cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Segregation parameters and pair-exchange mixing models for turbulent nonpremixed flames

The progress of chemical reactions in nonpremixed turbulent flows depends on the coexistence of reactants, which are brought together by mixing. The degree of mixing can strongly influence the chemical reactions and it can be quantified by segregation parameters. In this paper, the relevance of segregation parameters to turbulent mixing and chemical reactions is explored. An analysis of the pair-exchange mixing models is performed and an explanation is given for the peculiar behavior of such models in homogeneous turbulence. The nature of segregation parameters in a H2/Ar-air nonpremixed jet flame is investigated. The results show that Monte Carlo simulation with the modified Curl's mixing model predicts segregation parameters in close agreement with the experimental values, providing an indirect validation for the theoretical model.
Scaling behavior of the specific heat of a LuBa2Cu3O7-y single crystal near the Hc2 line.

High-resolution specific-heat measurements have been performed on an untwinned single crystal of LuBa[sub 2]Cu[sub 3]O[sub 7[minus][ital y]] in an applied magnetic field, along the [ital c] axis, of up to 5 T. The zero-field data near the normal-superconducting transition temperature ([ital T][sub [ital c]]=92.5 K) display a very large and sharp specific-heat anomaly. Among various models for scaling the magnetic field and temperature-dependent specific-heat data, a model which incorporates the two-dimensional nature of this transition provides the best description of our data. A narrow region of crossover to three-dimensional behavior is also observed.
Spectrophotometric Study of Iron-bis(2-hydroxymethyl-5-hydroxy-4-pyrone-6)-ketone Complexes

The interaction between iron(III) and bis(2-hydroxymethyl-5-hydroxy-4-pyrone-6)-ketone has been investigated by spectrophotometric methods. Continuous variation and mole ratio curves show evidence that 2:3 and 1:2 complexes are formed. The first step of the reaction involves the formation of an 1:1 complex. Durch spektrophotometrische Messungen wurde die Bildung von Komplexen im System Eisen(III)-Bis(2-Hydroxymethyl-5-hydroxy-4-pyron-6)keton untersucht. Im ersten Reaktionsschritt wird ein (1:1)-Komplex gebildet, danach sind ein (2:3)- und ein (1:2)-Komplex nachzuweisen.
Mössbauer spectroscopic studies of iron-doped rutile

Moessbauer spectra were obtained of single crystal and powdered samples of rutile (TiO2) doped to about one percent by weight in isotopically enriched iron. It is shown that the oxidation state may be reversibly altered in situ. After reduction, the oxygen neighbors of the dopant ion are apparently shifted to accomodate the larger ferrous ion. The agreement of calculated quadrupole splittings with experimental results suggests that impurities and oxygen vacancies are uniformly distributed in powdered samples, giving the dopant ions an 'ideal lattice' local environment. The differences between the single crystal and powder sample hyperfine parameters are attributed to variations in stoichiometry, charge compensation mechanisms, or other diffusion related parameters.
Computer recognition of cancer in the urinary bladder using optical coherence tomography and texture analysis

The vast majority of bladder cancers originate within 600 m of the tissue surface, making optical coherence tomography OCT a potentially powerful tool for recognizing cancers that are not easily visible with current techniques. OCT is a new technology, how- ever, and surgeons are not familiar with the resulting images. Technol- ogy able to analyze and provide diagnoses based on OCT images would improve the clinical utility of OCT systems. We present an automated algorithm that uses texture analysis to detect bladder can- cer from OCT images. Our algorithm was applied to 182 OCT images of bladder tissue, taken from 68 distinct areas and 21 patients, to classify the images as noncancerous, dysplasia, carcinoma in situ CIS, or papillary lesions, and to determine tumor invasion. The re- sults, when compared with the corresponding pathology, indicate that the algorithm is effective at differentiating cancerous from noncancer- ous tissue with a sensitivity of 92% and a specificity of 62%. With further research to improve discrimination between cancer types and recognition of false positives, it may be possible to use OCT to guide endoscopic biopsies toward tissue likely to contain cancer and to avoid unnecessary biopsies of normal tissue. © 2008 Society of Photo-Optical
Total cross section for p+p→p+p+π0 close to threshold

Abstract Making use of an electron-cooled beam in the IUCF storage ring, we have measured the total cross section σ tot for pp→pp π 0 at 31 bombarding energies between 285 and 325 MeV. At a level of about 5%, the data show no fluctuations that could be associated with the onset of other pion production channels. A calculation of the single-partial-wave cross section σ ss , including direct production only (no rescattering), falls short of the experiment by a factor of 5.2±0.3, but reproduces the observed energy dependence when scaled. This energy dependence is explained by contributions from the phase-space factor and the final-state interaction between the outgoing nucleons. The relative importance of higher partial waves is deduced from the energy dependence of σ tot as well as from the angular distributions of reaction protons.
The method of weighting and approximation of restricted pseudosolutions

On considere une methode d'approximation d'une pseudosolution restreinte (solution des moindres carres). On etablit la convergence de la methode de ponderation dans l'espace de Hilbert et on applique la regularisation de Tikhonov
Genotype Variation in Kernel Cadmium Concentration in Sunflower Germplasm under Varying Soil Conditions

