cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Dynamics of biparental care in the dampwood termite, Zootermopsis nevadensis (Hagen): response to nitrogen availability

Studies were conducted on the dampwood termite, Zootermopsis nevadensis, to examine the behavioral roles of the reproductive pair during the nest-founding period and to determine the effect of nitrogen availability on their reproduction and division of labor. Nitrogen has been hypothesized to be an important limiting nutrient for founding pairs. One nitrogenous reserve, uric acid-nitrogen, was examined in reproductives and in nutrient-receiving and nutrient-gathering colony members; it was found in highest amounts in the reproductives (i.e., alates, de-alates, and primary reproductives). Young pairs may use these nitrogenous reserves to increase their chances for reproduction. In support of this hypothesis, founding pairs that were fed a diet supplemented with uric acid-nitrogen had a significantly greater probability of producing at least one offspring than did pairs fed an unsupplemented diet. Females that were fed a nitrogen-poor diet restricted their total activity while their mates sustained a high activity during colony initiation. When fed a nitrogen-rich diet, females collected pulp more often than their mates, while males collected more water, though only in the period prior to egg laying. In all pairs, males transferred proctodeal pellets (food derived from the hindgut intestine) to their mates significantly more often than females to males, and females fed on proctodeal pellets significantly more often than did their mates. The male-female asymmetries in pellet transfer and feeding were not significant in the stage after egg deposition. Once eggs and larvae were present in the nest, a male and female spend an equal percentage of time caring for eggs and feeding larvae. Proctodeal pellets examined in reproductives were found to be rich in proteins. This suggests that in the pre-egg period, the male provides nitrogen-rich substances to the female as a form of paternal investment.
UAP56 is an important mediator of Angiotensin II/Platelet Derived Growth Factor induced vascular smooth muscle cell DNA synthesis and proliferation

Angiotensin (Ang) II and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) are important mediators of pathologic vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation. Identifying downstream mediators of Ang II and PDGF signaling may provide insights for therapies to improve vascular proliferative diseases. We have previously demonstrated that breakpoint cluster region (Bcr) is an important mediator of Ang II/PDGF signaling in VSMC. We have recently reported that the DExD/H box protein UAP56 is an interacting partner of Bcr in regulating VSMC DNA synthesis. We hypothesized that UAP56 itself is an important regulator of VSMC proliferation. In this report we demonstrate that knockdown of UAP56 inhibits Ang II/PDGF induced VSMC DNA synthesis and proliferation, and inhibits E2F transcriptional activity. In addition, we demonstrate that UAP56 is present in the vessel wall of low-flow carotid arteries. These findings suggest that UAP56 is a regulator of VSMC proliferation and identify UAP56 as a target for preventing vascular proliferative disease.
Expression of DNA mismatch repair proteins in transformed non-Hodgkin's lymphoma : Relationship to smoking

It has been hypothesized that defects in DNA-mismatch repair are associated with smoking in certain types of transformed non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). We have analyzed biopsy samples from two indolent B-cell lymphomas, follicular lymphoma (FL) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic leukemia (CLL/SLL), that have transformed to diffuse-large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). We correlated the presence or absence of DNA-mismatch repair enzymes by immunostaining as well as the p53 status to smoking history. Of all patients (n = 30), 37% showed negative immunostaining of MLH1, 16% showed negative immunostaining of MSH2 and 63% had p53 mutations and/or protein expression. Eighteen out of 20 transformed follicular lymphomas and seven out of 10 CLL/SLL that have transformed to DLBCL (Richter's syndrome) were informative for smoking histories. We found that the relative risk of negative immunostaining for either MLH1 or MSH2 was 2.2 times higher in smokers than non-smokers (relative risk = 2.2041, 95% confidence ...
Ten experiments that would make a difference in understanding immune mechanisms

Jacques Monod used to say, “Never trust an experiment that is not supported by a good theory.” Theory or conceptualization permits us to put order or structure into a vast amount of data in a way that increases understanding. Validly competing theories are most useful when they make testably disprovable predictions. Illustrating the theory–experiment interaction is the goal of this exercise. Stated bleakly, the answers derived from the theory-based experiments described here would impact dramatically on how we understand immune behavior.
Platelet hyperreactivity generalizes to multiple forms of stimulation

Summary. Background: Although platelet hyperreactivity constitutes an important cardiovascular risk factor, standardized methods for its measurement are lacking. We recently reported that aggregometry using a submaximal concentration of epinephrine identifies individuals with in vitro platelet hyperreactivity; this hyperreactivity was reproducible on multiple occasions over long periods of time. Objective and methods: To better understand this aberrant reactivity, we studied in a large group of subjects (n = 386) the relationship between healthy individuals’ platelet reactivity to epinephrine and their platelet phenotype as measured by other functional assays. Results: Subjects with hyperreactivity to epinephrine were more likely to exhibit hyperfunction in each major aspect of platelet activity, including adhesion (response to low-dose ristocetin; P < 0.001), activation (surface P-selectin expression and PAC-1 binding after stimulation; P ≤ 0.003) and aggregation to other agonists [no agonist, adenosine diphosphate (ADP), arachidonic acid, collagen, collagen-related peptide and ristocetin; P ≤ 0.025] and to applied shear stress (PFA-100 and cone-and-plate viscometer; P < 0.05). These differences persisted after adjusting for demographic and hematologic differences between groups. We studied candidate genes relevant to epinephrine-mediated platelet activation and found that hyperreactivity to epinephrine was associated with a polymorphism on the gene (GNB3) encoding the beta-3 subunit of G proteins (P = 0.03). Conclusions: Robust aggregation to a submaximal concentration of epinephrine establishes a true hyperreactive platelet phenotype that is ‘global’ as opposed to agonist specific; detection of this phenotype could be useful for studying patients at risk for arterial thrombosis. The mechanisms underlying hyperreactivity to different types of platelet stimulation may share common signaling pathways, some of which may involve specific G protein subunits.
On the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of allyl and phenethyl isothiocyanates and their parent glucosinolates sinigrin and gluconasturtiin

