cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the performance of regional-scale photochemical modeling systems. Part III—Precursor predictions

Abstract In this paper, the concept of scale analysis is applied to evaluate ozone predictions from two regional-scale air quality models. To this end, seasonal time series of observations and predictions from the RAMS3b/UAM-V and MM5/MAQSIP (SMRAQ) modeling systems for ozone were spectrally decomposed into fluctuations operating on the intra-day, diurnal, synoptic and longer-term time scales. Traditional model evaluation statistics are also presented to illustrate how the scale analysis approach can help improve our understanding of the models’ performance. The results indicate that UAM-V underestimates the total variance (energy) of the ozone time series when compared with observations, but shows a higher mean value than the observations. On the other hand, MAQSIP is able to better reproduce the average energy and mean concentration of the observations. However, both modeling systems do not capture the amount of variability present on the intra-day time scale primarily due to the grid resolution used in the models. For both modeling systems, the correlations between the predictions and observations are insignificant for the intra-day component, high for the diurnal component because of the inherent diurnal cycle but low for the amplitude of the diurnal component, and highest for the synoptic and baseline components. This better model performance on longer time scales suggests that current regional-scale models are most skillful in characterizing average patterns over extended periods, rather than in predicting concentrations at specific locations, during 1–2 day episodic events. In addition, we discuss the implications of these results to using the model-predicted daily maximum ozone concentrations in the regulatory framework in light of the uncertainties introduced by the models’ poor performance on the intra-day and diurnal time scales.
A comparison of thermodilution coronary sinus blood flows and krypton myocardial blood flows in the intact dog

In closed-chest anaesthetized dogs simultaneous measurements of coronary sinus blood flow (CSBF) by thermodilution and myocardial blood flow with 85Krypton (MBF) were compared. Although reproducibility of the two methods was comparable control CSBFs averaged only 60% of total left ventricular flow (obtained by MBF and post-mortem left ventricular weights). Frequent marked discrepancies between percent changes in the two methods followed various interventions. Differences in results obtained by the two methods could be explained on the basis of the anatomy of the canine cardiac venous system and shifts in thermistor position relative to coronary sinus tributaries and right atrium following interventions and catheter softening.
Mass Spectrometry of Immunolabeled Neurons—The Best of Both Techniques

Peptides perform a wide number of physiological roles as signaling molecules between cells as well as other functions. The detection of peptides has generally relied on one of two distinct techniques: immunohistochemistry and mass spectrometry. In this issue of Chemistry & Biology, Neupert and colleagues describe an approach to combine these techniques.
Vibroacoustic studies on sounding rocket bulkheads

The natural frequency coupling of 2 components of a sounding rocket system is studied, the forward bulkhead (commonly referred to as the "bulkhead" or "BH") and the payload cavity within the fairing. The bulkhead was modeled as a thin, flat, circular plate with a clamped boundary condition. The payload cavity was modeled as a column of air with closed ends contained by the rocket fairing. Both components were studied individually, and added together to obtain a coupled effect. The components were studied in terms of theoretical calculations and understanding, while testing the theory against experiments conducted in the laboratory. When appreciable differences between theory and experimental results were within reason for the individual components, the coupled system was tested. This methodology enabled a "piecewise" approach to studying and acquiring natural frequency shifting of the sounding rocket model through coupling. Experimental work for frequency tuning of the bulkhead through internal pressure modulation is presented. Guidelines for improvement of the vibroacoustic response through structural redesign and frequency tuning of sounding rockets are detailed.
Closure on "Calculation of energy transaction allocation factors"

The author replies to the comments by J. W. Bialek (see ibid., vol.18, no.3, p.1218, 2003) on the original paper by A. Fradi et al. (see ibid., vol.16, p.262-72, 2001). The author confirms that the proposed technique has been used to allocate losses to a fully deregulated system as well where there is no "native load".
3D structure reconstruction from point correspondences between two perspective projections

Abstract An iterative algorithm for 3D structure reconstruction from two perspective projections is proposed. The basis of the method is the eight-point algorithm (Longuet-Higgins, Nature 293(10), 1981, 133-135; Tsai and Huang, IEEE Trans. PAMI 6, 1984, 13-27). A drawback of the eight-point algorithm is that it requires at least eight point correspondences. Further, there are certain point configurations for which the algorithm fails. For example, the eight corners of a cube on a quadratic surface passing through the focal points of the cameras form such a degenerate configuration. By combining the eight-point algorithm with an SVD (singular value decomposition) characterization of the so-called E -matrix (Faugeras and Maybank, Internat. J. Comput. Vision 4, 1990, 225-246; Huang and Faugeras, IEEE Trans. PAMI 11, 1989, 1310-1312), the proposed iterative algorithm solves the 3D reconstruction problem even from less than eight points. The algorithm is also free from the artificial degeneracy problem inherent to the eight-point algorithm. The iteration in the algorithm takes place only if the configuration is degenerate or violates the SVD characterization due to measurement error. Otherwise the computation is O ( N ) as in the eight-point algorithm.
Out of contact, out of mind: the distributed nature of the self.

