cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Herpes Simplex and Varicella Zoster Viruses: Forgotten but Not Gone

Herpesvirus infections are common complications of organ transplantation. The most frequent herpesvirus infections are caused by cytomegalovirus (CMV), herpes simplex (HSV) and varicella zoster (VZV). Despite expansion of the therapeutic armamentarium, HSV and VZV continue to cause morbidity and occasional mortality in transplant recipients. Here we review the incidence and risk factors for HSV and VZV disease, their clinical presentation, effects of newer immunosuppressive regimens and prophylaxis for HSV and VZV in solid organ transplant recipients.
SOYBEAN LIPOXYGENASE‐I CATALYSED EXCHANGE OF MOLECULAR OXYGEN IN 13‐S‐HYDROPEROXY‐9‐CIS, 11‐TRANS OCTADECADIENOIC ACID

Soybean lipoxygenase-I was incubated with18O2-13-S-hydroperoxy 9-cis, 11-trans octadecadienoic-acid. It was shown, by18O content, degree of racemisation and of isomerisation that the enzyme catalysed the exchange of molecular oxygen with the oxygen atoms of the OOH group which is stereoselectively retained in the 13(S) conjiguraton after exchange.
Preparing Holstein Steer Calves for the Feedlot

It is increasingly common to raise Holstein steer calves for entry to feedlot production systems rather than more traditional milk-fed veal production systems. Providing adequate nutritional support for the maintenance and growth of Holstein calves is essential in preparing them for a commercial feedlot environment. In this article, the dietary requirements of preruminant calves are reviewed and examples of evaluating milk diets for Holstein calves are detailed. The importance of the transition between milk feeding and grain-forage diets is discussed. Aspects of disease prevention, such as coccidiosis control and colostrum feeding, are also discussed. The reader will gain practical tools to use in preventive medicine programs involving Holstein steers being prepared for commercial feedlots.
Practicing gender in youth sports

To learn more about gender identity and sports participation, I observed and photographed two mixed‐gender teams of six and seven year‐old soccer players in a youth sports program. My observations of these twenty‐six children (twelve boys and fourteen girls) were made at practices and games during the Fall soccer season of 1997. I also conducted photo‐elicitation interviews with five girls and five boys on the two teams. Field notes, photographs and interviews documented some of the gendered and non‐gendered behavior engaged in by the children and interviews revealed how the children thought about this. One intriguing pattern was that the young soccer players interacted freely with teammates of the other gender during adult‐structured exercises, yet self‐separated by gender when allowed to structure their own activities. This finding has important implications for understanding the social construction of gender and for strengthening gender equity provisions in youth sports programs.
Scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy of the chain layer in YBa2Cu3O7-x

Tunneling Microscopy and Spectroscopy ofthe Chain Layer in YBa2Cu3O7A. L. de Lozannea), s. H.panb), H. L. Edwardsc), D. J. Derro, A. L. Barr, and J. T. MarkertDepartment of Physics, The University of TexasAustin, TX 78712-1081.ABSTRACTWe review our recent results on the surface structure and spectroscopy ofthe chain layer of YBa2Cu3O7obtained with a low temperature scanning tunneling microscope. Foremost is the discovery ofa long wavelength(-1.3nm) modulation ofthe electronic density along the CuO chains, which has now been confirmed by neutrondiffraction to also exist in the bulk. Spectroscopically, we observe an energy gap (20-25 meV) which disappearsnear oxygen vacancies. We also give experimental details not previously published.Keywords: superconductor, tunneling spectroscopy, surface structure, STM, YBCO, HTS.2. INTRODUCTIONHigh temperature superconductors (HTS) are likely to remain puzzling in many ways in the foreseeablefuture because these materials have very complex structures. Consequently, it is important to obtain as muchinformation as possible about their structure and properties at all scales. The scanning tunneling microscope(STM) is a powerful tool that has been extremely successful in the study of semiconductor surfaces and, to alesser extent, metallic surfaces. While much effort has been spent in applying STM to HTS, this has not been asfruitful because these materials are not amenable to traditional surface preparation techniques, such as ion
Overcoming castration resistance in prostate cancer.

Purpose of review Recent advances in our understanding of the androgen axis signaling pathway have led to the development of therapeutic strategies to overcome the state of 'castration resistance' in prostate cancer. In this review, we examine the mechanisms of castration resistance, as well as recently reported and ongoing clinical studies, which will further identify therapeutic opportunities for novel therapeutics targeting the androgen-signaling axis in advanced prostate cancer. Recent findings As evidenced by recently reported positive phase III clinical trials, secondary hormonal agents such as abiraterone and MDV3100 may still be very effective in the treatment of castration-resistant prostate cancer, even after the use of docetaxel chemotherapy. Summary Novel agents targeting this pathway have demonstrated a proof of principle that overcoming castration resistance is possible, leading to significant changes in the landscape of treatment in this disease. The optimal combination, sequence, and pattern of use in these novel therapies will be the focus of clinical research in the near future.
Quantum stabilization of compactified AdS5

