cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Dilatancy hysteresis in rocks: a generalized ramberg-osgood approach

Abstract A review and interpretation of representative experimental data is given on the cyclic properties of rocks. Emphasis is placed on data concerning the development of hysteresis of volumetric strain. Volumetric strain occuring during stress cycles well below the peak stress value exhibits a remarkable hysteresis. The strain is either compactive or dilative. The hysteresis varies both in form and in width depending on the state of prior rock damage. Specifically, the volumetric compliance may either be higher in loading than in reloading or vice-versa, depending on the state of rock damage prior to the cyclic loading. Finally, the hysteresis form significantly varies with the number of cycles. A model is developed, which is a generalization to three dimensional cyclic loading of the well known Ramberg-Osgood equation for amplitudes. The model is based on an earlier idea of discretized kinematic hardening plasticity with a piecewise path independent stress - difference/strain - difference law. A particular anisotropic form of such a law is discussed in the light of the collected phenomenological data. The law is valid by pieces and is expressed through a non-linear hyperelastic relationship for amplitudes. The pieces are defined by characteristic points of the stress trajectory, like stress rate reversals or turns. To ensure the incremental continuity of such a law at reversals in non-radial cycles, the constitutive tensor of initial hysteresis moduli is assumed as a function of the reversal intensity. All irreversible strain effects of the material behaviour are lumped in the discrete points of the stress rate reversals, where material property parameters are adjusted. A special form of the constitutive functions is presented in the companion paper [12].
Solar spectral optical properties of pigments. Part I: model for deriving scattering and absorption coefficients from transmittance and reflectance measurements

Abstract The suitability of a pigment for inclusion in “cool” colored coatings with high solar reflectance can be determined from its solar spectral backscattering and absorption coefficients. Pigment characterization is performed by dispersing the pigment into a transparent film, then measuring spectral transmittance and reflectance. Measurements of the reflectance of film samples on black and white substrates are also used. A model for extracting the spectral backscattering coefficient S and absorption coefficient K from spectrometer measurements is presented. Interface reflectances complicate the model. The film's diffuse reflectance and transmittance measurements are used to determine S and K as functions of a wavelength-independent model parameter σ that represents the ratio of forward to total scattering. σ is used to estimate the rate at which incident collimated light becomes diffuse, and is determined by fitting the measured film reflectance backed by black. A typical value is σ = 0.8 . Then, the measured film reflectance backed by white is compared with a computed value as a self-consistency check. Measurements on several common pigments are used to illustrate the method.
Invariance tests for bisection and fractionation scaling

If we are to accept the power function as the psychophysical law, then estimates of the exponent of a particular form of the power law should be independent of changes in basic independent variables. In the present study, various power law hypotheses were tested for the bisection and fractionation scaling of brightness. The results indicated that for bisection, estimates of exponents were dependent on the particular interval bisected, suggesting rejection of the simple power law for bisection. For fractionation, two additional forms of the power law were tested, each form involving a threshold parameter. One was the Φ-law (involving a translation on the intensity axis), and the other was the ψ-law (involving a translation on the psychological axis). The Φ-law provided a poor fit to the data, whereas the ψ-law appeared to fit well for at least one S. Analysis for individuals showed that for all five Ss, the variance due to standards was appreciably larger for the Φ-law.
Coexpression of the mu-opioid receptor splice variant MOR1C and the vesicular glutamate transporter 2 (VGLUT2) in rat central nervous system.

It has been reported that mu-opioid agonists depress glutamate release in some neurons but the specific receptor subtype mediating this effect is unclear. The purpose of the present study was to examine whether a particular mu-opioid receptor (MOR) splice-variant, MOR1C, is expressed in rat central nervous system (CNS) by terminals expressing the vesicular glutamate transporter2 (VGLUT2), a marker of glutamatergic neurons. Several MOR splice variants have been identified in mice and MOR1C appears mainly to be localized to fibers and terminals, from which most neurotransmitter release would be expected. In addition, VGLUT2 has been found in the CNS and antibodies to it are reliable markers for glutamatergic terminals. Using fluorescence immunohistochemistry and confocal microscopy to examine spatial relationships between MOR1C and VGLUT2, we found that MOR1C and VGLUT2 puncta were widely distributed throughout the rat CNS; moreover, many regions contained terminals that expressed both. Thus, it appears that coexpression of MOR1C and VGLUT2 is common in the rat CNS. We hypothesize that activation of MOR1C by mu-opioid agonists at some glutamatergic terminals may be a mechanism by which glutamate release is inhibited. J. Comp. Neurol. 508:542–564, 2008. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
The Relevance of Feenberg's Critical Theory of Technology to Critical Visual Literacy: The Case of Scientific and Technical Illustrations

Andrew Feenberg's critical theory of technology is an underutilized, relatively unknown resource in technical communication which could be exploited not only for its potential clarification of larg...
A Brighter H- Source for the Intense Pulsed Neutron Source Accelerator System

Further increases in the beam intensity of the Intense Pulsed Neutron Source (IPNS) at Argonne National Labortory required the replacement of the H- source with a higher current source. A magnetron ion source of Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory (FNAL) design was adapted with a grooved cathode to provide a stable 40-50 mA of beam operating at 30 Hz for up to a 90 ?s pulse duration. Problems of space charge blowup due to the lack of neutralization of the H- beam were solved by injecting additional gas into the 20 keV transport system. The source has recently been installed in the machine and the available input to the accelerator has more than doubled.
Induction of micronucleated erythrocytes in rodents by diisopropylcarbodiimide and dicyclohexylcarbodiimide: dependence on exposure protocol.