Production of nonoilseed sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) on certain soil series yields kernels with cadmium (Cd) concentration excess of international market Cd limits. This study was conducted to determine if genetic variability exists among sunflower germplasm for low kernel Cd accumulation, and to select genotypes under varying soil conditions for breeding low kernel Cd cultivar(s). Two-hundred sunflower genotypes were evaluated at four different soil series in North Dakota and Minnesota. Large genetic variation in Cd content was found among genotypes. Kernel Cd concentrations showed continuous variation across the range of 0.31 to 1.34 mg/kg (average for four locations). Although Genotype × Location effect exists, genotypes were ranked similarly in Cd concentration at the four locations. Concentrations of Cd for the genotypes were highly correlated among locations, indicating genotypes performed consistently across the four environments. Results clearly show that genotypes for sunflower differ significantly in kernel Cd concentration, and it appears that this evaluation of 200 genotypes has identified sufficient low Cd germplasm for breeding low kernel Cd genotypes. Soil properties played an important role in Cd uptake and accumulation in sunflower. Data from the four soil series showed that fine textured soils from the Fargo and Grandin locations contained higher levels of diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA) extractable Cd and total Cd, and caused significantly higher sunflower kernel Cd across genotypes. Regressions for kernel Cd on soil measurements were all significant except for pH measures in deeper layer soil. The highly correlated relationship could be used to predict kernel Cd for some soil series which were not part of this study. North Dakota Agric. Exp. Stn. Journal no. 3622.
Simultaneous determination of codeine and it seven metabolites in plasma and urine by high-performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet and electrochemical detection

A sensitive and selective high-performance liquid chromatography method has been developed for the measurement of codeine and its seven metabolites, norcodeine, morphine, normorphine, codeine-6-glucuronide, morphine-6-glucuronide, morphine-3-glucuronide and norcodeine glucuronide, in plasma and urine. The compounds were recovered from plasma and urine using solid-phase extraction with C18 cartridges and separated on a reversed-phase C8 column with a mobile phase consisting of 77% buffer (5 mM sodium phosphate monobasic and 0.70 mM sodium dodecyl sulfate, pH 2.35) and 23% acetonitrile. Codeine, norcodeine, codeine-6-glucuronide, norcodeine glucuronide and morphine-3-glucuronide were detected by ultraviolet detection at 214 nm, with a detection limit of 0.02 nmol/ml for each compound in plasma. Morphine-6-glucuronide, normorphine and morphine were monitored by electrochemical detection at 350 mV, with a detection limit of 0.003 nmol/ml for each compound in plasma. The assay showed good reproducibility and accuracy using external standardization. The recovery and inter-day variation for all compounds in plasma samples were 63.40-77.90% and 3.49-16.77% (R.S.D.) and while in urine were 64.98-90.13% and 2.93-9.96% (R.S.D.), respectively.
A unified framework for connectionist systems.

Pattern classification using connectionist (i.e., neural network) models is viewed within a statistical framework. A connectionist network's subjective beliefs about its statistical environment are derived. This belief structure is the network's "subjective" probability distribution. Stimulus classification is interpreted as computing the "most probable" response for a given stimulus with respect to the subjective probability distribution. Given the subjective probability distribution, learning algorithms can be analyzed and designed using maximum likelihood estimation techniques, and statistical tests can be developed to evaluate and compare network architectures. The framework is applicable to many connectionist networks including those of Hopfield (1982, 1984), Cohen and Grossberg (1983), Anderson et al. (1977), and Rumelhart et al. (1986b).
Extent of smooth muscle resection during mucosectomy and ileal pouchanal anastomosis affects anorectal physiology and functional outcome

PURPOSE: In patients undergoing colectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis, controversy exists regarding the necessity for and appropriate extent of rectal mucosal resection. Our aim was to assess histologically the extent of anorectal smooth muscle resected at the time of mucosal proctectomy and to correlate this with postoperative bowel and anal sphincter function. METHODS: Surgical specimens of 79 patients undergoing colectomy, mucosal proctectomy, and ileal pouch-anal anastomosis were examined histologically in a blinded fashion, and the content of smooth muscle in the mucosal proctectomy specimens was scored. Degree of smooth muscle resection was correlated with postoperative anorectal manometry and with functional outcomes, including stool frequency and nocturnal leakage of stool after 3 and 12 months of follow-up. RESULTS: Degree of smooth muscle loss correlated with decreased resting pressure of the internal anal sphincter as early as three months after surgery (r=−0.26;P=0.03), and the correlation was even stronger after 12 months (r=−0.37;P=0.005). Decreases in resting pressure were related, in turn, to increased stool frequency at 12 months (r=0.32;P=0.02), but stool frequency was also inversely related to volume of the ileal pouch (r=−0.27;P=0.05). Multivariate analysis confirmed that resting pressure and pouch volume were both significant determinants of stool frequency. The likelihood of nocturnal stool leakage at 12 months was primarily a function of stool frequency (P<0.01) but also increased with patient age (P<0.02). CONCLUSIONS: These findings indicate that loss of resting pressure of the internal anal sphincter can be correlated with the extent of smooth muscle resection during rectal mucosectomy and that these factors, in turn, correlate with increased stool frequency and a greater likelihood of nocturnal stool leakage. Consequently, an optimum functional result requires care in identifying and preserving maximum anorectal smooth muscle during mucosectomy.
Effect of Morphology on the Response of Polyaniline-based Conductometric Gas Sensors: Nanofibers vs. Thin Films