: A truly remarkable aspect of human existence is the unitary sense of self that exists across time and place. Understanding the nature of self—what it is and what it does—has challenged scholars since antiquity. How can empirical research measure what it is to have a sense of self? We propose that the sense of self may emerge from the functions of a left hemisphere “interpreter” (Gazzaniga, 2000). First, we examine evidence for the existence of self-processing mechanisms in the intact brain, from behavioral and functional neuroimaging research. The available evidence suggests that the sense of self is widely distributed throughout the brain. Second, we discuss these findings in relation to what is known about higher cognitive functions in humans who have undergone a surgical procedure to sever the connection between the two cerebral hemispheres. Split-brain research has facilitated an understanding of the way in which each cerebral hemisphere independently processes information. Research in this area has shown that each cerebral hemisphere features distinct information-processing capabilities. This cognitive asymmetry is reflected in the notion of a left hemisphere interpreter module which, we have argued, generates a unitary sense of consciousness even in the disconnected brain. This chapter describes how this interpreter may also give rise to a unified sense of self.
Salt Sensitivity of Hypertension and Responses to Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibition with Benazepril

Salt intake, and the sensitivity of blood pressure (BP) to excessive salt intake is thought to contribute to the pathogenesis of essential hypertension in some patients. This study was designed to ascertain whether salt sensitivity of BP is a determinant of BP and renal vascular responsiveness to angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition. In 24 patients with essential hypertension, ranging in age from 30 to 68 years, renin status, renal hemodynamics, and sensitivity of BP to steady state changes in salt intake were assessed. Twenty-four hour ambulatory BP monitoring (ABPM) was employed to measure baseline BP and BP response to 4 weeks' treatment with benazepril at 20 or 40 mg/day. Benazepril induced a highly-significant reduction in BP (P < .001) and increase in renal plasma flow (530 +/- 17 to 580 +/- 19 mL/min/1.73 m2; P < .001). Systolic BP fell from 143 +/- 2 to 129 +/- 2 mm Hg (P < .001), and diastolic BP fell from 91 +/- 1.6 to 80 +/- 2 mm Hg (P < .001). The magnitude of the BP and renal vascular response to ACE inhibition was not influenced by the sensitivity of BP to salt intake. In a multivariate analysis neither body mass index nor age influenced the BP response to ACE inhibition or the relationships between salt intake and a BP response to ACE inhibition. We conclude that the factors that influence sensitivity of BP to salt intake do not influence the systemic or renal hemodynamic response to ACE inhibition.
James Spilman, F.R.S. (1680-1763), and Anglo-Russian Commerce

On 25 October 1714 the President of the Royal Society addressed the following letter to Peter the Great’s chief lieutenant: Isaac Newton greets the most powerful and honourable Mr Alexander Menshikov, Prince of the Roman and Russian Empire, Lord of Oranienburg, Chief Councillor of his Caesarian Majesty, Master of the Horse, Ruler of the Conquered Provinces, Knight of the Order of the Elephant, of the White and Black Eagle, etc. Whereas it has long been known to the Royal Society that your Emperor his Caesarian Majesty, has furthered very great advances in the arts and sciences in his Kingdom, and that he has been particularly aided by your administration not only in military and civil affairs, but also in the dissemination of literature and science, we were all filled with the greatest joy when the English merchants informed us that Your Excellency (out of his high courtesy, singular regard for the sciences, and lover of our nation) designs to join the body of our Society. At that time we had concluded our meetings until the summer and autumn seasons should be past, as is our custom. But hearing of this we at once assembled, so that by our votes we might elect Your Excellency, which we unanimously did. And now, as soon as it is possible to renew our postponed meetings, we have confirmed the election by a diploma under our common Seal. The Society, however, has instructed its Secretary that when he has sent the Diploma off to you, he should advise you of the election. Farewell. Menshikov was elected a Fellow of the Society on 29 July 1714, as the result of a letter written on 25 June by two English merchants at St. Petersburg, James Spilman and Henry Hodgkin, his trading partner, to Samuel Shepherd, an influential London merchant, intimating that the Prince sought election. This paper endeavours to explain how a Russia Company merchant, who was not himself elected a Fellow of the Royal Society until 1734, came to engineer the election to the Society of Russia’s second most powerful figure - despite the fact that Menshikov could neither read nor write. At the same time it will illustrate the close links between science and commerce in the first two decades of the eighteenth century and the significance of Spilman’s associations with Robert Erskine, F.R.S., Peter the Great’s chief physician.
Oil Uptake Properties of Fried Batters from Rice Flour

Batters were prepared, using rice flour as the main component, and analyzed for their oil uptake properties during frying. Rice flour resisted oil absorption better but was less effective as a thickening agent than wheat flour. Of the rice components, increased amylose in the amylopectin/amylose ratio of the starch decreased the batter oil uptake, whereas increased protein content had the opposite effect. Various additives were introduced and investigated for their ability to develop viscosity and other desirable characteristics for the batter. As additives to the rice flour batters, phosphorylated starch and gelatinized rice flour enhanced both the thickening and oil-reducing capacities of the batter. Compared with values for batters from wheat flour, the percent batter oil uptake in the fried crust for the modified rice flour batters was decreased by up to 62%, and the percent total oil uptake for the whole coated drumstick was reduced by up to 59%.
The Street Ranch pilot test of fracture-assisted steamflood technology

