cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Usability Testing Methods

Usability testing with human participants is a fundamental evaluation method [Nielsen, 1993; Shneiderman, 1998]. It provides an evaluator with direct information about how people use web sites and the problems that they encounter with the sites being tested. During usability testing, participants use the site or a prototype to complete a predetermined set of tasks, while the tester or software records the results of the participants’ work. The evaluator then uses these results to determine how well the site supports users’ task completion and to derive other measures, such as the number of errors encountered and task completion time.
3'-Azido-3'-deoxythymidine cytotoxicity and metabolism in the human colon tumor cell line HCT-8.

Abstract We have reported that 3′-azido-3′-deoxythymidine (AZT) possesses significant cytotoxicity in human tumor models when combined with agents that inhibit de novo thymidylate (dTMP) synthesis, such as 5-fluorouracil (FUra) and methotrexate (MTX). To aid in the further development of these and related cancer chemotherapeutic regimens, this study was undertaken to identify the biochemical processes relevant to the induction of AZT cytotoxicity in the model human colon tumor cell line HCT-8. The ic 50 of AZT in this cell line after a 5-day exposure was 55 μM. In cells incubated for 5 days with various concentrations of [ 3 H]AZT alone, both [ 3 H]AZT nucleotide pools and [ 3 H]AZT incorporation into DNA increased as the concentration of AZT in the medium increased. In addition, a 5-day exposure to AZT, at medium concentrations ⩽ 100 μ M, resulted in a reduction in dTMP synthase (EC 2.1.1.45; methylene tetrahydrofolate:deoxyuridine-5′-monophosphate C methyltransferase) and dThd kinase (EC 2.7.1.27; ATP: thymidine phosphotransferase) activities, compared with cells incubated without drug. The ic 50 of AZT was unchanged when the medium concentration of dThd was increased from 0.1 to 50 μM. Increasing the concentration of dThd to 50 μM also did not affect intracellular pools of [ 3 H]AZTDP and [ 3 H]AZTTP or the degree to which [ 3 H]AZT was incorporated into cellular DNA, but did reduce intracellular [ 3 H]AZTMP by ∼ 75%. The degree to which 3′-amino-3′-deoxythymidine (AMT) was generated from AZT and incorporated into DNA also was not affected by varying the medium concentration of dThd. However, the amount of [ 3 H]-AMT detected in DNA, ⩽ 3 pmol/10 6 cells at medium concentrations of [ 3 H]AZT ⩽ 100 μ M, was below that associated with significant cytotoxicity in these cells. These data support the notion that, in this model, AZT cytotoxicity is determined by the relative size of AZTTP pools and its utilization in DNA synthesis. Studies to verify this relationship assessed the effect of alterations in the concentration of dTTP and [ 3 H]AZTTP on [ 3 H]AZT incorporation into newly synthesized DNA in vitro , using DNA polymerases isolated from HCT-8 cells. The results of these studies confirmed that alterations in the concentration of either dTTP or AZTTP to reduce the dTTP/AZTTP ratio resulted in an increase in AZT incorporation into DNA. These findings are discussed in light of their biochemical implications and relevance to ongoing clinical trials.
What happened before the Big Bang

Was the Universe before the Big Bang of classical nature, described well by a smooth space–time? Or was it in a highly fluctuating quantum state? This is one of the most basic questions that we may ask once it is accepted that there was something before the Big Bang. Loop quantum gravity1,2,3 applied to isotropic models4 has shown that the quantum evolution of a wavefunction extends through the Big Bang5. Although a general demonstration is still lacking, this may suggest that calculations, and possibly future indirect observations, may allow us to see the Universe as it was before the Big Bang. Here, we analyse an explicit model with a pre-Big Bang era, indicating limitations that would imply that it is practically impossible to answer some of our questions. Assumptions (or prejudice) will remain necessary for knowing the precise state of the Universe, which cannot be fully justified within science itself.
Estimating defect-type distributions through volume diagnosis and defect behavior attribution

We propose a methodology that effectively estimates the defect-type distribution that affects a design fabricated in a given manufacturing process. Understanding the distribution can improve design quality, test quality, and the manufacturing process itself. The methodology is composed of i) an improved approach for identifying the signal lines relevant to defect activation at each site reported by diagnosis, ii) a new behavior attribution method, and iii) a novel approach to estimate the defect-type distribution. The efficacy of this methodology is validated using circuit-level simulation experiments. The results show that the method achieves an average accuracy of 94% in identifying signal lines that are relevant to the activation of a defect. When estimating defect-type distribution for a population affected by a variety of defects, the average estimation accuracy is 92% with ideal diagnosis. With a realistic diagnosis (i.e., the inherent ambiguity of diagnosis is accounted for), the estimated defect-type distribution is 85% accurate, on average.
Enzyme-Polymer-Single Walled Carbon Nanotube Composites as Biocatalytic Films

Enzyme-containing polymer−single walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) composites have been explored as unique biocatalytic materials. The biocatalytic composites were prepared by suspending SWNT and α-chy...
Change in obsessive-compulsive symptoms mediates subsequent change in depressive symptoms during exposure and response prevention.