Abstract We investigate the role of quantum fluctuations in the system composed of two branes bounding a region of AdS. It is shown that the modulus effective potential generated by quantum fluctuations of both brane and bulk fields is incapable of stabilizing the space naturally at the separation needed to generate the hierarchy. Consequently, a classical stabilization mechanism is required. We describe the proper method of regulating the loop integrals and show that, for large brane separation, the quantum effects are power suppressed and therefore have negligible affects on the bulk dynamics once a classical stabilization mechanism is in place.
Hidden Markov models for classifying SAR target images

The classification of three types of ground vehicle targets from the MSTAR (Moving and Stationary Target Acquisition and Recognition) database is investigated using hidden Markov models (HMMs) and synthetic aperture radar images. The HMMs employ training sets of six power spectrum features extracted from High Range Resolution (HRR) radar signal magnitude versus range profiles of the targets for uniform sequences of aspect angles (7 degree separation). Classification accuracy versus numbers of hidden states (from 3 to 30), sequence length (3, 10, 15, and 30), and discretization level of the features (10 and 30 levels) is explored using test and validation data. Best classification (94% correct) is achieved for 3 hidden states, a sequence length of 30, and 10 feature levels.
Lack of genotoxic effects of sucrose acetate isobutyrate (SAIB)

Sucrose acetate isobutyrate (SAIB) was tested for potential genotoxic activity in four different in vitro assay systems. Two independent trials of a Salmonella reverse mutation assay (using strains TA98, TA100, TA1535, TA1537 and TA1538) showed no increases in revertant frequencies at doses up to 10,000 μg/plate which was non-toxic but exceeded the solubility limit. Similarly, no mutagenic response was observed at doses up to 1000 μg/ml at the HGPRT locus in cultured CHO cells; SAIB was toxic and its solubility limit was exceeded at 50 μg/ml. No clastogenic activity was detected in cultured CHO cells at concentrations up to 2000 μg/ml. All three preceding in vitro tests were conducted both in the presence and absence of Aroclor 1254-induced rat liver S-9 metabolic activation systems. An unscheduled DNA synthesis assay also was performed using rat primary hepatocyte cultures with doses up to 1000 μg/ml, and no DNA repair was detectable. Thus, SAIB was stringently tested at doses exceeding the solubility limit in culture medium and causing toxicity to CHO cells without obtaining any evidence for genotoxic activity as a mutagen, clastogen, or DNA-damaging agent.
Accelerated apoptosis characterizes cyclosporine-associated interstitial fibrosis

Accelerated apoptosis characterizes cyclosporine-associated interstitial fibrosis. Recently we developed a model of cyclosporine nephropathy in rats characterized by tubulointerstitial (TI) injury, macrophage infiltration, and progressive interstitial fibrosis 1 , 2 . To determine if the TI injury accompanying cyclosporine A (CsA) nephropathy was associated with accelerated apoptosis and ischemia, we treated rats for five weeks with CsA with or without losartan (to block angiotensin II type 1 receptor), or hydralazine/furosemide (H/F) (protocol #1). In protocol #2, rats received CsA with or without L-NAME (to block nitric oxide) or L-arginine (to provide a precursor to nitric oxide formation). Cyclosporine A treated rats had increased apoptosis of tubular and interstitial cells documented by PAS, propidium iodide staining, TUNEL assay, and electron microscopy compared to vehicle treated controls. Macrophages containing apoptotic cells could be confirmed by TUNEL/ED-1 double-staining and colocalized in areas of TI injury. Animals treated with CsA + losartan had a statistically significant decrease in apoptosis (TUNEL + cells/mm 2 ) when compared to CsA treated animals (6.0 vs. 19.9, P ≤ 0.0001). The decrease in apoptosis in the CsA + H/F group was not statistically significant. Animals treated with CsA + L-NAME had a statistically significant increase in apoptosis compared to the CsA treated animals (12.3 vs. 6.4, P = 0.001). L-arginine administration with CsA resulted in a decrease in tubulointerstitial apoptosis versus CsA treated animals, however, this did not reach statistical significance. The addition of L-arginine did result in a significant reduction in interstitial fibrosis ( P r = 0.63, P r = 0.83, P
pH dependence of photolysis intermediates in the photoactivation of rhodopsin mutant E113Q.

Glutamic acid at position 113 in bovine rhodopsin ionizes to form the counterion to the protonated Schiff base (PSB), which links the 11-cis-retinylidene chromophore to opsin. Photoactivation of rh...
Consent Contraindicated?—Response

Yaksh, Eisenach, and Shafer raise an important issue associated with off-label drug use. As they point out, many IRB-approved studies do not take into account populations or route of administration when assessing disclosure adequacy and informed consent. Basing clinical drug research project approvals on work that uses different routes of administration or patient populations than that proposed cannot and should not be the basis for safety evaluations. If they are, IRBs are acting on inappropriate information, and through such faulty project approval would not be fulfilling their key role of ensuring study participant safety. We applaud Anesthesiology and Anesthesia and Analgesia for their policies addressing IRB limitations, and would strongly advocate that all journals adopt similar policies.
Agonist and hypertonic saline-induced trafficking of the NK3-receptors on vasopressin neurons within the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus

The neurokinin 3 receptor (NK3R) is colocalized with vasopressinergic neurons within the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) and intraventricular injections of NK3R agonists stimulate vasopr...
Fertility of Turkey Eggs as Related to Method of Collecting and Aeration of Semen