A new approach to steamflooding extremely viscous heavy-oil reservoirs and tar sand deposits has been developed and tested successfully in the San Miguel-4 tar sand reservoir located in Maverick County, TX. The process is called fracture-assisted steamflood technology (FAST), and the first application in a tar sand was performed in a 5-acre (2-ha) inverted five-spot pilot pattern located on Conoco's Street Ranch lease. During a 31-month period, ending June 1980, the Street Ranch pilot produced 169,040 bbl (26 875 m/sup 3/) of -2/sup 0/API (1093-kg/m/sup 3/) tar with monthly tar-production rates occasionally exceeding 300 B/D (48 m/sup 3//d). Postpilot core wells indicated residual tar saturations as low as 8% and an average recovery efficiency of better than 50%.
Shrinkage estimation in time series using a bootstrapped covariance estimate

Concurrent time series with strong inter-series dependence occur in several areas of application where each may be modeled by the same Box-Jenkins ARIMA model. We present a method for explicitly incorporating the inter-series dependence in constructing shrinkage estimators of the model parameters by bootstrapping the covariance matrix of marginal parameter estimates. We also study improved estimation for the scale parameter. We present simulation studies to verify the amount of improvement in terms of expected mean squared error and Pitman nearness.
Exponential and input-output stability are equivalent for linear time-varying systems

We present a new proof showing that for finite dimensional linear time-varying (fdltv) systems stabilizable by output feedback, exponential and input-output stability are equivalent. This proof does not involve the notion of a dual system as has been done elsewhere and makes use instead of the existence of coprime factorizations. This result is analogous to that in the linear time-invariant case, but because of the time-varying nature of the matrices involved, is not as obvious.
Inclusion of Insecticidal Bait Stations in a German Cockroach (Orthoptera: Blattellidae) Control Program

Direct comparisons were made with abamectin bait stations, the established industry-standard bait station (hydramethylnon), a traditional residual insecticide spray (chlorpyrifos), and combinations of both. Abamectin was more effective at reducing German cockroach, Blattella germanica L., populations than hydramethylnon but was about equally as effective as chlorpyrifos. Hydramethylnon bait stations did not reduce cockroach populations as well as other treatments. Bait formulations, once thought of as supplements to residual insecticide applications, may be effective stand-alone control measures.
Bedside Ultrasound for Pediatric Long Bone Fractures

Long bone fractures are common pediatric injuries. Their diagnosis and management have traditionally relied on radiography and fluoroscopy. However, these modalities expose patients and providers to radiation, increase the cost of care, and consume emergency department time and resources. An emerging imaging alternative is bedside ultrasound (US). This review summarizes the current state of medical evidence regarding the use of bedside US to diagnose and manage suspected pediatric long bone fractures. Growing evidence suggests that US may replace radiography for many patients. Furthermore, providers not already proficient in bedside US should consider expanding their skills using these methods.
Bis-4-aminoquinolines: novel triple-helix DNA intercalators and antagonists of immunostimulatory CpG-oligodeoxynucleotides.

Six dimeric 2-(2-naphthyl)quinolin-4-amines with a linker between the amino groups and eight dimeric 2-(4-anilino)quinolin-4-amines linked between the anilino groups were synthesized and evaluated for their interaction with duplex/triplex DNA's and as antagonists of immunostimulatory oligodeoxynucleotides with a CpG-motif (CpG-ODN). The most powerful triple-helix DNA intercalator known to date, with high affinity toward T.A.T triplets and triplex/duplex selectivity, was found. The potent antagonism of immunostimulatory CpG-ODN by several bis-4-aminoquinolines is not related to their DNA interactions.
Acidified Alcohols as Agents to Introduce and Exchange Alkoxyls on the Periphery of Helicenes

Alcohols containing HCl transform the hydroquinone reduction-products of helicenebisquinones into p-alkoxyphenols that have the alkoxyls specifically on the peripheries of the helices. The reactions are quick, and the yields are high. Alkoxyls at the 6-position are replaced also, but only after 2 h at 60 °C, not after the 5 min at 25 °C sufficient to replace the peripheral hydroxyls of the hydroquinones. After the remaining inside hydroxyls of a dihydroxytetramethoxy[6]helicene prepared by this procedure have been converted into camphanates, one diastereomer crystallizes from solution, allowing an enantiomer resolution to be carried out on a large scale. By then simply reapplying the procedure with alcoholic acid, a variety of resolved dihydroxytetraalkoxy[6]helicenes can be prepared in excellent yields without resolution procedures having to be developed for each. Similar procedures are effective when applied to a [7]carbohelicene.
Pacing a chaotic plasma with a music signal