Objective The current study examines the temporal relationship between changes in obsessive-compulsive symptoms and changes in depressive symptoms during exposure and response prevention (EX/RP) therapy for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
Simultaneous time and size perception

Judgments of the apparent duration and size of visually presented circles vary directly with the duration and size of the presented stimuli. When the frequencies of stimulus duration (short vs. long) and stimulus area (small vs. large) are varied, perceived size and duration are directly related to the frequency of the lower attribute value (short or small). These data are compared to the predictions of different information-processing models. The model which accounts for the data best is one in which it is assumed that perceived size and perceived duration grow together over the course of time spent sampling size information, and that attribute frequency affects the rate of sampling and/or the point at which sampling stops.
Location of the epitope for an anti-CD8α antibody 53.6.7 which enhances CD8α-MHC class I interaction indicates antibody stabilization of a higher affinity CD8 conformation

Abstract MHC class I tetramers are widely used, usually in combination with an antibody to CD8, to detect antigen specific T cells. Some anti-CD8α antibodies block the interaction of murine MHC class I tetramers with CD8 T cells, while others such as 53.6.7, enhance. To understand the molecular basis for this effect, we mapped the epitope for the enhancing antibody 53.6.7 and three other blocking antibodies using a panel of murine CD8α (Lyt-2) mutants expressed on COS-7 transfectants. Mutations in residues that contact MHC class I affected binding of the blocking antibodies. In contrast, antibody 53.6.7 was affected by a mutation in the residue T81A located on the D–E loop. In the cocrystal of CD8αα with MHC class I, two different complexes (A and B) were observed, indicating the existence of different CD8 conformations. The T81 residue does not make contact with MHC class I in either complex, however, neighboring residues in the D–E loop make very different contacts in the two different complexes. The most likely explanation for antibody enhancement of tetramer bindings is that binding of 53.6.7 to CD8αβ stabilizes a conformation with a higher affinity for interaction with MHC class I and suggests that the CD8 binding site is flexible.
Dynamic Modeling of Dual Speed Ferroelectric and Charge Hybrid Memory

This paper presents a physical model for program and retention transients in ferroelectric (FE) and charge hybrid nonvolatile memory. A region-by-region statistical model for domain switching in polycrystalline FEs was incorporated with the tunneling current simulations to predict the memory window (AVTH) evolution during program and retention operations. The simulations validated the two-step program mechanism experimentally observed in such memories: rapid initial domain switching on account of high fields in the FE layer followed by field enhancement in the tunneling dielectric which initiates electron injection into the storage nodes. Further, these simulations were shown to accurately account for individual ΔVTH from the two additive memory mechanisms at all program times. The depolarization effect was shown to be dominant for ΔVTH loss at short and moderate retention time scales (<;100 s). This model was further used to provide realistic estimates in achieving dual speed program and the corresponding dual mode retention characteristics akin to a DRAM and flash hybrid operation.
Democracy in Japan

Following World War II, the American Occupation created Western style democratic institutions in Japan and sought to develop a society and culture that would support a democratic political system. Now, after four decades, the successes and failures of Japanese democracy can be assessed. How equal are Japan s citizens? To what extent are their views represented in the legislature? How does Japan handle dissent and protest? How stable is its democracy? In closely related and readable essays, thirteen leading experts consider three main components of democracy in Japan - political, social, and economic. The editors introduction provides historical background, making this book accessible and valuable for students, the general reader interested in Japan, as well as the specialist."
Enteric glial cells are major contributors to formation of cyclic AMP in myenteric plexus cultures from adult guinea-pig small intestine

Abstract Cultures derived from ganglia isolated from the small intestine of adult guinea-pigs were used to determine relative contribution of neurons and glial cells to stimulation of cAMP formation by forskolin in myenteric ganglia. In untreated cultures (8–12 days), the ratio of glial cells to neurons was 5-fold higher than the ratio in intact myenteric plexus preparations. Treatment with cytosine arabinoside virtually eliminated the glia by the 12th day. Microelectrode recording of excitatory responses to forskolin in AH/Type 2 neurons confirmed the viability of cultured neurons in cytosine arabinoside. Forskolin elevated the cAMP content of cultures and cytosine arabinoside reduced this effect by 80–90%. This suggests that enteric glial cells are the major contributors to cAMP formation in the cultures and that glial cells contribute significantly to elevation of cAMP levels seen in intact myenteric ganglia.
A testbed for SCADA control system cybersecurity research and pedagogy

This paper describes the Mississippi State University Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) security laboratory and Power and Energy Research laboratory. This laboratory combines process control systems from multiple critical infrastructure industries to create a testbed with functional physical processes controlled by commercial hardware and software over common industrial control system routable and non-routable networks. The testbed enables a research process in which cybersecurity vulnerabilities are discovered, exploits are used to understand the implications of the vulnerability on controlled physical processes, identified problems are classified by criticality and similarities in type and effect, and finally cybersecurity mitigations are developed and validated against the testbed. The testbed also enables control system security workforce development through integration into the classroom of laboratory exercises, functional demonstrations, and research outcomes.
Elemental Composition of Aquatic Plants from Okefenokee Swamp