Mixtures of methanol with increasing fractions of formic acid were used to progressively transform the morphology of polyaniline starting from nanofibers to compact conventional films. It was demonstrated that the methanol/formic acid mixture could be used as a viable solvent system for nanostructured polyaniline to achieve sufficient processability while maintaining its microstructure. The effects of morphology on the response of polyaniline-based conductometric sensors to neutral gas molecules were also examined. Although the nanofiber films demonstrated faster responses, they exhibited lower sensitivity than conventional thin films. Creating high surface area nanofibril structures in polyaniline film does not appear to effectively enhance sensor sensitivity due to the relatively open structure inherent to many polymeric materials and the adverse contribution from the interfibrillar contact resistance associated with nanofiber films.
Histamine-dependent behavioral response to methamphetamine in 12-month-old male mice

Abstract Methamphetamine (MA) use is a large problem across the United States. Effects of MA include hyperactivity and increased anxiety. Using a mouse model system, we examined behavioral performance in the open field and elevated zero maze and shock-startle response of 12-month-old wild-type mice injected with MA once (1 mg/kg) 30 min prior to behavioral testing. MA treatment resulted in behavioral sensitization in the open field, consistent with studies in younger mice. There was an increased activity in the elevated zero maze and an increased shock-startle response 30 and 60 min post-injection. Since histamine mediates some effects of MA in the brain, we assessed whether 12-month-old mice lacking histidine decarboxylase (Hdc−/−), the enzyme required to synthesize histamine, respond differently to MA than wild-type (Hdc+/+) mice. Compared to saline treatment, acute and repeated MA administration increased activity in the open field and measures of anxiety, though more so in Hdc−/− than Hdc+/+ mice. In the elevated zero maze, opposite effects of MA on activity and measures of anxiety were seen in Hdc+/+ mice. In contrast, MA similarly increased the shock-startle response in Hdc−/− and Hdc+/+ mice, compared to saline-treated genotype-matched mice. These results are similar to those in younger mice, suggesting that the effects are not age-dependent. Overall, single or repeated MA treatment causes histamine-dependent changes in 12-month-old mice in the open field and elevated zero maze, but not in the shock-startle response.
Pacific halibut bycatch in Pacific cod fisheries in the Bering Sea: an analysis to evaluate area-time management

Abstract Mortality of discarded Pacific halibut bycatch from Pacific cod fisheries in the Bering Sea leads to significant losses in the halibut setline and in the Pacific cod fisheries. The commercial halibut fishery loses yield because of catch limit reductions to compensate the resource for lost spawning potential and because halibut killed as bycatch will not be available for subsequent harvest, and the cod fisheries may lose harvest if they reach a bycatch mortality limit before reaching allowed catch. In this study, significant differences in Pacific halibut bycatch rates and associated yield losses were found among months and areas of the Bering Sea in the longline and trawl fisheries for Pacific cod in 1990–1992. Bycatch rates were usually highest in late spring and early summer and in areas close to the Unimak Pass. With the exception of 1992, yield loss in the longline fishery was around 1 kg per kg of bycatch mortality, irrespective of where or when bycatch occurred. In the trawl fishery, loss of halibut yield varied from 1 to 4 kg per kg of bycatch mortality. Highest halibut net yield losses per tonne of groundfish harvest usually coincided with highest bycatch rates. When both fisheries operated in one area, trawl bycatch often imposed higher yield losses than longline bycatch, despite lower bycatch rates. Bycatch was affected by the strong 1987 halibut year class. Highest bycatch and yield loss rates occurred in the trawl fishery in 1990 and 1991 when the population was dominated by halibut age-3 and -4, and in the longline fishery in 1992 as fish reached age-5.
Malignant mucosal melanoma of the head and neck: Review of the literature and report of 14 patients