Abstract Four compounds commonly found in the human diet, allyl isothiocyanate (AITC), phenethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC) and their parent glucosinolates sinigrin and gluconasturtiin, were tested for cytotoxic and genotoxic effects in a Chinese hamster ovary cell line (CHO). The isothiocyanates were found to be more than one thousand times more cytotoxic than the glucosinolates, showing significant cytotoxic activity to concentrations below 1.0 μg/ml. AITC was unable to induce either chromosome aberrations or sister chromatid exchanges (SCEs) even at highly cytotoxic doses. In contrast, PEITC was found to induce both aberrations and SCE at concentrations of 0.9–1.2 μg/ml whilst sinigrin and gluconasturtiin induced aberrations at concentrations above 2 mg/ml.
Durability of flexible ureteroscopes: a randomized, prospective study.

Purpose: We performed a randomized, prospective, multi-institutional study evaluating the durability of commercially available flexible ureteroscopes.Materials and Methods: A total of 192 patients were randomized to the use of 7 less than 9Fr flexible ureteroscopes, including the Storz™ 11274AA and Flex-X™, the ACMI™ DUR™-8 and DUR™-8 Elite, Wolf™ models 7330.170 and 7325.172, and the Olympus™ URF-P3. Information about total and lower pole use time, the number and method of ureteroscope insertion, and they type and duration of accessory instrumentation was recorded. Surgeons were asked to rate the visibility and maneuverability of the instrument on a scale of 0—poor to 10—excellent.Results: The indication for ureteroscopy was upper tract calculi in 87% of cases. Of ureteroscope insertions 97% were performed through an access sheath. The average of number of cases before repair ranged from 3.25 for the Wolf™ 7325 to 14.4 for the ACMI™ DUR™-8 Elite. Average ureteroscope operative time was statistically long...
Scanning force microscopy of DNA translocation by the Type III restriction enzyme EcoP15I.

Type III restriction enzymes are multifunctional heterooligomeric enzymes that cleave DNA at a fixed position downstream of a non-symmetric recognition site. For effective DNA cleavage these restriction enzymes need the presence of two unmethylated, inversely oriented recognition sites in the DNA molecule. DNA cleavage was proposed to result from ATP-dependent DNA translocation, which is expected to induce DNA loop formation, and collision of two enzyme–DNA complexes. We used scanning force microscopy to visualise the protein interaction with linear DNA molecules containing two EcoP15I recognition sites in inverse orientation. In the presence of the cofactors ATP and Mg2+, EcoP15I molecules were shown to bind specifically to the recognition sites and to form DNA loop structures. One of the origins of the protein-clipped DNA loops was shown to be located at an EcoP15I recognition site, the other origin had an unspecific position in between the two EcoP15I recognition sites. The data demonstrate for the first time DNA translocation by the Type III restriction enzyme EcoP15I using scanning force microscopy. Moreover, our study revealed differences in the DNA-translocation processes mediated by Type I and Type III restriction enzymes.
A 36-pixel superconducting tunnel junction soft X-ray detector for environmental science applications

Abstract We are operating a superconducting tunnel junction detector for high-resolution soft X-ray spectroscopy at the Advanced Biological and Environmental X-ray Facility at the Advanced Light Source synchrotron. We have recently upgraded the instrument from 9 to 36 pixels for increased sensitivity. We have also acquired a new digital signal readout to increase the total count rate capabilities to ∼10 6 counts/s while maintaining a high peak-to-background ratio. We report on the performance of the spectrometer, and discuss speciation measurements of chromium in welding aerosols as a typical application of the instrument in environmental science.
Quantum mechanical description of shot noise using the example of the free-electron laser

Abstract The simplest quantum mechanical description of an electron beam produced by an accelerator is a product of eigen-states of momentum. It is shown that this description ideally incorporates classical shot noise. For existing free-electron lasers the energy fluctuations in spontaneous emission are almost exclusively due to shot noise. However, for substantially lower currents they are quantum mechanical.
WE‐D‐L100J‐01: In Vivo PET Imaging of Angiogenesis in Tumor Mice Model with 64Cu Labeled Avastin