ABSTRACT The elemental composition of eight aquatic macrophytes from Okefenokee Swamp, Georgia was examined during a comprehensive survey. Nymphaea odorata Ait., Nuphar advena Ait., Pontederia cordata L., Lachnanthes caroliniana(Lam) Dandy, Xyris smalliana Nash., Rhynchospora inundata (Oakes) Fern., Sphagnum cuspidatum var. serrulata (Schlief.) Schlief., and Utricularia sp. (Utricularia purpurea Walt., U. juncea Vahl. and U. inflata Walt.) were sampled from seven marshes and partitioned into roots, rhizomes, stems, petioles, leaves and flowers. Ash, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sodium, aluminum, iron, and manganese were analyzed with a plasma emission spectrograph. Upper plant parts contained higher concentrations of K, Ca, Mg, Na, and Mn than roots and rhizomes. Iron and aluminum concentrations were highest in Utricularia and submersed roots. Elemental concentrations were similar to these in aquatic macrophytes found in other regions.
Deuteron Optical-Model Analysis in the Range of 11 to 27 MeV

Deuteron elastic scattering angular distributions are analyzed using a simple optical model without spin-orbit potentials. Discrete valleys in the parameter space of the model are found to give a very good description of the data. Two of these regions are used to analyze 52 angular distributions measured for target nuclei with $Z\ensuremath{\ge}12$ and deuteron energies in the range of 11 to 27 MeV, with particular emphasis on data at energies of 11.8, 15, and 21.6 MeV. In order to determine the trends of the optical-model parameters as a function of mass number and energy, four different sets of geometrical parameters are used, and only the well depths, real and imaginary, are varied to obtain a best fit to the experimental data. The real well depths show a smooth linear increase as a function of the Coulomb parameter $\frac{Z}{{A}^{\frac{1}{3}}}$ and a smooth linear decrease as a function of energy. The imaginary well depths show fairly large fluctuations from element to element but no systematic trend as a function of mass number. For all four sets of parameters, the imaginary well depth decreases rapidly for bombarding energies from 11 to 14 MeV and then increases slowly for energies from 15 to 27 MeV.
The Design for Tractable Analysis (DTA) Framework: A Methodology for the Analysis and Simulation of Complex Systems

The Design for Tractable Analysis (DTA) framework was developed to address the analysis of complex systems and so-called â€œwicked problems.â€ DTA is distinctive because it treats analytic processes as key artifacts that can be created and improved through formal design processes. Systems (or enterprises) are analyzed as a whole, in conjunction with decomposing them into constituent elements for domain-specific analyses that are informed by the whole. After using the Systems Modeling Language (SysML) to frame the problem in the context of stakeholder needs, DTA harnesses the Design Structure Matrix (DSM) to structure the analysis of the system and address questions about the emergent properties of the system. The novel use of DSM to â€œdesign the analysisâ€ makes DTA particularly suitable for addressing the interdependent nature of complex systems. The use of DTA is demonstrated by a case study of sensor grid placement decisions to secure assets at a fixed site.
Lady in satin: Billie holiday and the invention of identity

Wishing on the Moon: The Life and Times of Billie Holiday by Donald Clarke. New York: Viking, 1994. 468 pp. (hardcover) $24.95. Lady Sings the Blues (rev. ed.) by Billie Holiday, with William Dufty. New York: Penguin, 1992. 102 pp. (paper) $10.00. Lady Day: The Many Faces of Billie Holiday by Robert O'Meally. New York: Arcade, 1991. 207 pp. (hardcover) $29.95.
Quantifying Cell−Surface Interactions Using Model Cells and Total Internal Reflection Microscopy

Nonspecific colloidal forces play an important role in controlling the adhesion of cells and liposomes to surfaces. A better understanding of cell−surface interactions is therefore needed for the development of improved drug delivery systems and biomemetic materials. The nonspecific interactions between model cells and a glass plate at low ionic strengths were quantified using total internal reflection microscopy (TIRM). Model cells were developed using 4.32 and 9.98 μm polystyrene spheres coated with phospholipids. Varying ratios of zwitterionic dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine (DPPC) and negatively charged dimyristoyl phosphatidylglycerol (DMPG) were used to coat the spheres to mimic the lipid charge composition of actual cell membranes. Measured potential energies of interaction between the model cells and a glass plate show excellent agreement with theoretical predictions based on an exponential model for the electrostatic energy. Debye lengths calculated from the experiments agree well with those pred...
Effect of seeding rate on alfalfa stand longevity