The induction of micronucleated erythrocytes by diisopropylcarbodiimide (DIC) and dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCC) was investigated as part of a U.S. National Toxicology Program (NTP) evaluation of the subchronic toxicity of these chemicals. Analysis of peripheral blood smears from male and female B6C3F1 mice exposed to 17.5–140.0 mg DIC/kg/day by skin painting for 13 weeks revealed dose-related increases in the frequency of micronucleated normochromatic erythrocytes (MN-NCE) in both sexes. Results of a similar 13-week peripheral blood micronucleus (MN) test with DCC (1.5–12.0 mg/kg/day) were also positive, although the increases in MN-NCE were not as great as those observed with DIC. In contrast to the positive results of the subchronic skin-painting studies in mice, acute bone marrow MN studies with DIC and DCC in male F344 rats, using intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection, yielded negative results. Both the acute and the subchronic exposures included doses that produced clinical signs of toxicity. Acute mouse bone marrow MN tests with DIC administered in single or triple i.p. injection protocols were subsequently conducted to determine if the differing responses between mice and rats were due to species or protocol differences. The results of these acute tests were negative or equivocal. Because the subchronic studies produced positive results, it was hypothesized that these carbodiimides required multiple treatments over an extended period of time to produce an increase in MN-erythrocytes. To confirm the original response, a second dermal subchronic study was conducted with DIC; the protocol was modified to include sequential blood samplings to permit monitoring MN frequencies over time. The data demonstrated a small but consistent induction of micronucleated erythrocytes in mice treated with DIC by skin painting. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 33:65–74, 1999 © 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Inhibition of epiphyseal cartilage collagenase by tetracyclines in low phosphate rickets in rats

Drugs in the tetracycline family can inhibit mammalian tissue collagenase both in vitro and in vivo by a mechanism that is independent of antibiotic action. The epiphyseal cartilages of rachitic rats contain extremely high levels of collagenase (CGase), and we have used this model to study further the phenomenon of tetracycline inhibition of tissue CGase. Rickets was induced in rats by phosphate/vitamin D deficiency and parameters of gross bone morphology, bone chemistry, and serum chemistry were evaluated in both rachitic and nonrachitic animals with and without treatment with oral tetracyclines (TETs). Minocycline (or doxycycline) partially suppressed the appearance of many of the expected changes in the rachitic animals, including gross bone hardness, growth plate widening, long bone length, suppression of weight gain, and decreased bone ash content. The effects were dose dependent and were associated with marked suppression of the enhanced CGase activity. Examination of collagen breakdown products by SDS-PAGE documented that the rachitic enzyme behaved like other mammalian collagenases including in vitro inhibition with minocycline 10-20 micrograms/ml and with a nonantibiotic tetracycline. No evidence of TET osseous toxicity was noted, and, in fact, administration of TET to nonrachitic animals had a mildly favorable effect on growth and development. TET suppression of CGase can be demonstrated in a well defined model system and this form of pharmacologic enzyme inhibition can be a useful probe for delineating the role of the enzyme in connective tissue pathology.
Polyoxometalate oxidation of chemical warfare agent simulants in fluorinated media.

The aim of this research is to determine if appropriate polyoxometalates (POMs) could be added to perfluoropolyether topical skin protectants (TSPs) currently available or under development to give these TSPs the additional capability of detecting and in some cases catalytically decontaminating sulfur mustard (HD) and perhaps other chemical warfare agents (CWAs) at ambient temperatures. Detection would be based on significant color changes in the POM upon reduction by the CWA whereas catalytic decontamination would be based on the ability of some families of POMs to catalyze O2-based oxidations by more than one mechanism. Five POMs (10–25% by weight) were each suspended in ca. 5 g of the perfluoropolyether (PFPE, CF3O[-CF(CF3)CF2O-]x(-CF2O-)yCF3) ‘barrier’ cream. A stoichiometric amount of HD sulfide simulant was layered on top of each POM–cream mixture. The short reaction times were recorded for each system. Mechanistic studies were conducted using an PFPE oil analog of the barrier cream in a microemulsion with the sulfide simulant, POM, PFPE surfactant and 2,2,2-trifluoroethanol co-surfactant. Copyright © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An Empirical Test of the Subculture of Violence and Miller's Theory of Lower Class Delinquency