Abstract BURROWS and Quinn (1937) described a method of semen collection from the domestic fowl and turkey. The literature was reviewed by them as well as by Parker (1942), Kamar (1958) and lake (1962). Research reporting comparison of equipment for collecting semen for artificial insemination of turkeys is not available. Burrows and Quinn (1937) used a small glass funnel for semen collection while Rooney (1950) and Lorenz et al. (1959) described a vacuum or aspirator bottle method. Bajpai and Brown (1963) noted fertility was not affected when turkey semen was exposed to temperatures of 10°, 15°, 20° and 25°C. and used immediately for inseminating. The fertilizing capacity of turkey spermatozoa was found to be reduced when held in temperatures ranging from 10° to 15°C. for more than one or two hours according to Harper (1955), Carter et al. (1957) and McCartney et al. (1959). The role of aeration of semen…
Inhibition of H1N1 influenza A virus growth and induction of inflammatory mediators by the isoquinoline alkaloid berberine and extracts of goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis)

In this study we tested whether the isoquinoline alkaloid berberine can inhibit the growth of influenza A. Our experiments showed strong inhibition of the growth of H1N1 influenza A strains PR/8/34 or WS/33 in RAW 264.7 macrophage-like cells, A549 human lung epithelial-derived cells and murine bone marrow derived macrophages, but not MDCK canine kidney cells. Studies of the mechanism underlying this effect suggest that berberine acts post-translationally to inhibit virus protein trafficking/maturation which in turn inhibits virus growth. Berberine was also evaluated for its ability to inhibit production of TNF-a and PGE2 from A/PR/8/34 infected-RAW 264.7 cells. Our studies revealed strong inhibition of production of both mediators and suggest that this effect is distinct from the anti-viral effect. Finally, we asked whether berberine-containing ethanol extracts of goldenseal also inhibit the growth of influenza A and production of inflammatory mediators. We found strong effectiveness at high concentrations, although upon dilution extracts were somewhat less effective than purified berberine. Taken together, our results suggest that berberine may indeed be useful for the treatment of infections with influenza A.
Pharmacological options for BPD prevention: steps for better clinical trial design.

The incidence of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) has remained relatively unchanged over the past 20 years despite intensive efforts to prevent this important complication of extreme prematurity. Approximately 40% of infants born at less than 29 weeks gestation are diagnosed with BPD, which is defined as oxygen supplementation at 36 weeks postmenstrual age.1 Although genetic susceptibility may account for 35–65% risk for BPD,2 center-based incidence varies considerably,3 suggesting that clinical practices are modifiable risk factors.
The mobilization of intracellular cadmium by alkoxyethyl esters of meso-2,3-dimercaptosuccinic acid

Abstract The cadmium mobilizing properties of two newly synthesized esters of meso -2,3-dimercaptosuccinic acid in mice have been examined. They are: di(2′-methoxyethyl) meso -2,3-dimercaptosuccinate ([-CH(SH)COOCH 2 CH 2 OR] 2 , R = CH 3 ; MEDMS), and di(2′-ethoxyethyl) meso -2,3-dimercaptosuccinate ([-CH(SH)COOCH 2 CH 2 OR] 2 , R = CH 2 CH 3 ; EEDMS), conveniently prepared from dimercaptosuccinic acid with 2-methoxyethanol and 2-ethoxyethanol, respectively. Mobilization studies in mice of aged in vivo cadmium deposits using five ip injections of 0.40 mmol/kg of each chelator in peanut oil clearly indicate that both compounds, MEDMS and EEDMS, are significantly superior to 2,3-dimercaptopropan-l-ol (BAL) in depleting the whole body burden of cadmium. The reductions caused by MEDMS and EEDMS were approximately 20 and 26%, respectively, whereas under similar dosage regimens BAL effected about only a 12% reduction. The esters were neither equal nor superior to BAL for the reduction of renal cadmium levels, MEDMS being the least effective. For the mobilization of hepatic cadmium deposits, both were quite promising (MEDMS, 20%; EEDMS, 34% reduction) compared to BAL (only 2% reduction). There was no accumulation of cadmium with either MEDMS or EEDMS in any of the other organs examined—spleen, testes, pancreas, and particularly the brain. These compounds enhance the fecal excretion of cadmium by a factor of 25- to 40-fold but have very little effect on the urinary excretion of this element. The present study reveals that the order of overall efficacy is EEDMS > MEDMS > BAL, considering the liver and whole body burdens of cadmium, but BAL > EEDMS > MEDMS in terms of the efficacy in reducing cadmium levels in the kidneys.
Filling the embarrassment of silence: Erotic performance on "blue discs"

Abstract The study of a genre of phonographic recordings called blue discs, made between the 1930s and 1950s, can help to bridge the gap between an oral tradition of erotic performance and film pornography, and also provide a case study in the use of women9s voices in the sound media.
Foot preference behavior during early childhood