Alfalfa (Medicago saliva L.) seeding rates greatly affect the number of surviving plants after 1 yr. The objective of this research was to determine what effect seeding rate has on alfalfa stand density two or more years after seeding. Different alfalfa cultivars were spring-seeded at rates ranging from 3 to 27 kg ha -1 pure live seed into tilled seedbeds in Missouri and Pennsylvania to provide eight location-years of data. After the seeding year, herbage was removed four or five times each year. Stand densities were determined one to three and five to eight months after planting (MAP) and annually in the spring thereafter for up to 7 yr after planting. Increasing seeding rates resulted in near linear increases in plant densities from 100 to 800 plants m -2 within 3 MAP. Higher plant densities experienced eight times higher plant deaths the first year after planting compared with lower plant densities. At all eight location-years of this research, the period 24 to 36 MAP had the least amount of plant deaths regardless of seeding rate. Higher plant densities associated with seeding rates greater than 17 kg ha -1 did not persist beyond 6 MAP. Seeding rates of 10 and 17 kg ha -1 had similar plant densities by 24 MAP in 75% of the location-years although further reductions in seeding rate reduced plant density for up to 4 yr after planting. Seeding rates greater or slightly less than those recommended have little to no effect on the life expectancy of an alfalfa stand.
On-Virus Construction of Polyvalent Glycan Ligands for Cell-Surface Receptors

Glycans arrayed on the exterior of virus particles were used as substrates for glycosyltransferase reactions to build di- and trisaccharides from the virus surface. The resulting particles exhibited tight and specific associations with cognate receptors on beads and cells, in one example defeating in cis cell-surface interactions in a manner characteristic of polyvalent binding. Combined with the ability of viruses to provide structurally well-defined attachment points, the methodology provides a convenient and powerful way to prepare complex carbohydrate ligands for clustered receptors.
Elderly Internal Migration in the United States Revisited

This article explores determinants of elderly migration in the United States by extending the more formal model developed by Conway and Houtenville (1998) instead of the more traditional “investment” model. The approach is twofold. In the authors' model, they clarify the publicly provided goods that generate utility for the elderly while recognizing that the tax burden of the elderly is for all publicly provided goods supplied by each state. They also include the effects of growth rates in economic and policy variables during the migration period, which allows them to measure the endogeneity of elderly net in-migration and state expenditure policy. This approach generates intriguing results. In addition to the significance of standard amenity variables, the authors find that state per capita income and the real growth rate of state per capita income have a significant and positive effect on elderly net in-migration. They also find significant effects of overall tax burden variables. Surprisingly, when sta...
Institutional and economic factors in residential natural gas markets in the Northeastern United States between 1960 and 1984

Abstract Changes in economic circumstances and in institutional arrangements in residential natural gas markets between 1960 and 1984 are reviewed. Changes that occurred in fuel choices, energy prices, natural gas expenditures, and energy legislation are examined. Particular responses of Northeast consumers and their elected representatives to the change in circumstances are noted. It appears that public and economic choices were exercised and pursued in response to changes in conditions during the period.
Value-neutral tradeoffs between failure risk and growth

Business choices typically entail tradeoffs between potential growth rates and the risk of failure. This note applies recent results from the theoretical valuation literature to characterize, as a benchmark, the terms of that tradeoff sufficient to leave the expected value of discounted cash flows unchanged. The central result indicates that risk-neutral investors could accept sizeable increases in risk in exchange for modest improvements in expected growth rates. The benchmark result can be used to rank projects in terms of their impact on the value of the firm's equity.
Relation between crack surface displacements and strain energy release rate in thin rubber sheets

The classical problem of a small crack in the center of a large, thin rubber sheet deformed in simple tension, pure shear or equi-biaxial extension is revisited. Following Key (1969) and Lake (1970), the strain energy release rate for crack growth is derived by examining the crack surface displacements (crack opening) and considering the work that would be done by forces applied to close the crack again. It is shown that the strain energy release rate may be expressed in the same form for all three modes of deformation. The results have been verified using non-linear finite element analysis. Differences arising from the use of different hyper-elastic material models are discussed.
Potential impacts of aerosol–land–atmosphere interactions on the Indian monsoonal rainfall characteristics

Aerosols can affect the cloud-radiation feedback and the precipitation over the Indian monsoon region. In this paper, we propose that another pathway by which aerosols can modulate the multi-scale aspect of Indian monsoons is by altering the land-atmosphere interactions. The nonlinear feedbacks due to aerosol/diffuse radiation on coupled interactions over the Indian monsoon region are studied by: (1) reviewing recent field measurements and modeling studies, (2) analyzing the MODIS and AERONET aerosol optical depth datasets, and (3) diagnosing the results from sensitivity experiments using a mesoscale modeling system. The results of this study suggest that the large magnitude of aerosol loading and its impact on land-atmosphere interactions can significantly influence the mesoscale monsoonal characteristics in the Indo-Ganges Basin.
High photvoltage multilayer organic dye photocells

When mixtures of dyes with close enough characteristic wavelengths were employed in single cell arrangements, the light absorbing capabilities were found to increase, giving rise to enhanced photovoltages. Multilayer-organic dye photocells, which were fabricated, generated a high photovoltage. These photocells were then investigated as photoelectrochemical cells. In a 10 layer cell arrangement of the type SnO2/10 mM Phenosafranine + 10 mM Brilliant Cresyl Blue + 0.5 EDTA/Pt, in optical and elctrical series, photovoltages as high as 6.4 V were recorded. The characteristics of the photoelectrochemical processes and the problems of photocurrent generation are discussed.
Contrast agent choice for intravenous coronary angiography