Abstract An experimental plasma system is driven with a music signal output from a cd player. With the plasma in the periodic regime, optical detection of the light discharge allows the music to be heard from a loudspeaker. That does not happen when the plasma is chaotic, in which case we hear a noise-like hiss typical of chaos. Modulation is observed in the periodic paced plasma, but is not so obvious when the plasma is chaotic.
Should eminence based on outstanding innovation be the goal of gifted education and talent development? Implications for policy and research

Abstract Systemic goals for gifted programs can take many forms. The authors place most program goals into a dichotomy — those that address the present academic needs of gifted students in schools and those designed to prepare future eminent path breakers and innovators. To clarify our arguments, we first define eminence and then offer examples from national mission statements that target gifted programs either to academic needs of advanced students or future needs of society. Although we support both goals, we promote the latter, even in light of the complications that we delineate. To demonstrate a model of eminence development that might be implemented more widely, we present a prototype program generated at the American Psychological Association. We close our argument with recommendations and implications for research and policy.
Is the personal political? Chronotopes and changing stances toward Catalan language and identity

Abstract During the early catalanization of schooling in the Barcelona area in the 1980s, Castilian-speaking teenagers of working-class immigrant descent often struggled against Catalan language and identity. This longitudinal study followed a group of high-school classmates and found that as young adults, some but not all of the resistant working-class Castilian speakers have incorporated Catalan into their lives and identity. This article draws on Mikhail Bakhtin's concept of the ‘chronotope’ or time-space frame to analyze the accounts of language and identity given by informants who adapted positively to Catalan and that of a peer whose hostility to Catalan increased over the years. Drawing on three contrasting chronotopes, informants give different meanings to personal experiences and linguistic practices. Those who adapted positively to Catalan present their linguistic development within biographical and cosmopolitan chronotopes that emphasize individual maturation and experience. They reject the pol...
ON SOME MATHEMATICAL PROBLEMS OF 2D-GRAVITY AND Wh- GRAVITY

The points of infinite-dimensional Grassmannian corresponding to the τ-functions connected with 2D-gravity and Wh-gravity are studied.
The Cumulus Parameterization Problem

Abstract In the past two decades there has been extensive research into the nature of atmospheric convection and scale interactions in cumulus regimes. A major goal of these efforts has been to advance the state of the art in cumulus parameterization. This paper reviews the cumulus parameterization problem in terms of fundamental principles, goals and dynamics constraints as they apply to parameterization in mesoscale and large scale numerical models. Several popular current schemes are discussed in terms of their relationships to these overall aspects of the problem.
Mg2+-Assisted Catalysis by B. Stearothermophilus TrpRS Is Promoted by Allosteric Effects

Summary Mn 2+ -assisted catalysis by B. stearothermophilus TrpRS parallels that in polymerases and reduces specificity in amino acid activation. As predicted by nonequilibrium molecular dynamics simulations, multivariant thermodynamic cycles with [ATP]-dependent Michaelis-Menten kinetics and Mn 2+ for Mg 2+ substitution demonstrate energetic coupling of ATP affinities to the metal; to lysines K111 and K192, which interact via the PPi leaving group; and to K195, which couples differently to the metal via the α-phosphate. However, net coupling to the metal opposes catalysis in both ground (K M ) and transition (k cat ) states. The 10 5 -fold rate acceleration by Mg 2+ -protein interactions therefore requires additional favorable protein-metal couplings. Examples include longer-range, i.e., allosteric, interactions previously illustrated by the remote F37I mutation, which both reduces k cat and enhances catalytic assist by Mn 2+ , relative to that by Mg 2+ . These data support a model linking metal-assisted phosphoryl transfer catalysis to domain movement, and hence to free-energy transduction in a broad range of enzymes.
Somatic expression of herpes thymidine kinase in mice following injection of a fusion gene into eggs

A plasmid, designated pMK, containing the structural gene for thymidine kinase from herpes simplex virus (HSV) fused to the promoter/regulatory region of the mouse metallothionein-I gene, was injected into the pronucleus of fertilized one-cell mouse eggs; the eggs were subsequently reimplanted into the oviducts of pseudopregnant mice. The first experiment produced 19 offspring, one of which expressed high levels of HSV thymidine kinase activity in the liver and kidney. pMK DNA sequences were detected in equal amounts in several tissues of the expressing mouse as well as in three mice that did not express HSV thymidine kinase activity. In all cases, several copies of the pMK plasmid were tandemly duplicated and integrated into mouse DNA. It appears as though multiple copies of the intact plasmid were fused by homologous recombination either before or after integration at a single site in the mouse genome. The overall efficiency of obtaining somatic expression of thymidine kinase in experiments performed to date is about 10% (4/41), and twice this number have integrated pMK DNA. This procedure not only provides a means of introducing new genes into mice, but it will also be a valuable system for studying tissue-specific regulation of gene expression.
Stage-I osteochondritis dissecans versus normal variants of ossification in the knee in children.