Abstract Inquiry into the genesis of foot laterality has become a topic of scientific interest in recent years due to the potential utility of foot preference behavior measures in neuropsychological testing both in the cognitive and motor domains. With the goal of expanding the developmental perspective, this study examined foot (and hand) preference behavior in 205 3-, 4-, and 5-year-olds. Results indicated that although the majority of children displayed a preference for one foot over the other (dominance), a large portion exhibited nonestablished (mixed) behavior. The distribution of foot preference behaviors remained relatively stable over the cross-sectional period, suggesting that foot laterality may emerge after the fifth year of life in roughly one-third to one-fourth of the population. Previously reported suggestions that foot preference is established before hand dominance was not supported by these findings, nor were differences in the degree of laterality found between the sexes.
Management of Brain Edema Complicating Stroke

Ischemic brain edema, the accumulation of fluid within the brain parenchyma following stroke, is a predictable consequence of both ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes. Its development is the result of injury to both brain parenchyma and the blood vessels supplying the parenchyma. Ischemic stroke produces both cytotoxic (intracellular) edema, which develops when cells are damaged, and vasogenic (extracellular) edema, which arises from injury to structures essential to blood-brain barrier integrity. An understanding of the distinction between cytotoxic and vasogenic edema is essential in preventing secondary brain injury, since the treatments for the two entities differ. The development of new brain imaging technologies has advanced our understanding of brain edema. Both computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can detect edema. Specific MRI sequences such as diffusion-weighted imaging can distinguish cytotoxic and vasogenic subtypes, and thereby detect ischemic cell injury within minutes ...
Absorption of Oxygen at Elevated Temperatures (300 to 900 K) in the Schumann-Runge System*

The photoelectric spectrum of molecular oxygen has been recorded between 1750 and 2020 A at 300, 600, and 900 K with an instrumental bandwidth of 0.075 A. Over 1000 new lines have been observed, most of which have been identified as arising from v″ = 1 and 2 levels of the X3∑g− ground state. A modified curve-of -growth technique has been used to determine the oscillator strengths of the v″ = 0, 1, and 2; v′ = 5 to 13 bands. Estimates of the line widths have been obtained; predissociation is evident for the B3∑u− state from v′–3 to 17.
Effect of a novel neurotensin analog, NT69L, on nicotine-induced alterations in monoamine levels in rat brain.

Abstract NT69L, is a novel neurotensin (8–13) analog that participates in the modulation of the dopaminergic pathways implicated in addiction to psychostimulants. NT69L blocks nicotine-induced hyperactivity as well as the initiation and expression of sensitization in rats. Recent evidence suggests that stimulation of mesocorticolimbic dopamine system, with influences from the other monoamine systems, e.g. norepinephrine and serotonin, is involved in nicotine's reinforcing properties. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of pretreatment with NT69L on nicotine-induced changes in monoamine levels in the rat brain using in vivo microdialysis. Acute or chronic (0.4 mg/kg, sc, once daily for 2 weeks) administration of nicotine elicited increases in extracellular levels of dopamine, dopamine metabolites, norepinephrine, or serotonin in medial prefrontal cortex, nucleus accumbens shell, and core of rats. Pretreatment with NT69L (1 mg/kg, intraperitoneally, ip) administered 40 min before nicotine injection significantly attenuated the acute nicotine-evoked increases in norepinephrine levels in medial prefrontal cortex, dopamine and serotonin in nucleus accumbens shell. After chronic nicotine administration, pretreatment of NT69L markedly reversed the increase in dopamine levels in the nucleus accumbens core. NT69L's attenuation of some of the biochemical effects of acute and chronic nicotine is consistent with this peptide's attenuation of nicotine-induced behavioral effects. These data further support a role for NT69L or other neurotensin receptor agonists to treat nicotine addiction.
Hysteretic kinetic behavior of beef liver pyruvate carboxylase

Abstract Beef liver pyruvate carboxylase can exhibit transients of enzyme activity depending on prior incubation conditions. At pH 7.0, when the reaction is initiated with MgATP (after incubation with the other reaction components) an initial burst of activity occurs which decays to a slower rate. If the reaction is initiated by addition of enzyme, acetyl-CoA, or pyruvate, a lag occurs followed by an increase in activity to a steady state level after about one to two minutes. The lag transient has been analyzed by a pseudo first order rate equation derived by Hatfield et al. ( J. Biol Chem. 245 , 1748–1754, 1970 ) assuming a slow transition from one enzyme conformation to another. The rate constant for the transition was independent of enzyme concentration and MgATP and bicarbonate concentrations in the range tested, but was markedly dependent on pyruvate concentration. From the temperature dependence of the rate of transition, a value of 1.7 kcal was calculated for the conformational change. At pH 8 with additional salt (0.1 m KCl), the transient effect was diminished but can still be observed in some cases. It is suggested that biphasic double reciprocal plots observed with pyruvate may be due to a pyruvate-induced conformational change to a more active form at high pyruvate levels.
Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis: an inflammatory breast condition with review of the literature.