Purpose: Using angiogenesis principle to develop a new PET contrast agent for tumor detection with higher tumor specificity and decrease the background spots shown in 18FDG imaging.Method and Materials: Bevacizumab (Avastin; Genentech) is the antibody of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), an angiogenesis factor. Avastin was conjugated to a macrocyclic ligand (DOTA) and labeled with a positron emitter, 64 Cu . Briefly, 1,4,7,10‐tetraazacyclododecane‐N, N′,N″,N‴‐tetraacetic acid mono‐N‐hydroxysuccinimide ester (DOTA‐NHS‐ester) was reacted with Avastin in 0.1 M Na 2 HPO 4 buffer of pH 7.5 at 4°C for 12 h. After conjugation, the reaction mixture was centrifuged repeatedly through an YM‐30 centricon with 50 mM ammonium citrate buffer of pH 6.5 in order to remove small molecules. The Avastin‐DOTA conjugate was labeled with 64 Cu at 43°C for 1h and purified with Bio‐Spin 6 column. The microPET/CT imaging was conducted on xenograft models of pancreatic adenocarcinoma established from MiaPaca2 cell line. 64 Cu ‐Avastin was administered i.v. at a dose of 240μCi/40μg Ab into a xenograft pancreatic cancermodel. The mouse was imaged with microPET/CT scanner (Gamma Medica Ideas, Inc.) at 1h, 4h and 24h post‐injection. Results: The radiolabeling of Avastin was successfully carried out in our lab which gave a radiochemical purity of >92%. The serum challenge studies have demonstrated that 85% of radiolabeled antibody was still intact, even at 24 hour. The images confirmed high accumulation of radiolabeled 64 Cu ‐DOTA‐Avastin conjugate in tumors located in the both left and right flank of animal as well as in the head and neck. The image also shows that the conventional hot spots of 18FDG image such as, brain, kidneys and bladder do not appear on the image.Conclusion: 64 Cu ‐DOTA‐Avastin can be used as a tumor detection agent for PET scan and effectively decrease the background spots in image compared to 18FDG image.
A New Direction for Gene Loops

The textbook illustration of a gene depicts a linear structure, with flanking regulatory sequences—a promoter on the left and a terminator on the right, to start and stop transcription, respectively. However, recent analyses of chromatin architecture have revealed that the promoter and terminator elements are not necessarily separate in three-dimensional space, but can be juxtaposed to form “gene loops” ( 1 , 2 ). Gene loops are not static structures; they form transiently in a transcription-dependent manner. But what function do they serve? On page 671 of this issue, Tan-Wong et al. report that gene loops restrict divergent transcription from inherently bidirectional promoters, repressing the synthesis of noncoding RNA ( 3 ).
PHOTOELECTRONIC EFFECTS IN ORGANIC MATERIALS-I. CHLOROPHYLL-CHLORANIL LAMELLAR SYSTEMS

— Photoinduced electron transfer in lamellar composites of chlorophyll a and p-chloranil has been shown to lead to a voltaic effect. The photovoltage spectral response peaks at the absorption peak of chlorophyll in the red region, indicating that chlorophyll itself is the light absorbing species. Maximum power output of the system is approximately 10-15 W. A dependence of photovoltage on the square of the incident intensity suggests a bi-excitonic mechanism for charge separation.
Platelet alpha granule deficiency associated with decreased P-selectin and selective impairment of thrombin-induced activation in a new patient with gray platelet syndrome (α-storage pool deficiency)☆

We report studies on a new patient with gray platelet syndrome (GPS, alpha-storage pool deficiency). Her lifelong bleeding history is associated with platelet abnormalities characteristic of GPS including mild to moderate thrombocytopenia, a population of abnormally large platelets, and specific deficiencies of alpha-granule constituents and morphologically typical alpha-granules. Platelet function studies showed normal aggregation responses to adenosine diphosphate, epinephrine, collagen, arachidonate, and ristocetin but impaired activation responses to thrombin and a thrombin receptor-activating peptide (T1 peptide). These impaired responses included T1 peptide-induced aggregation, thrombin-induced adenine nucleotide secretion, and thrombin-induced (Ca2+)i increases. The impairment of the thrombin-induced (Ca2+)i increase was observed as a substantially slower initial rise in (Ca2+)i levels and a smaller maximum (Ca2+)i increase compared with the responses obtained in normal platelets and are thus similar to those reported previously in another patients with GPS. Flow cytometric measurements of the binding of two distinct monoclonal antibodies against the functional thrombin receptor indicated the presence of a normal number of receptors and normal receptor cleavage by thrombin in the GPS platelets, providing additional support for the hypothesis presented in previous studies that the thrombin activation defect in GPS platelets occurs subsequent to the interaction of thrombin with its receptor. The alpha-granule deficiency in this patient was associated with an approximately 50% decrease in the content and surface expression of the alpha-granule membrane-specific protein P-selectin in contrast to a previous report of normal amounts of P-selectin in the platelets of two related patients with GPS. This finding raises the possibility that the alpha-granule deficiency in GPS may be expressed in different phenotypes characterized by differences in the amount or constitution of residual alpha-granule membranes present in GPS platelets.
Idea‐generation for industrial firms—report on an international investigation