There has been a continuing debate over the validity of subcultural theories for the past two decades. The importance of the correct answers lies in the implications for treatment of juvenile gangs. The results of previous studies have been inconclusive with some researchers finding support for various subcultural theories while others have denied the existence of lower class subcultures. This study entailed an empirical test of the subculture of violence (Wolfgang and Ferracuti) and Miller's theory of lower class delinquency. The data analyzed were drawn from the National Survey of Crime Severity conducted by the Center for Studies in Criminology and Criminal Law at the University of Pennsylvania. Subjects were given questionnaires in which they responded to various offense descriptions with a score based on perceived severity. In the present study, regression equations were formed using the severity score as the dependant variable and several demographic details as independant variables. Results indicat...
Thermochemical Applications for Fats and Oils

Fats and oils are well established in food, surfactant and coatings applications. Historically, fats and oils were employed to provide lighting and warmth. Increasing production of fats and oils and increasing uncertainties regarding the reliability of petroleum resources make it desirable to reconsider thermochemical applications of fats and oils. Difficulties associated with the use of fats and oils for vehicular applications are discussed, and use in stationary diesel engines is suggested. Conventional kerosene space heaters are designed to make use of the vaporization behavior of this fuel. Changes in heater design are required to take into account the pyrolytic degradation of the fuel when fats and oils are used, and a traveling grate burner was designed for this purpose. Pyrolysis of fatty acids at temperatures exceeding 500 C yields a mixture of gaseous and liquid products. The gaseous products include ethylene, but little propylene. The liquid product is primarily a mixture of substituted styrenes. Further development is needed for these thermochemical applications of fats and oils. Fuel and olefin markets present valuable cushions to keep the price of fats and oils from fluctuating as during the early 1980’s, when soybean oil has varied from $0.15 per pound to $0.40 per pound. The triglycerides can provide a future source of feedstocks for petrochemicals, if petroleum prices and availabilities change dramatically. Most of the development work needed consists of down-to-earth large-scale experiments in semi-commercial or commercial equipment to determine the best methods of fuel storage, feeding and conditions for combustion and steam cracking.
Annular array design and logarithmic processing for ultrasonic imaging.

Abstract The design of an annular array for electronic focal scanning depends upon the frequency of operation, a suitable limit of lateral resolution and the number and size of the elements of the array. The frequency is determined by considering (1) the frequency dependent attenuation caused by the tissues of interest, (2) the limiting characteristic of the receiver and (3) its equivalent input noise. The array size is determined by (1) the operating frequency, (2) the method of scanning and (3) a suitable limit of lateral resolution. Unusual resolution capability is realized with only five elements, equally spaced in the array, and with logarithmic signal processing in the receiver.
Real exchange rates under the gold standard: can they be explained by the trend break model?

Abstract We investigate whether real exchange rates under the gold standard can be modeled as stationary around a broken trend. Using both conventional unit root and sequential trend break tests, we clearly reject the unit root null for 14 of the 16 exchange rates studied by Diebold, Husted and Rush ( Journal of Political Economy , 1991, 99 ) and provide some evidence against a unit root for another. We interpret our results as being complementary to the evidence for fractional integration found by Diebold, Husted and Rush. In both cases, the unit root null can be decisively rejected if the alternative is more flexible than a deterministic trend without breaks.
Atomic modeling of the different periodicity decagonal phases

Abstract We present an atomic model for the different periodicity decagonal phases based on different stacking sequences of aperiodic planes. The particular stacking sequences chosen are equivalent to distorted icosahedrally coordinated clusters that are periodically stacked. By varying the interpenetation depth of the stacked clusters, different periodicities are achieved. The distortions of these clusters depend on the particular alloy system and are experimentally determined from convergent beam diffraction studies of the Kikuchi bands and the stereographic projection.
The quality/safety medical index: a standardized method for concurrent optimization of radiation dose and image quality in medical imaging.

Data analytics referable to quality and safety in medical practice have recently taken on increased importance as healthcare consumers push for increased healthcare accountability through increased data access, transparency, participation in medical decision-making, and payment models in which reimbursements are in part tied to quality [1–4]. In medical imaging practice, radiation dose and image quality are critical components of these analyses, with the former gaining increased attention as computed tomography (CT) utilization and resulting radiation dose measures dramatically rise [5–7]. At the heart of radiation dose management is the concept of ALARA, which is an acronym for “as low as reasonably achievable” [8]. This well-established mandate calls for radiology providers to achieve high levels of image quality while maintaining low and medically acceptable radiation dose. In the past decade, a shift has taken place from the principle of “image quality as good as possible” to “image quality as good as needed” [9]. This has in effect modified the traditional tenets of ALARA by placing a greater emphasis on radiation dose (i.e., safety) and less emphasis on image quality, as long as image quality is adequate to enable an accurate diagnosis [10, 11]. As medical imaging service and technology providers strive to achieve these principles for maximal radiation dose reduction and “clinically adequate” image quality, it becomes clear that a static approach to radiation dose reduction is neither practical nor prudent. Both radiation dose and image quality are inherently dynamic in nature and affected by individual patient attributes, technology, clinical context, and exam type. For these reasons, it is important that any methodology used to optimize quality and safety in tandem takes into account the dynamic nature and multiplicity of factors affecting quality and safety. In order to accomplish this challenge, standardized data is required to create a referenceable database, which provides for objective metadata analysis and creation of best practice guidelines.
On the Predictability of Quasi-Geostrophic Flow: The Effects of Beta and Baroclinicity.