Background: Juvenile osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) has a better prognosis than the adult type. Objective: We postulated that the excellent prognosis of juvenile OCD could be explained, at least in part, by the erroneous diagnosis of some developmental variants of ossification as stage-I OCD. Materials and methods: Knee MRIs of 38 children, ages 7.5–17.7 years (mean and median age 13 years), were retrospectively reviewed to look for features that might separate normal variants of ossification from stage-I OCD. These included age, gender, site, configuration of the lesion, residual cartilaginous model and presence of edema. Results: Twenty-three patients (32 condyles) had ossification defects with intact articular cartilage suggestive of stage-I lesions. No stage-II lesions were seen in the posterior femoral condyles. Accessory ossification centers were seen in 11/16 posterior condyles and 3/16 central condyles. Spiculation of existing ossification was seen in 12/16 posterior condylar lesions and 1/16 central condyles. There was a predominance of accessory ossifications and spiculations in the patients with 10% or greater residual cartilaginous model. No edema signal greater than diaphyseal red-marrow signal was seen in the posterior condyles. Clinical follow-up ranged from 0.5 to 38 months, with clinical improvement in 22 out of 23 patients. Conclusion: Inclusion of normal variants in the stage-I OCD category might explain, in part, the marked difference in published outcome between the juvenile and adult forms of OCD. Ossification defects in the posterior femoral condyles with intact overlying articular cartilage, accessory ossification centers, spiculation, residual cartilaginous model, and lack of bone-marrow edema are features of developmental variants rather than OCD.
Thermal Diffusivity Determination of High-Temperature Levitated Oblate Spheroidal Specimen by a Flash Method

In extending the range of applicability of a recently developed method, a single-step containerless flash technique for determining the thermal diffusivity of levitated oblate spheroidal samples is proposed. The flash method is modeled as an axisymmetric transient conduction heat transfer problem within the oblate spheroid. It is shown that by knowing the sample geometric parameters and recording the temperature rise history at least at two different points on the surface simultaneously, the thermal diffusivity can be determined without knowing the heat loss parameter. The appropriate coefficients needed for determining the thermal diffusivity of oblate spheroidal samples are provided
Relational and Overt Victimization in Middle and High Schools: Associations With Self-Reported Suicidality

Overt and relational victimization are associated with psychosocial adjustment problems, though there is a dearth of research to establish the relation between types of victimization and suicidality among middle and high school students. To further understand this association, the current study sought to differentially establish relations between overt and relational victimization and suicidality. The moderating effect of gender on these relations was also investigated. Participants were middle and high school students (N = 1,352) who completed a survey assessing overt and relational victimization and suicidal ideation and attempts as part of a district evaluation of a prevention and intervention program. Hierarchical regression analyses indicated that among middle and high school students, overt, but not relational victimization, was associated with increased suicidal ideation and attempts. Gender did not moderate this association. Possible mechanisms to explain this association should be the target of f...
AlGaAs/GaAs optically controlled wave-plate modulator.

We demonstrate an AlGaAs/GaAs multiple-quantum-well optically controlled electro-optic wave-plate modulator that uses integrated optics. For operation as an optically controlled switch, output amplitude contrast ratios of greater than 300:1 are typically obtained with signal beam throughputs of 34% and an extrapolated switching speed of 1.5 ns. For applications as an optically controlled wave plate, we have measured the linear, r41, and quadratic, R11–R12, electro-optic coefficients of the waveguide at the signal wavelengths and the device photo-generated current sensitivity at the control beam wavelength.
Identification of 4,6-O-(1-carboxyyethylidine)-d-galactose in extracellular polysaccharide from Palmella texensis UTEX 1708

Extracellular polysaccharide (EPS) from Palmella texensis UTEX 1708 contained galactose as a sole sugar constituent. 1H-NMR spectroscopy indicated the possibility of the presence of pyruvyl groups. Pyruvyl groups were also supported by the positive result of coloremetric assay. Methylation analysis before and after depyruvylation showed that a 2,3-linked galactose was pyruvylated at the 4,6-positions. Studies of trimethylsilyl (TMS) derivatives of methylglycosides on gas chromatography (GC) supported the 4,6-position and the resulting fragmentation pattern on GC-mass spectroscopy confirmed the presence of the pyruvic acetal, 4,6-O-(1-carboxyethylidine)-d-galactose residue. The occurence of either galactan or pyruvylated galactose in green algae has not yet been reported.
The Business of the United Nations Security Council: History (1946-1963) and Prospects

IN THE FIRST EIGHTEEN YEARS of its existence the United Nations Security Council met 1085 times. Its first meeting was held on 17 January 1946 and its business was organizational: setting itself up for the work that would come to it. Its 1085th meeting was held on 27 December 1963 and its business was Cyprus. This paper is an investigation of what it has done in all these meetings. The purposes of the investigation are: (1) to show what the Council has occupied itself with during this period; (2) to discover the quantitative and substantive tendencies of its activity; (3) to suggest some of the reasons for these tendencies as derived from the agenda data themselves and from a study of the Council's willingness or ability to take, or even to consider taking, certain actions; and (4) to speculate from the evidence on the future amounts, areas, and importance of the work of the Council.
COSMIC‐RAY AND GAS‐RETENTION AGES OF THE CHASSIGNY METEORITE