In Germany a general interest in creativity and methods of idea-generation for industrial use arose in the late '60s, although initially knowledge was largely confined to catchwords; additionally insufficient experience hampered the appropriate diffusion of idea-generation techniques. For these reasons the Battelle-lnstitut e. V. at Frankfurt in 1971 initiated an extensive experimental research project in the field of creative idea-generation in industry. The most essential results from the research can be summarized as follows: 1. Synopses of methods of idea-generation in worldwide use enabled these methods to be grouped into six categories: Brainstorming methods (1), Brainwriting methods (2), Methods of creative orientation (3), Creative confrontation (4), Systematical structuring (5) and Systematical problem specification (6). 2. Investigations enabled the optimum conditions to be specified for applying Brainstorming, Brainwriting, Synectics and Morphological Analysis (which have to be considered as key methods) in respect to e. g. group size, group structure, leadership style. 3. Proposals were suggested for classifying problems into five different problem types (search, analysis, constellation, selection and consequence problems) together with recommendations on which problem type can be treated most efficiently with the available methods. 4. Recommendations were made on how the various methods of idea-generation can be integrated into complex problem-solving processes. 5. Original developments were reported of twelve alternative methods of idea-generation by the Battelle research team, e.g. TILMAG (reported in this paper), Sequential Morphology, Visual Synectics and Hypotheses Matrix. The investigations also led to the conclusions that further research was particularly needed in problem classification, processes of analysing problems, procedures of evaluating ideas, and different techniques for prompting ideas.
The effect of 15‐HPETE on airway responsiveness and pulmonary cell recruitment in rabbits

1. In the present study we have investigated the effect of 15-hydroperoxyeicosatetraenoic acid (15-HPETE) and 15-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (15-HETE) on airway responsiveness to inhaled histamine in rabbits in vivo. 2. 15-HPETE increased airway responsiveness to histamine 24 h after tracheal instillation and this was associated with a cellular infiltration consisting mainly of neutrophils, as measured by bronchoalveolar lavage. The airway hyperresponsiveness induced by 15-HPETE was still present 72 h after tracheal instillation of 15-HPETE, but had returned to baseline values one week post challenge. The number of neutrophils in bronchoalveolar lavage remained significantly elevated compared to pre-challenge levels. In contrast to 15-HPETE, the major metabolite 15-HETE, failed to alter airway hyperresponsiveness to histamine despite the recruitment of neutrophils into the lung, suggesting that the effect of 15-HPETE was not secondary to the generation of this metabolite nor dependent on the influx of neutrophils. 3. Both capsaicin and atropine but not the peripherally acting mu-opioid receptor agonist, BW443C (H-Tyr-D-Arg-Gly-Phe(4-NO2)-Pro-NH4), attenuated 15-HPETE-induced hyperresponsiveness. The increased cellular infiltration induced by 15-HPETE was only attenuated by capsaicin. 4. The results of the present study suggest that the release of 15-HPETE into the airways could contribute to sensitization of afferent nerve endings analogous to the hyperalgesia induced by this mediator in skin.
InfoAble Portal: developing a disability information portal for a support network for families.

The goal of the InfoAble Portal project was to improve access to disability-related health information and the Center for Disability Resources Library's services for Family Connection (FC) of South Carolina, a support network for parents of children with special needs. The InfoAble Portal combines information from MedlinePlus, ClinicalTrials.gov, PubMed, and the Center for Disability Resources Library. The Disability Dashboards feature contains deep links within all of these resources to drill down to topic-specific content; topics for the dashboards were based on FC support groups. Workstations purchased with project funds are being used at FC to access the portal.
Twelve-hour cycles of adrenocorticotropin and cortisol secretion in Cushing's disease.

A 50-yr-old woman presented with a 7-yr history of Cushing's syndrome. She had high urinary free cortisol levels (711 μg/day) and a positive response to metyrapone and suppression with 8 mg dexamethasone, suggesting pituitary ACTHdependent adrenocortical hyperfunction. Plasma cortisol and ACTH levels showed marked temporal variation. Samples obtained at 2-h intervals revealed that plasma ACTH and cortisol levels surged during periods lasting approximately 12 h and fell to levels below normal during the remainder of the 24-h cycle. When urinary free cortisol was measured in urines collected in 12-h aliquots, the corresponding surge in free cortisol excretion was also evident. These cycles were not affected by a 2.5-month course of cyproheptadine. Pituitary irradiation and mitotane therapy resulted in remission of Cushing's syndrome, with disappearance of the peaks of ACTH and cortisol secretion. This case represents an unusual example of the abnormal circadian rhythm of ACTH secretion in Cushing's disease.
Scanned-picture-beam holography for nonrigid objects

A technique is described for holographically recording nonrigid objects by scanning the picture beam in a small, bright spot across the object in a series of short exposures. The reference beam is incident across the entire recording medium during each exposure. This technique can freeze the motion of objects subject to ambient forcings, such as acoustic vibrations. Experiments are described in support of this method. Exposures are in the 1- to 10-ms range with 100 separate object regions. An analysis of certain factors affecting image quality, such as diffraction efficiency, is also presented.
Laser diode cooling for high average power applications

Many applications for semiconductor lasers that require high average power are limited by the inability to remove the waste heat generated by the diode lasers. In order to reduce the cost and complexity of these applications a heat sink package has been developed which is based on water cooled silicon microstructures. Thermal resistivities of less than 0.025°C/01/cm2) have been measured which should be adequate for up to CW operation of diode laser arrays. This concept can easily be scaled to large areas and is ideal for high average power solid state laser pumping. Several packages which illustrate the essential features of this design have been fabricated and tested. The theory of operation will be briefly covered, and several conceptual designs will be described. Also the fabrication and assembly procedures and measured levels of performance will be discussed.
DNA fragmentation factor 45-deficient cells are more resistant to apoptosis and exhibit different dying morphology than wild-type control cells.