Abstract The equilibrium statistics and predictability properties of one- and two-layer quasi-geostrophic flow are examined with the aid of a numerical model. The effect of beta in one-layer flow is to slow the transfer of energy into larger scales and to increase the predictability. In two-layer flow, when beta is zero, energy caters the system via baroclinic instability of the mean Row at very large scales and most energy transfer is confined to low wavenumbers. When beta is non-zero, energy enters at higher wavenumber (in baroclinic modes mainly) before cascading preferentially to lower wavenumber zonal barotropic modes. The predictability of two-layer flow is not significantly altered by beta, because beta increases the range of wavenumber over which significant nonlinear energy transfer occurs. The predictability times of the long waves are found to be always larger than those of the short waves, even when the initial error is spread evenly acres wavenumbers. Reducing the mean baroclinicity increases...
Post-deposition reorganization of pentacene films deposited on low-energy surfaces

We demonstrate that small-molecule organic thin films of pentacene deposited from thermal and supersonic molecular beam sources can undergo significant reorganization under vacuum or in N2 atmosphere, beginning immediately after deposition of thin films onto SiO2 gate dielectric treated with hexamethyldisilazane (HMDS) and fluorinated octyltrichlorosilane (FOTS). Films deposited on bare SiO2 remain unchanged even after extended aging in vacuum. The changes observed on low-energy surfaces include the depletion of molecules in the interfacial monolayer resulting in the population of upper layers via upward interlayer transport of molecules, indicating a dewetting-like behavior. The morphology of pristine, as-deposited thin films was determined during growth by in situ real-time synchrotron X-ray reflectivity and was measured again, ex situ, by atomic force microscopy (AFM) following aging at room temperature in vacuum, in N2 atmosphere, and in ambient air. Important morphological changes are observed in ultra-thin films (coverage < 5 ML) kept in vacuum or in N2 atmosphere, but not in ambient air. AFM measurements conducted for a series of time intervals reveal that the rate of dewetting increases with decreasing surface energy of the gate dielectric. Films thicker than ∼5 ML remain stable under all conditions; this is attributed to the fact that the interfacial layer is buried completely for films thicker than ∼5 ML. This work highlights the propensity of small-molecule thin films to undergo significant molecular-scale reorganization at room temperature when kept in vacuum or in N2 atmosphere after the end of deposition; it should serve as a cautionary note to anyone investigating the behavior of organic electronic devices and its relationship with the initial growth of ultra-thin molecular films on low-energy surfaces.
Relationship of leisure-time physical activity and occupational activity to the prevalence of obesity.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the interaction between leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) and occupational activity (OA) on the prevalence of obesity. DESIGN: Secondary data analysis of a population based cross-sectional US national sample (NHANES III). SUBJECTS: A total of 4889 disease-free, currently employed adults over age 20 y. MEASUREMENTS: Subjects body mass index (BMI) was categorized as (1) obese (BMI≥30 kg/m2), or (2) non-obese (BMI<30 kg/m2). LTPA was divided into four categories: (1) no LTPA; (2) irregular LTPA; (3) regular moderate intensity LTPA; and (4) regular vigorous intensity LTPA. OA was grouped as (1) high OA and (2) low OA. Age, gender, race–ethnicity, smoking status, urbanization classification, alcohol consumption and income were statistically controlled. RESULTS: In all, 16.8% (s.e. 0.7) of the total subject population were obese (15.1% (s.e. 1.1) of men and 19.1% (s.e. 1.1) of women). Logistic regression revealed that compared to those who engage in no LTPA and have low levels of OA, the likelihood of being obese is 42% (95% CI 0.35, 0.96) lower for those who engage in no LTPA and have high OA, 48% (95% CI 0.32, 0.83) lower for those who have irregular LTPA and have high levels of OA, and about 50% lower for all those who have regular LTPA through moderate or vigorous activity levels regardless of OA level. CONCLUSION: When considering disease free adults above 20 y of age employed in high and low activity occupations, a high level of occupational activity is associated with a decreased likelihood of being obese.
Impacts of U.S. Government Shutdown on Earth Science Teaching and Education

The federal government shutdown, apart from the impact on the U.S. economy and cancellation of some important nationally funded research, greatly affected scientists studying Earth and space science across the nation. Much coverage has highlighted how the fallout from this will influence large research projects, but the fallout goes beyond this. In particular, Earth science education involving natural hazards in the United States and in developing countries was put on hold.
Application of AFP (Atomic Force Probing) on the failure analysis of 65nm technology SRAM

