Background: Corneal endothelial cell transplantation has been an intriguing concept as an alternative to full-thickness penetrating keratoplasty. Using a murine corneal transplantation model, we sought to establish the optimal conditions to repopulate, ex vivo, denuded murine Descemet’s membrane with life-extended cell cultures of murine corneal endothelial cells. These ex vivo repopulated corneas were used as donor corneas in a murine orthotopic corneal transplantation model to assess, in vivo, the function of the transplanted, life- extended murine corneal endothelial cells (MCEC). · Methods: Mouse corneas were surgically trephined and the native corneal endothelium was removed mechanically using a sterile cotton swab. Cultured murine corneal endothelial cells (life extended by expression of the SV40 large T antigen) were added onto the denuded Descemet’s membrane and allowed to attach in culture at 37°C. Evidence of corneal cell attachment to Descemet’s membrane was determined between 1 and 8 h by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Donor life-extended corneal endothelial cells were labeled with a fluorescent dye to allow tracking of the donor cells following seeding onto denuded Descemet’s membrane. In four independent experiments, the Descemet’s repopulated corneas were placed into syngeneic mice and evaluated for corneal clarity after 6 weeks. · Results: We could detect attachment of the life-extended murine CEC by scanning and transmission electron microscopy to denuded Descemet’s membrane. The optimal time for adherence was 2 h and these repopulated corneas were used as donors in a murine model of penetrating keratoplasty. Of 20 mice evaluated after 6 weeks, 4 displayed corneal clarity, and fluorescent evaluation demonstrated that only the donor corneal endothelial cells were present. · Conclusions: This experimental protocol establishes that ”life- extended” MCEC can bind to Descemet’s membrane ex vivo and form a distinct monolayer. The repopulated Descemet’s membrane allowed us to directly test the hypothesis that cultured life-extended corneal endothelial cells are functional when reintroduced into an in vivo milieu and provides evidence that specific corneal endothelial cell transplantation may be a viable alternative to pentrating keratoplasty.
Relative abilities of natural and artificial dentition patients for judging the sweetness of solid foods

Abstract A solid food for psychophysic tests on detection of differences in sweetness was prepared by modification of a standard batch of sugar cookies. A group of 15 natural dentition patients and 15 artificial dentition patients, with approximately matched ages, were compared as to differential threshold using a special adaptation of standard psychologic procedures. The natural dentition persons averaged six seconds in order to reach a decision when concerned with sweetness of the test foods, and their threshold was not affected by a limitation of the time of judgment. The threshold was 15 per cent of the average sugar concentration of the batches. The denture patients averaged fifteen seconds for reaching the judgment, and had a threshold of 30 per cent. When they were limited to ten seconds reaching the judgment, the threshold was over 100 per cent. These results indicate that artificial dentition patients as a group apparently cannot perceive and enjoy subtle differences in the sweetness of solid food that can be appreciated by persons with natural dentitions.
Effect of organic waste amendments on cadmium and lead in soil fractions of two soils

Abstract Certain organic soil amendments have been found to ameliorate metal toxicity to plants. A study was undertaken to determine the effects of organic amendments on cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) distribution among soil fractions. Two soils (fine‐textured and coarse‐textured) were amended with five organic waste materials or commercial humic acid (HA) with and without 5 mg Cd kg‐1 or 300 mg Pb kg‐1, incubated, and fractionated using a sequential extraction technique. The added Cd and Pb were found mainly in the organic matter (OM) fraction, although significant amounts were in the exchangeable (EXC) fraction for the sandy Norfolk soil. Spent mushroom compost (SMC) and HA lowered Cd in the EXC fraction for both soils and raised Cd in the OM fraction for the sandy Norfolk soil. The SMC and HA lowered Pb in the EXC and OM fractions and raised Pb in the manganese oxide (MnO), amorphous Fe oxide (AFeO) and the crystalline Fe oxide (CFeO) fractions. Poultry‐litter amendment caused higher Cd and Pb in the EXC f...
Linear transverse susceptibility of Ising systems

The transverse susceptibility of Ising systems is measured using Monte Carlo methods and low-variance estimators. Data are given for a spin-(1/2) model on an fcc lattice and for a spin-1 (Blume-Capel) model, with different local anisotropies, on a cubic lattice. In each case a sharp peak is found just above the transition temperature. Real-time dynamics may also be studied. A low-variance Monte Carlo estimator is given for an Ising system having an arbitrary spin and lattice structure.
A high speed non-overloading discriminator for high accuracy pulse counting