The DNA fragmentation factor 45 (DFF45) is a subunit of a heterodimeric DNase complex critical for the induction of DNA fragmentation in vitro. To understand the in vivo role of DFF45 in programmed cell death, we measured the expression of DFF45 during mouse development and compared DNA fragmentation and viability of DFF45-deficient cells with wild-type control cells after activation of apoptosis. We found that DFF45 is ubiquitously expressed throughout mouse development. Moreover, DFF45-deficient thymocytes are resistant to DNA fragmentation within vivo dexamethasone treatment. Furthermore, primary thymocytes from DFF45 mutant mice are also more resistant to apoptosis than wild-type control cells on exposure to several apoptotic stimuli. Dying DFF45-deficient thymocytes exhibit different morphology than wild-type control cells in that they show reduced degree of chromatin condensation, absent nuclear fragmentation, intranuclear cytoplasmic invagination, and striking nuclear chromatin conglutination after release from disintegrating cells. These results indicate that DFF45 is essential during normal apoptosis.
SU-E-J-185: 4DCT Geometrical Eigenmode Model for Inter-Fraction Evaluation of Tumor Regression and Breathing Pattern Changes

Purpose: Evaluate the feasibility of using intra‐fractional respiratory dominant eigenmodes of lung deformation as a method to track inter‐fractional tumor regression and other physiological changes. Geometrical evaluation by dominant eigenmodes during free‐breathing may be implemented as an IGART tool for assessing inter‐fractional non‐respiratory anatomical variation. Methods: Intra‐fractional deformable image registration (DIR) is performed on 4DCT scans of lungcancer patients. Principal component analysis is conducted on a set of 10 deformation vector fields for each patient both with and without a lung mask. Leave‐one‐out cross‐validation (LOOCV) is used to assess intra‐fractional modeling error among a subset of respiratory phases. The first two dominant eigenmodes of PCA are compared across patients in axial, sagittal, and coronal slices. Results:Eigenvalues between the first and second dominant respiratory modes decay by a factor of ten for all patients. Intra‐fractional LOOCV maximum error is on the order of 1mm inside the lung and 4–6mm for the whole thorax for all patients using the first two dominant eigenmodes.Eigenvalue decay is fastest for patients where diaphragm motion is relatively larger in magnitude. The first two eigenmodes generally demonstrate a strong but smooth superior‐inferior motion component with a lesser lateral and anterior‐posterior component, while subsequent less dominant eigenmodes produce more random directional eigenvector fields. Conclusion: The two first principal components are consistent amongst patients. Inter‐fractional eigenmode comparison may provide a means to track tumor regression and breathing pattern or physiological changes. We expect that patients with more dominant diaphragmatic respiration will allow for more delineated eigenmode classification. Clear dominant eigenmode delineation may allow subsequent less dominant eigenmodes to be inter‐fractionally compared as a means to evaluate and compensate for tumor regression.
Multiple pathways of tryptophan photoionization

Abstract Laser flash photolysis studies have been carried out on aqueous trytophan at 265 nm and with simultaneous excitation at 265 + 530 nm for different conditions of intensity, temperature, in water-ethanol solutions and in the presence of high bromide ion concentrations. A monophotonic ionization pathway requiring thermal assistance and a temperature-independent, solvent-dependent biphotonic ionization pathway have been identified, neither of which involves the triplet state or the fluorescent state. Similar results have been observed with aqueous indole and for survey experiments on other indole derivatives, tyrosine, and several enzymes. A new photoionization mechanism is proposed in which monophotonic ionization takes place from a short-lived, pre-fluorescent state and the biphotonic ionization intermediary is an unidentified state of about 1 ns lifetime absorbing at 530 nm, populated in competition with internal conversion to the fluorescent state.
Rotation and Alignment of Anisotropic Particles on Nonplanar Interfaces

We study the alignment of micron-scale particles at air-water interfaces with unequal principle radii of curvature by optical microscopy. The fluid interface bends to satisfy the wetting conditions at the three phase contact line where the interface intersects the particle, creating deflections that increase the area of the interface. These deflections decay far from the particle. The far field interface shape has differing principle radii of curvature over length scales large compared to the particle. The deflections create excess area which depends on the angle of the particle with respect to the principle axes of the interface. We show that when particles create surface deflections with quadrupolar modes, the particles rotate to preferred orientations to minimize the free energy. In experiment, we focus on uniform surface energy particles, for which quadrupolar modes are forced by the particle shape. Analytical expressions for the torque and stable states are derived in agreement with experiment and confirmed computationally.
Molecular Dynamics of a Liquid Crystalline Polymer Studied by Two-Dimensional Fourier Transform and CW ESR