Static random-access memory (SRAM) is a critical component across production and application. So the failure analysis for the SRAM is very important for the monitoring of the process. With the scale down of the technology, there come more challenges that the traditional method cannot deal with. In this paper, a real case of 65nm technology SRAM was studied. Nothing abnormal was found by the traditional FA method. A new method, current image-Atom Force Microscopy combined with Atom Force Probing, was employed. Abnormal current image contrast and abnormal family curve in the transistors of the SRAM cell was obtained easily According to the AFP result, the defect position was localized. TEM and EDX were performed on the localized position, and root cause was found.
VENTURE OPPORTUNITY EVALUATIONS: COMPARISONS BETWEEN VENTURE CAPITALISTS AND INEXPERIENCED PRE-NASCENT ENTREPRENEURS

Although we know something about how venture capitalists' (VCs) evaluate opportunities, little is known about entrepreneurs' evaluation processes before venture creation. Opportunity evaluation beliefs are antecedents to goal choice or pre-nascent activities and are different from opportunity exploitation behaviors, which are goal striving or nascent activities. Results show that inexperienced pre-nascent entrepreneurs have not institutionalized VCs criteria as common knowledge and that evaluation criteria are used differently due to differences in learning and experience. Criteria common to VCs were not all predictive for any pre-nascent individual but, as a group, all VC criteria significantly predicted evaluations of potential success.
Interaction of modified haptoglobin with hemoglobin

Abstract Human haptoglobin was modified with various group-specific reagents, and the function of the modified side-chains in the binding of hemoglobin was investigated using the peroxidase, rivanol, and starch-gel electrophoresis methods. Nitration of the tyrosyl groups of haptoglobin resulted in the loss of its hemoglobin-binding activity as well as its typical polymorphism in the starch-gel electrophoresis system without an apparent randomization of the conformation. Histidyl and carboxyl groups of haptoglobin were not involved in the binding of hemoglobin. Modification of the lysyl residues by reductive alkylation did not result in the loss of the hemoglobin-binding activity of haptoglobin, though trinitrophenylation and maleylation of haptoglobin was accompanied by the loss of its biological activity. However, the possibility that the effects of these procedures were due to a non-specific alteration of the conformation of haptoglobin has not been rigorously excluded. It was concluded that the tyrosyl groups of haptoglobin remain the sole hemoglobin-binding ligands of haptoglobin, whose role in this reaction is reasonably certain. The role of the imidazole groups of hemoglobin in the reaction with haptoglobin could not be confirmed by carboxymethylation.
Insulin activates the PI3K-Akt survival pathway in vulnerable neurons following global brain ischemia

AbstractInsulin is neuroprotective following transient global brain ischemia; however, the mechanisms by which insulin exerts its salutary effects remain unclear. Objective: We assessed insulin's effect on the PI3K-Akt survival system and consequent modulation of the pro-apoptotic proteins Bim, Bad and FoxO3a. Methods: We utilized rats subjected to 10 minutes of global brain ischemia, with or without insulin administered at the onset of reperfusion. Results: In sham-operated animals, minimal pAkt immunofluorescence was detected in the CA1. Moreover, at 30 minute reperfusion, there was no change in pAkt in CA1 neurons. Single bolus high-dose insulin treatment resulted in an early increase in pAkt after 30 minutes, preservation of CA1 neurons to 14 days of reperfusion and preservation of spatial learning ability. Insulin treatment increased cytoplasmic and nuclear staining for pAkt in both CA1 and cortex. Insulin-induced Akt phosphorylation was suppressed by the PI3K inhibitor wortmannin. Neither reperfusio...
GTPγS increases Nav1.8 current in small-diameter dorsal root ganglia neurons

Tetrodotoxin-resistant (TTX-R) sodium current in small-size dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons is upregulated by prostaglandin E2 and serotonin through a protein kinase A (PKA)/protein kinase (PKC) pathway, suggesting G protein modulation of one or more TTX-R channels in these neurons. Recently, GTPγS, a hydrolysis-resistant analogue of GTP, was shown to increase the persistent current produced by the TTX-R Nav1.9. In this study, we investigated the modulation of another TTX-R channel, Nav1.8, by GTPγS in small-diameter DRG neurons from rats using whole-cell voltage clamp recordings. Because it has been suggested that fluoride, often used in intracellular recording solutions, may bind to trace amounts of aluminum and activate G proteins, we recorded Nav1.8 currents with and without intracellular fluoride, and with the addition of deferoxamine, an aluminum chelator, to prevent fluoride–aluminum binding. Our results show that GTPγS (100 µM) caused a significant increase in Nav1.8 current (67%) with a chloride-based intracellular solution. Although the inclusion of fluoride instead of chloride in the pipette solution increased the Nav1.8 current by 177%, GTPγS further increased Nav1.8 current by 67% under these conditions. While the effect of GTPγS was prevented by pretreatment with H7 (100 µM), a non-selective PKA/PKC inhibitor, the fluoride-induced increase in Nav1.8 current was not sensitive to H7 (100 µM), or to inclusion of deferoxamine (1 mM) in the intracellular solution. We conclude that G protein activation by GTPγS increases Nav1.8 current through a PKA/PKC mechanism and that addition of fluoride to the pipette solution further enhances the current, but is not a confounding variable in the study of Nav1.8 channel modulation by G proteins independent of a PKA/PKC pathway or binding to aluminum.
Influence of the storage time and the method of stimulation on whole blood chemiluminescence.