BACKGROUND. Fortunately, primary malignant mucosal melanoma of the head and neck is a rare entity. A paucity of data elucidating the predictive factors as well as the unpredictable and aggressive biologic behavior of mucosal melanoma compound the vexing clinical situation. This review summarizes what the literature reveals about the epidemiology, patient survival, patterns of local recurrence, and local and distant metastasis of the disease. Over 1000 patients with this disease have been reported. Survivals at 5 and 10 years is 17% and 5%, respectively. Approximately 19% of patients present with lymph node metastasis and another 16% develop lymph node metastases after treatment, whereas 10% present with distant metastasis. Local metastasis does not affect survival; this is in sharp contrast with skin melanoma. Over 50% of patients experience local treatment failure, and salvage treatment is effective in only 25% of these cases. Local failure is the harbinger of distant metastases. Patients with nasal mucosal melanoma have a 31% 5-year survival rate, whereas sinus melanoma patients fare poorly, with a 0% rate of 5-year survival. METHODS. The authors conducted a retrospective review of 14 patients with characteristics similar to those in the literature in terms of outcome. RESULTS. The 5-year survival rate for these patients was 14%. Whole-body positron emission tomography was performed on 3 patients to detect metastatic disease. The patterns of local recurrence, distant metastasis, and survival for these patients were compared with the same data for patients described in the literature. CONCLUSIONS. Surgery appears to have the greatest efficacy in the management of mucosal melanoma, although radiation therapy may play an increasingly important role in the future.
Identification of microbial biofilms in osteonecrosis of the jaws secondary to bisphosphonate therapy.

Purpose Biofilm theory has emerged to explain the etiology of the chronic infections that have come to constitute between 65% to 80% of the microbial diseases treated by physicians in the developed world. The purpose of this article is to report for the first time the observation of multispecies microbial biofilms on affected bone in patients with osteonecrosis of the jaws (ONJ) secondary to bisphosphonate therapy. Patients and Methods A program has been established at the University of Southern California to monitor and evaluate patients with ONJ as a multidisciplinary collaboration between the School of Dentistry, Center for Biofilms, Center for Craniofacial Molecular Biology and the Keck School of Medicine. From this cohort, 4 patients with active ONJ who were scheduled for necessary treatment in the form of sequestrectomy gave informed consent for this study. Bone samples were evaluated using conventional histopathologic techniques and scanning electron microscopy, a technique applicable to biofilm characterization. Results Bone specimens from affected sites in all patients showed large areas occluded with biofilms comprising mainly bacteria, and occasionally yeast, embedded in extracellular polymeric substance. The number of bacterial morphotypes in the biofilms ranged from 2 to 15, and they included species from the genus Fusobacterium , bacillus, actinomyces, staphylococcus, streptococcus, Selenomonas , and 3 different types of treponemes. The yeast identified was consistent with Candida species. Co-aggregation was observed between different species within the biofilms. Conclusion These findings have important clinical and therapeutic implications and may suggest a role for microbial biofilms in the disease process of ONJ.
The Strong African American Families Program: Longitudinal Pathways to Sexual Risk Reduction

Abstract Purpose To identify the mechanisms by which intervention-induced increases in adaptive parenting were associated with a reduction in sexual risk behavior among rural African American adolescents across a 29-month period. Methods African American families ( N = 284) with 11-year-old children in nine rural Georgian counties participated in the 7-week Strong African American Families (SAAF) project. Counties were randomly assigned to intervention or control conditions. The program was evaluated via pretest, posttest, and long-term follow-up interview data collected in the families' homes. The current paper tests a hypothetical model of program efficacy, positing that intervention-induced changes in parenting behaviors would enhance in youth self-pride, which in turn would forecast changes in sexual behaviors measured 29 months after pretest. Results Compared with controls, parents who participated in SAAF reported increased adaptive universal and racially specific parenting. Furthermore, intervention-induced changes in these parenting behaviors were associated indirectly with sexual risk behavior through adolescent self-pride, peer orientation, and sexual intent. Conclusions Culturally competent programs, developed through empirical and theoretical research within affected communities, can foster adaptive universal and racially specific parenting, which can have a long-term effect on adolescent sexual risk behavior. Effective strategies for designing and implementing culturally competent programs are discussed.
A Novel Consecutive Chain Transfer Reaction to p-Methylstyrene and Hydrogen during Metallocene-Mediated Olefin Polymerization

This paper describes the first example of consecutive chain transfer reaction, first to p-methylstyrene (or styrene) and then to hydrogen, during metallocene-catalyzed propylene polymerization by rac-Me2Si[2-Me-4-Ph(Ind)]2ZrCl2/MAO complex. The PP molecular weight is inversely proportional to the molar ratio of [p-methylstyrene]/[propylene] and [styrene]/[propylene] with the chain transfer constants of ktr/kp = 1/6.36 and 1/7.5, respectively. Although hydrogen does not influence the polymer molecular weight, it greatly affects the catalyst activity. Each PP chain formed contains a terminal p-methylstyrene (or styrene) unit. The terminal p-MS unit can be metalated to form a stable polymeric anion for living anionic polymerization to prepare new PP diblock copolymers, such as PP-b-PS, which are very difficult to prepare by other methods. The overall process resembles a transformation reaction from metallocene to living anionic polymerization.
Direct Analysis in Real Time Mass Spectrometry (DART-MS) of Ionic Liquids