A 29-year-old woman noticed a tender mass in her right breast. The patient was seen by her gynaecologist and was prescribed antibiotics for 10 days for mastitis. Subsequently, she underwent a core biopsy of this mass and the pathology showed granulomatous mastitis. Cultures from the biopsy sample were negative for fungus and tuberculosis. The patient's clinical symptoms initially appeared to improve with antibiotic treatment, but were complicated by the formation of an abscess, which was drained in clinic. The patient was referred to rheumatology in anticipation of steroid or methotrexate therapy, and was placed again on antibiotic treatment to which she responded adequately.
Virtual instrumentation in corrosion measurements

We present a virtual instrument technology implementation for some corrosion measurements tasks, resulted in a very compact device (embedded system), designed to be a low cost alternative of commonly used PGstat apparatus. The device is made up with a low cost, but powerful Cypress PSoC microcontroller. The techniques we have used are the basic polarization resistance method and the square-wave voltammetry. A computer with a LabVIEW application controls our device and processes the data. The communication is wireless over a 2.4GHz RF link. We present measurements regarding the corrosion behavior of copper and some copper alloys in seawater.
Symmetries and quantum chaos: Time-reversal invariance in the nucleon-nucleon interaction

Let \ensuremath{\alpha} be the relative norm of a symmetry-breaking term in the Hamiltonian of a many-particle system, and \ensuremath{\Lambda} the energy-dependent transition parameter which charcterizes the quantum chaos via spectral and strength fluctuations. Combining a compact theory for \ensuremath{\Lambda}/${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\alpha}}}^{2}$ with fluctuation theories by which \ensuremath{\Lambda} can be deduced from (neutron-resonance) data gives, for the time-reversal-noninvariant nucleon-nucleon interaction, \ensuremath{\alpha}\ensuremath{\le}(1\char21{}2)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}3}$, which would improve with better small-strength data in nuclei with dense spectra. Diffusion equations involving \ensuremath{\Lambda} as the ``time'' variable are also discussed.
Development of recycling technology for plastic fishing gear—a materials evaluation

The recycling potential of used plastic fishing gear by melt reprocessing is examined from a materials standpoint, as part of broader efforts to combat marine pollution caused by plastic debris. The present paper focuses on the identification of plastics and contaminants in a large variety of collected fibrous fishing gear, and the characterization of plastics in terms of possible degradation in the marine environment and their expected thermal stability during reprocessing. None of the major plastics involved (nylons and HDPE) was found to be significantly altered after exposure; accelerated thermal stability tests also indicate that these plastics could be reprocessed to acceptable products. Strong evidence suggests, however, that PP found in minor quantities would further degrade during extrusion. The presence of asphaltic and alkyd-type coatings on the nylon fibers was shown to complicate the characterization and melt flow behavior. Preliminary data on extrusion conditions and the effects of coatings and additives on the mechanical properties of injection molded compounds are presented. General technical and economic aspects of complete recycling facilities are also discussed.
Possibility of observing recoilless resonant neutrino absorption

Low $Q$ value weak nuclear decays are considered which have two-body final states (electron captures and bound-state beta decays). This opens the possibility for the observation of a process analogous to the M\"ossbauer effect, where the emitted (anti)neutrinos would be resonantly absorbed by atoms in a suitable absorber. Candidates for such a process are examined. Linewidths as small as the narrowest observed in M\"ossbauer spectroscopy may conceivably allow a new class of $\ensuremath{\nu}$ (disappearance) oscillation experiments.
Regional distribution of glycogen in the rat cestode, Hymenolepis diminuta.

Abstract In an investigation of the regional distribution of glycogen in H. diminuta it was seen that the glycogen content was high in the region nearest the scolex, but dropped in the next ten centimeters, rose in the succeeding ten to twenty centimeters, remained fairly constant, and, finally, declined to the last of the remaining gravid proglottids. Fasting the rat host for 24 hours had a pronounced effect on the glycogen content of the first two or three ten centimeter sections of the worm, reducing it from over 100 mg/g to less than 20 mg/g, but little effect on the posterior region. This effect on the anterior part of the worm was partly prevented by raising the blood sugar of the host through the use of alloxan. A discussion of these findings is given.
Large magnetoelectric coefficient in Co-fired Pb (Zr0.52Ti0.48)O3–Pb (Zn1/3Nb2/3)O3–Ni0.6Cu0.2Zn0.2Fe2O4 trilayer magnetoelectric composites