Cosmic radiation and gas retention ages of Chassigny achondrite by measuring Al, K and noble gases contents and production rates in meteorites
Gene Expression in the Fetal Mouse Ovary Is Altered by Exposure to Low Doses of Bisphenol A

Evidence from experimental studies suggests that fetal exposure to the endocrine-disrupting chemical bisphenol A (BPA) has adverse reproductive effects in both males and females. Studies from our laboratory suggest that exposure to the developing female fetus produces a unique, multigenerational effect. Specifically, maternal exposure affects the earliest stages of oogenesis in the developing fetal ovary, and the resulting subtle meiotic defects increase the likelihood that embryos produced by the exposed female in adulthood (i.e., the grandchildren) will be chromosomally abnormal. To understand the impact of BPA on the developing ovary, we conducted expression studies to characterize gene expression changes in the fetal ovary that result from BPA exposure. We first tested the validity of the approach, asking whether we could reliably detect temporal changes in expression levels of meiotic genes in controls. As anticipated, we were able to identify appropriate increases in expression in meiotic, but in few other, genes. Intriguingly, this analysis provided data on a small set of genes for which timing and expression changes suggest that they may have important and heretofore unrecognized meiotic roles. After verifying the utility of our approach, we focused our analysis on BPA-exposed animals. We found modest, but significant, changes in gene expression in the fetal ovaries from exposed fetuses. The first changes were evident within 24 h of exposure, and the most extensive changes correlated with the onset of meiosis. Furthermore, gene ontology analysis suggested that BPA acts to down-regulate mitotic cell-cycle genes, raising the possibility that fetal BPA exposure may act to limit expansion of the primordial germ cell population.
Temporal Resolution Phantom: A Device and Method for Measurement of a CT Scanner’s Temporal Resolution

A calibration phantom that can be used to measure the temporal resolution of a CT scanner was designed utilizing a deterministic design process. The system was first defined in terms of a set of functional requirements based on parameters of the imaging modality. It was necessary to generate multiple time-varying signals visible to the scanner, each with a pre-determined temporal frequency. Roll-off in the scanner’s ability to resolve the modulation of certain signals would be used to determine the scanner’s temporal resolution. Based on size limitations imposed by the scanning environment, the phantom utilizes multiple planetary gear assemblies, driven by a common shaft, to achieve a wide range of rotational velocities. Results obtained with an alpha prototype agreed with the theory. It was determined that further development of the phantom was necessary to increase the sensitivity of the measurement. The latest prototype phantom has been used to measure the temporal resolution of two different scanners and it was shown that temporal resolution of each is different from the gantry rotation time.
The application of the f.m.r. technique to coal characterization studies

Abstract The mineral magnetite has been detected in a sample of Pittsburgh No. 8 coal by the ferromagnetic resonance technique. The magnetite particles contained in a ground sample were μm diameter and have a chemical composition between Fe 2.98804 O 4 and Fe 2.99704 O 4 . The results of acid treatment indicated that the magnetite is not embedded in the organic coal material, but is readily removed. The use of the f.m.r. technique as exemplified in the present work has important potential in the study of ferro-and ferrimagnetic minerals in raw coal and their interactions with paramagnetic organic free radicals during coal conversion processes.
Ephrin‐B2 elicits differential growth cone collapse and axon retraction in retinal ganglion cells from distinct retinal regions

The circuit for binocular vision and stereopsis is established at the optic chiasm, where retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axons diverge into the ipsilateral and contralateral optic tracts. In the mouse retina, ventrotemporal (VT) RGCs express the guidance receptor EphB1, which interacts with the repulsive guidance cue ephrin-B2 on radial glia at the optic chiasm to direct VT RGC axons ipsilaterally. RGCs in the ventral retina also express EphB2, which interacts with ephrin-B2, whereas dorsal RGCs express low levels of EphB receptors. To investigate how growth cones of RGCs from different retinal regions respond upon initial contact with ephrin-B2, we utilized time-lapse imaging to characterize the effects of ephrin-B2 on growth cone collapse and axon retraction in real time. We demonstrate that bath application of ephrin-B2 induces rapid and sustained growth cone collapse and axon retraction in VT RGC axons, whereas contralaterally-projecting dorsotemporal RGCs display moderate growth cone collapse and little axon retraction. Dose response curves reveal that contralaterally-projecting ventronasal axons are less sensitive to ephrin-B2 treatment compared to VT axons. Additionally, we uncovered a specific role for Rho kinase signaling in the retraction of VT RGC axons but not in growth cone collapse. The detailed characterization of growth cone behavior in this study comprises an assay for the study of Eph signaling in RGCs, and provides insight into the phenomena of growth cone collapse and axon retraction in general.
EMERGENCE OF A COGNITIVE CAR-FOLLOWING DRIVER MODEL: APPLICATION TO REAR-END CRASHES WITH A STOPPED LEAD VEHICLE