Two-dimensional Fourier transform (2D-FT) and CW-ESR experiments at X-band frequencies were performed over a broad range of temperatures covering the solid and melt states of a liquid crystalline (LC) polymer. The CW-ESR experiments were analyzed by conventional motional models. The nematic phase was macroscopically aligned in the dc magnetic field, whereas the solid state showed microscopic order but macroscopic disorder (MOMD). An end-label on the polymer showed smaller ordering and larger reorientational rates than that of the cholestane (CSL) spin probe dissolved in the same polymer, since the former can reorient by local internal chain modes. It was demonstrated that the 2D-FT-ESR experiments provide greatly enhanced resolution to the ordering and dynamics of the end-label, especially when performed as 2D-ELDOR (electron−electron double resonance) experiments as a function of mixing time. The conventional model of Brownian reorientation in an orienting potential was unsuccessful in interpreting these...
A three-incision approach to treat persistent vaginal exposure and sinus tract formation related to ObTape mesh insertion

Mentor Corporation's ObTape has been associated with considerable morbidity. An unacceptably high exposure rate has been noted, and in some cases, multiple procedures may be necessary for complete mesh removal. We evaluated a patient who had prior ObTape placement complicated with persistent vaginal discharge and granulation tissue formation related to persistent mesh exposure (3Bc-T2-S2) followed by sinus tract formation (6Cd-T3-S3) according to the International Urogynecological Association Classification. We performed a three-incision approach (abdominal, vaginal, and groin) for the complete removal of the retained portion of the transobturator tape. This three-incision technique represents a viable option for removal of transobturator tape causing persistent clinical issues.
Parallel spin-orbit coupled configuration interaction

A parallel spin-orbit configuration interaction (SOCI) code has been developed. This code, named P-SOCI, is an extension of an existing sequential SOCI program and permits solution to heavy-element systems requiring both explicit spin-orbit (SO) effects and significant electron correlation. The relativistic procedure adopted here is an ab initio conventional configuration interaction (CI) method that constructs a Hamiltonian matrix in a double-group-adapted basis. P-SOCI enables solutions to problems far larger than possible with the original code by exploiting the resources of large massively parallel processing computers (MPP). This increase in capability permits not only the continued inclusion of explicit spin-orbit effects but now also a significant amount of non-dynamic and dynamic correlation as is necessary for a good description of heavy-element systems.
Nile water as a cause of Eastern Mediterranean sapropel formation: Evidence for and against

During the late Pleistocene, sapropels (layers of organic-carbon rich sediment) formed throughout the entire Eastern Mediterranean Basin in close association with glacial/interglacial transitions. The current theory for the mechanism of sapropel formation involves a density stratification of the water column, due to the invasion of a large quantity of low-saline water, which resulted in oxygen depletion of the bottom waters. Most workers believe that this low-salinity water was glacial meltwater that entered the Mediterranean via the Black Sea and a series of interconnected glacial lakes, but the suggestion also has been made that the freshwater originated from the Nile River. In this study the oxygen isotope values of planktonic foraminifera,Globigerinoides ruber, have been examined in six gravity cores and one piston core from the southern Levantine Basin, and compared with the oxygen isotope records ofG. ruber from other areas of the Eastern Mediterranean. This study deals mainly with the latest sapropel which was deposited approximately 7000 to 9000 years ago. Results indicate that Nile discharge probably does reduce salinities somewhat in the immediate area surrounding the mouth of the Nile, but this water is rapidly mixed with the highly saline waters of the easternmost Mediterranean. Using a mixing equation and surface water salinity limitations, an approximate oxygen isotope balance of surface waters was calculated for the time of latest sapropel deposition. This calculation shows that neither Nile River discharge nor Black Sea input (nor both together) are large enough to account for the large-scale oxygen isotope depletion associated with latest sapropel deposition in the Eastern Mediterranean. This suggests that part of the isotopic change at Termination I is probably due to increased surface water salinities during the last glacial maximum. In addition, evidence from the timing of sapropel 1 deposition and the dissolved oxygen balance indicates that deposition of the latest sapropel is associated with increased surface water production of biogenic material, as much as three times higher than that of present day.
Onversion rates in power plant plumes based on filter pack data: The coal-fired cumberland plume

Abstract The TVA Cumberland Steam Plant plume was monitored during the August 1978 Tennessee Plume Study of Project STATE. Samples were obtained by employing a triple screen high-volume assembly which contained (1) a quartz filter for collecting particulate SO42−, NO3− and NH4+, (2) two NaCl-impregnated cellulose filters for collecting gaseous nitrate and (3) two K2CO3-impregnated cellulose filters for collecting SO2. Formation rates of sulfate and nitrate in the atmosphere were calculated by using total sulfur as a conservative tracer. Conversion of SO2 to SO42− varied from ~0.–0.8%h−1 during night and early morning hours; late morning and afternoon rates ranged from ~1–4% h−1'. Plumes were tracked to distances of 200 km and 9 h duration. Rate of formation of NO3−from NO was ~0.1–3%h−1 and ~3–12%h−1 for similar time periods. Particulate NH4+ concentrations generally increased with plume age, but rates of formation varied widely. Mole ratios of NH4+/SO42− fell within 1–3.
Single-phase Flow Thermal Performance Characteristics of a Parallel MicroChannel Heat Exchanger