Abstract The screening of the general population for coronary artery disease would be practical if a method existed for visualizing the extent of occlusion after an intravenous injection of contrast agent. Measurements performed with monochromatic synchrotron radiation X-rays and an iodine-containing contrast agent at the Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory have shown that such an intravenous angiography procedure would be possible with an adequately intense monochromatic X-ray source. Because of the size and cost of synchrotron radiation facilities it would be desirable to make the most efficient use of the intensity available, while reducing as much as possible the radiation dose experienced by the patient. By choosing contrast agents containing elements with a higher atomic number than iodine, it is possible to both improve the image quality and reduce the patient radiation dose, while using the same synchrotron radiation source. By using Si monochromator crystals with a small mosaic spread, it is possible to increase the X-ray flux available for imaging by over an order of magnitude, without any changes in the storage ring or wiggler magnet. The most critical imaging task for intravenous coronary angiography utilizing synchrotron radiation X-rays is visualizing a coronary artery through the left ventricle or aorta which also contain contrast agent. Calculations have been made of the signal to noise ratio expected for this imaging task for various contrast agents with atomic numbers between that of iodine and bismuth. The X-ray energy spectrum of the X-17 superconduction wiggler beam line at the National Synchrotron Light Source at Brookhaven National Laboratory has been used for these calculations. Both perfect Si crystals and Si crystals with a small mosaic spread are considered as monochromators. Contrast agents containing Gd or Yb seem to have about the optimal calculated signal to noise ratio. Gd-DTPA is already approved for use as a contrast agent for magnetic resonance imaging. Experiments have already been performed with Yb-DTPA in animals, and it appears to have a lower toxicity than that of Gd-DTPA. Reported animal experiments with Gd-DOTA contrast agent show no toxicity at all.
Reversed circulation in acardiac fetuses is associated with anatomic inversions in the aortic wall

Blood vessel anatomy is probably related to hemodynamic factors which change during development. This principle has been postulated as the basis for differences in the numbers of elastic lamellae in the tunica media of the proximal and distal human aorta. Recent studies of human fetuses at varying stages confirmed that the number of elastin lamellae in the aortic wall varied along its length (spatially) and with age (temporally). These findings suggest that hemodynamic influences during prenatal development induce structural changes in the aortic wall. Acardiac fetuses provide a model for studying the effects of hemodynamic changes on the structure of elastic arteries because blood flow through the aorta in such fetuses is reversed and greatly reduced. Also, analysis of the vascular structure of acardiac fetuses would further define the characteristic features of this congenital disorder. In the present study, we have examined the gross and histological anatomy of the aorta from seven acardiac fetuses. In each case, the microscopic architecture of the aorta was deranged and the normal proximaldistal differences in arterial caliber and number of elastin lamellae were reversed. In the proximal aorta, medial lamellar units were thin, fragmented, and irregular. In some segments, only traces of medial lamellar units existed. We believe that these anatomic abnormalities represent degenerative or dysplastic responses to reversed flow and pressure gradients in the aorta. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that aortic wall structure is influenced by hemodynamic factors during development. © 1994 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Personality correlates of the Five-Factor Model for a sample of business owners/managers: Associations with scores on self-monitoring, Type A behavior, locus of control, and subjective well-being.

Bivariate relationships were examined between scores on the Five-Factor Model of personality and four personality dimensions including Self-monitoring, Locus of Control, Type A Behavior, and Subjec...
3H-labeled MK-801 binding to the excitatory amino acid receptor complex from rat brain is enhanced by glycine

We have studied the binding of the excitatory amino acid antagonist 3H-labeled MK-801 [(+)-5-methyl-10,11-dihydro-5H-dibenzo[a,d]cyclohept-5,10-imine maleate] to extensively washed rat brain membranes. Binding of 3H-labeled MK-801 was inhibited by phencyclidine, Mg2+, and 3-(2-carboxypiperazin-4-yl)-propyl-1-phosphonic acid in a manner dependent on the presence of L-glutamate or N-methyl-D-aspartate, suggesting that it labeled a site linked to the N-methyl-D-aspartate subtype of the glutamate receptor. Glycine also regulated 3H-labeled MK-801 binding, enhancing it in the concentration range of 0.01-10 microM. The actions of glutamate and glycine involved increases in binding affinity, without altering the number of 3H-labeled MK-801 binding sites. The effects of glycine in this system were mimicked by L- and D-alanine and L- and D-serine. However, beta-alanine and taurine were much less effective, and strychnine did not block the actions of glycine indicating that they were not mediated by the classical glycine receptors. Glycine also enhanced the ability of N-methyl-D-aspartate to increase Ca2+ influx into primary cultures of mouse striatal neurons measured using the Ca2+-sensitive fluorescent dye fura-2. These results support the suggestion that glycine may be an important regulator of the physiological actions of glutamate in vivo.
Multielement analysis of metal-binding proteins in cytosol fractions