Rear-end crashes are a major roadway safety problem, and the potential of crash countermeasures to address this has long been recognized. High-frequency or severe-consequence scenarios are focused on the general lead-vehicle-not-moving (LVNM) case and specific crash scenarios. Operating scenarios are identified, and frequencies are assessed. From these, a small number of prevalent LVNM crash scenarios are identified as the focus for subsequent model development and crash countermeasure efforts. These scenarios suggest nominal atmospheric, roadway, lighting, vehicle, and driver conditions in designing cost-effective safety features to avoid LVNM rear-end crashes. From this, emergent models for cognitive car following are developed, based on fusing current knowledge. This will serve as a foundation for further model development efforts as well as for future human-factors experiments.
Nonlinear response in runoff magnitude to fluctuating rain patterns

The runoff coefficient of a hillslope is a reliable measure for changes in the streamflow response at the river link outlet. A high runoff coefficient is a good indicator of the possibility of flash floods. Although the relationship between runoff coefficient and streamflow has been the subject of much study, the physical mechanisms affecting runoff coefficient including the dependence on precipitation pattern remain open topics for investigation. In this paper, we analyze a rainfall-runoff model at the hillslope scale as that hillslope is forced with different rain patterns: constant rain and fluctuating rain with different frequencies and amplitudes. When an oscillatory precipitation pattern is applied, although the same amount of water may enter the system, its response (measured by the runoff coefficient) will be maximum for a certain frequency of precipitation. The significant increase in runoff coefficient after a certain pattern of rainfall can be a potential explanation for the conditions preceding flash-floods.
Evaluation of Resistance to Chinch Bug in Pearl Millet in Temperate and Subtropical Environments

Pearl millet inbreds and hybrids were evaluated for resistance to chinch bug at Lincoln, NE, and Tifton, GA, in 2003 and 2004. Insect feeding damage expressed as plant mortality, stunting, leaf sheath necrosis, and tiller mortality was observed over time. Resistance was expressed by a slower rate of plant damage to resistant genotypes compared to susceptible ones. Across experiments, inbreds 59464B and 59668M-1 were most frequently identified as resistant. Inbred Tift 99B was susceptible in every experiment and by every assessment criterion. The experiments revealed information on the genetic expression of resistance. When insect damage among hybrids made with Tift 454 was compared, resistance tended to be dominant or overdominant in expression. Evidence for location-specific resistance caused by environmental conditions or genetic differences in the insect populations between the two locations was observed. Inbreds 03GH707 and Tift 454, developed at Tifton, were resistant only in some assessments at Tifton, but not at Lincoln. 16RmR1, developed at Lincoln, was susceptible in both Lincoln experiments, but not at Tifton. 03GH706 was susceptible in some Tifton assessments, but was not among the most susceptible inbreds in the Lincoln experiments. Evaluations are needed at multiple locations to effectively identify resistance to damage caused by chinch bug feeding in pearl millet.
A nonlinear small gain theorem for the analysis of control systems with saturation

A nonlinear small gain theorem is presented that provides a formalism for analyzing the behavior of certain control systems that contain or utilize saturation. The theorem is used to show that an iterative procedure can be derived for controlling systems in a general nonlinear, feedforward form. This result, in turn, is applied to the control of: 1) linear systems (stable and unstable) with inputs subject to magnitude and rate saturation and time delays; 2) the cascade of globally asymptotically stable nonlinear systems with certain linear systems (those that are stabilizable, right invertible, and such that all of their invariant zeros have nonpositive real part); 3) the inverted pendulum on a cart; and 4) the planar vertical takeoff and landing aircraft.
Novel polymeric structures via the chlorination of cis-1,4-polybutadiene in the presence of aryl nucleophiles

The addition chlorination of cis-1,4-polybutadiene in the presence of a variety of aryl nucleophiles resulted in the formation of head-to-head poly(vinyl chloride) with pendant aromatic functional groups. Chlorination in methylene chloride solution with benzoic acid gave chlorinated polymers with pendant benzoate esters. Chlorination in the presence of phenol and benzhydrol provided polymers with pendent phenyl and diphenyl methyl ethers, respectively. Acetophenone participated during chlorination to affored polymer with pendant α-chloroether groups, while benzonitrile gave a polymer with pendant imidoyl chlorides. The extent of participation of these nucleophiles was estimated from elemental analysis and NMR spectral data, and the effect of aryl substitution on density, glass transition temperature, and linear coefficient of thermal expansion was determined. © 1993 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Profiling Consumers Who Register Complaints Against Auto Repair Services

Surveys of consumer problems and reactions to those problems indicate considerable failure on the part of consumers to seek redress when faced with unsatisfactory purchases. The present study extends this research by using a longitudinal field survey of automobile repair services to investigate some consumer and purchase-related variables hypothesized to influence consumer actions following unsatisfactory purchase experiences. The results are consistent with conclusions emerging in other consumer satisfaction research that complaining behavior is influenced by both comparisons of purchase expectations with outcomes and individual consumer characteristics and dispositions.
Collisions of Electrons with Hydrogen Atoms. I. Ionization