Abstract A high speed preamplifier discriminator for use with electron multiplier particle counters has a pulse-pair resolution of less than 15 ns. The design combines high sensitivity and exceptional overload performance to provide a stable error-free instrument. The device can be utilized in high speed counting applications where high accuracy and wide dynamic range are requirements. Sensitivity may be controlled externally for remote operation.
High Resolution Cognitive Radio-Based Concatenated Spectrum Time-of-Arrival Estimation

This paper proposes high-precision, time-of-arrival (TOA) estimation by concatenating non-contiguous and non-equal white spaces in the spectrum. White spaces are identified and allocated by the capabilities of cognitive radios (CR). A simple radio system that enables sequential concatenation of non-contiguous bands is introduced. The paper aims to design signal-processing techniques for the proposed radio that maintain a TOA performance comparable to that of utilizing a bandwidth equivalent to the addition of all white spaces. This work also investigates two potential high resolutions, TOA estimation architectures that are applicable to CR-based systems. The first approach estimates TOA over each sub-band and then optimally fuses the estimated TOAs. In the second technique, channels estimated over sub-bands are concatenated and a TOA-estimation method is applied to the whole available spectrum. The Cramer–Rao bound (CRB) of the TOA estimation for both approaches is computed. Minimum mean square estimation (MMSE) algorithm is applied to evaluate the performance of the proposed system. Simulations are concluded to study the performance in terms of the variance of error. Moreover, the complexity of the proposed concatenation method is evaluated.
An application of the discrete maximum principle to a stagewise biochemical reactor system

It is a well-known fact that choosing a sequence of optimal control variables in each reactor tank of a multistage reactor system can result in a considerable increase of the desired product for a consecutive reaction system. The discrete maximum principle is applied to a generalized optimization problem of first order consecutive biochemical reaction system. A detailed numerical solution as an example is also presented for illustration.
The Complex Interplay Between Cholesterol and Prostate Malignancy

Research into the role of cholesterol and prostate disease has been ongoing for many years, but our mechanistic and translational understanding is still poor. Recent evidence indicates that cholesterol-lowering drugs reduce the risk of aggressive prostate cancer. This article reviews the literature on the relationship between circulating cholesterol and prostate cancer. The data strongly point to hypercholesterolemia as a risk factor for prostate cancer progression and suggest clinical opportunities for the use of cholesterol-lowering therapies to alter disease course.
(Na+ + K+)-ATPase Phosphorylation-dependent cross-linking of the α-subunits in the presence of Cu2+ and o-phenanthroline

In previous studies we had demonstrated that in the presence of 0.25 mM Cu2+ and 1.25 mM o-phenanthroline, cross-linking of the α-subunits of (Na+ + K+)-dependent adenosine triphosphatase was induced by the addition of Na+ + ATP, and that the formation of the α,α-dimer was preceded by that of phosphoenzyme. The purpose of the present studies was the further evaluation of the role of phosphoenzyme in the process of cross-linking. Na+ + UTP did not induce cross-linking unless Mg2+ was also added. In contrast, Na+ + ATP-induced cross-linking did not require the addition of Mg2+. The different effects of ATP and UTP in the absence of added Mg2+ could be accounted for by the presence in the enzyme preparation of bound Mg2+ which supported enzyme phosphorylation by ATP but not by UTP. When the enzyme was phosphorylated by Pi, in the presence of Mg2+ and ouabain, and then exposed to Cu2+ and o-phenanthroline, the α,α-dimer was obtained. Under these conditions, Na+ blocked both phosphorylation and cross-linking. These results indicate that it is the formation of phosphoenzyme per se that leads to conformational transitions favorable to cross-linking. They also suggest that Cu2+ and o-phenanthroline participate in the cross-linking reaction, but not in the phosphorylation reactions. In the digitonin-treated enzyme, Na+ and ATP induced the formation of phosphoenzyme, but not that of α,α-dimer. These findings indicate that in addition to phosphorylation, a proper orientation of α-subunits in an oligomer is also necessary for cross-linking.
Reversal in magnetic anisotropy of (100)Cu-Ni superlattices

Abstract (100)Cu-Ni superlattices with the same Ni thickness, 25 A, and different Cu thickness, 25–100 A, have been deposited on (100)Si using a 1000 A (100)Cu layer as the seed. Magnetic measurement shows a reversal in anisotropy between the in-plane and normal-to-plane magnetization for the samples with 100 A Cu layers, with the normal-to-plane one being much larger. The reversal is similar to, but less dramatic than the previously observed one for the single Ni layers sandwiched between two 1000 A Cu layers. The difference is attributed to a smaller lattice distortion of Ni in the Cu-Ni superlattice structures with much thinner Cu layers. The (111)Cu-Ni superlattices of identical composition show signs of changing anisotropy; the in-plane magnetization still remains the larger one for the structures with 100 A Cu layers.
Preliminary measurements of laser short-term frequency fluctuations