The ultra-weak light, chemiluminescence (CL), of stimulated leukocytes is a well-known phenomenon. Parameters of this CL are modified by many factors including laboratory procedures. The order of stimulation and enhancement (two possibilities) and two concentrations of luminol create four types of procedure, which were accomplished in five sample storage ‘time points’. We received the strongest signals of CL using higher concentrations of luminol (and DMSO), but only when stimulation (FMLP) was used before enhancement (luminol); luminol used before FMLP strongly inhibited CL. For lower luminol concentration (and DMSO), the order of stimulation and enhancement was of no importance. There were comparable but weaker signals of CL in this case. We received stronger signals with storage time for all procedures. It may be dependent on the priming of phagocytes by releasing cell factors. Stimulation (FMLP) before enhancement (luminol) eliminates the inhibitory effect of DMSO on CL. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluation of Magnetic Shear in Off-Disk Center Active Regions

The changes that projection effects produce in the evaluation of magnetic shear in off-disk center active regions by comparing angular shear calculated in image plane and heliographic coordinates are analyzed, and the procedure for properly evaluating magnetic shear by transforming the observed vector magnetic field into the heliographic system is described. This procedure is then used to evaluate magnetic shear along the magnetic neutral line in an active region that was observed on April 24, 1984 at a longitude offset of -45 deg. In particular, the number of 'critically sheared' pixels along an east-west directed segment of the neutral line in the leader sunspot group changes from 16 in the image plane magnetogram to 14 in the heliographic magnetogram. The critical shear as calculated in the image plane served as a good predictor for the location of flaring activity since the flare ribbons of the great flare of April 24 bracketed the inversion line where the critical shear was located. These results indicate that for this particular region, projection effects did not significantly affect the evaluation of critical shear.
CORTISOL BINDING BY DOG PLASMA.

Cortisol binding by dog plasma was studied by ultrafiltration and equilibrium dialysis techniques and was compared to human plasma using 3 criteria: 1) the binding curve; 2) the sensitivity of the binding proteins to heat inactivation; and 3) the effect of estrogen administration on the cortisol-binding properties of the plasma. The resting plasma cortisol level in the dog is below 2 μg/ 100 ml, and at this level, by ultrafiltration analysis, about 88% of the cortisol is bound. At a plasma level of 10 μg/100 ml, 67% of the cortisol is bound and at 100 μg/100 ml, 56% is bound. A 4% dog albumin solution binds about 50% of the cortisol. Human transcortin is inactivated by heating the plasma at 60 C for 20 min; dog plasma shows little change in binding characteristics following this period of heating. Human transcortin increases in concentration during estrogen administration. Estrogen treatment of 4 dogs did not change their plasma cortisol-binding properties. Dog plasma, therefore, contains a protein (s) si...
Tuberin Phosphorylation Regulates Its Interaction with Hamartin TWO PROTEINS INVOLVED IN TUBEROUS SCLEROSIS

Hamartin and tuberin are products of the tumor suppressor genes, TSC1 and TSC2, respectively. When mutated, a characteristic spectrum of tumor-like growths develop resulting in the syndrome of tuberous sclerosis complex. The phenotypes associated with TSC1 and TSC2 mutations are largely indistinguishable suggesting a common biochemical pathway. Indeed, hamartin and tuberin have been shown to interact stably in vitro and in vivo. Factors that regulate their interaction are likely critical to the understanding of disease pathogenesis. In this study, we showed that tuberin is phosphorylated at serine and tyrosine residues in response to serum and other factors, and it undergoes serial phosphorylation that can be detected by differences in electrophoretic mobilities. A disease-related TSC2 mutation (Y1571H) nearly abolished tuberin phosphorylation when stimulated with pervanadate. Expression of this mutant tuberin caused a marked reduction in TSC1-TSC2 interaction compared with wild-type protein and significantly curtailed the growth inhibitory effects of tuberin when overexpressed in COS1 cells, consistent with a loss of function mutation. Examination of a second pathologic mutation, P1675L, revealed a similar relationship between limited phosphorylation and reduced interaction with hamartin. Our data show for the first time that 1) tuberin is phosphorylated at tyrosine and serine residues, 2) TSC1-TSC2 interaction is regulated by tuberin phosphorylation, and 3) defective phosphorylation of tuberin is associated with loss of its tumor suppressor activity. These findings suggest that phosphorylation may be a key regulatory mechanism controlling TSC1-TSC2 function.
Neuropeptide Y, ubiquitous and elusive.