Direct analysis in real time mass spectrometry (DART-MS) was used to analyze ionic liquids (ILs) containing either imidazolium or phosphonium cations combined with different types of inorganic and organic anions. Ionic liquids were directly inserted into the ionization source using a glass probe without dissolution into organic solvents. Mass spectra of the ILs were collected in both positive and negative mode with a linear ion-trap instrument. The intact cation of the compound was typically the dominant peak in positive mass spectra and cluster ion formation was present. Some individual anions were not readily observed in the negative mass spectra (based on the type of anion); however, the mass difference of adjacent cluster ions equal the mass of a complete IL and the anion mass could be verified by subtracting the known cation mass. The degree and intensity of the cluster ion formations was found to be dependent on the nature of the specific ILs as well as the DART temperature gas stream.
First high-nuclearity palladium halide/carbonyl/phosphine cluster, [Pd12(μ3-I)2(μ4-I)3(μ2-CO)6(PEt3)6]+ monocation containing an octacapped octahedral Pd6(μ3-Pd)6(μ3-I)2 fragment : structure-to-synthesis generation from different synthetic routes

Abstract The original synthesis and stereochemical characterization of the [Pd12(μ3-I)2(μ4-I)3(μ2-CO)6L6]+ monocation (1) (L = PEt3; [PF6]− salt) was an outgrowth of our investigation of the chemical behavior of two unusual thallium–palladium clusters: (μ6-Tl)[Pd3(CO)3L3]2+ (2) which possesses a Pd3TlPd3 sandwich framework, and [Tl2Pd12(CO)9L9]2+ (3) which may be viewed as edge-fusions of three Pd5 trigonal bipyramids to a central Tl2Pd3 trigonal bipyramid. Room-temperature reactions of 2 and 3 with I2 in THF gave rise in each case to small yields ( ( NBu 4 n ) ( PF 6 ) . The square-planar palladium(II) geometries of the iodide-bridged dimeric 7 and monomeric 8 are compared with each other and with those of the previous crystallographically determined 8 (at room temperature) and several crystallographically known analogues (with different phosphine ligands); corresponding molecular parameters were found to be in remarkably close agreement with distinct bond-length variations in bridging Pd–I(b) and terminal Pd–P bonds being readily attributed to the well-documented trans influence.
Simultaneous lower confidence bounds for probabilities of correct selections

Abstract In this paper, we are dealing with the problem of constructing lower confidence bounds for the PCSt, simultaneously, for all t=1,…,k−1, for the general location-parameter models, where k is the number of populations involved in a selection problem and PCSt denotes the probability of correctly selecting the t best populations. The result is then applied to the selection of the t best means of normal populations for the two cases where the common variance may be known or unknown. An example is provided to illustrate the implementation and interpretation of the lower confidence bounds of the PCSt.
Nonfamilial Turcot's syndrome associated with Turner's syndrome, multiple carcinomas of the tongue, and cancer of the colon

Herein we present the clinical and cytogenetic data of a patient with Turner's and Turcot's syndrome associated with multiple carcinomas of the tongue and cancer of the colon.
Results from recent sea trials of the Underwater Digital Acoustic Telemetry system

The Underwater Digital Acoustic Telemetry (UDAT) system is a set of underwater acoustic telemetry modems developed by the Test and Evaluation Department at the Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division, Newport. The modems were designed to provide robust underwater acoustic communication at throughput data rates of approximately 900 and 1800 bits per second. Since February 1996 the modems have been used in seven exercises in four diverse deep water and shallow water environment. The results from the tests are very encouraging. Continuous, low error transmission has been achieved over many minutes (/spl sim/20 min.). Detection ranges for the system have exceeded 4 km in shallow water and 8 km in deep water. In January 1997, the acoustic modems were used for continuous, full duplex communications. This paper reviews the design of the UDAT system, discusses the results from the field tests, and presents the current status of the modems.
Experimental results from magnetized-jet experiments executed at the Jupiter Laser Facility

Abstract Recent experiments at the Jupiter Laser Facility investigated magnetization effects on collimated plasma jets. Laser-irradiated plastic-cone-targets produced collimated, millimeter-scale plasma flows as indicated by optical interferometry. Proton radiography of these jets showed no indication of strong, self-generated magnetic fields, suggesting a dominantly hydrodynamic collimating mechanism. Targets were placed in a custom-designed solenoid capable of generating field strengths up to 5 T. Proton radiographs of the well-characterized B-field, without a plasma jet, suggested an external source of trapped electrons that affects proton trajectories. The background magnetic field was aligned with the jet propagation direction, as is the case in many astrophysical systems. Optical interferometry showed that magnetization of the plasma results in disruption of the collimated flow and instead produces a hollow cavity. This result is a topic of ongoing investigation.
Allelopathic effects ofPolygonum aviculare L. I. Vegetational patterning

Polygonum aviculare was observed to spread rapidly into heavy stands ofCynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. resulting in death of the latter. This indicated a strong interference againstCynodon dactylon. Measurements of selected soil minerals and physical factors indicated that competition was probably not the chief cause of that interference. Soil collected under deadPolygonum was very inhibitory to all test species exceptSporobolus pyramidatus (Lam.) Hitchc., suggesting the presence of inhibitory compounds. Tops and roots ofPolygonum, root exudates, and leachate of the tops inhibited seed germination and seedling growth of most test species. Therefore, allelopathy apeared to be the dominant component of the interference, with competition probably accentuating its effects.Polygonum aviculare was inhibitory toGossypium barbadense L. andSorghum bicolor (L.) Moench, indicating that allelopathy is an important component of the interference byPolygonum against crop yields.
On-line amino acid-based capillary isoelectric focusing-ESI-MS/MS for protein digests analysis