The paper outlines the results from a recent study conducted on the single-phase characteristics of a parallel micro-channel heat exchanger. An experimental setup was built to study the characteristics of micro-channel heat exchangers. As a first step, single-phase tests were conducted on a parallel-channel micro-heat-exchanger. The experimental study was conducted for a wide variety of flow parameters. Refrigerant-124 was used as the experimental fluid. The test section was heated by a DC power source. The mass flow rate was varied from 35 ml/min to 300 ml/min. The heat flux varied from 10 W/cm{sup 2} to 100 W/cm{sup 2}. The results showed that the heat transfer coefficient increased by up to 200%. Although the use of micro-channels increases in the surface area significantly, much of the increase in heat-transfer-coefficient may be attributed to the thinning of the boundary layer in the narrow channels, which lowers thermal resistance.
Impact des conditions de sollicitation du crayon de combustible sur les performances attendues du matériau de gainage

En introduction aux communications sur le zirconium, un rapide panorama des proprietes de corrosion et deformation recherchees pour l'alliage du tube de gainage est dresse, au regard des differents types de sollicitations vues par le tube de gainage. Ces proprietes sont illustrees pour le Zircaloy-4 optimise, et l'alliage avance M5 aujourd'hui licencie pour s'adapter a l'augmentation des epuisements de decharge et a la severite accrue des conditions de fonctionnement de certains reacteurs. La demarche suivie pour l'etablissement des modeles de comportement du tube de gainage sous irradiation, en donnee d'entree des codes de conception thermo-mecanique du crayon de combustible est egalement presentee succinctement.
First Day Sociology Using Student Introductions to Illustrate the Concept of Norms

The first day of an introductory sociol ogy course provides a crucial first impres sion to both students and instructor (Brouillette and Turner 1992; Dorn 1987; Higgins 1999; Leming 1979). The informa tion instructors present on the organization, content, and expectations of the course re duces student anxiety and uncertainty (Dorn 1987; Goldsmid and Wilson 1980; Riffer 1983). Instructors use self-introductions to address first day concerns and to provide information about the students, the teacher, and the learning environment (i.e., coll? gial, participatory) of the class. As they are normally conducted, however, self introductions do not tackle the important question of sociological content. After han dling administrative matters, reviewing the syllabus, and completing introductions, little time usually remains on the first day for examining social life (Higgins 1999). The exercise discussed in this paper effectively capitalizes on a valuable element of the first class with a quick illustration that allows students to immediately explore the socio logical imagination and learn a key concept: social norms. Students regularly encounter self introductions in classes, voluntary organiza tions, and other forums where facilitators ask participants to divulge personal details including name, hometown, and interests. Although students often take part in such activities, it is unlikely that they generally employ a sociological perspective and con sider the manner in which norms regulate their responses. Indeed, students are sur prised to discover that such an ordinary experience can be examined using a socio logical lens (see also, Kaufman 1997). A critical analysis of a taken-for-granted situa tion allows sensitization to the concept and facilitates perception, consideration and, ultimately, understanding by incorporating the new material (Straus 1986). Students experientially gather an understanding of norms, which profitably taps into different learning styles (Dukes 1997; Kain and Neas 1993).
NMR Characterization of Low Hard Segment Thermoplastic Polyurethane/Carbon Nanofiber Composites

Solid-state proton nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) has been used to investigate the structure and dynamics of a thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer (TPE) filled with carbon nanofibers (CNF’s) for shape-memory applications. The TPE soft segments are above their glass transition temperature (Tg) at ambient temperature and give rise to relatively narrow (∼2 kHz) signals in the solid-state proton spectrum. The introduction of CNF’s leads to a concentration-dependent shifting and broadening of the signals, while the proton spin−lattice and spin−spin relaxation times are not significantly altered, showing that the broadening is inhomogeneous and related to the difference in magnetic susceptibility between the TPE and the CNF’s. Proton spin diffusion experiments reveal the onset of stress-induced crystallinity as the samples are stretched to 60%, and stretching to 1000% leads to crystallization at the CNF surface and increased separation between the CNF’s and the mobile amorphous phase of the TPE. The implicat...
Multiple Bonding in the Chromium Dimer Supported by Two Diazadiene Ligands

Analysis of the topology and delocalization of the electron density with the quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM) shows that the Cr(2) dimer when supported by two diazadiene ligands has a degree of bonding of 3.6--slightly less than that of a formal quadruple bond. The metal-ligand complex is held together by relatively weak dative bonds. Out-of-plane lone-pair-like charge concentrations on the nitrogen atoms are oriented so as to maximally avoid areas of charge concentration in the distorted inner-valence shell of the chromium atoms.
The influence of stratum corneum morphology on water permeability

The stratum corneum (SC) provides the barrier to water loss for the skin of mammals. A significant body of evidence now exists suggesting that extracellular SC lipids are primarily responsible for this barrier. We have measured the permeability (P) and lag-time (Tlag) for water vapor transport through the SC and found that P is about 1000 times less than the values obtained for most other lipid membranes. In addition, we have measured the water partitioning into the lipid microdomain of the SC using a differential scanning calorimetry technique. These combined data provide an estimate of the diffusion coefficient (D) and diffusion pathlength (delta). The results show that the intrinsic diffusion of water is comparable to values obtained with other lipid membranes. The value obtained for delta, however, is fiftyfold greater than the sample thickness. These results are interpreted in terms of the unique morphology of the SC, where lipids form an extracellular continuum that is highly tortuous. Thus, the exceedingly low permeability of the SC may be due, in large part, to its unique morphology.
ROOT SURFACE REMOVAL WITH DIAMOND- COATED ULTRASONIC INSTRUMENTS : AN IN VITRO AND SEM STUDY