Abstract The distribution of 24 elements among the cytosol protein fractions was determined for specimens of the bivalve mollusc Macoma balthica obtained from three estuarine locations subject to varying levels of metal pollution and on specimens of Rangia cuneata from three areas subject to varying degrees of thermal pollution. Of the 24 elements examined 15 occurred at levels above detection limits and in association with one or more of four distinct protein fractions. Levels of Ag and Cu associated with high molecular weight proteins and with “metallothionein-like” proteins permitted identification of those Macoma balthica specimens exposed to the greatest degree of metal stress.
The Importance of Radiative Braking for the Wind Interaction in the Close WR+O Binary V444 Cygni

We describe radiation-hydrodynamical simulations of the wind interaction in the close WR+O binary V444 Cygni, with special emphasis on the potential role of the O-star light in decelerating the approaching massive WR wind. We demonstrate that such radiative braking can significantly alter the strength and overall geometry of the wind interaction, leading, for example, to a substantially wider opening angle for the wind bow shock. It can also cause the X-ray production to fall far below previous theoretical estimates based on collision of the two winds at their terminal speeds. We further find that the importance of radiative braking in this system depends crucially on the effectiveness of the WR wind line opacity in reflecting O-star light. This suggests that observational estimates of quite gross system characteristics, like the bow-shock opening angle, can be used to infer the degree of radiative braking, and so provide a useful new contraint for line-driving models of WR winds.
Relation of GaAsP light emitter efficiency to zinc diffusion spike density

A new electrolytic etching technique has been utilized to remove the p-type zinc-diffused layer from GaAsP light emitting diodes. Actual device chips were examined before or after bonding to the header. The GaAsP material was grown from the vapor on (100) oriented GaAs substrates. Both isolated and multiple-associated spikes in the diffusion front are revealed on the (100) surface. Rapid etching of the p-type layer is carried out in a K3Fe(CN)6-KOH solution by placing an iron electrode against the diffused region. The etch rate slows drastically near the junction. Cross sections of the device chips, when cleaved and etched on (110) surfaces, show that the diffusion spikes are associated with dislocations originating at the interface with the GaAs substrates. In some material the diffusion spikes can be correlated with spots of en-hanced light emission, but in most rases little or no brightness varia-tion can be detected. A study of light emitter efficiency versus diffusion spike density shows that increased spike density in the range 3 x 105/cm2 to 3 x 107/cm2 decreases the efficiency at constant bias current.
Rapid and reliable technique for determining unit weight and porosity of deep-sea sediments

Abstract A rapid and reliable technique is explained for determining unit weight and porosity of deep-sea sediment from water content and average grain density measurements. Comparisons are made between this method and the standard tube method (volumetric), with 77 samples. The correlation coefficient is found to be 0.994 with a standard deviation between the methods of ± 0.01 g/cm 3 . The two techniques used to determine porosity are found to have a correlation coefficient of 0.998 with a standard deviation of 0.42%. A nomographic chart is shown which permits rapid determination of unit weight using water content and average grain density.
The experiences and adaptations of abortion providers practicing under a new TRAP law: a qualitative study.

Abstract Objective Abortion laws are proliferating in the United States, but little is known about their impact on abortion providers. In 2011, North Carolina instituted the Woman's Right to Know (WRTK) Act, which mandates a 24-h waiting period and counseling with state-prescribed information prior to abortion. We performed a qualitative study to explore the experiences of abortion providers practicing under this law. Study design We conducted semistructured interviews with 31 abortion providers (17 physicians, 9 nurses, 1 physician assistant, 1 counselor and 3 clinic administrators) in North Carolina. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed. Interview transcripts were analyzed using a grounded theory approach. We identified emergent themes, coded all transcripts and developed a thematic framework. Results Two major themes define provider experiences with the WRTK law: provider objections/challenges and provider adaptations . Most providers described the law in negative terms, though providers varied in the extent to which they were affected. Many providers described extensive alterations in clinic practices to balance compliance with minimization of burdens for patients. Providers indicated that biased language and inappropriate content in counseling can negatively impact the patient-physician relationship by interfering with trust and rapport. Most providers developed verbal strategies to mitigate the emotional impacts for patients. Conclusions Abortion providers in North Carolina perceive WRTK to have a negative impact on their clinical practice. Compliance is burdensome, and providers perceive potential harm to patients. The overall impact of WRTK is shaped by interaction between the requirements of the law and the adaptations providers make in order to comply with the law while continuing to provide comprehensive abortion care. Implications Laws like WRTK are burdensome for providers. Providers adapt their clinical practices not only to comply with laws but also to minimize the emotional and practical impacts on patients. The effects on providers, frequently not a central consideration, should be considered in ongoing debates regarding abortion regulation.
Reading and Evaluating Theory in a Research Publication

This article is designed to help clinical nurses understand how theory is built, how it is related to research, and how and when theory is used in research publications. It will also help nurses understand how to interpret whether a theory was used appropriately in a study. It is neither a comprehensive treatment of theory development nor a discussion of the need for the use of theory in nursing science, although both are important. The purpose of this article is to help busy nurses ‘‘get on with the job’’ of interpreting evidence from research and evaluating that evidence for soundness so they can use it in practice.
Fibroblast biology in three-dimensional collagen matrices.