Six amino acids with pIs that ranged from 3.2 to 9.7 were used as ampholytes to establish a pH gradient in capillary isoelectric focusing. This amino acid-based capillary isoelectric focusing (cIEF) was coupled with ESI-MS/MS using an electrokinetically pumped sheath-flow interface for peptide analysis. Amino acid-based isoelectric focusing generates a two-order of magnitude lower background signal than commercial ampholytes in the important m/z range of 300-1800. Good focusing was achieved for insulin receptor, which produced ~10 s peak width. For 0.1 mg mL(-1) bovine serum albumin (BSA) digests, 24±1 peptides (sequence coverage 47±4%) were identified in triplicate analysis. As expected, the BSA peptides were separated according to their pI. The concentration detection limit for the BSA digests is 7 nM and the mass detection limit is 7 fmole. A solution of six bovine protein tryptic digests spanning 5 orders of magnitude in concentration was analyzed by amino acid based cIEF-ESI-MS/MS. Five proteins with a concentration range spanning 4 orders of magnitude were identified in triplicate runs. Using amino acid based cIEF-ESI-MS/MS, 112 protein groups and 303 unique peptides were identified in triplicate runs of a RAW 264.7 cell homogenate protein digest. In comparison with ampholyte based cIEF-ESI-MS/MS, amino acid based cIEF-ESI-MS/MS produces higher resolution of five acidic peptides, much cleaner mass spectra, and higher protein spectral counts.
Papillary formations in metastatic melanoma.

Cytomorphologic features of melanoma can be extremely variable, in that they can mimic other poorly differentiated neoplasms. Ten cases of metastatic melanoma with distinct, cohesive, papillary tissue fragments observed in fine-needle aspiration (FNA) specimens are reported. These papillary fragments exhibited a central fibrovascular core with attached tumor cells, in a background of single scattered malignant cells, macrophages, and focal necrosis. The aspiration sites included regional or distant palpable lymph nodes, pancreas, bone, and skin. Nine cases had a histologic diagnosis of primary cutaneous melanoma, and in one case the primary skin tumor was detected after the diagnosis was established by FNA of the metastasis. Immunohistochemical studies (S-100 protein, HMB-45 antigen, and factor VIII) were performed in four cases, and electron microscopy in one, confirming the diagnosis of melanoma. An awareness of this cytomorphologic variation of papillary formations in cytology preparations from metastatic melanoma is important and can prevent potential inaccurate interpretation. Diagn. Cytopathol. 1999; 20:148–151. © 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Transient Coronal Holes as Seen in the He I 1083 nm MLSO Observations

Observations from Yohkoh SXT and SOHO EIT have shown that dimming regions often appear on the solar disk near the location of a coronal mass ejection (CME). We now can see brightenings in He I 1083 nm observations made at the Mauna Loa Solar Observatory (MLSO) that form at the same time and are cospatial with the EUV intensity dimmings observed from space. The He I 1083 nm brightenings are induced by a decrease of the overlying coronal radiation. The EUV and X-ray dimmings and He I 1083 nm brightenings can thus be interpreted as different manifestations of the decreased coronal density caused by the ejection of coronal material during the eruption, i.e., as transient coronal holes. In this paper we present examples of transient coronal holes that form during the CME onset as seen in He I 1083 nm data and compare them with simultaneous observations in the Fe XII 19.5 nm line. We find that there is good agreement in both shape and size of the transient coronal holes at these two wavelengths. The 3 minute cadence of the He I 1083 nm observations taken at MLSO is used to determine the appearance and evolution of transient coronal holes with high temporal accuracy. Additional data in the H? line and in broadband visible light are used to investigate the relation of transient coronal holes to the flare, filament eruption, and CME. The cases presented here illustrate how the higher time cadence of the MLSO observations can complement space data to establish the chronology of the various manifestations of solar activity associated with a CME.
An international program to protect the earth from impact catastrophe - Initial steps

Abstract NASA has recently completed a study of initial steps to deal with possible cosmic impact hazards. It is generally accepted that impacts by Earth-approaching asteroids and comets pose a significant hazard to life and property, with the greatest risk associated with objects large enough to disturb the Earth's climate on a global scale by injecting large quantities of dust into the stratosphere. Various studies have suggested that the minimum mass impacting body to produce such global consequences is tens of billions of tons, resulting in an explosion with energy approaching a million megatons of TNT. The corresponding threshold diameter for Earth-crossing asteroids or comets is between 1 and 2 km. Smaller objects (down to 100 m) can cause severe local damage but pose no global threat; below 100 m most projectiles disintegrate high in the atmosphere. Current technology permits us to discover and track nearly all Earth-crossing asteroids or short-period comets large enough to threaten global catastrophe. As the initial step in any program to deal with this hazard, we require a long-term telescopic search that reaches stellar magnitude 22 in order to achieve a nearly complete census of objects 1 km or larger. Such a program can be carried out with existing technology using an international network of six telescopes of 2–3 m aperture equipped with modern CCD detectors and automatic signal processing capability. If any object threatens impact with the Earth during the next century or so, we can expect it to be identified with a lead time of at least several decades, sufficient to plan an international campaign to deflect or destroy it.
Reactivities of Fe(IV) complexes with oxo, hydroxo, and alkylperoxo ligands: an experimental and computational study.