Preliminary but relatively detailed measurements have been made of the short-term frequency or phase fluctuations of two short stable single-frequency 6328 A He-Re lasers (Spectra-Physics Model 119). Both lasers were essentially free-running in a quiet stable environment, with no frequency-stabilization or temperature-control loops except for a slow AFC loop (one-half-second response time) which kept one laser frequency at a nominal 30-MHz spacing from the other by piezoelectric tuning. The random frequency fluctuations of the 30-MHz beat note between the lasers were measured in three ways: a) The power spectral density of the 30-MHz beat note (measured by slowly scanning an RF spectrum analyzer) was found to be accurately Gaussian, with a standard deviation \sigma_{f} \approx 8.1 kHz. b) The mean-square accumulated phase jitter during an interval of length τ seconds (measured by a sampling technique) was found to vary as \Delta\Phi^{2}(\tau) \approx 0.96 \times 10^{10} \tau^{2} rad^{2} over the range 100 \leq \tau \leq 1200 us. Less accurate measurements extending up to \tau = 30\mu s indicated a slightly slower increase ( \sim \tau^{4/3} ) for longer times. c) The spectral density of the instantaneous beat frequency variations (measured by scanning the video output from a 30-MHz frequency discriminator with an audio wave analyzer) was found to vary as G_{\phi}(f) \approx 6.6 \times 10^{8}/f^{2} rad^{2} .s down to at least 50 Hz and probably lower. These results, which are all qualitatively compatible, and quantitatively in agreement to within better than a factor of two, indicate random Gaussian perturbation of the laser's instantaneous frequency by internal or environmental disturbances (plasma noise, acoustic noise, etc.) that have not yet been clearly identified. By improving these characteristics somewhat, and operating one laser at a very much lower power level in order to enhance its quantum phase fluctuations, it appears feasible to measure the ultimate quantum frequency fluctuations caused by random walk of the oscillator phase under the influence of spontaneous emission.
Upper state molecular constants for the (0, 0, 3) and (1, 0, 3) vibration-rotation bands of nitrogen dioxide

Abstract High-resolution absorption spectra of the (0,0,3) and (1,0,3) vibration-rotation bands of 14 N 16 O 2 and 15 N 16 O 2 were analyzed. Initial values for the ground state constants and predicted values of A , B , and C for the upper states of the (0,0,3) and (1,0,3) bands were taken from previous work. Improved values of the upper state constants including centrifugal distortion and empirical P 6 terms have been obtained. Further refinement of the ground state constants was not possible. Spin splitting was observed and analyzed for a number of transitions in the (0,0,3) band of both isotopes. Effective spin-rotation coupling constants were obtained for the excited states. Due to the weakness of absorption and lack of resolution no spin splitting was observed in the (1,0,3) bands.
CNQX (6-cyano-7-nitroquinoxaline-2,3-dione) antagonizes NMDA-evoked [3H]GABA release from cultured cortical neurons via an inhibitory action at the strychnine-insensitive glycine site

Abstract The novel glutamate antagonist 6-cyano-7-nitroquinoxaline-2,3-dione (CNQX) inhibited glutamate stimulated [3H]GABA release from cortical neurons in vitro. Kainate-induced release was blocked in a competitive fashion butN-methyl- d -aspartate (NMDA)-induced release was blocked non-competitively by CNQX. 7-Chlorokynurenate (7-CK) also inhibited NMDA evoked [3H]GABA release non-competitively, but had no effect on kainate induced release. The effects of both CNQX and 7-CK on NMDA-induced release were reversed by addition of exogenous glycine but the effects of CNQX on kainate-induced release were not altered by glycine. This suggests that both CNQX and 7-CK may interact with the glycine regulatory site of the NMDA receptor.
Mechanical effects of the surface ectoderm on optic vesicle morphogenesis in the chick embryo

Precise shaping of the eye is crucial for proper vision. Here, we use experiments on chick embryos along with computational models to examine the mechanical factors involved in the formation of the optic vesicles (OVs), which grow outward from the forebrain of the early embryo. First, mechanical dissections were used to remove the surface ectoderm (SE), a membrane that contacts the outer surfaces of the OVs. Principal components analysis of OV shapes suggests that the SE exerts asymmetric loads that cause the OVs to flatten and shear caudally during the earliest stages of eye development and later to bend in the caudal and dorsal directions. These deformations cause the initially spherical OVs to become pear-shaped. Exposure to the myosin II inhibitor blebbistatin reduced these effects, suggesting that cytoskeletal contraction controls OV shape by regulating tension in the SE. To test the physical plausibility of these interpretations, we developed 2-D finite-element models for frontal and transverse cross-sections of the forebrain, including frictionless contact between the SE and OVs. With geometric data used to specify differential growth in the OVs, these models were used to simulate each experiment (control, SE removed, no contraction). For each case, the predicted shape of the OV agrees reasonably well with experiments. The results of this study indicate that differential growth in the OV and external pressure exerted by the SE are sufficient to cause the global changes in OV shape observed during the earliest stages of eye development.
Late-onset presentation of orbital lymphangioma