Abstract Research on fibroblast biology in three-dimensional collagen matrices offers new opportunities to understand the reciprocal and adaptive interactions that occur between cells and surrounding matrix in a tissue-like environment. Such interactions are integral to the regulation of connective tissue morphogenesis and dynamics that characterizes tissue homeostasis and wound repair. During fibroblast–collagen matrix remodeling, mechanical signals from the remodeled matrix feed back to modulate cell behavior in an iterative process. As mechanical loading (tension) within the matrix increases, the mechanisms used by cells to remodel the matrix change. Fibroblasts in matrices that are under tension or relaxed respond differently to growth factor stimulation, and switching between mechanically loaded and unloaded conditions influences whether cells acquire proliferative/biosynthetic active or quiescent/resting phenotypes.
Effects of varying forage particle size and fermentable carbohydrates on feed sorting, ruminal fermentation, and milk and component yields of dairy cows.

Ration sorting is thought to affect ruminal fermentation in such a manner that milk yield milk and components are often decreased. However, the influence of ruminally degradable starch on ration sorting has not been studied. Therefore, the objective of this experiment was to evaluate the interactions between forage particle size (FPS) and ruminally fermentable carbohydrates (RFC) for dry matter intake (DMI), ration sorting, ruminal fermentation, chewing activity, and milk yield and components. In this study, 12 (8 ruminally cannulated) multiparous, lactating Holstein cows were fed a total mixed ration that varied in FPS and RFC. Two lengths of corn silage were used to alter FPS and 2 grind sizes of corn grain were used to alter RFC. It was determined that increasing RFC increased ruminating time and did not affect eating time, whereas increasing FPS increased eating time and did not affect ruminating time. Ruminal fermentation did not differ by altering either FPS or RFC. However, increasing FPS tended to increase mean and maximum ruminal pH and increasing RFC tended to decrease minimum ruminal pH. Particle size distribution became more diverse and neutral detergent fiber content of refusals increased over time, whereas starch content decreased, indicating that cows were sorting against physically effective neutral detergent fiber and for RFC. Selection indices determined that virtually no interactions occurred between FPS and RFC and that despite significant sorting throughout the day, by 24 h after feeding cows had consumed a ration very similar to what was offered. This theory was reinforced by particle fraction intakes that very closely resembled the proportions of particle fractions in the offered total mixed ration. An interaction between FPS and RFC was observed for DMI, as DMI decreased with increasing FPS when the diet included low RFC and did not change when the diet included high RFC. Dry matter intake increased with RFC for long diets and did not change with RFC on short diets. Increasing RFC was found to increase milk yield, milk protein content and yield, and lactose content and yield but decrease milk fat content. Increasing FPS did not have as great an effect on milk production as RFC. This study found no significant interaction between FPS and RFC for ration sorting, although an interaction between FPS and RFC for DMI was observed. Neither FPS nor RFC affected ruminal fermentation, whereas RFC had a greater influence on milk yield and components than FPS.
The influence of cytoreductive surgery on the response to chemotherapy of a rat renal cancer.

The potential ability of cytoreductive surgery to increase the effectiveness of chemotherapy (vindesine) was tested utilizing male Wistar Lewis rats transplanted simulataneously with intraperitoneal and flank implants of a spontaneously arising renal adenocarcinoma. Cytoreduction was accomplished in some animals by removing the flank tumor 5–7 weeks following implantation; all animals received vindesine (IP injection of 0.5 mg/kg on two successive weeks). While vindesine reduced tumor growth, in no case did the addition of cytoreductive surgery enhance the effect of chemotherapy. The addition of cytoreductive surgery to marginally effective chemotherapy was found to be ineffective or even detrimental.
Spectrum of renal findings in pediatric fibromuscular dysplasia and neurofibromatosis type 1

Background Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) and neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) are the most common causes of pediatric renal artery stenosis (RAS) in western countries, and characterization of their angiographic features could aid in an accurate diagnosis and in treatment.
Redox Initiated Cationic Polymerization: Reduction of Triarylsulfonium Salts by Silanes

A novel redox initiator system for carrying out the cationic polymerization of epoxide, oxetane and vinyl ether monomers has been developed. The redox couple is based on a triarylsulfonium salt as the oxidant with an organosilane as the reducing agent. The reaction between these two agents is markedly catalyzed by platinum and palladium complexes. Cationic polymerizations using this redox initiator system were carried out in a conventional manner with neat monomer or under solution conditions. This paper also describes the novel use of a two-component redox system in which the silane is delivered to the monomer sample in the vapor state. Optical pyrometry (infrared thermography) was employed as a convenient method with which to monitor the polymerizations. A study of the effects of variations in the structures of the triarylsulfonium salt, the silane and the type of noble metal catalyst were carried out. The use of this initiator system for carrying out commercially attractive cross-linking polymerizations for coatings, composites and electronic encapsulations is discussed.
Mechanisms and applications of electron stimulated desorption in surface science