Abstract This paper reviews aspects of NPY research that were emerging in 1985, shortly after the isolation and characterization of the peptide. NPY had become known for its widespread distribution especially in the central and peripheral nervous systems, but also in the gastro-intestinal and respiratory tracts and in fibers innervating smooth muscle around blood vessels. Consistent with its distribution, it was determined that NPY is a potent vasoconstrictor, affects neuroendocrine systems and is involved in appetite regulation—areas of research still relevant today. Through advances in technology knowledge about NPY’s role in these and newly discovered physiological functions has deepened considerably. Successful cloning of a series of NPY receptors has opened up new and complex research vistas. Lately, the creation of mice genetically modified for NPY as well as for several receptor subtypes has brought many puzzling observations—followed by questions yet to be answered.
Quantitation of Digoxigenin-Labeled DNA Hybridized to DNA and RNA Slot Blots

Abstract Quantitation of message from low-abundance mRNAs and limited availability of tissues requires sensitive methods for probe detection, accurate methods for quantitation of signal, and the ability to strip and reprobe membranes. A random-primed, digoxigenin-labeled probe from cDNA of FMO1, an isoform of the flavin-containing monooxygenase gene family, from rabbit was used in the evaluation and optimization of the Genius system for quantitation of signal from DNA and RNA slot blots. Criteria for optimization were a low signal to noise ratio, a linear increase in density of signal vs nucleic acid concentration of bands on X-ray film, complete stripping of membranes, and reproduction of the initial banding pattern upon rehybridization. A low signal-to-noise ratio was obtained with an aqueous prehybridization/hybridization solution. DNA slot blots were successfully quantitated before and after alkaline stripping from positively charged membranes. RNA slot blots were subject to excessive and uneven loss of RNA from the membranes during stripping procedures. Reliable quantitation for more than one cycle of detection required highly charged nylon membranes, and careful tailoring of RNA fixation methods and alkaline stripping conditions.
The men behind the bomb

The Making of the Atomic Bomb. By Richard Rhodes. Simon & Schuster: 1987. Pp.886. $22.95, £18.
Does Successful Segmental Tracheal Resection Require Releasing Maneuvers

Abstract Objectives: To review a series of patients undergoing primary tracheal resection and anastomosis for tracheal stenosis without additional releasing maneuvers. Methods: Retrospective chart review. All patients undergoing segmental tracheal resection by the first author over a 5-year period had their charts reviewed. Results: Fifteen patients were identified over a 5-year period. There were 7 men and 8 women from ages 29–76. Preoperatively, the airways abnormalities were characterized as follows: 3 patients with moderate (51%-70%) airway compromise, 9 patients with severe (71%-90%) compromise, and 4 patients complete or near complete airway obstruction (>90%). Five of the 15 had a tracheotomy at the time of the open procedure. All patients were managed with segmental tracheal resection and anastomosis without stenting or postoperative tracheotomy. No releasing maneuvers were performed. 14/15 (93%) patients had successful treatment of their stenosis. One patient with a mild stenosis (grade II) failed and required tracheotomy following a Staphylococcus aureus wound infection. Only 1 patient required bronchoscopic dilation of an anastomotic stricture (1/15, 7%). Follow-up was from 3 months to 5 years, with a median of 27 months. Conclusions: In this series of selected patients, segmental airway resection for tracheal stenosis was successfully accomplished without additional “releasing” techniques.
Left ventricular abnormalities in prolapsed mitral leaflet syndrome. Review of eighty-seven cases.

Eighty-seven patients with proven mitral leaflet prolapse were studied emphasizing cardiodynamics and left ventricular asynergy. Significant associated features were female preponderance (83%), skeletal anomalies (pectus excavatum, straight back, scoliosis, narrow antero-posterior diameter of the chest), and anomalous coronary arteries (cork-screw patterns, short left main coronary artery, anomalous origin of the coronary arteries). Prolapse of the tricuspid leaflets was found in 15 (54%) who had right ventriculography. Five types of abnormal left ventricular systolic contraction patterns were seen in 82% of the cases and these were categorized as: 1) "ballerina foot" pattern (vigorous posteromedial contraction with anterior convexity), 2) "hour glass" pattern (vigorous ring-like contraction involving the middle portion of the left ventricle), 3) inadequate long axis shortening, 4) posterior akinesis, and 5) cavity obliteration pattern. The over-all left ventricular performance was normal generally, as in...
An Improved Method for the Palladium Cross-Coupling Reaction of Oxazol-2-ylzinc Derivatives with Aryl Bromides

An improved and scalable procedure to couple ozaxole and thiazole to aryl halides has been demonstrated. The required organozinc reagents were prepared from the aryllithium and solid ZnCl2. These reagents have been successfully coupled to a variety of aryl bromides and aryl iodides in good to excellent yields.
Statistical modeling for improved land cover classification