Adequate root preparation in periodontal procedures includes the removal of plaque, calculus, and perhaps contaminated cementum and dentin. The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the amount of root surface removal and residual surface texture using similarly shaped regular (US) and both fine (FINDIAM) and medium (MEDDIAM) grit diamond-coated ultrasonic inserts. Forty-five (45) premolars extracted for orthodontic reasons were randomly divided into 3 groups of 15 teeth each. They were individually mounted in a jig and instrumented with a standardized 500 gram force while they were moved a precise horizontal distance of 12 mm over a 1.2 second period-using specially designed and computer controlled instrumentation. Three measurements were made to the nearest 0.0005″ at 3 points along the test area before instrumentation and after 10 and 20 strokes. The mean depth of root structure removed was US 5.8 ± 6.6 μm, FINDIAM 50.1 ± 14.2 μm, MEDDIAM 30.8 ± 12.1 μm, after 10 strokes, and US 12.7 μ 10.9 ...
Orally delivered alprazolam, diazepam, and triazolam as reinforcers in rhesus monkeys.

Rationale: Benzodiazepines are among the most frequently prescribed drugs and are usually taken by mouth. However, there have been few studies of oral self-administration of these drugs, and the results of IV self-administration studies indicate that benzodiazepines are modest reinforcers. Objectives: To determine if orally delivered alprazolam, diazepam, and triazolam could serve as reinforcers for rhesus monkeys, and to determine some of the conditions under which benzodiazepine reinforced behavior occurs. Methods: Diazepam or midazolam was initially established as a reinforcer by a fading procedure whereby increasing concentrations were added to a 1 or 2% ethanol solution, and subsequently the ethanol concentration was decreased in steps to zero. Diazepam- and midazolam-reinforced responding persisted in the absence of ethanol. Triazolam and alprazolam served as reinforcers when substituted for diazepam or midazolam. Results: Alprazolam, diazepam, and triazolam served as effective reinforcers across a wide range of concentrations and under fixed-ratio sizes of 16 and 32. Rates of responding were usually far higher than that for the concurrently available vehicle, water. Drug intake (mg drug/kg body weight) generally increased with increases in drug concentration. When large drug amounts were consumed, signs of intoxication were observed. Conclusions: In contrast to reports of low response rates and weakly maintained behavior, the present results show that the three benzodiazepines can serve as effective reinforcers.
A Reconfigurable Auto-Loop Microgrid

This letter proposes a novel reconfigurable auto-loop microgrid (ALMG). The new configuration combines the advantages of auto-loops and microgrids. In addition, the ALMG offers the possibility of balancing loads for economic operation.
A fast-response aspirating probe for measurements of total temperature and pressure in transonic cryogenic wind tunnel

A newly developed, 3-mm-diam, dual hot-wire aspirating probe was used to measure the time-resolved stagnation temperature and pressure in a transonic cryogenic wind tunnel. The probe consists of two coplanar constant temperature hot wires at different overheat ratios operating in a 1.5-mm-diam channel with a choked exit. Thus, the constant Mach number flow by the wires is influenced only by free-stream stagnation temperature and pressure. Diffusion of the free-stream Mach number to a lower value in the channel reduces the dynamic drag on the hot-wire. Frequency response of the present design is dc to 20 kHz. The probe was used to measure the unsteady wake shed from an oscillating airfoil tested in the 0.3-m Transonic Cryogenic Tunnel at NASA-Langley Research Center. The hot-wire lasted for more than ten hours before breaking, proving the ruggedness of the probe and the usefulness of the technique in a high dynamic pressure, transonic cryogenic wind tunnel. Typical data obtained from the experiment are presented after reduction to stagnation pressure and temperature.
Abnormalities of the vitamin D receptor in uraemia

The 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D 3 (1,25(OH) 2 D 3 ) receptor mediates many of the actions of 1,25(OH) 2 D 3 in cells of target tissues. Abnormalities in vitamin D receptor concentration and regulation exist in tissues of subjects with chronic renal failure and end-stage renal disease. There is evidence that inhibitors of vitamin D receptor-1,25(OH) 2 D 3 binding and 1,25(OH) 2 D 3 action are present in dialysates and sera of individuals with end-stage renal disease. The biological significance of decreased vitamin D receptor number and altered vitamin D receptor regulation in uraemia is unclear at present as responses to 1,25(OH) 2 D 3 in uraemia have not been systematically compared with responses in normal subjects.
Brake design for dynamic modular robots

An energy efficient joint-locking mechanism that works in conjunction with the main actuator of a robot module is presented. The mechanism will enable chain-style modular reconfigurable robots to perform a wide array of tasks such as dynamic motion and bio-inspired locomotion while consuming less power. The design process for developing this mechanism is presented, and analysis is provided. This mechanism is ideal for modular reconfigurable robot systems, but can be modified to suit many applications. A prototype is developed that outperforms comparable devices such as those that utilize piezoelectrics, magnetic particles, and electromagnetically-actuated disc and drum brakes in terms of power consumption and specific torque.