The cross section for ionization of the hydrogen atom on electron impact has been measured as a function of electron energy. A modulated beam of atoms and molecules in varying proportions, taken from a furnace, is crossed by a dc electron beam, and the positive ions formed are taken into a mass spectrometer. By using such modulation techniques, the ions formed by ionization of the beam are distinguished from the much larger number of ions formed by collisions of electrons with the residual gas in the vacuum chamber. From the study of the mass-spectrometer peak strengths as a function of temperature with constant gas flow, the ratio of the cross sections for ionization of the atom and the molecule is directly determined. The absolute atomic cross sections, determined by multiplying this ratio by the known molecular cross sections, are cross-checked by taking relative cross sections for the atom. Complete agreement with the first Born approximation is found only above about 250 ev. Deviations of experiment from theory at lower energies are as predicted qualitatively by theory.
Electronic shearography for nondestructive evaluation: the influence of the field of view and the shearing angle

Electronic shearography, a variation of electronic speckle pattern interferometry (ESPI), is a promising new technology for non-contacting, full-field optical nondestructive inspection. In this technique, the shearographic fringe pattern is generated electronically and updated at the video frame rate of the camera. Therefore, the results of an inspection procedure may be viewed in real time, offering a significant advantage over film-based interferometric techniques such as holographic interferometry. This work examines several opportunities to adjust system parameters to optimize the detection resolution of electronic shearography when used for nondestructive flaw detection. For any application, the required detection resolution must be balanced against the practical need to maximize the field of view of the inspection window, and thus the speed of the inspection. The magnitude of the image shear also plays an important role, because it controls the measurement sensitivity of shearography. The interaction of these principles is demonstrated for the detection of disbonds behind thin aluminum face sheets using vacuum stressing. The experimental results were obtained using a compact, portable electronic shearography system which incorporated a skewed-Michelson interferometer configuration. This arrangement allowed easy adjustment of both the direction and magnitude of the image shear at any working distance.
Electron Diffraction Using Transmission Electron Microscopy.

Electron diffraction via the transmission electron microscope is a powerful method for characterizing the structure of materials, including perfect crystals and defect structures. The advantages of electron diffraction over other methods, e.g., x-ray or neutron, arise from the extremely short wavelength (≈2 pm), the strong atomic scattering, and the ability to examine tiny volumes of matter (≈10 nm(3)). The NIST Materials Science and Engineering Laboratory has a history of discovery and characterization of new structures through electron diffraction, alone or in combination with other diffraction methods. This paper provides a survey of some of this work enabled through electron microscopy.
Magnetoencephalographic localization of subdural dipoles in a patient with temporal lobe epilepsy.

Summary: We report magnetoencephalographic localization of subdural electrode dipoles placed at the basal and mesial surfaces of the temporal lobe in a patient with temporal lobe epilepsy. The locations of the three dipoles were predicted from their magnetic fields with a computer model of the head as a conducting sphere. The predicted locations were within 1,3, and 4 mm of the actual locations. These results, obtained in an area of the brain from which epileptiform discharges are frequently recorded, strongly support the capability of magnetoencepha lography to accurately localize electrical events in this brain region.
Hospitalizations for infection in cancer patients: impact of an aging population

Goal of work The aim of this study was to assess the impact of an aging US population on inpatient costs and resource utilization in cancer patients admitted for infection. Materials and methods From the Texas inpatient public use files (Texas Health Care Information Collection), which include all hospitals except federal institutions, we selected residents with cancer who also had a principal or admitting diagnosis of pneumonia, bacteremia/sepsis, or other documented infection in 2001. Selected admission records were directly adjusted by projected age-specific cancer prevalence totals for years 2006 and 2025 using surveillance epidemiology end results (SEER) and US census data. Charges were inflated to 2006 consumer price index for medical care then converted to costs using Texas Medicare cost-to-charge ratios. Results Over 9% of nearly 200,000 Texans admitted for infection in 2001 also had cancer. Projecting these results nationally, 318,000 discharges in cancer patients at a cost of $3.1 billion (B, 95% CI $2.8B, $3.4B) and 2.3 million (M) bed days would have been attributed to infections in 2006. By the year 2025, adjusting only for the aging population, costs could increase 45% to $4.5B (95% CI $4.1B, $4.9), with 27% more (3.4 M) hospital bed days occupied. Conclusions Consequent to an aging population and the resulting increase in cancer prevalence, the healthcare burden of managing hospital admissions for infection in the vulnerable cancer population could be greatly magnified unless risk-based treatment and preventive strategies such as appropriate immunizations and infection control measures are implemented.
Inhibition of Renin Angiotensin Axis May Be Associated with Reduced Risk of Developing Venous Thromboembolism in Patients with Atherosclerotic Disease

Background Arterial and venous thrombosis may share common pathophysiology involving the activation of platelets and inflammatory mediators. A growing body of evidence suggests prothrombotic effect of renin angiotensin system (RAS) including vascular inflammation and platelet activation. We hypothesized that the use of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) plays a role in protecting against venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients atherosclerosis.