Novel statistical modeling and training techniques are proposed for improving classification accuracy of land cover data acquired by LandSat Thermatic Mapper (TM). The proposed modeling techniques consist of joint modeling of spectral feature distributions among neighboring pixels and partial modeling of spectral correlations across TM sensor bands with a set of semi-tied covariance matrices in Gaussian mixture densities (GMD). The GMD parameters and semi-tied transformation matrices are first estimated by an iterative maximum likelihood estimation algorithm of Expectation- Maximization, and the parameters are next tuned by a minimum classification error training algorithm to enhance the discriminative power of the statistical classifiers. Compared with a previously proposed single-pixel based Gaussian mixture density classifier, the proposed techniques significantly improved the overall classification accuracy on eight land cover classes from imagery data of Missouri state.
Using Direct Observation to Assist in Eligibility Decisions and Intervention Planning: The Scales for Assessing Emotional Disturbance-2 Observation Form

assessment, disorders (BD); behavior, interventions; behavior, positive behavior support; identificationA key issue in using the federal definition of emotional disturbance (ED) is the challenge of measuring five char-acteristics of ED (Epstein, Nordness, Cullinan, & Hertzog, 2002). Stated briefly, these five characteristics include (a) an inability to learn, (b) relationship problems, (c) inap-propriate behavior, (d) unhappiness or depression, and (e) physical symptoms or fears (for full statements of the characteristics, see
Regioselective thionocarbonation of ginkgolides: facile preparation of ginkgolide J

Ginkgolide J, a minor constituent of terpene trilactone mixture of Ginkgo biloba leaves extract, can be readily prepared from an abundant ginkgolide C in two steps: thionocarbonation and subsequent deoxygenation. Regioselectivity of the first thionocarbonation step can be controlled by a proper choice of the base and solvent combination.
Vulnerable Plaque: Definition, Diagnosis, and Treatment

This article provides a systematic approach to vulnerable plaques. It is divided into 4 sections. The first section is devoted to definition, incidence, anatomic distribution, and clinical presentation. The second section is devoted to plaque composition, setting up the foundations to understand plaque vulnerability. The third section relates to invasive plaque imaging. The fourth section is devoted to therapy, from conservative pharmacologic options to aggressive percutaneous coronary intervention alternatives.
A farewell to subjectivity using multivariate analytical models to improve patient outcomes and lower costs.

Markov models are useful when a decision problem, such as clinical care, involves risk that is continuous over time, when the timing of events is important, and when important events may happen more than once. Consequently, Markov modeling has become a popular method for setting up predictive analyses in many types of clinical scenarios. Markov models use decision trees to assign survival risk across a specific clinical problem. A decision tree models the prognosis of a patient subsequent to the choice of a management strategy. Markov analysis can help determine the impact of different management strategies on a chosen outcome such as life expectancy (survival) and cost using dynamic decision trees. These decision models can be constructed to simulate a randomized control trial and allow for flexibility to alter relevant parameters used variably in the management of particular clinical decisions and patients, including cost implications of each decision. As more accurate data become available, the model can morph, via sensitivity analysis, and take into consideration individual outcomes using personal clinical variables within limited real populations. This information can then be used in a shared decision-making process to help the patient and physician decide on optimal clinical and cost effective management strategies. The relative impact of clinical events, clinical indication, and mortality may be determined by assessing how changes in their values affect life expectancy or that particular intervention. Predicting outcomes (clinical and economic) in patients with many life-threatening and/or morbid variables is challenging and constitutes the average medical consultation. Medical research aids us in our quest for best practice through clinical trial results. Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) have been instrumental and highly regarded while constituting the backbone of our dynamic clinical guidelines. Research and development in cardiovascular disease have been a prolific producer of RCTs to assess risk and benefit an intervention. Still, many individual patient medical decisions, often using class I guidelines, remain subjectively
Congestible services and network effects

We study a system where many identical users of a service share a common resource. Each user is sensitive to congestion at the resource, but also experiences a positive network effect. We consider a model where both effects depend on the usage of individuals in the system, as well as potentially the number of users in the system. We consider two benchmark scales for the service: the subscriber base most preferred by an individual user (the "user-preferred" club size), and the subscriber base most preferred by the service manager (the "manager-preferred" club size). We find that the user-preferred size is always smaller than that chosen by a service manager; however, somewhat surprisingly, usage in the user-preferred club size is always efficient. Next, we carry out an asymptotic analysis in the regime where the network effect is increased without bound. We find that in this regime, the asymptotic behavior of the user-preferred club can be quite different from that formed by a service manager: for example, the user-preferred club size may remain finite, even if the club formed by a service manager has infinitely many members
Mach 4 Performance of Hypersonic Inlet with Rectangular-to-Elliptical Shape Transition

Wind-tunnel testing of a hypersonic inlet with rectangular-to-elliptical shape transition has been conducted at Mach 4.0. This fixed geometry inlet had a geometric contraction ratio of 4.8 and was designed using a quasi-streamline tracing technique to have a design point of Mach 5.7. These tests were performed to investigate the starting and backpressure limits of the inlet at conditions well below its design point. Results showed that the inlet required side spillage holes in order to self-start at Mach 4.0. Once started, the inlet generated a compression ratio of 12.6, captured almost 80% of available air and withstood a backpressure ratio of 30.3 relative to tunnel static pressure. The spillage penalty for self-starting was estimated to be 3.4% of available air. These experimental results, along with previous experimental results at Mach 6.2, indicate that fixed-geometry inlets with rectangular-to-elliptical shape transition are a viable configuration for airframe-integrated scramjets that operate over a significant Mach-number range.