In a previous paper [Jensen et al. J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2005, 127, 10512], we reported the synthesis of the turquoise-colored intermediate [FeIV(β-BPMCN)(OOtBu)(OH)]2+ (Tq; BPMCN = N,N′-bis(2-pyridylmethyl)-N,N′-dimethyl-trans-1,2-diaminocyclohexane). The structure of Tq is unprecedented, as it represents the only synthetic example to date of a nonheme FeIV complex with both alkylperoxo and hydroxide ligands. Given the significance of similar high-valent Fe intermediates in the mechanisms of oxygenase enzymes, we have explored the reactivity of Tq at −70 °C, a temperature at which it is stable, and found that it is capable of activating weak X—H bonds (X = C, O) with bond dissociation energies ≤∼80 kcal/mol. The FeIV—OH unit of Tq, and not the alkylperoxo moiety, performs the initial H-atom abstraction. However at −45 °C, Tq decays at a rate that is independent of substrate identity and concentration, forming a species capable of oxidizing substrates with stronger C−H bonds. Parallel reactivity studies were ...
Regulation of Xenopus gastrulation by ErbB signaling

During Xenopus gastrulation, mesendodermal cells are internalized and display different movements. Head mesoderm migrates along the blastocoel roof, while trunk mesoderm undergoes convergent extension (C&E). Different signals are implicated in these processes. Our previous studies reveal that signals through ErbB receptor tyrosine kinases modulate Xenopus gastrulation, but the mechanisms employed are not understood. Here we report that ErbB signals control both C&E and head mesoderm migration. Inhibition of ErbB pathway blocks elongation of dorsal marginal zone explants and activin-treated animal caps without removing mesodermal gene expression. Bipolar cell shape and cell mixing in the dorsal region are impaired. Inhibition of ErbB signaling also interferes with migration of prechordal mesoderm on fibronectin. Cell–cell and cell–matrix interaction and cell spreading are reduced when ErbB signaling is blocked. Using antisense morpholino oligonucleotides, we show that ErbB4 is involved in Xenopus gastrulation morphogenesis, and it partially regulates cell movements through modulation of cell adhesion and membrane protrusions. Our results reveal for the first time that vertebrate ErbB signaling modulates gastrulation movements, thus providing a novel pathway, in addition to non-canonical Wnt and FGF signals, that controls gastrulation. We further demonstrate that regulation of cell adhesive properties and cell morphology may underlie the functions of ErbBs in gastrulation.
The Innovation impact model: a tool t0 study the impact of technological change

In the spirit of the US Malcolm Baldridge Quality Award, companies try to develop a strategy towards improving their operations. These companies look for assistance in assessing how new technology will help. While literature looks at innovations from different perspectives, the impact of innovations is rarely studied. This article offers the ‘Innovation Impact Model’ as a tool to help companies visualize the effects of innovations on their performance and competitive situation. Three example are provided in which the Innovation Impact Model has been applied. First, the impact of basic oxygen furnaces on the national steel industries of Japan, West Germany, and the USA is examined. Second, the impact of eletric are furnaces on the development of production costs at the Atlantic Steel Plant in Atlanta is studied. Finally, it is shown how ‘voluntary restraint agreements’ in the early 1970s had only a tempoorary impact on improving the trade postion of the US steel industry.
Baryon-nucleon spin-orbit forces from symmetric quark-quark spin-orbit interactions

Abstract Baryon-nucleon spin-orbit forces generated from symmetric quark-quark spin-orbit interactions are studied. Under certain conditions, the results for both hyperon-nucleon and nucleon-nucleon channels are found to be roughly the same whether the quark-quark interactions arise from one-gluon exchange or one-boson exchanges. Both are in rough agreement with the Nijmegen one-boson-exchange potential models. The reasons for these similarities are discussed.
Hip bone is connected to … II

In a previous column (Physics Today, September 2005, page 10), I described how computer models might be used to mimic and describe a few of the small networks that control and drive biological systems. I focused upon the understanding that could be obtained from moderately accurate descriptions of relatively simple biological systems. Here, I wish to look at conceptualizations of much larger networks.
Numerical integration of the Vlasov equation

Abstract This work describes a numerical method for the solution of the nonlinear Vlasov equation. The distribution function is expanded in a series of orthogonal polynomials, namely the Chebyshev polynomials. The conditions under which this expansion is valid are discussed. Recurrence effects are eliminated by formally adding a damping term to the eigenvalues of the truncated system. Nonlinear effects have been simulated by an amount of information corresponding to less than 500 “particles.”
Biodiesel Effects on Influencing Parameters of Brake Fuel Conversion Efficiency in a Medium Duty Diesel Engine