Magnetoelectric materials possess coupling between the ferroic properties polarization, and magnetization [1–4]. The interrelation between ferroelectricity and magnetization allows the magnetic control of ferroelectric properties and vice versa. Single phase magnetoelectric (ME) materials (such as Cr2O3, BiFeO3, YMnO3, etc.) suffer from the drawback that ME effect is weak [5–7]. Better alternatives are ME composites that have higher magnitudes of the ME voltage coefficient exploiting the product property of the materials [8–10]. Magnetoelectric (ME) effect in a particulate sintered composite was obtained by combining magnetostrictive and piezoelectric phases [11–15]. Sintered composites have many advantages, such as simplicity in synthesis, cost-effective materials and fabrication process, and better control of desired geometry. However, the ME response is low of the order of 100 mV/cm Oe. Recently, laminated magnetoelectric (ME) composites synthesized by using giant piezoelectric and magnetostrictive materials have gained attention because they exhibit superior ME response [16–19]. Dong et al. [20] have reported a composite where piezofiber is laminated between the high permeability magnetostrictive FeBSiC alloy using epoxy and found a large response of 22 V/cm Oe at 1 Hz. The research on sintered composites has shown that corfiring multiple layers can provide higher ME coefficients. However, the drawback is that tape-casting process for synthesizing multilayers of heterogeneous materials is complex. Further, in order to improve the property of the sintered ME composites, the other variables such as composition, microstructure, geometry, texture, and post sinter heat treatment needs to be optimized. In our previous studies, it has been shown that soft piezoelectric phase (high dielectric and piezoelectric constant), soft magnetic phase (high permeability and low coercivity) [21], large piezoelectric grain size ([1 lm) [22], layered structure (bilayer/trilayer) [23] and post-sintering thermal treatment (annealing and aging) [24] improve the magnetoelectric property. In order to combine all the parameters together, the challenge is to develop a unique fabrication process, in which layers of piezoelectric and magnetostrictive can be cofired together. Moreover the poling process of the piezoelectric phase requires high resistivity, and thus electrodes have to be preserved during sintering. We found that pressure assisted sintering can produce trilayer composites with any desired dimensions. Further, we designed the compositions such that sintering could be done at low temperatures of 900 C which results in stable electrodes. The objective of this letter is to analyze the microstructural, piezoelectric, dielectric, and magnetoelectric properties of this trilayer sintered ME composite.
On the validation and verification of production systems: a graph reduction approach

This paper takes a parallel processing approach to the implementation of rule-based systems using a graph-reduction architecture, and investigates the consequences of this architecture in relation to the validation and verification of knowledge-based systems. The paper improves on the traditional sequential approaches to the development of knowledge-based systems and the limited validation and verification techniques that are applicable. This is contrasted with a graph reduction implementation of knowledge-based systems development based on an ALICE-like machine. The advantages of this style of programming in relation to systems development and program correctness are discussed. The paper shows that significant benefits could potentially be achieved through the use of graph-reduction techniques in the development of these systems.
Sum and Difference Frequencies in Vibration of High Speed Rotating Machinery

A vibration incident on a gas turbine engine was noted where two major excitation frequencies were involved—an excitation synchronous with rotor rotation, associated with rotor unbalance, and an asynchronous excitation associated with fluid inadvertently trapped in the rotor. Spectral analysis of the vibration wave form revealed not only the two base excitation frequencies, but also a component at the difference frequency. A mechanism for generating such a difference frequency is hypothesized—the truncation of the basic “beat frequency” wave form by virtue of clearance in the rotor bearing system. Fourier analysis of the hypothesized excitation wave form indicates that components at difference frequency are indeed generated, and also at the sum frequency and a spectrum of higher harmonics and side band frequencies. The hypothesized wave form’s spectral analysis bears a remarkable resemblance to the measured spectrum, except that low frequencies appear to have been greatly amplified in the experimental case, and high frequencies attenuated. This latter fact is attributed to the transmission characteristics of the gas turbine stator system, and is probably responsible for the lack of precise correspondence between the measured and hypothesized wave forms.
Design and implementation of fiber lenses for ultra-small probes used in biomedical imaging

Quality and parameters of probing optical beams are extremely important in biomedical imaging systems both for image quality and light coupling efficiency considerations. For example, the shape, size, focal position, and focal range of such beams could have a great impact on the lateral resolution, penetration depth, and signal-to-noise ratio of the image in optical coherence tomography. We present a design, construction and characterization of different variations of GRIN and ball fiber lenses, which were recently proposed for ultra-small biomedical imaging probes. Those fiber lens modules are made of a single mode fiber and a GRIN or ball fiber lens with or without a fiber spacer between them. The lens diameters are smaller than 0.3 mm. We discuss design methods, fabrication techniques, and measured performance compared with modeling results.
Radical copolymerization of 2-trifluoromethylacrylic monomers. II. Kinetics, monomer reactivities, and penultimate effect in their copolymerization with norbornenes and vinyl ethers

Radical copolymerizations of electron-deficient 2-trifluoromethylacrylic (TFMA) monomers, such as 2-trifluoromethylacrylic acid and t-butyl 2-trifluoromethylacrylate (TBTFMA), with electron-rich norbornene derivatives and vinyl ethers with 2,2′-azobisisobutyronitrile as the initiator were investigated in detail through the analysis of the kinetics in situ with 1H NMR and through the determination of the monomer reactivity ratios. The norbornene derivatives used in this study included bicyclo[2.2.1]hept-2-ene (norbornene) and 5-(2-trifluoromethyl-1,1,1-trifluoro-2-hydroxylpropyl)-2-norbornene. The vinyl ether monomers were ethyl vinyl ether, t-butyl vinyl ether, and 3,4-dihydro-2-H-pyran. Vinylene carbonate was found to copolymerize with TBTFMA. Although none of the monomers underwent radical homopolymerization under normal conditions, they copolymerized readily, producing a copolymer containing 60–70 mol % TFMA. The copolymerization of the TFMA monomer with norbornenes and vinyl ethers deviated from the terminal model and could be described by the penultimate model. The copolymers of TFMA reported in this article were evaluated as chemical amplification resist polymers for the emerging field of 157-nm lithography. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 42: 1478–1505, 2004
CBS-QB3 computational examination of substituent effects on the interconversion of 1,3,5-cyclooctatriene and bicyclo[4.2.0]-2,4-octadiene