Abstract Bombardment of surfaces by low energy (20–1000 eV) electrons causes electronic excitations that can result in the desorption of ionic and neutral atoms and molecules from the surface layer. The mechanisms of electron stimulated desorption of ions and neutrals will be discussed, and the uses and limitations of electron stimulated desorption ion angular distributions (ESDIAD) for determining local structure of surface molecules will also be described. ESDIAD is useful as a structural tool because the direction of ion desorption is determined by the orientation of the surface bond which is ruptured by the excitation. Examples to be discussed include the influence of surface ‘additive’ atoms (e.g. O, Br, K) on the local structure of NH 3 , H 2 O and CO adsorbed on transition metal surfaces.
Immobilized lipase‐catalysed production of alkyl esters of restaurant grease as biodiesel

Simple alkyl ester derivatives of restaurant grease were prepared using immobilized lipases as biocatalysts. The lipases studied included those of Thermomyces lanuginosa and Candida antarctica supported on granulated silica (gran- T.l. and gran- C.a., respectively), C. antarctica supported on a macroporous acrylic resin (SP435) and Pseudomonas cepacia immobilized within a phyllosilicate sol-gel matrix (IM PS-30). All alcoholysis reactions were carried out in solvent-free media employing a one-step addition of the alcohol to the reaction system. Of the lipases studied, IM PS-30 was found to be the most effective in catalysing the methanolysis and ethanolysis of grease. The processes catalysed by gran- T.l. and gran- C.a. lipases gave poor conversions to esters, and the SP435-catalysed reactions gave intermediate yields of ethyl and methyl esters. Water activity (a(w)) was an important factor in the methanolysis reactions; reaction media with a(w)<0.5 resulted in the highest conversions to methyl esters. Molecular sieves also improved methyl ester yields by as much as 20% in transesterification reactions catalysed by IM PS-30. The immobilized lipases also were evaluated for their ability to produce alkyl esters of grease with several additional normal and branched-chain alcohols.
Allergic and irritant patch test reactions and atopic disease

This study presents a profile of patients with chronic recalcitrant eczematous disease referred by dermatologists for contact allergy evaluation. Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) and irritant responses were carefully defined, as was the presence or absence of atopy obtained by history. Of 410 patients studied, 44% had no history of atopic disease and 46% were classed as definitely atopic. Among relevant ACD patch test reactors (n = 198), 51.5% had atopy, compared with 40.9% with no atopy but this difference was not significant. Likewise, among atopics (n = 189), 54% had definite, relevant ACD patch test responses while 33.9% had negative ACD (again not significant). Significance was seen in the higher mean number of positive allergic patch tests in the atopic group (2.7 versus 2.0, p = 0.0223). Irritant patch tests were highest among patients with both ACD and atopy (p = 0.0308) and the proportion of irritant responses correlated with increasing numbers of positive ACD tests. We conclude that atopics are at least as likely to have ACD as are non-atopics. Irritancy is increased in these patients with chronic dermatitis and the frequency of irritant reactions correlates with both greater numbers of ACD responses and with presence of atopy.
A finitely additive version of kolmogorov’s law of the iterated logarithm

In their paperSome finitely additive probability (to appear in Ann. Probability), Roger A. Purves and William D. Sudderth introduced the measurable strategy idea. In this paper, we first generalize the measurable strategy idea to the more general sigma-fields of subsets ofX and prove an important theorem. Then, based on this theorem, we state and prove a finitely additive version of Kolmogorov’s law of the iterated logarithm and a finitely additive version of Hartman and Wintner’s law of the iterated logarithm in a finitely additive setting.
Influence of Diaspore Seeding and Chloride Concentration on the Transformation of “Diasporic” Precursors to Corundum

“Diasporic” precursors derived from sols formed by the controlled hydrolysis of aluminum sec-butoxide in the presence of HCl yielded mixtures of corundum and amorphous alumina when calcined between 500° and 800°C. The fraction of corundum in the calcined products depended on the HCl/alkoxide ratio used during hydrolysis and was maximized at 64 wt% when the molar ratio was 1. Precursors formed from sols hydrolyzed in the presence of HNO3 rather than HCl yielded only amorphous products or transition aluminas when treated below 900°C. The corundum yield of the precursors was enhanced when they were seeded with diaspore (α-AlOOH) crystals. Precursors synthesized with an HCl/alkoxide ratio of 1 and seeded with 7.6 × 1016 diaspore seeds/(mol of Al2O3) were transformed to phase-pure corundum within 12 h at 700°C. Based on studies of the phase evolution of the precursors during calcining, it was concluded that the diaspore seeds promoted conversion by acting as corundum nuclei once they decomposed at ∼450°C.