Biodiesel remains an alternative fuel of interest for use in diesel engines. A common characteristic of biodiesel, relative to petroleum diesel, is a lowered heating value (or per mass energy content of the fuel). For same torque engine comparisons, the lower heating value translates into a higher brake specific fuel consumption (amount of fuel consumed per unit of power produced). The efficiency at which fuel energy converts into work energy, however, may remain unchanged. In this experimental study, evaluating nine unique engine operating conditions, the brake fuel conversion efficiency (an assessor of fuel energy to work energy efficiency) remains unchanged between 100% petroleum diesel fuel and 100% biodiesel fuel (palm olein) at all conditions, except for high load conditions. Several parameters may affect the brake fuel conversion efficiency, including heat loss, mixture properties, pumping work, friction, combustion efficiency, and combustion timing. This article describes a study that evaluates how the aforementioned parameters may change with the use of biodiesel and petroleum diesel, and how these parameters may result in differences in the brake fuel conversion efficiency.
Virtual nuclear excitation corrections to elastic electron scattering from 40Ca

Abstract The virtual nuclear excitation (dispersion) corrections to elastic electron scattering from 40 Ca have been calculated in second-order Born approximation. A model that can reproduce the whole inelastic response surface is employed for the nuclear currents that enter. The dispersion correction, expressed relative to the first Born result, is dependent only on the nuclear Fermi momentum. When the intermediate nuclear states are summed (without using closure) through the quasi-elastic scattering region, the corrections are found to be small (about 3%). However, these should be included in analyzing future data with better experimental accuracy. For the first time, the effect of isobar excitation on the dispersion correction has been examined; because of the questionable validity of the approximations in this case, no definite conclusion can be drawn.
CGRP Inhibits Neurons of the Bed Nucleus of the Stria Terminalis: Implications for the Regulation of Fear and Anxiety

The bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) is thought to generate anxiety-like states via its projections to autonomic and neuroendocrine regulatory structures of the brain. However, because most BNST cells are GABAergic, they are expected to inhibit target neurons. In contrast with this, infusion of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) into BNST was reported to potentiate anxiety while activating BNST targets. The present study aimed to shed light on this paradox. The CGRP innervation of BNST originates in the pontine parabrachial nucleus and targets its anterolateral sector (BNST-AL). Thus, we investigated the effects of CGRP on BNST-AL neurons using patch recordings in vitro in male rats. CGRP did not alter the passive properties of BNST-AL cells but increased the amplitude of IPSPs evoked by stimulation of the stria terminalis (ST). However, IPSP paired-pulse ratios were unchanged by CGRP, and there was no correlation between IPSP potentiation and variance, suggesting that CGRP acts postsynaptically. Consistent with this, CGRP hyperpolarized the GABA-A reversal of BNST-AL cells. These results indicate that CGRP increases ST-evoked GABA-A IPSPs and hyperpolarizes their reversal potential through a postsynaptic change in Cl− homeostasis. Overall, our findings suggest that CGRP potentiates anxiety-like behaviors and increases neural activity in BNST targets, by inhibiting BNST-AL cells, supporting the conclusion that BNST-AL exerts anxiolytic effects.
Foster youth and psychotropic treatment: Where next?

Abstract Foster care children are prescribed psychotropic medications at rates significantly higher than same-aged peers. Concerns about the safety of psychoactive chemicals on developing bodies and potential misuses with foster care populations have led to varied and complex responses by the media, lawmakers, and researchers. First, we look at how foster youth are prescribed psychoactive substances, including polypharmacy (sometimes called concomitant prescription), and at the mounting and major responses by federal and state governments. Second, we consider a recent parameter published by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Third, we consider how foster care settings, what we call open systems, complicate parameter implementation, creating potential gaps among researcher, prescriber, foster caregivers, and youth medication explanatory models of treatment experience. And finally, to address gaps among researcher, prescriber, and patient explanatory models, we propose the use of arbitrage, a conceptual framework and process for the integration of competing and sometimes incommensurable explanatory models, knowledge and practice claims.
Optical implementation of integral transforms with Bessel function kernels

Integral transforms involving Bessel function kernels are useful in analyzing effects of circularly symmetric optical systems on arbitrary inputs. Methods for performing the integral transforms optically are divided into two categories. The first category involves input data available in cartesian (x, y) format and uses the close connection between the desired integral transform and the two-dimensional Fourier transform in cartesian coordinates. The second category involves input data in polar (r, θ) format and uses methods such as change of variables to perform the integral transform as a correlation integral. Experimental results obtained with optical implementation for these two categories are presented.
Therapeutical application of voltage-gated calcium channel modulators

Calcium channels play an important role in the transduction of the signal from the cell periphery to the cytosol. Entering Ca2+ acts as a the second messenger, triggering muscle contraction, neurotransmitter and hormonal release and controling the activity of many enzymes. Considered here voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCC) serve as depolarisation sensors. Many chemicals compounds, such as dihydropyridines, phenylalkylamines, benzothiazepines and some natural toxins that modulate VGCC activity can be applied as precious therapeutic agents and traditionally for treatment of hypertension.