Abstract The position of equilibrium between 7-substituted and 7,8-disubstituted 1,3,5-cyclooctatrienes (1) and the corresponding valence isomeric bicyclo[4.2.0]-2,4-octadienes (2) is highly sensitive to the nature of substituents. In particular, the difference between trans and cis-7,8 isomers in this regard has never been explained. These differences have been clarified by computational means. The CBS-QB3 hybrid quantum chemical computational method reproduces the experimental free energy differences between a series of cyclooctatrienes (1) and the corresponding valence isomers (2) with excellent accuracy; the MAD and root mean square (rms) differences are 0.54 kcal/mol and 0.58 kcal/mol, respectively. The energy barriers between several derivatives of 1 and 2 were computed with good accuracy (MAD=1.3 kcal/mol and rms=1.5 kcal/mol) by the same procedure. The dihedral angle between the substituents increases upon electrocyclic conversion of trans-7,8-disubstituted cyclooctatrienes to the bicyclic isomer and decreases for the corresponding cis isomers. This differential effect explains both the higher bicyclic proportion at equilibrium and the faster rate of cyclization in the trans series compared to cis.
Impurity-suppressed sintering in copper nanophase materials

Abstract We use an ultrahigh-vacuum in-situ transmission electron microscope to study the behaviour of copper nanoparticles formed by inert-gas condensation onto unreactive substrates. We show that copper nanoparticles ‘instantaneously’ sinter upon contact in vacuo but that trace oxygen exposure slows this sintering and alters particle structures. These results support a picture where particles grow primarily by Brownian coagulation to produce a self-similar distribution. The model confirms the role of oxygen in inhibiting surface diffusion. The size distribution approaches the commonly reported log-normal distribution. Impurities such as oxygen may be desirable to limit agglomeration and to permit dense nanoparticle compact formation.
The role of grain boundary structure and crystal orientation on crack growth asymmetry in aluminum

Abstract Atomistic simulations have shown that the grain boundary (GB) structure affects a number of physical, mechanical, thermal, and chemical properties, which can have a profound effect on macroscopic properties of polycrystalline materials. The research objective herein is to use atomistic simulations to explore the role that GB structure and the adjacent crystallographic orientations have on the directional asymmetry of an intergranular crack (i.e. cleavage behavior is favored along one direction, while ductile behavior along the other direction of the interface) for aluminum grain boundaries. Simulation results from seven 〈110〉 symmetric tilt grain boundaries (STGBs) show that the GB structure and the associated free volume directly influence the stress–strain response, crack growth rate, and crack tip plasticity mechanisms for middle-tension (M(T)) crack propagation specimens. In particular, the structural units present within the GB promote whether a dislocation or twinning-based mechanism operates at the crack tip during intergranular fracture along certain GBs (e.g., the ‘E’ structural unit promotes twinning at the crack tip in Al). Furthermore, the crystallography of the adjacent grains, and therefore the available slip planes, can significantly affect the crack growth rates in both directions of the crack – this creates a strong directional asymmetry in the crack growth rate in the Σ 11 (113) and the Σ 27 (552) STGBs. Upon comparing these results with the theoretical Rice criterion, it was found that certain GBs in this study ( Σ 9 (221), Σ 11 (332) and Σ 33 (441)) show an absence of directional asymmetry in the observed crack growth behavior, in conflict with the Rice criterion. The significance of the present research is that it provides a physical basis for the role of GB character and crystallographic orientation on intergranular crack tip deformation behavior.
Monochloramine decay in model and distribution system waters.

Abstract Chloramines have long been used to provide a disinfecting residual in distribution systems where it is difficult to maintain a free chlorine residual or where disinfection by-product (DBP) formation is of concern. While chloramines are generally considered less reactive than free chlorine, they are inherently unstable even in the absence of reactive substances. These reactions, often referred to as “auto-decomposition”, always occur and hence define the maximum stability of monochloramine in water. The effect of additional reactive material must be measured relative to this basic loss process. A thorough understanding of the auto-decomposition reactions is fundamental to the development of mechanisms that account for reactions with additional substances and to the ultimate formation of DBPs. A kinetic model describing auto-decomposition was recently developed. This model is based on studies of isolated individual reactions and on observations of the reactive ammonia-chlorine system as a whole. The work presented here validates and extends this model for use in waters typical of those encountered in distribution systems and under realistic chloramination conditions. The effect of carbonate and temperature on auto-decomposition is discussed. The influence of bromide and nitrite at representative monochloramine concentrations is also examined, and additional reactions to account for their influence on monochloramine decay are presented to demonstrate the ability of the model to incorporate inorganic demand pathways that occur parallel to auto-decomposition.
Experimental investigation of internal tide generation by two-dimensional topography