Purpose To report a group of patients with biopsy-proven orbital lymphangioma diagnosed late in life. Methods The clinical records and histopathologic findings of 3 patients with biopsy-proven orbital lymphangioma were reviewed. Results Three patients were identified who were diagnosed with orbital lymphangioma at the ages of 70, 80, and 82 years old. Each patient presented with different symptoms and signs including presence of a superficial mass, periorbital pain, and gradual painless proptosis, respectively. In one case, imaging revealed an isolated superficial mass, and in the other 2 cases it demonstrated the presence of a heterogeneous, cystic, retrobulbar mass. Pathologic findings in all cases included endothelium-lined channels with intervening fibrous septae infiltrated with aggregates of lymphocytes. Two of the three patients had complete excisions without recurrences and the third patient was followed after biopsy. Conclusions Lymphangioma, one of the most common vascular lesions in childhood, should also be included in the differential diagnosis of orbital masses in adults, including elderly adults.
Racial and Ethnic Differences in Depression: The Roles of Social Support and Meeting Basic Needs.

The current work examined the depressive symptoms and prevalence of major depression among members of ethnic and racial minorities and White people from a large random sample. Minority group members experienced more depressive symptoms and a marginally higher prevalence of major depression than did White participants. These effects were mediated by participants' problems meeting their basic needs. Specifically, minority group members reported more problems meeting their basic needs, and these problems were associated with an increased risk for depression and depressive symptoms. Minority group members also reported a higher quality of interpersonal functioning than White participants did, which appeared to suppress the relationship between ethnicity and depression. The implications of the findings for treatment are discussed.
The price of soliciting and receiving negative feedback: self-verification theory as a vulnerability to depression theory.

The hypothesis that people who seek and receive negative feedback are vulnerable to increases in depressed symptoms was tested among 100 undergraduates and their roommates. Students and roommates completed questionnaires on their views of each other and on their own levels of negative feedback seeking, depressed and anxious symptoms, negative and positive affect, and self-esteem. Three weeks later, students and roommates completed the same questionnaires. RESULTS were, in general, consistent with prediction. Students who reported an interest in their roommates' negative feedback and who lived with a roommate who viewed them negatively were at heightened risk for increases in depressed symptoms. These results could not be explained in terms of the variables' relations to trait self-esteem. The symptom specificity of the effect was moderately supported. Implications for work on interpersonal vulnerability to depression are discussed. Language: en
MEKK3 is essential for lipopolysaccharide-induced interleukin-6 and granulocyte–macrophage colony-stimulating factor production in macrophages

Mitogen-activated protein/ERK kinase kinase 3 (MEKK3) is a Ser/Thr protein kinase belonging to the MEKK/STE11 subgroup of the MAP3K family. Recently, we found that MEKK3 plays a critical role in interleukin-1 (IL-1) receptor and Toll-like receptor 4 signalling using established primary mouse embryonic fibroblast (MEF) cell lines. However, the function of MEKK3 in immune cells has not been studied because germ-line MEKK3 knockout mice are embryonically lethal between embryonic days 10 and 11. In this study, we used small interference RNA to the mouse Mekk3 gene to specifically knock down MEKK3 expression in the macrophage line Raw264.7. We found that the lipopolysaccharide-induced IL-6 and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) production was dramatically decreased in MEKK3 knockdown cells whereas the tumour necrosis factor-alpha and IL-1beta production were not affected. We also observed that the ERK1/2, p38 and JNK MAPK induction in MEKK3 knockdown cells were moderately inhibited within the first 60 min of stimulation, while the ERK and p38 were more severely inhibited after 2-4 hr of stimulation. Degradation of IkappaBalpha was also partially blocked in MEKK3 knockdown cells. Notably, the impairment in IL-6 and GM-CSF production in the MEKK3 knockdown cells was restored by reintroducing a human Mekk3 cDNA that could not be targeted by mouse Mekk3-siRNAs. In conclusion, this study showed that MEKK3 is a crucial and specific regulator of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-6 and GM-CSF in macrophages and provided a novel method for investigating MEKK3 function in other immune cells.