This paper reports on an experimental investigation carried out to study tidal conversion by subcritical Gaussian and supercritical, knife-edge topography. Experimental data was obtained using the Synthetic Schlieren method, and the results compared to existing analytical models. Viscous effects were incorporated into the previously inviscid models, to improve the comparison between experiment and theory. One set of experimental results and comparisons with theory are presented for wave beams generated over a subcritical Gaussian ridge. The effect of viscosity was weak on the subcritical beams; but viscosity did effectively smooth out singular regions of supercritical beams that would be predicted by inviscid theory. Overall, there was excellent quantitative agreement, validating both the experimental method and theory.
Compact multi-dimensional kernel extraction for register tiling

To achieve high performance on multi-cores, modern loop optimizers apply long sequences of transformations that produce complex loop structures. Downstream optimizations such as register tiling (unroll-and-jam plus scalar promotion) typically provide a significant performance improvement. Typical register tilers provide this performance improvement only when applied on simple loop structures. They often fail to operate on complex loop structures leaving a significant amount of performance on the table. We present a technique called compact multi-dimensional kernel extraction (COMDEX) which can make register tilers operate on arbitrarily complex loop structures and enable them to provide the performance benefits. COMDEX extracts compact unrollable kernels from complex loops. We show that by using COMDEX as a pre-processing to register tiling we can (i) enable register tiling on complex loop structures and (ii) realize a significant performance improvement on a variety of codes.
Relationship between gene expression and observed intensities in DNA microarrays—a modeling study

A theoretical study of the physical properties which determine the variation in signal strength from probe to probe on a microarray is presented. A model which incorporates probe-target hybridization, as well as the subsequent dissociation which occurs during stringent washing of the microarray, is introduced and shown to reasonably describe publicly available spike-in experiments carried out at Affymetrix. In particular, this model suggests that probe-target dissociation during the stringent wash plays a critical role in determining the observed hybridization intensities. In addition, it is demonstrated that non-specific hybridization introduces uncertainties which significantly limit the ability of any model to accurately quantify absolute gene expression levels while, in contrast, target folding appears to have little effect on these results. Finally, for data from target spike-in experiments, our model is shown to compare favorably with an existing statistical model in determining target concentration levels.
An archaeological examination of ethnic differences in body care rituals

Body care rituals as expressions of cultural heritage passed intergenerationally through childhood socialization were expected to show variation across income matched groups from two ethnic origins (Anglos and Mexican-Americans). The contents of 1595 collections of household refuse were coded to determine level of usage of products used in body care rituals by two income groups of Hispanics and two income-matched groups of Anglos. Findings regarding group differences in patterns of usage of personal cleansers, household cleansers, oral hygiene products, odor fighters, hair care products, skin care products, cosmetics, feminine protection products, over-the-counter drugs, and aspirin are reported. These findings are interpreted using several alternative theoretical perspectives including body cathexis, status, and role theory, attempts to capture the ‘Good Life,’ pride in the body, and cultural heritage. Propositions for future research are suggested.
Acoustic radiation force impulse imaging of in vivo breast masses

Acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) imaging utilizes brief, high energy, focused acoustic pulses to generate radiation force in tissue, and conventional ultrasonic correlation-based methods to track the resulting tissue displacements in order to image the relative mechanical properties of tissue. In an ongoing clinical study, ARFI datasets from in vivo breast masses are acquired prior to core biopsy. Matched B-mode and ARFI images are generated for each mass. Data sets are divided based upon biopsy results, and images are evaluated for differentiating features. The purpose of this study is to acquire in vivo ARFI datasets in real-time, and to identify differentiable features between benign and malignant breast masses in the ARFI images. A modified Siemens SONOLINE Antares/spl trade/ scanner and a VF10-5 probe were programmed to implement ARFI imaging in a multi-focal zone configuration. Under an IRB approved protocol. patients scheduled for breast core biopsy were recruited for participation. Data was acquired in real-time and processed offline. Matched B-mode and ARFI images were evaluated concurrently. To date, 27 masses have been imaged under this experimental protocol. In addition, single focal zone ARFI data acquired from 52 masses with a Siemens SONOLINE Elegra/spl trade/ scanner and a 75L40 transducer were evaluated for consistency of the differentiating features. Of the 27 masses interrogated via multi-focal-zone ARFI, 9 were malignant, 9 were benign fibroadenomas, 4 were cysts, and the rest were other benign masses (i.e. lymph nodes, fat necrosis, etc.) Structures in matched B-mode images are in good agreement with those in ARFI displacement images, with both modalities demonstrating comparable resolution. In general ARFI displacement images of malignant breast masses exhibit increased contrast and improved margin definition over matched B-mode images. Cancers displace less (i.e. they are stiffer) than the surrounding tissue, and generally appear larger than in matched B-mode images. In addition, some malignant masses exhibit a slower recovery time, which has not been observed with benign masses. The cysts and fibroadenomas, in general, exhibit less contrast in ARFI images than in matched B-mode images. In many cases, fibroadenomas are not clearly distinguished from the surrounding tissues in ARFI displacement images, and can appear either stiffer or softer than the surrounding tissue. Acoustic streaming is observed in cyst fluid in response to ARFI excitation. ARFI displacement images portray different, complementary information than matched B-mode images. Some possible differentiating features between malignant and benign breast masses have been identified by this pilot study. Promising features include: differences in B-mode and ARFI lesion size. displacement magnitude, recovery time, and image contrast. These results encourage further study of breast mass characterization using ARFI imaging.